Absorption and Distribution of Calcium (45Ca) Applied to the Surface of Orange (Citrus sinensis) Fruits at Different Developmental Stages

In this study, the rate of absorption and transport of calcium (Ca) in orange fruits (Citrus sinensis cv. Fukumoto) after surface treatment with 45Ca was evaluated by supplying treatments at different dates between fruit set and mid-phase II of growth (i.e., 30, 44, 66 and 99 days after full bloom, DAFB). 45Ca absorption was always detected, but 45Ca application at the fruit set was associated with the highest rates of Ca transport into the pulp (39%) compared to the other treatments (17–19%). Scanning electron microscopy SEM) images of the fruit surface showed the occurrence of stomata along with the entire rind at all the developmental stages evaluated. However, from the beginning of stage I, stomata began to collapse and develop plugs, and this became frequent as the fruit age increased. From 44 DAFB, oil gland density increased, and Ca oxalates (CaOx) were found in the fruit flavedo and albedo. Fruit Ca (not labeled) concentration increased from fruit set (30 DAFB) to 99 DAFB, although oil gland formation and rind growth and differentiation likely hindered Ca transport to internal fruit tissues (pulp). The total Ca concentration in the pedicel was always higher than that in the fruit, with no differences between the first three treatments. The information obtained in this study may be essential for improving Ca fertilizer efficacy in citrus by spray applications.

Development and Greenness Assessment of HPLC Method for Studying the Pharmacokinetics of Co-Administered Metformin and Papaya Extract

Foods with medical value have been proven to be beneficial, and they are extensively employed since they integrate two essential elements: food and medication. Accordingly, diabetic patients can benefit from papaya because the fruit is low in sugar and high in antioxidants. An RP-HPLC method was designed for studying the pharmacokinetics of metformin (MET) when concurrently administered with papaya extract. A mobile phase of 0.5 mM of KH2PO4 solution and methanol (65:35, v/v), pH = 5 ± 0.2 using aqueous phosphoric acid and NaOH, and guaifenesin (GUF) were used as an internal standard. To perform non-compartmental pharmacokinetic analysis, the Pharmacokinetic program (PK Solver) was used. The method’s greenness was analyzed using two tools: the Analytical GREEnness calculator and the RGB additive color model. Taking papaya with MET improved the rate of absorption substantially (time for reaching maximum concentration (Tmax) significantly decreased by 75% while maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) increased by 7.33%). The extent of absorption reduced by 22.90%. Furthermore, the amount of medication distributed increased (30.83 L for MET concurrently used with papaya extract versus 24.25 L for MET used alone) and the clearance rate rose by roughly 13.50%. The results of the greenness assessment indicated that the method is environmentally friendly. Taking papaya with MET changed the pharmacokinetics of the drug dramatically. Hence, this combination will be particularly effective in maintaining quick blood glucose control.

Evaluation of The Food Effect On a Drospirenone Only Contraceptive Containing 4 mg Administered With and Without High-Fat Breakfast

Background:The objective of the present trial was to assess the difference in pharmacokinetics of an oral test preparation containing 4 mg drospirenone. under fasting conditions compared to food intake after single dose administration.Methods:Open label, single centre, two-treatment, two-sequence, crossover study in 24 healthy female volunteers, with duration of 1 day per sequence and with a real wash-out period of 14 days to investigate the relative bioavailability of DRSP with both forms of administration. The 90% confidence intervals were calculated for the intra-individual ratio (test with food vs. without food) of the pharmacokinetic endpoints AUC(0-72h) and Cmax of drospirenone. Results:The 90% CI calculated by means of ANOVA-log for the endpoint, intra-individual ratio (Test ‘A’ = with food intake) vs. Test ‘B’ = without food intake) of AUC(0-72h) of drospirenone was between 104.72% and 111.36%. The 90% CI calculated by means of ANOVA- log for the endpoint intra-individual ratio (Test ‘A’ vs. Test ‘B’) of Cmax of drospirenone was between 118.58% and 141.10%.The mean relative bioavailability of the Test with food ‘A’ compared to the Test without food ‘B’ after single dose administration based on the endpoints AUC(0-72h) was 107.99%; for the endpoint Cmax it was 129.35%.Conclusions:The rate of absorption, based on the endpoint Cmax of drospirenone was increased by about 30% under fed conditions which differs to a COC containing 0,02 mg EE and 3 mg drospirenone in a 24/4 regimen where the rate of absorption was reduced by about 40% for both components. Implications: Our results suggest that the food intake has no impact on the absorption of 4 mg drospirenone in the management for contraception.This raises up the contraceptive efficacy as no interference with food is expected in real life use when consuming the oral formulation

DEVELOPMENT OF A MATHEMATICAL MODEL OF LIVER FILTRATION

Клетки печени занимают центральное место в реакциях промежуточного метаболизма. Печень принимает участие в метаболизме почти всех классов веществ. Основной структурной единицей печени является печеночная долька, которая представляет собой призму размером 1,5-2 мм с плоскими основанием и вершиной. По всей дольке также распределены лимфатические сосуды, которые активно поглощают интерстициальную жидкость и выводят ее с регулируемой скоростью, однако зависимость скорости поглощения от интерстициального давления и других параметров известна не полностью. В работе представлена математическая модель для оценки кровотока в печеночной дольке. Рассмотренная клеточная модель включает в себя производство и прохождение лимфы по двум основным путям: поглощение лимфатическими сосудами и выход из печени через поверхность дольки в интерстициальное пространство. Приведены геометрические и механические допущения модели и ее недостатки. В биологической модели исследовано влияние изменений кровяного давления в печени на выработку лимфы и оценивается скорость поглощения лимфы и поток жидкости (как лимфы, так и крови) по всей поверхности печени. В математической модели показана классификация: статическая (не зависящая от времени), пространственная, детерминированная, нелинейная, непрерывная. Результаты исследования показали, что предлагаемая клеточная модель микроциркуляции печени включает в себя производство и прохождение лимфы по двум основным путям: поглощение лимфатическими сосудами и выход из печени через поверхность дольки в интерстициальное пространство. Выявлены основные недостатки разрабатываемой модели Liver cells are central to intermediate metabolic reactions. The liver is involved in the metabolism of almost all classes of substances. The main structural unit of the liver is the hepatic lobule, which is a prism 1.5-2 mm in size with a flat base and apex. Lymphatic vessels are also distributed throughout the lobule, which actively absorb interstitial fluid and remove it at a controlled rate, however, the dependence of the rate of absorption on interstitial pressure and other parameters is not fully known. The paper presents a mathematical model for assessing blood flow in the hepatic lobule. The considered cellular model includes the production and passage of lymph through two main pathways: absorption by the lymphatic vessels and exit from the liver through the surface of the lobule into the interstitial space. Geometric and mechanical assumptions of the model and its disadvantages are presented. A biological model investigates the effect of changes in liver blood pressure on lymph production and estimates the rate of lymph absorption and fluid flow (both lymph and blood) over the entire surface of the liver. The mathematical model shows the classification: static (independent of time), spatial, deterministic, nonlinear, continuous. The results of the study showed that the proposed cellular model of liver microcirculation includes the production and passage of lymph through two main pathways: absorption by the lymphatic vessels and exit from the liver through the surface of the lobule into the interstitial space. The main shortcomings of the developed model are revealed

Feasibility of recycling concrete construction waste in environmental and economic sides

n light of the conditions experienced by Syria and due to the destruction and demolition of its buildings built up rubble and occupied a large area of its territory. Therefore, it was necessary to develop an appropriate strategy to study these debris and provide the ideal solutions to be able to benefit from them as much as possible and thus mitigate the harmful impact on the environment and the surrounding environment. The work is divided into two parts: First: The study focuses on one of the mechanisms of benefiting from the recycled aggregate by using them in producing concrete, after studying their characteristics(Sieve Analysis-density- Absorption) and then mixing them with natural aggregate as replacement of natural coarse aggregate at different rates(15-30-45-75-100)%. Six concrete cubes were made for each mixture and 3 cubes were broken after 7 days and the other after 28 days . it was concluded The relationship between the percentage of recycled aggregates and compressive strength, as well as the relationship between the percentage of stones and the rate of Absorption The results showed that the acceptable percentage of replacement of natural aggregates with recycled aggregates may reach 100% with the recording of values of resistance of up to 21.9Mpa . Second :The environmental and economic feasibility of using recycled aggregates has been studied the results showed that use 75% of the recycled aggregates in structural concrete works will reduce energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions by 28% and 33%, respectively, and the economic saving rate is 63.71%. . Through this study two objectives can be achieved: First: removing large quantities of environmental pollution sources resulting from these wastes and thus achieving an environmental goal. Second: Provide other sources of concrete aggregates and thus protect the natural quarries and achieve an economic goal.

Study of the pharmacokinetics of various drugs under conditions of antiorthostatic hypokinesia and the pharmacokinetics of acetaminophen under long-term spaceflight conditions

Objectives To study the pharmacokinetics and relative bioavailability of drugs of different chemical structure and pharmacological action under conditions simulating the effects of some factors of spaceflight, as well as the peculiarities of the pharmacokinetics of acetaminophen under long-term spaceflight conditions. Methods The pharmacokinetics of verapamil (n=8), propranolol (n=8), etacizine (n=9), furosemide (n=6), and acetaminophen (n=7) in healthy volunteers after a single oral administration under normal conditions (background) and under antiorthostatic hypokinesia (ANOH), the pharmacokinetics of acetaminophen in spaceflight members under normal ground conditions (background) (n=8) and under prolonged spaceflight conditions (SF) (n=5) were studied. Results The stay of volunteers under antiorthostatic hypokinesia had different effects on the pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of drugs: Compared to background, there was a decreasing trend in Vz for verapamil (−54 Δ%), furosemide (−20 Δ%), propranolol (−8 Δ%), and acetaminophen (−9 Δ%), but a statistically significant increase in Vz was found for etacizine (+39 Δ%); there was an increasing trend in Clt for propranolol (+13 Δ%) and acetaminophen (+16 Δ%), and a decreasing trend in Clt for etacizine, verapamil, and furosemide (−22, −23 and −9 Δ% respectively) in ANOH. The relative bioavailability of etacizine, verapamil, and furosemide in ANOH increased compared to background (+40, +23 and +13 Δ%, respectively), propranolol and acetaminophen decreased (−5 and −12 Δ% accordingly). The relative rate of absorption of etacizine and furosemide in ANOH decreased (−19 and −20 Δ%, respectively) while that of verapamil, propranolol, and acetaminophen increased (+42, +58 and +26 Δ%, respectively). A statistically significant decrease in AUC0-∞ (−57 Δ%), Cmax (−53 Δ%), relative bioavailability of acetaminophen (−52 Δ%) and a sharp increase in Clt (+147 Δ%), Tmax (+131 Δ%) as well as a trend towards a significant decrease in T1/2 (−53 Δ%), MRT (−36 Δ%) and a moderate increase in Vz (+24 Δ%) were found under control compared to background. Unidirectional changes in AUC0-∞, Clt, T1/2, MRT and relative bioavailability of acetaminophen, which are more pronounced in SF and opposite dynamics for Cmax, Tmax, Vz were found in ANOH and SP compared to background studies. Conclusions The data obtained allow recommending the studied drugs for rational pharmacotherapy in the possible development of cardiovascular disease in manned spaceflight.

Potential clinically significant drug interactions of drugs with fruit and berry juices

Any drug can potentially cause adverse drug reactions (ADRs), including serious and fatal. Some of them are caused by interactions with food, in particular, fruit and berry juices. Juices have a complex chemical composition and each of the chemicals can interact with drugs. Grapefruit juice is one of the most popular and well-studed in terms of potential drug interactions juices. Grapefruit juice is an inhibitor of CYP3A enzymes in the intestine involved in the presystemic metabolism of drug substrates. Therefore, it can increase their absorption. Apple juice at a concentration of 5% significantly reduces the activity of OATP, but not the activity of P-glycoprotein, which, for example, leads to a decrease in AUC and Cmax of fexofenadine to 30- 40% relative to the concentration of fexofenadine in patients drinking only water. Taking 200 ml of grape juice can reduce the concentration of phenacetin in blood plasma and increase the ratio of AUC of paracetamol to phenacetin due to the induction of CYP1A2 activity by grape juice flavonoids or by reducing the rate of absorption of phenacetin. To prevent ADRs, it is recommended to take drugs with water and and not consume simultaneously juices that are known to interact with drugs.

Recycling Crushed Waste Beer Bottle Glass in Fired Clay Bricks

Waste glass is a readily available domestic material. Each year, around 257,000 tonnes of glass waste are produced in Victoria, and the majority is glass packings. Typically, mixed waste glass cullet is deposited in landfills due to the limited recycling techniques. As a result, landfills are facing a growing issue. Therefore, this study investigates the addition of waste beer bottle glass (BG) in fired clay bricks and examines the effects of varying firing temperatures on the physical and mechanical properties of the manufactured samples. Clay bricks containing 10% BG at a firing temperature of 950 °C depicted similar compressive strength results (41 MPa) to the control samples (42 MPa). The results of all tested bricks were found to be below the water absorption limit of 17%. The thermal conductivity of the bricks incorporating BG was investigated, and it was found that the thermal performance improved with the decreasing firing temperature. Moreover, an initial rate of absorption (IRA), XRD, and XRF analysis was conducted. The experimental results have been discussed and compared with the recommended acceptable properties for standard bricks.

Dichloroethane poisoning

Diagnosis and treatment of acute poisoning from dichloroethane remain a very urgent task for clinical toxicology and clinical laboratory diagnostics since it belongs to the group of potent poisonous substances, the poisoning from which is the most severe. Dichloroethane belongs to organochlorine compounds and is a volatile liquid with a specific aromatic odor, very soluble in alcohol and fats. This substance is used not only for industrial purposes but also for household purposes. It is used as a raw material for the production of plastics. It has a fragrant odor, promotes ingestion for intoxication. Dichloroethane is produced in huge quantities and is used in the production of polyvinylchloride and other polymeric materials, fumigants, and adhesives. Death can occur even after taking 10–20 ml of dichloroethane. When ingested, the maximum concentration of substances in the blood is reached after 3–4 hours from the moment of taking, and the rate of absorption increases when taken together with alcohol and fats. Absorbed into the blood, toxic substances accumulate in lipid-rich tissues (brain, liver, omentum, adrenal glands). The toxicity of dichloroethane is due to its metabolism into chloroethanol and monochloroacetic acid, which on the first day determine the clinical picture of a narcotic and depressive effect on the central nervous system and exotoxic shock (at doses exceeding lethal doses), toxic liver dystrophy (on days 2–5), toxic nephropathy, gastrointestinal syndrome. Preventive measures for dichloroethane poisoning include compliance with all safety rules at work and home. Employees of enterprises dealing with this toxic substance must work in rooms with constantly forced ventilation, in industrial filter respirators (gas masks), and protective clothing.

Assessing the effects of a novel biostimulant to enhance leafminer resistance and plant growth on common bean

The leafminer Liriomyza trifolii is one of the major insects that affect Phaseolus vulgaris production worldwide. Novel and safe biobased stimulator compound (BSTC) with micronutrient-amino acid chelated compounds was developed from natural compounds and was used for foliar spray of P. vulgaris. Treated plants showed significantly increased in quality and productivity as well as significant reduction in leafminer infestation by close the tunnel end resulting in larvae suffocation and death. BSTC contains chemical composition that has important function in inducing immunity and resistance against insects, enhance plant growth and production. Also, HPLC showed that the assembled BSTC is rich in nucleobases than yeast extract (> 56 fold). Aminochelation zinc enhanced the rate of absorption of nutrient compounds and could participate in safe biofortification strategy. The expression of plant defense related genes under BSTC treatment revealed strong correlations between the transcription rates of defense related genes. Based on binding energies and interacting residues of six vital insect proteins, the best-docked complexes was obtained with disodium 5′-inosinate, delphinidin 3-glucoside and hyperoside. Obtained findings indicate that the foliar application of BSTC can enhance plant growth and productivity, uptake of important elements, expression of defense related genes and inhibit insect essential genes.