Significant Differences In Concentrations Research Articles

Extraction and characterization of exosomes from the exhaled breath condensate and sputum of lung cancer patients and vulnerable tobacco consumers-potential noninvasive diagnostic biomarker source.

Noninvasive sample sources of exosomes, such as exhaled breath and sputum, which are in close proximity to the tumor microenvironment and may contain biomarkers indicative of lung cancer, are far more permissive than invasive sample sources for biomarker screening. Standardized exosome extraction and characterization approaches for low-volume noninvasive samples are critically needed. We isolated and characterized exhaled breath condensate (EBC) and sputum exosomes from healthy nonsmokers (n= 30), tobacco smokers (n= 30), and lung cancer patients (n= 40) and correlated the findings with invasive sample sources. EBC samples were collected by using commercially available R-Tubes. To collect sputum samples the participants were directed to take deep breaths, hold their breath, and cough in a collection container. Dynamic light scattering, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and transmission electron microscopy were used to evaluate the exosome morphology. Protein isolation, western blotting, exosome quantification via EXOCET, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were performed for molecular characterization. Exosomes were successfully isolated from EBC and sputum samples, and their yields were adequate and sufficiently pure for subsequent downstream processing and characterization. The exosomes were confirmed based on their size, shape, and surface marker expression. Remarkably, cancer exosomes were the largest in size not only in the plasma subgroups, but also in the EBC (p < 0.05) and sputum (p= 0.0036) subgroups, according to our findings. A significant difference in exosome concentrations were observed between the control sub-groups (p < 0.05). Our research confirmed that exosomes can be extracted from noninvasive sources, such as EBC and sputum, to investigate lung cancer diagnostic biomarkers for research, clinical, and early detection in smokers.

Evaluation of Biomarkers of Bone Metabolism on Salivary Matrix in the Remodeling of Periodontal Tissue during Orthodontic Treatment

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in the concentration of N-terminal type I collagen extension pro-peptide (PINP), tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAcP), and parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) in saliva during orthodontic treatment in order to evaluate whether changes in bone turnover marker (BTM) concentration can help highlight the effects of orthodontic mechanical loading in the absence of clinical evidence of tooth movement in terms of tooth movement. Saliva samples from 25 apparently healthy young subjects (10 females and 15 males) were collected using Salivette® (Sarstedt) with cotton swabs and the concentrations of PTHrP, TRAcP 5b, and PINP were analyzed at time 0 (T1), 25 days (T2), and at 45 days (T3). Differences in the median value of biomarker levels between baseline T1 and follow-up of the different groups (T2 and T3) were assessed using the non-parametric Mann–Whitney U test. Trough concentrations of P1NP, PTHrP, and TRAcP were 0.80 µg/L, 0.21 ng/mL, and 0.90 U/L above the method LOD. The non-parametric Mann–Whitney U test confirmed a statistically significant difference in T1 versus concentrations of T2 and T3. All subjects evaluated had a statistically significant difference between T1 vs. T3. when compared with the specific critical difference (RCV) for the analyte The results obtained demonstrate that the evaluation of BTM changes in saliva can help the evaluation of orthodontic procedures and the monitoring of biomechanical therapy.

Bioaccumulation of Arsenic, Cadmium, Chromium, Cobalt, Copper, and Zinc in Uroteuthis edulis from the East China Sea

In this study, the concentrations of trace elements (TEs) in Uroteuthis edulis caught from the East China Sea were determined. There were significant differences between TE concentrations in different body parts. Cu, Zn, and Cd were the most concentrated in the digestive glands and the concentrations of Cr and Co were highest in the gills. No significant differences in concentrations were shown between these tissues. In the four tissues analyzed, the mantle recorded the highest proportion of elemental load, while the digestive glands and gills had the lowest proportions. After maturity, TEs in the mantle showed no significant differences. In the digestive gland, the concentrations of all elements, except Zn, were significantly increased. The gonads illustrated apparent increases in the concentrations of Cr, Cu, and As. In the gills, the concentrations of Co and As were markedly increased.

Dietary Iodine Intake and Sources among Residents in Zhejiang Province 10 Years after Reducing Iodine Concentration in Iodized Salt

We aimed to assess dietary iodine intake and sources in Zhejiang Province a decade after a reduction in iodine concentration in iodized salt. Three-day 24 h dietary recall and household weighing were used, complemented by “Chinese Food Composition” data. Household water and salt samples were collected from 5890 residents and analyzed. Differences in iodized salt consumption rates were observed across the following regions: inland (84.20%), subcoastal (67.80%), and coastal (37.00%) areas. The median (P25, P75) iodine concentration in water and diet were 2.2 (0.9, 4.0) μg/L and 142.05 (58.94, 237.11) μg/d, respectively, with significant regional differences in dietary concentration (inland [185.61 μg/d], subcoastal [153.42 μg/d], and coastal [75.66 μg/d]). Males (149.99 μg/d) and iodized salt consumers (191.98 μg/d) had a significantly higher dietary iodine intake than their counterparts. Regions were ranked as follows based on the proportions of individuals meeting the recommended dietary iodine intake: inland (69.40%), subcoastal (56.50%), and coastal (34.10%) areas. Dietary sources included salt (48.54%), other foods (32.06%), drinking water (8.84%), laver (4.82%), kelp (3.02%), and other seafood (2.32%). The qualified iodized salt consumption rate was significantly lower than the national standard. Zhejiang Province should continue implementing measures to control iodine deficiency through salt iodization, education efforts, and increasing the qualified iodized salt consumption rate.

Monitoring the physiological inflammatory alertness in horse after road transport.

The aim of this study was to assess the changes of pro-inflammatory interleukins in 10 horses subjected to road transport practices (distance of 150km) from the training site (Messina, Sicily) to the competition centre in Syracuse (Sicily). Blood sampling and interleukins analysis were performed during a round trip transportation (transport 1 and transport 2). In particular, blood samples were collected before the transport took place (Pre), five minutes later (Post) and one hour later (Post 1h), for each transport, in order to assess the serum concentration of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2 and IL-6. The results showed that the serum concentration of IL-1α decreased at Post and Post 1h compared to the values obtained at rest condition (P < 0.05). The other interleukins analysed (i.e. IL-1β, IL-2 and IL-6) showed increased levels at Post than Rest and Post 1h in transport 1 (P < 0.05). In transport 2 the analysed parameters showed no change throughout the analysed time points (P > 0.05); however, higher levels of IL-1α at Pre and higher IL-1β, IL-2 and IL-6 values at Post were found in transport 1 than transport 2 (P < 0.05). The increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines after transport 1 suggests the triggering of the inflammatory event and this may show that, although horses are animals accustomed to transport, this is a stressful event that could activate the well-orchestrated inflammation cascade, albeit physiological and temporary, as highlighted by the lower serum concentrations of the investigated interleukins found in transport 1 than transport 2 and by the lack of significant differences in the serum concentrations of the investigated interleukins among the time points of transport 2. It must be taken into account that enrolled animals are well-trained and healthy athletic horses participating to a jumper competition, thus, such inflammation did not occur thanks to a good balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines which allowed a prompt restoration of homeostasis eventually impaired by the stressful event.

Low thiamine status in adults following low-carbohydrate / ketogenic diets: a cross-sectional comparative study of micronutrient intake and status.

Low-carbohydrate diets (LCD) are popular for weight loss but lack evidence about micronutrient sufficiency in real-life use. This study assessed the intake and biochemical status of selected micronutrients in people voluntarily following LCDs. A cross-sectional study was conducted (2018-20) among 98 adults recruited as self-reporting either LCD (n = 49) or diets not restricting carbohydrates (controls; n = 49). Diets were assessed using the 130-item EPIC-Norfolk food-frequency questionnaire. Red-blood-cell thiamine diphosphate (TDP) was measured for thiamine status using HPLC. Plasma magnesium, zinc, copper, and selenium were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Between-group biomarker comparisons were conducted using ANCOVA and adjusted for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and diabetes status. LCD-followers (26% male, median age 36 years, median BMI 24.2 kg/m2) reported adhering to LCDs for a median duration of 9 months (IQR 4-36). The most followed LCD type was 'their own variations of LCD' (30%), followed by ketogenic (23%), 'palaeolithic' (15%), and Atkins diets (8%). Among controls, 41% were male (median age 27 years, median BMI 23kg/m2). Median macronutrient intakes for LCD vs control groups were carbohydrate 16%Energy (E) vs. 50%E; protein 25%E vs. 19%E; and fat 55%E vs 34%E (saturated fat 18%E vs. 11%E). Two-thirds of LCD followers (32/49) and half of the controls (24/49) reported some use of dietary supplements (p = 0.19). Among LCD-followers, assessing from food data only, 21 (43%) failed to meet the reference nutrient intake (RNI) for thiamine (vs.14% controls, p = 0.002). When thiamine from supplementation (single- or multivitamin) was included, there appeared to be no difference in thiamine intake between groups. Still, red-blood-cell TDP was lower in LCD-followers than controls (407 ± 91 vs. 633 ± 234 ng/gHb, p < 0.001). Three LCD-followers were thiamine-deficient (RBC thiamine < 275 ng/gHb) vs. one control. There were no significant differences in dietary intakes or plasma concentrations of magnesium, zinc, copper, and selenium between groups. Following LCDs is associated with lower thiamine intake and TDP status than diets without carbohydrate restriction, incompletely corrected by supplement use. These data, coupled with a lack of RCT evidence on body weight control, do not support recommending LCDs for weight management without appropriate guidance and diet supplementation.

Microplastics in the Mississippi River System during Flash Drought Conditions

The Mississippi River System is of great ecological and economic importance, making it crucial to monitor contaminants within it. While nutrient pollution is well studied, there are little data on microplastics (MPs) in the Mississippi River System (MSRS), especially during drought conditions. Herein, we characterize MP pollution from seven sites across the MSRS during both flash drought and non-drought periods using FTIR microspectroscopy (µ-FTIR). Additionally, we evaluate the impact of multiple water level conditions on MP polymer composition across five time points at a single sampling site. Of all MPs identified, polyethylene terephthalate (PET, 22%), resin (17%), and polyethylene (PE, 10%) were the most abundant polymers. Average concentrations ranged from 16 to 381 MPs/L across seven sites, with no significant difference in concentration between conditions. Irregular particles were the most common morphology, with most MPs falling in the lowest size range measured (30–100 μm). Drought condition had a significant (p &lt; 0.001) impact on polymer composition, and polymers most strongly correlated with flash drought were mostly fluoropolymers. For the single sampling site, concentrations differed, but not significantly, across the five timepoints. These results demonstrate the complex relationship between MP concentration and drought condition, and also highlight the importance of fully characterizing MPs in environmental studies.

P-697 The effect of smoking and vaping on hormonal ovarian reserve markers in women of reproductive age in the United Kingdom

Abstract Study question What impact do smoking and vaping have on ovarian reserve markers Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)? Summary answer Smoking and vaping negatively affect AMH and FSH levels in women, with significant age-related differences in ovarian reserve markers observed. What is known already Previous studies have established a link between smoking and accelerated ovarian follicular depletion, evidenced by lower serum AMH levels and reduced antral follicle count (AFC). Smoking is known to increase FSH levels indirectly by affecting pituitary function. However, the impact of vaping, a growing trend especially among younger individuals, on ovarian reserve markers like AMH and FSH remains under-researched and requires comprehensive investigation to understand its full implications on reproductive health. Study design, size, duration This cross-sectional study analysed medical history and serum AMH and FSH concentrations from capillary blood samples of 8,340 women aged 21-45. Participants were stratified by 5-year age intervals and excluded if they had reproductive health conditions or used hormonal contraception. Samples were analysed from individuals using an at-home hormone testing service, with statistical analysis including unpaired t-tests and Cohen’s d for effect size, focusing on smokers/vapers versus non-smokers/non-vapers. Participants/materials, setting, methods The study included UK women aged 21-45 providing capillary blood samples for serum AMH and FSH measurement using an at-home testing service. Exclusions applied to those with reproductive conditions or on hormonal contraception. Smoking and vaping status were self-reported through an online health assessment. AMH and FSH concentration differences were analysed via unpaired t-test; a p-value of &amp;lt; 0.05 was considered statistically significant and mean values±SD were reported. Main results and the role of chance Among 8,340 participants, 312 smoked and 653 vaped. Lower serum AMH values were observed in smokers and vapers in all age groups, with significant differences at ages 31-35 for smokers (20.73±16.23 vs 25.37±19.80 pmol/L in smokers and non-smokers respectively; p = 0.003) and 36-40 for vapers (13.65±13.34 vs 16.88±14.32 pmol/L in vapers and non-vapers respectively; p = 0.01). No significant differences in serum FSH concentration were found among vapers, however, FSH levels were higher in smokers across all ages. This was significant in individuals aged 21-25 (8.01±2.52 vs 6.87±3.33 IU/L in smokers and non-smokers respectively; p = 0.02) and 31-35 (8.33±3.31 vs 7.70±3.51 IU/L smokers and in non-smokers respectively; p = 0.04). These results suggest a detrimental effect of smoking and vaping on ovarian reserve markers, with statistical significance indicating the role of chance is minimal in the observed differences. Limitations, reasons for caution Self-reported smoking/vaping status may introduce bias. The study does not report the duration or frequency of participants’ smoking and vaping habits. The study’s cross-sectional design limits causality inference, however it provides a valuable insight for future longitudinal research to explore these relationships over time and explore underlying mechanisms. Wider implications of the findings These findings highlight the potential risks of smoking and vaping on women’s reproductive health, emphasising the need for awareness and preventive measures, especially among younger populations and the increased use of vaping. Trial registration number not applicable

P-299 The influence of ovarian endometriomas surgery or not and the iron overload in follicular fluid on the outcome of IVF-ET

Abstract Study question To investigate the influence of ovarian endometriomas(OEM) surgery or not on the outcome of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer. Summary answer Laparoscopic surgery can not significantly improve the outcome of IVF-ET in OEM patients, but may decrease the ovarian reserve. What is known already Despite the great advantages of ovarian endometriomas surgery treatment in endometriosis-linked infertility, the impact of laparoscopic cystectomy on outcomes of infertility management with ART is controversial. Numerous mechanisms have been proposed in an effort to delineate the multifaceted pathophysiology that induces impairment of reproductive dynamics in patients with OEM. Reactive oxygen species, dysregulation of the immune system and iron overload constitute the crucial mechanisms that detrimentally affect oocyte and embryo developmental potential. Study design, size, duration This study retrospectively included 882 cycles in our reproductive center from January 2018 to December 2020, and the patients were divided into operation group (n = 386) and OEM group (n = 496) according to whether they underwent laparoscopic cystectomy before IVF-ET. Participants/materials, setting, methods The baseline data of age, infertility duration, basic FSH, AFC, and BMI were used as matching factors, and Propensity score matching was carried out according to the sample ratio of 1:1, and 327 cycles in the operation group and 327 cycles in the OEM group were finally included. Follicular fluid was collected under ultrasound guidance during oocyte retrieval. A total of 74 follicular fluid samples meeting the study conditions were collected. Main results and the role of chance (1)The clinical pregnancy rate of fresh embryo transfer cycle in the OEM group was significantly higher than that in the operation group (77.4% Vs 52.9%), and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.039). There was no significant difference in pregnancy outcome in frozen embryo transfer cycle (P &amp;gt; 0.05). (2) The results of Multi-factor logistic regression model showed the clinical pregnancy rate of patients in the OEM group was 3.048 times than that of patients in the operation group in fresh cycle, and the difference was significant (OR 3.029 95%CI 1.017-9.018, P = 0.047), while early abortion and live birth pregnancy outcomes were not significantly affected in both groups. For the frozen embryo transfer cycle, there were no significant effects on clinical pregnancy, early abortion and live birth pregnancy outcomes in both groups. (3) There was no significant difference in follicular fluid iron concentration between OEM group and control group(11.53±3.38 Vs 12.18±4.37μg/dl, P = 0.112). The concentration of ferritin in follicle fluid in OEM group (57.38±139.90) was significantly higher than that in control group (24.88±13.76 μg/ml), the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.032). Limitations, reasons for caution The present study being of a retrospective and monocentric study, may not come to a very convincing conclusion, and some unknown biases might still exist due to possible underestimation of some confounders. Wider implications of the findings Collectively, our results indicate that laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy couldn’t significantly improve the IVF-ET outcomes in patients with OEM, but rather increased the risk of reduced ovarian reserve function. Ovarian reserve function was the main factor affecting the IVF-ET outcomes for infertile patients with OEM. Trial registration number /

Sperm cryotolerance in mature male parr of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L. 1758): Effects of dietary lipid content and n-3 essential fatty acids composition

The cryoresistance of sperm is a significant concern issue in conservation and aquaculture. The nutrition of broodstock fish affects the quality of gametes. This study aimed to assess the impact of four diets on the quality of fresh and cryopreserved sperm of sexually mature salmon parr during spermatogenesis. Two dietary factors were modulated: lipid intake (12% and 20%) and n-3 essential fatty acid composition (DHA and ALA). No significant difference in parr growth rate or sperm concentration following the feeding period was observed. Viability and mitochondrial membrane potential of fresh sperm were also unaffected. However, fresh sperm motility was significantly higher in fish fed the 20% ALA diet compared to those fed the 12% DHA diet (p = 0.001). Cryopreservation reduced viability, motility, curvilinear velocity (VCL), and average path velocity (VAP), and increased linearity, regardless of the diet (p < 0.01). However, cryopreserved spermatozoa from parr fed diets enriched with DHA and containing 20% lipids showed a higher percentage of viability compared to spermatozoa from fish fed diets containing 12% lipids (p = 0.044). The study found that mitochondrial membrane potential, motility, VCL, and VAP was higher and that linearity was lower in salmon fed diets with higher levels of lipid and plant-based n-3 fatty acids compared to those fed 12% lipid diets, regardless of the n-3 fatty acid composition. This suggests that the higher levels of lipid and plant-based n-3 fatty acids provided greater resistance of sperm to damage by cryopreservation.

Understanding metal contamination in Anemonia sulcata: Effects of proximity to a submarine sewage pipe

The study conducted in June 2022 collected 120 Anemonia sulcata samples from Punta del Hidalgo, Tenerife, Spain, focusing on areas near a sewage pipe. The samples underwent meticulous preparation, including tissue extraction, drying, and filtration, followed by metal concentration (Al, Cd, Cu, Fe, Li, Ni, Pb, and Zn) analysis using ICP-OES. Results showed varying metal concentrations across zones, with higher concentrations nearer to the pipe. PERMANOVA analysis revealed significant differences in metal concentrations between zones, indicating spatial variations. Environmental factors such as pipe proximity, transport contaminant, and dispersion influence on metal accumulation in A. sulcata. Previous studies corroborate these findings, highlighting the pipe's significant impact on intertidal organisms. Effective monitoring strategies combining direct organism sampling with water and sediment analysis are crucial for assessing and mitigating the environmental and ecological impacts of metal contamination. These findings underscore the necessity of ongoing monitoring efforts and management interventions to safeguard marine ecosystems from detrimental effects of anthropogenic activities such as an underwater sewage pipe.

The Impact of Folic Acid and B12 Administration on Growth, Wool Traits and Some Hormones Concentrations of Male Arabi Lambs

This study aimed to investigate the effects of folic acid and vitamin B12 administration on the growth and wool traits in male lambs. A total of fifteen animals was used from 1st February 2015 to 30th April 2015, divided into three treatment groups. The first group served as a control, the second group received a folic acid dosage equivalent to 0.5 mg per kilogram of body weight per head, and the third group received a vitamin B12 dosage equivalent to 0.1 mg per kilogram of body weight per head. The vitamins were administered orally twice a week. The results showed a significant improvement (P&lt;0.05) in final body weight, daily gain, and total weight gain in the vitamin B12 and folic acid groups compared to the control group. Additionally, there was a significant (P&lt;0.05) increase in all wool characteristics, except for crimp number, in the folic acid group compared to the control group. The study demonstrated significant relationships between body weight and every aspect of wool quality except for fiber length. There was a significant (P&lt;0.05) increase in the concentrations of growth and thyroxine hormones in the vitamin B12 and folic acid groups compared to the control group, particularly in the second and third months of the experiment. No significant difference in insulin hormone concentration among the groups was observed during the 90-day experiment. In conclusion, administering vitamin B12 and folic acid are orally administered twice a week to improve growth, increase hormone concentrations (thyroxine and growth hormone), and improve wool quality

The association between indoor air quality and respiratory health symptoms among preschool children in Penang, Malaysia

ABSTRACT A cross-sectional study was conducted among 126 preschool children aged 4–6 years in traffic, industrial, and suburban areas of Penang, Malaysia, to determine their exposure to indoor air pollutants and their associations with respiratory symptoms. A standardised and validated questionnaire was used to collect data on respiratory health symptoms among respondents. An indoor air quality assessment was conducted in selected preschools that included temperature, relative humidity, air velocity, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter (PM2.5, and PM10). There were significant differences in median concentrations of PM2.5, PM10 and relative humidity among study groups. Statistical analysis showed significant associations between air pollutants in preschool with respiratory symptoms. Factors that influenced the increased likelihood of cough and phlegm were linked to the increase in PM2.5 exposure. This study suggests regular classroom cleaning and routine maintenance of air conditioners to be done inside the preschools.

Effect of solution pH on root architecture of four apple rootstocks grown in an aeroponics nutrient misting system.

The pH of the solution in the rhizosphere is an important factor that determines the availability and mobility of nutrients for plant uptake. Solution pH may also affect the root distribution and architecture of apple rootstocks. In this study, we evaluated the effect of solution pH on root system development of apple rootstocks using an aeroponics system designed and developed at Cornell AgriTech Geneva, USA. Four Geneva® apple rootstocks (G.210, G.214, G.41, and G.890) were grown in an aeroponic system under nutrient solution misting featuring continuously adjusted pH levels to three pH treatments (5.5, 6.5, and 8.0). Root development was monitored for 30 days and evaluated regularly for distribution and root mass. Images of the developed roots grown in the aeroponic system were collected at the end of the experiment using a high-resolution camera and analyzed using GiA Roots® software, which generates root architecture parameter values in a semi-automated fashion. The resulting root architecture analysis showed that the Geneva® rootstocks were significantly different for two architecture parameters. The length-to-width ratio analysis represented by two GiA Roots parameters (minor-to-major ellipse ratio and network width-to-depth ratio) showed that G.210 was flatter than G.890, which had a greater tendency to grow downward. Rootstocks G.214 and G.41 displayed similar growth values. The solution pH affected most root architecture parameter measurements where overall root growth was higher at pH 8 than at pH 5.5 and 6.5, which showed similar growth. In general, the average root width tended to decrease at higher pH values. While there were no significant differences in the leaf nutrient concentrations of P, K, Ca, Mg, S, B, Zn, Cu, and Fe within the four rootstocks, the pH level of the solution had a significant effect on P, Ca, and Mn. This study is the first of its kind to investigate the effect of pH on root architecture in a soil-free (aeroponic) environment and may have implications for apple root behavior under field conditions where pH levels are different.

LEAD LEVELS IN MILK AND ITS PRODUCTS FROM VARIOUS ENVIRONMENTS IN EGYPT

Milk and its products are considered healthy due to their content of key nutritional elements. Despite their essential role in the human diet, they may be susceptible to contamination with many chemical pollutants from the surrounding environment, most notably heavy metals such as lead, which is considered toxic to consumers. This study evaluated lead concentrations in milk and dairy product samples collected from various Egyptian environments. The results showed significant differences (p &lt; 0.05) in Pb concentrations in the samples collected from different environments in Egypt (industrial, traffic and rural). The average lead content in raw cow’s milk, sterilised milk, Domiati cheese, Ras cheese, processed cheese and yoghurt samples from industrial areas were 2.23, 0.33, 3.19, 5.10, 0.11 and 0.09 mg/kg, respectively. In traffic areas, lead concentrations were 1.83, 0.30, 2.72, 4.72, 0.13 and 0.09, and in rural areas, they were 0.61, 0.27, 1.52, 3.13, 0.13 and 0.09. The data showed that Pb levels in dairy product samples collected from industrial areas are very high compared with those collected from traffic areas. By contrast, the lowest Pb concentrations were recorded in samples from rural areas. It is recommended that lead levels in different foods, especially milk and its products, be evaluated at regular intervals.

Characterization of ribostamycin and its impurities using a nano-quantity analyte detector: Systematic comparison of performance among three different aerosol detectors

Characterization of aminoglycoside antibiotics like ribostamycin is important due to the complex composition and common toxic impurities. Aerosol detectors are often employed for determination of these non-absorbent analytes. In this work, a robust and cost-effective method was developed for simultaneous detection of ribostamycin and its related substances using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a relative new aerosol detector named nano-quantity analyte detector (NQAD). With the introduction of less toxic but more compatible ion-pairs pentafluoropropionic acid (PFPA) and trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in the eluent, an optimized separation effect was achieved. Compared with the other two aerosol detectors namely ELSD (evaporative light scattering detector) and CAD (charged aerosol detector), method verification and quantitative detection results revealed that NQAD had higher sensitivity than ELSD with a 0.8 μg/mL limit of detection, as well as wider linear range (from 2 μg/mL to 1000 μg/mL) than both CAD (from 2 μg/mL to 200 μg/mL) and ELSD (from 8 μg/mL to 200 μg/mL) detector. The performance of NQAD helped to realize detection of ribostamycin and its impurities with significant concentration differences in a single run. With a cation suppressor to eliminate the ion-suppression caused by the ion-pairs in the eluent, the structure of nine impurities in ribostamycin sample was characterized by liquid chromatography-mass spectrum (LC-MS). Both external standard and area normalization calculation were investigated, and NQAD obtained more accurate results due to its full-range linear response-to-concentration relationship, providing an alternative for routine quality control of multi analyte systems.

Seasonal variation of heavy metals in water and Cyprinus carpio L. from Umiam Lake reservoir of Meghalaya, India: Potential health risk assessment for human consumption.

The purpose of this study is to assess the seasonal variation of heavy metal concentration in water and fish tissues of common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) from the Umiam Lake reservoir located in the Ri bhoi district of Meghalaya, India, and to elucidate the possible human health risk of ingesting fish captured from the contaminated lake. Results show significant (p < 0.05) seasonal differences of heavy metal concentrations in the water and different tissues of fish Cyprinus carpio L.. The total concentration of heavy metals in the water exceeds the WHO and BIS standards and thus poses a significant threat to the aquatic flora and fauna of the reservoir. The heavy metal concentrations in fish tissues were tissue-dependent, where the average concentration of heavy metals in all the tissues of Cyprinus carpio L. was in the order of Cr > Pb > Cu > Cd. In addition, the health risk assessment suggests that the heavy metals in the fish muscle from the Umiam Lake reservoir might have adverse effects on human. Therefore, the overall results of the study provide an understanding on the seasonal distribution of heavy metals in water, provide insight on their bioaccumulation in the fish tissues, and highlights the potential health risk for the local population of long-term fish consumption from Umiam Lake reservoir.

Hypogonadism in men with inflammatory joint diseases: Frequency and clinical characteristics

To study the frequency of hypogonadism (HG) in men with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and to evaluate the impact of HG on the course of RA and and concomitant diseases. A single-stage continuous study included 170 men with RA, 57 men with AS and 85 men with PsA, who were hospitalized at the Nasonova Research Institute of Rheumatology. Patients were assessed for total testosterone (ТS) levels and subsequently divided into subgroups with normal (>12 nmol/l) and reduced levels. An intergroup comparison was carried out on the main indicators used in clinical rheumatological practice to assess the stage, activity and other medical and demographic characteristics of rheumatic disease, as well as on concomitant conditions. The second stage of the study involved a pairwise intergroup comparison among patients with HG with RA, AS and PsA. The incidence of ТS deficiency among patients with RA was 24.1%, among patients with AS - 17.5%, and with PsA - 31.8%. In patients with RA, HG was associated with a significantly higher mean body mass index, higher fasting blood glucose and uric acid, higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate and anemia. Patients with AS with HG had significantly lower hemoglobin levels and more frequent anemia, as well as higher levels of C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. In PsA, older age was observed in the androgen deficiency group, as well as higher body mass index and fasting glucose levels; obesity was more common. An intergroup comparison of quantitative and qualitative indicators between patients with androgen deficiency in all three rheumatic diseases (RDs) did not reveal significant differences in the average concentrations of ТS, luteinizing hormone, sex hormone binding globulin, experience of RD, laboratory markers of inflammatory activity, as well as glucose and uric acid. A similar incidence of diabetes mellitus, obesity and anemia was noted for all three nosologies. ТS levels and the presence of HG were not associated with the stage and activity of RD, but ТS deficiency was accompanied by higher laboratory indicators of inflammatory activity, lower hemoglobin values, and metabolic disorders. Patients with HG, regardless of nosology, had similar levels of sex hormones and indicators reflecting RD and concomitant conditions.

Early development of the glucocorticoid stress response in poison frog tadpoles.

The timing of HPA axis development differs across species. We studied the HPA axis across tadpole development in Dendrobates tinctorius . No difference in corticosterone concentration across development.No difference in corticosterone response to ACTH across development.Results suggest an early developed HPA axis is essential for their life history.

Exploring avian exposure to parent polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs): Using the common eider Somateria mollissima in a global context

Compared to other organic contaminants, birds are rarely studied for their exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), mainly due to their effective metabolization of parent PAHs. However, as some studies suggest, exposure to PAHs may result in adverse health effects including decreased survival, especially following oil spills. In the present study, we analyzed samples from a sea duck, the common eider Somateria mollissima including feathers, preen oil, blood, liver and bile, to evaluate whether non- lethally collected samples could be reliably used for avian biomonitoring strategies. Phenanthrene was the only individual PAH detected across sample types, with the highest concentration found in preen gland and the lowest in blood. Significant differences in concentrations were observed between bile vs preen gland and liver vs preen gland, while for most compounds neither blood nor feathers showed detectable levels of parent PAHs. Therefore, the utility of those sample types for PAH exposure assessment may be limited and should be interpreted with caution, moreover as several physiological factors may affect them. Additionally, we also provide a comparison with the available literature to review current avian PAH exposure assessment and outline future research focused needs.