The present study was undertaken to assess the anti-diabetic potential and antioxidant profile of three different varieties of passion fruit that are locally available in Kerala. Even though studies have been done on the chemical composition of passion fruit, very few studies have been reported on the nutrient composition and glycemic response of its locally available varieties. The samples selected were purple passion fruit (Passiflora edulis), yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis var flavicarpa) and sweet passion fruit (Passiflora ligularis). The nutrients vitamin C, total carotene as well as total fiber content were analysed. Preliminary phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of tannins, alkaloids and flavonoids in all three samples. Sweet passion fruit had the highest content of total phenol followed by yellow and purple varieties respectively. The free radical scavenging activity of the selected varieties of passion fruit was measured using the stable radical DPPH assay. Alpha amylase inhibition assay was done to assess the anti-diabetic activity. Yellow passion fruit had the highest content of vitamin C (36.34mg/100g) and total carotene (91μg/100g) as well as total antioxidant activity (IC 50 of 149.623) whereas sweet passion fruit exhibited highest fiber content (11.5mg/100g) and total phenol content (31.4mg GAE/g). The highest anti-diabetic property was shown by the purple passion fruit (146). Thus the present study revealed that the selected varieties of passion fruit have good antioxidant profile and significant anti-diabetic potential.

To determine the awareness of Asperger's syndrome among college students. Asperger’s syndrome is a developmental disorder affecting ability to socialize and communicate. It is an autism spectrum. People affected with this syndrome have problems in understanding others point of view. People affected with this syndrome have intense focus on a particular area or subject. The symptoms of Asperger’s syndrome varies from behavioural aggression to depression. People affected with Asperger’s syndrome generally have higher brain functioning than others. This syndrome can be acquired during life time or from birth. There is neither particular diagnostic criteria nor treatment for this syndrome. It may sometimes last for life long. Preparation of self structured questions and circulated through online survey link-Google forms. From the results We can conclude that awareness of Asperger's syndrome among college students was good but it was often considered as autism which is a neurological disorder.

Introduction: Glass ionomer cement (GIC) is a restorative material used in dentistry which can also be used as luting cement and for fixing orthodontic appliances. The main components found in GIC are silicon, calcium, sodium and fluoride. In order to improve the toughness of the cement, speed of setting and resistance to wearing, water content of the glass-ionomer cement was replaced by water-soluble polymers or monomer systems. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of brushing simulation on the surface roughness of two different commercially available glass ionomer cements. Materials and Methods: GC gold label and D Tech are commercially available glass ionomer restorative cements chosen for this present study. 5 samples were prepared from each. The samples were checked for pre-surface roughness using a stylus profilometer and then subjected to brushing. Toothbrush simulator (ZM3.8 SD Mechatronik) with minimum pressure of 3N and a fluoridated toothpaste was used for brushing. Then the post surface roughness was again checked and the results were tabulated and then statistically analyzed using SPSS software. Results: Surface roughness was increased after brushing simulation in both GC gold label and D Tech GIC samples. This difference was statistically not significant (paired student t, p value = 0.763). Conclusion: D-tech GIC samples had less surface roughness after brushing simulation when compared to GC Gold label samples.

To determine the antibacterial activity of Zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesised using Punica granatum and Elettaria cardamomum fruit extract against Lactobacillus. Punica granatum and Elettaria cardamomum have been known for their antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. The phytochemicals present in these fruits have experimented for the preparation of various metal and metal oxide nanoparticles. Zinc oxide is a widely used metal oxide nanoparticle known for its good antimicrobial activity against a host of microbes. The current study was conducted to determine its effect against Lactobacillus, a bacteria known for its role in the progression of dental caries. Preparation of fruit extract mediated zinc oxide nanoparticles. Determining the characteristics of the nanoparticles using UV spectroscopy and SEM. Analysing the activity of these nanoparticles against Lactobacillus using agar well diffusion method. The zone of inhibition increased if the concentration of the fruit mediated zinc oxide nanoparticles increased. But it was incomparable to the standards. Hence, further studies need to be conducted using different concentration of Punica granatum and Elettaria cardamomum to determine the optimum fruit extract required for the preparation of the nanoparticles. The resultant nanoparticles can be used as an effective antimicrobial agent against Lactobacillus

Introduction: Maranta arundinacea is a perennial plant which is seen in Mexico, central and South America. It was introduced and cultivated for its starch rich root which is known as arrowroot. It is gluten free and good for digestion. It also boasts metabolic rate and healthy sleep. Arrow root aid in lowering cholesterol which decreases the risk of heart diseases. It is a good substitute for breast milk because it’s loaded with magnesium, zinc and iron which promotes the growth and development of infants. Arrow root extract is previously known for its antibacterial and antifungal activity and also it gives relief from skin rashes, acne and skin sores. Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the anti-inflammatory property of Maranta arundinacea using protein denaturation assay. Materials and Methods: Maranta arundinacea (Arrowroot) was purchased commercially. Extract was prepared by adding 50 ml of distilled water and boiled at 50 degree Celsius and filtered. The extract was concentrated up to 10ml and the anti-inflammatory property was checked using protein denaturation assay and the readings were noted using a calorimeter. % of inhibition= ControlO.D-sampleO.D ∗100/ControlO.D. Results: It showed good anti inflammatory activity and thus it can be used as a potent alternative for anti inflammatory drugs. Conclusion: Maranta arundinacea extract showed good potential for anti-inflammatory activity. Thus in future more research can be done for formulations of eco-friendly treatment methods.