Biochar-integrated reactive filtration of wastewater for P removal and recovery, micropollutant catalytic oxidation, and negative CO2 e: Life cycle assessment and techno-economic analysis

Life cycle assessment (LCA) and techno-economic analysis (TEA) models are developed for a tertiary wastewater treatment system that employs a biochar-integrated reactive filtration (RF) approach. This innovative system incorporates the utilization of biochar (BC) either in conjunction with or independently of iron-ozone catalytic oxidation (CatOx)-resulting in two configurations: Fe-CatOx-BC-RF and BC-RF. The technology demonstrates 90%-99% total phosphorus removals, adsorption of phosphorus to biochar for recovery, and >90% destructive removal of observed micropollutants. In this work, we conduct an ISO-compliant LCA of a 49.2 m3 /day (9 gpm) field pilot-scale Fe-CatOx-BC-RF system and a 1130 m3 /day (0.3 MGD) water resource recovery facility (WRRF)-installed RF system, modeled with BC addition at the same rate of 0.45 g/L to quantify their environmental impacts. LCA results indicated that the Fe-CatOx-BC-RF pilot system is a BC dose-dependent carbon-negative technology at -1.21 kg CO2 e/m3 , where biochar addition constitutes a -1.53 kg/m3 CO2 e beneficial impact to the process. For the WRRF-installed RF system, modeled with the same rate of BC addition, the overall process changed from 0.02 kg CO2 e/m3 to a carbon negative -1.41 kg CO2 e/m3 , demonstrating potential as a biochar dose-dependent negative emissions technology. Using the C100 100-year carbon accounting approach rather than Cnet reduces these CO2 e metrics for the process by about 25%. A stochastic TEA for the cost of water treatment using this combinatorial P removal/recovery, micropollutant destructive removal, and disinfection advanced technology shows that at scale, the mean cost for treating 1130 m3 /day (0.3 MGD) WRRF secondary influent water with Fe-CatOx-BC-RF using the C100 metric is US$0.18 ± US$0.01/m3 to achieve overall process carbon neutrality. Using the same BC dose in an estimation of a 3780 m3 /day (1 MGD) Fe-CatOx-BC-RF facility, the carbon neutral cost of treatment is reduced further to US$0.08 ± $0.01 with added BC accounting for US$0.03/m3 . Overall, the results demonstrate the potential of carbon negativity to become a water treatment performance standard as important and attainable as pollutant and pathogen removal. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Life cycle assessment (LCA) of a pilot scale tertiary biochar water treatment process with or without catalytic ozonation at a WRRF shows a carbon negative global warming potential of -1.21-kg CO2e/m3 while removing 90%-99% TP and >90% of detected micropollutants. Biochar-integrated reactive filtration use can aid in long-term carbon sequestration by reducing the carbon footprint of advanced water treatment in a dose-dependent manner, allowing an overall carbon-neutral or carbon-negative process. A companion paper to this work (Yu et al., 2023) presents the details related to the process operation and mechanism and evaluates the pollutant removal performance of this Fe-CatOx-BC-RF process in engineering laboratory pilot research and field WRRF pilot-scale water resource recovery trials. Techno-economic analysis (TEA) of this biochar catalytic oxidation reactive filtration process using Monte Carlo stochastic modeling shows a forecasted carbon-neutral process cost with low P and micropollutant removal as US$0.11/m3 ± 0.01 for a 3780-m3/day (1 MGD) scale installation with BC cost at US$0.03/m3 of that total. The results demonstrate the potential of carbon negativity to become a water treatmentperformance standard as important and attainable as pollutant and pathogen removal.

Biochar integrated reactive filtration of wastewater for P removal and recovery, micropollutant catalytic oxidation, and negative CO2 e: Process operation and mechanism

Biochar (BC) use in water treatment is a promising approach that can simultaneously help address societal needs of clean water, food security, and climate change mitigation. However, novel BC water treatment technology approaches require operational testing in field pilot-scale scenarios to advance their technology readiness assessment. Therefore, the objective of this study is to evaluate the system performance of BC integrated into hydrous ferric oxide reactive filtration (Fe-BC-RF) with and without catalytic ozonation (CatOx) process in laboratory and field pilot-scale scenarios. For this investigation, Fe-BC-RF and Fe-CatOx-BC-RF pilot-scale trials were conducted on synthetic lake water variants and at three municipal water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs) at process flows of 0.05 and 0.6 L/s, respectively. Three native and two iron-modified BCs were used in these studies. The commercially available reactive filtration process (Fe-RF without BC) had 96%-98% total phosphorus (TP) removal from 0.075- and 0.22-mg/L TP, as orthophosphate process influent in these trials. With BC integration, phosphorus removal yielded 94%-98% with the same process-influent conditions. In WRRF field pilot-scale studies, the Fe-CatOx-BC-RF process removed 84%-99% of influent total phosphorus concentrations that varied from 0.12 to 8.1 mg/L. Nutrient analysis on BC showed that the recovered BC used in the pilot-scale studies had an increase in TP from its native concentration, with the Fe-amended BC showing better P recovery at 110% than its unmodified state, which was 16%. Lastly, the field WRRF Fe-CatOx-BC-RF process studies showed successful destructive removals at >90% for more than 20 detected micropollutants, thus addressing a critical human health and environmental water quality concern. The research demonstrated that integration of BC into Fe-CatOx-RF for micropollutant removal, disinfection, and nutrient recovery is an encouraging tertiary water treatment technology that can address sustainable phosphorus recycling needs and the potential for carbon-negative operation. PRACTITIONER POINTS: A pilot-scale hydrous ferric oxide reactive sand filtration process integrating biochar injection typically yields >90% total phosphorus removal to ultralow levels. Biochar, modified with iron, recovers phosphorus from wastewater, creating a P/N nutrient upcycled soil amendment. Addition of ozone to the process stream enables biochar-iron-ozone catalytic oxidation demonstrating typically excellent (>90%) micropollutant destructive removals for the compounds tested. A companion paper to this work explores life cycle assessment (LCA) and techno-economic analysis (TEA) to explore biochar water treatment integrated reactive filtration impacts, costs, and readiness. Biochar use can aid in long-term carbon sequestration by reducing the carbon footprint of advanced water treatment in a dose-dependent manner, including enabling an overall carbon-negative process.

Iron-Ozone Catalytic Oxidation Reactive Filtration of Municipal Wastewater at Field Pilot and Full-Scale with High-Efficiency Pollutant Removal and Potential Negative CO2 e with Biochar

Iron-ozone catalytic oxidation (CatOx) shows promise in addressing challenging wastewater pollutants. This study investigates a CatOx reactive filtration (Fe-CatOx-RF) approach with two 0.4 L/s field pilot studies and an 18-month, 18 L/s full-scale municipal wastewater deployment. We apply ozone to leverage common sand filtration and iron metal salts used in water treatment into a next-generation technology. The process combines micropollutant and pathogen destructive removal with high-efficiency phosphorus removal and recycling as a soil amendment, clean water recovery, and the potential for carbon-negative operation with integrated biochar water treatment. A key process innovation is converting a continuously renewed iron oxide coated, moving bed sand filter into a "sacrificial iron" d-orbital catalyst bed after adding O₃ to the process stream. Results for the Fe-CatOx-RF pilot studies show >95% removal efficiencies for almost all >5×LoQ detected micropollutants, with removal rates slightly increasing with biochar addition. Phosphorus removal for the pilot site with the most P-impacted discharge was >98% with serial reactive filters. The long-term, full-scale Fe-CatOx-RF optimization trials showed single filter 90% TP removal and high-efficiency micropollutant removals for most of the compounds detected, but slightly less than the pilot site studies. TP removal decreased to a mean of 86% during the 18 L/s, 12-month continuous operation stability trial, and micropollutant removals remained similar to the optimization trial for many detected compounds but less efficient overall. A >4.4 log reduction of fecal coliforms and E. coli in a field pilot sub-study suggests the ability of this CatOx approach to address infectious disease concerns. LCA modeling suggests that integrating biochar water treatment into the Fe-CatOx-RF process for P recovery as a soil amendment makes the overall process carbon-negative at -1.21 kg CO₂ e/m³ . Results indicate positive Fe-CatOx-RF process performance and technology readiness in full-scale extended testing. Further work exploring operational variables is essential to establish site-specific water quality limitations and responsive engineering approaches for process optimization.

CO2 e footprint and eco-impact of ultralow phosphorus removal by hydrous ferric oxide reactive filtration: A municipal wastewater LCA case study

Dual upflow reactive filtration by a slowly moving sand bed with continuously renewed, hydrous ferric oxide-coated sand is used for removing polluting substances and for meeting the ultralow 0.05 mg/l total phosphorus discharge permit limits at a 1.2 million liters per day (0.32 million gallons per day) water resource recovery facility in Plummer, Idaho, in the United States. A life cycle assessment (LCA) of this reactive filtration installation was carried out to assess the environmental hotspots in the system and analyze alternative system configurations with a focus on CO₂ equivalent (CO₂ e) global warming potential, freshwater and marine eutrophication, and mineral resource scarcity. "What if" scenarios with alternative inputs for the energy, metal salts, and air compressor optimization show trade-offs between the impact categories. Key results that show a comparative reduction of global warming potential include the use of Fe versus Al metal salts, the use of renewable energy, and the energy efficiency benefit of optimizing process inputs, such as compressor air pressure, to match operational demand. The LCA shows a 2 × 10^-2  kg CO₂ e footprint per cubic meter of water, with 47% from housing concrete, and an overall freshwater eutrophication impact reduced by 99% versus no treatment. The use of renewable hydropower energy at this site isolates construction concrete as a target for lowering the CO₂ e footprint. PRACTITIONER POINTS: The main LCA eco-impact hotspots in this dual reactive filtration tertiary treatment are construction concrete and the ferric sulfate used. Iron salts show smaller impact in global warming, freshwater eutrophication, and mineral resource scarcity than "what if scenario" aluminum salts. The energy mix for this site is predominantly hydropower; other energy mix "what if" scenarios show larger impacts. Operational energy efficiency and thermodynamic analysis show that fine tuning the air compressor helps reduce carbon footprint and energy use. LCA shows a favorable 2 x 10-2 kg CO2e/m3 water impact with 99% reduction of freshwater eutrophication potential versus no treatment.

Machine learning approach to muon spectroscopy analysis

In recent years, artificial intelligence techniques have proved to be very successful when applied to problems in physical sciences. Here we apply an unsupervised machine learning (ML) algorithm called principal component analysis (PCA) as a tool to analyse the data from muon spectroscopy experiments. Specifically, we apply the ML technique to detect phase transitions in various materials. The measured quantity in muon spectroscopy is an asymmetry function, which may hold information about the distribution of the intrinsic magnetic field in combination with the dynamics of the sample. Sharp changes of shape of asymmetry functions-measured at different temperatures-might indicate a phase transition. Existing methods of processing the muon spectroscopy data are based on regression analysis, but choosing the right fitting function requires knowledge about the underlying physics of the probed material. Conversely, PCA focuses on small differences in the asymmetry curves and works without any prior assumptions about the studied samples. We discovered that the PCA method works well in detecting phase transitions in muon spectroscopy experiments and can serve as an alternative to current analysis, especially if the physics of the studied material are not entirely known. Additionally, we found out that our ML technique seems to work best with large numbers of measurements, regardless of whether the algorithm takes data only for a single material or whether the analysis is performed simultaneously for many materials with different physical properties.

Alternative Catalyst to Mercury for Kjeldahl Determination of Nitrogen in Water and Wastewater Samples

A non-polluting alternative catalyst was used in a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Kjeldahl digestion procedure for water and wastewater samples. The colorimetric semiautomated block digestion method (EPA Method 351.2) was essentially unchanged except that 1 mL of a saturated solution of titanium dioxide was added to the digestant mixture, instead of 2 g mercuric oxide. Titanium dioxide is a nontoxic compound, which makes an excellent replacement in total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) determination. Samples were digested and then placed on a flow injection autoanalyzer for ammonia determination. All other digestion and analysis procedures were the same as in the original method. Detection limit for TKN was 0.1 mg/L. Recovery of glutamic acid averaged 96.2%. Recoveries of standard reference water samples over a 9 month period averaged >95%.

Analysis of Interlaboratory Performance in the Determination of Total Selenium in Water

This study explored the performance of experienced laboratories in the analysis for total selenium in water by a variety of analytical methods. The goal of the study was to examine intra- and interlaboratory variability. Replicates (n = 7) of 7 sample types that included a reference material of known Se concentration, natural waters, and treated wastewaters were submitted to 7 laboratories with prequalified Se analytical experience. Results of the study indicated wide ranges in minimum and maximum results, distinct differences in laboratory precision, and routine reporting of numerical results below statistical limits of quantitation. Hydride generation as a sample introduction technique demonstrated superior performance. In general, the study supports a caution advisory about using low-level Se data, especially results lower than about 10 µg Se/L, without quantitating the statistical uncertainty of the data. Because this study used data from samples that were submitted in bulk to participating laboratories prequalified for Se analytical expertise and experience, it can be considered a best-case demonstration of performance.

Cold-Vapor Generation for Inductively Coupled Argon Plasma/Atomic Emission Spectrometric Analysis. Part 3. Mercury

A method is presented for the determination of total mercury in environmental samples by inductively coupled argon plasma/atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP/AES) using cold-vapor generation. A 1.0 g or 10 mL test portion is digested 6–12 h in a 16 × 150 mm, 10 mL volumetric test tube at room temperature and is subsequently digested on a programmed heating block at 95°C with trace-metal grade nitric acid. The digested samples are next treated with potassium permanganate and heated between 70 and 95°C; thereafter, oxalic acid is added to reach the final endpoint. The mercury(II) is reduced by sodium borohydride in a simplified continuous manifold. A standard pneumatic nebulizer effects the gas–liquid separation of mercury. Mercury is quantitated by ICP/AES at 194.232 nm. The instrument detection limit for the method is 0.2 μg/L. Water samples are analyzed directly. The detection limit is below the current National Primary Drinking Water Standard Maximum Concentration Limit of 2 μg/L for mercury. For a 10:1 dilution of a nominal 1.0 g solid test portion, the detection limit is 2.0 μg/L. This concentration is also less than the regulatory limit of 200 μg/L for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure. The quantitation is linear up to 300 μg/kg. The method demonstrated statistical control for samples of biological and environmental interest.

Multiresidue Screen for Organophosphorus Insecticides Using Gel Permeation Chromatography—Silica Gel Cleanup

A multiresidue screen for quantitative determination of 43 organophosphorus insecticides In 5 g of plant and animal tissues Is described. The organophosphorus insecticides are extracted with methanol-dichloromethane (10 + 90, v/v) and cleaned up using automated gel permeation chromatography with hexane-ethyl acetate (60 + 40) eluant and in-line silica gel minicolumns. Concentrated extracts are analyzed by gas chromatography with flame photometric detection. The method recovers 43 organophosphorus insecticides in the range of 72 to 115%. Analysis of fortified bovine liver (n = 5) shows an average 95.9 ± 4.8% recovery at the 0.05 μg/g level and 93 ± 3.8% at the 0.5 μg/g level. Analysis of fortified bovine rumen content (n = 5) shows an average 98 ± 4.2% recovery at the 0.1 μg/g level and 98.7 ± 2.8% at the 1 μg/g level. Method detection limits ranged from 0.01 to 0.05 μg/g for the compounds studied using a nominal 5 gram sample.

Continuous Flow Vapor Generation for Inductively Coupled Argon Plasma Spectrometric Analysis. Part 2. Arsenic

Total arsenic Is determined by Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission using hydride vapor generation. A 1 g sample is wet ashed in a 16 X 150 mm 10 mL volumetric test tube on a programmed heating block with nitric, sulfuric, and perchloric acids at up to 310 °C. After treatment with hydrochloric acid and potassium iodide, arsenic Is reduced by sodium borohydride to arsine In a simplified continuous flow manifold. A standard pneumatic nebulizer effects the gasliquid separation of AsH3, which is quantified by ICP atomic emission at 193.756 nm. The instrument detection limit for the method has been determined to be 0.4 μg/L. For a 10:1 dilution of a nominal 1 g sample, the detection limit is 4 μg/kg and the linear range Is up to 4 mg/kg. Recoveries from 3 matrixes were 99-104%, with a typical RSD of 2%. The method has demonstrated statistical control for samples of biological interest and is especially well suited to analysis of small samples.

Mercury removal from municipal secondary effluent with hydrous ferric oxide reactive filtration

This study evaluated the ability of hydrous ferric oxide reactive filtration (HFO-RF) to remove mercury (Hg) from municipal secondary effluent at four study sites. Pilot HFO-RF systems (136 m³ /day) at two sites demonstrated total Hg concentration removal efficiencies of 96% (inflow/outflow mean total Hg: 43.6/1.6  ng/L) and 80% (4.2/0.8 ng/L). A lightly loaded medium-scale HFO-RF system (950 m³ /day) had a concentration removal efficiency of 53% (0.98/0.46 ng/L) and removed 0.52 mg/day of total Hg and 2.2 μg/day of methyl-Hg. A full-scale HFO-RF system (11,400 m³ /day) yielded a total Hg concentration removal efficiency of 97% (87/2.7 ng/L) and removed an estimated 0.36 kg/year of Hg. Results suggest that the quality of secondary effluent, including dissolved organic matter content, affects achievable minimum total Hg concentrations in effluent from HFO-RF systems. Low HFO-RF effluent concentrations (<1 ng/L) can be expected when treating secondary effluent from suspended-growth biological treatment systems. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Trace levels of mercury in municipal secondary effluent can negatively impact receiving waters. Hydrous ferric oxide reactive filtration (HFO-RF) can remove mercury from municipal secondary effluent to levels below the Great Lakes Initiative discharge standard of 1.3 ng/L. Mercury removal to low concentrations (< 1 ng/L) using HFO-RF appears to be associated with secondary effluents with low dissolved organic matter content. HFO-RF can also remove total phosphorus and turbidity to low concentrations.

Legacy lead arsenate soil contamination at childcare centers in the Yakima Valley, Central Washington, USA

BACKGROUND

From the early 1900s to the 1950s, Yakima Valley orchards were commonly treated with lead arsenate (LA) insecticides. Lead (Pb) and arsenic (As) soil contamination has been identified on former orchard lands throughout Central Washington and pose a threat to human health and the environment.

OBJECTIVES

The levels of Pb and As in soil and interior dust at participating childcare centers in the Upper Yakima Valley (Yakima County), Washington were sampled to explore exposure potential for young children.

METHODS

Childcare center soils were collected from two soil depths, homogenized, and analyzed in bulk by a field-portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (XRF). Interior dust wipes samples were collected from at least two locations in each facility. All soil samples >250 mg/kg Pb and/or >20 As mg/kg were sieved to 250 μm, tested by XRF a second time, and analyzed via acid digestion and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) analysis.

RESULTS

Bulk and sieved XRF results, as well as ICP-MS to XRF results were strongly correlated. Maximum Pb and As XRF results indicated that 4 (21%) and 8 (42%) of the 19 childcare centers surveyed exceeded the regulatory standard for Pb and As, respectively. Historic land use was significantly associated with elevated Pb and As levels. Interior dust loadings were below United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

Childcare centers are areas of intensive use for children and when coupled with potential residential exposure in their homes, the total daily exposure is a potential hazard to children.

Persistence, adherence, and medication-taking behavior in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis receiving denosumab in routine practice in Germany, Austria, Greece, and Belgium: 12-month results from a European non-interventional study

Persistence with and adherence to osteoporosis therapy are critical for fracture reduction. This non-interventional study is evaluating medication-taking behavior of women with postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO) receiving denosumab in Germany, Austria, Greece, and Belgium. Patients were representative of the PMO population and highly persistent with and adherent to denosumab at 12 months.

INTRODUCTION

Persistence with and adherence to osteoporosis therapy are important for optimal treatment efficacy, namely fracture reduction. This ongoing, non-interventional study will evaluate medication-taking behavior of women with postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO) receiving denosumab in routine practice in four European countries.

METHODS

The study enrolled women who had been prescribed subcutaneous denosumab (60 mg every 6 months) in accordance with prescribing information and local guidelines. Persistence was defined as receiving the subsequent injection within 6 months + 8 weeks of the previous injection. Adherence was defined as receiving two consecutive injections within 6 months ± 4 weeks of each other. Medication coverage ratio (MCR) was calculated using the time a patient was covered with denosumab, as assessed from prescription records. Treatment was assigned prior to and independently of enrollment; outcomes are recorded during routine practice.

RESULTS

These planned 12-month interim analyses included data from 1500 patients from 141 sites. Mean age was 66.4-72.4 years, mean baseline total hip T-scores ranged from -2.0 to -2.1 and femoral neck T-scores from -2.2 to -2.6, and 30.7-62.1% of patients had prior osteoporotic fracture. Persistence was 87.0-95.3%, adherence 82.7-89.3%, and MCR 91.3-95.4%. In a univariate analysis, increased age, decreased mobility, and increased distance to the clinic were associated with significantly decreased persistence; parental history of hip fracture was associated with significantly increased persistence.

CONCLUSIONS

These data extend the real-world evidence regarding persistence with and adherence to denosumab, both of which are critical for favorable clinical outcomes, including fracture risk reduction.

A common atopy-associated variant in the Th2 cytokine locus control region impacts transcriptional regulation and alters SMAD3 and SP1 binding

BACKGROUND

Type 2 immune responses directed by Th2 cells and characterized by the signature cytokines IL4, IL5, and IL13 play major pathogenic roles in atopic diseases. Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the human Th2 cytokine locus in particular in a locus control region within the DNA repair gene RAD50, containing several RAD50 DNase1-hypersensitive sites (RHS), have been robustly associated with atopic traits in genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Functional variants in IL13 have been intensely studied, whereas no causative variants for the IL13-independent RAD50 signal have been identified yet. This study aimed to characterize the functional impact of the atopy-associated polymorphism rs2240032 located in the human RHS7 on cis-regulatory activity and differential binding of transcription factors.

METHODS

Differential transcription factor binding was analyzed by electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs) with Jurkat T-cell nuclear extracts. Identification of differentially binding factors was performed using mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Reporter vector constructs carrying either the major or minor allele of rs2240032 were tested for regulating transcriptional activity in Jurkat and HeLa cells.

RESULTS

The variant rs2240032 impacts transcriptional activity and allele-specific binding of SMAD3, SP1, and additional putative protein complex partners. We further demonstrate that rs2240032 is located in an RHS7 subunit which itself encompasses repressor activity and might be important for the fine-tuning of transcription regulation within this region.

CONCLUSION

The human RHS7 critically contributes to the regulation of gene transcription, and the common atopy-associated polymorphism rs2240032 impacts transcriptional activity and transcription factor binding.

Identification of biomarkers for apoptosis in cancer cell lines using metabolomics: tools for individualized medicine

BACKGROUND

Metabolomics is a versatile unbiased method to search for biomarkers of human disease. In particular, one approach in cancer therapy is to promote apoptosis in tumour cells; this could be improved with specific biomarkers of apoptosis for monitoring treatment. We recently observed specific metabolic patterns in apoptotic cell lines; however, in that study, apoptosis was only induced with one pro-apoptotic agent, staurosporine.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to find novel biomarkers of apoptosis by verifying our previous findings using two further pro-apoptotic agents, 5-fluorouracil and etoposide, that are commonly used in anticancer treatment.

METHODS

Metabolic parameters were assessed in HepG2 and HEK293 cells using the newborn screening assay adapted for cell culture approaches, quantifying the levels of amino acids and acylcarnitines with mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

We were able to identify apoptosis-specific changes in the metabolite profile. Moreover, the amino acids alanine and glutamate were both significantly up-regulated in apoptotic HepG2 and HEK293 cells irrespective of the apoptosis inducer.

CONCLUSION

Our observations clearly indicate the potential of metabolomics in detecting metabolic biomarkers applicable in theranostics and for monitoring drug efficacy.

Effect of ultrasound frequency on antioxidant activity, total phenolic and anthocyanin content of red raspberry puree

Ultrasound in the 20-1000 kHz range show unique propagation characteristics in fluid media and possess energy that can break down fruit matrices to facilitate the extraction of valuable bioactive compounds. Red raspberries carry significant amounts of specific antioxidants, including ellagitannins and anthocyanins that are important for human health. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of ultrasound frequencies associated with cavitation (20 kHz) and microstreaming (490 and 986 kHz) on total antioxidant activity (AOA), total phenolics content (TPC), and total monomeric anthocyanin content (ACY) of red raspberry puree prepared from crushed berries. The pureed fruit was subjected to high-intensity (20 kHz) and higher frequency-low intensity (490 and 986 kHz) ultrasound for 30 min. The temperature of treated purees increased to a maximum of 56 °C with 986 kHz. Sonication at 20 and 490 kHz significantly (p<0.05) affected the AOA, ACY, and TPC of red raspberry puree, while 986 kHz had no significant effect on ACY and AOA (p<0.05). In all cases, ultrasound treatment had significant and positive effect on at least one of the measured parameters up to 30 min. Sonication beyond 10 min (and up to 30 min) using 20 kHz either produced no change or caused a drop in AOA and ACY. However, for 986 and 20 kHz, TPC, increased by 10% and 9.5%, respectively after 30 min (p<0.05) compared to the control. At 20 kHz, AOA and ACY increased by 17.3% and 12.6% after 10 min. It was demonstrated that 20 kHz ultrasound treatment, when limited to 10 min, was the most effective for extraction of bioactive compounds in red raspberry compared to 490 and 986 kHz although the effect could be similar at the higher frequencies if different amplitudes are used.

Discovery of phosphatidylcholines and sphingomyelins as biomarkers for ovarian endometriosis

BACKGROUND

Current non-invasive diagnostic methods for endometriosis lack sensitivity and specificity. In search for new diagnostic biomarkers for ovarian endometriosis, we used a hypothesis-generating targeted metabolomics approach.

METHODS

In a case-control study, we collected plasma of study participants and analysed their metabolic profiles. We selected a group of 40 patients with ovarian endometriosis who underwent laparoscopic surgery and a control group of 52 healthy women who underwent sterilization at the University Clinical Centre Ljubljana, Slovenia. Over 140 targeted analytes included glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids and acylcarnitines. The analytes were quantified by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. For assessing the strength of association between the metabolite or metabolite ratios and the disease, we used crude and adjusted odds ratios. A stepwise logistic regression procedure was used for selecting the best combination of biomarkers.

RESULTS

Eight lipid metabolites were identified as endometriosis-associated biomarkers due to elevated levels in patients compared with controls. A model containing hydroxysphingomyelin SMOH C16:1 and the ratio between phosphatidylcholine PCaa C36:2 to ether-phospholipid PCae C34:2, adjusted for the effect of age and the BMI, resulted in a sensitivity of 90.0%, a specificity of 84.3% and a ratio of the positive likelihood ratio to the negative likelihood ratio of 48.3.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that endometriosis is associated with elevated levels of sphingomyelins and phosphatidylcholines, which might contribute to the suppression of apoptosis and affect lipid-associated signalling pathways. Our findings suggest novel potential routes for therapy by specifically blocking highly up-regulated isoforms of phosphpolipase A2 and lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 4.

Fractional quantum Hall effect of lattice bosons near commensurate flux

We study interacting bosons on a lattice in a magnetic field. When the number of flux quanta per plaquette is close to a rational fraction, the low-energy physics is mapped to a multispecies continuum model: bosons in the lowest Landau level where each boson is given an internal degree of freedom, or pseudospin. We find that the interaction potential between the bosons involves terms that do not conserve pseudospin, corresponding to umklapp processes, which in some cases can also be seen as BCS-type pairing terms. We argue that in experimentally realistic regimes for bosonic atoms in optical lattices with synthetic magnetic fields, these terms are crucial for determining the nature of allowed ground states. In particular, we show numerically that certain paired wave functions related to the Moore-Read Pfaffian state are stabilized by these terms, whereas certain other wave functions can be destabilized when umklapp processes become strong.

Correlated phases of bosons in the flat lowest band of the dice lattice

We study correlated phases occurring in the flat lowest band of the dice-lattice model at flux density one-half. We discuss how to realize this model, also referred to as the T(3) lattice, in cold atomic gases. We construct the projection of the model to the lowest dice band, which yields a Hubbard Hamiltonian with interaction-assisted hopping processes. We solve this model for bosons in two limits. In the limit of large density, we use Gross-Pitaevskii mean-field theory to reveal time-reversal symmetry breaking vortex lattice phases. At low density, we use exact diagonalization to identify three stable phases at fractional filling factors ν of the lowest band, including a classical crystal at ν = 1/3, a supersolid state at ν = 1/2, and a Mott insulator at ν = 1.

Prevalence of osteoporosis and fractures among women prescribed osteoporosis medication in five European countries: the POSSIBLE EU study

European observational 1-year study assessed osteoporosis and fracture patterns in 3,402 postmenopausal women prescribed osteoporosis medication. Almost 40% of patients had a previous fracture, while 25% had neither fracture nor dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) diagnosis and were prescribed medication, probably due to other risk factors.

INTRODUCTION

This analysis assessed osteoporosis and fracture prevalence in postmenopausal women prescribed osteoporosis treatment in the Prospective Observational Study Investigating Bone Loss Experience in Europe(POSSIBLE EU).

METHODS

Women in this observational, multicenter 1-year study were categorized by fracture history and location at baseline. Baseline characteristics were analyzed according to no DXA and DXA diagnosis (osteoporosis or osteopenia). Fractures occurring during the 1-year follow-up period were recorded.

RESULTS

Of the 3,402 women enrolled, 39% had a previous fracture, of whom 30% had ≥ 2 fractures. One thousand seven hundred and eighty-four (52%) patients had a DXA diagnosis (osteoporosis 68%, osteopenia 31%, and unknown 1%). Among the osteoporosis patients, 37% had a previous fracture (hip 2.9%, vertebral 8.8%, and non-hip, non-vertebral 25%) and 35% had fractures associated with major trauma. Of the 3,402 women, 1,476 (43%) had no DXA diagnosis; of these, 57% had no fracture (25% of all women). Risk factors varied across patients with and without DXA diagnosis. During the 1-year follow-up period, the fracture incidence in patients with or without a previous fracture at baseline was 4.7% and 1.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Almost 40% of patients prescribed osteoporosis medication had a previous fracture, highlighting a population with advanced disease. In contrast, 25% of patients had neither a previous fracture nor DXA diagnosis and were prescribed treatment, probably due to other risk factors. There is a need for continued improvement of disease management in European women.

Chemical speciation and bioavailability of selenium in the rhizosphere of Symphyotrichum eatonii from reclaimed mine soils

Knowledge of rhizosphere influences on Se speciation and bioavailability is required to predict Se bioavailability to plants. In the present study, plant-availability of Se to aster (Symphyotrichum eatonii (A. Gray) G.L. Nesom) was compared in rhizosphere soils and nonrhizosphere (bulk) soils collected from a reclaimed mine site in southeastern Idaho, U.S. X-ray spectroscopy was used to characterize the oxidation state and elemental distribution of Se in aster roots, rhizosphere soils, and bulk soils. Percent extractable Se in aster rhizosphere soil was greater than extractable Se in corresponding bulk soils in all samples (n = 4, p = 0.042, 0.051, and 0.052 for three extractions). Selenium oxidation state mapping of 28 regions within the samples and X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectra from 26 points within the samples indicated that the rhizosphere and bulk soil Se species was predominantly reduced Se(-II,0), while in the aster roots, high concentrations of Se(VI) were present. Results show that within the rhizosphere, enhanced Se bioavailability is occurring via oxidation of reduced soil Se to more soluble Se(VI) species.

DEMONSTRATION OF MOUSE ISOANTIGENS AT THE CELLULAR LEVEL BY THE FLUORESCENT ANTIBODY TECHNIQUE

The fluorescent antibody technique has been applied for the demonstration of mouse isoantigens at the cellular level. Specific reactions were obtained by the indirect or "sandwich" technique with a variety of living normal and neoplastic cells. Isoantigens of the H-2 system and of other systems could be demonstrated as well and appeared to be localized at the cell membrane. As far as the H-2 system was concerned, the membrane localization could be confirmed on histological sections. Different types of non-specific staining reactions have been identified and described. Pinocytosis and cell injury led to such reactions that were morphologically distinguishable from the specific "ring" reaction and as far as pinocytosis is concerned, could be easily avoided by reducing the incubation time. In addition, a non-specific staining reaction morphologically indistinguishable from the specific "ring" reaction could be seen in a small proportion of bone marrow and lymph node cells but in no other cell type studied. The possible nature of this reaction is discussed.

Selenium biogeochemical cycling and fluxes in the hyporheic zone of a mining-impacted stream

The influence of hyporheic exchange on selenium (Se) biogeochemistry and mobility in sediments is unknown. A multiscale investigation of Se biogeochemistry in the hyporheic zone of East Mill Creek (EMC), southeastern Idaho, USA, was performed using in situ surface water and pore water geochemical measurements, a field-based stream tracer test, and energy-dependent micro synchrotron X-ray fluorescence (mu-SXRF) measurements of Se speciation in sediments. The active hyporheic zone was determined to be 12 +/- 3 cm. Pore water redox profiles indicated that a transition to suboxic conditions begins at approximately 6 cm. Modeling pore water Se and solid phase analysis suggested Se uptake is occurring. Micro-SXRF analysis of sediments showed reduced elemental Se or selenides throughout the profile and selenite in surface sediments. Field geochemical measurements and microscale analysis both support the hypothesis that reduction in the hyporheic zone promotes sequestration of surface water Se.

Effects of dietary selenomethionine on cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieri) growth and reproductive performance over a life cycle

A 2.5-year feeding trial was conducted in which cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieri) were fed either a basal diet (1.2 microg Se/g diet) or the basal diet supplemented with 2, 4, 6, 8, or 10 microg Se/g diet as selenomethionine from 1 g weight to maturation [corrected]. After 44 weeks of feeding, a subsample of fish was removed from dietary treatment groups and fed the basal diet for an additional 32 weeks. Concentrations of Se in whole fish and eggs increased in proportion to dietary Se intake, but no differences in growth, feed intake, survival, or egg hatchability were observed among dietary groups. Cranial-facial deformities in second-generation offspring were less than 6% in all treatment groups except for fish fed the diet supplemented with 4 microg Se/g diet as selenomethionine [corrected], where a 9.2% incidence was observed. Fish switched from selenomethionine-supplemented diets to the basal diet lost Se, calculated as microg Se lost/g weight gain, at 1.01, 2.84, 4.42, and 4.42 for dietary treatment groups 3, 4, 5, and 6, respectively. Results suggest no toxicity of dietary selenomethionine up to 10 microg/g supplemented diet and that with total life-cycle exposure, cutthroat trout increase Se excretion to maintain whole-body concentrations below toxic levels.

Composite fermion theory for bosonic quantum Hall states on lattices

We study the ground states of the Bose-Hubbard model in a uniform magnetic field, motivated by the physics of cold atomic gases on lattices at high vortex density. Mapping the bosons to composite fermions (CF) leads to the prediction of quantum Hall fluids that have no counterpart in the continuum. We construct trial states for these phases and test numerically the predictions of the CF model. We establish the existence of strongly correlated phases beyond those in the continuum limit and provide evidence for a wider scope of the composite fermion approach beyond its application to the lowest Landau level.

Macro- and microscale investigation of selenium speciation in Blackfoot river, Idaho sediments

The transport and bioavailability of selenium in the environment is controlled by its chemical speciation. However, knowledge of the biogeochemistry and speciation of Se in streambed sediment is limited. We investigated the speciation of Se in sediment cores from the Blackfoot River (BFR), Idaho using sequential extractions and synchrotron-based micro-X-ray fluorescence (micro-SXRF). We collected micro-SXRF oxidation state maps of Se in sediments, which had not been done on natural sediment samples. Selective extractions showed that most Se in the sediments is present as either (1) nonextractable Se or (2) base extractable Se. Results from micro-SXRF showed three defined species of Se were present in all four samples: Se(-II,O), Se(IV), and Se(VI). Se(-II,O) was the predominant species in samples from one location, and Se(IV) was the predominant species in samples from a second location. Results from both techniques were consistent, and suggested that the predominant species were Se(-II) species associated with recalcitrant organic matter, and Se(IV) species tightly bound to organic materials. This information can be used to predict the biogeochemical cycling and bioavailability of Se in streambed sediment environments.

Polyclonal antibody secretion in human lymphocytes induced by killed staphylococcal bacteria and by lipopolysaccharide

Preparations of Staphylococcus aureus strains Cowan 1 and Wood 46 and of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were found to act as polyclonal B-cell-activating substances for human splenic and blood lymphocytes. All three substances induced polyclonal antibody secretion in blood and spleen cell cultures, as tested against fluorescein isothiocyanate-coupled sheep erythrocytes by a modification of the local hemolysis-in-gel assay. Antibodies were of IgM class, as shown by inhibition of plaque formation by anti-IgM but not by anti-IgG or anti-IgA antisera. All these substances also consistently induced the formation of intracellular immunoglobulin and increased DNA synthesis in stimulated spleen cells. In blood lymphocytes Staph. aureus Cowan 1 induced a consistent increase in DNA synthesis, whereas Staph, aureus Wood and LPS often gave low or no increase in DNA synthesis. Peak antibody formation was observed on day 3 in spleen cells and on day 6 in blood lymphocyte cultures. Stimulation into high-rate immunoglobulin secretion occurred with all PBAs also in B-cell-enriched cell suspensions but not in T-cell-enriched cells. Optimal responses were, however, always noted in unseparated cell suspensions. It is concluded that preparations of killed bacteria can be useful tools for the clinical evaluation of both specific and nonspecific antibody-forming ability in cells from different groups of patients.

Phosphorus removal from municipal wastewater by hydrous ferric oxide reactive filtration and coupled chemically enhanced secondary treatment: part II--mechanism

The removal mechanism of a hydrous ferric oxide (HFO) reactive filtration (RF) process with coupled chemically enhanced secondary treatment (RECYCLE) for phosphorus removal from municipal wastewater (HFO-RF-RECYCLE) was examined. A 0.95-ML/d (0.25-mgd) demonstration of HFO-RF-RECYCLE was performed at a municipal wastewater treatment plant equipped with oxidation ditches and secondary clarifiers. Influent to the plant averaged 6.0 mg/L phosphorus, with a 3-month tertiary effluent average of 0.011 mg/L phosphorus. In addition to aqueous geochemical modeling, experiments with surface charge, scanning electron microscopy, adsorptive capacity, thermal desorption, and most probable number of iron(III)-reducing bacteria were performed on samples from the system, to determine the major phosphorus-removal pathways. Results suggest that, in addition to filtration of particulate phosphorus, the low tertiary effluent total phosphorus result was achieved by adsorption.

Phosphorus removal from municipal wastewater by hydrous ferric oxide reactive filtration and coupled chemically enhanced secondary treatment: part I--performance

This work examines the performance of a hydrous ferric oxide (HFO) reactive filtration (RF) process with coupled chemically enhanced secondary treatment (RECYCLE) for phosphorus removal from municipal wastewater (HFO-RF-RECYCLE). A 3-month, 0.95-ML/d (0.25-mgd) demonstration of HFO-RF-RECYCLE was performed at a municipal wastewater treatment plant equipped with oxidation ditches and secondary clarifiers. Influent to the plant averaged 6.0 mg/L phosphorus, with a tertiary effluent average of 0.011 mg/L phosphorus. Iron doses to the plant were low, at 5 mg/L. Inline recycling of HFO solution rejects to the plant influent resulted in a maximum 90.3%, dose-dependent reduction of phosphorus in the secondary effluent at 4.5 ML/d (1.2 mgd). Other results included reduction of total suspended solids and turbidity. A mass balance analysis was performed. We conclude that HFO-RF-RECYCLE may allow very low levels of phosphorus discharge from municipal wastewater treatment plants with a ferric-iron-based tertiary filtration process and residual recycling.

Density waves and supersolidity in rapidly rotating atomic Fermi gases

We study theoretically the low-temperature phases of a two-component atomic Fermi gas with attractive s-wave interactions under conditions of rapid rotation. We find that, in the extreme quantum limit, when all particles occupy the lowest Landau level, the normal state is unstable to the formation of charge density wave (CDW) order. At lower rotation rates, when many Landau levels are occupied, we show that the low-temperature phases can be supersolids, involving both CDW and superconducting order.

Phototherapy and exchange transfusion for neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia: neonatal academic hospitals' consensus guidelines for South African hospitals and primary care facilities

The purpose of this document is to address the current lack of consensus regarding the management of hyperbilirubinaemia in neonates in South Africa. If left untreated, severe neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia may cause kernicterus and ultimately death and the severity of neonatal jaundice is often underestimated clinically. However, if phototherapy is instituted timely and at the correct intensity an exchange transfusion can usually be avoided. The literature describing intervention thresholds for phototherapy and exchange transfusion in both term and preterm infants is therefore reviewed and specific intervention thresholds that can be used throughout South Africa are proposed and presented graphically. A simplified version for use in a primary care setting is also presented. All academic heads of neonatology departments throughout South Africa were consulted in the process of drawing up this document and consensus was achieved.

Microbial studies of a selenium-contaminated mine site and potential for on-site remediation

Surface water Selenium (Se) concentrations are above regulatory standards at several active and inactive phosphate mine sites in the US Western Phosphate Resource Area. The focus of the present study was to examine the impacts of the microbial communities on the oxidation state of Se in overburden waste from the Smoky Canyon phosphate mine in Idaho, USA. Microbial populations were found that reduce soluble selenate (SeO (4) (2-) ) to insoluble elemental Se. Microcosm experiments were conducted for molecular genetic analysis of this microbial community by rRNA gene profiling. An acetone pretreatment step was developed to remove interfering pre-petroleum hydrocarbons from the samples prior to extraction. PCR was used to amplify 16S and 18S rRNA genes present in the microbial community DNA. The amplified products were subjected to denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). Isolates and excised DGGE bands were amplified and sequenced for identification to determine the relative importance of culturable isolates to the total microbial population. Analysis of samples from different sites at the mine showed how Se contamination and previous remediation treatments changed the microbial populations across the site. Members of the family Enterobacteriaceae were dominant among the selenate reducing isolates from the site containing high Se levels. In particular, Serratia fonticola was isolated repeatedly from contaminated Smoky Canyon Mine site samples. Packed column studies were performed with seleniferous waste rock fractions from Smoky Canyon Mine. Column amendments consisted of combinations of iron, compost, and whey. Eh, pH, and extractable Se measurements were taken. Tests with infiltrated water showed columns containing an organic amendment combined with iron metal were the most resistant to Se leaching. Iron-based compounds from the corroding metal are thought to strongly bind the Se reduced by microbial activity, thereby stabilizing the Se in an insoluble form. We conclude that long-term stabilization of selenium at contaminated mine sites may require reductive microbial processes combined with abiotic immobilization by iron, either natural or engineered, to stabilize the Se and retard re-oxidation and release. Iron-selenide or iron-selenite compounds are more stable and resistant to leaching, especially when removed from active weathering.

Artificial square ice and related dipolar nanoarrays

We study a frustrated dipolar array recently manufactured lithographically by Wang in order to realize the square ice model in an artificial structure. We discuss models for thermodynamics and dynamics of this system. We show that an ice regime can be stabilized by small changes in the array geometry; a different magnetic state, kagome ice, can similarly be constructed. At low temperatures, the square ice regime is terminated by a thermodynamic ordering transition, which can be chosen to be ferro- or antiferromagnetic. We show that the arrays do not fully equilibrate experimentally, and identify a likely dynamical bottleneck.

Microscopically focused synchrotron X-ray investigation of selenium speciation in soils developing on reclaimed mine lands

Chemical speciation determines Se solubility and therefore its bioavailability and potential for transport in the environment. In this study we investigated the speciation of Se in soil developed on reclaimed mine sites in the U.S. Western Phosphate Resource Area (WPRA) using micro-X-ray absorption near-edge structure (micro-XANES) spectroscopy and micro-X-ray fluorescence (micro-XRF) mapping. Selenium was nonuniformly distributed in the soils and positively correlated with Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, and Ni. Sixteen points of interest (POI) from three soil samples were analyzed with micro-XANES spectroscopy. The XANES data indicated that Se is present in the soils in at least three oxidation states, Se(-II, 0), Se(IV), and Se(VI). Selenides or elemental Se dominated 7 of the 16 POI. Selenate was the dominant species at only one of the POI. The remaining eight POI were composed of both Se(IV) and Se(VI), with minor Se(-II, 0) contributions. The results of this research suggest that the reduced Se species in the soil parent material are oxidizing to Se(VI), one of the more mobile species of Se in the environment. This information can be used to better predict and manage Se availability in soils.

Inhibition of 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases by phytoestrogens: comparison with other steroid metabolizing enzymes

Effects of phytoestrogens on human health have been reported for decades. These include not only beneficial action in cancer prevention but also endocrine disruption in males. Since then many molecular mechanisms underlying these effects have been identified. Targets of phytoestrogens comprise steroid receptors, steroid metabolising enzymes, elements of signal transduction and apoptosis pathways, and even the DNA processing machinery. Understanding the specific versus pleiotropic effects of selected phytoestrogens will be crucial for their biomedical application. This review will concentrate on the influence of phytoestrogens on 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases from a comparative perspective with other steroid metabolizing enzymes.

Micro-spectroscopic investigation of selenium-bearing minerals from the Western US Phosphate Resource Area

Mining activities in the US Western Phosphate Resource Area (WPRA) have released Se into the environment. Selenium has several different oxidation states and species, each having varying degrees of solubility, reactivity, and bioavailability. In this study we are investigating the speciation of Se in mine-waste rocks. Selenium speciation was determined using bulk and micro-x-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), as well as micro-x-ray fluorescence mapping. Rocks used for bulk-XAS were ground into fine powders. Shale used for micro-XAS was broken along depositional planes to expose unweathered surfaces. The near edge region of the XAS spectra (XANES) for the bulk rock samples revealed multiple oxidation states, with peaks indicative of Se(-II), Se(IV), and Se(+VI) species. Micro-XANES analysis of the shale indicated that three unique Se-bearing species were present. Using the XANES data together with ab initio fitting of the extended x-ray absorption fine structure region of the micro-XAS data (micro-EXAFS) the three Se-bearing species were identified as dzharkenite, a di-selenide carbon compound, and Se-substituted pyrite. Results from this research will allow for a better understanding of the biogeochemical cycling of Se in the WPRA.

The role of 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases

The biological activity of steroid hormones is regulated at the pre-receptor level by several enzymes including 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (17 beta -HSD). The latter are present in many microorganisms, invertebrates and vertebrates. Dysfunctions in human 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases result in disorders of biology of reproduction and neuronal diseases, the enzymes are also involved in the pathogenesis of various cancers. 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases reveal a remarkable multifunctionality being able to modulate concentrations not only of steroids but as well of fatty and bile acids. Current knowledge on genetics, biochemistry and medical implications is presented in this review.

Characterization of 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 7 in reproductive tissues of the marmoset monkey

In contrast to the known rodent enzymes, the physiological significance of 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 7 (17HSD7) and its presumed function in reproductive biology is not well understood in primates. As a first step, we recently cloned the complete coding regions of human and marmoset monkey (Callithrix jacchus) 17HSD7 (cj17HSD7). In the present work the complete cDNA of marmoset 17HSD1 (cj17HSD1), including the proximal promoter region, and a partial sequence of marmoset aromatase (cjARO) were sequenced in order to compare the expression of these estradiol synthesizing enzymes with that of 17HSD7 in a primate model and to identify tissues where 17HSD7 might participate in the pathway of estradiol synthesis. The gene structures of cj17HSD1 and cj17HSD7 were determined and proved to be very similar to the human orthologues. Northern hybridization showed that cjARO mRNA seems to be coexpressed preferably with cj17HSD1 in placenta, whereas in other tissues it is expressed in parallel only with cj17HSD7. Especially in corpora lutea, the cj17HSD7 transcript is detectable throughout the luteal phase of the ovarian cycle and increases during pregnancy, in parallel with the transcript of aromatase. Results were confirmed by immunoblots and immunohistochemistry using new polyclonal antisera directed against cj17HSD7 and cjARO protein. The enzymatic conversion of estrone to estradiol was assessed in marmoset corpora lutea. The pattern of coexpression with aromatase supports the hypothesis that luteal 17HSD7 complements placental 17HSD1, ensuring continued estradiol synthesis throughout pregnancy in primates.

Human 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 5 is inhibited by dietary flavonoids

Phytoestrogens contained in a vegetarian diet are supposed to have beneficial effects on the development and progression of a variety of endocrine-related cancers. We have tested the effect of a variety of dietary phytoestrogens, especially flavonoids, on the activity of human 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 5 (17beta-HSD 5), a key enzyme in the metabolism of estrogens and androgens. Our studies show that reductive and oxidative activity of the enzyme are inhibited by many compounds, especially zearalenone, coumestrol, quercetin and biochanin A. Among flavones, inhibitor potency is enhanced with increased degree of hydroxylation. The most effective inhibitors seem to bind to the hydrophilic cofactor binding pocket of the enzyme.

[Morphological diagnosis of spinal diseases. Current technical possibilities and challenges for the histological preparation of transpedicular biopsies]

The spine is the central component for the mobility of the human body. Both locally limited and diffuse pathologies of the spine are a challenge for the treating physician due to the difficult anatomy. The biopsy of a pathologically altered vertebral body is a fast and reliable basis for further therapy but until now this has not regularly been made use of as a diagnostic standard for spinal diseases, since the tissue gained was often microfractured because of the difficult anatomical position. Our own experience with transpedicular vertebral biopsies of 70 patients with different diseases is reported because of the considerable improvement in the biopsy technique and the methodical possibilities for processing the bony tissue. Methods which have proven particularly valuable are contact radiographs, embedding in plastic, careful decalcifying with EDTA and immunohistological procedures. In this way a definite diagnosis can be made in 97% of the cases. A close cooperation with the clinician carrying out the biopsy and a greater use of methods other than just fast decalcification is recommended.