Astra Stem

Tag: food

  • Evaluating Starchy Electrophoretic Gel Alternatives to Agarose Industry Gold Standard

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    By Bryan D. Milstead Abstract Gel electrophoresis is a common laboratory technique for various applications regarding the separation and subsequent evaluation of biomacromolecules (ThermoFisher Scientific, n.d.). Additionally, agarose gel electrophoresis is widely considered to be the “most effective” way in which scientists can separate DNA fragments across variegated base pair quantities (namely, 100 bp to…

  • CRISPR and the Future of Nutrition: Editing Our Way to a Healthier World

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    By Elizabeth Valdes  Over 2 billion people worldwide suffer from micronutrient deficiencies, a condition known as hidden hunger. These deficiencies—especially in essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, iron, and zinc—lead to severe health consequences, including impaired cognitive development, weakened immune systems, and increased maternal mortality. In this global crisis, scientists are turning to cutting-edge…

  • Hypertension: The Basics

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    By Masooma Hyder Baig Hypertension, more commonly referred to as high blood pressure, is a chronic condition determined by increased pressure within the vascular system. It is known to be a major risk factor for various diseases from cardiovascular (heart attack and heart failure) to non-cardiovascular (renal disease, diabetes.) This article delves into the pathophysiological…

  • Chemistry Can Kill: Benzene The Cancer-Causing Compound

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    By Talita Naveed Fragrances are a combination of organic compounds with a distinct scent. Perfume and cologne are examples of cosmetic fragrances, that have the sole purpose of providing pleasant odors (DermNet, n.d.). In 2023, it was estimated that around 81% of women use perfumes and this vast industry was to make 58 billion dollars…

  • A Regulatory Perspective on the Ban of Red Dye No. 3

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    By Elizabeth Valdes Imagine reaching for your favorite snack, only to find out that one of its key ingredients has just been banned. That’s exactly what’s happening with Red Dye No. 3—a synthetic food colouring long used in candies, snacks, and processed foods. After years of controversy and mounting health concerns, regulators have finally pulled…

  • A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF BLACK SEEDS: THE CURE FOR ALL AILMENTS

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    By Masooma Hyder Baig Black seeds (Nigella sativa) belonging to the family Ranunculaceae (Ahmad et al., 2021) have been part of various cultures for centuries in benefitting health and treating disease. From religious scripture to scientific research, black seeds have sparked interest in tackling blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, immunity, cancer, and respiratory wellness: a…