Identificación y sensibilidad antibiótica directas desde el hemocultivo positivo para bacilos gram negativos. Rendimiento comparativo de los sistemas Vitek 2C y Phoenix / Direct identification and susceptibility testing from positive blood cultures. A head-to-head performance comparison between Vitek 2C and Phoenix systems / Identificação e sensibilidade antibiótica diretas a partir da hemocultura positiva para bacilos gram negativos. Desempenho comparativo dos sistemas Vitek 2C e Phoenix

Resumen El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar los resultados de las pruebas de identificación y sensibilidad antimicrobiana obtenidos por los sistemas Vitek 2C (bioMérieux, Francia) y Phoenix (Becton Dickinson, EE.UU.) directamente a partir de hemocultivos positivos. Se realizó un estudio observacional prospectivo en el Hospital Naval Pedro Mallo de Buenos Aires, Argentina, que incluyó 70 bacteriemias monomicrobianas por gram negativos. Se obtuvo una identificación correcta por Vitek® 2C y por Phoenix del 100% y 97% respectivamente [p: no significativa (NS)]. La concordancia categórica para todos los antimicrobianos fue 97,1% y 98,1% (p: NS) con Vitek 2C y con Phoenix respectivamente. El tiempo medio para obtener un resultado fue de 10,19 h y 13,8 h (p: NS), respectivamente. Vitek 2C y Phoenix son herramientas importantes, rápidas y confiables para la identificación y las pruebas de sensibilidad realizadas directamente a partir de hemocultivos positivos.

Abstract The aim of this study was to compare the results of identification and antimicrobial susceptibility tests obtained by the Vitek 2C (bioMérieux, France) and Phoenix (Becton Dickinson, USA) systems directly from positive blood cultures. A prospective observational study was performed at the Pedro Mallo Navy Hospital in Buenos Aires, Argentina, which included 70 monomicrobial bacteremias by gram negative rods. Correct identification by Vitek® 2C and Phoenix was 100% and 97%, respectively [p: not significant (NS)]. Categorical agreement for all antimicrobials was 97.1% and 98.1% (p: NS) with Vitek 2C and Phoenix, respectively. The mean time to result was 10.19 h and 13.8 h (p: NS), respectively. Vitek 2C and Phoenix are important, rapid and reliable tools for identification and susceptibility testing when performed directly from positive blood cultures.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar os resultados dos testes de identificação e de suscetibilidade antimicrobiana obtidos pelos sistemas Vitek 2C (bioMérieux, França) e Phoenix (Becton Dickinson, EUA) diretamente a partir de culturas de sangue positivas. Foi realizado um estudo observacional prospectivo no Hospital Naval Pedro Mallo em Buenos Aires, Argentina, incluindo 70 bacteriemias monomicrobianas devido a gram negativos. A identificação correcta por Vitek® 2C e Phoenix obtida foi de 100% e 97% respectivamente [p: não significativo (NS)]. O acordo categórico para todos os antimicrobianos foi de 97,1% e 98,1% (p: NS) com Vitek 2C e Phoenix respectivamente. O tempo médio para obter o resultado foi de 10,19 h e 13,8 h (p: NS), respectivamente. Vitek 2C e Phoenix são ferramentas importantes, rápidas e fiáveis para a identificação e testes de sensibilidade realizados diretamente a partir de hemoculturas positivas.

Proximate Composition and Microbiological Quality of “Kunu-Aya”: A Locally Produced Non-Fermented Beverage in Nigeria

Kunu-aya” is non- fermented beverage locally produced from Cyperus esculentus (Tiger nut) and Phoenix dactylifera (Dates) based milk. This study determined the proximate composition and microbial quality of laboratory produced “Kunu-aya” following standard methods. Biochemical characterization method was carried out for identification of associated isolates. The results revealed that the “Kunu-aya” contains; moisture content was 59.44±0.05, Ash content of 5.02±0.07, crude fat 8.108±0.03, Crude fibre 9.16±0.04, crude protein 8.983±0.26, and carbohydrate 9.3±0.05 and the energy content was 182.69kcal. “Kunu-aya” also contains significant amounts of magnesium (Mg) 2.045±0.05, potassium (K) 40.506±0.05, phosphorus (P) 4.506±0.03, copper (Cu) 0.018±0.04, zinc (Zn) 48.001±0.01, iron (Fe) 0.408±0.04, sodium (Na) of 6.031±0.07 and calcium (Ca) 0.196±0.03. The total viable bacteria count of the sample was 4.0 x 104 CFU/ml and the total fungal count was 2.7x 102 CFU/ml. Species of Staphylococcus spp (50%), Bacilli spp. (16.7%) Streptococcus spp. (16.7%) and Micrococcus spp. (16.7%) are predominant bacteria contaminants of the beverage. Besides, fungi species of Aspergillus spp. (60%), Penicillium spp. (20%) and Rhizopus spp. (20%) were also isolated. The microbial load obtained exceeded the acceptable limit stipulated for dairy drinks. Based on the proximate and mineral contents of “Kunu-aya”, its rich essential contents can provide nutrients for human nutrition. Therefore, the production of this beverage under strict hygiene conditions will improve the microbiological quality and reduce the health risk associated with its consumption.

Effect of Packaging Materials and Storage Temperatures on the Microbiological Quality of Hibiscus sabdarifa Drinks during Ambient and Refrigeration Storage

Aims: To evaluate the effect of packaging materials and storage temperatures on the microbiological quality of Hibiscus sabdarifa drinks produced with: 1) commercial pineapple flavour (HCPF) and; 2) Phoenix dactylifera (38%) and pineapple extract (2%) (HPPE). Methodology: Pasteurized drinks packaged in polyethylene sachets, plastic and glass bottles were stored at refrigeration (4.4±2oC) and ambient (25±2oC) temperatures for 27 and 9 days respectively. Results: There was significant (P≤0.05) decrease in total bacterial count in HCPF (≤4.51-≥2.14 Log10CFU/ml) with higher death rate (0.06) in plastic bottles at 4.4±2oC while at 25±2oC it increased significantly (P≤0.05) in HPPE samples (4.00-≤4.95 Log10CFU/ml) with least growth rate in plastic bottles (0.02). Yeast count at 25±2oC (1.28 – 2.15 Log10CFU/ml) was significantly (P≤0.05) higher than at 4.4±2oC (1.00 – 1.60 Log10CFU/ml) and drinks in plastic bottles had the least growth rates (≤0.03). Coliform (2.04 – 2.59 Log10CFU/ml), Escherichia coli (2.00 – 2.93 Log10CFU/ml) and Staphylococcus (2.00 – 2.50 Log10CFU/ml) sparingly detected, were unable to grow in the drinks with greater inhibition at 25±2oC in all packaging materials. No growth of Salmonella was observed in the drinks. Glass bottles favoured more microbial growth but the levels were satisfactory for all packaging which is indicative of microbiological safety. Conclusion: Any of the packaging material can be used for packaging of Hibiscus sabdarifa drinks with storage at refrigeration temperature for ≤ 21 days. It is informative to both consumers and producers that the then wasted pineapple peels can serve as an ingredient in Hibiscus sabdarifa drink production.

Evaluation of some nutritional quality criteria of seventeen Moroccan dates varieties and clones, fruits of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L) / Avaliação de alguns critérios de qualidade nutricional de 17 variedades e clones marroquinos de datas, frutos de tamareira (Phoenix dactylifera L)

Date fruit is known to be the staple food in the Arab countries. It provides a lot of potential health benefits and can be the essential source of nutrients. The majority of Moroccan varieties are not characterized for their chemical, biochemical and quality properties. The aim of this work was to assess the chemical composition of 17 varieties of Moroccan date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.) and to determine their nutritive components. The analysis showed that the dates are rich in sugars (51.80-87.98%), they contain low concentration of proteins (1.09-2.80%) and lipids (0.16-0.39%). The predominant mineral is potassium (1055.26-1604.10 mg/100 g DW). Moreover, they contain high concentrations of malic acid (69.48-495.58 mg/100 g (DW)), oxalic acid (18.47-233.35 mg/100 g DW) and tartaric acid (115.70-484.168 mg/100 g DW). These results suggest that the date fruit are nutritious and can be an excellent source for human nutrition and health benefits.

A fruta da tâmara é conhecida por ser o alimento básico nos países árabes. Oferece muitos benefícios potenciais à saúde e pode ser a fonte essencial de nutrientes. A maioria das variedades marroquinas não se caracteriza por suas propriedades químicas, bioquímicas nem de qualidade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a composição química de 17 variedades de frutos de tâmara marroquina (Phoenix dactylifera L.) e determinar seu valor nutritivo. A análise mostrou que as tâmaras são ricas em açúcares (51,80-87,98%) e contêm baixa concentração de proteínas (1,09-2,80%) e lipídios (0,16-0,39%). O mineral predominante é o potássio (1.055,26-1.604,10 mg/100 g DW). Além disso, contêm altas concentrações de ácido málico (69,48-495,58 mg/100 g DW), ácido oxálico (18,47-233,35 mg/100 g DW) e ácido tartárico (115,70-484,168 mg/100 g DW). Esses resultados sugerem que o fruto da tamareira é nutritivo e pode ser uma excelente fonte de nutrição humana e conferir benefícios à saúde.

Evaluation of some nutritional quality criteria of seventeen Moroccan dates varieties and clones, fruits of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.)

Abstract Date fruit is known to be the staple food in the Arab countries. It provides a lot of potential health benefits and can be the essential source of nutrients. The majority of Moroccan varieties are not characterized for their chemical, biochemical and quality properties. The aim of this work was to assess the chemical composition of 17 varieties of Moroccan date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.) and to determine their nutritive components. The analysis showed that the dates are rich in sugars (51.80-87.98%), they contain low concentration of proteins (1.09-2.80%) and lipids (0.16-0.39%). The predominant mineral is potassium (1055.26-1604.10 mg/100 g DW). Moreover, they contain high concentrations of malic acid (69.48-495.58 mg/100 g (DW)), oxalic acid (18.47-233.35 mg/100 g DW) and tartaric acid (115.70-484.168 mg/100 g DW). These results suggest that the date fruit are nutritious and can be an excellent source for human nutrition and health benefits.

Resumo A fruta da tâmara é conhecida por ser o alimento básico nos países árabes. Oferece muitos benefícios potenciais à saúde e pode ser a fonte essencial de nutrientes. A maioria das variedades marroquinas não se caracteriza por suas propriedades químicas, bioquímicas nem de qualidade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a composição química de 17 variedades de frutos de tâmara marroquina (Phoenix dactylifera L.) e determinar seu valor nutritivo. A análise mostrou que as tâmaras são ricas em açúcares (51,80-87,98%) e contêm baixa concentração de proteínas (1,09-2,80%) e lipídios (0,16-0,39%). O mineral predominante é o potássio (1.055,26-1.604,10 mg/100 g DW). Além disso, contêm altas concentrações de ácido málico (69,48-495,58 mg/100 g DW), ácido oxálico (18,47-233,35 mg/100 g DW) e ácido tartárico (115,70-484,168 mg/100 g DW). Esses resultados sugerem que o fruto da tamareira é nutritivo e pode ser uma excelente fonte de nutrição humana e conferir benefícios à saúde.

Evaluation of some nutritional quality criteria of seventeen Moroccan dates varieties and clones, fruits of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L. ) / Avaliação de alguns critérios de qualidade nutricional de 17 variedades e clones marroquinos de datas, frutos de tamareira (Phoenix dactylifera L. )

Date fruit is known to be the staple food in the Arab countries. It provides a lot of potential health benefits and can be the essential source of nutrients. The majority of Moroccan varieties are not characterized for their chemical, biochemical and quality properties. The aim of this work was to assess the chemical composition of 17 varieties of Moroccan date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.) and to determine their nutritive components. The analysis showed that the dates are rich in sugars (51.80-87.98%), they contain low concentration of proteins (1.09-2.80%) and lipids (0.16-0.39%). The predominant mineral is potassium (1055.26-1604.10 mg/100 g DW). Moreover, they contain high concentrations of malic acid (69.48-495.58 mg/100 g (DW)), oxalic acid (18.47-233.35 mg/100 g DW) and tartaric acid (115.70-484.168 mg/100 g DW). These results suggest that the date fruit are nutritious and can be an excellent source for human nutrition and health benefits.

A fruta da tâmara é conhecida por ser o alimento básico nos países árabes. Oferece muitos benefícios potenciais à saúde e pode ser a fonte essencial de nutrientes. A maioria das variedades marroquinas não se caracteriza por suas propriedades químicas, bioquímicas nem de qualidade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a composição química de 17 variedades de frutos de tâmara marroquina (Phoenix dactylifera L.) e determinar seu valor nutritivo. A análise mostrou que as tâmaras são ricas em açúcares (51,80-87,98%) e contêm baixa concentração de proteínas (1,09-2,80%) e lipídios (0,16-0,39%). O mineral predominante é o potássio (1.055,26-1.604,10 mg/100 g DW). Além disso, contêm altas concentrações de ácido málico (69,48-495,58 mg/100 g DW), ácido oxálico (18,47-233,35 mg/100 g DW) e ácido tartárico (115,70-484,168 mg/100 g DW). Esses resultados sugerem que o fruto da tamareira é nutritivo e pode ser uma excelente fonte de nutrição humana e conferir benefícios à saúde.

Preliminary phytochemical, microscopic analysis and metabolite profiling of Phoenix pusilla root

Palms are considered as familiar strangers. Various studies reported that the genus Phoenix was mostly cultivated,traditionally used plants as medicine, and also as an ornamental plant. In this present study, preliminary phytochemicalanalysis, the study of microscopical structures and the chemical constituents of Phoenix pusilla root was evaluated.Transverse Section of P. pusilla root was studied by sectioning the two different thickness roots and also powdermicroscopy was carried out. Non-polar, volatile constituents of crude ethanolic extract of root were analyzed byGC–MS. Primary and secondary metabolites quantification revealed that the carbohydrate content and total phenolicsconcentration were higher than the other metabolites. The physicochemical analysis showed the moisture content was3.78 ± 0.54, the ash content value was 2.46 ± 0.95, and the crude fiber content was higher than protein, fat content.Microscopy study showed the presence of unique tracheids. Metabolite profiling revealed the presence of 96 differentconstituents and more than 10 found to have biological importance. Pharmacognostic study is an important step ofresearch which reveals about shelf-life of the drug, adulterations, etc.

Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activities of Crude Methanol Extract of Phoenix dactylifera Seeds on Clinical Isolates of Different Strains of E. coli

Aim:This study was conducted to evaluate the antimicrobial activities of seed extract of Phoenix dactylifera.Study Design:Extraction of active ingredients of Phoenix dactyliferaseeds using methanol and its effects on selected clinical isolates and isolated strains of E. coli.Place and Duration of Study:`Department of Phatrmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical, University of Nigeria, Nsukka between march 2017 and October 2018.Methodology:The seed of phoenix dactylifera were washed thoroughly to get rid of any adhering date flesh, air dried and ground. The ground powders were subjected to extraction by cold maceration using methanol. Preliminary sensitivity test was carried out against eight microorganisms, namely:Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E. coli, Enterococcus, Klebsiella, Staph. spp, Salmonella spp, Bacillus sp and Candida albicansusing agar diffusion method. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests were carried out on isolated strains of E. colifrom urine samples using agar diffusion method. The minimal inhibitory concentrations of crude methanol extract of seeds of Phoenix dactyliferawere determined using agar diffusion method. The phytochemical analysis was conducted to determine the secondary metabolites.Results:The preliminary sensitivity test performed shows that the crude methanol extract of date seed were sensitive against all organisms tested. The active ingredients of the extract showed activities against all strains of E.colitested though their zones of inhibition vary (18-21mm). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value ranges from 10-19.9 mg/ml. The phytochemical analysis of crude methanol seed extract of P. dacteriferaindicated the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, carbohydrates, proteins, reducing sugar, sterols and Terpenes, Anthraquinone glycosides.Conclusion:The present study provides the scientific information about Phoenix dactyliferaseed activity

In Vitro Assessment of Coagulation Activities in Human Plasma Treated With Ajwa Date (Phoenix dactylifera L.) Extracts

Abstract@#Introduction: Arterial and venous thromboses contribute to significant morbidity and mortality rate, thus an antithrombotic agent is needed for prevention and treatment of thrombosis. Ajwa dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) reportedly contain a high level of salicylic acid which is a compound responsible for anticoagulation via antagonism of vitamin K. The present study was designed to assess coagulation activities in human plasma treated with Ajwa date extracts in vitro. Methods: Platelet-poor plasma samples from 27 donors were treated with ethanol crude date extract (ET) or aqueous crude date extract (AQ) of Ajwa dates at different concentrations to generate the following seven test groups from each donor: control (normal saline), ET-I (0.1 g/mL), ET-II (0.5 g/mL), ET-III (1.0 g/mL), AQ-I (0.1 g/ mL), AQ-II (0.5 g/mL) and AQ-III (1.0 g/mL). In vitro coagulation activities of Ajwa dates were assessed based on prothrombin time (PT, an assessment of extrinsic coagulation pathway), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT, an assessment of the intrinsic coagulation pathway), and thrombin time (TT, an evaluation of level and function of fibrinogen). Results: A very significant prolongation of PT, APTT and TT were observed for the ET-II and ET-III groups and very significant prolongation of PT and TT was observed for the AQ-II and AQ-III groups. Significant prolongation of TT was observed in the AQ-I group. Conclusion: In conclusion, Ajwa date extracts had an anticoagulation effect on human plasma.

Performance Evaluation of the Newly Developed BD Phoenix NMIC-500 Panel Using Clinical Isolates of Gram-Negative Bacilli

BACKGROUND: The emergence of carbapenem resistance among gram-negative bacilli (GNB), mediated by carbapenemase production, has necessitated the development of a simple and accurate device for detecting minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and resistance mechanisms, especially carbapenemase production. We evaluated the performance of the BD Phoenix NMIC-500 panel (BD Diagnostic Systems, Sparks, MD, USA) for antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) and carbapenemase-producing organism (CPO) detection. METHODS: We used 450 non-duplicate clinical GNB isolates from six general hospitals in Korea (409 Enterobacteriaceae and 41 glucose non-fermenting bacilli [GNFB] isolates). AST for meropenem, imipenem, ertapenem, ceftazidime, and ceftazidime/avibactam, and CPO detection were performed using the Phoenix NMIC-500 panel. Broth microdilution was used as the reference method for AST. The rates of categorical agreement (CA), essential agreement (EA), minor error (mE), major error (ME), and very major error (VME) were calculated in each antimicrobial. In addition, PCR and sequencing were performed to evaluate the accuracy of CPO detection by the BD Phoenix NMIC-500 panel, and the rate of correct identification was calculated. RESULTS: The CA rates were >90% for all antimicrobials tested with the Enterobacteriaceae isolates, except for imipenem (87.2%). The GNFB CA rates ranged from 92.7% to 100% for all antimicrobials. The ME rates were 1.7% for Enterobacteriaceae and 0% for GNFB. The panel identified 97.2% (243/250) of the carbapenemase-producing isolates. CONCLUSIONS: The BD Phoenix NMIC-500 panel shows promise for AST and CPO detection.

Influence of different cultivars of Phoenix dactylifera L-date fruits on blood clotting and wound healing

Objective: To investigate different types of dates and medical properties of influencing blood clotting and wound healing in an animal model. Methods: Three different cultivars of dates (Ajwa, Khalas, and Fardh) were examined in-vivo, for blood clotting and wound healing using CD1 mice of both sexes. Study of toxicity to animals was performed accordingly prior to further investigations. The ethanolic extracts were given orally to animals as a constituent in their daily water. Blood samples were obtained from the mice inferior vena cava to carry out the prothrombin time (PT) assay using the manual method and confirmed using a semi-automated machine. The bleeding time (BT) assay was performed using the cutting technique. In the wound healing analysis, a small cut (5-10 mm) in the skin overlying the thigh was conducted in all mice under anesthesia. The diameter of the cut and healing status were measured on a daily basis throughout the time of the experiment using a roller. Results: Ajwa was able to elevate both PT and BT (P<0.05), significantly in a time-dependent manner followed by Khalas date (P<0.05). The results of PT and BT of Fardh date were found to be very close to those of the control group (P<0.05). Despite its activity as an anticoagulant, Khalas date showed a potential property to enhance wound healing in contrast to other dates and the control groups in this study. Conclusions: Omani Khalas date fruit has both antithrombotic as well as wound healing properties. The results open a new gate with these fruits for exploring the potential component(s) that may play an important role in antithrombotic as well as wound healing process.

Influence of different cultivars of Phoenix dactylifera L-date fruits on blood clotting and wound healing

Objective: To investigate different types of dates and medical properties of influencing blood clotting and wound healing in an animal model. Methods: Three different cultivars of dates (Ajwa, Khalas, and Fardh) were examined in-vivo, for blood clotting and wound healing using CD1 mice of both sexes. Study of toxicity to animals was performed accordingly prior to further investigations. The ethanolic extracts were given orally to animals as a constituent in their daily water. Blood samples were obtained from the mice inferior vena cava to carry out the prothrombin time (PT) assay using the manual method and confirmed using a semi-automated machine. The bleeding time (BT) assay was performed using the cutting technique. In the wound healing analysis, a small cut (5-10 mm) in the skin overlying the thigh was conducted in all mice under anesthesia. The diameter of the cut and healing status were measured on a daily basis throughout the time of the experiment using a roller. Results: Ajwa was able to elevate both PT and BT (P<0.05), significantly in a time-dependent manner followed by Khalas date (P<0.05). The results of PT and BT of Fardh date were found to be very close to those of the control group (P<0.05). Despite its activity as an anticoagulant, Khalas date showed a potential property to enhance wound healing in contrast to other dates and the control groups in this study. Conclusions: Omani Khalas date fruit has both antithrombotic as well as wound healing properties. The results open a new gate with these fruits for exploring the potential component(s) that may play an important role in antithrombotic as well as wound healing process.

Application of PPP model in public hospital reform:a case study of Phoenix Healthcare Group′s participation in Beijing Mentougou District Hospital′s reform / 中华医院管理杂志

In a case study of Phoenix Healthcare Group' s role in Beijing Mentougou District Hospital's reform,this paper systematically reviewed the PPP application in public medical service,revealing the problems found in the reform including concept deviations for public benefit,and sustainability of the business pattern.On such basis,the authors recommended from the perspectives of the government,hospital and society.Their recommendations cover policies on improving the supporting policies,reconstruction of the hospital mechanisms of motivation,income distribution and supervision,fostering efficient private medical enterprises and the third-party appraisers.These recommendations aim at improving PPP model in the reform of public hospitals in China.

In vitro inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase and α-amylase level and antioxidant potential of seeds of Phoenix dactylifera L

Objective: To evaluate and compare the antioxidant activity, total phenolic contents (TPCs) and in vitro antidiabetic activity of various pits extracts obtained from five Omani date cultivars. Methods: Sun-dried mature fruits of five Omani date varieties, namely, Fardh, Naghal, Khalas, Khinazi and Khasab were purchased from the local market in Muscat, Oman in the month of September 2014. Four seed extracts viz. water, ethanol, methanol and acetone were prepared for each date variety and their antioxidant activities were investigated by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, hydrogen peroxide scavenging method and reducing power assay method, respectively. In vitro antidiabetic activity of the date pit extracts was evaluated by measuring their inhibitory effect on α-glucosidase and α-amylase level. TPCs were also quantified colorimetrically. Results: The results indicated that TPC of date seeds was solvent dependent. Acetone, ethanol and methanol were found to be significantly better solvents than water in extracting phenolic compounds from the date seeds. Pit extracts exhibited moderate to good in vitro antioxidant activity and increased reducing power. Among all date pit extracts, water extract exhibited significant in vitro antidiabetic activity in comparison to standard drug, acarbose. Conclusions: The present study confirms that disposed waste of Omani dates is a rich source of dietary antioxidant because of its high TPC. The pits due to their inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase and α-amylase level could be used as a monotherapy along with an appropriate diabetic diet and exercise or might be in conjunction with antidiabetic therapy to manage and prevent progression of diabetes.

Phoenix dactylifera Linn as a potential novel anti-oxidant in treating major opioid toxicity.

The use of opioids has gain popularity in the field of medicine especially in treating chronic terminally ill patients. Unfortunately, several adverse effects in relation to its use have been reported. Literature search on the adversity of opioids in treating pain, its paradoxical hyperalgesic effects and susceptibility to addiction were conducted using Pubmed, Embase and Google Scholar without species limitation. This brief article focuses on the corresponding neuro-protective, hepato-protective, anti-inflammatory, ulcero-protective and nephron-protective functions of (Phoenix dactylifera L) to elaborate on evidences, mechanisms, modulatory and pharmacological significance to counteract adverse effects of opioid treatment and provide insight on the underlying mechanisms of addiction.

Pharmacological Effect of Panax ginseng Extract Standardized with Ginsenoside Rg3 on Mating Behavior of Male Rats Treated with Dopamine Antagonists.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Panax ginseng extract standardized with ginsenoside Rg3 (PGRg3) on the mating behavior of sexually active or inactive male rats treated with dopamine antagonists. Methodology: Animals were treated with PGRg3 (50,150 and 450mg/kgb.w) with or without dopamine antagonists. The penile erection, motor activity and stretching-yawning episode were evaluated in animals treated with PGRg3 alone or in combination with lisurode or SND 919. Testosterone and sperm counts were also evaluated in different treatment groups. Results: The results showed that (-) Eticlopride counteracted PGRg3-induced penile erection but not motor hyperactivity. PGRg3 treatment enhanced lisuride-induced behavioral effects. Moreover, PGRg3 plus SND 919 showed a marked stretching-yawning behavior compared to the animals received SND 919 alone. PGRg3 also succeeded to increase testosterone level and sperm count in a dose dependent fashion. Conclusion: It could be concluded that DAD2 receptors are involved in PGRg3-induced mating behavior and testicular function improvement. PGRg3 could be used to improve sexual function and mating behavior in people suffering from erectile dysfunction.

Isolation and characterization of novel mucoadhesive biomaterial from Phoenix dactylifera.

Phoenix dactylifera belongs to the family Arecaceae. The current aim of our research work is to isolate bio-material from the fruit pulp of Phoenix dactylifera and evaluate its mucoadhesivity. The bio- material was isolated by simple economical process. The isolated biomaterial was subjected for determination of solubility, colour changing point, viscosity, surface tension, pH and chemical tests. The mucoadhesivity of the biomaterial was assessed by shear stress method and rotating cylinder method using Capra aegagrus labium and intestine as mucosal substrates. The results were compared with HPMC and sodium CMC. The research study revealed that the biomaterial from Phoenix dactylifera exhibits promising inbuilt mucoadhesivity. So it can serve as a powerful natural mucoadhesant and may be used to develop mucoadhesive transmucosal drug delivery systems.

Plant breeding and in situ utilization of palm trees / Melhoramento genético e utilização in situ de palmeiras

The palm tree family (Arecaceae) is constituted by approximately 3000 species mainly distributed in the tropics and subtropics. As a source of a variety of products they contribute to the world and local economies, and also to peoples lifestyles. Historically their use has been based on wild populations, but also on local domestication. Very few species are subject of plant breeding programs and are cultivated in the world. This is the case of the African oil palm (Elaeis guineensis), in which investment and development consortiums invest high sums. Another kind of crop is the date palm (Phoenix dactylifera), which was domesticated thousand of years ago and whose success is based in the export of a fine product with worldwide recognition. In this case the production is based on traditional varieties and has very incipient breeding programs. A third group of palms includes those species from which products are obtained and manufactured for local development. The objective of this literature review is to contribute in the analysis of opportunities and weaknesses to investing in domestication and plant breeding programs in those palm trees with a recognized productive value.

A família das palmeiras (Arecaceae) é constituída por aproximadamente 3000 espécies, distribuídas principalmente nos trópicos e subtrópicos. Como fonte de uma variedade de produtos, contribuem para a economia mundial e local, e também para o modo de vida de várias pessoas. Historicamente, seu uso tem sido baseado em populações silvestres, mas também em domesticações locais. Muito poucas espécies estão submetidas a programas de melhoramento genético e são cultivadas a nível mundial. Este é o caso da palmeira de dendê (Elaeis guineensis), na qual consórcios de investimento e desenvolvimento investem altas quantias de dinheiro. Outro tipo de palmeira cultivada é a tamareira (Phoenix dactylifera), a qual foi domesticada milhares de anos atrás e cujo sucesso está baseado na exportação de produtos com reconhecimento mundial. Nesse caso, a produção está baseada em variedades tradicionais e os programas de melhoramento ainda são incipientes. Um terceiro grupo de palmeiras inclui aquelas espécies cujos produtos são obtidos e manufaturados para o desenvolvimento local. O objetivo desta revisão bibliográfica é contribuir para a análise de oportunidades e fragilidades no investimento em domesticação e programas de melhoramento das palmeiras com valor produtivo reconhecido.

Isolation and characterization of novel mucoadhesive biomaterial from Phoenix dactylifera.

Phoenix dactylifera belongs to the family Arecaceae. The current aim of our research work is to isolate bio-material from the fruit pulp of Phoenix dactylifera and evaluate its mucoadhesivity. The bio- material was isolated by simple economical process. The isolated biomaterial was subjected for determination of solubility, colour changing point, viscosity, surface tension, pH and chemical tests. The mucoadhesivity of the biomaterial was assessed by shear stress method and rotating cylinder method using Capra aegagrus labium and intestine as mucosal substrates. The results were compared with HPMC and sodium CMC. The research study revealed that the biomaterial from Phoenix dactylifera exhibits promising inbuilt mucoadhesivity. So it can serve as a powerful natural mucoadhesant and may be used to develop mucoadhesive transmucosal drug delivery systems.