Anandamide synthesis can be elicited in vitro by a variety of agents that elevate intracellular Ca2+ levels

Although separate enzymes cata lyze the syntheses of anandamide and NAPE, the two events are likely to occur simultaneously because Ca2+- stimulated anandamide production is often accompanied by de novo formationof NAPE .For example, the Ca2+ ionophore ionomycin stimulates [ 3 H]anandamide formation in cultures of rat striatal and cortical neurons labeled by incubation with [ 3 H]ethanolamine . In the same neurons, Ca2+-dependent [3 H]ana ndamide production may be elicited by the glutamate receptor agonist, kainate, by the K+ channel blocker 4- aminopyridine, and by membrane-depolarizing con centrations of K+ ions . Depolarizationof neural cells was also shown to evoke Ca2+-dependent anandamide release in vivo . Along with Ca2+ entry, activation of certain G protein-coupled receptors can also initiate anandamide generation. Administration of the dopamine D2-recep tor agonist quinpirole causes a profound stimulation of anandamide synthesis in the rat basal ganglia, which is prevented by the D2 antagonist raclopride . Importantly, cocaine elicits a similar response , suggesting a role for anandamide in the actions of these psychostimulant drugs. The ability of the anandamide transport inhibitor AM404 to reduce D2 agonist induced hyperactivity, discussed below,vertical farming market further sup ports this possibility .The biological elimination of anandamide proceeds through two successive steps of high-affinity transport into cells, followed by intracellular degradation . Brain neurons and astrocytes in culture internalize anandamide through a process that fulfills all key requirements of a carrier-mediated transport. Plots of the initial rates of [3 H]anandamide internalization in rat brain neurons and astrocytes in culture yield apparent Michaelis constants that are consistent with a saturable process and are comparable to the KM values of brain amine or amino-acid transporters .

Moreover, neurons and astrocytes in culture internalize [3 H]anandamide, along with a select group of structurally related compounds, in a stereoselective manner . Even further, [3 H]ana ndamide internalization can be inhibited by drugs that have no effect on the uptake of non-cannabinoid lipid mediators such as fatty acids and eicosanoids. Nevertheless, anandamide is internalized in a Na+- and energy-inde pendent manner , a feature that differentiates this lipid mediator from most conventional neurotransmitters.The prototype of this class of drugs, the arachido nate derivative AM404 , has provided important information on the properties of anandamide transport, not only aiding the in vitro characterization of this process, but also helping to reveal its possible functions in animals. Importantly, the partial cannabimetic profile exhibited by this agent in vivo suggests that anandamide transport might provide a useful tar get in disease conditions in which the endocannabinoid system is hypofunctional . Evidence indicates that one such condition could be opiate withdrawal, which is markedly reduced in rodents by administering AM404 . These theories have been hindered by the fact that the putative transport system responsible for anandamide internalization is still uncharacterized at the molecular level. In fact, the presence of such a system has been recently questioned, based on the observation that [ 3 H]anandamide uptake in certain cell lines is saturable at longer , but not at shorter incu bationtimes . This finding has been interpreted to suggest that fatty-acid amide hydrolase —a key enzyme of intracellular anandamide degradation, described in a subsequent section—may be responsible for the saturation of uptake noted at longer incubation times . However, the result may also be explained on purely technical grounds, as the high concentration of serum albumin used in the experiments of Glaser and collaborators was previously shown to prevent [3 H]anandamide internalization .

Consistent with this interpretation, recent studies have provided additional evidence for the existence of an anandamide transport system independent of FAAH . In particular, one of these studies has shown that cultures of cortical neurons isolated from the brain of FAAH null mice internalize anandamide as efficiently as do neurons that express normal levels of the enzyme. The same study also demonstrated that the transport inhibitor AM404 is equally effective at reducing anandamide internalization in neurons of FAAH-null and wild-type mice. These results indicate that FAAH does not pro vide the driving force for anandamide uptake or serve as a target for AM404. Invivo experiments further support this conclusion, showing that AM404 not only enhances the actions of exogenous anandamide in FAAH-null mice, but acts more effectively in this mutant strain than it does in control animals. This implies that AM404 is not in fact a FAAH inhibitor, as it has been proposed , but a FAAH substrate. In support of this idea, it was found that membranes prepared from the brains of normal mice rapidly hydrolyze AM404, whereas those prepared from mice that lack FAAH are unable to carry out this reaction.The fact that FAAH is not directly involved in anandamide internalization raises the question of what mechanism provides the driving force for this process. One possibility is that an intracellular protein may sequester anandamide at the membrane, driving its internalization and facilitating its movement to the mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum, where FAAH is primarily localized . If selective for anandamide, such a protein might participate in the transport process as well as serve as a target for transport inhibitors. This hypothetical model is consistent with fatty acid transport into cells, which is also thought to require the cooperation of membrane transporters and intracellular fatty-acid binding proteins .AM404 increases endogenous anandamide levels in brain tissue and peripheral blood of rats and mice . This effect is accompanied by a series of behavioral responses that, though blocked by the CB1 antagonist rimonabant , are clearly distinguishable from those of direct cannabinoid agonists. For example, administra tion of AM404 into the cerebral ventricles of rats decreases exploratory activity without producing cata lepsy and analgesia, two hallmarks of direct CB1 receptor activation.

Inaddition, AM404 reduces two characteristic effects caused by activationof D2 family receptors: the yawning response elicited in mice by low doses of the D1/D2-receptor agonist apomorphine; and the stimu lationof locomotor activity evoked inrats by the D2- receptor agonist quinpirole . These effects are observed at doses of AM404 that selectively target anandamide transport and produce only mild hypokinesia when the drug is administered alone . The results of this study, which have been confirmed in several subsequent reports , demarcate the pharmacological profile of AM404 from those of direct-acting cannabinoid drugs. This distinction may result from the ability of AM404 to enhance anandamide signaling in an activity-dependent manner, causing anandamide to accumulate in discrete regions of the brain and only when appropriate stimuli initiate its release. Pharmacological activation of D2 receptors may represent one such stimulus, suggesting that blockade of anandamide transport might offer an innovative strategy to correct abnormalities associated with dysfunction in dopaminergic transmission. Initial tests of this hypothesis have shown that systemic administration of AM404 normalizes movement in spontaneously hypertensive rats , an inbred line in which hyperactivity and attention deficits have been linked to a defective regulation of mesocorticolimbic dopamine pathways .FAAH was first identified as an amide hydrolase activity present in rat liver tissue, which catalyzes the hydrolysis of the fatty-acid ethanolamides palmitoy lethanolamide and oleoylethanolamide . That anandamide serves as a substrate for this activity was first suggested onthe basis of biochemical evidence and later demonstrated by molecular cloning,vertical farming pros and cons heterologous expression and generation of FAAH null mice by homologous recombination . FAAH belongs to a group of enzymes known as ‘amidase signature family’ and catalyzes the hydrolysis not only of anandamide and other fatty-acid ethanola mides, but also of primary amides such as oleamide and even of fatty-acid esters such as 2-AG . Elegant site-directed mutagenesis and X-ray diffraction studies have demonstrated that this unusually broad substrate preference is due to a novel catalytic mechanism involving the amino-acid residue lysine 142. This residue may act as a general acid catalyst, favoring the protonation and consequent detachment of reaction products from the enzyme’s active site . Three serine residues that are conserved in all amidase signature enzymes also may be essential for enzymatic activity: serine 241 may serve as the enzyme’s catalytic nucleophile, while serine 217 and 218 may modulate catalysis through an as-yet-unidentified mechanism . Electron microscopy experiments in the rat and mouse brain have shown that FAAH is predominantly, if not exclusively localized to intracellular membrane com partments, particularly to the endoplasmic reticulum and the mitochondria . Although FAAH appears to be the predominant route of anandamide hydrolysis in the brain, other enzymes are likely to participate in the breakdown of this endocannabinoid in peripheral tissues. An acid amide hydrolase activity catalytically distinct from FAAH has been characterized in human mega karyoblastic cells and shown to be highly expressed in the rat thymus, lungs and intestine .The search for small-molecule inhibitors of intra cellular FAAH activity has led to the emergence of several potent and selective agents, which include substituted sulfonyl fluorides , alpha-keto-oxazolopyridines an d carbamic acid esters .

The latter were identified during structure– activity relationship studies aimed at determining whether esters of carbamic acid such as the insecticide carbaryl inhibit FAAH activity. It was found that, although carbaryl is ineffective in this regard, variations in its template result in significant inhibitory potencies. Further structural optimizations yielded a group of highly potent inhibitors, a representative example of which is provided by the compound URB597 . Kinetic and dialysis experiments indicate that URB597 interacts non-competitively with FAAH, which is suggestive of anirreversible or slowly reversible association with the enzyme. Importantly, URB597 has no notable effect on CB1 or CB2 binding, anandamide transport, or rat brain monoglyceride lipase , a cytosolic serine hydrolase that catalyzes the hydrolysis of the second endocannabinoid, 2-arachido noylglycerol. Following administration to rats in vivo, URB597 produces profound, dose-dependent inhibition of brain FAAH activity. After injection of a maximal dose of compound , FAAH inhibitionis rapid , persistent and associated with a 3-fold increase in brain anandamide levels. Furthermore, the inhibitor intensifies and pro longs the effects produced by exogenous anandamide, yet it elicits no overt cannabinoid-like actions when administered alone; for example, it does not cause hypothermia, hot-plate analgesia, or hyperphagia .Although URB597 does not display a typical canna binoid profile in live animals, it exerts several pharma cological effects that might be therapeutically relevant. One such effect, the ability to reduce anxiety-like beha viorsinrats, was demonstrated in two distinct experimental models: the elevated ‘zero maze’ test, and the isolation-induced ultrasonic emission test . The ‘zero maze’ consists of an elevated annular platform with two open and two closed quad rants and is based on the conflict between an animal’s instinct to explore its environment and its fear of open spaces where it may be attacked by predators . Benzodiazepines and other clinically used anxiolytic drugs increase the proportion of time spent in, and the number of entries made into, the open com partments. In a similar fashion, URB597 elicits anxio lytic-like responses at a dose that corresponds to those required to inhibit brain FAAH activity. Moreover, these effects are prevented by the CB1-selective antagonist rimonabant. Analogous results were obtained in the ultrasonic vocalization emission test, which measures the number of stress-induced vocalizations emitted by rat pups removed from their nest . If confirmed in further behavioral models, these findings would suggest that inhibition of intracellular FAAH activity might offer  an innovative target for the treatment of anxiety , which is also a feature of marijuana withdrawal .2-AG was identified as a second endocannabinoid substance in 1995 . The multiple roles of this lipid compound in cell metabolism and its high levels in brain tissue— about 200-fold higher than those of anandamide—suggest that much of cellular 2-AG may be involved in housekeeping functions. The diversity of roles played by this compound also complicates our efforts to establish biochemical route involved in its physiological formation. Nevertheless, one pathway has emerged as the most likely candidate . This pathway starts with the phospholipase-mediated generation of 1, 2- diacylglycerol . This serves as a substrate for two enzymes: DAG kinase, which catalyzes DAG phosphorylationto phosphatidic acid; and DAG lipase , which hydrolyzes DAG to monoacylglycerol . Pharmacological inhibition of phospholipase C and DGL prevent the Ca2+-dependent accumulation of 2-AG in rat cortical neurons, which suggests a key role of this pathway in2-AG generation . However, additional routes of 2-AG synthesis also may exist, including phospho lipase A1 , hormone-sensitive lipase or a lipid phosphatase . In neurons and glia, 2-AG synthesis may be initiated by a rise incytosolic Ca2+ levels. For example, incultures of rat cortical neurons, the Ca2+ ionophore ionomycin and the glutamate receptor agonist N-methyl d-aspartate stimulate 2-AG productionina Ca2+-dependent manner .

Posted in hemp grow | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Anandamide synthesis can be elicited in vitro by a variety of agents that elevate intracellular Ca2+ levels

A parallel mixed-effects, logistic regression model was used for the dichotomous outcome

Standardized fidelity ratings were made on 50% of randomly selected CBT sessions. These showed acceptable to excellent fidelity on all domains.The study employed a Yang-style tai chi delivered weekly for one hour following each CBT session. Each session started with a 10-minute warm-up, stretching and review of tai chi principles followed by 30 minutes of tai chi exercises, including five animal forms, a walking meditation, and a partnered activity known as push hands. Each class ended with a 10-minute cool down and a 5-minute closing that included a review of the material presented. A tai chi instructor with 18 years of experience trained two APAIT exercise program staff to lead the tai chi exercises. The staff underwent training for 1 hour weekly for 3 months before they began to lead tai chi sessions in the study. The trainer also attended four tai chi study sessions with each of the study instructors during the trial to monitor staff members’ instruction and provide feedback and adjustments as needed. Between November 2015 and April 2016, participants were recruited by a research assistant who distributed flyers at venues serving PLWH, including APAIT, gave presentations at nearby health agencies, and approached potential participants at health centers. A flow diagram shows the number of individuals approached, screened, and recruited, as well as losses to follow-up. Randomization was conducted by research staff who used consecutively numbered, sealed envelopes containing assignment information using a computer-generated set of random numbers to select permutated blocks of six. Within each block, equal numbers were assigned to each of the three groups. Participant follow-up concluded in July, 2016. Participants were compensated for their time via gift cards. Participants in the CBT/TC/TXT arm could be compensated up to $280,indoor vertical farm those in the SG arm could be compensated up to $200, while subjects in the AO arm could be compensated up to $120. Compensation included $10 for attending each CBT, TC or SG session.

Demographic and health-related data included date of birth, gender, race/ethnicity, education, marital status, housing arrangement, employment status, number of years living with HIV, most recent CD4+ T lymphocyte count and HIV-1 RNA [detectable or undetectable ] and number of non-HIV chronic medical conditions. Participants also completed mental and physical health  measures . Substance use data included most often used substance and the total number of substances used. Substances included both drugs and alcohol. Substance use measures included the WHO ASSIST-Version 3 and the Timeline Follow back . The TLFB was used to determine the number of days in the past 30 days of a) using a preferred substance; b) using any substance; c) using any drugs; and d) heavy drinking . Pain data included number of years of chronic pain, and medications used to treat pain. Pain measures included two items from the abbreviated Brief Pain Inventory , i.e., average self-rated pain intensity and percent pain relief in the past 24 hours from pain treatments , the Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire, and the modified Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire. Data were collected via self-administered paper and pencil surveys. Physical performance was assessed with the Short Physical Performance Battery . We calculated a total SBBP score for each participant and determined the percentage of participants with low physical performance versus high physical performance. In person assessments were conducted at APAIT at baseline, and at 8- and 12- weeks after the baseline assessment. All measures were collected at baseline. In addition, the substance use measures based on the TLFB, the pain measures including the BPI, PSEQ and RMDQ and the physical performance measure, the SPPB were collected again at 8- and 12-weeks. Feasibility was assessed by a) success of recruitment and randomization, b) retention and treatment engagement rates, and c) feedback about the study from participants. Bivariate analyses were used to a) compare groups at baseline to assess the success of randomization, b) compare treatment retention and engagement between groups, and c) determine associations between baseline variables, treatment adherence and engagement. Measures of treatment efficacy included reductions in substance use, pain, and pain-related disability, as well as improvements in physical performance. Changes in outcome variables between baseline and both 8 weeks and 12 weeks are reported as means, standard deviations and medians for each group. Because the data were not normally distributed, we used the non-parametric, Wilcoxon signed rank test in each group to test if the within-individual change in the group was statistically significantly different from zero change.

To assess the preliminary efficacy of the intervention, we conducted an intention-to-treat analysis-all individuals randomized in the study were included in the analyses whether they received treatment or not using baseline, 8-, and 12-week follow-up data for each dependent variable. Linear, mixed-effects models were used to evaluate the five continuously scaled outcomes , with treatment group as a between-individuals factor , time as a within-individuals factor , and a group-by-time interaction to examine differences in the magnitude of change between groups.Poisson regression models were used for the four count outcomes . From the fitted model, to estimate treatment effects, we evaluated three between-group pairwise comparisons of change over time. Poisson regression models estimate within-group change as a count ratio , and the treatment effect estimate is the ratio of two CRs. The treatment effect estimates from the linear regression models are between-group differences in the magnitude of the change from baseline . The logistic regression model estimates within-group change as an odds ratio ,and the treatment effect estimate is the ratio of two ORs. Since change at 12 weeks was greater than the change at 8 weeks for most outcomes, we treated time as a continuous variable: actual number of days elapsed from baseline to the date of the follow-up, divided by 30 . These models were adjusted for baseline number of different types of substances used because 12-week follow-up participation rates varied significantly by baseline values of this variable Most used substances included alcohol, cannabis and stimulants, and the mean number of substances used by each participant was 2.69 . ASSIST scores indicated that most participants had moderate or high risk substance use. On average, in the prior 30 days, participants reported using their preferred substance, any substance, and drugs on more than half of the days, as well as 3.2 days of heavy drinking . Participants reported having chronic pain an average of 10.6 years. The mean pain intensity score was 6.9, and percent pain relief provided by any treatment in the past 24 hours was 50.7%. The mean score on the Short Physical Performance Battery was 8.0 and the percentage of those with low physical performance on the SPPB was 48%.

From baseline to 12 weeks, the CBT/TC/TXT group had statistically significant reductions in all four substance use outcomes: days of using preferred substance in the past 30 days , days of using any substance in past 30 days , days of using drugs in past 30 days , and days of heavy drinking in past 30 days . The support group also showed a statistically significant reduction in the number of days of preferred substance use in the past 30 days,vertical farming equipment from baseline to 12 weeks .Statistically significant improvements were observed in both physical performance outcomes in the CBT/TC/TXT group from baseline to 8 weeks and from baseline to 12 weeks . The median change in % with low physical performance was 0 but the signed rank sums are statistically different at each time point. The SG showed a statistically significant improvement in SPPB score from baseline to 12 weeks .Significantly greater reductions were observed in the CBT/TC/TXT group, relative to the AO group in three of the four substance use outcomes . As compared to the AO group, the CBT/TC/TXT group had a 2% greater relative reduction per month in the number of days of using their preferred substance, a4% greater relative reduction per month in the number of days of using drugs in the past 30 days, and a 19% greater per month reduction in number of days of heavy drinking in the past 30 days. We observed similar findings when comparing the CBT/TC/TXT group to the SG . Sixteen CBT/TC/TXT participants provided feedback about the study. Overall feedback was very favorable; two-thirds wished that the eight-week program and the one hour sessions lasted longer, while the remainder thought the individual program components and session length were adequate. Most rated the CBT group and tai chi sessions as extremely useful and enjoyed working with the therapist/instructor . About 70% of the CBT/TC/TXT participants indicated that they would definitely attend this type of group therapy if it were offered by APAIT with no compensation and not as part of a study. Suggestions for additional topics to address included stigma, HIV and aging, and more education about various medical conditions. Two participants suggested including a male facilitator living with HIV and one suggested having the groups available in Spanish. Related to the text messaging component, 69% reported it was extremely important in helping them to make or maintain a change. Fifty-six percent would have liked to receive the messages for longer than 8 weeks, and 50% thought two motivational texts a week was not enough. This study demonstrated that a multi-component behavioral intervention addressing substance use, pain, and physical performance in older PLWH with comorbid substance use and pain disorder conducted in partnership with a community-based agency is feasible, acceptable and has preliminary efficacy.

Importantly, our enrolled population used multiple substances, had ASSIST scores indicating moderate to high risk substance use, long term chronic pain and high rates of low physical performance at baseline. Feasibility and acceptability indicators showed moderate levels of participant enrollment , excellent 12-week assessment completion , acceptable to excellent CBT treatment fidelity ratings, and high attendance at CBT and tai chi sessions . Our qualitative data highlight overall positive program feedback and provide suggestions for changes to study procedures to enhance study efficacy. Anecdotally, we also learned from study staff about some of the barriers to attending the group based sessions including illness, drug use, lack of stable housing, and transportation issues. We also learned that most participants did not complete the homework assigned to them as part of the CBT component. We hypothesized that the intervention would lead to reductions in substance use and pain outcomes and improve physical performance. Looking first at within-group changes, statistically significant improvements from baseline to 12 weeks were observed in the CBT/TC/TXT group for all four substance use outcomes, one pain outcome and both physical performance measures. In the SG, from baseline to 12 weeks, statistically significant improvements were seen for one substance use and one pain and one physical performance outcome. In the AO group, no statistically significant within group improvements were observed from baseline to 12 weeks. Looking next at between-group changes, we observed several statistically significant between-group changes, most importantly in days of heavy drinking and in the SPPB score. The substance use change scores were modest except for days of heavy drinking in which, compared to the AO group, the CBT/TC/TXT group and SG had large relative reductions . We also observed a significant between group treatment effect with respect to perceived relief obtained from pain treatments over the past 24 hours suggesting that the intervention may improve quality of pain management. This is important given that both the mean and median self rated pain intensity among participants at the time of enrollment was moderately severe . We did not, however, observe any meaningful treatment-related reductions in pain intensity or perceived disability due to pain. Possible explanations for these latter findings include that most participants’ pain was of a neuropathic origin, which has not been shown to respond to psychological interventions when used as stand-alone therapy . In addition, our intervention merged elements of pain and substance use behavioral treatments such that the dose of pain coping skills training, behavioral activation, and cognitive restructuring may have been insufficient. Also as participants did not complete the homework exercises, which serve to reinforce the use of the techniques and suggests that adoption of the behavioral strategies to manage pain both during and after the intervention period was limited. With respect to the physical performance outcomes, SPPB score improved in the CBT/TC/TXT group relative to both the AO and SG of a magnitude indicative of meaningful improvement .

Posted in hemp grow | Tagged , , | Comments Off on A parallel mixed-effects, logistic regression model was used for the dichotomous outcome

Multi-Tier Mobile Grow System Widely Used in Vertical Farming Business

A widely used multi-tier mobile grow system in vertical farming is the vertical racking system. This system allows for efficient space utilization and easy mobility within a vertical farm. Here are some key features and benefits of this system:

  1. Vertical Space Utilization: The vertical racking system consists of multiple tiers or shelves that can be stacked vertically, maximizing the use of vertical space in a controlled environment. This enables growers to grow a larger number of plants in a smaller footprint.
  2. Easy Mobility: The mobile feature of the system allows the racks or shelves to be moved easily within the facility. This flexibility enables better utilization of space, simplifies maintenance and harvesting processes, and provides easier access for workers.
  3. Customizable Configurations: The racks or shelves can be designed and configured to accommodate different sizes of plant containers, such as trays, pots, or grow bags. This flexibility allows for the cultivation of a variety of crops and facilitates easy management of different growth stages.
  4. Adjustable Lighting and Environmental Control: The vertical racking system can be equipped with adjustable LED grow lights, climate control systems, and irrigation systems. This enables precise control over lighting, temperature, humidity, and nutrient delivery, optimizing plant growth conditions.
  5. Improved Workflow and Efficiency: With a mobile system, growers can easily reposition the racks or shelves according to their workflow needs. This reduces labor requirements, streamlines cultivation processes, and improves overall operational efficiency.
  6. Scalability and Expansion: The modular design of the vertical racking system allows for scalability and expansion as the business grows. Additional tiers or units can be added to increase growing capacity and meet growing market demands.
  7. Better Pest and Disease Management: The controlled environment provided by the vertical racking system helps minimize the risk of pest infestations and diseases. It allows for better monitoring and implementation of preventive measures, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and promoting healthier plant growth.
  8. Easy Maintenance and Cleaning: The mobile nature of the system makes it easier to clean and maintain the growing area. It allows for convenient access to all plants and equipment, facilitating routine maintenance tasks such as pruning, plant inspections, and system cleaning.

Vertical racking systems have gained popularity in vertical farming due to their versatility, efficient space utilization, and improved workflow. They are suitable for a wide range of crops, including leafy greens, herbs, microgreens, and even some fruiting plants. However, it’s important to consider specific business requirements, facility constraints, and crop characteristics when selecting and implementing a multi-tier mobile grow system in a vertical farming business.

Posted in hemp grow | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Multi-Tier Mobile Grow System Widely Used in Vertical Farming Business

Horticulture Grow In Mobile Vertical Grow System

Horticulture encompasses a wide range of plants, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and ornamental plants. Many of these plants can be grown in a mobile vertical grow system, which offers the flexibility to cultivate crops in various locations or environments. Here are some examples of horticultural plants that can be grown in a mobile vertical grow system:

  1. Leafy Greens: Lettuces, kale, spinach, Swiss chard, and other leafy greens are well-suited for vertical growing systems. Their compact size and fast growth make them ideal candidates for mobile setups.
  2. Herbs: Basil, parsley, cilantro, mint, thyme, oregano, and other herbs can be successfully grown in a mobile vertical grow system. Their aromatic foliage and culinary uses make them popular choices.
  3. Strawberries: Compact strawberry varieties can thrive in mobile vertical grow systems. Their shallow root systems and ability to grow in containers make them suitable for portable setups.
  4. Tomatoes: Determinate or compact tomato varieties, such as cherry tomatoes or patio tomatoes, can be grown vertically in mobile systems. Trellising and proper support are essential for vertical tomato cultivation.
  5. Peppers: Bell peppers, chili peppers, and other pepper varieties can be grown in mobile vertical setups. Compact or dwarf varieties are preferable, and the plants can be trained to grow vertically.
  6. Cucumbers: Compact or bush cucumber varieties can be successfully grown in mobile vertical systems. Trellising or support structures are necessary to accommodate their vine growth.
  7. Flowers and Ornamental Plants: Many flowers and ornamental plants can be cultivated in mobile vertical grow systems. Examples include decorative foliage plants, flowering plants, and plants used for landscaping or floral arrangements.
  8. Microgreens and Sprouts: Microgreens and sprouts are popular horticultural crops that are well-suited for mobile vertical growing. These young and nutrient-dense plants are harvested at an early stage and can be grown efficiently in a portable setup.

When choosing plants for a mobile vertical grow system, consider factors such as the available space, lighting requirements, water and nutrient needs, and the overall portability and ease of maintenance. It’s important to select plants that are suitable for the specific conditions and constraints of your mobile vertical grow system to maximize success.

Posted in hemp grow | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Horticulture Grow In Mobile Vertical Grow System

How Aeroponic Vertical Farming Works

Aeroponic vertical farming is a method of growing plants in a vertical arrangement without using soil. Instead, plant roots are suspended in an environment where they are misted or sprayed with a nutrient-rich water solution. Here’s how aeroponic vertical farming typically works:

  1. Vertical Growing Structure: Aeroponic vertical farms consist of vertical towers, racks, or columns that are designed to hold the plants in a vertical arrangement. The plants are often positioned in individual or modular units, allowing for efficient use of space.
  2. Root Chamber: Each plant has a designated root chamber or module where the root system is housed. These chambers can be in the form of specially designed containers or tubes that provide support to the plants and hold the nutrient solution.
  3. Nutrient Delivery: The nutrient-rich water solution, also known as the nutrient mist or nutrient fog, is delivered directly to the plant roots through a misting or spraying system. The misting nozzles or sprayers are strategically placed within the root chamber to ensure even distribution of the nutrient solution.
  4. Oxygenation: In aeroponic systems, the plant roots are exposed to air and mist simultaneously. This allows for the oxygenation of the root zone, promoting healthy root growth and nutrient uptake.
  5. Recirculation and Drainage: The excess nutrient solution not absorbed by the plants is collected at the bottom of the root chamber and recirculated back to the reservoir for reuse. This closed-loop system helps conserve water and nutrients.
  6. Monitoring and Control: Aeroponic vertical farming often incorporates automated systems for monitoring and controlling various environmental parameters. These systems can regulate the nutrient delivery, pH levels, temperature, humidity, and lighting to ensure optimal growing conditions.
  7. Harvesting: When the plants reach the desired maturity, they can be harvested by removing them from their respective modules or containers. The modular design of the system allows for easy access to the plants and simplifies the harvesting process.

Benefits of aeroponic vertical farming include efficient space utilization, reduced water usage compared to traditional soil-based farming, precise control over nutrient delivery, and the potential for high crop yields. However, it requires careful monitoring and control of environmental factors to prevent issues such as root drying or nutrient imbalances.

Posted in hemp grow | Tagged , , | Comments Off on How Aeroponic Vertical Farming Works

How to Design a Commercial Grow Room

Designing a commercial grow room involves careful planning to optimize space utilization, workflow efficiency, and create an environment conducive to plant growth. Here are the key steps to design a commercial grow room:

  1. Determine Goals and Crop Selection: Define your goals for the commercial grow room, such as the types of crops you intend to grow, the quantity, and the growth cycle. Each crop has specific requirements for lighting, temperature, humidity, and space. Understanding your goals will guide the entire design process.
  2. Choose an Appropriate Space: Select a suitable location for your grow room that provides enough space for your desired crop production. Consider factors like accessibility, proximity to utilities (water, electricity), and zoning regulations. Ensure the space is free from pests, contaminants, and has good insulation.
  3. Plan the Layout: Divide the space into functional areas based on the different growth stages of your plants (e.g., propagation, vegetative, flowering). Design the layout to facilitate workflow efficiency, ease of maintenance, and proper plant management. Consider pathways, workstations, storage areas, and safety measures.
  4. Lighting Design: Lighting is crucial for plant growth. Choose the right type of lighting system based on your crop’s needs and energy efficiency. Options include high-intensity discharge (HID) lights like metal halide (MH) or high-pressure sodium (HPS), or light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Ensure even light distribution, proper height, and intensity by using reflectors and arranging lights strategically.
  5. HVAC and Environmental Control: Create a climate-controlled environment by designing a proper HVAC system. It should include heating, ventilation, and air conditioning to maintain optimal temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels. Consider insulation, ductwork, air circulation, and the integration of environmental control systems for automation and monitoring.
  6. Ventilation and Airflow: Provide adequate ventilation to ensure fresh air exchange and control temperature and humidity. Design a ventilation system that includes exhaust fans, carbon filters, and intake systems for air circulation. Consider air distribution, balancing, and managing odor control effectively.
  7. Irrigation and Water Management: Determine the irrigation system suitable for your crops, such as drip irrigation, ebb and flow, or aeroponics. Design an efficient water management system that includes pumps, timers, and filtration to deliver water and nutrients to the plants. Consider drainage, runoff management, and water recycling options.
  8. Automation and Monitoring: Incorporate automation systems and sensors to monitor and control environmental factors like temperature, humidity, lighting schedules, and CO2 levels. Use controllers and software to manage these systems,growing cannabis allowing for remote monitoring and adjustments.
  9. Safety and Security: Implement safety measures to protect your grow room. Install fire suppression systems, emergency lighting, and secure electrical systems to prevent accidents. Consider security measures like surveillance cameras, access control systems, and alarms to protect against theft and unauthorized access.
  10. Compliance and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local regulations and codes regarding commercial grow rooms. Ensure compliance with electrical, building, and safety regulations. Consult with professionals or agencies knowledgeable in local regulations to ensure your design meets all requirements.
  11. Testing and Optimization: Before full-scale production, test all systems and equipment to ensure they function as intended. Monitor and adjust environmental parameters to create an ideal growing environment. Regularly evaluate and optimize your design based on plant performance, resource efficiency, and workflow effectiveness.

Remember that designing a commercial grow room is a complex process, and it’s essential to consult with experts, such as horticulturists, architects, engineers, and professionals in the field, to ensure a successful and efficient design that meets your specific goals.

Posted in hemp grow | Tagged , , | Comments Off on How to Design a Commercial Grow Room

Vertical Farming|What to Know Before You Grow Up

Vertical farming is an innovative approach to agriculture that involves growing plants in vertically stacked layers or on vertical surfaces, using artificial lighting and precise environmental controls. Before you embark on vertical farming, here are some key considerations to know:

  1. Space and Infrastructure: Vertical farming requires dedicated space and infrastructure to accommodate the vertical growing systems. Consider the available space, whether it’s an existing building, a retrofit project,clone racks or a purpose-built structure. Ensure the space has adequate height, structural stability, and access to utilities like water and electricity.
  2. Lighting and Energy: Vertical farms rely heavily on artificial lighting, such as LED grow lights, to provide the necessary light energy for plant growth. Assess the lighting requirements, including light intensity, spectrum, and duration, and factor in the associated energy costs. Optimize your lighting setup to ensure efficient energy usage and maximum plant productivity.
  3. Climate Control and Environmental Factors: Maintaining optimal environmental conditions is crucial for successful vertical farming. Control factors such as temperature, humidity, air circulation, and CO2 levels to create a controlled and stable microclimate that suits the specific needs of your crops. HVAC systems, ventilation, and sensors can help regulate and monitor these factors.
  4. Growing Systems and Technology: Explore various vertical farming systems, such as hydroponics, aeroponics, or aquaponics, and choose the one that aligns with your goals, available resources, and expertise. Research and invest in appropriate technologies, such as automated irrigation systems, nutrient delivery systems, and data monitoring tools, to streamline operations and optimize plant growth.
  5. Crop Selection: Consider the types of crops you intend to grow in your vertical farm. Some crops, like leafy greens and herbs, are well-suited for vertical farming due to their compact size and high yield potential. Assess the market demand, growth cycle, profitability, and feasibility of growing specific crops in a vertical farming setup.
  6. Cost and Financial Viability: Vertical farming can involve significant upfront investment, especially in terms of equipment, infrastructure, and energy consumption. Conduct a thorough cost analysis, including operational expenses, maintenance costs, and potential returns. Explore funding options, grants, or partnerships to support your vertical farming venture.
  7. Expertise and Training: Acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to operate a vertical farm successfully. Understand plant physiology, hydroponic or aeroponic principles, lighting technologies, and pest management strategies. Consider attending workshops, training programs, or partnering with experienced growers to gain insights and practical knowledge.
  8. Sustainability and Resource Management: Vertical farming offers the potential for efficient resource utilization,hydroponic shelves reduced water consumption, and minimal pesticide use. Explore sustainable practices like water recycling, nutrient management, and integrated pest management to minimize environmental impact and ensure long-term viability.
  9. Market Demand and Business Strategy: Assess the market demand for locally grown produce and identify potential customers or distribution channels. Develop a business plan that outlines your target market, marketing strategies, pricing, and revenue streams. Consider partnering with local restaurants, grocery stores, or participating in farmers’ markets to establish market presence.
  10. Regulatory Compliance: Familiarize yourself with local regulations, zoning ordinances, and any specific permits or licenses required for operating a vertical farm. Ensure compliance with food safety standards, labeling requirements, and any applicable agricultural regulations.

Vertical farming offers unique opportunities to grow fresh produce in urban environments, reduce transportation costs, and provide year-round harvests. By thoroughly researching and planning, you can set yourself up for success in this innovative and sustainable farming practice.

Posted in hemp grow | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Vertical Farming|What to Know Before You Grow Up

How Much Water Does Vertical Farming Save

Vertical farming has the potential to save significant amounts of water compared to traditional agriculture methods. Here are some reasons why vertical farming is often considered a water-efficient approach:

  1. Controlled irrigation: Vertical farming systems typically utilize precise irrigation techniques such as drip irrigation or hydroponics. These methods deliver water directly to the plant roots in a controlled manner, minimizing water wastage due to runoff or evaporation. Water is delivered to the plants only when needed, reducing overall water consumption.
  2. Recirculation systems: Many vertical farms incorporate recirculating water systems, where the nutrient-rich water that is not absorbed by the plants is collected and reused. This closed-loop system reduces water waste and allows for efficient use of water resources.
  3. Reduced evapotranspiration: In a controlled indoor environment, vertical farms can minimize evapotranspiration—the loss of water from plants and soil through evaporation and transpiration. By controlling temperature, humidity, and air circulation, vertical farms can reduce water loss through evaporation, resulting in more efficient water use.
  4. Water-efficient technologies: Vertical farms often employ advanced technologies that optimize water use. For example, sensors and automation systems can monitor and adjust irrigation based on plant needs, preventing overwatering and reducing water waste.
  5. Recycling and water treatment: Some vertical farms incorporate water treatment systems that filter and purify wastewater, allowing it to be reused in the irrigation process. This recycling approach further reduces the need for fresh water input and minimizes overall water consumption.

While the water savings in vertical farming can be substantial, it’s important to note that the specific water savings will depend on various factors, including the crop types grown, the efficiency of the irrigation system, the technology utilized, and the operational practices of the vertical farm. Additionally, the water required for vertical farming still needs to come from a reliable and sustainable water source.

Overall, vertical farming’s controlled environment and efficient water management strategies make it a promising approach for conserving water resources and addressing the challenges of water scarcity in agriculture.

Posted in hemp grow | Tagged , , | Comments Off on How Much Water Does Vertical Farming Save

CCMs are effective at reducing depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation among older adults

The ecological nature of paper 3 precludes conclusive statements about the role of alcohol and tobacco retailers in neighborhoods. No direct measure of acquisition was included. This meant that I could not be certain respondents were necessarily purchasing substances from retailers closest to their home. Improvements on this dimension should include items designed to ascertain information about purchasing and/or acquiring behaviors, and whether they consumed these substances or acquired them for a third party, etc. Finally, does this obscure sample of Latino adolescents living along the US/Mexico border generalize to a larger population of Latinos? Adolescents in this study sample were recruited based on their latent tuberculosis infection diagnosis. Associations between LTBI and use of alcohol, tobacco, or marijuana have not been shown previously. As such, study sample adolescents were not expected to differ substantially from their peers. Indeed, sample characteristics were similar to the larger set of adolescents recruited for the tuberculosis screening , most of which were negative. To the extent the findings reported in these studies are consistent with extant literature there is a rational basis to believe that other findings, even if new, may be of substantial import. The true test of generalizability will be measured in the replication of these findings,horticulture trays or variants of them in future studies. As with much research, the final product raises equally as many questions as answers. Questions that in turn generate new research agendas and future directions. Results from paper 1 suggest that future studies investigate with more depth the nature of alcohol and tobacco uptake among adolescents, including an exploration of the differences between the two substances.

For example, are family influences really more important in determining alcohol use than tobacco? If so, what aspects of that influence? Part of clarifying these differences may include more precise measures related to alcohol and tobacco use. For example, the quantity, frequency, and conditions under which it was consumed. Such items may help to discriminate between low-risk experimentation and high-risk experimentation or use . These discriminations are important as the set of risk factors for the respective behaviors are different. Nevertheless, these findings suggest that tobacco prevention interventions be focused entirely on influences in the peer domain. Whereas alcohol prevention efforts must be multidimensional, addressing family, school and peer influence domains. In the event future science confirms family and parental influences are valid intervention targets for alcohol prevention , researchers should be aware of the potential in congruence between reports from parents and their own children about parenting practices. Such findings should serve as impetuses for the creation of new measures, or at least the application of existing measures that minimize error, e.g., direct observation. The added dimension of paper 3 in this dissertation, especially considering its classification as an exploratory study, generates many unanswered questions. Upon first inspection, it is confusing to think that females living in high-risk areas report lower rates of gateway drug use. This may be an example of the built environment interacting with the social environment, on multiple levels. Determining these mechanisms will most definitely require continued research in this area, and the ability to balance technology and theory. Future measures may include such things as markers of neighborhood social acceptability of drug use, and parental involvement. Once again, I see parents as a key influence in this process. A new research agenda moving forward should include inspection of differential parental controls of males versus females in high-risk neighborhoods. With future refinements and sequential iterations in future studies, measures, results, and intervention implications will become more precise and prescriptive, making meaningful behavior change through intervention more achievable.

The homeless population is aging . People born in the second half of the “baby‐boom” have an elevated risk of homelessness . Homeless adults develop aging‐related conditions, including functional impairment, earlier than individuals in the general population. For this reason, homeless adults aged 50 and older are considered “older” despite their relatively young age . The homeless population has a higher prevalence of mental health and substance use problems than the general population . Individuals experiencing homelessness report barriers to mental health services, due to lack of insurance coverage, high cost of care, and inability to identify sources of care . These barriers can prevent their using services to treat mental health and substance use problems, such as outpatient counseling, prescription medication, and community‐based substance use treatment. Without these, homeless populations may experience more severe behavioral health problems and rely on acute care to address these chronic conditions. Homeless individuals have higher rates of Emergency Department use for mental health and substance use concerns , and are more likely to use psychiatric inpatient or ED services and less likely to use outpatient treatment than those who are housed . Homeless adults with substance use disorders face multiple barriers to engaging in substance use treatment. Competing needs , financial concerns, lack of knowledge about or connection to available services, and lack of insurance are barriers to substance use treatment among homeless adults . Older adults face additional barriers to mental health or substance use treatment due to cognitive and functional impairment, such as difficulty navigating and traveling to healthcare systems . However, there is little known about older adults experiencing homelessness. According to Gelberg and Anderson’s Behavioral Model for Vulnerable Populations, predisposing factors, enabling factors, and need, shape health care utilization . Although prior research has used this model for homeless populations, this work has not included older homeless adults .

Little is known about the prevalence of mental health or substance use problems in older homeless adults, the level of unmet need for services, or the factors associated with that need. To understand the factors associated with unmet need for mental health and substance use treatment in older homeless adults, in a population‐based sample of homeless adults age 50 and older, we identified those with a need for mental health and substance use services. Then, we applied the Gelberg and Anderson model to examine predisposing and enabling factors associated with unmet need, which we defined as not receiving mental health and substance use treatment among participants with mental health or substance use problems .In a population‐based sample of older adults experiencing homelessness, we found a high prevalence of unmet need for mental health and substance use treatment. While the majority of participants had mental health and substance use problems, few received treatment. One‐third of those with mental health need received mental health care. Fewer than 13% of those with substance use need received substance use treatment. We identified predisposing and enabling factors associated with unmet treatment need. Adults aged 65 and over had a higher odds of unmet need for mental health treatment. Older adults are more likely to have competing demands, including higher physical health needs, which can interfere with receiving behavioral healthcare . Due to a shortage of geriatric psychiatrists and geriatric mental health care services,sliding grow tables older adults may not have access to treatment when they seek care . The homeless population age 65 and older is expected to triple by the year 2020 . Thus, there is a need to design care that meets the needs of this growing, but under served, population. We found that having a regular healthcare provider was associated with less unmet need. Having a regular provider can increase engagement because primary care providers may help identify needs and refer to care. In safety‐net systems, such as the ones in which our participants receive care, primary care providers may be the primary source of mental health treatment, by prescribing psychotropic medication. Primary care providers are responsible for an increasing proportion of prescriptions for psychotropic medication . In addition to prescribing medication for mental health conditions, primary care providers can refer patients to outpatient mental health counseling and treatment with specialist staff or providers. In some safety‐net settings, mental health services may be colocated with physical health services via collaborative care models.Collaborative care models can enhance information sharing and treatment plan collaboration and reduce barriers to care .CCMs are cost‐efficient and can increase the capacity of resource‐constrained settings to provide care for patients with complex needs .

Federally Qualified Health Centers can bill for both a medical and mental health visit on the same day , and recent changes to FQHC payment codes allow billing for behavioral health care management services in addition to the FQHC billable visit. Pay‐for‐performance programs link public hospitals’ payments to care coordination and mental health treatment metrics . It is possible that participants in our study were obtaining care in safety‐net primary care settings with CCMs. Alternatively, the reduced odds of unmet need amongst those who had regular care providers could reflect other factors that we did not measure. For example, having a regular care provider may be a marker for increased system engagement and reduced barriers to any type of care. Those who seek primary care may be more organized, knowledgeable about safety‐net service availability, and have more access to transportation and other enabling resources. . Having a case manager was associated with less mental health and substance use treatment need. In the case management brokerage model, case managers help people navigate care systems and provide a linkage to services. In the clinical case management model, case managers serve as care providers and may provide both mental health and substance use services directly . In some models, such as intensive case management, case managers provide both brokerage and direct services . It is possible that the association between having a case manager and decreased odds of unmet need for both mental health and substance use services is a result of reverse causality; treatment programs may assign a case manager. We found that participants who first became homeless at age 50 or older had a higher odds of unmet substance use treatment need. Those with late onset homelessness had led more “typical” lives, with a higher likelihood of having been continuously employed and having been married or partnered . They were less likely to have had early onset of substance use problems, thus, they may have developed substance use problems more recently. These individuals may have been less aware of safety‐ net resources in general or resources for substance use treatment in particular. Spending time in jail/prison in the past 6 months was associated with reduced unmet substance use treatment need. It is possible that participants initiated substance use treatment while incarcerated. However, most incarceration settings do not provide adequate treatment services. Alternatively, as a condition of release, participants may have been required to engage in substance use treatment. Our findings indicate there is a lack of community‐based pathways into substance use care. By giving medication‐assisted treatments, such as buprenorphine for opioid use disorder and naltrexone for alcohol use disorder in primary care settings, primary care providers can begin to address this unmet need . However, there is a need for greatly expanded substance use services. Our study has several limitations. We did not use a full psychiatric diagnostic interview. However, screening measures are important empirical tools for the referral of individuals to mental health treatment, especially when integrated care is available . We did not ask participants where they received mental health services, thus we cannot determine whether they received care colocated with primary care, or treatment in mental health specific settings.Methamphetamine is a potent psychostimulant and complications of chronic use and abuse include addiction, psychosis, and depression, as well as increased risk of medical problems including HIV, impaired immune system functioning, cardiomyopathy, neurocognitive dysfunction, and Parkinson Disease . Current treatment is limited to behavioral therapies and risk of relapse following behavioral treatment is high . Pharmacotherapy may improve outcomes with behavioral treatment but despite numerous clinical trials no effective medication is available for methamphetamine use disorder . Negative clinical trials to date have primarily tested medications approved for other indications and focused on medications targeting the monoamine neurotransmitter systems suggesting that the identification of new targets for medications is necessary for the successful development of effective medications for methamphetamine use disorder. Substance use disorders are influenced by both biological and social factors although studies estimating heritability in excess of 50% for substance use disorders suggest an important role for genetic influences . For example, a recent study estimated heritability for stimulant use disorder at 68% .

Posted in hemp grow | Tagged , , | Comments Off on CCMs are effective at reducing depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation among older adults

How Expensive Is Vertical Farming

The cost of vertical farming can vary depending on several factors such as the scale of the operation, the technology used, the location, and the specific crops being grown. Here are some key cost considerations in vertical farming company:

  1. Initial Investment: Setting up a vertical farm requires significant initial investment in infrastructure, equipment, and technology. This includes constructing or retrofitting a suitable building, installing climate control systems, lighting systems, irrigation systems, and automation systems. The costs can vary greatly depending on the size of the facility and the complexity of the setup.
  2. Operating Costs: Vertical farming entails ongoing operating expenses such as electricity for lighting and climate control, water and nutrient costs, labor, maintenance, and pest management. Energy costs, in particular, can be a significant expense due to the need for artificial lighting.
  3. Technology and Automation: Advanced technology and automation systems are often utilized in vertical farms to monitor and control environmental factors, optimize resource usage, and streamline operations. These technologies can contribute to higher upfront costs but can also improve efficiency and reduce long-term labor costs.
  4. Crop Selection: Different crops have varying requirements in terms of lighting, climate control, and nutrient solutions. Some crops may require more specialized equipment or additional resources, which can affect the overall cost of vertical farming. High-value crops may yield higher profits but can also require more investment.
  5. Location: The location of the vertical farm can impact costs. Setting up a vertical farm in an urban area may require higher land or building costs compared to a rural location. Additionally, the availability and cost of utilities like water and electricity can vary depending on the region.

It’s important to note that while vertical farming initially involves higher capital investment compared to traditional farming, it can offer advantages such as higher crop yields, year-round production, and reduced resource usage,vertical farming systems which can lead to improved profitability in the long term. As the technology and practices of vertical farming continue to advance, costs are expected to decrease, making it more accessible and economically viable.

Overall, the cost of vertical farming is influenced by various factors, and it is crucial to conduct a detailed feasibility analysis and cost projection specific to the intended operation to get a more accurate estimate of expenses.

Posted in hemp grow | Tagged , , | Comments Off on How Expensive Is Vertical Farming