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Jul 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-24-5146
C SteffenCorresponding author
Dietary intake of inorganic phosphates is linked to various adverse health effects. Excessive intake of highly soluble inorganic phosphates, which are used as feed and food additives, have been found to impair parameters of kidney health. As chronic kidney disease represents one of the most frequently occurring terminal diseases especially in cats, extensive knowledge regarding the safety of these additives is important. Other minerals, such as calcium, can modulate their effects on the phosphate homeostasis and kidney health. Therefore, it is crucial to examine further factors, such as the dietary cation-anion balance (CAB), resulting from the concentrations of major minerals in a diet. In this study, eleven healthy cats were fed a control diet and two diets with added sodium monophosphate (NaH2PO4) with either a low (-10 mmol/kg dry matter) or high (+450 mmol/kg dry matter) CAB for 28 days each. The serum concentrations of phosphate and parameters of phosphate homeostasis were determined in the fasting and postprandial blood samples next to the apparent digestibility and retention of phosphate and calcium. The diet with positive CAB led to an increase of serum phosphate and the phosphatonin FGF23, apparently digested phosphate, and phosphate retention. This is further proof that source and amount of phosphates in a diet are not the only determinants of the extent of potential adverse health effects. Until the interactions between inorganic phosphates and other dietary compounds are fully understood, recommendations regarding the safe use of phosphate containing additives in pet food are precarious.
Sep 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-21-3955
Masoero GiorgioCorresponding author
Accademia di Agricoltura di Torino, Via A. Doria 10, 10123 Torino (Italy).
In the cultivation of vines the risk of hail appears to be increasing with the ongoing climate change. The use of protective plastic nets is spreading, but there is little knowledge on the additional processing costs and on the phenological and qualitative consequences, moreover, as depending on different colors of the nets. Thus, a randomized trial was carried out in Nebbiolo, a wine of great aging, testing three plastic anti-hail nets colored in green, gray and black. Results showed that 24% more-time was necessary for the canopy management practices under the nets. The black nets advanced the ripening process, with a berry weight decrease of about 13%. A significant decrease in the seed number per berry was observed under the black nets (-45%), while a rise (+102%) was observed under the green and gray nets with a parallel increase in the pH of the juice (+13%) and in malic acid (+28%) under the green nets. The berry skin did not show any significant differences in polyphenol and anthocyanin profiles, while the plants that matured in the upper part of the vineyard showed higher level in the berry skin extractable flavan-reactive to vanillin, and total polyphenol. On the other hand, in the seeds grown under green nets an increase in the extractable polyphenol compounds was observed, sign of a delay in seed ripening, with a higher tannin polymerization ratio, preserving the malic acid, and decreasing the acidity of the berry. In conclusion, the use of colored green may be a useful tool against excessive microclimatic warming and / or irradiation. The field internal variability affects much more the ripening dynamics than the nets used. A second aim was to develop a smart NIR SCiOTM model for polyphenols and the results were in line with the favorable expectations, providing R2 predictions of about 0.74 from the skin and 0.81 from the seeds.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-20-3256
di Virgilio FabrizioCorresponding author
DVM, Clinique Vétérinaire Vet24 – 59700 – Marcq en Baroeul, France
This pilot study aims to compare cardiorespiratory parameters in female dogs that underwent either laparoscopic or open elective gonadectomy with spontaneous ventilation anaesthesia. Records of 77 client-owned female dogs were reviewed. Patients were divided into two groups: laparoscopic surgery (L group, n 47) and open abdominal surgery (O group, n 30). The end-tidal carbon dioxide, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, heart rate, non-invasive arterial blood pressure and length of procedure were recorded and statistically evaluated. Once normality of the sample data has been assessed, equality between the groups was analysed with two-sample Student’s or Welch’s t-test, whether the hypothesis of variance equality, through an F-test, was verified or not. A value of p <0.05 was considered statistically significant. No statistically significant difference was found between groups regarding the end-tidal carbon dioxide, oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, heart rate, systolic and medium arterial pressure values. Mean diastolic pressure was lower in the L group. The procedure length between the two groups was statistically different: laparoscopy was shorter than open surgery. In spontaneously ventilating female dogs, the cardiorespiratory parameters evaluated seem not to be affected by the presence of pneumoperitoneum when intrabdominal pressure is kept between 8 and 10 mmHg. The pilot nature of the study and the shorter laparoscopic surgery length could bias these results. However, in the author’s opinion, these findings confirm the interest of laparoscopy and the small impact of this mini-invasive technique in healthy patients.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-6622.ijar-20-3257
Nsangou Amidou KpoumieCorresponding author
Department of Animal Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon
In order to contribute to the improvement of aquaculture production, reproductive parameters of three populations of Oreochromis niloticus of Cameroon were studied between March and May 2019 at the research station of Foumban. At this effect, a total of 81 parents (27 males and 51 females with respective weight 124 ± 6g and 144 ± 5g) coming from three hydrogeographicals origins (Niger, Sanaga and IRAD Station) were randomly distributed in triplicate in nine concrete tanks of a m² each with a sex ratio of one male for two females (1♂/2♀). Throughout the test, six females carrying eggs in the oral cavity were collected in each population and 45 days after the start of the trial, all the offspring were collected and the adults sacrificed. At the end of experiment, the IRAD population presented highest significant values (p ≤ 0.05) regardless of the performances considered. The values of the gonado-somatic and the gonado-metric characteristics significantly lower (p ≤ 0.05) were obtained in Niger population (GSR = 0.04 ± 0.02, GSI = 0.05 ± 0.03 and GMR=0.19 ± 0.08;GMI= 0.24±0.07). Considering sex, males presented the lowest significant values (p ≤ 0.05) for all the characteristics studied (GSR = 0.04±0.01, GSI = 0.04±0.01 and GMR= 0.23±0.08;GMI= 0.29±0.09).
Aug 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-18-2301
Jana SnehasisCorresponding author
Trivedi Science Research Laboratory Pvt. Ltd.,Bhopal, India
Poor bone health is the primary health issue, which leads to significant health problems, stress and worsening the patients' quality of life. The potential of The Trivedi Effect®- Biofield Energy Healing on vitamin D3 as a test item (TI) and DMEM on MG-63 cells was investigated. The test items were treated with The Trivedi Effect® by Mahendra Kumar Trivedi and divided as Biofield Energy Treated (BT) and untreated (UT) test items. An increase in ALP activity, collagen levels, and bone mineralization was considered as the biomarker for bone health. MTT data showed that the test samples observed nontoxic in the tested concentrations. The level of ALP was significantly increased by 832.9% and 209.4% in the UT-DMEM+BT-TI and BT-DMEM+UT-TI groups, respectively at 10 µg/mL, while 222.9% increase in the BT-DMEM+BT-TI at 1 µg/mL compared to the untreated group. Collagen was significantly increased by 487.7% and 544.5% in the BT-DMEM+UT-TI and BT-DMEM+BT-TI groups, respectively at 100 µg/mL, while 116.2% at 1 µg/mL in UT-DMEM+BT-TI compared to the untreated group. Moreover, the percent of bone mineralization was significantly increased in the UT-DMEM+BT-TI and BT-DMEM+UT-TI groups by 344.9% and 149.7%, respectively at 50 µg/mL, while 183.6% in the BT-DMEM+BT-TI group at 100 µg/mL compared to the untreated group. Thus, the role of Biofield Energy Treated vitamin D3 and DMEM in order to control osteoblast function and its direct effects on bone mineralization can be used to improve bone disorders.
Aug 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-2818.jfb-17-1595
El-Zahar HebaCorresponding author
Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt.
The postpartum period in camel are considered the most critical period for camel's health and for future fertility. The objective of the present study was to compare the clinical examination results and the concentration of hemoglobin, total protein, calcium and progesterone at different instances (1st, 3rd and 9th days) postpartum. Fifteen female camels during the postpartum period (1st, 3rd and 9th days) were included in the present study. Hematological, biochemical profiles and ultrasonographic examination were performed. The clinical examination results were normal and no evidence of clinical disease. The results of the hematological and biochemical findings were within the reference range obtained previously by our research team. The concentrations of hemoglobin, total protein, calcium and progesterone were measured at the 1st, 3rd and 9th days postpartum. Hemoglobin concentration differs significantly in the 3rd day (p=0.012) compared to the 1st day postpartum. Total protein showed significant increase in the 3rd day (p=0.003) compared to the 1st day postpartum. Calcium concentration showed significant increase in the 9th day (p=0.002) compared to the 1st and the 3rd days postpartum. Progesterone concentration showed significant decrease in the 9th day (p=0.004) compared to the 1st and the 3rd days postpartum. The ultrasonographic imaging of the uterus and ovaries showed normal uterine involution and no abnormal secretions in the uterus. It is concluded that, clinical examination, hematological and biochemical profiles are very important tools for monitoring female camels during postpartum period.
Dec 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-8572.joa-16-1366
Senem Deveci HandeCorresponding author
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Education and Research Hospital, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Istanbul
Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSHL) is a commonly seen otorhinolaryngology emergency, and its etiology is still a mystery. In this retrospective clinical study, we aimed to investigate the possible relationship of inflammatory markers derived from CBC such as neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), Red cell distribution width-to-platelet ratio (RPR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet distribution width (PDW) in ISSHL . A total of 50 idiopathic sudden hearing loss patients were included in the study. They were grouped according to their hearing healing levels as recovered, partially recovered and unrecovered. Also 47 age- and sex- matched healthy individuals created the control group. Their complete blood count parameters of NLR, LMR, PLR, RPR, PDW and MPV were recorded. The results were statistically compared to bring out a significant difference between the groups. There was no significant demographic difference between the groups. The comparison of patient group with control group reveal a significant difference in the NLR, LMR and PDW values (p<0.05). The remaining values were not statistically significant. The analysis of these values according to the recovery level of the ISSHL, there was no statistical difference between the groups (p>0.05). We demonstrated for the first time that LMR value was significantly elevated in ISSHL patients. NLR, LMR, and PDW might be indicative for diagnosis of ISSHL. However, we believe that using these parameters for the screening of the prognosis is a clinically useless exercise.
Jan 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2372-6601.jhor-14-377
Zaidah A WCorresponding author
Department of Haematology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia,Kubang Kerian, Malaysia.
Background Abnormalities of plasma von Willebrand Factor (vWF) system has been described in solid tumors but more information is required to understand the pathophysiological process in haematological malignancies. Objectives This study was carried out to investigate the changes in vWF-related parameters including ADAMTS13 protein level in aggressive haematological malignancies and to identify the prevalence of anti-ADAMTS13 antibody as well as its correlations with vWF-related parameters. Patients/Methods Patient newly diagnosed or having relapse acute leukaemias or aggresive non-Hodgkin lymphomas were recruited into this study. Exclusion criterias include; pregnancy, patient already commenced chemotherapy, sepsis or has background congenital bleeding disorders. Blood specimen was subjected to; blood counts, ADAMTS13 protein, ADAMTS13 antibody detection, vWF:Ag, vWF activity, factor VIII level (FVIII) and vWF: CBA (collagen binding assays) Results and Conclusion A total of 60 subjects with median age at 42.5 (IQR: 23.25-57.5) were included. There were 34(56.7%) lymphomas and 26(43%) acute leukaemias. FVIII, vWF:Ag, wVF activity and vWF:CBA level were elevated whereas ADAMTS13 protein was reduced in majority of patients. Those with lymphomas showed significantly higher levels of FVIII, vWF:Ag, vWF:activity and vWF:CBA compared to the leukaemias. 38(63.3%) of patients showed presence of ADAMTS 13 autoantibody. There was however no correlation between ADAMTS13 protein and vWF-related parameters or with ADAMTS13 autoantibodies. There was a high prevalence of ADAMTS 13 autoantibodies in this cohort despite the absence of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). The more pronounced changes in vWF-related parameters among aggressive lymphomas compared to acute leukaemias are in tandem with the marginally higher rates of venous thromboembolism in the former.
May 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4518.jsdr-25-5773
Peres de Sousa LucasCorresponding author
Introduction Sleep quality is a fundamental determinant of human health and well-being. Modified Intravascular Laser Irradiation of Blood (ILIB), a non-invasive therapeutic modality, has emerged as a potential intervention for sleep-related disturbances. Proposed mechanisms include reduced blood viscosity and platelet aggregation, activation of superoxide dismutase, increased oxygen bioavailability, enhanced microcirculation, elevated serotonin levels, and decreased cortisol concentrations—physiological processes intricately involved in sleep regulation, mood modulation, and the stress response. Objective To evaluate the effects of Modified Intravascular Laser Irradiation of Blood (ILIB) on sleep quality in individuals with self-reported sleep disturbances. Methods A randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted with participants who reported poor sleep quality. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of two groups: the intervention group received ILIB using a 660 nm red laser, while the control group received a placebo treatment (light emission with sub-therapeutic power, <1 mW). Both groups underwent the same treatment schedule. Sleep quality was assessed at baseline and after six treatment sessions using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Results Participants in the ILIB group showed statistically significant improvements in the primary outcome of global sleep quality. PSQI scores decreased from 10.24 at baseline to 6.47 post-treatment. ESS scores showed a non-significant change from 10.44 to 10.12. These results suggest enhanced overall sleep quality and reduced sleep latency, although the observed reduction in daytime sleepiness did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion Modified Intravascular Laser Irradiation of Blood appears to be a promising non-invasive approach for improving sleep quality. The clinical outcomes observed are comparable to those reported in both pharmacological and behavioral sleep interventions, particularly in terms of PSQI improvements. These preliminary findings support the need for further research to clarifyunderlying mechanisms, optimize treatment parameters (e.g., dosimetry and duration), and expand outcome assessments to include biomarkers and polysomnographic data.
May 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.3070-2232.jf-26-6197
Jana SnehasisCorresponding author
Background The increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices has led to the exploration of non-traditional methods to enhance crop yield and resilience. Spiritual Blessings (Biofield) Energy Treatment (SBET), a form of consciousness-driven energy healing, is increasingly being investigated for its potential to modulate biological systems at the cellular and molecular levels without use of chemical additives Objective This study aimed to evaluate the impact of SBET on the growth characteristics and overall productivity of summer squash (Cucurbita pepo L.). Methods The study was conducted using a controlled experimental design, where seeds and plots were divided into two groups: control and treated. The treated group received a remote SBET by a recognized practitioner, while the control group remained untreated. Both groups were maintained under identical environmental conditions (soil, water). Parameters such as germination rate, plant height, leaf area index, and total fruit yield were monitored over a full growth cycle. Results Results showed that plant height, number of branches, and total number of leaves per plant were significantly improved by 35.14% (p ≤ 0.001), 41.64% (p = 0.011), and 49.01% (p = 0.029), respectively, in the treatment group compared to the control group. Additionally, fruit length and total fruit yield (tons per hectare) were significantly increased by 39.68% (p = 0.002) and 15.92%, respectively, in the treatment group compared to the control group. Conclusion Exposure of SBET significantly improved both vegetative and reproductive development, yielding substantial increases in plant height, branching, and leaf production.
Apr 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-450X.jom-26-6138
Dahlmann NicolausCorresponding author
Indices, based on data such as height and weight in general and in particularly the body mass index (BMI), are often used to assess overweight. However, there is limited capacity to differentiate the amount of fat mass between individuals. This review refers to an anthropometric model called Dahlmann-Body-Analysis (DBA), which uses simple anthropometric parameters to define a Reference Weight (Ref-Wt). It is based on hand circumference as a proxy for the skeletal frame and, in addition, the circumference of the abdomen as a proxy for central obesity. Processed through a network of algorithms, the DBA model enabled to differentiate the Difference Weight – that means the difference between the Actual Weight and the Reference Weight – into fat mass and skeletal muscle mass. The DBA-model resembles the 2-component model of Albert R. Behnke, which he considered as a living functional construct including essential fat. The DBA-model matches with Behnke`s 2-component model insofar, as the essential fat is replaced by a physiological amount of fat tissue. The review summarizes studies to compare DBA-derived data with Metropolitan Life Insurance tables, evaluates DBA-derived fat tissue mass with bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) derived results and analyses the meaning of the DBA model in clinical settings to uncover the underlying mechanisms of metabolic syndrome (MetS) pathogenesis with increasing amounts of fat mass. The model offers the opportunity to calculate changes in fat or muscle tissue in an absolute (kg) or relative (%) amount on individuals. The data suggest that the DBA-model has satisfactory prediction qualities for use as a practical tool in public health care.
Apr 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-9467.jgrc-26-6123
Jana SnehasisCorresponding author
The objective of this study was to improve the growth and yields of bottle gourd plants after exposure with spiritual blessing energy treatment (SBET) to the seeds and land. Twenty-one morphological traits of leaves, fruit, seed, and twenty-eight phenological parameters were employed to evaluate bottle gourd’s growth and yields after SBET. Results of bottle gourd showed a diversifiable characteristic of leaves, fruits, and seeds. Nine qualitative traits exhibited with distinct differences in the biofield-energy treatment group compared to the control. At harvest, growth-related phenological parameters such as plant vine length, number of branches, internodal length, and leaf width were significantly improved in the treatment group by 65.43% (p ≤ 0.001), 51.78% (p ≤ 0.01), 49.40% (p ≤ 0.001), and 40.82% (p ≤ 0.001), respectively, compared to the control. Additionally, yield-related parameters such as number of female flowers, number of fruits per vine, and fruit yield per hectare were significantly increased by 47.73% (p ≤ 0.05), 26.52% (p ≤ 0.001), and 38.99% (p ≤ 0.05), respectively, with respect to the control. With distinct qualitative variations and high statistical significance, these results suggest that SBET may serve as a potent non-traditional intervention for optimizing phenological development and agricultural output of bottle gourd.
Mar 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.3070-2232.jf-26-6051
Jana SnehasisCorresponding author
Objective Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) is a widely consumed vegetable. This study aimed to assess the impact of spiritual blessing (biofield) energy treatment (S/BET) known as the Trivedi Effect® on a plant’s growth and yield when applied to both seeds and soil. Methods Seeds were split into two groups: an untreated control group (CONBIGG) and a BET-group (BTBIGG). Soil texture was checked by hand, and mineral contents were measured using standard procedures. An experienced scholar noted plant morphological, phenological, and yield-related parameters. Results The S/BET group showed improvements in stem length, fruit colour, and seediness compared to the control. Other phenological parameters, such as vine length (38.78 %; p ≤ 0.001), branch number (54.03 %; p ≤ 0.01), inter-nodal length (42.94 %; p ≤ 0.001), fruit length (33.27 %; p ≤ 0.001), seed length (40.32 %; p ≤ 0.001), seeds per fruit (52.50 %; p ≤ 0.001), and fruits per vine (66.88 %; p ≤ 0.001), were significantly increased in the BTBIGG group compared to the CONBIGG. Yield per hectare rose by 61.31 % in the S/BET group compared to the control. Conclusion The study results suggest that the spiritual blessing/prayers/BET-Trivedi Effect® significantly improved morphological, phenological, and yield-related parameters compared to the control group. This study provides useful scientific research data and information for producing stable, high-quality bitter gourds.
Dec 2025
Tariku Belay YilkalCorresponding author
Background Research and drug development industries have multiphase drug screening procedures, which can be debated. As a result, harmful products may still reach for public health service delivery due to vulnerabilities in the process. Main body A wide range of test compounds have delayed manifestation of undesired effect on the study subject, with the time to undesired effects after acute exposure being weeks and months. Acute toxicology in a preclinical trial also has limited clinical value as its lethal dose is the endpoint for a conclusion, and death sometimes occurs after a scheduled period of acute toxicology. Countless resources are wasted, and numerous new drugs are introduced into the pharmaceutical market with assumed safety analysis every year due to vulnerable multi-procedures in preclinical trials. The principal use of collected data from a preclinical trial is to support regulatory categorization and harmful labelling decisions. However, the data can also be used to derive safe use threshold levels, which may lead to the use of unsafe material. The criteria for classification and labelling also differ among countries, sometimes among authorities within the same country. The fundamental concept of toxicology states that ‘all chemical substances are potential poisons depending on the amount and duration of exposure. However, the toxic property of a test compound cannot be created or eliminated by simply the amount administered to study animals. Conclusion All xenobiotics are poisons at any amount with different severity that can be calculated using biological parameters.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-2275.jzr-25-5595
S GopalakrishnanCorresponding author
Andipalayam Lake, a freshwater body located in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, plays a significant role in sustaining the local ecosystem, particularly through its diverse insect populations. This study aims to document and analyze the insect biodiversity present in and around Andipalayam Lake, focusing on the ecological roles these species play in maintaining the lake’s health. Insects are key components of aquatic ecosystems, contributing to processes such as pollination and nutrient cycling and serving as prey for higher trophic levels. Despite their ecological importance, studies on the insect biodiversity of Andipalayam Lake have been limited, prompting the need for an extensive survey. This research employed a combination of sweep nets, pitfall traps, and light traps to collect insect species over a year, covering various seasons to capture population dynamics and seasonal variations. Water quality parameters, such as temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen, were monitored to assess their influence on insect diversity. The study identified over 38 species of insects from diverse orders, including Odonata (dragonflies), Diptera (flies), Coleoptera (beetles), and Hemiptera (true bugs). Seasonal variations were observed, with higher species richness during the monsoon period due to increased vegetation and moisture levels. The most abundant species were found to belong to Diptera and Coleoptera, indicating their adaptability to fluctuating water levels. Environmental factors such as pollution from nearby agricultural runoff and urban development were found to negatively affect insect diversity, with a notable decline in sensitive species during periods of increased contamination.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-24-5295
G. Verzhuk V.Corresponding author
The present study of the reproductive ability of currant and gooseberry hybrids after long-term cryopreservation of pollen in liquid nitrogen is of enormous importance for organizing the conservation of the diversity of this crop. Four distant interspecific hybrids of currant and gooseberry served as objects of the study. The pollen fertilizing ability was studied by pollination of allotetraploid Jošta with pollen of tetraploid hybrids stored for a year at ultra-low temperatures (–196°C) and freshly collected pollen (control pollination). Berry set in 2022, when pollinated with cryopreserved pollen, averaged 56.4% and was higher than in the control pollination (38.2%). In 2023, the number of berries set on average for all cross combinations in the experiment was also quite high (59.6%), but lower than in the pollination control (81.4%), which can be explained by unfavorable weather conditions during pollen collection in the year of establishment (2022). The obtained data specify that pollen of the allotetraploids does not lose its high fertilizing ability during its long-term cryopreservation. Berry setting, average berry weight and seed production are quite high and comparable to pollination with freshly collected pollen (control pollination variant). Seed germination and values of morphometric parameters of seedlings obtained from pollination with cryopreserved and freshly collected pollen in most cases have close values. Cryopreservation of pollen of currant-gooseberry hybrids for a year and more allows to preserve pollen for successful pollination and berry formation and is a reliable way to preserve germplasm.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2769-2264.jw-24-4937
Otchere BernardCorresponding author
Access to potable and quality water in most rural communities is low such that over 2.2 billion people worldwide are negatively affected. The increasing population in Fiapre and the inconsistent water supply by the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) have forced most residents to resort to alternative groundwater sources such as boreholes, wells, etc. Yet, many residents use these sources of water unaware of the quality of the water and its potential health implications. This study assessed drinking water quality in Fiapre by calculating its Weight Average Water Quality Index (WAWQI) and investigating potential risk factors associated with contamination through a cross-sectional study and laboratory analysis of various physicochemical and microbiological water quality parameters. WAWQI was used to compute parameters using 10 factors including pH, electrical conductivity, temperature, TDS, phosphate, chloride, total hardness, nitrate, alkalinity, and faecal coliform. The findings revealed that the pH level of water, phosphate concentration, and fecal coliform count surpassed the recommended thresholds set by the World Health Organization (WHO) for safe drinking water. Although levels of electrical conductivity, TDS, nitrate, total hardness, and chlorine kept changing from one water source to another, the difference was not significant apart from phosphate and fecal coliform which shows a significant difference between the sachet water sources and other water sources (P<0.05). The study outcomes demonstrated that the overall water quality is predominantly categorized as good to fairly good, with the highest Water Quality Index (WQI) value reaching 87.84% and the lowest recorded at 54.81%. Therefore, to improve the water quality in the municipality, local management agencies should pay attention to the microbiological quality of the water sources. The study recommends regular handwashing practices, hygienic surroundings of the water source, and drinking water treatment to reduce the possible risk factors associated with the contamination of the water sources.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-2283.jsem-25-5827
Manaenkova ZarinaCorresponding author
Background Mind–body exercises are frequently used to support well-being during the menopausal transition, but perceived physical and psychological outcomes associated with practices such as the 3D Movement Method have not been quantitatively assessed. Objective To examine associations between characteristics of the 3D Movement Method and women’s self-reported physical and mental improvement during the menopausal transition. Methods Cross-sectional survey data from 330 women aged ≥ 35 years were analyzed using general linear models. Perceived physical progress and mental improvement were each assessed using single-item, 15-point scales. Independent variables included practice frequency, duration of experience, explanation clarity, satisfaction, baseline health status (SF-36 Physical and Mental Component Summary scores), age, and menopausal status. Results The model for physical progress was significant, F(16, 144) = 6.26, p < .001, R² = .41. Greater practice frequency, longer experience, clearer instructional explanations, and higher satisfaction were each independently associated with higher perceived physical progress. The mental improvement model was also significant, F(16, 96) = 2.25, p = .008, R² = .27, identifying satisfaction as the sole significant predictor. Baseline health, age, and menopausal status did not predict outcomes in either model. Conclusions Perceived physical progress was shaped by structured engagement parameters consistent with deliberate-practice principles, whereas perceived mental improvement was primarily linked to subjective satisfaction, a pattern compatible with motivational accounts of engagement. The 3D Movement Method may support women’s health across the menopausal transition when designed to optimize clarity, engagement, and experiential quality.
Oct 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.3070-2232.jf-23-4883
Kaur SiratCorresponding author
Standardizing use of mepiquat chloride for higher productivity of densely planted Bt cotton variety” was carried out at the Regional Research Station, Abohar and Regional Research Station, Faridkot during the kharif season of 2021 on Btcotton variety PAU Bt3. The soil of experimental field was silty loam at Abohar and sandy loam at Faridkot. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with four plant spacings (67.5×15 cm, 67.5×30 cm, 67.5×45 cm and 67.5×60 cm) as main plots and five Mepiquat chloride levels (MC (5%) @ 375 ml ha-1 at squaring, MC (5%) @ 375 ml ha-1 at flowering, MC (5%) @ 750 ml ha-1 at squaring, MC (5%) @ 750 ml ha-1 at flowering and after 15 days and Control (No MC)) as sub plots with three replications. Lowest plant density (67.5×60 cm) and MC (5%) @ 750 ml ha-1 at squaring resulted in significant reduction of plant height, LAI (Leaf Area Index) and dry matter as compared to control at both the locations. Higher boll retention and opened bolls were observed in 67.5×60 cm and MC (5%) @ 750 ml ha-1at flowering. There was no significant effect of both the treatments factors on node count, monopods and sympods. Highest seed cotton yield was obtained with 67.5 ×30 cm (at Abohar) and 67.5×15 cm (at Faridkot) although these two spacing levels were at par with each other. MC (5%) @ 750 ml ha-1 at flowering resulted in 22.9% and 21.3% increase in seed cotton yield over control at Abohar and Faridkot, respectively. Different plant spacings and mepiquat chloride applications showed a non-significant effect on different fibre quality parameters except halo length at Faridkot. At both the locations, highest B:C ratio was observed in 67.5×30 cm and MC @ 750 ml ha-1 at flowering.
Jul 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2769-2264.jw-25-5578
Nyamaizi SylviaCorresponding author
Wetland encroachment due to agricultural land use practices (LUPs) adversely affects water quality in wetlands mainly through agricultural runoff. This study was conducted in Lubigi wetland in Uganda to (1) determine the effect of the agricultural LUPs on water quality and (2) understand the relationships between different water quality indicators and different agricultural LUPs existing in the wetland. The eight LUPs included in this study were perennial crops i.e. banana farming and sugarcane farming, annual crops i.e. maize farming and tomato farming, livestock farming which included a mixture of cows, goats, and sheep, undisturbed dense natural vegetation, reference wetland and the river. Water samples collected from the different LUPs were analyzed in the laboratory for selected physicochemical and biological water quality parameters. The water samples were analyzed for a variety of properties, including pH, electrical conductivity, total hardness, Ca-hardness, Mg- hardness, and concentrations of dissolved oxygen, calcium, magnesium, fluoride, total nitrogen, nitrates, ammonium, phosphates, potassium, total coliform, and Escherichia coli (E. coli), chemical oxygen demand, biological oxygen demand, total organic carbon, total dissolved solids, chlorides, sulphates, total phosphorus, and turbidity levels. The results suggested that the different LUPs influenced several water quality parameters. Dissolved oxygen was lowest in banana fields and the river at 2.57 mg/L and 3.44 mg/L respectively than other LUPs which limits survival of aquatic organisms. Biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand and total organic carbon were high in the river water with values = 69.67 mg/L, 351.67 mg/L, 117.33 mg/L respectively indicating high organic pollution. We detected nutrient pollution in water from tomato and sugarcane fields which showed high concentrations of nitrates. The concentration of ammonium in river water (10.40 mg/L) was high, indicating nitrogen contamination. In all LUPs, Escherichia coli and total coliforms had high counts exceeding 2000 CFU/100mL which indicated elevated microbial pollution from livestock waste and agricultural runoff. Cluster analysis revealed distinct clusters influenced by varying water quality parameters. These findings show that agricultural LUPs in Lubigi wetland are significantly contributing to water pollution through microbial contamination, nutrient, and organic matter accumulation, which increases the potential for eutrophication and renders the water unsafe for drinking and domestic use. Implementing best management practices (BMPs) is essential for the sustainable use and management of the wetland.
Apr 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-25-5463
Fokou ElieCorresponding author
Iron deficiency is a major public health problem worldwide. It affects a significant proportion of the population, and is responsible for around 50% of anemia cases worldwide. Cameroon in general and Lekie Division in particular, is very highlyaffected by this problem. However, early detection of the problem can prevent the fatalities associated to it. The objective of this study was to provide up-to-date, detailed data on the markers of iron status in these populations, so that treatment can be better targeted. A two-month cross-sectional study was conducted in the Lekie Division in collaboration with local health centres in both urban and rural areas. The study sample consisted of 361 participants of all age groups and sexes. A questionnaire was issued to obtain information of the participants socio-demographic status, then 3 to 5ml of blood were collected and a number of markers of the participants iron status were studied. Of all the hematological markers studied, hemoglobin concentration in the study population was below normal in both men and women. Biochemical markers were good for all socio-demographic parameters. The mean values of biochemical and hematological markers in the population of the Lekie Division were good for all socio-demographic parameters, with the exception of hemoglobin concentration, which remains critical, requiring particular attention in this locality, but above all urgent intervention lest the situation aggravates further.
Jul 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-24-5017
V K SashindranCorresponding author
Background Frailty is an ageing-associated state linked to poor prognostic outcomes. Chronic inflammation due to HIV-infection, AIDS-related infections. and the adverse effects of antiretroviral therapy (ART) all contribute to frailty in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA). Frailty has been comprehensively studied in populations comprising predominantly of Caucasian PLHA. However, there remains a dearth of such data in Indian populations, especially in younger PLHA. Methodology This cross-sectional study aimed to estimate the prevalence of frailty in PLHA (18 - 50 years) who had been on ART for 24-60 months and identify markers linked to frailty. Frailty was assessed in 152 subjects using the Fried frailty-index. Parameters measured included the mid-upper arm and calf circumferences, pain-severity (using the Brief Pain Inventory), highly-sensitivity C-reactive protein, d-dimer, and interleukin-6. Results The prevalence of frailty and pre-frailty were 6.58% and 23.02%, respectively. Reduced grip strength and self-reported exhaustion were associated with frailty (15.79% and 13.16%, respectively). Low calf-circumference and mid-upper arm circumference were not significantly associated with frailty/pre-frailty. The prevalence of pain was 21.7% and both pain severity and pain interference were significantly associated with frailty/pre-frailty. CD-4 counts at the time of assessment showed an inverse association with frailty. Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP of 0.04 associated with 0.49 probability of frailty (95% CI 0.40 – 0.59), CRP of 0.12 associated with 0.63 probability of frailty (95% CI 0.47 – 0.76)). D-dimer levels were not significantly associated with frailty /pre-frailty. Conclusion In this first-of-its-kind study on frailty in young PLHA (mean age 37 years) from the Indian sub-continent, the prevalence of frailty and pre-frailty was 6.58% and 23.02%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed a strong association of frailty with pain severity, CD4 count at time of assessment, hs-CRP levels and duration of ART.
Apr 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2329-9487.jhc-24-5040
Dangwe Temoua NaibéCorresponding author
Objective Hypertensive crisis is an increasingly frequent medical condition in our context. Its management in medical emergencies is a real challenge for physicians. Few data on hypertensive crisis are available in Chad. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiological, clinical and prognostic characteristics of hypertensive crisis in the medical emergency department of Reference National Teaching Hospital in N'Djamena. Patient and methods This was a prospective cohort study running from 1er March 2020 to October 31 2020. Patients presenting with a sudden and severe rise in blood pressure (systolic ≥ 180 mmHg and/or diastolic ≥ 110 mmHg) with or without acute target-organs damage, had been consecutively included and followed up over a period of one (01) month. Epidemic and clinical characteristics on admission, and morbidity and mortality parameters during the course of the disease were collected. The Kaplan-Meier method and the Cox model were used to analyze survival and factors associated with death, with a significance level of p<0.05. Results Of the 3978 hypertensive patients admitted to medical emergencies, 252 had a hypertensive crisis, i.e. a prevalence of 6.3%. Two hundred and seventeen (217) patients were included in the study, divided into 149 cases (69%) of hypertensive emergency and 67 cases (31%) of hypertensive hypertensive urgencies. The mean age of the patients was 55.2 ± 14 years (20 and 80 years) and 67% were male. Hypertension was known in 138 patients (64%). At least one complication was present on admission in 69% of patients. Complications were classified as cardiac (50.7%), neurological (38.2%), kidney impairment (46.5%) and ocular (46.1%). The average number of antihypertensive drugs used was 2 ± 0.83 14. Calcium antagonists (86.5%), diuretics (35.5%), converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor antagonists (33.3%) and betablockers (18%) were the pharmacological classes prescribed. Good compliance during follow-up was observed in 124 patients. One-month survival was 84% for all patients, with a 16% mortality rate. Factors associated with death were the duration of hypertension, and the occurrence of cardiovascular, renal dysfunction and ocular disease (p < 0.05). Conclusion Hypertensive crisis is a frequent pathology in sub-Saharan Africa, with high morbidity and mortality. Prevention requires early detection and effective management of hypertension.
Mar 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2640-690X.jfm-24-5016
Murigi KevinCorresponding author
Background Antibiotics are the most prescribed medications worldwide. Global consumption rose by 65% in 76 low and middle-income countries between the years 2000 and 2015. According to the World Health Organization, improper administration of antibiotics occurs in over 60% of people with upper respiratory tract infections. Inadvertent antibiotic use has been identified as a contributor to antimicrobial resistance. Outpatient antibiotic use accounts for around 80-90% of all antibiotic use in patients. Clinical officers are non-physician healthcare workers who have received less training, have a more restricted scope of practice than physicians. Clinical officers are key service providers in this country especially at the primary healthcare level. Objective The study assessed the factors that influence antibiotic prescribing for upper respiratory tract infections by clinical officers. Method A prospective study was carried out at 20 public hospitals in Kiambu County, on 36 clinical officers and 600 patient prescriptions. The parameters measured were patient factors, prescriber factors, institutional factors and how they affected the antibiotic prescribing practices by either being rational or irrational. Rational prescribing was identified as prescribing the right drug, at the right frequency, in the right duration, right dose for the right indication. Prescriptions were considered irrational if they did not satisfy any of the rational indices. Data was collected via a questionnaire from the clinical officers while WHO prescription checklist was used to collect data from patient encounters. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 22.0 (SPSS v22.0) with P-value, Confidence Interval and Odds Ratio. Results A total of 600 patient encounters were recorded and 79.8% of the 479 encounters had an antibiotic prescription for URTI, 91% of the antibiotics prescribed were the right dose, 98% had the right frequency, 75% had the right duration, and only 23% had the right indication. Patients above 65 years were more likely to receive an antibiotic prescription OR 3.98 CI 0.91,17.41 P=0.17 compared to children under 12 years old. Males were more likely to receive an antibiotic, but this was not significant OR 1.06 CI 0.70, 1.59 P=0.79. A total of 28 (4.6%) patients had fever, and all received antibiotics. A total of 36 clinical officers were sampled and only 5 (13.8%) were found to have rational prescriptions (P=0.63), prescriber age (P=0.92), prescriber level of education (P=0.99) and prescriber work experience (P=0.22) were not associated with antibiotic prescription. As per institutional factors, availability of antibiotics (P=0.026) and availability of prescription guidelines (P=0.012) were associated with rational prescription of antibiotics. Conclusion The study indicated that there was a high antibiotic prescription rate deviating from the WHO standard. It demonstrated that most antibiotic prescriptions were irrational.
Feb 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2642-3146.jec-23-4573
Hafs Musa AbubakarCorresponding author
Many renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy are grown and well developed as the cost effective solution being widely used in Nigeria but the whole Africa and world at large has witnessed a dramatic increase, concern over environment and demand of energy have led the world to think about alternate energy sources such as wind, hydro, solar and fuel cells. The voltage multiplier cell was incorporated with the interleaved converter to design the DC to DC boost converter for the PV application. The proposed converter is supplied by 18V as an input voltage and produces 99V output and gives 95% of efficiency under no load and 94% under load conditions. The performance of the proposed topology was substantiated and the results achieved from the fabricated prototype are in good agreement with the design strategies. The effects of input parameters such as sun radiation and useful power input on PV system and DC-DC converter outputs were exploration for 14 days. Results confirmed that the DC-DC converter was perfectly designed and accurately constructed, when integrated with solar PV system, data were captured under no load and on load conditions.
Oct 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2769-2264.jw-23-4694
Alotaibi MajebCorresponding author
This study aims to determine an empirical relationship between the biological and chemical oxygen demands of industrial effluent running through the membrane bio reactor-based Al-Hasa common industrial wastewater treatment Plant. The relationship between these two parameters was investigated over one month (NOV– 2021 to OCT-2022). The values of R² show that its impossible to predict the result of BOD5 based on COD, however the result of r in AUG month shows a strong relation between them. The average biodegradability index over the one year is less than 0.6, showing that effluent is highly polluted, and biodegradation will not proceed. The plant’s performance in terms of BOD5 and COD removal was very poor over the whole year, however, the months AUG, SEP and OCT months shows a satisfactory performance, this is because a large amount of Industrial wastewater entering the plant contains both organic and inorganic components.
Sep 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-2818.jfb-23-4605
S. Aljaied YasserCorresponding author
Background Immunological abnormalities are currently under scrutiny to potentially unravel the etiology of frustrating cases of unexplained female infertility (UFI). Objectives To explore the prevalence of immunological abnormalities in the levels of total immunoglobulins and complements in the cases of UFI. Methods Females with a history of UFI were included in this cross sectional study. They were consulted at the clinical immunology clinic at the King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH). Their demographics, clinical features, total immunoglobulins and complements tests results were collected and analyzed for any relationship. Results One hundred and twenty-one cases of UFI with an average age of 34 ± 5.6 (range from 23 to 49 years old) were studied. Secondary infertility was predominant in 99 cases (81.8%). An overall prevalence of at least one abnormal level of total immunoglobulins or complements was found in 65 cases (55.1%). The predominant immunological abnormalities were elevated levels of immunoglobulins (hypergammaglobulinemia) in 51 cases (43.2%), high IgG in 26 cases (22%), high IgA in 14 cases (11.9%), and high IgM in 11 cases (9.3%). This was followed by elevated levels of complements (hypercomplementemia) in C4 in nine cases (8.5%). A significant association was found between high C4 group and some parameters of infertility, including primary infertility (p = 0.005), no pregnancy (p = 0.001), no abortion (p = 0.047), in comparison to normal C4 group. Moreover, a statistically significant association was found between high IgA group and abortion in comparison to normal IgA group (p = 0.054). Conclusion At least one abnormal level of total immunoglobulins or complements was detected in more than half of the UFI cases. The commonest abnormalities were hypergammaglobulinemia (IgG, IgM, IgA) and hypercomplementenemia (C4), which showed a potential association with some infertility parameters. These findings may encourage the screening of general immunological tests to explore promising new immunopathology in UFI.
Jul 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-6622.ijar-23-4578
Fleurette Moumegni Monthe LilianeCorresponding author
The growth characteristics of Conraua goliath (Boulenger, 1906), an endemic and endangered species in Cameroon, were evaluated in its natural habitat between October 2021 and November 2022 in order to contribute to its domestication and conservation. For this purpose, 139 specimens (55 males, 55 females, and 29 individuals of undifferentiated sex) were collected by fishermen from 3 sites (Loum, Penja, and Nlonako) in the Department of Moungo, Coastal Region of Cameroon. The frogs were measured, and their growth parameters were determined after dissection and macroscopic and microscopic observations. The maximum size observed is 33.5 cm (SVL) and 2529 g body weight (BW), and the minimum size is 5.3 cm (SVL) and 12 g body weight (BW). This species is more abundant in the rainy season, in frogs between 18 and 24 cm, and has a Caucasian and uni-modal size structure. Independent of sex and season, this species has a significant and high regression coefficient between length, weight, and isometric growth pattern. However, this growth varies according to sex. It ranges from isometric in males (b = 2.82) and undifferentiated sexes (b = 2.85) to negative allometry in females (b = 2.21). The condition factor K ranges from 3.28 to 14.24 (mean: 7.80 ± 1.95) and fluctuates according to the sex and size of the frog. According to our results, this species has a large size and a high growth rate and could therefore be an excellent candidate for domestication to ensure its conservation. However, studies on reproductive characteristics are needed to complete this work.
Jul 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-23-4576
HECHAM N.Corresponding author
Background The evolution of multiple sclerosis (MS) is highly variable. Predicting this evolution at the beginning of the disease will help in the therapeutic management. The objective of this study was to describe the clinical characteristics and to identify early predictors of long-term disability among MS patients in Algeria. Methods We performed a descriptive and retrospective study of 400 MS patients followed over a 4-years period from July 2012 to July 2016 in the neurology department of Mustapha Bacha hospital in Algiers. The following parameters were systematically assessed for each patient: Age at onset, gender, relapses, initial demyelinating event, interval between first and second attack, residual deficit after first attack, onset of the progressive course, time of assignment of the successive scores of irreversible disability and type of disease modifying therapies. Univariate and multivariate Cox models were used to determine factors influencing time to Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 4 and 6. Results During the follow-up of this cohort of MS patients, a total of 144 (36%) and 83 (20%) patients reached EDSS scores 4 and 6 respectively. The median times from the onset of MS to assignment of a score 4 and 6 was 10 years and 19 years, respectively. Using the MSSS severity score, and after univariate analysis we identified several risk factors predictive of disease severity. These included male sex (P= 0.002), age of onset ≥ 40 years (P= 0.001), pyramidal (P= 0.0001), cerebellar (P= 0.002), and poly-symptomatic (P=0.0001) onset of the disease, incomplete recovery after the first attack (P= 0.0001), a high number of attacks during the first 2 years (P= 0.04) and the progressive form (P=0.001), and all these factors were correlated with a high MSSS score. However, prognostic factors in the multivariate binomial logistic regression analysis were limited to pyramidal onset, incomplete recovery after the first attack, short interval between the first and second attack, and progressive onset. Conclusion On the whole, the early predictive factors of disability in MS among Algerian patients were age of onset over 40 years, pyramidal onset, incomplete recovery after the first attack, short interval between the first and second attack and progressive form at onset. To increase the generalizability of findings, a national MS registry is strongly recommended, as well as long-term follow-up epidemiological studies.
Apr 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-23-4494
Meddeb ZinaCorresponding author
A planned experimental study on the production of green hydrogen by alkaline electrolysis is carried out by the Plan Composite Centered (PCC) method. The parameters studied are the concentration of the electrolyte, the distance between electrodes, the height of the electrodes, the total supply voltage of the electrolyser, temperature, and the electrolyte type. The results show that the effect of concentration, height, voltage and temperature are positive. However, the effect of the distance between the electrodes is negative. Electrolysis with potassium hydroxide (KOH) is more efficient than with sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The second-order interactions are weak, except for the voltage-temperature interaction which is significant. The results of the experimental study conducted in this work are in agreement with previous studies. Two a polynomial modeling (with KOH and with NaOH) suitable for predicting the flow of hydrogen produced are presented. Three optimizations of ascending constraints on the operating parameters to have a maximum hydrogen production and with a minimum of electrical energy and a minimum of concentration consumed are carried out.
Apr 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2372-6601.jhor-23-4530
Padaro EssohanaCorresponding author
Objective Drawing up a balance sheet of 16 years follow-up of the sole case of Diamond-Blackfan anemia diagnosed in Togo with arguments of molecular biology. Observation T.S a boy, born on 5th september 2006 has been followed up since he was three months, for Diamond-Blackfan anemia (DBA) in whom there has been found the mutation of ribosomial protein RPS19 in july 2010. It was the first observation in Subsaharian Africa. The treatment by transfusions from december 2006 to december 2022 has been associated with iron chelation through deferoxamin and promptly with corticotherapy at the dosage of 2mg/kg/day. The corticotherapy has been reduced as a consequence of corticoresistance from the fourth week, then definitely interrupted after four months. The evolution is marked by a clinical improvement with a staturo-balanced curve, and during the last control of 28th december 2022, the child was 53 kg heavy and 160 cm tall. The monthly physical tests did not reveal any signs of eventual overloading and the echocardiography of 26th december 2022 was normal. On the biological plan, the rate of the haemoglobin had been stable around 50g/l as a resultant of a transfusion each 4 to 6 weeks of red blood cell pellet. The chelation of iron had been done through deferoxamin with a monthly control of serum ferritin. That serum ferritin was 738,39ng/mg at diagnosis before the beginning of transfusions and during the follow-up, we noticed an average of 2977,3ng/ml (range 1817,1ng/ml and 4448,5ng/ml) Conclusion Thanks to the regular transfusions derived from the survey of the parameters of iron and the use of deferoxamin, we have succeded in keeping alive during sixteen years a patient who caught a disease whose evolution is unpredictable.
Mar 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-22-4116
Shuja SabaCorresponding author
Background In Low Middle-Income Countries (LIMCs), malnutrition, especially undernutrition is one of the leading causes of childhood mortality and morbidity. Poor complementary feeding practices are among the most notable contributors to poor nutritional indicators in children under five. This article provides an output of secondary data analysis of the Cost of Diet (CoD) and Optifood component of National Complementary Feeding Assessment conducted by UNICEF Pakistan along with Pakistan Demographic Health Survey (PDHS) 2018. Methods For correlation of Optifood data and CoD data with PDHS data of CF, GraphPad software, MS Excel was used along with manual quantifications. The analysis of DHS-2018 data was conducted using STATA software. Univariate analysis included comparison of categorical variables i.e. various individual, household and community level parameters with that of outcome variables of minimum dietary diversity (MDD), minimum meal frequency (MMF) and minimum dietary diversity (MAD) using chi-square test. Findings The overall rate of MMF was 56.6% among children of 6-23 months of age with MDD in 18.6% and MAD in 13.8% of children. Percentage of annual cost spent on nutritious diet for MDD, MMF and MAD varies from 27.86% to 43.08% across all the provinces. Children aged 6–8 months and 9–11 months often consumed infant milk and cereals, while children aged 12–23 months often consumed eggs and grain products. Consumption of dairy products was highest in Punjab, Sindh, AJK, and Islamabad, that of grains roots and tubers was highest in KPK, FATA and GB. Conclusion Considering CF practices in Pakistan are inadequate as indicated by poor MDD, MMF, and MAD, therefore it is imperative that a holistic approach using both communication and non-communication based interventions is to be employed through active stakeholder engagement.
Feb 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-2811.jmbr-22-4302
Edeowede Abhulimen AbelCorresponding author
The Gas Turbine operation was investigated with a view to evolving a system designed to provide a realistic imitation of the controls and operation of a Gas Turbine, used for training purposes. Operator Training Simulator has been widely adopted by many industries being a computer simulation which attempts to model a real-life plant so that it can be studied. A well trained and skilled operator is key in increasing power plant safety and productivity. Therefore, enabling quality training for operators is becoming more important as they need to handle increased load of information and duties whereas the lack of training is a major reason for inadequate performance. By changing variables in the simulator, predictions are made about the behaviour of the engine. It is a tool to virtually investigate the behaviour of the system while in operation. This work becomes indispensable because it is prohibitively expensive or simply too dangerous to allow trainees use the real equipment in a power plant. The Gas Turbine operation’s simulator is born from Object Oriented Programming, employing key programming languages. The simulator design focused on specific tasks in the operation of the Gas Turbine which include; startup, synchronization and monitoring of vital parameters like vibration, temperature, pressure, and angle of the Inlet Guide Vane. The statuses of various valves, pumps and motors as well as the Performance of actuators and the response of concatenated components are also being tracked. The simulator was found to effectively mimic a real plant life. With this simulator, trainee operators in Gas Turbine can spend time learning valuable lessons in a "safe" virtual environment yet living a lifelike experience. This will go a long way in minimizing operators’ error in GT power plants, thereby curtailing power outages and conserving power plant components.
Nov 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2835-513X.ijl-22-4266
O.D AbuCorresponding author
Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
The present study investigated the effect of aqueous and ethanol extracts of Dialiumguineense stem bark on lipid profile and CCl4- induced histological changes in liver of Wistar rats. Adult male Wistar rats (n = 25) weighing 160 – 180 g (mean weight = 170 ± 10 g) were randomly assigned to five groups (5 rats per group): normal control, CCl4 control, silymarin, aqueous extract and ethanol extract groups. With the exception of normal control, the rats were exposed to CCl4 (single oral dose of 1.0 mL/kg body weight, bwt). Silymarin group rats were administered standard hepatoprotective drug, silymarin, at a dose of 100 mg/kg bwt, while those in the two treatment groups received 1000 mg/kg bwt of aqueous or ethanol extract orally for 28 days. Lipid profile parameters were determined in plasma, while rat liver was subjected to histopathological examination. The results showed that the levels of total cholesterol (TC), triacylglycerol (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), very-low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) as well as atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) were significantly lower in CCl4 control group than in normal control group, but they were increased by extract treatment (p < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in atherogenic coefficient (AC) and cardiac risk ratio (CRR) among the groups (p > 0.05). Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) markedly disrupted the structure of hepatocytes and induced steatosis (intra-hepatocyte fat in-growth and inflammation) which was predominantly microvesicular. However, treatment with aqueous and ethanol extracts of D. guineense stem bark showed marked regeneration of hepatocytes (unremarkable hepatic lobular architecture). The toxic hepatic injury induced by CCl4 was significantly blocked by the plant extracts.
Oct 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-9359.jot-22-4303
Morteza Bagheri SeyedCorresponding author
Department of Radiology, School of medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences
Background Doppler ultrasonography can evaluate vascular and renal parenchymal disorders. In this study, color Doppler patterns in transplanted kidneys were compared with histological diagnosis to develop diagnostic models for transplanted kidney failure. Method 45 kidney transplant patients participated in this prospective study (16 suffered acute tubular necrosis (ATN), and 29 had transplant rejection). All patients had color-Doppler ultrasonography to measure kidney parameters and Doppler indices. Serum creatinine levels also assessed the transplanted kidney's function. Result Ultrasound showed a significant difference between the two groups in iliac and interlobar PSV. The ROC analysis showed a high diagnostic value of the iliac artery PSV, in distinguishing ATN from kidney transplant rejection. Serum creatinine level correlated directly with transplanted kidney volume, renal cortical thickness, and transplanted kidney length, and inversely with interlobar artery PSV and EDV. In graft rejection patients, the only significant inverse correlation was found between serum creatinine level and PSV of the iliac artery and EDV of the intrelobar artery. Discussion and conclusion The iliac artery PSV can differentiate between ATN and rejection after renal transplantation. Evaluation of renal metric parameters along with PSV and EDV of the interlobar artery (in patients with ATN) and iliac artery and interlobar artery (in transplant rejection) help determine renal dysfunction.
Oct 2022
Abolpour BahadorCorresponding author
Department of Chemical Engineering, Sirjan University of Technology, Sirjan, Iran
In this study, flow hemodynamic parameters and settling of LDL particles in healthy ideal and ideal with stenosis coronary artery have been studied using the Open FOAM software. Not only the effect of movement of the vessel on particles depositions have been studied, but also both non-Newtonian and Newtonian behaviors of blood have been investigated. The particle's motion and deposition have been simulated. It has resulted that only in small vessels, non-Newtonian behavior of blood can be seen and in bigger vessels, there is no remarkable difference between two Newtonian and non-Newtonian models. Vessel movement has no important effects on entered shear stress on its wall, but the alteration in flow lines causes a 70% increment in particles depositions on a vessel with stenosis. This shear stress has no considerable changes with inlet velocity alteration, but it has intensive dependence on geometry in the vessel with stenosis (13 times more oscillation in stenosis location than a healthy vessel).
Aug 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2997-1969.ijhs-22-4227
Ezinna E EnwerejiCorresponding author
Department of Public Health, Abia State University, Uturu Abia, Nigeria
Studies have linked freshwater snails with human flukes as a result of repeated contacts with contaminated water. This study is aimed to determine the distribution of freshwater snails and their infectivity rates along human dwellings in Okigwe Imo state using Physico-Chemical parameters. Freshwater snails were collected by using long plastic spoons and with hand-picking method. The Physico-Chemical parameters were determined with appropriate instrument and freshwater snails harvested from the site were morphologically identified. One thousand four hundred and nine (1409) freshwater snails belonging to the species Lymneae and Bulinus were collected once a week throughout the period of study with the relative percentage of 43.9%; 29.9% ;26.2% respectively. The infectivity rate was highest in snails that were collected in the month of May compared to those collected in June and July, the rate was 69.2%, 50.1% and 33.6% in the months of May, June and July respectively. Dissolved oxygen (DO), Biological oxygen demand (BOD) and PH were found to significantly influence snail distribution in the site (p<0.05). The finding showed that 54.2% of all the snails collected were infected. The snail distribution observed may give an insight into some aspects of the epidemiology of trematodes infection in Okigwe the site for the study and their potential risks to infect human beings and animals.
Jun 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-2140.jaa-21-3911
Izadi MortezaCorresponding author
Ozone CRC BMSU Tehran, Iran
Testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury is an urgent situation which needs a timely and precise diagnosis for prevention of testis damages. Here in we investigated ozone/oxygen therapy in Testicular Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury. For this purpose, animals (rats) were divided to four groups; control, torsion/detortion, torsion/detortion + ozone/oxygen (30 µg/ml) and only ozone/oxygen. Four hours after detorsion, in all groups orchiectomy was done -- for measuring the oxidative stress and mitochondrial toxicity parameters. Also, we preformed analysis of testicular spermatogenesis after 90 days. Our data showed that testicular torsion-detorsion induced significant increase in mitochondrial toxicity and decrease of spermatogenesis, malondialdehyde and GSSG levels were shown. Also, spermatogenesis, a remarkable decrease in malondialdehyde GSSG levels and mitochondrial toxicities were observed when compared with torsion-detorsion group. Obtained results for this research showed that ozone/oxygen therapy enhance antioxidant properties in the spermatogenic cells and protects testes from ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Jun 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-22-4197
A. Attah TimothyCorresponding author
National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Obasanjo Space Centre, Umaru Musa Yar'adua expressway, P.M.B. 437, Lugbe, Abuja, Nigeria
Aim and Objective Despite the growing concerns about the relationship between exposure to radiofrequency radiation (RFR) and detrimental health effects due to the changes in biological processes of experimental animals, there is still ongoing debate on the significance of these findings in causing significant public health problems with the growing advancement in internet technology. The aim of this study is to review existing literature on the effects of high RFR on wistar rats. Method A search was conducted on Google scholar and PubMed to identify relevant peer-reviewed articles to be included into the review. Studies eligible for inclusion included free full text articles on wistar rats exposed to ≥ 2.45GHz RFR conducted in the past 5 years. Studies included in this review were written or transcribed in English language. From 286 titles, 36 eligible studies were included in the review and assessed for quality using the Strengthening the Report of Observational Studies in Epidemiology – Veterinary Extension (STROBE-Vet) quality assessment tool. Results Studies included in this review generally had good quality (>60%) based on the STROBE-Vet assessment. This review identified numerous biological changes in wistar rats exposed to high RFR including variations in biochemical, cholinergic, genetic, histopathologic, psychological, optical, and dermatological parameters. In this review, studies identified variations in protein and liver enzymes while high RFR was found to induce oxidative stress and cellular damage of exposed wistar rats compared to the unexposed groups. This was seen in the changes in protein, lipids, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. Studies also identified changes in expression of genes and neurotransmitters with imbalance in hormones. In addition, this review identified structural changes of cells, tissues and organs indicative of apoptosis, damage and death. Exposed rats were identified to have behavioral changes indicative of anxiety and memory decline while studies identified optical and dermatologic changes in exposed rats compared to the unexposed. Conclusion With numerous biological changes identified in wistar rats exposed to high RFR, there is an increasing risk of detrimental health events giving the advancement in internet technology and limited regulations to control exposures to RFR. Therefore, studies should be conducted to identify strategies to mitigate human exposure to RFR while policies are developed and enforced to protect human health.
May 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-22-4149
Lemma WossensegedCorresponding author
Department of Medical Parasitology; School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, University of Gondar, Ethiopia
In Ethiopia stunting, underweight and wasting in school children are very common. The aim of this research was to evaluate the impact of intestinal helminthes and schistosomiasis on malnutrition, anaemia and haematological indices in the school age children of Azezo Elementary School in Gondar town. Kato Katz technique was performed to determine infection and intensity of intestinal helminth infections. AnthroPlus software version 1.04 was used to get malnutrition indices while fully automated haematological analyzers were used to determine haematological and biochemical parameters. A total of 384 school children were recruited in this study. The overall prevalence of helminth infection was 45.8% (178/384) with the leading Ascarislumbericoides infection (20.6%) compared to the second leading Schistosomamansoni (17.4%) and third leading hook worm infections (13.3%). The prevalences of body mass indexes for age Z-scores (BAZ) indices were 9.6% (37) very sever thin, 17.2% (66) sever thin, 38.3% (147) thin, 34.4% (132) normal and 0.5% (2) overweight. On the other hand, the prevalences of height for age Z-scores (HAZ) indices were 12.2% (47) stunt, 87% (334) normal and 0.8% (3) over height. Of the total 384 school age children, 335 (87.2%) had normal blood glucose level (70 – 110 mg/dL) while the remaining 49 (12.8%) school age children were hypoglycemic. The number of the school children with normal total protein level (6.6 – 8 g/dL) was 259 (67.4%) while the remaining 125 (32.6%) school children were hypo-proteinaemic. The prevalence of anemia in the school age children was 33.1% (127). Intestinal helminth infections were statistically significantly associated (p = 0.000) with hypo-proteinaemia, anemia and number of lymphocytes compared with non-infected school children. The likelihood of anemia in intestinal helminth infected school children, when it was compared with uninfected, was 148 times higher for both Ascaris lumbericoides-Schistosoma mansoni co-infection, 38 times for Hookworm, 20 times for Schistosoma mansoni and 3 times for Ascaris lumbericoides mono-infections. Conclusion: Intestinal helminth infections in school age children aggravate malnutrition. Prolonged malnutrition and intestinal helminth infections could result in stunting in school-age children.
Apr 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-22-4114
Md. Iqbal FarukCorresponding author
An experiment was conducted in the field of Plant Pathology Division, BARI, Joydebpur to evaluate the efficacy of available plant nutrient for the development of purple blotch disease and tip-burn of onion. Eight different treatments viz. Potassium (MP fertilizer), Phosphorus (TSP fertilizer), Boron (Boron fertilizer), Zinc (ZnSO4 fertilizer), Calcium (CaSO4 fertilizer), Copper (CuSO4), Silicon (silica gel) and Manganese (MnSO4 fertilizer) were tested against purple blotch disease and tip-burn of garlic. The present study revealed that soil and foliar application of plant nutrients viz. Potassium, Phosphorus, Boron, Zinc, Calcium, Copper, Silicon and Manganese gave appreciable reduction of purple blotch disease and tip-burn incidence and increased plant growth parameters such as shoot and root growth as well as yield of garlic. Among the nutrients Potassium, Phosphorus, Silicon, Zinc and Calcium were performed better for reducing purple blotch disease severity, tip-burn disease incidence and increasing plant growth as well as yield of garlic. Application of Boron and Manganese also performed better than control. So, soil and foliar application plant nutrients Potassium, Phosphorus, Silicon, Zinc, Boron and Manganese may be recommended for tip-burn and purple blotch disease management and for garlic production in Bangladesh.
Apr 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2831-8846.j3dpa-22-4066
Geremew TemesgenCorresponding author
Debark University, Department of physics, Debark, Ethiopia
Thin films are everywhere in the modern world, with many of the technologies we depend upon in daily life being, in turn, dependent upon thin film technology. Chemical bath deposition includes principles of chemical bath deposition (CBD) and concept of solubility product, nucleation and film growth, thin film deposition mechanism in chemical bath deposition. The non-metallic ion source (anions) and metal ion source (cations) then react to form the compound. The nucleation process plays an important role in determining the crystallinity and microstructure of the resultant film. From the discussion of deposition techniques which are physical and chemical deposition methods. Physical deposition techniques contains sputtering deposition, electron beam evaporation and physical vapour deposition (PVD) process have been known for over 100 years and also fabrication films on the substrate, as well as the increasement of the pressure in the chamber due to operation of the sources indicates directly that gases or vapors are desorbed. Chemical deposition process is economically effective and has been industrially exploited to large scale. It can be summarized that thin film characterization techniques include X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-Vis spectrophotometer, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive x-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy (TEM). X-rays diffraction (XRD) is a rapid and a powerful technique used to study the phase of a crystalline material, information on unit cell lattice parameters, crystal structure, crystal orientation and crystalline size.
Jan 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-21-4044
Chukwuma Sr ChrysanthusCorresponding author
The Chrysanthus Centre for Future-Oriented Studies, Centre For Future-Oriented Studies, CTR Future-Oriented Ltd, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
This paper attempts to present the dissemination and transmission dynamics of emerging and reemerging infectious diseases and the underlying features of gain-of-function research and geopolitics in the ambient within and across borders. Research and publication are relevant from perspectives in the management of local and global health because disease is perspicuously a geopolitical issue ostensibly linked to gain-of-function research where health diplomacy undergirds present and future global functionalities regarding the emergence and reemergence of infectious diseases. These have generated vehement reactions with propensity for extreme geopolitics and gain-of-function natural and anthropogenic activities. Geopolitical parameters and gain-of-function issues impact on the social determinants of health and vice versa. The convening and convergence of countries for unprecented epidemic or pandemic treaty settings or other formulations to confront emerging and reemerging infectious diseases will afford considerable opportunities concerning challenges in action, preparedness and response. Provisions are pertinent for legal instruments, effective and efficient systems to curb future threats and outbreaks of infectious diseases.
Nov 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2577-2279.ijha-21-3925
Kumar Sah SurendraCorresponding author
Assistant Professor, Department of Anatomy, Nobel Medical College Teaching Hospital, Biratnagar, Nepal
Introduction The nose is one of the important component of the face which is considered as the major clue for the ethnic origin. The proportion of the nose is determined on the same principal as that of the skull.The external nose extends the nasal cavities onto the front of the face and positions the nares so that they point downwards. The shape of the nose is pyramidal with its apex anterior in position. The upper angle of the nose between the openings of the orbits is continuous with the forehead. Materials and Methods This study was carried out among residents of Ramnagar Gaupalika-7, Sarlahi,Nepal, one of the core region of Madhesh Nepal dated Jan 2021 to April 2021.The cohort consists of independent adults of age group 17-45 and consenting adults from the metropolis. Ethical approval was sought prior to conducting the study from the supervising ethical committee of the Nobel Medical College Teaching Hospital, Biratnagar, Nepal. Written consents were taken from the subjects for the recruitment in the study. Results The present study involved 100 subjects of equal males and females subjects of age groups 17-45 years from Madheshis community of Nepal. The table 1, table 2, table 3 below shows the values obtained for different parameters for males and females. The mean value of nasal height for male and female is 52.59±1.89 and 50.27±2.16 mm and the nasal width for male and female is 37.64±1.72mm and 35.42±2.04mm and the value of mean nasal index for both the sexes are 71.59±2.31and 70.58±3.04 respectively. The dominant type of the nasal morphology in both the sexes are the mesorrhine type and the leptorrhine type as well. Conclusion The human nose is a dominant feature in facial region which differs in anatomy and morphology among racial groups and of the most characteristic differences during the analysis of ethnic and racial differences. The dominant type of the nasal index is the mesorrhine type in both the male and female of the Madheshis community. Hence the data obtained here will be useful for the differentiation of different ethnic groups of Nepal as well as in the field of forensic science and rhinoplastic surgery.
Oct 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-21-3872
Hassan Dahab MohamedCorresponding author
Department of Agric Eng. – College of Agriculture- University of Khartoum.
Sugar cane production requires a number of operations to be carried out in the field through number of implements and machines. Therefore, time consuming and required large amount of energy. A combined field cultivator was designed in Kenana agricultural implements factory (KAIF) to carry out at one time multi operations (cultivation, furrow-reforming and Fertilizer placement). This is to increase field productivity, reduce farm power and lower operation time and cost. The combined implement was evaluated in Kenana cultivation fields and compared with three individual implements, rigid tine cultivator, furrow-reformer and fertilizer applicator. The measured parameters were drawbar pull, power requirements, field capacity, fuel consumption and total time in the field. The results showed highly significant differences at 1% level between the different implements for the field capacity, fuel consumption and significant differences at 5% for the drawbar pull. A power requirement in (kW) for the combined cultivator was 77% of those individual implements. Total time per feddan to accomplish the required operations by the combined cultivator was 57% of that required by the individual implements. Fuel consumption was reduced to 57% when combined implement was used compared to that consumed by individual implements. It was concluded that the combined cultivator was effective in increasing field productivity and reducing power and cost of operation.
Aug 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-21-3880
Haroun Mohamed Adam AbubakerCorresponding author
Department of Crop Science, College of Agriculture, University of Bahri- Sudan.
Sugar beet is one of the sugar crops which widely grown in different regions of the world due to its advantages over Sugarcane. Several studies were conducted in Sudan to assess its adaptation and economic value. However, the aim of this experiment was to study the effect of application of compost and different levels of phosphorus fertilizer and their combination on Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris) growth attributes, yield and yield components. The study was conducted during the winter season 2018 –2019 at the farm of the College of Agriculture, University of Bahri, Alkadaro-Khartoum State, Sudan. The experiment was arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications and six treatments, namely the Compost (5t./ha.), Phosphorous (P2O5) (88kg./ha.), P2O5 (176 kg./ha.), Compost (5t./ha.)+P2O5 (88kg./ha.), Compost (5t./ha.)+ P2O5 (176Kg./ha.) and the Control (C) respectively. All cultural practices were carried out timely according to the recommendations of the Agricultural Research Centre in Sudan. Then the data pertaining the following agronomic traits were recorded, the leaf number; leaf dry weight (g), leaf area index (LAI) (cm), root diameter (RD) (cm) and root fresh weight (RFW) (g). The results of statistical analysis revealed the application of compost in combination with phosphorus displayed significant increase at 5% level for the leaf number (22.75), leaf area index (5.23), leaf dry weight(36.78), root diameter(69.67) and root fresh weight (422.68), followed by the application of compost alone compared to the control and other treatments. The study concludes that the combination of compost and mineral fertilizer (P2O5) proved to increase all Sugar beet growth and yield parameters.
Jul 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2329-9487.jhc-21-3848
Jana SnehasisCorresponding author
Trivedi Science Research Laboratory Pvt. Ltd., Thane (W), Maharashtra, India.
Study was aimed to evaluate effect of Biofield Treated Proprietary Formulation and Biofield Treatment per se on cardiac performance on NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME) and high fat diet (HFD)-induced cardiovascular disorders in Sprague Dawley rats. Nine groups were assigned, in which four were preventive maintenance groups. The constituents of test formulation were divided into two parts; one section was defined as the untreated test formulation, while the other portion of the test formulation and three groups of animals received Biofield Energy Healing Treatment remotely for about 3 minutes by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was significantly (p≤0.001) decreased by 13.39%, 14.65%, 17.74%, 14.36%, and 14.69% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively as compared to disease control (G2) group. Diastolic blood pressure (DBP)was significantly (p≤0.001) reduced by 25.95%, 24.41%, 30.79%, 24.67%, and 25.23% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Heart rate (HR) was significantly (p≤0.05) reduced by 6.58%, 8.06%, and 6.99% in G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Total leucocyte count (TLC) count was increased by 12.8% and 17.45% in G5 and G8 groups, respectively than G2 group. Neutrophils and lymphocytes were increased by 60.11% (G8) and 11.49% (G5), respectively than G2. Eosinophils were reduced by 11.11%, 20%, and 15% in G6, G7, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Total cholesterol was significantly decreased by 22.64% (p≤0.05), 15.78%, 25.56% (p≤0.05), 22.56%, and 34.27% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Triglyceride was significantly (p≤0.001) reduced by 34.55%, 43.29%, 55.23%, 28.57%, and 37.28% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. VLDL level was also significantly (p≤0.001) reduced by 80.81%, 83.61%, 86.82%, 79.19%, and 81.63% in G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 group, respectively; while LDL was reduced by 20.32% (G9) group than G2. Atherogenic index (AI) was significantly (p≤0.001) decreased by 78.36%, 83.21%, 84.68%, 74.06%, and 72.98% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. The level of uric acid (UA) was significantly (p≤0.001) decreased by 57.51%, 52.36%, 45.49%, 43.78%, and 40.77% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups respectively, as compared with the G2 group. Serum glutamate pyruvate transaminases (SGPT) was significantly (p≤0.001) decreased by 45.96%, 48.01%, 37.19%, 37.69%, and 42.93% in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups, respectively than G2. Creatine kinase myocardial band (CK-MB) level was significantly reduced by 10.19%, 21.97% (p≤0.01), 10.47%, and 16.94% in the G5, G6, G7, and G9 groups, than G2. Overall, the data suggested significance improvement of heart-related hematology, hepatic, and lipid parameters with respect to various pathological conditions that might be beneficial various types of cardiovascular disorders. Therefore, the results showed the significant slowdown the cardiovascular disease progression and its complications/symptoms in the preventive treatment groups viz. G6, G7, G8, and G9.
Jul 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2577-2279.ijha-21-3869
Jain JuliCorresponding author
Neuroscience Research Lab, Department of Zoology, School of Biological Sciences, Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya (A Central University), Sagar – 470003 (MP), India.
Rotenone is well known environmental neurotoxin used to induce Parkinson’s disease (PD) model. Numerous studies are investigated its toxicity on the brain but few studies are available that examined its toxicity on the liver and kidney. Therefore, the main aim of the present work was to explore the toxicity of rotenone on the liver and kidney and its protection through quercetin. Administration of rotenone orally at the dose of (5mg/kg b.w daily for 60 days) caused a significant increase in the levels of liver function and renal function biomarkers as compared to controls. A significant increase in the level of lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide, and decrease in the levels of reduced glutathione, reduction in the activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase were observed in the liver and kidney as compared to control. The histopathological and SEM study in rotenone-treated mice showed alteration and signs of inflammation in the liver and kidney. While co-treatment of quercetin orally (30 mg/kg b.w for 60 days) together with rotenone, reversed the above parameters. In conclusion, rotenone significantly damages the liver and kidney, and the administration of quercetin along with rotenone shown a protective role. This study provides a new insight into where rotenone-induced liver and kidney dysfunction could be successfully protected by quercetin.
Jul 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-21-3850
Jana SnehasisCorresponding author
Trivedi Science Research Laboratory Pvt. Ltd., Thane (W), Maharashtra, India.
The aim of the study was to evaluate the immunomodulatory activity of the Biofield Treated/Blessed proprietary test formulation consisting of essential ingredients viz. minerals (zinc, magnesium, iron, and copper) and vitamins (B6, B12, and D3) in male Sprague Dawley rats. Each ingredient of the test formulation was divided into two parts. One part was denoted as the control without any Biofield Energy Healing Treatment/Blessing, while the other part was defined as the Biofield Energy Treated/Blessed sample, which received the Biofield Energy Healing Treatment/Blessing by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi remotely. Additionally, three group of animals were also received Biofield Energy Treatment per se (at day -15) under similar conditions. The parameters were assessed such as immune biomarkers (IgM, IgG, IgA, IgE, CD4+, CD8+, and CD28+), biochemistry and hematology and histopathology. The experimental results showed IgG level was significantly increased by 10.70% and 8.03% in the G6 (Biofield Energy Treatment per se at day -15) and G8 (Biofield Treatment per se to animals plus Biofield Treated test formulation from day -15) groups, respectively as compared with untreated test formulation (G4). Additionally, CD8+ count was significantly increased by 20.67% in the G8 group, while CD28+ count was significantly increased by 11.70%, 8.32%, and 9.82% in the G7 (Biofield Energy Treated test formulation at day -15), G8, and G9 (Biofield Treatment per se (day -15) to animals plus untreated test formulation) groups, respectively after Biofield Energy Treatment to the animals as compared with the untreated test formulation. In hematological analysis, platelet count was increased in the G5, G6, G7, G8, and G9 groups by 40.69%, 27.95%, 26.67%, 38.58%, and 28.28%, respectively compared with the disease control (G2) group. Biochemical parameters showed significant decrease in the level of creatinine by 32.14% in the G9 group as compared with the G2 group. Further, animal body weight, feed intake, relative organ weight, and histopathological findings of all the tested groups did not show any abnormal findings with respect to the safe and non-toxic treatment strategies. Overall, the experimental data concluded that the Biofield Energy Treated/Blessed test formulation showed considerable improved cellular and humoral immune response as compared with the untreated test formulation. Thus, the Trivedi Effect®-Biofield Energy Healing Treatment per se and the test formulation has the significant capacity for immunomodulatory effect, stress management and anti-aging by improving overall health.
Jun 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-21-3740
AJM AbdulCorresponding author
Department of Natural Science, School of Natural and Social Sciences, The State University of Zanzibar. P. O. Box 146, Zanzibar-Tanzania.
Millions of people from different countries depend on groundwater, which might contain elevated levels of unhygienic constituents. Poor quality of drinking water in many countries has been forcing people to use bottled water. In the present study, groundwater samples were collected in November 2014 leading to twenty-nine analysis of groundwater samples. The primary objective of this paper is to study the selected groundwater quality parameters as an establishment of preliminary baselines on groundwater constituents. A total of twenty nine water samples were collected (fourteen and fifteen samples from North and South regions of Zanzibar Island respectively. Physical parameters (Turbidity, oxidation-reduction potential ORP, Eh, pH, total dissolved soild TDS, salinity, and Electrical conductivity (EC) were determined in situ using Horiba multiparameters digital meters. Analysis of anions (NO3-, Br- , SO42-, F-, NO2-) was carried out using Ion chromatography (IC). Nitrite and nitrate for some water were below detection limit (BDL) The order of relative abundance for anions in samples collected at Northern region of Zanzibar Island, was NO3- > Br- > SO42- > F- > NO2- , while for the Southern region the order was NO3- >Br- > NO2- > SO42- > F- . In both regions, the orders for other parameters were; Turbidity > pH > salinity; and EC >TDS > ORP > Eh. Almost all the measured parameters were within the WHO guidelines for drinking water. However, for nitrate and bromide, the percentage that exceeded the WHO limit was 7%, and 10.3% respectively. Based on toxicological perspective, although few samples had concentrations above groundwater quality criterion it is fundamental to estimate the intake by humans through the drinking water pathways.
Apr 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-21-3782
Masoero GiorgioCorresponding author
Accademia di Agricoltura di Torino, Via A. Doria 10, 10123 Torino (Italy).
A systematic use of biofertilizers can improve both the quality of a farming system and the parameters of milk. Some issues related to biofertilization experiments on six farms in the Po Valley (NW Italy) involved in the production of milk from dairy cattle fed maize silage or grazed on hay produced from permanent meadows are reported in this paper. Biofertilized maize was found to lower the live stem pH by about 2.3%, and NIR spectroscopy foreshadowing major changes in the composition. Overall, the plant silage was improved in quantity (+10%) but also in quality, as shown by the delayed maturity stage of the leaves (crop maturity index -4%), the lower indigestible NDF content (-7%), and the higher digestible carbohydrates and protein in the whole plants. Such favorable feeding conditions, together with the improved palatability of the feed ration, boosted the nutrient values of the protein (+4.6%) and fat contents (+5.7%) in the milk. Moreover, the functional properties of the milk were ameliorated, as testified by the higher levels of vitamin A (+27%) and vitamin E (+25%) and the reduced levels of saturated fatty acids (-6%), especially myristic (-18%) and stearic (-32%) acids, while the unsaturated acids increased by 15%. As far as economy aspects are concerned, the biofertilization of maize for silage has led to consistent rewards pertaining to the marginal price of the milk, which in turn has led to a value chain increase of about 9%, because of the fields cultivation, but mainly of the cow transformation in milk quality issues. On another farm, intensive maize was substituted with permanent biofertilized meadows, over a greening path, and a + 17% value chain increase was obtained that already derived mainly from the best price for milk quality parameters. Such an evolutionary leap toward a new vision of sustainable agriculture for the environment and for animals, in which a better quality of products, animal welfare and company budget are combined with soil biofertilization, can be considered a bonanza.
Mar 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-2140.jaa-21-3747
Jana SnehasisCorresponding author
Trivedi Science Research Laboratory Pvt. Ltd., Thane (W), Maharashtra, India.
A proprietary formulation was designed that consisted minerals (zinc, magnesium, iron, calcium, selenium, and copper), vitamins (pyridoxine HCl, cyanocobalamin, ascorbic acid, and cholecalciferol), Panax ginseng extract, and cannabidiol isolate. The study was aimed to assess the potential of the novel test formulation (blessed) and per se to the animals with the Trivedi Effect® in male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats, fed with vitamin D3 deficiency diet (VDD). The test formulation consisted above mentioned ingredients was divided into two parts. One part was left aside as the untreated test formulation without any Biofield Treatment, while the other part was defined as the Biofield Energy Treated sample, which received the Biofield Treatment by renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mr. Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. The level of lipid peroxidation end product malondialdehyde (MDA) in liver tissues was significantly reduced by 34.59%, 34.91%, and 65.81% (p≤0.001) in test formulation treated with Biofield Energy (G5), Biofield Treated test formulation from day -15 (G7), Biofield Treatment per se with Biofield Treated test formulation from day -15 (G8) groups, respectively as compared to the disease control group (G2). Moreover, level of catalase enzyme in liver tissues was also increased by 8.64% in the G7 group as compared to the G2 group. Besides, in brain homogenate the level of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) was significantly increased by 433.94%, 266.97%, 133.94%, 467.89%, and 489.86% in the G5, Biofield Energy Treatment per se to animals from day -15 (G6), G7, G8, and Biofield Treatment per se animals plus untreated test formulation (G9) groups, respectively than G2. Antioxidant enzyme like superoxide dismutase (SOD) was significantly (p≤0.001) increased by 14.16% in the G9 group as compared to the G2 group. Allover, results signified that the Biofield Treated test formulation significantly increased antioxidative parameters, could be able to give support against oxidative stress induced by free radical and to maintain a good human health.
Mar 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-21-3765
A. Weber SimonCorresponding author
Cellogic GmbH, Niedstrasse 21, 12159 Berlin, Germany
Acute post-operative delirium (POD) and long-term post-operative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) are frequent and associated with increased mortality, dependency on care giving and institutionalization rates. The POCD-related cost burden on the German long-term care insurance provides an indication for the savings potential from risk-adapted treatment schemes. Comprehensive estimates have not been assessed or published so far. A model-based cost-analysis was designed to estimate POCD-related costs in the long-term care insurance. Comprehensive analysis of inpatient operations and procedures (OPS-codes) served as the base for case number calculations, which were then used as input to the actual cost model. POCD-incidence rates were obtained from the BioCog study. Various sensitivity analyses were performed to assess uncertainty of the model results. Total POCD related annual costs in the German long-term care insurance account for approximately 1.6 billion EUR according to the base case of our analysis. Total annual costs for all POCD cases depend on surgery numbers, incidence rates, other assumptions, and uncertain input parameters. The financial burden to the long-term care insurance is substantial, even in a conservative scenario of the cost model. Variability of results stems from uncertain assumptions, POCD-incidence rates and from uncertain patient numbers who are undergoing surgery and are therefore at risk to develop POCD.
Mar 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-0904.ijoe-21-3736
Neuberger ManfredCorresponding author
Medical University of Vienna, Centre of Public Health; A-1090 Wien, Kinderspitalgasse 15, Austria
In the catering industrytobacco smoke was the primary source of fine and ultrafine particles, which are well known for their health-damaging effects. As shown in studies, attempts to reduce passive smoking in the catering industry of Vienna, like separated smoking rooms, failed to reduce fine and ultrafine particle concentrations effectively. On November 1st 2019, an enlarged non-smoker’s protection law was introduced, including a total smoking-ban in the catering industry. 40 hospitality venues with areas for smokers and non-smokers before the ban had been selected as typical Viennese cafes, pubs, bars and discotheques to be sampled unannounced. Concentrations of fine particle mass (PM10, PM2.5, PM1) and ultrafine particle number (PNC) and lung deposited surface area (LDSA) could be measured before and after the introduction of the smoking-ban in 39 venues at nearly identical locations and under comparable circumstances. Results showed a statistically significant decline in both fine and ultrafine particle concentrations in the former smoking areas for all parameters as well as in the former non-smoking areas for PM2.5, PM1 and LDSA. After the ban concentrations in former smoking areas and non-smoking areas showed no significant differences any more. From these results the smoking-ban successfully removed particles from breathing air of guests and staff, however, some outliers in the study after the ban point to the necessity of repeated controls in Vienna. Also, outside Vienna the compliance with the law should be controlled in the Austrian hospitality industry.
Feb 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2638-4469.japb-21-3697
Rani RadhikaCorresponding author
Department of Botany, Samrat Prithviraj Chauhan Government College, Ajmer, India(305001)
Medicinal plants Tephrosia villosaand Cassia tora (Linn.) are belongs to the family Fabaceae and widely distributed in India and other tropical regions. Different parts (roots, stem, leaves and seeds) of the both plants have been used in various traditional medicare systems for ailments of human being. In the present study deals with the evaluation of pharmacognostic parameters in terms of the macro and micro-morphological characters and quantitative profiles of the leaves of Tephrosia villosa andCassia tora(Linn.). The observations of the current study can be useful for identification, standardization and authentication of plants.
Feb 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2328-0182.japst-21-3700
Y. Alkarib SuadCorresponding author
Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Karary University, Sudan
Objectives The present study addresses evaluation of acacia-guar gum combination as an enteric former for tablet coating aiming to add knowledge on how develop the ability of enteric forming ability of acacia-guar combination. Methods Five formulations of enteric coating solution incorporating guar gum as delayed release polymers along with film coating material acacia gum followed by CMC and glycerin as plasticizer and coloring agents were prepared to coat placebo tablet cores. Different enteric coating formulations organized in different acacia : guar gum ratios as 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4 and 1:6 were sprayed on placebo tablets surface resulted different delayed coated tablets (F1,F2,F3,F4 &F5) respectively. General appearance and physical parameters were evaluated of each. Enteric coated tablets that revealed promising properties were subjected to accelerated stability study for 3 months to explore the influences of physical aging on tablet coat properties. Results Physical parameters of enteric coated tablets post coating within the range of pharmacopeia specification. The disintegration test was carried out in pH 1.2 and pH 6.8 at 37ºC. F1, F2 and F3 enteric tablets disintegrated immediately with no acid resistance compared F4 and F5 enteric tablets showed good acid resistance coat with smooth tablet surfaces and no coat defects. F5 formula contain acacia: guar gum as 1:6 ratio showed delayed release for 30min in pH 1.2 and 15min in phosphate buffer. The study statistically analyzed and concluded that, an efficient and stable acacia-guar enteric coat is achievable with no effect on tablets physical parameters. Guar gum at 60% as a delayed tablet coating material capable of protecting the tablets core from being released in acidic media and be release in the alkaline buffer as well as stable coat under accelerated storage for three months.
Jan 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-20-3677
Faruk IqbalCorresponding author
Principal Scientific Officer, Plant Pathology Division, BARI
The experiments were conducted in the fields of Plant Pathology Division, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, Gazipur during 2016-17, 2017-18 and 2018-19 cropping years to evaluate the organic and vermi composts for mass culturing of biological control agent Trichoderma harzianum and toobserve the effect of formulated T.harzianum designated as Tricho-vermi-compost and Tricho-organic-compost as well as organic compost, vermi-compost and chemical fungicide Provax 200 WP against soil-borne pathogens, Sclerotium rolfsiiof groundnut causing foot and root rot/stem rot disease. The pathogen inoculated field soils were treated with Tricho-vermi-compost and Tricho-organic-compost, organic compost and vermi-compost 7 days before seed sowing where as seeds were treated with Provax 200 WP at the time of seed sowing. From this study it was revealed that all the treatments performed in reducing seedling mortality and increasing plant growth and yield of groundnut compared to control. Among the treatments, soil treatment with Tricho-vermi-compost and Tricho-organic-compost are the best treatments in reducing seedling mortality and increasing plant growth parameters and yield of groundnut which was significantly differed from the other treatments including control. Seed treatment with chemical fungicide Provax 200 WP and soil treatment with only vermin-compost and organic compost also promising treatments for management foot and root rot disease and increasing plant growth parameters as well as yield of groundnut compared to control.
Nov 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2473-1005.jdoi-20-3595
C SzuhanekCorresponding author
Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy ‘Victor Babes’, Timisoara, Romania
Aesthetic and functional problems associated with significant facial asymmetry can negatively affect the patient's facial appearance, nutritional and psychosocial development. Therefore, a critical assessment and accurate treatment planning is absolutely necessary. The aim of this study was to evaluate the parameters of PA cephalometric analysis defined by Ricketts and Grummons and establish statistically relevant correlations and their importance in diagnosing orthodontic patients with varying degrees facial asymmetries. The research included facial asymmetry Romanian patients from the Department of Orthodontics and Dento-Facial Orthopedics of UMF "Victor Babes", Timisoara. The PA cephalogram investigations that met the inclusion criteria were digitally analyzed. Dental and skeletal cephalometric parameters described by Ricketts, Grummons and Kappeyne Van De Coppello were collected through linear, angular and volumetric measurements. Statistically significant correlations between the degree of asymmetry and the dimension of the internal structures were observed.Our conclusion is that PAcephalograms are cost effective and useful investigations in identifying and evaluating skeletal and dental imbalances in orthodontic facial asymmetry patients.
Nov 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2766-8630.jrnm-20-3288
Maraei AsmaCorresponding author
Department of Medical Engineering, School of Technical and Engineering, Dezful Branch, Islamic Azad University, Dezful, Iran
Introduction Given the high radiation tissue sensitivity of pediatric patients, it is necessary to monitor their received dose in order to optimize radiation protection. The first aim of this study was to evaluate of the entrance surface dose (ESD) in pediatric patients undergoing chest x-ray at the main hospital of Dezful, Iran. The second aim was to compare our results with the established dose reference levels (DRL). Materials and Methods The studied population included 204 pediatric patients less than 15 year who were referred to chest x-ray. A calibrated dose area product meter (DAP-meter) with permanent installation on x-ray unit was used to radiation dose measurements. For each patient, the demographic data, exposure parameters and the dose read by DAP-meter were recorded and ESD was calculated using standard mathematical formula. Results The average value of ESD was 119 μGy in patients less than 15 years. This value was 51.3, 122.3, 131.5 and 171.2 μGy for the age groups less than 1 year, 1 to 5 year, 5 to 10 year and 10 to 15 year, respectively. A statistical significant difference was seen between ESD values in different age groups (P<0.001), whereas no statistical difference was seen between ESD values in girls and boys (P =0.993). Conclusion Pediatric patients in hospital investigated (except age group less than 1 year) are subjected to unnecessary radiation exposure, especially due to use of non-optimize x-ray protocols.
Nov 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-20-3621
Stapff ManfredCorresponding author
LG Chem Life Sciences Innovation Center, Cambridge, MA, USA
Context In the face of further waves of the COVID-19 pandemic it becomes essential to find a balance between protective actions to guard public health and restrictive measures which can collapse our economy. Background As a basis for public health decisions, officials still rely on metrics which were helpful in the beginning of the pandemic but are now not precise enough for a focused and targeted approach to keep the spread of the infection under control. This can lead to public mistrust, “pandemic tiredness”, and can cause unnecessary damage to the economy without having the desired protective effect on public health. Methods This article discusses various metrics, their advantages and caveats, and it provides suggestions for use in a more targeted and risk-based approach, as an alternative to the current “general lock-down” practice. It suggests the notion of including a concept of “risk contacts per area” to better describe the possibility of virus transmission than currently published metrics do. The article also suggests specific analyses of real-world data for identification of populations at risk for severe courses of COVID-19 to allow more targeted protective actions. Discussion Data currently used to describe the COVID-19 pandemic lack important parameters like population density and local likelihood of potentially infectious contacts. The currently often used “all or nothing” approach of shut-down orders needs to be replaced by more sophisticated tactics considering individual local exposure risks and need to be balanced towards metrics on economic short term and long-term impact. In addition, smart analyses of real-world data may contribute to effective protection of individuals at risk.
Sep 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-1198.jge-20-3515
Volobuev A.N.Corresponding author
Samara State Medical University. Department of Medical Physics. Samara, Russia
The solution of a genetic-mathematical problem of interaction of the human population cells and virus population to a problem of pandemic COVID-19 is submitted. The mathematical model based on the Hardy - Weinberg law consisting of two interdependent differential equations is used. The equations reflect time dynamics of the human cells and virus populations during their interaction. Solutions of the differential equations are found and results of these solutions are analyzed. The estimation of duration pandemic is received at use of parameters of the human liver cells and a flu virus.
Aug 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2328-0182.japst-20-3447
Taleb JihenCorresponding author
Laboratory of Active Biomolecules Valorisation, Higher Institute of Applied Biology of Medenine, University of Gabes, 4119 Medenine, Tunisia.
The cactus Opuntia ficus indica (L.) Mill. (Cactaceae) is widely used in Tunisian medicine for the treatment of various illnesses. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the antioxidant activities of cactus cladode extract (CCE) and to assess the protective effects of Opuntia ficus indica against osteoporosis induced by cadmium chloride in male Wistar rats. Adult male rats were divided into 4 groups of 9 each: a control group, a group injected with cadmium (3.5mg/kg) for 10 weeks, a group orally given a O. ficus indica cladodes aqueous extract (CCE) (100 mg /kg/day) for 10 weeks then treated with cadmium, and a group receiving only (CCE) for 10 weeks. Bone toxicity was estimated by examining femoral length and weight, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and total tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (ACP) levels in serum. Also, bone levels of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin C and bone mineral density (BMD) of femur diaphysis were measured. Alterations of these bone biomarkers and decreased BMD confirmed cadmium-induced bone toxicity. However, when cadmium was administered in rats given CCE, all the biological parameters underwent much less alteration. Administration of CCE was found to be beneficial by attenuating cadmium-induced femur damage. The protective effect of the plant is mainly attributed to its phenolic compounds that orchestrate antioxidant properties, as highlighted by HPLC-based analysis.
Aug 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-2811.jmbr-20-3465
Mary Henrietta H.Corresponding author
Department of Mathematics, Saveetha Engineering College, Chennai, Tamilnadu -602105, India
This paper considers an EOQ inventory model with varying demand and holding costs. It suggests minimizing the total cost in a fuzzy related environment. The optimal policy for the nonlinear problem is determined by both Lagrangian and Kuhn-tucker methods and compared with varying price-dependent coefficient. All the input parameters related to inventory are fuzzified by using trapezoidal numbers. In the end, a numerical example discussed with sensitivity analysis is done to justify the solution procedure. This paper primarily focuses on the aspect of Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) for variable demand using Lagrangian, Kuhn-Tucker and fuzzy logic analysis. Comparative analysis of there methods are evaluated in this paper and the results showed the efficiency of fuzzy logic over the conventional methods. Here in this research trapezoidal fuzzy numbers are incorporated to study the price dependent coefficients with variable demand and unit purchase cost over variable demand. The results are very close to the crisp output. Sensitivity analysis also done to validate the model.
Jul 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-20-3460
Tamilvanan NivedharshiniCorresponding author
India
Laccase enzyme production is important and more beneficial for environment, because it has many roles like, involved in bioremediation, biodegradation, decolorization of environmental polluted dyes and pharmaceutical sector also. Production of laacse enzyme from bacillus sp as using of Agro waste (rice bran) as a substrate. The Agricultural soil sample was collected, after the sample were processed for the preliminary and biochemical tests to identification of Bacillus organism. The Guiacol inducer were used for microbial screening of laccase enzyme production. After that microbial screening, various optimization parameters (pH, Temperature, Inducers, carbon and nitrogen sources) are checked for that production of laccase enzyme in mass level. Based on that optimization the bulk fermentation (large scale) (solid state fermentation) were done as a rice bran substrate. The fermentation product was subjected to analyzed the physiochemical properties and purification based on that techniques of Gel filtration chromatography, Dialysis, Ammonium sulfate preciptation. The protein estimation of that product to analysed by lowry’s method.
Jul 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-2811.jmbr-20-3449
Stanley Raj A.Corresponding author
Department of Physics, Loyola College, Chennai, Tamilnadu- 600034, India.
Electrical resistivity method is often used to estimate the subsurface structure of the earth. Many inversion algorithms are available to estimate the subsurface features. However, predicting the exact parameter in the non-linear subsurface of the earth is difficult because of its complex composition. Soft computing tools can approximate the subsurface parameters more clearly. Each soft computing tool has certain advantages and disadvantages. A hybrid formation of algorithms will make the decision more appropriate than depending on a single tool. Here in our study the data obtained through Vertical Electrical Sounding has been used to determine the sub surface characteristics of earth viz., true resistivity and thickness. Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) requires certain optimizing procedures. Here in this paper, Genetic Algorithm (GA) is applied to optimize Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). This coupled approach is tested with the field data. Error percentage of algorithm nearly mimics the behavior of earth and is verified. The best performance result shows that this technique can be implemented to estimate the non-linear characteristics of the earth more noticeably.
Jul 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3448
Dani CarolineCorresponding author
Laboratório de Bioquímica, Centro Universitário Metodista – IPA, Porto Alegre/ RS, Brazil.
The aim of this study was to determine the influence of chronic supplementation with grape juice (400ml), in modulating the anthropometric and biochemical parameters. Thirty-nine seniors participated and were evaluated at baseline after 30 days. The chronic consumption of grape juice reduced weight, BMI and waist circumference. Indeed, the consumption modulated biochemical parameters, decreased the total cholesterol levels, Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, Urea and GGT. In addition, the intake of juice improved the performance in the TUG test, and caused more stability in the elderly. The levels of protein oxidation declined and the antioxidant potential significantly increased as well as SOD and the ratio SOD / CAT. In contrast, levels reduced sulfhydryl groups to consumption. In nuclear changes there are a decrease in the frequency of MN and picnosis. In conclusion, grape juice could be an excellent option to improve quality of life in elderly.
Jul 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2642-3146.jec-20-3428
Bhargava AksheyCorresponding author
Ex. Rajasthan Pollution Control Board, CEPT University, India
Urbanism and urbanization is a complex term in as much as that it is highly diversified in terms of culture, traditions, religion, social behavior and life, size and capacity, supporting infrastructure, governance, administration, planning approach, trade, so on and so forth. The present scenario is highly sophisticated and alarming in the context of growing and continuous expansion of the urbanization world over leading to associated problems and pose threats to social, environmental, and economic. An effort has been made by the authors of the present paper to conceptualize the parameters for environmental sustainability in urban development.
Jun 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-20-3388
H. M. Adam AbubakerCorresponding author
Department of Crop Science, College of Agriculture, University of Bahri, Khartoum North, Sudan
A field experiment was conducted during 2017/2018 to assess the effects of Argel (Solenostemmaargel, Del. Hayne) and Nitrogen fertilizer on the performance of two Sunflower Hybrid cultivars, with the objectives to exploit an easy, economic, and accessible organic fertilizer, the Argel in the phase of the continuous increasing prices of chemical fertilizers.. This experiment was laid out on spilt-split-plot experiment in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications. Observations were taken on some agronomic traits (Plant height (m), Leaf area (LA), leaf Number (NL), Leaf Area Index (LAI) and Mean Seed Weight). The results revealed that the application of Argel and Nitrogen fertilizer have significantly increased the leaf Area (F= 7.22, P < 0.001), Plant Height (F=2.68, P < 0.2001), Leaf Number (F= 3.90, P < 0.0024), Leaf Area Index (F= 3.83, P < 0.0026) and Mean Seed Weight of both Serena and Opera cultivars respectively compared to the control. However, the different treatments of Argel and Nitrogen reflected variable degree of increase for the studied parameters. The study concludes that Argel is very promising, therefore a further study with different levels of Argel including other plant parameters is recommended.
Jun 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-2811.jmbr-20-3402
Stanley Raj A.Corresponding author
Department of Physics, Loyola College, Chennai, Tamilnadu- 600034, India.
This research paper focuses on rainfall variations in Tamil Nadu, India using Wavelet, Linear regression and Artificial Neural Networks model from 2004 to 2017. As the rainfall is the key factor in understanding climate change, the seasonal datasets from 2004-2017 of Tamil Nadu state has been taken for study. The salient feature of this study is the application of Neural Networks and wavelet analysis. It reveals that the rainfall variations are ambiguous that it does not maintain a constant pattern. Wavelet coefficients of multiresolution spectrogram reveals that the intensity of rainfall in each year. Linear regression model divulge the pattern of rainfall followed in every season and the results show that except winter season all other season suffers deficient rainfall. The deficiency of rainfall may be due to different parameters like ElNino or LaNina pattern or global warming. Results showed that all seasons except winter does not maintain consistency in the rainfall variability. Winter season provides the positive slope values of 4.7 and 0.6 for January and February respectively. Moreover Artificial Neural Networks training provides prominent results of Regression value 0.98 which is comparably high with other seasons taken for study.
Jun 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-6694.jbbs-20-3340
Chibueze Izah SylvesterCorresponding author
Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Bayelsa Medical University, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.
This study evaluated the bacteriological quality of groundwater from Imiringi in Ogbia Local government area of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Groundwater samples were obtained in triplicates from four locations in the study area and analyzed for the bacteria quality using standard protocols. Results showed that the microbial density ranged from 2.97 – 6.03 x 104 cfu/ml (for total heterotrophic bacteria counts), 4.17 – 5.43 x 102 cfu/ml (for Enterobacteriaceae bacteria counts) and 0.00 – 1.48 x 102 cfu/ml (for Salmonella-Shigella counts). Statistically, there was no significant difference (p>0.05) across the various locations for each of the parameters. The density observed were higher than the allowable limit of 1.0 x 102 cfu/ml for drinking water as recommended by World Health Organization/Food and Agricultural Organization, and maximum permissible level of 10cfu/ml for total coliform as specified by Standard Organization of Nigeria. The prevalence of bacteria isolated in the water samples were Aeromonas species (8.00%), Citrobacter species (7.50%), Escherichiacoli (20.75%), Klebsiella species (5.50%), Pseudomonas species (12.00%), Salmonella species (2.25%), Shigella species (3.25%) and Staphylococcus species (40.75%). From the bacteria density and diversity, the water is not potable. Some of the bacterial found are of public health importance. Hence, there is a need to adequately treat the water using chlorination and boiling techniques before drinking.
Apr 2020
Stanley Raj A.Corresponding author
Department of Physics, Loyola College, Chennai, Tamilnadu- 600034, India.
Geoelectrical resistivity data is used for estimating the subsurface features of earth. It is very difficult to estimate the depth and true resistivity analytically, therefore many mathematical models approximates the result. The approximation relies on many parameters as the heterogenous model of earth is difficult to map. Conventional interpretation algorithm mostly uses the forward modelling technique which is limited for different lithologies. Here we presented ResinvANFIS v1.0 software platform to invert any type (A, Q, K, H or any mixed data types) of resistivity data having AB/2 and apparent resistivity data as input. This kind of generalised platform has not been done elsewhere to invert data directly using soft computing approach.
Apr 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-6694.jbbs-20-3282
A.J ThatheyusCorresponding author
PG & Research Department of Zoology, The American College, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Pesticides applied in agricultural fields for crop protection result in the contamination of the environment. They also affect the flora and fauna as well as the quality of air, water and soil. Hence their remediation is of concern. Among different strategies available, microbial remediation is cost effective and ecofriendly. The present work is designed to test the efficiency of Pseudomonas stutzeri, a bacterial strain obtained from MTCC, IMTECH, Chandigarh, India. After treating with 50, 100, 150 and 200 ppm of methyl parathion, parameters like, orthophosphate released, pH and turbidity changes were monitored upto thirty hours. Degradation of 200 ppm concentration was confirmed by UV-Visible spectrophotometry and HPLC analysis. This strain effectively degraded methyl parathion and it can be used in the remediation of contaminated agricultural fields.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2372-6601.jhor-20-3235
Sangaré-Bamba MahawaCorresponding author
Hematology Unit, Central Laboratory, Teaching Hospital of Yopougon, Côte d’Ivoire
Introduction Acute leukaemia are the clonal and malignant proliferation of immature hematopoietic cells (blast), blocked in their differentiation process. There is an interaction between cancer cells and the clotting process. This could be the expression of Tissue Factor (TF) on the surface of tumor cells; or a lesion of the vascular endothelium and platelet activation. The result is an activation of clotting that can lead to disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC). The objective of this study was to assess the risk of DIC occurring in patients with acute leukaemia. Methods This was a cross-sectional study for analytical purposes that took place on 40 frozen samples from the biobank of the haematology laboratory of Teaching Hospital Yopougon for which the diagnosis of acute leukaemia had been taken from myelogram. The myelogram results were accompanied by hemogram data. PTTa, QT, fibrinogen and D-Dimers were performed on these samples. The risk assessment of DIC occurred was determined on the recommendations of the International Society of Thrombosis and Hemostasis (ISTH). Results We noted a female predominance with a Sex Ratio (M / F) of 0.90. The average age of the patients was 38 years (± 23 years) with extremes ranging from 2 to 84 years. ALL represented 20 % of cases against 80 % for AMLs. Hemogram parameters were characterized by severe anaemia (Tx Hb < 6 g / dL) in 52.5 % of cases; hyperleukocytosis > 100.103 / mm3 in 35 % of cases; thrombocytopenia < 25.103 / mm3 in 40 % of case; and significant blood and spinal cord blastosis (> 80 %). The lengthening of the PTTa was observed in 50 % of cases, compared to 40% for the QT. Similarly, hyperfibrinemia was present in 65% of cases. D-Dimers were high in almost all subject (95 % of cases). According to the ISTH criteria, 17.5 % of subjects were at risk of developing a DIC. Conclusion The risk of occurrence of DIC is indeed present during acute leukaemia. The parameters of haemostasis are thus found to be crucial data in the follow-up assessment during the diagnosis of acute leukaemia.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-612X.ijpr-20-3213
Y Trivedi GunjanCorresponding author
Co-founder, Society for Energy & Emotions, Wellness Space, Ahmedabad, India
Introduction Scientific evidence has established the benefits of meditation and sound vibrations on emotional and physiological health. Aim of the Study The study explored changes in mood and Heart Rate Variability (HRV) after HSB Sound Bath Meditation on healthy individuals. The objectives of the study were to understand if a 40-minute-long seated HSB Sound Bath Meditation results in changes (a) in mood measured via Positive And Negative Affect Scale (PANAS) and Abbreviated Profile of Mood States (POMS) Survey and (b) in physiological parameters, as measured by HRV. Methods The psychological parameters were measured with PANAS (N=77) and Abbreviated POMS, (N=17). The physiology was measured with HRV parameters such as Heart Rate (HR), Stress Index (SI) and Root Mean Square of Standard Deviation (RMSSD) using the EmWave Pro device (N=15). HRV data analysis was conducted with Kubios HRV Premium and analyzed using a paired T-Test. Results All the subjects after meditation showed improvement in Positive Affect (PA) and a reduction in Negative Affect (NA). The HRV parameters showed a trend showing overall relaxation with a significant reduction in HR, SI and an increase in RMSSD. Consistent with changes in positive, negative mood and HRV, all the participants showed a reduction in tension, anger, fatigue, depression and confusion and improvement in esteem related affect and vigor. Conclusion The findings show that seated HSB Sound Bath Meditation session has a positive impact on mood-related measures and physiology. Future work in this area could explore comparison with a control group and a longer study duration comprising multiple sessions.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-6694.jbbs-20-3212
Alexandrovich Victorov AlexanderCorresponding author
State Research Center Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
The possibility of applying the kinetic theory of aging of biological species published earlier by the authors of this work to assess and predict changes in the number of specific populations is evaluated. The populations of the USA, China and Russia, as well as the population of mice observed in the experiment "mouse paradise" of the American scientist John Calhoun are considered. To this end, a historically consistent analysis of the main previously proposed multi-scenario mathematical models describing demographic data and predicting the dynamics of the population was performed. The results of these models show a decrease in the population growth rate, a tendency toward a limit with an increase in historical time, the achievement of such a limit in some developed countries with a relatively high level of social security, a subsequent decrease in the number and further uncertainty of the final population outlook in the distant future. In addition, these models made it possible to establish that the observed population growth in developed countries is unambiguously accompanied by its aging - a relative predominant increase in the number of elderly people compared to the number of the younger generation (people are aging, the population of countries is aging). In this work, the assumption was made and confirmed that the dynamics of the aging of the population of the countries of the World corresponds to the dynamics of aging of a person of one generation and is mathematically described by the differential equation of the kinetic theory of aging of living systems of the same type with close values of the parameters. The biophysical meaning of the parameters of the kinetic equation reflects G. Selye's concept of the determining role of stress in human life and populations. An analysis of the changes in the numbers of the considered populations of humans and mice at various stages of their development is qualitatively commented on from the standpoint of comparative tension according to G. Selye. To assess the degree of aging of a biological object of one population in kinetic theory, the probability of death during life is selected as an indicator of aging. In this work, the probability of reaching the maximum population size was chosen as an indicator of the aging of a biological object of various populations. The published literature predicts various options for changing the population after reaching a maximum - maintaining the reached maximum level and decreasing to a certain limit, less than the maximum achieved. In this paper, based on an analysis of its results and an analogy with the complete degeneration of mice in the “mouse paradise” experiment, a conclusion is drawn about a hypothetically possible third variant of the limiting decrease in the population - its complete degeneration.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-2140.jaa-20-3236
Sanikidze TamarCorresponding author
Tbilisi State Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
Objective Search of pathogenetic mechanisms and risk factors of atherosclerosis in the employees of the cleaning service in Tbilisi. Materials and Methods As a result of a preliminary survey and examination of 200 employes of Tbilisi cleaning service aged 25-45 years (2014-2016), 22 patients with angina, hypercholesterolemia, intimae-media thickness > 0.65 mm, were selected into I group, and 23 individuals without these disorders into II group. In the blood plasma of the selected patients the intensity of oxidative metabolism parameters, TAA and MDA were determined. The variance and correlation analysis (АNOVA) was used for conducting the comparative analysis of the levels of studied parameters. Results In the combined group (I+II) there are several reliable correlations between the Age -TCol, Age-MDA, BMI-Tg, BMI-MDA, LDLChol-HDLChol, LDLChol–TChol, HDLChol-TChol, LDLChol-MDA, LDLChol-TAA. no correlation between these parameters in individual groups (I and II) was found. That indicates that we have an imaginary correlation related to the large intergroup difference between the average values of the group indicators, that is the values of various indicators change during the development of the pathological process, but there is no causal relationship between these alterations. The reliable TAA-MDA correlation in the combined group (I+II) is related to the high anticorrelation between these parameters and the significantly higher average value of TAA in the low-risk group (II) in comparison to the high-risk group (I). Conclusion The results analysis indicates both the diagnostic value of redox status indicators and their leading role in the atherogenesis processes. In populations with a high risk of atherosclerosis, monitoring of serum TAA is recommended.
Feb 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-20-3201
Carolina Garcia de las Ballonas Campolina AnaCorresponding author
Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
Fibromyalgia (FM) is a condition of chronic and widespread pain, with several associated symptoms. Previous studies suggested that gluten could influence the severity and frequency of FM symptoms. This work aimed to assess the impact of a gluten-free diet (GFD) in the symptoms and severity of this disease. Fourteen patients with previous FM diagnosis were kept on a gluten-free diet for eight weeks (Phase 1). After that, they were held on the gluten-free diet and received capsules of isolated rice protein (placebo) for seven days, followed by capsules containing 8.4g/day vital gluten for additional seven days (Phase 2). Questionnaires evaluating the number and severity of FM symptoms, the impact of FM on daily routine as well as inflammatory blood markers were assessed in each phase. Results showed that after eight weeks of GFD, we observed a reduction in the impact of FM on daily routine and number of symptoms and sensitive points. However, a seven days challenge with 8.4g of gluten did not worsen these symptoms or the inflammatory markers compared with the placebo challenge. We concluded that the gluten-free diet was associated with the attenuation of main symptoms and improvement of life quality in FM patients. Nonetheless, gluten challenge had no impact on those parameters, suggesting that gluten is not the major dietary component responsible for these improvements. Further studies are needed to elucidate the relationship between gluten intake and fibromyalgia.
Feb 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2642-3146.jec-20-3179
A. A Berezin.Corresponding author
Independent researcher, Moscow, Russia
A model of a Quantum recurrence in the dynamics of an elementary physical vacuum cell within the framework of four coupled Shrodinger equations has been suggested. The model of an elementary vacuum cell shows that a Quantum recurrence which represents the dynamics of virtual transformations in the cell, qualitatively differs from that of Poincare and the Fermi-Pasta-Ulam. Whereas these recurrences develop in time or space, the Quantum recurrence develops in a sequence of Fourier images represented by non exponentially separating functions. The sequence experiences random energy additions but no exponential separation occurs. The Quantum recurrence can be defined as the most frequent array of Fourier images that appear in a certain quantum system during a period of its observation. Different scenarios of the Fourier images sequences interpreted as bosons (electron and positron) and fermions (photons) apearing in the solutions of the model demonstrate that during some periods of its observation they become indistinguishable. The quantum dynamics of every physical vacuum cell depends on the dynamics of many other vacuum cells interacting with it, thus the quasi periodicity (during the period of observation) of the Fourier images recurrence can have infinite periods of time and space and the amplitudes of the Fourier images can vary many orders in their magnitudes. Such recurrence times does not correspond even roughly to the Poincare recurrence time of an isolated macroscopic system. It reminds the behavior of spatially coupled standard mappings with different parameters. The amount of energy in the physical vacuum is infinite but extracting a part of it and converting, it into a time-space form requires a process of periodical transfer of the reversible microscopic system dynamics into that of a macroscopic system. This process can be realized through a resonant interaction between the classical and quantum recurrences developing in these two systems. However, a technical realization of this problem is problematic.
Jan 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-20-3177
Parwada CosmasCorresponding author
Department of Horticulture, Women’s University in Africa, Marondera, Zimbabwe
Performance of three newly released short-seasoned (Nsinjiro, Chitala and JL11) were evaluated against old (Nyanda, Illanda and Tern) groundnuts varieties under same agronomic practices. A field experiment laid in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates was done. Varieties were evaluated for days to 50% emergence, 50% flowering, days to physiological maturity, pod and seed yield, and shelling percentage. There were no significant difference in the days to 50% emergence among all varieties but significant difference (p ˂ 0.05) were observed on days to 50% flowering. JL11 and Tern took shortest (90 days) and longest (120 days) time to physiological maturity respectively. Chitala had highest (3.804t/ha) and Tern had lowest (3.020t/ha) seed yield. Jl11 had highest (83%) and Nyanda least (68%) shelling percentage. Results showed that the new varieties out-performed the old varieties in all measured parameters. Therefore, resource constrained farmers may safely opt for the new short-seasoned varieties over the old ones.
Jan 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-3139
Q. Almulaiky YaaserCorresponding author
Chemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences and Arts, University of Jeddah, Khulais, P.O. Box 355, Khulais, 21921, Saudi Arabia
In this study, a peroxidase from new source was purified using ion exchange and gel filtration techniques. The recovery for peroxidase activity was 19% with 11-fold purification and specific activity of 749 unit/mg protein. Purified peroxidase demonstrated a molecular mass of 39 kDa using gel filtration and was confirmed as a single band on SDS-PAGE. The purified peroxidase revealed a broad optimum pH activity at 6.0-6.5 and 50°C temperature. The kinetic parameters for purified peroxidase toward H2O2 and guaiacol as substrates were found to be Km = 3.355, 5.395 mM, Kcat = 99.52, 79.56 s-1 and Vmax =1.531, 1.242 µmole ml-1 min-1, respectively. The catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km) of the purified peroxidase was 14.75 and 29.66 s−1 mM−1 for guaiacol and H2O2, respectively. Peroxidase activity was observed to be enhanced by Cu2+, Co2+, Ni2+ and inhibited in the presence of Sn2+, Al3+, Hg2+, NaN3, EDTA and urea. Characterization showed that peroxidase purified from C. forskohlii has the ability to be used for food industrial applications.
Dec 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4488.jna-19-3112
Aydin ZekiCorresponding author
Darica Farabi Training and Research Hospital, Department of Nephrology, Kocaeli, Turkey
Introduction Increased oxidative stress and blunted anti-oxidant mechanisms are important problems in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) act directly on proteins, leading to the formation of oxidized amino acids. Advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) are among these substances. Many oxidant substances increase the level of AOPP. Iron is an element with strong oxidant capacity, especially when used intravenously. It is thought that iron treatment further increases the oxidative stress in HD patients. We aimed to investigate the relationship between AOPP and inflammatory status in HD patients. Materials and Methods Patients who were on maintenance HD program without additional co-morbidities and no history of use of intravenous iron within the last two weeks were recruited in the study. The blood samples taken just before the dialysis session were analyzed for AOPP, serum iron, total iron binding capacity (TIBC), ferritin, C-reactive protein (CRP), ß2-microglobulin, fibrinogen, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α levels besides routine biochemical measurements and complete blood count. Results The number of patients included in the study was 102 (n: 53 female, %52.0) and the mean age was 47.6±13.9 years. The mean transferrin saturation was 25.4%. AOPP levels, iron use in patients was higher compared to patients who do not use (respectively 2.58±0.19 mmol/l and 2.50 ±0.16mmol/l, p = 0.046). We did not detect statistically significant correlation of AOPP levels with iron parameters and other inflammatory markers. Conclusion The present study showed that intravenous iron therapy does not increase oxidative stress. Although serum AOPP level was higher in patients on intravenous iron treatment, it was not correlated with iron indices and inflammatory markers. So, intravenous iron may exert its oxidant effect free from serum iron indices.
Oct 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2577-2279.ijha-19-3053
A TiwariCorresponding author
MBBS II Year, School of Medical Science & Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida.
Introduction The human tibia is a complex anatomical unit and the knowledge of its morphometric values is important in Forensic, Anatomic and Radiological cases in order to identify unknown bodies and stature. Objective It was to analyze the tibia, its morphometry, side difference and to investigate the position of nutrient foramina in tibia. Methods In this study, 60 adult human tibias (30 right and 30 left) were obtained from the Department of Anatomy SMSR SHARDA UNIVERSITY. In the study a total of two parameters i.e. Cross Section Index in the middle and Cnemicus Index of the bones were obtained and evaluated by using two instruments- a Measuring Tape and a Vernier Calipers. All the bones were dry and showed normal anatomical features. Results The mean Cross Section Index in the middle was calculated as 80.42 ± 11.33 on the right side and 78.15± 12.78 on the left side; and the Cnemicus index was 78.40 ± 13.19 on the right side and 70.84 ± 11.38 on the left side Conclusion The two parameters in the North Indian population were compared with other populations. The values were found to be almost comparable however there were subtle differences between different populations. The position of nutrient foramen was also assessed. This knowledge will thus help further researchers and orthopedic surgeons in various procedures like joint replacement therapy, fracture repair, bone grafts and vascularized bone microsurgery as well as in medico‐legal cases.
Oct 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-450X.jom-19-2852
Radwan EHCorresponding author
Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Damanhour University, Egypt.
Obesity can be defined as a condition of abnormal or excess fat accumulation in adipose tissue, to the extent that health may be impaired. Fennel is one of the oldest spice plants which widely grows in arid and semi-arid and due to its economic importance and pharmaceutical industry usage. This plant has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect and is effective in gastrointestinal disorder treatment. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the phytochemical characteristics and therapeutic properties of this medicinal plant. The current study demonstrates that the alteration induced by high fat diet causing changes in blood parameters. These changes are exhibited through a decrease in RBCs, Ht, Hb and platelet and these changes could be due to oxidative stress, which lead to lipid peroxidation in RBCs membranes, auto oxidation of hemoglobin. As regards the total WBCs, lymphocytes and monocytes showed marked decrease. While a distinct increase in the percentage of neutrophils and eosinophil. The present, demonstrates that rats treated with (fennel), (ator) and (fennel with ator) exposure provided significant protection to the altered hematological variables. The effect of the treatment with fennel and ator more effect than fennel only and ator only. The finding of this study indicates that the concentration of Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Myeloperoxidase (MPO) in liver homogenates of the fennel and ator group significant decrease than group (3) and group (4) and the obese group. There is a growing awareness that obesity is a prime risk factor for the development of dyslipidemia profile and that oxidative stress may play a role in various adverse effects of obesity.
Oct 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-19-2961
backer H. Mohammed AbuCorresponding author
Department of Crop Science, College of Agriculture, University of Bahri.
The main objective of this study was to quantify the influence of sowing date on growth and yield components of hybrid sunflower (Hysun33) cultivar in semi-arid zone. This experiment was conducted during the seasons 2014/2015-2015/2016 at the farm of the College of Agricultural Studies, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Shambat, Khartoum- Sudan. The experiment was arranged in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications and three treatments. Different parameters were considered including plant height, leaf area index (LAI), filled sees number/head, head diameter, dry weight and yield components. The collected data were statistically analyzed. The results revealed that crop sown in May and July showed significant increase in plant height, LAI, head diameter, dry weight, field seed number/head, weight of 100 seeds; yield; and yield components; compared to crop sown in March. However, crop sown in the second season showed an increase in growth and yield components compared to the crop of the first season.
Oct 2019
Radwan EHCorresponding author
Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Damanhour University, Egypt.
Pesticides are the major source of concern as water pollutants. Persistent organochlorines can accumulate in food chains. Chlorpyrifos (O,O -diethyl O -(3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinyl) phosphorothioate; CAS No. 2921-88-2; CPY). CPY is a widely used organophosphorus insecticide that is available in a granular formulation for treatment in soil. Pesticides are used to control a wide range of pests including Mosquitoes. Mosquito borne diseases infect millions of people every year globally. The aim of current study was to screen the fresh water pollutants, water quality parameter in irrigation water from El Mahmodia stream, El-Beheira Governorate, Egypt and to determine the adverse effects of Chlorpyrifos on the larvae of Culex mosquito larvae as bio-indicator. The LC95 of Chloropyrifos insecticide was 6331.30 at 24h and increased to 230506.4 after 48h of exposure to the Chloropyrifos insecticide. It is noted that the effect of the exposure time of Chloropyrifos insecticide on the LC50, LC25 and LC95 values had a synergistic interaction with time, as it increased after 48h of exposure when compared to 24 h of exposure. The 0.09 ppm concentration of Chloropyrifos had no effect on the second instar Culex larvae, as there is no mortality over time; the same result is also with the control 0 ppm. There is no effect after 72, 96h of exposure of the population to the detected insecticide. This study concerns with studying the pollutants along El Mahmodia stream in El Beheira governorate in Abo Homs city with its abundance during the four seasons (2016-2017), as well as studding the physicochemical parameters in it. Another concern of this study is estimating the effect of one of this pesticides (Chloropyrifos) insecticide on the second instar Culex mosquito larvae, determining the lethal concentration of this insecticide on the Culex larvae. Along the study area, pesticides are used within a high ratio on the agriculture scale with its four main categories organophosphates, organochlorine, pyrthoid and carbamates. Organophosphates and organochlorine are used at a wide range. Pollutants measuring achieved by using GC-MS as water samples collected seasonally and analyzed, there is a big number of Pollutants which was found as well as other compounds which are banned, such as DDT. The physicochemical parameters Turbidity, COD, BOD in El Mahmodia stream exceeded the desirable limits of (Egyptian Law 48/1982), (WHO, 1993) and (FAO, 1985) although the other parameters as EC, PH, DO,TDS TSS are to be within the permeable limits. HCO3, NH4. Cu also was found to exceed the desirable limits while, Pb, Mn, Fe and Cd within the permeable limits. Chloropyrfos as an organophosphate pesticide used in the present study which was found with 0.09 mg/l in the stream water, used to estimate its effect on the Culex mortality, determining LC25, LC50 and LC95. The experiment continued for 96 h but after 48 h there is no effect of Chloropyrfos on Culex larvae. The experiment began with 20 second instar Culex larvae immersed in 100 ppm, 10 ppm, 1 ppm, 0.1 ppm and finally 0.09 ppm of Chloropyrfos insecticide with five repeats to each concentration, it is noted that the lethal concentration increase after 48h of experiment, the larval mortality decrease with time.
Oct 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-9273.jbtm-19-3027
Y Trivedi GunjanCorresponding author
Research Scholar, JJT University, Rajasthan, India and Co-founder, Society for Energy & Emotions, Wellness Space, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India,
Introduction Sound vibrations have a profound impact on the body and the mind with evidence confirming reduced anxiety and increased wellbeing. The likely reason for driving the benefit is relaxation. The Himalayan Singing Bowls, used for therapeutic intervention to enhance the individual’s emotional & physical wellbeing, may facilitate faster and deeper relaxation as compared to simple, supine relaxation. Aim of the Study The study aimed to validate the hypothesis that short 20 minutes sessions to relax with the help of the Himalayan Singing Bowl (HSB) could provide better depth of relaxation as compared to Supine Silence (SS) based on the objective assessment of physiology parameters i.e. Stress Index & Heart Rate Variability (HRV). Methods Seven metal Himalayan singing bowls were used in a particular sequence learned from an expert teacher for 16 subjects. The SS group consisted of 17 subjects. The HRV data was measured by the Emwave Pro device and analyzed using Kubios HRV Premium software. The analysis compared key HRV parameters within and between the groups. Result Overall, as expected, both groups achieved relaxation as measured by changes in HRV parameters. However, further analysis confirmed a more consistent relaxation, as measured by a statistically significant reduction in stress index and an increase in HRV, for HSB group. The HSB group achieved more consistent depth of relaxation during each subsequent 5 minutes interval throughout the session as compared to SS group. Conclusion The study confirms that singing bowls sessions can be leveraged as a tool for inducing good quality relaxation response (increased parasympathetic tone, reduced stress) to facilitate healing and energy recovery in just 20 minutes and achieve significant health benefits. More comprehensive studies must be conducted to further evaluate the findings with more sample size, different methods of relaxation and varied demographics.
Oct 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-5518.jcci-19-3039
Sanikidze TamarCorresponding author
Tbilisi State Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
Chronic total occlusion (CTO) of the left main coronary artery (LMCA) is rare on the angiograms; Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting is the standard method of its revascularization. To demonstrate that PCI may in some cases be a safe option for patients with a high-risk surgical category, we report a complex clinical case of revascularization of chronic total occlusion of the LMCA, left anterior descending artery (LAD), and circumflex artery (CX). Methods Recanalization of the occluded LMCA and LAD was performed by utilizing the support-balloon technique, and CTO wires (Miracle 3™ wire, Abbott Vascular; Runthrough® NS Intermediate wire, Terumo); LAD, CX, LMCA, and its bifurcation, were stented with 3 drug-eluting stents (Resolute Integrity DES, Medtronic); the "Culotte Stenting " technique was used for bifurcation stenting, followed by "Kissing Balloon" post-dilatation technique; proximal optimization technique was performed in the LMCA. Results The intervention ended without complications. 2 months after stenting, the ejection fraction increased from 20% to 38%, improved almost all parameters of the heart, Congestive Heart Failure functional class decreased to class I. Conclusions It should be considered that LMCA CTO lesions can be successfully revascularized with PCI in case of the selection of the suitable patient and appropriate revascularization technique.
Sep 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4518.jsdr-19-2950
I Williams TimCorresponding author
Institute of Education, University of Reading and Priors Court Foundation
Background Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) often have difficulties settling to sleep and maintaining asleep through the night. Sleep difficulties are linked to challenging behaviour so understanding the causes of these difficulties is vital. Possible explanations are: (1) that irregular innate cycles lead to difficulties maintaining/initiating sleep at the appropriate times; (2) that children with ASD fail to learn from the contingencies that teach neurotypical children to initiate and maintain sleep. If the cycles are innate then small externally imposed changes in routine will not affect the sleep cycle. Methods The sleep records of 46 children with autism and moderate to profound intellectual impairments attending a residential school were examined to identify the effects of spring time change and weekend leave on 1) the times children went to sleep, 2) the length of their sleep and 3) the number of sleep disruptions. Manual staff recordings of the children’s sleep were conducted and data for these variables were analysed using repeated measures analysis of variance. Results A later sleep time was found in children regarding their sleep onset on Sunday after the time change (average onset was 9:57 p.m. ((s.e. = 8.49 minutes) versus 10:17 p.m. (s.e. = 8.19 minutes), with analysis of variance of sleep onset time showing a significant effect (F (3,41) = 5.02, p = 0.005). However, only two out of three comparison groups showed statistically significant effects (March 23rd versus March 30th mean difference = 0.39, p = 0.003; March 30th April 13th mean difference = 0.36, p = 0.03). No statistical difference was found between March 30th versus April 6th or other sleep parameters in any groups (i.e., sleep duration or night time awakenings). Similarly, no change in any sleep parameters (i.e., sleep onset or awakenings) were found when Sundays sleep parameters were compared to Mondays and/or Tuesdays. Conclusions In this small pilot study, small changes of day/night cycles appear to have few effects on the sleep patterns of children with ASD attending a residential school. While no significant sleep pattern change was found in this population due to change of clock times or weekend visits, larger epidemiological studies addressing other unexamined variables to better delineate changes in ASD are needed.
Aug 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-19-2967
S.O AgeleCorresponding author
Department Crop, Soil & Pest Management, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria
A field experiment was carried out at the Teaching and Research Farms of The Federal University of Technology Akure to evaluate the responses of cassava varieties to time of planting in plantain-based intercropping system in the rainforest zone of Nigeria. The objectives were to identify the more compatible cassava variety for intercrop with plantain examine e the appropriate time to introduce cassava varieties into plantain/cassava intercrop and to identify the more compatible cassava variety for intercrop with plantain. The experiment involved the use of two varieties of cassava (TME 419 non branching and TMS 98/0581 moderately branched) planted at spacing of 1 x 1 m into the alleys of false horn plantain variety space at 3 x 2 m. The treatments were sole plantain, sole cassava varieties (TME 419 poorly branched variety and TMS 0581 branching variety), plantain + he respective cassava varieties (TME 419 and TMS 98/0581) at the same time, and plantain + the respective cassava varieties (TME 419 and TMS 98/0581) at 4 weeks after planting>the treatment plot size was 9 m x 6 m. The plantains and the two cassava varieties were planted sole as the control treatments. The introduction of cassava into plantain as intercrop was carried out at different times which were; at the same time with plantain, and at four (4) weeks after planting plantain. Data on growth parameters such as; plant height, pseudo-stem girth, number of leaves were taken for plantains, while plant height, stem girth, number of leaves, number of branches, height at branching were taken for cassava at 4, 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24 weeks after planting (WAP). Yield parameters such as; bunch weight, number of fingers, number of hands, length of fingers, girth of fingers, weight of hands, weight of fingers were taken for plantains while number of tubers, weight of tubers, girth of tubers, length of tubers, fresh root yield, shoot biomass, were taken for cassava at harvest. The data collected were subjected to statistical analysis. The results showed a higher growth and yield performance for TME419 (49.2 t/ha) and TMS98/0581 (45.7 t/ha) planted sole, and TME 419 (39.5 t/ha) intercropped at planting compared to TMS 98/0581 (24.4 t/ha) intercropped at planting, TME 419 (21.7 t/ha) and TMS 98/0581 (15.7 t/ha) intercropped at 4 week after planting (WAP), respectively. But there was no significant difference (P<0.05) recorded for the growth of plantain, whereas the yield of sole plantain was higher and differed significantly (P<0.05) from the yields of intercropped plantain. All the treatment combinations had land equivalent ratio (LER) and area time equivalent ratio (ATER) greater than 1. Plantain + TME 419 intercropped at the same time recording the highest LER and ATER (1.48 and 1.5) while plantain + TMS 98/0581 had the least 1.11 and 1.14 respectively. The cost benefit analysis for the treatment combinations showed that TME 419 planted sole had the highest return of ₦3.567 per ₦1 invested, TME 419 intercropped at the same time gave a return of ₦3.416 per ₦1 invested, which was greater than other intercropped treatments. Intercropping cassava with plantain at the same time, as well as the use of TME 419 variety gave the best performance in terms of growth, yield, land equivalent ratio, area time equivalent ratio and returns on investment. This combination are recommended for plantain-based intercropping system involving cassava in the study area.
Jul 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2640-6403.jtrr-19-2946
Jana SnehasisCorresponding author
Trivedi Science Research Laboratory Pvt. Ltd., Thane (W), India
Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome or failure is one of the major concerns against healthcare services in order to maintain the normal function. The present study aimed to explore the impact of the Biofield Energy Treated test formulation on the function of vital organs such as bones, heart, liver, lungs, and brain using standard activity parameters in specific cell-based assays. The test formulation and cells medium was divided into two parts, one untreated (UT) and other part received the Biofield Energy Treatment remotely by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Ariadne Esmene Afaganis, Canada and was labeled as the Biofield Treated (BT) test formulation/media. The test formulation was tested for cell viability, and the data suggested that the test formulation was found safe and non-toxic against all the cell lines. Cytoprotective activity among the experimental groups showed a significant improved activity by 94.4% at 1 µg/mL in untreated medium (UT-Med) + Biofield Treated Test Item (BT-TI) group in human cardiac fibroblasts cells (HCF) cells, while 84.4% at 10 µg/mL in BT-Med + BT-TI groups in human hepatoma cells (HepG2), and 124% increased cytoprotective action at 1 µg/mL in UT-Med + BT-TI group in adenocarcinomic human alveolar basal epithelial cells (A549) cells as compared with the untreated test group. ALP activity in MG-63 cells was significantly increased by 85.9% at 10 µg/mL in the UT-Med + BT-TI group, while in Ishikawa cells showed maximum increased ALP activity by 59.2% at 0.1 µg/mL in BT-Med + BT-TI groups as compared to the untreated group. The percent protection of HCF (heart) cells (decreased of LDH activity) was significantly increased by 53% and 40.5% at 1 and 10 µg/mL concentrations respectively, in UT-Med + BT-TI group, while BT-Med + UT-TI group showed increased protection by 68.5%, 70.7%, and 16.8% at 0.1, 1, and 10 µg/mL respectively, and 86.5%, 62.5%, and 34.2% improved cellular protection at 0.1, 1, and 10 µg/mL respectively, in BT-Med + BT-TI group as compared to the untreated test group. The percent protection of HepG2 (liver) cells (decreased of ALT activity) was reported by 33.5%, 63.2%, and 99.2% at 10 µg/mL in the UT-Med + BT-TI, BT-Med + UT-TI, and BT-Med + BT-TI groups, respectively compared to the untreated group. Cellular protection of A549 (lungs) cells (increased of SOD activity) in terms of percentage was increased by increased by 39.8% (at 10 µg/mL), 44% (at 25.5 µg/mL), and 59.7% (at 25.5 µg/mL) in the UT-Med + BT-TI, BT-Med + UT-TI, and BT-Med + BT-TI groups, respectively compared to untreated group. Serotonin level was significantly increased by 59.2% (at 0.1 µg/mL), 190.3% (at 0.1 µg/mL), and 201% (at 1 µg/mL) in the UT-Med + BT-TI, BT-Med + UT-TI, and BT-Med + BT-TI groups, respectively compared to untreated in human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y). However, the relative quantification (RQ) of vitamin D receptor (VDR) was significantly increased by 159.1% (at 50 µg/mL), 212.7% (at 1 µg/mL), and 278.3% (at 10 µg/mL) in the UT-Med + BT-TI, BT-Med + UT-TI, and BT-Med + BT-TI groups, respectively as compared to the untreated in MG-63 cells. Thus, the present data concluded that the overall multiple organ health using various standard biomarkers in specific cell lines were significantly improved with respect to health of bones, heart, liver, lungs, and brain after treatment with the Biofield Energy treated test formulation (The Trivedi Effect®). Thus, it can be used as a complementary and alternative therapy approach against many multiple organ disorders such as coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathy, cirrhosis, liver cancer, hemochromatosis, asthma, chronic bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, osteoporosis, etc.
Jun 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-19-2765
Heidari AlirezaCorresponding author
Faculty of Chemistry, California South University, 14731 Comet St. Irvine, CA 92604, USA
Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is a potent neurotoxin. Its name derives from Tetraodontiformes, an order that includes pufferfish, porcupinefish, ocean sunfish, and triggerfish; several of these species carry the toxin. Although tetrodotoxin was discovered in these fish and found in several other aquatic animals (e.g., in blue–ringed octopuses, rough–skinned newts, and moon snails), it is actually produced by certain infecting or symbiotic bacteria like Pseudoalteromonas, Pseudomonas, and Vibrio as well as other species found in animals. Parameters such as FT–IR and Raman vibrational wavelengths and intensities for single crystal Tetrodotoxin (TTX)are calculated using density functional theory and were compared with empirical results. The investigation about vibrational spectrum of cycle dimers in crystal with carboxyl groups from each molecule of acid was shown that it leads to create Hydrogen bounds for adjacent molecules. The current study aimed to investigate the possibility of simulating the empirical values. Analysis of vibrational spectrum of Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is performed based on theoretical simulation and FT–IR empirical spectrum and Raman empirical spectrum using density functional theory in levels of F/6–31G*, HF/6–31++G**, MP2/6–31G, MP2/6–31++G**, BLYP/6–31G, BLYP/6–31++G**, B3LYP/6–31G and B3LYP6–31–HEG**. Vibration modes of methylene, carboxyl acid and phenyl cycle are separately investigated. The obtained values confirm high accuracy and validity of results obtained from calculations. Molecular structure of Tetrodotoxin (TTX) 1–42.
Apr 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-2579
Ghayour-Mobarhan MajidCorresponding author
Metabolic Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
Objective Postmenopausal women are at an increased risk of Cardiovascular Disease. We aimed to investigate whether this risk differed between individuals with a naturally occurring and other reasons for menopause within a large population-based Iranian sample. Study Design A total number of 1763 postmenopausal women (defined by amenorrhea for more than a year, or FSH > 30-40 mIU/ml), 900 of them with a natural menopause and 863 of them with other reasons for menopause caused by (hysterectomy without oophorectomy or one side oophorectomy, hysterectomy with oophorectomy or two side oophorectomy without hysterectomy) were recruited as part of the Mashhad Stroke and Heart Atherosclerotic Disorders (MASHAD) cohort study. Biochemical and hematological risk factors were measured in all the subjects and the data were analyzed by SPSS software version 20 Results There was a significant difference in the presence of cardiovascular disease in the natural menopause group compared with other reasons for menopause group (p<0.05). There was also a meaningful difference between the prevalence of depression and anxiety in the natural menopause individuals compared with other reasons for menopause group (p<0.05). Discussion High prevalence of CVD, depression and anxiety in other reasons in menopause women were observed among Mashhad urban females. It should be considered as a noticeable message. Furthermore, studies are necessary to determine different parameters between evaluating CVD, depression and anxiety among menopauses women.
Apr 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-2645
José Gonçalves Bós ÂngeloCorresponding author
Professor of School of Medicine at Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul. Porto Alegre, Brazil
Introduction Brazil has undergone considerable changes in age distribution, particularly in nonagenarians. Allied to this reality, there is a series of nutritional disorders in this population segment. An important factor related to quality of life and healthy aging is good nutrition throughout life. Objective To observe the possible relationship between nutritional status and body composition in nonagenarians. Methodology This is a descriptive, cross-sectional and analytical study, with participants aged 90 years or older, evaluated using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), anthropometric parameters, and Bioimpedance. Results The sample consisted of 72 nonagenarians, averaging in age 93.7 years, most female (72%), white (82%) and widowed (64%), 19.4% were in nutritional risk, based on the MNA criteria. All anthropometric parameters presented lower averages among nonagenarians in nutritional risk. Regarding the bioimpedance parameters, in general the risk-free nonagenarians presented higher averages of weight, maximum ideal weight, minimum ideal weight, BMI, lean-mass, fat-mass, percentage of fat-mass and minimum percentage of fat-mass. Conclusions Most nonagenarians were in good nutritional status. Both anthropometric and bioimpedance parameters were effective to discriminate between normal and at nutritional risk nonagenarians. We also concluded that nutritional risk assessment in nonagenarians patients requires a joint analysis of the several existing methods for the nutritional evaluation, in order to obtain global diagnosis and accurate analysis of the nutritional status of the nonagenarians.
Apr 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2689-2855.jan-19-2716
Rasool GhulamCorresponding author
School of Mathematical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, PR-China
Advances in nanotechnology especially in nanofluids comprising of a typical base fluid saturated with nano-size metallic particles with enhanced thermophysical properties is one of the hot topics in industrial as well as engineering applications of applied mathematics. This article explores the impact of Lorentz forces and Maragoni effect on second grade nanofluid forced convective flow. A two phase model is chosen to validate the nanofluid. Series solutions are achieved through HAM after transformation of PDEs into ODEs. The Brownian motion effect, Thermophoresis and the Marangoni effect are the main influencing factors for present flow model. In addition, the influence of pertinent fluid parameters such as Schmidt number, Magnetic number and Prandtl number on the velocity, temperature and concentration profiles is discussed with the help of graphs. With an enhanced Marangoni factor the hydraulic boundary layer thickness shows enhancement.
Mar 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4526.jddd-19-2683
Yeşim GÖÇMEN AyşeCorresponding author
Ramadan fasting might be beneficial for digestive health, if appetite control and balanced diet is achieved. In this study we aimed to evaluate the effect of Ramadan fasting on thyroid glands and some biochemical parameters in Turkish people living in Yozgat region. A total of 40 healthy subjects (20 men and 20 women) aged between 21-50 years were randomly recruited. Thyroid nodule volumes, thyroid hormones, body weights, glucose, total Cholesterol (TC), and oxidant stress index (OSI) were measured before Ramadan and at the end of Ramadan. There were beneficial changes in blood parameters and thyroid volumes, after one month of fasting during Ramadan compared with baseline. The Ramadan fasting might affect the radiological and biochemical parameters in healthy Turkish subjects. To improve the favorable digestive health in Ramadan fasting, diet and lifestyle modifications such as, increased intake of healthy foods and physical exercises might be recommended.
Mar 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-19-2691
Masoero GiorgioCorresponding author
Accademia di Agricoltura di Torino, Italy
In precision agriculture (PA) fertilizing, based on soil testing, production maps and crop nitrogen (N) demand, is the key to maximizing yields and tempering fertilizer costs. A trend study has considered the output / input relationships performed on a farm that has progressively adapted to PA procedures over two decades. The evolutions of the variability parameters of yield, comprising the repeatability coefficient of repeated plots, the vegetative vigour (NDRE) at the panicle initiation (pi) stage, and the nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUE) were monitored and compared by means of mixed linear models over a six-year period, after the variable nitrogen (N) fertilization rate (VNFR) had been enlarged to the whole 230 ha of one farm. At pi key fertilization stage, a corrective dose was applied by tacking the correlation between Npi and the measured NDRE in strong negative mode. The evolution of the yield, for the 2012-2017 interval, based on 1165 ha-1 parcel-data, showed a significant yearly increase of 2.3% more than the regional trend (+0.5%). The variability parameters of the yield, that is, the standard deviation (+7.3%), range (+7.1%), coefficient of variation (+5.4%) and maximum (+2.1%) were enhanced over the years, but the minimum remained stable. The repeatability of the parcel yield generally appeared low (r = +0.31), but it tended to increase by 8.3% year-1 (P = 0.018). At the same time, the vegetational vigour also showed significant increases of the NDRE means (+3.0%) as well as of the maximum (+0.8%), but also large oscillations in the standard deviation and in the coefficient of variation. No significant regression of the NDRE on the coefficient of variation of the yield was established. The favorable increase in yield was found to be independent of the distributed N-total. A strong negative correlation (imposed) between N-pi and NDRE (-0.90) and a negative correlation with production were observed for a sample field (but in the area of maximum production). It is recommended that a partial correlation between Yield and N-tot should be considered in the I /O features for a parity of NDRE, which apparently decreases the negativity of the relationship. In short: with the same total input of N, the PA increased the yield, but also its variability – and it did not reduce the variability as predicted by the theory - by strengthening the repeatability. This is an evidence that in many of the parcels with minimum yield the limiting factors cannot be referred to the N availability.
Feb 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2329-9487.jhc-19-2582
Jana SnehasisCorresponding author
Trivedi Science Research Laboratory Pvt. Ltd., Thane (W), India
Introduction Heart disorders are the major concern of population health worldwide. According to WHO estimates 2018, 17.9 million peoples were died due to cardiovascular disorders. Aim The aim of this study was to investigate the cardioprotective activity of Biofield Energy Treated test item, Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM) using rat cardiomyocytes (H9c2). Methods The test item (DMEM) was divided into three parts, first part received one-time Biofield Energy Treatment by a renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mahendra Kumar Trivedi and was labeled as the one-time Biofield Energy Treated (BT-I) DMEM, while second part received the two-times Biofield Energy Treatment and is denoted as BT-II DMEM. The third part did not receive any treatment and defined as the untreated DMEM group. Results Cell viability of the test samples by 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assay showed 89.03% and 98.49% in the BT-I and BT-II groups, respectively suggested a nontoxic and safe in nature of the tested test item. The BT-I group showed 16.01% restoration of cell viability. The level of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was significantly inhibited by 50.37% and 49.35% in the BT-I and BT-II groups, respectively compared to the untreated DMEM group. Moreover, percent protection of creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB) by 49.48% and 59.79% in the BT-I and BT-II groups, respectively, compared to the untreated DMEM group. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in terms of mean fluorescence unit (FU) was reduced by 6.64% in the BT-I group than untreated DMEM. Besides, BT-I and BT-II groups significantly increased the level of % apoptotic cells by 63.16% and 97.37% (p≤0.05), respectively than untreated DMEM. Conclusion Allover, results envisaged that Biofield Treatment significantly improved different cardiac parameters. Thus, Biofield Energy Treatment (The Trivedi Effect®) could be utilized as a cardio-protectant against several cardiac disorders such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, arrhythmias, heart failure, congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathy, etc.
Feb 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2689-2855.jan-19-2598
Rasool GhulamCorresponding author
School of Mathematical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, PR-China
This study aims to numerically investigate the Marangoni convective flow of nanoliquid initiated by surface tension and heading towards a radiative Riga surface. The surface tension appears in the problem due to the gradients of temperature and concentration at the interface. The influence of first order chemical reaction is involved in the system with sufficient boundary conditions. Set of governing nonlinear PDEs is transformed into highly nonlinear ODEs using suitable transformations. HAM is applied for convergent series solutions. Impact of various pertinent fluid parameters on momentum, thermal and solutal boundary layers is analyzed graphically. The chemical reaction plays vital role in saturation of nanoparticles in the base fluid near the surface as well as away from it. The Lorentz forces originated by the Riga surface become powerful when the radiation parameter comes into effect. The significance of Riga plate is thus more prominent through thermal radiation. However, the magnetic effect dampens down for higher radiation parameter. Fluid parameters, Nusslt and Sherwood numbers are analyzed with detailed discussion and concluding remarks.
Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-2175.jdrt-18-2520
Jana SnehasisCorresponding author
Trivedi Science Research Laboratory Pvt. Ltd., Thane (W), India
Hair is playing an interesting part in human for social and sexual communication. Loss of hair follicle leads to various skin disorders. For this consequence, the present study has investigated the potential of the Biofield Energy Healing (The Trivedi Effect®) Treated test item (William’s Medium E) on the vibrissae hair follicle organ culture cells for the assessment of hair cell growth and development in vitro. The test item was divided into two parts. One part was defined as the untreated test item, where no Biofield Energy Treatment provided, while the other part was defined as the Biofield Energy Treated test item, which received the Biofield Energy Healing Treatment by renowned Biofield Energy Healer, Mahendra Kumar Trivedi. The study parameters like bulb thickness and formation of telogen were assessed using cell-based assay with the help of UTHSCSA Image tool version 3. The experimental results showed that the untreated test item group showed 20.9% and 28.2% increased bulb thickness on day 5 and 7, respectively compared to the day 1, while did not produce telogen follicles upto day 7. Besides, the percentage of telogen follicle was found as 43%, 57%, and 71% on day 3, 5, and 7, respectively of the Biofield Energy Treated test item group compared to the day 1. The overall results demonstrated that the Biofield Energy Treatment has the potential for hair growth promotion as evident via increased the formation of telogen. Therefore, the Biofield Energy Healing (The Trivedi Effect®) Treatment might be useful as a hair growth promoter for various treatment of skin injuries and skin-related disorders like necrotizing fasciitis, actinic keratosis, sebaceous cysts, diaper rash, decubitus ulcer etc.
Dec 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-18-2501
Mainardi PaoloCorresponding author
Kolfarma Srl, Viale B.Bisagno 14, 16167 Genova, Italy
In the last few years, gut microbiota has been identified to be an essential mediator in health and disease. In fact, it interacts with various organs and systems in the body, including brain, lung, liver, bone, cardiovascular system, and others. Microbiota-derived metabolites such as the short chain fatty acid (SCFA) butyrate are primary signals, which link the gut microbiota and physiology. Then, the findings on the roles of microbiota profoundly change not only the key concepts of biology and medicine, but also of nutrition. In fact, it is currently evident how the main task of nutrition is not to nourish us, but to maintain a comfortable environment for the intestinal microbiota. In this way, it works in symbiosis with us, correctly controlling the functioning of the organs, the physiological parameters and the cellular regenerative processes. It is also evident that the strength of reparative processes correlates with the ability of digestive system to process complex foods, which increases during weaning, a period of time in which the diversity of bacterial strains increases. Therefore, a task of food is to keep trained the digestive system, to which it corresponds an high microbiota diversity. Elderly leads to reduced microbiota diversity to which corresponds an intestinal frailty, responsible for the frailty of the elderly. In conclusion, a correct diet may not only keep us in good health but may also guarantee us longer longevity.