Total Binding Capacity Research Articles

Nanoscale chloride diffusion in alkali-activated steel slag and ultrafine blast furnace slag considering the electrical double layer effect

Utilizations of industrial byproducts and wastes as much as possible, together with desirable durability, are essential to sustainable development of building materials. In this work, the chloride diffusion behavior of alkali-activated steel slag (SS) and ultrafine blast furnace slag (UFS) is studied, towards deeper insights into the effect of electrical double layer on the resistance to chloride penetration. The microstructure improvement of alkali-activated SS with increasing addition of UFS was examined by means of X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, mercury intrusion porosimetry and nitrogen sorption. The zeta potentials above the pore surface of various alkali-activated SS-UFS systems were measured and compared. The electrostatic resistance of the electrical double layer to chloride diffusion was analyzed and discussed. Results indicate that UFS dosages above 40% substantially refines the pore structure of alkali-activated SS and then the mechanism governing chloride penetration shifts from capillary transport to gel transport. The exposure of higher chloride sodium concentration results in the pore surface of alkali-activated SS-UFS systems to be less negatively charged and the zeta potential is reversed to be positive value after continuous ion exchange between sodium and calcium. The presence of UFS can remarkably increase the proportion of physically bound chloride that attains approximately 80% of the total binding capacity. The impediment of electrical double layer to chloride diffusivity becomes increasingly pronounced with pore structure refinement, especially for mixtures with diffusion coefficients below 5 × 10−12 m2/s obtained based on Fick's law of diffusion.

Abstract 133: Associations of Genetically Predicted Iron Status and Ischemic Stroke Subtypes: A Mendelian Randomization Study

Mendelian randomization (MR) studies suggest a causal effect of Fe status on ischemic stroke (IS). It is currently unknown if these associations are confounded by pleiotropic effects of the instrumental variables (IV) on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, such as low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and body mass index (BMI). We aimed to investigate the effect of iron (Fe) status on risk of IS subtypes (cardioembolic (CES), small vessel (SVS), and large artery atherosclerotic (LAS)) controlling for CVD risk factors. Fe biomarker IVs (total Fe binding capacity (TIBC), transferrin saturation (TSAT), serum Fe (SI), serum ferritin (SF)) were selected from a European GWAS (n=198K-258K) and filtered based on genome-wide significance ( P <5e -8 ), F-statistic>10, R 2 <0.001, minor allele frequency >1%, and consistent effect direction for all Fe traits. We performed univariate two-sample MR of each Fe trait on IS subtypes from MEGASTROKE (n cases: CES=7,193; SVS =5,386; LAS= 4,373) and implemented multivariate MR conditioning on LDL, DBP, and BMI from the UK Biobank. Estimates are expressed as odds ratio [95%CI] per SD unit increase in Fe. Univariate MR showed a detrimental effect of higher Fe status on CES, no effect on SVS, and a protective effect on LAS across all Fe markers ( Figure 1 ). The negative effect of Fe status on CES persisted when conditioning on LDL (TSAT: 1.17 [1.03-1.34]; TIBC: 0.84 [0.71-0.98]), DBP (TSAT: 1.15 [1.01-1.31]; TIBC: 0.82 [0.70-0.96]), or BMI (TSAT: 1.18 [1.04-1.34]; TIBC: 0.82 [0.70-0.95]) (all P <0.05). However, the apparent positive effect of Fe status on LAS disappeared when conditioning on CVD risk factors ( Figure 1 ), particularly LDL (all P <0.05). Higher Fe status is associated with a greater risk of CES independent of CVD risk factors. These findings support the role of Fe status as a modifiable risk factor for CES. Future studies are needed to assess the mechanisms mediating this effect.

The role of hydrotalcite in the chloride binding of hydrated C3A pastes containing dolomite

To better understand the limitations of the hydrotalcite formation and the capacity of hydrotalcite to bind chloride in dolomite-containing Portland cement-based materials, the reaction of dolomite in C3A pastes and the corresponding chloride binding behavior were investigated in this study. The phase assemblages, the chloride binding capacity, and the pH value were determined. The results indicate that hydrotalcite can only form in a limited range of (active magnesium)/(available aluminum) ratios. The dissolution of dolomite, which provides the magnesium activity, rather than the dedolomitization reaction, appears to be what drives the dolomite reaction with C3A and is primarily dependent on dolomite content. The hydrotalcite formation is not affected by Ca(OH)2. Hydrotalcite seems to possess a greater capacity to bind chloride than monocarboaluminate in hydrated C3A pastes, especially at high chloride concentrations. Chemical chloride binding contributes approximately 10% to the total chloride binding capacity of hydrotalcite. The remaining dolomite reduces chloride binding by increasing carbonate ion activity, and Ca(OH)2 reacts with dolomite to decrease carbonate ion activity and thereby promote chloride binding.

Evaluation of Hematological Factors and Micronutrients Among Children Infected with Enterobius vermicularis

Malnutrition, anemia, and micronutrient deficits may be associated with Enterobius vermicularis infection. Hence, the subject has recently received a lot of attention. The goal of this study was to analyse the nutritional, hematological and micronutrient status of children infected with E. vermicularis. This research was carried out in Baghdad from October 2021 to the end of March 2022. The study comprised 100 children of both sexes, ranging in age from 3-16 years. All individuals nutritional status was assessed using the weight-for-age Z score and the height-for-age Z score. As well as cellophane tape samples and blood samples were collected from all individuals. The cellophane tape samples were examined under microscope for E. vermicularis detection. Whereas blood samples were processed to assess many factors which were: haemoglobin, ferritin, total binding capacity (TIBC), serum iron, serum zinc and serum magnesium. Results revealed significant correlations between E. vermicularis infection occurrence and each of age and gender, even though most infections were noticed among females and among those who were between 3-9 years. The results also showed that the nutritional status, based on weight for age Z score, was significantly (P˂0.05) related to E. vermicularis occurence. Moreover haemoglobin, ferritin, serum iron, serum zinc and serum magnesium were noted to have significantly (P˂0.05) decreased among those who were E. vermicularis positive compared with E. vermicularis negative group. While total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) increased significantly among E. vermicularis positive children. The current investigation revealed that E. vermicularis infection had significant implications on several haematological elements, as well as stunting nutritional shortages. As a result, a lower prevalence of intestinal parasite infection (particularly enterobiasis) among children would almost certainly benefit their growth, development and educational outcomes.

Effect of HFE Gene Mutations on Iron Metabolism of Beta-Thalassemia Carriers

The human hemochromatosis protein HFE is encoded by the HFE gene and participates in iron regulation. The aim of this study was to detect the most frequent HFE gene mutations in a control population and in β-thalassemia trait (BTT) carriers, and to study their relationship with iron metabolism. Total blood count, hemoglobin electrophoresis at alkaline pH, HbA2 quantification, iron (Fe), total Fe binding capacity and ferritin were assayed. HFE gene mutations were analyzed by real-time PCR. A total of 119 individuals (69 normal and 50 BTT) were examined. In the control group, 9% (6/69) presented a codon 282 heterozygous mutation (C282Y), and 19% a codon 63 mutation (H63D) (13/69, 11 heterozygotes and 2 homozygotes). In the BTT group, 3 carriers (6%) were heterozygous for C282Y, 14 (28%) for H63D, 1 (2%) for a codon 65 mutation and 1 (2%) was H63D and C282Y double heterozygous. Control group Fe metabolism did not show significant differences (p > 0.05) according to whether or not they carried an HFE gene mutation; while the BTT group with and without HFE mutation showed higher Fe and ferritin than the control group (p < 0.05). However, no increases in iron parameters were detected in BTT carriers that simultaneously exhibited an H63D mutation compared to BTT subjects without a mutation. Therefore, the iron metabolism alterations observed in BTT carriers could not be attributed to the presence of HFE gene mutations. It is likely that BTT individuals have other genetic modifiers that affect their iron balance.

Apohemoglobin-Haptoglobin Complex Prevents Microvascular Dysfunction in Sickle Cell Mice: Potential Therapeutic Approach for Vaso-Occlusive Crisis

Background: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is associated with episodes of vaso-occlusive events (VOE) caused by the effects of hemoglobin S (HbS) polymerization in red blood cells (RBCs) and resultant hemolysis. In the acute setting, treatment for VOE is limited to supportive care such as hydration and aggressive pain management as no specific therapies can alter the course of acute VOE. The apohemoglobin-haptoglobin (apoHb-Hp) complex is a two-protein formulation that is capable of scavenging and neutralizing the toxic effects of cell-free hemoglobin (Hb) and heme released from the hemolysis of polymerized HbS RBCs. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the microcirculatory effects of apoHb-Hp during hypoxia-induced VOE. Methods: The effects of apoHb-hp was studied in a mouse model of SCD using sickle cell transgenic mice (HbSS-Towne's mice, and compared to mice expressing normal human Hb (HbAA-Towne's mice). Each group consisted of 11 mice, they were initially kept in normal conditions (21% O2) for an hour followed by a hypoxic state (7% O2) for another hour and finally brought back to normal conditions (21% O2) for an hour before being sacrificed. ApoHb-hp (60 mg/mL) and Hp (85 mg/mL) were injected intravenously to yield equimolar total heme and Hb binding capacity between treatments prior to hypoxia exposure. During baseline, hypoxia and normoxia systemic parameters (mean arteriole pressure and heart rate), blood gases (pO2,A, pO2,v, sO2,A, sO2,v), hematological properties (total Hb concentration, hematocrit, and concentration of lactate) and microcirculatory hemodynamics (velocity, diameter, flow and functional capillary density) were measured. After the mice were sacrificed a count of present macrophages, neutrophils and lymphocytes were quantified in the pulmonary tissue. Results: There was no notable changes in blood gas concentrations with any of the treatments. ApoHb-Hp treatment improved microcirculatory hemodynamics of HbSS mice by preventing hypoxia-induced vasoconstriction and reduction of blood flow in arterioles <40µm (P=0.818, P<0.0001), arterioles >40 µm (P>0.9999, P<0.0001) and venules 20<x<60 µm (P=0.150, P=0.330) compared to HbAA mice. Furthermore, the functional capillary density saw favorable recovery to baseline when HbSS mice were treated with apoHb-Hp seeing a 36% drop initially, 50% drop after 24 hours, 35% drop after 48 hours, and 27% drop after 72 hours. For comparison, HbSS mice that didn't receive treatment saw a 50% drop initially, 77% drop after 24 hours, 80% drop after 48 hours, and 72% drop after 72 hours when compared to baseline. Conclusion: These results suggest a role for ApoHb-Hp complex in alleviating microvascular changes occurring during hypoxia mediated acute vaso-occlusion in SCD and merits further study for development as a potential therapeutic. Figure 1View largeDownload PPTFigure 1View largeDownload PPT Close modal

Correlation And Comparison Of Some Trace Elements And Their Related Proteins In Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus In Kalars City/ Kurdistan-Iraq.

The serum levels of trace elements alterations have been linked with Type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2 DM) and its complication. The Objectives of this study is to detect the correlation relation between serum Chromium, Magnesium (Mg), Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), and Iron (Fe) with Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) in patients with type two diabetes mellitus, also to study the comparison of Ferroxidase, Transferrin, and Total iron binding capacity in patients with type two diabetes mellitus with control groups. A total of forty subjects were included in this study, they were divided in two groups (control and diabetic patients). Fasting blood samples were taken from all participants and analyzed for levels of Cr, Mg, Zn, Cu, and Fe. The concentration of serum trace elements of each sample was determined by using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy. A negative correlation was found between Mg, Zn, and Fe level in Type-2 diabetics with FBS, whereas serum copper level shows significant positive correlation with FBS, and chromium shown no significant correlation with FBS. Ferroxidase, and Total binding capacity showed a significant increase, while a significant decrease was found in Transferrin of T2DM.

Candida albicans exhibit two classes of cell surface binding sites for serum albumin defined by their affinity, abundance and prospective role in interkingdom signalling.

Serum albumin binding to the yeast form of Candida albicans is described. Two populations of binding site are identified using two complementary spectroscopic techniques: an extrinsic fluorescent probe, 3-hexa-decanoyl-7-hydrocoumarin ([HEXCO) added to the C. albicans yeast cell surface that records the electrostatic surface potential and so responds to the surface binding of serum albumin and secondly a light scattering technique that reveals how albumin modulates aggregation of the yeast population. The albumin binding sites are found to possess different binding affinities and relative abundance leading to different total binding capacities. These are characterized as a receptor population with high affinity binding (Kd ~ 17 μM) but relatively low abundance and a separate population with high abundance but much lower affinity (Kd ~ 364 μM). The low-affinity binding sites are shown to be associated with the yeast cell aggregation. These values are found be dependent on the C. albicans strain and the nature of the culture media; some examples of these effects are explored. The possible physiological consequences of the presence of these sites are speculated in terms of evading the host’s immune response, biofilm formation and possible interkingdom signaling processes.

Development of bromide-selective Diffusive Gradients in Thin-Films for the measurement of average flow rate of streams

Diffusive Gradients in Thin-Films (DGT) have traditionally been used to measure time-weighted average concentration in water. We tested whether Br−-DGT in combination with the trace-dilution flow rate method, could be used as a new approach for measuring water flow rate. A novel bromide selective DGT based on the Purolite Bromide Plus anion exchange resin (Br−-DGT) was developed, which provided environmental bromide concentrations comparable to grab samples. The Br−-DGT provided quantitative bromide concentrations at a range of pH, competing ion concentrations, and in synthetic natural solution. The uptake efficiency was 95.7 ± 3.4%, and the elution efficiency was 95.5 ± 4.7%. The absorption maximum/saturation point of each binding disk was 0.684 ± 0.001 mg. Bromide adsorption to the binding layer was linear to 44.1% of the total binding capacity, 0.302 mg. The determined diffusion coefficient through the agarose cross-linked polyacrylamide (APA) hydrogels was 1.05 × 10−5 cm2 s−1 at 17.9 °C, temperature corrected to 25 °C was 1.29 × 10−5 cm2 s−1. DGT flow rates were between −14.7 and 6.50% of the flow independently monitored flow rate (weir). In comparison, grab sample flow rates diverged by 5.52 to 58.9% from the weir flow rate.

Pyometra-associated insulin resistance assessment by insulin binding assay and tyrosine kinase activity evaluation in canine muscle tissue

Diestrus is associated with insulin resistance in bitches and pyometra can further impair insulin sensitivity. This study aimed to compare insulin sensitivity, insulin binding, and tyrosine kinase activity in bitches in anestrus, diestrus, or with pyometra. Patients submitted to elective ovariohysterectomy were divided into anestrus (n = 11) or diestrus (n = 13) according to reproductive history, vaginal cytology, and uterine histology. The group pyometra (n = 8) included bitches diagnosed with the disease based on clinical presentation and abdominal ultrasound findings and further confirmed by uterine histopathology. All patients were submitted to an intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT) before ovariohysterectomy, and rectus abdominis muscle samples were collected during surgery for plasmatic membrane suspension preparation. Muscle-membranes were submitted to cold saturation insulin binding assay for dissociation constant (Kd) and maximum binding capacity (Bmax) determination, as well as exogenous substrate Poly (Glu: Tyr 4:1) phosphorylation assay for basal tyrosine kinase evaluation. Bitches with pyometra showed higher basal insulin (P < 0.001) and higher area under the curve (AUC) for insulin (P = 0.01) and glucose (P < 0.001) response during the IVGTT in comparison with bitches in anestrus or diestrus. Diestrus (P < 0.0001) and pyometra (P = 0.001) were associated with reduced tyrosine kinase activity in comparison with anestrus. No differences were documented in Kd and Bmax results for the low-affinity/high-capacity insulin receptors; however, high-affinity/low-capacity insulin receptors showed higher Kd and Bmax results in bitches in diestrus or with pyometra (P < 0.05) in comparison with anestrus. Despite the pyometra group showed the highest Kd values (P < 0.01), its Bmax results did not differ from the diestrus group (P > 0.05). Diestrus’ higher Kd values and reduced tyrosine kinase activity in muscle tissue were compensated by increased total insulin binding capacity. Absent differences in IVGTT results between diestrus and anestrus bitches corroborate this finding. However, in bitches with pyometra, the highest Kd values were not compensated by increased total insulin binding capacity. This finding was associated with insulin resistance and glucose intolerance in IVGTT results. Moreover, pyometra resolution restored insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance. These features can play a key role in pyometra-associated CDM, as well as in diabetic remission after pyometra resolution.

Tangential flow filtration of haptoglobin.

Haptoglobin (Hp) is a plasma glycoprotein that scavenges cell-free hemoglobin (Hb). Hp has various potential therapeutic applications, but it has been mainly studied for treatment of acute hemolytic conditions that can arise from situations such as massive blood transfusion, infusion of stored red blood cells, severe burns, trauma, sepsis, radiation injury, and others. Therefore, Hp may also be beneficial during chronic hemolytic disease states such as hereditary spherocytosis, nocturnal hemoglobinuria, sickle-cell anemia, and malaria. Various methods have been developed to purify Hp from plasma or plasma fractions. However, none of these methods have exploited the large molecular weight (MW) range distribution of Hp polymers to easily isolate Hp from other plasma proteins. The present study used tangential flow filtration (TFF) to isolate polymeric Hp from plasma proteins using human Fraction IV (FIV) as the starting material. After removal of insoluble material from a suspension of FIV paste, the protein mixture was clarified on a 0.2 μm hollow fiber (HF) TFF filter. The clarified protein solution was then bracketed based on protein MW using HF filters with MW cut-offs (MWCOs) of 750, 500, and 100 kDa. Using untreated FIV, the Hp purity of the main bracket was ~75% with a total Hb binding capacity (HbBC) yield of 1.2 g starting from 500 g of FIV paste. However, pretreatment of FIV with fumed silica to remove lipoproteins increased Hp purity to >95% with a HbBC yield of 1.7 g per 500 g of FIV. Taken together this study provides a novel and scalable method to purify Hp from plasma or plasma fractions.

SUN-221 Subclinical Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Is Associated with Increased Free Cortisol Fraction in Plasma and Altered Glucocorticoid Delivery to Tissues

BackgroundCorticosteroid Binding Globulin (CBG) binds >85% of plasma cortisol and controls the circulating free cortisol pool. Proteolytic cleavage by neutrophil elastase is proposed to reduce CBG binding affinity and increase free cortisol availability to inflamed tissues. The CORtisol NETwork (CORNET) consortium found that genetic variation at a locus spanning SERPINA1 (encoding alpha-1 antitrypsin, A1AT, the endogenous inhibitor of neutrophil elastase) and SERPINA6 (CBG) contributes to morning total plasma cortisol variation. We hypothesised that A1AT deficiency increases CBG cleavage and hence free plasma cortisol, resulting in increased tissue cortisol delivery in adipose and in HPA axis negative feedback. We tested this in recall-by-genotype studies of people who are heterozygous for inactivating mutations in SERPINA1.Methods16 healthy carriers of one of the two most common A1AT-deficiency single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs17580 & rs28929474) and 16 age-, gender- and BMI-matched controls were recruited from the Generation Scotland Biobank. Participants underwent combined receptor antagonist stimulation of the HPA axis (‘CRASH’) testing using RU486 400mg and spironolactone 200mg, or placebo in a double blind randomised crossover design. Plasma free cortisol was measured by isotopic dilution and ultrafiltration, total cortisol by LC-MS/MS, total CBG by ELISA, CBG binding capacity by radioligand displacement assay, and ACTH by immunoassay. Serum A1AT was measured by ELISA. Tissue cortisol (LC-MS/MS) and expression of glucocorticoid dependent transcripts (qPCR) were measured in subcutaneous adipose samples collected by needle biopsy.ResultsSerum A1AT was confirmed lower in those with heterozygous mutations vs wild type controls (411.3 +/- 27.44 vs 565.1 +/- 23.38 mg/dL, p=0.0002). No measurable differences in total CBG or CBG binding capacity were observed. However, plasma free cortisol fraction was higher in those carrying A1AT mutations (16.13 +/- 0.2 vs 13.88 +/- 0.04 %, p<0.0001). Adipose cortisol concentrations were not significantly different but expression of glucocorticoid responsive genes e.g. PER1 was 54% higher (p=0.014) in A1AT-deficient subjects. Plasma cortisol was elevated during CRASH testing in both groups, with the increment versus placebo tending to be lower in A1AT-deficient subjects (82.5 +/- 6.7 vs 126.7 +/- 6.8 nM).ConclusionAlpha-1 antitrypsin mutation heterozygosity, common in the general population, is associated with higher free cortisol fraction, consistent with enhanced cleavage of CBG. This is associated with evidence of enhanced delivery of glucocorticoid to adipose tissues but reduced HPA negative feedback, suggesting tissue-specific control of cortisol delivery by CBG.

Saccharomyces cerevisiae Cell Wall Isolates are Potential Inhibitors of Bacterial Growth

Saccharomyces cerevisiae cell wall components are thought to bind and help pass pathogenic bacteria, such as E. coli, through the intestines 1. The binding between bacteria and S. cerevisiae is thought to occur between type‐1 mannose specific fimbriae, a common feature of pathogenic bacteria, and the mannoproteins that comprise 30–50% of the cell wall of S. cerevisiae by weight 2, 3, 4. With the fimbriae bound to mannoproteins, bacteria are unable to adhere to the walls of the intestine and thus, no colonization occurs. This interaction provides a potential antibiotic free method to prevent E. coli infection. The goals of this project are two‐fold. First, to develop a cell wall harvesting procedure and characterize the cell wall fractions. Second, to evaluate the binding interaction of S. cerevisiae with E. coli and its effect on E. coli proliferation. A cell wall isolation procedure has been optimized using temperature induced autolysis of a cell culture at 50 °C and pH 5.0 for 24 hours followed by purification washes with salt solutions. Cell wall fractions have been characterized using the Bradford assay, Coomassie stained SDS gels, and Western blot analysis employing the lectin Concanavalin A antibody to detect mannose. The cell wall fractions have been found to contain high levels of mannoproteins. An in‐vitro binding assay, adapted from Ganner et al. 2013, has been employed to evaluate the interaction between the cell wall fractions and E. coli. Cell wall coated microplate wells display a faster progression to log phase than controls due to the cell wall‐fimbriae binding interaction increasing retention of initial colony forming units. In‐vivo, a stronger binding interaction would inhibit bacterial infection by disrupting initial attachment of E. coli to the intestinal lining. Work is currently being performed to better understand factors influencing the binding mechanism as previous studies have indicated an unclear connection between total mannoprotein content and binding capacity. 2Support or Funding InformationSJFC Internal funds

Simultaneous supplementation with iron and folic acid can affect Slc11a2 and Slc46a1 transcription and metabolite concentrations in rats.

The present study aimed at analysing how dietary folic acid (FA) and Fe deficiency, followed by supplementation with these nutrients, affects the expression of folate and Fe transporters in the duodenum, as well as FA and Fe status. After a deficiency period, Wistar rats were randomised to a group fed with a diet deficient in FA and supplemented with Fe (DFE), a diet deficient in Fe and supplemented with FA, a diet supplemented with Fe and FA (FEFOL), a diet deficient in Fe and FA (D) or a control diet (C). Tissue collection was performed after 2, 10 or 21 d of these diets. Group D had higher Slc11a2 mRNA levels than the DFE group at every time point and there were differences in mRNA levels of Slc46a1 between the DFE and the FEFOL groups at the third time point, but we observed no differences in protein levels between the groups. The DFE and D groups not only had lower serum folate concentrations at every time point but also had the highest homocysteine concentrations. Total Fe binding capacity concentrations were the lowest in the DFE group at the first time point and in the DFE and the FEFOL groups at the final time point. Simultaneous supplementation with FA and Fe resulted in significantly higher Hb concentrations than did supplementation with these nutrients alone. Our findings indicate that dietary FA and Fe deficiency, and subsequent supplementation with these nutrients, affects transcription but not the protein levels of FA and Fe transporters in the duodenum.

Influence of activator composition on the chloride binding capacity of alkali-activated slag

In this work, the mechanisms of chloride binding in alkali-activated slag (AAS) pastes are studied, towards a better understanding of the role of activator composition (i.e., NaOH, Na2CO3, Na2SO4, KOH, and K2CO3 solutions) on its chloride binding capacity. The impact of chloride on the mineralogical and compositional alteration of AAS is investigated by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), and thermodynamic modeling. The results show that hardened AAS paste has an approximately 70%–150% stronger chloride binding capacity than ordinary portland cement (OPC) pastes in a 1.0 M NaCl environment, depending on the activator type. The AFm-type and hydrotalcite-type phases in hardened AAS pastes contribute to about 40%–70% of the total chloride binding capacity. The type of preoccupied anions in the AFm-type phases (e.g., OH−, CO32−, SO42−) affects the polymorphs of Friedel's salts formed in AAS. The sulfate-activated slag has a slightly higher chloride binding capacity than hydroxide- and carbonate-counterparts likely due to the transformation of existing ettringite to Friedel's salts.

Control of antibody high and low molecular weight species by depth filtration-based cell culture harvesting.

Depth filtration-based harvesting is widely used in mAb manufacturing to remove cell and process-related impurities. However, it has not been studied on control of product-related impurities, which are very critical for product quality. In this article, we studied the interactions of depth filter with high and low molecular weight species (HMWs and LMWs) for their direct removal from cell culture. The process parameters (filter, loading, temperature, and flux) were evaluated for adsorption of HMWs and LMWs by depth filters. The adsorption is significantly dependent on filter media and loading capacity and is mainly on the basis of hydrophobic interaction during harvesting. The HMW and LMW species were characterized as HMW1, HMW2, LMW1, and LMW2. The increasing binding from LMW2 to LMW1, HMW1, and HMW2 is correlated with their increasing hydrophobicity score. Adsorption using enriched HMW sample demonstrated similar total protein binding capacity (36-40 g/m2 ) between depth filters D0HC and X0HC. However, X0HC has stronger HMW binding than D0HC (71% vs 43% of bound protein), indicating more hydrophobic interaction in X0HC. HMW2 DBC on X0HC reached 12 g/m2 , similar to protein binding on hydrophobic interaction membrane adsorbers. Further study showed LMW can induce HMW formation. This study provides a critical understanding of HMW and LMW interaction with depth filters. The strategy of HMW and LMW control by depth filtration-based harvesting was implemented successfully in mAb manufacturing.

ХАРАКТЕРИСТИКА СВОБОДНОРАДИКАЛЬНОГО ОКИСЛЕНИЯ ЛИПИДОВ И ЕГО СВЯЗЬ С ОБМЕНОМ ЖЕЛЕЗА ПРИ ТЕРАПИИ ЭКСПЕРИМЕНТАЛЬНОГО ГЕПАТИТА

The purpose of the work is to study the processes of free radical lipid peroxidation, antioxidant system activity and their connection with the iron metabolism in white rats with experimental hepatitis, and after the use of hepatoprotectors. Materials and Methods. Studies were conducted on white Wistar rats: body weight – 180–200 g, age – 3 months. “Berlition” and “Legalon M” were administered intramuscularly, 0.2 ml per animal once a day (30 days). The authors registered the content of malonic dialdehyde (MDA), diene conjugates, catalase activity, serum iron level, total and unsaturated iron binding capacity. Results. In experimental animals, the level of diene conjugates increased 1.8 times if compared with healthy ones. After the administration of “Legalon M” and “Berlition”, the concentration of diene conjugates decreased by 58.6 % (by half) compared with the experimental animals. It was established that the malondialdehyde content significantly increased in all tissues. After the administration of “Legalon M” and “Berlition”, the malondialdehyde content decreased in the liver, lungs and muscle tissues. In the tissues of the intestine and in the blood serum, MDA level resolved to that of healthy animals. In experimental animals, catalase activity increased significantly if compared with healthy ones. After “Legalon M” and “Berlition” administration there was a decrease in enzyme activity in all body tissues. In animals with experimental hepatitis, there was a failure of iron metabolism in the body. The authors observed activation of iron metabolism in the body after drug administration to rats with experimental hepatitis. Conclusions. “Ligalon M” and “Berlition” have an antioxidant effect and stimulate iron metabolism. Keywords: hepatitis, antioxidants, free radicals, malonic dialdehyde, catalase, diene conjugates, iron metabolism, transferrin, lipids.

Chemiluminescence detection with microfluidics for innovative in situ measurement of unbound cobalt ions in dynamic equilibrium with bound ions in binding study with polyethyleneimine and its functionalized nanoparticles

This work reports a novel method for in situ measurement of binding of cobalt ions to polyethyleneimine (PEI) and polyethyleneimine-functionalized poly (methyl methacrylate) nanoparticles (PEI-NPs) using simple microfluidics with a chemiluminescence detection system. The catalytic effect of free cobalt ion in solution on the luminol-hydrogen peroxide chemiluminescence was employed for the detection of unbound cobalt in dynamic equilibrium with cobalt bound to PEI or PEI-NPs. Many binding measurements lead to incorrect estimation of free metal ions due to insufficient separation of bound and free ions. The catalytic activity of only unbound cobalt ion on the luminol reaction was demonstrated by observing that PEI and PEI-NPs alone did not give chemiluminescence. Also, both Co-PEI and Co-PEI-NPs complexes gave no chemiluminescence when cobalt ion is fully bound with excess PEI or PEI-NPs. In addition diethylenetriamine (dien) as a model ligand to completely bind the cobalt ions was also employed as further confirmation. The chemiluminescence measurement employing microfluidics was then successfully applied for the measurement of binding cobalt ion to PEI and PEI-NPs. This in situ measurement of binding does not require filtration of the two species. As there is no perturbation of equilibrium, an accurate binding measurement can therefore be successfully performed. Experimental parameters, such as concentrations of polymers and cobalt ions, and equilibration time were investigated. Analysis of the experimental data employed the binding equation derived assuming independent and equivalent binding sites of the polymer for the metal ions. Also the binding constant of cobalt ions with PEI-NPs is first reported employing chemiluminescence detection. This work provides quantitative determination of the binding constant and total binding capacity of PEI and PEI-NPs with cobalt ions using chemiluminescence detection and microfluidics as an innovative in situ measurement of the unbound cobalt ions.

Evaluation of Jeffamine® Core PAMAM Dendrimers for Simultaneous Removal of Divalent Heavy Metal Ions from Aqueous Solutions by Polymer Assisted Ultrafiltration

Different generations (G3-G4) of amine-terminated Jeffamine® T-403 core poly(amidoamine) PAMAM dendrimers (JCPDs) were used as new macromolecular heavy metal chelating agent templates in polymer assisted ultrafiltration (PAUF) for the investigation of their removal ability for some of the divalent metal ions: Cu, Co, Ni, Cd, and Zn from aqueous solutions under competitive conditions. The effects of pH and generation size of JCPDs were also investigated. Extent of binding (EOB) data can be appropriately expressed by a tetradentate coordination for JCPDs at pH 9 where the maximum removal of metal ions was observed. At pH 9.0, the affinity of both generations towards heavy metal ions was also observed in the decreasing order of Zn(II) > Co(II) > Ni(II) > Cu(II) > Cd(II). Results revealed that the highest total binding capacity was observed for G3-NH2 (262.79 ± 1.62 mg/g) as a little bit higher than that of G4-NH2 (257.27 ± 2.57 mg/g). EOB studies also proved the active contribution of amide groups to metal binding ability of PAMAMs. Both generations were selective towards Cu(II) ions at lower pH 5 and pH 7. From these results, it was concluded that studied JCPDs have the desired technical properties to be used for the removal of toxic metals from wastewaters.

The effects of ferrous sulfate as an iron supplement on ejection fraction in patients with iron deficiency anemia associated with decompensated heart failure

Background: Acute decompensated heart failure (HF) is a clinical syndrome that results when abnormalities in the structure and function of the myocardium impair cardiac output or decrease filling of the ventricles. Anemia is a common comorbidity in patients with chronic HF (CHF), is associated with increased disease severity, and may contribute to a worse the outcome. Aim of the Study: To study the relationship between iron level and left ventricular function (LVF) in patients having acute decompensated HF and the effects of iron supplement on this function. Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the medical wards of Baghdad Teaching Hospital at different times during the period between October 1, 2016, and May 1, 2017. It included 60 patients diagnosed with CHF (9 patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction [EF] and 51 patients with HF with reduced EF) and admitted to the medical wards due to acute decompensation. For all patients, history, cardiological examination, New York Heart Association classification, electrocardiogram, and chest X-ray were done. Body mass index was measured. Standard echocardiography was performed. Hematological parameters were measured including hemoglobin (Hb), mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular Hb (MCH), MCH concentration, blood film, serum iron, erythrocyte count, total iron-binding capacity, and transferrin saturation. Results: Serum iron was significantly lower in patients with impaired EF with median serum iron 41 versus 94 mcg/dL in preserved EF (72.5% vs. 0%). Transferrin saturation was statistically and significantly lower in patients with EF <50% (39.2% of the patients with impaired EF had low transferrin saturation [P < 0.001] compared to 0% in patients with preserved EF). EF had inverse significant correlation with total binding capacity of iron (r = −0.585, P < 0.001). Iron supplements as ferrous sulfate have a highly significant effect (P < 0.001) on improving the LVF and EF, iron level and transferrin saturation in patients with decompensated HF with low EF. Conclusions: Most HF patients with low EF in this study had reduced iron level and transferrin saturation comparing to those with preserved EF. Iron supplement in a patient with low EF preserved the EF in them. Anemia still is founded in patients of HF with acceptable EF in the presence of normal iron status, and this is explained by other causes rather than iron deficiency.