bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Effect of Action Bitters (Herbal Mixture) on Some Biochemical Indices of Albino Rats
Authors: Ogechi Nwachuku, Edna , Ibioku Elekima,
Published: July 2019

Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of action bitters on some liver and renal function indices of Albino rats.

Study Design: Experimental rats were divided into two groups A and B. Group A (control rats) consist of 10 rats and were not given herbal drugs while group B (treated rats) consist of 25 rats and were treated orally with 0.68 ml/kg of Action Bitters on a daily basis for 30 days.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was carried out in the Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria within a period of four months (July 2018 – October, 2018).

Methodology: A total of 35 male albino rats weighing an average of 0.18 kg were separated into two groups namely A and B. Group A had 10 rats and were used as control while Group B had 25 rats and were treated as the test group. Group A rats were fed normally while Group B received water, rat feds and Action Bitters. The action bitters were administered orally using galvage tube at a dose of 0.68/kg bodyweight. After 30th day of treatment, blood samples were collected for analysis of serum Electrolytes, Urea, Creatinine, AST, ALP and ALT. The biochemical parameters were analysed statistically using GraphPad Prism 5.03 version.

Results: Results of renal indices obtained showed that control rats had values of 9.567±6.396, 74.59±40.93, 153±25.67, 111.7±20.23 and 5.767±1.819 for Urea, Creatinine, Potassium, Sodium and Chloride respectively while the treated rats had 11.72±6.142, 122.9±82.16, 152.8±27.57, 116.6±24.98 and 6.156±1.843 for Urea, Creatinine, Potassium, Sodium and Chloride respectively. More so, when liver enzymes were considered, control rats had values of 134.2 ± 52.07, 35.44± 13.82 and 169.2± 71.92 for AST, ALT and ALP respectively while treated rats had values of 139.4 ±44.6, 35.39± 14.39 and 196.9± 65.92 for AST, ALT and ALP respectively. The comparison of control rats and treated rats showed no significant differences in the biochemical indices considered at P=.05.

Conclusion: The study indicated that Action Bitters did not induce any obvious biochemical derangement in liver and renal indices at a dose of 0.68ml/kg bodyweight.
Evaluation of the Mineral and Vitamin Compositions of Leaves of Alchornea cordifolia and Thaumatococcus daniellii
Authors: Osuocha K. U. , Okafor I. J. , Nweke E. O.
Published: July 2019

The study was conducted to evaluate the vitamin and mineral compositions of leaves of Alchornea cordifolia and Thaumatococcus daniellii. Standard methods were employed to determine the vitamin and mineral compositions of plant samples. Results obtained from the study showed that the concentration of vitamin B6 (4.46±0.02 mg/100 g) was significantly (P<0.05) higher than those of other vitamins reportedly present in Alchornea cordifolia leaf. However, the least in concentration of all the vitamins present being Vit C (0.34±0.02 mg/100 g). Results on the mineral compositions of leaf of Alchornea cordifolia revealed that the leaf contains significantly (P<0.05) higher concentration of phosphorus (4.58±0.13 mg/100 g) compared to those of other minerals found present while zinc was found to be available at the least concentration of (0.90±0.04 mg/100 g). Thaumatococcus daniellii leaf contains a significantly (P<0.05) higher concentration of vitamin B12 compared to all other vitamins present. Results on the mineral compositions however, revealed that leaf of Thaumatococcus daniellii contains considerable amounts of calcium (6.15±0.03 mg/100 g) which was not significantly (P<0.05) different from the value reported for phosphorus (5.75±0.12 mg/100 g) which as well was not significantly (P<0.05) different from potassium (5.30±0.14 mg/100 g). However, zinc was reportedly present in the plant sample at the concentration of (1.42±0.02 mg/100 g). In conclusion, findings from this work have expanded the knowledge about Alchornea cordifolia and Thaumatococcus daniellii while consolidating already established facts on their therapeutic potentials.
Haematinic Effects of Aqueous Extract of Lophira lanceolata Leaves in Phenylhydrazine-induced Anaemia in Wistar Rats
Authors: Osafanme Iserhienrhien Lucky , Duniya Sheneni Victor , Chukwuemeka Nweje-Anyalowu Paul , Mercy Oguche , Adejoh Idakwoji Precious
Published: July 2019

Aim: The haematinic activity of the aqueous extract of Lophira lanceolata leaves was investigated using rat model of phenylhydrazine-induced anaemia.

Methods and Results: Red Blood Cell (RBC) count, Haemoglobin (Hb) concentration and Packed Cell Volume (PCV) were analysed as indices of anaemia. Following phenylhydrazine administration to rats at a dose of 10 mg/kg for 8 days, a significant decrease (P<0.05) in the haematological parameters was observed indicating anaemia. However, treatment with graded doses (200, 400 and 800 mg/kg) of the aqueous extract of Lophira lanceolata leaves produced a significant (P<0.05) increase in the RBC count, Hb concentration and PCV time- and dose- dependently.

Conclusion: It was concluded that Lophira lanceolata leaves possess haematinic activity, making it useful in the management of anaemia.
Tumoricidal Effect of Trigonella foenum-graceum Extract and Selenium Nanoparticles on Ehrlich Carcinoma Bearing Mice
Authors: El-Batal Ahmed I. , Ahmed Neamat H. , Barakat Lamiaa A. A. , Khirallah Salma M.
Published: July 2019

Trigonella foenum-graceum extract either alone or combined with selenium nanoparticles exhibited antitumor effect. Ehrlich ascite carcinoma (EAC) cell line and four groups of female mice were used. Solid Ehrlich carcinoma (EC) was induced by inoculation of 2.5x106 cells in left thighs of each animal. Mice were gavage orally by 2.5 µg/0.1 ml of Trigonella foenum-graceum extract either alone or combined with selenium nanoparticles daily during one month. Tumor size, serum tumor markers (TNF-α, IFN- γ, Granzyme-B and Caspase-3) were measured. Oxidative stress, antioxidant markers, Histopathological, apoptotic and necrotic examinations were determined in tumor tissues. Tumor size of experimental groups represents reduction. Caspase-3 as well as Granzyme-B activities were significantly elevated along with diminishing tumor size while, TNF-α and IFN-γ levels were decreased in serum. Meanwhile, oxidative stress marker (MDA) was significantly decreased in tumor tissue. The tumor GSH content and CAT activity were increased. Histopathological, apoptotic and necrotic examinations were context with previous conclusion. It could be concluded that Trigonella foenum-graceum extract either alone or combined with SeNPs exhibited antitumor effect which is reflected by a inhibition in tumor size, a decrease of serum TNF-α and IFN-γ, an increase in serum caspase-3 and Granzyme-B, reduction in tumor MDA and an increase in tumor GSH and CAT which cause regulate tumor regression.
Effects of Food-Chain Mediated Metal Exposures on Lipid Profile in Rats
Authors: Ovie Richard Omonigho , Asagba Samuel Ogheneovo
Published: July 2019

Aims: To evaluate the effect of Cd and As on lipid profile in rats by using an experimental food-chain to imitate the natural food-chain of fish to rat.

Study Design: Toxicity of Cd and As was first induced in fishes through an artificial habitat; the fishes after 1 month of exposure were killed and used as source of protein in formulating rat feed. In this way, the natural food-chain of fish to rat was mimicked as the rats get the toxic metals in their fish diets.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Science, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria, from June 2016 to September 2018.

Methodology: Adult male rats weighing between 100–150 g were fed with formulated rat feed that has Cd/As (at a dose of 0.4 mg/100 ml) contaminated fish as source of protein. Control group comprises of rats that were not given metal contaminated fish as food. The rats were fed for 3 months after which they were sacrificed and the plasma and vital organs obtained for investigation of lipid metabolism function.

Results: Biochemical analysis on lipid profile status was made after 90 days of inoculation. A significant increment (p≤0.05)  in plasma and organ concentrations of Cholesterol, triglyceride (TG), lipoprotein of low density (LDL), and lipoprotein of very low density (VLDL) was seen in the rats given these metals in diet in comparison to control, while plasma and organ lipoprotein of high density (HDL) concentrations declined.

Conclusion: These results infer that cadmium and arsenic produces reactive oxygen compounds that are toxic to man, hence calls for caution and further studies.
Proximate Analysis and Phytochemical Profile of Brachystegia eurycoma Leaves
Authors: O. Ududua Uyoyoghene , Monanu Michael O. , Chuku Lawrence C.
Published: July 2019

Aim: This study investigated the proximate and phytochemical composition of Brachystegia eurycoma leaves.

Methods: Crude ethanol extract of B. eurycoma leaves was obtained by cold extraction method.  AOAC method was used for proximate analysis. Phytochemical profiling was done with qualitative phytochemical evaluation and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analytical method. Matching and interpretation of the spectral was done with the National Institute standard and Technology (NIST05) library.

Results: The proximate analysis result showed B. eurycoma leaves to be abundant in param­eters evaluated in the order of 31.47±0.43% Carbohydrate > 15.15±0.04% Ash > 14.45±0.15 crude fibre > 13.83±0.32 protein > 13.14±0.22 moisture > 1.97±0.01 fat. Qualitative phytochemical analysis detected alkaloid, saponin, tannin, diterpenes, phenol, quinine, flavonoid, protein, xanthoprotein and cardiac glycoside in the leaves of B. eurycoma. GC/MS data showed that the prevailing volatile bioactive compounds in ethanol leaf extract of B. eurycoma were 3-O-Methyl-d-glucose (13.23%), cis-9-Hexadecenal (10.40%), Desulphosinigrin (10.34%), Phytol (7.58%), Hydroquinone (7.23%), n-Hexadecanoic acid (6.61%), Oleoyl chloride (6.10%), 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)- (5.89%), Hexadecanoic acid, (2.97%), Benzofuran, 2,3-dihydro-(1.94%), Hexadecanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl) (1.92%).

Conclusion: The result of this preliminary investigation reveals the potentials of B. eurycoma leaves as candidate for food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and nutraceutical industries.
Activity Coefficient of Solution Components and Salts as Special Osmolyte from Kirkwood-Buff Theoretical Perspective
Authors: Udema Ikechukwu Iloh , Onigbindec Abraham Olalere
Published: July 2019

Background: There has been different interpretation of kosmotropes and chaotropes without concern for the physicochemical characteristics of the macromolecule and for the link between Hofmeister phenomena with solution structure. The objectives of this research are: 1) To investigate  different ways of determining activity coefficient and activity of ionic osmolyte 2), to present a common theoretical basis for the interaction between reaction mixture components and Hofmeister phenomena and 3) determine the preferential interaction parameters and the Kirkwood-Buff integrals.

Methods: A major theoretical research and partly experimental.

Results and Discussion: Some equations in literature gave different values of activity coefficient and activity of solution components. The preferential interaction by binding is positive with ethanol only and at its higher concentration in the presence of ideal solution of different concentration of calcium chloride. There was positive m-value with ethanol. It was negative m-value in the presence of preferentially binding species, calcium ion and ethanol as against the excluded chloride ion. There was negative and positive change of solvation preference and interaction parameter due respectively to ethanol only and a mixture of it and the salt.

Conclusion: Selected equations in literature may not give the same values of activity coefficient and activity of solution components. The presence of stabilising osmolyte, salt, and ethanol may not always yield positive m-values. The sign of the change of solvation preference with either binary or ternary mixture of osmolytes and, the cognate interaction parameter, may be a better indicator of the stability of a macromolecule. The kosmotropes and chaotropes may be cationic or anionic and their deficit or otherwise around the macromolecule and consequence, depend largely on net charge on the macromolecule at a given pH.
Biochemical Studies on Coumarin Derivatives as Antioxidant and Antitumor Agents
Authors: Mohammed F. Z. , EL-Deen I. M. , Tmamm A. S.
Published: July 2019

Background: Coumarin derivatives have attracted intense interest in recent years, because they have anti-tumor, antioxidant activities, and induce apoptosis.

Aims and Objective: Our study aims to evaluate the antitumor and anti-oxidant activities of new Coumarin derivatives: N-(P-chlorophenyl)-7-hydroxycoumarin-3-yl carboxamide and Ethyl 7-hydroxycoumarin-3-yl ester against in vivo tumor model.

Methodology: the toxicity for the synthesized compounds was determined. The anticancer and anti-oxidant activities were studied by evaluation the viability of tumor cells, life span prolongation, and estimation of antioxidants.

Results: Our compounds exhibited significant anti-oxidant activity towards Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells by reduction the MDA and NO concentration (p<0.001) compared to the positive control group. Whereas significantly increase in the G. peroxidase activity (p<0.001) in treated groups compared to the positive control group. Anticancer agent kills tumors by induction of apoptosis that showing significantly increases in Caspase-3 and Bax activity compared to positive control group.

Discussion: The compound N-(P-chlorophenyl)-7-hydroxycoumarin-3-yl carboxamide is better than Ethyl 7-hydroxycoumarin-3-yl ester compound because of the nature of the halogen atom (a chlorine or a bromine atom) in the ‘meta’ position of the phenyl ring relative to the ester oxygen atom of 2-oxo-2H-1-benzopyran- 3-carboxylate led to a better anti-tumor effect than that observed in the absence of any substituent.
Biochemical Parameters, Activity Levels of Marker Enzymes and Serum Electolytes of Wistar Albino Rats Fed Mango (Mangifera indica) Pulp Formulated Diets
Authors: Iheagwam Pauline N. , Onyeike Eugene N. , Amadi Benjamin A.
Published: July 2019

Biochemical parameters, activity levels of marker enzymes and serum electrolytes of Wistar albino rats fed naturally ripe (control), unripe and artificially ripened mango pulp formulated diets were investigated. Ripe and unripe fruits were collected and used for the study and artificially ripened mangoes were obtained by wrapping unripe fruits with dark polyethylene bag; treatment with calcium carbide and by dipping into hot water. After ripening, the mango samples were air-dried, pulverized and used to formulate the 10%, 20%, 30% diets fed to rats for 28 days and their plasma collected for biochemical investigations. At 10% level of incorporation, plasma protein concentration in the control (65.63±0.12 mg/dl) was significantly higher (p< 0.05) than values for unripe groups (55.50±1.91 mg/dl) and calcium carbide (56.97±1.27 mg/dl) while Albumin concentration was highest in the unripe (41.33±3.58 mg/dl) but lowest in the calcium carbide (33.50±0.69 mg/dl) but at 20 and 30% levels, no significant difference was observed for both parameters. Billirubin was significantly higher in the calcium carbide groups but lowest in the control groups at all levels of incorporation while Creatinine and Urea revealed no significant difference at all levels. Marker enzyme assay showed significant variations only in the concentrations of Alkaline phosphatase and Gamma glutamyl transterase at the 30% level of incorporation only. Electrolyte assay revealed that at 30% level of incorporation, significantly lower levels of potassium were observed in the calcium carbide (3.43±0.06 mg/dl) group compared to the control (3.80±0.17 mg/dl).Thus, artificial ripening of fruits may adversely affect Biochemical parameters, activity levels of marker enzymes and serum electrolytes.
Biochemical Indices and Haematological Studies of Ethyl Acetate Extract of Persea americana Leaf in Albino Rats
Authors: Mashi J. A. , Sa’id A. M. , Bello F. , Yakasai H. M. , Bello B. , Idris R. I.
Published: July 2019

The aim of this present study was to evaluate the effect of ethyl acetate extract of P. americana (avocado) on liver and kidney function, lipid profile as well as haematological parameters in albino rats. A total of 20 albino rats were used for this experiment and they were divided into four groups of 5 (A-D) rats each. Group A served as normal control, group B-D served as experimental groups administered with 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight of ethyl acetate extract of Persea americana leaf per day for 4 weeks respectively. This study was conducted in the Department of Biochemistry, Bayero University, Kano, in the month of May, 2018. Liver function test (colorimetric method), kidney indices and lipid profile (spectrophotometry method), and hematological examination (SYSMEX XE-2000) were analysed. Administration of ethyl acetate extract did not produced significant effect on liver and kidney indices in all the treated groups. The extract significantly (P=.05) decrease total cholesterol, triglyceride, low density lipoprotein and very low density lipoprotein in all the treated groups. Haematological parameters analysed were not significantly affected in all the treated groups. Thus, ethyl acetate extract of P. americana leaf possesses hypolipidemic potentials and relatively safe for kidney, liver and hematological indices but extremely high doses may not be advisable.
Combined Antioxidant Recovery Properties of Fruit Juice Extracts of Cucumber and Water Melon on Lipid Profile and Gonadal Steroid Levels of Cadmium Induced Testicular Damage on Male Albino Rats
Authors: Anacletus F. C. , Nwakaku B. , Nwauche K. T.
Published: July 2019

The antioxidant protective effects of fruit juice of cucumber and watermelon on lipid profile of cadmium induced toxicity on male albino rats was investigated. Forty male rats were divided into eight groups. Group NC served as normal control group while group PC was positive control that was not treated but induced with cadmium. Groups I to VI received high dose and low dose of juice of Cucumber and Watermelon respectively. Excluding the normal control group, other groups were fed with lard 14 days before treatment commenced.  Doses of 0.8 mg/kg-high dose and 0.4 mg/kg-low dose for cucumber and watermelon respectively. At the 4th and 6th week, biochemical parameters were assayed. Results revealed that the levels of total cholesterol, LDL, VLDL and triglyceride significantly (P˂0.05) were decreased compared to positive control but HDL was increased in treatment groups compared to positive control. Pretreatment with cucumber and watermelon juice indicated that total cholesterol, LDL, VLDL and triglyceride significantly (P˂0.05) were decreased compared to positive control but HDL was increased in treatment groups compared to positive control. The result also revealed an increase in testosterone levels in treated groups after 4 weeks of administration of whole extract of cucumber and watermelon when compared to their week 2 values. Testosterone level in positive control was also reduced significantly from 1.5±0.14 ng/ml to 0.46±0.31 ng/ml. Histological evaluation of the testes of normal control group revealed that the interstitium was intact with leydig cells present and maturing germ cells embedded in normal seminiferous tubules while the other groups that were induced with cadmium only showed morphology of testes with empty seminiferous tubules and consolidated interstitial spaces.
Toxicity Impact on Bioaccumulation of Potentially Toxic Elements in African Giant Land Snail (Archachatina margenata) Treated with Different Soils and Its Ecological Risk Assessment
Authors: Egwu Oguh C. , Victor Ugwu C. , Casmir Uzoefuna C. , Sa’adat Usman , Chibueze Nkwocha C. , Musa Amanabo
Published: July 2019

This study investigated the concentrations of heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg and Pb) in African Giant Land Snail (AGLS) treated with different soil samples dumpsite (A), mining site (B) and control soil (C) (a reserve area where no activities) use in farming AGLS and also to ascertain if they are within permissible limits and its ecological risk assessment on the consumption. Soil samples; at site A, B and C was collected at 0-30 cm depth with the aid of soil auger and were used for AGLS farming, to ascertain whether the potentially toxic elements (PTEs) concentration were within the permissible limits and their ecological risk assessment on AGLS consumption. A total of 54 juvenile snails of similar weights was used for the study. The experiment lasted for six month (182 days), during which the snails were subjected to similar dietary reign and equal quantity of feed. Snail’s morphological characteristics such as Weight, length and diameter of its shell were measured after farming. The soil samples were analysed for PTEs before and after farming, and snail were also analyzed for PTEs after farming for six month using atomic absorptions spectrophotometer (AAS). The ecological health risk from the consumption of these snails was assessed using standard methods and formulas. The result of different soil before and after farming shows a significant different (P<0.05) between the activities sites (dump and mining) and the control site. The concentration of PTEs (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, and Pb) in snails treated with dump site soil were 3.05, 3.89, 3.60, 2.89, 3.98, and 2.55 mg/kg, and snails treated with mining site soil recorded 2.73, 2.74, 3.91, 4.96, 2.88 and 4.82 mg/kg. The values were greater than the maximum permissible limit of 0.5, 2.0, 0.3, 0.04, 0.1 and 0.1 mg/kg respectively recommended by FAO/WHO compared to the control. The study concludes that snail bioaccumulate toxic elements from the soil used in rearing them which is deleterious to humans when consumed. Also the DIM, HQ, HI on the consumption of snail reared with dumpsite, mining site soils are nearly free of risks, but continuous consumption can lead to bioaccumulation in the food chain.
Assessment of Constraints to Participation of Rural Women in Technology Dissemination of Women in Agriculture Program in Imo State, Nigeria
Authors: Okeke M. N. , Mbah E. N. , Nwoye I. I.
Published: July 2019

The survey was conducted to identify constraints to participation of rural women in technology dissemination of Women in Agriculture Program (WIA) in Imo State, Nigeria. Questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 60 respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage and mean score. Results showed that 33.0% of the respondents were aged between 41 and 50 years, majority (75.0%) were married, 88.0% had formal education and 55.3% engaged in farming and trading, while 56.6% had a household size of 6-10 persons. The respondents participated in the activities like processing and utilization of food crops (16.7%), harvesting and storage of food crops (16.7%), dry season vegetable production (13.3%), processing and utilization of livestock products (10.0%), processing and utilization of soya bean into soya milk and soya meal (6.7%). The study recommended that rural women should be encouraged to join co-operative societies in order to pull their resources together. It also highlighted the need for promotion of rural women’s activities through adequate provision of credit facilities by government at all levels for optimum productivity.
Effect of Variable Viscosity on Natural Convection Flow Between Vertical Parallel Plates in the Presence of Heat Generation/Absorption
Authors: Kabir Tada M. , Ajibade Abiodun O.
Published: July 2019

The present article was aimed at investigating the effects of variable viscosity on natural convection flow between vertical parallel plates in the presence of heat generation/absorption. The nonlinear differential equations governing the flow were solved using Homotopy perturbation method. The impacts of the several governing parameters on the velocity and temperature profiles are presented graphically and values of skin friction, rate of heat transfer, mass flux and mean temperature for various values of physical parameters are presented through tables. In the course of computation, it was revealed that viscosity  ontributes to decrease velocity and hence reduced resistance to flow. It was also discovered that as the heat generation increases, fluid temperature and velocity increase, while it decrease with the increase in heat absorption. Finally, it was concluded that the skin friction on both plates increase as viscosity increases.
Non-linear Regression Analysis for the Adsorption Kinetics and Equilibrium Isotherm of Phenacetin onto Activated Carbons
Authors: Ngakou Christian Sadeu , Anagho Gabche Solomon , Ngomo Horace Manga
Published: July 2019

Activated carbon obtained from ayous sawdust, Cucurbitaceae (egussi) peelings and the mixture of the two were studied for the adsorption of phenacetin. Characterisation of activated carbon by SEM and XRD analysis shows that the mixture of precursors combine the properties of activated carbon obtained separately. The well-knownbatch sorption models– Langmuir (one and two sites), Freudlich, Tempkin, Elovich, Langmuir-Freudlich, Redlich Peterson, Radke-Prausnitz, Fritz Shlunder)—were tested with experimental data for the adsorption of phenacetin to estimate adsorption equilibrium parameters—rate constantsand adsorption capacities. The model with the best fit was identified from extensive statistical analysis of the results of nonlinear regression of the experimental data. Comparison of the statistical errors in parameter estimation between linear and non-linear isotherm models shows that transformation of non-linear isotherm equations to linear forms implicitly alter their error structure. The much smaller size of the various error indicators —Determination Coefficient, R2; Sum of Square Errors, SSE; Chi Test, χ2; Average Relative Errors, ARE—, calculated for the case of non linearization when compared to linearization, indicate the greater accuracy in the application of non linearization. The Langmuir model (one site) gave the best fit and thus the values of adsorption capacity for each activated carbon were calculated from it. Kinetic models show that weak and strong interactions are involved in the adsorption process and that the controlling mechanism may not be limited to intra particle diffusion. The lower value of the boundary layer thickness in the case of activated carbon obtained from the mixture, justified the higher adsorbed quantity of this activated carbon compared to those of activated carbon from each precursor.
Protein Fractions, Physicochemical and Functional Properties of Flour and Oil from the Shea Caterpillar Cirina butyrospermi Vuillet Consumed in Northern Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Koffi Djary Michel , Cissé Mariame , Koua Gisèle Ahou
Published: July 2019

Aims: The present study was aimed at evaluating the physicochemical and functional properties of flours and oil from the Shea Caterpillar Cirina butyrospermi Vuillet, one of the most widely eaten insects in the Northern Côte d’Ivoire as alternative protein source.

Methodology: Fresh C. butyrospermi larvae were collected from Vitellaria paradoxa trees in the different regions producing shearbutter in northern Côte d’Ivoire. The larvae were oven dried and ground to obtain crude flour. Flours and Oil extracted from this insect was analysed for physicochemical properties and fatty acid constituents using standard methods.

Results: The chemical composition revealed that it contains crude protein about 60.09%, crude fat 22.23%, ash 3.71% and total carbohydrate 6.69%. These results suggest that C. butyrospermi larvae can be used in human diet to prevent undernourishment due to protein. Albumin and glutelin constitute the main part of protein fractions. The defatted flour showed good functional properties such as water and oil absorption capacity (77.96 and 150.00% respectively), dispersibility (70.90%), wettability (5 min) and foam stability (50.05%). As regards oil, it exhibited good physicochemical properties as saponification and stability. Fatty acids profile reveals that the unsaturated fatty acids accounted for 49.33% of the total fatty acids, whereas the saturated fatty acids constituted 49.83% of the fatty acids.

Conclusion: C. butyrospermi larvae could be considered as valuable source of protein and oil accounting for more than 80% of nutrients. Its flour exhibits some good functional properties making it suitable for many food product formulations. Compared with oils which have been reported of high quality, C. butyrospermi oil has potentials that could be exploited for nutritional and pharmaceutical purposes.
Substrate Specificity at the Molybdenum Site in Xanthine Oxidase Enzyme
Authors: Chekol Temesgen Nurlign
Published: July 2019

Xanthine oxidase is one of the most useful molybdenum containing enzymes, which catalyzes a wide range of purine derivative heterocyclic substrates. In order for the interaction between the reactants to take place, the substrates are expected to enter the binding pocket and attain a proper orientation with the help of binding pocket amino acid residues. In addition to the binding pocket amino acids, there are several factors that affect the progression of substrates. Therefore, the study is mainly focused to identify the factors affecting the binding stage of catalysis. The activity of xanthine oxidase family enzymes greatly depends on the proper orientation of the substrates and their interaction sites. Therefore, the rate of formation of substrate- enzyme complex is proposed to be affected by the proper orientation and the interaction site of the substrate. Moreover, the keto and enol forms of substrates as well as the existence of the substituent groups affect the reactivity of xanthine oxidase. Thus, the rate of the reaction is proposed to be affected by these factors. The variable activities of the substrates towards xanthine oxidase enzyme are largely due to the factors that affect the reductive half-reaction such as proper orientation of substrates, binding sites, activation of the active site, toutomeric nature of substrates and the inductive and steric effects. This work is used to provide valuable information that may have a mechanistic importance in establishing the substrate preferences of bmXOR to RcXDH and AOR type of enzymes in order to relate electronic structure contributions to enzymatic catalysis.
“Green Building”: A Step towards Environmental and Economic Construction
Authors: Singh Raj Vikram , Singh Krishnaraj , Vyas Rahul
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this article is to provide planners with an introduction to the concept of green buildings and building assessment systems and to identify and explore the major themes in the literature as they relate to planning. Green building is one of the measures that has been put forward to alleviate the remarkable impacts of the building stock on the environment, society and economy. GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assesment) is a rating instrument that helps individuals evaluate their building's efficiency against certain benchmarks that are acceptable nationwide, it evaluates a building's environmental efficiency over its entire life cycle holistically. This paper reports a critical review of the GRIHA rating system and incentives provided by GRIHA in India, techniques, and methods for construction of the green building, financial aspects of the green building. The efficiency of different environment-friendly models is broadly discussed in this study. The purpose of this paper is to explore the benefits of green building in order to proceed towards sustainable construction in the future.
Intestinal Parasitic Infections among Patients of Psychiatric Hospital Rumuigbo, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Eze N. C. , Abah A. E. , Ezeoru D. O.
Published: July 2019

This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections  among patients of psychiatric hospital Rumuigbo, Rivers State, Nigeria between June to September, 2017. Stool specimen were collected and analyzed from 203 patients for ova, larvae or cysts of intestinal parasites using direct wet mount and formol-ether concentration techniques. Of these, 78 (38.4%) were infected. Five parasitic infections were identified of which Ascaris lumbricoides had the highest prevalence (39.7%). Others included hookworm (8.4%), T.trichuria (4.4%) and 2 protozoans: Entamoeba histolytica (7.4%) and G. lamblia (3.0%). The occurrence of these parasites varied significantly (p< 0.05). Patients suffering from Schizophrenia had the highest prevalence of infection 33 (78.6%) followed by patients with Substance Abuse Disorder 11(37.9%), while the least prevalence was found among patients suffering from Anxiety disorder. Parasitic infection was most frequent among patients aged 18-27 years and higher among males 45 (47.9%) than the females 33 (30.3%).Prevalence of these parasitic infections varied significantly among sexes and age groups. This study has documented a higher prevalence of intestinal parasite amongst the mentally challenged in our society, re-emphasizing the need for intermittent de-worming among all the patients.
Optimization Of A Grid-Connected Photovoltaic System In A Densely Populated Residential Community
Authors: Adjei Bernard Atta , Donkoh Elvis K. , Otoo Dominic , Owusu-Ansah Emmanuel De-Graft Johnson , Mahama Francois
Published: July 2019

In Ghana, the majority of reliable electricity is generated in centralized plants. This type of electricity generation structure undoubtedly contributes to the economic rise in electricity tariffs and transmission losses due to the operational cost of such plants and their vast distances from the communities respectively. In this paper, Linear Programming was used to nd the optimal power dispatch of a decentralized grid-connected photovoltaic system in the form of a microgrid for a minimum cost of electricity. The fundamental LP problem was optimized in AMPL (A Modeling Language for Mathematical Programming) properly employing the CPLEX solver. In the case study, the involvement of microgrid in the energy sector convincingly demonstrated a daily cost of GHS63,426.23 in the rst ve years accurately representing 18% potential reduction. This cost reduction will be increased tremendously to 75% in subsequent years. This is a lower energy bill as compared to the bill of the existing electricity structure.
Role of Bamboo Forest for Mitigation and Adaptation to Climate Change Challenges in China
Authors: Terefe Regassa , Jian Liu , Kunyong Yu
Published: July 2019

Bamboo is one of the fastest growing plants on the planet, with many attributes which make it a useful potential resource for humankind. Though having fast growth and good regeneration performance after harvesting is a unique characteristic of the specie. It enhances a high carbon storage potential particularly when the harvested culms are transformed into durable products. China has many bamboo species with distribution and area coverage's, and highly connected in using the production of bamboo resources. Its characteristics make it an ideal solution for the environmental and social consequences of tropical deforestation. This review paper aims to assess the contribution of bamboo in mitigating and adapting impacts of climate change and its importance regarding ecological and socio-economic benefits. The review summarised the role of bamboo forests towards mitigating and adapting its potential to overcome the impacts of climate change currently seen globally and particularly to China. Therefore, advancing bamboo farming systems at different levels, it's advantages to reduce greenhouse gas in the atmosphere and expanding bamboo forests in future under wider use and intensive management is recommended.
Ocular Adverse Effects of Antidepressants – Need for an Ophthalmic Screening and Follow up Protocol
Authors: Narayanan Varsha
Published: July 2019

Depression is emerging to be one of the commonest mental health disorders worldwide affecting a wide age group. The prescription of antidepressants has risen considerably in last decade with a preference for using newer antidepressants like Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). There have been many published reports of Ocular side effects with Antidepressants related to Dry eye, Visual disturbance, Angle closure glaucoma and Retinal effects. There has also been a significant rise in antidepressant usage by the elderly, which is a population at risk for ocular adverse effects. Therefore, it is pertinent to understand the antidepressants from the perspective of their mechanisms of action and all possible Ocular adverse effects, and develop an Ophthalmic screening protocol and follow up for patients being put on Antidepressants. Patients should also be counselled for reporting alert signs of ocular side effects immediately. These steps may help to avert and decrease visual complications with Antidepressants.
A mouse model and 19F NMR approach to investigate the effects of sialic acid supplementation on cognitive development
Authors: Chung Youngran , Mohanakrishnan Raagav , Brossmer Reinhard , Gong Qizhi , Lönnerdal Bo , Jue Thomas
Published: July 2019

Researchers have observed that a sialic acid (Sia)‐supplemented neonatal diet leads to improved cognition in weanling piglets. However, whether cognitive improvement appears with different physiological backgrounds and persists into adulthood is not known. Here, we have established a convenient mouse model and used an 19F NMR approach to address these questions, test the conditionally essential nutrient hypothesis about Sia supplementation, and assess the prospect of measuring Sia metabolism directly in vivo. Indeed, the neonatal mouse brain uptakes more Sia than the adult brain, and Sia supplementation of neonatal mice improves the cognitive performance of adult mice. The non‐invasive 19F NMR approach and viable mouse model opens unique opportunities for clarifying the interplay of nutritional supplementation, metabolism, and cognitive development.
Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine Use With Adherence to Prescribed Western Rheumatic Medications Among Chinese American Patients: A Cross‐Sectional Survey
Authors: Sun Kai , Szymonifka Jackie , Tian Henghe , Chang Yaju , Leng Jennifer C. , Mandl Lisa A.
Published: July 2019

Objective

Chinese Americans are a fast‐growing immigrant group with worse rheumatic disease outcomes compared to white populations and frequently use traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Whether TCM use is associated with lower adherence to Western rheumatic medications is unknown. The present study was undertaken to examine adherence to Western medications for systemic rheumatic diseases in the Chinese American immigrant population and its association with TCM use.

Methods

Chinese Americans actively treated for a systemic rheumatic disease were recruited from 2 Chinatown clinics. Sociodemographic, TCM use, and clinical data were gathered. Self‐reported health status was assessed using Patient‐Reported Outcome Measurement Information System short forms. Adherence was stratified using the 8‐item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale. Factors independently associated with high adherence were identified using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Of 230 subjects, the median age was 55 years (range 20–97 years), 65% were female, 71% had a high school education or less, 70% were enrolled in Medicaid, and 22% reported fluency in English. The most common rheumatic diagnoses were rheumatoid arthritis (41%), systemic lupus erythematosus (17%), and seronegative spondyloarthropathies (15%). One‐half reported TCM use in the past year, and 28% reported high adherence to Western rheumatic medications. In multivariable analysis, high adherence was associated with TCM use (odds ratio [OR] 3.96, P < 0.001), being married (OR 3.69, P = 0.004), medication regimen complexity (OR 1.13, P = 0.004), and older age (OR 1.06, P < 0.001), and was negatively associated with anxiety (OR 0.94, P = 0.001).

Conclusion

While adherence to Western rheumatic medications was low in this cohort, interestingly, it was higher among TCM users compared to nonusers. TCM use appears to represent a complementary rather than an alternate approach to disease management for these patients. Future studies should evaluate whether TCM use is associated with better disease outcomes.
Patient and Caregiver Priorities for Medication Adherence in Gout, Osteoporosis, and Rheumatoid Arthritis: Nominal Group Technique
Authors: Kelly Ayano , Tymms Kathleen , de Wit Maarten , Bartlett Susan J. , Cross Marita , Dawson Therese , De Vera Mary , Evans Vicki , Gill Michael , Hassett Geraldine , Lim Irwin , Manera Karine , Major Gabor , March Lyn , O’Neill Sean , Scholte-Voshaar Marieke , Sinnathurai Premarani , Sumpton Daniel , Teixeira‐Pinto Armando , Tugwell Peter , van den Bemt Bart , Tong Allison
Published: July 2019

Objective

This study aimed to identify and prioritize factors important to patients and caregivers with regard to medication adherence in gout, osteoporosis (OP), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to describe the reasons for their decisions.

Methods

Patients with gout, OP, and RA and their caregivers, purposively sampled from 5 rheumatology clinics in Australia, identified and ranked factors that they considered important for medication adherence using nominal group technique and discussed their decisions. An importance score (IS; scale 0–1) was calculated, and qualitative data were analyzed thematically.

Results

From 14 focus groups, 82 participants (67 patients and 15 caregivers) identified 49 factors. The top 5 factors based on the ranking of all participants were trust in doctor (IS 0.46), medication effectiveness (IS 0.31), doctor’s knowledge (IS 0.25), side effects (IS 0.23), and medication‐taking routine (IS 0.13). The order of the ranking varied by participant groupings, with patients ranking “trust in doctor” the highest, while caregivers ranked “side effects” the highest. The 5 themes reflecting the reasons for factors influencing adherence were as follows: motivation and certainty in supportive individualized care; living well and restoring function; fear of toxicity and cumulative harm; seeking control and involvement; and unnecessarily difficult and inaccessible.

Conclusion

Factors related to the doctor, medication properties, and patients’ medication knowledge and routine were important for adherence. Strengthening doctor–patient trust and partnership, managing side effects, and empowering patients with knowledge and skills for taking medication could enhance medication adherence in patients with rheumatic conditions.
Education, Home Exercise, and Supervised Exercise for People With Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis As Part of a Nationwide Implementation Program: Data From the Better Management of Patients With Osteoarthritis Registry
Authors: Dell'Isola Andrea , Jönsson Thérése , Ranstam Jonas , Dahlberg Leif E. , Ekvall Hansson Eva
Published: July 2019

Objective

To compare the effectiveness of education (ED) plus home exercise (HE) and ED plus supervised exercise (SE) according to information provided by the Better Management of Patients With Osteoarthritis (BOA) Registry, a nationally implemented rehabilitation program for patients with hip and knee osteoarthritis (OA). In addition, we investigated whether or not the effect of the treatments differed based on the joint affected by OA (hip versus knee).

Methods

We included 38,030 participants from the BOA Registry with knee or hip OA who were treated with either ED, HE, or SE. The effect of the 3 treatment options on the pain intensity reduction (range 0–10) immediately postintervention and at 12 months was estimated using a mixed‐effects model adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, affected joint (hip or knee), pain at baseline, comorbidity, and level of education.

Results

The participants undergoing HE or SE experienced a greater pain reduction compared to participants who received ED, both after the treatment (group mean change for ED –0.91 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) –1.15, –0.68], for HE –1.06 [95% CI –1.10, –1.01], and for SE –1.12 [95% CI –1.15, –1.08]) and at 12 months (group mean change for ED –0.58 [95% CI –0.87, –0.30], for HE –0.82 [95% CI –0.87, –0.76], and for SE –0.82 [95% CI –0.86, –0.77]). Patients with knee OA who underwent HE or SE improved more compared to patients with hip OA at both follow‐ups.

Conclusion

In primary care, HE and SE lead to similar reductions in pain intensity but are more effective than ED alone. In addition, people with knee OA benefit more from HE and SE than people with hip OA.
Quality of Care for Knee Osteoarthritis in Primary Care: A Patient’s Perspective
Authors: Spitaels David , Vankrunkelsven Patrik , Grypdonck Lies , Dusar Frank-Robberecht , Aertgeerts Bert , Luyten Frank P. , Hermens Rosella P. M. G.
Published: July 2019

Objective

To describe the quality of osteoarthritis care in general practice from a patient’s perspective and to identify novel associations between process quality indicators and patient‐reported outcome and experience measures.

Methods

For this study, 235 individuals with knee osteoarthritis completed a survey based on both process and outcome indicators. Process indicators were extracted from international guidelines and included the domains: diagnosis, self‐management, treatment, and follow‐up. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and RAND 36‐item Short Form health survey (SF‐36) were used to assess patient‐reported outcomes. Patient‐reported experience with care was evaluated with the European Task Force on Patient Evaluations of General Practice Care (EUROPEP) instrument. A series of multilevel regression analyses were then performed to analyze determinants at the patient level (i.e., age, sex, body mass index, and education) and associations between process and outcome indicators.

Results

Overall, low adherence to the process indicators was observed (38%), particularly on informing patients about the importance of weight loss (24% [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 19–31]) or referring them for physical therapy (41% [95% CI 33–49]). Patients described their quality of life as moderate, with an overall score of 63% and 35% on the SF‐36 and WOMAC surveys, respectively. Regarding the determinants, patients with a higher education level were better informed (odds ratio [OR] 3.4; P = 0.0003). Associations between process and outcome indicators were scarce, with the exception of patient satisfaction with care and use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (OR 2.9; P = 0.0014).

Conclusion

Patients with knee osteoarthritis receive suboptimal conservative management. They report a moderate quality of life. This study confirms the evidence suggesting that NSAIDs are the backbone of osteoarthritis pain management but also adds evidence from a patient’s perspective.