Airtight Containers Research Articles

Multiple morcelloma of the peritoneal cavity: a case report

Introduction. Uterine fibroids are benign monoclonal hormone-sensitive tumors arising from smooth muscle cells of the cervix or body uterus. Myomectomyhas become a treatment «golden standard» upon transition to the strategy of organ-preserving surgery. The introduction of morcellation into wide clinical practice allowed to expand the indications for laparoscopic myomectomy, which is usually much better tolerated by patients due to lower invasiveness, short period of rehabilitation and low blood loss. However, the use of morcellators along with the obvious advantages has also specific complications particularly emergence of iatrogenic parasitic fibroids of the abdominal cavity upon improper surgery technique.Aim: analysis of a clinical case of multiple morcelloma.Case presentation. Female patient I., 57 years old, underwent laparoscopic myomectomy in 2003. In 2023 during a routine examination at the Central Clinical Hospital «RZD-Medicine» multiple asymptomatic iatrogenic fibroids of the abdominal cavity were revealed. The patient underwent planned surgical intervention to remove all abnormal masses.Results. During the revision upon surgical intervention, a node of 1.5×1.5 cm was found on the parietal peritoneum along the left anterior wall, as well as a node of 1.5×1.5 cm on the parietal peritoneum along the right anterior wall. There was also observed a 2×3 cm node at the edge of the omentum. In the left and right side of peritoneum of the sacro-uterine ligament, there were found nodes of up to 1 cm in size. In the area of the small intestinal mesentery, a dense node of 4.5 cm was observed 70 cm away from the ileocecal valve. Due to small size, all the fibroids were extirpated and removed from the abdominal cavity without morcellation, complete hemostasis was performed. No complications were noted during postoperative period.Conclusion. Iatrogenic fibroids are quite rare but nevertheless a potential complication of laparoscopic myomectomy. Gynecologists should pay special attention to follow proper technique upon surgical intervention. Morcellation and subsequent extraction of fibroids should be performed strictly with use of airtight container to avoid ingress of myomatous tissue into the abdominal cavity followed by emergence of iatrogenic fibroids.

Evaluation of anti-hypertensive activity of Quercus leucotrichophora A. camus methanolic extract on DOCA-salt induced hypertensive rats

Quercus leucotrichophora A. camus, commonly known as Banj oak or Ban tree, belongs to the Fagaceae family and is abundantly found in the regions of Shimla, Kullu-Manali, and upper Mandi in Himachal Pradesh. This study explores the medicinal properties of plant seeds, known for their antioxidant and diuretic activity, traditionally utilized in the treatment of hypertension and hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective conditions. PurposeTo investigate the antihypertensive effect of methanolic extract of Quercus leucotrichophora A. camus seeds in DOCA sat induced rats. Material and methodsGround seeds of Quercus leucotrichophora A. camus were stored in an airtight container. A total of 100 gs of dried seed powder were subjected to extraction using 250 ml of methanol and a Soxhlet extractor maintained at 60–65 °C for five hours. The resulting dried extract (5 gs) was stored in an airtight container in a refrigerator at low temperature and administered by rats to test its antihypertensive impact. The assessment of obtained extract impact on hypertension induced by DOCA-salt was conducted through blood pressure measurement and biochemical analysis. ResultsOur study revealed that the methanolic extract of Quercus leucotrichophora A. camus seeds exerted blood pressure-lowering effects, associated with an increase in serum Nitric Oxide (NO) levels. The attenuation of hypertension by extract was further linked to the normalization of serum Na+ and K+concentrations, indicating an improvement in electrolyte imbalance. Additionally, the antioxidant properties of Quercus leucotrichophora A. camus were evident through increased activities of Glutathione (GSH), Glutathione Peroxidase (GHPx), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), and decrease activity of Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). ConclusionThe findings of our investigation suggest that the antihypertensive action of Quercus leucotrichophora A. camus is correlated with enhanced endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activation and an augmented antioxidant defense system. This sheds light on the potential therapeutic benefits of plant under investigation in managing hypertension, emphasizing its role in promoting cardiovascular health. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and to explore the full pharmacological potential of Quercus leucotrichophora A. camus in the field of cardiovascular medicine.

INVESTIGATION OF COMBINED EFFECT OF THREE PLANT POWDERS WITH DIATOMACEOUS EARTH AGAINST CALLOSOBRUCHUS MACULATUS

The study was conducted to investigate the combined effects of various plant powders and Silico-sec, a diatomaceous earth, on Callosobruchus maculatus at the research laboratory of the Department of Crop Pest and Soil Management, the Federal University of Technology, Akure. The study included three replications. The treatments consisted of three (3) plant materials derived from the dry flower buds of Eugenia aromatica, seeds of Piper guineense, and leaves of Nicotiana tabacum and their combination with Silico-sec. In one experiment, 0.4g of each plant material was added to 20 C. maculatus adults (10 couples, aged 1-2 days) in 20g of Ife Brown cowpea seeds, all contained within an air-tight plastic container. Another experiment involved the addition of 0.4g mixtures of Silico-sec and each plant powder (E. aromatica, P. guineense, and N. tabacum) in various ratios (1:5, 5:1, 1:10, 10:1, and 1:1) to the same number of C. maculatus adults in 20g of cowpea seeds, also in separate air-tight plastic containers. All the treatments and their combination were laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD) repeated three times. Data were collected at 12, 24, and 48 at p,0hours post-treatment. Oviposition, adult emergence, and seed weight loss were evaluated. The results demonstrated that both the plant powders and Silico-sec were effective in controlling C. maculatus infestation on cowpea by causing significant adult mortality at p< 0.05, reducing oviposition, suppressing F1 adult emergence, and minimizing seed damage. Among single applications, Silico-sec and E. aromatica powder provided the best protection for stored cowpea, yielding the highest adult mortality, lowest oviposition, most suppressed F1 adult emergence, and minimal seed damage. However, the mixture of Silico-sec and P. guineense at ratios of 5:1 and 10:1 offered the best protection, exhibiting significantly higher mortality, lower oviposition rates, suppressed F1 adult emergence, and reduced seed damage compared to other treatments. This study suggests that combination of P. guineense and Silico-sec is particularly effective in controlling cowpea storage pests and could serve as a viable alternative to synthetic insecticides for protecting stored cowpea against C. maculatus.

Application of a Gallic Acid–Based Oxygen Scavenger Label for the Preservation of L‐Ascorbic Acid in Orange Juice

ABSTRACTCitrus juices are rich sources of antioxidants, including vitamin C, but are prone to oxidation during storage. We investigated the application of gallic acid (GA), an environmentally friendly reducing agent, as active packaging to mitigate this issue. Orange juice was packaged in airtight glass containers both with and without GA‐based oxygen scavenger (GA‐OS) label and stored at 20°C and 4°C. During the storage, we monitored oxygen levels in the headspace and dissolved oxygen concentration in the orange juice, vitamin C content and browning. In the presence of GA‐OS, oxygen levels in the headspace were reduced by half in under 1 h at 21°C and within 2 h at 4°C. Dissolved oxygen concentration decreased 50% after 8 h at 21°C and after 1.2 days at 4°C. In the absence of GA‐OS, vitamin C degraded completely within 30 days at 21°C and 45 days at 4°C. In contrast, GA‐OS nearly fully preserved vitamin C for 105 days at both temperatures. Browning, quantified by delta E, escalated in GA‐OS‐absent samples to 16.79 ± 0.16 at 21°C to 12.19 ± 0.10 at 4°C, whereas GA‐OS samples exhibited no significant browning. Our results underscore GA‐OS's efficacy in preserving the quality of liquid foodstuffs, exemplified by orange juice, suggesting its broad range applicability as active packaging.

Erosive Effect of Canned Juices and Soft Drinks on Surface Roughness of Restorative Materials Used in Pediatric Dentistry: An Ex Vivo Study.

To evaluate and compare the effect of fruit juice (orange) and cola drink (noncarbonated) on the surface texture of composite (3M ESPE Filtek Bulk Fill) and glass ionomer cement (GIC) (ChemFil Superior). A total of eighty pellets each were prepared with composite (3M ESPE Filtek Bulk Fill) and GIC (ChemFil Superior) material using a brass mold with an inner diameter of 3 mm and a thickness of 3 mm according to the manufacturer's instructions. Around 10 pellets of each material were placed in airtight plastic containers. The baseline surface texture value was obtained by profilometer. An 8-day immersion regime was carried out according to Maupome et al. After the 8-day test period, pellets were reevaluated for surface texture final value. The values were statistically analyzed. A statistically significant lower surface roughness of composite restorative material was observed when treated with high-concentration orange juice and medium-concentration. Conversely, a statistically significant lower surface roughness of GIC restorative material was observed when it was treated with the low-concentration group, high-concentration orange juice, and medium-concentration orange juice. The surface roughness patterns of restorative materials increased as the number of immersion regimes increased. Vishwanathaiah S, Maganur PC, Khabrany HM, et al. Erosive Effect of Canned Juices and Soft Drinks on Surface Roughness of Restorative Materials Used in Pediatric Dentistry: An Ex Vivo Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(7):807-811.

QUALITY ASSESSMENT AND STABILITY STUDIES OF METRONIDAZOLE TABLETS FORMULATIONS OBTAINED VIA CRYSTALLO CO-AGGLOMERATION TECHNIQUE

Stability studies are essential for assessing the quality, safety, and efficacy of pharmaceutical products, ensuring they maintain their properties over time. This study aimed to assess the stability of metronidazole tablets stored in a desiccator with charged silica gel following the International council for harmonization of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use guidelines. Metronidazole tablets were formulated from metronidazole co-agglomerates using different excipients by direct compression method and stored for 6 and 12 months at 25±2°C/60±5% relative humidity. Quality parameters such as weight variation, diameter, thickness, hardness, friability, content uniformity, and dissolution rate were evaluated at intervals using the United States Pharmacopeia – National Formulary and British Pharmacopeia specifications. The tablets maintained uniformity in weight, diameter, thickness and content over 12 months, meeting pharmacopeial standards. They exhibited high crushing strength, low friability, and consistent disintegration times (<5 min), across formulations and storage durations with no significant changes after storage, indicating stable performance. The sustained high crushing strength, friability ratio (CSFR) and crushing strength, friability, disintegration time (CSFR/Dt) ratios suggested high tablet strength and quality. In-vitro dissolution studies showed release rates of 87.31 – 100.81 %, with a significant decrease at 6 months within pharmacopeial standards but no change at 12 months. Content uniformity was maintained throughout storage. Metronidazole tablets formulated from crystallo co-agglomerates demonstrated good stability and mechanical strength over 12 months of storage. Storage in air-tight containers with desiccants at controlled room temperature (25±2°C) or below their relative humidities is recommended for maintaining tablet quality

GC-MS Profiling and Pathogenic Effect of Khaya Anthotheca Methanolic Leaves Extract on Some Selected Fungi

This research evaluated GC-MS profile, and pathogenic effect of methanolic leaves extracts of Khaya anthotheca on Some Selected fungi. Khaya anthotheca a member of Meliaceae family is traditionally used for treating several ailments. The leaves were harvested in Sukundi road Wukari and air dried for four weeks, the leaves were pulverized into powder using manual blender and stored in an air tight container. Extraction was done with absolute methanol; the extract was filtered using mesh and the filtrate was concentrated at 68oC. Only two grams of the filtrate were used for the GC-MS study. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for statistical analysis. The GC-MS result revealed 50 constituents. Result of Methanolic extracts of leaves of Khaya anthotheca only showed significant activity against Aspergillus niger at dose100 µg/mL, Candida tropicalis and Fusarium oxysporium at dose 500 µg/mL. This study supports the use of Khaya anthotheca by indigenous herbalists by providing scientific proof of the plant's ability to treat pothegenic diseases. To establish the effectiveness of this plant in the management of fungal effections, more clinical trials at the clinical levels are needed.

Combined ultra‐microelectrode: Exploring new potentials for in vivo/in situ ascorbic acid electroanalysis

AbstractMiniaturized and portable analytical tools show promise for sophisticated analysis, particularly in biological systems such as fruits, and they are suitable for advanced agriculture and related food industries. In this study, we developed combined ultra‐microelectrodes (UME) by modifying a microscale carbon fiber electrode (33 μm) coated with an Au nano‐film in a micropipette‐tip system. The proposed UME@Au exhibited a linear response to AC concentrations ranging from 30 to 1400 μM, with a 16 μM limit of detection. It demonstrated the ability to perform in vivo‐in vitro AC analysis in micro‐zones and volumes, such as different points of fruit tissue (Such as lemon) and within the body of a living plant (Such as Cactus arms and trunk), serving as a tiny implanted probe.In the first part of our study, we analyzed AC levels in lemon tissue directly. Our measurements revealed that AC levels are distributed heterogeneously in a single fruit. Additionally, stored AC levels depend on the color of the lemon (yellow ones have higher levels than the green ones). Furthermore, the UME was applied to control AC levels in different storage conditions, including opened containers, airtight containers, with and without exposing daylight, etc.In the second part, the UME@Au was utilized as an implanted sensor for in vivo analysis of AC in different parts of the cactus, recognized as a source of AC. No sample preparation is needed with minimum damage. The implanted microsensor could perform electroanalysis inside the live plant and stored parenchyma cells, etc. Notably, our results showed that AC levels are higher in the younger arms compared to the older ones, and so on.Based on our findings, the miniaturized, small, cheap, user‐friendly electrode demonstrated many capabilities, such as being implantable, having satisfactory stability, and not requiring sample preparations for analysis. It can open up a new window for micro‐electroanalysis in food and analytical plant sciences. We predict that this microscale platform can be modified and used for bioanalysis of other (bio)targets, such as vitamins, ions, and even the detection of plant pathogens in plants and crops directly. This involvement in the smart and modern farming industry is anticipated in the near future.

Nuances in Ksharasutra Preparation Using Guggulu Extract

Ano-rectal diseases are considered to be one of the conditions that affect a person's quality of life significantly. Ksharasutra (medicated thread) is a para-surgical procedure which is found more effective in the management of few among these conditions like fistula-in-ano and sinus. Ksharasutra is routinely prepared with Snuhi ksheera (latex of Euphorbia nerifolia), Apamarga Kshara (ash of Acyranthes aspera) and Haridra (powder of Curcuma longa). In conventional method, collection of Snuhi ksheera is time consuming, laborious and not available throughout the year. Here, Guggulu (Oleogum resin from Commiphora mukul) was selected as an alternative for Snuhi ksheera in the preparation of Ksharasutra as it is reported to have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, wound-healing properties and it is available throughout the year. Guggulu was extracted using 95% ethyl alcohol, meanwhile Apamarga kshara was prepared in conventional way. Barbour linen thread no.20 was cut into 11 equal parts and mounted upon Ksharasutra frame. Each of which was later coated with 7,5,3 layers of Guggulu extract, combination with Apamarga kshara and combination with Haridra respectively. These were then kept under UV radiation in a cabinet and dried. After a speculated period of time the threads were cut down in a sterile condition, each (11 numbers) of them measuring 40 cm. These were then stored in an air-tight glass container. These Ksharasutras are prepared with a motive to get used in the management of the afore discussed ano-rectal conditions.

Preperation of Sambhar Premix

Abstract: A sambhar premix is a convenient blend of dry spices and lentils essential for preparing the popular South Indian dish, sambhar. Comprising roasted and ground ingredients like lentils (toor dal, masoor dal), spices (coriander, cumin, fenugreek, mustard seeds), dried red chilies, and aromatics (turmeric, asafetida, curry leaves); this premix offers a quick solution to recreate the flavorsome and aromatic sambhar. When stored in an airtight container, this premix maintains its freshness, making it a time-saving and versatile addition to various culinary creations. masala development process would highlight the key steps and considerations in creating this traditional South Indian spice blend. It would cover aspects suchas ingredient selection, proportioning, grinding techniques, and the preservation methods employed. Additionally, the abstract might touch upon the cultural significance of masala and its role in enhancing the flavor profile of the iconic dish. This abstract delves into the historical evolution of masala, exploring its traditional ingredients and tracing the development of a premix. The document outlines the meticulous method of preparation for the premix, emphasizing key steps such as ingredient selection, proportioning, and grinding techniques. Additionally, it includes a comprehensive cost analysis of the production process. Proximate testing is employed to evaluate the nutritional composition of the masala, shedding light on itsdietary implications. This abstract aims to provide a holistic overview of the masala development process, combining historical context, preparation methodology, cost considerations, and nutritional insights. This detailed abstract explores the rich history, intricate ingredients, and methodical preparation of masala powder, with a focus on developing a premix. The historical analysis delves into the origins and evolution of the spice blend, highlighting the regional variations and cultural significance associated with its use in South Indian cuisine. The document provides a comprehensive overview of the ingredients, emphasizing the selection of authentic spices crucial to achieving the distinctive flavor profile. The method of preparation for the premix is detailed, encompassing precise measurements, grinding techniques, and the blending process to ensure consistency and optimal flavor infusion. A meticulous cost analysis is presented, covering raw materials, processing expenses,and packaging costs, offering insights into the economic feasibility of producing masala on a larger scale. Furthermore, proximate testing is employed to assess the nutritional composition, detailingthe macronutrient and micronutrient content, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the spice blend's dietary implications. This abstract aims to serve as a comprehensive reference, encapsulating the historical, culinary, economic, and nutritional dimensions of masala powder and its premix variant.

SMART REFRIGERATOR USING IoT

With the rapid advancement of technology, smart devices like refrigerators have become integral parts of modern living. In this context, our proposed model aims to enhance refrigerator functionality by incorporating features for food quantity detection, temperature monitoring, and spoilage reminders. This system utilizes a mobile application interface to provide users with real-time information regarding the quantity of food items in the refrigerator and the current temperature. By leveraging this data, users can efficiently plan their meals, reduce food wastage, and optimize energy consumption through automatic control mechanisms. Additionally, the system incorporates a spoilage reminder feature, alerting users to food items in air-tight containers that may spoil without emitting detectable odours. This comprehensive approach to refrigerator management not only enhances convenience but also promotes sustainability by minimizing food waste and energy usage. Keywords— - Embedded system, Internet of things, DHT11, IR detector, Arduino Uno

Impacts of Meat preservation on public health and economy

The meat preservation has positive effect on economy due to it prolongs the shelf life of the meat and also improve public health due to inhibition growth of microorganisms. In meat preservation Methods there is different methods that are being used for meat preservation. Since the man started to utilize the meat, he started to preserve it for later uses. Means of meat preservation that are used for meat preservation as meat Drying, meat Canning, meat Smoking, meat Freezing, meat Chilling, meat Curing, meat Salting, meat Fermentation and meat Pickling and meat Irradiation. Meat drying is the oldest meat preservation method that is still being used. Meat drying is also known as dehydration. Bacteria and enzymes only multiply at a certain level of moisture content, in meat drying we reduce the moisture content to 10-20% by weight and hence the enzyme remain inactivated. In the past meat was dried by sun meat drying method but now oven and dehydrators in practice. Now it’s easy to dry the meat at home with the help of stove and oven. By process, firstly, cut the meat into thin narrow meat strips then boil meat strips at high temperature that’s the bacteria could be killed, after boiling for 5-10 minutes’ bake in the oven. Through this method of meat preservation we can preserve meat for 1-2 months in the air tight containers.

Semen and haematological characteristics of cocks drenched varying levels of Turmeric Powder (TP)

Emerging evidence from in vivo as well as in vitro studies indicates that botanicals play noteworthy roles in the treatment, prevention and management of livestock diseases. Use of natural compounds in botanicals has been proposed as potential alternative to conventional therapeutic options. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of varying levels of turmeric powder (Curcuma longa) on semen characteristics and haematological indices of cocks. Turmeric (C. longa) rhizomes were obtained from a local market in Saki in Oyo State, Nigeria, in March 2023. They were washed, skin scraped and air-dried at room temperature for 10 hours, and then oven-dried at 40°C for 12 hours. Afterwards, the dried turmeric rhizomes were ground into powder using a blender. The product was kept in an air-tight container until use. The experimental material was drenched at 0.00 g (T1), 0.50 g (T2), 1.00 g (T3) and 1.50 g (T4) after 2 weeks of acclimatization. Semen volume, sperm cell progressive motility, sperm cell liveability, acrosome integrity, sperm cell concentration and normal sperm cell were evaluated for semen characteristics. Haematological parameters measured were: PCV, RBC, WBC Hb, MCV, MCH, MCHC and white blood cell differentials. Data obtained were subjected to one-way analysis of variance. Semen volume (0.34 – 0.37 ml), sperm cell progressive motility (68.33 – 80%), sperm cell liveability (46.66 – 85.00%), acrosome integrity (50.00 – 85%) and normal sperm cell (66.66 – 90%) showed significant difference (p<0.05) in favour of cocks on highest level (1.50 g) of turmeric powder, while sperm cell concentration (28.33 - 40.00 X109/ml) showed no significant difference (p>0.05). Also PCV (36.00 – 40.33%), RBC (3.55 – 3.74 X106/ml), WBC (19.01 – 19.71 X109/ml), Hb (11.66 – 13.00 dl), MCV (100.53 – 109.53 ⴄ), MCH (32.57 – 35.31pg) and MCHC (32.00 – 32.37%) showed no significant differences (p>0.05) between treatments. In conclusion turmeric powder up to 1.50 g showed an improvement in all the semen characteristics measured without negative effect on haematological characteristics of cocks.

Evaluation of Physical Characteristics and Impact of Germination on Functional Properties of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.)

Background: Quinoa is a nutrient-dense pseudocereal with remarkable nutritional quality. It is a gluten-free crop that provides a balanced set of essential amino acids and possesses hypoglycemic and free fatty acid-lowering properties. Quinoa has gained popularity in the current era due to its tolerance to extreme weather conditions, nutritional composition and other industrial applications. Methods: The present study analyzed the physical and functional properties of quinoa using standard procedures and assessed the impact of germination on these properties. Germinated flour was developed by soaking quinoa seeds overnight and allowing for germination for 72 hours in an incubator at 20±2°C at 80-90% humidity. Germinated seeds were oven-dried at 60±2°C for 45 minutes, followed by grinding into flour and storing the flour in a dry and air-tight container for further analysis. Result: The study findings showed that quinoa seeds had good physical properties. All functional properties viz water absorption capacity, oil absorption capacity, emulsion and foaming properties of quinoa flour improved on germination except flour solubility. It is concluded that germination is a cost-effective processing technique for enhancing the functional properties of quinoa flour, so as to increase its industrial use for product development. Germinated quinoa flour can be utilized in the development of various infant formulas.

Moisture Sorption Studies using the GAB Model of a Beef Based Dambun Nama (A Ground Meat Product) Stored over a Period of Six Months

Water adsorption isotherms of Dambun Nama, a ground beef product, were determined over a storage period of six months, at an average ambient temperature of 33.8oC and an accelerated temperature of 50oC, using the static gravimetric method. The study was aimed at establishing the moisture sorption profile of a traditional meat product Dambun Nama common in Northern Nigeria, produced from beef and stored over a period of six months. The sample was produced using a standardized method; it was sterilized, packaged in six airtight glass containers and stored at ambient temperature as the sample stock for the analyses over a period of six months. Data was generated from the sorption studies based on the isopiestic transfer method using concentrated sulphuric acid solutions. The isotherms are generally shaped like the type 4 isotherms for food products. Between 33.8oC and 50oC adsorption, the monolayer moisture content ranged from 0.036 to 0.048 gH2O/g solids, and between 0.037 to 0.049 gH2O/g solids for desorption. There was a general increase in the GAB constants K and C. The correlation coefficient (R) values obtained for adsorption ranged from 0.941 to 0.959, and for desorption, the values ranged from 0.940 to 0.957, indicating that the GAB model was suitable in describing the moisture sorption profile of Dambun Nama within the prescribed water activity ranges and storage period.

Development of Losartan Orally Disintegrating Tablets by Direct Compression: a Cost-Effective Approach to Improve Paediatric Patient's Compliance.

The development of suitable dosage forms is essential for an effective pharmacological treatment in children. Orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs) are attractive dosage forms that avoid swallowing problems, ensure dosage accuracy and are easy to administer as they disintegrate in the oral cavity. This study aimed to develop ODTs containing losartan potassium (LP) for the treatment of arterial hypertension in children. The ODTs, produced by the cost-effective manufacturing process of direct compression, consisted of a mixture of diluent, superdisintegrant, glidant and lubricant. Five superdisintegrants (croscarmellose sodium, two grades of crospovidone, sodium starch glycolate and pregelatinized starch) were tested (at two concentrations), and combined with three diluents (mannitol, lactose and sorbitol). Thus, thirty formulations were evaluated based on disintegration time, hardness and friability. Two formulations, exhibiting the best results concerning disintegration time (< 30s), hardness and friability (≤ 1.0%), were selected as the most promising ones for further evaluation. These ODTs presented favourable drug-excipient compatibility, tabletability and flow properties. The in vitro dissolution studies demonstrated 'very rapid' drug release. Preliminary stability studies highlighted the requirement of a protective packaging. All quality properties retained appropriate results after 12months of storage in airtight containers. In conclusion, the ODTs were successfully developed and characterised, suggesting a potential means to accomplish a final prototype that enables an improvement in childhood arterial hypertension treatment.

QUALITY ASSESSMENT AND NUTRIENT ANALYSIS OF FREEZE-DRIED GRAPE SEED AND PEEL POWDERS

The study conducted in the year 2023 aimed to develop freeze-dried grape seed and peel powder and evaluate its quality parameters and nutrients. Sun-dried grape seed and peel powder were also developed with a significant focus on comparision with freeze-dried samples, taking into account the economic feasibility and popularity of sun drying as compared to freeze-drying. Grape seed and peel were separated manually. The seed and peel were freeze-dried and stored in a freezer and sun-dried samples were kept in airtight containers. The quality parameters, nutrient composition, and sensory characteristics of both the freeze-dried and sun-dried grape peel and seed powder were examined. Quality parameters assessed included colour, solubility, pH and sensory attributes. Nutrients analysed included ascorbic acid by dye method, iron, phosphorus and carbohydrates by colorimetry. It was observed that freeze-dried grape seed and peel powders retained more colour, while freeze-dried grape peel powder had the highest solubility (67.22%). Both freeze-dried and sun-dried grape seed and peel powder exhibited an acidic pH (3.97,5.25,4.23 and 5.06). Freeze-dried grape peel powder was found to be rich in ascorbic acid (113.49 mg). Sun-dried grape seed and freeze-dried grape peel powders were found to havehigh phosphorus content (123.33 mg) and 108.33 mg, respectively), whereas,sun-dried grape seed featured the highest iron content (25.83 mg). Freeze-dried grape seed and peel powderswere superior to sun-dried powder in quality and nutrients and hence can be used for manufacturing nutraceuticals.

Investigation on the source of VOCs emission from indoor construction materials using electronic sensors and TD-GC-MS

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is critical to the health and wellbeing of people. As the majority of people spend greater amounts of time indoors, either in office spaces or households, the level of air pollutants in such environments is critical. Building materials and furniture are known sources of air pollutants such as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and may be associated with discomfort, detrimental health of the occupants, etc. In this study, the VOCs found in a brand new office complex were monitored over a period of 6 months, with an emphasis on monitoring and quantifying harmful VOCs and identifying their emission source. Air samples were taken from a closed, unoccupied office space on a weekly basis and analysed using Thermal Desorption-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (TD-GC-MS), while continuous monitoring of the air quality was performed using two commercially available IAQ sensors. To identify the source of the emitted VOCs, pieces of all construction material that were used in the office, including flooring, finished wall material, and adhesive glues, were removed, and placed in air-tight glass containers prior to analysis confirming that the source of VOCs is indeed the flooring. Identified compounds included mainly material origin VOCs such as BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene) and styrene, but also common VOCs such as acetone and propan-2-ol. Of significant importance was the concentration of toluene that was found to be the most abundant VOC in both the flooring material and the indoor air.

Chemical Analysis of Gnetum africanum roots

The use of medicinal plants as complementary therapies has lately grown in popularity. The aim of this study was to determine the chemical composition of the aqueous root extract of Gnetum africanum using GC-MS and GC-FID analysis. Fresh roots of G. africanum Welw used in this study were collected, cut into pieces, washed and air-dried. The dried plant materials were ground into powder and kept in an airtight container. GC-MS analysis of the aqueous root extract revealed 20 bioactive compounds with the following being most abundant 2,3-Butanediol as the predominant phytochemical at 46.02%, followed by Benzene, 1,4-dichloro (3.57%) and Oxalic acid, allyl octadecyl ester (3.45%). The quantitative GC-FID determination of the phytochemicals of Gnetum africanum aqueous root extract presented common phytochemicals such as, alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, phenols and glycosides. Phytochemicals in higher proportions include; sapogenin (26.2645 µg/ml), anthocyanins (17.4986 µg/ml), cyanogenic glycosides (15.3616 µg/ml), kaempferol (13.7621 µg/ml) and flavan-3-ol (13.0446 µg/ml). It has been discovered that the root of Gnetum africanum contains an array of phytocompounds with a variety of therapeutic properties.

Antioxidants and polymer coating for soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] seed longevity enhancement

IntroductionTo explore the effect of polymer coating and antioxidants on the soybean seed quality enhancement by reducing the oxidation process, the experiment was carried out in the Department of Seed Science and Technology, PJTSAU, India. Method: Soybean seed of JS 335 was treated with four antioxidants at concentrations of 100 ppm, 300 ppm, and 500 ppm, either individually or in combination with polymer at 8 ml kg-1 seed and stored in airtight containers. Seed quality parameters like seed germination, seedling abnormality, seed mortality, seedling length, seedling dry weight, and Seedling Vigour Index 1 and 2 were measured at various months of storage period. Results: Polymer coating, either individually or in combination with antioxidants, showed a significant influence on soybean seed quality and longevity. Six months after storage, seeds treated with polymer + ascorbic acid at 100 ppm recorded significantly (p < 0.05) higher germination %, speed of germination and field emergence % (92, 40, and 85), followed by polymer + ascorbic acid at 300 ppm with a high seedling vigour index-2 (86) compared to untreated control (86, 35, 79, and 76, respectively). Seed treated with tocopherol at 300 ppm + polymer recorded higher seedling length (cm) and seedling vigour index-1 (24.73 and 2258) than control (17.49 and 1709, respectively). Among chemical antioxidants, ascorbic acid, followed by tocopherol and reduced glutathione, showed a good effect on soybean seed longevity. Conclusion: Soybean seed quality could be enhanced either with a polymer coating or with a polymer + antioxidant coating with ascorbic acid at 100 and 300 ppm.