Incorporation of hydrogen-producing magnesium into minced beef meat protects the quality attributes and safety of the product during cold storage

The impact of hydrogen (H2) producing magnesium (Mg) incorporation into minced beef meat (MBM) on the quality and safety of the product was investigated. The H2-producing Mg (H2-P-Mg)-incorporated MBMs were vacuumed (VP) and stored at 4 °C for 12 days. Other MBMs were vacuumed and gassed with H2 or N2. At the end of storage, the lowest browning index values were for H2 and H2-P-Mg samples. H2- PMg and VP methods generally decreased the counts of mesophilic and psychrotrophic bacteria and yeast molds and restricted the formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and biogenic amines. Heat mapping, PCA, and multivariate analysis methods confirmed chemical analysis results. The volatile compounds were at their highest levels in the control samples at the end of storage, followed by H2, N2, H2-P-Mg, and VP samples. Using the H2-P-Mg method in MBM preparation could protect the quality characteristics and safety of the product during cold storage.

Relationship between prepregnancy BMI and the concentrations of iron, calcium, and magnesium in serum and hair during the first trimester of pregnancy in women

BACKGROUND

In women of childbearing age, a low dietary supply of iron, calcium, and magnesium is often observed. Minerals deficiency in pregnant women is often associated with abnormal body weight and may impact fetal development disorders. The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) and the dietary intake of iron, calcium and magnesium and their concentrations in serum and hair in pregnant women.

METHOD

The study involved 97 Caucasian/white low-risk pregnant women at 12 weeks of gestation. The analysis of minerals in serum and hair samples was performed using atomic absorption spectrometry. Pre-pregnancy BMI was calculated based on self-reported weight. The study used a validated questionnaire and a 24-h recall nutrition interview, which were analyzed using Aliant software.

RESULTS

It was found that overweight and obese women exhibited higher magnesium concentration in serum, while iron content in serum and hair was markedly lower compared to women with normal body weight. The average total supply of iron was below the recommendation in pregnant women. Moreover, an inverse significant relationship was observed between BMI and iron concentration in hair and serum in the whole population.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, being overweight or obese before pregnancy is associated with low dietary iron intake and low iron concentration in serum and hair during the first trimester of pregnancy in women.

Magnesium and manganese induced changes on chemical, nutritional, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of the pansy and Viola edible flowers

Pansy and viola edible flowers were grown hydroponically with different levels of Mg and Mn. The nutritional composition was determined using standard methods. Free sugars, fatty acids, organic acids, tocopherols, and phenolic compounds were analyzed using various HPLC and GC devises. The extract's antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxicity, and anti-inflammatory activity were assessed. The results indicated that Mg enrichment negatively affected plant growth and mineral accumulation but improved photosynthetic performance. The edible flowers contained significant amounts of protein, low levels of fat, and varying sugar contents, such as glucose and fructose. Various fatty acids and phenolic compounds were identified, with different concentrations depending on the treatment. The flowers exhibited antioxidant potential, antimicrobial activity, cytotoxic effects, and anti-inflammatory properties. The correlations between the investigated parameters not only expand knowledge on Mg and Mn interaction but also catalyze significant advancements in sustainable agriculture and food health, fostering a healthier and more conscious future.

Sizeable net export of base cations from a Carpathian flysch catchment indicates their geogenic origin while the 26Mg/24Mg, 44Ca/40Ca and 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios in runoff are indistinguishable from atmospheric input

Nutrient imbalances may negatively affect the health status of forests exposed to multiple stress factors, including drought and bark beetle calamities. We studied the origin of base cations in runoff from a small Carpathian catchment underlain by base-poor flysch turbidites using magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca) and strontium (Sr) isotope composition of 10 ecosystem compartments. Our objective was to constrain conclusions drawn from long-term hydrochemical monitoring of inputs and outputs. Annual export of Mg, Ca and Sr exceeds 5-to-15 times their atmospheric input. Mass budgets per se thus indicate sizeable net leaching of Mg, Ca and Sr from bedrock sandstones and claystones. Surprisingly, δ26Mg, δ44Ca and 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios of runoff were practically identical to those of atmospheric deposition and soil water but significantly different from bedrock isotope ratios. We did not find any carbonates in the studied area as a hypothetical, easily dissolvable source of base cations whose isotope composition might corroborate the predominance of geogenic base cations in the runoff. Marine carbonates typically have lower δ26 Mg and 87Sr/86Sr ratios, and silicate sediments often have higher δ26Mg and 87Sr/86Sr ratios than runoff at the study site. Mixing of these two sources, if confirmed, could reconcile the flux and isotope data.

Understanding phosphorus mobilization mechanisms in acidic soil amended with calcium-silicon-magnesium-potassium fertilizer

Calcium-silicon-magnesium-potassium fertilizer (CSMP) is usually used as an amendment to counteract soil acidification caused by historical excessive nitrogen (N) applications. However, the impact of CSMP addition on phosphorus (P) mobilization in acidic soils and the related mechanisms are not fully understood. Specifically, a knowledge gap exists with regards to changes in soil extracellular enzymes that contribute to P release. Such a knowledge gap was investigated by an incubation study with four treatments: i) initial soil (Control), ii) urea (60 mg kg-1) addition (U); iii) CSMP (1%) addition (CSMP) and iv) urea (60 mg kg-1) and CSMP (1%) additions (U + CSMP). Phosphorus mobilization induced by different processes was distinguished by biologically based P extraction. The Langmuir equation, K edge X-ray absorption near-edge structure spectroscopy, and ecoenzyme vector analysis according to the extracellular enzyme activity stoichiometry were deployed to investigate soil P sorption intensity, precipitation species, and microbial-driven turnover of organophosphorus. Results showed that CaCl2 extractable P (or citric acid extractable P) content increased by 63.4% (or 39.2%) in the soil with CSMP addition, compared with the study control. The accelerated mobilization of aluminum (Al)/iron (Fe)-bound P after CSMP addition, indicated by the reduction of the sum of FePO4·2H2O and AlPO4 proportion, contributed to this increase. The decrease of P sorption capacity can also be responsible for it. The CSMP addition increased enzyme extractable P in the soil nearly 7-fold and mitigated the limitations of carbon (C) and P for soil microorganisms (indicated by the enzyme stoichiometry and ecoenzyme vector analysis), suggesting that microbial turnover processes also contribute to P mobilization in amended acidic soil. These findings indicate that the P mobilization in CSMP amended acidic soil not only attributed to both decreasing P sorption capacity and dissolving phosphate precipitation, but also to the increase of the microbial turnover of the organophosphorus pool.

Direct Determination of Ca, K, and Mg in Soy Leaf Samples Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy

This study was dedicated to developing analytical methods for determining macronutrients (Ca, K, and Mg) in soy leaf samples with and without petioles. The study's primary purpose was to present Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) as a viable alternative for directly analyzing leaf samples using chemometric tools to interpret the data obtained. The instrumental condition chosen for LIBS was 70 mJ of laser pulse energy, 1.0 µs of delay time, and 100 µm of spot size, which was applied to 896 samples: 305 of soy without petioles and 591 of soy with petioles. The reference values of the analytes for the proposition of calibration models were obtained using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) technique. Twelve normalization modes and two calibration strategies were tested to minimize signal variations and sample matrix microheterogeneity. The following were studied: multivariate calibration using partial least squares and univariate calibration using the area and height of several selected emission lines. The notable normalization mode for most models was the Euclidean norm. No analyte showed promising results for univariate calibrations. Micronutrients, P and S, were also tested, and no multivariate models presented satisfactory results. The models obtained for Ca, K, and Mg showed good results. The standard error of calibration ranged from 2.3 g/kg for Ca in soy leaves without petioles with two latent variables to 5.0 g/kg for K in soy leaves with petioles with two latent variables.

Differences in rice component distribution across layers and their relationship with taste

BACKGROUND

Rice taste is closely associated with endosperm composition, which varies among different rice layers. Although clarifying the relationship between this difference and nutritional taste can guide rice breeding and cultivation practices, research on this topic is limited.

RESULTS

Here, typical rice varieties having excellent and poor taste characteristics were selected to analyze the distribution characteristics and differences of their components. The varieties with excellent taste exhibited lower apparent amylose content (AAC) and protein content (PC), lesser short-chain (Fa) and long-chain (Fb3 ) amylopectin (AP) and more medium-chain (Fb1+2 ) AP, higher long-to-short chain ratio (Fa:Fb3 ), and higher nitrogen (N), magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca) content in layer 1 (L1) than the varieties with poor taste. Layer 2 (L2) played a key role in AAC and PC regulation in the varieties with excellent taste by reducing AAC and appropriately increasing PC, consequently improving rice taste. AP structure in layer 3 (L3) substantially affected the taste of the two types of varieties. The mineral content was the highest in L1, and increased potassium (K), Ca, and Mg content improved taste in all varieties.

CONCLUSION

AAC in each layer contributes to rice taste. PC and minerals primarily act on L1 and L2, whereas AP acts on L2 and L3. Therefore, the endosperm formation process should be exploited for improving rice taste. Furthermore, key resources and cultivation should be identified and regulated, respectively, to improve rice taste. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Molecular and mineral responses of corals grown under artificial Calcite Sea conditions

The formation of skeletal structures composed of different calcium carbonate polymorphs (e.g. aragonite and calcite) appears to be both biologically and environmentally regulated. Among environmental factors influencing aragonite and calcite precipitation, changes in seawater conditions-primarily in the molar ratio of magnesium and calcium during so-called 'Calcite' (mMg:mCa below 2) or 'Aragonite' seas (mMg:mCa above 2)-have had profound impacts on the distribution and performance of marine calcifiers throughout Earth's history. Nonetheless, the fossil record shows that some species appear to have counteracted such changes and kept their skeleton polymorph unaltered. Here, the aragonitic octocoral Heliopora coerulea and the aragonitic scleractinian Montipora digitata were exposed to Calcite Sea-like mMg:mCa with various levels of magnesium and calcium concentration, and changes in both the mineralogy (i.e. CaCO3 polymorph) and gene expression were monitored. Both species maintained aragonite deposition at lower mMg:mCa ratios, while concurrent calcite presence was only detected in M. digitata. Despite a strong variability between independent experimental replicates for both species, the expression for a set of putative calcification-related genes, including known components of the M. digitata skeleton organic matrix (SkOM), was found to consistently change at lower mMg:mCa. These results support the previously proposed involvements of the SkOM in counteracting decreases in seawater mMg:mCa. Although no consistent expression changes in calcium and magnesium transporters were observed, down-regulation calcium channels in H. coerulea in one experimental replicate and at an mMg:mCa of 2.5, pointing to a possible active calcium uptake regulation by the corals under altered mMg:mCa.

Contrasting effects of MgAl- and MgFe-based layered double hydroxides on phosphorus mobilization and microbial communities in sediment

The effects of two types of layered double hydroxides (LDH) in-situ treatment on sediment phosphorus (P) mobilization and microbial community's structure were studied comparatively. The results presented that magnesium/aluminum-based (MA) and magnesium/iron (MF)-based LDH displayed great phosphate uptake ability in aqueous solution in a broad pH range of 3-8. The maximum phosphate sorption capacity of MA was 64.89 mg/g, around four times greater than that of MF (14.32 mg/g). Most of phosphate bound by MA and MF is hard to re-liberate under reduction and ordinary pH (5-9) conditions. In the in-situ remediation, the MA and MF capping/amendment both prevented P migration from the sediment to the overlying water (OL-water) under long-term anaerobic conditions, and MA had a better interception efficiency compared to MF in the same application mode. MA amendment significantly reduced mobile P (Mob-P) content in sediment and could remain its stable Mob-P inactivation capacity over a wide pH range. On the contrary, MF amendment increased Mob-P content in sediment and exhibited a variable ability to inactivate Mob-P under elevated pH conditions. MF can decrease Mob-P content at pH of 7 and 11 but increase Mob-P content at pH of 8-10. Under resuspension conditions, MA and MF capping groups still maintained low P levels in OL-water, while MA capping simultaneously showed a certain degree of resistance to sediment resuspension, but it had a weaker stabilizing effect for sediment than MF. Microbial community analysis manifested neither MA nor MF addition observably altered the sediment microbial diversity, but impacted the functional microorganisms' abundance and reshaped the microbial community's structure, intervening the sediment-P stabilization. Viewed from environmental friendliness, control efficiency, stability of P fixation capacity, and application convenience, MA capping wrapped by fabric is more suitable for addressing internal P loading in eutrophic lakes and holds great potential application.

Spatiotemporal evaluation and assessment of shallow groundwater quality for irrigation of a tropical coastal groundwater basin

The present study aims at analyzing groundwater quantity and quality simultaneously to identify its availability and suitability for irrigation. Various water quality indices were used to assess (i) origin of the groundwater sources (Gibbs diagram); (ii) salinity, alkalinity, and sodium hazard (sodium adsorption ratio, exchangeable sodium percentage, Kelly's ratio, US Salinity Laboratory diagram, Wilcox diagram); (iii) magnesium hazard (magnesium absorption ratio); (iv) carbonate and bicarbonate hazard (residual sodium carbonate); (v) hydro-chemical facie and evaluation (Piper diagram and Expanded Durov diagram); and (vi) statistical relationship among the variables, sample sites, and spatiotemporal grouping (principal component analysis and cluster analysis). The overall objective is to quantify the irrigation suitability of groundwater reserves. Gibb's diagram suggests that the groundwater quality is mainly controlled by rock-water interaction. Piper trilinear showed the presence of various types of hydro-chemical facies such as Ca-Mg-HCO3, mixed, and sodium bicarbonate. The expanded Durov diagram revealed the hydro-chemical evolution, grouping, and areal distribution of the groundwater samples. USSL diagram, Wilcox diagram, Kelly's ratio, magnesium hazard, and permeability index suggest that the groundwater quality is suitable for irrigation. Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) and Bartlett's tests confirmed the applicability of principal component analysis (PCA), which indicates that groundwater quality is controlled by rock-water interaction mainly. It also suggests that the groundwater has carbonate dissolution, which indicates the groundwater's hardness increased. Cluster analysis (CA) from the year 2000 to 2010 shows 4 to 8 groups present within the study area. Irrigation water quality suitability map and predicted groundwater potential zone map together act as a master tool for deciding tube well location, pumping schedule, and crop planning for the sustainability of the agriculture eco-system in the study area. The implementation of the aforementioned activities in the study area will further stop the advancement of the seawater intrusion front. The methodology shows the potential applicability for similar coastal groundwater basins worldwide with or without modification.

Variation of Mineral Composition in Different Fruit Parts of Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.)

Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.), belonging to family Cucurbitaceae, is a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds. In the present study, fruits (and its parts-epicarp, mesocarp, endocarp, seed, and whole fruit) of 56 accessions and 4 cultivars of Momordica spp. were assayed and compared for macro-minerals magnesium (Mg), potassium (K), sodium (Na), phosphorus (P), and calcium (Ca), and microminerals iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu). Potassium was the most abundant macro-mineral found in whole fruit ranging from 78.40 to 483.49 mg/100 g dry weight (DW), followed by Mg (13.23-101.70 mg/100 g DW) in epicarp, P (32.22-98.24 mg/100 g DW) in endocarp, Ca (23.41-71.39 mg/100 g DW) in whole fruit, and Na (6.09-18.56 mg/100 g DW) in epicarp. The concentration of microminerals was recorded higher in seeds compared to other fruit parts. Levels of Fe were higher (0.76-6.14 mg/100 g DW), followed by Zn (0.87-2.64 mg/100 g DW), Cu (137.68-525.45 µg/100 g DW), and Mn (46.92-179.05 µg/100 g DW). The analysis depicted bitter gourd to be a potential source of both macro-minerals (K and Mg) and microminerals (Fe and Zn). The consumption of bitter gourd could be a health-promoting strategy to meet daily dietary intake requirements of essential minerals for human health.

Effects of Diabetes on Elemental Levels and Nanostructure of Root Canal Dentin

INTRODUCTION

This study evaluated the effects of diabetes mellitus (DM) on the nanostructure of root canal dentin using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).

METHODS

Twenty extracted human premolars from diabetic and nondiabetic patients (n = 10 in each group) were decoronated and sectioned horizontally into 40 2-mm-thick dentin discs, with each disc designated for a specific test. ICP-MS was used to determine the different elemental levels of copper, lithium, zinc, selenium, strontium, manganese, and magnesium in diabetic and nondiabetic specimens. HRTEM was used to analyze the shape and quantity of the apatite crystals in diabetic and nondiabetic dentin at the nanostructural level. Statistical analysis was performed using Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Student t test (P < .05).

RESULTS

ICP-MS revealed significant differences in trace element concentrations between the diabetic and nondiabetic specimens (P < .05), with lower levels of magnesium, zinc, strontium, lithium, manganese, and selenium (P < .05), and higher levels of copper in diabetic specimens (P < .05). HRTEM revealed that diabetic dentin exhibited a less compact structure with smaller crystallites and significantly more crystals in the 2500 nm2 area (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Diabetic dentin exhibited smaller crystallites and altered elemental levels more than nondiabetic dentin, which could explain the higher root canal treatment failure rate in diabetic patients.

Chemical characteristics of wildfire ash across the globe and their environmental and socio-economic implications

The mobilisation of potentially harmful chemical constituents in wildfire ash can be a major consequence of wildfires, posing widespread societal risks. Knowledge of wildfire ash chemical composition is crucial to anticipate and mitigate these risks. Here we present a comprehensive dataset on the chemical characteristics of a wide range of wildfire ashes (42 types and a total of 148 samples) from wildfires across the globe and examine their potential societal and environmental implications. An extensive review of studies analysing chemical composition in ash was also performed to complement and compare our ash dataset. Most ashes in our dataset had an alkaline reaction (mean pH 8.8, ranging between 6 and 11.2). Important constituents of wildfire ash were organic carbon (mean: 204 g kg-1), calcium, aluminium, and iron (mean: 47.9, 17.9 and 17.1 g kg-1). Mean nitrogen and phosphorus ranged between 1 and 25 g kg-1, and between 0.2 and 9.9 g kg-1, respectively. The largest concentrations of metals of concern for human and ecosystem health were observed for manganese (mean: 1488 mg kg-1; three ecosystems > 1000 mg kg-1), zinc (mean: 181 mg kg-1; two ecosystems > 500 mg kg-1) and lead (mean: 66.9 mg kg-1; two ecosystems > 200 mg kg-1). Burn severity and sampling timing were key factors influencing ash chemical characteristics like pH, carbon and nitrogen concentrations. The highest readily dissolvable fractions (as a % of ash dry weight) in water were observed for sodium (18 %) and magnesium (11.4 %). Although concentrations of elements of concern were very close to, or exceeded international contamination standards in some ashes, the actual effect of ash will depend on factors like ash loads and the dilution into environmental matrices such as water, soil and sediment. Our approach can serve as an initial methodological standardisation of wildfire ash sampling and chemical analysis protocols.

Evaluation of groundwater for drinking and irrigation applications concerning physicochemical and ionic parameters through multiple indexing approach: a case study around the industrial zone, Punjab, India

The seasonal quality of groundwater and its appropriateness for drinking and irrigation were assessed using a multiple indexing approach in this study. Physicochemical and ionic parameters were examined in groundwater samples near the industrial zone of Rupnagar, Punjab. To assess groundwater quality, water quality index (WQI) and pollution index were used. The Durov's, piper, wilcox and stiff diagrams were plotted to understand the hydro-chemistry. Similarly, the irrigation indices, i.e., salinity hazard, sodium adsorption ratio, soluble sodium percentage (Na%), magnesium adsorption ratio, residual sodium carbonate, permeability index and Kelley's ratio were applied to ascertain the water quality for agricultural purposes. As a result, total hardness, calcium (Ca²⁺), magnesium (Mg²⁺) and fluoride (F^-) were found above the standard permissible limits. WQI analysis showed 12% samples of pre-monsoon (PRE-M) and 28% samples of post-monsoon (POS-M) were of poor quality, which may pose health risks. Hydrochemistry revealed the predominance of Ca²⁺, Na⁺, Mg²⁺ and HCO₃^- ions in the groundwater attributed to natural and anthropogenic sources. Piper diagram revealed Ca²⁺-Mg²⁺-Cl^-, Na⁺-Cl^-, Ca²⁺-Na⁺- HCO₃^-, Ca²⁺- HCO₃^- and Ca²⁺-Cl, Ca²⁺-HCO₃^- water types exist in the study area. USSL diagram showed that the samples from both seasons come under the low salinity hazard. In addition, total dissolved solids and electrical conductivity showed a strong positive association, indicating the saline nature of groundwater. Furthermore, hierarchical clustering classified groundwater into three groups (I, II and III), revealing that groundwater quality varies due to natural and anthropogenic effects. Based on the findings, the groundwater was found marginally suitable for drinking and irrigation purposes. It is therefore recommended that the groundwater is examined on a regular basis in order to maintain its quality.

Assessment of groundwater quality and human health risks of nitrate and fluoride contamination in a rapidly urbanizing region of India

Groundwater contamination studies are important to understand the risks to public health. In this study, groundwater quality, major ion chemistry, sources of contaminants, and related health risks were evaluated for North-West Delhi, India, a region with a rapidly growing urban population. Groundwater samples collected from the study area were analysed for physicochemical parameters - pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, total hardness, total alkalinity, carbonate, bicarbonate, chloride, nitrate, sulphate, fluoride, phosphate, calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium. Investigation of hydrochemical facies revealed that bicarbonate was the dominant anion while magnesium was the dominant cation. Multivariate analysis using principal component analysis and Pearson correlation matrix indicated that major ion chemistry in the aquifer under study is primarily due to mineral dissolution, rock-water interactions and anthropogenic factors. Water quality index values showed that only 20% of the samples were acceptable for drinking. Due to high salinity, 54% of the samples were unfit for irrigation purposes. Nitrate and fluoride concentrations ranged from 0.24 to 380.19 mg/l and 0.05 to 7.90 mg/l, respectively due to fertilizer use, wastewater infiltration and geogenic processes. The health risks from high levels of nitrate and fluoride were calculated for males, females, and children. It was found that health risk from nitrate is more than fluoride in the study region. However, the spatial extent of risk from fluoride is more indicating that more people suffer from fluoride pollution in the study area. The total hazard index for children was found to be more than adults. Continuous monitoring of groundwater and application of remedial measures are recommended to improve the water quality and public health in the region.

Clean quality control of agricultural and non-agricultural lime by rapid and accurate assessment of calcium and magnesium contents via proximal sensors

Ca and Mg are the most important chemical elements in lime. Properly measuring Ca and Mg contents is essential to assess the quality of lime products. Quality control guarantees the adequate use of lime in industrial processes, in soils, and helps avoiding adulteration. Proximal sensors can aid in this process by determining Ca and Mg contents easily, rapidly and without producing chemical waste. The objective of this study was to evaluate the use an environmentally-friendly method of analyzing the quality of lime. We studied 1) the use of portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) to predict concentrations of Ca and Mg in lime, 2) tested if NixPro™ sensor can improve prediction accuracy and 3) tested if sample preparation methods (grinding) affect analyses. 74 samples of lime were analyzed by two different laboratories (lab. 1 = 38, lab. 2 = 36). All samples submitted to pXRF and NixPro™ analyses. Sensor analyses were done in whole (CP) and ground (AQ) samples to test the effect of sample preparation in prediction performance. High correlation was found between Ca and Mg contents measured via pXRF and laboratory analyses. Mg-CP presented the highest correlation coefficient (r = 0.81); Mg-AQ, the lowest (0.57). Predictions presented good performance (R² > 0.68); Mg had the best results (0.86). Separating models per laboratory showed that some datasets are harder to model, probably due to variability in the source material (limestone). The addition of NixPro™ data contributed to improve prediction accuracy, although slightly. Predictions using CP samples presented the best results, especially for Mg, indicating that grinding is not necessary. This pioneer study demonstrated that fused proximal sensors can be used to rapidly and easily determine contents of Ca and Mg in soil amendments without producing chemical waste.

Comparison and Risk Assessment of Macroelements and Trace Metals in Commercial Teas from Different Regions of China

Tea (Camellia sinensis L.) is one of the most widely consumed non-alcoholic beverages worldwide. In the present study, 73 commercial tea samples were collected from tea plantations in the Southwest, South, Jiangnan, and Jiangbei regions of China. The contents of four macroelements (phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg)) and 15 trace metals (arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), aluminium (Al), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), thorium (Th), thallium (Tl), rubidium (Rb) and barium (Ba)) in tea samples were determined. The mean concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Pb, Zn, Al, Cu, Mn, Fe, Ni, Th, Tl, Rb and Ba were in the range of 0.02-0.61, 0.008-0.126, 0.09-1.12, 0.001-0.012, 0.07-1.62, 19.5-73.2, 170-2100, 5.9-43.3, 228-2040, 60-337, 2.09-17.95, 0.002-0.08, 0.004-0.409, 0-150.50 and 3.1-41.2 µg/g, respectively, which were all lower than the maximum permissible limits stipulated by China (NY/T 288-2012, NY 659-2003). The target hazard quotients of each heavy metal were lower than one, and the combined risk hazard index of all heavy metals for adults was in the range of 0.10-0.85; therefore, there was no significant carcinogenic health risks to tea drinking consumers under the current dietary intake. Significant differences were found in the content of trace elements (Zn, Cu, Fe, Ni, Th, Tl, Rb and Ba) (p < 0.05); however, no significant differences were found in the content of macroelements (P, K, Ca and Mg) and trace metals (As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Pb, Al and Mn) in teas from different regions. Therefore, the region did not affect the heavy metal exposure risk. Correlation coefficient and principal component analyses were performed to determine the source of the elements. Three principal factors were obtained: factor 1 was positively related to Ca, Mg, As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Pb, Al, Mn, Fe and Th (32.63%); factor 2 to P, Zn, Cu and Ni (18.64%) and factor 3 to K and Rb (10.10%). Thus, the elements in the same factor might originate from the same source. This study provides an essential basis to understand the variance and potential risks of different elements in tea from different regions of China.

Influence of Seminal Metals on Assisted Reproduction Outcome

Increased levels of metal ions in human seminal fluid have a significant correlation with male fertility. Few publications explain the effect of metals in semen and their influence on assisted reproductive treatments. Semen parameters and the levels of twenty-two metals were measured in the seminal fluid of 102 men attended in a Reproductive Unit. Metals were determined by optical emission spectrophotometry. A statistical relationship was found between spermiogram and iron, which was lower than expected in pathological spermiograms (p = 0.032); zinc (p = 0.066), calcium (p = 0.047), and magnesium (p = 0.048) mean levels were higher in normozoospermics. More days of sexual abstinence correlates with higher seminal zinc (p = 0.001) and magnesium levels (p = 0.002). Lower vanadium values were found to be associated with higher fertilization rates (p = 0.039). Higher values of lead (p = 0.052) and vanadium (p = 0.032) were obtained in patients who did not reach 100% embryo cleavage rate. Aluminium (p = 0.042) and sodium (p = 0.002) were found in lower amounts associated with better blastocyst rates. The implantation rate shows an inverse association with women's age and iron and calcium content, compared to magnesium and sodium which presented a significant direct association with this percentage. A significant direct relationship was found between the positive evolution of pregnancy and the values of zinc (p = 0.004), calcium (p = 0.013), potassium (p = 0.002), and magnesium (p = 0.009). The study confirms that zinc, iron, calcium, sodium, aluminium, magnesium, vanadium, and lead have positive-negative effects on reproduction and support the analysis of metals in semen as a new line of study on male fertility with implications for reproductive outcomes.

Association of Dietary and Plasma Magnesium with Glycaemic Markers in a Chinese Population

Certain metals play a role in the pathogenesis of diabetes. This study aimed to investigate the potential association of plasma magnesium (Mg) and dietary intake of Mg with glycaemic markers. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 2373 subjects in Guangxi, China. Dietary Mg was obtained through a food frequency questionnaire containing 109 common foods. Plasma Mg concentration was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Multiple linear regression combined with multivariable restricted cubic spline (RCS) functions was applied to evaluate the association of plasma Mg and dietary Mg with haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG). In linear regression, dietary Mg was significantly associated with FPG in the overall population (β =  - 0.087, P < 0.05) and in women (β =  - 0.098, P < 0.05). Plasma Mg was significantly associated with FPG in the overall population (β =  - 0.096, P < 0.05) and in men (β =  - 0.110, P < 0.05) and women (β =  - 0.088, P < 0.05). In the RCS model, no non-linear association was found between dietary and plasma Mg and HbA1c levels. Dietary and plasma Mg are significantly negatively associated with fasting glucose.

Levels of Toxic and Essential Elements and Associated Factors in the Hair of Japanese Young Children

There is growing concern regarding the effects of toxic element exposure on the development of children. However, little is known about the level of toxic elements exposure in Japanese children. The purpose of this study was to assess the concentrations of multiple elements (aluminum, cadmium, lead, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, sodium, zinc) in the hair of 118 Japanese young children and to explore the factors associated with their element levels. The element concentration was analyzed by ICP-MS, and children's food and water intake were assessed by the questionnaire. Results showed that there were no large differences between the level of elements in the hair of Japanese children and those of children in other developed countries. Girls had significantly higher levels of aluminum, copper, and iron (p = 0.000, 0.014, and 0.013, respectively), and boys had a higher level of sodium (p = 0.006). The levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and sodium in nursery school children were significantly higher than those in kindergarten children (p = 0.024, 0.001, 0.046, and 0.029, respectively). Multiple regression analyses with controlling the confounding variables showed significant negative associations of frequency of yogurt intake with aluminum and lead levels (p = 0.015 and 0.037, respectively). When the children were divided into three groups based on the frequency of yoghurt consumption, viz. L (≤once a week), M (2 or 3 times a week), and H (≥4 to 6 times a week) group, the mean aluminum concentration (µg/g) in the L, M, and H groups was 11.06, 10.13, and 6.85, while the mean lead concentration (µg/g) was 1.76, 1.70, and 0.87, respectively. Our results suggested the validity of hair element concentrations as an exposure measure of essential elements and frequent yogurt intake as a viable measure for protecting children from toxic elements. However, these findings will need to be confirmed in more detailed studies with larger sample sizes in the future.

Can dietary magnesium sources and buffer change the ruminal microbiota composition and fermentation of lactating dairy cows?

Magnesium oxide (MgO) is one of the most used Mg supplements in livestock. However, to avoid relying upon only one Mg source, it is important to have alternative Mg sources. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the interaction of two Mg sources with buffer use on the ruminal microbiota composition, ruminal fermentation, and nutrient digestibility in lactating dairy cows. Twenty lactating Holstein cows were blocked by parity and days in milk into five blocks with four cows each, in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Within blocks, cows were assigned to one of four treatments: 1) MgO; 2) MgO + Na sesquicarbonate (MgO+); 3) calcium-magnesium hydroxide (CaMgOH); 4) CaMgOH + Na sesquicarbonate (CaMgOH+). For 60 d, cows were individually fed a corn silage-based diet, and treatments were top-dressed. Ruminal fluid was collected via an orogastric tube, for analyses of the microbiota composition, volatile fatty acids (VFA), lactate, and ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N). The microbiota composition was analyzed using V4/16S rRNA gene sequencing, and taxonomy was assigned using the Silva database. Statistical analysis was carried out following the procedures of block design analysis, where block and cow were considered random variables. Effects of Mg source, buffer, and the interaction between Mg Source × Buffer were analyzed through orthogonal contrasts. There was no interaction effect of the two factors evaluated. There was a greater concentration of NH3-N, lactate, and butyrate in the ruminal fluid of cows fed with CaMg(OH)2, regardless of the buffer use. The increase in these fermentation intermediates/ end-products can be explained by an increase in abundance of micro-organisms of the genus Prevotella, Lactobacillus, and Butyrivibrio, which are micro-organisms mainly responsible for proteolysis, lactate-production, and butyrate-production in the rumen, respectively. Also, dietary buffer use did not affect the ruminal fermentation metabolites and pH; however, an improvement of the apparent total tract digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), neutral fiber detergent (NDF), and acid fiber detergent (ADF) were found for animals fed with dietary buffer. In summary, there was no interaction effect of buffer use and Mg source, whereas buffer improved total tract apparent digestibility of DM and OM through an increase in NDF and ADF digestibility and CaMg(OH)2 increased ruminal concentration of butyrate and abundance of butyrate-producing bacteria.

Potential health risk assessment, spatio-temporal hydrochemistry and groundwater quality of Yamuna river basin, Northern India

Groundwater which is an essential source of freshwater for various domestic, agricultural, industrial applications is facing a severe deterioration in quality due to demographic pressure and intense industrial activities. Present study appraises the influence of human induced activities on groundwater quality of Agra-Firozabad industrial belts of Western Uttar Pradesh, Yamuna basin, India. The maximum concentrations of metals and anions found during pre and post monsoon are as follows: Lead 0.302; 0.086, calcium 672; 1260, magnesium 215; 16.8, cadmium 0.0; 0.066, chromium 0.016; 0.005, manganese 0.340; 0.076, nickel 0.044; 0.028, sulfate 514; 286, nitrate 66.7; 3.56 and fluoride 1.17; 2.02 mg/L respectively. Based on results of Water Quality Index, groundwater samples were classified under 'Poor water' category in 34.2% and 52.63% during pre and post-monsoon period, respectively. Accordingly, higher concentrations of bicarbonate and sulfate might have attributed to excess hardness, instrumental in making it unsuitable for industrial usage. However, values of Percent Sodium, Sodium Adsorption Ratio, Magnesium Hazard and Permeability Index signified that groundwater from majority of locations was fit for agricultural use. Health risk assessment studies revealed that children consuming polluted water were affected more as compared to adults. Timely action and strict compliance of regulation is recommended towards groundwater management for defined usage to avert severe health effects and to meet sustainable development goals.

Water quality assessment of the Karasu River (Turkey) using various indices, multivariate statistics and APCS-MLR model

Determining the water quality status of a river and accurately identifying potential pollution sources threatening the river are pillars in effective control of pollution and sustainable water management. In this study, water quality indices, multivariate statistics and absolute principal component score-multiple linear regression (APCS-MLR) were applied to evaluate the water quality of the Karasu River, the main tributary of the Euphrates River (Turkey). For this, 19 water quality variables were monitored monthly at eight stations along the river during one year. Based on the mean dissolved oxygen (DO), electrical conductivity (EC), nitrate-nitrogen (NO₃-N), orthophosphate-phosphorus (PO₄-P), total phosphorus (TP), ammonium-nitrogen (NH4-N), chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total nitrogen (TN) levels, most stations of the river had "very good" water status according to surface water quality criteria. Spatial cluster analysis (CA) divided eight stations into three regions as clean region, moderate clean region and very clean region. The mean values of Nutrient Pollution Index indicated that the river was "no polluted". Similarly, Water Quality Index and Organic Pollution Index values indicated that the river water quality was between "good" and "excellent". A minimum water quality index (WQI_min) consisted of ten crucial parameters was not significantly different with the WQI based on all the 17 parameters. Discriminant analysis (DA) results showed that water temperature (WT), EC, chlorophyll-a (Chl-a), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), NO₃-N and COD are the variables responsible for temporal changes, while WT, total dissolves solids (TDS), Chl-a, K, magnesium (Mg), Ca, NH₄-N and COD are the variables responsible for spatial changes in the river water quality. Principal component analysis/factor analysis (PCA/FA) identified four potential sources, including anthropogenic, natural, seasonal and phytoplankton. Source apportionment in the APCS-MLR model revealed that seasonal and anthropogenic sources contributed 35.2% and 25.5% to river water quality parameters, respectively, followed by phytoplankton (21.4%) and natural sources (17.9%).

Effects of composite materials and revegetation on soil nutrients, chemical and microbial properties in rare earth tailings

The mining of ionic rare earth elements in Ganzhou left large area of barren tailings with severe vegetation destruction in pressing needs of remediation. However, the remediating effects of soil additives combined with revegetation on the preservation of nutrients in the tailings and microbial communities were rarely studied. For this purpose, pilot experiments were implemented in a field, with the control group (CK) only cultivating plants without adding materials, and three treatments including peanut straw biochar composite (T1), phosphorus‑magnesium composite (T2) and modified zeolite composite (T3) along with the cultivation of Medicago sativa L., Paspalum vaginatum Sw. and Lolium perenne L. Soil pH and organic matter in CK significantly decreased from 4.90 to 4.17 and from 6.62 g/kg to 3.87 g/kg after six months, respectively (p ≤ 0.05), while all the treatments could effectively buffer soil acidification (over 5.74) and delay the loss of soil organic matter. Soil cation exchange capacity was still below the detection limit in all the groups except T2. The results of rainfall runoff monitoring indicated that compared with CK, only T2 could significantly reduce the runoff loss of soil NO₃^- and SO₄^2- by 45.61 %-75.78 % and 64.03 %-76.12 %, respectively (p ≤ 0.05). Compared with CK, the bacterial diversity in T2 and T3 significantly increased 21.18 % and 28.15 %, respectively (p ≤ 0.05), while T1 didn't change the bacterial or fungal diversity (p > 0.05). Co-occurrence network analysis showed that compared with CK, the whole microbial communities interacted more closely in the three treatments. Functional prediction of the microbial communities revealed all the treatments were dominated by carbon transforming bacteria and saprotrophic fungi except T2. This study demonstrated that the composite materials combined with revegetation couldn't retain soil nitrogen compounds and sulfate in rare earth tailings in the long term.

Evidences of microplastics in aerosols and street dust: a case study of Varanasi City, India

Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous in our environment. Its presence in air, water, and soil makes it a serious threat to living organisms and has become a critical challenge across ecosystems. Present study aimed to assess the abundance of MPs in aerosols and street dust in Varanasi, a typical urban city in Northern India. Airborne particulates and street dust samples were collected from various sampling sites around Varanasi City. The physical identification of MPs was conducted by binocular microscopy, fluorescence microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), while elemental analysis was made by energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX). Finally, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used for chemical characterization of MPs. Presence of MPs in both aerosols and street dust from all selected sampling sites was confirmed, however with varying magnitude. MPs of different colors having the shape of fragments, films, spherules, and fibers were recorded in the study while fragments (42%) in street dust and fibers (44%) dominated in aerosols. Majority of the MPs were < 1 mm in size and were primarily polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyester, and polyvinyl chloride types. The EDX spectra showed the presence of toxic inorganic contaminants like metallic elements on MPs, especially elements like aluminum, cadmium, magnesium, sodium, and silicon found to adsorb on the MPs. Presence of MPs in the airborne particulates and street dust in Varanasi is reported for the first time, thus initiating further research and call for a source-specific management plan to reduce its impact on human health and environment.

Aerosol mass and size-resolved metal content in urban Bangkok, Thailand

Inhalable particulate matter (PM) is a health concern, and people living in large cities such as Bangkok are exposed to high concentrations. This exposure has been linked to respiratory and cardiac diseases and cancers of the lung and brain. Throughout 2018, PM was measured in northern Bangkok near a toll road (13.87°N, 100.58°E) covering all three seasons (cool, hot and rainy). PM₁₀ was measured in 24- and 72-h samples. On selected dates aerodynamic size and mass distribution were measured as 3-day samples from a fixed 5th floor inlet. Particle number concentration was measured from the 5th floor inlet and in roadside survey measurements. There was a large fraction of particle number concentration in the sub-micron range, which showed the greatest variability compared with larger fractions. Metals associated with combustion sources were most found on the smaller size fraction of particles, which may have implications for associated adverse health outcomes because of the likely location of aerosol deposition in the distal airways of the lung. PM₁₀ samples varied between 30 and 100 μg m^-3, with highest concentrations in the cool season. The largest metal fractions present in the PM₁₀ measurements were calcium, iron and magnesium during the hot season with average airborne concentrations of 13.2, 3.6 and 2.0 μg m^-3, respectively. Copper, zinc, arsenic, selenium, molybdenum, cadmium, antimony and lead had large non-crustal sources. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified likely sources of the metals as crustal minerals, tailpipe exhaust and non-combustion traffic. A health risk analysis showed a higher risk of both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health effects in the drier seasons than the wet season due to ingestion of nickel, arsenic, cadmium and lead.

Elemental composition of primary lamellar bone differs between parous and nulliparous rhesus macaque females

Extracting life history information from mineralized hard tissues of extant and extinct species is an ongoing challenge in evolutionary and conservation studies. Primary lamellar bone is a mineralized tissue with multidien periodicity that begins deposition prenatally and continues until adulthood albeit with concurrent resorption, thus maintaining a record spanning several years of an individual's life. Here, we use field-emission scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis to measure the relative concentrations of calcium, phosphorous, oxygen, magnesium and sodium in the femora of seven rhesus macaque with known medical and life-history information. We find that the concentration of these elements distinguishes parous from nulliparous females; that in females calcium and phosphorus are lower in bone formed during reproductive events; and that significant differences in relative magnesium concentration correlate with breastfeeding in infants.

Hydrogeochemistry and groundwater quality assessment in Ambagarh Chowki, Chhattisgarh, India

The current study was focused on hydrogeochemistry of Ambagarh chowki groundwater. The main aim of the study was to evaluate the water quality for drinking and irrigation uses, hydrogeochemistry of groundwater. For this purpose, various physicochemical parameters like pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total hardness (TH), chloride (Cl^-), fluoride (F^-), calcium (Ca²⁺), magnesium (Mg²⁺), sodium (Na⁺), potassium (K⁺), bicarbonate (HCO₃^-), and sulfate (SO₄^2-) were analyzed. The major dominating ions in groundwater was found as cation Ca²⁺  > Mg²⁺  > Na⁺  > K⁺ and as anions in order of HCO₃^-  > Cl^-  > SO₄^2-  > F^-. The pH of sampled groundwater was ranged from neutral to alkaline in nature (7.0-8.8). Among, all-analyzed parameters in groundwater were safe for drinking purpose except few ions and bicarbonate content was also exceeding the permissible limit which was not suitable for drinking purpose. The potential health hazard element fluoride was varied from 0.1 to 2.2 mg/l and positively associated with the pH, Na⁺, and HCO₃^- content in groundwater. The drinking water quality index (WQI) was fluctuated between 12.22 and 185.56 and reported that most of the groundwater was suitable for drinking purpose except only one sample was unsuitable for drinking. Irrigation water quality assessment of the area was performed by evaluating as sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), permeability index (PI), Kelly ratio (KR), magnesium hazard ratio (MHR), percent sodium (%Na), potential salinity (PS), and residual sodium carbonate (RSC). Whereas most of the groundwater were good and suitable for irrigation use excluding PI (3.70%), MHR (40.74%), RSC (22.22%) and PS (7.41%) were unsuitable for continuous irrigation. Hydrogeochemistry of groundwater evaluated with correlation, Piper, Gibbs, and other geochemical analysis. The Piper trilinear diagram reflects the Ca (Mg)-HCO₃^- type water was mainly contributed approximately 90% of entire sampled groundwater. The different ions in groundwater were originated from the rock water interaction through silicate and carbonate weathering of minerals.

Field studies, ion analysis, and modeling of Kashan plain aquifer to predict the source of salinization

The shortage of freshwater and salinization are considered two major development problems in arid and semi-arid regions. The growth of population, development of industry and agriculture, and climate change cause over-extraction of groundwater resources; consequently, the quality and quantity of groundwater decreased, especially in the arid and semi-arid areas. The present study investigates the reasons for salinization of the Kashan aquifer. In this study, 53 observation wells located in the aquifer were examined for qualitative study. A total of 80 samples were collected from selected wells over a period of 5 years (2005-2009) and analyzed for 9 chemical parameters (electrical conductivity (EC), pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), sodium (Na⁺), potassium (K⁺), calcium(Ca²⁺, magnesium (Mg²⁺), chlorine (Cl^-), and bicarbonate (HCO^-₃)). Groundwater table study shows that the direction of groundwater flow throughout the aquifer is often from the west to the east of the aquifer, except for the northeastern part of the aquifer, where a backflow from the northeast (salt lake) into the aquifer is visible. Results of ion analysis in different areas of the aquifer indicate the occurrence of upconing phenomenon in the center and south regions and the occurrence of saline water intrusion phenomenon in northeast regions. To simulate the condition of the Kashan aquifer for the next 50 years, a model of the quantity and quality of the aquifer was developed using the SEAWAT code. According to the results, the salinization of the Kashan plain aquifer should occur due to two main reasons: irregular groundwater extraction and upconing phenomenon and the intrusion of saline water from the salt lake towards the aquifer. The Kashan aquifer salinization forecast results show that the continuation of the current pumping activities for the next 50 years should increase the numbers of wells affected by salinity. Considering the critical situation of the Kashan aquifer and the existing serious threats, serious decisions and measures for the proper management of groundwater and aquifer protection are vital.

Hydrogeochemical characterization of the groundwater of Lahore region using supervised machine learning technique

The cationic and anionic composition in groundwater can be better understood by identifying the type of hydrogeochemical processes influencing groundwater chemistry. This research deals with the characterization of groundwater samples by considering the likely role of hydrogeochemical processes and the factors responsible for the weathering process. The study applies statistical methods and supervised machine learning algorithm (i.e., logistic regression model) on the large data set of 1300 water samples from the Lahore district of Punjab, Pakistan. All the water samples were collected by the local authorities from a deep unconfined aquifer (> 350 ft in depth) for the years of 2005 to 2016. The characterization of groundwater quality parameters includes pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), total hardness (TH), calcium (Ca²⁺), magnesium (Mg²⁺), sodium (Na⁺), potassium (K⁺), chloride (Cl^-), bicarbonate (HCO₃^-), nitrate (NO₃^-), and sulfate (SO₄^2-). The results show the sequence of the major ion in the following order: Na⁺  > Ca²⁺  > Mg⁺  > K⁺ and HCO₃^2-  > SO₄^2-  > Cl^-  > NO₃^-. The ionic ratios and Gibb's plot revealed that the prominent hydrogeochemical facies of aquifer water is Ca-HCO₃, Ca-Na-HCO₃, and mixed Ca-Mg-Cl type rock-weathering process, especially carbonate and silicate weathering, as significant process controlling water chemistry. The statistical evaluation of the prepared regression model determined its prediction accuracy as 92.2%, which means the model is highly efficient and satisfies the analysis. The outcomes of this study favor the utilization of such methods for other areas with large data sets.

Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, and Antimicrobial Activities of Leaves of Ajuga Iva

The main objective of this research was to study the biological characteristics in terms of antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Ajuga iva and determine the best analytical and extraction methods applicable to this specie and studied compounds. A short screening of its nutritional value in terms of chemical composition is also included. A. iva leaves were analyzed for crude protein (CP), cell wall [neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and acid detergent lignin (ADL)], minerals, fatty acids, essential oils, and phenolic compounds. Mature aerial parts of A. iva were randomly collected during the Spring season from Mograne-Zaghouan, Tunisia. Leaves of A. iva contained 13.4 ± 0.4% CP, 26.3 ± 0.35% NDF, 20.2 ± 0.42% ADF, and 5.13 ± 0.21% ADL. Mineral content (13.0 ± 0.45%) was mainly composed of potassium (4.5% g DM) and magnesium (4.25% DM). Leaves of A. iva had linolenic (26.29 ± 0.760%) and linoleic (37.66 ± 2.35%) acids as the main components of the acid profile. Thymol was found to be the most dominant (23.43%) essential oil, followed by 4-vinylguaiacol (14.27%) and linalool (13.66%). HPLC-PDA-ESI-MS/MS analysis pointed out the presence of phytoecdysteroids. Phenolic acids and flavonoids, such as glycosylated derivatives of naringenin, eriodyctiol, and apigenin, were detected in the methanol extract of A. iva leaves. Our results underline the importance of choosing proper extraction methods and solvents to extract and characterize the described compounds profile of A. iva leaves. Results also show A. iva leaves as a potential source of functional ingredients with beneficial health-promoting properties. Overall, leaves of A. iva have low biological activities (antioxidant and antimicrobial activities) with a chemical composition suitable as a feed for ruminants in rangeland pasture. It also has low-grade antibacterial or medicinal characteristics when fed to ruminants.

Spatiotemporal assessment of groundwater quality in the Central Ganga Plain, India, using multivariate statistical tools

In the present study, the water quality status of the Sadar block in Pratapgarh district of Uttar Pradesh, India, was calculated by Water Pollution Index (WPI) using 15 groundwater quality parameters (pH, turbidity, EC (electric conductivity), TDS (total dissolved solids), salinity, total hardness, Ca²⁺, K⁺, Mg²⁺, Na⁺, Cl^-, F^-, SO₄^2-, HCO₃^-, and NO₃^-) at 40 different study locations. It is found that 10%, 25%, and 65%, of samples, fall under the good, moderately polluted, and highly polluted category, respectively. Irrigation suitability of groundwater has also been evaluated by using irrigation suitability parameters, i.e., Sodium Absorption Ratio (SAR), Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC), Permeability Index (PI), Kelly Ratio (KR), Percentage Sodium (% Na), and Magnesium Hazards (MH). Based on the analysis, it was determined that most of the samples were suitable for irrigation in the area. Irrigation practices are found to be unsuitable for Kelly's ratio of 37.5%, MH 60%, and RSC 55% samples. WPI and Pearson's correlation matrix (PCA) have suggested a significant linear relationship among the water quality parameters based on the test results. The Gibbs plot indicates that the majority of samples fall under the "evaporation dominance" category while the rest fall under the "rock weathering dominance" suggesting that the complex geochemical mechanisms are active in the study area. This study would be very helpful to government authorities and it would aid them to suggest alternate drinking water resources in affected areas.

Determining groundwater quality using indices and multivariate statistical techniques: a study of Tosham block, Haryana, India

Water is the most important component for human survival and often the most misused one. The present study deals with the assessment of groundwater quality of Tosham block, Bhiwani District, Haryana, India, and its nearby villages. A total of 23 samples were collected from different groundwater sources and were analysed for 16 different physico-chemical parameters. Correlation coefficients were calculated to identify highly correlated and interrelated water quality parameters. It provides an excellent tool for the prediction of parameter values within the reasonable rank of exactness. A strong correlation was observed between total hardness, magnesium and total dissolved solids, especially between total dissolved solids and electrical conductivity. The obtained results were compared with Indian Standard Drinking water specifications IS: 10500-2012. Concentration of total hardness, iron and chloride was found above the permissible limit in all the samples. Multivariate statistical techniques, namely cluster analysis and principal component analysis, were used to find the relationship between studied parameters. Water quality index (WQI) was also calculated. The WQI of groundwater samples ranged from 125 to 556. The water quality index revealed that out of 23 samples, 13 were found to have poor water quality and 6 samples were of very poor water quality. High value of WQI was found mainly from total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity, total hardness, Mg, Cl and Fe. Groundwater analysis of the studied water samples indicated that there is a need to treat the water before its use for drinking and other domestic activities. Necessary precautions should be taken to prevent the groundwater from being contaminated.

Contamination Evaluation and Source Analysis of Heavy Metals in Karst Soil Using UNMIX Model and Pb-Cd Isotopes

Karst terrain is the typical area covered with a high background of heavy metals under geochemical anomaly. This research explored the accumulation of geochemical elements and soil sources in karst terrain from rock and soil exposed in carbonate areas. The comprehensive ecological risk and enrichment of heavy metals from parent rock weathered to soil was investigated in 11 formations in the carbonate and clastic areas of the Weining and Hezhang counties in northwest Guizhou. The single factor pollution index, geoaccumulation index, and the potential risk coefficient were used to assess the environmental risk. The results revealed that the heavy metals in an overall geologically high background level of soil in northwest Guizhou is at a slight risk level. However, except for Cd, the heavy metals did not exceed the standard pollution reference. Moreover, the UNMIX model and Cd and Pb isotopes were used to analyze the source of heavy metals, comprising of cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), and zinc (Zn), and the geochemical elements of silicon (Si), aluminum (Al), iron (Fe), magnesium (Mg), and calcium (Ca). The study showed that most elements in the soil carbonate area exceed the national standard, and the heavy metals in the soil showed a strong enrichment, while the major elements Si and Mg display strong loss. Heavy metal concentrations in soil in the carbonate area were higher than in the clastic area. Geological sources and atmospheric deposition were the main contributors to heavy metal concentrations in both carbonate and clastic areas, and their concentrations differ according to soils developing in different formations.

Consequences of anthropogenic activities and beach dynamics on vertical distribution of microplastics in the mid-intertidal sediments of Donghai Island, China

Microplastic accumulation and resulting degradation are significant threats to the coastal ecosystems around the world. Baseline information on microplastics and their sources is of great importance for a permanent waste management system. The present study focused on the vertical distribution and characteristics of microplastics in the mid-intertidal zone of Donghai Island, China. At eight locations, sediment samples were collected from surface to a depth of 30 cm at intervals of 5 cm. Overall, we found five different polymer types, and vertical distributions of microplastics varied ranging from 0 to 200 particles/kg, with the mean value of 32.92±41.35 particles/kg. Sediment samples collected from all stations contained microplastics with high contribution of fibres. Intruded microplastic materials recorded in sediment samples at a depth of 30 cm demonstrate that microplastics may be present at depths greater than 30 cm. Scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDAX) analysis revealed presence of common elements in the microplastics surface (silicon, aluminium, magnesium, copper, and calcium). Based on the observations and results from this study, we suggest implementing a robust microplastic removal management program in Donghai Island to avoid serious microplastic intrusion effects on benthos and environmental contamination.

Groundwater quality assessment and modeling utilizing water quality index and GIS in Kabul Basin, Afghanistan

Groundwater stands as a unique source of water supply in Kabul city, Afghanistan. In this investigation, 35 samples of groundwater were comprehensively analyzed to determine its hydrogeochemical characterizations, quality, water types, and its acceptability as drinking sources. A portable digital multiparameter instrument (LAB MAN Scientific instrument) was used to measure the total dissolved solids (TDS), hydrogen potential (pH), and electrical conductivity (EC). Total hardness, chloride, and bicarbonate were examined via a titrimetric approach. Sodium, calcium, magnesium, and potassium concentrations were measured with a flame photometer. Fluoride was determined by using a digital portable multiparameter. UV-VIS spectrophotometers were employed to count sulfate and nitrate concentrations. The distribution pattern of measured parameters and the Water Quality Index (WQI) in groundwater were spatially modeled utilizing the ArcGIS tool. The findings provide insight into the main anions and cations, which are found in ascending sequence F < NO₃ < SO₄ < Cl < HCO₃ and K < Ca < Na < Mg, respectively. Based on the measurements of ion concentrations, bicarbonate (71.4%), chloride (14.28%), nitrate (2.85%), magnesium (80%), sodium (82.85%), calcium (5.71%), and potassium (17.14%) were all determined to be over the World Health Organization (WHO) limits of drinking water. Using the Piper trilinear diagram, two significant hydrochemical facies (CaNaHCO₃ and NaHCO₃) were discovered. Based on the mathematical model of WQI outputs, 88.57% of the research region has excellent to good water, whereas 11.43% has poor to very poor water.

Spatial distributions of salt-based ions, a case study from the Hunshandake Sandy Land, China

Soil water soluble base ion salt-based ion concentrations are critical parameters for estimating soil buffer capacity and vegetation productivity. Ionic content clearly covaries with the distribution of plant communities. Previous studies on salt-based ions in soils focused primarily on ion migration and its relationships with vegetation growth. Few studies have sought to characterize larger scale spatial distribution of salt-based ions or correlation with climatic and plant community characteristics. This study used ion chromatography to analyze the salt-based ion content (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Na⁺ and K⁺) of surface soils from the Hunshandake sandy lands. Statistical methods were used interpret spatial variation. Results showed that the average content of salt-based ions in Hunshandake sandy land was 86.57 mg/kg. Average values ranked as Ca²⁺ > Na⁺ > K⁺ > Mg²⁺ but concentrations also exhibited uneven spatial distributions. Horizontal spatial variation in Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺ and Na⁺ ions showed these ions gradually decrease from northwest to southeast. Potassium ions (K⁺) showed no obvious spatial variation trends. Ions varied significantly across different soil layers but their average concentrations ranked as K⁺>Na⁺>Ca²⁺>Mg²⁺ (from shallow to deep). The 20–30 cm soil layer contained the highest salt ion concentrations. Of the four base ions, only K⁺ ions appeared in surface samples. In terms of water soluble base ion available salt-based ions, Ca²⁺ occurred in the highest concentrations along the north and west side of the study area. K⁺ ions occurred in the highest concentrations along the south and east sides of the study area. Na⁺ concentrations did not show a consistent spatial pattern. Statistical analysis detected significant correlations of normalized ion concentration parameters (Ca²⁺/CECT, K⁺/CEC, effective water soluble base ion salt-based ions) and the total species number, average species number and total biomass of the plant communities (P <0.05). This study can help inform understanding of soil water transport in sandy areas and provide a reference for interpreting ecosystems in arid regions.

Drinking water magnesium and cardiovascular mortality: A cohort study in Denmark, 2005-2016

INTRODUCTION

Cardiovascular diseases are globally a major cause of death. Magnesium deficiency is associated with several diseases including cardiovascular diseases.

OBJECTIVE

To examine if a low concentration of magnesium in drinking water is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality and mortality due to acute myocardial infarction and stroke.

METHODS

A nationwide population-based cohort study using national health registries was used. A total of 4,274,132 individuals aged 30 years or more were included. Magnesium concentration in drinking water was estimated by linkage of residential addresses in the period 2005-2016 with the national drinking water quality monitoring database. The association between magnesium concentration in drinking water and cardiovascular mortality and mortality due to acute myocardial infarction and stroke was examined using a Poisson regression of number of deaths and logarithmic transformation of follow-up time as offset. The incidence rate ratio (IRR) was adjusted for differences in age, sex, calendar year, cohabitation, country of origin, and socioeconomic status.

RESULTS

Median magnesium concentration in drinking water at inclusion was 12.4 mg/L (range: 1.37-54.2 mg/L). The adjusted IRR for cardiovascular mortality was 0.96 (95% CI: 0.94; 0.97) for the lowest magnesium quintile (<6.5 mg/L) as compared to the highest magnesium quintile (>21.9 mg/L). The adjusted IRR for mortality due to acute myocardial infarction and stroke was 1.22 (1.17; 1.27) and 0.96 (0.93; 0.99), respectively, for the lowest magnesium quintile as compared to the highest quintile A decreasing mortality due to acute myocardial infarction was seen with an increasing magnesium concentration in a dose-response manner.

CONCLUSION

Low concentrations of magnesium in drinking water were associated with an increased mortality due to acute myocardial infarction. Low concentrations of magnesium in drinking water were associated with decreased cardiovascular mortality, and mortality due to stroke.

Recovery of phosphate and ammonium nitrogen as struvite from aqueous solutions using a magnesium-air cell system

The addition of alkaline and magnesium sources during the recovery of NH₄⁺ and PO₄^3- in the form of struvite using the traditional struvite precipitation method increases the production cost. To solve this problem, a magnesium-air cell (MAC) system was used herein to recover NH₄⁺ and PO₄^3- as struvite from wastewater using a magnesium strip (Mg²⁺) and the oxygen adsorbed on the surface of a titanium plate (OH^-) as the anode and cathode, respectively. Experimental parameters (i.e. initial solution pH, temperature, NH₄⁺/PO₄^3- molar ratio, NH₄⁺ and PO₄^3- initial concentrations and stirring intensity) were found to affect the removal rate of NH₄⁺ and PO₄^3-. The presence of Ca²⁺ decreased the struvite purity. At Ca²⁺/PO₄^3- ratios of 0:1 and 0.5:1, the purity of the obtained struvite after 6 h was 93.8% and 58.9%, respectively. Struvite with a purity of 95.7%, electricity with an average output power of 2.53 mW, and an energy density of 1.05 W/m² were obtained when the proposed system was used to recover NH₄⁺ and PO₄^3- from an actual supernatant of domestic sludge anaerobic digestion. Scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analyses showed that the obtained struvite exhibited almost the same physicochemical properties as commercial struvite. Thus, the MAC system can be regarded as an effective method for recovering NH₄⁺ and PO₄^3- in the form of struvite from wastewater.

Functional role of inorganic trace elements in dentin apatite tissue-Part 1: Mg, Sr, Zn, and Fe

Many essential elements exist in nature with significant influence on dentin and bone apatite tissue. Hydroxyapatite (HAp) is the major inorganic crystalline structure of dentin that provides a site for various physiological functions such as surface layer ion exchange. Decades of apatite research have shown that enamel is a high-substituted crystalline apatite, but recent findings suggest that dentin apatite may play a more important role in regulating ion exchange as well as mineral crystallinity. This article is the first part of a review series on the functional role of inorganic trace elements including magnesium, strontium, zinc, and iron in dentin hydroxyapatite. The morphology, physiology, crystallinity, and solubility of these elements as they get substituted into the HAp lattice are extensively discussed. An electronic search was performed on the role of these elements in dentin apatite from January 2007 to September 2021. The relationship between different elements and their role in the mineral upkeep of dentin apatite was evaluated. Several studies recognized the role of these elements in dentinal apatite composition and its subsequent effects on morphology, crystallinity, and solubility. These elements are of great importance in physiological processes and an essential part of living organisms. Magnesium and strontium stimulate osteoblast activity, while zinc can improve overall bone quality with its antibacterial properties. Iron nanoparticles are also vital in promoting bone tissue growth as they donate or accept electrons in redox reactions. Thus, understanding how these elements impact dentin apatite structure is of great clinical significance.

Application of artificial neural networks and genetic algorithm to predict and optimize greenhouse banana fruit yield through nitrogen, potassium and magnesium

The excess of the chemical fertilizers not only causes the environmental pollution but also has many deteriorating effects including global warming and alteration of soil microbial diversity. In conventional researches, chemical fertilizers and their concentrations are selected based on the knowledge of experts involved in the projects, which this kind of models are usually subjective. Therefore, the present study aimed to introduce the optimal concentrations of three macro elements including nitrogen (0, 100, and 200 g), potassium (0, 100, 200, and 300 g), and magnesium (0, 50, and 100 g) on fruit yield (FY), fruit length (FL), and number of rows per spike (NRPS) of greenhouse banana using analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by post hoc LSD test and two well-known artificial neural networks (ANNs) including multilayer perceptron (MLP) and generalized regression neural network (GRNN). According to the results of ANOVA, the highest mean value of the FY was obtained with 200 g of N, 300 g of K, and 50 g of Mg. Based on the results of the present study, the both ANNs models had high predictive accuracy (R2 = 0.66-0.99) in the both training and testing data for the FY, FL, and NRPS. However, the GRNN model had better performance than MLP model for modeling and predicting the three characters of greenhouse banana. Therefore, genetic algorithm (GA) was subjected to the GRNN model in order to find the optimal amounts of N, K, and Mg for achieving the high amounts of the FY, FL, and NRPS. The GRNN-GA hybrid model confirmed that high yield of the plant could be achieved by reducing chemical fertilizers including nitrogen, potassium, and magnesium by 65, 44, and 62%, respectively, in compared to traditional method.

Analysis of soil bacterial communities and physicochemical properties associated with Fusarium wilt disease of banana in Malaysia

Fusarium wilt (FW) caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4 (TR4) is a soil-borne disease that infects bananas, causing severe economic losses worldwide. To reveal the relationship between bacterial populations and FW, the bacterial communities of healthy and TR4-infected rhizosphere and bulk soils were compared using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Soil physicochemical properties associated with FW were also analyzed. We found the community structure of bacteria in the healthy and TR4 infected rhizosphere was significantly different compared to bulk soil within the same farm. The rhizosphere soils of infected plants exhibited higher richness and diversity than healthy plant with significant abundance of Proteobacteria. In the healthy rhizosphere soil, beneficial bacteria such as Burkholderia and Streptomyces spp. were more abundant. Compared to the infected rhizosphere soil, healthy rhizosphere soil was associated with RNA metabolism and transporters pathways and a high level of magnesium and cation exchange capacity. Overall, we reported changes in the key taxa of rhizospheric bacterial communities and soil physicochemical properties of healthy and FW-infected plants, suggesting their potential role as indicators for plant health.

Determination of Some Elements in Legumes Using ICP-MS and EDXRF Methodology Applications

The current study involves two analytical research techniques, inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectroscopy, used to determine the elemental composition of different legumes usually produced and consumed in Slovenia. Results indicate that data obtained using these methods are in agreement with certified reference materials. In total, nineteen elements were determined from twenty legume samples. An intercomparison between four macro- (P, S, K, Ca) and three microelements (Fe, Zn, Mo) measured using ICP-MS and EDXRF methods showed a strong correlation. The EDXRF was found to be a cheaper, simpler and more environmentally friendly method for determination of elements P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Fe, Zn, Mo, Sr, Rb, Ti and Br in legumes, while for the identification and determination of Na, Mg, V, Cr, Mn, Co and Cu content ICP-MS was the method of choice due to its excellent sensitivity and accuracy. Using principal component analysis (PCA), the samples of the studied legumes were classified into four groups according to their elemental composition.

The Mineral Composition of Date Palm Fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.) under Low to High Salinity Irrigation

Adaptability to salinity varies between different varieties of date palm trees. This research aims to explore the long-term impact of different salinity irrigation levels on the mineral content of 13 date palm varieties grown in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Date varieties were grown using three irrigation water salinity levels of 5, 10 and 15 dS m^-1. The mineral composition (B, Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Na, P and Zn) of date palm fruits was determined using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). High salinity levels showed no effect on the mineral content of Ajwat AlMadinah, Naghal, Barhi, Shagri, Abu Maan, Jabri, Sukkari and Rothan varieties. All date varieties remained good sources of dietary potassium, magnesium, manganese and boron even at high salinity levels. Increased salinity had no effect on the percent Daily Value (%DV) categories of most of the analyzed minerals. While no genotypes showed a general adaptation to different saline environments, Barhi, Ajwat Al Madinah, Khinizi, Maktoumi and Shagri varieties were more stable towards salinity variation. In the UAE, the genotype x saline-environment interaction was found to be high which makes it impossible to attribute the variation in mineral content to a single varietal or salinity effect.

Ionic homeostasis, acid-base balance and the risk of citrate accumulation in patients after cardiovascular surgery treated with continuous veno-venous haemofiltration with post-dilution regional citrate anticoagulation - An observational case-control study

BACKGROUND

Patients after cardiovascular surgery, requiring renal replacement therapy, can benefit from adequate non-heparin circuit anticoagulation. Simplified regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA) protocol proposes the use of citric acid dextrose formula A (ACD-A) during post-dilutional continuous veno-venous hemofiltration (CVVH) with standard bicarbonate buffered calcium containing replacement solution. Citrate accumulation diagnosed upon total to ionized calcium ratio (tCa/iCa) and low ionized calcium (iCa) are considered as the biggest risks related to regional citrate accumulation.

METHODS

This prospective observational case-control study evaluated electrolyte and acid-base homeostasis in cardiovascular surgery patients treated with post-dilution CVVH with a simplified RCA protocol with ACD-A. In total, 50 consecutive cardiovascular surgery patients were evaluated. Base excess, pH, bicarbonate, lactate, Na+, Cl-, Mg++, and inorganic phosphate concentrations, the total to ionized calcium ratio (tCa/iCa), and high anion gap metabolic acidosis were assessed during haemofiltration treatment in survivors and non-survivors.

RESULTS

Thirty-three (66%) patients died. The therapies were very well balanced in sodium and chloride homeostasis. The lactate concentration and anion gap decreased during CVVH sessions lasting longer than 72 hours, but no inter-group difference was observed. The tCa/iCa ratio exceeded 4.5% and was significantly higher in non-survivors (p=0.037). Initial lactate concentration did not correlate with tCa/iCa ratio during haemofiltration. Magnesium and phosphate concentrations decreased and additional supplementation with magnesium was necessary. The magnesium concentration was lower in the non-survivors.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of citrate accumulation exceeded 4% and was significantly higher in non-survivors. Supplementation with magnesium and phosphate ions is needed in CVVH with RCA.

Rapa Nui (Easter Island) Rano Raraku crater lake basin: Geochemical characterization and implications for the Ahu-Moai Period

Rano Raraku, the crater lake constrained by basaltic tuff that served as the primary quarry used to construct the moai statues on Rapa Nui (Easter Island), has experienced fluctuations in lake level over the past centuries. As one of the only freshwater sources on the island, understanding the present and past geochemical characteristics of the lake water is critical to understand if the lake could have been a viable freshwater source for Rapa Nui. At the time of sampling in September 2017, the maximum lake depth was ~1 m. The lake level has substantially declined in the subsequent years, with the lake drying almost completely in January 2018. The lake is currently characterized by highly anoxic conditions, with a predominance of ammonium ions on nitrates, a high concentration of organic carbon in the water-sediment interface and reducing conditions of the lake, as evidenced by Mn/Fe and Cr/V ratios. Our estimates of past salinity inferred from the chloride mass balance indicates that it was unlikely that Rano Raraku provided a viable freshwater source for early Rapa Nui people. The installation of an outlet pipe around 1950 that was active until the late 1970s, as well as grazing of horses on the lake margins appear to have significantly impacted the geochemical conditions of Rano Raraku sediments and lake water in recent decades. Such impacts are distinct from natural environmental changes and highlight the need to consider the sensitivity of the lake geochemistry to human activities.

Studies of Peculiar Mg-Containing and Oscillating Bioapatites in Sheep and Horse Teeth

New types of biological apatites have been discovered in molar sheep and horse teeth and are divided in two types. In the first and more general type, the release of Mg ions is parallel to the changes in composition of apatite leading to a final stoichiometric ratio of Ca to P ions, going from dentin depth towards the boundary of enamel with air. Inside dentin, another apatite sub-types were discovered with alternating layers of Mg-rich and C-rich apatites. The approximate formal stoichiometric relationships for these peculiar types of bioapatites are suggested. We identified two kinds of ion-exchanges responsible for formation of peculiar apatites. Various combinations of main and minor elements lead to new versions of biological apatites.

Transcriptomics of different tissues of blueberry and diversity analysis of rhizosphere fungi under cadmium stress

Blueberry (Vaccinium ssp.) is a perennial shrub belonging to the family Ericaceae, which is highly tolerant of acid soils and heavy metal pollution. In the present study, blueberry was subjected to cadmium (Cd) stress in simulated pot culture. The transcriptomics and rhizosphere fungal diversity of blueberry were analyzed, and the iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn) and cadmium (Cd) content of blueberry tissues, soil and DGT was determined. A correlation analysis was also performed. A total of 84 374 annotated genes were identified in the root, stem, leaf and fruit tissue of blueberry, of which 3370 were DEGs, and in stem tissue, of which 2521 were DEGs. The annotation data showed that these DEGs were mainly concentrated in a series of metabolic pathways related to signal transduction, defense and the plant-pathogen response. Blueberry transferred excess Cd from the root to the stem for storage, and the highest levels of Cd were found in stem tissue, consistent with the results of transcriptome analysis, while the lowest Cd concentration occurred in the fruit, Cd also inhibited the absorption of other metal elements by blueberry. A series of genes related to Cd regulation were screened by analyzing the correlation between heavy metal content and transcriptome results. The roots of blueberry rely on mycorrhiza to absorb nutrients from the soil. The presence of Cd has a significant effect on the microbial community composition of the blueberry rhizosphere. The fungal family Coniochaetaceae, which is extremely extremelytolerant, has gradually become the dominant population. The results of this study increase our understanding of the plant regulation mechanism for heavy metals, and suggest potential methods of soil remediation using blueberry.

Tissue responses after implantation of biodegradable Mg alloys evaluated by multimodality 3D micro-bioimaging in vivo

The local response of tissue triggered by implantation of degradable magnesium-based implant materials was investigated in vivo in a murine model. Pins (5.0 mm length by 0.5 mm diameter) made of Mg, Mg-10Gd, and Ti were implanted in the leg muscle tissue of C57Bl/6N mice (n = 6). Implantation was generally well tolerated as documented by only a mild short term increase in a multidimensional scoring index. Lack of difference between the groups indicated that the response was systemic and surgery related rather than material dependent. Longitudinal in vivo monitoring utilizing micro-computed tomography over 42 days demonstrated the highest and most heterogeneous degradation for Mg-10Gd. Elemental imaging of the explants by micro X-ray fluorescence spectrometry showed a dense calcium-phosphate-containing degradation layer. In order to monitor resulting surgery induced and/or implant material associated local cell stress, sphingomyelin based liposomes containing indocyanine green were administered. An initial increase in fluorescent signals (3-7 days after implantation) indicating cell stress at the site of the implantation was measured by in vivo fluorescent molecular tomography. The signal decreased until the 42nd day for all materials. These findings demonstrate that Mg based implants are well tolerated causing only mild and short term adverse reactions.

Hair EDX Analysis-A Promising Tool for Micronutrient Status Evaluation of Patients with IBD?

Micronutrient deficiencies can arise in various conditions, including inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), and diagnosing these deficiencies can be challenging in the absence of specific clinical signs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the status of various trace elements hair concentration in IBD patients compared to a healthy control group and to identify potential correlations between the micronutrient status and relevant parameters related to disease activity. The concentrations of iron, magnesium, calcium, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium and sulfur in the hair of 37 IBD patients with prior diagnosed IBD (12 Crohn's disease and 25 ulcerative colitis) and 31 healthy controls were evaluated by Energy Dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy (EDX). Significant differences in hair concentration profile of studied trace elements were identified for IBD patients compared to healthy controls. A significantly decreased hair concentration of iron, magnesium, calcium and selenium and a significantly increased sulfur hair concentration were observed in IBD patients at the time of evaluation. A decreased hair calcium concentration (r = -0.772, p = 0.003) and an increased sulfur concentration (r = 0.585, p = 0.046) were significantly correlated with disease activity. Conclusion: Hair mineral and trace elements evaluation may contribute to a proper evaluation of their status in IBD patients and improving the management of nutritional status of IBD patients.