Samples B1 Research Articles

Identifikasi Teripang Laut (Holothuroidea) dari Perairan Laut Pulau Kabaruan Berdasarkan Identifikasi Morfologi dan DNA Barcoding

Indonesia is known with its high biodiversity. One of them is sea cucumber. Various species of sea cucumbers are found in Indonesian sea in Talaud Regency at Kabaruan Island. Identification of sea cucumbers to reveal the biodiversity of sea cucumbers in Kabaruan Island, which is almost unknown. This research was to identify six samples of sea cucumber (Holothuroidea) in Kabaruan Island based on morphology and DNA barcoding using the COI gene. The differences between each species can be seen from the morphological characteristics, the length and width of sea cucumbers, papillae, pattern and color. The results showed that there were 4 species from 6 samples, which is Holothuria leucospilota, Holothuria whitmaei, Eleutherozoa sp., and Holothuria atra. That six samples with the code A1, A2, B1, C1, and C2 have a homology level of 99%-100% with the target nucleotide sequence from GenBank. Meanwhile, the sample’s code A3 has a homology level of 90% with the Eleutheroza sp. so there is a possibility that sample A3 is a new taxa that has the highest similarity to the Eleutheroza sp. From the six samples, it was found that samples A2 and B1 had the highest level of similarity which is 100%. Meanwhile, the samples with the lowest percentage values are samples A3 and B1 and samples A2 and A3, with a percentage value of 82.75%. There were 4 species from six samples found in Kabaruan Island. There is a possibility that Sample A3 is a new species that is similar to Eleutheroza sp.

Fabrication of ZnO/ Bi2O3/PVA coated glass for X-ray detection and measurement

Electrospun ZnO/Bi2O3/PVA-coated glass samples were fabricated using electrospinning method, with varying ZnO molarities (0 M, 5 M, and 7 M) and Bi2O3 weight percentages (wt%) to assess their potential for x-ray detection and measurement. Sample morphology and elemental composition analysis revealed well-distributed nanofiber strands on the glass substrate, with even dispersion of elements within the nanofiber across all samples. The effective atomic number (Zeff) of the sample is consistently enhanced with the addition of Bi2O3 and higher ZnO molarity, where sample with 7 wt% Bi2O3 own a greater Zeff value (41.56–44.12) than sample with 5 wt% Bi2O3 (37.22–40.54). All samples except Sample A0 and B0 exhibited strong absorbance between wavelength range of 360 nm–400 nm. Sample A0 and B0 yielded energy band gaps (Eg) of 2.39 eV and 2.37 eV, respectively, whereby samples with ZnO exhibit energy gaps of Eg = 3.29 eV (Sample A1), Eg = 3.27 eV (Sample A2), Eg = 3.25 eV (Samples B1 and B2). All samples underwent x-ray exposure at various tube voltages (40–60 kVp) to assess their attenuation ability for x-ray detection and measurement. Sample B2 (5 wt% Bi2O3 and 7 M ZnO) exhibited the most favorable linear response, while Sample B1 (5 wt% Bi2O3 and 5 M ZnO) displayed favorable energy dependency. Thus, the electrospun ZnO/Bi2O3/PVA-coated glass with these compositions are proposed as potential dosimetry material due to their favorable linear response and energy dependency characteristics.

Synthesis and Gamma-ray Shielding Efficiency of Borosilicate Glasses Doped with Zinc Oxide: Comparative Study

This study examined the suitability of several glass compositions as a gamma-ray shielding substance. The compositions tested were of varying ZnO concentrations, specifically (60-x) B2O3—10Na2O—15SiO2—5Al2O3—(x + 10)ZnO (where X = 5, 10, 15 and 20 mol%). Measurements were performed at energy levels of 0.6642, 1.1776, and 1.3343 MeV radiated from Cs137 and Co60 point sources along with a scintillation detector [NaI(TL)]. We investigated the critical properties related to gamma radiation shielding, determining the effective atomic number (Zeff), electron density (Nel), half-value layer (HVL), linear attenuation (μ) and mass attenuation (μm) coefficients, and mean free path (λ). Our results show that the glasses under examination get denser (from 2.12 to 2.77 g/cm3) as the Zn concentration rises from 15 to 35 mol %. In addition, all glass compositions provide adequate protection against gamma radiation at the specified energy levels. The values of µ went up from 0.157 to 0.214 cm−1 (0.6642 MeV), from 0.119 to 0.160 cm−1 (1.1776 MeV), and from 0.114 to 0.151 (1.3343 MeV). For samples B1 and B4, the observed HVL values dropped from 4.41, 5.84, and 6.12 cm to 3.21, 4.31, and 4.61 cm at 0.6642, 1.1736, and 1.3343 MeV, respectively. Among the materials tested, prepared glasses show higher shielding capacity compared to regularly used glass and concrete samples. The study highlights these glass compositions' potential as practical materials that can shield gamma radiation.

Microstructure Study on Very High Cycle Fatigue of an Additively Manufactured Aluminium Alloy via Advanced Characterization Methods

The engineering application of additively manufactured (AM) metallic materials is quite limited by their fatigue behaviors, which are very inconsistent with that of conventionally wrought or cast ones. Here, based on advanced material characterization techniques, such as focused ion beam (FIB), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the microstructures underneath fracture surfaces were thoroughly investigated in an AM aluminum (AlSi10Mg) alloy with horizontal and vertical building orientation enduring very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) loading under the stress ratios R = −1, 0, and 0.5. Two VHCF failure specimens A and B were representatively selected to further examine SEM and TEM sample preparation via FIB milling. Specimen A was horizontally printed and failed at R = −1; specimen B was vertically printed and failed at R = 0. TEM samples A1 and B1 were lifted from locations near the crack initiation sites on the fracture surfaces of specimens A and B; The locations of TEM samples A2 and B2 kept away from the crack origin sites but still within the “fish-eye” region of crack steady growth. TEM observations show that there was no characteristic microstructure induced by VHCF in different oriented specimens and under various R values.

Laboratory Investigation on Enhanced Oil Recovery Using Local Alkaline –Polymer for Niger – Delta Region

Approximately sixty percent of crude oil still lay trapped in the reservoir even after primary and secondary recovery processes have been completed, hence the need for a method that further improves recovery. To increase oil recovery and encourage utilization of local content, locally source alkaline and polymer materials were used to improve oil recovery in this study. The local alkaline and polymer used are plantain peel ash and corn starch respectively. The efficiency of the plantain peel ash and corn starch solution were tested using different seven core samples. The core samples were individually flooded with brine (salt and water) for secondary recovery process and different concentrations of plantain peel ash and corn starch both in stand-alone and in combined form were used for tertiary recovery. The results obtained from the experimental work showed that sample-B5 with 0.2g of plantain peel ash and 0.2g of corn starch in 100ml of brine gave the highest cumulative recovery of 86% as to compare to samples B1 and B2 which has the cumulative recovery of 70% and 78% respectively. Sample-B7 which has the highest concentration of corn starch (0.4g/100ml) gave the lowest recovery of 65% due to polymer adsorption on the rock surfaces which alters the rock wettability. The assessment of formation damage was done by evaluating and determining the permeability change after tertiary flooding. The concentrations with plantain peel ash have reduced permeability change. These locally sourced materials can replace synthetic enhanced oil recovery (EOR) chemical when properly modified and refined, and they are also cheap and environmentally friendly.

Manufacture of Polymer Concrete Based on Snake-Fruit Seeds (Salacca zalacca) and Sawdust with Polyester Resin as an Adhesive

This study aims to determine the effect of adding snake-fruit (Salacca zalacca) seeds and sawdust on polymer concrete's physical and mechanical properties. The results showed that the highest physical properties were 1.27 g/cm3 density, 12.5% porosity, and 13.22% water absorption. The lowest physical properties are a density of 0.85 g/cm3, porosity of 2.65%, and water absorption of 2.07%. The highest mechanical properties are compressive strength of 16.70 MPa, tensile strength of 4.39 MPa, and flexural strength of 7.93 MPa. The lowest mechanical properties are compressive strength of 6.80 MPa, tensile strength of 1.11 MPa, and flexural strength of 1.50 MPa. SEM test results showed that the microstructure of polymer concrete showed differences between concrete samples A1 (consisting of 35 g of snake-fruit seeds, 15 g of sawdust, and 15 g of polyester resin) and polymer concrete samples B1 (consisting of 30 g of snake-fruit seeds, 15 g of sawdust, and 20 g of polyester resin). The SEM analysis of the A1 concrete sample reveals a dark surface color and conspicuous white lumps, which are attributed to polyester resin and arise from inadequate mixing of ingredients. In the case of sample B1, a higher concentration of visible resin lumps is observed.

Impact of different kernel grades on volatile compounds profile, fatty acids and oxidative quality of cashew nut oil

In this study, the impact of kernel grade on the physicochemical quality, fatty acids, and volatile compounds of cashew nut oil was assessed. The oil samples were obtained from different classifications of nuts and analyzed for acid and peroxide values, color, fatty acids and volatile compounds. The broken kernel oils showed similar or superior quality to the whole kernel oil (LW3), especially samples B3 (batoque) and P3 (large piece), with acid, peroxide and color values equal to the one in LW3. The oils from less intact nuts showed high proportions of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), with acid ratios higher than the ones in LW3 (64.47 to 65.28 %, while the latter displayed 63.33 %). Sample P3 showed higher proportions of volatile compounds not derived from oxidation. This study expands the possibility of valorizing lower commercial value cashew nuts by producing oil with adequate quality for consumption.

Safety Assessment of Organic High-Protein Bars during Storage at Ambient and Refrigerated Temperatures

This study aimed to assess the safety characteristics of organic high-protein bars (HPB) during storage at ambient and refrigerated temperatures based on selected microbiological and chemical indicators. After production, the total number of microorganisms ranged from 3.90–4.26 log CFU/g;. The Enterobacteriaceae family was present at 2.81–3.32 log CFU/g, and the count of yeasts and moulds was 2.61–3.99 log CFU/g. No Salmonella sp. was found in 25 g of the product. Bacillus cereus was present in samples B1 and B2. Staphylococcus aureus was presented in samples below the detection limit (<2 log CFU/g). During the storage of products, the number of microorganisms varied. After production and storage, in all samples of HPB, the amount of mycotoxins was below the detection limit. The presence of histamine and tryptamine was not found in the HPB throughout the study period. Regarding TBARS, it can be concluded that the use of prunes and oat flakes (B2 bar composition) in the production of organic bars, and refrigerated storage, reduces the degree of fat oxidation. Among the tested variants, the composition of the B3 bar seemed to be the safest and worth further research, mainly due to the lower frequency of undesirable microorganisms. The protective antioxidative effect of prunes and oat flakes in bars stored at 22 °C indicates the value of the composition of bar B2. The appropriate composition modifications and the use of heat treatment proved to be effective in improving the safety characteristics of HPB. Relying on the results it is possible to store HPB for at least 3 months. Next to standard safety parameters, the unique and effective to increase the safety of HPB is controlling the presence of B. cereus and other low water activity (aw) resistant microorganisms.

Gluten-Free Crackers Preparation

The present work was carried out to prepare gluten free crackers of high quality for celiac ailment patients. Gluten free crackers prepared from rice flour, lentil flour and quinoa flour is an innovative and highly nutritious snacks produce. The chemical analyzed included as minerals and amino acids of broken rice, lentil and quinoa flour and its blends was estimated. Then, chemical composition for gluten free crackers blends was estimated and the results presented that ash, crude protein, fat and fiber contents were higher in all blends prepared using rice flour, quinoa flour and lentil flour than that blend prepared using rice flour. All sensory parameters of free gluten crackers samples B2, B3, B4 and B5 prepared using rice flour, lentil flour, and quinoa flour were somewhat higher than crackers prepared from rice flour B1. Hardness decreased from 74.97 newton in blend (1) made from 100% rice flour to 35.19 newton in blend (5) made from 50% rice flour, 25% lentil flour and 25% quinoa flour. Finally, it could make some bakery products using raw materials free of gluten like rice flour, lentil flour and quinoa flour with high quality that are suitable for celiac ailment patients.

Effect of Harvesting Time on the Chemical Composition of Cynara cardunculus L. var. altilis Blades

In the present study, the fluctuations in fatty acids, tocopherols, organic acids, and free sugars content of cardoon blades collected at sixteen harvest dates (samples B1–B16, corresponding to principal growth stages (PGS) between 1 and 9) were evaluated. A total of 26 fatty acids were identified, with palmitic (C16:0, 19.9–40.13%), α-linolenic (C18:3n3, 6.39–33.2%), and linoleic (C18:2n6c, 9–34.8%) acids being present in higher relative abundances in most of the samples, while lipid content was the highest in samples of late (B15) and intermediate (B8–B10) stages of maturity. The α- and γ-tocopherols were the only detected vitamin E isoforms, while α-isoform presented the highest concentration (80–8567 µg/100 g dw) in all the studied samples, except for samples B9–B11, for which the γ-tocopherol was detected in higher concentrations. Moreover, samples B1 and B14 showed the highest content of total tocopherols (8352 and 10,197 µg/100 g dw, respectively). The identified organic acids were oxalic, quinic, malic, citric, and fumaric. Malic acid was present in higher concentrations in almost all the samples analyzed, except for samples B3 and B15, in which the presence of oxalic acid stood out. Regarding the free sugar’s composition, fructose, glucose, sucrose, trehalose, and raffinose were the only detected compounds, with sucrose being present in higher concentrations in almost all the samples (1.662–10.8 g/100 g dw), while samples at younger maturation stages, namely samples B4 and B5, presented the highest concentrations of total sugars. In conclusion, the obtained results demonstrate the influence that the growth cycle may have on the chemical composition of this tissue (blades) of the species. Moreover, having a more complete knowledge regarding its composition and identifying the stage of maturation which is most appropriate for obtaining a greater amount of certain bioactive compounds will help to increase the added value of this multi-purpose crop.

Determination of minerals, vitamins, antinutrient and amino acid profile of pumpkin pie produced pumpkin (cucurbeta spp) puree and Wheat (tritium aestivum) Flour supplemented with Spices and Butter.

Background: Pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.), is one of the most popular vegetables consumed in the world, has been recently recognized as a functional food. Traditional crops including the pumpkins, which are rich in micronutrients, are not consumed widely by smallholder farmers in Africa. However, the cultivation of high yielding, nutrient-rich, multipurpose crops-like pumpkin is important in solving the problems of malnutrition and contributing to food security in Africa including Nigeria. Objectives: Therefore, this work aimed at producing Pumpkin pie from Pumpkin puree and wheat supplemented with some indigenous spices alongside butter. Methodology: Formulations into various formed were made using Pearson's method. The formulations were assayed for mineral, vitamin, antinutrient and amino acid composition using standard laboratory methods. A significant (P<0.05) difference was observed in Zn and Ca content of all the samples, with sample D recording the highest value for Zn (1.30±0.01) mg/g and Ca (0.47±0.01) mg/g. However, samples A and D had the least values for Na and Fe. An increasing and decreasing pattern was observed in all the vitamin contents(B1, B2, B6, B12 and C), moving from samples A through to D. Vitamin contents of samples B1 and B6 and higher than the RDA, while B2, B12 and C were below RDA. The overall antinutrient contents observed were generally low, with sample A having the lowest values for Phytate, Oxalate and tannins. The B, C and D are more enhanced in terms of essential amino acids compared to the control group (sample A). Conclusion: Pumpkin pie can be produced from pumpkin and its supplementation of the spices can boost the pie with essential amino acids, minerals, and vitamin composition. This shows the potential of using pumpkin pie as snacks in-between meals for the prevention of Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM).

Preparation of some functional bakeries for celiac patients

The present investigation was carried out to prepare gluten free biscuits with high quality for celiac patients. The chemical analysis as minerals, amino acids of raw materials was estimated. Also, chemical composition for gluten free biscuits blends was determined and results showed that protein, ether extract and fibre contents were higher in all samples prepared using cassava flour, quinoa flour and sweet potato flour than those samples prepared using cassava flour. Volume, length, spread ratio and width of gluten free biscuit blends B2, B3, B4 and B5 decreased but thickness and bulk density increased compared to cassava flour biscuits B1. All sensory characteristics of free gluten biscuits samples B2, B3, B4 and B5 prepared using cassava flour, quinoa flour, and sweet potato flour were somewhat higher than biscuits prepared from cassava flour B1. Finally, blends B2 and B5 had higher scores in sensorial evaluation, chemical analysis, and physical attributes.

Determination of minerals, vitamins, antinutrient and amino acid profile of pumpkin pie produced pumpkin (cucurbeta spp) puree and Wheat (tritium aestivum) Flour supplemented with Spices and Butter.

ABSTRACT Background: Pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.), is one of the most popular vegetables consumed in the world, has been recently recognized as a functional food. Traditional crops including the pumpkins, which are rich in micronutrients, are not consumed widely by smallholder farmers in Africa. However, the cultivation of high yielding, nutrient-rich, multipurpose crops-like pumpkin is important in solving the problems of malnutrition and contributing to food security in Africa including Nigeria. Objectives: Therefore, this work aimed at producing Pumpkin pie from Pumpkin puree and wheat supplemented with some indigenous spices alongside butter. Methodology: Formulations into various formed were made using Pearson's method. The formulations were assayed for mineral, vitamin, antinutrient and amino acid composition using standard laboratory methods. A significant (P<0.05) difference was observed in Zn and Ca content of all the samples, with sample D recording the highest value for Zn (1.30±0.01) mg/g and Ca (0.47±0.01) mg/g. However, samples A and D had the least values for Na and Fe. An increasing and decreasing pattern was observed in all the vitamin contents(B1, B2, B6, B12 and C), moving from samples A through to D. Vitamin contents of samples B1 and B6 and higher than the RDA, while B2, B12 and C were below RDA. The overall antinutrient contents observed were generally low, with sample A having the lowest values for Phytate, Oxalate and tannins. The B, C and D are more enhanced in terms of essential amino acids compared to the control group (sample A). Conclusion: Pumpkin pie can be produced from pumpkin and its supplementation of the spices can boost the pie with essential amino acids, minerals, and vitamin composition. This shows the potential of using pumpkin pie as snacks in-between meals for the prevention of Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM). Keywords: Butter, Cinnamon, Ginger, Pumpkin

EVALUATION OF POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYL (PCB) COMPONENTS OF BEANS CONSUMED IN GOMBE METROPOLIS NIGERIA

Pesticide residues in beans circulating as food commodities in the national markets have been characterized as an environmental hazard due to its persistence and toxicity to both wildlife and humans. Researchers have to enact tactful methods to minimize their harmful residues effects in food in order to protect the consumers. This study investigated the pesticides residues concentrations of Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCB) components in beans in relation to their recommended values using GC- MS analysis. The results showed that three different samples B2, B3, and B4 contained pesticide residue concentrations within the maximum recommended levels (MRLs) of 0.01 mg/kg to 0.2 mg/kg, while two samples B1 and B5 showed concentrations of pesticide residue beyond maximum recommended residue levels exhibited by 2,2’,4,5,5’,-Pentachlorobiphenyl showed concentration of 1.17518 ppm, and 2,2',3,4',5,5',6-Heptachlorobiphenyl showed concentrations of 0.4599 ppm respectively. Moreover, the percentage protein content of the beans samples investigated showed a decreasing order as B5 = 2.09 % > B4 = 1.96 % > B3 = 1.96 % > B2 = 1.95 % > B1= 1.8 % thus, B1 and B5 samples of beans are unsafe for continuous consumption but B5 showed highest protein content than other samples.

Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials in Bracelets and Necklaces: Radiological Risk Evaluation.

A particular category of jewelry is one involving bracelets and necklaces that are deliberately made to contain naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM)—purveyors making unsubstantiated claims for health benefits from the release of negative ions. Conversely, within the bounds of the linear no-threshold model, long-term use presents a radiological risk to wearers. Evaluation is conducted herein of the radiological risk arising from wearing these products and gamma-ray spectrometry is used to determine the radioactivity levels and annual effective dose of 15 commercially available bracelets (samples B1 to B15) and five necklaces (samples N16 to N20). Various use scenarios are considered; a Geant4 Monte Carlo (Geant4 MC) simulation is also performed to validate the experimental results. The dose conversion coefficient for external radiation and skin equivalent doses were also evaluated. Among the necklaces, sample N16 showed the greatest levels of radioactivity, at 246 ± 35, 1682 ± 118, and 221 ± 40 Bq, for 238U, 232Th, and 40K, respectively. For the bracelets, for 238U and 232Th, sample B15 displayed the greatest level of radioactivity, at 146 ± 21 and 980 ± 71 Bq, respectively. N16 offered the greatest percentage concentrations of U and Th, with means of 0.073 ± 0.0002% and 1.51 ± 0.0015%, respectively, giving rise to an estimated annual effective dose exposure of 1.22 mSv, substantially in excess of the ICRP recommended limit of 1 mSv/year.

Application of Cellulosic Fibrous Material from Agro Waste as Filtrate Loss Modifier in Aqueous Mud-Morphology at HTHP Conditions

Controlling the filtration characteristics of any drilling fluid does not only include the control of the filtrate volume penetrating into the formation; but also the ability of the mud to deposit a thin low-permeability filter cake on the wall of the wellbore quickly. The permeability of the filter cake is very dependent on the particle size because when small size particles are used, the permeability decreases, because of the fact that colloidal particles get packed very tightly. This study investigated the filtration and filter cake characteristics of water-based mud (WBM) using fibrous cellulose from Tiger Nut waste and the guar gum. American Petroleum Institute (API) Recommended Practice Standard Procedure for Field Testing Drilling Fluids, API RP 13B-1 was applied during the analysis. Statistical analysis of the experimental data was conducted and the R2 value (0.99) showed that the experimental method adopted was replicable. Mud samples B2 and C2 gave an optimum result and their mud cakes developed under High-Temperature High-Pressure (HTHP) condition were dried and further analyzed with scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results showed that the filter cakes SEM structure for cellulosic fibrous from agro waste and guar gum exhibits similar characteristics; and the mud cakes was firm after soaking with 15% HCl for thirty minutes but started dissolving after one hour. The SEM analysis inferred that the filter cake morphology shows a good particle-pore interlocking for sample C2 than B2.

Organizing of Independent Cognitive Activity of Teachers in the Context of Didactics and Neuroscience

The article substantiates that in the context of organizing the independent cognitive activity of teachers in the post-Soviet space, the process of improving their qualifications, which takes place on the basis of their free choice of forms of education, programs and educational institutions, is of particular importance. At the heart of this choice, decision-making on independent cognitive activity and emotional-motivational resource are not only external stimuli, but also neurophysiological and psychological mechanisms. The purpose of the study is a scientific substantiation of the necessary and sufficient psychological and pedagogical conditions and models of organization of independent cognitive activity of teachers of secondary schools in the process of competence development. The analysis of the experimental data showed a noticeable difference between samples B3 and B4 at the end of the experiment for each of the defined criteria, as well as for the general indicator of the organizing of independent cognitive activity. The results obtained during the pedagogical experiment proved that the organizing of independent cognitive activity of teachers on the basis of the author's model helped to increase the effectiveness of this activity. During the discussion, it was proved that an important component of a person's professional training for any activity, especially in educational, is the development of neurophysiological and psychological potential for subjective self-determination of self-learning, self-improvement, and in micro-development - for independent choice and decision-making in a situation of cognitive or activity-related uncertainty. Therefore, decision-making is a basic component of any constructive activity.

Influence of Modified Atmosphere Packaging to Prolong Shelf Life of Chicken Patties

This study was performed to determine the effect of two types of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) materials, polyamide/polyethylene (PA/PE), polyamide/polyethylene/ paper/aluminum foil (PA/PE/P/AL) and modified atmosphere conditions on the shelf-life of chicken patties. Where, the samples of chicken patties were packaged in PA/PE under air (A1), modified atmosphere condition 100% CO2 (B1) and 50% CO2+ 50% N2 (C1); or packaged in PA/PE/P/AL under air (A2), modified atmosphere condition 100% CO2 (B2) and 50% CO2+ 50% N2 (C2). The samples were stored at 4±1oC for 30 days and evaluated for various physio-chemical, microbial and sensory changes. Rapid degradation in chemical and physical composition was occurred in preserved chicken patties under air condition either in PA/PE or PA/PE/P/AL at 4±1oC during 10 days. There were significantly decrease in microbial load in samples B1, B2, C1and C2 compared with samples A1 and A2 at 10th day of storage. Chicken patties samples in PA/PE or PA/PE/P/AL with 50% CO2+ 50% N2 had the highest values in all sensory attributes. It could be established that the MAP conditions of 50 % CO2 + 50 % N2 (C1 and C2) were the most suitable conditions for preserving the chicken patties for up to 30 days at 4±1oC compared with control samples A1 and A2 which acceptable for less than 10 days.

An analysis of the deformed erythrocytes correlated to varied dose of nanoparticles emitted by diesel engine bus

This study was aimed to investigate the morphological changes of the mice’s erythrocytes corresponded to the bus exhaust nanoparticle exposures. Male mice were used as the experimental animals. The exhaust emissions emitted by bus samples B1, B2, and B3 were filtered using a nanoparticulate filtering system consisting of an N95 mask and a sucking pump, and the concentration was measured using a TSI P-Trak Ultrafine Particle Counter. In order to the erythrocyte deformation, we used the unexposed and the exposed mice to the bus exhaust emission with the varied particle concentration of Ld - low dose, Md - medium dose, and Hd - high dose as long as 100 seconds per day in eight consecutive days. Then, all mice were sacrificed for the erythrocytes analysis. We found two deformation types that were most highly increased in the erythrocytes such as: helmet-shaped cells and teardrop-shaped cells. The deformation percentages were in the range of 27% to 47%, depending on the nanoparticle concentration dose. Ld had the lowest deformation percentages: 28% for B1, 34% for B2, and 44% for B3. The highest deformation was found in Hd, with the values of 30%, 37%, and 47%, respectively for B1, B2, and B3.

Phytochemical, physicochemical, microbiological study and anticholinesterase activity of Ginkgo biloba L. and Bacopa monnieri L. used in phytotherapy

Herbal medicines based on Ginkgo biloba L. and Bacopa monnieri L. are used to improve memory and cognitive function. The quality control and anticholinesterase activity of the herbal medicines prepared from G. biloba and B. monnieri were evaluated which are commercialized in handling pharmacies. Samples of herbal medicines based on G. biloba and B. monnieri were obtained from handling pharmacies in Teresina-PI, submitted to labeling analysis and anticholinesterase activity. The phytochemical study was performed by preliminary prospecting, TLC and HPLC. The tests physicochemical and microbiological analyses were made according to the Pharmacopoeia 2010. It was observed that the labeling, foreign material, disintegration, and microbiological parameters were in accordance with ANVISA standards. The colorimetric tests were uniform in the samples of B. monnieri and variable of G. biloba. The average weight evaluation shows that the G1 and B3 samples have capsular content above that described in the labeling and presented pH values ​​different. Among the thermogravimetric profiles, the mass losses of samples G1 and B3 showed values ​​with high ash content, suggesting adulterations. Phytochemical prospecting showed flavonoids as common secondary metabolites in both species, corroborating with TLC and HPLC analysis, which identified the compounds chlorogenic acid, rutin, myricetin and quercetin. The samples G4, B2 and B5 present metabolites capable of inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase with IC50 of 0.8540 mg/mL, 0.9650 mg/mL and 1.8221×10-5 mg/mL, respectively. The samples G1 and B3 of G. biloba and B. monnieri, did not obey some parameters of quality control for herbal medicines according to the criteria of the Brazilian Pharmacopeia.