Misola® locally fortified infant flour, widely used in nutritional programs, nevertheless faces uncertainties regarding its stability under local climatic conditions. This study aims to determine the physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory stability to establish optimal storage conditions. The study was conducted in Niamey, and two types of food packaging (plastic and aluminum) were used to monitor stability parameters over 6 months. Physicochemical (water content, pH, ash, fatty acidity), microbiological (yeasts, molds, coliforms, aerobic bacteria), and sensory (taste, odor, color, acceptability) analyses were performed at different time points (T0, T2, T3, T4, T6). The physicochemical analyses indicate good stability of Misola®, with moisture, lipid content, pH, and ash showing only slight variations over the storage period: moisture ranged from 3.15% to 4.7%, lipids from 13.6% to 16.3%, pH from 5.30 to 5.15, and ash from 3.01% to 2.94%. Microbiological and sensory evaluations also remained satisfactory, as the flour consistently met safety standards and retained good consumer acceptability, with no noticeable changes in taste or odor. These results confirm that Misola® fortified infant flour can be safely stored for 6 months in both packaging types, thereby ensuring its quality in nutritional programs.
Background: Chlorophyll is a pigment present in all green plants, and it is required for photosynthesis, which is a process by which light energy converts to chemical energy. Chlorophyll in leaf vegetables is highly susceptible to degradation during processing. This process occurs naturally with time, but can also be caused by enzymatic and non-enzymatic reactions influenced by several factors such as heat, pH, light, exposure to oxygen and processing procedures. Aim: This work aimed at studying the changes that occur in chlorophyll content of four selected leafy vegetables – Jatropha tanjorensis (tree spinach), Telfiaria occidentalis (fluted pumpkin leaf), Vernonia amygdalina (bitter leaf) and Celosia argentea (Lagos spinach) during hydrothermal processing. Method: Freshly harvested leaves were subjected to different hydrothermal treatments- 60, 65, 70, 75 and 80 °C for varying lengths of time --- 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 minutes. Chlorophyll content was determined by the spectrophotometric method. Results: Degradation of chlorophyll during hydrothermal processing was dependent on temperature and time. An increase in temperature and time caused a high percentage decrease in the chlorophyll content of each of the vegetables during processing. The highest percentage decrease of 40.38% was recorded for Telfiaria occidentalis after 20 minutes at 80 °C. A percentage loss of 2.37% was observed for Jatropha tanjorensis after blanching at 60°C for 5 minutes. Blanching temperature and time have significant effects (P=.05) on the degradation of chlorophyll content of the selected leafy vegetables. Conclusion: As economic value and overall degree of acceptability of these vegetables are dependent on the greenness of the leaves, appropriate attention during processing should be paid to minimise loss of chlorophyll, a naturally occurring green pigment that has been reported to have a wide range of therapeutic properties. It is expedient that processing operations that can enhance the conservation of chlorophyll should be given adequate attention, as the green pigment is considered to have therapeutic properties. Moreover, the degree of consumer acceptability of these leafy vegetables depends on the greenness.
Empirical Studies has shown that hyperglycemia is a major indicator and principal cause of complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Blood glucose primarily originates from the hydrolysis of carbohydrates catalyzed by digestive enzymes. Inhibition of these enzymes is crucial for the treatment and management of diabetes. The aimed of this study was geared towards evaluating the antioxidant properties of Ficus asperifolia and Galega officinalis leaf extracts and their inhibitory potentials on digestive enzymes. Leaves extracts of Ficus asperifolia and Galega officinalis were extracted sequentially with n-hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol, and distilled water with regards to their degree of polarity index. Antioxidant activity of the leave extracts was determined using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazl (DPPH) and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant (FRAP) methods. Furthermore, the inhibitory activities of the plant extracts on α-amylase and α-glucosidase were determined, and also screening of phytochemicals of the plant extracts as well. The findings demonstrated that ethyl acetate and methanol extracts from Galega officinalis leaves contained the highest total phenolic content compared to Ficus asperifolia with values of 28.36 ± 0.03 µg/mL and 19.39 ± 2.90 µg/mL respectively. These two solvent extracts also showed elevated total flavonoid contents, as recorded with value 195.33 ± 0.03 µg/mL for ethyl acetate and that of methanol as 223.67 ± 0.01µg/mL. Furthermore, ethyl acetate and methanol Leave extracts from both plants demonstrated the strongest antioxidant activities against DPPH, with IC₅₀ values of 22.72 ± 0.03 µg/mL and 34.74 ± 0.06 µg/mL, respectively. And against FRAP, with IC₅₀ values of 156.79 ± 0.01 µg/mL and 178.19 ± 0.14 µg/mL, respectively. In addition, methanol leave extract from Galega officinalis showed the most potent α-amylase inhibitory effect with value (IC₅₀ = 8.62 ± 0.23 µg/mL), while ethyl acetate leave extract from Ficus asperifolia exhibited the strongest inhibition of α-glucosidase with value (IC₅₀ = 10.15 ± 0.26 µg/mL). Kinetic studies showed that methanol leave extract of Galega officinalis are non-competitive inhibitors of α-amylase whereas ethyl acetate leave extract of Ficus asperifolia are non-competitive inhibitors of α-glucosidase compared to the standard drugs (acarbose) which bind competitively unto the enzymes. considering these, the in vitro studies reveal the thera
Objective: This study aims to investigate the effects of salinity and seasonal variation on the nanoscale morphology of zooplankton species (copepods and rotifers) inhabiting five Turkish lagoons: Uzun Lake, Hersek, Dalyan, Çakalburnu, and Paradeniz. The research focuses on chitin-based nanoglobules as biochemical indicators of organismal development and environmental stress. Its relevance spans multiple disciplines, including plankton ecology, biomaterials, and environmental monitoring. Methodology: Small Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS), a high-resolution biophysical technique, was employed to analyze adult zooplankton specimens collected across different seasons to capture spatial and temporal variability. SAXS profiles were used to determine radii of gyration (RG), pair distance distributions (PDDs), and spatial organization of chitin nanoglobules in copepod carapaces and rotifer mastax structures. These results offer structural information regarding the dimensions of chitin assemblies and the distances between them. Results: RG values of chitin nanoglobules ranged from 21–23 nm, with Dalyan samples showing the most compact and uniform structures. Inter-nanoglobule distances varied by site: 67 ± 1 nm (Uzun Lake), 72 ± 1 nm (Paradeniz), and 76 ± 1 nm (Dalyan). Elevated salinity correlated with disrupted nanoglobule homogeneity and impaired carapace development. SAXS imaging and the nanostructural variations also revealed chitin aggregations linked to developmental stage and ecological stress response of the zooplankton. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the utility of SAXS as a non-invasive tool for ecological nanostructural analysis. The findings establish a strong link between salinity gradients and chitin nanostructure organization, offering novel biochemical insights into zooplankton development and environmental adaptation in lagoon ecosystems. The multi-lagoon and multi-season sampling design, with a focus on chitin nanoglobules, highlights the high potential of this method for developing bioindicators and monitoring lagoon ecosystems.
Protein kinases constitute one of the largest and most functionally diverse enzyme families, orchestrating a multitude of cellular processes through reversible phosphorylation of target proteins. The human kinome, encompassing more than 500 kinases, exhibits a highly conserved catalytic core but remarkable structural and regulatory diversity, enabling precise spatiotemporal control of signalling pathways. Kinases act as molecular switches that translate extracellular and intracellular cues into defined biochemical responses, thereby governing critical cellular events such as proliferation, metabolism, differentiation, and apoptosis. Dysregulation of kinase activity—arising from gene mutations, overexpression, or aberrant feedback mechanisms—underlies the pathogenesis of numerous human diseases including cancer, metabolic disorders, neurodegeneration, and inflammation. The therapeutic exploitation of kinases has led to the successful development of small-molecule inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies, with recent advances expanding toward covalent inhibitors, allosteric modulators, and PROTAC-based degraders. Despite these achievements, major challenges persist in achieving selectivity, minimizing toxicity, and circumventing acquired resistance. This review provides a comprehensive overview of kinase classification, structure, and signalling mechanisms, highlights their biological and pathological roles, and discusses emerging strategies and future directions in kinase-targeted drug discovery.
Aim: This study investigated the hepatoprotective effects of Zapoteca portoricensis leaf extract and its fractions in formalin-induced inflammation in rats. Study Design: An experimental, randomized controlled study was conducted using Wistar rats assigned as follows: Normal control, Negative control, Standard Control, and treatment groups. Methodology: Thirty (30) healthy adult male albino rats (Rattus norvegicus), weighing 150–200 g, were obtained from Dr. Chris Ezeigwe’s farm. The animals were housed in standard polypropylene cages under controlled environmental conditions. Inflammation was induced with 0.5% formalin, after which rats were treated with crude ethanol extract and fractions of Zapoteca portoricensis leaves. Liver function was evaluated by measuring alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin (Tbil), direct bilirubin (Dbil), albumin (ALB), and total protein (TP). Results: The extract-treated groups exhibited significant reductions in ALT, AST, and ALP compared to the negative control group, indicating protection against hepatocellular injury. Both total and direct bilirubin levels were stabilized, while albumin and total protein remained within normal ranges, suggesting preservation of the liver’s synthetic capacity. These effects are attributed to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the extract, which likely mitigated formalin-induced inflammation, oxidative stress, and hepatocyte damage. Conclusion: Zapoteca portoricensis leaf extract and its fractions demonstrated potent hepatoprotective activity by maintaining liver function. The findings support its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for liver protection. Further studies are recommended to isolate bioactive compounds and elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action.
Aims: The objective of this study is to determine the influence of fermentation time and drying method on certain physicochemical parameters of okra. Study Design: Blanched okra was subjected to natural fermentation followed by drying to produce eight distinct samples, enabling a systematic analysis of the processing effects. Place and Duration of Study: Laboratoire de Biocatalyse et des Bioprocédés, Université Nangui Abrogoua, between January and March 2025. Methodology: Eight okra samples were prepared based on fermentation duration and drying method, he impact of these processes on physicochemical parameters, mineral composition, and amino acid composition was then determined using standard analytical methods. The data obtained were analysed using ANOVA and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Results: The finding showed that fermentation time and drying method has a significant influence on all parameter. A decreasing trend can be observed in pH (minimum value of 4.01), total sugars, and fat content with the increase of fermentation time. Conversely, the ash and specific mineral contents (Fe: 48.66 mg/100g; K: 350.17 mg/100g) increased, peaking at day 1 – 3. Similar to the protein and amino acid (proline: 2.733 mg/100g; alanine: 3.621 mg/100g) were also highest in samples fermented for 1-3 days. It was also demonstrated that oven-dried sample has better retention of most nutrient consistently compared to sun-dried samples. Conclusion: The study shows that short-term fermentation (1 to 3 days) coupled with oven drying significantly improves the nutritional value of okra by enriching its protein, amino acid and mineral content, while reducing sugar levels and pH. These findings advocate for adopting controlled fermentation and moderate thermal drying in artisanal processing to produce high-quality, stable, and nutritious okra-based food ingredients.
Background: Smudge cells are damaged leukocytes commonly seen in blood smears of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Their number reflects lymphocyte fragility but varies widely among patients. Additionally, reporting practices regarding smudge cell number significantly differ among laboratories, sometimes also including sample pre-treatment with albumin, which can reduce their formation. Although this approach can substantially facilitate morphological differential count in CLL patients, its widespread in routine hematology remains uncertain. Aims: This study aims to compare various manual approaches for smudge cell reporting with analyzer differentials in order to identify the most reliable and practical method for routine CLL diagnostics. Methodology: We conducted a comparative analysis of manual differential blood count (mDIFF) to a hematological analyzer differential (aDIFF). mDIFF was conducted in three manners: by excluding smudge cells from 100 leukocyte count (mDIFF1); by including smudge cells into lymphocyte count (mDIFF2); differential on an albumenized smear (mDIFF_alb). The Mann-Whitney test was used for smudge cell count comparison in standard and albuminized smears, and Friedman’s test for comparison of differential counts (lymphocytes, neutrophils and their ratio). P-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results: The smudge cell count was significantly lower in albumenized smears (median 7, IQR 4 - 14), compared to standard smears (median 25, IQR 17 - 81), P<0,0001. mDIFF2 results significantly differed in neutrophil and lymphocyte count compared to other methods (P<0.05). The relative lymphocyte count in a manual method mDIFF1 did not significantly differ from the aDIFF. Conclusion: Although albumin pre-treatment effectively reduces smudge cell formation, it is not essential for obtaining clinically reliable differentials in routine practice. Reporting smudge cells as their number per 100 leukocytes provides a suitable alternative to automated differential leukocyte counts.
Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the biofertilizing effect of rubber seed meal on the agronomic parameters of the Big Ebanga variety of plantain (Musa paradisiaca). Place and Duration of Study: National Agricultural Research Center (Bimbresso, Abidjan, Ivory Coast) from March 2024 to January 2025. Methodology: A randomized block experimental design was used with four treatments and four replicates for each treatment on an area of one hectare. The treatments consisted of: T1 (240 kg/ha of nitrogen (N) and 658 kg/ha of potassium (K)); T2 (5 kg of banana cake); T3: (7.5 kg of cake/banana tree) and T4 (10 kg of cake/banana tree). The work consisted of measuring agronomic parameters such as the height and circumference of plantain trees, the number of leaves produced, the number of functional leaves, and the interval between planting and flowering. Results: The results showed that rubber seed meal promotes optimal growth in banana plants. Banana plants that received 10 kg of rubber seed meal flowered only ten days after those that received chemical fertilizer. The number of leaves alive at flowering was also higher than the minimum recommended for a good yield. The yield was 22 t/ha for treatment T4 and 25 t/ha for chemical fertilizer (T1). Statistically, the two yields are identical. Conclusion: Seed cake is rich in fertilizing potential. A dose of 10 kg/plant could be suitable for plantain cultivation.
Background: Electrolyte and acid-base imbalances are early markers of chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially relevant in underserved rural populations. This study evaluates key biochemical parameters, the Electrolyte Stress Index (ESI), and clustering-based patient stratification in a rural Indian cohort. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 adults. Serum electrolytes, uric acid, calcium, creatinine, and eGFR were analyzed using the Vitros 4600 analyzer. ESI was calculated as (Na⁺ + K⁺ + Cl⁻)/HCO₃⁻. Pearson’s correlation, sensitivity-specificity analysis, and k-means clustering were applied for statistical evaluation. Results: Hyponatremia (14.0%), hyperkalaemia (17.5%), low HCO₃⁻ (15.0%), and hyperuricemia (22.0%) were prevalent. HCO₃⁻ showed a strong negative correlation with creatinine (r = -0.47, p < 0.001). ESI ≥15 was linked to lower mean GFR (54.7 ml/min), with a sensitivity of 60%, specificity of 90%, and Youden Index of 0.50. Clustering revealed three distinct biochemical profiles, including high-risk renal phenotypes. Conclusion: Electrolyte abnormalities correlated strongly with renal dysfunction. ESI and cluster analysis offer promising, low-cost tools for early CKD risk stratification in resource-limited settings.
β-lactam antibiotics represent the most widely developed and utilized class of antimicrobials globally. However, the increasing resistance to these antibiotics primarily among Gram-negative bacteria such as Klebsiella pneumoniae poses a significant public health concern. The most commonly observed resistance mechanism involves the enzymatic inactivation of β-lactams by β-lactamases, which hydrolyze the β-lactam ring. The objective of this study was to investigate resistance to oxyimino-cephalosporins (ceftazidime [CAZ], ceftriaxone [CRO], and cefotaxime [CTX]) through the production of β-lactamase enzymes (SHV, TEM, CTX-M) in K. pneumoniae strains isolated from urine samples, and to assess potential correlations between these resistance enzymes and specific antibiotics. A total of 23 K. pneumoniae urinary isolates were collected at the Pietro Annigoni Biomolecular Research Center (CERBA) for bacteriological and molecular analysis. Resistance rates to CTX, CRO, and CAZ were found to be 66.67%,53.33%,33.33% respectively. Molecular analysis revealed a predominance of the TEM gene, detected in 50% of the isolates. Correlation analysis demonstrated a positive association between the presence of TEM and resistance to CAZ and CTX, as well as a positive correlation between CTX-M and CRO, indicating the involvement of these enzymes in antibiotic resistance. This study highlights resistance patterns and the distribution of resistance genes among the isolates, providing valuable insights for guiding therapeutic strategies and strengthening epidemiological surveillance.
Aims: This study aims to investigate the structural and mechanical properties of major ampullate (MA) dragline silk produced by six different species of spider, using multi-level characterization techniques including spectroscopy, electron microscopy and tensile testing. By examining molecular and nano-scale features, the research seeks to uncover species-specific differences and contribute to the development of high-performance synthetic silk. Study Design: Experimental and employs software for modelling. Methodology: Major ampullate (MA) dragline silk from six different spider species were analyzed using SAXS, WAXS, and ATR-FTIR for structural insights. SEM-EDX provided surface morphology and elemental data, while mechanical tests evaluated strength and elasticity. Results: Structural analyses revealed distinct nano-scale arrangements and molecular compositions among the six spider species. SAXS and WAXS data showed variations in nanoscopic and crystalline domain sizes, while ATR-FTIR confirmed differences in protein secondary structures. SEM-EDX highlighted surface morphology and elemental diversity. Mechanical tests demonstrated species-specific differences in tensile strength and elasticity. Conclusion: This comparative study provides a thorough analysis of major ampullate dragline silk produced by orb-weaving spiders. It focuses on the silk's molecular composition, nanoscale architecture and mechanical performance. The study reveals how specific protein motifs contribute to the silk filaments' hierarchical organization and extraordinary strength. These findings offer valuable insights for biomimetic material design and support ongoing efforts to replicate the unique properties of natural spider silk in synthetic applications.
This review article details the current knowledge of nitronate monooxygenase (NMO) and nitroalkane oxidase (NAO) both of which detoxify organic nitro compounds. The chemical versatility of these molecules are first described by explaining why they are unusually strong carbon acids. This reactivity led to their widespread use in industry and inevitable release into the environment as pollution. Oxidation of nitro compounds is likely an adaptation of existing enzymatic activities to convert them into carbonyl compounds that can be broken down by normal metabolism. NMO has a marked preference for anionic nitronates while NAO exclusively utilizes neutral substrates. Kinetic studies demonstrating this fact are presented along with a detailed structural analysis to rationalize this observation. NMO uses a conserved histidined to electrostatically stabilize the carbanion formed from nitro compounds where as NAO has a negatively charged aspartate in the active site that repels anionic substrates. Details of the chemical mechanisms of each enzyme are presented showing that NMO uses a flavin radical during catalysis whereas NAO forms a covalent adduct between the cofactor and substrate. Information presented in this article is intended to shed light on two platforms that can be exploited for bioremediation to alleviate nitroalkane pollution.
Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a staple crop vital for India’s food security. However, intensive cultivation practices such as reliance on high-yielding varieties, reduced organic manure use, and excessive chemical fertilizer application—have led to widespread zinc (Zn) deficiency in Indian soils. Zinc is an essential micronutrient that supports photosynthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, and protein synthesis, and its supplementation enhances both yield and grain nutritional quality. A field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2020 at RARS, Nandyal (ANGRAU), to evaluate the effect of zinc application methods on rice performance and grain zinc enrichment. Among 4 varieties, NDLR-8 recorded the longest panicle length (24.17 cm) and highest grain (6698 kg ha⁻¹) and straw (7089 kg ha⁻¹) yields, followed by NDLR-7, while BPT-5204 performed lowest. Post-harvest soil analysis showed that NDLR-8 maintained the highest residual N (200 kg ha⁻¹), P (52.12 kg ha⁻¹), Fe (44.04 mg kg⁻¹), and Zn (8.12 mg kg⁻¹). Among treatments, Zn₂ (100 kg ha⁻¹ soil application) significantly enhanced soil Zn (8.84 mg kg⁻¹) and Fe (51.17 mg kg⁻¹) compared with other methods. The results highlight the importance of optimized zinc management and varietal selection in improving rice yield and grain micronutrient content.
Introduction: This study aimed to assess awareness of the element Lead and knowledge of lead poisoning across a diverse sample of young respondents (N=273) differing in age, sex, region, and educational level. Given the pervasive risk of lead exposure, understanding community knowledge gaps is critical for planning public health interventions. Method: The study employed a cross-sectional design, surveying 273 participants categorized by age (12-14, 15-17, 18-20, and >21 years), sex (male/female), region (urban/rural), and educational level (Form 1-2, Form 3-4, and Form 5-6). Data analysis focused on descriptive statistics and tests for association between demographic variables and awareness/knowledge. Results: Overall findings indicated critically low levels of health literacy regarding lead. Only 35.2% of respondents were aware of the element lead. Furthermore, awareness of the health risk, lead poisoning, was alarmingly low at 13.9%, with 86.1% unaware. The proportion demonstrating actual knowledge of lead poisoning was negligible, standing at just 5.9%. The analysis found no statistically significant association between awareness or knowledge of lead poisoning and any of the tested sociodemographic characteristics (age, sex, region, and educational level) (p>0.05). Despite the lack of statistical significance, slight trends were identified: the age 21-year-old group showed the highest awareness (20.0%) and knowledge (14.0%); females reported marginally higher awareness (15.6%) and knowledge (7.10%) than males; and the Forms 5–6 educational level group exhibited the highest awareness (18.2%) and knowledge (9.10%). Conclusion: The overall prevalence of awareness and knowledge regarding lead poisoning is extremely low across all demographic strata, indicating a significant public health gap. While slight differences in awareness and knowledge were observed, particularly favouring older age groups, females, and higher educational attainment, these differences were not statistically significant. These findings strongly suggest an urgent need for targeted, mandatory public health education campaigns, especially at the lower educational levels and among younger age cohorts, to increase community resilience against lead exposure risks.
Garlic (Allium sativum) and onion (Allium cepa) are herbaceous monocotyledonous plants of the Genus Allium and are used the world over for culinary, medicinal and agricultural activities. This study investigated the constituent chemical compounds in the extracted oils of fresh garlic bulbs, and fresh onion bulbs. The fresh garlic and onion bulbs used in this study, were bought at Yankura market in Kano, Kano State, Nigeria. The oils of garlic, and onion were extracted using cold maceration. Constituent chemical compounds of the oils of garlic, and onion were identified using the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and the database of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Thirty-three chemical compounds, with varying area percentages, were identified in the oil of garlic with retention time ranging from 5.96 to 36.27 minutes. Also, thirty-three chemical compounds with varying area percentages, were identified in the oil of onion, with retention time ranging from 8.3 to 36.49 minutes. Eight chemical compounds namely 9-Octadecenoic acid, N-Hexadecanoic acid, Dodecanoic acid, Tetradecanoic acid, Bromoacetic acid, 9-Oxabicyclo[6.1.0]nonane, Eicosene (E)-, and Carboxylic acid were identified to be common to both the garlic oil, and the onion oil. However, the onion oil had more compound concentration of these chemical compounds common to them both in most cases, than the garlic oil. This factor may confer more bioactivity on the onion oil than on the garlic oil.
Aim: C-reactive protein (CRP) levels are widely recognized as biomarkers of systemic inflammation and have been linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases. However, potential analytical variability and individual biological responses may influence CRP readings particularly in environmental exposure studies. Therefore, careful interpretation of CRP levels is essential when assessing inflammatory responses among gasoline-exposed individuals. This study investigates the impact of prolonged gasoline exposure on inflammatory response, using C-reactive protein (CRP) levels as a biomarker. Methodology: A cross-sectional case-control study was conducted involving 60 apparently healthy participants (31 males, 29 females, aged 18–45). The experimental group comprised petroleum station attendants with gasoline exposure of over one year, further categorized into subgroups based on exposure duration: 1–2 years, 3–5 years, and over 5 years. Venous blood samples were collected and analyzed for CRP concentrations using standard laboratory methods. Results: CRP levels were significantly elevated in the 3–5 years (5.98 ± 2.29 mg/L) and >5 years (5.37 ± 2.88 mg/L) exposure groups compared to the control group (1.25 ± 0.21 mg/L, p < 0.05), indicating a notable inflammatory response in long-term exposed individuals. Conclusion: Prolonged exposure to gasoline vapors is associated with systemic inflammation, as evidenced by elevated CRP levels. These findings emphasize the potential health risks for petroleum workers and the importance of implementing occupational health safety measures and regular health screenings.
Introduction: Breastfeeding is fundamental to maternal and infant health; however, many women experience perceived insufficient milk supply (PIMS). In response, the use of traditional galactagogue foods and plants is a widespread practice, particularly in Tabligbo, Southern Togo. Yet, this practice remains poorly documented in scientific literature. This study, therefore, aimed to conduct an ethnobotanical survey to catalogue this indigenous knowledge, identify the substances used and their methods of administration. The importance of this study stems from the growing trend of mothers utilizing these alleged lactogenic plants. Consequently, it is imperative for us as scientists to scientifically substantiate or disconfirm these practices This would establish a foundation for future scientific validation through in vitro studies and animal models Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted in the city of Tabligbo from January 2023 to April 2024. A sample of 350 mothers with breastfeeding experience was recruited using the non-probability snowball sampling method. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews guided by a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, breastfeeding history, and the use of galactagogues. Results: A high proportion of the mothers surveyed (71.4%) reported experiencing a decrease in lactation, primarily within the initial postpartum weeks. The vast majority (98.3%) were aware of and utilized traditional remedies, with a total of 18 different substances being recorded. The most frequently cited galactagogues were sorghum or millet porridge (93.3%), peanuts (Arachis hypogaea, 84.0%), leaves of Vernonia amygdalina (45.1%), sesame (Sesamum indicum, 35.2%), and leaves of Moringa oleifera (22.28%). The preparation methods, dosages, and perceived effects were documented for each substance. Conclusion: The reliance on traditional galactagogues is a deeply rooted sociocultural practice in Tabligbo, constituting a first-line response to perceived lactation insufficiency. This study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive phytochemical, toxicological, and clinical research to validate the efficacy and safety of the most promising remedies, particularly Moringa oleifera. Such an evidence-based approach would enable the integration of validated, safe, and beneficial practices into public health programs to effectively promote and support breastfeeding.
The present investigation entitled “Comparative biochemical profiling of fruits from thirty Banana (Musa spp.) genotypes” was conducted at Fruit Research Station (FRS), Gandevi, Navsari Agricultural University, during 2021-22. Fruit biochemical parameters were analyzed at the Department of Post-Harvest Technology, ASPEE College of Horticulture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari. The fruit biochemical profiling revealed notable variations in key quality-related parameters, including Total Soluble Solids (TSS), sugar composition, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid concentration, total phenolic content, fruit firmness, and pH levels. Chandra Balae (AAA genome group) recorded the highest TSS (27.60°Brix), while Karpura Chakkakeli (AAB genome group) had the highest total sugar content (22.17%). The highest ascorbic acid content was found in Poovan (10.75 mg/100 g, AAB genome group), while Saba (ABB genome group) recorded highest fruit firmness (6.45). These biochemical traits are key indicators of fruit quality, influencing consumer preference, marketability, shelf life, and suitability for processing.
Objective: This study aims to investigate the phytochemical composition and antioxidant capacity of the leaves and stems of Landolphia owariensis P.Beauv. Methodology: A qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening was carried out using colorimetric tests, along with the determination of total phenols, total flavonoids, condensed tannins, iridoids, and alkaloids. The radical scavenging and antioxidant activities were evaluated using DPPH and FRAP assays on both crude methanolic extracts and selective ethyl acetate extracts of the leaves and stems of Landolphia owariensis P.Beauv. The extraction yields obtained from leaves and stems of Landolphia owariensis P.Beauv. varied between 14.22% and 17.68%. Methanolic maceration of the leaves (MFM: 17.68%) produced significantly higher yields than the stems (MTM: 15.77%), and a similar trend was observed in methanolic decoction (DFM: 16.18% vs. DTM: 14.22%). Qualitative phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, iridoids, phenolic compounds, and condensed tannins. Quantitative analysis showed that the concentrations of total phenols, flavonoids, condensed tannins, iridoids, and alkaloids varied depending on the solvent and extraction method. Total phenols were more abundant in stem extracts (DTM: 779.64 ± 1.23; MTM: 972.39 ± 2.63 mg GAE/g DW) compared to leaf extracts (DFM: 376.05 ± 3.44; MFM: 477.59 ± 2.43 mg GAE/g DW). Flavonoids were predominantly found in leaves (DFM: 978.64 ± 3.60; MFM: 874.53 ± 3.38 mg QE/g DW), while condensed tannins were more concentrated in stems (DTM: 221.86 ± 2.52; MTM: 188.16 ± 1.52 mg CE/g DW). Iridoids showed moderate and consistent concentrations across organs, and alkaloids displayed low and comparable levels (16–17 mg/g DW). The DPPH assay indicated that the stem macerate in methanol (MTM) was the most effective crude extract with an IC₅₀ of 11.195 µg/mL, while the FRAP assay confirmed its highest reducing power (MTM: 1505.727 mM FeSO₄/g), followed by the stem decoction (DTM: 1240.179 mM FeSO₄/g). Conclusion: This study establishes that Landolphia owariensis P.Beauv constitutes a rich source of specialized metabolites with antioxidant properties, thus validating its therapeutic use in traditional medicinal practices.
