Non-clinical safety profile and pharmacodynamics of two formulations of the anti-sepsis drug candidate Rejuveinix (RJX)

Here, we demonstrate that the two distinct formulations of our anti-sepsis drug candidate Rejuveinix (RJX), have a very favorable safety profile in Wistar Albino rats at dose levels comparable to the projected clinical dose levels. 14-day treatment with RJX-P (RJX PPP.18.1051) or RJX-B (RJX-B200702-CLN) similarly elevated the day 15 tissue levels of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) as well as ascorbic acid in both the lungs and liver in a dose-dependent fashion. The activity of SOD and ascorbic acid levels were significantly higher in tissues of RJX-P or RJX-B treated rats than vehicle-treated control rats (p < 0.0001). There was no statistically significant difference between tissue SOD activity or ascorbic acid levels of rats treated with RJX-P vs. rats treated with RJX-B (p > 0.05). The observed elevations of the SOD and ascorbic acid levels were transient and were no longer detectable on day 28 following a 14-day recovery period. These results demonstrate that RJX-P and RJX-B are bioequivalent relative to their pharmacodynamic effects on tissue SOD and ascorbic acid levels. Furthermore, both formulations showed profound protective activity in a mouse model of sepsis. In agreement with the PD evaluations in rats and their proposed mechanism of action, both RJX-P and RJX-B exhibited near-identical potent and dose-dependent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in the LPS-GalN model of ARDS and multi-organ failure in mice.

Effect of Hofmeister Ions on Transport Properties of Aqueous Solutions of Sodium Hyaluronate

Tracer diffusion coefficients obtained from the Taylor dispersion technique at 25.0 °C were measured to study the influence of sodium, ammonium and magnesium salts at 0.01 and 0.1 mol dm⁻³ on the transport behavior of sodium hyaluronate (NaHy, 0.1%). The selection of these salts was based on their position in Hofmeister series, which describe the specific influence of different ions (cations and anions) on some physicochemical properties of a system that can be interpreted as a salting-in or salting-out effect. In our case, in general, an increase in the ionic strength (i.e., concentrations at 0.01 mol dm⁻³) led to a significant decrease in the limiting diffusion coefficient of the NaHy 0.1%, indicating, in those circumstances, the presence of salting-in effects. However, the opposite effect (salting-out) was verified with the increase in concentration of some salts, mainly for NH₄SCN at 0.1 mol dm⁻³. In this particular salt, the cation is weakly hydrated and, consequently, its presence does not favor interactions between NaHy and water molecules, promoting, in those circumstances, less resistance to the movement of NaHy and thus to the increase of its diffusion (19%). These data, complemented by viscosity measurements, permit us to have a better understanding about the effect of these salts on the transport behaviour of NaHy.

The Quality of Ciders Depends on the Must Supplementation with Mineral Salts

Providing yeast with the right amount of mineral salts before fermentation can contribute to improving the entire technological process, resulting in a better-quality final product. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of apple must supplementation with mineral salts ((NH4)2SO4, MgSO4, (NH4)3PO4)) on enological parameters, antioxidant activity, total polyphenol content, and the profile of volatile cider compounds fermented with various yeast strains. Rubin cultivar must was inoculated with wine, cider, and distillery or wild yeast strains. Various mineral salts and their mixtures were introduced into the must in doses from 0.167 g/L to 0.5 g/L. The control sample consisted of ciders with no added mineral salts. The basic enological parameters, antioxidant properties, total polyphenol content, and their profile, as well as the composition of volatile compounds, were assessed in ciders. Must supplementation with magnesium salts significantly influenced the use of the analyzed element by yeast cells and was dependent on the yeast strain. In supplemented samples, a decrease in alcohol concentration and total acidity, as well as an increase in the content of extract and total polyphenols, was observed compared to the controls. The addition of ammonium salts caused a decrease in the amount of higher alcohols and magnesium salts, as well as a decrease in the concentration of some esters in ciders.

Mechanistic insights on immobilization and decontamination of hexavalent chromium onto nano MgS/FeS doped cellulose nanofibres

Sustainable bio nano composite comprising of nanoMgS/FeS doped cellulose nanofibres (FeMgSCNF) was prepared, characterized by various techniques and assessed for the decontamination of Cr(VI). Cellulose nanofibres (CNF) acts as a template and stabilizer and prevents agglomeration of FeS/MgS nano particles. MgS present in the nano-composite provides a barrier to suppress aerial oxidation of Fe(II) and provided additional source of sulfide ions. An adsorption capacity in the order of 142.8 mg/g of the bionano composite was exhibited towards hexavalent chromium. Both FeSCNF and FeMgSCNF followed pseudo first order and pseudo second order kinetics with regression coefficients >0.96. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies indicated that decontamination of Cr(VI) follows the route of electrostatic attraction, ion-exchange followed by reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) and immobilization of Cr(III) as chromic oxide and Fe-Cr mixed oxide. Toxicity characteristics leaching tests revealed the efficacy of immobilization. Finally the developed sorbents were successfully applied to the removal of chromium from tannery waste effluents.

Determination of the Solution Structure of Antifreeze Glycoproteins Using Two-Dimensional Infrared Spectroscopy

We study the solution structure of antifreeze glycoproteins (AFGPs) with linear and two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy (2D-IR). With 2D-IR, we study the coupling between the amide I and amide II vibrations of AFGPs. The measured nonlinear spectral response constitutes a much more clearly resolved amide I spectrum than the linear absorption spectrum of the amide I vibrations and allows us to identify the different structural elements of AFGPs in solution. We find clear evidence for the presence of polyproline II (PPII) helical structures already at room temperature, and we find that the fraction of PPII structures increases when the temperature is decreased to the biological working temperature of AFGP. We observe that inhibition of the antifreeze activity of AFGP using borate buffer or enhancing the antifreeze activity using sulfate buffer does not lead to significant changes in the protein conformation. This finding indicates that AFGPs bind to ice with their sugar side chains.

Humic acid attenuation of silver nanoparticle toxicity by ion complexation and the formation of a Ag3+ coating

The use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) result in an inevitable contact with aquatic environments. Here we study the behavior of AgNPs and the developmental toxicity in zebrafish embryos exposed to these nanoparticles (0-10 mg/L) with and without the presence of HA (20 mg/L), using zebrafish facility water (ZFW) and zebrafish growing media (ZGM). The presence of cations and HA gave rise to a decrease in Ag ion release and ζ-potential, an increase in the hydrodynamic diameter and oxidation of the AgNP surface. The results show that the presence of HA and cations in the media, as well as the silver speciation, i.e., the unusual presence of Ag³⁺, decreases the toxicity of AgNPs (LC50_AgNPs: 1.19 mg/L; LC50_{AgNPs + HA}: 3.56 mg/L), as well as silver bioavailability and toxicity in zebrafish embryos. Developmental alterations and the LC50 (1.19 mg/L) of AgNPs in ZFW were more relevant (p ≤ 0.05) than for AgNPs in ZGM (LC50 ˃ 10 mg/L). It was demonstrated that the bioaccumulation and toxicity of AgNPs depends on several factors including AgNPs concentration, nanoparticle aggregation, dissolved silver ions, speciation of silver ions, the amount of salt in the environment, the presence of humic substances and others, and different combinations of all of these factors.

Stability comparison of two dermal emulsions containing Hippophae Rhamnoides L. oil

Two formulations of multiple emulsion (ME-1 & ME-2) containing Hipophae rhamnoides L. oil were prepared. Along with emulsifiers (Abil EM 90, Synperonic F127), Magnesium and Zinc were used as stabilizer in ME-1 and ME-2 respectively. Both formulations were prepared using Two-Step Method and after preparation ME-1 and ME-2 were stored at different storage conditions i.e., 4°C, 25°C, 40°C, 40°C+ 75% RH for four weeks for stability evaluation. At 4°C ME-1 and ME-2 showed phase inversion and were excluded from further stability evaluation. While ME-1 and ME-2 both were stable at 25°C for a period of four weeks as no color change, phase separation and liquefaction occurred. ME-1 and ME-2 at 40°C, 40°C+ 75% RH exhibited change in color, liquefaction and phase separation. The decrease in viscosity and globule size whereas increase in electrical conductivity and pH were observed at 40°C, 40°C+ 75% RH for a period of four weeks. Multiple emulsion from Hippophae rhamnoide L. oil are unstable at refrigeration and high temperature conditions. These formulations must be placed at room temperature to increase their shelf life.

Immobilized and MgSO4 induced cost effective bacterial disintegration of waste activated sludge for effective anaerobic digestion

In this study, an attempt was made to disintegrate waste activated sludge (WAS) in a cost-effective way. During the first phase of this study, effective break down of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) was performed by deflocculating WAS with 0.1 g/g SS of MgSO₄. Deflocculation rate was 92% with discharge rate of extractable EPS at 185 mg/L. In the second phase, effective bacterial cell disintegration was obtained at 36 h post treatment. Maximum solubilization of deflocculated sludge was approximately 21%, which was higher than that of flocculated sludge (14.2%) or the control (4.5%). Biodegradability studies were assessed through kinetic analysis by non-linear regression modeling. Results revealed that the deflocculated sludge had higher methane generation (at about 235.8 mL/gVs) compared to flocculated sludge (at 146.1 mL/gVs) or the control (at 34.8 mL/gVs). Cost assessment of the present work revealed that the net yield for each ton of the deflocculated sludge was about 32.99 USD.

Screening and optimization of some inorganic salts for the production of ergot alkaloids from Penicillium species using surface culture fermentation process

The present study deals with the production of ergot alkaloids from Penicillium commune and Penicillium citrinum, using surface culture fermentation process. Impact of various inorganic salts was tested on the production of ergot alkaloids during the optimization studies of fermentation medium such as impact of various concentration levels of succinic acid, ammonium chloride, MgSO4, FeSO4, ZnSO4, pH and the effect of various incubation time periods was also determined on the production of ergot alkaloids from Penicillium commune and Penicillium citrinum. Highest yield of ergot alkaloids was obtained when Penicillium commune and Penicillium citrinum that were grown on optimum levels of ingredients such as 2 g succinic acid, 1.5 and 2 g NH4Cl, 1.5 g MgSO4, 1 g FeSO4, 1 and 1.5 g ZnSO4 after 21 days of incubation time period using pH 5 at 25(°)C incubation temperature in the fermentation medium. Ergot alkaloids were determined using Spectrophotometry and Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) techniques.

Magnesium sulfate micro air pump suction for bronchiolitis treatment in infants under two years old

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the efficiency, clinical effects and nursing methods related to the use of magnesium sulfate micro air pump suction for treating infants under two years old suffering from bronchiolitis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From January 2014 to September 2014, ninety-six infants with capillary bronchitis were enrolled. Patients were randomly divided into two groups: experimental group (n=49) and control group (n=47). All patients went through conventional anti-inflammatory therapy. Based on this, infants in the control group were additionally treated with intravenous drip of magnesium sulfate while patients in the experimental group were treated with magnesium sulfate micro air pump suction. We recorded all changes in blood gas and clinical scores, the residence time of symptoms and signs of bronchiolitis, and hospitalization time. Results obtained on clinical effects and adverse reactions were compared and analyzed.

RESULTS

The Variations of PaO2, PaCO2, SaO2 before treatment in both groups did not show any statistically significant differences (p>0.05); while after treatment analyses demonstrated that in both groups we had an increase in PaO2 and SaO2 and a decrease in PaCO2. The increase in PaO2 and SaO2 values were more pronounced while the decrease observed in PaCO2 was more significant in our experimental group. The total effective rate was significantly higher while the total adverse reaction rate, the resolution time of clinical symptoms and hospitalization time were significantly lower in our experimental group.

CONCLUSIONS

Magnesium sulfate micro air pump suction was safe and effective in treating with bronchiolitis of infants below 2 years old, and its adverse reaction rate was low, nursing procedure was simple, and nursing difficulty level was low.

Effective removal of nemacide fosthiazate from an aqueous solution using zero-valent iron

In this study, the removal of fosthiazate in an aqueous solution using zero valent iron (ZVI) and the related removal reaction mechanism were investigated. The results indicate that the dissipation of fosthiazate adheres to a pseudo-first order reaction law. The apparent rate constant of fosthiazate removal could be improved by increasing the ZVI dosage, control temperature and initial pH. The observed pseudo-first-order degradation rate constants (Kobs) of fosthiazate removal using ZVI were varied in the different electrolyte solutions, and were determined as follows: Kobs (MgSO4) < Kobs (KCl) < Kobs (Control) <Kobs (NaCl) < Kobs (CaCl2) < Kobs (NaNO3) < Kobs (Na2SO4). In addition, the effects of Fe(2+) and Fe(3+) ions on the fosthiazate removal were also investigated, and the fosthiazate removal efficiencies were measured as 1.3% and 5.7% with Fe(2+) and Fe(3+), respectively. The characterizations of ZVI before/after the reaction were employed to gain insight into the reaction mechanism. Finally, the main degradation products were investigated by means of an Agilent 1100 LC/MSD Ion Trap.

Vacuum FTIR Observation on the Dynamic Hygroscopicity of Aerosols under Pulsed Relative Humidity

A novel approach based on a combination of a pulse RH controlling system and a rapid scan vacuum FTIR spectrometer (PRHCS-RSVFTIR) was utilized to investigate dynamic hygroscopicity of two atmospheric aerosols: ammonium sulfate ((NH4)2SO4) and magnesium sulfate (MgSO4). In this approach, rapid-scan infrared spectra of water vapor and aerosols were obtained to determine relative humidity (RH) in sample cell and hygroscopic property of aerosols with a subsecond time resolution. Heterogeneous nucleation rates of (NH4)2SO4 were, for the first time, measured under low RH conditions (<35% RH). In addition, studies of MgSO4 aerosols revealed that water mass transport may be limited by different processes depending on RH values (surface limited at 40% < RH < 52% and bulk phase limited at RH < 40%). Furthermore, we are also the first to report water diffusion constants in micron size MgSO4 aerosols at very low RH values. Our results have shown that the PRHCS-RSVFTIR is well-suited for determination of hygroscopicity of atmospheric aerosols and water transport and nucleation kinetics of liquid aerosols.

Biofilms constructed for the removal of hydrocarbon pollutants from hypersaline liquids

Hydrocarbonoclastic biofilms were established on sterile glass plates vertically submerged for 1 month in a hypersaline soil/water suspension containing 0.3% crude oil. The culture-dependent analysis of the microbial community in those biofilms revealed hydrocarbonoclastic species in the magnitude of 10(3) cells cm(-2). Those species belonged to the halophilic bacterial genera Marinobacter, Halomonas, Dietzia, Bacillus, Arhodomonas, Aeromonas and Kocuria as well as to the haloarchaeal genera Haloferax and Halobacterium. Those organisms were not evenly distributed over the biofilm surface area. The culture-independent analysis revealed a different community composition, which was based on four uncultured and four cultured taxa. Depending on the culture conditions and the sort of chemical amendments, the biofilms succeeded in removing in 2 weeks up to about 60-70% of crude oil, pure n-hexadecane and pure phenanthrene in hypersaline pond water samples. The amendment with KCl, MgSO4 and a vitamin mixture composed of thiamin, pyridoxine, vitamin B12, biotin, riboflavin and folic acid was most effective.

[Coefficient of refraction of water and aqueous solutions in the optical frequency range in the vicinity of naphione]

Within the present experimental working it has been shown that in the vicinity of naphione (ion-exchange membrane) the water refraction coefficient grows approximately by a factor of 1.1 in comparison with its value in a liquid. The refractive coefficient changes at the wavelength of about 50 microns. The effect of the refractive coefficient is measured by the pH value and the temperature of the liquid. In the experimental study of the "glycerin/water" mixture at different concentrations it has been found that the refractive coefficient may increase because naphione surface attracts the dipole of water clusters. This effect occurs due to the swelling of naphione in water and its surface takes a charge.

Experimentally determined standard thermodynamic properties of synthetic MgSO(4)·4H(2)O (Starkeyite) and MgSO(4)·3H(2)O: a revised internally consistent thermodynamic data set for magnesium sulfate hydrates

The enthalpies of formation of synthetic MgSO(4)·4H(2)O (starkeyite) and MgSO(4)·3H(2)O were obtained by solution calorimetry at T=298.15 K. The resulting enthalpies of formation from the elements are [Formula: see text] (starkeyite)=-2498.7±1.1 kJ·mol(-1) and [Formula: see text] (MgSO(4)·3H(2)O)=-2210.3±1.3 kJ·mol(-1). The standard entropy of starkeyite was derived from low-temperature heat capacity measurements acquired with a physical property measurement system (PPMS) in the temperature range 5 K<T<300 K: [Formula: see text] (starkeyite)=254.48±2.0 J·K(-1)·mol(-1). Additionally, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements with a Perkin Elmer Diamond DSC in the temperature range 270 K<T<300 K were performed to check the reproducibility of the PPMS measurements around ambient temperature. The experimental C(p) data of starkeyite between 229 and 303 K were fitted with a Maier-Kelley polynomial, yielding C(p)(T)=107.925+0.5532·T-1048894·T(-2). The hydration state of all Mg sulfate hydrates changes in response to local temperature and humidity conditions. Based on recently reported equilibrium relative humidities and the new standard properties described above, the internally consistent thermodynamic database for the MgSO(4)·nH(2)O system was refined by a mathematical programming (MAP) analysis. As can be seen from the resulting phase diagrams, starkeyite is metastable in the entire T-%RH range. Due to kinetic limitations of kieserite formation, metastable occurrence of starkeyite might be possible under martian conditions.

Treatment of anaerobic digester effluents of nylon wastewater through chemical precipitation and a sequencing batch reactor process

Chemical precipitation, in combination with a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) process, was employed to remove pollutants from anaerobic digester effluents of nylon wastewater. The effects of the chemicals along with various Mg:N:P ratios on the chemical precipitation (struvite precipitation) were investigated. When brucite and H(3)PO(4) were applied at an Mg:N:P molar ratio of 3:1:1, an ammonia-removal rate of 81% was achieved, which was slightly more than that (80%) obtained with MgSO(4)·7H(2)O and Na(2)HPO(4)·12H(2)O at Mg:N:P molar ratios greater than the stoichiometric ratio. To further reduce the ammonia loads of the successive biotreatment, an overdose of phosphate with brucite and H(3)PO(4) was applied during chemical precipitation. The ammonia-removal rate at the Mg:N:P molar ratio of 3.5:1:1.05 reached 88%, with a residual PO(4)-P concentration of 16 mg/L. The economic analysis showed that the chemical cost of chemical precipitation could be reduced by about 41% when brucite and H(3)PO(4) were used instead of MgSO(4)·7H(2)O and Na(2)HPO(4)·12H(2)O. The subsequent biological process that used a sequencing batch reactor showed high removal rates of contaminants. The quality of the final effluent met the requisite effluent-discharging standards.

Water desalination using carbon-nanotube-enhanced membrane distillation

Carbon nanotube (CNT) enhanced membrane distillation is presented for water desalination. It is demonstrated that the immobilization of the CNTs in the pores of a hydrophobic membrane favorably alters the water-membrane interactions to promote vapor permeability while preventing liquid penetration into the membrane pores. For a salt concentration of 34 000 mg L(-1) and at 80 °C, the nanotube incorporation led to 1.85 and 15 times increase in flux and salt reduction, respectively.

[Impacts on N and P conservation during swine manure composting with different modified metal-salts addition]

Batch experiments were carried out by using mixed-level uniform design method U6 (692) x 3) to investigate the effect of the addition of different metal-salts at 20%, 40% and 60% of NT, respectively, including modified red-mud (MR) at pH 5.0 +/- 0.2 and 7.0 +/- 0.2, respectively, modified forsterite (MF) at pH 7.0 +/- 0.2, and MgSO4 on nitrogen and phosphorus conservation during swine manure composting. The results showed that the optimum effect of N saved occurred at No. 5 experiment (20%, MF, day 17) and No. 3 experiment (40%, MgSO4, day 10). Meanwhile, the P conservation of experiments with metal salts addition was better than that of the control, and the No. 6 experiment (20%, MR with pH =5, day 21) was the highest on TP conservation, with the lowest ratio of PO4(3-) -P/TP.

Source identification of sulphate forming salts on sandstones from monuments in Salamanca, Spain--a stable isotope approach

BACKGROUND, AIM AND SCOPE

Salt efflorescences markedly contribute to the alteration and deterioration of building material, in this case the Villamayor Sandstone of the facades in the Old Town of Salamanca, Spain (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization world cultural heritage site). A better understanding of the mechanisms of salt formation and the involved elements would allow more precise measures in monument conservation. The magnesium which is required for the salt precipitation originates from selective processes of hydrolysis. The source of sulphate, however, is presently not as clear. Identifying the source of the sulphur was the main goal of this research. Isotope ratio measurement of delta(34)S and delta(18)O was used to clarify the origins of Mg sulphate salts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 56 Mg sulphate samples were collected in two different seasons (July and November 2005) from monuments of the Old Town of Salamanca. These sampled salt efflorescences were analysed for delta(34)S and delta(18)O by mass spectrometry. A 'dual-inlet' type by VG Isotech was used for delta(34)S and continuous flow type Isoprime by GV Instruments for delta(18)O. Samples were measured in triplicates and standard material was analysed for quality control.

RESULTS

delta(34)S values range between 3.6 per thousand and 15.4 per thousand with a median value of 10.2 per thousand for the July samples and of 10.1 per thousand for November samples. The results of the sulphur ratios hint towards a bimodal distribution (with modes at delta(34)S = 6 per thousand and 12 per thousand) for winter samples, which is less obvious during summer. delta(18)O values range from 7.1 per thousand to 41.1 per thousand. However, most values range from 7.1 per thousand to 20.8 per thousand, whereas only few summer samples show outliers towards higher delta(18)O values. The median delta(18)O value for July samples is 15.5 per thousand and for November samples 14.6 per thousand.

DISCUSSION

The isotopic ratios of the analysed sulphate samples were compared with values of possible source materials. Sulphur sources in the case of Salamanca are barites from the Villamayor Sandstone itself, sea spray, sulphides from regional rocks, biogenic sulphur (soil, avian excreta), as well as sulphur from anthropogenic sources such as building materials (especially mortar) or traffic exhaust. Salamanca is a representative site for non-industrial cities with no heavy industry and thus, there are no significant SO(2) emissions from industry.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the measured isotopic ratios, it was ascertained that more than one sole sulphur source is present. However, based on additional information about the source material and possible transport ways, some sources could be excluded whereas others only played a minor role. Finally, there is strong indication that the main sulphur source is atmospheric pollution and the exhaust emissions from vehicles in particular, while mortar as building material also contributes to a minor extent. The delta(18)O values support this hypothesis. Moreover, the reported delta(18)O values are a strong indicator of the secondary nature of the Mg sulphates. Isotope ratio measurement and especially the combined use of delta(34)S and delta(18)O values have proven to be a good instrument in clarifying the origin of salt efflorescences on buildings.

RECOMMENDATIONS AND PERSPECTIVES

Further studies should investigate more closely the isotopic composition of atmospheric aerosols in Salamanca in order to get a more detailed knowledge about the main sulphur sources, as well as to quantify the relation between the isotopic values and the amount and mineralogical form of the salts.

Preliminary study of osmotic membrane bioreactor: effects of draw solution on water flux and air scouring on fouling

Preliminary study on a novel osmotic membrane bioreactor (OMBR) was explored. Objective of this study was to investigate the effects of draw solution on membrane flux and air scouring at the feed side on fouling tendency in a pilot OMBR system composing the anoxic/aerobic and forward osmosis (FO) processes. Domestic sewage was the raw feed, FO membrane from HTI and NaCl/MgSO4 draw solutions were used in the experiments. Fluxes of 3 l/m2/h (LMH) and 7.2 LMH were achieved at osmotic pressure of 5 and 22.4 atm, respectively. No significant flux decline was observed at 3 LMH over 190 h and at 7.2 LMH over 150 h when air scouring was provided at the feed side of the membrane. However, without air scouring, the flux at 22.4 atm osmotic pressure declined by 30% after 195 h and then levelled off. The potential advantages of the fouling reversibility with air scouring under the operating conditions of the pilot OMBR and better water quality in OMBR over the conventional MBR were preliminarily demonstrated.

Sorption of water vapor, hydration, and viscosity of carboxymethylhydroxypropyl guar, diutan, and xanthan gums, and their molecular association with and without salts (NaCl, CaCl2, HCOOK, CH3COONa, (NH4)2SO4 and MgSO4) in aqueous solution

Gums are routinely used in food industry, pharmacy and oil recovery process. In these uses, the hydrocolloids very often encounter interactions with salts at moderate to high temperature. Since they are normally employed in the form of solution and gel, their viscous or fluidity properties need detailed investigation. In the present work, properties such as water vapor adsorption of finely powdered carboxymethylhydroxypropyl derivatized guar (CMHPG) as well as xanthan (Xn) and diutan (Dn) gums, their hydration in solution, their viscosity behaviors, and salt effects on fluidity have been studied. The concentration domains for the existence of free and associated molecules in the studied solutions have been assessed from the viscosity results. The gums have been found to bind a fair amount of water from the vapor phase with them. In solution, they can interact and arrest a large amount of water in their folded configuration. Intrinsic viscosities of the gums in aqueous medium declined in the presence of salts. The activation energies for their viscous flow were moderate and comparable, and were dependent on their concentrations. From the power law relation and viscosity master curve behavior mostly two critical association states of the macromolecular dispersions were envisaged.

High-magnesium concentration and cytokine production in human whole blood model

The potential influence of magnesium (Mg) on inflammatory responses was assessed using an ex vivo model--human whole blood incubated with and without lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Addition of LPS leads to higher levels of cytokines including TNF-alpha and IL-6. No significant effect of Mg was observed following LPS stimulation whereas high concentration of Mg inhibited the baseline level (without LPS) of TNF-alpha and IL-6 production. This observation contrasts with that of a previous one on Mg-deficient animals. Therefore, the weak efficiency of increasing Mg concentration in this study on the whole blood from healthy volunteers suggests that the efficiency of Mg supplementation on cytokine production induced by endotoxin challenge depends on Mg status.

Evaluation of sulfate resistance of cement mortars containing black rice husk ash

In this paper, black rice husk ashes (BRHAs), which are agrowastes from an electricity generating power plant and a rice mill, were ground and used as a partial cement replacement. The durability of mortars under sulfate attack including expansion and compressive strength loss were investigated. For parametric study, BRHA were used as a Portland cement Type 1 replacement at the levels of 0%, 10%, 30%, and 50% by weight of binder. The water-to-binder ratios were 0.55 and 0.65. For the durability of mortar exposed to sulfate attack, 5% sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) and magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) solutions were used. As a result, when increasing the percentage replacement of BRHA, the expansion and compressive strength loss of mortar decreased. At the replacement levels of 30% and 50% of BRHA, the expansion of the mortars was less than those mixed with sulfate-resistant cement. However, the expansion of the mortars exposed to Na2SO4 was more than those exposed to MgSO4. Increasing the replacement level of BRHA tends to reduce the compressive strength loss of mortars exposed to Na2SO4 attack. In contrary, under MgSO4 attack, when increasing the replacement level of BRHA, the compressive strength loss increases from 0% to 50% in comparison to Portland cement mortar. Results show that ground BRHA can be applied as a pozzolanic material to concrete and also improve resistance to sodium sulfate attack, but it can impair resistance to magnesium sulfate attack.

Zinc(II) desorption by Sargassum filipendula biomass in batch and in fixed-bed column for multiple sorption-regeneration cycles

The reusability of the alga Sargassum filipendula was studied in batch reactor and in fixed-bed column in order to investigate Zn(II)-laden biomass regeneration. Four types of desorbing solutions at two different concentrations were tested and the results obtained to the desorption efficiencies were higher than 90% for three of the agents. Ten consecutive sorption-regeneration cycles at a flow rate of 8 mL/min were carried in fixed bed column with the feed concentration of 50 mg/L and using two eluent solutions: H(2)SO(4) (0.1 M) and MgSO(4) (3.5% at pH 3), which showed the best ability to elution tests in batch system. The column was used for a period of 30 days. The adsorption capacity decreased the passing of cycles, but the total amount of zinc removed after 10 cycles was approximately 8 times greater than if the biomass had been used for only one time, for both agents tested. Therefore, the regeneration in the Sargassum filipendula column through the two desorbing agents tested showing high efficient use of biomass and facilitating the process of treatment of wastewater containing metals that has successive exchanges of biomass.

Anomalous hygroscopic growth of fine particles of MgSO4 aerosols investigated by FTIR/ATR spectroscopy

This paper demonstrates an approach for investigating the hygroscopic growth of MgSO4 aerosols deposited on ZnSe substrate by using attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (FTIR/ATR) spectroscopy. The experimental setup based upon a refitted standard FTIR/ATR accessory was adopted for the hygroscopic study of aerosols. It has been found that the "predeliquescence" of fine MgSO4 aerosol particles with the mean spreading diameter around 500 nm occurred before roughly 15% RH. In contrast, the abrupt water absorption of coarse MgSO4 particles with the mean diameter larger than about 10 microm was reported to occur at roughly 42% RH, which was reproduced in this study. Up to now, both theoretical and experimental investigations were rare and immature for fine particles, but the method we used in this study worked very well for the fine particles of MgSO4 aerosols. It has been found that the possible reason for the "predeliquescence" fine particles of MgSO4 aerosols is that the initial state or phase of fine particles is different from coarse ones after desiccation. This research demonstrates that the approach based on the ATR technique is very convenient, accurate and requires only a little amount of lab supplies.

[Extraction and ultra-performance liquid chromatographic analysis of adenosine phosphates in royal jelly]

Several different extraction procedures including perchloric acid extraction, boiling water extraction and boiling magnesium sulfate solution extraction were studied for the extraction of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and adenosine monophosphate (AMP) from the royal jelly. Among these methods, the extraction with 5% perchloric acid at below 4 degrees C was the optimum extraction method. A simple, fast and sensitive ultra-performance liquid chromatographic (UPLC) method was developed for the determination of ATP, ADP and AMP in royal jelly. The separation was achieved within 4 min using a BEH Shield RP18 column (100 mm x 2.1 mm, 1.7 microm) with 50 mmol/L monoammonium phosphate solution (pH 6.5) and acetonitrile as the mobile phase. The spiked recoveries of ATP, ADP and AMP were 84.1% -94.3%, 86.2% -93.7% and 91.0% -104.3%, respectively. The relative standard deviations were less than 10%. This method was successfully applied to the analysis of some royal jelly samples from beekeepers and markets for the investigation of distribution of ATP, ADP and AMP in royal jelly samples.

Formulation and in vitro evaluation of a cosmetic emulsion from almond oil

Several processes are used for the manufacture of multiple emulsions. The most widely used procedure is two step method. 1st step consists of preparing a primary emulsion. In the 2nd step, a definite amount of this primary emulsion is dispersed in an external phase containing the secondary emulsifier. Although it is a simple method, the 2nd step of the procedure includes many critical factors. In this work water-in-oil-in-water w/o/w multiple emulsion was prepared by using almond oil, Abil-EM 90, magnesium sulfate, Tween 80. The multiple emulsion was prepared by using two-step process. Stability studies of this multiple emulsion were carried out at different storage conditions i.e. 8 degrees C, 25 degrees C, 40 degrees C and 40 degrees C+ 75% relative humidity (RH) for 28 days. It was found that samples of multiple emulsion stored at 8 degrees C, 25 degrees C were stable through out the study period but samples stored at 40 degrees C and 40 degrees C+ 75% RH were found to show some changes in color, liquefaction and phase separation from third week. The changes in pH values and electrical conductivity of multiple emulsions stored at these storage conditions were also measured. Globules sizes of multiple emulsion were also measured at these storage conditions. Results indicate that there were significant changes in pH values and electrical conductivity of multiple emulsion stored at different conditions and non significant changes in globule sizes of multiple emulsion stored at these conditions were observed.

Near Infrared Spectroscopy of Magnesium Stearate Hydrates and Multivariate Calibration of Pseudopolymorph Composition

Samples of magnesium stearate monohydrate and dihydrate were used to prepare standard mixtures of known pseudopolymorphic composition. Near infrared spectra (NIR) of the standard mixtures were measured to develop multivariate calibration models for the pseudopolymorphic composition of magnesium stearate by partial least squares (PLS) regression. Magnesium stearate hydrate compositions of the standard mixtures were compared against the hydrate composition based on thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The mixture compositions determined from TGA mass loss on drying (LOD) measurements were found to be inaccurate. PLS regression was applied to the TGA thermograms of the standard mixtures to generate more accurate reference values, and this model was then applied to a set of validation samples. Application of the NIR PLS model to the validation sample set resulted in precise estimates of sample pseudopolymorphic composition when compared to the TGA PLS reference values. The NIR PLS model was found to be more sensitive than TGA LOD to small quantities of hydrates, and the TGA PLS model was also found to be more sensitive that TGA LOD. The results demonstrate the challenges and opportunities that arise when rapid, nondestructive spectroscopic methods depend on insensitive or inaccurate reference methods for development of multivariate calibration models.

On the experimental use of light metal salts for negative staining

All common negative stains are salts of heavy metals. To remedy several technical defects inherent in the use of heavy metal compounds, this study investigates whether salts of the light metals sodium, magnesium, and aluminum can function as negative stains. Screening criteria require aqueous solubility at pH 7.0, formation of a smooth amorphous layer upon drying, and transmission electron microscope imaging of the 87-A (8.7-nm) lattice periodicity in thin catalase crystals. Six of 23 salts evaluated pass all three screens; detection of the protein shell in ferritin macromolecules indicates that light metal salts also provide negative staining of single particle specimens. Appositional contrast is less than that given by heavy metal negative stains; image density can be raised by increasing electron phase contrast and by selecting salts with phosphate or sulfate anions, thereby adding strong scattering from P or S atoms. Low-dose electron diffraction of catalase crystals negatively stained with 200 mM magnesium sulfate shows Bragg spots extending out to 4.4 A. Future experimental use of sodium phosphate buffer and magnesium sulfate for negative staining is anticipated, particularly in designing new cocktail (multicomponent) negative stains able to support and protect protein structure to higher resolution levels than are currently achieved.

Amino acids partitioning in aqueous two-phase system of polypropylene glycol and magnesium sulfate

The counter-current chromatography method using aqueous two-phase systems, which is a form of liquid-liquid partition chromatography, could be applied for separation of the amino acids. This method needs some information about the partition coefficient of the amino acids in such systems. In this work, partitioning of amino acids d-alanine, l-valine and l-leucine was investigated in aqueous two-phase system of polypropylene glycol (PPG425)+MgSO4+H2O at 298.15K. The results showed that increasing the amino acid hydrophobicity lead to a corresponding increase in the partition coefficients and increasing tie line length lead to decreasing partition coefficients. The effect of the pH on amino acids partitioning was also determined. The experimental data are correlated using a modified virial-type model. The comparisons between the correlation and the experimental data reveal a good agreement.

Crystal growth and vibrational spectroscopic studies of the semiorganic non-linear optical crystal--bisthiourea magnesium sulphate

The semiorganic non-linear optical crystal bisthiourea magnesium sulphate (BTMS) was grown by slow evaporation technique using water as solvent. Vibrational spectra were recorded to determine the symmetries of molecular vibrations. The observed Raman and infrared bands were also assigned and discussed. The optical transmission spectral study was carried out to test the transmitting ability of the crystal in the visible range. The second harmonic generation test of BTMS revealed the non-linear nature of the crystal. The TGA/DTA curve was also recorded for the experimental crystal.

Theoretical study on the sound absorption of electrolytic solutions. II. Assignments of relaxations

The theory on the ultrasonic absorption spectrum of electrolytic solutions recently proposed by us is applied to the model system that resembles to the aqueous solution of MgSO4. The charges on ions are reduced to +/-1.5e in order to obtain the equilibrium structure by the integral equation theory. The theory reproduces the existence of two relaxations around 100 kHz and 1 GHz. The physical origin of the relaxation is analyzed based on the theoretical expression. The slower relaxation is shown to originate in the formation of contact ion pair, in harmony with the conventional assignment. The amplitude of this relaxation agrees with the experimental one fairly well. The absorption cross section is a weakly increasing function of the concentration of the salt in theory, whereas it depends little on the concentration in experiment, which is ascribed to the weaker association of the pair in the theory. The deviation from the Debye relaxation is found for the faster process, and the concentration dependence is small. The analysis shows that this relaxation stems from the coupling between the pressure and the long-range concentration fluctuation, and the concentration independence and the non-Debye relaxation are explained based on the theoretical analysis. In particular, the theory demonstrates that this process has the t(-3/2) tail in the time domain, which is confirmed by numerical calculation. The deviation of the theoretical relaxation amplitude from the experimental one is elucidated in terms of the theoretical expression of the coefficient.

Nanobelt formation of magnesium hydroxide sulfate hydrate via a soft chemistry process

The nanobelt formation of magnesium hydroxide sulfate hydrate (MHSH) via a soft chemistry approach using carbonate salt and magnesium sulfate as reactants was successfully demonstrated. X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersion X-ray spectra (EDS), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis revealed that the MHSH nanobelts possessed a thin belt structure (approximately 50 nm in thickness) and a rectangular cross profile (approximately 200 nm in width). The MHSH nanobelts suffered decomposition under electron beam irradiation during TEM observation and formed MgO with the pristine nanobelt morphology preserved. The formation process of the MHSH nanobelts was studied by tracking the morphology of the MHSH nanobelts during the reaction. A possible chemical reaction mechanism is proposed.

Powder X-ray Thermodiffraction Study of Mirabilite and Epsomite Dehydration. Effects of Direct IR-Irradiation on Samples

This paper investigates the thermal and irradiation-dependent dehydration and kinetics occurring in Na2SO4.10H2O (mirabilite) and MgSO4.7H2O (epsomite) at room conditions by using powder X-ray thermodiffraction. An improved version of a first optically stimulated X-ray diffractometer prototype was used. Specific software for the thermodiffraction study was developed (XPowder PLUS) and a filter inserted between the lamp (heating system) and the sample. The results show that these salts are thermal and irradiation sensitive. The temperature and kinetic rates of the salt conversions differed depending on direct exposure to high-intensity radiation (photodehydration) or whether the radiation was blocked by the filter (thermodehydration). In general, radiation-induced dehydration triggers the transformation at lower temperature and accelerates the kinetic reaction more than when the filter is used. Mirabilite dehydration starts with the initial radiation impacts, unlike epsomite. Thermodehydration and photodehydration of mirabilite is a non-isothermal reaction occurring through an amorphous-mediated step. Radiation damage in epsomite leads to isothermal dehydration, whereas non-isothermal dehydration occurs when epsomite is thermally damaged. In both cases, no amorphous material was observed. Because of the weaker bond between cation and oxygen atom in mirabilite, its thermal and radiation stability is lower than in epsomite. These results have important implications for the prevention of salt weathering of porous materials found in the cultural heritage.

Determination of pesticide residues in foods by acetonitrile extraction and partitioning with magnesium sulfate: collaborative study

A collaborative study was conducted to determine multiple pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables using a quick, simple, inexpensive, and effective sample preparation method followed by concurrent analysis with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and liquid chromatography/ tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). For short, the method is known as QuEChERS, which stands for quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe. Twenty representative pesticides were fortified in 3 matrixes (grapes, lettuces, and oranges) at 3 duplicate levels unknown to the collaborators ranging from 10 to 1000 ng/g. Additionally, 8 incurred pesticide residues were determined. Thirteen laboratories from 7 countries provided results in the study, and a variety of different instruments were used by collaborators. The QuEChERS procedure simply entails 3 main steps: (1) a 15 g homogenized sample is weighed into a 50 mL centrifuge tube to which 15 mL acetonitrile containing 1% HOAc is added along with 6 g MgSO4 and 1.5 g NaOAc, and the tube is shaken and centrifuged; (2) a portion of the extract is mixed with 3 + 1 (w/w) MgSO4-primary secondary amine sorbent (200 mg/mL extract) and centrifuged; and (3) the final extract is analyzed by GC/MS and LC/MS/MS. To detect residues <10 ng/g in GC/MS, large-volume injection of 8 microL is typically needed, or the extract can be concentrated to 4 g/mL in toluene, in which case 2 microL splitless injection is used. In the study, the averaged results for data from 7-13 laboratories (not using internal standardization) for the 18 blind duplicates at the 9 spiking levels in the 3 matrixes are as follows [%recovery and reproducibility relative standard deviation (RSD(R), %)]: atrazine, 92 (18); azoxystrobin, 93 (15); bifenthrin, 90 (16); carbaryl, 96 (20); chlorothalonil, 70 (34); chlorpyrifos, 89 (25); cyprodinil, 89 (19); o,p'-DDD, 89 (18); dichlorvos, 82 (21); endosulfan sulfate, 80 (27); imazalil, 77 (33); imidacloprid, 96 (16); linuron, 89 (19); methamidophos, 87 (17); methomyl, 96 (17); procymidone, 91 (20); pymetrozine, 69 (19); tebuconazole, 89 (15); tolylfluanid (in grapes and oranges), 68 (33); and trifluralin, 85 (20). For incurred pesticides, kresoxim-methyl (9.2 +/- 3.2 ng/g) and cyprodinil (112 +/- 18) were found in the grapes; permethrins (112 +/- 41), lamda-cyhalothrin (58 +/- 11), and imidacloprid (12 +/- 2) were determined in the lettuces; and ethion (198 +/- 36), thiabendazole (53 +/- 8), and imazalil (13 +/- 4) were determined in the oranges. Chlorpyrifosmethyl (200 ng/g) was used as a quality control standard added during sample homogenization and yielded 86% recovery and 19% RSD(R). Intralaboratory repeatabilities for the method averaged 9.8% RSD for all analytes. The results demonstrate that the method is fit-for-purpose to monitor many pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables, and the Study Director recommends that it be adopted Official First Action.

Oxidation inhibition of sulfite in dual alkali flue gas desulfurization system

A laboratory-scale well-mixed thermostatic reactor with continuously blasting air was used to investigate the oxidation inhibition of sulfite in dual alkali flue gas desulfurization (FGD) system. The effects of operating parameters such as pH value and catalyst concentration on the oxidation were studied. Sodium thiosulfate was used in the system, and was found that it significantly inhabited the sulfite oxidation. In the absence of catalyst, sodium thiosulfate at 12.67 mmol/L had an inhibition efficiency of approximately 98%. While in the presence of catalyst, sodium thiosulfate at 26.72 mmol/L had an inhibition efficiency less than 85.0%. The oxidation reaction order of sulfite in the sodium thiosulfate was determined to be -1.90 and -0.55 in the absence and presence of the catalyst, respectively. Apparent activation energy of oxidation inhibition was calculated to be 53.9 kJ/mol. Pilot tests showed that the consumption rate of thiosulfate agreed well with the laboratory-scale experimental results.

Evaluation of methods for the determination of water in substances with unknown chemical and thermal behaviour

The water content of six different substances was determined by means of five different methods. The methods used were loss on drying, thermogravimetry (coupled with DSC), a new phosphorous-pentoxide method, direct Karl-Fischer titration and the Karl-Fischer oven. A combination of direct Karl-Fischer titration and the KF-oven method was found to be the optimal technique for water determination of substances of unidentified chemical and thermal behaviour based on detailed considerations about selectivity, type of water binding, sample properties and efficiency.

Sequential and simultaneous statistical optimization by dynamic design of experiment for peptide overexpression in recombinant Escherichia coli

The production of recombinant anti-HIV peptide, T-20, in Escherichia coli was optimized by statistical experimental designs (successive designs with multifactors) such as 2(4-1) fractional factorial, 2(3) full factorial, and 2(2) rotational central composite design in order. The effects of media compositions (glucose, NPK sources, MgSO4, and trace elements), induction level, induction timing (optical density at induction process), and induction duration (culture time after induction) on T-20 production were studied by using a statistical response surface method. A series of iterative experimental designs was employed to determine optimal fermentation conditions (media and process factors). Optimal ranges characterized by %T-20 (proportion of peptide to the total cell protein) were observed, narrowed down, and further investigated to determine the optimal combination of culture conditions, which was as follows: 9, 6, 10, and 1 mL of glucose, NPK sources, MgSO4, and trace elements, respectively, in a total of 100 mL of medium inducted at an OD of 0.55-0.75 with 0.7 mM isopropyl-beta-D-thiogalactopyranoside in an induction duration of 4 h. Under these conditions, up to 14% of T-20 was obtained. This statistical optimization allowed the production of T-20 to be increased more than twofold (from 6 to 14%) within a shorter induction duration (from 6 to 4 h) at the shake-flask scale.

Defect complexes in Re3+-doped magnesium sulphate phosphors

A series of magnesium sulphate phosphors MgSO4:RE3+,X ( RE = Dy, Tm, Eu and X = P, Mn) have been prepared and studied. Based on the experimental results of thermoluminescence (TL) emission spectra and dose responses studies, it is proposed that in these phosphors large defect complexes are formed, which include intrinsic imperfections and dopants. These defect complexes were formed in the course of preparation of phosphors and could be regarded as basic elements in the TL multi-stage processes. This defect model might be applicable to the most of TL materials.

Effect of magnesium salts on the sulphation capacity of limestone slurry

The effect of different magnesium salts such as MgO, MgSO(4).7H2O and Mg(OH)2 on the total sulphation capacities of limestone slurries prepared from five different limestone samples was investigated. Sulphation reactions of slurries were conducted at a constant temperature of 323 K in a gaseous mixture consisting of 5% O2, 10% CO2, 0.5% SO2 and a balance of nitrogene by volume. It was found that the total sulphation capacities of limestone slurries increased with the addition of MgO and Mg(OH)2 salts and decreased with the addition of MgSO4.7H2O salt. Depending on the chemical composition of the limestone samples the total sulphation capacities of limestone slurries were increased between 22.30% and 75.00% by MgO addition and between 23.70% and 69.00% by Mg(OH)2 addition.

Correlation between thermoluminescence and mechanoluminescence of gamma-irradiated Dy activated potassium and magnesium mixed sulphate

Thermoluminescene (TL) and mechanoluminescence (ML) properties of gamma-irradiated Dy activated potassium and magnesium mixed sulphate have been studied. (K2Mg2:Dy) (SO4)3 samples having different concentrations of Dy were prepared by solid-state diffusion method. Two distinct peaks, the first approximately 130 degrees C and the second approximately 273 degrees C, are observed in the TL glow curve. It is also observed that TL intensities of both peaks decrease when TL glow curves were recorded after deforming the irradiated samples. Only one peak is observed in the ML intensity vs. time curve and the ML intensity decreases markedly with the post-irradiation annealing (to remove 130 degrees C TL peak) of the sample. Both ML and TL intensities have been observed optimum for 1 mol% of Dy in the mixed sulphate system. It is suggested that the recombination of electrons with the free radicals (anion radicals produced by gamma irradiation) released from the traps during the thermal or mechanical excitation is responsible for luminescence in this system.

Magnesium chloride or magnesium sulfate: a genuine question

MgSO4 is routinely used in therapeutics despite its toxicity. The aim of the present review was to compare MgSO4 and MgCl2 effects in order to answer the question whether MgSO4 could be or not replaced by MgCl2. Considering that the two salts have both similar and proper effects, a clear-cut conclusion is not easy to draw. However, choosing MgCl2 seems advisable because of its more interesting clinical and pharmacological effects and its lower tissue toxicity as compared to MgSO4.

Optimization of culture conditions and medium composition for the production of micrococcin GO5 by Micrococcus sp. GO5

To enhance the production of micrococcin GO5, a bacteriocin produced by Micrococcus sp. GO5, cultivation conditions and medium composition were optimized. The optimal initial pH and temperature for bacteriocin production were 7.0-9.0 and 37 degrees C, respectively. Micrococcus sp. GO5 displayed the highest micrococcin GO5 activity when grown in modified MRS medium that contained lactose or sucrose, rather than glucose, as a carbon source. The maximum bacteriocin activity was obtained in modified MRS medium containing 0.5% tryptone and 1.0% yeast extract as nitrogen sources instead of the other nitrogen sources present in MRS medium. Bacteriocin production was greatly affected by the concentration of K(2)HPO(4); strain GO5 produced eight-fold more bacteriocin in medium containing 2.0-2.5% K(2)HPO(4) than in medium containing 0.2% K(2)HPO(4). The optimal concentration of MgSO(4).7H(2)O for bacteriocin production was 0.5%. The production of micrococcin GO5 was increased 32-fold in shake flask culture and 16-fold in a bioreactor using the optimized medium (TY medium), compared with culturing in MRS medium.

Liposome-encapsulated vincristine, vinblastine and vinorelbine: A comparative study of drug loading and retention

A comparative study of the loading and retention properties of three structurally very closely related vinca alkaloids (vincristine, vinorelbine and vinblastine) in liposomal formulations has been performed. All three vinca alkaloids showed high levels of encapsulation when accumulated into egg sphingomyelin/cholesterol vesicles in response to a transmembrane pH gradient generated by the use of the ionophore A23187 and encapsulated MgSO4. However, despite the close similarities of their structures the different vinca drugs exhibited very different release behavior, with vinblastine and vinorelbine being released faster than vincristine both in vitro and in vivo. The differences in loading and retention can be related to the lipophilicity of the drugs tested, where the more hydrophobic drugs are released more rapidly. It was also found that increasing the drug-to-lipid ratio significantly enhanced the retention of vinca alkaloids when the ionophore-based method was used for drug loading. In contrast, drug retention was not dependent on the initial drug-to-lipid ratio for vinca drugs loaded into liposomes containing an acidic citrate buffer. The differences in retention can be explained on the basis of differences in the physical state of the drug inside the liposomes. The drug-to-lipid ratio dependence of retention observed for liposomes loaded with the ionophore technique may provide a way to improve the retention characteristics of liposomal formulations of vinca drugs.

Committee on Residues and Related Topics. Pesticides and other chemical contaminants

One new topic needs to be added to this refereeship this year. This topic is Multiresidue Methods for Pesticides in Foods by GC/MS and LC/MS/MS. Last year the Synthetic Pyrethroids method was declared Final Action with comments. The comments were "Change applicability statement to: This method is applicable for the determination of 8 synthetic pyrethroid pesticides in wheat, oranges, and tomatoes at 0.10-2.0 mg/kg." The topic Determination of Residues of Triazines and Their Chloro-Metabolites in Raw Agricultural Commodities has now been filled. The topic Dioxins by GC/MS remains vacant.

Optimizing the APC residue washing process to minimize the release of chloride and heavy metals

An optimization of the air pollution control (APC) residue washing process was carried out to minimize the release of chloride and heavy metals. Taking into account economic parameters such as the consumption of water and reaction time, the best relation found was a S/L ratio of 1/3 during 1 h. At a laboratory scale and according to the values obtained for chloride and heavy metals, the APC residue is classified as non-special according to Catalonian Regulations (Spain). Moreover, the pH of the solution, when MgSO(4) is added during the washing process, may be controlled by the formation of gypsum. In these conditions, the concentration of heavy metals will decrease as a consequence of the formation of their respective insoluble hydroxides. Therefore, the counter-current batch washing process with the addition of small amounts of MgSO(4) is revealed as an economically feasible treatment of the APC residue. This washed residue is ready to be used as secondary material or to be landfilled safely.

Magnesium sulphate salts and the history of water on Mars

Recent reports of approximately 30 wt% of sulphate within saline sediments on Mars--probably occurring in hydrated form--suggest a role for sulphates in accounting for equatorial H2O observed in a global survey by the Odyssey spacecraft. Among salt hydrates likely to be present, those of the MgSO4*nH2O series have many hydration states. Here we report the exposure of several of these phases to varied temperature, pressure and humidity to constrain their possible H2O contents under martian surface conditions. We found that crystalline structure and H2O content are dependent on temperature-pressure history, that an amorphous hydrated phase with slow dehydration kinetics forms at <1% relative humidity, and that equilibrium calculations may not reflect the true H2O-bearing potential of martian soils. Mg sulphate salts can retain sufficient H2O to explain a portion of the Odyssey observations. Because phases in the MgSO4*nH2O system are sensitive to temperature and humidity, they can reveal much about the history of water on Mars. However, their ease of transformation implies that salt hydrates collected on Mars will not be returned to Earth unmodified, and that accurate in situ analysis is imperative.

A simplified measurement of hydrated crystal densities of low melting points (low transition points) by solidifications of aqueous solutions

A volume change method for measuring crystal densities is described. It allows the densities of unstable hydrated crystals at room temperature to be determined, by measurements of volume changes during the solidification of aqueous solutions. NaCl x 2H2O, KCl, MgSO4 x 12H2O and K2HPO4 x 6H2O were measured by the method and their densities (SE) are 1.61+/-0.02, 1.99+/-0.05, 1.45+/-0.01 and 1.75+/-0.02 g ml(-1) respectively. Data of NaCl x 2H2O and KCl are in good agreement with the previously reported values.

Tírez lake as a terrestrial analog of Europa

Tírez Lake (La Mancha, central Spain) is proposed as a terrestrial analogue of Europa's ocean. The proposal is based on the comparison of the hydrogeochemistry of Tírez Lake with the geochemical features of the alteration mineralogy of meteoritic precursors and with Galileo's Near Infrared Mapping Spectrometer data on Europa's surface. To validate the astrobiological potential of Tírez Lake as an analog of Europa, different hydrogeochemical, mineral, and microbial analyses were performed. Experimental and theoretical modeling helped to understand the crystallization pathways that may occur in Europa's crust. Calculations about the oxidation state of the hypothetical Europan ocean were estimated to support the sulfate-rich neutral liquid model as the origin of Europa's observed hydrated minerals and to facilitate their comparison with Tírez's hydrogeochemistry. Hydrogeochemical and mineralogical analyses showed that Tírez waters corresponded to Mg-Na-SO(4)-Cl brines with epsomite, hexahydrite, and halite as end members. A preliminary microbial ecology characterization identified two different microbial domains: a photosynthetically sustained community represented by planktonic/benthonic forms and microbial mat communities, and a subsurficial anaerobic realm in which chemolithotrophy predominates. Fluorescence in situ hybridization has been used to characterize the prokaryotic diversity of the system. The subsurficial community seemed to be dominated by sulfate-reducing bacteria and methanogens. Frozen Tírez brines were analyzed by Fourier-transform infrared techniques providing spectra similar to those reported previously using pure components and to the Galileo spectral data. Calorimetric measurements of Tírez brines showed pathways and phase metastability for magnesium sulfate and sodium chloride crystallization that may aid in understanding the processes involved in the formation of Europa's icy crust. The use of fluorescence hybridization techniques for microbial detection and characterization in hypersaline environments makes this methodology strongly advisable for future Europa astrobiological missions.

Sulfate content of Europa's ocean and shell: evolutionary considerations and some geological and astrobiological implications

Recent models for the origin of Jupiter indicate that the Galilean satellites were mostly derived from largely unprocessed solar nebula solids and planetesimals. In the jovian subnebula the solids that built Europa were first heated and then cooled, but the major effect was most likely partial or total devolatilization, and less likely to have been wholesale thermochemical reprocessing of rock + metal compositions (e.g., oxidation of Fe and hydration of silicates). Ocean formation and substantial alteration of interior rock by accreted water and ice would occur during and after accretion, but none of the formation models predicts or implies accretion of sulfates. Europa's primordial ocean was most likely sulfidic. After accretion and later radiogenic and tidal heating, the primordial ocean would have interacted hydrothermally with subjacent rock. It has been hypothesized that sulfides could be converted to sulfates if sufficient hydrogen was lost to space, but pressure effects and the impermeability of serpentinite imply that extraction of sulfate from thoroughly altered Europa-rock would have been inefficient (if indeed Mg sulfates formed at all). Permissive physical limits on the extent of alteration limit the sulfate concentration of Europa's evolved ocean to 10% by weight MgSO(4) or equivalent. Later oxidation of the deep interior of Europa may have also occurred because of water released by the breakdown of hydrated silicates, ultimately yielding S magma and/or SO(2) gas. Geological and astrobiological implications are considered.