Lower Total Concentrations Research Articles

Lyophilized human platelet lysate: manufacturing, quality control, and application

BackgroundA significant number of platelet concentrates (PCs) is discarded daily in blood banks due to limited shelf life. Human platelet lysate (HPL), derived from expired PCs, has gained attention as an ethical and sustainable cell culture media supplement in biomedical research and cell therapy production. However, HPL is subject to decisive disadvantages such as batch differences and lack of storage stability. To overcome these limitations and to enhance the applicability of HPL, we developed an HPL manufacturing protocol including a lyophilization process. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of HPL lyophilization on parameters of quality control, including growth factor concentrations and the culture of human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs).MethodsWe performed a paired comparison of six batches of HPL and lyophilized HPL (L-HPL) regarding the quality parameters pH, total protein, osmolality, sodium, potassium and chloride concentration. Concentrations of 11 growth factors and cytokines were compared between HPL and L-HPL. Additionally, we determined cell yield, proliferation capacity, viability and trilineage differentiation potential of hMSCs following expansion in HPL- and L-HPL-supplemented cell culture media.ResultsQuantification of the quality parameters revealed non-altered pH, osmolality and potassium concentrations and slightly lower total protein, sodium and chloride concentrations of L-HPL compared to HPL. Growth factor and cytokine concentrations did not differ between HPL and L-HPL. Cell yield, division cycles and viability of hMSCs cultured in either HPL- or L-HPL-containing media were comparable. Cells differentiated in medium containing L-HPL showed a slightly higher capacity for osteogenic differentiation, while adipogenic differentiation and chondrogenic differentiation potentials remained unchanged.ConclusionWe successfully developed a method to produce well-applicable L-HPL. The comparison of L-HPL with HPL did not reveal any relevant differences regarding quality control parameters of routine testing, growth factor concentrations and hMSC functionality, demonstrating the suitability of L-HPL as a cell culture supplement. These results emphasize the potential of L-HPL as a sustainable and ethical alternative to animal-derived serum products in biomedical research and drug development.

Biomolecule screen identifies several inhibitors of Salmonella enterica surface colonization.

Salmonella enterica is a foodborne pathogen commonly found in agricultural facilities; its prevalence, as well as increasing levels of disinfectant- and antibiotic-resistance, has significant costs for agriculture as well as human health. In an effort to identify potential new inhibitors of S. enterica on abiotic surfaces, we developed a biomolecule screen of nutrient-type compounds because nutrients would have lower toxicity in animal facilities and bacterial nutrient utilization pathways might prove less susceptible to the development of bacterial resistance. After screening 285 nutrient-type compounds, we identified ten that significantly inhibited the ability of S. enterica to colonize a plastic surface. After conducting a dose-response curve, salicylic acid was selected for further testing due to its low minimal inhibitory concentration (62.5μM) as well as a low total inhibitory concentration (250μM). Salicylic acid was also able to inhibit surface colonization of a wide range of bacterial pathogens, suggesting that our biomolecule screen might have broader application beyond S. enterica. Finally, we determined that salicylic acid was also able to inhibit S. enterica colonization of an organic surface on eggshells. Together, these results suggest that nutrient-type biomolecules may provide an avenue for preventing resistant bacteria from contaminating surfaces.

Serum electrolyte abnormalities in cats with chronic inflammatory enteropathy.

Limited information is available on electrolyte abnormalities in cats with chronic inflammatory enteropathy (CIE). Report the prevalence of electrolyte abnormalities in cats with CIE compared to other gastrointestinal disorders, and determine their association with disease and outcome variables in cats with CIE. Three hundred twenty-eight client-owned cats from 2 referral hospitals: CIE (132), alimentary small cell lymphoma (29), acute gastroenteritis (48), and healthy controls (119). Retrospective study comparing serum electrolyte concentrations at time of diagnosis among the 4 groups of cats, and associations with clinical signs, intestinal mucosal fibrosis scores, treatment subclassification and outcome in CIE. Cats with CIE had lower sodium and higher potassium concentrations and lower sodium: potassium ratios compared with healthy cats (P < .001, P = .01, and P < .001, respectively). Cats with CIE and a duodenal mucosal fibrosis score of 2 had lower sodium and lower total calcium concentrations compared with cats that had a score of 0 (P = .02 and P = .01). Cats with CIE and a colonic mucosal fibrosis score of 1 had higher potassium concentrations and lower sodium: potassium ratios compared with cats that had a score of 0 (P = .03 and P = .01). Cats with CIE that died as a result of their disease had higher potassium concentrations and lower sodium: potassium ratios compared to cats that were alive (P = .02 and P = .01). Electrolyte abnormalities occur with CIE and, in particular, in cats with higher fibrosis scores and worse outcomes. Further research should aim to determine the pathogenesis of these findings and identify novel therapeutic targets for cats with CIE.

Acute phase responses in clinically healthy multiparous Holsteins with and without calcium dysregulation during the early postpartum period

Patterns of calcium dysregulation resulting in low total serum calcium concentrations (tCa) at 4 DIM, known as dyscalcemia, commonly occur in multiparous Holsteins. Dyscalcemia is associated with risk of disease, decreased production, and poor reproductive performance. Inflammation is well-documented early in lactation and is associated with similarly suboptimal outcomes. The acute phase response produces markers and mediators of inflammation; therefore, the objective of our case-control study was to evaluate postpartum patterns of 3 positive acute phase proteins in cows with and without dyscalcemia. We hypothesized that dyscalcemic cows would experience more activated inflammation than eucalcemic cows and that inflammation would precede dyscalcemia diagnosis. Multiparous Holstein cows at 2 commercial dairy farms in central New York were enrolled from a parent study based on tCa at 4 DIM, at a 2:1 ratio of eucalcemic (tCa >2.3 mmol/L; n = 32) to dyscalcemic cows (tCa <2.2 mmol/L; n = 16). Blood was collected 1 to 3 d before parturition and once every 24 h postpartum through 4 DIM. Samples were analyzed for 3 acute phase proteins, serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin and lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP). Patterns of protein concentrations in blood over time were compared using linear mixed effects models including fixed effects of calcium status group, time, parity group, farm, relevant 2-way interactions, and the random effect of cow. Overall, dynamics of acute phase proteins showed that dyscalcemic cows experienced increased acute phase responses compared with eucalcemic cows, and that these responses preceded dyscalcemia diagnosis at 4 DIM. Dyscalcemic cows had elevated concentrations of SAA beginning at 2 DIM (eucalcemic: mean = 13.88 µg/mL, 95% CI = 11.34 to 16.99 µg/mL; dyscalcemic: mean = 32.95 µg/mL, 95% CI = 24.55 to 44.21 µg/mL). and continuing through 4 DIM (eucalcemic: mean = 8.14 µg/mL, 95% CI = 6.66 to 9.95 µg/mL; dyscalcemic: mean = 30.01 µg/mL, 95% CI = 22.60 to 39.83 µg/mL). Haptoglobin concentrations were also elevated in the blood of dyscalcemic cows from 2 DIM (eucalcemic: mean = 0.39 g/L, 95% CI = 0.31 to 0.49 g/L; dyscalcemic: mean = 1.11 g/L, 95% CI = 0.79 to 1.56 g/L) through 4 DIM (eucalcemic: mean = 0.27 g/L, 95% CI = 0.21 to 0.34 g/L; dyscalcemic: mean = 1.65 g/L, 95% CI = 1.19 to 2.28 g/L). Concentrations of LBP exhibited a different pattern with a small difference between groups at 3 DIM (eucalcemic: mean = 4.67 µg/mL, 95% CI = 4.02 to 5.42 µg/mL; dyscalcemic: mean = 7.91 µg/mL, 95% CI = 6.49 to 9.63 µg/mL) that became larger at 4 DIM (eucalcemic: mean = 4.88 µg/mL, 95% CI = 4.22 to 5.64 µg/mL; dyscalcemic: mean = 10.79 µg/mL, 95% CI = 8.84 to 13.17 µg/mL). Our work supports the hypothesis that dyscalcemia and inflammatory activity are associated in dairy cows under naturally occurring postpartum conditions. While the causal structure of this relationship remains unknown, improved understanding of inflammation and dyscalcemia may provide insight into mechanisms by which some cows experience maladaptation during the early postpartum period.

Deletion of the asialyloglycoprotein receptor-1 (ASGR1) causes atheroprotective effects in vitro and in vivo

Abstract Introduction The asialoglycoprotein receptor 1 (ASGR1) is a hepatic receptor that clears desialylated glycoproteins from the circulation. A loss-of-function mutation in ASGR1 was reported to associate with a 34% reduction in coronary artery disease (CAD) risk, suggesting a role for ASGR1 in CAD. Aim To determine the role of ASGR1 in atherosclerosis and whether deletion of ASGR1 elicits atheroprotective effects. Methods Western blotting, mass spectrometry and flow cytometry assessed ASGR1 expression in cultured macrophages or immune cells collected from the blood and aortas of wildtype mice. Bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) from wildtype and Asgr1-/- mice were subjected to cholesterol efflux and oxidised low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) uptake in vitro functionalassays. ELISA and qPCR measured changes in lipid regulators in BMDMs. Asgr1-/- mice were crossed with atherosclerosis-prone apolipoprotein (Apo)e-/- mice (Apoe-/-Asgr1-/-). Stable plaque area was assessed histologically in the aortic sinuses of mice fed a high-cholesterol diet for 8 weeks (n=16/group). Using the tandem stenosis surgical model, unstable plaque was assessed in carotid arteries (n=10/group). Human ASGR1 was measured by ELISA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from patient samples (n=18). Results Western blotting and mass spectrometry discovered ASGR1 is expressed in macrophages. Immunofluorescence identified the presence of ASGR1 in aortic sinus plaque. Flow cytometry revealed ASGR1 is expressed in both inflammatory and patrolling monocytes, neutrophils, macrophages and dendritic cells of blood and aortas. Asgr1-/- BMDMs elicited greater cholesterol efflux (+39%, P&amp;lt;0.05) and decreased oxLDL uptake (-15%, P&amp;lt;0.05), compared to wildtype BMDMs. Moreover, Asgr1-/- BMDMs had significantly higher LDL receptor protein levels (+2-fold), and Lxra (+2-fold) and Pparg (+1.5-fold) mRNA levels than wildtype BMDMs, P&amp;lt;0.001. Plasma from Asgr1-/- mice had lower total (-25%, P&amp;lt;0.05) and LDL (-36%, P&amp;lt;0.05) cholesterol concentrations than wildtype mice. Apoe-/-Asgr1-/- mice developed less stable plaque in aortic sinuses (-37%, P&amp;lt;0.001) than Apoe-/- controls, as well as smaller unstable plaques in carotid arteries (-49%, P&amp;lt;0.05). Finally, in a human population, ASGR1 protein levels were higher in PBMCs from patients with coronary plaque (+61%, P&amp;lt;0.05), than those without plaque, determined from coronary angiograms. Conclusion ASGR1 is expressed on monocytes, macrophages and in plaques, and human PBMC ASGR1 associates with coronary plaque. Deletion of ASGR1 causes atheroprotective functions in macrophages in vitro and reduced plaque burden in vivo. Our findings demonstrate ASGR1 is important in atherosclerosis with implications for ASGR1 as a therapeutic target.

High-concentrated synthesis of surface modified iron oxide nanoparticles using ethanol-enhanced supercritical CO2 media

In the synthesis of surface modified metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs), supercritical CO2 is an attractive medium to achieve a simple and green chemistry approach without waster liquor. However, the mass production of surface-modified NPs is still a serious challenge for their industrial utilization. In this work, we aimed to demonstrate the high-concentrated synthesis of surface-modified iron oxide NPs in ethanol-enhanced supercritical CO2. The synthesis and phase observation were performed at 30.0 ± 0.8 MPa of CO2, 100 °C and 18 h, while changing the total concentration of iron(Ⅲ) acetylacetonate, water and oleic acid and ethanol ratio. As a result, lower total concentration gave single nano-sized α-Fe2O3 nanocrystal under uniform phase while higher one gave aggregated α-FeOOH under ununiform phase. However, ethanol entrainer successfully homogenized the reaction field by drastically raising the solubilities of components, allowing the high-concentrated synthesis of single nano-sized α-Fe2O3 nanocrystal. Furthermore, synthesized nanocrystal had chemically and densely modified surface, showing the unimodal size distribution in cyclohexane. These results conclusively show that supercritical CO2 with ethanol entrainer is a promising medium to allow the mass production of densely modified nanocrystal and subsequent their industrial utilization in thin film fabrication and drug delivery system.

Petrogenesis and tectonic setting of granitic pegmatites in the Beishan orogenic Belt, Northwest China: Evidence from geology, geochronology and geochemistry

The Weiboshan (Li-, Cs- and Ta-enriched) LCT-type Nb–Ta deposit located in Ejin Banner, Inner Mongolia, represents a newly discovered pegmatite-type rare metal deposit of significant interest. In this paper, we describe the petrography and present new mineralogical and whole-rock geochemical data and zircon U–Pb ages of ore-related granitic pegmatites in this deposit. Pegmatite dikes can be divided into three distinct zones on the basis of their contents: the K-feldspar graphic granite pegmatite zone (Kf), microcline graphic granite pegmatite zone (Mic), and albite–muscovite granite pegmatite zone (Ab). The pegmatite dikes and associated mineralization formed during the Mesozoic. Granite pegmatites in various zones display distinctive geochemical features characterized by high silicon contents, substantial alkali enrichment, and relatively low iron, calcium, and magnesium levels. These pegmatites are classified as peraluminous or quasialuminous and exhibit low total rare earth element concentrations. Notably, these pegmatites are enriched in large ion lithophile elements (LILEs), such as Rb, K, and U, but depleted in high field strength elements (HFSEs), such as P and Ti. The progression from the Kf to Mic to Ab zones signifies the thorough evolution of the granitic magma, where the late-stage near-hydrothermal system assumed a crucial role in the mineralization of rare metals during magma differentiation. The Weiboshan pegmatites, which exhibit syncollisional attributes, are A-type granites formed through crustal partial melting induced by decompression. This process occurred against the background of postorogenic extension driven by asthenospheric mantle upwelling resulting from lithospheric delamination due to crustal collision and thickening.

Dietary macronutrient composition and partial soybean meal replacement with slow-release urea: Effects on performance, digestibility, rumen fermentation, and nitrogen metabolism in dairy cows

A 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments was used to investigate the interactive effects of dietary macronutrient composition [high-starch, low-fat, low-fiber (HsLFF) than low-starch, high-fat, high-fiber (LsHFF)] and N source [soybean meal (SBM) or partially replaced by slow-release urea (SRU)] on lactation performance, rumen fermentation, N utilization efficiency, nutrient digestibility, blood metabolites, and feeding behavior in cows. A replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design was used involving 12 multiparous Holstein cows (milk yield of 40.5 ± 5.6 kg/d, BW of 590 ± 20 kg; 81 ± 12 d in milk). The HsLFF diet contained 300 g/kg starch, 31.3 g/kg fat, and 301 g/kg NDF, without straw or additional fat. In contrast, the LsHFF diet contained 195.5 g/kg starch, 60.8 g/kg fat, and 367.5 g/kg NDF, enriched with wheat straw (100 g/kg), and additional fat (34 g/kg). The diets were formulated to be iso-nitrogenous and isocaloric. Cows fed the HsLFF diet had greater DM intake, digestibility of DM and CP, milk yield and milk protein %, but lower intakes of NDF, and physically effective NDF, and milk fat % than cows fed the LsHFF diet. Replacing SBM with SRU significantly increased milk solids yield without affecting other lactation performance or BW. Cows fed the LsHFF diet had higher ruminal pH and branched-chain VFA proportions but lower total VFA concentrations compared with the HsLFF diet, while those on the LsHFF-SRU diet had the highest ruminal ammonia levels. Compared with the HsLFF diet, cows fed LsHFF had lower NE intake, milk energy output and energy requirement for maintenance, although energy balances were similar among groups. The HsLFF diet improved N utilization, resulting in higher N content in milk and lower N excretion in feces. Blood metabolite studies showed significant interactions between the main factors, particularly for blood glucose and creatinine, with the lowest levels in cows fed the LsHFF-SRU and LsHFF-SBM diets. In addition, alanine aminotransferase levels were higher in cows fed the LsHFF diet than in cows fed the HsLFF diet. This could indicate early-stage liver stress due to the metabolic imbalance caused by a high-fat, low-starch diet, which can alter energy metabolism. Cows on the HsLFF-SRU diet had the highest glucose levels, indicating possible changes in carbohydrate metabolism or a higher metabolic rate. The concentration of BUN increased steadily after feeding in the LsHFF diet and peaked after 4 h in the LsHFF-SRU diet, with no difference between N sources in the HsLFF diet. Partial replacement of SRU with SBM had no effect on BUN. The interaction between the main factors had a significant effect on MUN content, which was highest in LsHFF-SRU and lowest in HsLFF-SRU, with no difference between the N sources in the HsLFF diets. Overall, while diets with reduced starch and increased fiber and fat compromised lactation performance, partially substituting SRU with SBM helped maintain milk production and milk nitrogen efficiency. However, the LsHFF-SRU diet was less efficient in N utilization, as shown by higher levels of ruminal ammonia, BUN and MUN.

Prevalence of hypogonadism in men with and without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A cross-sectional study

BackgroundHypogonadism is a common finding of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, the prevalence of hypogonadism in COPD varies among studies. The aim of this study was to determine and compare the prevalence of hypogonadism in men with and without COPD. MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study with 134 patients with stable COPD and 70 age-matched men with non-COPD. Hypogonadism was defined by the presence of symptoms according to the Androgen Deficiency in Aging Males questionnaire, along with total testosterone deficiency (<300ng/dL). ResultsPatients had a mean age of 68 years (SD, 6), a body mass index of 28kg/m2 (SD, 6), and 17% were current smokers. The prevalence of hypogonadism was 41.8% in COPD men (N=56, 95%CI, 33–51) and 10.0% in non-COPD men (N=7, 95%CI, 4–20), with a prevalence ratio of 4.2 (95%CI, 2.0–8.7, p<0.001). The prevalence of low total testosterone concentrations (<300ng/dL) were significantly higher in COPD patients vs the control group (47.0% vs 15.7%, p=<0.001). In the COPD group, 89.3% of patients had hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and 10.7%, hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. The prevalence of hypogonadism was higher in severe vs non-severe COPD patients (55.8% vs 35.2%; p=0.024). ConclusionsThe prevalence of hypogonadism was high and greater in COPD vs non-COPD men. This study suggests that COPD patients should be screened for hypogonadism.

Storage Effects on the Physicochemical Properties, Phytochemical Composition, and Sugars in Red-Fleshed Cultivars, ‘Rubycot’ Plumcot, and ‘Queen Garnet’ Plum

Domestic storage conditions can have a significant impact on the composition of phytochemicals and sugars in stone fruits. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of two domestic storage temperatures (4 and 23 °C) on the physicochemical properties, phytochemical composition, and sugars of ‘Rubycot’ (RC) plumcot, a novel stone fruit variety, and ‘Queen Garnet’ (QG) plum. Initially, RC had a lower total anthocyanin concentration (TAC) than QG, but TAC in RC increased significantly (p &lt; 0.05) during storage, peaking at +95% after 7 days at 23 °C, while QG reached +60% after 14 days. At 4 °C, TAC increased for both varieties (RC +30%, QG +27%). RC had a higher initial total phenolic content (TPC), which also increased for both fruits. QG had a significantly higher initial total quercetin concentration (TQC), increasing by 40% (p &lt; 0.05) at 23 °C. The initial total carotenoid concentration in QG was higher than that in RC, but after 10 days at 23 °C, RC had a higher carotenoid concentration than QG. Both varieties showed similar sugar profiles, with QG starting higher but decreasing over time at both storage temperatures. Results from this study showed that ambient storage significantly increases total anthocyanins, total quercetins, and TPC in RC and QG. However, it is important to evaluate the textural and sensory properties of stored RC and QG in terms of consumer acceptability of the stored fruits.

Selective divalent/monovalent ion partitioning in cation exchange membranes

The selective partitioning of divalent and monovalent counterions through cation exchange membranes immersed in 2:1 and 1:1 binary salt solutions remains unclear, especially at the molecular level. We present a theoretical framework that quantifies these membranes’ sorption of divalent and monovalent ions, incorporating condensed and free variants to reconcile deviations from the ideal Donnan picture observed in published experimental data. This framework explores the membranes’ global and local selective ion sorption characteristics by assessing the effects of competitive ion condensations, where these counterions compete to bind to the fixed charge groups. First, we calculate the thermodynamic property—the global partition ratio—of the membranes immersed in these binary salt solutions, quantifying the partitioning between the binary salt solutions and the membranes. Our theoretical results successfully capture the published experimental partitioning data for membranes immersed in equimolar and non-equimolar 2:1 and 1:1 binary salt solutions. Furthermore, the Donnan potential of the membranes reciprocally changes with the total concentration of 2:1 and 1:1 external salt solutions. However, for the non-equimolar systems at a constant low total concentration, varying the binary solution concentration ratio of 2:1 to 1:1 salts maintains a strong electric potential intensity due to high ionic imbalance. Second, we quantify the local partitioning of the sorbed counterions that are condensed on the crosslinked polymeric chains and those that are mobile in the interstitial solution of the membrane, a variable that is difficult to access experimentally. Accordingly, we can fractionate the sorbed ions into condensed and free states, which mutually govern the membrane’s kinetic and thermodynamic (global and local partitioning) properties.

Whole Body PhysiologicallyBased Pharmacokinetic Model to Explain A Patient With Drug-Drug Interaction Between Voriconazole and Flucloxacillin.

Voriconazole administered concomitantly with flucloxacillin may result in subtherapeutic plasma concentrations as shown in a patient with Staphylococcus aureus sepsis and a probable pulmonary aspergillosis. After switching our patient to posaconazole, therapeutic concentrations were reached. The aim of this study was to first test our hypothesis that flucloxacillin competes with voriconazole not posaconazole for binding to albumin ex vivo, leading to lower total concentrations in plasma. A physiologicallybased pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model was then applied to predict the mechanism of action of the drug-drug interaction (DDI). The model included non-linear hepatic metabolism and the effect of a severe infectious disease on cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes activity. The unbound voriconazole concentration remained unchanged in plasma after adding flucloxacillin, thereby rejecting our hypothesis of albumin-binding site competition. The PBPK model was able to adequately predict the plasma concentration of both voriconazole and posaconazole over time in healthy volunteers. Upregulation of CYP3A4, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19 through the pregnane X receptor (PXR) gene by flucloxacillin resulted in decreased voriconazole plasma concentrations, reflecting the DDI observations in our patient. Posaconazole metabolism was not affected, or was only limitedly affected, by the changes through the PXR gene, which agrees with the observed plasma concentrations within the target range in our patient. Ex vivo experiments reported that the unbound voriconazole plasma concentration remained unchanged after adding flucloxacillin. The PBPK model describes the potential mechanism driving the drug-drug and drug-disease interaction of voriconazole and flucloxacillin, highlighting the large substantial influence of flucloxacillin on the PXR gene and the influence of infection on voriconazole plasma concentrations, and suggests a more limited effect on other triazoles.

1.38 Ga magmatism and the extension tectonics in East Kunlun, northern Tibetan Plateau

Numerous Paleo- to Mesoproterozoic magmatic rocks were emplaced during the assembly, accretion and break-up of the Columbia supercontinent, and are keys to illustrating the supercontinent circle. The geological, petrological, geochronological and geochemical data of the newly discovered meta-felsic and meta-mafic magmatic rocks from the Wulonggou area are presented in this study to shed light on the Mesoproterozoic geodynamic setting of the Central Kunlun Belt and the Qaidam Block. Zircon U-Pb geochronological results indicate that the crystallization ages of the meta-felsic samples are 1385–1376 Ma, and the meta-mafic is 1379 ± 25 Ma (MSWD=0.17). Samples from the meta-felsic unit have SiO2 contents of 68.37–73.03 wt% and belong to the high-K calc-alkaline series. They exhibit similar REE distribution patterns and display enrichment in light rare earth elements (LREES) and negative Eu anomalies. Enrichments in Rb, Ba, Th, U and K, depletion in Nb, Ta, Sr, P and Ti are seen in the primitive mantle-normalized trace element pattern diagram. Magmatic zircons from different meta-felsic samples yield variable εHf(t) values of −8.14 to + 9.37 corresponding to ca. 1.7–2.0 Ga two-stage Hf model ages. Samples from the meta-mafic unit have low SiO2 concentrations of 49.87–50.43 wt%, high contents of Fe2O3T, MgO, CaO and TiO2, and Mg# values of 52–58. They show low total REE concentrations of 19.8–30.4 µg/g, and depletion in LREES, flat HREES distribution patterns with (La/Yb)N of 0.27–0.53 and insignificant Eu anomalies. Flat distribution pattern of high field strength elements (HFSEs) is observed in the primitive mantle-normalized trace element pattern diagram. They display similar immobile elements’ concentrations and distribution patterns, low Ti/Y, Nb/Y, La/Yb, and high Nb/La ratios, comparable with the present-day normal middle ocean ridge basalt. Zircons from the meta-mafic sample have mostly positive εHf(t) values ranging from −0.10 to + 4.10 with a single stage Hf model ages of ca. 1.7–2.0 Ga. The geochemical result implies that the meta-felsic unit was generated by partial melting of the Paleoproterozoic juvenile mafic lower-crustal material with mantle attributions, and the meta-mafic unit was probably from partial melting of the lithospheric mantle. Synthesizing the above evidences, Wulonggou Mesoproterozoic meta-magmatic rocks are a bimodal suite formed in a continental extensional tectonic setting which is probably related to the break-up of the Columbia supercontinent.

Effects of Bacillus subtilis on Growth Performance, Metabolic Profile, and Health Status in Dairy Calves.

This study focused on assessing whether the inclusion of probiotics (B. subtilis) as feed additives during the preweaning stage can enhance the body weight and metabolic condition of neonatal calves. A total of 50 Holstein calves, all born on the same farm, were randomly divided into two homogeneous treatment groups after birth. The calves in the control group (CG) were fed a milk replacer (n = 25) (13 females and 12 males) and those in the B. subtilis-supplement-treated group (TG), (n = 25) (13 females and 12 males) were fed a milk replacer with 7.5 mL/calf/day of B. subtilis probiotic (complied with the manufacturer's guidelines). The probiotic was administered 24 h post-birth, signifying the start of the experimental period. It took one month to collect the animals. Body weight was measured at birth for all animals. A local veterinarian, working on the farm, conducted daily health checks of the calves, recording health parameters and any antibiotic treatments. Blood samples were collected from each calf at birth and 30, 60, and 90 days by puncturing the jugular vein using 10 mL evacuated serum tubes before morning feeding. Significant differences in body weight were observed between the CG and the TG at 30, 60, and 90 days of age. At 30 days, the TG had a 4.11% higher average body weight than the CG (54.38 kg vs. 52.71 kg). At 60 days, the TG's average weight was 3.75% higher (79.21 kg vs. 76.34 kg), and at 90 days, the TG had a 2.91% higher average weight (112.87 kg vs. 109.67 kg). At 30 days of age, the TG showed significantly lower AST activity, with a 41.12% decrease compared to the CG (51.02 IU/L vs. 72.00 IU/L). Conversely, GGT activity was significantly higher in the TG by 64.68% (40.64 IU/L vs. 14.35 IU/L). Phosphorus concentration at 30 days was also significantly higher in the TG by 9.36% (3.27 mmol/L vs. 2.99 mmol/L). Additionally, the TG had a significantly lower total protein concentration, with a 21.63% decrease at 30 days (46.32 g/L vs. 56.34 g/L) and a 20.28% decrease at 60 days (48.32 g/L vs. 58.12 g/L) compared to the CG. These findings indicate that dairy calves given conventional milk replacer along with a daily dose of 7.5 mL of B. subtilis probiotic experienced enhanced growth performance and a more favourable metabolic profile during the first 90 days of their lives.

(123) THE IMPACT OF ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS AND CHRONIC MEDICAL CONDITIONS ON SEMEN QUALITIES: A TEN-YEAR LONGITUDINAL ANALYSIS

Abstract Introduction Environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and chronic medical conditions appear to negatively impact semen quality and further hinder male reproductive capabilities. Reduced semen parameters can be associated with increased morbidity and mortality in men and are often used as a biomarker for men’s overall health. Objective In this longitudinal analysis, we aim to evaluate the correlations between various demographic factors, medical conditions, and recreational substances and semen studies in adult men at a large reproductive urology center. Methods In this retrospective chart review, male patients’ ≥18 of age with documented semen analyses were included. Data collected included patient racial demographics, comorbid medical conditions, and recreational alcohol, tobacco, or marijuana use. Semen analyses included sperm concentration, total sperm count, and total motile sperm. Patients were further subdivided into groups diagnosed with oligospermia and azoospermia based on the WHO 10th Global Conference guidelines. The data was analyzed using univariate and multivariate linear regression and logistic regression. Results 2322 patients were included in the study. White and Black non-Hispanic men had lower total sperm counts, sperm concentrations, and total motile sperm (p &amp;lt; 0.001) compared with Asian men, and older men (p = 0.002) had lower total sperm counts than younger men. Among comorbidities, individuals with higher HbA1C (p = 0.026), higher LDL cholesterol (p = 0.004), anemia (p = 0.003), an enlarged prostate (p &amp;lt; 0.001), testicular cancer (p = 0.006), scrotal varices (p &amp;lt; 0.001) had lower total sperm counts. Individuals with hypertension (p = 0.04), anemia (p &amp;lt; 0.001), an enlarged prostate (p &amp;lt; 0.001), chronic kidney disease (p = 0.008), heart failure (p &amp;lt; 0.001) had lower sperm concentrations. Adrenocortical insufficiency (p = 0.002), type 2 diabetes mellitus (p = 0.04), hypertension (p = 0.02), anemia (p &amp;lt; 0.001), chronic kidney disease (p = 0.002), and heart failure (p &amp;lt; 0.001), were associated with lower motility among comorbidities. Among recreational drug parameters, tobacco use (p &amp;lt; 0.001) and marijuana use (p &amp;lt; 0.001) were associated with lowered sperm counts, concentration, and motility, while alcohol use (p &amp;lt; 0.001) was associated with lower sperm concentration and motility (Figs. 1 and 2). Conclusions In this study, high HbA1C or type 2 diabetes, anemia, hypercholesterolemia, chronic kidney disease, heart failure, testicular cancer, scrotal varices, White or Black race, tobacco use, alcohol use, and marijuana use were associated with reduced semen quantities or qualities. Sexual and reproductive medicine practitioners can use these predictive factors to more effectively screen and treat men who may be at risk of infertility. Future studies are warranted to explore more infertility associations and provide holistic counseling and treatment to patients and practitioners. Disclosure No.

Dynamics of Fe, Mn, and potentially harmful elements under reducing conditions in iron ore tailings after dam collapse in the Doce River basin-Brazil: flooded and non-flooded rice cultivations.

Potentially harmful element (PHE) bioavailability is important to environmental contamination and must be checked under several soil conditions. This study aimed to assess Fe, Mn, and PHE uptake by rice (Oryza sativa) grown on flooded and non-flooded Fe tailings collected from the Doce River basin after its collapse in Brazil. After 65days of sowing, shoots and roots were harvested to determine PHE concentrations. The mean concentrations of Mn in shoots and Fe in the roots of rice grown on the flooded tailings were 2140mgkg-1 and 15,219mgkg-1, respectively. Mn was extensively translocated from roots to shoots (translocation factor (TF) = 2). Conversely, Fe accumulated in roots (TF = 0.015) and caused morphological damage to this rice organ. The application of macro and micronutrients lessened Fe toxicity in the roots of rice cultivated on the flooded tailings. The flooding of tailings influenced more Fe accumulation than Mn accumulation by rice plants. The PHE Ag, As, Cd, Ni, Hg, Pb, and Sb exhibited low total concentrations (maximum of 9mgkg-1 for Ni and a minimum of 0.2mgkg-1 for Cd, Hg, and Sb), and it was not observed an increase in their availability under tailings flooding conditions.

Comparing Nanofiltration and Ion Exchange for Reverse Osmosis Pretreatment in Industrial Water Treatment: A Techno-Economic Analysis

Water softening is a crucial process in various industrial applications, and the selection of an appropriate system involves balancing technical efficiency, environmental impact, and economic considerations. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of two prominent industrial water softening systems, Nanofiltration (NF) and Ion Exchanger (IX), through a multidimensional lens. The system’s design and sizing were simulated with computer assistance, using the DuPont’s WAVE Water Treatment Design Software version 1.82. The technical evaluation, based on simulations, revealed that IX outperformed NF in total hardness removal ( 99%) at the expense of a slight increase in Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). In contrast, NF demonstrated a superior ability to reduce TDS, albeit with lesser total hardness removal. Environmental considerations highlighted trade-offs, with NF generating higher wastewater volumes and IX producing wastewater with highly concentrated TDS, necessitating complex treatment processes. Economically, NF generally incurred higher Total Annual Costs (TAC) at lower total hardness concentrations, while IX became costlier at higher concentrations. A selection chart is introduced to aid decision-making based on economic considerations. This research offers valuable insights for industries seeking an optimal water softening solution, balancing technical efficiency, environmental impact, and economic considerations. The findings provide a nuanced understanding to guide system selection based on specific water quality requirements and economic constraints.

Experimental Study on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Modified Clay Using Xanthan Gum and Guar Gum Composite Materials

Biopolymer stabilization of soils has emerged as a viable solution for enhancing the engineering properties of soils in recent years. Xanthan gum and guar gum are two commonly used biopolymers. When combined, these materials have the ability to create stronger gels or gel strengths comparable to those achieved by using xanthan or guar gum individually, but at lower total concentrations. However, the extent of this synergistic viscosity-enhancing effect on soil improvement remains unclear. This study analyzes the effects of xanthan gum and guar gum on the physical and mechanical properties of clay under both individual and combined conditions using Atterberg limits tests, compaction tests, and triaxial consolidation undrained tests. At a 2% biopolymer content, the liquid limit of clay treated with a combination of XG and GG compounds increases by up to 8.0%, while the plastic limit increases by up to 3.9% compared to clay treated with a single colloid. With an increase in the mixing ratio, the optimal water content initially rises and then declines, peaking at 27.3%. The maximum dry density follows a pattern of initially decreasing and then increasing, with the lowest value recorded at 1.616 g·cm−3. Moreover, the shear strength of specimens treated with the XG and GG combination generally surpasses that of specimens treated with XG or GG alone. Furthermore, the combined treatment results in increased plasticity, highlighting its potential to enhance safety and stability in engineering applications.

HIV infection and ART use are associated with altered plasma clot characteristics in Black South Africans.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and antiretroviral treatment (ART) are both associated with hypercoagulability. Altered clot properties could be a potential mechanism thereof. We aimed to investigate the association of HIV and ART, with fibrinogen and plasma clot properties in a group of Black South Africans. At baseline, 151 newly diagnosed people living with HIV (PLWH) and 176 controls were recruited. Some PLWH subsequently commenced with ARTs (n = 70) while others remained ART-naïve (n = 81). Fibrinogen and clot properties (turbidity assay) were investigated from baseline to 5-year follow-up. A sub-group of 21 women (n = 10 ART-treated; n = 11 ART-naïve) with HIV was systematically selected and matched with 12 controls, and additional clot properties (rheometry, permeability and fibre diameter) were investigated. Fibrinogen was lower in the HIV groups compared to the controls, while % γ' fibrinogen was higher. PLWH had shorter lag times and lower maximum absorbance than the controls (p<0.05). Their CLTs on the other hand were longer. Most variables increased over time in all groups, but differences in the degree of change over time was observed for lag time (p = 0.024) and permeability (p = 0.03). Participants who commenced with ART had a tendency of delayed clot formation (p = 0.08) and increased clot permeability (p = 0.005). PLWH had lower total fibrinogen concentration and formed less dense clots. They also formed clots that were more difficult to lyse, which likely not resulted from altered clot properties. ART use (NNRTI's) had a moderately protective effect, delaying clot formation, and increasing clot permeability.

Characterization of natural organic matter in Wyoming-type bentonites irradiated at varied moisture levels

Wyoming-type bentonite clay (MX-80; Wyoming, USA) will be used in a deep geological repository (DGR) for the long-term storage of used nuclear fuel in Canada. The natural organic matter (NOM) found in bentonite may serve as a microbial nutrient source and potentially compromise the performance of the used fuel containers. Previous investigations indicate that NOM is present in low concentrations in MX-80 and has undergone extensive diagenetic alteration, though limited knowledge is available regarding NOM chemistry under simulated DGR conditions. Of particular concern is the possibility for gamma-radiation to alter NOM dissolution and reactivity due to the presence of reactive species generated by water radiolysis in Wyoming-type bentonites. In this study, NOM chemistry was investigated using complementary molecular-level techniques following exposure to a total gamma-radiation dose of 100 kGy (1.08 kGy/h for 93 h) at varied moisture levels (20%, 40%, 60% and 80%) and room temperature. Treated samples exhibited relatively low total organic carbon concentrations (0.074–0.232%), with no evidence of any major changes in total, organic, and inorganic carbon concentrations. Solid-state 13C NMR spectroscopy detected no changes in solid-phase NOM chemistry after irradiation. Solubilization of NOM increased significantly with radiation exposure at 80% moisture, suggesting higher levels of water saturation may enhance dissolved organic matter (DOM) production. Solution-state 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and UV–Vis analyses did not identify any significant differences in DOM composition. More sensitive, targeted compound analysis revealed significant decreases in total n-alkanol concentration at lower moisture content levels (20% and 40%). Several individual compound concentrations also differed significantly at the nanogram-level, including n-octacosanol and several n-alkanoic acids at elevated moisture levels (60% and 80%). These findings suggest the majority of NOM in MX-80 remains chemically stable under the anticipated initial conditions of the proposed DGR.