Investigation of the interface of fungal mycelium composite building materials by means of low-vacuum scanning electron microscopy

Low-vacuum scanning electron microscopy (low-vacuum SEM) is widely used for different applications, such as the investigation of noncoated specimen or the observation of biological materials, which are not stable to high vacuum. In this study, the combination of mineral building materials (concrete or clay plaster) with a biological composite (fungal mycelium composite) by using low-vacuum SEM was investigated. Fungal biotechnology is increasingly gaining prominence in addressing the challenges of sustainability transformation. The construction industry is one of the biggest contributors to the climate crises and, therefore, can highly profit from applications based on regenerative fungal materials. In this work, a fungal mycelium composite is used as alternative to conventional insulating materials like Styrofoam. However, to adapt bio-based products to the construction industry, investigations, optimisations and adaptations to existing solutions are needed. This paper examines the compatibility between fungal mycelium materials with mineral-based materials to demonstrate basic feasibility. For this purpose, fresh and hardened concrete specimens as well as clay plaster samples are combined with growing mycelium from the tinder fungus Fomes fomentarius. The contact zone between the mycelium composite and the mineral building materials is examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The combination of these materials proves to be feasible in general. The use of hardened concrete or clay with living mycelium composite appears to be the favoured variant, as the hyphae can grow into the surface of the building material and thus a layered structure with a stable connection is formed. In order to work with the combination of low-density organic materials and higher-density inorganic materials simultaneously, low-vacuum SEM offers a suitable method to deliver results with reduced effort in preparation while maintaining high capture and magnification quality. Not only are image recordings possible with SE and BSE, but EDX measurements can also be carried out quickly without the influence of a coating. Depending on the signal used, as well as the magnification, image-recording strategies must be adapted. Especially when using SE, an image-integration method was used to reduce the build-up of point charges from the electron beam, which damages the mycelial hyphae. Additionally using different signals during image capture is recommended to confirm acquired information, avoiding misinterpretations.

Genetic analysis of milk minerals in dairy cattle: a review

Mineral composition in milk can affect its nutritional as well as physio-chemical properties of milk and is considered an important trait in the evaluation of milk quality. The composition and concentration of milk minerals could be altered with natural source of variation including nutrition and genetics. The effect of diet on milk minerals is well studied. However, genetic effects on the milk minerals have recently gained the attention. This review provides an overview of the genetic variation of milk minerals, and the genomic regions associated with mineral concentration in the milk are also discussed. The difference of milk minerals between breeds and the genetic parameters including heritability estimates and correlation among minerals indicates that milk minerals are under strong genetic control. Recently, the genome-wide association study (GWAS) has explored several regions associated with milk minerals and thus provides a new genetic source for improving the milk quality through genomics-assisted breeding. Hence, a combination of the qualitative and molecular approaches can be exploited to improving the nutritional quality of cattle milk in terms of its mineral composition.

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.

Origin and modern microbial ecology of secondary mineral deposits in Lehman Caves, Great Basin National Park, NV, USA

Lehman Caves is an extensively decorated high desert cave that represents one of the main tourist attractions in Great Basin National Park, Nevada. Although traditionally considered a water table cave, recent studies identified abundant speleogenetic features consistent with a hypogenic and, potentially, sulfuric acid origin. Here, we characterized white mineral deposits in the Gypsum Annex (GA) passage to determine whether these secondary deposits represent biogenic minerals formed during sulfuric acid corrosion and explored microbial communities associated with these and other mineral deposits throughout the cave. Powder X-ray diffraction (pXRD), scanning electron microscopy with electron dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and electron microprobe analyses (EPMA) showed that, while most white mineral deposits from the GA contain gypsum, they also contain abundant calcite, silica, and other phases. Gypsum and carbonate-associated sulfate isotopic values of these deposits are variable, with δ34SV-CDT between +9.7‰ and +26.1‰, and do not reflect depleted values typically associated with replacement gypsum formed during sulfuric acid speleogenesis. Petrographic observations show that the sulfates likely co-precipitated with carbonate and SiO2 phases. Taken together, these data suggest that the deposits resulted from later-stage meteoric events and not during an initial episode of sulfuric acid speleogenesis. Most sedimentary and mineral deposits in Lehman Caves have very low microbial biomass, with the exception of select areas along the main tour route that have been impacted by tourist traffic. High-throughput 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing showed that microbial communities in GA sediments are distinct from those in other parts of the cave. The microbial communities that inhabit these oligotrophic secondary mineral deposits include OTUs related to known ammonia-oxidizing Nitrosococcales and Thaumarchaeota, as well as common soil taxa such as Acidobacteriota and Proteobacteria. This study reveals microbial and mineralogical diversity in a previously understudied cave and expands our understanding of the geomicrobiology of desert hypogene cave systems.

Biominerals and Bioinspired Materials in Biosensing: Recent Advancements and Applications

Inspired by nature's remarkable ability to form intricate minerals, researchers have unlocked transformative strategies for creating next-generation biosensors with exceptional sensitivity, selectivity, and biocompatibility. By mimicking how organisms orchestrate mineral growth, biomimetic and bioinspired materials are significantly impacting biosensor design. Engineered bioinspired materials offer distinct advantages over their natural counterparts, boasting superior tunability, precise controllability, and the ability to integrate specific functionalities for enhanced sensing capabilities. This remarkable versatility enables the construction of various biosensing platforms, including optical sensors, electrochemical sensors, magnetic biosensors, and nucleic acid detection platforms, for diverse applications. Additionally, bioinspired materials facilitate the development of smartphone-assisted biosensing platforms, offering user-friendly and portable diagnostic tools for point-of-care applications. This review comprehensively explores the utilization of naturally occurring and engineered biominerals and materials for diverse biosensing applications. We highlight the fabrication and design strategies that tailor their functionalities to address specific biosensing needs. This in-depth exploration underscores the transformative potential of biominerals and materials in revolutionizing biosensing, paving the way for advancements in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and other critical fields.

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.

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.

Mineral patterns in hair: A decisive factor between reproducible and repeat breeder dairy cows

Reproduction, especially impregnation, is a critical aspect of dairy cow management that directly influences herd milk productivity. We conducted a noninvasive hair mineral assay to compare the mineral profiles of two dairy cow groups: reproducible and repeat breeder, by investigating the levels of 11 essential minerals (Ca, Mg, Na, K, Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, Cr, Se, and P) and 6 toxic elements (Hg, Pb, Cd, Al, As, and Ni) in both groups. We also conducted principal component and correlation matrix analyses to compare hair mineral patterns between the groups. Compared to their reproducible counterparts, repeat breeder cows had lower levels of Na, K, and Se. However, Fe, Cd, Al, and As levels were higher in repeat breeders than in their reproducible counterparts. The correlation matrix showed notable correlation patterns for each group. Ca, K, and Na levels were positively correlated in reproducible cows, whereas repeat breeder cows showed positive correlations only between Ca and K levels. Se showed positive correlations with Zn only in the reproducible cow group. Negative correlations were not found in the reproducible group, whereas the repeat breeder group exhibited 7 negative correlations. Despite the limitations of hair mineral analysis, this study provided useful insights into the reproductive potential of dairy cows. These findings aid in easing the prediction of repeat breeder occurrences in herds and are expected to facilitate timely mineral supplementation and other interventions to improve overall herd reproduction in dairy farms.

Multi-year in situ hydrogeochemical monitoring of hard rock lithium mine tailings in a large-scale experimental pile

Spodumene, a lithian mineral found in granitic pegmatites, is a major source of lithium. In situ, multi-year and large-scale (>10s of tons) predictive hydrogeochemical studies can be of great value for informing mine waste rock and tailings management, not least because the material is exposed to the actual climate where it is meant to be stored. However, such studies are rare given their cost and size, and previous ones have focused mainly on sulfide-bearing materials. An experimental field cell filled with spodumene beneficiation tailings was built at the Whabouchi lithium mine site in northern Québec (Canada) and monitored during four consecutive years. In parallel, column laboratory kinetic testing on the same material was conducted for water quality parameters to compare the effect of testing scales on the geochemical behavior. Geochemical results and release rates were overall similar between laboratory and field, and consistent with previously published laboratory results for materials from the same site. The leachates were neutral to slightly alkaline, with ions from feldspars (Ca > Na > K) and residual spodumene (Li) being notable solutes. Concentrations for most solutes surveyed remained higher in the field after four years than in columns at the end of the experiment. One major difference between laboratory and field was a brief (less than 2 years) increase in iron concentrations from the field cell, resulting in Fe-oxyhydroxides precipitation, that was not observed in laboratory. The source of this iron is arguably residual ferrosilicon (used for dense medium separation) and this difference is attributed to the different testing conditions and configurations in the laboratory versus in situ. Field hydrogeological results highlight strong seasonal patterns and the rapid response of this sand-like, sulfide-poor material to ambient temperature changes and wetting-drying events. The tailings both wet and drain rapidly and easily given their water retention curve and the range of matrix suctions recorded during frost-free months. Net infiltration through the tailings was estimated to represent 55% of total precipitation in summer (June-October) 2021. This study provides a comprehensive assessment of the environmental behavior of hard rock lithium mine tailings under real, sub-arctic climatic conditions and outlines similarities and differences between laboratory- and field-generated geochemical results.

Accurate assessment of macronutrients and micro-elements of ten newly developed green gram (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek) cultivars grown in Uttar Pradesh, India

BACKGROUND

Green gram is a rich source of protein, carbohydrates, dietary fibre, and minerals. However, accurate data on the nutritional composition of green gram remains scarce since most researchers reported the carbohydrate content using the 'by difference method'. The objective of the current study is to accurately estimate the nutritional and mineral composition of green gram (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek).

RESULTS

Ten newly developed varieties and three local varieties of green gram were subjected to proximate and mineral composition analysis. The green gram varieties differed significantly (P < 0.05) for proximate and mineral content. From the results, they contain 62.5 to 84.6 g/kg of moisture, 28.3-37.4 g/kg of ash, 21.9-3.08 g/kg of fat, 484.6-535.7 g/kg of carbohydrate, 228.7-277.6 g/kg of protein, and 118.3-157.9 g/kg of dietary fibre. The most abundant mineral found was phosphorus, ranging 2716.66-4473.49 mg/kg followed by 3183.31-3597.61 mg/kg of potassium, 1506.51-1713.93 mg/kg of magnesium, 166.38-340.62 mg/kg of calcium, 40.16-348.79 mg/kg of iron, 27.60-34.35 mg/kg of zinc, 5.95-12.86 mg/kg of copper and 8.65-19.47 mg/kg of manganese.

CONCLUSION

The newly developed varieties of green gram showed high protein and dietary fibre content, while the local varieties were high in calcium and iron. Hence, both types of varieties are nutritionally significant. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Tracking the Variations in Trace Elements, Some Nutrients, Phenolics, and Anthocyanins in Grewia asiatica L. (Phalsa) at Different Fruit Development Stages

Grewia asiatica L. (phalsa) is a very prevalent berry in Pakistan and is consumed extensively as raw or in the form of juice. Here, for the first time, we assessed phalsa from Pakistan in terms of variations in macro and micro minerals, nutrients, and bio-active phyto-constituents including total phenolic and anthocyanin contents at different fruit developmental stages. It was found that the sugars in phalsa increased from D1 (small at the initial fruit setting stage) to D6 development stage (fully ripened fruit) where sugars at D5 (near to fully ripe) and D6 stages were many times greater than at D1, D2 (unripe close to full-size completion), D3 (close to semi ripe), and D4 stage (semi ripened and full-size attainment). Total acidity of was declined in all developmental stages, where the D1 stage displayed maximum and D6 with the lowest acidity. Ascorbic acid was decreased from D1 to D2 and then increased gradually from D3 to D5 stages. At the D6 stage, again a steep decline in ascorbic acid was observed. The total phenolics (mg gallic acid equivalents/100g) at stage D6 were higher (136.02 ± 1.17), whereas D1 being the lowermost in total phenolic content (79.89 ± 1.72). For anthocyanins (mg/100g), an increasing pattern of changes was observed in all stages of phalsa fruit where the D1 stage showed lower (13.97 ± 4.84) anthocyanin contents which then increased gradually at stage D2 (67.79 ± 6.73), but increased sharply at D3 (199.66 ± 4.90), D4 (211.02 ± 18.85), D5 (328.41 ±14.96) and D6 (532.30 ± 8.51) stages. A total of four anthocyanins such as cyanidin, delphidine-3-glucoside, pelargonidin, and malvidin in phalsa were identified using HPLC procedures, and a significant > 90 % DPPH inhibition in phalsa was observed at the D5 and D6 development stages. The macro and micro minerals including Ni, Zn, Fe, Ca, Cu, Mg, Na, P, and K contents were decreased from initial (D1) stage to the final (D6) development stage, while only Fe displayed an increasing trend from the initial to final fruit development stages (D1-D6). Conclusively, these findings could be of great interest for patients who are intended to consume phalsa as adjuvant therapy against diabetes and metabolic syndromes and other diseases involving reactive oxygen species with minimum metal toxicity.

Evaluation of the effects of canning variables on the mineral composition of canned cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata l. Walp) using multi-response analysis

This study aims to investigate the effects of canning variables (cooking time, storage time, volume of vinegar, salt and sugar) on the mineral composition of canned cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) and which conditions provide optimised preservation of the mineral content of the grains. Different formulations of canned cowpeas were produced following two levels factorial experimental design using five variables. A set of 11 different formulations were evaluated using the desirability function with essential minerals (Ca, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mg, P and Zn) as the response. The optimal multi-response conditions for higher mineral retention were: 360 days of storage at 30 ± 5 °C (ST2), 30 ml of vinegar, 9.0 g of NaCl, 18 min of cooking time, and 9.0 g, 19.5 g or 30 g of sugar (the effect of the sugar content at the evaluated range was not significant at 95% confidence level).

Use of Hydrogen-Rich water in rice milk preparation improves the nutritional and sensory properties of product

The effect of using hydrogen-rich water (HRW) in the preparation of rice milk on the nutritional and sensorial properties was evaluated. The physicochemical parameters (pH, Eh7, titratable acidity), sensory properties (color), and minerals (ICP-MS), as well as amino acid (UPLC-ESI-MS/MS), sugar (HPLC-RID), and aroma (SPME-GC/MS) profiles, of four varieties of rice and their milk and waste were examined using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Results showed that the profile of minerals, sugars, amino acids, and aroma was affected by the use of HRW. HRW-treated milk showed an increase in some essential minerals (Na, Mg, K, Ca, and Se) in some rice varieties. While HRW application enhanced the levels of desirable aroma compounds in milk but not the undesirable ones. This use of HRW allowed to increase in some essential amino acids (Ile, Leu, and Met) in HRW-treated rice milk samples.

Geochemical, mineralogical records, and statistical approaches in establishing sedimentary in the environment of a Mediterranean coastal system: case of Sebkha El-Guettiate (southeastern Tunisia)

The current study was conducted within the context of the Holocene era in Sebkha El-Guettiate, located in southeastern Tunisia. The aim was to determine the factors influencing the geochemical and mineralogical composition of sediments and to elucidate the sedimentary characteristics of the Holocene within the Sebkha core. We examined a sediment core extending 100 cm from this Sebkha, subjecting it to comprehensive analysis to uncover its sedimentological, mineralogical, and geochemical properties. Several techniques were employed to strengthen and validate the connections between geochemical and mineralogical analyses, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and infrared (IR) spectroscopy, among others. Furthermore, statistical analyses utilizing principal component analysis (PCA) were applied to the results of the geochemical and mineralogical studies, aiding in the identification of patterns and relationships. A comprehensive mineralogical assessment of the core's sediments revealed the presence and interpretation of carbonate minerals, evaporite minerals, and detrital minerals. Through the application of infrared (IR) spectrometer techniques to all sediment samples, we gained insight into the mineralogical components and the distribution of key elements such as quartz, kaolinite, calcite, feldspar, and organic carbon. The geochemical composition demonstrated a clear dominance of silica (SiO2), accompanied by fluctuations in carbonate percentages (CaCO3). The prominent major elements, primarily magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca) originating from dolomitization, sodium (Na) and chlorine (Cl) from halite, and calcium (Ca) from gypsum, exhibited varying levels. Results from Rock-Eval 6 pyrolysis indicated that the organic matter within the sediments is generally a mixture of terrestrial and aquatic origins. This study provides practical information that underscores the diverse origins contributing to Sebkha sediment formation, often influenced by saline systems.

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.

Gastric coagulation and postprandial amino acid absorption of milk is affected by mineral composition: a randomized crossover trial

Background: In vitro studies suggest that casein coagulation of milk is influenced by its mineral composition, and may therefore affect the dynamics of protein digestion, gastric emptying and appearance of amino acids (AA) in the blood, but this remains to be confirmed in vivo. Objective: This study aimed to compare gastrointestinal digestion between two milks with the same total calcium content but different casein mineralization (CM). Design: Fifteen males (age 30.9 ± 13.8 years, BMI 22.5 ± 2.2 kg m-2) participated in this randomized cross-over study with two treatments. Participants underwent gastric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans at the baseline and every 10 min up to 90 min after consumption of 600 ml milk with low or high CM. Blood samples were taken at the baseline and up to 5 hours postprandially. Primary outcomes were postprandial plasma AA concentrations and gastric emptying rate. Secondary outcomes were postprandial glucose and insulin levels, gastric coagulation as estimated by image texture metrics, and appetite ratings. Results: Gastric content volume over time was similar for both treatments. However, gastric content image analysis suggested that the liquid fraction emptied quicker in the high CM milk, while the coagulum emptied slower. Relative to high CM, low CM showed earlier appearance of AAs that are more dominant in casein, such as proline (MD 4.18 μmol L-1, 95% CI [2.38-5.98], p < 0.001), while there was no difference in appearance of AAs that are more dominant in whey protein, such as leucine. The image texture metrics homogeneity and busyness differed significantly between treatments (MD 0.007, 95% CI [0.001, 0.012], p = 0.022; MD 0.005, 95% CI [0.001, 0.010], p = 0.012) likely because of a reduced coagulation in the low CM milk. Conclusions: Mineral composition of milk can influence postprandial serum AA kinetics, likely due to differences in coagulation dynamics. The clinical trial registry number is NL8959 (https://clinicaltrials.gov).

Nutritional Composition and Antinutritional Factors of Five Wild Edible Fruits Grown in the Mekdela District, South of Wollo, Ethiopia

This study was carried out to determine the mineral content and nutritional properties of five wild fruits Rhus vulgaris, Rosa abyssinica, Rhus natalensis, Euclea racemosa, and Ficus sur. The proximate composition parameters (moisture, ash, crude fiber, crude fat, and crude protein) and antinutritional factors were evaluated using methods of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists and elemental analysis using the atomic absorption spectroscopy technique. Among the five wild edible fruit species, Rhus vulgaris had the highest carbohydrate content (83.3 ± 0.28 g/100 g) and a high total energy (344.5 ± 2.21 kcal/100 g). Euclea racemosa was found to have the maximum ash content (12.8 ± 0.37 g/100 g), protein content (3.22 ± 0.01 g/100 g), and moisture (16.24 ± 0.003 g/100 g), respectively. Rhus natalensis showed the highest fiber content (9.54 ± 0.003 g/100 g). Mineral analysis showed that local wild fruits contained a considerable amount of minerals. The calcium concentration ranged from 99.51 mg/100 g in Euclea racemosa to 160.12 mg/100 g in Ficus sur. Potassium concentration varied from 54.34 mg/100 g in Euclea racemosa to 234 mg/100 g in Rhus vulgaris. Iron ranges from 21.4 mg/100 g in Rosa abyssinica to 41 mg/100 g in Rhus natalensis, and zinc ranges from 2.3 mg/100 g in Rhus vulgaris to 4.2 mg/100 g in Ficus sur. A high saponin content (2.12 mg/100 g) and a low tannin content (0.23 mg/100 g) were obtained in Rosa abyssinica. The phytate content (1.52 mg/100 g) and the oxalate content (0.9 mg/100 g) were high in Rhus natalensis. In conclusion, the present study shows that wild fruits can be used as food supplementation in food in a safe area.

Blood and hoof biodistibution of some trace element (Lithium, Copper, Zinc, Strontium and, Lead) in horse from two different areas of Sicily

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Biological monitoring of trace element horses is a well-known tool for investigating potential bioaccumulation in urbanized and industrialized geographical areas. Some biomaterials such as hoof are considered as an important indicator of environmental pollution. Hooves can store trace elements for a long time compared to blood and this represents a scientific key to long-term monitoring of exposure to environmental pollutants. In the present study, samples of equine hoof and blood were taken from an experimental group of horses living in an industrialized area of Sicily (Italy) and from a control group of horses housed in a non-industrialized area of Sicily to evaluate the bioaccumulation of different trace elements in different substrates.

METHODS

Hoof and blood mineral concentration of Li- Lithium, Cu- Copper, Zn- Zinc, Sr- Strontium and, Pb- Lead was processed by means of Thermo Scientific iCAP-Q ICP-MS spectrometer. Student T-test was applied to evaluate the differences between groups and substrates. Correlation analysis between substrates and hematological parameters was performed.

RESULTS

Statistical analysis showed a significant statistical difference for Li (p < 0.0001) and Pb (p < 0.0001) between blood and hoof in both groups. A statistically significant difference was observed for Li (p < 0.0001), Cu(p < 0.01), Zn (p < 0.0001) and Pb (p < 0.0001) between substrates in the experimental group. The statistical analysis showed a significant difference of blood Zn (p < 0.01) and hoof Pb (p < 0.01) concentration between groups. Our results revealed a statistically higher concentration of minerals in the blood substrate than in the hoof in both groups. Li (p < 0.0001) and Zn (p < 0.001) were positively correlated between control and experimental group in blood substrate. No correlations were found (P > .05) in hoof between groups for other elements. A positive correlation with WBC was observed in Cu concentration for hoof substrate (p < 0.02) in control group and for Zn in experimental group (p < 0.02). A positive correlation with HGB and HCT was observed for Cu hoof concentration (p < 0.02) in experimental group and PLT resulted positively correlated (p < 0.02) with Pb blood substrate in control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Horses were not overexposed to these elements in the analyzed groups. The study highlights the role of a new bioaccumulation substrate such as the horse hoof identified as an analytical matrix for the monitoring of heavy metal concentrations in domestic animals.

Development of biomarkers to distinguish different origins of red seabreams (Pagrus major) from Korea and Japan by fatty acid, amino acid, and mineral profiling

Red seabream (Pagrus major) has been one of the most popular fish in East Asia since early times. However, the discharge of nuclear wastewater into the sea following the Fukushima nuclear disaster in Japan has led to violations of the country of origin labeling. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to determine the origin of fish based on fatty acid, amino acid, and mineral analyses, and to develop biomarkers that can discriminate between Japanese and Korean red seabream. To identify the differences between the two groups, 29 fatty acid families, 17 amino acids, and 4 minerals were analyzed in 60 fish samples (standard sample collected in autumn), and fatty acid profiles were analyzed using heatmap with hierarchical clustering analysis and orthogonal projections to latent structures discriminant analysis. The top 10 fatty acids that were different between the two groups were selected from all seasonal fish samples by combining variable importance in projection scores and p-values. According to the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis results, we proposed percentage linoleic acid (C18:2n-6, cis) as a candidate biomarker with excellent sensitivity and specificity. This study introduces a strategy to identify the origins of red seabream using linoleic acid obtained from fatty acid analysis.

Co-occurrence of arsenic and fluoride in groundwater of Guide basin in China: Genesis, mobility and enrichment mechanism

Endemic arsenic poisoning and fluorosis caused by primary high arsenic (As) and high fluoride (F-) groundwater have become one of the most serious environmental geological problems faced by the international society. High As and high F- groundwater exists in Neogene confined aquifers in Guide basin, with concentrations of 355 μg/L and 5.67 mg/L, respectively, and showing a co-occurrence phenomenon of As and F- in the groundwater. This poses a double threat to the health of tens of thousands of local residents. In this study, based on the systematic collection of groundwater and borehole sediment samples, analysis of hydrochemistry and isotope indexes, combined with laboratory tests, purpose of this study is to reveal the migration rule and co-enrichment mechanism of As and F- in aquifers, and finally establish a hydrogeochemical conceptual model of the enrichment process of As and F-. The main conclusions are as follows: hydrochemical type of unconfined and confined groundwater in Guide basin is Ca-Na-HCO3 and Na-Cl-HCO3 type, respectively. Main minerals in sediments are quartz and plagioclase. Concentrations of As and F- are lower in unconfined groundwater, but higher in confined groundwater, and which show a gradual increasing trend along the groundwater flow path. The mineralization of natural organic matter in confined aquifer causes iron and manganese oxide minerals containing As to dissolve gradually, which leads to the gradual release of As into groundwater. Large amount of HCO3- produced by mineralization of organic matter precipitate with Ca2+ in groundwater, resulting in reduction of Ca2+ content, promoting the dissolution of fluoride-containing minerals such as fluorite (CaF2), and continuously releasing F- into groundwater. Meanwhile, competitive adsorption reactions in confined aquifers causes more As and F- to be released from mineral surface into groundwater, which gradually migrate and accumulate along groundwater flow. Finally, it is established that a conceptual model for the formation of high As and F- groundwater in the confined aquifer of Guide basin. The research results not only help to improve our understanding of the formation and evolution of groundwater with high As and F- with similar geological background, but also provide scientific basis for rational development and utilization of groundwater, and prevention and control of chronic As and F- poisoning in local and similar areas.

Identifying urban emission sources and their contribution to the oxidative potential of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in Kuwait

In this study, we investigated the seasonal variations, chemical composition, sources, and oxidative potential of ambient PM2.5 (particles with a diameter of less than 2.5 μm) in Kuwait City. The sampling campaign was conducted within the premises of Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research from June 2022 to May 2023, covering different seasons throughout the year. The personal cascade impactor sampler (PCIS) operated at flow rate of 9 L/min was employed to collect weekly PM2.5 samples on PTFE and quarts filters. These collected samples were analyzed for carbonaceous species (i.e., elemental and organic carbon), metals and transition elements, inorganic ions, and DTT (dithiothreitol) redox activity. Furthermore, principal component analysis (PCA) and multi-linear regression (MLR) were used to identify the predominant emission sources and their percentage contribution to the redox activity of PM2.5 in Kuwait. The results of this study highlighted that the annual-averaged ambient PM2.5 mass concentrations in Kuwait (59.9 μg/m3) substantially exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline of 10 μg/m3. Additionally, the summer season displayed the highest PM2.5 mass concentration (75.2 μg/m3) compared to other seasons, primarily due to frequent dust events exacerbated by high-speed winds. The PCA identified four primary PM2.5 sources: mineral dust, fossil fuel combustion, road traffic, and secondary aerosols. The mineral dust was found to be the predominant source, contributing 36.1% to the PM2.5 mass, followed by fossil fuel combustion and traffic emissions with contributions of 23.7% and 20.3%, respectively. The findings of MLR revealed that road traffic was the most significant contributor to PM2.5 oxidative potential, accounting for 47% of the total DTT activity. In conclusion, this comprehensive investigation provides essential insights into the sources and health implications of PM2.5 in Kuwait, underscoring the critical need for effective air quality management strategies to mitigate the impacts of particulate pollution in the region.

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.

Metabolomics analysis of the yolk of Zhijin white goose during the embryogenesis based on LC-MS/MS

The egg yolk of the goose is rich in lipids, proteins and minerals, which is the main source of nutrition during the goose embryogenesis. Actually, the magnitude and variety of nutrients in yolk are dynamically changed to satisfy the nutritional requirements of different growth and development periods. The yolk sac membrane (YSM) plays a role in metabolizing and absorbing nutrients from the yolk, which are then consumed by the embryo or extra-fetal tissues. Therefore, identification of metabolites in egg yolk can help to reveal nutrient requirement in goose embryo. In this research, to explore the metabolite changes in egg yolk at embryonic day (E) 7, E12, E18, E23, and E28, we performed the assay using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). The findings showed that E7 and E12, E23 and E28 were grouped together, while E18 was significantly separated from other groups, indicating the changes of egg yolk development and metabolism. In total, 1472 metabolites were identified in the egg yolk of Zhijin white goose, and 636 differential metabolites (DMs) were screened, among which 264 were upregulated and 372 were downregulated. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis showed that the DMs were enriched in the biosynthesis and metabolism of amino acids, digestion and absorption of protein, citrate cycle (TCA cycle), aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, phosphotransferase system (PTS), mineral absorption, cholesterol metabolism and pyrimidine metabolism. Our study may provide new ideas for improving prehatch embryonic health and nutrition.

Particulate matter from water moss of a large Siberian river: Morphometric, mineral, elemental and radionuclide composition

Particulate matter trapped by tufts of water moss Fontinalis antipyretica inhabiting fast flowing waters of the Yenisei River (Siberia, Russia) contaminated with artificial radionuclides has been studied as a potential monitor of radioactive releases to the river. Particulate matter, which was removed from wet tufts of water moss of the Yenisei by rinsing them in water, constituted at least 38% of bulk dry weight of the moss biomass sample and was similar in the contents of chemical elements, minerals, organic matter, and artificial radionuclides to bottom sediments of the Yenisei. Considerable bulk percentages of artificial radionuclides in the sample of water moss, 77% of 137Cs, 44% of 60Co, 41% of 152Eu, 55% of 154Eu, 66% of 241Am, and 34-36% of plutonium were associated with extracellular particles. The comparative study and correlation analysis suggested that 137Cs was mainly associated with mineral particles trapped by moss and that organic matter was responsible for binding plutonium in samples of water moss. Consequently, analysis of extracellular particles of water moss can provide data on contents and speciation of radionuclides transported by water current. Although a considerably high proportion of particulate matter had been washed out from tufts of water moss, some extracellular mineral particulate material and a large number of epiphytic diatoms remained attached to leaves of water moss. Our study proves that particulate matter trapped by water moss can be used as an informative monitor to trace radioactive pollutants transported by water current in running waters deficient in bottom sediments and potential biomonitors.