Improper Balance Research Articles

Dissemination and Interpretation of Animated Films in Intercultural Communication in China

As an important carrier for displaying local culture and national image, animated films play a key role in inheriting and innovating Chinese culture and cultivating national self-consciousness and cultural confidence. However, in the process of cross-cultural communication, Chinese animated films face problems such as an imperfect communication mechanism, insufficient cultural adaptability, and limited international influence.By analyzing these problems, this paper explores the specific communication mechanism and path of animated films in cross-cultural communication. It is found that there are problems such as improper balance between localization and internationalization of cultural content, lack of marketing strategy, and single communication channel in cross-cultural communication of Chinese animated films.Through case studies and empirical research, this paper proposes a series of strategies to optimize the dissemination mechanism, including enhancing the international adaptability of cultural content, adopting diversified dissemination channels, and strengthening marketing and branding in order to enhance the international competitiveness and cultural influence of Chinese animated films.The research in this paper provides concrete practical guidance and theoretical support for better dissemination and development of Chinese animated films in the context of globalization.

Effect of Vamana Karma and Panchkola Phanta in Hypothyroidism (Agnimandya)

Modernization leads to improper balance and disintegration of health and environment, body, mind and soul leading to lifestyle disorders. Hypothyroidism is one among the lifestyle and endocrinal disorder which is commonly encountered now days continuing to pose a major health issue. As it also responds to stress and stimuli the global incidence of hypothyroidism is more. This is leading to many lifestyle disorders and hormonal imbalance in our body. Hypothyroidism also known as underactive thyroid is a condition where the thyroid gland does not create enough thyroid hormones, which decreases the basal metabolic rate. Hypothyroidism may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stage. It occurs about 7-8 times more frequently in females than males. The only modern treatment available is lifelong use of hormonal therapy (Levothyroxine sodium) but it has side effects on long term use. Thus, in order to prevent life long medication and side effects of synthetic drugs, using traditional and natural substance for treatment of hypothyroidism. In Ayurveda there is no direct reference of thyroid in Ayurveda classics but all the metabolic processes of the body are under the control of Agni. Ayurveda mentioned Shodhana Chikitsa, in Agnimandya dominancy of Kapha Dosha and Vamana Karma is best line of treatment for Kapha Dosha. Panchkola Phanta serves the purpose of Deepan and Pachana, thus eliminating the root cause of the disease and correcting the Agni and does the digestion of Ama. In Agnimandya, Panchkola Phanta is useful for Amapachana and to increase the Agni.

An improved slime mould algorithm using multiple strategies

Aiming at the defects of standard slime mould algorithm (SMA), such as local optima stagnation, slow convergence and improper balance between exploitation and exploration, we propose an improved SMA that contains the adaptive t-distributed variation strategy, improved location update formula and chaotic opposition-based learning strategy, that is, the MISMA. Utilizing comparative experiments and ablation studies on classical benchmark and CEC2020 benchmark suite, we proved that MISMA outperforms other state-of-the-art rival algorithms on convergence speed, solution accuracy, and robustness, each component of MISMA achieves an improvement on the defects of SMA at each stage and exhibits synergistic effects.

Performance evaluation of machine learning algorithms for Parkinson’s disease identification model

Though Medical sector is referred to as one of the most advance sector in the Country, there are some implications which shows disorientation of medical sector and early prediction of various ailments. There are some diseases which does not have any preventive measures and are incurable till date. Parkinson’s disease is one of those disease that is incurable till date and its clinical diagnosis requires early detection of symptoms which may vary according to age parameter. Parkinson’s disease is one of the incurable diseases which affects the Central Nervous System (CNS) of Human brain which leads to various symptoms like barely noticeable tremor on limbs, slowness in movement, improper balance and posture of body, Loss of automated movement and sometimes change in vocal frequency. With theadvent of Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technique are used for diagnosis of brain diseaseswhich is helping the doctor for early detection of the diseases.Considering the performance evaluation parameters, we have given equal importance to every performance measures used. The dataset for the Parkinson’s disease detection is taken from Oxford UCI Machine repository. Analysis and Comparative study show that all the algorithms can detect the person is affected by the Parkinson’s disease or not. Out of them random forest algorithm yielded highest performance measures.

Wpływ czynników mechanicznych na wydajność i proces starzenia się kiwona

"The paper discusses the influence of mechanical factors on the performance and aging process of rocking machines, specifically focusing on oilfield equipment such as the downhole rod pump jack. The authors emphasize the importance of analyzing the condition and aging process of oilfield equipment to ensure reliability, safety, and efficiency in oil production processes. The mechanical factors discussed in the paper include vibrations, loads, wear, and corrosion. Vibrations can be caused by improper balance, bearing failures, or other factors, and they have a negative impact on equipment performance and can lead to breakdowns. High mechanical loads associated with raising and lowering sucker rods can cause wear and damage to the pump jack. Operating in harsh environments with sand, abrasive particles, or chemicals can also cause wear on surfaces and equipment parts. Corrosion of metal components can occur due to moisture, chemical attack, or improper storage and maintenance, leading to deterioration and breakage of equipment. The consequences of these mechanical factors on the aging of an oil pump jack include accelerated aging, decreased performance, and an increased risk of accidents. Continuous exposure to vibration, stress, wear, and corrosion accelerates the aging process, resulting in deterioration and reduced equipment life. Damage and breakdowns caused by mechanical factors lead to decreased efficiency, negatively impacting oil production processes. Moreover, insufficient maintenance and failure to address mechanical influences increase the risk of accidents, downtime, and damage to other parts of the manufacturing process. To assess the health and aging status of an oil pump jack, various analysis and diagnostic methods are used, including visual inspection, strength testing, monitoring of parameters, and non-destructive testing. Visual inspection helps identify visible damage, wear, and defects. Strength testing evaluates the reliability of pump jack parts and identifies potential issues. Monitoring parameters like vibrations, temperature, and pressure allows for detecting deviations from normal operation and preventing breakdowns. Non-destructive testing methods such as ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle testing, and radiography help identify hidden defects and damage. The authors recommend several strategies to maintain the reliability and efficiency of an oil pump jack. These strategies include implementing a preventive maintenance program with regular inspection, testing, and parts replacement based on manufacturer’s recommendations and equipment condition analysis. Determining optimal service and part replacement intervals based on historical data, monitoring results, and manufacturer’s recommendations is crucial. Additionally, utilizing more durable materials, anti-corrosion coatings, improved designs, and technologies can increase equipment resistance to mechanical stress and improve performance. The paper also describes the device and components of a pump jack, such as the installation base, platform, balancer, electric motor, crank, connecting rod, and control station. It emphasizes the importance of considering various characteristics when selecting and evaluating the effectiveness of a pump jack, including working load, maximum plunger stroke, reducer dimensions, output torque, and swing frequency. The kinematics of the pump jack drive system are discussed, highlighting the need for reconfiguration to adapt to changing operating conditions and optimize oil production performance. Overall, the paper emphasizes the importance of analyzing mechanical factors, managing the aging process, and implementing maintenance strategies to ensure the reliable and efficient operation of oilfield equipment, specifically the pump jack used in oil production processes.

Fast random opposition-based learning Golden Jackal Optimization algorithm

Nowadays, optimization techniques are required in various engineering domains in order to find optimal solutions for complex problems. As a result, there is a growing tendency among scientists to enhance existing nature-inspired algorithms using various evolutionary strategies and to develop new nature-inspired optimization methods that can properly explore the feature space. The recently designed nature-inspired metaheuristic, named the Golden Jackal Optimization​ (GJO) algorithm, was inspired by the collaborative hunting actions of the golden jackal in nature to solve various challenging problems. However, like other approaches, the GJO has the limitations of poor exploitation ability, ease to get stuck in a local optimal region, and an improper balancing of exploration and exploitation. To overcome these limitations, this paper proposes a novel contribution to GJO based on a new technique, namely the fast random opposition-based learning Golden Jackal Optimization algorithm (FROBL-GJO). The FROBL technique is mainly inspired by opposition-based learning (OBL) and random opposition-based learning (ROBL) techniques to enhance the optimization precision and convergence speed of the GJO algorithm. Furthermore, two other models, such as OBL-GJO and ROBL-GJO, are also proposed for comparison purposes. To examine the proficiency of the newly proposed FROBL-GJO algorithm, it has been examined with several well-known existing meta-heuristic algorithms while solving the CEC-2005 and CEC-2019 benchmark test functions and real-life engineering problems. The experimental outcomes and statistical tests reveal the superior performance of the proposed FROBL-GJO in solving both global optimization and engineering design problems. Hence, the findings of benchmark functions and engineering problems endorse that the proposed FROBL-GJO algorithm can be considered a promising method for solving complex optimization problems.

Capital structure, profitability, and short-term solvency of nascent SMEs in Ghana: An empirical study

PURPOSE: Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in the economic growth of emerging economies. However, many of these businesses fail in their early stages, making it important to investigate factors that influence their short-term solvency. This study aims to examine the impact of capital structure and profitability on the short-term solvency of nascent SMEs in Ghana, building on the liability of newness framework. METHODOLOGY: Data for this study were obtained from the Ghana Enterprises Agency, focusing on nascent SMEs that are five years old or less. Financial statements were used to measure the dependent and independent variables, and regression analysis was employed to measure the variance in short-term solvency accounted for by profitability and capital structure. FINDINGS: This study demonstrates that financing decisions and financial performance act as crucial mitigating factors for the potential risks of default and failure faced by nascent SMEs. Notably, the study finds that an appropriate balance between debt and equity financing raises the working capital ratio and thus reduces the liability of newness, which is a major challenge faced by nascent SMEs. This highlights the relevance of the trade-off theory, which recommends a combination of debt and equity financing to leverage the advantages of both sources of capital, in the context of nascent SMEs. The intricate relationship between profitability and short-term solvency in nascent SMEs was revealed in this study. The findings illustrate that while return on equity exhibits a direct impact on the short-term solvency of such SMEs, return on assets manifests an opposing effect. Furthermore, net profit after tax demonstrates only a nominal influence on the short-term solvency of nascent SMEs in Ghana. IMPLICATIONS: The implications of our study are far-reaching, particularly within the context of Ghana’s nascent SMEs. To ensure short-term viability and facilitate a smooth transition to maturity, nascent SMEs must strive for an optimal debt-to-equity ratio. This critical insight underscores the importance of managing the capital structure of nascent SMEs, as the improper balance between debt and equity may impede the achievement of short-term solvency and, in turn, hinder the long-term success of the firm. Additionally, while nascent SMEs must prioritize maintaining liquidity to safeguard against unforeseen contingencies, this comes at a high cost in terms of missed opportunities that could significantly enhance the company’s long-term return on assets. Thus, it is crucial for small business owners in Ghana to strike a balance between short-term solvency and return on assets by engaging in prudent financial management practices. Overall, our study provides valuable theoretical and practical implications for nascent SMEs in Ghana, emphasizing the need to optimize their capital structure and maximize their long-term return on assets while safeguarding their short-term liquidity. ORIGINALITY AND VALUE: The study’s conceptualization that capital structure and profitability relate significantly to short-term solvency and, therefore, buffers the liability of newness is novel. Second, by showing that the trade-off theory’s tenets are relevant to the short-term solvency of nascent SMEs, the study demonstrates that capital structure theories apply equally to SMEs, just as much as large firms.

LSMA-TLBO: A hybrid SMA-TLBO algorithm with lévy flight based mutation for numerical optimization and engineering design problems

The objective of this paper is to present a novel hybrid algorithm LSMA-TLBO for solving the numerical and engineering design optimization problems. The proposed algorithm utilizes the features of Slime Mould Algorithm (SMA) and the Teaching–Learning Based Optimization (TLBO) to balance the exploitation and exploration ability. In addition, a lévy flight based mutation is introduced in this study to maximize the exploration ability of the algorithm. SMA is one of the meta-heuristic algorithms (MHAs) which mimics the oscillation mechanism of slime mould in nature. It is an efficient technique that has been successfully applied to the complex optimization problems (OPs) due to its global exploration ability. However, despite its popularity, the SMA also suffers from some shortcomings, such as local optima stagnation, slow convergence rate and improper balance between exploitation and exploration. In view of this weaknesses, the hybrid algorithm LSMA-TLBO is proposed considering the good global search ability of SMA, fast convergence of TLBO and the features of the lévy flight based mutation to maximize the exploration ability. The performance of the proposed LSMA-TLBO is evaluated on 23 different benchmark functions including uni-modal and multi-modal problems. In addition, IEEE CEC-C06 2019 test suite and six engineering design problems are also considered to examine the practicable abilities of the proposed method. The results are compared with several recently proposed state-of-the-art algorithms and the simulation results show that the proposed method outperforms other algorithms. Further, the LSMA-TLBO is executed through statistical testing of hypothesis namely Wilcoxon’s rank-sum test. It is concluded that the proposed LSMA-TLBO is more competitive and effective algorithm to solve real-world complex OPs.

An Advanced Amalgam of Nature-Inspired Algorithms for Global Optimization Problems

Large-scale global optimization problems are ambitious and quite difficult to handle with deterministic methods. The use of stochastic optimization techniques is a good choice for dealing with these problems. Nature-inspired algorithms (NIAs) are stochastic in nature, computer-based, and quite easy to implement due to their population-based nature. The Grey wolf optimizer (GWO) and teaching-learning-based optimization are the most recently developed and well-known NIAs. GWO is based on the preying strategies of grey wolves while TLBO is based on the effect of the influence of a teacher on the output of learners in a class. NIAs are quite often stuck in the local basins of attraction due to the improper balancing of exploration versus exploitation. In this paper, an advanced amalgam of nature-inspired algorithms (ANIA) is developed by employing GWO and TLBO as constituent algorithms. Initially, an equal number of solutions are assigned to both NIAs to perform their search process of population evolution; then, in later iterations, the number of solutions are allocated to each constituent algorithm based on their individual performance and achievements gained by each algorithm in the previous iteration. The performance of an algorithm is determined at the end of iteration by calculating the ratio of total updated solutions to the total assigned solutions in the amalgam. The proposed strategy effectively balanced the exploration versus exploitation dilemma via compelling the parent algorithms to show continuous improvement during the whole course of the optimization process. The performance of the proposed algorithm, ANIA is evaluated on recently designed benchmark functions of large-scale global optimization problems. The approximated results found by the proposed algorithm are promising as compared to state-of-the-art evolutionary algorithms including the GWO and TLBO in terms of diversity and proximity. The proposed ANIA has tackled most of the benchmark functions efficiently in the parlance of evolutionary computing communities.

Stabilization of light bullets in nonlinear metamaterial waveguides

In this paper we carry out a theoretical investigation on the propagation of spatiotemporal solitons (light bullets) in the nonlinear metamaterial waveguides. Our theoretical study is based on the formulation of Lagrangian variational analysis with a suitable ansatz, followed by a split-step Fourier method in confirming the previous outcomes numerically. A particular emphasis is given to obtain the conditions on the system parameters for stable dynamics in negative as well as positive index regimes of metamaterial waveguides. Similar to the conventional medium, the three-dimensional (3D) light bullets are highly unstable in metamaterials with the Kerr-type nonlinearity alone. However, in the negative index regime of metamaterials, the stable propagation of light bullets may occur in the normal dispersion regime balancing with defocusing cubic nonlinearity and focusing quintic nonlinearity. As in the conventional case, the stable dynamics is also observed in the case of anomalous dispersion with focusing cubic nonlinearity and defocusing quintic nonlinearity in the positive index regime. To test the solitonic nature of the 3D light bullets in the metamaterials, we also numerically investigate the collision dynamics of two light bullets. The study shows that the spatiotemporal soliton propagates without any change, except perhaps some phase shift after a collision with another spatiotemporal soliton in competing cubic and quintic nonlinear metamaterials. The improper balancing between the linear and nonlinear effects results to form the bullet molecules in a distorted form with a large amount of energy after interaction, and in the long run, oscillations of the light bullets grow and the bullets become filaments. We observed the same collision dynamics in both the negative and positive refractive index regimes of the metamaterial.

A hybrid ITLHHO algorithm for numerical and engineering optimization problems

Harris hawks optimization (HHO) is one of the newest metaheuristic algorithms (MHAs) which mimic the interdependent behaviour and hunting style of Harris hawks in nature. It is an efficient swarm optimization technique that has been used to solve various kinds of optimization problems. However, for some optimization cases, it has a tendency to be trapped into local search space and it endures an improper balance between exploitation and exploration. To get rid of this situation and to explore the global searching ability of HHO, an effective hybrid method improved teaching–learning HHO (ITLHHO) has been developed using improved teaching–learning-based optimization for solving different kinds of engineering design and numerical optimization problems. The performance of ITLHHO has been demonstrated by 33 well-known benchmark functions, including IEEE Congress of Evolutionary Computation Benchmark Test Functions (CEC-C06, 2019 Competition) and 10 multidisciplinary challenging engineering optimization problems. After illustration, the outcomes of the proposed ITLHHO are compared with several recently developed competitive MHAs. Additionally, the ITLHHO results are statistically investigated with the Wilcoxon rank-sum test and multiple comparison test to show the significance of the results. The experimental results suggest that ITLHHO significantly outperforms other algorithms and becomes a remarkable and promising tool for solving various kinds of optimization problems.

128 Homemade Pet Diets—What Are the Key Supplement Considerations?

Abstract Interest in preparing pet foods at home has continued to build momentum over the last decade. Websites, blogs, and social media groups praise the benefits of feeding raw and home-prepared diets. Consistent research has demonstrated the beneficial effects of raw diets on macronutrient digestibility (primarily fat and protein); however, research is lacking on overall health impacts. While it is important to acknowledge the lack of substantial research, owner choice and compliance also should be considered. With well-established nutrient requirements for dogs and cats available through AAFCO and the National Research Council (NRC), it is relatively uncomplicated to meet requirements when typical processing methods are not required (extrusion or canning). Although it is not complicated to meet the requirements with home-based fresh or lightly cooked ingredients, care must be taken to properly ensure that vitamin and mineral requirements are met. In review of over 100 homemade diets submitted for evaluation, 0% met all vitamin and mineral requirements for dogs or cats. All diets were supplemented with some form of calcium. Approximately 25% of submitted diets utilized bones as the source of calcium. Bones can be problematic depending on type, particularly for digestion, broken pieces that can cause intestinal blockages, and broken teeth. None of the diets were properly balanced for copper, zinc and iron. It is likely, this triad of minerals has been overlooked in diet formulations. It is critical to note that improper balance of these minerals could play a significant role in oxidative stress and aging. Iodine is typically met through additions of kelp; however, variations in quality can result in over or under-supplementation having detrimental effects on the thyroid. Vitamins E and D also are often under-supplemented in these diets. Educating owners on nutrient requirements and ratios, and providing proper supplementation, can assure a quality and balanced diet.

Hybrid slime mould algorithm with adaptive guided differential evolution algorithm for combinatorial and global optimization problems

The Slime Mould Algorithm (SMA) is a recent metaheuristic inspired by the oscillation of slime mould. Similar to other original metaheuristic algorithms (MAs), SMA may suffer from drawbacks, such as being trapped in minimum local regions and improper balance between exploitation and exploration phases. To overcome these weaknesses, this paper proposes a hybrid algorithm: SMA combined to Adaptive Guided Differential Evolution Algorithm (AGDE) (SMA-AGDE). The AGDE mutation method is employed to enhance the swarm agents’ local search, increase the population’s diversity, and help avoid premature convergence. The SMA-AGDE’s performance is evaluated on the CEC’17 test suite, three engineering design problems – tension/compression spring, pressure vessel, and rolling element bearing – and two combinatorial optimization problems – bin packing and quadratic assignment. The SMA-AGDE is compared with three categories of optimization methods: (1) The well-studied MAs, i.e., Biogeography-Based Optimizer (BBO), Gravitational Search Algorithm (GSA), and Teaching Learning-Based Optimization (TLBO), (2) Recently developed MAs, i.e., Harris Hawks Optimization (HHO), Manta Ray Foraging optimization (MRFO), and the original SMA, and (3) High-performance MAs, i.e., Evolution Strategy with Covariance Matrix Adaptation (CMA-ES), and AGDE. The overall simulation results reveal that the SMA-AGDE ranked first among the compared algorithms, and so, over different function landscapes. Thus, the proposed SMA-AGDE is a promising optimization tool for global and combinatorial optimization problems and engineering design problems.

Use of Simple Geometry to Predict Changes in Coronal and Sagittal Alignments Using an Extramedullary Tibial Cutting Guide During Total Knee Arthroplasty.

During total knee arthroplasty, balancing is necessary for long-term stability and longevity of implants as improper balancing leads to abnormal surface strain. A routine practice among surgeons is to add more posterior slope to the proximal tibia to provide an increase in the flexion gap to balance the knee throughout the entire range of motion, particularly when doing cruciate-retaining knees. The aim of this technique guide is to provide a simple estimate of the posterior slope added or subtracted when cutting the proximal tibia using a standard extramedullary guide. It can also be applied to predict the amount of coronal change instituted using a standard extramedullary drop guide. Using a few basic calculations with a sine equation, a surgeon can accurately predict the amount of change in the slope applied when cutting the proximal tibia. This can be done to control the degree of slope added to the anterior-posterior direction and can be used to predict coronal alignment changes as well. This technique can be applied to any length extramedullary guide and applied across all companies to provide surgeons with an exact degree change in the tibial slope and coronal alignment with simple calculations.

Oxidation-Specific Epitopes in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.

An improper balance between the production and elimination of intracellular reactive oxygen species causes increased oxidative stress. Consequently, DNA, RNA, proteins, and lipids are irreversibly damaged, leading to molecular modifications that disrupt normal function. In particular, the peroxidation of lipids in membranes or lipoproteins alters lipid function and promotes formation of neo-epitopes, such as oxidation-specific epitopes (OSEs), which are found to be present on (lipo)proteins, dying cells, and extracellular vesicles. Accumulation of OSEs and recognition of OSEs by designated pattern recognition receptors on immune cells or soluble effectors can contribute to the development of chronic inflammatory diseases. In line, recent studies highlight the involvement of modified lipids and OSEs in different stages of the spectrum of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), including inflammatory non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Targeting lipid peroxidation products shows high potential in the search for novel, better therapeutic strategies for NASH.

Improvement of pin flexible coupling construction

The purpose of the study is to increase the service life of coupling joints of centrifugal pumping units by designing a modernized coupling joint. During the operation of centrifugal units, there is a problem associated with a short service life of the couplings due to the imbalance of the half couplings, improper balancing of the rotor, etc. The authors conducted an objective and comprehensive analysis of the flexible coupling operation. Based on the results of the study of the existing construction, the coupling joint was modernized using the example of the pin flexible coupling for a centrifugal pump 200D90. The flexible coupling construction, which has no analogues in Russia, has been created. Due to the proposed upgraded construction, the coupling provides increased service life and more reliable operability in service.

An Assessment of Work Life Balance Practice of Church Leaders: The Case Study of the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus (EECMY)

This study assessed the work-life balance practice of church leaders in the case of the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus (EECMY). Besides, it also evaluated the relationship between work to life conflict, life to work conflict, perceived organizational support, and perceived social support and work life balance. Quantitative research was employed to collect the primary data for the study. The study found that church leaders have low work life balance. Moreover, it discovered that work to life conflict and life to work conflict have strongly negative relationship with work-life balance of the leaders. Again, it also revealed that perceived organizational support and perceived social support have no significant relationship with work life balance. Hence, the study concluded that work to life conflict highly contribute to improper work-life balance of the church leaders than life to work conflict. Hence, the church (EECMY) must initiate work-life balance policies, strategies and family-supportive environments or culture and different mechanisms that are fundamental in enhancing work life balance of the leaders. Besides, church leaders should advocate for family-friendly benefits and supportive culture in the organization, utilize such benefits, fairly allocate and manage their times, and have supportive family members and friends. Keyworks: Work Life Balance, Work to life Conflict, Life to Work Conflict, Perceived Organizational Support, Perceived Social Support. DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/12-4-06 Publication date: February 29 th 2020

Assessment of Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Stem Bark of Bauhinia acuminata L.

Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) results from oxidative stress due to the improper balance between ROS and antioxidant is an important factor in the pathogenesis of various diseases, such as cardiovascular disorders, neurological conditions, Parkinson’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and ageing..

Response of black bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) to phosphorus fertilization in acidic and alkaline soils in Haiti

Haiti experiences one of the lowest yields of black bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) in the world (660 Kg/ha), although is the most consumed among all kind of beans. This is primarily due to poor soil and agronomic management, improper balance of soil nutrients, and limited fertilizer applications, which can lead to malnutrition, ecosystem degradation, and food insecurity, common to developing countries. Phosphorous (P) remains one of the major limitations for black bean production in both lowland and upland areas of Haiti. Included in nucleic acids, P plays a large role in plant reproduction and grain production. When soil does not have enough P available, it impacts plant growth and enhances micronutrient deficiencies, which will affect the physiological maturity. To evaluate black bean growth and yield, a pot study was conducted with two different soils (Kenscoff, acidic and Cabaret, alkaline) in Haiti using a completely randomized block design, replicated four times with four P rates (0, 44, 55, and 66 Kg/ha). Black bean in the alkaline soil achieved its highest yield when 55 Kg/ha was applied, and the acidic soil reached its optimum yield with the application of 44 Kg/ha. High amount of fertilizer is needed to meet the crop requirements, particularly when soil test P is low, especially when P can be potentially fixed by Fe or Al (acidic soil) or by Ca (alkaline soil). This study contributes to the first step in optimizing black bean production through better interpretation and nutrient recommendation of soil tests for Haitian soils.

Phytochemical Screening and Evaluation of Antiulcer Activity of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Lilium Candidum Flowers

Peptic disorders like gastro esophageal reflux disease, gastritis, peptic ulcer, duodenal ulcer etc., are the common in today’s life style. This may be due to stressful life style or improper balance diet. The pathology behind these disorders may be discrepancy between offensive and defensive mechanisms either by excess secretion of acid and pepsin or diminished ability of the gastro-duodenal mucosal barrier to protect against stomach acid-pepsin secretion. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of the most commonly used medicines and proven to be effective for certain disorders. Some people use NSAIDs on daily basis for preventive purpose. But a variety of severe side effects can be induced by NSAIDs. Studies have shown that edible natural ingredients exhibit preventive benefit of gastric ulcer. Therefore present study was designed to evaluate antiulcer activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Lilium candidum flowers in rats. Qualitative analysis of various phytochemical constituents and quantitative analysis of total phenolics and flavonoids were determined by the well-known test protocol available in the literature. The in vivo anti-ulcer activity of hydroalcoholic extract was assessed against Aspirin-induced gastric ulcer in rats. Depending on the model, outcome measures were pH of gastric fluid and ulcer index as well as percent inhibition of ulcer index. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, carbohydrates, saponins, polyphenols and amino acids. The total phenolics content of L. candidum extract was (1.039mg/100mg), followed by flavonoids (0.941mg/100mg) respectively. Further hydroalcoholic extract of 100 and 200mg/kg/p.o significantly (p˂0.01) reduced the gastric pH, ulcer index in aspirin induced ulcer models in rats. The findings of this study confirmed that L. candidum extract has anti-ulcer pharmacologic activity due to one or more of the secondary metabolites present in it. Therefore, this study validates its anti-ulcer use in Indian folk medicine. Further investigations on isolation of specific phytochemicals and elucidating mechanisms of action are needed. Keywords: Lilium candidum, Phytochemical constituents, Antiulcer, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, Aspirin-induced gastric ulcer.