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Aim Methods Results Conclusions Addressing sarcopenia and frailty in aging populations is crucial for enhancing quality of life and reducing healthcare dependence. While the importance of energy, protein, and amino acid supplementation is known, the role of minerals needs further exploration. This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of these minerals in managing sarcopenia and frailty.We analyzed data from the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, and Ichu‐shi Web from January 2000 to March 2023. Studies were selected if they were interventional or observational, focused on individuals with frailty or sarcopenia who were aged 65 or older, and involved mineral supplementation. The risk of bias in these studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool.Of the 615 studies identified, seven met the inclusion criteria. These studies mainly focused on the effects of combined nutrient supplements, with few focusing on individual minerals. The findings were mixed, demonstrating some improvements in muscle strength, activity of daily living, and cognitive functions. Notably, minerals appeared to offer benefits as part of multi‐nutrient interventions, especially for cognitive and immune health, but had limited impact on muscle mass or strength when used alone. The limited number and variable outcomes of studies precluded a feasible meta‐analysis.The effect of mineral supplementation on sarcopenia and frailty remains uncertain, suggesting a need for tailored nutritional strategies. Future studies should aim for well‐designed clinical trials in order to gain a better understanding of the roles of minerals in improving muscle health and functional outcomes, leading to clearer recommendations for clinical practice. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; ••: ••–••. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study area is in Troud that is located in the Central Iran Structural Zone. The Troud Fault in the south and Anjilo Fault in the north, played a significant role in the information of structural events and movement of mineralised fluids as well as mineral precipitations through their vertical and sinistral strike-slip movements. Gazkhizan is a mineralised area of 350 m long and 50–70 m wide and an E–W orientation. The highest Cu grade ever obtained is 3.55% which has been extracted from trench number 1. The average Cu grade in the zone on the surface is 2.11%, whilst the amount for the entire zone is equal to 0.82% including mineralised and waste rocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the antioxidant activities, phenolic profile, fatty acid and mineral composition of the different extracts of Erodium cicutarium (L.) L'Hér. consumed as a vegetable in Kilis, Turkey. While catechine hydrate was the most abundant phenolic compounds in methanol, ethanol and diethyl ether extracts, it was chlorogenic acid in the water extract. Looking at the fatty acid profile, the amount of palmitic acid, one of the saturated fatty acids, was found to be high (34.30%), followed by stearic acid (5.10%). Total monounsaturated fatty acids are the second highest fatty acids. Total polyunsaturated fatty acids were determined as the third rank fatty acids. While the amount of linoleic acid, one of the total polyunsaturated fatty acids, was determined as 17.62%, the ratio of linolenic acid was determined as 9.60%. While the most calcium, magnesium and potassium were found among the 9 different mineral substances determined, respectively; the lowest element was found to be nitrogen. Looking at the results, it was determined that the plant is a high source of calcium (1078.503 mg/kg). Inhibitory effects against Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027 were observed, with a zone diameter of 5.5 mm and 11 mm in methanol extract and diethyl ether extract, respectively. Ethanol and water extracts of E. cicutarium (L.) L.'Hér. may be preferred as an alternative natural agent due to their amylase and tyrosinase activities. The results suggested that the E. cicutarium (L.) L.'Hér. extracts may be useful for food and medicinal applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fenugreeks (Trigonella L. spp.), belonging to the legume family (Fabaceae), are well-known multipurpose crops that their materials are currently received much attention in the pharmaceutical and food industries for the production of healthy and functional foods all over the world. Iran is one of the main diversity origins of this valuable plant. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to explore vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids profile, proximate composition, content of diosgenin, trigonelline, phenolic acids, total carotenoids, saponins, phenols, flavonoids, and tannins, mucilage and bitterness value, and antioxidant activity of the seed of thirty populations belonging to the ten different Iranian Trigonella species. Results: We accordingly identified notable differences in the nutrient and bioactive compounds of each population. The highest content (mg/100 g DW) of ascorbic acid (18.67 ± 0.85‒22.48 ± 0.60) and α–tocopherol (31.61 ± 0.15‒38.78 ± 0.67) were found in the populations of T. filipes and T. coerulescens, respectively. Maximum content of catechin was found in the populations of T. teheranica (52.67 ± 0.05‒63.50 ± 0.72 mg/l). Linoleic acid (> 39.11% ± 0.61%) and linolenic acid (> 48.78 ± 0.39%) were the main polyunsaturated fatty acids, with the majority in the populations of T. stellata (54.81 ± 1.39‒63.46 ± 1.21%). The populations of T. stellata were also rich in trigonelline (4.95 ± 0.03‒7.66 ± 0.16 mg/g DW) and diosgenin (9.06 ± 0.06‒11.03 ± 0.17 mg/g DW). Conclusions: The obtained data provides baseline information to expand the inventory of wild and cultivated Iranian Trigonella species for further exploitation of rich chemotypes in the new foods and specific applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yemişen, also known as red hawthorn (Crataegus spp.), is a plant belonging to the Rosaceae family and grows in different regions of Asia, Europe and North America with temperate climates, and is also spread in different regions of Turkey. Although its fruits are consumed with pleasure, the leaves and stems of the plant are rich in antioxidant bioactive components such as phenolic acids and flavonoids. In this study, the phytochemical and antioxidant properties of two different Crataegus species obtained from different regions of Turkey were investigated. Total phenolic (TP) content, DPPH radical scavenging activity, organic acid and sugar profile and mineral distributions were determined in the fruits, pulp, seeds and stems of Crataegus monogyna Jacq., and Crataegus laevigata (Poir.) DC. According to the obtained results, the most abundant macro-mineral was determined to be K, the micro-mineral was Fe, the dominant acid was malic acid, and the dominant sugar was fructose. In both red hawthorn species, it was determined that the fruit pulps were rich in TPC, and the stems of the fruit had higher antioxidant capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, on the basis of the Design Bureau of the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Scientific-technical Center of Experimental Production, the equipment for obtaining vitamin-mineral additives was developed. The technological process involved an electric discharge disintegration to transform soil components into a water-soluble state, separating macro- and microelements that can then be used as a nutritional supplement for feeding the tilapia fish. After feeding the fish weighing 3.4 grams with these elements for 3 months, they reached a weight of 160 grams and a length of 18cm (l = 16cm). The weight of the fish fed with soft feed was 120g, and the length range was (L) 13 and (l) 11cm. The difference in weight between the two experiments was 40 grams. Macro and micronutrients are important for fish development and disease resistance. It has been proven that the use of macroand micronutrients obtained from the composition of the soil boosts the growth of fish, prevents infectious diseases, and physiologically stimulates the formation of bones and the development of muscle tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquifers are rich in microbial diversity. However, there is a lack of information about sessile communities in these environments because of the difficulty in sampling fresh in situ rock surfaces. Thus, this study's objective was to better understand the sessile community in a fractured aquifer. Additionally, the impact of the rock mineral composition on microbial community composition during colonization was explored. Using a system of bioreactors, we recreated the environmental conditions of a 1.5 m deep aquifer in Covey Hill (QC, Canada) using groundwater samples collected from the site. We carried out 16S/18S rRNA amplicon sequencing of the water and sessile communities after 24 days of incubation. Our data showed that many microbial taxa overlapped between the sessile and planktonic communities, indicating colonization of the solid surfaces. Quartz and feldspar had a significant impact on bacterial community structure. Sessile communities were dominated by Gaillonella, Alkanindiges, unclassified Acetobacteraceae, Apoikiales, Glissomonadida, and Synurales. We could not detect any Archaea in the sessile community. The sessile communities contained bacterial genera involved in iron cycling and adapted to acidic and low-carbon-concentration environments. Eukaryotic predators dominated the sessile community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this experiment were to evaluate the effects of supplementation of Nellore (Bos indicus) cows with β‐carotene + vitamins A + D3 + E + biotin on body condition score (BCS), oestrus, pregnancy, and foetal morphometry. Lactating cows (n = 497) from two herds were balanced for BCS and calving period [early calving (EC); late calving (LC)] and were assigned randomly to: Control (n = 251)—supplementation with a mineral supplement; and SUP (n = 246)—supplementation with the mineral supplement fed to control + β‐carotene (150 mg/day) + vitamin A (40,000 IU/day) + vitamin D3 (5000 IU/day) + vitamin E (300 mg/day) + biotin (20 mg/day). Cows were supplemented from Days −30 to 30 (Day 0 = timed artificial insemination; TAI). Pregnancy was diagnosed 30 days after TAI and foetal crown‐rump distance and thoracic diameter were measured at 30 and 77 days of gestation. Cows in the SUP treatment were more likely to have BCS ≥3.0 on Day 0 (63.0 ± 3.1 vs. 60.2 ± 3.1; p <.01) and were more likely to gain BCS from Days −30 to 30 (57.7 ± 3.3 vs. 44.1 ± 3.3%; p <.01). Fewer LC cows in the SUP treatment were detected in oestrus at the time of the first TAI (Control: LC: 75.4 ± 4.4 vs. SUP: LC: 64.0 ± 5.2 vs. Control: EC: 65.3 ± 4.0 vs. SUP: EC: 71.8 ± 3.7; p =.04). There was a tendency for the SUP treatment to increase pregnancy to the first TAI (64.2 ± 3.0 vs. 56.6 ± 3.1%; p =.08). A greater percentage of SUP cows was detected in oestrus at the time of the second TAI (70.1 ± 5.0 vs. 52.3 ± 4.8%; p =.01). The SUP treatment increased pregnancy to the second TAI among LC cows (SUP: LC: 75.9 ± 8.0% vs. Control: LC: 50.0 ± 8.3% vs. Control: EC: 52.0 ± 5.9% vs. SUP: EC: 41.4 ± 6.5%; p =.02). The SUP treatment increased foetal size (crown‐rump; p =.04 and thoracic diameter; p <.01) at 30 days of gestation and, despite decreasing crow‐rump length at 77 days after the first TAI among EC cows (p <.01), it increased the thoracic diameter at 77 days after the first TAI independent of calving season. Our results support that pregnancy establishment and foetal growth can be improved when grazing Nellore cows are supplemented with β‐carotene and vitamins A + D3 + E + biotin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfur (S) is a central element in global biogeochemical cycling and Earth's redox evolution. Minerals that contain S are an important record of local environmental conditions at the time of their formation based on chemical speciation and redox. However, the oxidation state of S for hundreds of different S-containing minerals and thousands of S-containing mineral localities is unknown, largely sulfides and sulfosalts, and the redox state alone does not fully capture mineral chemistry diversity, thus limiting understanding of S redox evolution. Here, we use mineral chemistry network analysis and the weighted Mineral Element Electronegativity Coefficient of Variation (wMEE CV) metric to investigate the element interactions and localities of S-containing minerals from the Mineral Evolution Database (MED) to infer the redox state of S in minerals where the redox state is unknown (SU). Louvain community detection of the S mineral chemistry redox network reveals that there are three main network communities that are separated by redox state. The S6+ community includes minerals that contain the S6+ redox state and a small number of S4+ and S2+ minerals, the S2− community includes S2−-containing minerals, and the SU community includes minerals in which the redox state of S is unknown. The wMEE CV values of the SU community closely overlap with the wMEE CV values of the S2− community, and do not overlap with the wMEE CV values of the S6+ community, indicating the SU community minerals contain predominately reduced S. Assuming that SU community minerals contain reduced S, as supported by their network chemical associations and wMEE CV values, then reduced S-containing minerals make up approximately 81 % of S-containing mineral localities in the S mineral chemistry network, even though the majority of all mineral localities (S-containing and non-S-containing) are oxygen (O)-containing minerals. Additionally, reduced S-containing minerals make up the majority (∼75 %) of all non-O containing mineral localities in the MED, representing the importance of reduced S as an electron source and substrate in the evolution of microbial metabolic networks. The range wMEE CV values of S6+ community minerals expands through time due primarily to formation of chemically diverse sulfate minerals, coinciding with crustal oxidation from the late Proterozoic to Phanerozoic and the expansion of the marine sulfate reservoir. The intersection of shared constituent elements among reduced and oxidized S in the mineral chemistry network represents redox convergence of weathered S in the geosphere that was crucial in the formation of natural resource deposits and the evolution of biogeochemical cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon (Si) uptake is generally beneficial for plants that need protection from insect herbivores. In pursue of mechanisms involved in Si-mediated defense, we comprehensively explored the impact of Si on several defensive and metabolic traits in rice exposed to simulated and real herbivory of Mythimna loreyi Duponchel larvae. Hydroponic experiments showed that Si-deprived rice supplemented with Si 72 h prior to insect infestation were similarly resistant to larvae as plants continuously grown in Si-containing media. Both Si and herbivory altered primary metabolism in rice, including the levels of several sugars, amino acids, and organic acids. While the accumulation of sugars was generally positively correlated with Si presence, multiple amino acids showed a negative correlation trend with Si supplementation. The levels of secondary metabolites, including isopentylamine, p-coumaroylputrescine and feruloylputrescine, were typically higher in the leaves of Si-supplemented plants exposed to herbivory stress compared to Si-deprived plants. In addition, simulated herbivory treatment in Si-supplemented plants induced more volatile emissions relative to Sideprived plants, which was consistent with the increased transcripts of key genes involved in volatile biosynthesis. In ecological interactions, Si alone did not affect the oviposition choice of M. loreyi but gravid females showed a significant preference for simulated herbivory-treated/Si-deprived compared to Si-supplemented plants. Our data suggest that apart from mechanical defense, Si may affect rice metabolism in multiple ways that might enhance/modulate defense responses of rice under herbivory stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Covid-19 pandemic has impacted the increasing consumption of vegetables and fruit because they contain lots of vitamins and minerals to increase endurance. The purpose of community service activities is to diversify processed vegetables and fruits to increase selling value. The activity's target is to improve vegetable and fruit processing skills. The output of the activity is the diversification of processed vegetables and fruit. The target of the activity is women farmers who are members of the Kampung Domba Synergy Cooperative. Stages of activity include: 1). The preparatory stage, namely the manufacture of vegetable and fruit processing modules; 2). The implementation phase, namely vegetable and fruit processing training; 3). Evaluation Phase, in the form of pre-test and post-test related to knowledge of processing vegetables and fruit. Community service activities in collaboration with the Kampung Domba Synergy Cooperative (SiKado) and the Cirebon Regency Agricultural Institute Alumni Association (HA IPB). Community service activities were carried out for two days. The first day's activity was the presentation of material on the development of the food product business by the Alumni Association of IPB Cirebon Regency, followed by the presentation of material on the design of food product packaging by the Kampung Domba Synergy Cooperative and material on the processing of vegetables and fruit by the Community Service Team. Based on the pre-test and post-test on the participants' knowledge of vegetable and fruit processing, the average score was 78.0 (fair category) and 84.1 (good category), respectively, with an increase of 6.1 points. The second day's activity was training in processing and evaluating the preferences of processed fruit and vegetable products, and 71.4% of the products (5 out of 7 products) received an overall rating of 4 (liked) by the panelists, namely es puter cucumber suri, spinach sticks, kale sticks, corn tortillas and candied kolang kaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study aimed to explore the multidisciplinary team attitudes and knowledge of bariatric surgery micronutrient management (pre‐ and postoperative care) and to evaluate the implementation of an extended‐scope of practice dietitian‐led model of care for micronutrient monitoring and management. Methods: A mixed method study design included quantitative evaluation of micronutrient testing practices and deficiency rates. Qualitative reflexive thematic analysis was used to interpret multidisciplinary experience with micronutrient monitoring in a traditional and dietitian‐led model of care. In addition, deductive analysis used normalisation process theory mapping of multidisciplinary experience with the implementation of the dietitian‐led model of care. Results: In the traditional model, a lack of quality evidence to guide micronutrient management, and a tension in trust between surgeons and patients related to adherence to micronutrient prescriptions were described as challenges in current practice. The dietitian‐led model was seen to overcome some of these challenges, increasing collaborative, and coordinated, consistent and personalised patient care that led to increased testing for and detection of micronutrient deficiencies. Barriers to sustainability of the dietitian‐led model included a lack of workforce succession planning, and no clearly defined delegation for some aspects of care. Conclusion: An extended scope dietitian‐led model of care for micronutrient management after bariatric surgery improves clinical care. Challenges such as succession planning must be considered in design of extended scope services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the degradation system of Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 and goethite was constructed with chlorpyrifos as the target contaminant. The effects of initial pH, contaminant concentration, and temperature on the removal rate of chlorpyrifos during the degradation process were investigated. The experimental conditions were optimized by response surface methodology with a Box–Behnken design (BBD). The results show that the removal rate of chlorpyrifos is 75.71% at pH = 6.86, an initial concentration of 19.18 mg·L−1, and a temperature of 30.71 °C. LC-MS/MS analyses showed that the degradation products were C4H11O3PS, C7H7Cl3NO4P, C9H11Cl2NO3PS, C7H7Cl3NO3PS, C9H11Cl3NO4P, C4H11O2PS, and C5H2Cl3NO. Presumably, the degradation pathways involved are: enzymatic degradation, hydrolysis, dealkylation, desulfur hydrolysis, and dechlorination. The findings of this study demonstrate the efficacy of the goethite/S. oneidensis MR-1 complex system in the removal of chlorpyrifos from water. Consequently, this research contributes to the establishment of a theoretical framework for the microbial remediation of organophosphorus pesticides in aqueous environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was performed to evaluate the influence of dietary inorganic and organic chromium (Cr) supplementation on blood biochemical constituents and mineral concentrations as well as the changes in the mineral composition of internal organs of Black Bengal goats. Thirty Black Bengal kids of 3 to 5 months (5.40 ± 0.34 kg body weight) were allocated randomly to five treatment groups. The five groups were control (without added Cr in a basal diet), 1.0, 1.5 mg/kg of inorganic Cr, 1.0, and 1.5 mg/kg of organic Cr added per kilogram of feed dry matter. The duration of the experiment was 150 days during which the changes in the blood biochemical and mineral concentrations at 0, 30, 60, and 150 days were evaluated. At the end of the trial, mineral composition in the muscle, skin, and internal organs (liver, lungs, kidney, heart, spleen, and testis) were analyzed. Any blood variables were not affected at or before 60 days of Cr supplementation. Both inorganic and organic Cr supplementation lowered (P < 0.05) concentrations of blood glucose, cortisol, non-esterified fatty acids, and β-hydroxybutyric acid after 60 days of Cr supplementation. Organic Cr-supplemented groups exhibited higher (P < 0.05) blood insulin concentration and neutrophil activity compared to the control. Supplementation of Cr in either form had no substantial effect (P > 0.05) on the blood hemoglobin, total leukocyte count, total protein, albumin, globulin, immunoglobulin G, total antioxidant capacity, and liver enzymes (aminotransferases) concentration, and also blood minerals (zinc, iron, and manganese) concentration. Blood Cr and copper concentrations were increased (P < 0.05) due to both organic and inorganic Cr supplementation. Minerals (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, and manganese) concentrations of internal organs of Cr-supplemented groups were mostly not affected (P > 0.05) by Cr supplementation. However, the concentrations of Cr and copper in blood and Cr in all internal organs, skin, and muscle of organic Cr-supplemented groups were higher (P < 0.05) than in those fed the basal diet. In conclusion, dietary inorganic and organic Cr supplementation, especially the organic form, after long term supplementation (> 60 days) could be beneficial in regulating blood glucose and fat metabolism and the immune status of Black Bengal goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrition has been identified as a key driver of colony health and productivity. Yet, in honey bees, relatively little is known about how the vast variety of natural pollen sources impact larval development. The impact of the nutritional quality of 4 naturally occurring pollen sources, of importance to the Western Australian beekeeping industry, was tested on honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) development. Bee packages consisting of 800 g of bees and a mated sister queen were assigned to 40 nucleus hives and randomly allocated to one of the 4 feed treatments (10 colonies each) of marri (Corymbia calophylla Lindl.), jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata Sm.), clover (Trifolium repens L.), and canola (Brassica napus L.) pollen. Emerging bees were collected once the first bees started hatching on the assigned feed sources. Newly emerging bees were weighed individually, and body composition was measured in batches according to the feed treatment groups. Food consumption was recorded for the duration of the experiment. Nurse bees successfully raised young adult workers from the larval stage until emergence when fed with one of 4 pollen patties with different nutritional qualities. There was no difference in the body composition or weight of emerging bees fed on the different pollen types. However, the body weight of bees increased over time, most likely related to colony size and structure. With the type of pollen patties having little impact on larval development, the availability of pollen may be more important than its composition, providing bees have access to all essential nutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep seawater (DS), obtained from a depth over 200 m, has health benefits due to its rich nutrients and minerals, and intake of DS has shown diverse immunomodulatory effects in allergies and cancer. Therefore, the immunostimulatory effects of Korean mineral-rich seawaters were examined in a cyclophosphamide (CPA)-induced immunosuppression model. Three samples of Korean seawater, namely DS from the East Sea off the coasts of Pohang (PDS) and Uljin (UDS), and seawater from the West Sea off the coast of Boryeong (BS), were collected. The seawaters were abundant in several minerals (calcium, iron, zinc, selenium, etc.). Mice were orally administered the seawaters for 42 days, followed by CPA-induced immunosuppression. The CPA induction reduced the weight of the spleen and lymph nodes; however, the administration of seawaters increased the weight of the lymphoid organs, accompanied by stimulation of natural killer cells' activity and NF-kB-mediated cytokine production (IFNγ, TNFα, IL1β, IL6, and IL12). The mouse-derived splenocytes showed lymphoproliferation without cytotoxicity in the seawater groups. Histopathological analysis revealed that the seawaters improved the CPA-induced atrophic changes by promoting lymphoproliferation in the spleen and lymph nodes. These results provide useful information for the use of Korean mineral-rich seawaters, particularly PDS and UDS, as alternative immunostimulants under immunosuppressive conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Apis mellifera the activity performed by individual worker bees as brood nutrition, defence and foraging, is regulated by physiological age or colony needs, a phenomenon referred to as polyethism. Bees forage long distances in search of resources for colony maintenance, which increases their metabolism levels due to the expenditure of energy during the activity. After two weeks of foraging activities, proteins affected by oxidative stress accumulate in the brain, and cognitive capacity declines. Although bee diet is focused on high energy and protein foods, other nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, are essential for colony development. Zinc (Zn) is a vital structural and functional component of organisms. Oxidative stress can occur under Zn deficiency, and Zn supplementation can help prevent oxidative stress-induced damage in different cells and tissues. Therefore, the aims of the present study were to verify if Zn supplementation (inorganic and organic forms) can modulate the antioxidant system of forager bees. This was assessed by analysing catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) gene expression. Following organic Zn supplementation, increased expression of GPX was observed, with significant difference from those in the control and inorganic Zn treatments. Conversely, there was an increase in CAT expression under inorganic Zn supplementation, with a significant difference from those in the control and organic Zn treatments. Zn, regardless of the source, did not have harmful effects on the colonies and could modulate the expression of antioxidant system genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grain from improved varieties of the perennial grass Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey is marketed under the trade name Kernza (common name intermediate wheatgrass, IWG). While a growing body of evidence is available on the nutritional quality of Kernza, gaps exist for components such vitamins and minerals and protein quality. Therefore, we performed two studies on early-generation breeding program material, characterizing nutritional quality by quantifying macronutrients, sugars, dietary fiber, amino acid profiles, fat composition, vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, antioxidants, and antioxidant activity. The IWG studied frequently had concentrations significantly different from the reference values for whole wheat flour. For example, IWG had 50% higher protein, 129% higher dietary fiber, and 65% higher ash content than reference whole wheat flour. Calcium and selenium were 267% and 492% higher, respectively, in IWG than whole wheat flour. Riboflavin and folate were 43% and 447% higher, respectively, and niacin 74% lower in IWG versus whole wheat flour. We identified lysine as the limiting amino acid, although its concentration was 33% greater in IWG than in whole wheat flour. These results support potential benefits of Kernza for human nutrition. This work supports ongoing studies to further characterize and evaluate nutritional quality during the domestication and breeding process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Fenugreeks (Trigonella L. spp.), belonging to the legume family (Fabaceae), are well-known multipurpose crops that their materials are currently received much attention in the pharmaceutical and food industries for the production of healthy and functional foods all over the world. Iran is one of the main diversity origins of this valuable plant. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to explore vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids profile, proximate composition, content of diosgenin, trigonelline, phenolic acids, total carotenoids, saponins, phenols, flavonoids, and tannins, mucilage and bitterness value, and antioxidant activity of the seed of thirty populations belonging to the ten different Iranian Trigonella species. Results We accordingly identified notable differences in the nutrient and bioactive compounds of each population. The highest content (mg/100 g DW) of ascorbic acid (18.67 ± 0.85‒22.48 ± 0.60) and α–tocopherol (31.61 ± 0.15‒38.78 ± 0.67) were found in the populations of T. filipes and T. coerulescens, respectively. Maximum content of catechin was found in the populations of T. teheranica (52.67 ± 0.05‒63.50 ± 0.72 mg/l). Linoleic acid (> 39.11% ± 0.61%) and linolenic acid (> 48.78 ± 0.39%) were the main polyunsaturated fatty acids, with the majority in the populations of T. stellata (54.81 ± 1.39‒63.46 ± 1.21%). The populations of T. stellata were also rich in trigonelline (4.95 ± 0.03‒7.66 ± 0.16 mg/g DW) and diosgenin (9.06 ± 0.06‒11.03 ± 0.17 mg/g DW). Conclusions The obtained data provides baseline information to expand the inventory of wild and cultivated Iranian Trigonella species for further exploitation of rich chemotypes in the new foods and specific applications.

The purpose of this study was to compare the nutrient contents and phytochemical composition of the leaves, roots, and stem bark of Cissus populnea. The specimens came from Nsukka in Nigeria's Enugu State. Laboratory experimental design was used for this study. Samples of leaves, roots, and stem barks were prepared by drying them for two hours at 50 0C in a food dehydrator, ground into fine powder and dried again using the air-drying process The analyses were carried out using standard methods. The proximate analyses showed that the samples contain crude protein (1.89 - 2.11%), crude fibre (22.23 - 22.48%), crude fat (1.99 - 2.09%), carbohydrates (43.71 - 64.96%), ash (4.11 - 6.64%) and moisture (4.46- 4.84%). The phytochemical data showed that all plant components contained phenol, alkaloids, tannins, and terpenoids, but not steroids. Both saponin and flavoloid were found in the plant's roots and leaves only. Flavonoid was not detected in the stem. The results of mineral compositions showed that the root, stem, and leaf samples included potassium (340.83 – 439.33 mg/100g) calcium (132.99 – 295.78 mg/100g), iron (1.12 – 4.21 mg/100g), magnesium (27.41- 39.67 mg/100g) and manganese (0.14 – 3.99 mg/100g). Because of its nutrient contents and phytochemical proportions, consumers are encouraged to use any parts, though root parts of the plant seem to contain high nutrient.

A complete inventory of 16 mineral type localities and 1 rock type locality in Romania, as well as their assessed geoheritage characteristics and values are presented for the first time. Thirty-nine mineral species, one chemical element and one common rock type were discovered, described and named in Romania. Most of these are closely linked to traditional mining areas: the Baia Mare region, the Apuseni Mts. and the Banat region. Three mineral type localities are outstandingly rich: Săcărâmb/Nagyág in the southern Apuseni Mts. (8 new minerals), Baia Sprie/Felsőbánya in the Baia Mare region (6 new minerals), and Băița Bihor/Rézbánya in the Northern Apuseni Mts. (6 new minerals). The scientific, educational and touristic value and significance of the type localities regarded as „geosites” and „geodiversity sites” are discussed. Based on the quantitative assessment of the scientific, educational and touristic values, the type localities were hierarchically classified, Baia Sprie, Săcărâmb and Măgura Uroiului being the highest ranked. From the geoconservation perspective, site protection and valuation strategies at local and/or regional scales are envisaged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Selecting highly nutritive fodder plants in arid regions can be a key to improving the livestock productivity. This work explores the variation in nutritive value of the leaves, stem, and shoots of five potential fodder plants of the Emirates of Fujairah, Erucaria hispanica, Haplophyllum tuberculatum, Convolvulus virgatus, Teucrium stocksianum, and Cleome Ibrachycarpa. influenced by two weather conditions, winter and spring. The plant samples underwent mineral composition, proximate, phytochemical, and heavy metals and two-way ANOVA. Weather data were accessed from National Center of Meteorology (NCM). Our findings reveal significant influences of collection time and species on nutritive content. Shoots collected in March exhibited higher ash (6.167%), crude protein (11.9%), crude fiber (14.89%), dry matter (45.86%), and total digestive nutrients (TDS) (48.35%), with lower tannin (5.11%) compared to January. Conversely, January-collected shoots had greater total sugar content (1.28 g/100 g). Plant organs played a crucial role, with leaves surpassing stems in Mg, P, Ca, K, Na, Mn, Zn, and Ni. Leaves also showed higher crude protein (23.33%), dry matter (92.26%), total ash (4.8%), and TDS (87.58%) compared to stems, while stems exhibited elevated crude fiber (17.45%) and tannin (4.53%). There is a need to assess the bioactive compounds found in these fodder species for the enhancement its effective use and maximize browsing of these species.

Arabica coffee cultivation is limited by altitude, which affects its production. Some farmers in Jember Regency are innovating to grow arabica coffee in the lowland, but the potential for leaf rust disease is quite high. Plant natural resistance can be enhanced by adding minerals formulation (containing silica, iodine, and calcium). This research aimed to determine which phase is more effective for applying mineral formulation that induces plant resistance. The formulation was tested on arabica coffee plants grown at the lowland (460 masl) in Jember Regency on 12 years old (y.o) mature and 1 y.o immature plants. One formulation was dissolved in 14 L of water and applied by foliar feeding. The effect was analyzed using two-way T-test of two samples assuming unequal variances at 95% confidence level to determine the differences. The analysis showed that the plants supplemented with the formulation could increase the variables that supported the natural resistance of plants (both mechanically and through the production of chemical compounds), such as polyphenol content, flavonoids, antioxidant activity, total dissolved protein, vitamin C, reducing sugar, lignin, cellulose, hemicellulose, and iodine content in the plant. The response of the formulation application showed that the most resistance variables was better in 1 y.o immature plants than in 12 y.o mature plants. The application of mineral formulation in immature phase will have a better impact on increasing natural resistance, and it has the potential to be used as a supplement for arabica coffee plants cultivated in the lowland.

Fish has been a potential food source for humans. Labeo bata is a commonly consumed fresh water fish species, particularly in South India. This study explored the effect of different cooking (boiling, steaming, microwaving, and frying) on structural, morphology, nutritional profile, and in-vitro antioxidant activity of Labeo bata. All these processing methods reduced the water content and improved the quantity of major nutrients. Foremost changes were obtained in the FT-IR spectra of processed fillets with respect to the intensity and shifting of major bands in specific regions. Amino acids, fatty acid profile and mineral content values were also varied significantly (P

The morphological features and chemical composition of iron oxides in the beach deposits of the northwestern part of the Sea of Azov were studied on the basis of research materials of 2016-2020, using a scanning electron microscope with an integrated electron-probe analysis system. The chemical composition of iron oxides varies from Fe39O86 to Fe17O8. Most of the individuals surveyed are stoichiometric iron (III) oxide Fe2O3, but only a few of them have morphological features of the natural hematite, usually martite. The vast majority of Fe2O3 individuals and other individuals in the whole range of the chemical composition have specific morphological features of technogenic compounds and generally are ferrous dross particles formed during the rolled steel process. The sharp predominance of the technogenic component of iron oxides in the black sands is an important fact that witnesses the powerful man9made pressure on the ecosystems of the Azov Sea.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate age-specific variations in the blood levels of micronutrients, homocysteine, and CoQ10, along with physical activity (PA) patterns, among 123 Austrian adult bankers in operational and frontline roles (mean age: 43 years; 50% female). Methods: Blood analysis was conducted to assess micronutrients and the serum concentrations of homocysteine and CoQ10. The micronutrient values in whole blood were compared to sex-specific reference ranges and categorized as below, within, or above them. The Global Physical Activity Questionnaire was utilized to assess PA patterns. Participants were classified as young adults (18–34 years), middle-aged adults (35–49 years), and older adults (50–64 years). Results: Significant age-based differences were found in participants’ mean homocysteine levels (p = 0.039) and homocysteine categories (p = 0.034), indicating an increasing prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia with age. No significant difference between age categories was observed for sex, BMI, diet types, PA levels, sedentary behavior, and CoQ10 (p > 0.05). There was no significant age-based difference in the blood concentrations of most minerals and vitamins (p > 0.05), except for magnesium among females (p = 0.008) and copper among males (p = 0.042). Conclusion: The findings offer initial evidence of the age-related differences in the health status of adult bankers, providing insights for customized approaches to occupational health that support the importance of metabolic health and overall well-being across adulthood.

Purpose: Regenerative medicine offers new techniques for osteoarthritis (OA) disorders, especially while considering simultaneous chondral and subchondral regenerations. Methods: Chitosan and hyaluronan were chemically bound as the chondral phase and the osteogenic layer was prepared with alginate and nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAP). These scaffolds were fixed by fibrin glue as a biphasic scaffold and then examined. Results: Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed the porosity of 61.45±4.51 and 44.145±2.81 % for the subchondral and chondral layers, respectively. The composition analysis by energy dispersive X-ray (EDAX) indicated the various elements of both hydrogels. Also, their mechanical properties indicated that the highest modulus and resistance values corresponded to the biphasic hydrogel as 108.33±5.56 and 721.135±8.21 kPa, despite the same strain value as other groups. Their individual examinations demonstrated the proteoglycan synthesis of the chondral layer and also, the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of the subchondral layer as 13.3±2.2 ng. After 21 days, the cells showed a mineralized surface and a polygonal phenotype, confirming their commitment to bone and cartilage tissues, respectively. Immunostaining of collagen I and II represented greater extracellular matrix (ECM) secretion in the biphasic composite group due to the paracrine effect of the two cell types on each other. Conclusion: For the first time, the ability of this biphasic scaffold to regenerate both tissue types was evaluated and the results showed satisfactory cellular commitment to bone and cartilage tissues. Thus, this scaffold can be considered a new strategy for the preparation of implants for OA.

This study examined the mineral and heavy metal content of nine different seafood sold in retail markets in Türkiye. Frozen ring squid, frozen Chilie mussel meat, frozen clam meat, frozen shrimp meat, frozen octopus, fresh Mediterranean mussel, frozen cuttlefish, frozen squid pan and frozen crab delight were used in the study. Mineral matter analysis of the samples was performed by ICP-MS - inductively coupled plasma-mass-spectrometry. The highest Na, Ca and Mg contents were found in frozen clam meat, and the K content was found in fresh Mediterranean mussels. The main microelements detected in all seafood examined in the study are Zn, Fe and Al. The minimum Na/K ratio was determined in the frozen octopus and fresh Mediterranean mussel meat groups. The estimated daily intake values of the groups are below the World Health Organization recommended daily allowance. The heavy metal content of all seafood examined in the study was found to be posing no risk to public health.

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to determine the association between dietary mineral intake and Coronavirus-disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection and its associated hospitalization. Methods This cohort study utilized the MASHAD study population, which comprised individuals aged 35–65. Upon recruitment in 2007, dietary intake was documented using a validated 65-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Data on COVID-19 PCR test results was collected from all relevant medical centers in Mashhad between February 2020 and June 2022. The regression model included dietary minerals and employed the backward variable selection method, along with advanced data analysis techniques. Results The final analysis involved 1957 participants, including 193 COVID-19-positive patients. The mean age was 49.71 and 50.28 years in the COVID-19-positive and negative groups, respectively (p = 0.12). Dietary intakes of magnesium, iron, and potassium were notably lower in COVID-19-positive patients (P

In order to provide reference for the comprehensive development and utilization, the nutritional function components of wild sea cucumbers in different sea areas were explored. This study comprehensively analyzed the nutritional composition of four wild sea cucumber species: Stichopus horrens, Stichopus chloronotus, Holothuria mammata, and Cucumaria frondosa. The basic nutritional composition, amino acid, fatty acid, and mineral element contents of the four sea cucumbers species were analyzed and evaluated. The results showed that the four species had high protein and low fat in common. Holothuria mammata exhibited the highest protein and lowest fat content. Stichopus chloronotus was rich in polysaccharides and ash content, while Cucumaria frondosa had notable saponin content. Each of the four sea cucumber types contained a consistent array of 17 amino acids, boasting substantial quantities of both delectable and medicinal amino acids. The essential amino acids accounted for a range of 13.78% to 20.27%, with Cucumaria frondosa displayed the most elevated content. Through the assessment of amino acid scores (AAS) and chemical scores (CS), lysine emerges was the predominant limiting amino acid across all four sea cucumber species. In terms of fatty acid composition, all species exhibited a spectrum of saturated fatty acids (SFA) within total fatty acids, with content varying from 23.84% to 36.24%. Palmitic acid (C16:0) and stearic acid (C18:0) constituted the primary components of this SFA makeup. Notably, polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content ranged from 56.39% to 72.93%, with Cucumaria frondosa displayed the highest proportion. Among the major elements, calcium (Ca) content was relatively higher in all four samples, except for Holothuria mammata. Among the trace elements, the highest content was iron (Fe). This comparative analysis showed that wild sea cucumbers in different sea areas were rich in various nutrients that the human body needs, and had different edible values and development utilization.

Selecting highly nutritive fodder plants in arid regions can be a key to improving the livestock productivity. This work explores the variation in nutritive value of the leaves, stem, and shoots of five potential fodder plants of the Emirates of Fujairah, Erucaria hispanica, Haplophyllum tuberculatum, Convolvulus virgatus, Teucrium stocksianum, and Cleome Ibrachycarpa. influenced by two weather conditions, winter and spring. The plant samples underwent mineral composition, proximate, phytochemical, and heavy metals and two-way ANOVA. Weather data were accessed from National Center of Meteorology (NCM). Our findings reveal significant influences of collection time and species on nutritive content. Shoots collected in March exhibited higher ash (6.167%), crude protein (11.9%), crude fiber (14.89%), dry matter (45.86%), and total digestive nutrients (TDS) (48.35%), with lower tannin (5.11%) compared to January. Conversely, January-collected shoots had greater total sugar content (1.28 g/100 g). Plant organs played a crucial role, with leaves surpassing stems in Mg, P, Ca, K, Na, Mn, Zn, and Ni. Leaves also showed higher crude protein (23.33%), dry matter (92.26%), total ash (4.8%), and TDS (87.58%) compared to stems, while stems exhibited elevated crude fiber (17.45%) and tannin (4.53%). There is a need to assess the bioactive compounds found in these fodder species for the enhancement its effective use and maximize browsing of these species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Calcium and phosphorus are essential minerals required for animal health, especially in laying hens since they are important components in bone and eggshell formation. Diets with inadequate calcium and phosphorus can interfere with their absorption and digestibility, resulting in eggshell quality losses and reduced productive life, affecting egg production and welfare. Although mineral metabolism has been widely studied in young laying hens, the mechanisms of absorption, reabsorption, and mineral homeostasis of laying hens with advancing age are not well known. Therefore, we studied eight genes involved in Ca and P metabolism and observed that two of them (CYP24A1 and TRPC3) showed differential expression according to the Ca/P ratios provided in the diet. These results contribute to understanding how Ca and P metabolism are regulated in hens during their late laying cycle, allowing the development of new nutritional strategies to improve hens' productive life as well as their egg quality. Ca and P homeostasis across the egg-laying cycle is a complex process involving absorption in the small intestine, reabsorption/excretion in the kidneys, and eggshell gland secretion. Diets with inadequate calcium and phosphorus can interfere with their absorption and digestibility, resulting in eggshell quality losses and reduced productive life, affecting egg production and welfare. A better understanding of gene expression profiles in the kidneys of laying hens during the late egg-laying period could clarify the renal role in mineral metabolism at this late stage. Therefore, the performance, egg quality and bone integrity-related traits, and expression profiles of kidney candidate genes were evaluated in 73-week-old laying hens receiving different Ca and P ratios in their diet: a high Ca/P ratio (HR, 22.43), a low ratio (LR, 6.71), and a medium ratio (MR, 11.43). The laying hens receiving the HR diet had improved egg production and eggshell quality traits compared to the other two groups. Humerus length was shorter in the HR than in the other groups. The CYP24A1 and TRPC3 genes were differentially expressed (p.adj ≤ 0.05) among the groups. Therefore, their expression profiles could be involved in calcium and phosphate transcellular transport in 73-week-old laying hens as a way to keep mineral absorption at adequate levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insects, a traditional food in many parts of the world, are highly nutritious and especially rich in proteins and thus represent a potential food and protein source. They are rich in essential amino acids and unsaturated fatty acids and provide ample quantities of minerals such as Fe, Zn, Mn, Ca, and P essential for human health. The objective of this study was to assess the nutritional value of dried edible caterpillars with an exclusive focus on mineral content. Quantitative analysis of seven essential minerals for humans was analyzed for two dried edible caterpillars currently commercialized in Bukavu town, South Kivu province (eastern DR Congo) central market including Bunaeopsis aurantiaca (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae) and Imbrasia oyemensis (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae). Mineral content analysis of Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Zn, and Mn were carried out using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) while the P content was analyzed using the Colorimetric method, then the mineral content was compared to the recommended daily intakes (mg/day). On a dry weight basis, we find that mineral content differed with type of caterpillar. I. oyemensis had the highest concentrations of most minerals tested compared to B. aurantiaca, which nevertheless had the greatest amount of phosphorus (P). P was significantly the most abundant mineral detected (605.70 ± 6.08 mg/100g; p < 0.001), followed by Mg and Na in I. oyemensis with 220.11 ± 6.10 mg/100g and 216.43 ± 1.08 mg/100g respectively. Oligo-minerals Zn and Fe, were the lowest in the caterpillar samples. All the edible caterpillars analyzed met the recommended daily mineral intake. The consumption of < 28 g and < 8 g of these caterpillars covers daily RNI in adults for Fe and Mn respectively. Thus, edible caterpillars in this study have shown that they can be excellent contributors to people's mineral requirements and should be sustainably utilized. Aside from direct consumption, there is a huge potential for using these caterpillars as raw material and food fortification. The mineral content of commonly eaten caterpillars was analyzed to inform consumers among indigenous populations in the Democratic Republic of Congo about the micro-nutritional quality of the insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the mechanisms underlying the release and transformation of potassium from potassium‐rich minerals in paddy soils derived from purple soils. While potassium is abundant in these minerals, it is typically insoluble and inaccessible to plants. The agricultural practices employed in paddy soils may activate insoluble mineral potassium, potentially reducing potassium fertilizer applications. The activation of mineral potassium not only helps alleviate the dependence on soluble potassium fertilizers in rice cultivation, but also contributes to enhancing food security and sustainable agricultural development. Despite these potential benefits, the transformation pathways of mineral potassium in paddy soils remain unclear, posing an important science question that requires further investigation. This study collected data from a long‐term fertilizer experiment of paddy soils derived from purple soils with abundant potassium‐rich minerals (1982–2019, rice‐wheat rotation). The results revealed that paddy management could drive the transformation of potassium in illite minerals in paddy soils and meet the long‐term growth needs of crops. Submergence reduction significantly increased the concentration of positive ions such as Fe2+ and Ca2+ and provided a pathway for the free movement of ions, promoting the substitution of these ions with interlayer potassium of minerals. This substitution and alternating reduction and oxidation conditions played an important role in the transformation of potassium in illite minerals. The study indicates the promising potential for using crushed illite rocks in rice paddies as a substitute for traditional potassium fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Izmir Katip Celebi University Faculty of Health Sciences Journal / İzmir Katip Çelebi Üniversitesi Sağlık Bilimleri Fakültesi Dergisi is the property of Izmir Katip Celebi University, Faculty of Health Sciene Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose of Review: To provide information from preclinical and clinical studies on the biological activity and health benefits of dietary inclusion of nutraceuticals as a safe, effective, non-pharmacological approach for the treatment of migraine. Recent Findings: There is emerging evidence of the therapeutic benefit of nutraceuticals to inhibit oxidative stress, suppress inflammation, and prevent changes in the normal gut microbiome, which are implicated in migraine pathology. Nutraceuticals can be enriched in polyphenols, which act as molecular scavengers to reduce the harmful effects of reactive oxygen species and phytosterols that suppress inflammation. Nutraceuticals also function to inhibit dysbiosis and to maintain the commensal intestinal bacteria that produce anti-inflammatory molecules including short-chain fatty acids that can act systemically to maintain a healthy nervous system. Summary: Dietary inclusion of nutraceuticals that exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-nociceptive properties and maintain the gut microbiota provides a complementary and integrative therapeutic strategy for migraine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Mineral metabolism is altered with the onset of lactation, and a reduction in concentrations of calcium (Ca) in blood, particularly when it persists for days, is associated with increased risk of peripartum diseases. Hypocalcemia affects immune function, which seems to underlie the susceptibility to other diseases. Hypocalcemia is not caused by inadequate Ca intake but by the inability to adapt to the irreversible losses of Ca that disrupt homeostatic mechanisms that control blood Ca concentrations. A common method to reduce hypocalcemia is the feeding of acidogenic diets prepartum. Alternative strategies such as prepartum feeding P and Ca chelating agents and administration at calving of active vitamin D3 metabolites have shown promising results. Mineral metabolism, in particular Ca, and to a lesser extent phosphorus (P) and magnesium (Mg), is altered with the onset of lactation because of extensive irreversible loss to synthesize colostrum and milk. The transient reduction in the concentration of Ca in blood, particularly when it lasts days, increases the risk of mineral-related disorders such as hypocalcemia and, to a lesser extent, hypophosphatemia. Although the incidence of clinical hypocalcemia can be reduced by prepartum dietary interventions, subclinical hypocalcemia remains prevalent, affecting up to 60% of the dairy cows in the first 3 d postpartum. More importantly, strong associations exist between hypocalcemia and increased susceptibility to other peripartum diseases and impaired reproductive performance. Mechanistic experiments have demonstrated the role of Ca on innate immune response in dairy cows, which presumably predisposes them to other diseases. Hypocalcemia is not related to inadequate Ca intake as prepartum diets marginal to deficient in Ca reduce the risk of the disease. Therefore, the understanding of how Ca homeostasis is regulated, in particular how calciotropic hormones such as parathyroid hormone and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, affect blood Ca concentrations, gastrointestinal Ca absorption, bone remodeling, and renal excretion of Ca become critical to develop novel strategies to prevent mineral imbalances either by nutritional or pharmacological interventions. A common method to reduce the risk of hypocalcemia is the manipulation of the prepartum dietary cation-anion difference. Feeding acidogenic diets not only improves Ca homeostasis and reduces hypocalcemia, but also reduces the risk of uterine diseases and improves productive performance. Feeding diets that induce a negative Ca balance in the last weeks of gestation also reduce the risk of clinical hypocalcemia, and recent work shows that the incorporation of mineral sequestering agents, presumably by reducing the absorption of P and Ca prepartum, increases blood Ca at calving, although benefits to production and health remain to be shown. Alternative strategies to minimize subclinical hypocalcemia with the use of vitamin D metabolites either fed prepartum or as a pharmacological agent administered immediately after calving have shown promising results in reducing hypocalcemia and altering immune cell function, which might prove efficacious to prevent diseases in early lactation. This review summarizes the current understanding of Ca homeostasis around parturition, the limited knowledge of the exact mechanisms for gastrointestinal Ca absorption in bovine, the implications of hypocalcemia on the health of dairy cows, and discusses the methods to minimize the risk of hypocalcemia and their impacts on productive performance and health in dairy cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research focuses on the melt processing of biocomposites from a biodegradable polymer blend mixed with hybrid fillers through injection molding technique. An optimized blend ratio (60/40 wt%) poly(butylene succinate‐co‐butylene adipate) (PBSA) and poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT) demonstrated promising results after blending with a mixture of walnut shell powder (WSP), corn starch and talc in various proportions for use in rigid packaging. The addition of hybrid fillers (i) 10% WSP with 15% talc and (ii) 5% WSP with 5% starch and 15% talc to the polymer blend (60%PBSA/40%PBAT) improved tensile modulus (160% and 162%, respectively) and flexural modulus (147% and 153%, respectively) because of the dispersion of stiffer talc and WSP. Following the addition of fillers, tensile strength of the composites decreased. However, flexural strength improved significantly after filler introduction because of better stress transfer ability. Rheological analysis of filled composites with starch or WSP (25%) depicted similar characteristics of the polymer blend, indicating lower viscosity than hybrid composites. The abundant hydroxyl groups in starch explained the increased water absorption and decreased contact angle compared with other composites. This research's novelty encompasses utilizing low‐cost biomasses with mineral filler into an under‐researched biodegradable polymer blend suitable for single‐use rigid packaging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arabica coffee cultivation is limited by altitude, which affects its production. Some farmers in Jember Regency are innovating to grow arabica coffee in the lowland, but the potential for leaf rust disease is quite high. Plant natural resistance can be enhanced by adding minerals formulation (containing silica, iodine, and calcium). This research aimed to determine which phase is more effective for applying mineral formulation that induces plant resistance. The formulation was tested on arabica coffee plants grown at the lowland (460 masl) in Jember Regency on 12 years old (y.o) mature and 1 y.o immature plants. One formulation was dissolved in 14 L of water and applied by foliar feeding. The effect was analyzed using two-way T-test of two samples assuming unequal variances at 95% confidence level to determine the differences. The analysis showed that the plants supplemented with the formulation could increase the variables that supported the natural resistance of plants (both mechanically and through the production of chemical compounds), such as polyphenol content, flavonoids, antioxidant activity, total dissolved protein, vitamin C, reducing sugar, lignin, cellulose, hemicellulose, and iodine content in the plant. The response of the formulation application showed that the most resistance variables was better in 1 y.o immature plants than in 12 y.o mature plants. The application of mineral formulation in immature phase will have a better impact on increasing natural resistance, and it has the potential to be used as a supplement for arabica coffee plants cultivated in the lowland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferromagnesite (Mg, Fe)CO3 with 20 mol% iron is a potential host mineral for carbon transport and storage in the Earth mantle. The high-pressure behavior of synthetic ferromagnesite (Mg0.81Fe0.19)CO3 up to 53 GPa was investigated by synchrotron X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. The iron bearing carbonate underwent spin transition at around 44–46 GPa accompanied by a volume collapse of 1.8%, which also demonstrated a variation in the dνi/dP slope of the Raman modes. The pressure-volume data was fitted by a third-order Birch-Murnaghan equation of state (BM-EoS) for the high spin phase. The best-fit K0 = 108(1) GPa and K0′ = 4.2(1). Combining the dνi/dP and the K0, the mode Grüneisen parameters of each vibrational mode (T, L, ν4 and ν1) were calculated. The effects of iron concentration on the Mg1−xFexCO3 system related to high-pressure compressibility and vibrational properties are discussed. These results expand the knowledge of the physical properties of carbonates and provide insights to the potential deep carbon host. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to evaluate age-specific variations in the blood levels of micronutrients, homocysteine, and CoQ10, along with physical activity (PA) patterns, among 123 Austrian adult bankers in operational and frontline roles (mean age: 43 years; 50% female). Methods: Blood analysis was conducted to assess micronutrients and the serum concentrations of homocysteine and CoQ10. The micronutrient values in whole blood were compared to sex-specific reference ranges and categorized as below, within, or above them. The Global Physical Activity Questionnaire was utilized to assess PA patterns. Participants were classified as young adults (18–34 years), middle-aged adults (35–49 years), and older adults (50–64 years). Results: Significant age-based differences were found in participants' mean homocysteine levels (p = 0.039) and homocysteine categories (p = 0.034), indicating an increasing prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia with age. No significant difference between age categories was observed for sex, BMI, diet types, PA levels, sedentary behavior, and CoQ10 (p > 0.05). There was no significant age-based difference in the blood concentrations of most minerals and vitamins (p > 0.05), except for magnesium among females (p = 0.008) and copper among males (p = 0.042). Conclusion: The findings offer initial evidence of the age-related differences in the health status of adult bankers, providing insights for customized approaches to occupational health that support the importance of metabolic health and overall well-being across adulthood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Anatolian Environmental & Animal Science is the property of Bulent Verep and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

A growing interest in the recovery and enhancement of crops, particularly local varieties such as 'Caaveiro' wheat, has been observed. This study aims to investigate the impact of cultivation systems (organic versus conventional) on the nutritional quality of 'Caaveiro' flour and breads protected by the PGI "Pan Galego," employing two fermentation methods (sourdough versus sourdough and biological yeast). Organic flour exhibited significantly higher levels of moisture, fat, sucrose, phosphorus (P), sodium (Na), and copper (Cu) while also exhibiting a lower total starch and zinc (Zn) content. Organic bread, produced using both fermentation methods, demonstrated significantly higher protein, carbohydrate, total, resistant, and rapidly digestible starch, ash, Na, P, iron (Fe), and Cu content. Additionally, they contained less moisture compared to conventional bread. Despite variations in nutritional characteristics based on the cultivation system, the organic approach proved effective at producing high-quality products with a positive environmental impact, which is highly appreciated by consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of the production area on the quality of Hass avocados grown on the island of Tenerife was studied. For this purpose, several physicochemical parameters, such as fruit weight, percentage of pulp, seed and skin, proximate composition, minerals, total phenolic compounds (TP), total flavonoid compounds (TF), α-tocopherol, antioxidant capacity, and fatty acid profile were analyzed. The location of the orchards significantly influenced avocado weight; pulp and seed percentage; and fat, fiber, ash, α-tocopherol, TP, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, iron, zinc, and oleic and palmitoleic acid contents. Buenavista (BU) avocados were the smallest (185 g) and presented the highest percentage of pulp (77.1%) and lowest percentage of fiber (5.43%). The highest levels of dry matter (33.8%) and fat (20.4%) were found in avocados harvested in Los Silos (SI) and Santiago del Teide (SA), respectively. Compared with those at the other locations, the avocados harvested in Güímar (GU) had high levels of α-tocopherol (52.2 µg g−1) and phenolic compounds (56.0 mg GAE 100 g−1). Avocados from Los Realejos (RE) had the highest percentage of oleic acid and the lowest percentage of palmitoleic acid. Numerous significant correlations were found between the variables studied, especially those between TP, TF, and antioxidant capacity (DPPH) and between fat percentage and dry matter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]