Raw Food Research Articles

Raw Meat Consumption and Food Safety Challenges: A Survey of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Consumers in Lebanon.

A key contributor to foodborne illnesses is consuming contaminated ready-to-eat foods, including raw meats. The latter is a common practice in Lebanon, a country that suffers from widespread pollution and food safety challenges. However, studies on the safety of raw meat consumption in Lebanon are limited. In this study, an attempt was made to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) of the Lebanese population toward the potential risk associated with the consumption of raw meats, and to identify factors that affect KAP levels. An online survey (n = 577) was administered to Lebanese adults aged 18 years and above to assess their KAPs. The results showed that 74.5% of the participants consumed raw meat, 44% had good food safety knowledge, and 30.7% exhibited good practices. However, more than half of the participants (61.9%) showed a positive attitude toward food safety. There was a significant association between knowledge and attitude (p < 0.001), attitude and practices (p < 0.001), and knowledge and practices (p < 0.001), thereby indicating that an increase in food safety education could translate into better practices in this population. Accordingly, efforts to enhance education on food safety are warranted to reduce the potential risk of food poisoning associated with raw meat consumption in Lebanon.

IMPROVING THE NUTRITIONAL VALUE OF WATER HYACINTH LEAVES (WHL) AND ADDING IT TO PROILER DIETS DURING DIFFERENT PERIODS AGE AND ITS EFFECTS ON THE PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE

This study was conducted at the poultry farm, the Department of Animal Production, Shatrah Technical Institute , Southern Technical University for the period from 19/2/2021 to 1/4/2021 for (42 days), according to the results Prevous part of the study the best treatment for (WHL) powder was chosen and the replacement was level 6% instead for Wheat, and the best treatment for (WHL) powder treated with yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) at level 12% instead of wheat, and the best treatment for (WHL) powder treated with Iraqi probiotics at level 12% instead of wheat. In two periods of 1-21 days and 22-42 days, the chicks were fed on a starter diets for 1-21 days of age and a finisher diets for 22-42 days of age for the purpose of determining the best rearing period and its impact on the productive performance for broilers. Seven treatments were used with Three replicates per treatment (10 bird’s for replicate) in a floor hen house divided into enclosures of 1.25 x 1 m dimensions. The treatments were as follows: T1:Control without any replacement, T2: replacement (WHL) powder at a level 6% instead of wheat and for the period from 1-21 Day, T3 : replacement (WHL) powder treated with (Sc) yeast at a level 12% instead of wheat for a period of 1-21 days, T4: replacement (WHL) powder treated with Iraqi probiotics at a level 12% instead of wheat and for a period of 1-21 days, T5: replacement (WHL) powder at a level 6% instead of wheat and for the period from 22-42 days, T6: replacement (WHL) powder treated with (Sc) yeast at a level 12% instead of wheat and for the period from 22-42 days and T7: replacement (WHL) powder treated with Iraqi probiotics at a level 12% instead of wheat and for the period of 22-42 days. The results showed an improvement in live body weight, weight gain, feed consumption and food conversion ratio for all addition treatments compared with control also treatments T5,T6 and T7 recorded the best results in productive characteristics.

Рівні накопичення важких металів та активності радіонуклідів у вузькопалих річкових раках (Astacus leptodactylus Eschscholtz, 1823) Кам’янського та Запорізького (Дніпровського) водосховищ

Purpose. To determine the content of heavy metals as well as natural and artificial radionuclides in muscle tissue and carapaces of narrow-clawed crayfish Astacus leptodactylus of the Kamianske and Zaporizhzhia (Dnipro) reservoirs. Methodology. The material for the study were narrow-clawed crayfish collected in the spring period (March-April) 2021 in the coastal zone of the Kamianske and Zaporizhzhia (Dnipro) reservoirs. The collection of material was carried out with standard open-type crayfish traps with a mesh size No. 20, manual collection in the littoral zone as well as with the help of special baited traps. Carapaces and muscle tissue of crayfish were used to determine the content of heavy metals and radionuclides. Preparation of samples for measuring the content of heavy metals and radionuclides was carried out by separating crayfish tissues with subsequent homogenization and concentration (drying and incineration) of the collected material. The samples were dried at a temperature of +105°С to a constant weight, and then incinerated at a temperature of +450°С to obtain white ash. The content of radionuclides was determined on a gamma-beta spectrometer SE-BG-01 “AKP”. The content of heavy metals was determined on an atomic absorption spectrophotometer C115-M1 with a flame analyzer. Findings. Zn, Fe, and Cu were actively accumulated in the muscle tissue of crayfish of the Kamianske and Zaporizhzhia (Dnipro) reservoirs. This fact is explained by the intensive accumulation of elements in crayfish body that actively occurred in the course of physiological processes. Heavy metals such as Mn, Pb, Co were the most accumulated in crayfish carapace. The minimum content of heavy metals was found for Сd. It was found that Pb, Cu, Zn and Cd contents exceed the MACs in muscles of crayfish of the Zaporizhzhia (Dnipro) reservoir by 8, 6, 6.2 and 1.65 times, respectively. The norms for the content of heavy metals in the muscle tissue of river crayfish have not been established in Ukraine today, however, a comparison of the data we obtained with the norms for live fish shows a significant excess for almost all heavy metals examined. It was found that the level of radionuclide activity of in the muscle tissue of decapods of both investigated reservoirs was due to 40K, in the carapaces - 226Ra; 90Sr activity was minimal in muscles, and 226Ra activity in carapaces. Accumulation of studied radionuclides in crayfish did not exceed the MACs for crayfish as a food product. Originality. For the first time, the levels of accumulation of heavy metals and the activity of radionuclides in the muscle tissue and carapace of narrow-clawed crayfish of the Kamianske and Zaporizhzhia (Dnipro) reservoirs were determined. The content of toxic elements that are subject to control in food raw materials and food products according to the MACs in crayfish of the Kamianske and Zaporizhzhia (Dnipro) reservoirs was determined. Practical value. The results of the work can be used during monitoring of the ecotoxicological and radioecological conditions of the aquatic environment. Also, the obtained results can be applied in the study of narrow-clawed crayfish of the Dnieper River basin. Keywords: heavy metals, radionuclides, accumulation coefficient, MAC, crayfish, Zaporizhzhia (Dnipro) Reservoir, Kamianske Reservoir.

Prospects for the use of layer-by-layer technology for the development of an enzyme biosensor used for milk quality control

This article presents the results of scientific research on the development of a biosensor system for the determination of salts of heavy metals (cadmium and lead) in milk. When developing a biosensor system, much attention is paid to the selection of biological material and the method of their stabilization using physical and chemical forces, namely, immobilization. In this regard, studies were carried out on the selection of the enzyme and the method of its immobilization in the development of a biosensor for the detection of salts of heavy metals in milk. The development of a biosensor for the determination of toxic elements in food products is of scientific and practical importance. In world practice, special attention is paid to the contamination of raw materials and food products with toxic chemicals, mainly of anthropogenic origin, which are persistent organic pollutants. Therefore, quality control of raw materials, food products is important for consumers, and, accordingly, for the food industry. Experimental studies are based on the methods of Filippova A. M., Vorobieva O. V. to determine the specific activity of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. Determination of the activity of the catalase enzyme was carried out in accordance with the gasometric method according to the method of Warburg. As a result of experimental studies, the catalase enzyme as a biological material was chosen as a sensitive element. As a carrier for the immobilization of enzymes, a 5-bilayer combination of "chitosan-sodium alginate" was selected. The layer-by-layer technology was used to immobilize the enzyme on the substrate surface when creating an enzyme biosensor. The results of the research are recommended to be applied in the study of food safety issues and in the assessment of safety indicators of raw materials and food products by the express method.

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O157:H7 among diarrheic patients and their cattle in Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia.

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O157:H7 (STEC O157:H7) is a zoonotic pathogen that causes diarrhea, hemorrhagic colitis, and hemolytic uremic syndrome worldwide. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, antibiotic susceptibility, and associated risk factors of STEC O157:H7 among diarrheic patients and their cattle. A cross-sectional study was conducted among diarrheic patients and their cattle in Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia from December- 2020 to June- 2022. A total of 1,149 diarrheic patients and 229 cattle were included in the study. STEC O157:H7 detection was done using culture, latex agglutination test, and polymerase chain reaction on diarrheic stool samples and recto-anal mucosal swabs of cattle. Antibiotic susceptibility tests were performed using disk diffusion techniques. Risk factors association were identified using binary and multivariable logistic regression analysis. The overall prevalence of STEC O157:H7 in diarrheic patients and their cattle was 11.1% (128/1149) and 14.4% (33/229) respectively. High percentage of the study subjects were found in under-five children (34.5%). Age less than 5 (AOR: 4.02, 95%CI:1.608-10.058,P = 0.003), and greater than 64 years old (AOR:3.36, 95% CI:1.254-8.986, P = 0.016), presence of diarrheic patient in the house (AOR:2.11, 95%CI:1.309-3.390, P = 0.002), availability of cattle in the house (AOR:2.52, 95%CI:1.261-5.049, P = 0.009), and habit of consuming raw foods (AOR:4.35, 95%CI:2.645-7.148, P = 0.000) were risk factors. Antibiotic resistance was shown in 109(85.2%), and 31(93.9%) isolates from diarrheic patients and their cattle respectively. The highest levels of antibiotic resistance were found to tetracycline (54.7%, 69.7%) in diarrheic patients and their cattle respectively. Multiple drug resistance was also observed among 56(43.8%) and 11(33.3%) isolates in diarrheic patients and their cattle respectively. Our study showed high prevalence of STEC O157:H7 in diarrheic patients and their cattle. Therefore, health education should be given to the community on how to care for animals, proper sanitation, and the impact of raw food consumption.

Potentiality of natural live food organisms in shrimp culture: A review

The aquaculture industry is growing quickly due to increased fish consumption and a decline in wild fish catch. About half of the world's seafood demand for human consumption is now met by farmed seafood. The aquafeed market is expanding along with the aquaculture sector. Some of the elements in shrimp feed are derived from terrestrial plants and low-value forage fishes (fish meal). It is impossible to produce more fish meals since doing so would harm the ocean's environment and sustainability. The reduction in shrimp feed cost can also be done by introducing low-cost, environment-friendly ingredients in shrimp feed formulation. Therefore, new and ecologically friendly shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) feed component sources must be created. Live food organisms are a preferable option for this since they provide a variety of essential amino acids and beneficial triglycerides like fat, vitamins, and colors in their cell metabolites. Microalgae biomasses also represent feasible ingredients for shrimp feed sources. Their distinctive variety of bioactive chemicals can enhance color and pellet quality, act as a bulk element in shrimp feed, and boost the viability of farmed species. Live food organisms have a great economic potential since they have the highest biomass productivity of all photosynthetic organisms. In addition to giving farmers and exporters a better choice for feeding their fish, the availability of on-grown live food would also open up the prospect of improving the performance and quality of the fish and shrimp through bioencapsulation. This review study examines the possibility of generating natural food biomass as a component in shrimp feed.

Application of CRISPR/Cas system in rice

Rice, as an essential food in human life, is in increasing demand for food in today's society with such a large population. CRISPR, as the most popular gene editing system at present, has the characteristics of precision, low cost, and simple operation, so it is able to modify the genes of rice to a large extent in order to control its traits and cultivate excellent varieties. In order to better address the demand for food in society, this article conducts gene editing on rice from the perspective of using the CRISPR/Cas system. It provides a brief introduction to the relevant genes and control methods for controlling rice yield in current scientific research achievements, as well as a specific explanation of the relevant genes and control methods for stress resistance such as salt tolerance, cold resistance, and disease resistance. At the same time, in addition to the summary of the current research status, suggestions and prospects are also put forward for the shortcomings of the CRISPR/Cas system in the application of rice and other plants so far.

CeO2 nanozyme mediated RPA/CRISPR-Cas12a dual-mode biosensor for detection of invA gene in Salmonella

This study reports a novel biosensing system that leverages recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) in conjunction with clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas12a technology, integrated with a nanozyme (NZ) based on cerium dioxide (CeO2). With the integration of CeO2 NZ, a dual-mode detection platform could be developed for Salmonella detection using fluorometric and colourimetric assays. The CRISPR/Cas12a system, when activated in the presence of target DNA, could cleave the FAM-labelled probe to lead to a fluorometric response. Also, when the CeO2 NZ was introduced in the presence of H2O2, a colourimetric response was generated, directly proportional to the concentration of target DNA present. We hypothesise that adding highly reactive H2O2 within the post-CRISPR/Cas12a reaction system allows for increased release of hydroxyl free radicals within the mixture. Thus, the double recognition through NZ and the CRISPR/Cas12a system provided enhanced selectivity and sensitivity to the method. The proposed biosensor could successfully detect Salmonella at concentrations as low as 0.88 pg/μL and 1.28 pg/μL for fluorometric and colourimetric responses, respectively. Furthermore, the developed biosensor could be applied in real sample analysis of raw food samples (chicken, egg, and beef) to give a good recovery in the spiked food samples with varying concentrations of cultured bacterial DNA.

Enrichment of live foods with arachidonic acid enhanced stress resistance, digestive enzyme activity, and total antioxidant capacity in yellowfin seabream (Acanthopagrus latus) larvae

Enrichment of live foods with arachidonic acid enhanced stress resistance, digestive enzyme activity, and total antioxidant capacity in yellowfin seabream (Acanthopagrus latus) larvae

Knowledge about Food Safety among Buyers and Sellers in a Municipality Market

Background: Proper storage, sanitary equipment and work areas, heating and cooling to the correct and necessary temperatures, and avoiding contact with other raw foods may significantly reduce the risk of contamination. Important approaches for preventing physical and biological contamination during storage include the use of airtight, water-resistant containers. The use of clean, hygienic surfaces and equipment that are free of dirt, chemicals, standing liquids, and other kinds of food (such as combining vegetables and meats or beef and poultry) is one strategy to limit the danger of all sorts of infections. This research is important, particularly post-pandemic. This research assesses purchasers’ and sellers’ food safety knowledge at a municipal market. Since the previous two years have been pandemics, it’s crucial to know how many buyers and sellers follow food safety and hygiene measures. Methodology: This was a quantitative cross-sectional study, which was conducted at Mohammadpur municipal market. For this study, 202 respondents (Buyer 101 and 101sellersrwereas selected for interview. Results: In total 202 participants were taken participated in this study. The average age of those participants was 38.16 years, and maximum age was 78 years, and the minimum age was 18 years. Table 1 shows the age distribution among the respondents. The gender distribution is based on buyers and sellers. In both the cases of buyers and sellers, the highest percentages were male: 72% and 87% (chronologically). Besides, female participants were low in both buyers and sellers. Level of education, and training on food safety of buyers have a significant (p&lt;0.001) relationship with the knowledge of food safety. Conclusion: To prevent and get a handle on the potential risks and spread of food borne illnesses, there is a need for increased vigilance and control of the practices of food vendors. This can be done through the enforcement of regulations, proper hygienic practices, and food safety control measures by local authorities who are empowered to perform their functions without constraints.

Kazakhstani agricultural products: prospects for entering the Chinese market

China, being one of the world's largest food importers, has significant market opportunities for the Kazakhstani agro-industrial complex. In order to use this potential, the Republic of Kazakhstan is actively implementing measures and programs to stimulate and support the export of agricultural products. The goal is to study the features and prospects for the export of agricultural raw materials and food products to the PRC. As part of this study, the International Trade Center provided information to analyze the volumes and range of exported and imported food products and goods that were categorized in accordance with the Commodity Nomenclature of Foreign Economic Activity. Methods - descriptive statistics and index approach, allowing toidentify the main trends, quantitative changes and structural shifts in trade in food products of Kazakhstan with China and other countries. To determine the efficiency of production of various food products in the Republic of Kazakhstan relative to other countries, the Balassa index was used, measuring comparative advantage (RCA) in this area. Results - the authors note the positive impact of development of logistics, economic growth, market size and geographic proximity of Central Asian countries, including Kazakhstan, on formation of supply chains at different levels. However, to further modernize agri-food sector, a number of obstacles and risks need to be addressed: problems in production processes, processing and logistics, as well as technical and institutional constraints. Conclusions - improving the export strategy is crucial in shaping the national policy in the field of agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan in conditions of a mobilization economy: mitigating threats and risks, identifying internal resources to strengthen trade relations with the People's Republic of China.

Toxoplasma gondii contamination in fresh vegetables destined for human and livestock consumption in Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam

Toxoplasmosis caused by Toxoplasma gondii is an important zoonosis that shows severe symptoms in immunocompromised patients. High seroprevalences of toxoplasmosis were found in cats, humans, and pigs in traditional farms in Thua Thien Hue province. The main sources of infections remain unknown, thus making toxoplasmosis neglected and uncontrollable in this region. This study aimed to determine T. gondii contamination in vegetables used for human and livestock consumption and its spatial distribution in Thua Thien Hue rural areas. A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate T. gondii contamination in vegetables grown in households in three different geographic regions. The pathogen DNA was detected from vegetable samples using a primer pair that is highly specific for the 529-bp repetitive element found in T. gondii genome. In this study, 55 out of 221 (24.9%) vegetable samples were positive for T. gondii using PCR. Factors, including location, presence of fence in the garden, owning cats, and treatment of feed for cats, were not significantly associated with T. gondii contamination in vegetables according to the logistic regression. However, vegetables collected in households that have no fence for vegetable gardens, own cats, and feed cats raw or undercooked foods tend to be more heavily contaminated than others. Furthermore, a wide distribution of infected vegetables was observed in all investigated districts, showing a high infection pressure in these residential areas. This is the first report of vegetables contaminated with T. gondii in Vietnam, which reveals an overlooked health risk for humans and animals.

The role of veterinarians in zoonosis prevention: Advising families of immunocompromised children with pets

BackgroundPet ownership is widespread, offering numerous benefits to individuals and families. However, the risk of zoonotic diseases must be carefully considered, especially for immunosuppressed patients. Knowledge gaps in preventive measures for zoonoses have been identified, underscoring the vital role of veterinarians in addressing this issue. ObjectivesThis study aimed to assess the knowledge and recommendations of veterinarians regarding pet ownership by immunocompromised individuals. Additionally, we compared these insights with responses from European healthcare professionals specializing in pediatric transplant recipients. MethodsWe conducted an observational, cross-sectional study involving small animal veterinarians in Spain. An online survey was administered to gather information on veterinarians' knowledge of zoonoses and their recommendations for immunocompromised pet owners. ResultsA survey of 514 individuals was collected from experienced veterinarians mainly working in primary care clinics. Surprisingly, 63% of respondents did not routinely inquire about the presence of immunocompromised individuals among pet owners, although 54% offered specific recommendations for this group. Most respondents adhered to deworming guidelines for pets owned by immunocompromised individuals and demonstrated sound practices in Leishmania and Leptospira prevention, as well as the avoidance of raw food. However, gaps were noted concerning Bordetella bronchiseptica vaccination. Notably, veterinarians outperformed medical professionals in their knowledge of zoonotic cases and identification of zoonotic microorganisms. The presence of specific recommendations in veterinary clinics was viewed positively by nearly all respondents. ConclusionsOur findings indicate that veterinarians possess a superior understanding of zoonotic pathogens and exhibit greater proficiency in diagnosing zoonoses compared with physicians. They stay well-informed about recommendations outlined in established guidelines and are more likely to provide written recommendations in their clinics than physicians. Nevertheless, knowledge gaps among veterinarians emphasize the need for enhanced communication between medical and veterinary professionals. Reinforcing the “One Health” concept is imperative, with veterinarians playing a pivotal role in this collaborative effort.

The Occurrence of Freshwater Fish-Borne Zoonotic Helminths in Italy and Neighbouring Countries: A Systematic Review.

In recent years, the consumption of fish products has surged in European countries, being an essential part of a healthy diet. Despite representing a small part of EU production, freshwater fisheries hold considerable significance for lake-dwelling populations and tourists seeking traditional dishes. This increased fish consumption has brought to light potential health risks associated with fish-borne zoonotic helminths (FBZHs), now acknowledged as global food-borne parasites. Fish-borne zoonotic helminths belong to various taxonomic groups, including nematodes (Anisakidae), trematodes (Opisthorchiidae and Heterophyidae), and cestodes (Diphyllobothriidae). More than 50 species of FBZH are known to cause human infections, derived from eating raw or undercooked aquatic foods containing viable parasites. Despite increased attention, FBZHs remain relatively neglected compared to other food-borne pathogens due to factors like chronic disease progression and under-diagnosis. This systematic review concentrates on the prevalence of six freshwater FBZHs (Clinostomum complanatum, Contracaecum rudolphii, Dibothriocephalus latus, Eustrongylides excisus, Opisthorchis felineus, and Pseudamphistomum truncatum) in Italy and neighbouring countries. The study explores the expansion of these parasites, analysing their biological and epidemiological aspects, and the factors that influence their proliferation, such as the increased cormorant population and the lake eutrophication phenomena. In summary, this research highlights the necessity for further research, the development of spatial databases, and the establishment of a unified European policy to effectively manage these multifaceted health concerns. It strongly advocates adopting a One-Health approach to address the growing incidence of parasitic zoonoses within the context of food safety in EU countries.

Prenatal developmental sequences of the esophageal epithelium in the New Zealand white rabbits: Light and electron microscopic analysis.

Several morphogenetic sequences occur during esophageal development and birth defects occur due to defects in foregut morphogenesis. This work aimed to record the cellular events in the morphogenesis of rabbits' esophageal epithelium. On the 16th day of gestation, the esophageal epithelium varied from stratified ciliated columnar to stratified squamous type. The surface epithelium presented mucous cells with mucigen granules of various sizes occupying their supranuclear cytoplasm. Cytoplasmic vacuolation was evident in all layers of the esophageal epithelium at this age. On the 18th gestational day, some light cells could be detected in the middle portion of the epithelium, while others occupied the whole epithelial length. On the 21st day, mucous cells are more frequently observed at the apical esophageal part as well as at the surface epithelium. Numerous elongated dark cells could be distinguished embedded between the basal cells. On the 24th gestational day the number of the mucous cells reached its peak. Reaching the 30th gestational day, several lamellar bodies, a keratinized layer and mitotic divisions could be demonstrated, and the number of both mucous and dark cells was greatly decreased. Collectively, detection of surface mucous and dark cells together with the non-cornified surface in some regions of the rabbit esophageal epithelium at the end of gestation ensure a postnatal development to reach the adult epithelium essential to sustain the passage of the harsh raw food. Future immunohistochemical studies are recommended to investigate the components of secretions in mucous cells and functional studies to highlight the dark cells significance. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Esophageal epithelium of fetal rabbit was analyzed by light and transmission microscopy. Surface epithelium presented mucous cells with mucigen granules of various sizes. They reached their maximum number on 24th day then decreased. On the 16th day, cytoplasmic vacuolation was evident in all epithelial layers. On the 21st day, numerous elongated dark cells could be distinguished embedded between the basal cells. Before birth, several lamellar bodies, a keratinized layer and mitotic divisions could be demonstrated, and the number of both mucous and dark cells was greatly decreased.

Construction of optical dual-mode sensing platform based on green emissive carbon quantum dots for effective detection of ClO- and cellular imaging

Hypochlorite (ClO-) is an important redox regulator in reactive oxygen species, which play a considerable role in oxidative stress and related diseases. Hence, accurate and sensitive monitoring of ClO- concentration was urgently needed in the fields of life sciences, food and environment. Bright green fluorescent carbon quantum dots (G-CQDs) were synthesized utilizing one-step hydrothermal method with citric acid and acriflavine precursors. Through TEM, FTIR, XPS and zeta potential characterization procedures, G-CQDs illustrated uniformly dispersed and significant number of –NH2 and –OH on the surface. Meanwhile, the fluorescence and colorimetric analysis exhibited wide linear range and low detection limit response to ClO-. The fluorescence changes of G-CQDs were identified via smartphone to realize mobile sensing of ClO-. Subsequently, G-CQDs was applied for visualization and quantitative detection of ClO- in drinking water samples with satisfactory recovery rate. More importantly, G-CQDs demonstrated good water solubility, optical stability and excellent biocompatibility, which offered a promising analysis approach in cell imaging and exogenous ClO- detection in living cells. G-CQDs illustrated bright prospect and great potential in practical application of ClO- associated disease prevention and early clinical diagnosis.

Foreign trade of the USSR in agricultural products in the period 1941-1945

The object of the study is the import and export supplies of food products, agricultural raw materials and live animals to the USSR during the Great Patriotic War, the War with Japan and until the end of 1945. The subject of the study is the dynamics, trends and patterns of changes in the volume and structure of import and export of various types of agricultural products into the country and changes in the ratio of various supply channels of these products. The main content of the study is the creation of a statistical database based on a number of archival statistical sources containing data on agricultural imports and exports for the specified period and the analysis of this database. The article provides a brief description of the research on the topic of the work and an analysis of archival sources. When creating a statistical database containing data on the natural volumes of imports and exports of agricultural products, methods of historical, source-based and statistical analysis were used. As a result of reviewing the created statistical sample with data on agricultural imports and exports of the country, the following results were obtained containing elements of scientific novelty: 1. The characteristics of agricultural imports are more complete than in most previous studies. 2. The characteristics of the export of agricultural products for these years are given, which is absent in most previous studies. 3. In connection with the above, a more accurate description of the trends in the characteristics of imports and exports of agricultural raw materials and food during the years of the Great Patriotic War and the War with Japan is given, and the share of imports of a number of types of agricultural products in the total domestic production is calculated in a new way.

Does Sendivogius’ Alchemy Cancel the Celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the Discovery of Oxygen?

Abstract Most chemistry textbooks claim that oxygen was discovered almost simultaneously by Carl Scheele and Joseph Priestley about 250 years ago. Priestley obtained oxygen by heating mercuric oxide (1774), and Scheele -by heating NaNO3, as well as by dissolving pyrolusite in sulfuric acid (1772). The name “oxygen” was given a few years later (1779) by Antoine Lavoisier. This great scientist, often accused of taking advantage of the discoveries of others, conducted experiments related to the decomposition of water vapour over heated iron, as well as the synthesis of water from hydrogen and oxygen. His work was of great importance because it revealed the elemental nature of oxygen and its role in the processes of combustion and respiration. The present article draws attention to the prehistory of the “oxygen theory”. It emphasises the natural philosophy of a forgotten alchemist, healer, and diplomat - Michael Sendivogius (1566-1636) - who popularised his belief that the substance (“Water of life that does not wet the hands”) obtained by heating the “Central Salt” (nitre, KNO3) is part of the air. It is the “secret food of life” used invisibly by every living thing.

Short Note on Asteraceae as Traditional Food and Medicinal Plants in Cihanjawar Village, Purwakarta Regency, West Java

Asteraceae is known as the largest family of flowering plants. Despite some species members being invasive plants, these species are often adopted and utilized by local community groups for food, traditional medicine, and other uses. In our ethnobotanical study of Asteraceae, we identified ways a local Sundanese community group in West Java utilizes a diverse range of species in the family for different purposes. Our study focuses on a Sundanese village called Cihanjawar, located in the regency of Purwakarta, using ethnobotany and ethnomedicine approaches. People of Cihanjawar utilize some species of Asteraceae for food as ‘lalapan’ and traditional medicinal purposes. In-depth, semi-structured interviews with the people of Cihanjawar were conducted to collect primary data regarding the utilization of Asteraceae species as food and traditional medicine. A total of eight species of Asteraceae were found during the field-guided exploration in Cihanjawar Village, which include Acmella paniculata, Ageratum conyzoides, Calyptocarpus vialis, Crassocephalum crepidioides, Dichrocepala integrifolia, Emilia sonchifolia, Erechtites valerianifolia, Sphagneticola trilobata, some of which are considered invasive alien species. The species of A. paniculata, C. crepidioides, E. sonchifolia, Er. valerianifolia is eaten as a raw food (lalapan, Ind.). Then Ag. Conyzoides and C. crepidioides are utilized in traditional medicine. C. vialis, D. integrifolia, and Sphagneticola trilobata are not used by the people of Cihanjawar as food or as traditional medicine.

Gastrointestinal obstruction with phytobezoar caused by raw food diet – case report

Gastrointestinal obstruction with phytobezoar caused by raw food diet – case report