Antibacterial and antifungal activity of methanolic extracts of Salix alba L. against various disease causing pathogens / Atividade antibacteriana e antifúngica de extratos metanólicos de Salix alba L. contra vários patógenos que causam doenças

Abstract The present study was aimed to manifest the antibacterial and antifungal activity of methanolic extracts of Salix alba L. against seven Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial pathogens e.g. Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus (1), S. aureus (2), Shigella sonnei, Escherichia coli (1), E. coli (2) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae and three fungal isolates from the air such as Aspergillus terreus, A. ornatus, and Rhizopus stolonifer. Two different serotypes of S. aureus and E. coli were used. The agar well-diffusion method results showed the dose-dependent response of plant extracts against bacterial and fungal strains while some organisms were found resistant e.g. E. coli (1), S. sonnei, A. terreus and R. stolonifer. The highest antibacterial activity was recorded at 17.000±1.732 mm from 100 mg/mL of leaves methanolic extracts against S. pyogenes while the activity of most of the pathogens decreased after 24 h of incubation. The highest antifungal activity was reported at 11.833±1.0 mm against A. ornatus at 50 mg/mL after 48 h of the incubation period. These experimental findings endorse the use of S. alba in ethnopharmacological formulations and suggest the use of methanolic extracts of the said plant to develop drugs to control the proliferation of resistant disease causing pathogenic microbes.

Resumo O presente estudo teve como objetivo manifestar a atividade antibacteriana e antifúngica de extratos metanólicos de Salix alba L. contra sete patógenos bacterianos Gram-positivos e Gram-negativos. Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus (1), S. aureus (2), Shigella sonnei, Escherichia coli (1), E. coli (2) e Neisseria gonorrhoeae e três isolados de fungos do ar, como Aspergillus terreus, A. ornatus, e Rhizopus stolonifer. Dois sorotipos diferentes de S. aureus e E. coli foram usados. Os resultados do método de difusão em ágar mostraram a resposta dependente da dose de extratos de plantas contra cepas de bactérias e fungos, enquanto alguns organismos foram considerados resistentes, e.g. E. coli (1), S. sonnei, A. terreus e R. stolonifer. A maior atividade antibacteriana foi registrada em 17.000 ± 1.732 de 100 mg/mL de extratos metanólicos de folhas contra S. pyogenes, enquanto a atividade da maioria dos patógenos diminuiu após 24 h de incubação. A maior atividade antifúngica foi relatada em 11,833 ± 1,0 contra A. ornatus a 50 mg/mL após 48 h do período de incubação. Esses achados experimentais endossam o uso de S. alba em formulações etnofarmacológicas e sugerem o uso de extratos metanólicos da referida planta para o desenvolvimento de fármacos que controlem a proliferação de doenças resistentes que causam micróbios patogênicos.

Ameliorative effect of hesperidin against high dose sildenafil‑induced liver and testicular oxidative stress and altered gene expression in male rats / 한국실험동물학회지

Background@#The clinical use of sildenafil citrate (Viagra), a drug used to treat erectile dysfunction, is limited because of its many side effects on tissues. In this context, we aimed to investigate the protective effects of hesperidin, a citrus flavonoid, on hepatic and testicular damage induced by a high dose of sildenafil citrate in male rats. Rats were randomly divided into four groups. The first group was used as the control group. The second group was orally administered sildenafil citrate at a high dose of 75 mg/kg thrice a week. In the third group, hesperidin was administered orally at a dose of 50 mg/kg/day. The fourth group was administered 75 mg/kg sildenafil citrate three times a week with 50 mg/kg hesperidin daily. The experiment lasted for 28 days. @*Results@#In the sildenafil-treated groups, blood indices were altered, liver function tests were deranged, and serum testosterone levels were reduced. In the liver and testicular tissue, sildenafil citrate treatment resulted in significant reductions in catalase and total antioxidant capacity; as well as increased malondialdehyde, reactive oxygen species, and nitrous oxide levels. In addition, sildenafil citrate treatment caused abnormal histopathological patterns in both the liver and the testes. Liver vascular endothelial growth factor and testicular steroidogenic acute regulatory protein gene expression were upregulated. @*Conclusions@#Hesperidin attenuated the harmful effects of intensive sildenafil citrate treatment on liver and testicular functions, alleviated oxidative stress and normalized blood indices. Therefore, hesperidin could be protective against sildenafil citrate-induced oxidative damage that may develop over the long term.

Prevalence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the largest populated city Karachi, Pakistan / Prevalência de leishmaniose cutânea na maior cidade populosa de Karachi, Paquistão

The study was undertaken from September 2018 to April 2019 to determine the prevalence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in human beings living in six districts of Karachi. Suspected persons were screened for the disease and positive cases were identified on the basis of skin lesions and blood samples. Samples were observed by mounting their smear. A total of 207 subjects of different ages and sex groups were investigated, however, only 192 (92%) of the suspected cases were found to have the disease 64% of cases were male which were significantly high (p<0.05), than female 36%. The lesion was more frequently detected among the youth ages of 21-30 years (31%) as compared to other groups. In both sexes, legs were found to be more infected (25% male + 20% female) followed by arms (20% male + 0% female) and face (15% male +11% female). The mixed body parts had shown the lowest infections such as (4% in males + 5%) in females. In conclusion, the highest and lowest leishmaniasis infections were observed in District West (23% male + 9% female) followed by District East (15% male + 7% female), District Malir (11% male+ 4% female), District Central (7% male + 5% female), District Korangi (4% male + 7% female) and District South (4% male + 4% female) respectively.

O estudo foi realizado de setembro de 2018 a abril de 2019 para determinar a prevalência de leishmaniose tegumentar em seres humanos que vivem em seis distritos de Karachi. Pessoas suspeitas foram rastreadas para a doença e os casos positivos foram identificados com base em lesões de pele e amostras de sangue. As amostras foram observadas montando seu esfregaço. Um total de 207 indivíduos de diferentes idades e grupos sexuais foi investigado, no entanto apenas 192 (92%) dos casos suspeitos foram encontrados para ter a doença; 64% dos casos eram do sexo masculino, que foram significativamente elevados (p < 0,05), e do sexo feminino 36%. A lesão foi detectada com maior frequência entre os jovens de 21 a 30 anos (31%) em comparação com os outros grupos. Em ambos os sexos, as pernas estavam mais infectadas (25% homens + 20% mulheres), seguidas pelos braços (20% homens + 0% mulheres) e rosto (15% homens + 11% mulheres). As partes mistas do corpo mostraram as infecções mais baixas (4% homens + 5% mulheres). Em conclusão, as infecções de leishmaniose mais altas e mais baixas foram observadas no Distrito Oeste (23% homens + 9% mulheres) seguido pelo Distrito Leste (15% homens + 7% mulheres), Distrito Malir (11% homens + 4% mulheres), Distrito Central (7% homens + 5% mulheres), Distrito Korangi (4% homens + 7% mulheres) e Distrito Sul (4% homens + 4% mulheres), respectivamente.

Antibacterial and antifungal activity of methanolic extracts of Salix alba L. against various disease causing pathogens

Abstract The present study was aimed to manifest the antibacterial and antifungal activity of methanolic extracts of Salix alba L. against seven Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial pathogens e.g. Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus (1), S. aureus (2), Shigella sonnei, Escherichia coli (1), E. coli (2) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae and three fungal isolates from the air such as Aspergillus terreus, A. ornatus, and Rhizopus stolonifer. Two different serotypes of S. aureus and E. coli were used. The agar well-diffusion method results showed the dose-dependent response of plant extracts against bacterial and fungal strains while some organisms were found resistant e.g. E. coli (1), S. sonnei, A. terreus and R. stolonifer. The highest antibacterial activity was recorded at 17.000±1.732 mm from 100 mg/mL of leaves methanolic extracts against S. pyogenes while the activity of most of the pathogens decreased after 24 h of incubation. The highest antifungal activity was reported at 11.833±1.0 mm against A. ornatus at 50 mg/mL after 48 h of the incubation period. These experimental findings endorse the use of S. alba in ethnopharmacological formulations and suggest the use of methanolic extracts of the said plant to develop drugs to control the proliferation of resistant disease causing pathogenic microbes.

Resumo O presente estudo teve como objetivo manifestar a atividade antibacteriana e antifúngica de extratos metanólicos de Salix alba L. contra sete patógenos bacterianos Gram-positivos e Gram-negativos. Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus (1), S. aureus (2), Shigella sonnei, Escherichia coli (1), E. coli (2) e Neisseria gonorrhoeae e três isolados de fungos do ar, como Aspergillus terreus, A. ornatus, e Rhizopus stolonifer. Dois sorotipos diferentes de S. aureus e E. coli foram usados. Os resultados do método de difusão em ágar mostraram a resposta dependente da dose de extratos de plantas contra cepas de bactérias e fungos, enquanto alguns organismos foram considerados resistentes, e.g. E. coli (1), S. sonnei, A. terreus e R. stolonifer. A maior atividade antibacteriana foi registrada em 17.000 ± 1.732 de 100 mg/mL de extratos metanólicos de folhas contra S. pyogenes, enquanto a atividade da maioria dos patógenos diminuiu após 24 h de incubação. A maior atividade antifúngica foi relatada em 11,833 ± 1,0 contra A. ornatus a 50 mg/mL após 48 h do período de incubação. Esses achados experimentais endossam o uso de S. alba em formulações etnofarmacológicas e sugerem o uso de extratos metanólicos da referida planta para o desenvolvimento de fármacos que controlem a proliferação de doenças resistentes que causam micróbios patogênicos.

Prevalence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the largest populated city Karachi, Pakistan

Abstract. The study was undertaken from September 2018 to April 2019 to determine the prevalence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in human beings living in six districts of Karachi. Suspected persons were screened for the disease and positive cases were identified on the basis of skin lesions and blood samples. Samples were observed by mounting their smear. A total of 207 subjects of different ages and sex groups were investigated, however, only 192 (92%) of the suspected cases were found to have the disease 64% of cases were male which were significantly high (p 0.05), than female 36%. The lesion was more frequently detected among the youth ages of 21-30 years (31%) as compared to other groups. In both sexes, legs were found to be more infected (25% male + 20% female) followed by arms (20% male + 0% female) and face (15% male +11% female). The mixed body parts had shown the lowest infections such as (4% in males + 5%) in females. In conclusion, the highest and lowest leishmaniasis infections were observed in District West (23% male + 9% female) followed by District East (15% male + 7% female), District Malir (11% male+ 4% female), District Central (7% male + 5% female), District Korangi (4% male + 7% female) and District South (4% male + 4% female) respectively.

Resumo O estudo foi realizado de setembro de 2018 a abril de 2019 para determinar a prevalência de leishmaniose tegumentar em seres humanos que vivem em seis distritos de Karachi. Pessoas suspeitas foram rastreadas para a doença e os casos positivos foram identificados com base em lesões de pele e amostras de sangue. As amostras foram observadas montando seu esfregaço. Um total de 207 indivíduos de diferentes idades e grupos sexuais foi investigado, no entanto apenas 192 (92%) dos casos suspeitos foram encontrados para ter a doença; 64% dos casos eram do sexo masculino, que foram significativamente elevados (p 0,05), e do sexo feminino 36%. A lesão foi detectada com maior frequência entre os jovens de 21 a 30 anos (31%) em comparação com os outros grupos. Em ambos os sexos, as pernas estavam mais infectadas (25% homens + 20% mulheres), seguidas pelos braços (20% homens + 0% mulheres) e rosto (15% homens + 11% mulheres). As partes mistas do corpo mostraram as infecções mais baixas (4% homens + 5% mulheres). Em conclusão, as infecções de leishmaniose mais altas e mais baixas foram observadas no Distrito Oeste (23% homens + 9% mulheres) seguido pelo Distrito Leste (15% homens + 7% mulheres), Distrito Malir (11% homens + 4% mulheres), Distrito Central (7% homens + 5% mulheres), Distrito Korangi (4% homens + 7% mulheres) e Distrito Sul (4% homens + 4% mulheres), respectivamente.

Knowledge, Attitude and Practice towards COVID-19 Vaccination in District Badaun: A cross-sectional study

Background: COVID-19 was declared pandemic by WHO on 30th January 2020 and to cure it, No specific antiviral treatment has been developed yet, therefore only preventive measures such as; facemask, regular hand washing, social as well as physical distancing, respiratory etiquettes and vaccination against Covid-19, are proven methods of its control and prevention. Objectives: To study the knowledge, Attitude and Practices among people about COVID-19 vaccine and find out various socio-demographic factors for its decision making. Material &Methods: A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted among the persons attended the tertiary care center to get vaccine against COVID-19 at Government Medical College, Badaun, UP. Results: Out of all respondents, majority (77.2%) of them accepted to get the vaccine as soon as available. 81.5% of respondents were male and more than half (60%) of them were unmarried. More than three fourth (77.5%) of respondents were unemployed and nearly one third (32%) belonged to BPL category. As per study, majority of respondents (86%) and (71.8%) said that vaccine is safe and effective way to control and prevent COVID-19, respectively.(77.2%)respondents who accepted that vaccine should be taken as soon as available, more than half (57%) of them said that doctor's recommendation is an important factor in vaccination decision-making.Conclusion: The most important factor for vaccine hesitancy is the occurrence of mild to moderate adverse effects following immunization, and this may be the biggest challenge in the global response against the Covid-19 pandemic.

Psychosocial consequences and reasons for illicit drug use among police officers in a northern Nigerian city: A mixed-method study

Harmful use of drugs is one of the principal risk factors affecting population health worldwide. Chronic use has been linked to medical, psychological and socioeconomic consequences. This study assessed the psychosocial consequences and reasons for illicit drug use among police officers in Kano, Nigeria. Using a mixed method of data collection, quantitative data was obtained from a cross-section of 275 officers using the Shortened Inventory of Problems-Drug Use (SIP­DU) and a pretested adapted questionnaire. In-depth interviews with 10 officers who used illicit drugs provided additional information. Almost half of the respondents (46.5%, n=128) were in their fourth decade of life with a mean age (±SD) of 35.1 ± 7.7 years. Over a quarter of the respondents (n=75) reported ever using illicit drugs, out of which 14.9% (n=41) were current users. Among the current drug users, 80.5% (n=33) attested to having money problems, 61.0% (n=25) agreed that they had spent too much money, and 56.1% (n=23) failed to do what was expected of them as a result of drug use and have hurt their family. Helping to stay awake and improving confidence were the major reasons (100%, n=41) for drug use mentioned by the respondents. The Nigerian Police Force should look into easing shifts and introducing stress-relieving activities. There is also the need to strengthen substance education and counselling and support officers with confidence issues, sleep disorders, and treat those with mood disorders.

The efficacy of immediate implantation of macroporous poly(N-[2-hydroxypropyl]-methacrylamide) hydrogel after laceration spinal cord injury in young rats / Eficacia de la implantación inmediata de hidrogel macroporoso de poli (N- [2-hidroxipropil] - metacrilamida) después de una lesión de la médula espinal en ratas jóvenes

SUMMARY: Spinal cord regeneration after mechanical injury is one of the most difficult biomedical problems. This article evaluates the effect of poly(N-[2-hydroxypropyl]-methacrylamide) hydrogel (PHPMA-hydrogel) on spinal cord regeneration in young rats after lateral spinal cord hemi-excision (laceration) at the level of segments T12-T13 (TrGel group). The locomotor function score (FS) and the paretic hindlimb spasticity score (SS) were assessed according to Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan (BBB) and Ashworth scales, respectively, and compared to a group of animals with no matrix implanted (Tr group). Regeneration of nerve fibers at the level of injury was evaluated at ~5 months after spinal cord injury (SCI). One week after the SCI induction, the FS on the BBB scale was 0.9±0.5 points in the Tr group and 3.6±1.2 points in the TrGel group. In the Tr group, the FS in 5 months was significantly lower than in 2 weeks after SCI, while no significant changes in FS were detected in the TrGel group over the entire observation period. The final FS was 0.8±0.3 points in the Tr group and 4.5±1.8 points in the TrGel group. No significant changes in SS have been observed in the TrGel group throughout the experiment, while the Tr group showed significant increases in SS at 2nd week, 6th week, 3th month and 5th month. The SS in 5 months was 3.6±0.3 points on the Ashworth scale in the Tr group and 1.8±0.7 points in the TrGel group. Throughout the observation period, significant differences in FS between groups were observed only in 5 weeks after SCI, whereas significant differences in SS were observed in 2, 3 and 6-8 weeks post-injury. Glial fibrous tissue containing newly formed nerve fibers, isolated or grouped in small clusters, that originated from the surrounding spinal cord matter have been found between the implanted hydrogel fragments. In conclusion, PHPMA-hydrogel improves recovery of the hindlimb locomotor function and promotes regenerative growth of nerve fibers. Further research is needed to clarify the mechanism of this PHPMA-hydrogel effect.

RESUMEN: La regeneración de la médula espinal después de una lesión mecánica es uno de los problemas biomédicos más difíciles. Este artículo evalúa el efecto del hidrogel de poli (N- [2-hidroxipropil] -metacrilamida) (PHPMA-hidrogel) sobre la regeneración de la médula espinal en ratas jóvenes después de la hemiescisión lateral de la médula espinal (lesión) a nivel de los segmentos T12 - T13 (Grupo TrGel). La puntuación de la función locomotora (FS) y la puntuación de espasticidad parética de las patas traseras (SS) se evaluaron de acuerdo con las escalas de Basso- Beattie-Bresnahan (BBB) y Ashworth, respectivamente, y se compararon con un grupo de animales sin matriz implantada (grupo Tr). Se evaluó la regeneración de las fibras nerviosas al nivel de la lesión ~ 5 meses después de la lesión de la médula espinal (LME). Una semana después de la inducción de SCI, el FS en la escala BBB fue 0,9 ± 0,5 puntos en el grupo Tr y 3,6 ± 1,2 puntos en el grupo TrGel. En el grupo Tr, el FS en 5 meses fue significativamente menor que en 2 semanas después de SCI, mientras que no se detectaron cambios significativos en FS en el grupo TrGel durante el período de observación. El FS final fue de 0,8 ± 0,3 puntos en el grupo Tr y de 4,5 ± 1,8 puntos en el grupo TrGel. No se han obser- vado cambios significativos en SS en el grupo TrGel durante el experimento, mientras que el grupo Tr mostró aumentos significativos en SS en la 2ª semana, 6ª semana, 3º mes y 5º mes. La SS en 5 meses fue de 3,6 ± 0,3 puntos en la escala de Ashworth en el grupo Tr y de 1,8 ± 0,7 puntos en el grupo TrGel. A lo largo del período de observación, se observaron diferencias significativas en FS entre los grupos solo en 5 semanas después de la LME, mientras que se observaron diferencias significativas en SS en 2, 3 y 6-8 semanas después de la lesión. Entre los fragmentos de hidrogel implantados se observó tejido fibroso glial que contenía fibras nerviosas recién formadas, aisladas o agrupadas en pequeños grupos, que se originaban a partir de la materia de la médula espinal circundante. En conclusión, PHPMA-hydrogel mejora la recuperación de la función locomotora de las patas traseras y promueve el crecimiento regenerativo de las fibras nerviosas. Se requieren más estudios para aclarar el mecanismo del efecto de hidrogel PHPMA.

Production of green surfactants: market prospects

Science has greatly contributed to the advancement of technology and to the innovation of production processes and their applications. Cleaning products have become indispensable in today's world, as personal and environmental hygiene is important to all societies worldwide. Such products are used in the home, in most work environments and in the industrial sectors. Most of the detergents on the market are synthesised from petrochemical products. However, the interest in reducing the use of products harmful to human health and the environment has led to the search for detergents formulated with natural, biodegradable surfactant components of biological (plant or microbiological) origin or chemically synthesised from natural raw materials usually referred to as green surfactants. This review addresses the different types, properties, and uses of surfactants, with a focus on green surfactants, and describes the current scenario as well as the projections for the future market economy related to the production of the different types of green surfactants marketed in the world.

Anti-reflux procedures after roux-en-y gastric bypass / Procedimentos anti-refluxo após bypass gástrico em y-de roux

ABSTRACT Background: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) has been the choice of bariatric procedure for patients with symptomatic reflux - and is known to be effective in reducing the need for anti-reflux medication postoperatively. However, a small number of RYGB patients can still develop severe reflux symptoms that require a surgical intervention. Aim: To examine and describe the patient population that requires an anti-reflux procedure after RYGB evaluating demographics, characteristics, symptoms and diagnosis Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed on 32 patients who underwent a hiatal hernia repair and/or Nissen fundoplication after RYGB Jul 1st, 2014 and Dec 31st, 2019. Patients were identified using the MBSAQIP database and their electronic medical records were reviewed. Results: Most patients were female (n=29, 90.6%). The mean age was 52.8 years and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 34.1 kg/m2 at the time of anti-reflux procedure. Patients underwent the anti-reflux procedure at a mean of 7.9 years after the RYGB procedure. The mean percentage of excess BMI loss during the time between RYGB and anti-reflux procedure was 63.4%. Conclusions: Female patients with a significant weight loss may develop a severe reflux symptoms years after RYGB. Complaints of reflux after RYGB should not be overlooked. Careful follow-up and appropriate treatment (including surgical intervention) is needed for this population.

RESUMO Racional: O bypass gástrico em Y-de-Roux (RYGB) tem sido o procedimento bariátrico de escolha para pacientes com refluxo sintomático - e é conhecido por ser eficaz na redução da necessidade de medicação anti-refluxo no pós-operatório. No entanto, um pequeno número de pacientes com RYGB ainda pode desenvolver sintomas de refluxo graves que requerem uma intervenção cirúrgica. Objetivo: Examinar e descrever a população de pacientes que requer procedimento anti-refluxo após RYGB avaliando dados demográficos, características, sintomas e diagnóstico. Métodos: Revisão retrospectiva de prontuários foi realizada em 32 pacientes submetidos a hérnia hiatal e / ou fundoplicatura Nissen após RYGB em 1º de julho de 2014 a 31 de dezembro de 2019. Os pacientes foram identificados por meio do banco de dados MBSAQIP e seus prontuários eletrônicos foram revisados. Resultados: A maioria dos pacientes era do sexo feminino (n = 29 - 90,6%). A média de idade foi de 52,8 anos e o índice de massa corporea (IMC) médio de 34,1 kg / m2 na época do procedimento anti-refluxo. Os pacientes foram submetidos ao procedimento anti-refluxo em média 7,9 anos após o procedimento do BGYR. A porcentagem média de perda do excesso de IMC durante o tempo entre o BGYR e o procedimento anti-refluxo foi de 63,4%. Conclusões: Pacientes do sexo feminino com perda de peso significativa podem desenvolver sintomas graves de refluxo anos após o BGYR. Sintomas de refluxo após RYGB não devem ser negligenciadas. Acompanhamento cuidadoso e tratamento adequado (incluindo intervenção cirúrgica) são necessários para essa população.

Effects of a single trace minerals injection on antioxidant and immune response, resistance to endoparasites, health and growth of newborn Boer kids

ABSTRACT: This study evaluated the effects of injectable trace minerals (ITM) on antioxidant and immune response, resistance to endoparasites, health and growth of newborn Boer kids. Forty-six Boer kids [24 males and 22 females; 3.94±1.03kg of body weight (BW); 6.2±2.4 d of age] were enrolled in the study. Kids were stratified by type of birth (twins or singlet), sex, and BW and assigned to 1 of 2 treatments: one subcutaneous injection (0.1mL/4.5kg of BW) of (1) saline solution or (2) ITM (60, 10, 5, and 15mg/mL of Zn, Mn, Se and Cu, respectively). Blood samples were collected on d 0, 7, 14, 28 and 56. Feces samples were collected on d 56 and BW on d 0, 28 and 56. Kids were checked daily for signs of diarrhea. ITM kids had greater (P 0.01) plasma concentration of superoxide dismutase and tended (P=0.06) to have greater plasma concentration of glutathione peroxidase. ITM kids had greater (P=0.05) concentration of eosinophils, but no differences (P0.11) were observed for other hemogram variables. The ITM application did not affect (P0.11) the EPG count. However, ITM kids had less (P=0.02) cumulative incidence of diarhea until d 42 (3.85 vs. 25.93±6.8% for ITM vs. Saline kids, respectively) but no differences (P>0.10) were observed after d 42. The ITM application did not affect (P0.40) the growth of kids (0.071 vs. 0.065±0.005kg/day for ITM vs. Saline kids, respectively). Thus, the ITM application, increased the plasma concentration of antioxidant enzymes and eosinophils, decreased the incidence of diarrhea only in the middle of the experiment, but did not affected the EPG count and growth of Boer kids.

RESUMO: Este estudo avaliou os efeitos de microminerais injetáveis (ITM) na resposta antioxidante e imune, resistência a endoparasitas, saúde e crescimento de cabritos Boer recém-nascidos. Quarenta e seis cabritos [24 fêmeas e 22 machos; 3,94±1,03kg de peso corporal (PC); 6,2±2,4 dias de idade] foram incluídos no estudo. Os animais foram estratificados por tipo de nascimento (gêmeos ou singular), sexo e peso ao nascimento (PN) e atribuídas a 1 de 2 tratamentos. Uma injeção subcutânea (0,1ml/4,5 de PC de (1) Solução salina ou (2) ITM (60,10,5 e 15mg/ml de Zn, Mn, Se e Cu, respectivamente). As amostras de sangue foram coletadas nos dias 0, 7, 14, 28 e 56. As amostras de fezes foram coletadas no dia 56 e PC nos dias 0, 28 e 56. Os recém-nascidos foram verificados diariamente quanto a sinais de diarreia. Os cabritos ITM apresentaram maior (P 0.01) concentração de superóxido desmutase no plasma e tenderam (P=0,06) a ter maior concentração de glutationa peroxidase no plasma. Os animais ITM apresentaram maior (P=0,05) concentração de eosinófilos, mas não foram observadas diferenças (P0.11) para outras variáveis do hemograma. A aplicação de ITM não afetou (P0.11) a contagem de EPG. No entanto, os cabritos ITM apresentaram menor incidência cumulativa de diarreia (P=0,02) ate d 42 (3,85 vs. 25,93±6,8% para animais ITM vs. animais salina, respectivamente), mas nenhuma diferença (P>0.10) foi observada após d 42. A aplicação do ITM não afetou (P0.40) o crescimento dos animais (0.071 vs. 0.065±0.005kg/dia para ITM vs. Salina, respectivamente). Assim, a aplicação do ITM aumentou a concentração plasmática de enzimas antioxidantes e eosinófilos, diminuiu a incidência de diarreia somente na metade do experimento, mas não afetou a contagem de OPG e crescimento de cabritos Boer recém-nascidos.

Effects of a single trace minerals injection on antioxidant and immune response, resistance to endoparasites, health and growth of newborn Boer kids / Efeitos de uma aplicação de microminerais injetáveis sobre a resposta antioxidante e imunológica, resistência a endoparasitas, saúde e crescimento de cabritos Boer recém-nascidos

This study evaluated the effects of injectable trace minerals (ITM) on antioxidant and immune response, resistance to endoparasites, health and growth of newborn Boer kids. Forty-six Boer kids [24 males and 22 females; 3.94±1.03kg of body weight (BW); 6.2±2.4 d of age] were enrolled in the study. Kids were stratified by type of birth (twins or singlet), sex, and BW and assigned to 1 of 2 treatments: one subcutaneous injection (0.1mL/4.5kg of BW) of (1) saline solution or (2) ITM (60, 10, 5, and 15mg/mL of Zn, Mn, Se and Cu, respectively). Blood samples were collected on d 0, 7, 14, 28 and 56. Feces samples were collected on d 56 and BW on d 0, 28 and 56. Kids were checked daily for signs of diarrhea. ITM kids had greater (P<0.01) plasma concentration of superoxide dismutase and tended (P=0.06) to have greater plasma concentration of glutathione peroxidase. ITM kids had greater (P=0.05) concentration of eosinophils, but no differences (P≥0.11) were observed for other hemogram variables. The ITM application did not affect (P≥0.11) the EPG count. However, ITM kids had less (P=0.02) cumulative incidence of diarhea until d 42 (3.85 vs. 25.93±6.8% for ITM vs. Saline kids, respectively) but no differences (P>0.10) were observed after d 42. The ITM application did not affect (P≥0.40) the growth of kids (0.071 vs. 0.065±0.005kg/day for ITM vs. Saline kids, respectively). Thus, the ITM application, increased the plasma concentration of antioxidant enzymes and eosinophils, decreased the incidence of diarrhea only in the middle of the experiment, but did not affected the EPG count and growth of Boer kids.(AU)

Este estudo avaliou os efeitos de microminerais injetáveis (ITM) na resposta antioxidante e imune, resistência a endoparasitas, saúde e crescimento de cabritos Boer recém-nascidos. Quarenta e seis cabritos [24 fêmeas e 22 machos; 3,94±1,03kg de peso corporal (PC); 6,2±2,4 dias de idade] foram incluídos no estudo. Os animais foram estratificados por tipo de nascimento (gêmeos ou singular), sexo e peso ao nascimento (PN) e atribuídas a 1 de 2 tratamentos. Uma injeção subcutânea (0,1ml/4,5 de PC de (1) Solução salina ou (2) ITM (60,10,5 e 15mg/ml de Zn, Mn, Se e Cu, respectivamente). As amostras de sangue foram coletadas nos dias 0, 7, 14, 28 e 56. As amostras de fezes foram coletadas no dia 56 e PC nos dias 0, 28 e 56. Os recém-nascidos foram verificados diariamente quanto a sinais de diarreia. Os cabritos ITM apresentaram maior (P<0.01) concentração de superóxido desmutase no plasma e tenderam (P=0,06) a ter maior concentração de glutationa peroxidase no plasma. Os animais ITM apresentaram maior (P=0,05) concentração de eosinófilos, mas não foram observadas diferenças (P≥0.11) para outras variáveis do hemograma. A aplicação de ITM não afetou (P≥0.11) a contagem de EPG. No entanto, os cabritos ITM apresentaram menor incidência cumulativa de diarreia (P=0,02) ate d 42 (3,85 vs. 25,93±6,8% para animais ITM vs. animais salina, respectivamente), mas nenhuma diferença (P>0.10) foi observada após d 42. A aplicação do ITM não afetou (P≥0.40) o crescimento dos animais (0.071 vs. 0.065±0.005kg/dia para ITM vs. Salina, respectivamente). Assim, a aplicação do ITM aumentou a concentração plasmática de enzimas antioxidantes e eosinófilos, diminuiu a incidência de diarreia somente na metade do experimento, mas não afetou a contagem de OPG e crescimento de cabritos Boer recém-nascidos.(AU)

Determination of the activity and kinetic parameters of polyphenol oxidase enzyme in crude extracts of some Jordanian plants

The activity and kinetic parameters of the enzyme polyphenol oxidase (PPO) in crude extracts of the fruits ofParadise apple (Pyrus malus L.), cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), squash (Cucurbita pepo L.), pomegranaterind and seeds (Punica granatum L.), and the leaf of cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) were investigated. Thehighest browning intensity was found in P. apple, followed by pomegranate seeds and cucumber fruits. Theoptimum activity of the enzyme was shown at pH 7.0 for P. apple and cucurbita, but it was found at pH 6.0 forthe rind and seeds of the pomegranate. The PPO of cactus leaf and cucumber fruits showed two peaks at pH 4.0and 7.0. On the other hand, the optimal temperature found for PPO activity in these plants was around 40°C.A strong correlation with value (R) = 0.9485 between the browning intensity and PPO activity in all studiedsamples was obtained.

Doppler ultrasound of umbilical artery in prediction of fetal outcome in pregnancy induced hypertension Sudanese population

The pregnancy induced hypertension increase the fetal mortality and morbidity and the using of Doppler umbilical artery indices decrease the fetal mortality and morbidity however, there is few complete data about the most frequently altered Doppler US parameters to predict fetal outcome in pregnancy induced hypertension . Methods This ia cohort prospective study done in two hundred and six women of second and third trimester presenting to antenatal clinic in Soba University Hospital at the department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, in the fetus unit and critical pregnancy in the period From June 2008 to April 2013 to assess the Doppler indices of umbilical artery in pregnancy induced hypertension for prediction of prenatal outcome; 105 pregnancy induced hypertension patients and 101 women with uneventful pregnancies as normal control group included in this study . Baseline investigations and color Doppler of umbilical artery were done. Statistical analysis of data were done using SPSS, Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed and the area under the curve (AUC) used to determine sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of umbilical artery Doppler indices to predict fetal outcome. Results The study determine that there was significant difference in Doppler indices in PIH and control group ( p<0.01, the mean indices of umbilical artery is higher in PIH group compared with normal pregnancy group , the mean different of S/D ratio was 0.40, mean difference of RI was 0.06 and the mean different of PI index was 0.16, high percentage of adverse fetal outcome had been reported in in Pregnancy Induced Hypertension group than in control , which was more in absent and reversed flow velocity in umbilical artery in Pregnancy Induced Hypertension compared with group of Pregnancy Induced Hypertension with present end diastolic flow velocity. Systolic/Diastolic ratio was most accurate in predicting adverse outcome in pregnancy induced hypertension patients, followed by the Pulastility index then the Resistance index (75%, 66% and 57% respectively). Conclusion This study concluded that pregnancy induced hypertension leads to worsen placental insufficiently, which appears on the higher Doppler indices of umbilical artery to PIH patients when compared with normal pregnancy. A low diastolic flow and higher indices characterized the pregnancies with abnormal outcomes. Doppler of the umbilical artery was useful to predict fetal well being in PIH patients, high percentage of adverse fetal outcome had been reported in absent and reversed end diastolic flow velocity in umbilical artery compared with group of present flow velocity.

Factors influencing health seeking behaviour among residents of Basawa community, Sabon Gari l.G.A. Kaduna State, Nigeria

Background: The health of the citizenry is crucial to the growth and development of any nation. Nigeria is riddled with poor health indices ranging from maternal mortality to infant mortality rates. It has been established that health-seeking behaviour has a strong influence on health status, morbidity and mortality indices of a society. It also drives utilisation of health services and is affected by predisposing, enabling and need factors. This study assessed the factors influencing health-seeking behaviour among residents of Basawa community, Sabon Gari LGA, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Method: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out in September 2017 among 125 residents of Basawa community selected by systematic sampling technique. Data was collected using asemi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and analysed with SPSS version 21. The results were presented as tables and charts among others. Level of statistical significance was set at p <0.05. Results: The mean age of the respondents was 42±10 years. Majority of the respondents were male (60.8%) and married (90.4%). About two-thirds of the respondents delayed for more than 24 hours before seeking healthcare. Long waiting time (55.2%), the attitude of health workers (22.4%) and the high cost of drugs (22.4%) were given as barriers to health care utilisation. High cost of services, type and severity of illness and attitude of health care workers are the main determinants of health-seeking behaviour. There was a statistically significant relationship between education, monthly income and delay in seeking health care. Conclusion: The study showed several factors that influence health care seeking behaviour. In view of the multifactorial determinants of health-care seeking behaviour, there is need for health workers to be trained and retrained to improve on their attitude, and the provision of community-based social health insurance scheme by the government among others

Psycho-social factors affecting antenatal care services utilization at the Ministry of Health’s primary health care centers in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 2017-2018: an analytical cross-sectional study

Background: This study aimed to explore the psychosocial factors affecting the utilization of antenatal care (ANC) services.Methods: This was an analytical cross-sectional study carried-out in the 4 main MOH maternity hospitals in Jeddah. The study sample included 2 groups: 80 women with inadequate ANC attendance and 159 with adequate ANC attendance. We applied probability proportional to size sampling technique. The outcome of this study was ANC attendance (adequate or inadequate). Independent variables included: age, nationality, educational level, occupation, monthly income, the dependent variables included: the number of ANC visits.Results: The utilization findings of this study revealed that 88 women out of 239 women had not fully used the health services provided to them (underutilization) and the utilization rate was 66.5%. Approximately one-half of the women with inadequate ANC had birth intervals of less than 2 years. Three-quarters of them reported that they did not plan their current pregnancies, and nearly two-thirds of them had high levels of stress. Logistic regression analysis indicated that inadequate ANC attendance was predicted by past negative experiences related to ANC attendance (p=0.001) (OR=0.183 CI=0.065-0.513).Conclusions: The most significant identified barriers to utilization of ANC services were high stress, previous negative ANC experience, unplanned pregnancy, and short birth intervals. Furthermore, women who had adequate ANC visits were more likely to have planned pregnancies and be aware of available ANC services.

Incorporation of Spirulina (Athrospira platensis) in Traditional Egyptian Cookies as a Source of Natural Bioactive Molecules and Functional Ingredients: Preparation and Sensory Evaluation of Nutrition Snack for School Children

Spirulina (Athrospira platensis) is very rich in protein, amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals and its incorporation into foods will enrich their nutritional values. The objectives of this study were to incorporate spirulina into traditional Egyptian cookies as a source of natural bioactive molecules and to evaluate the effect of the amount of added spirulina on their sensory properties (texture, shred, color, odor and taste) and acceptability using a panel of 10 members. The results indicated that addition of spirulina to the cookies affected the texture, the mouth feel, the easiness with which breaking a cookie was made, the fragmentation and the appearance of the break line. The cookies that received no spirulina had smoother texture and moist-smooth mouth feel whereas those received spirulina had more sandy-course texture and heavy-chewy mouth feel. Increasing spirulina content from 5 to 15% made the cookies more firm and harder to break. Irregular large parts and continuous break lines were observed with the cookies that received no spirulina while more granules and smaller parts with irregular line were observed with all the cookies that received spirulina. The results showed that adding spirulina to cookies may help maintain their integrity and reduce breakage during packaging and distributions. The color of the cookies that received no spirulina was yellow to yellow-orange and that of the cookies that received 5 and 10% spirulina was yellow- green to green-yellow-green while that of the cookies received 15% spirulina was green-yellow-green to green-blue-green. All the baked cookies had a noticeable smell and the odor intensity ranged from faint to strong. Increasing the spirulina content from 5 to 15% (3-fold) increased the odor intensity by 19.6%. The nature of the smell of the cookies that received 0 and 5% spirulina was pleasant while that of the cookies that revived 10 and 15% spirulina was musty-seawater and fishy-seawater, respectively. The addition of spirulina affected both the taste and the degree of acceptance. The taste of the cookies that received no spirulina was sweet-delicious with a high degree of acceptance while the taste of the cookies that received spirulina varied from sweet-sour to bitter-fishy with lower degree of acceptance. Adding 5% spirulina did not affect the smell or the taste. However, addition of a flavoring agent to cookies having higher spirulina contents (10-15%) may be required to musk the smell and taste of spirulina. The results showed that addition of spirulina enhanced the nutritional value of the cookies by increasing the protein content of the cookies and enriching them with vitamins, mineral, omega fatty acids and amino acids, all of which have significant health benefits to school children. Therefore, a further work should be directed towards improving the smell and the taste of spirulina cookies.

Development of Liquid Enhancer for Germination of Drought-stressed Oryza sativa subsp. indica Seed cv. MR284

Aim: This study was conducted to develop liquid enhancer containing KCl, TU, GA, and SA for germination of drought-stressed Oryza sativa subsp. indica cv. MR284 seed. Study Design: All experiments were conducted in a completely randomized design. Two steps were involved in the development process which are to select an ideal concentration for each KCl, TU, GA, and SA, and to find an ideal combination of chemicals from the selection of ideal concentrations acquired in step 1 to form liquid enhancer. There were 20 treatments for step 1 and 9 treatments for step 2. All of these treatments with 6 replicates. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University Putra Malaysia, between June 2018 and December 2018. Methodology: The sterilized rice seed cv. MR284 was stressed in the -1.2 Mpa PEG 6000 solution for three days and germinated in the KCl, TU, GA, and SA solution in a series of concentration for 10 days, in a controlled room. Seed germination was observed daily. Results: In the first step, drought-stressed rice seed showed the best germination performance in the 30 mM of KCl, 2.0 mM of TU, 0.24 mM GA, and 0.5 mM SA. Meanwhile, in the second step, the drought-stressed rice seed showed the best germination performance in the combination of 30 mM KCl + 2.0 mM TU + 0.24 mM GA + 0.5 mM SA. The best germination performance was evaluated by the highest germination percentage (%), germination index, seed vigor, leaf length, root length and biomass. Conclusion: Therefore, the combination treatments of 30 mM KCl + 2.0 mM TU + 0.5 mM SA was found to be the most effective and simplest liquid enhancer formula that has an ability to enhance seed germination of drought-stressed rice cv. MR284 seed.

Evaluation Of Stability And Postural Control In Patients With Multiple Sclerosis Pre And Post Balance Program On Biodex Balance System

The purpose of the study was to evaluate response of stability and postural control in patients suffering from multiple sclerosis. Thirty subjects, of both sexes ,their age ranged from 30 to 40 years shared in this study and were divided into two equal groups, the first group (GI) included normal subjects and the second group (GII) included patients suffering from multiple sclerosis. Assessment was done by Biodex balance system via the dynamic balance test which included anteroposterior, mediolatoral and overall stability index. This study was done in Biomechanics lab in Faculty of Physical Education at Kafrelsheikh University. Group II was trained for two months. The results revealed that there were slightly decrease in balance paremeters in the control group or normal subjects during assessment of balance in this study. In relation to the study group, there were no significant difference between the balance parameters post treatment than pre treatment (p >0.05), this indicates that there was no improvement in balance in GII after receiving the balance training program. It could be concluded that performing balance training program did not improve balance in subjects suffering from multiple sclerosis.

Taurine as a Drug for Protection of Liver and Kidney against Toxicity of Dinitrotoluene on Male Rats (Applicable Study)

Technical grade dinitrotoluene (tg-DNT) [CH3C6H3 (NO2)2] nitroaromatic agents which are manufactured in theindustries and applied in both commercial and military in all over the world and Egypt. DNT causes malfunctions inkidneys, heart, liver, testes and mammary glands in animals and human beings, which may be considered as carcinogenic inexperimental animals and human. Moreover, taurine, a free β-amino acid with remarkable antioxidant activity, hasimportant beneficial effects on the human body; hepatoprotection, nephroprotection, cardiovascular protection,hypoglycemic impact and hypolipidemicaction. Currently, taurine level in the serum is used as early marker of breast,endometrial and colon cancers. The current research was aimed to explore the potential impacts of the antioxidantproperties of taurine as a protecting material on tg-DNT induced toxicity in the liver and kidney in male rats. 100apparently healthy male rats in 4 groups were included; the first is Frank control group, mouth feeding via gavage withdistilled water; the other groups were administered as following, taurine alone, tg-DNT alone (toxic group), taurine + tgDNT (protective group) in the second, third and fourth groups, respectively. In these groups, blood biochemistry and taurineconcentrations in serum were measured for all animals. Furthermore, histopathological examination studies for liver andkidney were done for all groups. The results showed that, the protective group has marked improvement in most biochemicalparameters than the toxic group. Histological studies revealed a significant marked disturbance in the histopathologicalarchitectures of the kidney and liver in all toxic rats. However, marked improvements in histological architectures wereobserved in protective group. The results support the ameliorative effect of taurine as a protective agent against tg-DNTtoxicity in experimental rats.