Proximate Analysis Research Articles

Gut Analysis Toolbox - automating quantitative analysis of enteric neurons.

The enteric nervous system (ENS) consists of an extensive network of neurons and glial cells embedded within the wall of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Alterations in neuronal distribution and function are strongly associated with GI dysfunction. Current methods for assessing neuronal distribution suffer from undersampling, partly due to challenges associated with imaging and analyzing large tissue areas, and operator bias due to manual analysis. We present the Gut Analysis Toolbox (GAT), an image analysis tool designed for characterization of enteric neurons and their neurochemical coding using two-dimensional images of GI wholemount preparations. GAT is developed in Fiji, has a user-friendly interface, and offers rapid and accurate segmentation via custom deep learning (DL)-based cell segmentation models developed using StarDist, as well as a ganglia segmentation model in deepImageJ. We apply proximal neighbor-based spatial analysis to reveal differences in cellular distribution across gut regions using a public dataset. In summary, GAT provides an easy-to-use toolbox to streamline routine image analysis tasks in ENS research. GAT enhances throughput, allowing rapid unbiased analysis of larger tissue areas, multiple neuronal markers and numerous samples.

An endophenotype network strategy uncovers YangXue QingNao Wan suppresses Aβ deposition, improves mitochondrial dysfunction and glucose metabolism

BackgroundAlzheimer's disease (AD), an escalating global health issue, lacks effective treatments due to its complex pathogenesis. YangXue QingNao Wan (YXQNW) is a China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA)- approved TCM formula that has been repurposed in clinical Phase II for the treatment of AD. Identifying YXQNW's active ingredients and their mechanisms is crucial for developing effective AD treatments. PurposeThis study aims to elucidate the anti-AD effects of YXQNW and to explore its potential therapeutic mechanisms employing an endophenotype network strategy. MethodsHerein we present an endophenotype network strategy that combines active ingredient identification in rat serum, network proximity prediction, metabolomics, and in vivo experimental validation in two animal models. Specially, utilizing UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS, active ingredients are identified in YXQNW to build a drug-target network. We applied network proximity to identify potential AD pathological mechanisms of YXQNW via integration of drug-target network, AD endophenotype gene sets, and human protein interactome, and validated related mechanisms in two animal models. In a d-galactose-induced senescent rat model, YXQNW was administered at varying doses for cognitive and neuronal assessments through behavioral tests, Nissl staining, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Metabolomic analysis with LC-MS revealed YXQNW's influence on brain metabolites, suggesting therapeutic pathways. Levels of key proteins and biochemicals were measured by WB and ELISA, providing insights into YXQNW's neuroprotective mechanisms. In addition, 5×FAD model mice were used and administered YXQNW by gavage for 14 days at two doses. Amyloid-β levels, transporter expression, and cerebral blood flow have been detected by MRI and biochemical assays. ResultsThe network proximity analysis showed that the effect of YXQNW on AD was highly correlated with amyloid β, synaptic function, glucose metabolism and mitochondrial function. The results of metabolomics combined with in vivo experimental validation suggest that YXQNW has the potential to ameliorate glucose transport abnormalities in the brain by upregulating the expression of GLUT1 and GLUT3, while further enhancing glucose metabolism through increased O-GlcNAcylation and mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction via the AMPK/Sirt1 pathway, thereby improving d-galactose-induced cognitive deficits in rats. Additionally, YXQNW treatment significantly decreased Aβ1–42 levels and enhanced cerebral blood flow (CBF) in the hippocampus of 5×FAD mice. while mechanistic findings indicated that YXQNW treatment increased the expression of ABCB1, an Aβ transporter, in 5×FAD model mice to promote the clearance of Aβ from the brain and alleviate AD-like symptoms. ConclusionsThis study reveals that YXQNW may mitigate AD by inhibiting Aβ deposition and ameliorating mitochondrial dysfunction and glucose metabolism, thus offering a promising therapeutic approach for AD.

Untapping the coal reserves: Green desulfurization using phosphonium based ionic liquids

Thar coalfields of Pakistan are the 16th largest lignite coal reserves in the world. This untapped fuel source has high density for energy production. However, sulfur content limits its cleaner use the present research is a green practice for desulfurization of bituminous and lignite coal. For this purpose tetrabutylphosphonium hydroxide with anions precursor perchloric acid, dimethyl sulfate, and trifloromethanesulfonic acid was refluxed separately at room temperature to produce tetrabutylphosphonium trifloromethanesulfonate [P4444+][CF3SO3−], tetrabutylphosphonium perchlorate [P4444+][ClO4−], and tetrabutylphosphonium methyl sulfate [P4444+][MeSO4−]. The synthesized acidic nature phosphonium based room temperature ionic liquids (PRTILs) were characterized using standardized analytical techniques of FTIR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, HPLC and TGA/DSC. TD50 order of PRTILs was 47 ºC< 253 ºC < 292 ºC for [P4444+][CF3SO3−], [P4444+][ClO4−], [P4444+][MeSO4−] respectively. The proximate and ultimate analysis of coal samples from Balochistan coal field indicated low moisture and high carbon content along with gross calorific value of 6938–7589 Kcal/Kg. The coal samples from Shahrig and Sor-range coal mines with highest sulfur content (6.9–11.8 %) were selected for desulfurization procedures by using PRTILs and assessed through FTIR, HPLC and CHNS analyzer. The solvents were found more effective in removal of thiophene, benzothiophene, and dibenzothiophene in an oxidative environment along with an increase of GCV of coal samples to 7204–7792 Kcal/Kg. The regeneration of spent PRTILs for three cycles in 25 % ethanol reveal them as sustainable solvents for the coal desulfurization process.

Environmentally utilization and chemical analysis of catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) industrial waste

Catfish (Pangasianodon hypothalamus) are known in Asia, specifically in Southeast Asia. Currently, this fish has been exported to almost all countries in the world. This research aimed to examine the existing conditions of the solid waste produced, analyze the chemical composition of the waste, and look for alternatives for the policy and economical use of waste in the catfish processing business. Using the survey method, data were gathered through measurement at the research location and laboratory, interviews with business owners, and field observations. Proximate analysis was conducted on pink slime meat, belly fat, bones, and fish innards. Analysis of acid number, saponification number, iodine number, and fat fatty acid was carried out on stomach fat. Meanwhile, amino acid analysis was carried out for pink slime meat. Handling catfish industrial waste has yet to be carried out properly, which causes a foul smell and disturbs the environment. The catfish industry waste’s chemical content (protein, fat, water content, carbohydrates, and fatty acids) (pink slime meat, belly fat, fish bones, and innards) is still relatively applicable. The study processed fish waste into products like instant porridge, analogous fish sago rice, and fish sago noodles. The proximate analysis results of these products show figures that exceed the minimum standards for similar products.

Hydrothermally synthesized nitrogen-doped hydrochar from sawdust biomass for supercapacitor electrodes

Porous carbon generated from biomass is among the most promising electrode materials for supercapacitor applications. In this research work, sawdust was used as a carbon source to synthesize N-doped hydrochars via the hydrothermal method in the presence of nitrogen-containing compounds including ammonium chloride, urea agar, ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate, and mammalian urine, followed by chemical activation by potassium hydroxide. Using the hydrothermal technique, it was possible to dope 7.06 wt% of nitrogen into the hydrochar. The as synthesized materials were characterized by TGA/DTA, FTIR, BET, XRD, SEM/EDS, XPS, and proximate analysis. Furthermore, EIS, CV, and GCD were used to assess electrochemical performance. All the N-doped hydrochars synthesized samples possess crystalline and mesoporous structures with hydroxyl and amide functional groups. The KOH activation improved the specific surface area and pore volume by 8.5 % and 21 %, respectively. The maximum specific surface area and pore volume were found to be 560.72 m2/g and 0.2246 cc/g, respectively. The CV findings demonstrate the battery-like characteristics of the electrocatalysts made with molybdenum (VI) oxide (MoO3) embedded in these N-doped hydrochars, yielding 35.16 F/g specific capacitance at 10 mV/s. In contrast, the GCD's specific capacitance displays 80 F/g at 0.5 Ag−1.

Evaluation of nutrient composition of selected small indigenous fish species in Bangladesh and potential contribution to nutrient intakes

Small indigenous fish (SIF) are recognized as easily available, and abundant source of macronutrients and micronutrients in Bangladesh. The current investigation was undertaken to assess the existing heavy metal, mineral, vitamin, and others nutrient content of small indigenous freshwater fish in Bangladesh. Eight indigenous fish (Mola, Tengra, Baim, Punti, Chanda, Guchi, Koi, and Taki) were selected for this study. The AAS (Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer), ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry), and the Association of Official Analytical Chemists methods outlined were used to determine the proximate compositional analysis of fish. The highest fat content was found in koi fish. Protein was highest in both baim and taki fish. Iron, zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin B12 content were highest in mola fish. Highest calcium and phosphorus were found in the chanda and taki fish. The study concludes that small indigenous fish are valuable sources of fat, protein, ash, iron, zinc, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12, which are important for maintaining good health. Our findings suggest that small indigenous fish could serve as a viable option for addressing the nutritional needs for the children (6–23 m age), and Pregnant and lactating women in Bangladesh as a tool to fight malnutrition.

Nutrient composition of shade-dried Aldenia cissampeloides (monkey rope) leafy vegetable

Background: Our locally available vegetables are underutilized due to lack or insufficient information about their health benefit. Consequently, some are going into extinction due to low consumption. Adenia cissampeloides, a locally available vegetable used in the preparation of vegetable soup and or some therapeutic purposes is becoming unpopular due to insufficient nutritional and other information on it. Objective: The study investigated the nutrient composition of shade-dried Aldenia cissampeloides leafy vegetables. Methods: Fresh leaves of Adenia cissampeloides were harvested from Opi in Nsukka local Government Area of Enugu State in South Eastern Nigeria. The leaves were sorted, washed with water, and allowed to drain in a colander for about 20 minutes. The leaves were shade-dried for 7 days at room temperature and pulverized using Qlink electric blender model QBL/20L40. The proximate, mineral, and vitamins of the pulverized dried sample were analyzed using standard methods. Results: The proximate analysis showed an appreciable amount of carbohydrate (42.86%), crude fiber (16.79%), and protein (16.44%). Magnesium (2046.69mg), potassium (1031.33mg) and calcium (555.33mg) was the most abundant mineral while pro-vitamin A had the highest value (298.56 RE) among the analyzed vitamins. This was indicative that the vegetable is a good source of nutrients. Conclusion: Due to its nutrient-dense quality, it is recommended to be cultivated at home gardens for easy accessibility in meeting the family’s nutrient needs.

Analyzing the combustion characteristics of Thar coal block XI: A comprehensive study

Coal is a key energy resource in the world that is available at low cost and the high energy content in coal makes it a fuel of choice in many developed and developing countries. Regardless of massive reserves, Thar coal of Pakistan is low-rank lignite coal with high moisture contents and has very limited use. The proximate analysis, ultimate analysis and X-ray diffractometry analysis were performed to investigate the combustion characteristics, morphological and mineral characteristics of Thar coal block XI. Thar coal samples in this study are characterized as low-rank lignite coal. The proximate analysis showed a significant difference in moisture content, volatile content, fixed carbon content and ash residue. The ultimate analysis provided the details of elemental contents (Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen and Sulfer) in coal. The combustion characteristics such as combustion performance of lignite at high temperatures (950 °C) was investigated in thermogravimeter and the results showed the variations in the ignition temperature, burnout tempearature, combustion index and burnout index. The marphological characteristic were determined by X-ray diffraction. The mineral congregations, ash yields, major and minor elements (SiO2, Al2O3, CaO,MgO, Fe2O3) varied significantly in the coal. These analyses integrate various results for assessing major monitoring parameters of coal reactivity, its temperature ranges and combustion products.

Estimation of gross calorific value of coal based on the cubist regression model.

The gross calorific value (GCV) of coal is an important parameter for evaluating coal quality, and regression analysis methods can be used to predict GCV. In this study, we proposed a GCV prediction model based on cubist regression. To develop a good regression model, feature selection of input variables was performed using a correlation analysis and a recursive feature elimination algorithm. Thus, in this study, we determined three sets of variables as the optimal combination for regression models: proximate analysis variables (Set 1: moisture, standard ash, and volatile matter), element analysis variables (Set 2: carbon, sulfur, and oxygen), and comprehensive index variables (Set 3: carbon, volatile matter, standard ash, sulfur, moisture, and hydrogen). Results for comparison with multiple linear regression, random forest regression, and numerous previous prediction models, such as gradient boosting regression tree, support vector regression (SVR), backpropagation neural networks, and particle swarm optimization-artificial neural network (PSO-ANN), indicate that these seven regression models have the best fitting effect on the comprehensive index variables among the three sets of input variables. The cubist model showed higher prediction accuracy and lower error than most other models (R2, mean absolute error, root mean square error, and average absolute relative deviation percentage values are 0.990, 0.476, 0.668, and 0.086% for the proximate analysis variables; 0.992, 0.381, 0.596, and 0.140% for element analysis variables; and 0.999, 0.161, 0.219, and 0.087% for comprehensive index variables, respectively). The cubist model combines the advantages of decision tree and linear regression, which not only enables it to perform well in terms of accuracy but also makes the model highly interpretable because it is based on multiple sublinear equations. In addition, the cubist model shows obvious advantages in terms of running speed, especially compared with SVR and PSO-ANN, which require complex parameter optimization. In summary, the cubist model considers the prediction accuracy, model interpretability, and computational efficiency as well as provides a new and effective method for GCV prediction.

Effect of Solid-state Fermentation on Proximate Composition of Rice Bran Meal

Fish farming is often faced with high feed cost comprising approximately 60 to75% of total production costs; these causes decrease in profit margin for the fish farmers. An attempt to upsurge the profit is to minimize the cost of feed as minimal as possible. One way to do this is to explore local feed ingredients that could be used as an alternatives for fish feed. Consequently, farmers use locally available fish feed ingredients including agricultural by-products. These feed ingredients have led to increased pond productivity due to their nutrients constituent and bio-availability. This study evaluate the effect of solid state fermentation on proximate compositions of fermented rice bran meal. Rice bran was collected in three different containers, ground into powder, then sieved and fermented using solid state fermentation procedure. Each sample was solidly fermented at 10% moisture and keep in fermenter at ambient temperature for 24 hours (1 day), 96 hours (4 days), and 168 hours (7 days). Afterward, the fermented samples were oven dried for one hour at 100oC. The fermented samples were taken to the laboratory for proximate analysis. The results obtained from the study shows that, fermenting rice bran for seven days (168hrs) increases the crude protein from 10.53±1.27 to 15.07±1.43 and reduction in crude fibre from 10.74±062 to 7.87±1.71. This study revealed that, solid state fermentation of rice bran meal for one to seven days improved the crude protein and reduces crude fibre and the fermented bran meal can be incorporated as an essential part of the fish feed.

Amino Acid Profile and Proximate Analysis of Fermented African Locust Bean (Parkia biglobosa) Seeds

Amino Acid Profile and Proximate Analysis of Fermented African Locust Bean (Parkia biglobosa) Seeds

Integrated municipal solid waste management using ArcGIS tools: A case of akaki-kality sub-city, addis ababa, ethiopia.

This study aimed to optimize the solid waste collection and transportation system using ArcGIS Network Analyst and location-allocation tools. The generated solid waste was characterized by proximate analysis. The generation rate and composition were determined according to standard methods. The average solid waste generation rates for households, commercial sites, institutions, and recreational places were 0.48kg/c/day, 15.03kg/fac/day, 9.32kg/fac/day, and 22.8kg/fac/day, respectively. The estimated total generation rate of the sub-city is 207,004.03kg/day and 712.13 m3/day as discarded base. Composition analysis revealed that food waste is the major component of municipal solid waste, with estimated weight and volume of 134,696.08kg and 299.46 m3, respectively. Proximate analysis indicated that food and textile wastes have relatively high moisture content and fixed carbon. Candidate pre-collection bin allocations were optimized based on factors such as road network, distribution of solid waste generators, and existing temporary dumping sites, resulting in 1052 potential bin locations. Transfer station allocation was optimized by considering land use-land cover, slope, and geology. Twelve transfer routes and four transport routes were established to efficiently serve the bins and final waste destinations. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that ArcGIS Network Analyst and location-allocation tools can effectively optimize the municipal solid waste collection and transportation system, providing a robust framework for improving waste management efficiency. However, further research is recommended to validate these findings through field application.

EVALUATING GROWTH AND NUTRIENT COMPOSITION OF AFRICAN CATFISH UNDER DIFFERENT SALINITIES

An investigation was carried out to explore the effect of salinity on the growth and flesh quality of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus), a significant species in global aquaculture. Fifty juvenile catfish of weight 24.25±0.4g were collected from the Chenab River in Pakistan and acclimatized in controlled aquaculture conditions at different salinity levels NaCl (T1; 0, T2; 2, T3; 4; T4; 6, and T5; 8 ppt) over 60 days. Growth performance indicators, including final weights, weight gain, growth rate, and feed conversion ratio (FCR), were measured. The statistical result indicated that the fish in lower salinity environments (0-2 ppt) exhibited significant (p &lt; 0.05) final weights, weight gain, and growth rates, with performance declining significantly as salinity increased. The best FCR 1.2±0.01 was indicated at 0 ppt, while the highest salinity (8 ppt) was revealed in the FCR 1.7±0.04. Proximate composition analysis indicated that crude protein and moisture content elevated with salinity while crude fat and ash content decreased. These results suggest that C. gariepinus thrives in slightly brackish conditions, with optimal growth at low salinity levels. However, higher salinities adversely impact physiological health and growth performance.

Bone loss after bariatric surgery is observed mainly in the hip trabecular compartment and after hypoabsorptive techniques

We evaluated the impact of bariatric surgery on bone mineral density (BMD) and microarchitecture over one year using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), the trabecular bone score (TBS), and 3D-DXA to assess changes after different surgical techniques. This prospective, single-center study of 153 patients with severe obesity contrasts the effects on bone health of sleeve gastrectomy (SG), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), and duodenal switch/single anastomosis duodeno-ileostomy with sleeve gastrectomy (DS/SADIS). To our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate patients undergoing DS/SADIS and to incorporate 3D-DXA analysis in the assessment of bone loss.Patients were 81 % female with a mean age of 50 ± 9 years. Fifty-four per cent underwent SG; 16 %, RYGB; and 30 %, DS/SADIS. Our findings revealed a significant decrease in areal BMD at the LS (−3.49 ± 5.44 %), FN (−5.24 ± 5.86 %), and TH (−8.06 ± 5.14 %) one year after bariatric surgery. Bone microarchitecture at the LS assessed by TBS was degraded in 30 % of patients. Proximal femur 3D-DXA analysis showed that surgery-induced bone loss predominantly affects the trabecular compartment (Trabecular volumetric (v) BMD: −8.00 ± 6.57 %) rather than the cortical compartment (Cortical vBMD: −1.37 ± 2.79 %).These results suggest hypoabsorptive and mixed techniques (DS/SADIS and RYGB) were associated with greater BMD loss and deterioration of microarchitecture than restrictive techniques (SG).The primary determinants of bone density and impairment of microarchitecture were the extent of weight loss and the type of surgical procedure. Despite overall bone loss, Z-score assessments indicated that post-surgical bone status remained within or above the average ranges compared to a healthy population, except for TH following DS/SADIS.In conclusion, our research shows differences in the impact of bariatric surgery techniques on bone density and microarchitecture, emphasizing the need for careful postoperative monitoring of bone health, particularly in patients undergoing hypoabsorptive and mixed procedures.

Amazon severe drought in 2023 triggered surface water loss

Abstract The Amazon underwent a severe austral springtime drought attributed to the onset of El Niño in 2023 and the warmer North Atlantic, Indian, and North Pacific Oceans. The Amazon rivers, lakes, small streams, wetlands, and reservoirs quickly lowered their water level below historical records due to decreased rainfall and warmth in the region. Based on satellite imagery, this study presents the first estimate of the water loss extent in the 4.2 million km2 of the Brazilian Amazon biome (∼62% of the Amazon total biome) in 2023. We estimated the loss of 3.3 million hectares of surface water relative to 2022, with an overall accuracy of 92%. The surface water losses were concentrated in the states of Amazonas (59.4%) and Pará (25.5), adding up to 2.8 million hectares. The warmer and drier climate in the region affected the main rivers in the Amazon. Among them, the Solimões, Negro, Purus, Acre, and Branco suffered extreme drops in their levels in some regions, resulting in a high negative impact on the aquatic biodiversity, yet estimated only in local areas. A total of 1.14 million hectares of surface water loss (i.e. 35%) was detected within protected areas territories, affecting extractivist, indegenous, African-Brazilian, and fishing and traditional communities. Proximity analysis revealed that 75% of the 2023 surface water loss was within 25 km of small towns, 48% and 65.8% at 50 km from indigenous villages and urban areas, respectively. Our results reinforce people’s vulnerability to climate change, anticipating a plausible adverse impact scenario in the Amazon region and urging solutions to adaptation and mitigation. Therefore, an integrated monitoring system based on climate and water dynamics from satellite and ground stations is necessary to improve understanding of the problem for timing response of climatic change negative impacts.

Comparison of fattening performance, carcass traits, meat quality, and leg bone traits among three goose genotypes reared under intensive conditions.

This study aimed to evaluate fattening performance, carcass traits, meat quality, and leg bone traits in geese reared under an intensive production system, depending on genotypes. In the study, a total of 210 goslings (70 goslings for each genotype such as Linda, Toulouse, and Mast) were obtained from 168-week-old breeders. The geese were fed ad libitum with the same feeds during 12 weeks. Then, 5 males and 5 females from each goose genotype (30 birds in total) were slaughtered to determine the carcass, meat, and bone properties. The fattening performance, carcass properties, relative organ weights, and proximate analyses of breast and thigh meats did not differ among the genotype groups. The relative abdominal fat percentage weight was the highest in the Mast geese among the examined genotypes. Dry matter and crude protein values in meat were affected by genotype. The liver compositions, such as dry matter, crude fat, and crude protein, was significantly different from breast and thigh meat. It was found that the meat of Toulouse and Linda genotypes had lower SFA, n6/n3, and TI values, but higher MUFA, UFA, and crude protein values, making them superior to the meat of the Mast genotype. In the thigh meat, it was determined that lower SFA, AI, and TI values, and higher MUFA and UFA values, made it superior to the breast meat. In goose liver, DFA, NF and TI values were higher than the other tissues. Interactions were observed in the chemical composition and some fatty acids (P < 0.05). The femur and metatarsus bones of the Linda genotype were more durable than those of the Mast genotype due to their lower Robusticity indexes of femur and metatarsus bones. These results show that Linda and Toulouse geese are superior to the Mast genotype in terms of valuable fatty acids under intensive fattening. Additionally, the superior bone strength of Linda geese indicates that bone-related problems will be less common when this genotype is raised under intensive conditions.

Neuroinflammation inhibition and neuroprotective effects of purpurin, a potential anti-AD compound, screened via network proximity and gene enrichment analyses.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disease without any effective preventive or therapeutic drugs. Natural products with stable structures and pharmacological characteristics are valuable sources for the development of novel drugs for many complex diseases. This study aimed to discover potential natural compounds for the treatment of AD using new technologies and methods and explore the efficacy and mechanism of candidate compounds. AD-related large-scale genetic datasets were collated to construct disease-PPIs and natural products were collected from six databases to construct compound-protein interactions (CPIs). Potential relationships between natural compounds and AD were predicted via network proximity and gene enrichment analyses. Then, five AD-related cell models and d-galactose-induced aging rat model were established to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of candidate compounds in vitro and in vivo. We identified that 267 natural compounds were predicted to have close connections with AD and 19 compounds could exert protective effect in at least one cell model. Notably, purpurin exerted protective effect in three cell models and significantly improved the cognitive learning and memory functions, reduced the oxidative stress injuries and neuroinflammation, and enhanced the synaptic plasticity and neurotrophic effect in the brain of d-galactose-treated rats. In this study, AD-related natural compounds were identified via network proximity and gene enrichment analyses. In vivo and in vitro experiments revealed the therapeutic potential of purpurin for AD treatment, laying the foundation for further in-depth research and providing valuable information for the development of novel anti-AD drugs.

Improvement and quality evaluation of gluten-free cake supplemented with sweet potato flour and carrot powder

Celiac disease and wheat allergy are immune-responsive small bowel disorders that respond solely to the ingestion of gluten-fortified wheat or wheat flour. As a result, for those who are allergic to wheat flour or gluten, the primary treatment is a gluten-free or wheat-free diet. The goal of this research is to develop a gluten-free cake with sweet potato and carrot powder, as well as to examine the Proximate analysis, mineral content, physical properties, and microbiological qualities determined using standard analytical procedures. To make cakes, instead of wheat flour, a combined formulation of 80 % sweet potato flour and 20 % carrot powder, 60 % sweet potato flour and 40 % carrot powder was incorporated into the cake ingredients. Quality evaluation of sample cakes was performed by physicochemical and storage properties. The proximate analysis of the data revealed that the cakes that were created contained adequate levels of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates with percentages ranging from 8.12 to 8.25 %, 3.19–4.19 %, and 36.03 to 38.25 %, respectively. Additionally, an appreciable amount of potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron have been found in gluten-free cakes. There was color to the gluten-free cakes; L*, a*, and b* ranged from 42.66 to 43.60, 10.03 to 11.21, and 21.81 to 23.28, respectively. There is an assurance of a good color property because the hue and chroma values varied from 11.74 to 25.83 and from 41.02 to 78.03, respectively. The water activity (aw) value ranged from 0.854 to 0.870, which increased from 0.879 to 0.901 during storage. Furthermore, the microbial analysis revealed that the total viable count of all samples remained within the acceptable range after 8 days of storage. The findings of this study show that carrot powder and sweet potato flour can be used to overcome the limitations of gluten-free cakes and improve their nutritional quality.

Valorization of Ricinus communis outer shell biomass to biochar: Impact of thermal decomposition temperature on physicochemical properties and EMI shielding performance

The rising awareness of electromagnetic pollution has increased interest in renewable and ecologically sustainable materials for shielding electromagnetic waves. Research on carbon-based electromagnetic wave absorption materials derived from agro waste is widely explored due to their advantageous characteristics, including low density and consistent physicochemical properties. The research aims to produce biochar with maximum carbon content from Ricinus communis outer shell (RCOS) and to examine the characteristics of biochar/epoxy composites for their application in electromagnetic (EM) shielding. In this study, the composite made from RCOS-based biochar was effectively developed using slow pyrolysis at 400 °C–700 °C. The characterisations of enhanced properties of biochar were conducted by using yield analysis and proximate analysis, elemental analysis, field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), electrical conductivity. The biochar pyrolysis results revealed that the biochar yield, fixed carbon and maximum carbon content were 30 wt%, 50.49 wt% and 79.2 wt%, respectively, at 700 °C. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed that for the biochar at 700 °C, C=C and C-H functional groups were present, and the others were eliminated as volatile gases during biochar production. TG analysis demonstrated higher biochar stability with residues of 75 % for 700 °C. The biochar produced at 700 °C possesses the maximum electrical conductivity of 95 S/m due to the presence of graphitic carbon. The vector network analyser (VNA) measured a maximum shielding efficiency of 26.5 dB in the X-band frequency when adding 40 wt% biochar prepared at 700 °C to the epoxy matrix. The results suggest that the RCOS biochar/epoxy composites have promise as a novel type of absorbent materials because of their low density, lightweight structure, and extensive absorption capacities. These biochar-based lightweight composites can be used as a shielding material for electronic enclosures, telecommunication equipment, and aerospace applications.

Development of Amla Nutri-bar: Proximate analysis, gallic acid quantification and its validation through HPTLC, and spectroscopy

BACKGROUND: “Ayush Ahara” confluences advanced food technology with Ayurveda to develop dietary products rooted in traditional medicine. Here, Amla (Indian gooseberry), a medicinal fruit well-known for its health benefits, was used to develop a novel dietary product—Amla Nutri-bar (ANB). Furthermore, this research aims to substantiate its therapeutic potential through quality control analysis. METHODS: Three batches of ANB were prepared at the pharmaceutical laboratory, All India Institute of Ayurveda, New Delhi, India. These were evaluated for sensory attributes using a 9-point hedonic scale and underwent physicochemical, phytochemical, total phenolic content, chromatographic, and spectroscopy assays. RESULTS: The sensory evaluation indicated positive feedback, with an overall acceptability score of 8, followed by taste and flavor rated at 7 Physiochemical constants included pH: 2.2, moisture: 11.48%w/w, total ash: 0.17%w/w, water-soluble extractive value: 88.4%w/w, and alcohol-soluble extractive value: 56.65%w/w. Phytochemical screening revealed that the product is rich in flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids. Nutritional composition per 100 g had energy: 373.76 kcal, proteins: 1.61%, carbohydrates: 88.59% by wt, dietary fiber: 2.72 g, total fat: 1.44%, vitamin C: 300.11 mg, vitamin A: 71.23 pg, iron: 5.63 mg, calcium: 126.69 mg, and potassium: 103.57 mg. Total phenolic content was 4.95 mg gallic acid equivalents/g, with gallic acid quantified at 270.4 μg/100 mg employing a validated high-performance thin layer chromatography method. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis showed the presence of alcohol, phenol, and alkanes. All the tested pesticide residues were found below detection limits. CONCLUSION: ANB can be a food product that is, not delicious only but can also contribute significantly to overall health and well-being.