Selective concentration of iron, titanium, and zirconium substrate minerals within Gregory's diverticulum, an organ unique to derived sand dollars (Echinoidea: Scutelliformes).

Gregory's diverticulum, a digestive tract structure unique to a derived group of sand dollars (Echinoidea: Scutelliformes), is filled with sand grains obtained from the substrate the animals inhabit. The simple methods of shining a bright light through a specimen or testing response to a magnet can reveal the presence of a mineral-filled diverticulum. Heavy minerals with a specific gravity of >2.9 g/cm3 are selectively concentrated inside the organ, usually at concentrations one order of magnitude, or more, greater than found in the substrate. Analyses of diverticulum content for thirteen species from nine genera, using optical mineralogy, powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, as well as micro-computed tomography shows the preference for selection of five major heavy minerals: magnetite (Fe3O4), hematite (Fe2O3), ilmenite (FeTiO3), rutile (TiO2), and zircon (ZrSiO4). Minor amounts of heavy or marginally heavy amphibole, pyroxene and garnet mineral grains may also be incorporated. In general, the animals exhibit a preference for mineral grains with a specific gravity of >4.0 g/cm3, although the choice is opportunistic and the actual mix of mineral species depends on the mineral composition of the substrate. The animals also select for grain size, with mineral grains generally in the range of 50 to 150 µm, and do not appear to alter this preference during ontogeny. A comparison of analytical methods demonstrates that X-ray attenuation measured using micro-computed tomography is a reliable non-destructive method for heavy mineral quantification when supported by associated analyses of mineral grains extracted destructively from specimens or from substrate collected together with the specimens. Commonalities in the electro-chemical surface properties of the ingested minerals suggest that such characteristics play an important role in the selection process.

Physicochemical and antioxidant properties of Apis cerana honey from Lombok and Bali Islands.

Limited honey production worldwide leads to higher market prices, thus making it prone to adulteration. Therefore, regular physicochemical analysis is imperative for ensuring authenticity and safety. This study describes the physicochemical and antioxidant properties of Apis cerana honey sourced from the islands of Lombok and Bali, showing their unique regional traits. A comparative analysis was conducted on honey samples from Lombok and Bali as well as honey variety from Malaysia. Moisture content was found slightly above 20% in raw honey samples from Lombok and Bali, adhering to the national standard (SNI 8664:2018) of not exceeding 22%. Both honey types displayed pH values within the acceptable range (3.40-6.10), ensuring favorable conditions for long-term storage. However, Lombok honey exhibited higher free acidity (78.5±2.14 meq/kg) than Bali honey (76.0±1.14 meq/kg), surpassing Codex Alimentarius recommendations (≤50 meq/kg). The ash content, reflective of inorganic mineral composition, was notably lower in Lombok (0.21±0.02 g/100) and Bali honey (0.14±0.01 g/100) compared to Tualang honey (1.3±0.02 g/100). Electric conductivity, indicative of mineral content, revealed Lombok and Bali honey with lower but comparable values than Tualang honey. Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) concentrations in Lombok (14.4±0.11 mg/kg) and Bali (17.6±0.25 mg/kg) were slightly elevated compared to Tualang honey (6.4±0.11 mg/kg), suggesting potential processing-related changes. Sugar analysis revealed Lombok honey with the highest sucrose content (2.39±0.01g/100g) and Bali honey with the highest total sugar content (75.21±0.11 g/100g). Both honeys exhibited lower glucose than fructose content, aligning with Codex Alimentarius guidelines. The phenolic content, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity were significantly higher in Lombok and Bali honey compared to Tualang honey, suggesting potential health benefits. Further analysis by LC-MS/MS-QTOF targeted analysis identified various flavonoids/flavanols and polyphenolic/phenolic acid compounds in Lombok and Bali honey. The study marks the importance of characterizing the unique composition of honey from different regions, ensuring quality and authenticity in the honey industry.

Radioprotection issues in uraniferous minerals collections with reference to an actual case.

Our work investigated the radioprotection implications associated with the possession of a collection of uraniferous minerals. Considering different scenarios, we developed (and applied to an actual collection) specific formulas for radiation doses evaluation. We discussed the shielding necessary to reduce the gamma irradiation down to the required values. A mathematical model was developed to estimate the minimum air flow rate to reduce the radon air concentration below the reference values. The radiation risks associated to the handling of single specimens was also addressed, including hand skin irradiation and shielding capabilities of surgical lead gloves. Finally, we discussed the radiation risks associated to the exhibition of a single specimen. The results, compared to the safety standards of the EU Directive 13/59, show that the exhibition of uraniferous samples with activity of a few MBq do not need specific radioprotection requirements nor for the involved personnel nor for visitors.

Exploring the dietary and therapeutic potential of licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.) sprouts.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: This research substantiates the traditional use of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. for liver health, with scientific evidence of the non-toxic and lipid-lowering properties of licorice sprout extracts. The sprouts' rich mineral and amino acid content, along with their strong antioxidant activity, reinforce their value in traditional medicine. These findings bridge ancient herbal practices with modern science, highlighting licorice's potential in contemporary therapeutic applications. AIM OF THE STUDY: The study aimed to investigate the dietary and medicinal potential of G. uralensis sprouts by assessing their safety, nutritional content, and antioxidant properties using both plant and animal models. Specifically, the study sought to determine the effects of different sizes of licorice sprouts on lipid metabolism in human liver cancer cells and their overall impact on rat health indicators. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study examined the effects of aqueous and organic extracts from G. uralensis sprouts of varying lengths on the cytotoxicity, lipid metabolism, and antioxidant activity in HepG2 cells, alongside in vivo impacts on Sprague-Dawley rats, using MTT, ICP, and HPLC. It aimed to assess the potential health benefits of licorice sprouts by analyzing their protective effects against oxidative stress and their nutritional content. RESULTS: Licorice sprout extracts from G. uralensis demonstrated no cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells, significantly reduced lipid levels, and enhanced antioxidant activities, with the longest sprouts (7 cm) showing higher mineral, sugar, and arginine content as well as increased glycyrrhizin and liquiritigenin. In vivo studies with Sprague-Dawley rats revealed weight gain and improved antioxidant enzyme activities in blood plasma and liver tissues after consuming the extracts, highlighting the sprouts' dietary and therapeutic potential. CONCLUSIONS: This study is the first to demonstrate that G. uralensis sprouts, particularly those 7 cm in length, have no cytotoxic effects, reduce lipids, and have high mineral and antioxidant contents, offering promising dietary and therapeutic benefits.

Hydrogeochemical characteristics, stable isotopes, positive matrix factorization, source apportionment, and health risk of high fluoride groundwater in semiarid region.

Chronic exposure to high fluoride (F-) levels in groundwater causes community fluorosis and non-carcinogenic health concerns in local people. This study described occurrence, dental fluorosis, and origin of high F-groundwater using δ2H and δ18O isotopes at semiarid Gilgit, Pakistan. Therefore, groundwater (n = 85) was collected and analyzed for F- concentrations using ion-chromatography. The lowest F- concentration was 0.4 mg/L and the highest 6.8 mg/L. F- enrichment is linked with higher pH, NaHCO3, NaCl, δ18O, Na+, HCO3-, and depleted Ca+2 aquifers. The depleted δ2H and δ18O values indicated precipitation and higher values represented the evaporation effect. Thermodynamic considerations of fluorite minerals showed undersaturation, revealing that other F-bearing minerals viz. biotite and muscovite were essential in F- enrichment in groundwater. Positive matrix factorization (PMF) and principal component analysis multilinear regression (PCAMLR) models were used to determine four-factor solutions for groundwater contamination. The PMF model results were accurate and reliable compared with those of the PCAMLR model, which compiled the overlapping results. Therefore, 28.3% exceeded the WHO permissible limit of 1.5 mg/L F-. Photomicrographs of granite rocks showed enriched F-bearing minerals that trigger F- in groundwater. The community fluorosis index values were recorded at > 0.6, revealing community fluorosis and unsuitability of groundwater for drinking.

Elevated levels of environmental radioactivity in fluvial sediment: origin and health risk assessment.

To study the geogenic processes of naturally occurring radioactive materials' (NORMs') distribution, a transboundary Himalayan river (Punarbhaba) is chosen due to its trivial anthropogenic impacts. In explaining the genesis of radionuclides, transition elements (Sc, Ti, V, and Fe), rare-earth-elements (REEs: La, Eu, Ce, Yb, Sm, and Lu), Ta, Hf, Th, and U were analysed in 30 riverbed sediments collected from the Bangladeshi portion of the river. Elemental abundances and NORMs' activity were measured by neutron activation analysis and HPGe-gamma-spectrometry, respectively. Averagen=30 radioactivity concentrations of 226Ra (68.4 Bq kg-1), 232Th (85.7 Bq kg-1), and 40K (918 Bq kg-1) were 2.0-2.3-fold higher, which show elevated results compared to the corresponding world mean values. Additionally, mean-REE abundances were 1.02-1.38-times higher than those of crustal origin. Elevated (relative to earth-crust) ratios of Th/U (=3.95 ± 1.84) and 232Th/40K and statistical demonstrations invoke Th-dominant heavy minerals, indicating the role of kaolinite clay mineral abundance/granitic presence. However, Th/Yb, La/V, Hf/Sc, and Th/Sc ratios reveal the presence of felsic abundances, hydrodynamic sorting, and recycling of sedimentary minerals. Geo-environmental indices demonstrated the enrichment of chemical elements in heavy minerals, whereas radiological indices presented ionizing radiation concerns, e.g., the average absorbed-gamma-dose rate (123.1 nGy h-1) was 2.24-fold higher compared to the threshold value which might cause chronic health impacts depending on the degree of exposure. The mean excess lifetime cancer risk value for carcinogen exposure was 5.29 × 10-4 S v-1, which is ∼2-times greater than the suggested threshold. Therefore, plausible extraction of heavy minerals and using residues as building materials can alleviate the two-reconciling problems: (1) radiological risk management and (2) fluvial navigability.

Tradeoffs between pH, dissolved organic carbon, and mineral ions regulate cadmium uptake by Solanum hyperaccumulators in calcareous soil.

Soil solution pH and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) influence cadmium (Cd) uptake by hyperaccumulators but their tradeoff in calcareous soils is unclear. This study investigated the mechanisms of Solanum nigrum L. and Solanum alatum Moench in calcareous soil using a combination of concentration gradient experiments (0.6-100 mg Cd kg-1) and soil solution composition analysis. The results showed that the soil solution pH of S. nigrum remained stable despite Cd stress. On average, the soil solution pH of S. alatum was 0.23 units higher than that of S. nigrum, although pH decreased significantly under high Cd stress. In addition, the concentrations of potassium (K) and calcium (Ca) in the soil solution of S. nigrum increased and decreased under low and high levels of Cd stress, respectively. In S. alatum, the K and Ca concentrations in the soil solution generally increased with increasing Cd stress levels. Moreover, the level of DOC in the soil solution of both plants was higher under Cd stress compared to the control, and a gradually increasing trend with Cd stress level was observed in S. alatum. Consequently, the bioconcentration factors of the roots (2.62-19.35) and shoots (1.20-9.59) of both plants were >1, while the translocation factors were <1, showing an obstacle of Solanum hyperaccumulators in transferring Cd into their aboveground parts. Redundancy analysis revealed that the Cd concentration in S. nigrum roots was significantly negatively correlated with the soil solutions of K and Ca. In contrast, Cd concentrations in S. alatum roots and shoots were significantly positively correlated with soil solution DOC, K, and Ca but negatively correlated with pH. Our results suggest that calcareous soil neutralizes the acidity of released protons but does not affect cation exchange, inhibiting DOC in assisting the translocation of Cd within plants.

Environmental and mineralogical studies on the stream sediments of Baltim-El Burullus coastal plain, North Delta, Egypt.

This work is mainly concerned with the effect of anthropogenic activities and natural radioactivity due to the presence of highly radioactive black sand spots, factory construction, and shipping, in addition to other activities like agriculture on human beings. Forty samples were collected along Baltim-El Burullus coastal plain to detect the effect of these problems and determine the suggested solutions. The black sand of the Baltim-El Burullus coastal plain exhibits a considerable amount of economically heavy minerals, their ratio relative to the bulk composition in the investigated samples ranges from 3.18 to 10.5% with an average of 5.45%. The most important of them are magnetite, ilmenite, rutile, leucoxene, garnet, zircon and monazite. The existence of some radioactive-bearing accessory mineral deposits like zircon and monazite led to measuring the naturally occurring radionuclides 226Ra, 232Th and 40K to evaluate the excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR). The results showed that these concentrations are 19.1 ± 9.73, 14.7 ± 9.53 and 211 ± 71.34 Bq kg-1 were lower than the corresponding reported worldwide average of 35, 45, and 412 Bq kg-1 for each radionuclide (226Ra, 232Th, and 40 K). The gamma hazard indices such as absorbed dose rate (Dair), the annual effective dose (AED), and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) factor were computed in the investigated sediments and all the results were found (Dair = 26.4 nGy h-1, AED = 0.03 mSv year-1, ELCR = 0.0001) to be lower than the values suggested by the United Nations Scientific Committee on the effect of Atomic Research (59 nGy h-1, 0.07 mSv year-1 and 0.0029 for Dair, AED and ELCR, respectively). The study suggests that the black sand is safe to use in various infrastructure applications at Baltim-El Burullus coastal plain. The levels of radioactivity are not high enough to pose a risk to human health.

Biochemical Profiling and Physicochemical and Biological Valorization of Iraqi Honey: A Comprehensive Analysis.

Our study aimed to analyze five monovarietal honeys from the Salah Eddine region in Iraq, focusing on physicochemical, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties and polyphenolic compounds. Our objective was to evaluate the strengths and qualities of Iraqi honeys, ensuring compliance with the Codex Alimentarius standard for honey. The spectrophotometric analysis included assessments of reduced sugar (75.8-77.7%), fructose-to-glucose ratio (0.7-0.9%), sucrose (2.2-2.9%), HMF (17.23-18.87 mg/kg), and melanoidin content (0.25-0.44), which were all determined. The electrical conductivity (0.39-0.46 mS/cm) using a conductivity meter, pH (4.02-4.31), and mineral composition were determined in all samples using atomic absorption spectrometry. Antioxidant activities were spectrophotometrically determined, through DPPH free radical scavenging (7.87-95.62 mg/mL), as was the total antioxidant activity (14.26-22.15 mg AAE/g), with correlations established with biochemical constituents such as the total phenol content, highlighting the significant presence of Coumaric acid (0.38-2.34 µg/mL), Catechin (1.80-2.68 µg/mL), and Quercetin (0.30 µg/mL) using HPLC. The study also observed notable antimicrobial activities using Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans on Mueller-Hinton agar as well as through diffusion technique. In conclusion, our findings, including the antioxidant and antimicrobial strengths, underscore the substantial potential of Iraqi honeys in mitigating damage and preventing the onset of various diseases, affirming their good quality and adherence to international honey standards.

Ripening stage impacts nutritional components, antiglycemic potential, digestibility and antioxidant properties of grumixama (Eugenia brasiliensis Lam.) fruit.

This study aimed to determine the nutritional components (macronutrients ans minerals) and α-amylase inhibition capacity of freeze-dried grumixama (Eugenia brasiliensis Lam) seeds (S) and pulp/peel (P) portions, at ripe and mid-ripe stages. In vitro digestion was also performed on S and P from grumixama to assess the bioaccessibility of total phenolic compound (TPC), flavonoids (TFC), and anthocyanins (TAC), as well as to examine their impact on antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP). The ripening process impacts the bioactive compounds and individual phenolics of S and P portions. The ripe S was source of myricetin and exhibited higher antioxidant activity, while mid-ripe S was high in flavonoids and cinnamic acid with higher antiglycemic potential. Ripe P showed higher soluble fiber, carbohydrate, TAC, and caffeic acid content, whereas mid-ripe P had increased mineral content (calcium, potassium, manganese), catechin, and TPC. After in vitro digestion, the P portion showed a bioaccessibility of total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) exceeding 40% at intestinal phase. In contrast, the S portions had better release of TPC and TFC and antioxidant activity at gastric phase. Considering the outstanding nutritional and biological properties of grumixama fruit, freeze-dried S and P portions from both ripening stages possess could be explored as valuable sources of nutrients and antioxidant compounds.

Relationship between prepregnancy BMI and the concentrations of iron, calcium, and magnesium in serum and hair during the first trimester of pregnancy in women.

BACKGROUND: In women of childbearing age, a low dietary supply of iron, calcium, and magnesium is often observed. Minerals deficiency in pregnant women is often associated with abnormal body weight and may impact fetal development disorders. The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) and the dietary intake of iron, calcium and magnesium and their concentrations in serum and hair in pregnant women. METHOD: The study involved 97 Caucasian/white low-risk pregnant women at 12 weeks of gestation. The analysis of minerals in serum and hair samples was performed using atomic absorption spectrometry. Pre-pregnancy BMI was calculated based on self-reported weight. The study used a validated questionnaire and a 24-h recall nutrition interview, which were analyzed using Aliant software. RESULTS: It was found that overweight and obese women exhibited higher magnesium concentration in serum, while iron content in serum and hair was markedly lower compared to women with normal body weight. The average total supply of iron was below the recommendation in pregnant women. Moreover, an inverse significant relationship was observed between BMI and iron concentration in hair and serum in the whole population. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, being overweight or obese before pregnancy is associated with low dietary iron intake and low iron concentration in serum and hair during the first trimester of pregnancy in women.

Lead, Cadmium, and Arsenic in Raw Milk Produced in the Vicinity of a Mini Mineral Concentrator in the Central Andes and Health Risk.

The bovine milk quality, safety, and security are of great concern mainly due to the dispersion of toxic substances from various anthropogenic activities and poor practices for organophosphates in agriculture use. This study evaluated the potential risk to human health from lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and arsenic (As) from the consumption of milk produced in an area of the Central Andes valley near a mini mineral concentrator by estimating the weekly intake (WI), dietary risk quotient (DRC), hazard quotient (THQ), and hazard index (HI) for the Peruvian population aged 2 to 85 years, in three scenarios of milk consumption by age (minimum, average, and maximum). Toxic element quantification was performed by flame atomic absorption spectrometry following standardized procedures. The mean amount ± standard deviation of Pb, Cd, and As in soils was 292±60.90, 3.54±1.58, and 5.60±2.20 mg/kg, the order of importance being Pb>As>Cd. The contents of Pb, Cd, and As in pastures were 23.17±10.02, 0.25±0.57, and 0.06±0.09 mg/kg, being from highest to lowest Pb>Cd>As. The means of Pb, Cd, and As content in 19 milk samples were 0.029±0.022, 0.007±0.006, and 0.010±0.004 mg/kg. Pb and Cd exceeded the maximum permissible limits (MPL), and the As was below the MPL. At all ages and milk consumption levels, the WI for Pb and Cd were below the estimated tolerable intake (TWI). The WI for As in < 19 years was higher than the TWI. The DRC for Pb and Cd at all three milk intake levels and all ages was < 1, and for As, it was > 1 in < 19 years, being the risk group. The TQH and HI for Pb and Cd were also > 1, signifying no health risk, and for As, the values were > 1 in < 11 years. Our results are valuable for preventing adverse health impacts from safe and innocuous milk consumption.

Influence of pre-treatment methods on quality indicators and mineral composition of plant milk from different sources of raw materials.

BACKGROUND: Pre-treatment of plant materials is essential in producing plant-based products and can affect their various organoleptic and physicochemical characteristics. This work aimed to study the effect of pre-treatment of vegetable raw materials, namely ultrasonic processing and freezing of raw materials under various low-temperature conditions, to obtain multiple types of vegetable milk and determine their characteristics. RESULTS: It is shown that by applying a certain kind of pre-treatment of vegetable raw materials it is possible to adjust organoleptic parameters and the content of solids, protein, fat, carbohydrates, fiber and mineral composition of various types of vegetable milk from soy, rice, oats, wheat, peas, buckwheat, pumpkin seeds and lentils. Ultrasound pre-treatment allows increasing of polyphenol content by an average of 15-20% for all types of plant milk, except for lentil milk. The results showed that ultrasound treatment for 3 min had the most significant effect on the overall acceptability for lentils, pumpkin, rice and pea milk. Pre-freezing at a temperature regime of -17 and -85 °C contributed to an increase in Fe, K, Zn, Ca, Mg, Si and P by an average of 30-100%, depending on the plant material. CONCLUSION: Pre-treatment of vegetable raw materials, including freezing and ultrasonic treatment, can positively affect the macro- and micronutrient composition of plant milk. However, the effect may vary depending on the type of raw material and processing conditions. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Groundwater for drinking and industrial purposes: A study of water stability and human health risk assessment from black sand mineral rich coastal region of Kerala, India.

Tempero-spatial analysis of groundwater to disseminate the level of drinking water quality and industrial suitability to meet the developmental requirement of a region is a significant area of research. Accordingly, groundwater quality and geochemical interactions prevailed in a black sand mineral rich coastal village is systematically presented in appraisal of drinking and industrial uses for economic engineering purposes. The study area focused is Alappad village, Kollam, Kerala, India has numerous ecological features in a sustainable perspective. The region is unique with placer deposits where an alluvial soil aquifer-saline water-freshwater interaction occurs. This dynamics decides the pertinent hydro geochemistry, potable and designated uses of ground water in season wise. Coastal area is hereby presented based on water quality parameters predicted with the health risk assessment model with a view on human health and cancer risk due to ions (Pb, Ni, Cu, Ba, Fe, Al, Mn, Zn) in groundwater.. To ascertain industrial usage, ground water is evaluated by Langelier saturation index (LSI), Ryznar stability index (RSI), Aggressive index (AI), Larson-Skold index (LS) and Puckorius scaling index (PSI) and inferences are complemented. Chemical weathering and evaporation processes are the natural factors controlling hydrochemistry of this aquifer. This complex coastal system has Nemerow pollution index (NPI) of moderate pollution for total dissolved ions of Fe and lesser for Cu, and Cr present in groundwater. LSI indicates, water is scale forming but non corrosive (46% in PRM, 20% in MON and 47% in POM). Water quality index (WQI) in POM (ranged 28.7-79.9) was excellent for drinking, followed by PRM (23.6-218.2) and MON (33.4-202.7) seasons. This groundwater bears temporary hardness with the dominance of Ca-Mg-HCO3 water type. Health risk assessment of non-carcinogenic risk index of trace metals (Fe, Zn, Mn, and Pb) revealed, children are at 'low risk' and 'medium' risk with Ni and Cu. The carcinogenic risk index indicated 93% of samples were high Ni induced cancer risk for children, and 87% for adults due to long term ingestion (drinking water intake) pathway. Studies specific on placer mineral deposited coastal region of India are not sufficiently reported with a focus on the above perspectives. Growing need of rare earths for material, device and energy applications, placer mineral explorations can destabilise the coastal hydrosphere. Interrelations of mineral soil - water chemistry prevailed and health hazard predicted would kindle a set of sustainable deliberations. This study summarises the drinking and industrial use of coastal groundwater for future development and human well-being on the basis of quality criteria, corrosion proneness, water stability and health risk factors.

Variation in antioxidant capacity, antioxidant activity and mineral composition during flower development of oil-bearing rose (Rosa damascena Mill.).

Oil-bearing rose is an economically important rose species with a wide range of uses such as cosmetics, perfumery, food and health, but the changes in antioxidant capacity and antioxidant activity during flower development are not well understood. The antioxidant content and free radical scavenging properties of oil-bearing rose flowers are used in the cosmetic industry to modulate skin damage, and in the food industry as a source of antioxidants and sweeteners. The present investigation was carried out to explore the antioxidant capacity, antioxidant enzyme activity, and the composition and distribution of minerals in petals of oil-bearing rose at five flower development stages. The total antioxidant capacity of petals was determined using CUPRAC, DPPH, FRAP, FIC and ABTS methods. The antioxidant capacity of petals decreased during the flower development, suggesting that flowers in stage I and II are valuable sources of antioxidants. CUPRAC, DPPH, FRAP, FIC and ABTS scavenging activity of the petals at various developmental stages are strongly and positively correlated with each other. The activity of the antioxidant enzymes; superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, ascorbate peroxidase was highest at the bud stage (stage I), whereas the fully opened flowers (stage V) exhibited the lowest activity in oil-bearing rose petals. During the development of flower, malondialdehyde (MDA) content increased significantly from stage I to stage III and decreased at stage IV. Here we detected the contents of 15 elements in petals, some of them, especially calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus showed significant changes during rose flowering. Generally, the highest mineral content was observed in stage I while the lowest content observed in stage V of flower development. These results showed a close link between flower development, antioxidant capacity, enzymatic antioxidant activity and mineral content, with stage I exhibiting the best antioxidant activity, mineral content and free radical scavenging potential. This work will serve as a baseline for understanding the possible roles of antioxidant capacity, antioxidant enzymes, mineral content and their interactions in the regulation of flower development.

An arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus differentially regulates root traits and cadmium uptake in two maize varieties.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are symbiotic fungi that colonize plant roots, and they are more common in Cd-polluted habitats. However, there is limited understanding of the response of root traits and cadmium (Cd) uptake to AMF in different crop varieties. Two maize varieties, Panyu 3 and Ludan 8, with high and low Cd uptake capacities, respectively, were cultivated as host plants in a pot experiment with Cd-polluted soil (17.1 mg/kg Cd). The effects of AMF on the growth, mineral nutrient concentration, root traits, phytohormone concentrations and Cd uptake of the two maize varieties and their comprehensive response to AMF fungal inoculation were investigated. AMF improved growth, mineral nutrient levels and root morphology and increased lignin and phytohormone concentrations in roots and Cd uptake in the two maize varieties. However, the two maize varieties, Panyu 3 and Ludan 8, had different responses to AMF, and their comprehensive response indices were 753.6% and 389.4%, respectively. The root biomass, branch number, abscisic acid concentrations, lignin concentrations and Cd uptake of maize Panyu 3 increased by 151.1%, 28.6%, 139.7%, 99.5% and 84.7%, respectively. The root biomass, average diameter, auxin concentration, lignin concentration and Cd uptake of maize Ludan 8 increased by 168.7%, 31.8%, 31.4%, 41.7% and 136.7%, respectively. Moreover, Cd uptake in roots presented very significant positive correlations with the average root diameter and abscisic acid concentration. A structural equation model indicated that the root abscisic acid concentration and root surface area had positive effects on Cd uptake by the Panyu 3 maize roots; the root abscisic acid concentration and root tip number had positive effects on Cd uptake by the Ludan 8 maize roots. Thus, AMF differentially regulated Cd uptake in the two maize varieties, and the regulatory effect was closely related to root traits and phytohormone concentrations.

Authigenic mineral phases as a driver of the upper-ocean iron cycle.

Iron is important in regulating the ocean carbon cycle1. Although several dissolved and particulate species participate in oceanic iron cycling, current understanding emphasizes the importance of complexation by organic ligands in stabilizing oceanic dissolved iron concentrations2-6. However, it is difficult to reconcile this view of ligands as a primary control on dissolved iron cycling with the observed size partitioning of dissolved iron species, inefficient dissolved iron regeneration at depth or the potential importance of authigenic iron phases in particulate iron observational datasets7-12. Here we present a new dissolved iron, ligand and particulate iron seasonal dataset from the Bermuda Atlantic Time-series Study (BATS) region. We find that upper-ocean dissolved iron dynamics were decoupled from those of ligands, which necessitates a process by which dissolved iron escapes ligand stabilization to generate a reservoir of authigenic iron particles that settle to depth. When this 'colloidal shunt' mechanism was implemented in a global-scale biogeochemical model, it reproduced both seasonal iron-cycle dynamics observations and independent global datasets when previous models failed13-15. Overall, we argue that the turnover of authigenic particulate iron phases must be considered alongside biological activity and ligands in controlling ocean-dissolved iron distributions and the coupling between dissolved and particulate iron pools.

Medical application of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) for assessment of trace element and mineral in biosamples: Laboratory and clinical validity of the method.

BACKGROUND: Biomedical application is based on the use of LIBS-derived data on chemical contents of tissues in diagnosis of diseases, forensic investigation, as well as a mechanism for providing online feedback for laser surgery. Although LIBS has certain advantages, the issue of correlation of LIBS-derived data on chemical element content in different human and animal tissues with other methods, and especially ICP-MS, remains pertinent. The objective of the present review was to discuss the application of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) for elemental analysis of human biosamples or tissues from experimental models of human diseases. METHODS: A systematic search in the PubMed-Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases using the terms laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, LIBS, metals, trace elements, minerals, and names of particular chemical elements was performed up through 25 February, 2023. Of all extracted studies only those dealing with human subjects, human tissues, in vivo animal and in vitro cell line models of human diseases were reviewed in detail. RESULTS: The majority of studies revealed a wide number of metals and metalloids in solid tissues including teeth (As, Ag, Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mg, Ni, P, Pb, Sn, Sr, Ti, and Zn), bones (Al, Ba, Ca, Cd, Cr, K, Mg, Na, Pb, Sr), and nails (Al, As, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Na, P, Pb, Si, Sr, Ti, Zn). At the same time, LIBS was also used for estimation of trace element and mineral content in hair (Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Na, Zn), blood (Al, Ca, Co, Cd, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Si, Sn, Zn), cancer tissues (Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, K, Na, Zn) and other tissues. Single studies revealed satisfactory correspondence between quantitative LIBS and ICP-OES/MS data on the level of As (81-93 %), Pb (94-98 %), Cd (50-94 %) in teeth, Cu (97-105 %), Fe (117 %), Zn (88-117 %) in hair, Ca (97-99 %), Zn (90-95 %), and Pb (61-82 %) in kidney stones. LIBS also estimated specific patterns of trace element and mineral content associated with multiple pathologies, including caries, cancer, skin disorders, and other systemic diseases including diabetes mellitus type 2, osteoporosis, hypothyroidism, etc. Data obtained from in situ tissue LIBS analysis were profitably used for discrimination between tissue types. CONCLUSIONS: Taken together, the existing data demonstrate the applicability of LIBS for medical studies, although further increase in its sensitivity, calibration range, cross-validation, and quality control is required.

Thymus satureioides Coss.: Mineral Composition, Nutritional Value, Phytochemical Profiling, and Dermatological Properties.

Zaitra, Thymus satureioides, is an aromatic plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine. In this study, we assessed the mineral composition, nutritional value, phytocontents, and dermatological properties of the aerial parts of T. satureioides. The plant contained high contents of calcium and iron, moderate levels of magnesium, manganese, and zinc, and low contents of total nitrogen, total phosphorus, total potassium, and copper. It is rich in several amino acids, including asparagine, 4-hydroxyproline, isoleucine, and leucine, and the essential amino acids account for 60.8%. The extract contains considerable amounts of polyphenols and flavonoids (TPC = 118.17 mg GAE/g extract and TFC = 32.32 mg quercetin/g extract). It also comprises 46 secondary metabolites, identified through LC-MS/MS analysis, belonging to phenolic acids, chalcones, and flavonoids. The extract elicited pronounced antioxidant activities, inhibited the growth of P. aeruginosa (MIC = 50 mg/mL), and reduced biofilm formation by up to 35.13% using the » sub-MIC of 12.5 mg/mL. Moreover, bacterial extracellular proteins and exopolysaccharides were diminished by 46.15% and 69.04%, respectively. Likewise, the swimming of the bacterium was impaired (56.94% decrease) in the presence of the extract. In silico, skin permeability and sensitization effects revealed that out of the 46 identified compounds, 33 were predicted to be exempt from any skin sensitivity risk (Human Sensitizer Score ≤ 0.5), while extensive skin permeabilities were observed (Log Kp = -3.35--11.98 cm/s). This study provides scientific evidence about the pronounced activities of T. satureioides, supports its traditional uses, and promotes its utilization in the development of new drugs, food supplements, and dermatological agents.

The Effect of Mineral Fertilization on the Content of Bioactive Compounds in Hemp Seeds and Oil.

The popularity of hemp cultivation for industrial purposes has been steadily growing for many years. With the addition of products derived from these plants to the Novel Food Catalogue, maintained by the European Commission, a significant increase in interest in hemp food is also expected. The aim of the study was to determine the characteristics of hempseed, oil, and oil cake samples produced from experimental plots grown in different conditions. The research was conducted on the Henola variety, one of the newest and most popular varieties of hemp, recently bred for grain and oil. The content of bioactive compounds in grain and oil has been subjected to detailed chemical analyses in order to determine the effect of fertilization, the method of plant cultivation, and processing conditions on their quantity. The test results and the statistical analysis carried out showed a significant impact of the tested factors on the content of some of the tested bioactive compounds. The obtained results will help in the development of an effective method of cultivation for this hemp variety in order to maximize the content of the desired bioactive compounds per unit of cultivation area.