Mineral Concentrations Research Articles

Fetal Growth Is Associated with Amniotic Fluid Antioxidant Capacity, Oxidative Stress, Minerals and Prenatal Supplementation: A Retrospective Study

Background: Associations of antioxidants in prenatal over-the-counter multivitamin-mineral (OTC MVM) supplements with in-utero oxidative stress (OS), antioxidant capacity, and fetal growth are limited. Our objectives were to determine if five fetal ultrasound measurements [biparietal diameter (BPD), head circumference (HC), abdominal circumference (AC), femur length (FL), and estimated fetal weight] were associated with OTC MVM supplements and with minerals, biomarkers of OS, and total antioxidant capacity in amniotic fluid (AF). Methods: For this retrospective study, 176 pregnant women who had undergone age-related amniocentesis for genetic testing were included. Questionnaires recorded prenatal OTC MVM supplementation (yes, no). Ultrasound measurements for early (16–20 weeks) and late (32–36 weeks) gestation were extracted from medical charts. AF concentrations for 15 minerals and trace elements and OS biomarkers in AF [nitric oxide (NO), thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP)] were measured at 12–20 weeks of gestation. Associations of AF minerals, OS biomarkers, and ultrasound measures were analyzed using multiple linear regressions. Results: Positive associations were observed between AF TBARS and seven AF minerals/elements (calcium, copper, magnesium, nickel, strontium, zinc and iron). At 16–20 weeks, AF copper, nickel, strontium, and selenium were positively associated with BPD, HC, AC, and FL, respectively, NO was positively associated with FL, and FRAP was inversely associated with estimated weight. At 32–36 weeks, calcium was positively associated with BPD and chromium and arsenic were negatively with HC. At 16–20 weeks, higher AF FRAP was inversely associated with FL and this exposure continued to be inversely associated with estimated weight at 32–36 weeks. Conclusions: Concentrations of AF minerals, trace elements and biomarkers of OS and in-utero antioxidant capacity were linked to specific ultrasound measurements at different stages of gestation, suggesting a complex interplay among in utero OS, antioxidant capacity, OTC MVM supplements, and fetal growth.

Effect of Processing Methods on the Micronutrient Profile, Colour, and Anti-nutritive Components of Justicia heterocarpa (mwidu)

Justicia heterocarpa (mwidu) is a popular indigenous leafy vegetable picked wild in rural regions of Morogoro, Tanzania, during the wet seasons. This research examined the impact of processing on micronutrients, total phenols, and anti-nutrient content. The fresh leaves (FL) underwent direct shade drying (UBLDDR), blanched shade drying (BLDR), blanched oven drying (BLDO), fermentation (FFL), and gas and microwave cooking (FLCO5, FLCO10, and FLMCO2). Vitamins, chlorophyll, minerals, phenolic compounds, and anti-nutrients were analyzed. All laboratory experiments adhered to procedures and guidelines. The pH dropped more significantly to <3.5 in a 3% salt-3% sugar brine solution with 1.328 ± 0.006 mg/100 g of lactic acid compared to its counterpart. Blanched leaves dried in 5 days, but unblanched leaves took 15 days. Fermented samples demonstrated a notable reduction in total chlorophyll concentration (0.0964 ± 0.075 mg/g) compared to other processing techniques. The nutritional and anti-nutritional composition of Justicia heterocarpa showed significant change (P < 0.05) depending on processing methods. The results indicated a significant loss of vitamin C in the fermented and ten-minute cooked samples, at 74.57% and 61.64%, respectively.Cooked FLMCO2 (107.4%, 11.29 ± 0.03 mg/100g) and FLCO5 (86.26%, 10.51 ± 0.02 mg/100g) exhibited more than a two-fold increase in beta-carotene compared to fresh leaves (3.67 mg/100g). In comparison to alternative processing procedures, samples cooked for 10 minutes exhibited significant mineral leaching, whereas unblanched direct shade drying preserved the highest mineral concentration. Fermented samples (532.83 ± 14.91 GAE/100 g) exhibited a 64.19% increase in total Phenolic compounds compared to fresh leaves (190.83 ± 14.91 GAE/100 g). Nonetheless, tannins increased by 68.1% (254.44 ± 7.45 GAE/100g) in the fermented samples. Samples exposed to extended cooking (17.8 ± 3.17 mg/100 g) and fermentation (40.28 ± 3.34 mg/100 g) exhibited the lowest levels of phytates. The oxalate concentration was significantly decreased in the cooked samples. Justicia heterocarpa may serve as a sustainable food supply in areas of Tanzania experiencing nutritional deficits.

Heavy Mineral Analysis and Characterization of Ilmenites from the Beach Sands of Central West Coast of India

ABSTRACT Studies on heavy minerals from the estuarine beaches of Kali and Gangavali River, Central West Coast of India were conducted to understand the abundance of heavy minerals and their characterization. Higher concentrations of heavy minerals were found during monsoon followed by pre- and post-monsoon seasons. Within the sub-environments of the studied beaches, the backshore has a higher abundance compared to berm zone. The estuarine beaches of the Gangavali River show higher heavy mineral concentrations compared to the Kali estuarine beaches. Quantitative heavy mineral studies indicated that ilmenite is the dominant mineral present in the study area and shows a large spatio-temporal variability in their concentration. Ilmenites are highly altered and show three stages of alterations viz., pseudoilmenite, pseudorutile and leucoxene which indicates a progressive alteration process in the natural sedimentary environment that is attributed to the leaching of iron along with other oxides from the ilmenite lattice. The ilmenite abundance in the beach sands and their characteristics suggest a promising source for industrial minerals and have the potential for future exploitation.

Trace element transport by volcanic gases at Vulcano (Sicily, Italy) – Speciation, deposition and fluxes

The geochemistry of trace elements in volcanic gas emissions at Vulcano (Sicily, Italy) was investigated. Trace element concentrations in 94–412 °C fumarole gases span over 10 orders of magnitude, from ~0.01 pmol/mol to ~300 μmol/mol, with some metalloids (B, Si) being the most abundant, followed by alkali, alkaline earth, and certain transition metals, and rare earth elements typically displaying the lowest concentrations. Thermodynamic modeling predicts most trace elements to be transported as chloride, hydroxide, and mixed hydroxy-chloro gas species (LiCl, KCl, NaCl, RbCl and CsCl, Be(OH)2, Mg(OH)2, MgCl2, CaCl2, SrCl2, CaCl(OH), TiOCl2, VOCl, VOCl2, VOCl3, NbOCl3, Cr(OH)3, CrCl3, Fe(OH)2, FeCl2 Co(OH)2, CoCl2, Ni(OH)2 to NiCl2, Cd(OH)2, CdCl2, Re(OH)3, ReCl3, ZnCl2, AgCl, WO2(OH)2, Al(OH)3, Si(OH)4, B(OH)4, TlO, GaCl3, SbCl, MnCl2, CuCl). Sulfide, hydrate, and elemental gas species are also important for some elements (Cd, AuS, Hg, PbS2, BiS, Bi, AsS, As2S3, TeS, SeH, SeS). However, for many trace elements, speciation remains uncertain or unknown due to a lack of thermodynamic data. Upon cooling and decompression of the volcanic gas, most trace elements are predicted to reach gas-solid equilibrium, resulting in the formation of secondary minerals. At high temperatures (~700–1000 °C), the mineral assemblage forming is dominated by quartz, Ca-Na-K feldspars, and Mg-pyroxene, containing minor concentrations of other alkali and alkaline earth metals. Further cooling and decompression leads to the formation of minerals including magnetite, pyrite, chalcocite, and chalcopyrite together with other less abundant oxides (V, Cr, Ga, W, and Sn) and sulfides (Zn, Pb, Ni, Co, Cd, Mo, Ag, As, and Bi), and eventually a range of sulfates and sulfosalts (Li, K, Na, Rb, Cs, Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Bi, Mn, Fe, Zn, Pb, and Sn) at the lowest temperatures (~100–300 °C). For most trace elements, fumarole emission concentrations reflect higher gas-solid equilibrium temperatures than those observed during sampling, suggesting gas-solid equilibria at high temperatures followed by incomplete re-equilibration upon further cooling near the surface.Trace element fluxes span over eight orders of magnitude, ranging from >100 kg/day to ~1·10−6 kg/day. Silica, Al, and B consistently exhibit the highest fluxes, followed by alkali and alkaline earth metals, various transition metals and metalloids, with rare earth elements and actinides displaying the lowest fluxes. Generally, the trace element fluxes are lower compared to neighboring Stromboli and Etna, except for Pb, Bi, B, As, Sb, and Te.

Extended Material Recovery from Municipal Solid Waste Incinerator Bottom Ash Using Magnetic, Eddy Current, and Density Separations

This research introduces an extended processing method for increasing the possibility of valorizing processed IBA (pr.IBA), which is currently only used as a construction material in landfill sites, considering its immense potential in valuable metal and mineral concentrations. Following a selective milling process, an extended material recovery sequence involving a magnetic, eddy current, and density separation sequence is developed. Based on the observations and outcomes explored in the present study, a substantially reliable and practical industrial approach is designed and tested to generate a cleaner mineral fraction and complementarily collect valuable metals from pr.IBA. Specifically, four enhanced valuable product streams can be anticipated, output mineral, high-magnetic, low-magnetic, and non-ferrous, which can be further utilized as alternative materials for cement clinker and concrete production coupled with iron, copper, and aluminum recovery in a conventional recycling operation. Therefore, in addition to introducing an additional perspective and moving one step closer to closing the waste management loop, this proposed method offers the opportunity to save primary materials and reduce carbon emissions by providing valuable alternative secondary resources.

Diversity of wild edible plants, nutrition and phytochemical evaluation of certain plants with ethnobotanical importance from Tinsukia district, Assam, India

The present study was conducted in 2021-2023 and recorded a total of 96 species, out of which 56 % were used as vegetables, 30 % as edible fruits and 7 % as masticatory, spice and condiments. This study also aims to evaluate the nutritionally important minerals concentration and phytochemical constituents of 5 plant taxa, i.e., Sarcochlamys pulcherrima (Roxb.) Gaud., Zanthoxylum oxyphyllum Edgew., Smilax perfoliata Lour., Portulaca oleracea L. and Phlogacanthas thyrsiformis (Hardw.) Mabb. which are widely used in folk healing practices and folk medicine by the various ethnic communities of Tinsukia district. The concentration of 5 macro minerals Na, K, Ca, Mg and P is in the range of 12.5 -18.4, 90.4 -246.9, 140 -214.3, 84.9 - 112.2, 23.7 - 41.2 mg/100 g respectively. The ratio of K/Na (5.9:1 to13.4:1), Ca/P (4.1:1 to 9.1:1) and K/(Ca+Mg) (0.11:1 to 0.32:1) are found to be adequate ratios ranging from respectively. Microminerals like Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn and Ni are found in the range between 5.90 -16.17, 0.41-0.91, 0.13 -0.32, 0.07 -0.27 and 0.07 - 0.17 mg/100 g respectively. Some of the important phytochemicals are also found to be present in the analyzed plants. The study shows that consumption of these species may be beneficial for maintaining good mineral nutrition among the common people at a minimum cost.

Effects of Replacing Inorganic Sources of Copper, Manganese, and Zinc with Different Organic Forms on Mineral Status, Immune Biomarkers, and Lameness of Lactating Cows.

(Objectives) The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effect of half-replacement of the supplementary sulfate sources of Cu, Mn, and Zn with methionine-hydroxy-analog-chelated (MHAC) mineral or amino-acid-complexed (AAC) mineral forms in diets on the mineral status, blood immune biomarkers, and lameness of lactating cows. (Methods) Sixty multiparous Holstein cows (158 ± 26 days in milk; body weight: 665 ± 52 kg; milk yield: 32 ± 7 kg/day) were randomly assigned into one of three dietary treatments (n = 20 per group): (1) MHAC: 50% replacement of sulfate minerals with MHAC forms. (2) AAC: 50% replacement of sulfate minerals with AAC forms. (3) S: 100% sulfate minerals (control). Their Cu, Mn, and Zn concentrations, blood immune biomarkers, and lameness were measured monthly. Repeated-measure mixed models were used to evaluate the effects on trace mineral status over time. As the responses with the MHAC and AAC forms were similar, the treatments were also analyzed as organic trace minerals (OTMs, combining the MHAC and AAC groups, n = 40) versus inorganic trace minerals (ITMs, the S group, n = 20). (Results) Cows supplemented with OTMs had higher concentrations of Cu and Mn in their serum (p ≤ 0.05), a higher hoof hardness (p ≤ 0.05), and a lower incidence of lameness compared to those with ITMs on d 90. There were no statistical differences (p > 0.10) in the concentrations of IgA, IgG, or ceruloplasmin, but there were significant differences (p = 0.03) in the concentrations of IgM in the serum as fixed effects of the diet treatments during the whole trial. On d 30 and 90, the serum IgA concentrations of the cows supplemented with OTMs tended to be higher (0.05 < p ≤ 0.10) than those in the cows supplemented with ITMs. (Conclusions) The half-replacement strategy showed that the MHAC and AAC sources of Cu, Mn, and Zn additives had similar effects on the production performance, blood immune biomarkers, and lameness of the lactating cows. The long-term replacement strategy with OTMs led to the enhancement of the trace mineral concentrations in their body fluids, blood immune biomarkers, and hoof health.

Tempo-Spatial Tungsten Metallogeny in the Xing’an–Mongolia Orogenic Belt: Insights from the Early Cretaceous Shamai Tungsten Deposit Case Study in Northeastern China

The Xing’an–Mongolia Orogenic Belt (XMOB) is located in the eastern part of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB). The region’s notable tectonic complexity and extensive tungsten mineralization offer a unique opportunity to explore metallogeny mechanisms in orogenic areas. This study focuses on the Shamai tungsten deposit as a case study, presenting results from LA–ICP–MS U–Pb dating of fine-grained, medium-grained, and porphyritic biotite monzogranite samples from the deposit, along with in situ zircon Hf isotopic and plagioclase Pb isotopic analyses. The fine-grained, medium-grained, and porphyritic biotite monzogranite were emplaced at 142.5, 141.9, and 140.2 Ma, respectively. These samples contain zircons with εHf(t) values ranging from 3.2 to 7.9 and 4.2 to 7.6, respectively, yielding TDM2 model ages from 996 to 692 Ma and 923 to 708 Ma. These findings suggest that the magmas in the Shamai deposit were produced by partial melting of juvenile crustal material mixed with mantle-derived components. The tungsten mineralization periods in the Eastern XMOB region can be divided into three stages: Early Paleozoic (ca. 520–475 Ma), Triassic (ca. 250–200 Ma), and Jurassic to Early Cretaceous (ca. 190–130 Ma). The highest concentration of tungsten mineralization in the XMOB occurs within the Xing’an Block during the Jurassic to Early Cretaceous period. Yanshanian magmatism and the most significant tungsten metallogenic events are likely influenced by an extensional setting and oceanic slab rollback, shaped by the tectonic evolution of the Mongol-Okhotsk Ocean and the Paleo-Pacific Ocean.

Soil quality does not predict plant nutrition available to white‐tailed deer

AbstractMorphometric variation of white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus; hereafter, deer) is caused by multiple environmental factors, including temperature, precipitation, soil quality, and forage availability. The effects of temperature and precipitation on plant growth are well documented, but it is unclear how soil mineral concentration affects deer morphometrics. Although it is recognized that deer have larger morphology and greater productivity in areas of the United States with mineral‐rich soils, the question remains as to whether this trend is driven by increased food availability in areas with mineral‐rich soils because of land use (i.e., agriculture) or if nutrient concentration of plants is greater in soils with greater mineral concentration. We collected plant tissue from 40 species commonly selected as forage by deer at 36 sites in 16 states across the eastern United States, representing a wide range of soil quality conditions over a broad geographical area. We categorized plant sampling locations into 5 soil quality classes based on a soil productivity index and analyzed plant nutrients to assess if soil productivity index classifications could be used to predict deer forage quality. We then made direct soil‐plant comparisons by pairing each plant sample with a soil sample collected around the base of the plant to determine if soil nutrient concentration explained variation in plant nutrient concentration. We tested soil samples for phosphorus, potassium, and calcium. We analyzed plant samples for crude protein, phosphorus, potassium, and calcium for the soil productivity classification comparisons, and we analyzed phosphorus, potassium, and calcium for the direct site‐specific analyses, as these macronutrients are critical to deer body mass, productivity, and antler growth. We analyzed forages by plant type (i.e., forb, semi‐woody, shrub, or tree) and plant tissue age (i.e., young or older tissue). Nutrient concentration varied by plant type and tissue age. Plant type explained the majority of variation in plant nutrients, with forbs containing greater concentrations of all nutrients than the other plant types. Young plant material contained more crude protein and phosphorus, whereas older plant material contained more calcium. The soil productivity index was a poor predictor of deer forage quality. Calcium was the only mineral that differed by soil productivity class, but calcium was not limiting for deer at any site, as plant calcium levels exceeded maximum requirements for deer across all soil productivity classes. Site‐specific soil phosphorus, potassium, and calcium explained little variation in plant mineral concentration (partial R2 = 0.00). Our results provide evidence that naturally occurring plants, especially forbs, can provide nutrition sufficient for maximum deer body weight, reproduction, and antler size, within a given area, across the eastern United States regardless of the dominant soil type. As such, the availability of naturally occurring native forbs may be a primary limiting factor regulating age‐specific deer body mass and antler size, not limitations in plant nutrients resulting from soil mineral concentration. Land managers should be encouraged to influence plant composition toward greater forb coverage where increased forage quality for deer is desired, even in areas with soils low in mineral concentration.

Amino Acid Profile and Mineral Content of Cultivated Snails Acusta despecta and Achatina fulica: Assessing Their Potential as Nutritional Source.

This study evaluates the nutritional potential of two cultivated snail species, Acusta despecta and Achatina fulica, sourced from commercial farms in Korea, marking the first comprehensive analysis of A. despecta. The protein content of A. despecta (70.9 g/100 g dry matter) was significantly higher than that of A. fulica (44.2 g/100 g dry matter). Similar trends were observed for ash content (6.3 vs. 4.9 g/100 g dry matter) and crude fiber (2.9 vs. 0.4 g/100 g dry matter). Reflecting the higher protein content, A. despecta contained elevated levels of most amino acids compared to A. fulica. Glutamic acid was the most abundant amino acid, with leucine and lysine being the predominant essential amino acids in both species. The total amino acid content was 57.6 g/100 g dry matter for A. despecta and 40.4 g/100 g for A. fulica. Mineral analysis revealed significantly higher concentrations of minerals in A. despecta, except calcium and magnesium. Notably, A. despecta provided over 100% of the RDA/AI for calcium, phosphorus, copper, and manganese and met 94.5% of the iron RDA for women. These results emphasize the potential of A. despecta as a valuable dietary source for addressing protein and mineral deficiencies, particularly in nutrient-poor diets.

Monitoring the Concentrations of Na, Mg, Ca, Cu, Fe, and K in Sargassum fusiforme at Different Growth Stages by NIR Spectroscopy Coupled with Chemometrics.

Sargassum fusiforme, an edible seaweed, plays a crucial role in our daily lives by providing essential nutrients, including minerals, to the human body. The detection of mineral content during different growth stages of S. fusiforme benefits the goals of ensuring product quality, meeting diverse consumer needs, and achieving quality classification. Currently, the determination of minerals in S. fusiforme primarily relies on inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and other methods, which are time-consuming and labor-intensive. Thus, a rapid and convenient method was developed for the determination of six minerals (i.e., Na, Mg, Ca, Cu, Fe, and K) in S. fusiforme via near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy based on chemometrics. This study investigated the variations in minerals in S. fusiforme from different growth stages. The effects of four spectral pretreatment methods and three wavelength selection methods, including the synergy interval partial least squares (SI-PLS) algorithm, genetic algorithm (GA), and competitive adaptive reweighted sampling method (CARS) on the model optimization, were evaluated. Superior CARS-PLS models were established for Na, Mg, Ca, Cu, Fe, and K with root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) values of 0.8196 × 103 mg kg-1, 0.4370 × 103 mg kg-1, 1.544 × 103 mg kg-1, 0.9745 mg kg-1, 49.88 mg kg-1, and 7.762 × 103 mg kg-1, respectively, and coefficient of determination of prediction (RP2) values of 0.9787, 0.9371, 0.9913, 0.9909, 0.9874, and 0.9265, respectively. S. fusiforme demonstrated higher levels of Mg and Ca at the seedling stage and lower levels of Cu and Fe at the maturation stage. Additionally, S. fusiforme exhibited higher Na and lower K at the growth stage. NIR combined with CARS-PLS is a potential alternative for monitoring the concentrations of minerals in S. fusiforme at different growth stages, aiding in the convenient evaluation and further grading of the quality of S. fusiforme.

Estimating the Exposure-Response Relationship between Fine Mineral Dust Concentration and Coccidioidomycosis Incidence Using Speciated Particulate Matter Data: A Longitudinal Surveillance Study.

Coccidioidomycosis, caused by inhalation of Coccidioides spp. spores, is an emerging infectious disease that is increasing in incidence throughout the southwestern US. The pathogen is soil-dwelling, and spore dispersal and human exposure are thought to co-occur with airborne mineral dust exposures, yet fundamental exposure-response relationships have not been conclusively estimated. We estimated associations between fine mineral dust concentration and coccidioidomycosis incidence in California from 2000 to 2017 at the census tract level, spatiotemporal heterogeneity in exposure-response, and effect modification by antecedent climate conditions. We acquired monthly census tract-level coccidioidomycosis incidence data and modeled fine mineral dust concentrations from 2000 to 2017. We fitted zero-inflated distributed-lag nonlinear models to estimate overall exposure-lag-response relationships and identified factors contributing to heterogeneity in exposure-responses. Using a random-effects meta-analysis approach, we estimated county-specific and pooled exposure-responses for cumulative exposures. We found a positive exposure-response relationship between cumulative fine mineral dust exposure in the 1-3 months before estimated disease onset and coccidioidomycosis incidence across the study region [incidence rate ratio (IRR) for an increase from 0.1 to ; 95% CI: 1.46, 1.74]. Positive, supralinear associations were observed between incidence and modeled fine mineral dust exposures 1 [ (95% CI: 1.10, 1.17)], 2 [ (95% CI: 1.09, 1.20)] and 3 [ (95% CI: 1.04, 1.12)] months before estimated disease onset, with the highest exposures being particularly associated. The cumulative exposure-response relationship varied significantly by county [lowest IRR, western Tulare: 1.05 (95% CI: 0.54, 2.07); highest IRR, San Luis Obispo: 3.01 (95% CI: 2.05, 4.42)]. Season of exposure and prior wet winter were modest effect modifiers. Lagged exposures to fine mineral dust were strongly associated with coccidioidomycosis incidence in the endemic regions of California from 2000 to 2017. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP13875.

Impact of rock mineralogy on reactive transport of CO2 during carbon sequestration in a saline aquifer

Deep saline aquifers offer a vast long-term storage capacity for CO2. The diverse mineral compositions in CO2 geological storage systems complicate the reactive transport of CO2. Despite extensive research on carbon sequestration in saline aquifers, the impact of rock mineralogy on the CO2 trapping mechanisms needs further investigation. This study addresses this gap by employing numerical simulations to investigate how different minerals affect the reactive transport of CO2 during injection into saline aquifers. A compositional simulation model was created, wherein CO2 is injected for 25 years, followed by a 3000-year shut-in period. Various parameters, including CO2 plume migration, changes in pH, water density variations, mineral dissolution and precipitation, and porosity changes in the reservoir rock, are examined to understand the complex CO2–brine–rock interactions. The effect of formation mineralogy on CO2 trapping mechanisms was investigated. To do so, a sensitivity study was conducted and then, special cases with extreme mineral concentrations were studied. The simulation results highlight the profound effects of different minerals on the CO2 trapping mechanisms. Quartz exhibits minimal dissolution, while calcite plays a crucial role, initially dissolving due to low pH and later precipitating after around 300 years. Anorthite dissolution provides ions for kaolinite precipitation, and the release of calcium ions from anorthite dissolution contributes to carbonate minerals precipitation. Porosity changes in the reservoir rock are observed, with regions experiencing an increase due to early calcite dissolution and subsequent changes associated with mineral precipitation. Sensitivity analysis showed that Anorthite and Illite facilitate more CO2 mineralization, with Anorthite and Illite showing 0.68 and 0.46 correlation with mineral trapping, respectively. Conversely, minerals like Calcite and Kaolinite positively correlated with CO2 solubility, with correlations of + 0.21 and + 0.23 respectively, without significantly promoting its conversion into mineral forms, while Quartz, K-Feldspar, and Dolomite show minor effects on CO2 trapping mechanisms. Elevating Anorthite concentrations speeds up CO2 mineralization, ensuring secure storage in saline aquifers, with a minimum threshold concentration of 0.05 volume fraction; beyond this point, no further changes in CO2 mineralization are observed. Formation brine salinity significantly affects CO2 solubility and, consequently, mineral trapping, as higher salinity levels hinder CO2 dissolution and restrict its availability for geochemical reactions with rock minerals. This study offers insights that can inform reservoir characterization and management practices, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of carbon sequestration efforts.

Physicochemical Qualities and Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in Drinking Water From Selected Areas of the Gofa Zone, Ethiopia

Spring and well waters are among the most important sources of drinking water in Gofa Zone rural areas; therefore, it is vital to evaluate the quality of these water sources. Hence, this study aims to determine the physicochemical parameters and metallic mineral concentration with its associated health risks of drinking water in selected rural areas of the Gofa zone, Ethiopia. The purposive sampling method was used for water sample collection. Standard analytical procedures were used to determine the physicochemical parameters and mineral contents. The average values of all physicochemical parameters of spring and well‐drinking water of the selected areas were obtained as temperature (20.73°C and 20.30°C), pH (7.2 and 6.07), electrical conductivity (481.13 µS/cm and 584.24 µS/cm), dissolved oxygen (4.09 and 6.07 mg/L), turbidity (1.60 NTU and 6.55 NTU), total dissolved solids (330.83 and 338.3 mg/L), total suspended solids (84.76 and 89.24 mg/L), chloride concentrations (58.15 and 60.47 mg/L), SO42− ion (68.50 mg/L and 5.58 mg/L), NO3+ ion (3.25 and 2.75 mg/L), and fluoride ion concentration (0.49 mg/L and 0.37 mg/L). Health risk assessment indicates that Co metal showed high hazard indices compared with Fe, Cu, and Zn. Additionally, the values of the heavy metal pollution index (MPI) and heavy metal evaluation index (HEI) indicate that the Sawla Kusti spring water (SSW5), Geze Gofa Mhirzho Wola spring water (GGSW7), and Geze Gofa Bulki Guya well water (BGWW8) sources are considered highly polluted and not recommended for drinking purposes.

Comparative toxicity of copper and zinc contaminated wastewater irrigation on growth, physiology, and mineral absorption of wheat.

A comparative pot study was performed to assess the toxic effects of copper (Cu) and/or zinc (Zn) contaminated wastewater (WW) irrigation on the growth, physiology, and element concentration of wheat grown for two months. The treatments included irrigation with uncontaminated wastewater (WW) as control, Cu-contaminated WW (CuWW), Zn-contaminated WW (ZnWW), and Cu + Zn contaminated WW (CuZnWW) in a completely randomized design. Compared to ZnWW, irrigation with CuWW or CuZnWW had severe effects on growth, physiology, and mineral absorption by wheat. Irrigation with CuWW or CuZnWW reduced shoot length, root length, root and shoot dry weights by 44-45%, 54-56%, 5-6%, and 33-34%, respectively, against WW control. Similarly, these treatments diminished chlorophyll a, b, carotenoids, and SPAD by 33-34%, 59-60%, 49-51%, and 26-27%, respectively. Conversely, contaminated irrigation improved the total polyphenols, polyphenolic acids, total flavonoids, and antiradical activity, however, a maximum increase in these parameters up to 65% was observed when irrigated with ZnWW. Pearson correlation showed that the decline in growth and physiology of wheat was negatively correlated with shoot metal concentration and uptake. Dehydrogenase activity is severely hampered by CuWW or CuZnWW and to a lesser extent by ZnWW as well. These results suggest that irrigation with contaminated WW adversely affects wheat growth and physiology, however, ZnWW is found to be less toxic to wheat crops than Cu. Thereby, this data highlights the need for a tailored approach to prioritize the metal (Zn) with lower toxicity during the use of WW in irrigation practice. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Cu-contaminated wastewater (20 ppm Cu) substantially reduced the growth and physiology of wheat. Zn (80 ppm) contaminated wastewater was found lesser toxic compared to Cu. Wheat irrigation with contaminated wastewater increased biologically active compounds in wheat shoot. Contaminated wastewater affected minerals concentration in the root and shoot part of wheat. Dehydrogenase activity in soil is less affected by Zn-contaminated wastewater. Irrigation with wastewater and leftover crop residues resulted in the accumulation of organic matter in soil.

Minerals and vitamins Composition of Unprocessed and heat Processed Maggots from different substrates

This study investigates the mineral and vitamin composition of maggots derived from Musca domestica, focusing on the influence of substrate type and heat processing duration. Maggots were cultured using three organic substrate: cow manure with cow blood (CMM), swine manure with cow blood (SMM), and poultry manure with cow blood (PMM). Larvae were harvested at day 4 and subjected to varying drying times (35, 45, and 55 minutes) at a constant temperature of 90°C. The mineral and vitamin content of both unprocessed and processed maggot samples were quantified using standard methods, including Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) for minerals and UV spectroscopy for vitamins. Statistical analysis was conducted using R software, employing Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to assess differences among groups, with Tukey’s Significant Difference (HSD) for mean separation. Results revealed significant differences in mineral concentrations across manure sources, with cow maggot meal exhibiting the highest levels of calcium, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. Processing duration positively influenced mineral content, particularly calcium and phosphorus, with p-values less than 2.0 × 10-16 indicating highly significant differences. In terms of vitamins, substantial variations were observed, particularly in vitamin A and E levels, with poultry maggots displaying the highest vitamin A concentrations (445.32 ± 0.00 mg/100g), while overall vitamin E levels remained low. This research plays a critical role of substrate selection and processing methods in optimizing the nutritional profile of maggot. The findings highlight the potential of maggots as a sustainable protein source, providing valuable insights for enhancing animal feed formulations and promoting improved livestock health and productivity. Further investigations are warranted to explore the long-term effects of maggot meal incorporation into livestock diets and its implications for sustainable food systems.

Evaluation of the grinding performance at the Saucito I Plant and optimization of the Knelson QS30 gravimetric concentrator

Gravimetric concentration of minerals is a solid-solid separation process used to increase the percentage of the desired mineral. The objective of this work is to evaluate the performance and efficiency of grinding in a Knelson QS30 Gravimetric Concentrator, through the granulometric distributions of the process streams, the efficiency of screens and circulating loads, for its optimization in the extraction of Au and Ag in the Saucito I Plant. The experimentation was carried out at the plant located in the El Saucito del Poleo Ejido in Fresnillo, Zac. To achieve the objective, a sampling of the grinding area was carried out, some variables were kept constant, the concentration time was modified at the same fluidization flow of the concentrator. The results showed the need to optimize the concentration time. In conclusion, by optimizing the fluidization flow and concentration cycle time, the concentration of gold is increased.

Sex preselection of sheep using mineral solution injection via subcutaneous

The injection on Calcium (Ca) and Magnesium (Mg) solution is regarded as a method that have been conducted for sex preselection in sheep. Therefore, this trail was aimed to examine the effect of macro minerals such CaMg subcutaneous injected to Kurdish breed ewes during pre and post mating on lamb sex ratio skewing toward female. Thirty ewes at cycling multiparous period (based on their age and live weight (LW)) were randomly divided into two groups (15 ewes per group). Weekly (for four weeks) from four weeks’ days pre- to one week post-mating, each ewe (CaMg group) were subcutaneous injected by 30 ml of CaMg solution or sterile water (control group). Ewes live weigh at the end of the study were numerically higher (2.55 kg) in ewes injected with CaMg compared to control group. The serum ca and Mg were higher (P&lt;0.05) in ewes administrated with CaMg solution than those not administrated. The level of total protein, urea, glucose, and cholesterol at blood serum were not affected (P&gt;0.05) by CaMg injection. Reproductive hormone such estrogen was not different between control and injected ewes (P&gt;0.05). Although, progesterone (at CIDR removal period) were increased (P&lt;0.05) in injected ewes than control ewes. The new female born lambs were 2 times higher (P&lt;0.05) in CaMg group compared to control group. The results of current study confirm that increasing the mineral proportion (Ca and Mg) in the ewes around mating via subcutaneous injection could skew sex ratio toward female in sheep. Thus, the findings of this trial might assist farmers in managing their breeding toward female lambs (which are going to be born in fattening enterprises and male milk production). More research is required to test different methods of altering mineral concentration and investigate the link between minerals in the diet and human sex pre-selection.

Soaking and Cooking Techniques: A Study on Nutritional Enhancement of Common Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in Libyan Cuisine

This study investigates the effect of soaking duration, cooking time, and the type of water used on the mineral and nutritional content of common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) available in the Libyan market. Common beans are a significant source of essential minerals, making them a staple food in Libya. The research involved preparing beans through various methods: uncooked (control), unsoaked, boiled in desalinated water, and soaked for 12 hours in four different types of water (distilled, desalinated, artificial river, and well water) before boiling. Samples were measured using a flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The results demonstrated that soaking beans significantly reduced cooking time and enhanced the retention of vital minerals. The concentrations of minerals (mg/100 ml) in the cooked beans were as follows: sodium (Na) ranged from 2.8 to 49.3, calcium (Ca) from 8.4 to 20.8, potassium (K) from 189.0 to 742.8, zinc (Zn) from 1.1 to 2.1, barium (Ba) from 159.1 to 300.9, and iron (Fe) from 1.2 to 37.7, depending on the soaking and cooking conditions. Additionally, the type of water used for soaking and cooking influenced the mineral content, with artificial river and well water yielding higher concentrations of beneficial nutrients such as Na ranged from 400 to 628 mg/100 ml and Ca ranged from 50 to 73 mg/100 ml. The measured concentration of heavy metals in the samples is low and falls within the normal range according to the Libyan food specifications. This research contributes to the understanding of how traditional cooking practices can be improved for better health outcomes. The findings highlight the importance of proper soaking and cooking techniques in maximizing the nutritional value of common beans, providing practical recommendations for consumers and food preparers.

Impact of a trace mineral injection at weaning on growth, behavior, and inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune responses of beef calves

Abstract Two experiments evaluated the effects of an injectable trace mineral (ITM) solution at weaning on trace mineral (TM) status, inflammatory and antioxidant responses, grazing behavior, response to vaccination, and growth of beef calves. Exp. 1 used 86 Nellore calves [40 females and 46 males; body weight (BW) = 198 ± 30.8 kg; 8 ± 1 mo of age] weaned (d 0) and assigned into 1 of 2 treatments: Saline (0.9% NaCl) or ITM (60 mg of Zn/mL, 15 mg of Cu/mL, 5 mg of Se/mL and 10 mg of Mn/mL). Saline and ITM were administered subcutaneously at a dose of 1 mL/45 kg of BW. On d 0, calves were vaccinated against infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR), parainfluenza-3 (PI3), bovine viral diarrhea virus type 1 and 2 (BVDV-1 and 2) and bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV). Blood samples and BW were collected on d 0, 3, 8, 15, 51, and 100, and grazing behavior was evaluated on d 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 9. The ITM did not affect (P ≥ 0.56) serum mineral concentrations of Zn and Cu, but decreased (P ≤ 0.02) plasma concentrations of cortisol on d 3 and 8 and haptoglobin on d 3. The ITM increased (P &amp;lt; 0.01) plasma concentration of superoxide dismutase on d 8, 15, and 51 and tended to decrease (P = 0.08) plasma concentration of glutathione peroxidase on d 3. Furthermore, there were no effects of treatment (P ≥ 0.14) on most of the behavior variables evaluated, ITM reduced (P = 0.01) the seeking time on d 0 and 4. Furthermore, ITM tended to increase (P = 0.10) the serum titer concentration against IBR on d 15 and 51 but did not affect (P ≥ 0.12) titer concentration against PI3, BVDV-1, and 2, and growth. Exp. 2 used 50 Brangus male calves (BW = 264 ± 34.1 kg; 8 ± 1 mo of age] weaned on d 0, vaccinated against respiratory diseases, stratified by BW, and randomly assigned to Saline or ITM as described in Exp. 1. Liver samples were collected on d 0, 14 and 197, blood samples on d 0, 14 and BW on d 0, 14, 44, 78, 122, 162 and 197. The ITM increased (P ≤ 0.03) the liver concentration of Cu and Se on d 14 but did not affect (P ≥ 0.17) the liver concentration of Zn and Mn. In addition, ITM increased (P = 0.05) the serum titer concentration against BVDV-2 but did not affect (P ≥ 0.20) the titer concentrations against IBR, PI3, BVDV-1, and BRSV, and did not affect (P ≥ 0.29) the growth. In conclusion, ITM application at weaning improved Cu and Se status, enhanced antioxidant and immune responses, and reduced stress and inflammation in calves, though it did not affect growth.