Cold Washing Research Articles

Effect of ultrasound and additives treatment as mitigation strategies to reduce acrylamide formation in potato crisps on industrial scale

The aim of this work was to examine the applicability on large scale of additives and ultrasound treatments during soaking of potatoes before frying to mitigate the formation of acrylamide in potato crisps. Calcium chloride and citric acid were applied at laboratory scale in various concentrations and orders during washing before frying, to establish optimum conditions which were scaled up to pilot plant. Up to 91.0% reduction in acrylamide was obtained at laboratory scale. Both concentration and order of additives influenced the extent of the mitigation observed, with a higher concentration of additive in the second wash being beneficial. When upscaled to factory pilot plant, the reduction observed was not consistent across the three trials, with a 33.4% reduction in the first trial but no significant reduction in following studies. A 2-min ultrasound treatment was applied in two trials to test various powers and amplitudes, and washing combinations respectively. Up to 67.1% of acrylamide reduction was recorded after 2 min of ultrasound treatment in the cold wash followed by hot wash; however, ultrasound treatment was not effective in reducing acrylamide or its precursors when solely applied or when followed by cold wash under the tested conditions of duration and power.

Peculiarities of the influence of natural factors on the functional state of the body of school-age children

This article reveals the essence and content of hardening procedures as the most effective methods of acclimatization and their impact on the functional state of the body of school-aged children. The need is outlined and the main approaches to the use of water procedures are outlined, which are an effective means of preventing colds and somatic diseases, a reliable means of preserving and strengthening health, and increasing work capacity.
 A description of the physiological essence of hardening is given, which consists in the effect on the body of cooling, high temperature, and sunlight, as a result of which it recovers, improves health, and increases performance.
 The use of water in the hardening system, which has a high heat capacity, was investigated. Of all the hardening factors, the procedures (cold washing, rubbing, wrapping, dousing, baths, gargling) are the most powerful and quick and normalize blood pressure and appetite, give a feeling of freshness, special lightness in the body and a good mood.
 The need to apply systematic methods of hardening in educational institutions has been proved, and it has been found that the complex application of natural factors on the body of students allows to improve the functional state of school-age children, has a positive effect on the work of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, the immune system, and the psycho-emotional state of children, contributes to the improvement the level of physical fitness and physical capacity of schoolchildren, improves well-being and mood.
 An analysis of the effectiveness of the use of complex means of hardening with students of the 11th grade was carried out, where positive changes were noted, both in the group of girls and in the group of boys. It has been proven that the use of various hardening methods gives quite effective results. Children get sick less often, the body's resistance to infections increases.
 The technique we developed consisted in the complex application of hardening means and recreational swimming. The procedures selected by us allow not only to improve the health of children, but also to raise the emotional background of the lesson. Improvement in general well-being and appetite, restful sleep, increased emotional tone, balanced mood, high mental and physical capacity, absence of colds, increased interest in life - these are indicators of the effectiveness of hardening procedures.

Machine Embroidery Enclosure for Stretchable Fiber Optic Respiration Sensor

AbstractDeveloping an unobtrusive respiration sensor is a key task for daily health and safety monitoring, especially for individuals with potential breathing abnormalities or those performing in physically challenging conditions. This study introduces a machine‐embroidered enclosure that guides a soft and extensible lightguide to react to the strains on a compression shirt caused by the respiration of the wearer. The shape of the stretchable optical fiber changes from serpentine in rest (exhalation) to straight under strain (inhalation), which affects the light transmittance. In tests with 13 healthy adults, the respiratory volume prediction through a deep learning model trained by the light intensity and truth from a commercial spirometer shows a high correlation in both static (r2 > 0.880) and dynamic postures (r2 > 0.690). This system also accurately measures the respiratory rate under sitting and walking conditions (absolute error <1.513 BPM, SNR > 7.122 dB). The strain‐sensing capability of this sensor depends on the parameters of the embroidery, including the stitch density, stitch tightness, and embroidery shape. Durability tests confirm that the system still functions after 100 000 abrasions and 10 cold washes.

Molecular and functional characterization of protease from psychrotrophic Bacillus sp. HM49 in North-western Himalaya.

In this work, a psychrotrophic bacteria producing cold-active protease, was obtained from Dachigam National Park, an ecologically significant habitat in Western Himalayas owing to its varied endemic and endangered flora and fauna. This isolate was identified as Bacillus sp. HM49 via phenotypic, Gram staining, bio-chemical and 16S rRNA gene identification. Isolate HM49 when tested for proteolytic activity revealed prominent hydrolytic zone with the most production at 20 °C and pH, 8.0 post 72 h incubation. This enzyme was purified, enhancing its specific activity to 61.15 U/mg and its characterization studies revealed it to be a cold-alkaline protease being active in a wide pH (6.0-12) and temperature (5-40 °C) range. Amplification of CAASPR gene of HM49 was performed, followed by enzyme-substrate docking studies and MMGBSA providing details about its type, molecular weight validation as well as functional applications. The purified protease of HM49 was tested for laundry applications and the enzyme was found to be compatible with majority of the detergents tested. Its potential as an eco-friendly detergent additive was further validated by wash performance test as it effectively removed recalcitrant blood stains at a low temperature of 20 °C that could be beneficial for fine garments like silk which preferably need cold washing.

Ecological wastewater treatment with activated clays and its reuse in asparagus plants

Water treatment, abundant clay in the area, for the elimination of particles and microorganisms in wastewater and disinfection through alcoholic extract of the molle, which has a high concentration of tannins that acts as a germicide, not affecting the asparagus during cold washing, saving thousands of cubic meters of groundwater daily. The study has explanatory level and experimental design. The weekly sample (drinking water, residual water and treated water) taken during 3 months, equivalent to 36 water samples. The flocculant capacity of the activated clays depends on the pH of the wastewater, tests were carried out to determine the pH, the experimental tests indicated that pH‹7 its flocculant capacity is restricted as with pH› 7, for which it is worked with a pH7, that is to say neutral. It is concluded that the flocculant capacity of the activated clays was 82.92%, ensuring water treatment. The adequate concentration of activated clays is 60 mg/L, achieving a maximum flocculation of 82.92%. Activated clays have action on pathogenic microorganisms: Escherichia coli, fecal coliforms and total coliforms, which are eliminated, since they are dragged by the flocs to the bottom of the container, leaving the supernatant water free.

Similarities and differences between SUNCT and SUNA: a cross-sectional, multicentre study of 76 patients in China

BackgroundShort-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT) and short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with cranial autonomic symptoms (SUNA) have not been evaluated sufficiently due to limited data, particularly in China.MethodsPatients with SUNCT or SUNA treated in a tertiary headache centre or seven other headache clinics of China between April 2009 and July 2022 were studied; we compared their demographics and clinical phenotypes.ResultsThe 45 patients with SUNCT and 31 patients with SUNA had mean ages at onset of 37.22 ± 14.54 years and 42.45 ± 14.72 years, respectively. The mean ages at diagnosis of SUNCT and SUNA were 41.62 ± 12.70 years and 48.68 ± 13.80 years, respectively (p = 0.024). The correct diagnosis of SUNCT or SUNA was made after an average of 2.5 (0–20.5) years or 3.0 (0–20.7) years, respectively. Both diseases had a female predominance (SUNCT: 1.14:1; SUNA: 2.10:1). The two diseases differed in the most common attack site (temporal area in SUNCT, p = 0.017; parietal area in SUNA, p = 0.002). Qualitative descriptions of the attacks included stabbing pain (44.7%), electric-shock-like pain (36.8%), shooting pain (25.0%), and slashing pain (18.4%). Lacrimation was the most common autonomic symptom in both SUNCT and SUNA patients, while eyelid oedema, ptosis, and miosis were less frequent. Triggers such as cold air and face washing were shared by the two diseases, and they were consistently ipsilateral to the attack site.ConclusionsIn contrast to Western countries, SUNCT and SUNA in China have a greater female predominance and an earlier onset. The shared core phenotype of SUNCT and SUNA, despite their partial differences, suggests that they are the same clinical entity.

OA32 Minimally invasive, ultrasound-guided tissue biopsies of synovial tissue in children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis for research: a feasibility study

Introduction/BackgroundWhen investigating disease mechanisms, site-specific differences in immune cell phenotype and function have highlighted the need to analyse cellular and molecular mechanisms at the tissue site directly. In adults, the ability to obtain synovial tissue biopsies using ultrasound-guided techniques, combined with advanced tissue analytics, has revolutionised our understanding of the cellular ecosystem that operates within the joint and how it contributes to disease. However, a similar approach in paediatric disease is lacking. Description/MethodAims: 1) To describe the protocol for undertaking minimally invasive ultrasound-guided synovial tissue biopsies in children and young people with arthritis, for the purpose of research, alongside routine clinical care. 2) To investigate whether high-quality synovial tissue can be obtained that is suitable for downstream applications including single cell profiling technologies, histology and digital spatial profiling.Treatment-naïve children with a diagnosis of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, who were being referred for a corticosteroid joint injection were recruited from two large UK Paediatric Rheumatology centres. We established a workflow pipeline for performing synovial tissue biopsies in child and young people with arthritis, using standardised procedures for biopsy and sample processing. Procedures were performed by experienced paediatric interventional radiologists with experience of joint biopsy for diagnostic purposes. Following a general anaesthetic, required as part of routine clinical care and the establishment of sterility, synovial fluid was aspirated. Needle-biopsies were undertaken from the same needle insertion site and subsequently corticosteroid was injected into the joint. Thickened synovium was graded via ultrasonography. Participating families completed questionnaires prior to and following synovial biopsy.Discussion/Results11 participants were recruited to the study over a nine month period, with a median age of 7 years (range 1-16 years); 91% were female. Samples obtained included core synovial biopsies, paired synovial fluid and peripheral blood. Synovial tissue fragments were processed for histology by formalin fixation and cryopreserved for downstream applications, including RNA sequencing and cell culture. Quality control indices included histological analysis to ensure the biopsied material was characteristically synovium and to grade the severity of inflammation. No significant complications were reported; however, one child had a mild haemarthrosis controlled with cold saline wash out and cold compresses.Key learning points/ConclusionObtaining biopsies of synovial tissue in children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis for the purpose of research, alongside clinical care is feasible. Analysis of tissue direct from the site of inflammation with single-cell RNA sequencing in children is achievable.

Investigation of the Dyeability Behaviors of Cotton Surfaces with Natural Dyes Extracted from Rubia Tinctorum and Reseda Luteola L. Plants

In this study, the pigment obtained from Rubia Tinctorum plants growing around Central Anatolian Region (Konya) and the Reseda Luteola L plant extract collected from Black Sea Region, have been used as natural dye sources. The 100% cotton, single pique knitted surfaces with 190 g / m2 weight are used as a material to be dyed. Prior to the dyeing process, the samples were mordanted with 1% potassium aluminum sulphate and copper sulphate in a laboratory dyeing machine (Thermal). Following the mordant process, the samples were dyed in the laboratory dyeing machine at boiling temperature for 60 minutes according to the exhaustion method. The samples were left to be cooled in the dyeing liquor and 12 hours later, cold overflow washing, hot washing, boiling soaping and cold rinsing were performed additionally. After the drying process, color measurements were carried out with a spectrophotometer (Machbeth 2 180 V) using Color office Textile program to create color coordinates according to the CIE Lab system under D65 illuminate and 10° standard observer. As a conclusion, the samples mordanted with potassium aluminum sulphate and then dyed with natural dye obtained from Rubia Tinctorum plant is considered the standard for color measurement, it has been determined that copper sulphate mordant is effective in the change of (ΔE*) total color difference (ΔE*=7.93). The samples with Rubia Tinctorum have a lighter color than the standard, the green and blue nuance is more, and the color is more matte as well. The samples mordanted with potassium aluminum sulphate and then dyed with natural dye obtained from Reseda Luteola L plant is considered the standard for color measurement, it has been determined that copper sulphate mordant is effective in the change of (ΔE*) total color difference (ΔE*=24). On the lightness axis (ΔL*), the dyed sample is darker than the standard. The color of Reseda Luteola L. dyed the samples is darker than standard, more red and blue; the nuance is more, also the color is more matte. When the Color Strength (K / S) values of the samples dyed with the dyestuffs obtained from Rubia Tinctorum and Reseda Luteola L plants were compared; in both dyestuffs, the highest Color Strength Value (K / S) was obtained in samples dyed after mordant process with copper sulphate (Rubia Tinctorum: K / S= 3,336; Reseda Luteola L: K / S= 10,649). The washing fastness results are lower than the staining fastness for all performed dyeing process. Both the color change in washing and staining rates are between the values accepted by the industry. Likewise, the dry rubbing fastness and wet rub fastness of all dyeing are similar. Light fastness values of samples dyed with natural dye obtained from Rubia Tinctorum plant are higher than samples dyed with Reseda Luteola L.

Dissection and Immunostaining of Larval Salivary Glands from Anopheles gambiae Mosquitoes.

Mosquito salivary glands (SGs) are a requisite gateway organ for the transmission of insect-borne pathogens. Disease-causing agents, including viruses and the Plasmodium parasites that cause malaria, accumulate in the secretory cavities of SG cells. Here, they are poised for transmission to their vertebrate hosts during a subsequent blood meal. As adult glands form as an elaboration of larval SG duct bud remnants that persist beyond early pupal SG histolysis, the larval SG is an ideal target for interventions that limit disease transmission. Understanding larval SG development can help develop a better understanding of its morphology and functional adaptations and aid in the assessment of new interventions that target this organ. This video protocol demonstrates an efficient technique for isolating, fixing, and staining larval SGs from Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes. Glands dissected from larvae in a 25% ethanol solution are fixed in a methanol-glacial acetic acid mixture, followed by a cold acetone wash. After a few rinses in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), SGs can be stained with a broad array of marker dyes and/or antisera against SG-expressed proteins. This method for larval SG isolation could also be used to collect tissue for in situ hybridization analysis, other transcriptomic applications, and proteomic studies.

Isolation and characterization of a new cold-active protease from psychrotrophic bacteria of Western Himalayan glacial soil

As an approach to the exploration of cold-active enzymes, in this study, we isolated a cold-active protease produced by psychrotrophic bacteria from glacial soils of Thajwas Glacier, Himalayas. The isolated strain BO1, identified as Bacillus pumilus, grew well within a temperature range of 4–30 °C. After its qualitative and quantitative screening, the cold-active protease (Apr-BO1) was purified. The Apr-BO1 had a molecular mass of 38 kDa and showed maximum (37.02 U/mg) specific activity at 20 °C, with casein as substrate. It was stable and active between the temperature range of 5–35 °C and pH 6.0–12.0, with an optimum temperature of 20 °C at pH 9.0. The Apr-BO1 had low Km value of 1.0 mg/ml and Vmax 10.0 µmol/ml/min. Moreover, it displayed better tolerance to organic solvents, surfactants, metal ions and reducing agents than most alkaline proteases. The results exhibited that it effectively removed the stains even in a cold wash and could be considered a decent detergent additive. Furthermore, through protein modelling, the structure of this protease was generated from template, subtilisin E of Bacillus subtilis (PDB ID: 3WHI), and different methods checked its quality. For the first time, this study reported the protein sequence for psychrotrophic Apr-BO1 and brought forth its novelty among other cold-active proteases.

Human and environmental exposure to pesticides in uganda: insights from water, food and human urine assessments

Human and Environmental Exposure to pesticides in Uganda: Insights from water, food and human assessmentsAuthor: Atuhaire Aggrey; atuagrey3@gmail.com Uganda National Association of Community and Occupational Health (UNACOH), Kampala, UgandaBackground In Uganda, there is limited data on human pesticide exposure and residue assessment. Between 2017 and 2019, Uganda National Association of Community and Occupational Health (UNACOH) in collaboration with its partners undertook different studies with an overall aim of assessing residue levels in community water sources, tomatoes, and exposure levels in farmers’ urine. MethodologyTomato samples were collected from farms and markets were subjected to three pre-treatments of cold wash, warm wash, peeling and compared with the control. Water samples were gathered at the start and end of a cropping season. Farmers were assessed for Mancozeb exposure at two time points (588 samples) and a questionnaire-based exposure algorithm generated. Results94.2% of the water sources had detectable pesticide residues. 25 pesticides were detected, with the number increasing by 3.6 fold between the start and end of season. Glyphosate was detected in highest concentrations levels. 6/10 most concentrated pesticides were detected in proportions exceeding maximum limit of 0.1ppb in 53 water points.Eight pesticides were detected in the tomato samples. Mancozeb was detected in highest concentration levels. The different processing techniques reduced residue levels, peeling being the most effective. About 29% of unprocessed tomato samples exceeded the Codex MRL of 2ppm for Dithiocarbamates.98% of all samples measured above LOD of 0.08 ng/mL. Farmers who reported applying Mancozeb in the last one week registered a median of 14.6 (IQR 6.7-33.5) μg/g creatinine.ConclusionCommunity water pollution from conventional farming is a public health threat in Uganda. Mancozeb use poses a threat to Uganda’s agricultural export market and public health.

Discovery and Characterization of a New Cold-Active Protease From an Extremophilic Bacterium via Comparative Genome Analysis and in vitro Expression.

Following a screening of Antarctic glacier forefield-bacteria for novel cold-active enzymes, a psychrophilic strain Psychrobacter sp. 94-6PB was selected for further characterization of enzymatic activities. The strain produced lipases and proteases in the temperature range of 4–18°C. The coding sequence of an extracellular serine-protease was then identified via comparative analysis across Psychrobacter sp. genomes, PCR-amplified in our strain 94-6PB and expressed in the heterologous host E. coli. The purified enzyme (80 kDa) resulted to be a cold-active alkaline protease, performing best at temperatures of 20–30°C and pH 7-9. It was stable in presence of common inhibitors [β-mercaptoethanol (β-ME), dithiothreitol (DTT), urea, phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride (PMSF) and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)] and compatible with detergents and surfactants (Tween 20, Tween 80, hydrogen peroxide and Triton X-100). Because of these properties, the P94-6PB protease may be suitable for use in a new generation of laundry products for cold washing. Furthermore, we assessed the microdiversity of this enzyme in Psychrobacter organisms from different cold habitats and found several gene clusters that correlated with specific ecological niches. We then discussed the role of habitat specialization in shaping the biodiversity of proteins and enzymes and anticipate far-reaching implications for the search of novel variants of biotechnological products.

Biochemical characterization and homology modelling of cold-active alkophilic protease from Northwestern Himalayas and its application in detergent industry

Abstract Proteolytic enzymes are one of the largest classes of commercial enzymes used in industrial applications especially alkophilic protease is required by detergent industry. Cold-active alkophilic protease producing psychrotrophic bacterium was isolated from soil sediment of Wular lake Kashmir and identified as Bacillus subtilis WLCP1. The molecular weight of purified protease was 38 kDa, determined by SDS-PAGE. The optimal pH of the purified protease was 10.0 and was stable at pH 7.0–11.0. The optimum temperature of the enzyme was 15 °C, lowest to be reported for protease producing Bacillus sp. and can work up to 40 °C at pH 10. The protease activity was inhibited by phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride (PMSF) while improved by Ca2+ and Cu2+ indicating the enzyme is serine alkaline protease. Purified genomic DNA from Bacillus subtilis WLCP1 was cloned and sequenced that encodes a protein of 378 amino acids. Two 3D structure models were built using the structure of Subtilisin E and SUBTILISN BPNꞌ as templates and concluded by Ramachandran Plot. The purified protease from Bacillus subtilis WLCP1 with detergent enhanced the removal of blood stains under cold conditions, making it extremely useful as detergent additive for cold washing due to its ability to work in alkophilic pH and low temperature ranges, and first ever to be reported from the North Western Himalayas, exploring the range of habitat for industrial enzymes.

Safety, Feasibility, and Efficiency of a New Cooling Device Using Intravenous Cold Infusions for Fever Control.

Fever control plays a key role in therapy of patients with acute brain injury. The infusion of cold saline could serve as an alternative or additional method for targeted temperature management. However, it is difficult to estimate the amount of fluid required to achieve normothermia merely on the basis of body weight. There is no standardized load management regarding the administration of cold saline, and no closed-loop systems based on continuous temperature-controlled feedback are available. The primary purpose of the present study was to evaluate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of a new automated fluid infusion system. Twelve patients with acute brain injury and febrile episodes were treated with the automated infusion device tempedy (seiratherm GmbH, Herzogenaurach, Germany). Patients were included if bladder temperature still was ≥ 37.9°C after administration of antipyretic medication, cold washing solutions, and ice packs more than 2h earlier. The efficacy was examined by measuring the time and amount of fluid needed to reach and maintain target temperature. Feasibility and safety were assessed based on recording any technical difficulties with the new device and the occurrence of clinical signs of fluid overload such as acute pulmonary edema, electrolyte disturbances, or acid-base dysfunction. The mean time was 73min (range from 15 to 330min) and 1650ml the mean amount of fluid (21.2ml/kg; SD 28.5ml/kg) to reach the target temperature. The mean total fluid balance to reach and maintain the target temperature in the first 12h was 1350ml (SD 1550ml). In the first 12h 89.4% of the time temperature values were in the target range (median 95.3%, range 83.8-10%). No clinical signs of fluid overload such as an acute pulmonary edema or device-related adverse events occurred. Target temperature management with the new automated infusion device is feasible. Although we provided first data regarding safety, further controlled randomized studies are needed to evaluate the long-time safety, as well as the best indications and timing for this cooling device.

Bicomponent fibres for controlled release of volatile mosquito repellents

Core-sheath structured fibres were developed for application as part of an alternative malaria vector control intervention aimed at reducing outdoor malaria transmission. The fibres were prepared by melt spinning of high density polyethylene (HDPE) as sheath and with a concentrate containing volatile N,N-Diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET) in poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) (EVA) as core. The concentrate was prepared by a simple absorption processes to a content up to 40 wt% DEET. Scanning electron microscope imaging confirmed the formation of a bicomponent core-sheath fibre structure. Confocal Raman spectroscopy revealed the development of a concentration gradient of DEET in the sheath layer, suggesting a diffusion controlled release process. Excellent processability was demonstrated on an extrusion system melt spinning with take up speeds reaching 3000 m min−1. Sample textiles knitted from such filaments showed high residual repellence activity even after 20 cold washes or after eight months ageing under laboratory conditions. These findings indicate that this technology offers an alternative way to prevent outdoor mosquito bites in an effective and affordable manner.

Utilization of eggshell waste as an adsorbent for the dry purification of biodiesel

This work describes the purification of sunflower oil‐derived biodiesel by dry cold washing using 1, 5, 10, and 20% (w/v) chicken's eggshells (Gallus gallus domesticus), as well as a subsequent comparison with conventional wet washing with hot water, as well as the reuse of eggshells. Both purification methods were efficient in the removal of free glycerin, free fatty acid molecules, and catalyst, as verified by a decrease in their respective content values, with an increase in water content also observed. In comparison to conventional wet washing, samples purified with eggshells presented similar behavior regarding the removal of impurities. In the calcium determinations (Ca+2), all concentrations remained below the required standards. Thus, the dry process could be used to replace the conventional wet method, as it provides the advantage of reducing effluent emission as well as offering an application for eggshells, large amounts of which are generated due to excessive egg consumption and for which an appropriate use has not yet been found. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1901–1907, 2018

Study on moisture management properties of Micro-Pore Ring-Spun Viscose Yarn-plated knitted fabrics

Moisture management properties decide the comfort level of the fabric. The most important characteristics of a knitted structure to be used in next to-skin applications are concerned with two different fabric layers namely the separation and absorption layers. The present study attempts to study the moisture management properties of plated knitted fabrics developed from structurally modified Micro-Pore Ring-Spun Viscose Yarn (hydrophilic) as the outer layer and polypropylene (hydrophobic) yarn as the inner layer of fabric. The structurally modified Micro-Pore Ring Spun Viscose Yarn (MPRSVY) was produced by blending Viscose (V)/PVA (Poly-Vinyl Alcohol) fiber in short staple spinning system. PVA is removed by treating the fabric in hot water at a temperature of 900C for 20–30 minutes, followed by cold wash. The study reveals that the fabric plated with Polypropylene (PP)/ Micro-Pore Ring Spun Viscose Yarn (MPRSVY) and Polypropylene (PP)/Viscose (V) exhibits excellent moisture management properties with a higher bottom spreading speed, one way transport index, and overall moisture management capacity. Moisture management properties of PP/MPRSVY and PP/V plated knitted fabrics prove that they can be used to produce active wear fabrics.

Difference in Mite Survival in Blankets Washed in Top-Loading Vs. Front-Loading Washing Machines.

Blankets are reservoirs of dust mites and mite allergens. Previous studies of the effect of hot- and cold-water washing on the removal of dust mites from blankets have used top-loading washing machines, in which the machine’s tub is filled with water, which remains while being agitated. Particularly with cold or warm-water washing, many mites die by drowning or are simply washed out of the substrate while still alive. In contrast, many newer washing machines are water-conserving front-loaders, in which the item is repeatedly wetted and spun, without it staying submerged in water. We studied whether the type of machine affects the number of mites removed. Sections of polyester blankets were inoculated with dense cultures of D. pteronyssinus mites and then vacuumed. They were separated into unwashed controls or washed in a top-loading (Kenmore 80 Series) or a front-loading (Asko W6424) machine, in hot (125oF at faucet, 115oF in tub top-loading; 140oF front-loading) or cold water, or in cold water with a non-bleach oxidizer. After air-drying, the live mites remaining in each section were counted using the Heat Escape method. Hot-water washing reduced mean mite numbers by 78% (p=.03) in the top loader, and 90% (p=.01) in the front-loader. Cold-water washing reductions were 65% (p=.05) top-loader, but only 10% (p=.78) front-loader. Adding the non-bleach oxidizer to cold washes had no significant effect on surviving mite numbers in either machine. Front loading machines are less effective than top loading machines in their ability to wash mites out of blankets in cold water.

Impact of Kidney Graft Weight-to-Recipient Body Weight Ratio on Long-Term Graft Function in Living Donor Kidney Transplant.

Our objective was to evaluate the effect of kidney graft weight-to-recipient body weight ratio as a nonimmune factor that may affect long-term graft function. We retrospectively collected data from 2531 living donor kidney transplant procedures performed between 1994 and 2010 at Shahid Labbafinejad Medical Center; 635 patients were included in this study. Each kidney was weighed after cold wash. The kidney weight-to-recipient body weight ratio was calculated. As an indicator of graft function, we used the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study Group equation to estimate glomerular filtration rate. For statistical analyses, we used simple linear regression analysis and the mixed model test using SPSS version 17.0 software (SPSS, Chicago, IL, USA). Mean age of recipients and median follow-up duration were 37.5 years (range, 6-77 y) and 36 months (range, 25-84 mo). Long-term graft function showed a positive correlation with kidney graft-to-recipient body weight ratio but not with the graft weight alone. The magnitude of this correlation was higher early after surgery (day 7) and decreased with long-term follow-up but was still statistically significant (P < .001). From our results, we conclude that kidney graft-to-recipient body weight ratio is correlated with the kidney graft function; graft size matching may be considered for kidney donor selection.

An Alkaline Protease from Bacillus pumilus MP 27: Functional Analysis of Its Binding Model toward Its Applications As Detergent Additive.

A proteolytic strain of Bacillus pumilus MP 27 was isolated from water samples of Southern ocean produced alkaline protease. Since protease production need expensive ingredients, an economically viable process was developed by using low cost carbon source, wheat straw, supplemented with peptone. This protease was active within temperature ranges 10–70°C at pH 9. This process was optimized by response surface methodology using a Box Bekhman design by Design Expert 7.0 software that increased the protease activity to 776.5 U/ml. Moreover, the enzyme was extremely stable at a broad range of temperature and pH retaining 69% of its activity at 50°C and 70% at pH 11. The enzyme exhibited excellent compatibility with surfactants and commercial detergents, showing 87% stability with triton X-100 and 100% stability with Tide commercial detergent. The results of the wash performance analysis demonstrated considerably good de-staining at 50 and 4°C with low supplementation (109 U/ml). Molecular modeling of the protease revealed the presence of serine proteases, subtilase family and serine active site and further docking supported the association of catalytic site with the various substrates. Certainly, such protease can be considered as a good detergent additive in detergent industry with a possibility to remove the stains effectively even in a cold wash.