Mineral Concentrations Research Articles

Concentration of heavy minerals in Padma-river bar sediments from Bheramara to Ruppur using multispectral satellite data and petrographic analysis

Concentration of heavy minerals in Padma-river bar sediments from Bheramara to Ruppur using multispectral satellite data and petrographic analysis

Simultaneous co-assembly of collagen and glycosaminoglycans to build a biomimetic extracellular matrix for bone regeneration

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), also known as shape modules, are considered junctions that help define the shape of collagen matrix and further promote mineralization during osteogenesis. Many attempts have been made to immobilize GAGs on assembled collagen to modify the latter's surface state. However, it remains unclear how GAGs spontaneously identify collagen molecules during fibrillogenesis in vivo. Understanding the relationship between GAGs and collagen from both the bone physiology and materials science perspectives is of fundamental interest. Here, we introduced hyaluronic acid (HA, a main member of GAGs) during collagen self-assembly, in a process called modification cooperating with self-assembly (MCS). The molecular docking and morphological studies revealed that HA can help define collagen monomer deposition and thus promote fibrillogenesis through steric hindrance or by directly forming hydrogen bonds. Meanwhile, HA acts as a templating chaperone (TC) to increase the local mineral concentration within intrafibrillar channels but does not initiate nucleation, thus improving the crystallinity of formed apatite. The scaffolds synthesized through MCS model significantly improved the physicochemical stability and mechanical strength of collagen-based scaffolds. The optimized scaffolds promoted in-situ osteogenesis by stimulating the osteogenic differentiation of bone mesenchymal stem cells, either in an osteogenic medium, or after implantation into critical calvarial defects. This study provides novel insights towards evolving engineering scaffolds from inert supports to functional substitutes.

Physicochemical Characterization of Broiler Poultry Litter from Commercial Broiler Poultry Operation in Semiarid Tropics of India

This study characterized the physicochemical properties of broiler poultry litter (BPL) produced from intensively reared commercial broilers that were collected from 110 commercial poultry farms at the end of the production cycle (sixth week). A further 20 samples were collected from the end use point where BPL was utilized as a soil amendment by the farmers after a period of storage for improving poultry litter management practices, developing new litter treatment technologies, or enhancing its use as a sustainable resource. The dry matter (DM), moisture, ash, organic matter (OM), and organic carbon (OC) from the manure samples were 83.04, 16.96, 27.08, 72.92, and 42.39%, respectively. The pH, electrical conductivity (EC) (dS m−1), and Kjeldahl nitrogen (N) were 8.43, 5.74, and 24.2 g kg−1, respectively. The BPL from the cement floor had higher levels of P and K than the mud floor. The correlation studies revealed that the OM, C, N, and Zn had significant positive correlations; pH, moisture, and ash had positive correlations; and EC, DM, and Ca had positive correlations. The EC level of BPL negatively correlated with pH, Fe, and Mn. The N content was found to have a highly significant (p < 0.01) positive correlation with the OM, OC, Ca, and Zn content of BPL, and it was found to have a highly significant (p < 0.01) negative correlation with the ash content, pH, and K content of BPL. The P content of BPL showed a positive correlation (p < 0.01) with the K content and a negative correlation with the Zn (p < 0.05) and Fe (p < 0.01) contents of BPL. Zn was found to be negatively (p < 0.01) correlated with the ash content; the pH; and the K, Fe, and P content of BPL. According to the findings of this study, BPL as such at the end of the production cycle is rich in OM, nitrogen, macrominerals, and microminerals; however, at the point of utility (after a period of storage of 4 to 6 months), there was a loss of OM, N, and mineral concentrations, highlighting the importance of proper storage and composting. Overall, this study on the physicochemical properties of broiler poultry litter is crucial for improving agricultural practices, protecting the environment, and preserving the health and safety of human beings and livestock.

Tap water filtration and purification usage and their impact on the concentrations of fluoride and other minerals – A community-based study

ObjectiveThis study investigated the prevalence of water filtration and purification system (WFPS) use among residents of central Indiana (USA) and determined the effects of WFPS on the concentrations of fluoride, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium in tap water. MethodsA census-based questionnaire collected data on demographics, water use, and water sources. Participants were also asked to provide water samples from their tap water or the WFPS they used. Water samples were analyzed using ion-specific electrodes (fluoride) and atomic absorption spectrometry (metals). Mineral concentration comparisons between water sources used nonparametric tests; questionnaire associations were testing using correlations, chi-square tests, and nonparametric tests. ResultsOne hundred and one participants completed the study, of which 71 % used some type of WFPS. Blacks were less likely to use WFPS than Asian or White participants (p = 0.045). Those with bachelor's degrees or higher were more likely to use WFPS (p = 0.003). The most used WFPS were pitcher filters (31 %), water softeners (21 %), reverse osmosis systems (11 %), faucet-mounted filters (4 %), and whole-house carbon filters (1 %). Reverse osmosis systems resulted in the lowest mineral concentrations (median, ppm; F-0.08, Ca-2.30, Mg-0.46, Na-4.60, P-0.35). Pitcher filters were largely comparable to unfiltered tap water. Water softeners resulted in the highest sodium concentrations (78.40 ppm). ConclusionA large proportion of study participants use WFPS, with pitcher filters being the most common. Reverse osmosis systems had the most significant impact on reducing mineral levels in tap water, while pitcher filters do not adversely affect mineral concentrations. Clinical SignificanceUnderstanding how different WFPS affect the various minerals in tap water is essential for helping consumers in choosing the right system and for oral care providers to guide patients on water consumption and the need for fluoride supplementation, especially for those at high risk of dental caries.

Prediction of Potato Volume by Neural Network Regression Model

Potatoes are essential for meeting the world's dietary requirements due to their high concentration of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Potato production is plentiful worldwide, but postharvest processing losses have reduced potato quality. Potatoes can be graded manually, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive. In this study, a neural network regression model was developed to predict the volume of potatoes using 2D images, which can be used as a parameter for grading potatoes automatically. The image processing method was used to extract features like the major axis, minor axis, and roundness of 400 potato samples, and each potato's volume was thoroughly measured using the water displacement method, and a dataset was generated. These attributes were used to create the neural network regression model and predict the volume. The results revealed that the mean squared error (MSE) was 83.93, the root mean squared error (RMSE) was 9.16, and R2 was approximately 0.882. The potatoes were categorized into three groups: small, medium, and large, based on their size. The utilized model demonstrated an overall accuracy rate of 91.4%. Specifically, it achieved 90% and 85% accuracy for small-sized and medium-sized potatoes, respectively, whereas the model displayed a decrease in accuracy from 60% to 70% for large-sized potatoes. To summarize, the suggested neural network regression model provided an efficient approach to volume prediction using 2D images to improve the grading process of agricultural products.

Campylobacter infection of young children in Colombia and its impact on the gastrointestinal environment.

Campylobacter infections are a leading cause of bacterial-derived gastroenteritis worldwide with particularly profound impacts on pediatric patients in low- and middle-income countries. It remains unclear how Campylobacter impacts these hosts, though it is becoming increasingly evident that it is a multifactorial process that depends on the host immune response, the gastrointestinal microbiota, various bacterial factors, and host nutritional status. Since these factors likely vary between adult and pediatric patients in different regions of the world, it is important that studies define these attributes in well-characterized clinical cohorts in diverse settings. In this study, we analyzed the fecal microbiota and the metabolomic and micronutrient profiles of asymptomatic and symptomatic pediatric patients in Colombia who were either infected or uninfected with Campylobacter during a case-controlled study on acute diarrheal disease. Here, we report that the microbiome of Campylobacter-infected children only changed in their abundance of Campylobacter spp. despite the inclusion of children with or without diarrhea. In addition to increased Campylobacter, computational models were used to identify fecal metabolites that were associated with Campylobacter infection and found that glucose-6-phosphate and homovanillic acid were the strongest predictors of infection in these pediatric patients, which suggests that colonocyte metabolism is impacted during infection. Despite changes to the fecal metabolome, the concentrations of intestinal minerals and trace elements were not significantly impacted by Campylobacter infection but were elevated in uninfected children with diarrhea.IMPORTANCEGastrointestinal infection with pathogenic Campylobacter species has long been recognized as a significant cause of human morbidity. Recently, it has been observed that pediatric populations in low- and middle-income countries are uniquely impacted by these organisms in that infected children can be persistently colonized, develop enteric dysfunction, and exhibit reduced development and growth. While the association of Campylobacter species with these long-term effects continues to emerge, the impact of infection on the gastrointestinal environment of these children remains uncharacterized. To address this knowledge gap, our group leveraged clinical samples collected during a previous study on gastrointestinal infections in pediatric patients to examine the fecal microbiota, metabolome, and micronutrient profiles of those infected with Campylobacter species and found that the metabolome was impacted in a way that suggests gastrointestinal cell metabolism is affected during infection, which is some of the first data indicating how gastrointestinal health in these patients may be affected.

Effect of intermetallic compounds on the mechanical properties of Cu/Al clad sheets with an SS304 interlayer

Annealing treatments were conducted on Cu/Al clad sheets incorporating a 304 stainless steel (SS304) interlayer to investigate the impact of intermetallic compounds (IMCs) on the mechanical properties of these clad sheets with an interfacial layer. Additionally, the mechanisms of interfacial strengthening and crack propagation behavior were examined. It was found that the best overall performance was achieved for samples annealed at 200 °C, showing tensile strength, fracture elongation, and peeling strength values of 219 MPa, 7.19 %, and 19.6 N/mm, respectively. For the rolled clad sheet, cracks typically initiated at the edges of the SS304 fragments, accompanied by minor residual holes and stress concentrations. Post-annealing, the Cu and Al layers underwent varying degrees of recovery and recrystallization, and element diffusion increased, leading to improvements in elongation and interfacial bonding strength of the clad sheets. As the thickness of the IMCs grew, the interfacial crack propagation path shifted to the Al2Cu/AlCu interface within the IMC layer, significantly reducing the bonding strength.

Characterization of Oils and Solid Residues Obtained from <i>Bauhinia variegata L.</i> and <i>Pachira glabra pasq.</i> Seeds Through the Solvent Extraction Method

Vegetable oils derived from non-edible seeds are excellent sources for producing biodiesel which serves as an alternative to fossil fuels. In this study, products viz vegetable oils and solid residues obtained from solvent extraction method of <i>Bauhinia variegata</i> and <i>Pachira glabra</i> seeds were characterized according to standard norms to evaluate their energy potential. The oils obtained have a free fatty acid content of 2.31 wt% and 13.6 wt%, a kinematic viscosity of 12.45 and 3.24 mm²/s, an iodine value of 17.26 and 12.37 (g of I<sub>2</sub>/100g of oil), a saponification value of 207.57 and 183.03 (mg of KOH/g of oil), a peroxide value of 10 and 8.06 (meq O<sub>2</sub>/kg of oil), and a calorific value of 40.66 and 65.08 MJ/kg, respectively. Furthermore, the physicochemical analysis of the oils revealed that they are excellent choice for biodiesel production. In addition, the proximate analysis of the solid residues of <i>Bauhinia variegata</i> and <i>Pachira glabra</i> showed high level of protein, fiber, and total carbohydrates with respective values of 34.79 and 30.41 wt%, 10.44 and 15.16 wt%, and 47.50 and 52.92 wt%. Mineral analysis indicated a high concentration of minerals, particularly potassium, sodium, calcium, and phosphorus. The solid residues exhibit anti-nutritional properties, making it suitable for various applications such as bioconversion by black soldier fly larvae, bioelectricity, biogas production, and biofuels among others.

Impact of Toxoplasma gondii on Serum Protein Levels and Mineral Content in Sheep and Goats at a Small Dairy Farm in White Nile State, Sudan

Aim: This study aims to investigate the effects of Toxoplasma gondii infection on the serum proteins and macro elements (Sodium, Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium and Phosphate) for sheep and goat. Introduction: In sheep and goats, Toxoplasma infection is a major cause of abortion and stillbirth. Subclinical infections are also quite common in adult animals of affected flocks and herds. Serum proteins and macro elements plays an essential role in animal metabolism. Materials and Methods: Serological survey of T. gondii was conducted using Latex Agglutination Test (LAT) for 20 sera collected from sheep and goats (8 and12 respectively) in white Nile State, Sudan. Results: Out of twelve goats’ serum and eight sheep serum samples, seven samples were found to be positive for Toxoplasma (58.33%) in goats and four samples were found to be positive for Toxoplasma (50%) in sheep, the remaining samples were negative. It was observed that serum Total protein (Tp) level was increased significantly (p<0.05) in both species, and albumin (Alb) level decreased significantly (p<0.05) in goats, while Globulin (Glob) was significantly (p<0.05) low in sheep compared with control animals. The results showed that some minerals (Na and K) concentrations in the serum were higher in both sheep and goats compared to the controls. Conclusion: In conclusion infestation of goats with Toxoplama gondii increases the total protein, globulins and significantly decreases the albumin concentrations. For sheep the infestation increases the total protein, albumin and significantly decreases the globulin concentrations. Sheep and goats infected with Toxoplasma gondii showed increased serum sodium, potassium and magnesium levels affecting most of the enzyme systems.

Effects of organic richness, mineral composition, diagenesis, and thermal maturity on the viscoelastic properties of organic-rich Cretaceous mudstones in the Middle Magdalena Valley basin, Colombia

A major geological risk factor for engineering and energy-related applications, such as CO2 storage and unconventional hydrocarbon production, is the geomechanical integrity of mudrocks. The goal of this work is to better constrain the macroscopic mechanical properties resulting from microstructural components by investigating the effects of thermal maturity, mineral composition, diagenesis and organic richness on the mechanical properties of Cretaceous mudstones in two surface sections (San Vicente de Chucurí and La Cristalina Creek) and one well (La Luna-1) from the Middle Magdalena Valley Basin (MMVB), Colombia. The thermal maturity of 22 rock samples was evaluated via organic source-rock screening and determination of illite crystallinity (Reichweite). Both geothermometers placed the La Luna Formation rock samples from San Vicente de Chucurí and the La Luna-1 well within the oil generation window (80°C–120 °C). In contrast, the rock samples of the Guaguaquí Group from La Cristalina Creek in the southern part of the basin are within the gas window (>180 °C). The mineralogy of organic-rich mudstones in the MMVB is dominated by quartz and calcite. Moreover, mudstones from the MMVB have a wide range of organic richness and clay contents, with organic abundances comparable to and clay contents lower than those found in other source-rock reservoirs. The Young's modulus (EIT), Martens hardness (HM), and creep (CIT), as determined through microindentation experiments, highly varied, but overall, the findings suggest that the Cretaceous rocks of the MMVB present conditions favorable for hydraulic fracturing. Furthermore, the viscoelastic properties of Cretaceous rocks in the MMVB are influenced primarily by the concentrations of strong minerals (quartz and calcite) and weak components (clay and TOC). Specifically, an increase in the concentration of weak components compared with that of strong minerals leads to an increase in CIT and a decrease in HM and EIT, and vice versa. Unlike other source-rock reservoirs, there are no indications of a strong correlation between thermal maturity and mechanical properties, suggesting a decoupling of these parameters in rocks of the MMVB. A close scanning electron microscopy examination of the rocks indicated that the observed weak to moderate correlation between thermal maturity and mechanical properties appears to result from rock silicification and calcite cementation caused by the precipitation of these minerals at early stages of diagenesis. This observation implies that the impact of diagenesis on rock geomechanics of silica-rich and calcareous-rich mudstones may override or be more important than the effects of thermal maturity, which, along with clay and organic matter contents, are the greatest controls in the geomechanics of argillaceous source-rock reservoirs.

The concentrations of microelements in forest mushrooms are influenced by soil pH and C/N ratio and less by stand characteristics

The fruitbodies or sporocarps formed by mushrooms can accumulate mineral elements, such as selenium, zinc or copper, making them an important source of micronutrients essential to humans. However, the literature about environmental factors affecting mineral composition in mushrooms is scarce and limited to the ambiguous impact of soil properties and region. In our study, we investigated the effects of tree stand characteristics (tree species and tree canopy cover), understory cover, and soil properties (pH and C/N ratio of the soil) on the concentration of minerals in six edible mushroom species: Laccaria laccata, L. proxima, L. amethystina, Lepista nuda, Lycoperdon perlatum, and Calvatia excipuliformis, collected on 20 plots covered by stands of different tree species composition and varying in the understory cover. We estimated the concentration of eight elements (Zn, Se, Mg, Mn, Cu, Co, Cr, Mo) using the ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma - Mass Spectrometry) technique and compared their concentration between the plots, using ordination and linear regression methods. Our research revealed that mushroom species identity, including its ecological role and phylogenetic affinity, had the greatest effect on the mineral composition of mushrooms. The effect of environmental factors depended also on the micronutrient identity. Some elements were not affected at all (Co, Cr), some only by soil reaction or C/N ratio (Mn, Mg, Cu), while others were influenced by both tree stand characteristics and soil properties (Se, Zn, Mo). This knowledge enables us to maximize the content of minerals in harvested mushrooms by collecting them in specific areas. For example, mushrooms, which are sources of Se and Zn, can be gathered in coniferous forests characterized by acid soils, low canopy cover, and minimal understory cover. This targeted collection approach can effectively increase the mineral content in harvested mushrooms, thereby enhancing their health benefits.

PSI-14 Serum energy metabolite and mineral concentrations in a contemporary flock of Western white-faced ewes during the periparturient period

Abstract Ewe prolificacy and litter weight has increased in Western U.S. sheep flocks potentially leading to greater prevalence of metabolic dysfunction around the periparturient period. Thus, the objective of this research was to quantify serum energy metabolites and minerals in a flock of Rambouillet ewes. A total of 56 ewes [2 to 5 yr; 92.4 ± 0.56 kg body weight (BW] with an average litter size (NLB) of 1.84 ± 0.08 (single n = 15, 27%; twin n = 35, 62%; triplet n = 6, 11%) were evaluated. Blood was collected on d -21, -14, -7, 0, 7, 14, 21, 28 relative to parturition. Serum concentrations of glucose, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), and minerals were quantified. Data were analyzed as repeated measures with fixed effects of ewe age (2 to 5 yr), sampling timepoint, NLB (1 or ≥ 2), and their interactions. There was a NLB x sampling timepoint interaction for serum Cl where multiple bearing ewes had greater concentration at d -14 (P = 0.03) and single bearing ewes had greater concentration on d -7 (P = 0.01; Figure 1). The NLB x ewe age interaction was significant for serum Fe where concentrations were greater for multiple than single bearing 4-yr-old ewes but greater for single than multiple bearing 5-yr-old ewes (Figure 1; P ≤ 0.05). As main effects (Table 1), 2-yr-old ewes had greater serum glucose than 4-yr-old ewes (P = 0.04), and 4-yr-old ewes had greater serum Ca than 3-yr-old ewes (P = 0.02). Multiple bearing ewes had had greater BHBA and NEFA (P ≤ 0.001) than single bearing ewes. Proportions of ewes within normal concentrations of key serum elements were glucose (single: 100%, multiple: 95%); BHBA (single: 100%, multiple: 49%); NEFA (single: 93%, multiple: 37%); and Ca (single: 100%, multiple: 100%). Serum BHBA and NEFA peaked at d 14, while serum K, Na, Co, Mn, and Mo peaked at d -21. Serum Se was least at d -21 and peaked at d 0. Pearson correlation coefficients were estimated between average serum metabolite concentrations before parturition (PRE; d -21, -14, -7) and after parturition (POST; d 7, 14, 21, 28; Table 2). A moderate positive correlation between PRE-Glucose and POST-Glucose (P = 0.03) and strong negative correlations between PRE-Glucose and PRE-BHBA and PRE-Glucose and PRE-NEFA were observed (P ≤ 0.001). Additionally, BHBA and NEFA were positively correlated within the PRE and POST timepoints (P < 0.001). Ewe age and NLB drive metabolic demands during different timepoints in the periparturient period. Litter size does contribute to increased BHBA and NEFA, increasing the risk for pregnancy toxemia. Increased nutritional intervention of prolific, semi-extensively managed Western white-faced ewes should be considered to reduce the risk of metabolic stress.

PSV-3 Lifetime plasma concentration of select trace minerals in broiler chickens hatched from broiler breeders fed hydroxychloride or organic sources of zinc, copper, and manganese

Abstract The objective was to investigate the effects of feeding broiler breeders (BB) hydroxychloride (HC) or organic (OR) sources of zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and manganese (Mn) from 42 to 63 wk of age (woa) on plasma concentration of trace minerals (TM) in offspring at hatch through to 42 d of life (Table 1 to 4). A total of 408 ♀ Ross 708 and 48 ♂ Yield Plus cockerels were placed in pens (17 ♀ and 2 ♂) and allocated to one of two diets: 1) HO, a blend of 80% HC and 20% OR sources, and 2) OR, 100% OR sources. In total, 2,160 eggs (90 eggs from each pen replicate) were collected and labelled by BB pen at 46, 52 and 62 woa and incubated. Upon hatching, chicks were sexed, weighed, and placed in 24 pens (40 birds/pen) within BB diet identification. For offspring phase, one-half of chicks from BB fed HO or InO were fed HC and the other half were fed inorganic (InO) sources of Zn, Cu and Mn, effectively creating 4 treatments for offspring phase (n = 6; 3 pens per sex). There were no BB diets effects (P > 0.05) on plasma concentration in hatchlings (Table 5, 6). However, BB age effect was such that plasma of hatchlings of 54- and 62-wk-old BB exhibited increased concentrations of Zn, Cu, and Mn compared with those from 46-wk-old parents (P < 0.0001; Table 6-7). Additionally, female hatchings displayed greater Cu concentrations in plasma compared with males (P = 0.024). Broiler chickens fed HC exhibited greater plasma Zn, Cu, and iron on d 21 compared with the other groups (P < 0.05) while 42-d chickens fed HC diet exhibited increased concentrations of Mn and iron compared with the other groups (P < 0.05). Forty-two-d old broiler chickens from 62-wk-old breeders exhibited greater TM concentrations compared with those from younger parents (P < 0.0001). The findings provide valuable insights for enhancing TM supplementation in BB diets to enhance the plasma concentrations of Zn, Cu, and Mn in offspring. Notably, hatchlings fed with HC as a source of Zn, Cu, and Mn exhibited increased concentrations of these minerals through 42 d.

PSLBII-1 Enhancing cattle health and performance through targeted supplement optimization and evaluation

Abstract Our objective is to evaluate and optimize Bovi-MV formulation through its effect on serum mineral/vitamin (M/V) concentrations in cattle and develop a systems approach to oral M/V supplementation through the lifecycle of beef cattle to determine the best management strategy to help reduce M/V deficiencies in young and mature animals. Cow/calf pairs (n = 300 over 2 yr) and follow the calves to harvest late in yr 2. The research is timed to coincide with typical management handling processes (e.g., vaccination of cows before calving and calf processing after birth, before pasture, at weaning time, on induction to the feedlot, and at reimplanting). The calf herd will be divided at birth into treatment (calves whose dams received BoviMV supplement) and control (~150 calves per group). Vitaferst-Care will be provided to the treatment group at processing (vaccination, antiparasitic application) before going to grass (~ 3 mo of age). Bovi-MV will only be given to the treatment group. All calves will be administered a tracer vaccine to assess their immune response. Blood samples will be collected from all calves for antibody titer testing at weaning (~ 6 mo of age). The treatment calves will also receive a booster dose of Bovi-MV at that time. Approximately 90 d after weaning (~ 9 mo of age) antibody titer will be determined immune response was. Calf morbidity, mortality, and performance (average daily gain) will be monitored in the feedlot. An accredited lab will conduct M/V blood analysis; antibody titer testing will be done at a Lakeland College lab. Based on MV and titer to the Bovi-MV supplement and tracer vaccine, the formulation of the Bovi-MV will be evaluated, and recommendations will be made. Based on results from two previous studies evaluating M/V blood concentrations in cattle (Neonatal supplement and Itchy Cow) in Western Canada, vitamin and mineral concentrations tended to be below optimum values, especially in herds provided supplementation free choice. All cows were deficient in vitamin A at calving, averaging 66.27 ± 2.51 ppb, with 50% having nondetectable concentrations. With vitamin E, 8 animals had nondetectable concentrations, only 8 had sufficient concentrations, and those with detectable concentrations averaged 3.16 ppm ± 2.17. Cows had sufficient iron ug/mL averaging 2.14 ± 1.02 and selenium ug/mL 0.09 ± 0.02. As Cheryl Waldner et al. (2023) reported, 24 to 43% copper deficiency is prevalent in cattle in the southern halves of the three prairie provinces. Armed with this information, this study is the first step in developing a systems approach to year-round management of the cow herd’s vitamin and mineral supplementation.

128 Bromoform metabolites from Asparagopsis taxiformis: Formation and impact on in vitro rumen fermentation parameters and microbial composition dynamics

Abstract The aim of the experiment was to study the formation and impact of bromoform metabolites from Asparagopsis taxiformis on in vitro rumen fermentation parameters and microbial composition over time. Rumen fluid from three rumen fistulated lactating Holstein-Friesian dairy cows was collected and after buffering used as inoculum. Cows were fed a total mixed ration of grass silage, corn silage and concentrate. In total 0.5 g dry matter (DM) of substrate was incubated, consisting of either 0.3 g DM grass silage and 0.2 g DM corn silage (Control) or 0.295 g DM grass silage, 0.195 g DM corn silage and 0.01 g DM A. taxiformis (ASP). Substrates were incubated for 72 h. Total gas production (TGP) was measured continuously and methane (CH4) at 0, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, 48, 60 and 72 h. After 72 h, volatile fatty acids (VFA), ammonia (NH3), and pH were determined. Substrates (Table 1) and contents of additional bottles at specific timepoints were analyzed for bromoform (CHBr3), dibromomethane (CH2Br2), bromomethane (CH3Br), dibromochloromethane (CHBr2Cl), arsenic (As), bromine (Br) and iodine (I). RNA was isolated and sequenced with specific primers for bacteria, archaea and protozoa. Data were averaged per inoculum and analyzed with an ANOVA to test for differences between treatments. Preliminary results revealed no difference between Control and ASP in TGP (mL/g organic matter; OM) after 72 h (P = 0.102), whereas CH4 (mL/g OM) was 78% less in ASP than in Control (P = 0.005). Total VFA (tVFA) did not differ between Control and ASP (P = 0.435). Acetate (% tVFA) was lower in ASP (49.2 vs 56.6; P = 0.011), and branched VFA (% tVFA) greater in ASP than in Control (5.8 vs 3.8; P = 0.001). At 72 h, NH3 (mg/L) and pH did not differ between ASP and Control (P = 0.183 and 0.519, respectively). After 1 h of incubation CHBr3 concentration was 118 ng/mL, rapidly decreasing below detection limit by 8 h of incubation. At 1 h of incubation CH2Br2 concentration was 22 ng/mL, reaching 40 ng/mL at 4 h of incubation and remained relatively stable thereafter. At any timepoint, CH3Br concentration was below detection limit. At 12 h of incubation CHBr2Cl concentration was 3.7 ng/mL and remained relatively stable. Mineral concentrations (As, I, Br) were constant throughout incubation. Addition of 2% DM A. taxiformis effectively reduced CH4 production without negative effects on TGP and tVFA in vitro. While CHBr3 disappeared quickly and CH2Br2 concentration increased, substantial formation of CH3Br in hydrogenation reactions by methanogens seemed absent. Levels of Br did not change, suggesting no substantial Br vaporization through secondary metabolites. Microbial composition data are pending analyses and will be presented at the symposium.

22 Effects of trace mineral source and chromium propionate supplementation on rumen fermentation, growth performance, and carcass characteristics in finishing beef steers

Abstract Crossbred beef steers [n = 400; body weight (BW) = 370 ± 8 kg] were used to evaluate the effects of trace mineral (TM) source and chromium propionate (Cr) on rumen fermentation characteristics, plasma glucose and mineral concentrations, performance, and carcass characteristics in feedlot steers fed a steam-flaked corn-based finishing diet. Steers were blocked by initial BW and randomly assigned within block to 1 of 4 treatments (10 steers/pen) with 10 pens per treatment. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design with a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Factors included: 1) TM source [sulfate or hydroxychloride (IntelliBond] Cu, Mn, and Zn TM supplemented at 18, 40, and 90 mg/kg DM, respectively) and 2) with or without supplemental Cr (KemTRACE) at 0.0 or 0.25 mg/kg DM. Steers were individually weighed on d -1 and 0 and every 28 d throughout the experiment. Jugular blood samples and rumen contents were collected from 10 steers per treatment on d 28 and 84 of the experiment for plasma glucose and TM concentration and volatile fatty acid analysis, respectively. On d 154 of the experiment, steers were harvested at a commercial abattoir and carcass data was collected. Data were analyzed on a pen mean basis for a randomized complete block design using PROC MIXED of SAS. There was no TM source by Cr supplementation interactions for any of the response variables measured, therefore only main effects are reported. Overall ADG (P = 0.03) and gain:feed (P = 0.02) were greater in steers receiving supplemental Cr when compared with steers not supplemented with Cr. Hot carcass weight (P = 0.04), dressing percentage (P = 0.01), longissimus muscle area (P = 0.03), and USDA yield grades (P = 0.04) were greater in steers receiving hydroxychloride TM compared with steers receiving sulfate TM. Steers supplemented with Cr had a greater dressing percentage (P = 0.01) and longissimus muscle area (P = 0.04) compared with steers not supplemented with Cr. On d 28 of the experiment, ruminal acetate concentrations were lesser (P = 0.01) and ruminal propionate concentrations tended to be greater (P = 0.12) in steers receiving hydroxychloride TM compared with steers receiving sulfate TM. Steers supplemented with Cr had greater ruminal acetate concentrations (P = 0.04) and plasma glucose concentrations (P = 0.05) on d 28 of the experiment when compared with non-supplemented controls. These data indicate the Cr supplementation and TM source can influence feedlot steer performance, carcass characteristics, and rumen fermentation characteristics.

Lipid biochemical diversity and dynamics reveal phytoplankton nutrient-stress responses and carbon export mechanisms in mesoscale eddies in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre

Mesoscale eddies cause deviations from the background physical and biogeochemical states of the oligotrophic oceans, but how these perturbations manifest in microbial ecosystem functioning, such as community macromolecular composition or carbon export, remains poorly characterized. We present comparative lipidomes from communities entrained in two eddies of opposite polarities (cyclone–anticyclone) in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre (NPSG). A previous work on this two-eddy system has shown differences in particulate inorganic carbon (PIC) and biogenic silica sinking fluxes between the two eddies despite comparable total organic carbon fluxes. We measured the striking differences between the lipidomes of suspended and sinking particles that indicate taxon-specific responses to mesoscale perturbations. Specifically, cyanobacteria did not appear to respond to increased concentrations of phosphorus in the subsurface of the cyclonic eddy, while eukaryotic microbes exhibit P-stress relief as reflected in their lipid signatures. Furthermore, we found that two classes of lipids drive differences between suspended and sinking material: sinking particles are comparatively enriched in phosphatidylcholine (PC, a membrane-associated lipid) and triacylglycerol (TAG, an energy storage lipid). We observed significantly greater export of TAGs from the cyclonic eddy as compared to the anticyclone and found that this flux is strongly correlated with the concentration of ballast minerals (PIC and biogenic silica). This increased export of TAGs from the cyclone, but not the anticyclone, suggests that cyclonic eddy perturbations may be a mechanism for the delivery of energy-rich organic material below the euphotic zone.

350 Awardee Talk: Beef cattle mineral nutrition: What do we know and where do we go from here

Abstract Trace minerals are pivotal in enhancing cattle growth and ensuring profitability in beef production. Historically, supplementation strategies have aimed at preventing deficiencies, significantly improving growth and reproductive performance. However, as cattle breeding has evolved to achieve remarkable growth rates, the challenges related to health and stress during the feeding period have intensified. This presentation explores refined trace mineral recommendations, focusing on zinc’s “stress requirement” for cattle undergoing transit and health challenges, and its impact on performance. The segmented nature of the beef industry, necessitating multiple transports, induces physiological stress and oxidative stress, highlighting the need for tailored mineral supplementation. Further, when recognizing feedlot cattle as the high-performing athletes they are, the potential benefits of adjusted trace mineral concentrations become apparent. Preliminary findings suggest that optimal zinc concentrations may exceed current National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) 2016 recommendations, whereas for other minerals like copper and manganese, the existing guidelines remain appropriate. This presentation will explore the differential effects of increasing dietary zinc and copper in conjunction with various growth-promoting technologies. Preliminary data indicates that increasing zinc concentrations can linearly enhance average daily gain (ADG) and hot carcass weight (HCW), especially when using potent anabolic implants, while the response to increased copper concentrations exhibits a more quadratic relationship with performance. Building upon the foundational work of pioneering researchers in the field of mineral nutrition, this presentation advocates for the continuous refinement and optimization of trace mineral supplementation strategies. By integrating cutting-edge technologies and fostering collaborative research efforts, we aim to further enhance the sustainability of the beef industry. A deeper understanding of trace mineral requirements in the face of modern production challenges will pave the way for more precise and effective nutritional strategies.

Toxic and non-toxic cyanobacterial biomass as a resource for sustainable agriculture: A lettuce cultivation experiment

Cyanobacteria represent a promising resource for sustainable agriculture, as they have demonstrated the ability to restore soil fertility even after death and decay. However, several cyanobacteria can also release secondary metabolites, such as cyanotoxins, which may compromise the quality of agricultural products and pose a potential risk to human health. Depending on the concentration of exposure, few studies reported deleterious effects on plant species when irrigated with cylindrospermopsin (CYN) contaminated water, impairing plant growth and leading to food product contamination, while other studies show promoting effects on plant yield. To evaluate the potential of cyanobacterial biomass (cyanotoxin-containing or not) as a sustainable resource for soil amendment, biostimulants or fertilizers for lettuce cultivation, a study was carried out that consisted of the culture of lettuce plants under controlled conditions, in soil: (1) with no extra nutrient addition (control) and supplemented with 0.6 g of freeze-dried Raphidiopsis raciborskii biomass of (2) a non-CYN-producing strain, (3) a CYN-producing strain, and (4) the same CYN-producing strain pasteurized. Results showed no significant differences in photosystem II efficiency with the amendment addition. On the contrary, shoot fresh weight significantly increased in lettuce plants grown with the cyanobacterial biomass addition, especially in condition (3). In addition, there were significant differences in mineral concentrations in lettuce leaves after the cyanobacterial biomass addition, such as K, Na, Ca, P, Mg, Mn, Zn, Cu, Mo, and Co. CYN accumulation was detected under conditions (3) and (4), with concentrations observed in descending order from roots > soil > shoot. Nevertheless, the CYN concentration in edible tissues did not exceed the WHO-proposed tolerable daily intake of 0.03 μg/kg/day. These findings suggest that incorporating cyanobacterial biomass as a soil amendment, biostimulant or fertilizer for lettuce cultivation, even with trace amounts of CYN (1–40 μg/g), may enhance plant yield without leading to cyanotoxin accumulation in edible tissues above the WHO-recommended tolerable daily intake.

Prospects for mineral biofortification of wheat: classical breeding and agronomy.

Low intake of micro- and macroelements and vitamins in food negatively affects the health of more than two billion people around the world provoking chronic diseases. For the majority of the world's population, these are soft and durum wheats that provide beneficial nutrients, however their modern high-yielding varieties have a significantly depleted grain mineral composition that have reduced mineral intake through food. Biofortification is a new research trend, whose main goal is to improve the nutritional qualities of agricultural crops using a set of classical (hybridization and selection) methods as well and the modern ones employing gene/QTL mapping, bioinformatic analysis, transgenesis, mutagenesis and genome editing. Using the classical breeding methods, biofortified varieties have been bred as a part of various international programs funded by HarvestPlus, CIMMYT, ICARDA. Despite the promise of transgenesis and genome editing, these labor-intensive methods require significant investments, so these technologies, when applied to wheat, are still at the development stage and cannot be applied routinely. In recent years, the interest in wheat biofortification has increased due to the advances in mapping genes and QTLs for agronomically important traits. The new markers obtained from wheat genome sequencing and application of bioinformatic methods (GWAS, meta-QTL analysis) has expanded our knowledge on the traits that determine the grain mineral concentration and has identified the key gene candidates. This review describes the current research on genetic biofortification of wheat in the world and in Russia and provides information on the use of cultivated and wild-relative germplasms to expand the genetic diversity of modern wheat varieties.