Calcium Magnesium Research Articles

Novel injectable calcium-magnesium phosphate cement-based composites with piezoelectric properties: advancements in bone regeneration applications

Designing a novel injectable bone cement is an important approach to the success of bone healing in minimally invasive surgeries. As natural bone has a piezoelectric property, which is crucial in bone regeneration, this study focused on the development of a novel injectable composite bone cement with piezoelectric properties. For the composite composition, calcium and zirconium doped barium titanate (BCZT) was used for its piezoelectric property, while calcium phosphate and magnesium phosphate cement (CMPC) were preferred for its bone-like properties. In this framework, first BCZT, CMPC, and their composites were prepared, and their phase structures, particle size distributions, and piezoelectric and dielectric properties were investigated. Then, the composite bone cements were prepared by mixing CMPC with BCZT in three different ratios (20%, 30%, and 40%). Next, polysorbate 80 solution was added to the cement mixtures to prepare the injectable pastes. Finally, injectability, setting time, and compressive strength of the composites were assessed. As a result, the composite bone cement containing 30% BCZT has the potential to be used as an injectable bone cement in invasive orthopedic surgery.

Composition analysis of 1,495 cases of upper urinary tract calculi: the role of age and gender.

This study aimed to quantitatively analyze the calculi components of upper urinary tract calculi and to explore the relationship between calculus components, demographic characteristics, and underlying diseases. Clinical data of 1,495 patients with upper urinary tract calculi were retrospectively collected. The calculi were divided into simple calcium oxalate, calcium oxalate mixed, calcium phosphate mixed, uric acid, magnesium ammonium phosphate, and other components. Statistical software SPSS 22.0 was used to analyze the differences between the stone compositions and various factors. The influencing factors (p < 0.05) were analyzed using multiple logistic regression analysis. Among 1,495 patients with upper urinary tract calculi, simple calcium oxalate calculi were the most common component (39.7%), followed by calcium oxalate mixed calculi (30.4%), uric acid calculi (13.6%), calcium phosphate mixed calculi (10.4%), magnesium ammonium phosphate calculi (5.8%) and other component calculi (0.1%). Univariate analysis revealed statistically significant differences in stone composition according to gender, age, and hyperuricemia (p < 0.05). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that compared to men, the odds ratio (OR) values of calcium oxalate mixed stones, calcium phosphate mixed stones, and magnesium ammonium phosphate stones in women were 1.61, 2.50, and 4.17, respectively (p < 0.001). Compared with elderly patients, the OR values of calcium phosphate mixed stones in young and middle-aged patients were 3.14 and 2.70, respectively (p < 0.05). Patients with different stone components had different demographic characteristics, and stone components were significantly different between gender and age. Calcium oxalate mixed stones were more common in females, and calcium phosphate mixed stones and magnesium ammonium phosphate stones were more common in females, young patients, and middle-aged patients.

Highly Flexible Magnesium–Calcium Alginate Dense Hydrogel Manufactured by Soft Spray for Drug Loading

Highly Flexible Magnesium–Calcium Alginate Dense Hydrogel Manufactured by Soft Spray for Drug Loading

Analysis of the Effect of Crystal form on Precipitated Calcium Carbonate (PCC) of Dead Coral Reefs with the Addition of HNO3 Concentration

Many dead coral reefs found on the coast have not been treated optimally and currently their use is still limited as decoration in aquariums. Coral reefs contain calcium carbonate, silicon dioxide, sodium oxide, magnesium peroxide, and Iron (III) oxide, with a calcium carbonate content of around 73.76%. Because of its high calcium carbonate content, it can be used as a raw material for making PCC (Precipitated Calcium Carbonate) which is widely used in the industrial, health and food sectors. The aim of this research is to obtain the optimal temperature and time for CaO levels, as well as the effect of nitric acid solution concentration on the yield with a high level of purity in PCC products using the carbonization method. The fixed variables are: coral reef mass, independent variables: temperature, calcination time and nitric acid concentration and dependent variables: CaO yield and CaCO3 levels. The calcination temperature used was 700℃, 750℃, 800℃, 850℃, 900℃ and HNO3 concentration 1.50M, 2.00M, 2.50 M, 3.00M, 3.50M with Ca analysis using AAS and PCC morphology and content using SEM-EDX. Optimal conditions are the results of calcination at a temperature of 900℃ with an HNO3 concentration of 3.50 M resulting in a yield of 76% with a purity of 98.58%, pH 8, white with a Ca concentration (ppm) of 1,962,630 and the crystal form obtained at 3.00 M HNO3 is calcite and 3.50 M HNO3 is vaterite.

Assessment of Some Clay Deposits from the Gercus Formation (Middle Eocene) for Brick Manufacturing in the Dokan Area, NE Iraq

The objective of this research is to evaluate the suitability of some clay deposits from the Gercus Formation (Middle Eocene) in the Dokan area, Northeastern Iraq for brick manufacturing. Physical properties of the raw material including grain size analysis and Atterberg limits showed that composed mostly of sand and silt with a minor proportion of clay and classified as muddy sand. According to the plasticity chart, the studied sample plotted on the field of silt and organic clay with low plasticity. The geochemical analysis by X-ray fluorescence revealed that composed of a low percentage of silica and alumina and a high percentage of calcium oxide and magnesium oxide. The mineralogical analysis by X-ray diffraction showed that the studied samples were composed of non-clay minerals (dolomite, quartz, hematite, albite, anatase, and orthoclase) and clay mineral (montmorillonite, kaolinite, and illite). Twelve ceramic briquettes were prepared from the clay sample by semi-dry pressing method and pressed by 200 kg/cm² pressure with 14 – 15 % moisture content and fired at 880, 900, and 920 °C for evaluation tests of linear firing shrinkage, apparent porosity, water absorption, bulk density, efflorescence, and compressive strength. Results of physical and mechanical properties of the studied ceramic briquettes compared with the specification of Iraqi standard (1993) for clay brick manufacture, according to this specification the studied sample was not suitable for brick manufacturing due to a high percentage of water absorption and low compressive strength.

Study on the mechanism of magnesium calcium alloys/mineralized collagen composites mediating macrophage polarization to promote bone repair

Magnesium-based composites are a focal point in biomaterials research. However, the rapid degradation rate of magnesium alloys does not align with the healing time of bone tissue. Additionally, the host reaction caused by magnesium implantation hampers its full osteogenic potential. To maintain an appropriate microenvironment, it is important to enhance both corrosion resistance and osteogenic activity of the magnesium matrix. In this study, a composite scaffold composed of mineralized collagen and magnesium alloy was utilized to investigate the regulatory effect of mineralized collagen on mouse macrophages and evaluate its impact on mouse bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in terms of osteogenesis, immune response, and macrophage-induced osteogenic differentiation. This experiment examined the biocompatibility of mouse bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and macrophage-induced osteogenic differentiation in vitro, and examined the expression levels of relevant pathways proteins. Magnesium calcium alloys/mineralized collagen exhibited extensive spreading, facilitated by broad and abundant pseudopodia that firmly adhered them to the material surface and promoted growth and pseudopodia formation. The findings revealed that magnesium calcium alloy/mineralized collagen scaffold materials induced osteogenic differentiation mainly through M2 polarization of macrophages. This effect was mainly mediated by promoting the integrin α2β1-FAK-ERK1/2 signaling pathways and inhibiting the RANK signaling pathways.

Multi-scale measurement of constitutive viscoelastic properties of bituminous composites considering moisture and deicing conditions

The use of salt and chemical deicers can cause significant damage to road infrastructures. This study investigates the impact of different deicers on the viscoelastic properties of mastic and asphalt mixtures, with a focus on characterizing their behavior at varying temperatures and loading frequencies. The samples were subjected to conditioning in solutions of distilled water, salt, Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA), and Potassium Acetate (KAc) at 60 °C for 96 h, followed by frequency sweep and dynamic modulus tests at different temperatures and loading frequencies. The results indicate that moisture conditioning with distilled water softens asphalt mixtures and mastic at low loading frequencies, while brine softens the former at low temperatures. Salt's high interaction with mixture aggregates cannot be ignored. CMA's effect on the fatigue behavior of mastic samples is highly dependent on loading frequency, while KAc increases stiffness at intermediate and high temperatures. All the deicers reduce resistance to rutting damage, with CMA having the most negative effect. Both the 2S2P1D and the generalized Maxwell model can well (R2 ≥ 0.90, Se/Sy ≤ 0.35) predict the viscoelastic properties of dry asphalt mixture. However, in the presence of distilled water and the deicers, asphalt mixture viscoelastic properties cannot be predicted according to asphalt mastic characteristics by implementing the homothety method which indicates different effects of distilled water and the deicers on various scales of bituminous composites.

Exploration of Whitlockite Nanostructures for Hemostatic Applications.

Background Calcium magnesium phosphate (CMP)-based whitlockite is a promising biomaterial for hemostasis and regenerative applications. Regenerative approaches aimto advance tissue repair and recovery in different clinical scenarios. Whitlockite is a biocompatible and biodegradable mineral that has garnered impressive consideration for its interesting properties, making it an appealing candidate for therapeutic applications. Aim This study aimed to evaluate the hemostatic behavior of synthesized whitlockite nanoparticles. Materials and methods Coprecipitation and hydrothermal methods were used to synthesize whitlockite nanoparticles. Calcium nitrate, magnesium nitrate, and diammonium hydrogen phosphate were used as precursors to prepare this material. Results Crystalline phases of whitlockite(Ca3Mg)3(PO4)and calcium magnesium phosphateCa7Mg2P6O2were observed through X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, along with relevant properties of the phosphate functional group detected through Raman spectra. This study explores the hemostatic adequacy of CMP-based whitlockite using different methodologies. The capacity of the materials to actuate platelet conglomeration and encourage clot arrangement is assessed usingin vitro experiments. Moreover, this study investigates the regenerative potential of CMP-based whitlockite in tissue-building applications. Conclusion The structural and morphological parameters provide crucial insights into the proper formation of the material, and the hemoclot assessment aids in understanding its coagulation behavior. Future investigations and clinical trials will be instrumental in fully harnessing the potential of CMP-based whitlockite for advancing hemostasis and regenerative medicine.

Concomitant urea stabilization and phosphorus recovery from source-separated fresh urine in magnesium anode-based peroxide-producing electrochemical cells

In this study, we investigated the recovery of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) from fresh source-separated urine with a novel electrochemical cell equipped with a magnesium (Mg) anode and carbon-based gas-diffusion cathode. Recovery of P, which exists primarily as phosphate (PO43−) in urine, was achieved through pH-driven precipitation. Maximizing N recovery requires simultaneous approaches to address urea and ammonia (NH3). NH3 recovery was possible through precipitation in struvite with soluble Mg supplied by the anode. Urea was stabilized with electrochemically synthesized hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) from the cathode. H2O2 concentrations and resulting urine pH were directly proportional to the applied current density. Concomitant NH3 and PO43− precipitation as struvite and urea stabilization via H2O2 electrosynthesis was possible at lower current densities, resulting in urine pH under 9.2. Higher current densities resulted in urine pH over 9.2, yielding higher H2O2 concentrations and more consistent stabilization of urea at the expense of NH3 recovery as struvite; PO43− precipitation still occurred but in the form of calcium phosphate and magnesium phosphate solids.

Some Studies on Cutting Force Generation in Machining of Mg-Ca1.0 Alloy

Magnesium alloy has qualities that are similar to those of bone, it is now commonly acknowledged as a biodegradable material. Mg-Ca1.0 is a recently developed biodegradable substance that doesn’t cause any harmful substances to be produced in the body. It is frequently utilized in fixation screws and supporting plates for bone implants. To far, very little research has been published on the machining of biodegradable Magnesium Calcium alloy. This investigation’s goal is to evaluate the cutting forces produced during a face milling procedure. The experimental work used a one-factor-at-a-time strategy to assess how process factors affect performance attributes. The current study uses a CVD diamond-coated insert to examine how the depth of cut, feed rate, and cutting speed affect the radial (Fx), tangential (Fy), and axial (Fz) cutting forces during face milling in a dry machining environment.

Hydration status and biochemical profile of Quarter Horses in vaquejada training

The hydration status and biochemical profile were assessed and compared in two Quarter Horses groups (pull and helper), at three times (T) of a vaquejada training: at rest, before exercise (T0); after three sprints or races (T1); after an hour of rest from sprints (T2). There was no significant difference between the evaluation times in each group nor between the groups in the times evaluated for the parameters: capillary refill time, skin turgor, color and humidity of the mucosa, total plasma proteins, creatinine, urea and osmolarity, creatine kinase, aspartate aminotransferase, total calcium, phosphorus, and total magnesium. There was increase in the hematocrit and plasma glucose in both groups at T1, but without differences among the groups. The plasm lactate increased in T1. Only for plasma lactate there were changes between the groups, being higher in the pull at T1. It was concluded that, in response to the imposed exercise, the pull and helper groups showed similar hydration status with only slight dehydration, and maintained their biochemical rates preserved, except lactatemia which increased in both, but higher in the pull, suggesting that this group performs more intense anerobic metabolism in the vaquejada.

Preparation of hydrophobic hard gelatin capsules for slow-release fertilizers

In order to attenuate the pollution problem caused by low fertilizer utilization, a biodegradable urea slow-release capsule was prepared in this study using gelatin as the main material. Glycerol was added to the gelatin solution as a plasticizer, and the mechanical properties and water resistance of the gelatin film were enhanced by cross-linking with glutaraldehyde. The addition of nano-SiO2 (nSiO2) and calcium magnesium phosphate fertilizer power (CaMgP) enhanced the hydrophobicity and tensile strength of the gelatin film. X-ray diffractometer confirmed that the nSiO2 could make the gelatin molecular chains more tightly entangled. Scanning electron microscope indicated that the addition contents of nSiO2 and CaMgP was optimal at 2 wt% and 40 wt%, respectively. The gelatin capsules were loaded with urea particles for slow-release experiments, the results of soil column drenching showed that the release rates of urea from nSiO2-modified and CaMgP-modified cross-linked gelatin capsules were 4.1 % and 5 % after 24 h, respectively, and 78.8 % and 75.2 % after 28 d, respectively.

Effect of calcium–magnesium–aluminum silicate composition on reaction behavior for X1‐Gd2SiO5 and X2‐Er2SiO5 environmental barrier coatings

AbstractRare‐earth (RE) silicates environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) are prone to accelerate failure resulted from molten calcium–magnesium–aluminum silicate (CMAS), which presents significant challenges to the design and development of durable EBCs. In this study, X1‐Gd2SiO5 and X2‐Er2SiO5 coatings were explored on their corrosion resistance to CMAS melts with different Ca/Si ratios (1.1, 0.75, 0.64, and 0.42) at 1350°C for 25 and 50 h, respectively. Results showed that with the Ca/Si ratio increasing, CMAS viscosity decreased and a more intense corrosion reaction with coatings occurred. Garnet phase was only observed in X2‐Er2SiO5 coating corroded by CMAS with high Ca/Si ratios, which could be beneficial for improving corrosion resistance. The X2‐Er2SiO5 phase, which is composed of [SO4] and [REO6]/[REO7] polyhedrons, exhibits better corrosion resistance due to its more stable crystal structure, lower reactivity with CMAS, and the radius difference between the RE ions and Ca2+.

Premilinary Assessment for Physcio-Chemical Parameters of Ground Water in and Around Gundlapochampally, Medchal Malkajgiri District Telangana

Abstract: Ground water is one of the most valuable natural sources of drinking water and various usages with increase in urbanization and industrialization, health conditions are influenced by the chemical aspects of groundwater and geology of the region. Access to wholesome drinking water remains an urgent necessity Ground water is one of the most valuable natural sources of drinking water and various usages. Within the world as it is directly related to the health. Groundwater accounts for more than 80% of the rural domestic water supply in India. The integrated ground water prospects maps are preferred by using different thematic layers like Geology, Geomorphology, Structures, Hydrology, etc. Drinking water quality data of Rural Water supply sources situated in Gundlapochampally village, Medchal district is studied for the parameters of pH, Electrical Conductivity, Total Dissolved solids, Total Hardness, Calcium Magnesium, Sodium, Potassium, Alkalinity, Acidity, Chloride, Nitrate, Floride, Bi-carbonate. The results ware compare with the drinking water standards given by World Health Organization and Bureau of Indian Standards. Thus this research work recommended that the potassium and bicarbonates Contaminated water in Gundlapochampally region is not at all fit for drinking as a solution it was suggested that the solid waste treatment plant should be setup to handle crisis.

Efficient synthesis of rare sugars from galactose in hot compressed water using eggshells as an environmentally friendly catalyst

Aqueous galactose solutions containing eggshell was heated at 120 °C to produce calcium supplements containing rare sugars. Galactose was isomerized to rare sugars with improving rare sugar yields compared to those without eggshell. Organic acids were also formed as byproducts during the reaction. These acids were neutralized by dissolving eggshells with increasing the calcium ion concentration in the solution.When eggshell components (calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, or calcium phosphate) were used for the treatment, rare sugars were also formed. Especially, addition of magnesium carbonate improved rare sugar yield, but byproduct formation became more pronounced.Eggshells used in the treatment were used for repeated treatments. When eggshells were used three times, rare sugar yield changed only slightly but the selectivity of rare sugars improved significantly. By these processes, we obtained an aqueous solution of rare sugars containing calcium ion at 295 mg/L, which has potential as ingredients for dietary supplements.

3D-printed calcium magnesium silicates: A mini-review

Calcium magnesium silicates (CMS) represent a class of minerals with diverse applications in fields ranging from geology to materials science. With the advent of additive manufacturing technologies, particularly 3D printing, novel opportunities have emerged for the synthesis and utilization of CMS-based materials. In this mini-review, we provide a thorough overview of recent advancements in the 3D printing of CMS compounds, including diopside (DPS), bredigite (BR), and akermanite (AKT). We discuss the synthesis methods, properties, and potential applications of 3D-printed CMS materials, with a focus on their role in biomedical applications. Furthermore, we highlight challenges and prospects in the field, emphasizing the importance of continued research and innovation in harnessing the full potential of 3D-printed CMS materials.

Nutritional profile and risk assessment of inorganic elements in enteral and parenteral nutrition formulas

The contents of essential (Ca, Fe, K, Na, P, and Zn) and potentially toxic inorganic elements (As, Al, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn, and Pb) in enteral and parenteral nutrition formulas were evaluated by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES) and graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS). A total of 30 enteral formulas, 23 parenteral solution components, and 3 parenteral solutions were analyzed. The elements Ca and K presented the higher contents (72–2918 mg L−1 and 235–2760 mg L−1) while the lowest concentration levels were found for As and Cd (<0.68 µg L−1 and <0.01–0.62 µg L−1) in the studied samples. The validated analytical methods presented an accuracy of 75–116% and RSD values lower than 9.8%. Calcium gluconate and magnesium sulfate, which are used as raw materials in parenteral solution, are potential sources of Al and Mn contamination. A Hazard Quotient (HQ) >1 was obtained for Al (27 ± 1 µg L−1) in one of the parenteral samples, whereas the established limit is 25 µg L−1. Enteral samples were considered safe for consumption regarding the Al, As, and Cd levels. One healing-specific and pediatric formula contained Pb at levels above 0.25 µg kg-day−1, too high for safe consumption. The enteral formulas (pediatric, diabetes-specific, renal-specific, healing-specific, and standard formula with addition of fiber) presented risks in relation to the consumption of Cr and Mn (>250 µg day−1 and >11 mg day−1). The results indicate the need for strict monitoring, considering that these formulations are often the single patient’s food source.

Thermal stratification and meromixis in four dilute temperate zone lakes

Abstract. Four adjacent lakes (Arco, Budd, Deming, and Josephine) within Itasca State Park in Minnesota, USA, are reported to be meromictic in the scientific literature. However, seasonally persistent chemoclines have never been documented. We collected seasonal profiles of temperature and specific conductance and placed temperature sensor chains in two lakes for ∼1 year to explore whether these lakes remain stratified through seasonal mixing events and what factors contribute to their stability. The results indicate that all lakes are predominantly thermally stratified and are prone to mixing in isothermal periods during spring and fall. Despite brief, semi-annual erosion of thermal stratification, Deming Lake showed no signs of complete mixing from 2006–2009 and 2019–2022 and is likely meromictic. However, the other lakes are not convincingly meromictic. Geochemical data indicate that water in Budd Lake, which contains the most water, is predominantly sourced from precipitation. The water in the other three lakes is of the calcium–magnesium–bicarbonate type, reflecting a source of water that has interacted with the deglaciated landscape. δ18OH2O and δ2HH2O measurements indicate the lakes are supplied by precipitation modified by evaporation. Josephine, Arco, and Deming lakes sit in a valley with likely permeable sediments and may be hydrologically connected through wetlands and recharged with shallow groundwater, as no streams are present. The water residence time in meromictic Deming Lake is short (100 d), yet it maintains a large reservoir of dissolved iron, indicating that shallow groundwater may be an additional source of water and dissolved ions. All four lakes develop subsurface chlorophyll maxima layers during the summer. All lakes also develop subsurface oxygen maxima that may result from oxygen trapping in the spring by rapidly developed summer thermoclines. Documenting the mixing status and general chemistry of these lakes enhances their utility and accessibility for future biogeochemical studies, which is important as lake stratification and anoxia are becoming more prevalent due to changes in climate and land use.

Serum Calcium and Magnesium Levels in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and COVID-19 Infection Requiring Hospitalization—Correlations with Various Parameters

The purpose of this research was to analyze the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on ionic calcium, total calcium and serum magnesium upon hospital admission, taking into account the association of type 2 diabetes as a metabolic comorbidity. Our study included 57 patients: a group of 28 patients without diabetes, but with SARS-CoV-2 virus infection, and a second group of 29 patients with type 2 diabetes and SARS-CoV-2 virus infection. The serum level of calcium and magnesium of the patients included in the study did not differ statistically significantly in those with type 2 diabetes compared to those without type 2 diabetes who were infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus at the time of hospitalization. Ionic calcium, total calcium, and serum magnesium did not statistically significantly influence the survival of the patients with COVID-19 infection included in this research, but the type of infection severity (mild or moderate) did influence the survival rate. Concerning the diabetic patients, a statistically significant correlation was found between serum total calcium and total serum proteins, and another one between ionic calcium and uric acid, urea, and total cholesterol. Serum total calcium and D-dimers were statistically significantly correlated with being transferred to the intensive care unit. On the other hand, magnesium significantly correlated with lipids (triglycerides, total lipids) and inflammatory (fibrinogen, ESR) biomarkers.

Surface functionalization of calcium magnesium phosphate cements with alginate sodium for enhanced bone regeneration via TRPM7/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway

Although calcium‑magnesium phosphate cements (CMPCs) have been widely applied to treating critical-size bone defects, their repair efficiency is unsatisfactory owing to their weak surface bioactivity and uncontrolled ion release. In this study, we lyophilized alginate sodium (AS) as a coating onto HAp/K-struvite (H@KSv) to develop AS/HAp/K-struvite (AH@KSv), which promotes bone regeneration. The compressive strength and hydrophilicity of AH@KSv significantly improved, leading to enhanced cell adhesion in vitro. Importantly, the SA coating enables continuous ions release of Mg2+ and Ca2+, finally leading to enhanced osteogenesis in vitro/vivo and different patterns of new bone ingrowth in vivo. Furthermore, these composites increased the expression levels of biomarkers of the TRPM7/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway via an equilibrium effect of Mg2+ to Ca2+. In conclusion, our study provides novel insights into the mechanisms of Mg-based biomaterials for bone regeneration.