text:
(alpha tocopherol)
Structure-based virtual screening to identify potential lipase inhibitors to reduce lipid storage in Wolman disorder. [Journal Article]
Adv Protein Chem Struct Biol. 2023; 133:351-363.Vasudevan K, Udhaya Kumar S, … George Priya Doss CAP
Wolman disorder (WD) was first described in Iranian-Jewish (IJ) children, and it is caused by a deficiency of the lysosomal acid lipase (LAL). Newborns with WD are healthy and active at birth but soon develop severe malnutrition symptoms and often die before 1 year. In particular, spleens, livers, bone marrows, intestines, adrenal glands, and lymph nodes accumulate harmful amounts of lipids. G87V…
Wolman disorder (WD) was first described in Iranian-Jewish (IJ) children, and it is caused by a deficiency of the lysosomal acid lipase (LAL). Newborns with WD are healthy and active at birth but soon develop severe malnutrition symptoms and often die before 1 year. In particular, spleens, livers, bone marrows, intestines, adrenal glands, and lymph nodes accumulate harmful amounts of lipids. G87V mutation in LIPA is responsible for Wolman disorder. Some reports suggest that δ-tocopherol can reduce lipid accumulation in cholesterol storage disorders. Hence, we used δ-tocopherol for the virtual screening process in this study. Initially, the lead compounds were docked with native and G87V mutant LIPA. Subsequently, the ADME and toxicity parameters for screened compounds were determined to ensure the safety profiles. Finally, the molecular dynamics simulations result indicated that dl-alpha-Tocopherol-13C3, a molecule obtained from the PubChem database, is identified as a potential and stable lead molecule that could be effective against the G87V mutant form of LIPA.
Natural vitamin E supplementation during pregnancy in rats increases RRR-α-tocopherol stereoisomer proportion and enhances fetal antioxidant capacity, compared to synthetic vitamin E administration. [Journal Article]
Ann Nutr Metab. 2023 Jan 26 [Online ahead of print]Gázquez A, Sánchez-Campillo M, … Larqué EAN
CONCLUSIONS: Both natural and synthetic sources of vitamin E showed similar bioavailability. Still, NVE supplementation increased the proportion of RRR-αT and promoted higher antioxidant activity in fetal plasma at birth. Placental SR-B1 might be involved in the stereoselective transfer of RRR-αT stereoisomer across the placenta and may improve αT bioactivity in the fetus.
Effective decolonization strategy for mupirocin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus by TPGS-modified mupirocin-silver complex. [Journal Article]
Mater Today Bio. 2023 Feb; 18:100534.Sun MC, Chen YF, … Tao XH
The widespread utilization of mupirocin to treat methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)-caused infectious diseases has led to the emergence of mupirocin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MuRSA), posing a serious global medical threat. In order to counteract MuRSA, we develop a d-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) modified mupirocin and silver complex (TPGS/Mup-Ag) t…
The widespread utilization of mupirocin to treat methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)-caused infectious diseases has led to the emergence of mupirocin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MuRSA), posing a serious global medical threat. In order to counteract MuRSA, we develop a d-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) modified mupirocin and silver complex (TPGS/Mup-Ag) to combat MuRSA. The surfactivity of TPGS endows Mup-Ag with a homogeneous and small particle size (∼16 nm), which significantly enhances bacterial internalization. Silver ions are released from the mupirocin-Ag complex (Mup-Ag) to exert a synergistic antibacterial activity with mupirocin. Results manifest that our strategy reduces the concentration of mupirocin that induces 50% bacterial death from about 1000 μmol/mL to about 16 μmol/mL. In vitro bacterial infection model suggests that TPGS/Mup-Ag can not only eliminate both intracellular and inhibit bacterial adhesion, but also living cells are not affected. Results of in vivo experiments demonstrate that TPGS/Mup-Ag can effectively inhibit the progression of skin infection and accelerate wound healing, as well as alleviate systemic inflammation in both the subcutaneous infection model and the wound infection model. Furthermore, this study may contribute to the development of therapeutic agents for antibiotic-resistant bacteria and offer ideas for silver-based bactericides.
Exogenous α-Tocopherol Regulates the Growth and Metabolism of Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) under Drought Stress. [Journal Article]
Plants (Basel). 2023 Jan 04; 12(2)Akram NA, Bashir R, … Ahmad P
The present investigation was designed to improve drought stress tolerance in eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) through the exogenous application of α-tocopherol (TOC). For exogenous application, two modes, i.e., foliar spray (FS) and pre-sowing seed treatment (PS), were used. Water deficiency treatment (50% field capacity (FC)) was applied on 32-day-old seedlings of two eggplant cultivars, i.e., J…
The present investigation was designed to improve drought stress tolerance in eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) through the exogenous application of α-tocopherol (TOC). For exogenous application, two modes, i.e., foliar spray (FS) and pre-sowing seed treatment (PS), were used. Water deficiency treatment (50% field capacity (FC)) was applied on 32-day-old seedlings of two eggplant cultivars, i.e., Janak and Black Beauty. Five levels of TOC (0 mg/L, 50 mg/L PS, 100 mg/L PS, 50 mg/L FS, and 100 mg/L FS) were applied as PS and FS. Pre-sowing seed treatment was conducted before seed sowing, while FS treatment after 30 days of drought stress treatment. After 15 days of TOC as an FS application, it was observed that drought stress significantly reduced plant growth (5-15%) and chlorophyll contents (4-10%), while it increased proline (4-6%), glycine betaine (GB) (5-10%), malondialdehyde (MDA) (10.8%), hydrogen peroxide (15-16%), relative membrane permeability (RMP) (5-8%), and the activities of peroxidase (7-8%) and superoxide dismutase (12-15%) in both eggplant cultivars. The TOC application (FS and PS) exhibited a positive role in overcoming the adverse effect of water stress on eggplants. Plant growth increased (15-18%) as a result of the application of TOC, which could be linked with improved chlorophyll, ascorbic acid (AsA), GB, proline, total soluble proteins (TSP), and the activities of peroxidase (POD) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities. The reactive oxygen species H2O2 was also decreased by TOC application. Overall, TOC as a foliar spray was more effective in improving the accumulation of proline, GB, AsA, and activities of SOD and POD enzymes, while PS treatment was more effective in reducing RMP and improving the TSP of eggplant. Cv. Black Beauty was comparatively better in root dry weight, chlorophyll a and b, and MDA contents, while cv. Janak in RMP, AsA, TSP, and activity of the POD enzyme. It can be inferred that the application of TOC was useful in counteracting the harmful effects of drought stress on both cultivars of eggplants.
A Self-Emulsified Adjuvant System Containing the Immune Potentiator Alpha Tocopherol Induces Higher Neutralizing Antibody Responses than a Squalene-Only Emulsion When Evaluated with a Recombinant Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Pentamer Antigen in Mice. [Journal Article]
Pharmaceutics. 2023 Jan 10; 15(1)Lodaya RN, Kanitkar AP, … O'Hagan DT
The development of new vaccine adjuvants represents a key approach to improvingi the immune responses to recombinant vaccine antigens. Emulsion adjuvants, such as AS03 and MF59, in combination with influenza vaccines, have allowed antigen dose sparing, greater breadth of responses and fewer immunizations. It has been demonstrated previously that emulsion adjuvants can be prepared using a simple, …
The development of new vaccine adjuvants represents a key approach to improvingi the immune responses to recombinant vaccine antigens. Emulsion adjuvants, such as AS03 and MF59, in combination with influenza vaccines, have allowed antigen dose sparing, greater breadth of responses and fewer immunizations. It has been demonstrated previously that emulsion adjuvants can be prepared using a simple, low-shear process of self-emulsification (SE). The role of alpha tocopherol as an immune potentiator in emulsion adjuvants is clear from the success of AS03 in pandemic responses, both to influenza and COVID-19. Although it was a significant formulation challenge to include alpha tocopherol in an emulsion prepared by a low-shear process, the resultant self-emulsifying adjuvant system (SE-AS) showed a comparable effect to the established AS03 when used with a quadrivalent influenza vaccine (QIV). In this paper, we first optimized the SE-AS with alpha tocopherol to create SE-AS44, which allowed the emulsion to be sterile-filtered. Then, we compared the in vitro cell activation cytokine profile of SE-AS44 with the self-emulsifying adjuvant 160 (SEA160), a squalene-only adjuvant. In addition, we evaluated SE-AS44 and SEA160 competitively, in combination with a recombinant cytomegalovirus (CMV) pentamer antigen mouse.
Detoxication of Citrinin with Kojic Acid by the Formation of the Citrinin-Kojic Acid Adduct, and the Enhancement of Kojic Acid Production by Citrinin via Oxidative Stress in Aspergillus parasiticus. [Journal Article]
J Fungi (Basel). 2022 Dec 29; 9(1)Ichinomiya M, Kawamoto A, … Yabe K
Our previous work showed that citrinin (CTN) produced bay Penicillium citrinum inhibited the production of aflatoxin by Aspergillus parasiticus. We also reported that CTN was non-enzymatically converted to a novel CTN-KA adduct with kojic acid (KA) in aqueous condition. We herein observed that unlike CTN, the CTN-KA adduct does not show antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli or Bacillus …
Our previous work showed that citrinin (CTN) produced bay Penicillium citrinum inhibited the production of aflatoxin by Aspergillus parasiticus. We also reported that CTN was non-enzymatically converted to a novel CTN-KA adduct with kojic acid (KA) in aqueous condition. We herein observed that unlike CTN, the CTN-KA adduct does not show antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli or Bacillus subtilis or any cytotoxic effect on HeLa cells, suggesting that CTN was detoxified by KA by the formation of the CTN-KA adduct. To examine the function of KA production by fungi, we isolated A. parasiticus mutants with impaired KA production. When the mutants were incubated in either liquid or agar medium supplemented with CTN, they were more susceptible to CTN than the wild KA-producing strain. The same results were obtained when we used the A. oryzae KA-producing strain RIB40 and KA-non-producing strains. When KA was added to the CTN-containing agar medium, the inhibition of growth by CTN was remarkably mitigated, suggesting that the production of KA protected the fungal growth from CTN's toxicity. We also observed that CTN enhanced the production of KA by A. parasiticus as well as A. oryzae strains. Reverse transcription-PCR showed that CTN enhanced the expression of KA biosynthetic genes (kojA, kojR, and kojT) of A. parasiticus. However, the enhancement of KA production with CTN was repressed by the addition of α-tocopherol or butylated hydroxy anisole, suggesting that KA production is enhanced by oxidative stress via the formation of reactive oxygen species caused by CTN. In contrast, α-tocopherol did not affect inhibition of AF production as well as fungal growth by CTN, suggesting that the regulation of these inhibitions with CTN might be different from that of KA production. We propose a regulation scheme of CTN for each of KA production, AF production, and fungal growth in A. parasiticus.
Evaluation of the Efficacy and Synergistic Effect of α- and δ-Tocopherol as Natural Antioxidants in the Stabilization of Sunflower Oil and Olive Pomace Oil during Storage Conditions. [Journal Article]
Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Jan 06; 24(2)Athanasiadis V, Chatzimitakos T, … Lalas SI
Tocopherols are natural bioactive compounds with several health benefits. This study evaluated the effect of different ratios of α- and δ- tocopherol homologs to protect sunflower oil (SO) and olive pomace oil (OPO) against oxidation. A synergistic effect was recorded when the two tocopherols were combined at a ratio of 7:1 (α-T/δ-T). The oil samples were exposed to accelerated oxidation conditio…
Tocopherols are natural bioactive compounds with several health benefits. This study evaluated the effect of different ratios of α- and δ- tocopherol homologs to protect sunflower oil (SO) and olive pomace oil (OPO) against oxidation. A synergistic effect was recorded when the two tocopherols were combined at a ratio of 7:1 (α-T/δ-T). The oil samples were exposed to accelerated oxidation conditions using a Rancimat (90 °C and airflow of 15 L/h for 24 h) and protection from tocopherols was compared with that from butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). Assessment of oil stability was examined using well-known parameters such as peroxide value (PV), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), p-anisidine value (p-AV), conjugated dienes (CD) and trienes (CT), and total oxidation (Totox) value, which were all significantly reduced when tocopherols were added at a ratio of 7:1 α-T/δ-T. Primary oxidative compounds measured according to PV were only reduced in SO samples (6.11%). Off-flavor compounds measured via TBARS assay in SO samples were reduced by above 20%, while p-AV was also reduced. CDvalue was correlated with PV in SO samples, while the 7:1 mixture was more effective than BHT for CTvalue. Total oxidation values in SO samples and OPO samples were reduced by 6.02% and 12.62%, respectively. These values in SO samples also provided a remarkable correlation (R2 > 0.95) with incubation time. Moreover, the synergistic effect was not only effective in reducing the oxidation values of oil samples, but also in lowering the degradation rate of tocopherols. Protective effects from tocopherols were mainly observed in SO samples, as OPO samples were more resistant to oxidation processes. This effect was even observed in fatty acid analysis, where the 7:1 mixture provided better results than BHT-spiked samples. Thus, it is suggested that tocopherol mixtures might be used as a natural preservative in the food industry to restrain lipid oxidation processes.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Quality Characteristics of Four Oil-Tea Camellia Species with Red Flowers and Large Fruit. [Journal Article]
Foods. 2023 Jan 13; 12(2)Zhong S, Huang B, … Wen Q
Red-flowered oil-tea camellia (ROC) is an important woody oil species growing in the south, and its oil has high nutritional value. There are four main species of ROC in China, namely, Camellia chekiangoleosa (CCH), Camellia polyodonta (CPO), Camellia semiserrata (CSE) and Camellia reticulata (CRE). Reports on the comprehensive comparative analysis of ROC are limited. This study investigated the …
Red-flowered oil-tea camellia (ROC) is an important woody oil species growing in the south, and its oil has high nutritional value. There are four main species of ROC in China, namely, Camellia chekiangoleosa (CCH), Camellia polyodonta (CPO), Camellia semiserrata (CSE) and Camellia reticulata (CRE). Reports on the comprehensive comparative analysis of ROC are limited. This study investigated the fruit characteristics and nutritional components of four ROC fruits, and the results showed that ROC had high oil content with levels of 39.13%-58.84%, especially the CCH fruit, which reached 53.6-58.84%. The contents of lipid concomitants of ROC oil were also substantial, including β-amyrin (0.87 mg/g-1.41 mg/g), squalene (0.43 mg/g-0.69 mg/g), β-sitosterin (0.47 mg/g-0.63 mg/g) and α-tocopherol (177.52 μg/g-352.27 μg/g). Moreover, the transverse diameter(TD)/longitudinal diameter (LD) of fruits showed a significant positive correlation with the oil content, and ROC fruits with thinner peels seemed to have better oil quality, which is similar to the result of the oil quality evaluation obtained by the gray correlation coefficient evaluation method. Four ROC oils were evaluated using the gray correlation coefficient method based on 11 indicators related to the nutritional value of ROC. CCH oil had the highest score of 0.8365, and YS-2 (a clone of CCH) was further evaluated as the best CCH oil. Finally, the results of heatmap analysis showed that triglycerides could be used as a characteristic substance to distinguish CCH oil from the other three ROC oils. The PLSDA (Partial least squares regression analysis) model and VIP (Variable important in projection) values further showed that P/S/O, P/O/O, P/L/L, P/L/Ln, S/S/O, S/O/O and P/S/S (these all represent abbreviations for fatty acids) could be used as characteristic differential triglycerides among the four ROC oils. This study provides a convenient way for planters to assess the nutritional quality of seed oil depending on fruit morphology and a potential way to distinguish between various ROC oils.
Dissecting Causal Associations of Diet-Derived Circulating Antioxidants with Six Major Mental Disorders: A Mendelian Randomization Study. [Journal Article]
Antioxidants (Basel). 2023 Jan 10; 12(1)Zhao H, Han X, … Lu C
Although observational studies have suggested associations between circulating antioxidants and many mental disorders, causal inferences have not been confirmed. Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were conducted using summary-level statistics from genome-wide association studies (GWASs) to explore whether genetically determined absolute circulating antioxidants (i.e., ascorbate, retinol, β-car…
Although observational studies have suggested associations between circulating antioxidants and many mental disorders, causal inferences have not been confirmed. Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were conducted using summary-level statistics from genome-wide association studies (GWASs) to explore whether genetically determined absolute circulating antioxidants (i.e., ascorbate, retinol, β-carotene, and lycopene) and metabolites (i.e., α- and γ-tocopherol, ascorbate, and retinol) were causally associated with the risk of six major mental disorders, including anxiety disorders (AD), major depressive disorder (MDD), bipolar disorder (BIP), schizophrenia (SCZ), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). MR analyses were performed per specific-outcome databases, including the largest GWAS published to date (from 9725 for OCD to 413,466 for BIP participants), UK Biobank (over 370,000 participants), and FinnGen (over 270,000 participants), followed by meta-analyses. We found no significant evidence that genetically determined diet-derived circulating antioxidants were significantly causally associated with the risk of the six above-mentioned major mental disorders. For absolute antioxidant levels, the odds ratios (ORs) ranged from 0.91 (95% CI, 0.67-1.23) for the effect of β-carotene on OCD to 1.18 (95% CI, 0.90-1.54) for the effect of ascorbate on OCD. Similarly, for antioxidant metabolites, ORs ranged from 0.87 (95% CI, 0.55-1.38) for the effect of ascorbate on MDD to 1.08 (95% CI, 0.88-1.33) for the effect of ascorbate on OCD. Our study does not support significant causal associations of genetically determined diet-derived circulating antioxidants with the risk of major mental disorders.
Olive Oil Produced from Olives Stored under CO2 Atmosphere: Volatile and Physicochemical Characterization. [Journal Article]
Antioxidants (Basel). 2022 Dec 24; 12(1)Athanasiadis V, Chatzimitakos T, … Lalas SI
In this study, an alternative debittering technique for olives, invented and patented by Prof. Vassilis Dourtoglou, was employed. Olive fruits (Olea europaea cv. Megaritiki) were stored under CO2 atmosphere immediately after harvest for a period of 15 days. After the treatment, a sensory evaluation between the olives stored under CO2 and those stored under regular atmospheric conditions (control)…
In this study, an alternative debittering technique for olives, invented and patented by Prof. Vassilis Dourtoglou, was employed. Olive fruits (Olea europaea cv. Megaritiki) were stored under CO2 atmosphere immediately after harvest for a period of 15 days. After the treatment, a sensory evaluation between the olives stored under CO2 and those stored under regular atmospheric conditions (control) was performed. Additionally, the CO2-treated olives were used for the cold press of olive oil production. The volatile profile of the olive oil produced was analyzed using headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A total of thirty different volatile compounds were detected. The volatile characteristics of olive oil are attributed, among others, to aldehydes, alcohols, esters, hydrocarbons, alkanes, and terpenes. The volatile compounds' analysis showed many differences between the two treatments. In order to compare the volatile profile, commercial olive oil was also used (produced from olives from the same olive grove with a conventional process in an industrial olive mill). The antioxidant activity, the content of bioactive compounds (polyphenols, α-tocopherol, carotenoids, and chlorophylls), and the fatty acids' profile were also determined. The results showed that the oil produced from CO2-treated olives contains different volatile components, which bestow a unique flavor and aroma to the oil. Moreover, this oil was found comparable to extra virgin olive oil, according to its physicochemical characteristics. Finally, the enhanced content in antioxidant compounds (i.e., polyphenols) not only rendered the oil more stable against oxidation but also better for human health. The overall quality of the olive oil was enhanced and, as such, this procedure holds great promise for future developments.
Efficiency of emulsifier-free emulsions in delivering caffeine and α-tocopherol to human skin. [Journal Article]
Int J Cosmet Sci. 2023 Jan 18 [Online ahead of print]Kichou H, Caritá AC, … Munnier EIJ
CONCLUSIONS: This work demonstrates that HFUT is a reliable tool able to prepare stable ES-free emulsions loaded with hydrophilic or lipophilic active ingredients. Skin permeation studies confirm that the emulsions produced by HFUT promote the delivery of the actives to the human skin. In the case of α-tocopherol, the delivery efficiency was lower than with the Reference emulsion, especially in the SC layers, due to the absence of surfactants. Nevertheless, the ES-free emulsion still represents a good compromise between efficacy and the need for green cosmetics in the market.
Optimized D-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol succinate/phospholipid self-assembled mixed micelles: A promising lipid-based nanoplatform for augmenting the antifungal activity of fluconazole. [Journal Article]
Acta Pharm. 2022 Dec 01; 72(4):547-560.Badr-Eldin SM, Aldawsari HM, … Kotta SAP
Fluconazole (FLZ) is the most widely used antifungal agent for treating cutaneous candidiasis. Although oral FLZ has been proved to be effective, the incidence of side effects necessitates the development of an effective formulation that could surpass the pitfalls associated with systemic availability. Accordingly, this research aimed at developing a self-assembled mixed micelles topical delivery…
Fluconazole (FLZ) is the most widely used antifungal agent for treating cutaneous candidiasis. Although oral FLZ has been proved to be effective, the incidence of side effects necessitates the development of an effective formulation that could surpass the pitfalls associated with systemic availability. Accordingly, this research aimed at developing a self-assembled mixed micelles topical delivery system to enhance the topical delivery of the drug. Self-assembled mixed micelles were developed using D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate and phospholipids and optimized using Box-Behnken design. The optimized formulation with minimized size was then tested in vivo for the antifungal activity against C. albicans in immunocompromised mice. Treatment with the optimized formulation led to decreased peripheral erythema as well as lesions due to fungal infection in comparison to raw FLZ loaded gel. Therefore, the developed formulation was found to be a promising vehicle for the treatment of cutaneous candidiasis.
Water stress protection by the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus Rhizoglomus irregulare involves physiological and hormonal responses in an organ-specific manner. [Journal Article]
Physiol Plant. 2023 Jan 18 [Online ahead of print]Fresno DH, Solé-Corbatón H, Munné-Bosch SPP
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi may alleviate water stress in plants. Although several protection mechanisms have already been described, little information is available on how these fungi influence the hormonal response to water stress at an organ-specific level. In this study, we evaluated the physiological and hormonal responses to water stress in above and below-ground tissues of the legume gras…
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi may alleviate water stress in plants. Although several protection mechanisms have already been described, little information is available on how these fungi influence the hormonal response to water stress at an organ-specific level. In this study, we evaluated the physiological and hormonal responses to water stress in above and below-ground tissues of the legume grass Trifolium repens colonized by the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus Rhizoglomus irregulare. Plants were subjected to progressive water stress and recovery. Different leaf and root physiological parameters, as well as phytohormone levels, were quantified. Water-stressed mycorrhizal plants showed an improved water status and no photoinhibition compared to uncolonized individuals, while some stress markers like α-tocopherol and malondialdehyde content, an indicator of the extent of lipid peroxidation, transiently increased in roots, but not in leaves. Water stress protection exerted by mycorrhiza appeared to be related to a differential root-to-shoot redox signaling, probably mediated by jasmonates, and mycorrhization enhanced the production of the cytokinin trans-zeatin in both roots and leaves. Overall, our results suggest that mycorrhization affects physiological, redox and hormonal responses to water stress at an organ-specific level, which may eventually modulate the final protection of the host from water stress. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
[Influence of multiple insufficiency of vitamin D and B group vitamins, calcium and magnesium in the diet of rats on micronutrient sufficiency and plasma biochemical indicators]. [Journal Article]
Vopr Pitan. 2022; 91(6):37-49.Beketova NA, Kodentsova VM, … Zhilinskaya NVVP
The lack of vitamins D, B group, calcium and magnesium is common for the diet of the Russian population. It has been previously demonstrated that that the elimination of B vitamin deficiency is a necessary condition for the implementation of vitamin D biological functions. The aim of the research was to assess the effect of a combined deficiency of vitamins D and B group, calcium and magnesium in…
The lack of vitamins D, B group, calcium and magnesium is common for the diet of the Russian population. It has been previously demonstrated that that the elimination of B vitamin deficiency is a necessary condition for the implementation of vitamin D biological functions. The aim of the research was to assess the effect of a combined deficiency of vitamins D and B group, calcium and magnesium in the diet of rats on biomarkers of micronutrient sufficiency and plasma biochemical indicators. Material amd methods. Male Wistar rats with an initial body weight of 66±1 g were randomly assigned to one of five groups. The rats of the 1st group (Control) were fed a standard semi-synthetic diet (SD) for 28 days. The combined deficit of vitamins D and B group, calcium and magnesium in rats of four experimental groups was caused by a 5-fold decrease in their content in the vitamin mixture and 2-fold decrease in their content in mineral mixture of the SD for 23 days. Over the next 5 days, the rats of 2nd group (+В+D+Ca+Mg) were fed a diet replenished for all missing vitamins and minerals, the rats of 3rd group (-В+D+Ca+Mg) were fed a diet with continued deficiency of B group vitamins, the rats of the 4th group (+В+D-Ca-Mg) were fed a diet with continued lack of calcium and magnesium, the diet of the 5th group (-B-D-Ca-Mg) was not replenished. Vitamins B1 and B2 in lyophilized liver and brain and urine, riboflavin in plasma and 4-pyridoxic acid in urine were determined by fluorimetric methods, 25(OH)D in plasma was determined by ELISA, the level of vitamins A and E in blood plasma and lyophilized liver, of vitamin E in whole brain - by HPLC. Biochemical parameters of blood plasma were determined using a biochemical analyzer. Results. In rats of the 5th group (-B-D-Ca-Mg), there were 3.4-fold increase (p<0.05) in iron plasma level, 1.7-fold elevation (p<0.10) in alkaline phosphatase activity, and 1.8-fold decrease (p<0.05) in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity on the background of the increase in α-tocopherol blood plasma level by 26.7% (p<0.05) and liver content by 2.0 fold (p<0.05) relative to the indicators in animals who hadn't passed the deficiency of micronutrients (Control) and / or from the 2nd group (+B+D+Ca+Mg). The lack of B group vitamins in the diet, which persisted during the correction of vitamin D, calcium and magnesium deficiency in rats of the 3rd group (-B+D+Ca+Mg), inhibited the recovery of diagnostically significant biochemical parameters of blood plasma (namely, an increased level of glucose, iron, triglycerides, cholesterol, α-tocopherol, increased alkaline phosphatase activity and reduced ALT activity) to the level in animals of the control group and/or rats fed the diet replenished for all missing micronutrients (+B+D+Ca+Mg). Conclusion. Combined deficiency of several micronutrients led to changes in biochemical blood parameters. Reduced intake of calcium and magnesium during the correction of the lack of vitamins D and B group in the diet can have a negative impact on vitamin B2 status. Even under normal dietary vitamin E intake the combined deficiency of several other micronutrients affected the metabolism of this vitamin (increased levels of vitamin E in the liver and blood plasma of animals). Chronic combined alimentary deficit of B vitamins, calcium and magnesium, which is characteristic in the diet of the Russian population, reduces vitamin D bioavailability, which justifies the expediency of using vitamin-mineral complexes.
Nano-encapsulation of halofuginone hydrobromide enhances anticoccidial activity against Eimeria tenella in chickens. [Journal Article]
Biomater Sci. 2023 Jan 17 [Online ahead of print]Lin M, Song X, … Guo DBS
Coccidiosis is a worldwide epidemic intestinal disease with high incidence, which causes huge economic losses. Halofuginone hydrobromide (HF) is widely applied as an effective anticoccidial drug in the poultry industry. However, its therapeutic efficacy is severely restrained due to toxic effects, poor aqueous solubility and low permeability. Nanotechnology can improve the biological effect of dr…
Coccidiosis is a worldwide epidemic intestinal disease with high incidence, which causes huge economic losses. Halofuginone hydrobromide (HF) is widely applied as an effective anticoccidial drug in the poultry industry. However, its therapeutic efficacy is severely restrained due to toxic effects, poor aqueous solubility and low permeability. Nanotechnology can improve the biological effect of drugs, and thus, reduce administered doses and toxic effects. The objective of this study was to investigate the therapeutic and preventive potential of novel HF-loaded D-α-tocopherol polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) polymer micelles (HTPM) for preventing coccidiosis in chickens. The HTPM were approximately spherical with a hydrodynamic diameter of 12.65 ± 0.089 nm, a zeta potential of 8.03 ± 0.242 mV, a drug loading of 14.04 ± 0.12%, and an encapsulation efficiency of 71.1 ± 4.15%. HF was encapsulated in the polymer micelles through interactions with TPGS, as characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Cellular take up assays showed that TPGS polymer micelles could enhance drug internalization to alleviate intestinal apoptosis induced by coccidiosis and promote the necrosis of second-generation merozoites of E. tenella. Notably, clinical trials proved that 1.5 mg L-1 HTPM had a stronger anticoccidial effect on E. tenella than that of 3 mg kg-1 HF premix. Amplicon sequencing identified that HTPM could alleviate coccidiosis by restoring the structure of the gut microbiome. These findings indicated that the anticoccidial efficacy of HF was significantly enhanced after being encapsulated in polymer micelles, and further demonstrated the potential protective application of nano-encapsulating anticoccidial drugs as a promising approach to control coccidiosis in poultry. In summary, HTPM hold huge potential as an effective therapeutic agent for coccidiosis.
Review of the latest solutions in the use of contact lenses as controlled release systems for ophthalmic drugs. [Review]
Polim Med. 2023 Jan 13 [Online ahead of print]Stiler-Wyszyńska S, Golba S, … Kuczkowski SPM
In recent years, there has been a great interest in the potential use of contact lenses as eye drug delivery systems. Static (individual layers of the cornea, sclera and retina) as well as dynamic barriers (blood flow) pose a serious challenge to the effective delivery of the drug substance to the eyeball. The current ophthalmic systems are not optimal for patients, especially in the form of eye …
In recent years, there has been a great interest in the potential use of contact lenses as eye drug delivery systems. Static (individual layers of the cornea, sclera and retina) as well as dynamic barriers (blood flow) pose a serious challenge to the effective delivery of the drug substance to the eyeball. The current ophthalmic systems are not optimal for patients, especially in the form of eye drops, where almost 95% of the drug contained in them is lost through the process of absorption through the conjunctiva or tear drainage. This article describes in vitro experiments that examined the use of contact lenses in the context of drug treatment in infectious, inflammatory, allergic, and glaucomatous diseases. Various techniques used to modify the materials as well as their impact on drug release kinetics were discussed. It has also been demonstrated that these methods can be used in practice during in vivo research, both in animal models as well as in sick and healthy people. The advantages of using controlled-release drug systems in the form of contact lenses are the drug dosing regimen, bioavailability and the prolonged residence time of drugs in the eyeball.
Tocotrienols: Exciting Biological and Pharmacological Properties of Tocotrienols and other Naturally Occurring Compounds, Part I. [Journal Article]
Ann Clin Case Rep. 2022 May; 7(1)Qureshi AA
Inflammation has been implicated in cardiovascular disease and tocotrienols are potent hypocholesterolemic agents that reduce β-hydroxy-β-methyl-glutaryl coenzyme A reductase activity, which is degraded via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Impact of various tocotrienols (α-, γ-, or δ-tocotrienol) treatments inhibit the chymotrypsin-like activity of 20S rabbit muscle proteasome (>50%) in RAW 264.…
Inflammation has been implicated in cardiovascular disease and tocotrienols are potent hypocholesterolemic agents that reduce β-hydroxy-β-methyl-glutaryl coenzyme A reductase activity, which is degraded via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Impact of various tocotrienols (α-, γ-, or δ-tocotrienol) treatments inhibit the chymotrypsin-like activity of 20S rabbit muscle proteasome (>50%) in RAW 264.7 cells and BALB/c mice. Moreover, the effect of various tocotrienols (α-, γ-, or δ-tocotrienol), α-tocopherol, quercetin, riboflavin, (-) Corey lactone, amiloride, dexamethasone supplemented diets fed to chickens (4-weeks) resulted in reduction of total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides. This trend was also observed in macrophages from RAW 264.7 cells, in LPS-induced thioglycolate-elicited peritoneal macrophages derived from C57BL/6, BALB/c, LMP7/MECL-1-/-, and PPAR-α-/- knockout mice from young (4-week-old) and senescent (42-week-old) mice, resulting in significant inhibition of TNF-α and nitric oxide levels (30% to 70%), blocked degradation of P-IκB protein, and decreased activation of NF-κB, followed gene suppression of mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and iNOS. In human study, normal or hypercholesterolemic subjects administered two capsules/d of NS-7 or NS-6 (4-weeks) showed decrease in serum CRP, NO, γ-GT, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides levels in normal as compared to hypercholesterolemic subjects (12% to 39%). In second study, hypercholesterolemic subjects were given increasing doses of δ-tocotrienol (125 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg, and 750 mg/day) plus AHA Step-1 diet (4-weeks). The most effective dose of tocotrienols (250 mg/day) may be used to lower serum NO (40%), CRP (40%), MDA (34%), γ-GT (22 %), and inflammatory cytokines IL-1α, IL-12, IFN-γ by 15% to 17%, and increase TAS levels by 22%.
Diet-Derived Antioxidants: The Special Case of Ergothioneine. [Review]
Annu Rev Food Sci Technol. 2022 Jan 09 [Online ahead of print]Halliwell B, Tang RMY, Cheah IKAR
This article reviews what is presently known about the biological roles of the diet-derived compound ergothioneine (ET). ET seems important to humans because it is rapidly taken up from the diet by a transporter largely or completely specific for ET, and once taken up it is retained within the body for weeks or months. The various possible functions of ET in vivo are explored. Much emphasis has b…
This article reviews what is presently known about the biological roles of the diet-derived compound ergothioneine (ET). ET seems important to humans because it is rapidly taken up from the diet by a transporter largely or completely specific for ET, and once taken up it is retained within the body for weeks or months. The various possible functions of ET in vivo are explored. Much emphasis has been placed on the antioxidant properties of ET, but although these are well established in vitro, the evidence that antioxidant activity is the principal function of ET in vivo is weak. ET is not unique in this: The evidence for the antioxidant roles of vitamin C and polyphenols such as the flavonoids in vivo is also weak. By contrast, α-tocopherol has demonstrated in vivo antioxidant effects in humans. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Food Science and Technology, Volume 14 is March 2023. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
Synergistic effect of doxorubicin lauroyl hydrazone derivative delivered by α-tocopherol succinate micelles for the treatment of glioblastoma. [Journal Article]
Int J Pharm X. 2023 Dec; 5:100147.Wang M, Malfanti A, … Préat V
We hypothesized that tocopherol succinate (TOS) and D-α-tocopherol polyethylene2000 succinate (TPGS2000) micelles could work as a drug delivery system while enhancing the anti-cancer efficacy of doxorubicin lauryl hydrazone derivative (DOXC12) for the treatment of glioblastoma. The DOXC12-TOS-TPGS2000 micelles were formulated with synthesized DOXC12 and TPGS2000. They showed a high drug loading o…
We hypothesized that tocopherol succinate (TOS) and D-α-tocopherol polyethylene2000 succinate (TPGS2000) micelles could work as a drug delivery system while enhancing the anti-cancer efficacy of doxorubicin lauryl hydrazone derivative (DOXC12) for the treatment of glioblastoma. The DOXC12-TOS-TPGS2000 micelles were formulated with synthesized DOXC12 and TPGS2000. They showed a high drug loading of hydrophobic DOXC12 (29%), a size of <100 nm and a pH sensitive drug release behaviour. In vitro, fast uptake of DOXC12-TOS-TPGS2000 micelles by GL261 cells was observed. For cytotoxicity, DOXC12-TOS-TPGS2000 micelles were evaluated on two glioblastoma cell lines and showed synergism between DOXC12 and TOS-TPGS2000. The higher cytotoxicity of DOXC12-TOS-TPGS2000 micelles was mainly caused by necrosis. The DOXC12-TOS-TPGS2000 micelles seem to be a promising delivery system for enhancing the anticancer efficacy of doxorubicin in glioblastoma (GBM).
The Potential Benefits of Legumes Germ and Cereal Grains on Roosters' Reproductive Performance. [Journal Article]
Arch Razi Inst. 2022 06; 77(3):1225-1231.Mahdi Mohammed Alakkam E, Abulkassim R, … Eldeeb FA
Vit E is known as one of the most important antioxidant. It has been previously approved that cereal grains and leafy plants are considered as the main source for α-tocopherol (Vit E). One of the recommended therapies for male infertility would be the Vit E therapy. Following Vit E consumption the semen parameters such as sperm concentration, ejaculation volume, sperm progressive motility, and in…
Vit E is known as one of the most important antioxidant. It has been previously approved that cereal grains and leafy plants are considered as the main source for α-tocopherol (Vit E). One of the recommended therapies for male infertility would be the Vit E therapy. Following Vit E consumption the semen parameters such as sperm concentration, ejaculation volume, sperm progressive motility, and in vitro function (zone binding assay) have been significantly improved. Therefore, present study was designed to investigate the effects of oral administration of cereal grain and seeds on reproductive performance of local cocks. During a period of 63 weeks, 100 local (Iraqi breed) rooster chicks were randomly divided into the five groups (n=20). Animals in group 1 served as control group and had not received any supplementations in their diet. The animals in the Groups 2-5 received diets which were fortified with 100, 200, 300, and 400 g of cereal grain and legume seeds pure germs. The results of the current study showed that the total number of spermatozoa and percentages of abnormal sperm were decreased by adding more amount of germ of cereal grain and seeds (P<0.01). Increased germ of cereal grain and seeds was not associated with pH volume, colour, consistency and motility of the sperm compared to corresponding rates in control group. Phospholipids content and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance of semen sample as well as density of ejaculate (sperm/µl) were decreased by adding increasing germ of cereal grain and seeds in diet of rosters. Weight of testis decreased by increasing levels of cereal grains and legume seeds germ in the diets (P<0.05).
The Influence of Rumen-Protected Choline and α-tocopherol Supplementation on Early Lactating Dairy Cows Metabolism. [Journal Article]
Arch Razi Inst. 2022 06; 77(3):1165-1171.Salam Karim Y, Hachim SK, … Hamad DA
It is well documented that choline is known as one of the essential ingredients of phospholipids. Choline acts as a determinative element for appropriate cell membrane functions. On the other hand α-tocopherol (Vit E) is a fat-soluble vitamin. This vitamin acts as a strong antioxidant in the living body's defense system against oxidative stress. Lipid peroxidation in peripartum and early lactatin…
It is well documented that choline is known as one of the essential ingredients of phospholipids. Choline acts as a determinative element for appropriate cell membrane functions. On the other hand α-tocopherol (Vit E) is a fat-soluble vitamin. This vitamin acts as a strong antioxidant in the living body's defense system against oxidative stress. Lipid peroxidation in peripartum and early lactating cows is significantly increased while the level of serum Vit E is decreases dramatically. These concomitant physiological changes demonstrate a higher level of oxidative stress subsequently leads to serious health issues in dairy cows. Therefore, the present research was designed to investigate the following items in dairy cattle: 1) evaluation of the possible changes in serum protein fractions, and 2) comparing the oxidative status of orally RPC and vitamin E supplementation in dairy cows in early lactation period. In the current study 30 early lactating primiparous and multiparous Holstein cows (body condition score (BCS)=2.51 ± 0.10) were used beginning five weeks postpartum. All the animals were randomly divided in to three groups (n=10) (number of lactation=2.61). The animals were randomly assigned to receive one of the following treatments. Group 1 served as control group were not received any supplement. The second group was supplemented with 90 g/d of RPC (Reashre Choline, Balchem, USA). The third group was administrated 4400 IU/d vitamin E (Roche, Vitamins Ltd; Switzerland). In the current study, serum protein electrophoresis showed four main fractions as follows: albumin, α-globulin, β-globulin, and γ-globulin. The recorded data showed that the percentages of albumin and γ-globulin fractions were higher in treated groups compared to the control group. In the animals supplementing with RPC and vitamin E the percentages of serum albumin increased to the value of 37. 70±1.63 and 38.21±1.28 respectively compare to the control group (34.69±1.21), which were significant (P<0.05).
Rebalancing Nutrients, Reinforcing Antioxidant and Osmoregulatory Capacity, and Improving Yield Quality in Drought-Stressed Phaseolus vulgaris by Foliar Application of a Bee-Honey Solution. [Journal Article]
Plants (Basel). 2022 Dec 22; 12(1)Alghamdi SA, Alharby HF, … Rady MM
Bee-honey solution (BHS) is considered a plant growth multi-biostimulator because it is rich in osmoprotectants, antioxidants, vitamins, and mineral nutrients that can promote drought stress (DtS) resistance in common bean plants. As a novel strategy, BHS has been used in a few studies, which shows that the application of BHS can overcome the stress effects on plant productivity and can contribut…
Bee-honey solution (BHS) is considered a plant growth multi-biostimulator because it is rich in osmoprotectants, antioxidants, vitamins, and mineral nutrients that can promote drought stress (DtS) resistance in common bean plants. As a novel strategy, BHS has been used in a few studies, which shows that the application of BHS can overcome the stress effects on plant productivity and can contribute significantly to bridging the gap between agricultural production and the steady increase in population under climate changes. Under sufficient watering (SW (100% of crop evapotranspiration; ETc) and DtS (60% of ETc)), the enhancing impacts of foliar application with BHS (0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5%) on growth, productivity, yield quality, physiological-biochemical indices, antioxidative defense ingredients, and nutrient status were examined in common bean plants (cultivar Bronco). DtS considerably decreased growth and yield traits, green pod quality, and water use efficiency (WUE); however, application of BHS at all concentrations significantly increased all of these parameters under normal or DtS conditions. Membrane stability index, relative water content, nutrient contents, SPAD (chlorophyll content), and PSII efficiency (Fv/Fm, photochemical activity, and performance index) were markedly reduced under DtS; however, they increased significantly under normal or DtS conditions by foliar spraying of BHS at all concentrations. The negative impacts of DtS were due to increased oxidants [hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and superoxide (O2•-)], electrolyte leakage (EL), and malondialdehyde (MDA). As a result, the activity of the antioxidant system (ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione reductase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, α-tocopherol, glutathione, and ascorbate) and levels of osmoprotectants (soluble protein, soluble sugars, glycine betaine, and proline) were increased. However, all BHS concentrations further increased osmoprotectant and antioxidant capacity, along with decreased MDA and EL under DtS. What is interesting in this study was that a BHS concentration of 1.0% gave the best results under SW, while a BHS concentration of 1.5% gave the best results under DtS. Therefore, a BHS concentration of 1.5% could be a viable strategy to mitigate the DtS impairment in common beans to achieve satisfactory growth, productivity, and green pod quality under DtS.
Low Serum Vitamin D Status Is Associated with Incident Alzheimer's Dementia in the Oldest Old. [Multicenter Study]
Nutrients. 2022 Dec 23; 15(1)Melo van Lent D, Egert S, … Wagner M
CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin D deficiency increased the risk to develop (AD) dementia. Our study supports the advice for monitoring vitamin D status in the elderly and vitamin D supplementation in those with vitamin D deficiency. We observed no relationships between the other vitamins with incident (AD) dementia, which is in line with previous observational studies.
Effects of Histamine and the α-Tocopherol Metabolite α-13'-COOH in an Atopic Dermatitis Full-Thickness Skin Model. [Journal Article]
Molecules. 2023 Jan 03; 28(1)Riedl R, Wallert M, … Wiegand C
Atopic dermatitis is a T-cell mediated inflammatory skin disease with detected elevated levels of histamine in skin or plasma. In this study, the effects of histamine in a TH2 cytokine environment on human keratinocytes and three-dimensional skin models were investigated. These models were used to explore the anti-inflammatory properties of the α-tocopherol-derived long-chain metabolite α-13'-car…
Atopic dermatitis is a T-cell mediated inflammatory skin disease with detected elevated levels of histamine in skin or plasma. In this study, the effects of histamine in a TH2 cytokine environment on human keratinocytes and three-dimensional skin models were investigated. These models were used to explore the anti-inflammatory properties of the α-tocopherol-derived long-chain metabolite α-13'-carboxychromanol (α-13'-COOH). Histamine and TH2 cytokine-induced proliferation of keratinocytes was studied using a scratch assay. The inflammatory marker interleukin-8 was significantly increased in healthy and TH2 cytokine-stimulated keratinocytes and skin models after histamine treatment. The incubation of full-thickness skin models with TH2 cytokines and histamine resulted in morphological changes in the epidermal layer, interpreted as hyperkeratosis. α-13'-COOH significantly decreased interleukin-8 in these disease-associated skin models. Histological staining of filaggrin showed skin-strengthening effects following α-13'-COOH treatment, without changes in mRNA expression. Cytokeratin 10 mRNA expression tended to be increased in response to α-13'-COOH. Anti-allergic properties of α-13'-COOH were studied by pre-incubation of human leukocytes with α-13'-COOH. This resulted in reduced sulfido-leukotriene synthesis. The hyperproliferation effect of histamine in atopic dermatitis skin models may be of further interest to the study of disease-associated morphological changes. Moreover, α-13'-COOH is a promising natural compound for the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases.
Cycloartenyl Ferulate Is the Predominant Compound in Brown Rice Conferring Cytoprotective Potential against Oxidative Stress-Induced Cytotoxicity. [Journal Article]
Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Jan 03; 24(1)Wu H, Nakamura T, … Nakamura Y
Since brown rice extract is a rich source of biologically active compounds, the present study is aimed to quantify the major compounds in brown rice and to compare their cytoprotective potential against oxidative stress. The content of the main hydrophobic compounds in brown rice followed the order of cycloartenyl ferulate (CAF) (89.00 ± 8.07 nmol/g) >> α-tocopherol (αT) (19.73 ± 2.28 nmol/g) > γ…
Since brown rice extract is a rich source of biologically active compounds, the present study is aimed to quantify the major compounds in brown rice and to compare their cytoprotective potential against oxidative stress. The content of the main hydrophobic compounds in brown rice followed the order of cycloartenyl ferulate (CAF) (89.00 ± 8.07 nmol/g) >> α-tocopherol (αT) (19.73 ± 2.28 nmol/g) > γ-tocotrienol (γT3) (18.24 ± 1.41 nmol/g) > α-tocotrienol (αT3) (16.02 ± 1.29 nmol/g) > γ-tocopherol (γT) (3.81 ± 0.40 nmol/g). However, the percent contribution of CAF to the radical scavenging activity of one gram of whole brown rice was similar to those of αT, αT3, and γT3 because of its weaker antioxidant activity. The CAF pretreatment displayed a significant cytoprotective effect on the hydrogen peroxide-induced cytotoxicity from 10 µM, which is lower than the minimal concentrations of αT and γT required for a significant protection. CAF also enhanced the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) nuclear translocation coincided with the enhancement of the heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) mRNA level. An HO-1 inhibitor, tin protoporphyrin IX (SnPP), significantly impaired the cytoprotection of CAF. The cytoprotective potential of CAF is attributable to its cycloartenyl moiety besides the ferulyl moiety. These results suggested that CAF is the predominant cytoprotector in brown rice against hydrogen peroxide-induced cytotoxicity.
Hepato-Protective Effects of Delta-Tocotrienol and Alpha-Tocopherol in Patients with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Regulation of Circulating MicroRNA Expression. [Randomized Controlled Trial]
Int J Mol Sci. 2022 Dec 21; 24(1)Pervez MA, Khan DA, … Nida S
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a key role in the regulation of genes for normal metabolism in the liver. Dysregulation of miRNAs is involved in the development and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We aimed to explore changes in circulating miRNA expression in response to delta-tocotrienol (δT3) and alpha-tocopherol (αTF) supplementation and correlate them with relevant biochemic…
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a key role in the regulation of genes for normal metabolism in the liver. Dysregulation of miRNAs is involved in the development and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We aimed to explore changes in circulating miRNA expression in response to delta-tocotrienol (δT3) and alpha-tocopherol (αTF) supplementation and correlate them with relevant biochemical markers in patients with NAFLD. In total, 100 patients with NAFLD were randomized to either receive δT3 (n = 50) 300 mg or αTF (n = 50) 268 mg twice/day for 48 weeks. Plasma expression of miRNA-122, -21, -103a-2, -421, -375 and -34a were determined at baseline, 24 and 48 weeks of intervention using RT-qPCR. Both δT3 and αTF significantly downregulated expression of miRNA-122, -21, -103a-2, -421, -375 and -34a. Moreover, δT3 was more effective than αTF in reducing expression of miRNA-375 and -34a. A significant correlation was observed between miRNA expression and biochemical markers of hepatic steatosis, insulin resistance (IR), oxidative stress (OS), inflammation and apoptosis. δT3 and αTF exert hepato-protective effects by downregulating miRNAs involved in hepatic steatosis, IR, OS, inflammation and apoptosis in patients with NAFLD. Furthermore, δT3 has more pronounced effects than αTF in reducing miR-375 and miR-34a, which are linked to regulation of inflammation and apoptosis.
Oil Bodies from Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) and Camelina (Camelina sativa L.) Seeds for Innovative Food Applications: Microstructure, Composition and Physical Stability. [Journal Article]
Foods. 2023 Jan 03; 12(1)Lopez C, Sotin H, … Anton M
Exploring and deciphering the biodiversity of oil bodies (OBs) recovered from oilseeds are of growing interest in the preparation of sustainable, natural and healthy plant-based food products. This study focused on chia (Salvia hispanica L.) and camelina (Camelina sativa L.) seed OBs. A green refinery process including ultrasound to remove mucilage, aqueous extraction by grinding and centrifugati…
Exploring and deciphering the biodiversity of oil bodies (OBs) recovered from oilseeds are of growing interest in the preparation of sustainable, natural and healthy plant-based food products. This study focused on chia (Salvia hispanica L.) and camelina (Camelina sativa L.) seed OBs. A green refinery process including ultrasound to remove mucilage, aqueous extraction by grinding and centrifugation to recover OBs from the seeds was used. The microstructure, composition and physical stability of the OBs were examined. Confocal laser scanning microscopy images showed that chia and camelina seed OBs are spherical assemblies coated by a layer of phospholipids and proteins, which have been identified by gel electrophoresis. The mean diameters determined by laser light scattering measurements were 2.3 and 1.6 µm for chia and camelina seed OBs, respectively. The chia and camelina seed OBs were rich in lipids and other bioactive components with, respectively, 64% and 30% α-linolenic acid representing 70% and 53% of the total fatty acids in the sn-2 position of the triacylglycerols, 0.23% and 0.26% phospholipids, 3069 and 2674 mg/kg oil of β-sitosterol, and lipophilic antioxidants: 400 and 670 mg/kg oil of γ-tocopherol. Phenolic compounds were recovered from the aqueous extracts, such as rutin from camelina and caffeic acid from chia. Zeta-potential measurements showed changes from about -40 mV (pH 9) to values that were positive below the isoelectric points of pH 5.1 and 3.6 for chia and camelina seed OBs, respectively. Below pH 6.5, physical instability of the natural oil-in-water emulsions with aggregation and phase separation was found. This study will contribute to the development of innovative and sustainable food products based on natural oil-in-water emulsions containing chia and camelina seed OBs for their nutritional and health benefits.
Isolation of Cherry Seed Oil Using Conventional Techniques and Supercritical Fluid Extraction. [Journal Article]
Foods. 2022 Dec 20; 12(1)Dimić I, Pavlić B, … Teslić N
↓1 ↑21
This study aims to compare the suitability of three extraction techniques (cold pressing, Soxhlet and supercritical fluid extraction (SFE)) to isolate oil from cherry seeds. Oils were examined in terms of extraction yield, fatty acids profile, tocopherols yield and antioxidant activity. Additionally, influence of SFE parameters was evaluated using one-factor-at-a-time design with pressure (200-35…
This study aims to compare the suitability of three extraction techniques (cold pressing, Soxhlet and supercritical fluid extraction (SFE)) to isolate oil from cherry seeds. Oils were examined in terms of extraction yield, fatty acids profile, tocopherols yield and antioxidant activity. Additionally, influence of SFE parameters was evaluated using one-factor-at-a-time design with pressure (200-350 bar), temperature (40-70 °C), flow rate (0.2-0.4 kg/h) and particle size (<800 µm and >800 µm). Oil yields ranged from 2.50% to 13.02%, whereas the highest yield was achieved with SFE. Samples were rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, regardless of the applied extraction technique. The main fatty acids were linoleic (46.32-47.29%), oleic (40.89-41.65%), palmitic (6.56-8.00%) and stearic (2.21-2.30%) acid. Total tocopherols yield was between 16.63 mg/100 g oil and 60.61 mg/100 g oil, and highest yield was achieved with SFE. Among the tocopherols, γ-tocopherol was the most abundant, followed by α-, δ- and β-tocopherol. Antioxidant activity was determined using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic) cation (ABTS) assays, and the results indicated that SFE extracts exhibited better or comparable antioxidant potential compared to traditional techniques. The comparison between modern and conventional extractions for oil recovery demonstrates pros and cons for the possibility of industrial application.
Impacts of production conditions on goat milk vitamin, carotenoid contents and colour indices. [Journal Article]
Animal. 2022 Nov 21; 17(1):100683.Laurent C, Caillat H, … Graulet BA
The content, composition and variation of vitamin compounds in goat milk have been little studied. An experimental design was based on 28 commercial farms, selected considering the main feeding system (based on main forage and especially pasture access), goat breed (Alpine vs Saanen) and reproductive management (seasonal reproduction), in the main French goat milk production area. Each farm recei…
The content, composition and variation of vitamin compounds in goat milk have been little studied. An experimental design was based on 28 commercial farms, selected considering the main feeding system (based on main forage and especially pasture access), goat breed (Alpine vs Saanen) and reproductive management (seasonal reproduction), in the main French goat milk production area. Each farm received two visits (spring and autumn) that included a survey on milk production conditions and bulk milk sampling. Milk vitamins (A, E, B2, B6, B9, B12) and carotenoid concentrations plus colour indices were evaluated. A stepwise approach determined the variables of milk production conditions that significantly altered milk indicators. The main forage in the diet was the major factor altering goat milk vitamin and carotenoid concentrations and colour indices. Bulk milk from goats eating fresh grass as forage was richer in α-tocopherol (+64%), pyridoxal (+35%) and total vitamin B6 (+31%), and b* index (characterising milk yellowness in the CIELAB colour space) was also higher (+12%) than in milk from goats eating conserved forages. In milk from goats eating fresh grass, concentrations of pyridoxamine, lutein and total carotenoids were higher than in milk of goats fed corn silage (+24, +118 and +101%, respectively), and retinol and α-tocopherol concentrations were higher than in milk of goats fed partially dehydrated grass (+45 and +55%). Vitamin B2 concentration was higher in milk of goats eating fresh grass than in milk of goats fed hay or corn silage as forage (+10%). However, bulk milk when goats had access to fresh grass was significantly poorer in vitamin B12 than when fed corn silage (-46%) and in γ-tocopherol (-31%) than when fed conserved forage. Alpine goats produced milk with higher vitamin B2 and folate concentrations than Saanen goats (+18 and +14%, respectively). Additionally, the milk colour index that discriminates milks based on their yellow pigment contents was 7% higher in milk from Alpine than Saanen herds, but milk from Saanen goats was richer in lutein (+46%). Goat milks were richer in vitamins B2 and B12 and folates, but poorer in vitamin B6 in autumn than in spring (+12, +133, +15 and -13%, respectively). This work highlights that goat milk vitamin and carotenoid concentrations and colour indices vary mainly according to the main forage of the diet and secondly according to the breed and season.
Extraction, Profiling, and Characterization of Phytosterols and Triterpenoids from Pili (Canarium ovatum Engl.) Pulp Oil Exhibiting Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties. [Journal Article]
Biochem Res Int. 2022; 2022:6604984.Dumandan NG, Kagaoan ACT, … Pham LJBR
Pili (Canarium ovatum Engl.), an indigenous tree found in the Philippines, is highly regarded for its fruit due to its high economic value. During processing, the pulp is often discarded as waste but contains considerable amounts of oil and bioactive minor lipid components. The present study explored the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of saponified diethyl ether extract of pili pulp oil…
Pili (Canarium ovatum Engl.), an indigenous tree found in the Philippines, is highly regarded for its fruit due to its high economic value. During processing, the pulp is often discarded as waste but contains considerable amounts of oil and bioactive minor lipid components. The present study explored the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of saponified diethyl ether extract of pili pulp oil and related this activity to the nature of compounds present in the extract through GCMS. The extract indicated the elution of 18 major compounds which are mostly cyclic triterpenic (α-and β-amyrin, lupenone, and β-amyrone) and phytosterol (β-sitosterol, brassicasterol, and stigmasterol) class of compounds. Characterization of the bioactivity of the extract showed high antioxidant activities measured by DPPH radical scavenging (EC50: 74.45 ± 1.29 μg/mL) and lipid peroxidation inhibition (EC50: 3.02 ± 0.06 μg/mL) activities that were comparable with that of α-tocopherol. Moreover, an observed bactericidal activity was demonstrated by the extract against E. coli and S. typhi with MIC values of 40 and 35 μg/mL, respectively. The observed bioactivity of the pili pulp oil extract can be attributed to these compounds which may provide desirable health benefits.


If you pay attention to our Facebook page, you'll notice that a lot of pretty crazy stuff gets shared from time to time. This is a bit too lengthy for the normal Facebook post.
Here is an unedited post that I found on one of the anti-science groups that I browse from time to time for comedy gold to share. It's a lengthy discussion on the end of the world. Since the Internet has given anyone a platform to shout from (including yours truly) there are a lot more outlets for people that would otherwise be picketing in a park somewhere.
This upcoming section talks about how there will be a giant energy wave that will consume the planet. Based on the amount of meditation you've done, your "inner vibration" will determine how much energy you absorb. I think.
There are many discussions about what this Wave of energy is going to do for us, and what can we do to prepare for it. So many are waiting with great expectation for this energy to arrive. When in reality, humanity and the Earth have been preparing for this for the past 26,000 years. It's been an ongoing process, and the energy has always been here. This Wave X energy, which I referred to as Azoth in my first article on this subject, is first and foremost an internal event. "As within, so without." It is a major amplification of what has been coming in for some time. There are some misconceptions that I feel should be addressed, so we don't have a repeat of spiritually awake people becoming depressed and confused, like we had in 2012.
This is most likely the most pivotal time in history, and how we place our focus is imperative. Do you choose to worry about the outer or do you focus on the inner first? Personally, I will be in my inner refuge preparing to change my outer life as the Earth does the same.ting phase! As this wave passes though us, our hearts will be weighed, just as in the weighing of the heart ceremony in the Egyptian Book Of The Dead, only we are not passing into the after life, we are passing into the Golden Age. This energy of Azoth will pass through everyone that is in a human body, and all will receive the same amount.
Now, here is where the differences occur. The actual frequency of your heart energy will determine how much of this Azoth energy you will have access to. Wave X/Azoth is an "equal opportunity employer," but the amount of inner alchemy you have participated in will determine the outcome for each person. This is why so many will be disappointed because they will either not know that this energy wave has moved through them or they will feel very little has changed.
This energy will give you the ability to do your inner work at lightning speed. What used to take years to get over and transmute can be done in months! However, we have to do the work. The Wave does not do the work for you. So, how do you prepare for this on an inner level? By doing the same inner work you have already been doing. Meditation, forgiveness exercises, practicing non-judgement etc… We should have been preparing for this energy from the beginning. This is first an inner event before it works its way to the outer.
It's all about you, and it's all up to you. You are the center of your transformation, and you are the star of this show. This is the biggest misconception of this Wave, in my humble opinion. It's much easier to try to get ready for something the way we have always been taught to do, which is manipulating our outer world. This will not work on this inner event.
This whole section talks about how the massive energy wave will kill any spiritually corrupted people. Fairly standard new-age apocalypse stuff.
Once this inner wave moves through Earth, which is more ready than the average person, the fun begins. The new energy of the Earth sets the standards that humanity must live up to. This energy moves from the core of the planet to the outer experience, and anything not in line with that frequency will go. This includes people! We are the ones that will be changed by this energy hitting our hearts, and we are the ones that will change the current systems in place.
We are moving from feeling so disconnected from the planet, from its elements and from each other to feeling this inner connection to everything! Imagine throwing a piece of trash on the Earth and actually feeling your body getting sick, just as you made the Earth sick. This is the kind of connection we are moving into, and it will not be pleasant for all. Eventually the person littering will learn or will get so sick they will have to leave through death. This is because they are not in line with the new frequency, and they are not doing any inner work to fix that. When we feel the connection to others it will be harder to act out of greed and power as our current systems operate. I see this energy forcing the current leaders to make the necessary changes or they will have to leave.
We are the ones we have been waiting for, and we will be the ones in the physical that will make these changes – what ever they may be. This wave will not just remove the current systems, we will be the ones to do this work. But only after the inner shift is complete. This energy moves from the inner to the outer. How long will this take is up to us.
How do you prepare and more importantly, how do you look at the act of preparing? Do your inner work and follow your heart. Our inner work is the key. Nothing else will work without this key. The outer cannot be fixed without the inner being prepared. You are preparing a place for this energy to exist in the outer.
The remaining bit of this rant is the standard "prepare, the end cometh" bit.
This is most likely the most pivotal time in history, and how we place our focus is imperative. Do you choose to worry about the outer or do you focus on the inner first? Personally, I will be in my inner refuge preparing to change my outer life as the Earth does the same.
It's an ongoing process and will never end. This energy will continue to increase. It will not stop, so in a sense there is no preparation needed for an "end." When you prepare for some thing, it's an assumption of an ending in the future – the great result achieved. This is not the case with evolution. You must constantly be in the state of preparing, because you will always be moving to the next higher level of existence. So, should you think of your preparation as a one time thing? Not with this event. It needs to become a way of life, not something you prepare for because the end is near.
We are now in the energy of infinity. There is no ending or beginning. There is no preparation, but a new way of life.
As humanity is changed from the inner they will be inclined to live a different way in their outer experience without much effort. Resistance is futile….these two experience will become ONE. If people don't change, they won't feel good. They will not be in balance with the Earth. When a person is aligned with the inner transformation the outer experience will merge within their very being. It will be so easy to make the necessary life decisions that we make on a daily basis because we will be in balance between the inner and the outer, and we will match the frequency of the Earth. This gives the teaching of "the two shall become" one a multidimensional level of meaning.
Hopefully this didn't leave you scratching your head too much.
Tyler currently works in the aerospace engineering field. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering with a focus on communication systems and is currently pursuing a Master of Science degree in electrical engineering with a focus on artificial intelligence and machine vision. When not at work or school, Tyler enjoys reading, writing, and kayaking.
Do Himalayan Salt Lamps Work?
Is There Time To Stop Climate Change?
Is Raw Milk Safe to Drink?
Does Fluoridated Water Hurt You?


A camp week at Sjöröd is supposed to be easy. As a leader or officer of a troop, you should be able to let go of all the hard stuff and focus on what's important - namely, how you want to set up your camp. Then Sjöröd is taking care of the rest.
When you have arrived and settled down, our programme services takes over. The main part of the programme on Sjöröd is of the kind that you carry out on your own, together with your scouts. We provide material and instructions. Some activities will need to be implemented at a specific location, such as middle-of-dot or the cooperation path, but most people can carry it around. Why not take the circus box down to the beach or ponder on the treasure hunt in the village?
When you are hungry you will probably get in touch with our food staff. These are the ones who plans, orders and distributes the food here at Sjöröd. On a couple occasions during the day, you can collect the food which you then cook yourself at the village. If you need help with special orders, such as ingredients for a birthday cake, they also take care of that. Of course we also do everything we can to solve special food when necessary, just let us know in good time.
Sjöröds services include accommodation, programs and food. The work that is left for you as a leader is to solve transportation to the camp area, think about which materials your troop need to bring and if the troop should have its own approach to their camp stay. The camp site arranges no common programs such as opening or camp fires. It is up to each troop to figure out themselves how they want it. Sjöröd is also happy to help you get in touch with others who visit us at the same time.
You are most welcome to our camp site!


Most of us have had dreams and goals at one time or another. What would you do if you could do anything in the world? What would you be if anything were possible?
While some people believe that a positive attitude is a must in attaining goals, most don't believe that the mind has the power to make our dreams and goals a reality.
An article at NewScientist.com states that mind over matter really does work.
There is something to be said for the self-fulfilling prophecy. If we think we can do something, we can. If we think we can't, we never try, or fail even when we do.
If you've spent your life in negativity, or are frustrated because you can't seem to reach your goals, sometimes something as simple as changing our attitude can make the biggest difference.
Belief, coupled with effort, will help you reach your goals. Even if you've never been one to exercise faith in anything, it's never too late to start. If you've failed to reach your goals, what do you have to lose?
Nothing is more powerful than the combination of words and attitude. When we speak words, our attitude can change. When we change our attitude to a positive one, even the words we speak change. We sound more upbeat, positive, strong, capable.
Don't waste your personal power on negative emotions and actions. Stop complaining about the way things are and do something about them.
Making choices is another powerful tool we all possess. If you don't like the way something is going, change it. Make a choice to do something different. If you're unhappy with your job, change it. If you're unhappy with your girlfriend or boyfriend, change it. If you don't like your apartment, find a new one.
Negativity will only bring you down and keep you in a vicious cycle of frustration and failure. If you think you won't ever be able to achieve anything, especially your dream goals, then you won't.
Don't put off the positive another day. Vow to yourself that you will wake up in the morning with a brand new attitude. It may sound cliché, but it works. Keep a journal of your dreams and goals. Track your progress. Find like-minded people and network with them. Being around negative people will rub off on you. Make friends who share your new-found positivity.
There is nothing mystical about mind over matter. It just comes down to being aware that the way you think impacts your choices and the way you live your daily life.
Previous PostCould You Have Depression?


text:
using System;
using System.IO;
using System.Linq;
using System.Reflection;
using System.Runtime.InteropServices.ComTypes;
using System.Threading;
using SplitAndMerge;

namespace CSCS.InterpreterManager
{
    internal class NewInterpreterFunction : ParserFunction
    {
        private InterpreterManager _mgr;
        private ParsingScript _script;

        public NewInterpreterFunction(InterpreterManager mgr)
        {
            _mgr = mgr;
        }

        protected override Variable Evaluate(ParsingScript script)
        {
            var args = script.GetFunctionArgs();

            var load = Utils.GetSafeString(args, 0);
            int newHandle = _mgr.NewInterpreter();

            if (args.Count > 0)
            {
                SetInterpreterFunction.SetInterpreter(newHandle, _mgr, script);
            }
            if (string.IsNullOrWhiteSpace(load))
            {
                return new Variable(newHandle);
            }

            bool newThread = Utils.GetSafeInt(args, 1) > 0;

            InterpreterInstance = script.InterpreterInstance;
            _script = script;
            if (!newThread)
            {
                IncludeScriptLocal(load);
            }
            else
            {
                ThreadPool.QueueUserWorkItem(IncludeScriptLocal, load);
            }

            return new Variable(newHandle);
        }

        void IncludeScriptLocal(Object stateInfo)
        {
            string filename = (string)stateInfo;
            IncludeFile.Execute(filename, InterpreterInstance, _script);
        }
    }

    internal class RemoveInterpreterFunction : ParserFunction
    {
        private InterpreterManager _mgr;

        public RemoveInterpreterFunction(InterpreterManager mgr)
        {
            _mgr = mgr;
        }

        protected override Variable Evaluate(ParsingScript script)
        {
            var args = script.GetFunctionArgs();
            Utils.CheckArgs(args.Count, 1, m_name, true);
            return new Variable(_mgr.RemoveInterpreter(Utils.GetSafeInt(args, 0)));
        }
    }

    internal class SetInterpreterFunction : ParserFunction
    {
        private InterpreterManager _mgr;

        public SetInterpreterFunction(InterpreterManager mgr)
        {
            _mgr = mgr;
            if (Debugger.InterpreterNotification == null)
            {
                Debugger.InterpreterNotification += Debugger.SetInterpreter;
            }
        }

        protected override Variable Evaluate(ParsingScript script)
        {
            var args = script.GetFunctionArgs();
            Utils.CheckArgs(args.Count, 1, m_name, true);

            int newHandle = Utils.GetSafeInt(args, 0);
            var changed = SetInterpreter(newHandle, _mgr, script);
            return new Variable(changed);
        }

        public static bool SetInterpreter(int newHandle, InterpreterManager mgr, ParsingScript script)
        {
            bool changed = mgr.SetInterpreter(newHandle);
            if (changed)
            {
                script.SetInterpreter(mgr.CurrentInterpreter);
                Debugger.InterpreterNotification?.Invoke(mgr.CurrentInterpreter);
            }
            return changed;
        }
    }

    internal class GetInterpreterHandleFunction : ParserFunction
    {
        private InterpreterManager _mgr;

        public GetInterpreterHandleFunction(InterpreterManager mgr)
        {
            _mgr = mgr;
        }

        protected override Variable Evaluate(ParsingScript script)
        {
            script.GetFunctionArgs();
            var handle = _mgr.GetInterpreterHandle(InterpreterInstance);
            return new Variable(handle);
        }
    }

    internal class GetLastHandleFunction : ParserFunction
    {
        private InterpreterManager _mgr;

        public GetLastHandleFunction(InterpreterManager mgr)
        {
            _mgr = mgr;
        }

        protected override Variable Evaluate(ParsingScript script)
        {
            script.GetFunctionArgs();
            return new Variable(_mgr.LastId);
        }
    }

    internal class ResetAllVariablesFunction : ParserFunction
    {
        private InterpreterManager _mgr;

        public ResetAllVariablesFunction(InterpreterManager mgr)
        {
            _mgr = mgr;
        }

        protected override Variable Evaluate(ParsingScript script)
        {
            var interpreters = _mgr.AllInterpreters;
            foreach(var interpreter in interpreters)
            {
                interpreter.CleanUpVariables();
            }
            return Variable.EmptyInstance;
        }
    }

    internal class ImportModuleFunction : ParserFunction
    {
        private InterpreterManager _mgr;

        public ImportModuleFunction(InterpreterManager mgr)
        {
            _mgr = mgr;
        }

        protected override Variable Evaluate(ParsingScript script)
        {
            var args = script.GetFunctionArgs();
            Utils.CheckArgs(args.Count, 1, m_name);
            var name = Utils.GetSafeString(args, 0);

            var DLL = ImportDLLFunction.LoadDLL(name, script);
            var types = DLL.GetExportedTypes();

            bool added = false;
            foreach (var type in types)
            {
                //var c = Activator.CreateInstance(type);
                var needed = typeof(ICscsModule).IsAssignableFrom(type);
                if (!needed)
                {
                    continue;
                }
                var module = Activator.CreateInstance(type) as ICscsModule;
                if (module != null)
                {
                    _mgr.AddModule(module, InterpreterInstance);
                    added = true;
                    break;
                }
            }
            if (!added)
            {
                Utils.ThrowErrorMsg("Couldn´t add module: " + name,
                                     script, m_name);
            }

            return new Variable(DLL.Location);
        }
    }

}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Carbon products are used whenever other materials such as steel, aluminum, copper or plastic fail due to their limited material properties such as temperature and corrosion resistance. Launched in 2017, the Mellacarbon™ internals for separation columns allow customers to build higher-capacity plants which can be operated at lower cost.
Innovation is not limited to design changes. Customers can benefit tremendously when known parts are executed in a new material or composite. Sulzer Chemtech is a leader in providing internals for distillation separation columns. The column "internals" or "packings" are commonly made from metal, plastic or graphite.
Sulzer has developed a new range of internals from corrosion-resistant carbon fiber composite (CFC) material for separation columns. Introduced in 2017 under the existing brand MellaCarbon, the new internals are as resistant as the known graphite internals, but they are lighter, stronger and stiffer. They withstand higher temperatures than any plastic material and cost less than special metals. An innovative connection system allows the easy production of larger diameters, enabling customers to build bigger columns with a much higher capacity.
Carbon fibers are obtained by the thermal decomposition of plastic fibers, which are first oxidized in air at 180 to 300 °C under tension. Heating the fibers under nitrogen to 1'600 °C produces amorphous carbon. Further heating up to 3'000 °C gives the fibers a crystalline structure. The individual carbon fibers have a diameter of 5 – 8 micrometers. At the same weight, the fiber strength is far superior to the strength of steel. The density of carbon is 1.8 g/cm3, while aluminum has a density of 2.7 g/cm3, and steel 7.8 g/cm3.
Further advantages of carbon are its good electrical and thermal conductivity. Carbon fiber composites (CFC) are widely used. In CFC production, the fibers are used as multifils (threads with several individual fibers), which are further processed into ribbons or fabrics. They are then impregnated with plastic monomers (epoxy resins, thermoplastics) and polymerized. The process results in lightweight, stable and molded products that are highly resistant to tension, bending and corrosion.
The new carbon-fiber-based internals family was jointly developed with the SGL Group. SGL is a market leader for the production of carbon and carbon composite materials. About 70% of the SGL Group staff is employed in Europe. The entire global research and development activities take place at the Technology and Innovation Center in Meitingen, Germany. The main headquarters is in Wiesbaden, Germany.
Fig. 1 Flow measurement at a liquid distributor for testing. Source: SGL Carbon GmbH, Germany.
The key to the innovation is that the team was able to build on and improve a well-known Sulzer product. Sulzer provided the design, testing and installation knowledge. SGL provided the manufacturing know-how with the carbon fiber composite material and the first customers to purchase early prototypes. For over three years, the Sulzer team worked tirelessly with SGL to design and manufacture the first usable products made from the new material. This process involved rigorous testing in the Sulzer lab and test rig to understand how the material behaves. Fig. 1 shows the testing device for the flow measurement in Meitingen, Germany.
Fig. 2 Details of the Mellacarbon internals.
The state-of-the-art carbon fiber composite material called SIGRABOND® provides an innovative and economical solution for Sulzer customers and their demanding applications. With the new design, the weight of the grids can be reduced by an incredible 90%, while the open area of redistribution can be increased by 60%. The design (Fig. 2) allows Sulzer to build column internals for customers with a diameter of over one meter that can be installed easily via a manway. The new carbon fiber composite material allowed SGL and Sulzer to expand into new markets and reach new customers with structured packing and internals. The team has submitted two patent applications so far to protect the manufacturing and functionality of the new development.
In one of the first meetings, it was not clear how much liquid would diffuse through walls made of carbon fiber composite material. So, the kitchen sink close to the meeting room was used as a testing device. The team, consisting of five people, filled a test trough with water and placed it on the table in the meeting room for the day.
By the end of the day, everyone in the meeting room was convinced of the material's promising strengths because very little liquid got through the walls compared with the flow through the distributor. To convince the management of the capabilities of the carbon fiber composite material, the innovation team made a model distributor permanently available below the tap of the team's kitchen to showcase the distribution effects. This was a long-term feasibility study.
Fig. 3 Bobbin with carbon fibers. Source: SGL Carbon GmbH, Germany.
I knew about the electrical conductivity of carbon fibers (Fig. 3), but it was just university knowledge. When I started my career as a development engineer, I was asked to run a test with carbon fibers and check how the stiff fibers behave on a warping creel. The test ran well, although some fibers split off during the test. The next morning, my colleague started up the warping machine in the test center. A firework sound shook him and me awake. Electric arcs were visible. We wondered what on earth had happened! The split-off microfibers in the air had spread around the room, and some had landed on the boards of the test machine. The conductivity of the fibers had led to short-circuits on the boards. Later, I learned that when using carbon fibers, the electrical cabinets should be operated under negative pressure to avoid the intrusion of the microfibers. It took a whole week to clean up the entire test center, and I promised myself to take adequate precautions if I ever worked with carbon fibers again.
Nadia Qaud, Textile Engineer and Editor-in-Chief of the Sulzer Technical Review, Winterthur, Switzerland.
With SGL, Sulzer found a perfect partner with experience in this special area of material technology and with the required know-how to manufacture the carbon fiber composite products. Once the contractual basis was defined, the path was clear for an efficient cooperation between SGL's materials experts and Sulzer's engineering specialists.
This development, which won a Sulzer innovation award, helps customers to extend the lifetime of their column internals. The market success since the launch of MellaCarbon speaks for itself.


Buttery bread- makes great toast, burger buns, or just eat it all by itself! Also, brioche is the standard by which all French toast is measured.
Chewy sandwich bread made with beer for a subtle sweetness and amazing aroma.


text:
For The Record - The IPT Blog
Latest Posts | Archive |
Jasser: America Will Benefit from Muslim Radicalization Hearings
by IPT News • Dec 30, 2010 at 2:10 pm
https://www.investigativeproject.org/2461/jasser-america-will-benefit-from-muslim
U.S. Islamist groups like the Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) have reacted hyperbolically to news that the incoming chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, Rep. Peter King (R-NY), plans to hold hearings on American Muslim radicalization.
But Zuhdi Jasser, president of the American Islamic Forum for Democracy, writes in the New York Post that critics of the hearings like MPAC, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), and the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) are attempting "to deny and obfuscate the connection between 'political Islam' or Islamism, and terror."
Political correctness dominates public discussion of incidents involving Islamists, Jasser writes. One example was the Pentagon report on Nidal Hasan, currently charged in last year's Fort Hood massacre.
"The report was intended to convey to military commanders whatever lessons were learned from the incident, so as to prevent similar attacks in the future," Jasser writes. "Yet it never mentioned the word Islam or Muslim. Nowhere to be found was any dissection of Hasan's slide into militant Islamism or of his relationship with his homegrown jihadist mentor, Imam Anwar Al-Awlaki."
Major American Muslim groups like CAIR, ISNA and MPAC were built on the ideology of political Islam. But "knowing where most American Muslims fall in the spectrum of Islamism-vs.- liberalism, as King hopes to find out in his hearings, would be a key step toward counterradicalization," Jasser writes.
Congressional hearings are just one step in crafting a strategy against political Islam.
"Only liberty-minded Muslims working from within Muslim communities can counter the narrative of Muslim victimization. But America needs to be unashamed of taking the side of those Muslims who advocate reform against political Islam," Jasser adds. "In 2011, more Americans need to understand that jihadism is a natural by-product of a political Islam that is incompatible with Western secular democracies based in liberty. America is at war with theocratic Muslim despots who seek the imposition of sharia and don't believe in the equality of all before the law, blind to faith. They detest the association of religious freedom with liberty."
Related Topics: IPT News
Reader comments on this item
Real Immigration Reform
Submitted by John Coelho, Jan 5, 2011 22:44
Immigration policy for the Islamic World should give priority to religious minorities, secular humanists, feminists, women escaping oppression, and Muslims who are moderate within the Western point of view. Why do we continue to allow indiscrimnate admission of Muslims ? Because, IMO, if we kept all the intolerant Muslims out, the Saudis would jack up the priceof oil. Such exclusion would hinder their major agenda of bringing sharia to the US. Theyhave us by the b***ls.
Since, so many left-liberals are hoplessly deluded on the subject of Islam, little has been stated about what liberal agendas are consonant with the war against islamism. The green energy revolution, advocated by liberals, would be good for the environment and allow us to tell the Saudis where to go and cut off the flow of intolerant Muslims into this country..
Also, a more progressive redistribution of wealth in this country would create a greater sense of national unity behind the war agains Islamism. As it is, now, the dispossessed are the ripe target for Muslim prosyletization.
Liberals should be the vanguard - I am definitely a liberal.
Submitted by Ellen Hunt, Jan 4, 2011 12:39
It has long been clear to me that liberals should be the vanguard calling for investigation of Islamism. It is still a puzzle to me why this is not the case. The only explanation that makes sense to me is that it is an accident of history.
Current day liberals know literally nothing at all about Islam. They do not know its doctrine, they do not know the life of Mohammed, and they do not know Ha'dith. But they are intimately familiar with Christianity and the old and new Testaments. They are distantly familiar with Judaism and Torah. Consequently, they presume that Islam's books are the same.
Because of apologists like Karen Armstrong and the fact that the first vocal Muslim group in America that spoke to liberals starting in the 1960's were Sufis, liberal views on Islam were set by that experience. Almost no liberals in America know that those Sufis have fatwas declaring them heretics. (Which is one reason they fled their native lands - threat of death for heresy.) Many liberals believe that Ba'hai's are orthodox muslims and Sufis are the mystics. Muslims, of course, know that Ba'hai's are not muslims.
I think that is why muslims were adopted by liberals as being "like buddhists or hindus". (A quote.) Buddhists and Hindus are different, but neither religion was founded in war by a man who committed what we now would call war crimes. Those religions are deserving of the wholesale tolerance given to them, as are most new religions (we call the latter "cults".)
America was founded on tolerance for different forms of religion. But that milieu was one in which the foundations of the tolerated religions were peaceful. Certainly the doctrines were. And the many Pietist sects, from Labadists and Shakers to Mennonites and Hutterites are doctrines of radical pacifism. It was that pacifism that brought difficulties on their heads since they would not sign up for Europe's wars. The Hutterites were slaughtered and pillaged by both sides in several European conflicts before coming to North America. Similarly, many peaceful Sufis and Ba'hai's sought refuge here.
Thus, for liberals, Islam represents a serious challenge. It does indeed have a tiny splinter minority of Sufis who practice itjihad. Bahaism arose within Muslim lands and were mistaken for muslims by liberals in the past. That microscopic minority of refuge-seeking heretics to mainstream Islam are what most liberals believe Islam to be.
Thus, the major task is to dispel this confusion. The confusion is understandable. The problem is not helped by the fact that the political movement trying to address the confusion is, across the board, dead-set against 99% of what liberals in America believe in. It is extremely difficult for American liberals to listen when the images they see calling for investigation of CAIR, etc. are young white men insisting on their right to carry an unloaded AK-47 near the first black president of the USA.
So this outreach is a big challenge. It is an educational matter, and it is very challenging. It must be accomplished though. Win that group over, and you have won your case.
Submitted by Tater Salad, Dec 31, 2010 19:04
As soon as these hearings get started and the truth of CAIR, The Muslim Brotherhood come out to the public then maybe, just maybe, the left wing loons will then have to take another approach to their reporting of Muslim hate and terror on non-believers of Islam. After the Muslim hate of non-Muslims is exposed and their support and funding to Hamas & Hezbollah are also exposed, immigration reform and exposure of Sharia Law will also take a back seat to western civilization one would hope.
Maybe the R.I.C.O. statute will be used on CAIR and the Brotherhood as the criminal enterprises they are.
Ilhan Omar Slammed U.S. Soldiers Involved in 'Black Hawk Down' Incident
Ilhan Omar's Allies Mum Following 'Black Hawk Down' Controversy
MOST MAILED

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl