Significant Differences In Concentrations Research Articles

Abstract A014: Cell-free DNA concentration as a biomarker of response and recurrence in HER-2 negative breast cancer receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy

Abstract Purpose: Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) shed into the blood by dying cells and its subset—circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) exclusively released by tumors—are promising non-invasive biomarkers for predicting treatment response and survival. We sought to determine the clinical significance of cfDNA concentration in comparison to that of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in patients with high-risk HER2-negative breast cancer receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in the I-SPY2 trial. Methods: 283 patients with early-stage breast cancer (145 hormone receptor (HR)-positive/HER2-negative and 138 triple-negative) who had ctDNA data from a previous study (Magbanua et al. Cancer Cell 2023) were included in the analysis. CfDNA concentration in plasma was measured at pretreatment, during, and after NAC before surgery. Associations of cfDNA concentration (as a continuous and dichotomous variable using the median as cutoff) with clinicopathologic variables, response, and survival were examined. In addition, ctDNA data from the same cohort using a personalized tumor-informed test was available for comparative analysis (Magbanua et al., Cancer Cell 2023). The response endpoint was residual cancer burden (RCB) after NAC. The survival endpoint was distant recurrence-free survival (DRFS). Results: There were no significant differences in cfDNA concentration between the HR-positive/HER2-negative and TNBC groups at any time point. In the TNBC group, but not in HR-positive/HER2-negative group, high pretreatment cfDNA concentration was significantly associated with larger tumors (clinical stage T3/T4, Wilcoxon p=0.023) and higher grade (grade 3, Fisher p=0.0134). TNBC patients with no residual cancer (RCB-0 or pathologic complete response) after NAC had significantly higher cfDNA concentration 3 weeks after treatment initiation than those with extensive residual cancer after NAC (RCB-III, Kruskal-Wallis adjusted p=0.034). In the HR-positive/HER2-negative group, cfDNA concentration did not associate with response to NAC, but survival analysis showed that high cfDNA shedders at pretreatment had a significantly worse DRFS than low shedders (hazard ratio 2.12, 95% confidence interval 1.05-4.60, p=0.037). However, in the TNBC group, the difference in survival between high vs. low cfDNA shedders at all time points was not statistically significant. In contrast, as previously reported, ctDNA at all time points was significantly correlated with metastatic recurrence and death in both HR-positive/HER2-negative and TNBC groups (Magbanua et al., Cancer Cell 2023). Conclusions: In TNBC, cfDNA concentration reflected tumor burden, aggressiveness, and early response to NAC. In the HR-positive/HER2-negative group, pretreatment cfDNA concentration was prognostic for DRFS. Overall, the predictive and prognostic value of cfDNA concentration was more limited than that of ctDNA. Thus, ctDNA should be the measurement of choice when planning clinical interventions. Citation Format: Mark Jesus M. Magbanua, Ziad Ahmed, Rosalyn W. Sayaman, Lamorna Brown-Swigart, Gillian L. Hirst, Christina Yau, Denise M. Wolf, Wen Li, Amy L. Delson, Jane Perlmutter, W. Fraser Symmans, Douglas Yee, Nola M. Hylton, Laura J. Esserman, Angela M. DeMichele, Hope S. Rugo, Laura J. van ’t Veer. Cell-free DNA concentration as a biomarker of response and recurrence in HER-2 negative breast cancer receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Advances in Breast Cancer Research; 2023 Oct 19-22; San Diego, California. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(3 Suppl_1):Abstract nr A014.

Characterizing the Microplastic Content of Biosolids in Southern Ontario, Canada.

The application of biosolids to agricultural land has been identified as a major pathway of microplastic (MP) pollution to the environment. Very little research, however, has been done on the MP content of biosolids within Canada. Fifteen biosolid samples from different treatment processes (liquid, dewatered, pelletized, and alkali-stabilized) were collected from 11 sources across southern Ontario to quantify and characterize the MP load within them. All samples exhibited MP concentrations ranging from 188 200 (±24 161) to 512 000 (±28 571) MPs/kg dry weight and from 4122 (±231) to 453 746 (±38 194) MPs/kg wet weight. Field amendment of these biosolids can introduce up to 3.73 × 106 to 4.12 × 108 MP/ha of agricultural soil. There was no significant difference in the MP concentrations of liquid, dewatered, and pelletized samples; but a reduction in MP content was observed in alkali-stabilized biosolids. Fragments composed 57.6% of the MPs identified, while 36.7% were fibers. In addition, MPs showed an exponential increase in abundance with decreasing size. Characterization of MPs confirmed that polyester was the most abundant, while polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide, polyacrylamide, and polyurethane were present across the majority of biosolid samples. The results of the present study provide an estimate of the potential extent of MP contamination to agricultural fields through the amendment of biosolids. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:793-806. © 2023 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.

Metabolomics profiling reveals low blood tyrosine levels as a metabolic feature of newborns from systemic lupus erythematosus pregnancies.

Pregnancy outcomes of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have improved over the past four decades, leading to an increased desire for pregnancy among this cohort. However, the offspring of patients with SLE still face the risks of preterm birth, low birth weight, learning disabilities, and neurological disorders, while the causes underlying these risks remain unclear. In this study, we analyzed the blood metabolic features of neonates born to 30 SLE patients and 52 healthy control mothers by employing tandem mass spectrometry with the dual aims of identifying the etiology of metabolic features specific to infants born from mothers with SLE and providing new insights into the clinical management of such infants. We found significant differences in serum metabolite levels between infants born from mothers with SLE and those born from mothers without SLE, including 15 metabolites with reduced serum levels. Further analysis revealed a disrupted tyrosine metabolism pathway in the offspring of mothers with SLE. By constructing a composite model incorporating various factors, such as serum tyrosine levels, gestational age, and birth weight, we were able to accurately differentiate between newborns of SLE and non-SLE pregnancies. Our data reveal significant differences in serum concentrations of amino acids and acylcarnitines in newborns born to mothers with SLE. We conclude that the reduction of blood L-tyrosine levels is a feature that is characteristic of adverse neurological outcomes in infants born from mothers with SLE.

Tryptase in Acute Appendicitis: Unveiling Allergic Connections through Compelling Evidence.

The aetiology of acute appendicitis (AA), the most frequent abdominal surgical emergency, is still unclarified. Recent epidemiologic, clinical and laboratorial data point to an allergic component in the pathophysiology of AA. Mastocytes participate in the Th2 immune response, releasing inflammatory mediators from their granules upon stimulation by IgE-specific antigens. Among the well-known mediators are histamine, serotonin and tryptase, which are responsible for the clinical manifestations of allergies. We conducted a prospective single-centre study to measure histamine and serotonin (commercial ELISA kit) and tryptase (ImmunoCAP System) concentrations in appendicular lavage fluid (ALF) and serum. Consecutive patients presenting to the emergency department with a clinical diagnosis of AA were enrolled: 22 patients with phlegmonous AA and 24 with gangrenous AA The control group was composed of 14 patients referred for colectomy for colon malignancy. Appendectomy was performed during colectomy. Tryptase levels were strikingly different between histological groups, both in ALF and serum (p < 0.001); ALF levels were higher than serum levels. Tryptase concentrations in ALF were 109 times higher in phlegmonous AA (APA) (796.8 (194.1-980.5) pg/mL) and 114 times higher in gangrenous AA (AGA) (837.4 (272.6-1075.1) pg/mL) than in the control group (7.3 (4.5-10.3) pg/mL. For the diagnosis of AA, the discriminative power of serum tryptase concentration was good (AUC = 0.825), but discriminative power was weak (AUC = 0.559) for the differential diagnosis between APA and AGA. Mastocytes are involved in AA during clinical presentations of both phlegmonous and gangrenous appendicitis, and no significant differences in concentration were found. No differences were found in serum and ALF concentrations of histamine and serotonin between histological groups. Due to their short half-lives, these might have elapsed by the time the samples were collected. In future research, these determinations should be made immediately after appendectomy. Our findings confirm the hypersensitivity type I reaction as an event occurring in the pathogenesis of AA: tryptase levels in ALF and serum were higher among patients with AA when compared to the control group, which is in line with a Th2 immune response and supports the concept of the presence of an allergic reaction in the pathogenesis of acute appendicitis. Our results, if confirmed, may have clinical implications for the treatment of AA.

Fluorescent Determination of Glucose in Human Perspiration Using a Sensing Platform Composed of CdTe Quantum Dots (QDs) with a Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework (ZIF-8) (QD@ZIF-8)

In sports, noninvasive analysis and monitoring of the human health condition are important to ensure the well-being of the sportsperson and prevent injuries. Multiple biomarker-related substances in body fluids can serve as physiological information and health or health status indicators to detect possible dangers to the athlete. As the glucose content in perspiration may vary with gender and the parts of the body, it is important to develop a highly sensitive and selective glucose detection method. Here, CdTe quantum dots (QDs) are wrapped with a zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-8) to create a fluorescence sensor platform (QD@ZIF-8), which is successfully employed for the determination of glucose levels in human perspiration. The synthesis of QD@ZIF-8 is quickly and easily achieved at room temperature through a one-step process. The resulting platform exhibits strong fluorescence, emitting at a wavelength of 587 nm when excited at 360 nm. The application of ZIF-8 as a transition layer to envelope the CdTe QDs effectively provide chemical and thermal stability, excellent dispersibility, and size selectivity. The sensor is utilized to measure perspiration glucose levels in a diverse group of male and female subjects, revealing significant differences in perspiration glucose concentrations.

Mice, rats, and guinea pigs differ in FMOs expression and tissue concentration of TMAO, a gut bacteria-derived biomarker of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

Increased plasma trimethylamine oxide (TMAO) is observed in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, originating from the gut microbiota product, trimethylamine (TMA), via flavin-containing monooxygenases (FMOs)-dependent oxidation. Numerous studies have investigated the association between plasma TMAO and various pathologies, yet limited knowledge exists regarding tissue concentrations of TMAO, TMAO precursors, and interspecies variability. Chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry was employed to evaluate tissue concentrations of TMAO and its precursors in adult male mice, rats, and guinea pigs. FMO mRNA and protein levels were assessed through PCR and Western blot, respectively. Plasma TMAO levels were similar among the studied species. However, significant differences in tissue concentrations of TMAO were observed between mice, rats, and guinea pigs. The rat renal medulla exhibited the highest TMAO concentration, while the lowest was found in the mouse liver. Mice demonstrated significantly higher plasma TMA concentrations compared to rats and guinea pigs, with the highest TMA concentration found in the mouse renal medulla and the lowest in the rat lungs. FMO5 exhibited the highest expression in mouse liver, while FMO3 was highly expressed in rats. Guinea pigs displayed low expression of FMOs in this tissue. Despite similar plasma TMAO levels, mice, rats, and guinea pigs exhibited significant differences in tissue concentrations of TMA, TMAO, and FMO expression. These interspecies variations should be considered in the design and interpretation of experimental studies. Furthermore, these findings may suggest a diverse importance of the TMAO pathway in the physiology of the evaluated species.

Effect of augmented nutrient composition and fertigation system on biomass yield and cannabinoid content of medicinal cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) cultivation.

Growing evidence underscores the role of nutrients and fertigation systems in soilless production, influencing medicinal cannabis biomass and secondary metabolite content. This study delves into the impact of enhanced nutrient regimes on the 'ionome' and its ramifications for biomass and cannabinoid production in medicinal cannabis, comparing two distinct fertigation systems: recirculation and drain-to-waste. Notably, we assess the optimal harvest time for maximizing profitability. In comparing the experimental variant with elevated levels of phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and iron (Fe) in the nutrient solution to the control variant, we observe distinct patterns in element composition across stems, leaves, and flowers, with significant differences between fertigation systems. Total nitrogen content was determined through the Kjeldahl method. Flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) were employed for elemental analysis. Cannabinoid identification and quantification used high-performance liquid chromatography with a diode-array detector (HPLC/DAD). Followed statistical analyses included ANOVA and Tukey's HSD test. Although the augmented nutrient regimen does not substantially increase plant biomass, interesting differences emerge between the two fertigation systems. The recirculation fertigation system proves more profitable during the recommended harvest period. Nonetheless, the altered nutrient regime does not yield statistically significant differences in final inflorescence harvest mass or cannabinoid concentrations in medicinal cannabis. The choice of fertigation system influences the quantity and quality of harvested inflorescence. To optimize the balance between the dry biomass yield of flowers and cannabinoid concentration, primarily total THC yield (sum of tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, and Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol), we propose the 11th week of cultivation as the suitable harvest time for the recirculation system. Importantly, the recirculation system consistently outperformed the drain-to-waste system, especially after the ninth week, resulting in significantly higher total THC yields. Enriched nutrition, when compared with control, increased THC yield up to 50.7%, with a remarkable 182% surge in the recirculation system when compared with the drain-to-waste system.

P066 Serum amyloid A – A Novel Biomarker of Ulcerative Colitis Disease Activity

Abstract Background Despite recent advancements in the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC), a substantial number of patients fail to achieve long-term remission. Persistent histological activity has been linked with poorer treatment outcomes. Histological remission is now an accepted treatment target; however there remains significant variability in the interpretation of UC histology. As such, there is a need for novel biomarker identification to aid assessment and ultimately predict disease relapse. Serum amyloid A (SAA) is an acute-phase protein, of which serum levels have shown promise as a biomarker in IBD1. This study aims to explore the utility of SAA levels in UC colonic tissue as a diagnostic biomarker for disease activity and progression. Methods Two cohorts were prospectively recruited, including healthy controls and UC patients. Sigmoid biopsies were collected and tissue explants generated. Tissue-conditioned media from these explants was collected and secreted SAA quantified using 54 V-plex ELISA. Demographic information, disease characteristics, endoscopic Mayo scores and disease progression were documented. Endoscopic remission was defined as a Mayo endoscopic sub-score ≤1. Disease progression was defined as the requirement for corticosteroid therapy, UC-related hospitalisation, UC-related surgery or the introduction of a new immunomodulatory agent in follow-up period. P values &amp;lt;0.05 were considered significant in analyses. Results The two cohorts included 11 healthy controls and 16 UC patients (endoscopic remission n=6). Active UC patients demonstrated significantly higher SAA concentrations than healthy controls (p=0.0013) and those in endoscopic remission (p=0.02). There was no significant difference in SAA concentrations between healthy controls and UC patients in remission (p=NS). UC patients in the lowest SAA concentration quartile had a significantly longer time to disease progression (p=0.0462) (Figure 1). Conclusion Quantification of SAA secretion in IBD ex-plants has potential as a biomarker of UC activity and progression. Further investigation of SAA as a biomarker in IBD is warranted.

P1164 Early monitoring of ustekinumab concentration after induction is related to clinical remission in ulcerative colitis &amp; Crohn`s disease - STOCUSTE study

Abstract Background Ustekinumab (UST), an anti-interleukin-12/23 antibody, is used to treat moderate to severe inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The STOCUSTE study includes IBD patients treated with UST at four teaching hospitals in Stockholm to provide long-term follow-up data. We investigated in a real-world setting the utility of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) to optimize treatment and correlated the serum concentrationof UST to clinical outcomes. Methods This retrospective study includes patients diagnosed with Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) treated with UST and followed until withdrawal of treatment for any reason, or until end of study,July 31, 2021. Concentration data and dosing interval were collected at each follow-up (3, 6, 9, 12, 24,36, 48, 60 months) in relation to presence of remission defined as Physician Global Assessment (PGA)= 0. Results In total, 418 patients were included, 322 (48% females) with CD and 96 (46% females) with UC. In 229 patients the UST concentration was analyzed at least once and never in the remaining 188 patients. In general, the UST serum concentrations were above 1 μg/ml. At 3 months follow-up, patients in remission had a significant higher concentration of UST compared to non-remitting patients. (Table 1) in the total cohort, as well as when analyzed separately in UC ad CD. There was no significant difference in UST concentrations at 6 months or later between patients in remission versus non-remission for either IBD diagnosis. Further, TDM was related to higher rates of remission at 3 months of follow-up. Conclusion In this study, early measurement of serum UST (≤3 months) correlated to the clinical response. Serum concentrations at later time points were similar in patients in remission and in patients with active disease. These results from a real-world setting might partly be explained by that serum concentrations were not taken in a systematic manner.

Comparative and stability study of glucose concentrations measured in both sodium fluoride and serum separator tubes

IntroductionSodium fluoride/potassium oxalate (NaF/KOx) tubes has been regarded as the gold-standard tubes for glucose analysis. Even though their ineffectiveness in immediately inhibiting glycolysis has been reported in several studies especially in the first 1–4h, they are still used in our clinical biochemistry laboratory for glucose measurement. However, in its absence, only serum separator tubes are employed for glucose measurement. We aim to determine whether serum separator tubes (SSTs) can replace NaF/KOx tubes for laboratory measurement of blood glucose and to assess the stability of glucose concentrations for 3 days period. Methods and findingsNaF/KOx tube type was the reference method while SSTs type was the candidate method for glucose measurement. A total of 50 paired samples collected separately in NaF/KOx tubes and SSTs from healthy adult participants in the Gambia Adults Reference Intervals Study (GARIS) project were used as the project sample size. Following blood collection and separation, the glucose concentration was measured within 2 h, and at 24h, 42h and 72h time-points. Our data analysis showed no significant difference in the mean glucose concentrations between the reference tube and candidate tube types (Mean difference = 0.06 mmol/L; P = 0.38) recorded in the different timepoints. Using growth trajectory and mixed effects model, the study data further showed no significant change in the glucose concentrations (p = 0.25) for three days period. ConclusionsThe study confirms that SSTs can produce similar glucose results when employed in the absence of NaF/KOx tubes. Besides, the glucose concentrations were stable in both tubes for three days when the samples were separated within 2 h and refrigerated in 2–8°C.

Associations of five blood heavy metals with hepatitis B virus infection and immunity in adults: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundHeavy metal pollution has emerged as a significant concern for human health, prompting increased awareness of its potential adverse effects. While previous research has established a connection between heavy metals and liver function biomarkers, the specific relationship between heavy metals and HBV infection remains unexplored. This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the potential correlations between five blood heavy metals - lead, cadmium, mercury, manganese, and selenium - and the presence of HBsAg, HBsAb, and HBcAb in adults.MethodsThe study utilized data from NHANES 2007–2018. Participants were classified into four groups based on their infectious status, and the association between heavy metals and HBV infection was analyzed using multiple logistic regression and stratification analysis.ResultsA total of 8431 participants were included, with 5 436 classified as Susceptible, 1 765 as Vaccinated, 865 as Natural Infection, and 103 as Acute/Chronic HBV Infection. The Vaccinated group exhibited a lower mean age (34.52 ± 14.16 years) compared to the other groups. Statistically significant differences in heavy metal concentrations (except selenium) were observed among the groups (P < 0.001). After adjusting for covariates, lead was significantly associated with HBV infection (Q2: OR 2.37, 95%CI 1.04–5.39; Q3: OR 2.34, 95%CI 1.01–5.40), and positive trends were observed for high blood concentrations of mercury (Q4: OR 3.03, 95%CI 1.31–7.04) and manganese (Q4: OR 2.52, 95%CI 1.20–5.28). Furtherly, the presence of lead reduced the protection of HBsAb (Q2: OR 0.84, 95%CI 0.73–0.97; Q3: OR 0.77, 95%CI 0.66–0.90; Q4: OR 0.83, 95%CI 0.70–0.98). Subgroup analysis indicated that cadmium was associated with an increased risk of HBV infection in Asians (OR 1.36, 95%CI 1.03–1.78) and individuals with a BMI range of 25 to 30 (OR 1.60, 95%CI 1.17–2.18).ConclusionsThe study’s findings suggest a correlation between elevated blood Pb concentrations and reduced immunization rates against hepatitis B. Individuals with a positive HBsAg exhibit lower blood Se concentrations and higher blood Hg and Mn concentrations.

Comparative analysis of rare earth elements concentrations in domestic dogs and Apennine wolves of Central Italy: Influence of biological, nutritional, and lifestyle factors

Rare Earth Elements (REEs) are strategical elements playing a crucial role in the industry, especially in producing high-tech materials. Therefore, REEs are new contaminants of emerging concerns. However, due to the lack of exposure data on REE occurrence in environmental matrices, especially in European countries, it is still tricky to establish environmental background levels to assess the ecotoxicological risk related to REEs exposure. The present study aimed to evaluate the liver concentrations of REEs in domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) and Apennine wolves (Canis lupus italicus) living in the Abruzzo region, Italy. Moreover, for the scope of the present study, the dog's group was divided according to their sex, age, lifestyle, and diet. Wolves were categorized concerning their sex and genetic characteristics. Liver samples from dogs and wolves were collected during diagnostic necropsies from carcasses, sample mineralization was performed by a microwave digestion system with a single reaction chamber, and simultaneous determination of the presence of REEs was performed by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (Q-ICP-MS) using standard mode for all rare earth elements except scandium (Sc) which was acquired in kinetic energy discrimination (KED) mode. Hepatic concentrations of REEs were statistically significantly higher in wolves compared to dogs. Moreover, significant differences in REEs concentrations arose also from the genetic type of wolf, since “pure wolves” had higher liver concentrations of REEs compared to wolf-dog hybrids. Female and adult dogs also showed elevated REEs compared to male and juvenile dogs, while no significant differences were demonstrated for dogs' diet and lifestyle. The results of the present study confirm the exposure of domestic and wild carnivores to REEs, showing also the ability of REEs to accumulate in carnivore livers, suggesting the potential role of this species as an alternative bioindicator.

Does the Protein Concentration of Different Types of Dietary Supplements for Athletes Vary According to Protein Particle Length?

Introduction: Protein microparticles are crucial for their sensory properties and applicability in food production. This study has the objective of correlating protein particle length and content in different sources of protein supplements.Methods: An analytical observational study with protein supplements (n=30) from different sources was carried out to estimate the protein content and the particle length in the samples. Protein content data was obtained via total nitrogen content. The samples were also analyzed for protein particle lengths using the scanning electron microscope.Results: The comparison between the average particle length of each group of protein supplements analyzed has shown significant statistical difference (F=139.6; p&lt;0.001). Whey Protein Isolate showed higher particle length, compared to other supplements (57.7±42.1 µm; p&lt;0.001). However, no evidence of a significant difference in protein concentrations among supplements was detected (F=1.072; p=0.4004). In addition, no evidence of a significant correlation between protein concentration and particle length was observed (R2=0.001; p=0.8476).Conclusions: Although a difference in the protein particle length of different supplements for athletes was found, there is no correlation between protein concentration and particle length in the studied protein supplements from different sources Whey Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Isolate, Blend Whey Protein, Veggies, Beef and Albumin.

Measurements of cadmium levels in relation to tobacco dependence and as a function of cytisine administration

Cigarette smoking delivers a number of heavy metals, including cadmium (Cd), into the body. Bioaccumulation may result in an increase in pathological consequences over time. The assessment of changes in serum Cd concentrations during the treatment of cigarette dependence with cytisine was performed for the first time. Parameters assessing smoking habits, strength of addiction, and effectiveness of therapy were analyzed. Cd was determined before, during, and after the end of treatment. The serum Cd levels were significantly higher in the smokers than in the nonsmokers. Significant differences in Cd concentrations between sampling times in smokers were observed. Individuals who stopped smoking had significantly lower Cd concentrations compared to baseline. A significant positive correlation between the serum Cd before treatment and smoking urges was also obtained. Additionally, salivary Cd determinations were performed before treatment to evaluate the use of this method to assess cigarette addiction. Our findings indicate that Cd can be used as a biomarker of smoking addiction, and provide an alternative assessment of tobacco smoke exposure to other methods. The results provide new knowledge related to Cd concentrations in human body fluids and may play a role in monitoring and assessing the efficacy of cytisine for smoking cessation.

Effect of Using Hydrogen Peroxide for Periodic Disinfection Combined With Continuous Disinfection to Control Contamination in Dental Unit Waterline

To observe the effect of using hydrogen peroxide in periodic disinfection combining with continuous disinfection of dental unit waterlines and to provide references for the selection of waterway disinfection measures. A total of 4 dental units in a hospital of stomatology were selected through convenience sampling. The dental unit waterlines received periodic disinfection once every 4 weeks in addition to continuous disinfection (When the dental units were not used for more than 3 days, an additional periodic disinfection would be performed.). Periodic disinfection referred to filling up the waterlines with a disinfectant solution (1.4% hydrogen peroxide) by using the waterline disinfection device that came with the dental unit, immersing for 24 hours, and then emptying out the disinfectant solution. Continuous disinfection referred to using hydrogen peroxide at a concentration of 0.014% as dental treatment water and using it to flush the waterlines for 2 minutes before any dental treatment in the morning and to flush the waterlines for 30 seconds after each dental treatment. The study lasted for 25 weeks, with periodic disinfection being performed for 7 times and continuous disinfection carried out for the rest of the dental treatment time. During the 25 weeks, water samples were collected from air/water syringes and high-speed handpieces. Then, the water samples were incubated and the bacterial concentration and the qualification rates were calculated accordingly. When the bacterial concentration≤100 CFU/ mL, the water samples were considered to be qualified. Waterline tubes of 1 cm were collected before and after the 25 weeks of disinfection with hydrogen peroxide. Biofilms in the waterline tube were observed under scanning electron microscope. A total of 352 water samples were collected. Eight water samples were collected before disinfection with hydrogen peroxide, with the median of bacterial concentration being 3140 CFU/mL. On the first day of disinfection with hydrogen peroxide, the median bacterial concentration in dental treatment water was 7.5 CFU/mL. There was a significant difference between the bacterial concentration of the water samples before the disinfection and that after the disinfection (P=0.012). A total of 344 water samples were collected after the disinfection, with the median bacterial concentrations for air/water syringes and high-speed handpieces being 11 CFU/mL and 11CFU/mL and the qualified rates being 83.7% and 82.0%, respectively. There was no significant difference in bacterial concentration or the qualification rates. During week 1 through week 9 of the disinfection, the qualification rates of the dental treatment water always exceeded 80% in 8 weeks, with week 3 being the exception. In the two four-week disinfection periods of week 14 through week 17 and week 18 through week 21, the qualification rate was maintained at above 80% for only the first two weeks and started to decrease from the third week. Biofilm morphology was observed under scanning electron microscope. Before the disinfection, the biofilm was found to be a dense structure and the mixture of a large number of bacteria. After 25 weeks of the disinfection, the biofilm structure appeared to be loose and did not show consistent characteristics of a large number of bacteria retained. Periodic disinfection combined with continuous disinfection using hydrogen peroxide can effectively control contamination in dental unit waterlines. But the cycles of periodic disinfection and the concentration of hydrogen peroxide for continuous disinfection should be further discussed according to the actual clinical situation.

Anomalies of Sponge Spicules: Exploring Links to Environmental Pollution

The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of spicule malformations in freshwater sponges in relation to selected environmental parameters of the streams and the presence of river pollutants. A total of 50 sponge samples were collected from ten rivers in Serbia. Selected parameters of the water varied considerably at every site where sponges were found. After spicule preparation, the samples were subjected to morphological analysis by light and scanning electron microscopy, and the number of anomalies were recorded (spicules with bulbous enlargements, sharply bent, bifurcated, scissor- and cross-like, and t-shaped). The frequencies and types of malformations within the analyzed specimens varied from 1 to 100 per 1000 spicules, with an average number of 12 per 1000. The main types of anomalies were single- and double-bent spicules. The highest number of anomalies was found in a specimen of Eunapius fragilis collected at Markovac (Velika Morava River), and the lowest number was found in a specimen of Ephydatia fluviatilis from Kanjiža (Tisa River). The sites with the lowest and the highest numbers of anomalies showed statistically significant differences in concentrations of ammonia, orthophosphates, sodium, chloride, manganese, and lead. This study indicates that several pollutants potentially affect the occurrence of spicule anomalies.

Contamination status, partitioning behavior, ecological risks assessment of legacy and emerging per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in a typical heavily polluted semi-enclosed bay, China

The contaminant status, spatial distribution, partitioning behavior, and ecological risks of 26 legacy and emerging perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in Laizhou Bay, China were investigated. The concentrations of ∑PFASs in surface and bottom seawater ranged from 37.2 to 222 ng/L and from 34.2 to 305 ng/L with an average of 116 ± 62.7 and 138 ± 93.8 ng/L, respectively. There were no significant differences in the average concentrations between the surface and bottom seawater (P > 0.05). Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and short-chain PFASs dominated the composition of PFASs in seawater. The concentrations of ∑PFASs in sediments ranged from 0.997 to 7.21 ng/g dry weight (dw), dominated by perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS), perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA), and long-chain PFASs. The emerging alternatives of perfluoro-1-butane-sulfonamide (FBSA) and 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonic acid (6:2 FTSA) were detected for the first time in Laizhou Bay. The ∑PFASs in seawater in the southwest of the bay were higher than those in the northeast of the bay. The ∑PFASs in sediments in the northeast sea area were higher than those in the inner area of the bay. Log Kd and log Koc values increased with increasing carbon chain length for PFASs compounds. Ecological risk assessments indicated a low ecological risk associated with HFPO-DA but a moderate risk associated with PFOA contamination in Laizhou Bay. Positive matrix factorization (PMF) analysis revealed that fluoropolymer manufacturing, metal plating plants, and textile treatments were identified as major sources contributing to PFASs contamination.

Plasma Oxidative State Induced by Exercise in Young Heat-Not-Burn Cigarette Users.

Oxidative state, a risk factor for several diseases, is increased by habitual conventional cigarette (CC) smoking. Reports have demonstrated that heat-not-burn cigarettes (HNBCs), which have recently become popular among smokers, generate less oxidative state than CC in smokers with a long smoking history. However, no previous study has examined oxidative state in young HNBC users. Previously, we reported that exercise induces a greater oxidative state in young CC smokers than in never-smokers of similar age, but there was no difference in resting oxidative state. This study aimed to clarify the resting and exercise-induced oxidative states in young HNBC users, compared with those in never-smokers and CC users of similar age. Healthy young never-smokers, HNBC users, and CC users were recruited, and they underwent the Wingate anaerobic test. Blood samples were collected before and after exercise, and the plasma hydroperoxide concentration, a marker of oxidative state, was measured. No significant differences in pre-exercise plasma hydroperoxide concentrations were detected among never-smokers, HNBC users, and CC users (n = 10 each). Plasma hydroperoxide concentration was significantly increased after exercise in all participants. The exercise induced a significant increase in plasma hydroperoxide concentration in HNBC users compared with that in never-smokers (p < .005), but it was significantly decreased compared with that in CC users (p < .01). The use of HNBC increased exercise-induced plasma oxidative state compared with that in never-smokers, indicating that HNBC may lead to the risk of oxidative damage. This study, for the first time, reports exercise-induced oxidative state in young HNBC users compared with never-smokers and CC users. The exercise-induced oxidative state in HNBC users was higher than that in never-smokers and lower than that in CC users. Our study suggests that the use of HNBCs increases the risk of acute oxidative damage.

The assessment of halitosis with a new screening tool in medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw.

This study aimed to identify the levels of halitosis in patients with Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) and osteoporosis and to suggest a new MRONJ screening method using halitosis measurement. From October 2019 to April 2023, participants aged 19years or older without periodontal disease were selected. Seventy-five participants, 25 in each group, were divided into an MRONJ group, an osteoporosis group without MRONJ, and a control group without osteoporosis and not taking osteoporosis drugs or antibiotics. Each participant underwent halitosis assessment twice using an exhaled breath analyzer to measure halitosis twice by blowing a straw for 1min. Measured concentrations of hydrogen, hydrogen sulfide, and methyl mercaptan were compared between groups. Data from 22 patients in the MRONJ group, 25 in the osteoporosis group, and 25 in the control group were analyzed. The concentrations of hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan were significantly higher in the MRONJ group than in the other groups, but the concentrations of hydrogen did not differ between the groups. When comparing the concentrations of hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan in osteoporosis patients and solid cancer patients in the MRONJ group, there was a significant difference in hydrogen sulfide concentration, but there was no significant difference in methyl mercaptan. Quantifying the level of halitosis can be used to screen for MRONJ in patients taking bisphosphonates, such as patients with osteoporosis, prostate cancer, and breast cancer. MRONJ is accompanied by bad breath, and the concentrations of hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan are associated with MRONJ.

The Ecophysiological Response of Olive Trees under Different Fruit Loads.

Olive trees have a unique reproductive pattern marked by biennial fruiting. This study examined the repercussions of alternate fruit bearing on the water relations of olive trees and the associated ecophysiological mechanisms. The experiment spanned two consecutive years: the "ON" year, characterized by a high crop load, and the "OFF" year, marked by minimal fruit production. Key ecophysiological parameters, including sap flow, stomatal conductance, and photosynthetic rate, were monitored in both years. Pre-dawn water potential was measured using continuous stem psychrometers and the pressure chamber technique. Biochemical analyses focused on non-structural carbohydrate concentrations (starch, sucrose, and mannitol) and olive leaves' carbon-stable isotope ratio (δ13C). Results revealed a higher leaf gas exchange rate during the "ON" year, leading to an average 29.3% increase in water consumption and a 40.78% rise in the photosynthetic rate. Higher water usage during the "ON" year resulted in significantly lower (43.22% on average) leaf water potential. Sucrose and starch concentrations were also increased in the "ON" year, while there were no significant differences in mannitol concentration. Regarding the carbon-stable isotope ratio, leaves from the "OFF" year exhibited significantly higher δ13C values, suggesting a higher resistance to the CO2 pathway from the atmosphere to carboxylation sites compared to the "ON" year plants.