Low Ca Levels Research Articles

Wood ash amendments as a potential solution to widespread calcium decline in eastern Canadian forests

Decades of acidic deposition have depleted soil calcium (Ca) stocks over large areas of eastern Canada. The recovery of soil Ca levels has been limited despite substantial reductions in acidic deposition and will likely take many decades because rates of loss (owing to soil leaching, timber harvesting, and forest regeneration) may equal or exceed those of supply (via atmospheric input and natural mineral weathering). As low soil Ca levels may adversely affect local biota with relatively high Ca requirements, affected sites may benefit from supplementation with an alternative Ca source. A growing body of evidence suggests that the application of wood ash to Ca-deficient forest soils can help counteract the loss of Ca and other nutrients from the soil while boosting forest productivity. Yet the use of wood ash as a forest soil amendment is currently restricted in Canada, and the costs of obtaining permits and transporting/applying the ash make landfilling a more economically viable option. Here, we explore the potential of wood ash amendments in terms of their risks and benefits, dose and application frequency, time to see benefits, and longevity of benefits. After considering these topics in the context of Ca-deficient, acidified forest soils across eastern Canada, we propose that the potential benefits of ash amendments in these areas likely outweigh the risks. Future studies are needed to clarify both the short- and long-term effects of wood ash addition on different tree species in both natural and managed forests, as well as the potential benefits for carbon capture and implications for Ca-deficient aquatic ecosystems.

Influence of Calcium and Nonphytate Phosphorus (NPP) on Meat-Type Quail’s Growth, Carcass Features, and Tibia Indices

This study aimed to evaluate the role of increasing dietary calcium (Ca) and non-phytate phosphorus (NPP) supplementation on the growth, carcass, edible portions, and tibia indicators of growing quail. The current study was conducted in a 3×3 factorial design, for this, 360 1-wk-old quails were haphazardly assigned to nine groups, each group is with three gradual levels of Ca (0.60, 0.90, and 1.20 %) and NPP (0.20, 0.40 and 0.60 %). Each group was divided into five replicates with eight-quail each. Results of the study suggested that except at 2 and 6 weeks of age, dietary Ca level did not exhibit any significant (P > 0.05) impact on body weight. Similarly, in the case of NPP, apart from the live weight at 2 and 3 weeks of age, NPP did not have a significant impact on live body weight. Further, in comparison to the low Ca level, the moderate or high Ca levels have higher values of body weight gain. During all the experiments, dietary Ca, NPP, or their mixtures had no significant (P > 0.05) impact on feed consumption. Similarly, feed conversion rate and carcass metrics were also not affected by the individual or combined application of Ca or NPP supplementation Similarly, dietary intakes of Ca or P did not have any significant effect on the various tibia indicators (P > 0.05). Results of the study can be concluded that the effect of the Ca and NPP levels in Japanese quail diets is lowered and it does not much affect the growth rate, feed utilization, carcass yields, edible components, or tibia indices.

Low-level 40Ca determinations using nitrous oxide with reaction cell inductively coupled plasma–tandem mass spectrometry

In inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, the most abundant Ca isotope (40Ca) suffers from isobaric interference with argon, hindering the potential for low detection limits of Ca. A powerful approach is to remove the interference by using a reaction gas in a reaction cell. Ammonia (NH3) has proven to be an effective reaction gas by process of a charge transfer reaction. However, NH3 is highly corrosive and toxic and cannot remove isobaric 40 K. Therefore, this work proposes the use of nitrous oxide (N2O) to mass shift the target analyte 40Ca to 40Ca16O+ as a non-corrosive and non-toxic alternative. Instrument performance testing demonstrated that N2O was capable of reaching equivalent detection limits (0.015 ng g−1) and background equivalence concentrations (0.041 ng g−1) to that of NH3 and limited by the blank only. Further investigation of matrix interferences with synthetic standards highlighted that the N2O approach supports the separation of potassium (K) and magnesium (Mg)–based interferences at tested concentrations of more than 600 times and almost 800 times higher than Ca respectively, whereas NH3 was found to only support the removal of Mg. This work highlights a clear advantage of N2O for low-level Ca determinations with high matrix loads, as well as compatibility with other instrumentation sensitive to corrosion that supports reaction cell technology.Graphical abstract

ESEM-EDX Microanalysis at Bone-Implant Region on Immediately Loaded Implants Retrieved Postmortem.

The aim of the study was to analyze the microchemistry of human bone in different regions of interest (ROIs) on histologic samples of implants retrieved postmortem by the innovative use of an environmental scanning electronic microscope (ESEM) connected to energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Maxillary and mandibular bone blocks with inserted implants (n = 12) were obtained postmortem from a patient. The histologic samples were observed uncoated using ESEM in quadrant backscattered condition. Two ROIs (approximately 750 × 500 μm) for each implant were analyzed corresponding to the cortical thread (cortical ROI) and the middle part of each implant (approximately 3.0 mm below; middle ROI). Different electron-dense bone tissue areas were detected through grayscale intensity quantification of ESEM images. Calcium (Ca), phosphorous (P), and titanium (Ti; atomic %) were evaluated by EDX, and Ca/P ratios were calculated and used as the index to identify areas with different mineralization. The presence of Ti contaminants was investigated by EDX microanalysis. Additional ROIs approximately 2.0 mm from the implant interface and not in connection with the implant surface were analyzed as the control. Four bone areas (BAs) with different degrees of mineralization (from 1 as the lowest mineralized to 4 as the highest mineralized) were identified by Ca and P content and by tissue electron density. BA1 (bone marrow areas) and BA2 (areas with active bone remodeling) proved to have low levels of Ca and P, while BA3 (mineralized new bone areas) and BA4 (control cortical bone) had higher content of Ca and P and higher electron density. Mandibular ROIs displayed higher percentages of BA3 and BA4, while maxillary ROIs revealed a greater presence of BA2 and moderate presence of BA1. Control bone showed a high percentage of BA4. Cortical and middle ROIs showed similar BA distribution within mandibular bone, whereas in maxillary bone, a slightly higher presence of BA1 was observed. Ti ions were detected in ROIs of all specimens; the atomic % significantly decreased in the most distant areas. Ti particles were observed close to the implant interface. Analyses 2.0 mm distant from the implant thread revealed low traces of Ti in healthy bone tissue. The high percentage of BA3 and BA4 in mandibular blocks associated with low presence of BA2 suggested the fast formation of compact bone tissue after 7 months from the implant placement. The presence of BA2 in maxilla blocks suggested active bone remodeling still present after 7 months. Ti particles were observed throughout the ROIs with and without bone remodeling activity. ESEMEDX resulted as a suitable technique to obtain more complete information on microchemistry composition and density/mineralization of bone around implants. For clinical significance, maxillary and mandibular peri-implant bone revealed different mineralization patterns, which means different healing times. The presence of Ti particles at the bone-implant interface and ion translocation, likely due to wear forces in the times following the implant insertion, do not affect the bone remodeling process.

69 Impact of DON in a Protocol of Calcium Depletion and Repletion in Piglets

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate factors that modulate phosphorus (P) use, such as calcium (Ca) intake that is well known and deoxynivalenol (DON) contamination which has been the subject of few studies until now. A total of 64 piglets (2 piglets per pen) received 1 of 4 treatments distributed into 8 blocks during an initial 13-d phase: control (DON-) or DON-contaminated treatment (DON+, 2.72 mg/kg) with either a low Ca (Ca-, 0.39%) or normal Ca (Ca+, 0.65%) level with a constant digestible P level (0.40%). During a second 14-d phase, piglets that received Ca+ and Ca- were fed a similar diet containing 0.65% Ca and 0.35% P without DON contamination. Growth performance and apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of Ca and P for piglets and bone mineral content (BMC) of 1 pig per pen were evaluated. After phase 1, ATTD P was higher for Ca-DON+ (DON x Ca interaction, P < 0.01). The ATTD Ca was higher for DON+ (( P < 0.001). The DON+ increased BMC in Ca+ but opposite effect was observed in Ca- (DON x Ca interaction, P < 0.001). The plasma P concentration was greater for Ca- (P = 0.05). After phase 2, average daily gain (P = 0.08) and average daily feed intake (P = 0.09) tended to be less for Ca- than for Ca+. The Ca- piglets recovered their BMC deficit in DON-, but not those receiving DON+ (DON x Ca interaction, P = 0.06). ATTP P in DON- was lower in Ca+ but increased in DON+ regardless of Ca level (DON x Ca interaction, P = 0.04). Plasma P and Mg were greater for Ca- (P = 0.05). The results show that piglets can regain the BMC caused by Ca depletion in DON non-contaminated feed. DON contamination increased Ca and P digestibility and modified BMC depending on Ca supply.

Physiological, Proteomic Analysis, and Calcium-Related Gene Expression Reveal Taxus wallichiana var. mairei Adaptability to Acid Rain Stress Under Various Calcium Levels.

As one of the serious environmental problems worldwide, acid rain (AR) has always caused continuous damage to the forestry ecosystem. Studies have shown that AR can leach calcium ions from plants and soil. Calcium (Ca) is also a crucial regulator of the plant stress response, whereas there are few reports on how Ca regulates the response of AR-resistant woody plants to AR stress. In this study, by setting different exogenous Ca levels, we study the physiological and molecular mechanism of Ca in regulating the Taxus wallichiana var. mairei response to AR stress. Our results showed that low Ca level leads to photosynthesis, and antioxidant defense system decreases in T. wallichiana var. mairei leaves; however, these negative effects could be reversed at high Ca level. In addition, proteomic analyses identified 44 differentially expressed proteins in different Ca level treatments of T. wallichiana var. mairei under AR stress. These proteins were classified into seven groups, which include metabolic process, photosynthesis and energy pathway, cell rescue and defense, transcription and translation, protein modification and degradation, signal transduction, etc. Furthermore, the study found that low Ca level leads to an obvious increase of Ca-related gene expression under AR stress in T. wallichiana var. mairei using qRT-PCR analyses and however can be reversed at high Ca level. These findings would enrich and extend the Ca signaling pathways of AR stress in AR-resistant woody plants and are expected to have important theoretical and practical significance in revealing the mechanism of woody plants tolerating AR stress and protecting forestry ecosystem in soil environment under different Ca levels.

Evaluation of bone strength using finite-element analysis in patients with ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament

BACKGROUND CONTEXTPatients with ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) are often reported to have increased bone mineral density (BMD). The bone strength of the proximal femur measured by quantitative computed tomography-based finite element analysis (QCT/FEA) is reportedly comparable between healthy subjects with and without OPLL. However, the bone strength in symptomatic OPLL patients remains unknown. PURPOSETo investigate bone strength measured by QCT/FEA in symptomatic patients with OPLL. STUDY DESIGN/SETTINGA single-center prospective observational study. PATIENT SAMPLEA total of 157 patients with cervical or thoracic compressive myelopathy were included in the study. OUTCOME MEASURESWe analyzed patients’ characteristics, Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, serum laboratory tests including calcium (Ca), inorganic phosphate (Pi), and bone turnover markers, BMD of the proximal femur and lumbar spine measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and predicted bone strength (PBS) of the proximal femur and lumbar spine measured using QCT/FEA. METHODSEligible patients were divided into the non-OPLL and OPLL groups. We compared the patients’ characteristics, JOA scores, laboratory data, BMD, and PBS of the proximal femur and lumbar spine between the non-OPLL and OPLL groups among total, male, and female patients by performing Fisher's exact test for categorical variables and the unpaired t test for continuous variables. Then, we used the inverse probability weighted logistic regression model after calculating propensity scores to compare the bone metabolism-associated markers, BMD, and PBS measurements between the groups. RESULTSAmong the eligible 157 patients, 68 were in the non-OPLL group and 89 were in the OPLL group. Compared with the non-OPLL group, the OPLL group had a significantly younger age and higher BMI in the total, male, and female patients. The JOA scores in the total and female patients were significantly higher in the OPLL group than in the non-OPLL group. The OPLL group showed significantly lower Ca levels in the female patients and significantly lower Pi levels in the total or male patients compared with the non-OPLL group in the inverse probability weighting method. The BMD of the proximal femur and lumbar spine and the PBS of the proximal femur were significantly higher in the OPLL group than in the non-OPLL group. There were no significant differences in the PBS and BMD between the male subgroups. However, the BMD and PBS of the proximal femur and lumbar spine were significantly higher in the OPLL females than in the non-OPLL females. CONCLUSIONSHyperostosis of the posterior longitudinal ligament in OPLL was associated with higher bone strength by QCT/FEA, especially in female OPLL patients.

Root Foraging Behavior of Two Agronomical Herbs Subjected to Heterogeneous P Pattern and High Ca Stress

Ecosystems are vulnerable to large areas of rocky desertification, which results in patchy soils and stone-inlaid soils. Karst landforms are typically characterized by heterogeneous phosphorus (P) distributions in soils at high calcium (Ca), but root foraging behavior has not been fully documented in agronomical plants. In this study, Bidens pilosa L. and Plantago asiatica L. were raised in pots in a simulated soil environment with sands at high Ca (2 g kg−1) and low Ca (0.63 g kg−1) levels. Inner spaces were divided into four sections to receive P in homogeneous (Homo.) (four quarters: 2 mg P kg−1) or heterogenous (Hete.) (one quarter: 8 mg P kg−1; three quarters: no-P input) patterns. Both species had longer roots in high P sections compared to no P sections. Foraging scale (highest length or surface-area(SA)) was higher in P. asiatica plants subjected to the Hete. pattern than to the Homo. pattern in low Ca pots. Foraging precision (length or SA differences between P patches as a proportion of the total) was also higher for P. asiatica subjected to the Hete. pattern but did not change in response to Ca level or P placement pattern. Overall, P. asiatica has a higher foraging ability than B. pilosa because of higher levels of foraging scale and precision from high-P (8 mg kg−1) patches in soils subjected to low Ca (0.63 g kg−1).

Comparative Analysis of Trace Metals Content of Rivers Niger and Benue in Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria

The aim of this research is to determine the levels of some heavy metals content of Rivers Niger and Benue at Lokoja and compare these levels with internationally required or permissible standards for aquatic and human consumption. Four sampling stations each were located on Rivers Niger and Benue at Lokoja, Kogi State. Two water samples were collected from each of the sampling stations once during the second week of each month from April 2019 to March 2020 (12 months). The collected water samples were well preserved and immediately transported to the laboratory for their trace metals content analysis. The analyzed results indicated very low levels of Mn, Cu, Zn, Cr, Pb, and Ca in both rivers, despite their comparatively close variations. The two rivers showed variations in their heavy metal levels without significant difference (P<0.05) among their stations for K, Mg, Fe and Ca, while variation with significant difference (P<0.05) were seen in their Na, Mn, Cu, Pb and Cr concentrations. Most stations in Rivers Benue displayed higher levels of Na, K, and Mg than stations in River Niger. However, both Rivers have high levels of Fe that ranged between 2.33 mg/l to 2.52 mg /l, which are far above the internationally permissible level of 1mg/l (EPA, 1986) for aquatic organisms and human consumption. The research indicated that most aquatic animals in Rivers Niger and Benue at Lokoja are lacking the importance of most trace metals sampled especially Na, K, Mg, Mn, Zn and Ca which are required for bone, teeth development and general growth. Hence, supplementary sources of Na, K, Mg, Mn, Zn, Cu, Mg and Ca are recommended for water from these rivers for fish culturing, breeding and domestic use. Proper and adequate processing methods should also be employed in treating these water contents for drinking and fish culturing because of the high lethal levels of Fe found in both rivers. All forms of water pollution activities should be discourage through public enlightenment campaigns. All laws and regulations concerning environmental sanitation and indiscriminate waste disposals should be adequately enforced.

A New Calcium Vectoring Technology: Concentration and Distribution of Ca and Agronomic Efficiency in Pepper Plants

Calcium (Ca) is an important macronutrient for plants, although its low mobility through the phloem makes more difficult the translocation to growing tissues, including fruits. The blossom end rot (BER) physiopathy occurs mainly in fruits and is associated with water stress, and especially with low Ca levels, which has a very negative effect on the production of many crops. Currently, through the vectoring process, it is possible to increase the transport of immobile elements to the fruits. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of BRANDT® MANNI-PLEX® Ca, which contains Ca with a vector (polyalcohols), provided by the company BRANDT EUROPE S.L. (Carmona, Spain), on Ca accumulation and the production and quality of pepper fruits, both at harvest and post-harvest stage. Pepper plants were grown in a shaded greenhouse and supplied with BRANDT® MANNI-PLEX® Ca and parameters related to biomass, production, and fruit quality were analyzed. The results showed that the product increased shoot biomass, photosynthesis performance, Ca accumulation and quality of pepper fruits both at harvest and post-harvest, while reducing the incidence of Ca physiopathies by 70%. Therefore, this study proves the BRANDT® MANNI-PLEX® Ca efficacy in a crop with a high incidence of Ca physiopathies, such as pepper.

FARM DAIRY EFFLUENT APPLICATION ON AN ARGIUDOLL CULTIVATED WITH ALFALFA (Medicago sativa L.): BIOMASS PRODUCTION AND PERSISTENCE

The intensification of dairy production systems has resulted in a higher generation of waste. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of different doses of farm dairy effluent (FDE) applied to the soil on aerial biomass production, persistence and chemical composition of alfalfa pastures, in Santa Fe province, Argentina. The study was conducted in four randomized complete blocks with four treatments (FDE doses): 0 m3 ha-1 (T0: without FDE), 82 m3 ha-1 (T1: low rate), 151 m3 ha-1 (T2: medium rate) and 282 m3 ha-1 (T3: high rate). The soil application of FDE increased the total aerial biomass produced (ABP) but reduced the persistence of plants. Total nitrogen (Nt) of alfalfa was significantly higher, but phosphorus (P) concentrations did not vary after the application of FDE to the soil . Ca and Mg concentrations in plants were lower in T3 compared to T0, which can be explained by the imbalance produced in the soil after FDE was applied, presenting high levels of Na, K and NH4-N but low levels of Ca and Mg. Soil application of FDE on alfalfa pastures must be carefully planned in terms of composition and amount to be applied in order to increase biomass production, prevent the decrease in persistence, and control changes in the mineral composition of plants.

The Association between Vitamin D3 and Ca levels with Diabetes Type one

50 patients and 30 healthy controls in different gender are roughly selected in wide range of age between (18-80 years), taken from different private laboratories in Baghdad through the period (2021-2022). They were separated into two groups (male 39– female 11(patients)) (male 17- female 13) control and applied a vitamin D test and Ca level. This study is designed to investigate the possible association between Ca and Vit D3 levels and diabetes type one patient. A highly significant difference between the patient and healthy control in low Ca levels (p-value 0.0084 **) A highly significant difference between the patient and healthy control in normal Ca levels (p- value 0.0097 **) while no significant difference when the Ca level is high (p-value 0.894 NS). No significant difference between the patient and healthy control in Vit D3 deficiency group (p-value 0.083 NS) while there is a significant difference between the patient and healthy control in Vit D3 insufficient group (p- value 0.0392 *) while there is no significant difference in Suboptimal vit D3 level group (p-value 00.602 NS). Also there is no significant difference in optimal vit D3 level group (p-value 0.907 NS). The conclusion of this study suggests that Men may be more likely than women to develop type 1 diabetes within the area from which the samples were collected depending on the results. Smoking may also be an influential factor, regardless of gender. But also non-smoking people have the condition. Blood pressure was not a significant factor in this study. People with diabetes tend to have lower levels of calcium in their bodies than normal people. They also have insufficient levels of vitamin D compared to normal people.

Improving broiler performance at market age regardless of stocking density by using a pre-starter diet

Broiler early nutrition has caught the attention of nutritionists due to the positive correlation between early growth rate and market weight. Early nutrition strategies such as low Ca levels or the use of highly digestible ingredients (e.g., spray-dried porcine plasma [ SDPP ]) have been reported to improve gut and muscle development, immunity, and overall growth of the bird. On the other hand, recent works suggested that stocking density represents the main constrain for modern chickens to express their full genetic potential. The current study aimed to elucidate the potential effects of pre-starter feeding strategies on contrasting livestock stocking densities. The study followed a factorial design of 2 contrasting starter programs (standard [0–11d] vs. pre-starter [0–4 d] + standard [4–11 d]) by 3 stocking densities (low, medium, and high, 27, 33, and 39 kg/BW/m 2 , respectively). Birds placed at low stocking density showed higher BW and better FCR than those at high stocking density ( P < 0.05) being this evident only after d 28. On the other hand, birds fed on pre-starter diet led to higher BW at 4 d ( P < 0.001) and the effects on BW were maintained until market age (+2.54%; P < 0.05). The pre-starter diet also led to heavier carcasses (+2.2%; P < 0.05), improved uniformity ( P < 0.10) and showed a lower incidence of lameness at high stocking densities ( P < 0.05) compared to birds fed the standard starter diet. Results of the current study confirm that, regardless of the stocking density used, pre-starter diets (0–4 d) could lead to a better early growth and market weight.

Abstract #1088796: Non-Ischemic Cardiomyopathy in Setting of Functional Hypoparathyroidism Secondary to Hypomagnesemia

Magnesium (Mg) is involved in many biochemical reactions and low levels can have negative effects on the entire cardiovascular system. These can occur directly or indirectly via dysfunction in calcium homeostasis. We present a case of severe hypomagnesemia leading to functional hypoparathyroidism in the setting of newly diagnosed cardiomyopathy (CMO) and the importance of aggressive electrolyte repletion as a mainstay in the management of heart failure. 71 year-old male with history of squamous cell lung cancer status post cisplatin-based chemoradiation, CKD, DM2, and GERD presented with dyspnea on exertion and recurrent hypocalcemia. Two months prior, he was diagnosed with non-ischemic CMO with ejection fraction (EF) of 10% in the setting of TSH >100. On admission, he had Mg 0.5 mg/dL (1.6-2.5 mg/dL), calcium (Ca) 6.9 mg/dL (8.4-10.4 mg/dL), ionized calcium (iCa) 3.0 mg/dL (4.4-5.4 mg/dL), phosphorous 5.4 (2.5-4.5 mg/dL) and inappropriately normal parathyroid hormone (PTH) of 50 pg/mL (15-65 pg/mL). Since prior admission TSH and free T4 had improved to 26.96 and 1.3, respectively after adding levothyroxine. On exam, he had tachycardia, bilateral rhonchi, and pitting edema in the lower extremities. NT-BNP was 16,474 and EKG showed sinus tachycardia with lateral T-wave inversions. Chvostek sign was negative, with no perioral numbness or paresthesia. Electrolytes were repleted aggressively. He was discharged on oral Ca and Mg supplements in addition to heart failure medical therapy. Labs on discharge showed improvement in Mg to 2.0 mg/dL, iCa 3.8 mg/dL, phosphorous 3.3 mg/dL, and PTH of 89 pg/mL. Seven months later, his EF% doubled on echocardiogram. Follow up EF% did not recover further despite euthyroidism due to noncompliance with Ca and Mg supplements. Hypomagnesemia is a potential cause of CMO and medications are a significant risk factor that must be considered. Our patient was exposed to cisplatin, chronic PPI use and loop diuretics, which can all chronically decrease Mg stores in the body. Low Mg leads to defects in cyclic AMP generation in the parathyroid gland, which causes decreased PTH secretion and low Ca. This is evidenced by the inappropriately normal PTH in our patient despite low Ca levels. Of note, he had history of hypothyroidism but low EF persisted despite appropriate repletion and normalization of T4 levels. Previous cases have reported hypocalcemia-induced CMO, but few have described the hypomagnesemia as an underlying cause of this finding. This case underlines the importance of monitoring and repletion of Mg and Ca in addition to goal-directed medical therapy for optimized heart failure management.

Solvent extraction-based recovery of Co from leach solutions of Cu[sbnd]Co ores using a Mextral 6103H-naphthenic acid- isooctanol system

A Mextral 6103H–naphthenic acid–isooctanol synergistic extraction system was used for the selective separation of Co from pre-treated leach solutions of CuCo ores and the extraction performance, the extraction/stripping kinetics, and the phase separation properties of this system were determined. At pH 4.0, Co was selectively extracted from the feed solution containing Co, Ni, Zn, Mg, Mn, and Ca. The Co-loaded organic phase was easily stripped with a solution containing Co (100 g/L) and H2SO4 (40 g/L) at an O/A ratio of 5:1 and 25oC. Based on the McCabe-Thiele plots for Co extraction, scrubbing and stripping, tests involving simulated batch counter-current extraction (two stages), scrubbing (two stages) and stripping (two stages) were performed. A Co extraction efficiency of 99.7% (over two extraction stages) was obtained, while nearly all Mg, Mn, and Ca remained in the raffinate. The two-stage scrubbing of the co-extracted loaded organics resulted in the efficient removal of Zn (88.3%), Mn (95.2%), Mg (94.0%), and Ca (92.0%). The two-stage stripping of Co had an efficiency of 99.1%. The stripping liquor contained low levels of Zn (3.4 mg/L), Ni (0.2 mg/L), Mn (2.4 mg/L), Mg (1.2 mg/L) and Ca (0.8 mg/L), with the resulting Co purity equaling 99.98%. Thus, the developed process holds great promise for the selective recovery of Co from the leach solutions of CuCo ores containing multiple metals

Multimodal Treatment with GEMOX Plus Helical Tomotherapy in Unresectable Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer: A Pooled Analysis of Two Phase 2 Studies.

In locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC), the combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy is a widely used treatment option. We performed a pooled analysis, including an exploratory analysis for prognostic and predictive factors, of two phase 2 trials including 73 patients with LAPC, treated with gemcitabine and oxaliplatin (GEMOX) and hypofractionated tomotherapy. With a median follow-up of 36 months (range 1–65), median progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 10.2 (95% confidence interval [CI] 7.8–13.2) and 14.3 (95% CI 12.0–18.1) months, respectively. The overall resectability rate was 23.3% (95% CI 13.6–33.0), and the R0 resection rate was 13.7% (95% CI 5.8–21.6). In the multivariate analysis, ECOG performance status (PS) 0 and low levels of CA 19–9 were associated with improved OS and PFS. Concerning OS, log(CA19–9) resulted in a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.20 (95% CI 1.02–1.42), p = 0.027. For ECOG PS 0, HR was 1.00; for PS 1, HR was 2.69 (95% CI 1.46–4.96); for PS 2, HR was 4.18 (95% CI 0.90–19.46); p = 0.003. Low CA19–9 levels were also predictive for resection, with an odds ratio of 0.71 (95% CI 0.52–0.97), p = 0.034. In conclusion, GEMOX and hypofractionated radiotherapy is a treatment option in LAPC. Further studies are needed to identify differences in tumor biology, which may help to predict resectability and prognosis.

Dietary calcium levels regulate calcium transporter gene expression levels in the small intestine of broiler chickens

ABSTRACT 1. This study investigated the effect of dietary calcium (Ca) levels on growth performance, bone development and Ca transporter gene expression levels in the small intestine of broiler chickens. 2. On the day of hatch, 350, Ross 308 male broilers were randomly allotted to one of five treatments with five replicate pens each and 14 birds per pen. Dietary Ca levels in feed were 5.0, 7.0, 9.0, 11.0 and 13.0 g/kg, in which 9.0 g/kg was in the control diet. All diets contained 4.5 g/kg non-phytate phosphorus (NPP). 3. The increase in dietary Ca levels from 5.0 to 13.0 g/kg did not affect the growth performance of 1- to 18-day-old broilers (P > 0.05). 4. Increasing the Ca levels linearly increased the ash weight and the contents of ash, Ca and phosphorus (P) in the tibia of broilers at 18 days of age (P < 0.05). The contents of ash, Ca and P in broilers fed with 9.0 g/kg Ca were higher than those in birds fed with 5.0 g/kg Ca (P < 0.05). 5. Increasing the Ca levels linearly decreased mRNA expression levels of the Ca-binding protein 28-kDa (CaBP-D28k), plasma membrane Ca-transporting ATPase 1b (PMCAlb), sodium (Na)/Ca exchanger 1 (NCX1), nuclear vitamin D receptor (nVDR) and membrane vitamin D receptor (mVDR) in the duodenum of broilers at 18 d of age (P < 0.05). Similar results were seen in the jejunum and ileum. Broilers fed 9.0–13.0 g/kg Ca in feed had lower mRNA expression levels of CaBP-D28k and PMCAlb in the small intestine than birds fed 5.0 g/kg Ca in feed (P < 0.05). 6. The data indicated that low levels of dietary Ca stimulated its transporter gene transcription and promoted absorption, but high levels of Ca inhibited transporter gene expression and prevented excessive absorption in the small intestine of broiler chickens.

Effect of dietary calcium and phosphorus levels on growth, carcass characteristics and liver and kidney functions of growing Egyptian geese

The present study investigated the effect of different dietary levels of calcium (Ca) and non-phytate phosphorus (P) on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, and blood components of growing geese. A total of 120, 4-wk-old Egyptian goslings with similar body weights were randomly distributed to four groups in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement, which included 2 levels of Ca (0.85% and 0.70%) and 2 levels of non-phytate P (0.45% and 0.35%). Each group was subdivided into 6 replicates of five birds. The experiment lasted 8 wk, from 4 to 12 wk of age. Results show that dietary Ca level had no significant effect on any of the studied growth performance traits over the full experimental period. Dietary P level also had no significant impact on these traits, with the exception of daily body weight gain and feed conversion ratio at 8 to 12 wk of age; these improved significantly with the low P diet. Geese received a diet containing 0.70% Ca + 0.45% P had the lowest body weight values at 12 wk of age and the lowest daily body weight gain, and feed intake at 8 to 12 weeks of age. While, the lowest value of feed conversion ratio was recorded in geese fed low level of Ca with low level of P (0.70% Ca + 0.35% P). There were no significant effects of the different dietary levels of Ca, P, or their interaction on all studied carcass parameters. Low dietary Ca level significantly increased the plasma levels of total protein, albumin, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and creatinine and significantly decreased the plasma levels of Ca and P. Different dietary P levels had no significant effect on plasma levels of albumin, AST, ALT, ALP, and urea, whereas the 0.35% P-based diet significantly decreased the plasma contents of total protein, creatinine, Ca, and P. Plasma levels of albumin, creatinine, urea, Ca, and P were not affected by an interaction between Ca and P. Diets containing 0.70% Ca and 0.45% P lead to the highest plasma values for total protein, ALT, AST, and ALP compared with the other dietary Ca and P combinations. In conclusion, dietary Ca and P levels can be simultaneously reduced without negative impacts on growth performance, carcass characteristics, or blood biochemical components. We advise to avoid increasing the dietary Ca: P ratio, as it leads to negative effects on growth performance and blood biochemistry in growing geese. So, the findings of the current study recommended the low levels of Ca (0.70%) and non-phytate P (0.35%) for the performance of Egyptian geese during the fattening period.

Novel Heterozygous Calcium Sensing Receptor (CASR) Genetic Variant in Child with Unique Phenotype: Hypocalcemia, Mandibular Hypoplasia, Renal Cysts and Type E Brachydactyly

Background: There are over 230 disease-causing variants in the calcium-sensing receptor gene (CaSR). Gain-of-function missense mutations in CaSR cause Autosomal Dominant Hypocalcemia (ADH) characterized by hypocalcemia (hCa), hypoparathyroidism (hPTH), and hypercalciuria. Patients with ADH are sensitive to fluctuations in serum calcium (Ca); and supplementation with Ca and vitamin D can cause inappropriate renal calcium retention leading to hypercalcemic events and long-term renal complications. Clinical Case: A 15-year-old adopted (at age 18 months) Korean female was initially diagnosed with hPTH and chronic hCa after presenting with hCa seizures. Laboratory values showed hCa (7.7 mg/dL), hyperphosphatemia (7.6 mg/dL) and hPTH (< 3 pg/mL.) Initially, she was treated with Ca supplementation (20 mg/kg/day elemental Ca), and calcitriol (0.01 mcg/kg/day). She presented at age 4 with hematuria and was found to have obstructive nephrolithiasis requiring operative intervention. Renal ultrasound (US) showed bilateral medullary nephrocalcinosis. She continued treatment with Ca and calcitriol. At age 6, a thiazide diuretic and potassium citrate supplement were added due to hypercalciuria. She had recurrent nephrolithiasis and persistent nephrocalcinosis. Follow-up renal US also showed bilateral renal cysts. Biweekly laboratory evaluation demonstrated an exuberant response to calcium supplementation. Serum Ca levels oscillated between 7.0 -10 mg/dL, but she showed minimal symptoms of hCa. At age 14, she was also recognized to have submandibular hypoplasia and brachydactyly of the 4th and 5th metacarpals and metatarsals bilaterally and genetic testing for CaSR gene mutation was requested. Sshe developed acute kidney injury and hypercalcemia, possibly precipitated by viral illness. However, 3 weeks before, calcitriol dose was increased to 1.25 mcg twice a day (0.07 mcg/kg/day). At admission, serum Ca was 12.7 mg/dL, iPTH 5.2 mg/dL, phosphorus 4.5 mg/dL, BUN 36 mg/dL, creatinine 1.85 mg/dL. Symptoms included headache, muscle spasm and throat spasm. She received intravenous fluids and recovered, but had an extended hospital stay. Targeted genetic analysis of the CaSR gene was completed, and identified a heterozygous variant (c.2506G>T, p.V836L) which is predicted to be likely pathogenic and cause ADH. After CaSR gene mutation identification, the calcitriol and also elemental Ca dosing were decreased to achieve a low Ca level (~7 mg/dL) with normal urine Ca/creatinine ratio. Patient remains asymptomatic. Conclusion: This is the first case of a novel mutation in the CaSR (c.2506G>T, p.V836L) associated with ADH, brachydactyly, renal cysts, and mandibular hypoplasia. Timely genetic testing for ADH in patients with newly diagnosed hPTH can lead to changes in therapy and improved prognosis.

Nutrients balance approach with emphasis on base cations and ratios concepts as a decisions-support tool in optimizing fertilizers use

Thirty-six soil samples collected from 24 sites were used to investigate the relationships between cation-ratio concepts and sufficiency level approaches in plant nutrition. Based on threshold values, about 25.0% of the soils had calcium:magnesium (Ca:Mg)-ratio fallen outside developed favorable range, despite the sufficient levels of individual elements in soils, violating the base cation ratio concept. Similarly, 63.0% of soils had potassium:magnesium (K:Mg)-ratio falling in the unfavorable range for K uptake, though individual element K was found to be above adequate in all sites/soils. In 29.0% of soils, (Mg:K)-ratio is rated unfavorable for nutrients’ uptake, the directly level to sufficiency level concepts. Likewise, all soils had the % K:TEB (total exchangeable bases)-ratio falling within the suggested fav orable range for the most tropical crops, favoring the two concepts. With respect to Ca:TEB ratios, 79.0% of soils were considered unfavorable for Mg and/or K uptake, implying that the lower the base saturation, more favorable the conditions for the aforementioned nutrients uptake and vice-versa. This is also against the base cations’ saturation ratio concept because all soils in those sites had low levels of Ca and Mg. In conclusion, therefore, from such contradictory information, those generated the validity of the base cations’ ratio concept need further detailed investigation. Key words: Potassium, calcium, magnesium, ratios, fertilizers, rhizosphere.