ALBERT

Description: Pearl millet is a dominant staple cereal crop for smallholder farmers in Senegal. However, the crop is constrained by various nonbiotic and biotic stresses such as downy mildew disease. To assess the prevalence of this disease in Senegal, a field survey was conducted during the rainy season of 2017 across eight main pearl millet production regions following latitudinal gradient with different climatic conditions. Results showed that downy mildew prevalence was higher in Kaolack (incidence = 68.19%), Kaffrine (incidence = 77.19%), Tambacounda (incidence = 97.03%), Sedhiou (incidence = 82.78%), and Kolda (incidence = 98.01%) than Thies (incidence = 28.21%), Diourbel (incidence = 24.46%), and Fatick (incidence = 37.75%) regions. The field survey revealed an incidence as high as 98% and 28% of infected area in surveyed fields. Significant correlations between geographic coordinates, disease incidence, and infected areas were also observed. This study provided information that could help to understand the prevalence of downy mildew in pearl millet in Senegal.

Description: The actual burden and future burden of the small-for-gestational-age (SGA) babies turn their screening in pregnancy a question of major concern for clinicians and policymakers. Half of stillbirths are due to growth restriction in utero, and possibly, a quarter of livebirths of low- and middle-income countries are SGA. Growing body of evidence shows their higher risk of adverse outcomes at any period of life, including increased rates of neurologic delay, noncommunicable chronic diseases (central obesity and metabolic syndrome), and mortality. Although there is no consensus regarding its definition, birthweight centile threshold, or follow-up, we believe birthweight

Description: This paper presents the analytical modeling and simulation of an electromagnetic energy harvester (having linear behaviour) that generates power from pulsating fluid flow for pipeline condition monitoring systems. The modeled energy harvester is comprised of a cylindrical permanent magnet and a wound coil attached to a flexible membrane which oscillates due to the pulsating fluid flow in the pipe over which the prototype is considered to be mounted. In the harvester electrical energy is produced due to the relative motion between the coil and magnet. Based on the harvester’s architecture a lumped parameter model (single degree of freedom system) is developed and is simulated at different physical operational conditions. The simulation is performed at pressure amplitude of 625 Pa. When subjected to the operational frequency sweep, at the harvester’s resonant frequency (500 Hz) and damping ratio of 0.01, the devised model predicted the maximum open circuit voltage of 2.55 V and load voltage of 1.27 V. While operating under resonance, the maximum load voltage of 2.45 V is estimated at load resistance of 100 Ω. However, at an optimum load of 4.3 Ω, the simulation shows a production of 188151.2 μW power at a frequency of 500 Hz.

Description: Background. Many biological processes are performed by different protein complexes. During the association of proteins and enzymes forming specific complexes, the latter can include ions of various metal ions, which may be important for their formation and biological function. Objective of the Studies. However, to date in the literature there are no data on metal ions that are part of any protein complexes. Methods. A very stable multiprotein complex (~1000±100 kDa) was separated from other proteins of nine samples of female milk by gel filtration on Sepharose 4B. The content of microelements in the stable multiprotein complex and milk was analyzed using two-jet plasma atomic emission spectrometry. Results. The content of different elements in milk on average decreased in the order: Ca〉P〉Mg〉Al≥Zn≥Fe〉Cu 〉B (0.76–3500 μg/g of dry milk powder), while the content of some elements was very low (Sr〉Mn〉Cr〉Ba〉Pb〉Ag〉Ni〉Cd, B (19.7)〉Ag (28.7)〉Ni (38)≥Sr (110). Conclusions. The analysis of the relative content of sixteen elements in human milk and oligomeric complexes of proteins was performed for the first time. Data on the content of metals indicate that during the formation of protein which associates the increase in the content of metal ions bound with proteins of the complex can occur. Such metal ions can be important for the formation and biological function of protein complexes.

Description: This paper investigates anticorrosion behaviour of the bark-extract from Rhizophora mangle L. on steel-rebar in concrete slabs in 3.5% NaCl medium of immersion (for simulating saline/marine environment). Corrosion-rate, corrosion-current, and corrosion-potential were measured from the NaCl-immersed steel-reinforced concrete cast with admixture of different plant-extract concentrations and from positive control concrete immersed in distilled water. Analyses indicate excellent mathematical-correlation between the corrosion-rate, concentration of the bark-extract admixture, and electrochemical noise-resistance (ratio of the corrosion-potential standard deviation to that of corrosion-current). The 0.4667% Rhizophora mangle L. bark-extract admixture exhibited optimal corrosion-inhibition performance, η = 99.08±0.11% (experimental) or η = 97.89±0.24% (correlation), which outperformed the positive control specimens, experimentally. Both experimental and correlated results followed Langmuir adsorption isotherm which suggests prevalent physisorption mechanism by the plant-extract on the reinforcing-steel corrosion-protection. These findings support Rhizophora mangle L. bark-extract suitability for corrosion-protection of steel-rebar in concrete structure designed for immersion in the saline/marine environmental medium.

Description: The heterogeneity of smallholder dairy production systems complicates service provision, information sharing, and dissemination of new technologies, especially those needed to maximize productivity and profitability. In order to obtain homogenous groups within which interventions can be made, it is necessary to define clusters of farmers who undertake similar management activities. This paper explores robustness of production cluster definition using various unsupervised learning algorithms to assess the best approach to define clusters. Data were collected from 8179 smallholder dairy farms in Ethiopia and Tanzania. From a total of 500 variables, selection of the 35 variables used in defining production clusters and household membership to these clusters was determined by Principal Component Analysis and domain expert knowledge. Three clustering algorithms, K-means, fuzzy, and Self-Organizing Maps (SOM), were compared in terms of their grouping consistency and prediction accuracy. The model with the least household reallocation between clusters for training and testing data was deemed the most robust. Prediction accuracy was obtained by fitting a model with fixed effects model including production clusters on milk yield, sales, and choice of breeding method. Results indicated that, for the Ethiopian dataset, clusters derived from the fuzzy algorithm had the highest predictive power (77% for milk yield and 48% for milk sales), while for the Tanzania data, clusters derived from Self-Organizing Maps were the best performing. The average cluster membership reallocation was 15%, 12%, and 34% for K-means, SOM, and fuzzy, respectively, for households in Ethiopia. Based on the divergent performance of the various algorithms evaluated, it is evident that, despite similar information being available for the study populations, the uniqueness of the data from each country provided an over-riding influence on cluster robustness and prediction accuracy. The results obtained in this study demonstrate the difficulty of generalizing model application and use across countries and production systems, despite seemingly similar information being collected.

Description: Different laboratory markers are routinely used in the diagnosis and management of gastrointestinal (GI) disease in dogs. In the present study, starting from feces from both healthy dogs and dogs suffering from food responsive diarrhea (FRD), we tried to find proteins differently expressed in the two groups of dogs, by using a proteomic approach. Interestingly, we found that the immunoglobulin J-chain isoform 1 (species: Canis lupus familiaris) was identified only in diseased dogs (not in healthy). J-chain combines especially IgA monomers to IgA dimers and plays a crucial role for their secretions into mucosal interface. Being the first study of that kind in the dog, it is only possible to hypothesize that their presence could be likely due to an increased activation of the immune system or to a mucosal damage or both in FRD patients. Similarly, it is still impossible to assess whether this protein could be used as diagnostic/prognostic marker of GI disease; however, this study represents a promising first step toward fecal proteomics in canine GI disorders.

Description: Indonesian Maritime Continent has the second longest coastline in the world, but the characteristics of offshore rainfall and its relation to coastline type are not clearly understood. As a region with eighty percent being an ocean, knowledge of offshore rainfall is important to support activity over oceans. This study investigates the climatology of offshore rainfall based on TRMM 3B42 composite during 1998-2015 and its dynamical atmosphere which induces high rainfall intensity using WRF-ARW. The result shows that concave coastline drives the increasing rainfall over ocean with Cenderawasih Bay (widest concave coastline) having the highest rainfall offshore intensity (16.5 mm per day) over Indonesian Maritime Continent. Monthly peak offshore rainfall over concave coastline is related to direction of concave coastline and peak of diurnal cycle influenced by the shifting of low level convergence. Concave coastline facing the north has peak during northwesterly monsoonal flow (March), while concave coastline facing the east has peak during easterly monsoonal flow (July). Low level convergence zone shifts from inland during daytime to ocean during nighttime. Due to shape of concave coastline, land breeze strengthens low level convergence and supports merging rainfall over ocean during nighttime. Rainfall propagating from the area around inland to ocean is approximately 5.4 m/s over Cenderawasih Bay and 4.1 m/s over Tolo Bay. Merger rainfall and low level convergence are playing role in increasing offshore rainfall over concave coastline.

Description: Objective. To quantify Enterococcus faecalis density in root canal dentin after chemomechanical preparation (CMP) using alternated irrigating regimen. Methodology. Root canals (RC) were contaminated with E. faecalis (ATCC 19433) for 3 weeks and evident biofilms were obtained. After initial sampling (S1), the CMP was aided by irrigants: saline solution (control; n=12), a conventional regimen (CR) (group 1; n=12) using 5.25% NaOCl and a final rinse with 17% EDTA, and an alternating regimen (AR) of intercalated use of NaOCl and EDTA (group 2, n=12), followed by a second sampling (S2). After 2 weeks, S3 was obtained. Two roots were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. Each root was divided into cervical, mild, and apical segments and sampling of the superficial (n=90) and deep (n=90) dentin layers was obtained using Gates-Glidden burs. The E. faecalis density (CFU/mg) in log10 was categorized as residual (0 〉 0.2), moderate (0.2 ≥ 0.5), or elevated (〉 0.5). The prevalence of positive samples in BHI and BHI-A was analyzed by Pearson’s chi-square test. The data were normalized by a log10 transformation of CFU and were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s tests. Results. Biofilms were observed only in the control root canal walls. Topographically, the controls and CR showed similar distributions of E. faecalis in the dentin. Microbiologically positive root canals harbored much E. faecalis in the adjacent dentin (p

Description: Worldwide, neonatal sepsis accounts for an estimated 26% of under-five deaths, with sub-Saharan Africa having the highest mortality rates. Though worldwide neonatal deaths have decreased by over 3.6 million per year since 2000, neonatal sepsis remains a notable hindrance to the progress in the decline of cause-specific mortality rates especially in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed at examining the risk factors of neonatal sepsis at the Trauma and Specialist Hospital, Winneba. The study was an unmatched case control retrospective study. Cases were neonates who had sepsis with their index mothers and controls were neonates who did not have sepsis with their index mothers. Neonatal and maternal medical records were retrieved from January to December 2017. Data abstraction lasted for one month and 2650 folders for the neonates and their index mothers were retrieved. Nine hundred (900) neonatal folders were considered valid for the study and likewise for the maternal folders. One hundred and three (103) folders were considered cases while 797 were considered as controls. Data were entered using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 22. Logistic regression was used to determine the risk of neonatal sepsis. Maternal factors that predicted the occurrence of sepsis among neonates were parity (p

Description: During the night of November 18 to 19, 2016, many stormy cells are not very mobile organized on the east of the southern plateau of Cameroon and dumped up to 260 mm of rain in 4 hours. Occurring on a relatively saturated soil, these rains caused strong floods of Kadey and Doumé. The floods were particularly damaging in the city of Batouri, where a subdivision was submerged by the Boumbé (tributary of the Sangha) with water heights in the houses reaching 1.75 m, despite the presence of a dam allowing clipping floods upstream of the basin. In this article, we present the results of the analysis of the postevent survey generated on this event with flow rates estimated on 15 sections of ungauged subbasins. These flows are then compared with those obtained from other recent postevent survey and those estimated by various regional estimations. The inventory of heavy rains around Batouri during the period 1970-2016 has led to the revision of current development standards in the region, which seem to underestimate rainfall and infrequent flows.

Description: The importance of phytoplankton is high in transformation of substances in aquatic ecosystems and in formation of suspension’s material structure. Its main functions are consumption of the dissolved biogenic components and chemical elements and their conversion to a firm phase. The article is devoted to the bioaccumulation of microelements by phytoplankton in the ecosystem of the Azov Sea. The fact that the algal biomass during the periods of blooming in the sea reaches 1,400 g/l makes this study especially urgent. The authors define the rates of biogeochemical cycle and the intensity of chemical elements’ consumption and also investigate the role of phytoplankton in the formation chemical peculiarities of bottom deposits and its involvement in sedimentogenesis in the Azov Sea. The cause of the reduced trace element content in bottom deposits relatively to suspended material is established. It is noted that the amount of some elements annually consumed by algae of the Azov Sea is up to 75% from their maximum delivery by terrigenous material.

Description: Background. Patients adjust to cancer in a continuous process that follows the course of the disease. Previous research has considered several illness-related variables and demographics, quality of life, personality, and social factors as predictors of adjustment to cancer, which can be maladaptive (e.g., helplessness-hopelessness and anxious preoccupation) or adaptive (e.g., fighting spirit). Aims. Assuming a biopsychosocial view, we test an empirical model in which disease stage, patient’s age, and gender are viewed as the distal antecedents of positive and negative adjustment to cancer for chemotherapy patients. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) has a key role, interposing between the distal antecedents and adaptational outcomes. Social support and positive thinking are also included in the model as related to adjustment. Methods. One-hundred-sixty-two consecutive cancer patients receiving adjuvant or standard chemotherapy participated in the study. Patients completed the Mini-Mental Adjustment to Cancer, the Brief-COPE, the Social Provision Scale, and the SF-12 Health Survey. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was applied for model building and hypotheses testing. Results. We found a negative association between advanced stage and physical functioning, a strong positive link between physical functioning and mental health, and significant relations between mental health and helpless-hopelessness, anxious preoccupation, and cognitive avoidance. Social support and positive thinking were related to fighting spirit and fatalism. Cancer stage and female gender were indirectly associated with adaptational outcomes through HRQoL. The patient’s age had no significant relationships in the model. Discussion. HRQoL (both physical and mental) is a key factor for preventing maladjustment in chemotherapy patients. Social support and positive thinking coping style fosters fighting spirit and fatalism on health outcomes. Two potential lines of action seem promising: preventing maladaptive and promoting adaptive adjustments working on patient’s mental health individually and involving significant others in supportive care, respectively.

Description: The water quality of subterranean rivers in the South China Karst region has undergone dramatic changes resulting from industrial and social development over the past 60 years. The combination of sampling results from subterranean rivers in four typical study areas in the South China Karst region from October to December 2015 (dry season) and correlation analysis using SPSS revealed that the main ions K+, Na+, and SO42- exhibited a significant correlation (p

Description: Passive Ultrasonic Irrigation (PUI) represents one of the most used systems to improve the endodontic irrigants activity. PUI acts increasing the reaction rate of NaOCl, with an increase of dentinal debris and smear layer removal. There is a stronger shear stress and a vapor lock reduction. Aim of this systematic review was to figure out the effects of the PUI on the vapor lock removal, during irrigation. Literature research has been carried out by two reviewers, consulting online databases such as PubMed, EBSCO, and Google Scholar, using keywords like Vapor Lock, Vapour Lock, and Vapor Lock Endodontic. The articles list has been screened based on titles and abstracts, applying eligibility and inclusion criteria. The three articles were eligible for quantitative and statistical analysis, by using RevManager Software Version 5.3. Results show statistical heterogeneity (P=0.08; I2 index=61%) in the vapor lock elimination between the use of PUI and PPI, with an overall Odds Ratio=0.08, CI=95% [0.03;0.25]. PUI resulted to be a useful technique to improve NaOCl activity for vapor lock removal, despite PPI alone using a needle.

Description: Purpose. Most studies about retinal detachment cover a limited follow-up period. The purpose of this research is to assess the long-term results after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and scleral buckle (SB) surgery in patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). Methods. 155 patients with RRD are treated either with SB or PPV with a mean follow-up of more than 5 years. Retrospective analysis of patient data with RRD was performed between January 2006 and June 2008 at a tertiary eye clinic. Results. Overall primary success rate was 85.2% (PPV: 84.6%, SB: 89.5%; p=0.57). 90.5% of redetachments appeared within the first 124 days. No significant different success rate was found for vitrectomy with and without additional encircling band (p=0.09). No advantage of a supplemental encircling band in cases of preoperative inferior breaks was seen (p=0.81). Patients of SB group were treated more frequently in follow-up time because of epiretinal membrane (ERM) (SB: 15.5% versus PPV: 7.3%). No patient of the PPV group without intraoperative use of endolaser cerclage (14.7%) had any peeling surgery postoperatively. Conclusion. Redetachment rates of both methods are comparable in a clinical setting where PPV is considered a suitable method for pseudophakic patients and in complex cases and SB was performed in younger phakic patients with clearly identified retinal tears. PPV seems to show a more heterogenous pattern of complications. No advantage of a supplemental encircling band could be found in these case series of patients with primary RRD. No relevant long-term risk of redetachment was seen after SB.

Description: In silico predictive software allows assessing the effect of amino acid substitutions on the structure or function of a protein without conducting functional studies. The accuracy of in silico pathogenicity prediction tools has not been previously assessed for variants associated with autosomal recessive deafness 1A (DFNB1A). Here, we identify in silico tools with the most accurate clinical significance predictions for missense variants of the GJB2 (Cx26), GJB6 (Cx30), and GJB3 (Cx31) connexin genes associated with DFNB1A. To evaluate accuracy of selected in silico tools (SIFT, FATHMM, MutationAssessor, PolyPhen-2, CONDEL, MutationTaster, MutPred, Align GVGD, and PROVEAN), we tested nine missense variants with previously confirmed clinical significance in a large cohort of deaf patients and control groups from the Sakha Republic (Eastern Siberia, Russia): Сх26: p.Val27Ile, p.Met34Thr, p.Val37Ile, p.Leu90Pro, p.Glu114Gly, p.Thr123Asn, and p.Val153Ile; Cx30: p.Glu101Lys; Cx31: p.Ala194Thr. We compared the performance of the in silico tools (accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity) by using the missense variants in GJB2 (Cx26), GJB6 (Cx30), and GJB3 (Cx31) genes associated with DFNB1A. The correlation coefficient (r) and coefficient of the area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve as alternative quality indicators of the tested programs were used. The resulting ROC curves demonstrated that the largest coefficient of the area under the curve was provided by three programs: SIFT (AUC = 0.833, p = 0.046), PROVEAN (AUC = 0.833, p = 0.046), and MutationAssessor (AUC = 0.833, p = 0.002). The most accurate predictions were given by two tested programs: SIFT and PROVEAN (Ac = 89%, Se = 67%, Sp = 100%, r = 0.75, AUC = 0.833). The results of this study may be applicable for analysis of novel missense variants of the GJB2 (Cx26), GJB6 (Cx30), and GJB3 (Cx31) connexin genes.

Description: Objective. The aim of this study is to demonstrate if routine assessment of patient index data 3 has a correlation with disease’s activity as much as disease activity score 28, clinical disease activity index, and simplified disease activity index in Ecuadorian patients with rheumatoid arthritis seen in Unidad de Enfermedades Reumáticas y Autoinmunes [UNERA] from December 2016 to December 2017. Methods. This is a retrospective study in 200 patients that fulfill the American College of Rheumatology 2010 criteria for diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. The patients were evaluated from December 2016 to December 2017. Descriptive analyses were carried out, also Pearson correlation was used, and, to give a better clinical significance, a chi-square test was conducted. Whenever assumptions of chi-square test were violated, a Fisher’s exact test was reported. Results. RAPID3 correlated best with DAS28 (r.83, p

Description: The unicellular halotolerant cyanobacterium Aphanothece halophytica is a potential dark fermentative producer of molecular hydrogen (H2) that produces very little H2 under illumination. One factor limiting the H2 photoproduction of this cyanobacterium is an inhibition of bidirectional hydrogenase activity by oxygen (O2) obtained from splitting water molecules via photosystem II activity. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of the photosystem II inhibitors carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenyl hydrazone (CCCP) and 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea (DCMU) on H2 production of A. halophytica under light and dark conditions and on photosynthetic and respiratory activities. The results showed that A. halophytica treated with CCCP and DCMU produced H2 at three to five times the rate of untreated cells, when exposed to light. The highest H2 photoproduction rates, and μmol H2 g−1 dry weight h−1, were found in cells treated with 0.5 μM CCCP and 50 μM DCMU, respectively. Without inhibitor treatment, A. halophytica incubated in the dark showed a significant increase in H2 production compared with cells that were incubated in the light. Only CCCP treatment increased H2 production of A. halophytica during dark incubation, because CCCP functions as an uncoupling agent of oxidative phosphorylation. The highest dark fermentative H2 production rate of μmol H2 g−1 dry weight h−1 was found in cells treated with 0.5 μM CCCP after 2 h of dark incubation. Under illumination, CCCP and DCMU inhibited chlorophyll fluorescence, resulting in a low level of O2, which promoted bidirectional hydrogenase activity in A. halophytica cells. In addition, only CCCP enhanced the respiration rate, further reducing the O2 level. In contrast, DCMU reduced the respiration rate in A. halophytica.

Description: The discharge of large quantities of industrial and domestic effluents into the estuaries, with or without treatment, has led to an increase in the amount of micropollutants present in the sediments. In this study, we have assessed the quality of sediments of Sebou river studying the physicochemical parameters, percentage of organic matter, mineralogy, and trace levels of metal elements trapped in the sample sediments of Sebou river. The sediments samples were collected from the upstream of Fez river, confluence between the Fez river and the Sebou river, Ain Nokbi river, and edge of Sebou river, where wastewaters from the city of Fez are discharged. The sediments samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, while trace levels of metallic elements, Calcium, Zinc, Copper, Cadmium, Iron, and Nickel, were determined by the ICP-AES analysis. The obtained results show that there is a significant change in the values of the studied metals which is probably due to industrial effluents. Indeed, the metal content in the sediments reaches particularly high values exceeding the limit recommended by WHO. These results suggested that the pollution by metallic industrial effluents discharged without treatments poses potential threat to the receiving rivers and may represent a danger for humans which are exposed to pollutants due to the numerous uses of such river waters.

Description: Background. Psoriasis is a multifactorial immune-mediated inflammatory disease triggered by both genetic and environmental factors. The strong association between psoriasis and HLA-C06 allele has been demonstrated in various races. The HLA-C12 allele is closely related to the HLA-C06 family of alleles and shares identical sequences. To the best of our knowledge, there is no information about the relationship between HLA-C12 and psoriasis in the Turkish population. The present study aims to determine this relationship. Methods. This case control study involved 150 patients with plaque-type psoriasis and 145 age- and gender-matched healthy individuals. Severity of psoriasis was measured using the PASI scores of all patients and joint involvement was investigated with CASPAR criteria. HLA-C alleles were determined with a Tepnel-Lifecodes system. Results. HLA-C06, HLA-C12, and HLA-C04 alleles were most commonly observed in psoriasis patients. HLA-C06 and HLA-C12 were significantly more frequent in the psoriasis group. HLA-C06 was 4.11 times more common in psoriasis patients. An increase in PASI (Psoriasis Area Severity Index) scores was compatible with HLA-C12 positivity. A need for systemic treatment was highly noticeable in patients with the HLA-C12 allele. Conclusions. HLA-C12 was found as the second most frequent allele with psoriasis in Turkish population and was associated with severe psoriasis. Our study is limited as we could not investigate other potentially related alleles other than HLA-C alleles and risk factors increasing severity of psoriasis.

Description: The design of bone scaffolds for tissue regeneration is a topic of great interest, which involves different issues related to geometry of architectures, mechanical behavior, and biological requirements, whose optimal combination determines the success of an implant. Additive manufacturing (AM) has widened the capability to produce structures with complex geometries, which should potentially satisfy the different requirements. These architectures can be obtained by means of refined methods and have to be assessed in terms of geometrical and mechanical properties. In this paper a triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS), the Schwarz’s Primitive surface (P-surface), has been considered as scaffold unit cell and conveniently parameterized in order to investigate the effect of modulation of analytical parameters on the P-cell geometry and on its properties. Several are the cell properties, which can affect the scaffold performance. Due to the important biofunctional role that the surface curvature plays in mechanisms of cellular proliferation and differentiation, in this paper, in addition to properties considering the cell geometry in its whole (such as volume fraction or pore size), new properties were proposed. These properties involve, particularly, the evaluation of local geometrical-differential properties of the P-surface. The results of this P-cell comprehensive characterization are very useful for the design of customized bone scaffolds able to satisfy both biological and mechanical requirements. A numerical structural evaluation, by means of finite element method (FEM), was performed in order to assess the stiffness of solid P-cells as a function of the changes of the analytical parameters of outer surface and the thickness of cell. Finally, the relationship between stiffness and porosity has been analyzed, given the relevance that this property has for bone scaffolds design.

Description: Fewer studies have been done over the years to establish the association of human papillomavirus (HPV) with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSSC) within the subregions of sub-Saharan Africa, and thus this study was designed to investigate the presence of HPV in HNSCC at a tertiary hospital in Ghana, providing additional evidence on the need to explore similar studies in other subregions. A retrospective cross-sectional study was employed to investigate the presence of the DNA of HPV genotypes in HNSCC archived tissue. A total of 100 HNSCC cases were classified as suitable for HPV genotyping. HPV-DNA was detected in 18% of the HNSCC cases, with 17 being HPV-16 and 1 dual infection with HPV-16 and HPV-18. HPV was prevalent in 50% of oropharyngeal cancers, 27% of laryngeal cancers, and 23% of oral cavity cancers. HPV E6/E7 oncogenic DNA was found in 18% of the HNSCC cases, with HPV-16 being the predominant genotype present. The pattern of HPV association was similar to earlier reported studies, recording a higher prevalence in oropharyngeal cancers, followed by laryngeal cancers and oral cavity cancers.

Description: Capparis spinosa is one of the few shrub species which has so many qualities with many uses. In this case, the present work aimed to study both some morphological characteristics and biochemical components (proteins, lipids, and carotenoids) of fresh C. spinosa seeds with three different sizes, collected from two Moroccan regions. In this study, C. spinosa seeds present a total of proteins ranging from 23.32 to 28.5% on a dry weight basis. Additionally, the total lipids varied between 2.8 and 3.4%. C. spinosa seeds contained a high level of carotenoids. Besides, the analytical values have been variously affected by both size and location. Further, the preliminary morphological and anatomical characterization of leaves, stems, and morphological properties such as length, width, thickness, geometric mean diameter, sphericity, surface area, and mass of 100 seeds have been determined. Consequently, this present study confirms the importance of Moroccan C. spinosa seeds, which represent a significant nutritional value. Also, its good morphological quality is a significant indicator of commercial criteria.

Description: Sudden emission and casualty accidents caused by abnormal enrichment of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in coal mines are becoming frequent increasingly, causing major casualties and environmental pollution. Scholars in various countries have developed various measuring devices for hydrogen sulfide content in coal and rock formations and their calculation methods. The existing prevention and control technologies of H2S in coal mines were summarized in various countries. According to the distribution characteristics, occurrence modes, and emission forms of H2S in coal mines, the prevention and control technologies of H2S in coal-bearing strata, airflow in tunnel, and underground water body are mainly introduced. Analyzed the effects of different ventilation systems on prevention and control of H2S, which include conventional ventilation system, partial homotropal ventilation system, and full homotropal ventilation system. The methods used mainly include neutralization by injecting alkalizer through drilling in coal seams with high pressure, spraying alkalizer in tunnel, attenuation by increasing wind amount, changing the ventilation method, pumping, dredging, and blocking the water that contains H2S as well as comprehensive prevention and control method. The basic agents adopted mainly include sodium carbonate (the mass percentage concentration is about 0.5% ~ 3.0%) and sodium bicarbonate solution, and some basic solution is added by an additive, such as surfactant, Fenton reagent, sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate, sodium hypochlorite, or chloramine-T. The treatment effect and the main problems of each prevention and control technology are analyzed, and a comprehensive method of prevention and control techniques of H2S in coal mines is proposed. According to current technological level as well as the cost, the effective prevention and control techniques of H2S should take the occurrence, distribution, and emission forms of H2S in coal mines as well as the content into consideration.

Description: The aim of this study was to undertake a literature review on the use of XP-endo Shaper (FKG Dentaire SA, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland) for root canal preparation evaluated using microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) technology, with emphasis on the analysis of untouched canal walls. We searched the PubMed, Science Direct, SciELO, and MEDLINE databases for articles published from 2017 to 2019 using the following keywords: micro-CT, untouched walls, XP shaper, and XP endo. Articles without an abstract were excluded. Five papers were selected. Few studies on this topic are available. The studies published so far show that the XP-endo® Shaper system performs well in terms of canal preparation but leaves untouched walls.

Description: Acne vulgaris occurs due to the inflammation of sebaceous follicles in the skin. It is triggered by the activity of some bacterial species like Propionibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Acquisition of antibiotic resistance by these microorganisms and adverse effects associated with the current treatment regimens necessitate the introduction of novel therapeutic agents for acne vulgaris. Thus, this study was undertaken to develop novel gel formulations from seeds of Nigella sativa L. and to evaluate the antibacterial potential against some acne-causing bacterial species. The antibacterial activity of seed extracts was initially screened against S. aureus and P. acnes by the agar well diffusion method. Thereafter, topical gels were formulated incorporating the ethyl acetate extract of seeds of N. sativa at three different concentrations. These topical formulations were subjected to antimicrobial activity studies while the stability was evaluated over a period of 30 days. All three formulations were capable of inhibiting the growth of S. aureus and P. acnes, with the highest antibacterial activity in the formulation comprising 15% of the seed extract. Interestingly, the antibacterial potency of this formulation against S. aureus surpassed the commercial synthetic product used as the positive control. Moreover, any alteration in color, odor, homogeneity, washability, consistency, and pH was not observed while the antibacterial potency was also retained during the storage period. The potent antibacterial activity in topical gel formulations developed from the ethyl acetate extract of N. sativa signposts their suitability as alternatives to existing antiacne agents in the management of acne vulgaris.

Description: Coastal sand dunes are hips and strips formed by sand particles which are eroded and ground rock, derived from terrestrial and oceanic sources. This is considered as a specialized ecosystem characterized by conditions which are hostile for life forms like high salt, low moisture, and low organic matter content. However, dunes are also inhabited by diverse groups of flora, fauna, and microorganisms specifically adapted to these situations. Microbial groups like fungi, bacteria, and actinobacteria are quite abundant in the rhizosphere, phyllosphere, and inside plants which are very much essential for the integration of dunes. Microorganisms in this ecosystem have been found to produce a number of bioactive metabolites which are of great importance to agriculture and industries. Many species of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and Rhizobia associated with the roots of dune flora are prolific producers of plant growth promoting biochemicals like indole acetic acid. In addition to that bacteria belonging to Pseudomonas sp., Gammaproteobacteria have been found to have antagonistic activity towards plant pathogens like Rhizoctonia solani, Pythium ultimum, Fusarium oxysporum, and Botrytis cinerea. Many neutrophilic and alkaliphilic eubacterial species, endophytic fungi from dunes have proved their ability for the production of extracellular enzymes like cellulase, pectinase, amylase, protease, tannase, chitinase, etc., which are of great importance to various industries. In this context, it is relevant to observe that the state of Odisha in India has a 480km long coast having numerous sand dunes. These dunes are rich in floral and faunal diversity. However, a comprehensive study is yet to be taken up to explore the microbial diversity and their bioactive potential in this region. The current review sheds light on the enormous potential of sand dune microorganisms in the coast and surfaced the idea and need for such exploration in the state of Odisha, India.

Description: The mental foramen (MF) and accessory mental foramen (AMF) are the strategically important landmarks during surgical interventions and anaesthetic nerve blocks procedures involving the mental nerve. The study aimed at evaluating anthropometrics of MF and AMF in Zambian adult human mandibles and it was cleared for ethics from TDRC Ethics Review Committee (Reg. No.: 00002911; FWA: 00003729). A total of 33 Zambian adult human mandibles were evaluated for shape, position, and direction of opening of foramen. All measurements were performed using a Digital Vernier Calliper and statistically analysed for per cent frequency and mean and standard deviations, and we performed the one sample t-test for comparative analysis. Data were considered significant at p

Description: High population density and economic development attributing to the changes in water quality in Pa Sak River, Lopburi River, and Mekong River have attracted great attention. This research aimed to determine the pollution of heavy metals in collected clams at three different study sites. Bioaccumulation of heavy metals in Asian clam (Corbicula fluminea) may be likely to cause serious health effects on human beings. The clams sampled from three different rivers (Mekong, Pa Sak, and Lopburi) from Thailand were analyzed for the presence of heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Cd, Cr, Mn, and Pb) with an air-acetylene flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). Among the heavy metals studied, Zn was recorded as having the highest concentration (127.33-163.65 μg/g) among the three rivers. The observed mean concentration of Cu was in the range of 84.61-127.15 μg/g followed by Mn (13.96-100.63 μg/g), Cr (5.79-15.00 μg/g), Pb (3.43-8.55 μg/g), and Cd (0.88-1.95 μg/g). Overall, Asian clam from Pa Sak River was found to contain high concentrations of Zn, Cu, Cd, Cr, and Pb compared to Mekong and Lopburi River.

Description: Objective. To compare the clinical characteristics of a group of men and women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and determine the differences between genders. Materials and Methods. A descriptive and comparative cross-sectional study was developed with a group of 50 men and a control group of 50 women with RA, from a rheumatology center in the city of Guayaquil, Ecuador. Data collected included clinical manifestations, comorbidities, treatment, and disease activity. Clinical and activity differences between sexes were analyzed. Results. Women were more devoted to housework (66%), while men consumed more tobacco (34%) and alcohol (38%). Fatigue (60%), loss of appetite (54%), and weight loss (44%) were more common in women. No differences were found in comorbidities or treatment. Women had higher values of DAS-28 (3.4 vs 2.5), HAQ-DI (1.1 vs 0.4), ESR (33.0 vs 23.2), painful joints (8 vs 3), swollen joints (6 vs 2), and overall physician assessment (3 vs 2). Conclusion. The results are similar to other publications that establish that women have a more aggressive disease with greater activity of the disease and disability.

Description: Hymenaea martiana Hayne belongs to the family Fabaceae (Leguminosae) and presents the popular name of jatobá. It is a tree that demonstrates medicinal purposes and represents a food source in Brazil. The potential contribution of each species to recommended nutrient intakes (DRI) and Brazilian Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) for children and adults were calculated. A comparison between the quantified contents of micro- and macronutrients Al, Ca, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, P, S, and Zn in leaves tea and tea of the bark of this plant was made with the recommendation of FDA and ANVISA. General safety regarding metal content (Na, K, Ca, Fe, Zn, and Ni) and nonmetal (P) was assured as none of them exceed the safety limit of the daily intake. However, the content of Mn observed in the teas of H. martiana Hayne is above the UL for tolerable intake level for children aged 1-6 years. There are no limits established for the UL of Cr and S for children and adults. The data on quantification of mineral concentration in the species Hymenaea martiana Hayne obtained can serve as a tool to decide the dosage of preparations from this plant used for medicinal purposes.

Description: For soil fertility maintenance, secondary nutrient such as Magnesium (Mg) is always being neglected. However, its role is critical in the growth, yield, and quality of crops. Therefore, two field experiments were initiated in 2017 and 2018 to evaluate the response of soil chemical properties, performance, and qualities of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) to Mg fertilizer alone and in combination with poultry manure (PM) and NPK 15-15-15 fertilizer (NPK). The treatments applied were the following: (i) PM alone at 8 t ha−1, (ii) NPK alone at 200 kg ha−1, (iii) Mg fertilizer alone (in form of MgO) at 20 kg ha−1, (iv) PM at 8 t ha−1 with MgO at 20 kg ha−1 (PM + Mg), (v) NPK at 200 kg ha−1 with MgO at 20kgha−1 (NPK + Mg), and (vi) control (no amendment of any kind). PM, NPK, and Mg fertilizers alone or NPK + Mg and PM + Mg increased soil chemical properties, performance (plant height, number of leaves, number of tillers, number of rhizomes, and fresh rhizome weight), and minerals and vitamins C and A contents of turmeric rhizome compared with the control. By averaging 2017 and 2018, Mg fertilizer alone increased the yield of turmeric by 10.8% compared with the control. For this experiment, NPK + Mg increased growth and yield of turmeric compared with other treatments. Also, averaging 2017 and 2018, NPK + Mg increased rhizome yield of turmeric by 13.6% and 10.6% compared with PM + Mg and NPK alone, respectively. Similarly, PM + Mg significantly improved mineral and vitamins contents compared with other treatments. Therefore, for those that desire turmeric rhizome for its nutritive value, PM + Mg is recommended. For those that want quantity, NPK + Mg is recommended.

Description: Background. Cardiovascular diseases are leading causes of death worldwide. Recent studies suggest that infection by some viruses, including the human papillomavirus (HPV), may increase the risk of developing atheromatous lesions on coronary arteries. However, there is a lack of data regarding the possible association between HPV infection and coronary artery disease (CAD) in women. Objective. To investigate whether HPV infection is associated with the occurrence of CAD among climacteric women. Methods. The presence of CAD and cervical HPV DNA was investigated in 52 climacteric women. Social and demographic variables and metabolic profiles were also investigated. Results. Among 27 women with CAD, 16 were positive for HPV, whereas 11 were negative. The presence of cervical HPV was strongly associated with CAD, after adjusting for demographic variables, health and sexual behaviors, comorbidities, and known cardiovascular risk factors. HPV-positive women showed a greater likelihood of having CAD (odds ratio [OR] = 3.74; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16 to 11.96) as compared with HPV-negative women, particularly those infected with high-risk HPV types (OR = 4.90; 95% CI: 1.26 to 19.08). Conclusion. These results support the hypothesis that HPV infection might be associated with CAD among climacteric women, though further studies are needed to investigate the mechanisms involved.

Description: Background. Reducing maternal mortality remains a significant challenge in Indonesia, especially for achieving the country’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. One of the challenges is increasing delivery at healthcare facilities to ensure safe and healthy births. In Indonesia, research on factors affecting women’s use of facility-based childbirth services is scarce. Objective. This study was conducted to identify the determinants of facility-based deliveries in Indonesia. Methods. This study used data from the Indonesia Demographic and Health Survey of 2012, with a cross-sectional design. An odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was employed to outline the independent variables for the determinants, including maternal age and education, place of residence, involvement in decision-making, employment status, economic status, and number of antenatal care visits. The dependent variable in this study was the place of delivery: whether it took place in healthcare or nonhealthcare facilities. The statistical significance was set at p

Description: Falls during pregnancy can be associated with serious obstetric complications. Apart from sparse data highlighting traumatic outcomes, there are no studies identifying the obstetric correlates of maternal falls in Nigeria. A cross-sectional cohort survey of 1,175 women in five public health facilities in Ado–Ekiti was conducted to address this need. Fall rate was 25%; mothers who fell during pregnancy were significantly older, of higher parity, and with unintended/unwanted pregnancies than those who did not fall. Most of the reported falls occurred in the third trimester, with about 10% of the women falling at least thrice during the course of the pregnancy. More than half of the reported falls occurred while engaging in household chores and carrying child/object with compromised visibility of the feet and floor. Uterine contractions/abdominal pain was the commonest; 29 (76.3%), obstetric event attributed to the falls. Antepartum haemorrhage, 4 (10.5%), and ruptured membranes, 2 (5.3%), also occurred after falls, although it was rare and occurred with the same frequency as in the general population. Maternal age ≥ 30 years (odds ratio: 1.36; 95% C.I. 1.03 – 1.80, p = 0.031), multiparity (odds ratio: 1.54; 95% C.I. 1.15 – 2.07, p = 0.004), unintended pregnancy (odds ratio: 1.48; 95% C.I. 1.02 – 2.15, p = 0.037), and delivery age ≤ 40 weeks (odds ratio: 1.71; 95% C.I. 1.07 – 2.75, p = 0.026) were found to be independent risk factors for falls during pregnancy. Fall awareness campaigns and fall-preventing safety tips are advocated in women’s clinics. Improving contraceptive uptake will reduce unintended pregnancies and the risk of pregnancy-related fall/injuries.

Description: Cholera epidemic remains a public threat throughout history, affecting vulnerable population living with unreliable water and substandard sanitary conditions. Various studies have observed that the occurrence of cholera has strong linkage with environmental factors such as climate change and geographical location. Climate change has been strongly linked to the seasonal occurrence and widespread of cholera through the creation of weather patterns that favor the disease’s transmission, infection, and the growth of Vibrio cholerae, which cause the disease. Over the past decades, there have been great achievements in developing epidemic models for the proper prediction of cholera. However, the integration of weather variables and use of machine learning techniques have not been explicitly deployed in modeling cholera epidemics in Tanzania due to the challenges that come with its datasets such as imbalanced data and missing information. This paper explores the use of machine learning techniques to model cholera epidemics with linkage to seasonal weather changes while overcoming the data imbalance problem. Adaptive Synthetic Sampling Approach (ADASYN) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were used to the restore sampling balance and dimensional of the dataset. In addition, sensitivity, specificity, and balanced-accuracy metrics were used to evaluate the performance of the seven models. Based on the results of the Wilcoxon sign-rank test and features of the models, XGBoost classifier was selected to be the best model for the study. Overall results improved our understanding of the significant roles of machine learning strategies in health-care data. However, the study could not be treated as a time series problem due to the data collection bias. The study recommends a review of health-care systems in order to facilitate quality data collection and deployment of machine learning techniques.

Description: In this study, we aimed to evaluate planted Henna in three sites in Morocco, namely, Alnif, Tafraoute Sidi Ali, and Tazzarine. Morphometric study shows that Tafraoute Sidi Ali Henna variety has highest geometric and weight parameters (length of 27.48 mm, width of 10.92 mm, specific mass of 25.1 mg/leaf, leaf area of 51, 53 mm2, and rib’s number of 9.41) when compared to Alnif and Tazzarine varieties. On the other hand, biochemical analysis shows that Tazzarine Henna variety, in the first rank, is characterized by high levels of total sugars (11.27 g/100 g), reducing sugars (5.59 g/100 g), proteins (4.4 g/100g), lipids (3.05 g/100g), phenolic compounds (31.9 g/100 g), flavonoids (5.68 g/100 g), and tannins (5.5 g/100 g). Chromatographic study shows that Tazzarine Henna variety is rich in monocyclic and polycyclic phenolic compounds. Climatic conditions analysis shows that the morphometric and biochemical diversity is related to hydrous and thermal profiles of studied sites. As a conclusion of this work, we can recommend the use of morphometric analysis and phytochemical and chromatographic analysis to determine the quality of Henna in Morocco and elsewhere.

Description: Objectives. To determine the prevalence of orthodontic treatment need in 12-year-old children in Hong Kong and its relationship with the psychosocial impact of malocclusion and to assess their associations with sociodemographic factors. Materials and Methods. A random sample of 687 12-year-old children was recruited from 45 secondary schools in Hong Kong. Orthodontic treatment need was assessed on study models by five indices: the Dental Health Component of the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN-DHC), the Aesthetic Component of the IOTN (IOTN-AC), the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI), the Index of Complexity Outcome and Need (ICON), and the Peer Assessment Rating (PAR). The psychosocial impact of malocclusion on participants and sociodemographic factors were obtained from a questionnaire. Logistic regression was used to examine the correlations between treatment need and the psychosocial impact of malocclusion as well as their associations with sociodemographic factors. Results. The final number of participants was 667 (339 boys and 328 girls, participation rate 667/687 = 97.1%). The prevalence of orthodontic treatment need varied depending on the indices used (10.9–47.8%), but significant correlations were found among the five indices (p 0.05). Conclusion. The need for orthodontic treatment in 12-year-old children in Hong Kong remained high, and the uptake of treatment was low. Boys had a higher normative treatment need than girls. Among the five indices, IOTN-AC appears to be the best indicator of the psychosocial impact of malocclusion.

Description: This study examined the prevalence of truancy and its associated factors among 1500 school-going adolescents using the 2015 Mozambique Global School-based Student Health Survey data. The association was assessed using bivariate (Chi square) and multivariate (logistic regression) analysis. The prevalence of truancy was 36.6% (38.4% of males and 35.1% of females). It was found that adolescents aged 15 years and older [OR=1.460,95% CI=1.153,1.848], experiencing hunger [OR=1.613 95% CI= 1.051,2.475], current tobacco use [OR=1.613 95%CI=1.051,2.475], being bullied [OR=1.314, 95% CI=1.027,1.681], facing an attack, smoking [OR= 1.893, 95% CI=1.293,2.771], having 1-2 close friends [OR=1.656, 95% CI=1.276,2.14], and feeling lonely [OR=1.295, 95% CI=1.019,1.646] were the factors that predisposed adolescents to truant behaviour. Conversely, parental supervision [OR=0.53, 95% CI=0.232,0.791] was a protective factor against truancy. There is the need to design school-based interventions aimed at reducing truancy in Mozambique by tackling the predisposing factors and encouraging the protective factors.

Description: Characterization of smallholder farmers has been conducted in various researches by using machine learning algorithms, participatory and expert-based methods. All approaches used end up with the development of some subgroups known as farm typologies. The main purpose of this paper is to highlight the main approaches used to characterize smallholder farmers, presenting the pros and cons of the approaches. By understanding the nature and key advantages of the reviewed approaches, the paper recommends a hybrid approach towards having predictive farm typologies. Search of relevant research articles published between 2007 and 2018 was done on ScienceDirect and Google Scholar. By using a generated search query, 20 research articles related to characterization of smallholder farmers were retained. Cluster-based algorithms appeared to be the mostly used in characterizing smallholder farmers. However, being highly unpredictable and inconsistent, use of clustering methods calls in for a discussion on how well the developed farm typologies can be used to predict future trends of the farmers. A thorough discussion is presented and recommends use of supervised models to validate unsupervised models. In order to achieve predictive farm typologies, three stages in characterization are recommended as tested in smallholder dairy farmers datasets: (a) develop farm types from a comparative analysis of more than two unsupervised learning algorithms by using training models, (b) assess the training models’ robustness in predicting farm types for a testing dataset, and (c) assess the predictive power of the developed farm types from each algorithm by predicting the trend of several response variables.

Description: Analysis of fatty acid contents and pharmacological properties of Pliek U oil was performed. Fatty acids were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and pharmacological properties based on its potential on filament-aggregating protein (filaggrin) were studied with bioinformatics approach by the reverse docking technique using palmitic acid as a control compound. Two Pliek U extracts, namely, Pliek U oil (PUO) and ethanolic Pliek U oil extract (EPUOE), were prepared. The GC-MS results revealed that lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, and oleic acid are the predominant fatty acids, with lauric acid being the abundant one in all Pliek U oil extracts. The reverse docking technique results showed that oleic acid had the most stable interaction to filaggrin with the lowest binding affinity (−6.1 kcal/mol). Oleic acid and palmitic acid have one same side binding to filaggrin on amino acid LEU D75. These findings indicated that oleic acid has the best potential to be used as a drug candidate in atopic dermatitis treatment.

Description: Currently, the demand of Pleurotus HK-37 (oyster mushroom) in Tanzania is growing rapidly due to the increasing of awareness on its nutrition, health, and economic benefits. Despite the increasing demand, the availability of strains of Pleurotus HK-37 species is still a challenge due to high cost of tissue culture technology. The high cost of importing agar seems to be among the factors for this failure. This study aimed at investigating the performance of low-cost agar from local Gracilaria salicornia on tissue culture of Pleurotus HK-37. Local extracted agars with different gel strengths ranging between 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 g/cm2 were used to make PDA media. The average mycelia growth rate (mm/day) ranged between 9.87 ± 1.44 and 14.9 ± 0.85 mm/day. Low-cost agar shows quite similar performance as that of standard agar on active growth of Pleurotus HK-37 mycelia. All PDA plates appeared white and feathery and showed to grow in a circular mode (radial extension). Mycelia growth on standard agar PDA took 5 days while on extracted local agar PDA took 5 to 7 days to fully colonize the plate at 27 ± 2°C. The present study shows that the production cost can be reduced by ∼35–78% by using local agar.

Description: Introduction. The pathophysiology of malaria-related anaemia is not fully understood although increased destruction of parasitized and nonparasitized erythrocytes, as well as inadequate erythropoiesis, has been proposed. Circulating antierythropoietin (anti-EPO) antibodies have also been implicated in malaria and malaria-related anaemia in mice. However, studies on this association have not been investigated in humans. This study therefore determined the prevalence of anti-EPO antibody production and assessed its association with malaria and malaria-related anaemia in humans. Methods. A total of 86 children aged 1-10 years (57 children with malaria serving as the case group and 29 healthy children serving as control), all residents of Duayaw Nkwanta, Ghana, were recruited for this case-control study. Venous blood was collected for thick and thin films for malaria microscopy, full blood count by automated haematology analyzer, and antierythropoietin antibody and erythropoietin estimation by sandwich ELISA method. Results. Out of the 86 participants recruited, only 3 (3.5%) were positive for anti-EPO antibody; 2.3% of the case group; and 1.2% of the control group. There was no association between the cases and the controls in the production of anti-EPO antibodies. Erythropoietin concentration was significantly higher in malaria-related anaemic subjects (p=0.032). Conclusion. Antierythropoietin antibodies are not associated with malaria infection and malaria-related anaemia in humans. Erythropoietin concentration is associated with malaria-related anaemia.

Description: Objectives. To explore the magnitude and determinants of burnout among emergency physicians and nurses working at emergency departments of hospitals in Abha and Khamis Mushait cities. Subjects and Methods. A cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted in emergency departments of hospitals in Abha and Khamis Mushait cities belonging to Ministry of Health. All physicians (n=95) and nurses (n=187) currently working at these sites were invited to participate in the study by filling a validated self-administered questionnaire including two main sections: personal and professional characteristics of physicians and nurses as well as Maslach burnout inventory (MBI) to assess the three components of the burnout syndrome: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment. Results. The study included 282 physicians and nurses. The age of more than half of them (54.3%) ranged between 31 and 35 years. Most of them (70.9%) were females. About two-thirds of the respondents (66.3%) were nurses while the remaining 33.7% were physicians. Majority of the emergency healthcare professionals (88.7%) had high emotional exhaustion. The prevalence of high depersonalization (cynicism) was 20.6% whereas that of low personal accomplishment was 41.1% among emergency healthcare professionals. The overall prevalence of burnout among healthcare professionals was 16.3%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that male healthcare professionals were at almost higher three-folded risk for developing burnout compared to females (aOR=2.76; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.21-6.28, p=0.017)). Smokers were at higher significant risk for burnout compared to nonsmokers (aOR=15.37; 95% CI: 7.06-33.45, p

Description: This study aims to characterize the physicochemical properties of cocoa’s residual honey and evaluate its fermentative capacity as a substrate, using Saccharomyces cerevisiae AWRI726 as the starter culture for alcoholic fermentation. The research hypothesis was that cocoa’s residual honey can be used for the production of fermented beverages. Cocoa’s honey has 14.14 g.100 mL−1 of dry material, containing 11.80 g.100 mL−1 of carbohydrates and 1.20% crude protein, in addition to other minor components, such as pectin, lipids, and Fe, Mn, Na, and Zn, with a carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio (9.8) most suitable for fermentation. Fermentation at 20°C for 240 hours produced a liquid with 16% v/v ethanol (14 g.L−1 in 144 h). However, 24 hours of fermentation produced the maximum ethanol yield (0.373 g.g−1) and volumetric productivity (0.168 g.L−1.h−1), which were associated with a significant increase in the specific cell growth rate. Saccharomyces cerevisiae AWR1726 performed satisfactorily in the alcoholic fermentation of cocoa’s residual honey, similar to that observed in other fruit beverages, thus suggesting the suitability of cocoa’s residual honey for future commercial applications.

Description: Aim. To determine the epidemiological profile of oral diseases in a marginal urban Peruvian population. Methods. A 9-year retrospective study was conducted, analysing 18,639 clinical records from the María Auxiliadora Hospital between 2006 and 2015 with diagnoses of oral lesions using ICD-10 criteria. Clinical records were analysed for sex, tumour, periapical abscess and sinus, cysts of the oral region, other lesions of the oral mucosa and cavity, gingivitis and periodontal disease, dentofacial anomalies, diseases of pulp, etc. Results. Of 18,639 cases, the prevalence was higher in women for the following pathologies: unspecified dental caries (30.6%); impacted tooth in the category of disorders of tooth development and eruption (2.0%); pulpitis (6.8%) in the category of diseases of pulp and periapical tissues; temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders (1.5%) in the category of dentofacial anomalies; acute gingivitis (7.5%); radicular cyst (0.3%) in the category of cysts of the oral region; and periapical abscess without sinus (2.0%). Conclusions. We found a significant association between sex and different types of dental caries, disturbances in tooth eruption, diseases of pulp and periapical tissues, and dentofacial anomalies. The study also shows a statistically significant association between sex and gingivitis, periodontal disease, and periodontal abscess and sinus.

Description: Our research aimed at the removal of nitrate ions through adsorption by local clay. A series of batch experiments were conducted to examine the effects of contact time, adsorbent characteristics, initial concentration of nitrate, pH of the solution, concentration, and granulometry of adsorbent. Adsorption isotherms studies indicated that local clay satisfies Freundlich’s model. The rate of reaction follows pseudo-second-order kinetics. Local clay successfully adsorbs nitrates at pH acid. The adsorption capacity under optimal conditions was found to be 5.1 mg/g. The adsorption yield increases with adsorbent dose and decrease with initial concentration of nitrate. The local clay was characterized by the X-ray fluorescence method (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electronics microscopy (SEM), and measurement of specific surface area (BET). The results of the study indicated that local clay is useful materials for the removal of nitrates from aqueous solutions which can be used in water treatment without any chemical modification.

Description: The species Inga laurina is native to the Brazilian Cerrado. There are no studies about the chemical composition and biological activities of extracts of this endangered species. The ethanolic extract and its successive fractions are rich in phenolic compounds and presented good antifungal activities. HPLC/MS-MS/MS and H1/C13 analysis led to the identification of seventeen compounds, most of which are gallic acid derivatives, myricetin and quercetin glycosides. The ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) contained high levels of total phenolics, expressed in milligrams of gallic acid equivalents per gram of extract (475.3 ± 1.9 mg GAE ) and flavonoids expressed in milligrams of quercetin equivalents per gram of extract (359.3 ± 10.6 mg QE ). This fraction was active against fungi of the Candida genus. The EAF showed MIC value 11.7 μg mL−1 against C. glabrata and a selectivity index of 1.6 against Vero cells. The flavonol glycoside myricetin-3-O-rhamnoside was isolated for the first time from the Inga laurina. These results make I. laurina a promising plant as a source of pharmaceutical and biological active antifungal compounds.

Description: Background. Blood-borne infections have been recognized as an occupational hazard for nearly 50 years. Current treatment for hepatitis B virus (HBV) is very expensive for individuals in developing countries and cannot clear infection after it progresses to the chronic stage. Thus, early screenings of people who are at higher risk like healthcare workers and vaccination and awareness creation on standard precautions (SP) to prevent transmission are mandatory. This study determined seroprevalence of HBV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) among healthcare workers of Jimma University Medical Center (JUMC). Methods. An institution based cross-sectional study was conducted from Nov 2015 to Jan 2016. The lottery method was used to select 240 healthcare workers. Data were collected by a self-administered questionnaire. Five to ten milliliters of whole venous blood was collected from each participant. The blood samples were analyzed (tested) for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV antibody using automated Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Data were entered into EpiData 3.1 and analyzed by SPSS 23. Results. The positivity of HBsAg was 2.5% (6/240; 95% CI: 0.52-4.48%) and that of anti-HCV antibody was 0.42% (1/240; 95% CI: 0.0-1.23%). Most participants had good knowledge of HBV (73.9%), HCV (60.9%), and SP (82.2%) and positive attitude towards SP (88.7%), but only 42.6% had a good practice of SP. More than half (60%) and nearly half (43%) had a history of ever exposure and exposure in the last one year before the survey, respectively. Females were at lower risk of both having ever exposure (95% CI: (0.241, 0.777)) and exposure in the last one year before the survey (95% CI: (0.297, 0.933)) compared to males. Conclusion. The prevalence of HBV was intermediate according to the endemicity classification by WHO. The practice of SP was poor in most participants and, thus, occupational exposure was high. Therefore, regular screening and vaccination of healthcare workers, regular provision of basic or refresher training and availing logistics, and regular motivation of healthcare workers on the practice of standard precautions are recommended.

Description: The objective of this review was to analyze original articles about the effects of therapy with LED in experimental models of calcaneal tendon lesions of rats. The search was performed in the period from February to May 2018, in the following electronic databases: MEDLINE, SciELO, and LILACS, besides the Google Scholar, using the descriptors “Achilles tendon”, “Rats”, “LED”, “Tendinopathy”, and “Low-level Light Therapy”, as well as their matching parts in the Portuguese and Spanish languages, related to and in association with the relevant terms to the content sought. From the descriptors used 215 works were found. After application of eligibility criteria 8 works were selected, in which positive results were found after the application of the LED. Regarding the main results found with phototherapy, we observed a significant reduction in inflammation. Only one article mentioned little reduction of inflammation. In relation to the number of sessions, there was wide variation, with an average of approximately 5 sessions every 24 hours. Studies in this review pointed out, therefore, positive results in the repair of the calcaneal tendon after therapy with irradiation LED; however, carrying out more experimental studies that help the standardization of parameters to be used in this therapy for further clinical studies becomes necessary.

Description: Due to its balanced composition in basic nutrients, its richness in vitamins and in minerals, camel milk has a special place in the daily diet of southern populations. The present study aimed at examining some physicochemical and biochemical characteristics of camel milk (Camelus dromedarius) in Morocco. To achieve this aim, three batches of samples of camel milk were collected from various regions (Dakhla, Errachida, and Fès-Meknes) undergoing physicochemical and biochemical analyses. Results showed that Moroccan camel milk is characterized by slight hydronium potential (pH=6.5), low Dornic acidity (15°D), low density (1.029 kg/l), and high content of ashes (8.06 g/l). Likewise, samples had a high content of macronutrients (Fats: 34.09 g/l; Proteins: 32.4 g/l; Sugar: 49.8 g/l) and micronutrients (Vitamin C: 27.53 mg/l; Flavonoids: 29.05 mg EQ/l: total phenolic compounds: 35.45mg GAE/l). In this respect, working on multiple specimens from different Moroccan regions highlighted an analytical diversity from the south to the north. Comparative study of samples from numerous territories all over the world has confirmed this diversity. North African milk is characterized by high content of proteins, fats, and sugar. On the other hand, oriental milk is peculiarized by high vitamin C content.

Description: Vatica diospyroides Symington is locally known as Chan-Ka-Pho in Thailand. Ancient people have used it as therapeutic plant for cardiac and blood tonic cure. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential cytotoxicity and selectivity of the extracts from V. diospyroides type SS fruit on cervical cancer HeLa and SiHa cell lines and to examine its underlying mechanism of action. MTT assay revealed that the extracts showed inhibition of cell survival in a dose-dependent manner and exhibited highly cytotoxic activity against both HeLa and SiHa cells with IC50 value less than 20 μg/mL along with less toxicity against L929 cells. Acetone cotyledon extract (ACE) showed the best selectivity index value of 4.47 (HeLa) and 3.51 (SiHa). Distinctive morphological changes were observed in ACE-treated cervical cancer cells contributing to apoptosis action. Flow cytometry analysis with Annexin V-FITC and PI staining precisely indicated that ACE induced apoptosis in HeLa and SiHa cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment of ACE with half IC50 caused DNA fragmentation and also activated increasing of bax and cleaved caspase-8 protein in HeLa cells after 48 h exposure. The results suggest that ACE has potent and selective cytotoxic effect against cervical cancer cells and the potential to induce bax and caspase-8-dependent apoptosis. Hence, the ACE could be further exploited as a potential lead in cancer treatment.

Description: The Astyanax scabripinnis complex is composed of a large number of almost morphological indistinguishable species, including Astyanax paranae and Astyanax rivularis, which exist in the Paraná and São Francisco Basins, respectively, and sometimes are considered subspecies of the A. scabripinnis group or even are cited just as A. scabripinnis. The two river basins are separated by the Upper Paranaíba Arc, likely the main cause of the isolation of these species. We used geometric morphometric tools and DNA analyses of populations of both species to identify the differences between them. Geometric morphometrics separated the two species into distinct groups, whose main difference was the body depth. This is generally related to the speed of the water flow in the river basins. The maximum likelihood phylogram based on mitochondrial DNA sequences formed two main clades: one composed of the population of A. rivularis and the other, of A. paranae. In the haplotype network, the species were similarly separated into two groups from the same ancestral haplotype, with A. rivularis dispersing into two lineages in the São Francisco River Basin. The distribution of A. paranae is a consequence of a secondary dispersion event in the Paraná River Basin. It forms two lineages from a haplotype derived from the ancestor. The vicariant effect of separate basins, through the elevation of the Upper Paranaíba Arc, led to the allopatric speciation of the populations originating the present species. The results of geometric morphometrics and molecular data of the fish show the importance of this geological event in the biogeography and evolutionary history of the ichthyofauna of the region and indicate that the isolation of these species seems to be effective.

Description: Pueraria phaseoloides is a legume cover crop, found chiefly in the wet zone of Sri Lanka. Nitrogen fixation is performed by nodular inhabitants of this cover crop, comparable to the nodule-dwelling bacteria of most other legume plants. We isolated a bacterium (Sub1) from Pueraria phaseoloides, of coccobacillus cell shape, that showed nodulation, when assessed by hydroponics, showing nodules as early as 3 weeks after reinfection. When a nifH fragment from the genome of this bacterium was amplified using a pair of nifH primers, it yielded an amplicon of 360 bp that, when sequenced, helped us identify the bacterium, as belonging to a species of Pseudacidovorax intermedius, at 99% sequence identity. When we constructed a phylogenetic tree with neighboring sequences, we encountered nifH sequences of Pseudacidovorax, forming a monophyletic cluster, which too contained a single Azospirillum species. The genus Pseudacidovorax is a bacterium that, so far, has not been associated with legume nodules. Sub1 secreted a pair of enzymes to the extracellular medium to degrade cellulose and milk proteins. The Sub1 bacterium showed biofilm formation and secreted into the extracellular medium, indole acetic acid. Sub1 also showed a “bulls eye” swarming pattern for the chemoattractant proline, while showing no significant chemotaxis movement, for naringenin, quercetin, and glutamate. Sub1 too possesses the basic genetic foundation (nifH and nifD) to produce a molybdenum-dependent nitrogenase enzyme. We finally show that this rare nonrhizobial bacterium is able to impact, positively, nodulation and shoot length of Pueraria plants, demonstrating that this beta-proteobacterium can abet the biological vigor of this legume cover crop.

Description: The extraction of essential oils is generally carried out by two main techniques: azeotropic distillation (hydrodistillation, hydrodiffusion, and steam distillation) and extraction with solvents. However, these traditional methods are a bit expensive, especially since they are extremely energy and solvent consuming. This work consists in studying two methods of extraction of the essential oils of Rosmarinus officinalis L.: microwave assisted hydrodistillation (MAH) and Clevenger hydrodistillation (CH). Several parameters have been studied: the extraction time, the yield, and the chemical composition of the essential oils as well as the efficiency and cost of each procedure. The results obtained revealed that microwave-assisted hydrodistillation makes it possible to minimize the extraction time of the essential oils in comparison with conventional hydrodistillation. Thus, the same yield of essential oils is obtained for 20 minutes only with MAH while it takes 180 minutes with CH. In addition, the quality of the essential oil is improved thanks to a 1.14% increase in oxygenates. In conclusion, the MAH method offers significant advantages over conventional hydrodistillation and can therefore replace it on a pilot and industrial scale.

Description: We have identified ras guanyl releasing protein 2 (rasgrp2) as a blood vessel related gene from Xenopus embryo. In addition, we reported that RASGRP2 is also expressed in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). It is known that RASGRP2 activates Ras-related protein 1 (Rap1). However, the function of RASGRP2 in human vascular endothelium remains unknown. Therefore, we performed functional analysis of RASGRP2 using immortalized HUVEC (TERT HUVEC). We established a stable RASGRP2 overexpressing cell line (TERT HUVEC R) and mock cell line (mock). Furthermore, we compared the activity of Rap1 and the generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), which is related to cell death, in both cell lines. Significant increase in Rap1 activity was observed in the TERT HUVEC R compared to the mock. Furthermore, apoptosis by tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) stimulation was significantly more reduced in the TERT HUVEC R than in the mock. In the mock, apoptosis induced by TNF-α stimulation was decreased by pretreatment with diphenyleneiodonium (DPI), which is an inhibitor of NADPH oxidase (NOX). However, in the TERT HUVEC R, apoptosis induced by TNF-α stimulation was not reduced after pretreatment of DPI. Furthermore, there was no reduction in ROS production in the TERT HUVEC R after DPI pretreatment. In addition, the difference in the degree of apoptosis induced by TNF-α stimulation in both cell lines was consistent with the difference in ROS production in the cell lines. From these results, it was suggested that RASGRP2 activates Rap1 and the activated Rap1 suppresses apoptosis via NOX inhibition.

Description: Objectives. Some of the social factors were related to hormone replacement therapy. The purpose of this study is to determine hormone replacement therapy (HRT) rates and to illustrate social factors affecting hormone replacement therapy in postmenopausal women. Material and Methods. This study comprised a total of 1052 postmenopausal women, 926 of whom were reported menopausal symptoms and sought for the treatment. 432 of these 926 participants had treated their symptoms by receiving HRT. The data was collected with a data collection form prepared by the researcher by using face-to-face interview technique. In these analyses, chi-square and Backward Logistic regression analyses were used. Results. The multivariate analyses indicated that the decision to seek treatment was influenced by a multitude of factors. These factors included location of hormone replacement therapy (OR: 12.32 3.21-44.46 in university hospital and OR: 5.42 2.43–13.26 in private hospital), information received about HRT (OR: 7.25 2.14,-30.80), physicians’ counselling and involvement (OR: 5.24 2.82-9.86), knowledge of complications associated with HRT (OR: 6.21 3.28-16.62), and employment status (OR: 3.42 1.86-5.58). The current study identifies these factors affecting the HRT process in postmenopausal women. Conclusion. This study suggests that although the results do not demonstrate an exhaustive list of factors affecting the HRT process, they nonetheless provide evidence that the location participants applied for, physicians’ counselling and involvement, participant employment status, and knowledge surrounding HRT may affect a woman’s intent to receive HRT. Therefore, these results indicate that health professional influence and HRT awareness are important for HRT use. Suggestions for health care include informing women of the advantages and disadvantages of HRT to encourage popularity.

Description: Pluripotent stem cells are used in regenerative medicine and exist in various internal organs. However, there are a small number of reports of neural cells or neural stem cells existing in the spleen. In this study, we sought to identify possible neural stem cells in the mouse spleen. The spleens of ICR mice were removed and small specimens were incubated in Dulbecco’s modified Eagle’s medium with Nutrient Mixture F-12 containing either 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS), 20% FBS, 10% neonate bovine serum, or 10% fetal calf serum. Neural cell medium was also used. The cultured cells were investigated for expression of the neural cell markers neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and neurofilament 150 kDa (NF-150) by immunocytochemistry. Mouse spleens were also examined by immunohistochemistry for NSE, NF-150, NF-200, peripherin, and glial fibrillary acidic protein. Cells morphologically resembling neural cells were obtained and were positive for neural cell markers. Some of the cells generated sphere-like formations, which may have been neurospheres. Cell proliferation was best in medium containing 10% FBS. Cells positive for neural markers were observed in the subcapsular and perivascular regions of the spleen. The cells were round and present in much lower numbers than in cell culture. These cells are suspected neural stem cells and would be expected to differentiate into neural cells in cell culture. This report suggests the existence of neural stem cells in the mouse spleen.

Description: β-fructofuranosidase (invertase) and β-D-fructosyltransferase (FTase) are enzymes used in industrial processes to hydrolyze sucrose aiming to produce inverted sugar syrup or fructooligosaccharides. In this work, a black Aspergillus sp. PC-4 was selected among six filamentous fungi isolated from canned peach syrup which were initially screened for invertase production. Cultivations with pure carbon sources showed that invertase and FTase were produced from glucose and sucrose, but high levels were also obtained from raffinose and inulin. Pineapple crown was the best complex carbon source for invertase (6.71 U/mL after 3 days of cultivation) and FTase production (14.60 U/mL after 5 days of cultivation). Yeast extract and ammonium chloride nitrogen sources provided higher production of invertase (6.80 U/mL and 6.30 U/mL, respectively), whereas ammonium nitrate and soybean protein were the best nitrogen sources for FTase production (24.00 U/mL and 24.90 U/mL, respectively). Fermentation parameters for invertase using yeast extract were = 536.85 U/g and = 1.49 U/g/h. FTase production showed values of = 2,627.93 U/g and = 4.4 U/h using soybean protein. The screening for best culture conditions showed an increase of invertase production values by 5.10-fold after 96 h cultivation compared to initial experiments (fungi bioprospection), while FTase production increased by 14.60-fold (44.40 U/mL) after 168 h cultivation. A. carbonarius PC-4 is a new promising strain for invertase and FTase production from low cost carbon sources, whose synthesized enzymes are suitable for the production of inverted sugar, fructose syrups, and fructooligosaccharides.

Description: In this study, mechanical mixtures of sugarcane bagasse and iron salts (nitrate, acetate, or a mixture of both) were subjected to thermal decomposition for producing iron oxide and carbonaceous composite materials, which were evaluated as adsorbents for removing dyes from water using methylene blue (MB) as a model system. Aiming to optimize the conditions for obtaining composite adsorbents, the Box-Behnken design (BBD) was used to study the effects of mass sugarcane bagasse/mass iron salt, type of mixture of sugarcane bagasse/iron salt, and temperature on the response to be obtained (adsorption capacity, ) before the execution of the adsorption tests. The synthesized composites were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area analysis. The relationship between the characteristics of different materials, based on the processing of statistical data and the results of the adsorption tests, helped determine the routes that led to formation of composites with the most suitable properties for the removal of MB dye. Different phases, such as magnetite (Fe3O4) and/or maghemite (-Fe2O3) and iron carbide (Fe3C), were formed. The composites that presented the highest values were SB/IN 1:1 (600°C) and SB/IN-IA 1:2 (400°C). The first, which contained iron carbide (Fe3C), according to the XRD results, also showed larger BET surface area than the other composites. These properties may have contributed to the higher MB adsorption efficiency of this material in aqueous medium. The sample SB/IN-IA 1:2 (400°C) had lower specific area and was composed of magnetite and/or maghemite phases. In this case, the high was probably associated with the surface properties promoted by combination with the carbonaceous material, favoring interactions with MB.

Description: Egg white protein has a high net protein utilisation, with a score of 100 in the amino acid rating system. Although the enzymatic breakdown of egg white yields hydrolysates that are rapidly absorbed and various physiological activities can be expected from them, flavouring egg white to meet taste requirements as a food has been a difficult challenge. Herein, we developed a high-molecular-weight egg white hydrolysate and compared the absorption rate and nutritional value of the hydrolysate with those of egg white proteins obtained from raw materials, whey proteins, and hydrolysates, also known as high-quality proteins. The absorption rate of egg white hydrolysates was faster than that of egg white and whey proteins in portal vein cannulated rats, and their bioavailability values were higher than those of whey proteins and hydrolysates. According to the protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score and digestible indispensable amino acid score, the scores for egg white hydrolysates were equivalent to those of egg white and whey proteins but higher than those of whey hydrolysates. Our results show that egg white hydrolysates maintain the nutritional value of egg whites and are rapidly absorbed by the body.

Description: Widespread escalation of type 2 diabetes is a concern throughout the world. Developing countries are leading with patients suffering from diabetes-related complications. Plant-based therapeutic, antidiabetic herbal preparations (ADHPs) are being sought for long and the consumption is increasing in in Bangladesh. Plant-based antidiabetic preparations do not go through the screening procedure in terms of safety. Toxic metals in ADHPs have been investigated by two different methods: atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Then, metal concentrations obtained by AAS and XRF were compared. A total of eleven ADHPs were subjected to nondestructive XRF analysis and destructive AAS analysis. Results from the two methods were analyzed statistically by Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC), . Pearson correlation coefficients were found to be −0.05, 0.94, and 1.00 for Mn, Cu, and Zn, respectively. Zn and Cu had significant strong positive correlation ( = 1.00 and 0.94, respectively); however, very weak negative correlation was observed in Mn ( = −0.05). The concentrations were regressed to observe the presence of linearity. Linear correlation was found for Zn and Cu which indicates a good agreement between AAS and XRF. However, very weak linear correlation in Mn indicates necessitating requirements for further investigation on getting scientific evidence of toxic metal assessment of the antidiabetic herbal preparations for searching and establishing instrumental agreement.

Description: Carissa edulis is a plant used in the management of oxidative stress and inflammatory related disorders such as malaria, rheumatism inflammation, and cardiovascular diseases. The present study evaluates the total phenolic content, antioxidant capacity (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP), and the bioactive compounds present in the various extracts of C. edulis (HEC, MEC, AEC, and PC). An HPLC analysis determined the different compounds present in the extracts. High concentration of total phenolic content was observed in aqueous and methanolic extracts more than in the hydroethanolic extract though not significantly different. Flavonoids were higher in the hydroethanolic and methanolic extracts, respectively, with 14.84 mg RE/g extract and 12.02 mg RE/g extract. Tannins were also found in large amounts in the same two extracts with 26.76 mg TAE/g extract and 34.67 mg TEE/g extract. The percentage radical scavenging activity DPPH ranged between 58.63% and 94.67% for aqueous extract and for ABTS between 51.39% and 94.12% for the methanolic extract. The highest FRAP was obtained in the methanolic extract (6.73 g AAE/100 g extract). HPLC analysis revealed the presence of quercetin, rutin, and gallic acid in the different extracts. C. edulis represents a potential source of bioactive components with antioxidant capacity.

Description: Thin-walled drip tapes with continuous labyrinth have been used for irrigation of vegetables and other short-cycle crops, especially due to their low cost. The continuous labyrinths welded into the pipe inner wall affect the head loss along such emitting pipes. In addition, the flow cross section of thin-walled pipes may change due to the effects of the operating pressure, which also has consequences for the head loss. The objective of this work was to investigate experimentally the friction factor and the head loss on thin-walled drip tapes with continuous labyrinths operated under various pressures. Two models of commercial thin-walled drip tapes with continuous labyrinths were evaluated. Nonperforated samples were used to determine the head-loss equations. The equations were adjusted as a function of flow rate and pressure head at the pipe inlet. Alternatively, the diameter in the Darcy–Weisbach equation was adjusted as a function of the pressure head by a power-law model. The possibility of using a mean diameter in the Darcy–Weisbach equation was also analyzed. Experimental investigation indicated that the friction factor in the Darcy–Weisbach equation can be accurately described using a power-law model, like the Blasius equation, but characterized by a coefficient for the Turbo Tape and for the Silver Tape. The obtained values of are larger than those generally used and available in the literature. The influence of the operating pressure on the pipe diameter can be neglected for the purpose of calculating the head loss. The two approaches, considering the variation of the diameter with the pressure head and considering an optimum average diameter for the calculation of head loss by the Darcy–Weisbach equation, produce similar results, allowing accurate prediction of head loss. Evaluating the proposed mathematical models, 95% of predictions presented relative errors of head loss smaller than 5%. For the Turbo Tape, the optimum diameter for the purpose of calculating the head loss is 16.01 mm, which is very close to the value indicated by its manufacturer (15.9 mm). For the Silver Drip, the optimum diameter is 15.71 mm, while the manufacturer gives a value of 16.22 mm, which produces considerable error in the calculation of head loss.

Description: Mushrooms produce a variety of bioactive compounds that are known to have a potential source of antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Natural antioxidants can protect against free radicals without any side effects. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Auricularia and Termitomyces extracts. Specimens of Auricularia and Termitomyces spp. were collected from Kakamega National Reserve Forest in Kenya. Specimens were identified, extracted, and screened for their antioxidant and antimicrobial activities using stable free radical DPPH and colorimetric bioassay methods, respectively. The antimicrobial activity of the extracts was tested against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, MRSA, Candida albicans, and Candida parapsilosis. The maximum scavenging activity of hot water extract of Auricularia spp. was observed at 70.4% with the IC50 value of 40 μg/mL. Of the three extracts of Termitomyces spp., 70% ethanol extract has shown the highest scavenging activity (63%) with the IC50 value of 50 μg/mL. Chloroform and hot water extracts of Auricularia have shown statistically significantly different antifungal activities against C. parapsilosis (df = 2, F = 22.49, p ≤ 0.05). Of all the organisms, S. aureus was highly susceptible to 70% ethanol and hot water extracts of Termitomyces spp. with minimum inhibitory concentration values of 0.67±0.29 mg/mL. S. aureus and E. coli were the most susceptible and resistant bacteria to the hot water extract, respectively. In conclusion, the extracts of Auricularia spp. and Termitomyces spp. have shown promising antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

Description: Objective. The present study compared the changes in the upper airway dimensions and sleep-related breathing disorder (SRBD) condition between functional treatment with the headgear Herbst (HG-Herbst) and headgear Twin Block (HG-TB) appliance. Soft tissues were assessed on lateral cephalometric X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Materials and Methods. Consecutive patients who sought orthodontic treatment at the Faculty of Dentistry of The University of Hong Kong were screened. Adolescents (12-17 year sold for boys and 10-15 years old for girls), with class II molar relationship and overjet 〉5 mm, with no severe transverse maxillary deficiency, were recruited. Patients were assigned either to the HG-Herbst or to the HG-TB treatment by stratified block randomisation, with sex as the stratification factor. Lateral cephalograms, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and the Paediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) were obtained at baseline and after treatment. Results. 28 patients were enrolled, and 26 patients (13 in each group) completed the treatment. Following 1 year of functional appliance treatment, a significantly lower increase of the lower anterior facial height was observed in the HG-Herbst group compared to the HG-TB group ( = 0.024). However, no significant differences were observed in the upper airway structures or SRBD between the two groups. Conclusion. The changes in upper airway dimensions and SRBD condition were not significantly different between the HG-Herbst and the HG-TB appliance treatment. Additional studies with larger sample size are warranted.

Description: Purpose. The objective of this systematic review is to compare results concerning the properties of adhesion, roughness, and hardness of dental liners obtained in the last ten years. Methods. Searches on the databases LILACS, PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were supplemented with manual searches conducted between February and April of 2018. The inclusion criteria included experimental in vitro and in vivo, clinical, and laboratory studies on resilient and/or hard liners, assessment of hardness, roughness, and/or adhesion to the denture base, and physical/mechanical changes resulting from the disinfection process and changes in liners’ composition or application. Results. A total of 406 articles were identified and, from those, 44 are discussed. Twenty-four studies examined the bond strength, 13 surface roughness, and 19 the hardness. Of these 44 studies, 12 evaluated more than one property. Different substances were used in the attempt to improve adhesion. Considering roughness and hardness, the benefits of sealants have been tested, and the changes resulting from antimicrobial agents’ incorporation have been assessed. Conclusion. Adhesion to the prosthesis base is improved with surface treatments. Rough surfaces and changes in hardness compromise the material’s serviceability.

Description: Background. Liver diseases are a global health problem. Medicinal plants are being increasingly used to manage a wide variety of diseases including liver disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant properties and hepatoprotective activity of polyphenolic extract from the fruits of Tetrapleura tetraptera (T. tetraptera). Results. The extract of T. tetraptera was administered at doses of 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg for 07 per os to rats before the induction of hepatotoxicity with of 2 ml/kg of 1:1 (v/v) carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and olive oil through intraperitoneal route. The in vitro antioxidant and radical scavenging properties of T. tetraptera were conducted by the FRAP method, the phosphomolybdate method, and the inhibition potential of DPPH, ABTS, OH, and NO radicals. The extraction yield of T. tetraptera was 19.35%. This extract contains polyphenols (273.48 mg CAE/g DM), flavonoids (5.2549 mg SE/g DM), and flavonols (1.615 mg SE/g DM). This extract showed in vitro antioxidant activity, an inhibitor power of various free radicals, and radical scavenging potential dose-dependent. The fifty-percent inhibitory concentration of the extract (IC50) for the studied radical varied from 28.16 to 136 μg/L. In rats treated with the extract of T. tetraptera, in a dose-dependent manner, the levels of hepatotoxicity markers such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) significantly increased while the enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and the level of reduced glutathione (GHS) significantly increased compared to the control group. Conclusions. The extracts from the fruit of T. tetraptera demonstrate antioxidant activity and hepatoprotective effects.

Description: For gastrulation to occur in human embryos, a mechanism that simultaneously regulates many different processes, such as cell differentiation, proliferation, migration, and invasion, is required to consistently and effectively create a human being during embryonic morphogenesis. The striking similarities in the processes of cancer and gastrulation have prompted speculation regarding the developmental pathways involved in their regulation. One of the fundamental requirements for the developmental pathways in gastrulation and cancer is the ability to respond to environmental stimuli, and it has been proposed that the Kaiso and noncanonical Wnt pathways participate in the mechanisms regulating these developmental pathways. In particular, these pathways might also explain the notable differences in invasive capacity between cancers of endodermal and mesodermal origins and cancers of ectodermal origin. Nevertheless, the available information indicates that cancer is an abnormal state of adult human cells in which developmental pathways are reactivated in inappropriate temporal and spatial contexts.

Description: The variabilities in the phytochemical contents and antioxidant activities of four varieties of two closely related cultivated Capsicum species, C. annuum and C. frutescens, were examined as an additional tool for establishing their phylogenetic relatedness and for breeding purposes. The methodology involved the use of ethanolic and aqueous extractions for the determination of the phytochemical and antioxidant properties. The phytochemical contents including total flavonoid, total phenol, and proanthocyanidins were evaluated spectrophotometrically while the antioxidant activities were determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline)-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), nitric oxide (NO), and phosphomolybdenum assays. To point out the relationship among the varieties, a dendrogram based on the antioxidative phytochemical contents was constructed using the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPMGA) cluster analysis. In all, aqueous extracts gave higher yield while ethanolic extracts showed higher phytochemical content across the varieties. Significant variations were observed among the varieties in relation to their phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activities. Dendrogram obtained from multivariate analysis distinguished the two Capsicum species. The first cluster contained only C. frutescens var. baccatum while the second cluster contained the three varieties of C. annuum species in subclusters, signifying the close genetic affinity among the three varieties. It also revealed that the four varieties are of a common progenitor. Information from this study gives additional evidence of chemotaxonomic significance and baseline data for effective selection of suitable parental genotypes in breeding for nutritional and pharmacological purposes.

Description: Coelomic fluid of Lumbricus rubellus (CFL) has attracted interest due to its pharmacological properties, including antitumor effect. Furthermore, it is necessary to evaluate the response to treatment with new cancer therapeutic agents. This study aims to investigate whether the combination of CFL and 5-fluorouracil could reduce FAK protein level and iCa2+ and enhance p21 level. Furthermore, it is necessary to evaluate the response to treatment with new cancer therapeutic agents. After 24 hours of treatment, it was necessary to assess the percentage of apoptosis, FAK, and p21 protein expression by flow cytometry. iCa2+ concentration was measured using immunofluorescence. The combination therapy of CFL with 5-fluorouracil potently suppressed six treatment groups were included in this study. HT-29 cell lines were cultured and divided into six groups: group 1 was treated with vehicle (negative control), groups 2-5 were treated with 5-fluorouracil, groups 3-5 were treated with either CFL 5, 10, or 20 µg/ml immediately after 5-fluorouracil, and group 6 was treated with CFL 20 µg/ml, the progression of colorectal cancer. Combination of CFL and 5-fluorouracil significantly decreased FAK expression (p

Description: The aim of this study was to investigate health care professionals’ level of in-depth understanding about the various types and characteristics of stalking. In particular, the study examines knowledge on the characteristics of stalkers and their victims, acted behaviors, and coping strategies used to stop the harassment. The data were collected by means of an ad hoc questionnaire. The sample comprised 210 participants working in local health units in Turin, a large city located in the northern part of Italy. The majority were women (160, 76.2%). The participants were aged 20–64 years, and the mean age was 41.63 years (SD = 11.18). The majority of participants were psychologists (99, 47.1%), 31 (14.8%) were nurses, 31 (14.8%) had an unspecified medical profession, 29 (13.8%) were psychiatrists, and 20 (9.5%) were general practitioners. According to the findings, interventions with male victims of stalking, especially when the stalker is a woman, require attention in particular. Underestimating the stalking experience is a risk, so health care professionals in their interventions must explain to the men the emotive and physical consequences of the victimization. Moreover, in suggesting coping strategies, health care professionals must consider the victim’s fear of reporting the incident not only to law enforcement authorities but also to family and friends. The findings showed that health care professionals need a better understanding of the stalking phenomenon. Education courses are a valuable tool to identify characteristics of the phenomenon, validate existing knowledge, and decrease the level of missing information to develop the skills needed to take appropriate action in cases of stalking.

Description: Nitrate toxicosis associated with consumption of cabbages (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) (Brassicaceae) was diagnosed in a small herd comprising of ten goats in Matinyani ward, Kitui West sub-County of Kitui County in Kenya. The clinical signs were ataxia, ruminal tympany, bluish-brown mucous membranes, rapid and difficult breathing, incoordination, head pressing, aggressive movements, jugular distension, increased heart rates, tremors, and coma. Six goats died of intoxication. Dark brown/chocolate-colored and poorly clotted blood was the prominent necropsy finding. There was limited froth in the trachea and bronchi consistent with mild pulmonary oedema. There were liver congestion, pericarditis, and enlarged and congested kidneys with pinpoint haemorrhages. Four other affected goats were treated with intramuscular antihistamines and oral administration of ivermectin. No further mortality was observed after the treatment. Cabbages fed to goats had 6.6% nitrate on dry matter (DM) basis , while ruminal contents had 5.55% nitrate on dry matter basis (DM). Dark brown blood collected at postmortem had a methemoglobin fraction of 78%. Forage nitrate levels of 0.5% and above are potentially dangerous, with acute poisoning likely to occur if the nitrate level exceeds 1%. Death can occur when blood methemoglobin levels rise up to 67–90%. Findings from the current study are indicative of nitrate-nitrite toxidrome associated with ingestion of cabbages.

Description: Background. Central venous catheter-associated bloodstream infections (CVC-BSIs) have been associated with increased length of hospital stay, mortality, and healthcare costs, especially in intensive care units (ICUs). The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence density of CVC-BSIs before and after implementation of the bundle in a hospital of infectious and dermatological diseases in Central Brazil. Methods. A retrospective cohort study was conducted in two ICUs (adult and pediatric) between 2012 and 2015. Two periods were compared to assess the effect of the intervention in incidence density of CVC-BSIs: before and after intervention, related to the stages before and after the implementation of the bundle, respectively. Results. No significant reduction was observed in the incidence density of CVC-BSIs in adult ICU (incidence rate ratio [IRR]: 0.754; 95.0% CI: 0.349 to 1.621; p-value = 0.469), despite the high bundle application rate in the postintervention period. Similarly, significant reduction in the incidence density in pediatric ICU has not been verified after implementation of the bundle (IRR: 1.148; 95.0% CI: 0.314 to 4.193; p-value = 0.834). Conclusion. Not significant reduction in the incidence density of CVC-BSIs was observed after bundle implementation in ICUs, suggesting the need to review the use of process, as well as continuing education for staffs in compliance and correct application of the bundle. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effect of bundle in the reduction of incidence density of CVC-BSIs in Brazil.

Description: The development of alternative ecofriendly electric energy production technology is very essential. The development of electric generator by using sea water element to boost electron jump in electrode has been studied. The aim of this research is to develop an electrode material composite that can collaborate with sea water to produce electricity. The electrodes tested are copper, aluminum, activated carbon, wood powder, and graphite electrode powder. The result shows that each electrode produces different voltage when interacting with sea water. It is caused by the patterns of the electron movement disrupted by the electron of sea water in producing a new compound. The composite of graphite-aluminum generates high electricity of about 580 mV compared to other materials. The electrical conductivity of graphite material depends on the particle size which is larger at smaller particle size. This research elucidates the role of sea water elements in boosting kinetic energy of delocalized electron on graphite resulting in an electron jump.

Description: The objective of this work is to study the improvement effect of some essential oils of sage (Salvia officinalis), oregano (Origanum vulgare), and eucalyptus (eucalyptus globulus) on the physiological parameters characterizing the quality of human sperm (mobility and vitality). We find natural biomolecules to improve sperm quality to increase the chances of success of very low in vitro fertilization (IVF) that stagnate around 20%. Sperm samples were mixed with different concentrations of essential oils. The effect of these essential oils on the motility and vitality of spermatozoa has been analyzed. The mobility was determined using a Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA). In the other side, the evaluation of sperm vitality was performed by staining eosin 2% and the microscopic examination is carried out via optical microscope. A drop of sperm will be mixed with a drop of eosin solution 2%, spread between the slip and coverslip, then allowed to air dry, and examined under a microscope. A significant improvement in the mobility and vitality of human spermatozoa has been noted with oregano. Eucalyptus after 10 min of exposure also significantly improves the mobility and vitality of the spermatozoa. Sage does not improve mobility for these incubation times but significantly improves vitality.

Description: Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) has become the standard treatment for large vessel occlusion (LVO) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Few studies have investigated long-term outcomes for AIS treated with MT. Therefore, a pooled meta-analysis using data from randomized clinical trials (RCT) was performed to assess for long-term clinical outcomes. A systematic literature search was conducted on 27 September 2017, by searching the English literature in the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and Embase for RCTs investigating long-term outcomes (greater than standard 3-month timepoint) of endovascular intervention versus medical management for patients with AIS. The study was carried out according to PRISMA guidelines and random effects analysis was carried out to account for heterogeneity. Three trials were included: IMS III, MR CLEAN, and REVASCAT, comprising a total of 1,362 patients. Long-term clinical outcomes were available for 1-year follow-up in IMS III and REVASCAT and at 2 years in MR CLEAN. Functional independence at long-term follow-up favored endovascular stroke intervention (OR 1.51; p = 0.02). When stratified by LVO inclusion criteria, greater endovascular functional independence benefits were observed (OR 1.85; p = 0.0005). There was a significant difference between the 2 arms in favor of endovascular therapy for the quality of life at long-term follow-up (mean difference 0.11; p = 0.0002). No difference in mortality at long-term follow-up was observed (OR 0.82; p = 0.12). We conclude that endovascular therapy results in favorable outcomes at long-term follow-up for patients with acute ischemic stroke compared to standard medical treatment alone and that the 90-day timepoint offers a fair representation of the long-term outcomes.

Description: Context. The comparison of fluoride levels in saliva and plaque following the use of conventional, 2800 and 5000 ppm dentifrices for different time intervals up to 24 hours has not been explored. Aim. The aim of the present study was to assess salivary and plaque fluoride levels at different time intervals following the use of high fluoride dentifrices. Study Design. This randomised control trial was conducted on sixty adolescents between the age group of 16 and 18 years divided into three groups A, B, and C. Intervention. Subjects were asked to brush the occlusal surfaces of posterior teeth with one of the dentifrices for 2 min. Unstimulated whole saliva and plaque samples were collected at different time intervals. Fluoride levels were determined using SPADNS method. Data was collected and statistically analyzed using SPSS 20 Inc. by mixed repeated measure ANOVA. Results. A significant difference in fluoride levels was observed at different time intervals in both saliva (p=0.048) and plaque (p=0.03). The variance was low with time and concentration of the dentifrice used in saliva, whereas the magnitude of treatment was large for time (〉0.25) but small for (

Description: Background. Accumulation of extracellular water (ECW) is a major clinical manifestation of nephrotic syndrome (NS) in children. Bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) is a simple, noninvasive technique that reflects body water volumes. BIS can further measure cell membrane capacitance (C), which may be altered in NS. The aims of the study were to explore how BIS measurements could reflect disease status in NS, while avoiding prediction equations which are often only validated in adult populations. Methods. The study involved 8 children (2-10 years) with active NS (ANS group), 5 of which were also studied at NS remission (NSR group), as well as 38 healthy children of similar age (HC group). BIS measurements determined resistances R, R, and R (reflecting total body water, extracellular water, and intracellular water) and C. Also resistance indices based on height (H) were considered, RI = H2/R. Results. It was found that R and R were significantly lower in the ANS group than in both NSR and HC groups (p

Description: The efficiency of the electrocoagulation method to remove boron from synthetic and mining effluents was investigated in this study. Different parameters were tested using boric acid solution and effluent collected from a mining company located in the city of Vitória-ES. The results showed a percentage of boron removal of over 60% for the synthetic and mining effluents, using aluminum electrodes, pH 7.5, current density of 14.82 mA cm−2, and supporting electrolyte of 0.200 mol L−1. The electrocoagulation and chemical coagulation methods were also compared, in which the percentage obtained by electrocoagulation was 56.30% higher for the mining effluent. Thus, electrocoagulation was more efficient in boron removal, especially when appropriate parameters are applied.

Description: This paper includes synthesis and characterization of mixed ligand complexes derived from mefenamic acid and metformin using transition metal ions such as Co(II) and Cu(II). These complexes have been characterized by magnetic susceptibility, molar conductance, TG analyses, and spectral techniques such as FTIR and UV spectra. The theoretical study of the ligands and their complexes using semiempirical (PM6) method was used to measure IR and UV spectroscopy, HOMO-LUMO categories of the ligands. These synthesized complexes are also studied for their biological activities. The studies made on these complexes proposed a six octahedral geometry.

Description: The present study aims to evaluate the initial health status of two stations receiving seawater desalination plants in Agadir Bay (Tifnit-Douira and Cap Ghir) and to assess their potential environmental impact on the marine ecosystem health. Six pairs of mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) were collected at six sampling sites on a monthly basis over two years. Each pair was homogenized to obtain the postmitochondrial fractions (S9). Toxicological effects were measured using a multibiomarker approach based on either acetylcholinesterase (AChE), glutathione S-transferase (GST), catalase (CAT), and malondialdehyde (MDA) rate. The results show a seasonal variation of the biomarkers: their activities increase in summer and decrease in spring and winter. High activities were recorded during summer in Cap Ghir (17.94 ± 0.88; 5.91 ± 052 nmol/min/mg of protein) for CAT and MDA, respectively. In Tifnit-Douira, low activities were recorded during winter for GST (3.74 ± 0.52 nmol/min/mg of protein) and during spring for the CAT (3.52 ± 0.45 nmol/min/mg of protein). The fluctuations in the activities of measured biomarkers could be attributed to different factors including the changes in environmental parameters, the influence of seasonal variation, and the contamination of the aquatic ecosystem. The data obtained in this study should be taken into account in the monitoring and management of the health of the ecosystems when the desalination plants are established.

Description: Egg white protein has a high net protein utilisation, with a score of 100 in the amino acid rating system. Although the enzymatic breakdown of egg white yields hydrolysates that are rapidly absorbed and various physiological activities can be expected from them, flavouring egg white to meet taste requirements as a food has been a difficult challenge. Herein, we developed a high-molecular-weight egg white hydrolysate and compared the absorption rate and nutritional value of the hydrolysate with those of egg white proteins obtained from raw materials, whey proteins, and hydrolysates, also known as high-quality proteins. The absorption rate of egg white hydrolysates was faster than that of egg white and whey proteins in portal vein cannulated rats, and their bioavailability values were higher than those of whey proteins and hydrolysates. According to the protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score and digestible indispensable amino acid score, the scores for egg white hydrolysates were equivalent to those of egg white and whey proteins but higher than those of whey hydrolysates. Our results show that egg white hydrolysates maintain the nutritional value of egg whites and are rapidly absorbed by the body.

Description: This paper investigates anticorrosion behaviour of the bark-extract from Rhizophora mangle L. on steel-rebar in concrete slabs in 3.5% NaCl medium of immersion (for simulating saline/marine environment). Corrosion-rate, corrosion-current, and corrosion-potential were measured from the NaCl-immersed steel-reinforced concrete cast with admixture of different plant-extract concentrations and from positive control concrete immersed in distilled water. Analyses indicate excellent mathematical-correlation between the corrosion-rate, concentration of the bark-extract admixture, and electrochemical noise-resistance (ratio of the corrosion-potential standard deviation to that of corrosion-current). The 0.4667% Rhizophora mangle L. bark-extract admixture exhibited optimal corrosion-inhibition performance, η = 99.08±0.11% (experimental) or η = 97.89±0.24% (correlation), which outperformed the positive control specimens, experimentally. Both experimental and correlated results followed Langmuir adsorption isotherm which suggests prevalent physisorption mechanism by the plant-extract on the reinforcing-steel corrosion-protection. These findings support Rhizophora mangle L. bark-extract suitability for corrosion-protection of steel-rebar in concrete structure designed for immersion in the saline/marine environmental medium.

Description: The aim of this study was to undertake a literature review on the use of XP-endo Shaper (FKG Dentaire SA, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland) for root canal preparation evaluated using microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) technology, with emphasis on the analysis of untouched canal walls. We searched the PubMed, Science Direct, SciELO, and MEDLINE databases for articles published from 2017 to 2019 using the following keywords: micro-CT, untouched walls, XP shaper, and XP endo. Articles without an abstract were excluded. Five papers were selected. Few studies on this topic are available. The studies published so far show that the XP-endo® Shaper system performs well in terms of canal preparation but leaves untouched walls.

Description: The actual burden and future burden of the small-for-gestational-age (SGA) babies turn their screening in pregnancy a question of major concern for clinicians and policymakers. Half of stillbirths are due to growth restriction in utero, and possibly, a quarter of livebirths of low- and middle-income countries are SGA. Growing body of evidence shows their higher risk of adverse outcomes at any period of life, including increased rates of neurologic delay, noncommunicable chronic diseases (central obesity and metabolic syndrome), and mortality. Although there is no consensus regarding its definition, birthweight centile threshold, or follow-up, we believe birthweight

Description: Surface water contamination remains a major worldwide public health concern and may contribute to the dissemination of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The Al-Hillah River in the city of Babylon Province, Iraq, diverts flows from the Euphrates River. Because of its importance in irrigation and population density, it faces several forced and unforced changes due to anthropogenic activities. To evaluate water quality, water samples were collected from three sites with different anthropogenic pressures along the Al-Hillah River. These samples were subjected to bacteriological analyses, i.e., total coliforms, Escherichia coli, and faecal enterococci. The phylogenetic groups of the E. coli isolates (n = 61) were typed by rapid PCR-based analyses. Representatives of each isolate were tested phenotypically for resistance to six classes of antibiotics and characterized according to their phylogenetic groups. The results demonstrated the highest resistance levels were to β-lactam antibiotics, followed by fosfomycin and aminoglycosides. Escherichia coli isolates belonging to phylogenetic groups A and B2 were the most common and were characterized by a higher prevalence of antibiotic resistance. This study is important for understanding the current conditions of the Al-Hillah River, as the data reveal a high prevalence of multiresistance among E. coli isolates circulating at the three sampling sites.

Description: The effect of pH, ionic strength (NaCl added), agitation speed, adsorbent mass, and contact time on the removal of tartrazine from an aqueous solution, using an organobentonite, has been studied. A complete factorial design 32 with two replicates was used to evaluate the influence of the dye concentration (30, 40, and 50 mg/L) and amount of adsorbent (25, 35, and 45 mg) on decolorization of the solution. Experimental data were evaluated with Design Expert® software using a response surface methodology (RSM) in order to obtain the interaction between the processed variables and the response. pH values between 2 and 9, stirring speed above 200 rpm, and contact time of 60 min did not have a significant effect on decolorization. The optimum conditions for maximum removal of tartrazine from an aqueous solution of 30 mg/L were follows: pH = 6.0, NaCl concentration = 0.1 M, stirring speed = 230 rpm, temperature = 20°C, contact time = 60 min, and the organobentonite amount = 38.04 mg. The equilibrium isotherm at 20°C was analyzed by means of the Langmuir and Freundlich models, and the maximum adsorption capacity obtained was 40.79 ± 0.71 mg/g. This adsorption process was applied in a sample of industrial wastewater containing tartrazine and sunset yellow, having obtained a decolorization rate higher than 98% for both dyes. These results suggest that organobentonite is an effective adsorbent for the removal of anionic dyes from an aqueous solution.

Description: Widespread escalation of type 2 diabetes is a concern throughout the world. Developing countries are leading with patients suffering from diabetes-related complications. Plant-based therapeutic, antidiabetic herbal preparations (ADHPs) are being sought for long and the consumption is increasing in in Bangladesh. Plant-based antidiabetic preparations do not go through the screening procedure in terms of safety. Toxic metals in ADHPs have been investigated by two different methods: atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Then, metal concentrations obtained by AAS and XRF were compared. A total of eleven ADHPs were subjected to nondestructive XRF analysis and destructive AAS analysis. Results from the two methods were analyzed statistically by Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC), . Pearson correlation coefficients were found to be −0.05, 0.94, and 1.00 for Mn, Cu, and Zn, respectively. Zn and Cu had significant strong positive correlation ( = 1.00 and 0.94, respectively); however, very weak negative correlation was observed in Mn ( = −0.05). The concentrations were regressed to observe the presence of linearity. Linear correlation was found for Zn and Cu which indicates a good agreement between AAS and XRF. However, very weak linear correlation in Mn indicates necessitating requirements for further investigation on getting scientific evidence of toxic metal assessment of the antidiabetic herbal preparations for searching and establishing instrumental agreement.

Description: The present study aims to evaluate the initial health status of two stations receiving seawater desalination plants in Agadir Bay (Tifnit-Douira and Cap Ghir) and to assess their potential environmental impact on the marine ecosystem health. Six pairs of mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) were collected at six sampling sites on a monthly basis over two years. Each pair was homogenized to obtain the postmitochondrial fractions (S9). Toxicological effects were measured using a multibiomarker approach based on either acetylcholinesterase (AChE), glutathione S-transferase (GST), catalase (CAT), and malondialdehyde (MDA) rate. The results show a seasonal variation of the biomarkers: their activities increase in summer and decrease in spring and winter. High activities were recorded during summer in Cap Ghir (17.94 ± 0.88; 5.91 ± 052 nmol/min/mg of protein) for CAT and MDA, respectively. In Tifnit-Douira, low activities were recorded during winter for GST (3.74 ± 0.52 nmol/min/mg of protein) and during spring for the CAT (3.52 ± 0.45 nmol/min/mg of protein). The fluctuations in the activities of measured biomarkers could be attributed to different factors including the changes in environmental parameters, the influence of seasonal variation, and the contamination of the aquatic ecosystem. The data obtained in this study should be taken into account in the monitoring and management of the health of the ecosystems when the desalination plants are established.

Description: Thin-walled drip tapes with continuous labyrinth have been used for irrigation of vegetables and other short-cycle crops, especially due to their low cost. The continuous labyrinths welded into the pipe inner wall affect the head loss along such emitting pipes. In addition, the flow cross section of thin-walled pipes may change due to the effects of the operating pressure, which also has consequences for the head loss. The objective of this work was to investigate experimentally the friction factor and the head loss on thin-walled drip tapes with continuous labyrinths operated under various pressures. Two models of commercial thin-walled drip tapes with continuous labyrinths were evaluated. Nonperforated samples were used to determine the head-loss equations. The equations were adjusted as a function of flow rate and pressure head at the pipe inlet. Alternatively, the diameter in the Darcy–Weisbach equation was adjusted as a function of the pressure head by a power-law model. The possibility of using a mean diameter in the Darcy–Weisbach equation was also analyzed. Experimental investigation indicated that the friction factor in the Darcy–Weisbach equation can be accurately described using a power-law model, like the Blasius equation, but characterized by a coefficient for the Turbo Tape and for the Silver Tape. The obtained values of are larger than those generally used and available in the literature. The influence of the operating pressure on the pipe diameter can be neglected for the purpose of calculating the head loss. The two approaches, considering the variation of the diameter with the pressure head and considering an optimum average diameter for the calculation of head loss by the Darcy–Weisbach equation, produce similar results, allowing accurate prediction of head loss. Evaluating the proposed mathematical models, 95% of predictions presented relative errors of head loss smaller than 5%. For the Turbo Tape, the optimum diameter for the purpose of calculating the head loss is 16.01 mm, which is very close to the value indicated by its manufacturer (15.9 mm). For the Silver Drip, the optimum diameter is 15.71 mm, while the manufacturer gives a value of 16.22 mm, which produces considerable error in the calculation of head loss.

Description: We examined factors related to the uptake of two malaria prevention measures, insecticide-treated bed-nets and prophylactic sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP), among pregnant women in Nnewi, Nigeria. The survey had a quantitative and qualitative part. For each part, the subjects meeting our inclusion criteria were systematically identified in a population-based manner. For the qualitative part, focused group discussions, in-depth interviews with a wide variety of stakeholders (e.g., health workers, males whose wives are pregnant, and drug and net sellers), and key informants including doctors and nurses were held. All data covered various aspects related to the topics. A total of 384 subjects participated. The mean age was 28.9 years (95% CI 23.4–34.5). The primigravidae (odds 1.8–2.3) and illiterates (odds 4.1–13.5) were less likely to sleep under the net. Primigravidae were 2.0x less likely to uptake adequate SP. The uptake was also associated with having adequate knowledge on SP (2.4x), completing usual (≥4 visits) antenatal visits (3.9x), and being in the best (≥9 visits) antenatal visit scenario (10.5x). Other barriers identified were thermal discomfort, lack of availability, cost, and unsupervised uptake of SP. Based on a representative sample, systematic procedures, and within current evaluation limits, we conclude that primigravidae and those with no formal education and inadequate antenatal visits should be the foremost group for encouraging uptake of malaria prevention measures. The policymakers should resolve issues of thermal discomfort, availability, cost, unsupervised uptake, and inadequate awareness and confidence on SP prophylaxis. The solutions are available and should be actively sought.

Description: Analysis of fatty acid contents and pharmacological properties of Pliek U oil was performed. Fatty acids were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and pharmacological properties based on its potential on filament-aggregating protein (filaggrin) were studied with bioinformatics approach by the reverse docking technique using palmitic acid as a control compound. Two Pliek U extracts, namely, Pliek U oil (PUO) and ethanolic Pliek U oil extract (EPUOE), were prepared. The GC-MS results revealed that lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, and oleic acid are the predominant fatty acids, with lauric acid being the abundant one in all Pliek U oil extracts. The reverse docking technique results showed that oleic acid had the most stable interaction to filaggrin with the lowest binding affinity (−6.1 kcal/mol). Oleic acid and palmitic acid have one same side binding to filaggrin on amino acid LEU D75. These findings indicated that oleic acid has the best potential to be used as a drug candidate in atopic dermatitis treatment.

Description: Currently, the demand of Pleurotus HK-37 (oyster mushroom) in Tanzania is growing rapidly due to the increasing of awareness on its nutrition, health, and economic benefits. Despite the increasing demand, the availability of strains of Pleurotus HK-37 species is still a challenge due to high cost of tissue culture technology. The high cost of importing agar seems to be among the factors for this failure. This study aimed at investigating the performance of low-cost agar from local Gracilaria salicornia on tissue culture of Pleurotus HK-37. Local extracted agars with different gel strengths ranging between 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 g/cm2 were used to make PDA media. The average mycelia growth rate (mm/day) ranged between 9.87 ± 1.44 and 14.9 ± 0.85 mm/day. Low-cost agar shows quite similar performance as that of standard agar on active growth of Pleurotus HK-37 mycelia. All PDA plates appeared white and feathery and showed to grow in a circular mode (radial extension). Mycelia growth on standard agar PDA took 5 days while on extracted local agar PDA took 5 to 7 days to fully colonize the plate at 27 ± 2°C. The present study shows that the production cost can be reduced by ∼35–78% by using local agar.