Nutritional state and organic matter diagenesis in an ecotone of halophyte and planted mangrove in Bac Lieu province, Vietnam

Mangroves play many significant roles in human life and socio-economical activities. However, their coverage has seriously declined worldwide due to various reasons while understanding of the roles and functions of this ecosystem is still insufficient. With a vast area of mangroves along the coast line, several studies on this ecosystem have been done in Viet Nam. Notwithstanding, the knowledge of nutrient and organic matter dynamics in the mangroves of Viet Nam, in general, and in the Mekong Delta, in particular, is still a gap. This study was conducted to understand the nutrient dynamics in a mangrove replanted in an abandoned salt-pan in Ganh Hao, Bac Lieu province â a coastal area in the South of Viet Nam. Sediments and fresh leaves were collected from 8 different landscapes along a transect which was ca. 700 m in length. Sampling was conducted in the dry and rainy season in 2009. The nutrient contents (NH4 , NO2-, NO3- and available P for plant uptake), total organic carbon and total nitrogen were determined to assess the nutritional state in the study area. The composition and concentration of the amino acids in the sediments were quantified to understand the organic matter diagenesis in the area. Glucosamine, galactosamine and amino acids in the fresh leaves were analyzed to find the source of the organic matter. The chitin content in the sediments was determined by 2 methods to calculate the contribution of chitin to the N pool. Chitin was directly quantified through the binding of N-acetylglucosamine and WGA-FITC. On the other hand, chitin was calculated from the concentration of glucosamine in the sediments. The study area was subject to a serious deficiency of nutrients, especially nitrogen. The deficiency of nitrogen resulted in the deficiency of phosphorus in the sediments. The nitrogen and phosphorus contents in the sediments were controlled by the physico-chemical properties of the sediments and the vegetation. The carbon-to-nitrogen ratios showed that the organic matter in the deep sediments (30-35 cm) mostly derived from marine sources. The organic matter derived from terrestrial plants was found mostly in the surface sediments. The forestation and the invasion of Sesuvium portulacastrum, therefore, have recently contributed to the pool of organic matter in the sediments. The organic matter content in the study area was lower compared to other coastal areas, probably due to the higher turnover rate in the sediments, which resulted from the high temperature and the aeration in the sediment. The composition and contents of the sedimentary amino acids were affected by the composition and contents of the amino acids in leaves. In general, the contents of sedimentary amino acids decreased with depth. However, the soil preparation for mangrove plantation resulted in a disturbance in the variation trend with depth in the amino acid contents under the planted mangrove. The chitin content directly quantified through the binding between N-acetylglucosamine and WGA-FITC exceeded the organic carbon content in the sediments. However, these chitin data revealed an ecological relationship between chitin and the diatom frustules. The content of chitin calculated from glucosamine concentration showed that chitin contributes less than 2% to the OC pool and less than 3% to the N pool. In the deep sediments (30-35 cm), the crustacean sheaths was the major source of chitin while in the shallow sediments, chitin mostly derived from diatoms. In conclusion, this study showed that the nutritional state and the organic matter dynamics in a mangrove planed in extreme conditions was driven by tides, vegetation and the physico-chemical properties of the sediments. These effects might relate to the activities of sediment bacteria functioning in the nitrogen and phosphorus mineralization and solubilization. Improving the sediment conditions by irrigational solutions will help to maximize the bacterial activities and enhance the efficiency of mangrove plantation in abandoned salt-pans

A comparison of capsaicin and menthol as trigeminal modulators of salivary composition for use in oral care applications

Part A: The human oral cavity contains 700 types of bacteria. Gram-negative anaerobe bacteria are associated biofilm formation and oral malodour due to their abundance and metabolism producing volatile sulfur compounds. Human saliva contains Mucin, Proline-Rich Proteins (PRPs), Alpha-Amylase (α-Amylase), Cystatins, Histatins, and Statherin, which contribute to lubricate mouth, protect mucosal integrity and against microorganisms, and digest food. Due to their ability to stimulate the saliva and also have antibacterial activities. In this review, we investigate how menthol and capsaicin affect the salivary flow, oral protein composition, and also their effect on these oral bacteria. Following the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement, we conducted a literature search using Google Scholar from 1980 to 2023 in English form. The search query was based on the question "How do trigeminal modulators including capsaicin and menthol affect salivary flow, salivary protein composition, and oral microbiomes?" A total of twenty-seven articles were selected for analysis. The results showed that capsaicin still increased the saliva flow at 1 ppm, 5 ppm, 0.005M, 3x10-5M, and 0.3nM concentrations after the first minute of stimulation and then decreased after two minutes. In contrast, menthol did not change the saliva flow at 0.05M and 250 ppm doses and slightly changed the flow at 500 ppm only during the first minute. Regarding protein composition and its changes, MUC5B (above 188kDa), MUC7 (~150kDa), α-Amylase (50-60kDa), PRPs (40-50kDa), Cystatin (~14kDa), Statherin (~6kDa) were identified on 12% SDS-PAGE. Menthol did not increase protein content at 250 ppm and 0.05M whereas 500 ppm menthol increased slightly protein content and significantly increased cystatin S (P < 0.05). Capsaicin slightly increased protein content and significantly increased protein compositions, except MUC5B at 1 ppm and 0.05M. Regarding antibacterial activity measured by MBC and MIC methods, menthol decreased the growth of Bacteroides, P. gingivalis, and F. nucleatum, while capsaicin also decreased the abundance of Bacteroides, P. gingivalis and increased Bacteroides. In conclusion, based on their characteristics, menthol and capsaicin at some concentrations are potential ingredients for oral care applications. Part B: Menthol and capsaicin, derived from peppermint and chili, exhibit bioactive attributes that could enhance oral antibacterial defences and alleviate halitosis. This study examined the effect of menthol and capsaicin on the properties of the oral cavity such as their effect on bacterial growth (mainly Bacteroides, Prevotella, Lactobacillus, Streptococcus spp), saliva flow rate, interactions with salivary proteins and oral malodour. Employing viable cell counts, SDS-PAGE, AUC, GC-MS, the effect of menthol and capsaicin on the saliva properties of a healthy woman was investigated. Generally, capsaicin exerted a stronger effect than menthol. Although not statistically significant within the sample population, both menthol and capsaicin reduced bacterial counts and odour compounds, with some exceptions in-vivo. However, capsaicin exhibited no significant odour compound reduction in the in-vitro experiment. Both menthol and capsaicin increased saliva flow rates and altered the salivary protein composition. Interestingly, menthol prompted a significant salivary secretion within the initial two-minute, whereas capsaicin significantly continued to build up the saliva flow during the 10-minute experimental time. SDS-PAGE revealed five main salivary proteins, corresponding to MUC(s) (above 188kDa), MUC7 (150kDa), α-Amylase (50-62kDa), PRPs (16-50kDa), and Cystatin (10-14kDa). SV-AUC highlighted two distinct populations at ~1.8S and ~4.2S, correlating with previous reports. Although the analysis indicated no significant differences in the total salivary concentration, some lower molecular weight compounds such as PRPs and Cystatins were significantly affected upon stimulation with the two trigeminal compounds (P > 0.05). A thorough clinical trial would therefore be recommended to confirm the effects observed in this proof of concept study

A comparison of capsaicin and menthol as trigeminal modulators of salivary composition for use in oral care applications

Part A: The human oral cavity contains 700 types of bacteria. Gram-negative anaerobe bacteria are associated biofilm formation and oral malodour due to their abundance and metabolism producing volatile sulfur compounds. Human saliva contains Mucin, Proline-Rich Proteins (PRPs), Alpha-Amylase (α-Amylase), Cystatins, Histatins, and Statherin, which contribute to lubricate mouth, protect mucosal integrity and against microorganisms, and digest food. Due to their ability to stimulate the saliva and also have antibacterial activities. In this review, we investigate how menthol and capsaicin affect the salivary flow, oral protein composition, and also their effect on these oral bacteria. Following the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement, we conducted a literature search using Google Scholar from 1980 to 2023 in English form. The search query was based on the question "How do trigeminal modulators including capsaicin and menthol affect salivary flow, salivary protein composition, and oral microbiomes?" A total of twenty-seven articles were selected for analysis. The results showed that capsaicin still increased the saliva flow at 1 ppm, 5 ppm, 0.005M, 3x10-5M, and 0.3nM concentrations after the first minute of stimulation and then decreased after two minutes. In contrast, menthol did not change the saliva flow at 0.05M and 250 ppm doses and slightly changed the flow at 500 ppm only during the first minute. Regarding protein composition and its changes, MUC5B (above 188kDa), MUC7 (~150kDa), α-Amylase (50-60kDa), PRPs (40-50kDa), Cystatin (~14kDa), Statherin (~6kDa) were identified on 12% SDS-PAGE. Menthol did not increase protein content at 250 ppm and 0.05M whereas 500 ppm menthol increased slightly protein content and significantly increased cystatin S (P < 0.05). Capsaicin slightly increased protein content and significantly increased protein compositions, except MUC5B at 1 ppm and 0.05M. Regarding antibacterial activity measured by MBC and MIC methods, menthol decreased the growth of Bacteroides, P. gingivalis, and F. nucleatum, while capsaicin also decreased the abundance of Bacteroides, P. gingivalis and increased Bacteroides. In conclusion, based on their characteristics, menthol and capsaicin at some concentrations are potential ingredients for oral care applications. Part B: Menthol and capsaicin, derived from peppermint and chili, exhibit bioactive attributes that could enhance oral antibacterial defences and alleviate halitosis. This study examined the effect of menthol and capsaicin on the properties of the oral cavity such as their effect on bacterial growth (mainly Bacteroides, Prevotella, Lactobacillus, Streptococcus spp), saliva flow rate, interactions with salivary proteins and oral malodour. Employing viable cell counts, SDS-PAGE, AUC, GC-MS, the effect of menthol and capsaicin on the saliva properties of a healthy woman was investigated. Generally, capsaicin exerted a stronger effect than menthol. Although not statistically significant within the sample population, both menthol and capsaicin reduced bacterial counts and odour compounds, with some exceptions in-vivo. However, capsaicin exhibited no significant odour compound reduction in the in-vitro experiment. Both menthol and capsaicin increased saliva flow rates and altered the salivary protein composition. Interestingly, menthol prompted a significant salivary secretion within the initial two-minute, whereas capsaicin significantly continued to build up the saliva flow during the 10-minute experimental time. SDS-PAGE revealed five main salivary proteins, corresponding to MUC(s) (above 188kDa), MUC7 (150kDa), α-Amylase (50-62kDa), PRPs (16-50kDa), and Cystatin (10-14kDa). SV-AUC highlighted two distinct populations at ~1.8S and ~4.2S, correlating with previous reports. Although the analysis indicated no significant differences in the total salivary concentration, some lower molecular weight compounds such as PRPs and Cystatins were significantly affected upon stimulation with the two trigeminal compounds (P > 0.05). A thorough clinical trial would therefore be recommended to confirm the effects observed in this proof of concept study

Challenges And Opportunities For The Development Of Infrastructure After ‘Oda Graduation’ - Moving Towards Sustainable Development: Case Study Of Vietnam

The research on ODA will be focused on its relation to Goal 17, the Partnership, considered a major issue by the researchers, especially in the case of Vietnam as a developing economy. ODA was mainly used for investing in economic infrastructure when Vietnam witnessed a downfall in receiving financial aid due to its significant economic growth. ODA helped Vietnam transform from one of the world’s poorest nations into a lower middle-income country and soon, this is going to lead to the ‘ODA Graduation’. However, the process has just begun. The country is still in a process of industrialization and modernization and its socio-economic situation has not been stable or solid. By all means, ODA is not only a financial resource, it also helps the country to accomplish Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN. ‘ODA Graduation’ means that the economy of Vietnam has faced certain challenges such as increasing pressure of outbound debts; raising impact on social development or imbalance between high capital recovery investments and public-services investments. However, ‘ODA Graduation’ has brought certain opportunities such as increasing Vietnam’s independence in capital mobilization, preventing the removal of tariffs barrier, reducing losses and waste of funds. This research gives recommendations for improving Vietnam’s economic situation and can help overcome the difficulties in the period of ‘ODA Graduation’

Challenges And Opportunities For The Development Of Infrastructure After ‘Oda Graduation’ - Moving Towards Sustainable Development: Case Study Of Vietnam

The research on ODA will be focused on its relation to Goal 17, the Partnership, considered a major issue by the researchers, especially in the case of Vietnam as a developing economy. ODA was mainly used for investing in economic infrastructure when Vietnam witnessed a downfall in receiving financial aid due to its significant economic growth. ODA helped Vietnam transform from one of the world’s poorest nations into a lower middle-income country and soon, this is going to lead to the ‘ODA Graduation’. However, the process has just begun. The country is still in a process of industrialization and modernization and its socio-economic situation has not been stable or solid. By all means, ODA is not only a financial resource, it also helps the country to accomplish Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN. ‘ODA Graduation’ means that the economy of Vietnam has faced certain challenges such as increasing pressure of outbound debts; raising impact on social development or imbalance between high capital recovery investments and public-services investments. However, ‘ODA Graduation’ has brought certain opportunities such as increasing Vietnam’s independence in capital mobilization, preventing the removal of tariffs barrier, reducing losses and waste of funds. This research gives recommendations for improving Vietnam’s economic situation and can help overcome the difficulties in the period of ‘ODA Graduation’

An Assessment of Cough Medicine Dispensing Practice to Children Under Two Years Old in Pharmacies in Ho Chi Minh City Using Simulated-Patient Method

Over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medications (CCMs) have been used to treat the symptoms of upper respiratory infection in children for decades. The safety of CCMs in children has been questioned. The data on knowledge of pharmacists in supplying cough medicines for children under two years have been limited. This study aimed to evaluate the pharmacists’ dispensing decisions to manage the cough in children under two years old. A descriptive cross-sectional was carried out in 300 pharmacies in 15 districts in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The pharmacists were interviewed by a simulated patient. The results showed that, information that pharmacists actively asked the client about the patient and disease symptoms was limited. Most pharmacists did not provide adequate instructions and counsel about using drugs for clients. Only 22/300 (7.33%) of pharmacists appropriately provided cough medicines for children under 2 years old. The main reason of inappropriateness was the deficiency of knowledge about updated contraindication of N-acetylcysteine (93.17%). Pharmacists in pharmacies located in districts 3, 11 and Binh Thanh had higher rate of rational provision than those in other districts. A good and full understanding of the patient symptom helped the pharmacists supply cough medicines more reasonably. The limited caution of pharmacists and the low proportion of pharmacists updating contraindication of N-acetylcysteine should be considered as a warning sign in pharmacy practice in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The Impact of FDI, International Trade, and National Economy on People’s Standard of Living in ASEAN Countries

This research paper analyzes the impact of foreign direct investment (FDI), international trade, and national economy on the standard of living of people in ASEAN member countries, using data from 2012-2021. The study uses data from this period to examine the effects of these variables on the standard of living in ASEAN member countries. The results indicate that international trade and national economy have a significant influence on people's standard of living in the region. However, the effect of FDI varies depending on the level of development of the country. While FDI doesn't have much effect on developing countries, it has a negative impact on developed countries. The study also provides insights for policymakers on how to promote economic growth and improve the quality of life for people in the ASEAN. Keywords: FDI, international trade, national economy, the standard of living, ASEAN DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/15-6-10 Publication date:March 31st 2023

Exploring the Socioeconomic Importance of Antimicrobial Use in the Small-Scale Pig Sector in Vietnam

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is influenced by antimicrobial use in human and animal health. This use exerts selection pressure on pathogen populations with the development of resistance and the exchange of resistance genes. While the exact scale of AMR in Vietnam remains uncertain, recent studies suggest that it is a major issue in both human and animal health. This study explored antimicrobial use behaviors in 36 pig farms in the Nam Dinh Province (North) and the Dong Nai Province (South) of Vietnam (with a median of 5.5 breeding sows and 41 fattening pigs). It also estimated the economic costs and benefits of use for the producer. Data were collected through a structured face-to-face interview with additional productivity data collected by farmers during a six-week period following the initial interview. Overall, antimicrobial use was high across the farms; however, in-feed antimicrobial use is likely to be under-reported due to misleading and imprecise labelling on premixed commercial feeds. An economic analysis found that the cost of antimicrobials was low relative to other farm inputs (~2% of total costs), and that farm profitability was precariously balanced, with high disease and poor prices leading to negative and low profits. Future policies for smallholder farms need to consider farm-level economics and livestock food supply issues when developing further antimicrobial use interventions in the region

Changing epidemiology and antimicrobial susceptibility of bloodstream infections at a Vietnamese infectious diseases hospital (2010–2020)

Bloodstream infection (BSI) poses a global health problem, with diverse organisms and rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Here, we characterized trends in BSI prevalence, AMR, and antibiotic use at a Vietnamese infectious diseases hospital from 2010 to 2020. Among 108,303 cultured blood samples, 8.8% were positive, yielding 7995 pathogens. Of 7553 BSI cases, 86.4% were community-acquired. BSI prevalence varied from 17 to 35 cases/1000 admissions/year, highest in HIV/hepatitis wards and patients >60. The in-hospital mortality or hospice discharge outcome was 21.3%. The top three pathogens, E. coli (24%), K. pneumoniae (8.7%) and S. aureus (8.5%) exhibited increasing prevalence and multidrug resistance. Pathogens like Cryptococcus neoformans (8.4%), Talaromyces marneffei (6.7%), and Salmonella enterica (6.5%) declined. E. coli and K. pneumoniae were prevalent in older adults with community-acquired BSIs. Antibiotic use reached 842.6 DOT/1000 PD and significantly reduced after an antibiotic control policy. Enhanced surveillance and antimicrobial stewardship are crucial for managing BSIs in Vietnam

Echinacea purpurea: An overview of mechanism, efficacy, and safety in pediatric upper respiratory infections and otitis media

Pediatric upper respiratory infections (URIs) and otitis media (OM) significantly impact the health of children globally. Echinacea purpurea, known for its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, has been historically used to treat various ailments, suggesting its potential as an adjunctive treatment in pediatric respiratory conditions. This narrative review synthesizes literature from January 2000 to December 2023 on the efficacy and safety of E. purpurea in treating pediatric URIs, including OM. It focuses on clinical trials and empirical studies that explore the mechanisms of action, such as the modulation of cytokine production, inhibition of NF-κB signaling, and antimicrobial effects. The analysis reveals mixed outcomes regarding the efficacy of E. purpurea in pediatric populations, attributed partly to variability in study designs and lack of standardized treatment protocols. While some studies report reduced severity and duration of respiratory symptoms, others indicate minimal or no significant difference compared to placebo. The review also highlights the need for specifically designed products that cater to the unique physiological and metabolic needs of children. Rigorous, well-designed clinical trials are crucial for establishing clear guidelines on the use of E. purpurea in pediatric respiratory care, ensuring its safe and effective application in improving health outcomes for children