Prevalence of inadequacy and associated indicators with mineral intake in Brazilian adolescents and young adults / Prevalência de inadequação e fatores associados à ingestão adequada de minerais em adolescentes e adultos jovens brasileiros

ABSTRACT Objective To describe the prevalence of inadequate mineral intake and associated factors with calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, and sodium intakes in individuals aged 15-24.9 years. Methods We analyzed 476 individuals from the Brazilian Study of Nutrition and Health, stratified into two age groups (adolescents aged 15-18.9 years and young adults aged 19-24.9 years). Mineral intake was obtained from two 24-hour Dietary Recalls. The values of the Estimated Average Requirement and the Tolerable Upper Intake Levels were considered to calculate the prevalence of inadequacy. Multiple logistic regression was used to determine associated factors with mineral intake. Results Calcium and magnesium had the highest prevalence of inadequacy (>83%) in both sexes and age groups. Sodium intake was above Tolerable Upper Intake Levels for the majority of the population studied (>68%). The intake of all minerals was different between the sexes for the two age groups (p<0.01), and it was not different between age groups (p>0.05). The associated factors with mineral intake were sex (calcium, iron, phosphorus, and sodium), age group (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and sodium), and physical activity (calcium, iron, and magnesium), followed by socioeconomic level (zinc and sodium) and body weight status (iron and sodium). Conclusion The expressive portion of the studied population is at nutritional risk for calcium, magnesium, and sodium. Such data can contribute to the national public policy revision that is related to micronutrient intake and the adoption of healthier habits by adolescents and young adults.

RESUMO Objetivo Descrever as prevalências de inadequação e fatores associados à ingestão de cálcio, ferro, zinco, magnésio, fósforo e sódio em indivíduos dos 15 aos 24,9 anos. Métodos Foram analisados 476 indivíduos do Estudo Brasileiro de Nutrição e Saúde, estratificados em dois grupos etários (adolescentes de 15-18,9 anos e adultos jovens de 19-24,9 anos). A ingestão de minerais foi obtida por meio de dois recordatórios de 24hs. Os valores de Requerimento Médio Estimado e do Limite Superior Tolerável de Ingestão foram considerados para calcular as prevalências de inadequação. Regressão logística múltipla foi utilizada para determinar os fatores associados à ingestão de minerais. Resultados Cálcio e magnésio tiveram elevadas prevalências de inadequação (>83%) em pacientes de ambos os sexos e grupos etários. A ingestão de sódio foi acima Limite Superior Tolerável de Ingestão para a maioria da população estudada (>68%). O consumo de todos os minerais foi diferente entre os sexos para os dois grupos etários (p<0,01) e não foi diferente entre os grupos etários (p>0,05). Os fatores associados à ingestão dos minerais foram sexo (cálcio, ferro, fósforo e sódio), grupo etário (cálcio, magnésio, fósforo e sódio) e atividade física (cálcio, ferro e magnésio), seguidos por nível socioeconômico (zinco e sódio) e estado de peso corporal (ferro e sódio). Conclusão Expressiva parcela da população estudada encontra-se em risco nutricional para cálcio, magnésio e sódio. Esses dados podem contribuir para a revisão de políticas públicas nacionais que se relacionam à ingestão de micronutrientes e à adoção de hábitos mais saudáveis pelos adolescentes e adultos jovens.

Excess Calcium, Magnesium and Phosphorus Deposition in the Epigastric Artery of Dialysis Patients Undergoing Renal Transplantation

ABSTRACT Objective: Vascular calcification contributes to cardiovascular disease on dialysis patients. Arterial mineral content is modified but not well defined. We aim to define what is the concentration of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus in the epigastric artery of adult dialysis patients undergoing renal transplantation. Methods: All renal allograft recipients who underwent surgery at our centre between May 2003 and December 2005 and consented to be taken small samples of epigastric artery were included in our cross-sectional study. Histological, radiological and spectrometric methods were used to measure vascular calcification, deposits and concentrations of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium in epigastric artery, which were correlated with clinical and biochemical characteristics. Mineral vascular content was compared with corresponding samples from cadaveric renal donors free from renal disease (control group). Results: Calcium and magnesium concentrations in epigastric artery were much higher in recipients (n = 100) than in donors (n = 30). Histologically confirmed calcifications were more frequent in recipients. Calcium and magnesium content in epigastric artery were correlated directly with recipient age, pre-transplant serum P and Ca × P product. A high content of calcium and magnesium in this artery was observed in recipients with media and intimal calcification. Multivariate logistic regression showed that dialysis vintage > 3.5 years and calcium concentration in epigastric artery ≥ 4500 mg/kg wet weight were independent predictors of histological calcification. Conclusion: Excess mineral deposition is observed in the epigastric artery of dialysis patients, where the recipient's age, serum P, Ca × P product and time on dialysis play a decisive role.

Síndrome de Gitelman / Gitelman syndrome

El síndrome de Gitelman forma parte de las denominadas tubulopatías perdedoras de sal. El bloqueo parcial de la reabsorción de sodio en el túbulo contorneado distal determina la aparición de hipokalemia e hipomagnesemia. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de una serie de cinco casos de síndrome de Gitelman (4 mujeres, de 28 a 85 años de edad) atendidos en nuestra institución entre los años 2004 y 2015. La forma de diagnóstico más frecuente en nuestra serie fue por hallazgo de laboratorio. El único síntoma clínico manifestado en forma espontánea fue astenia. En cuanto a los valores de laboratorio, la potasemia fue 2.5 ± 0.5 mmol/l, con un valor mínimo de 2.1. Adicionalmente, el valor de magnesio en sangre fue 1.3 ± 0.3 mg/dl. Como conclusión, observamos que las formas de presentación consisten en alteraciones bioquímicas con o sin manifestaciones inespecíficas, lo que representa actualmente la mayor dificultad diagnóstica y refuerza la importancia de lograr un diagnóstico oportuno, en especial en pacientes jóvenes y con valores críticos de potasio sérico.

Gitelman syndrome is one of the salt losing tubulopathies. Hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia appear in the setting of the partial blockade of salt absorption in the distal tubule. We conducted a descriptive study of a case series of five patients with Gitelman syndrome (4 women, from 28 to 85 years) in our institution, between the years 2004 and 2015. The most frequent form of diagnosis in our series was by laboratory finding. The only acknowledged clinical symptom was malaise. Regarding laboratory findings, the mean potassemia was of 2.5 ± 0.5 mmol/l, with a minimum value of 2.1 mmol/l. Additionally, the serum magnesium value was of 1.3 ± 0.3 mg/dl. In conclusion, we observed that the forms of presentation consist of biochemical alterations with or without nonspecific manifestations, which currently represents the greatest diagnostic difficulty and reinforces the importance to achieve a timely diagnosis, especially in young patients with critical serum potassium values.

Leaf and Stem Anatomy of Cherry Tomato Under Calcium and Magnesium Deficiencies

Abstract Studies evaluating the influence of nutrients on plant anatomy are very important because nutritional deficiencies can alter the thickness and shape of certain tissues, compromising their functionality what can explain the reduction of productivity. The aim of this study was to characterize the anatomical changes in cherry tomato plants subjected to calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) deficiencies. The experiment was conducted in nutrient solution and the plants subjected to three treatments: complete solution (Control), Ca restriction (1 mmol L-1 of Ca) and Mg omission (without Mg). The experimental design was completely randomized, with three repetitions. Sixty days after seedling transplanting leaves and stem were collected and submitted to anatomical evaluations. Ca or Mg deficiency promotes most evident anatomical changes in chlorophyllous and vascular tissues of the leaves, rather than in the stems. Leaves of 'Sindy' tomato plants with a concentration of 1.7 g kg-1 of Mg and visual symptoms of Mg deficiency present hyperplasia of both tissues, phloem and xylem. This deficiency also promotes increases in the thickness of mesophyll, spongy parenchyma and palisade parenchyma, and consequently of leaf thickness. The midrib of the leaves with a concentration of 10 g kg-1 of Ca, without visual symptoms of deficiency presented phloem hypertrophy and hyperplasia.

Relationship of the low-density lipoprotein (LDL)/high-density lipoprotein (HDL) index with antioxidant enzymes and with the oxLDL/HDL index

Introduction: The low-density lipoprotein (LDL)/high-density lipoprotein (HDL) index is a predictive factor for atherosclerosis, which is associated with oxidative modifications. Objective: To assess the association of the index with oxidative stress markers. Methods: 444 subjects were included and were clinically, anthropometrically and biochemically characterized; superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPx3), magnesium and oxidized LDL (oxLDL) index (oxLDL/HDL) were quantified. Results: A decrease of 1.014 units in the LDL/HDL index was associated with a superoxide dismutase increase of 1 unit/mL (p = 0.030), while a decrease of 0.023 units was associated with a GPx3 increase of 1 nmol/min/mL (p < 0.0005). An increase of one unit in the index was associated with an increase of 0.831 in the oxLDL/HDL index (p < 0.05). After controlling for the effect of gender, age, smoking, obesity and insulin resistance, a reduction of 0.001 per index unit was associated with an increase of 1 µg/g of magnesium in the nails (p = 0.020). Conclusions: The LDL/HDL index shows an inverse relationship with the antioxidant status and a direct relationship with oxidation status, regardless of other cardiovascular and oxidative stress risk factors.

Mg status in inflammation, insulin resistance, and associated conditions

Magnesium (Mg), an essential ion for the human body, is involved in various enzymatic reactions, particularly those related to energy transfer, storage, and transport. Longitudinal studies show that hypomagnesaemia (Mg serum concentration <0.75 mmol/L) and Mg dietary inadequacy (daily intake < EAR (Estimated Average Requirement) for age/gender) are conditions related to metabolic disorders of the immune and cardiovascular system and often occur in obese and diabetic individuals. Poor eating habits, reduced Mg content in food and water are the main causes of the decrease in Mg intake by the general population. In clinical practice, the serum concentration of this mineral is the most widely used marker for diagnosing deficiency. However, the serum concentration does not reflect the nutritional Mg status since it can be maintained by mobilization of body storage, mainly the bone. Thus, the use of serum concentration as the only routine biomarker of Mg status may hinder the diagnosis of Mg deficiency. In clinical and experimental research, different methods for Mg status assessment are proposed (plasma, erythrocyte, urine), but they are seldom used in clinical routine. In some countries (such as USA and Brazil) the average daily Mg dietary ingestion of more than 60% of the adult population is lower than the Estimated Average Requirement for age and gender, and these data are not too different for individuals with chronic non-communicable diseases. It is unclear whether it is an actual reduction of Mg consumption or if the recommendations are overestimated. If we assume that the recommendations are correct, the question is if this condition constitutes a risk factor for chronic diseases or the hypomagnesemia described in some diseases is a consequence of physiopathological changes. This review has the latest information of human and animal studies about Mg status evaluated from plasma, erythrocyte and urine, dietary inadequacy, and its relation to inflammation and to components of metabolic syndrome.

Mineral profile of crossbred F 1 Holstein x Gyr dairy cows during the transition period in summer and winter / Perfil mineral de vacas F1 Holandês x Gir durante o período de transição no verão e inverno

The transition period is often a great challenge for dairy cows and mineral imbalances are frequent. With the aim to better understand the mineral profile of F1 Holstein x Gyr dairy cows and their performances under the different conditions of summer and winter, we collected blood samples to measure calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. Samplings were performed during summer and winter, on 15 and 13 pluriparous F1 Holstein x Gyr dairy cows, respectively. Blood sampling started 4 weeks prior to the expected calving date until 30 days postpartum. The mean concentrations of all three minerals had a different pattern during the transition period in each season, representing the interaction time x season. Calcium concentration was lower in winter and more animals suffered from subclinical hypocalcemia (100%) then in summer (38.46%). Magnesium concentration was also lower in winter and 46.67% of animals had hypomagnesemia, contributing for the higher hypocalcemia frequency observed in the same season. A high proportion of animals had hyperphosphatemia what can represent an environmental problem and more attention should be given to it. The high frequency of animals with subclinical hypocalcemia is alarming once that can lead to greater consequences.(AU)

O período de transição é uma fase de grandes desafios para vacas leiteiras, e desequilíbrios minerais são frequentes. O objetivo ao desenvolver este trabalho foi de entender melhor o perfil mineral de vacas leiteiras F1 Holandês x Gir e suas performances sob as diferentes condições de verão e inverno. Para isso, foram mensurados cálcio, magnésio e fósforo sanguíneo. As coletas de sangue foram realizadas durante os períodos de verão e inverno, e utilizaram-se, respectivamente, 15 e 13 vacas leiteiras pluríparas, todas F1 Holandês x Gir. As coletas de sangue começaram quatro semanas antes da data prevista do parto até 30 dias pós-parto. As concentrações médias e o padrão de variação dos três minerais foram distintos em cada estação do ano, representando a interação tempo de coleta x estação do ano. A concentração de cálcio foi menor no inverno, período em que todos os animais apresentaram hipocalcemia subclínica, enquanto no verão 38,46% apresentaram essa condição. A concentração de magnésio foi maior no verão e nenhum animal teve hipomagnesemia, enquanto no inverno 46,67% dos animais apresentaram hipomagnesemia subclínica, contribuindo para a maior frequência de hipocalcemia observada no inverno. Uma alta proporção de animais teve hiperfosfatemia, o que pode representar um problema ambiental. A alta frequência de animais com hipocalcemia subclínica é alarmante principalmente devido às consequências geradas por essa condição.(AU)

Morphological study and mineral analysis of the lower mandible of adult Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) from Scotland with mandibular deformation / Estudio morfológico y análisis de minerales de la mandíbula inferior de salmones del Atlántico (Salmo salar) adultos con deformación mandibular, provenientes de Escocia

Mandibular deformity is a condition that affects the jaw bone of adult salmon and has been observed in Norway and Chile, causing weight loss, poor quality of farmed fish and increased mortality. The causes range from high temperatures of the state of eggs, to poor nutrition phosphorus or vitamin C. This work aims to analyze this deformity by histochemical and mineral analysis technique during an episode presented in centers of the Scotia Sea. Jaw and spinal segments of 21 Atlantic salmon in Scotland were used. These samples were classified into three groups: Group 1: Severely deformed. Group 2: Mildly affected. Group 3: Normal controls. Four jaws per group were fixed in 10 % formalin and embedded in Paraplast, sections of 5 microns were performed using a Microm® microtome histochemical technique Von Kossa was used for the detection of calcium deposits, which highlights the calcium osteoid black and red color. For proximate analysis, and in order to obtain and compare levels of calcium, phosphorus, zinc and magnesium in total 9 bone jaws (6 affected with DM and 3 controls) and 9 body sections the Mann-Whitney test was used to compare these values between misshapen salmon and controls. To correlate values, jaw and body segment a Spearman corrrelation was applied. Fish group 1 presented a ventral deviation of the alveolar bone body. In fish group 2 prominence of the visible joint on both sides or unilaterally was observed. Comparing the values of % Ca, % P, % Mg and Zn jaws with DM and healthy ones with Mann Witney method it was found that the values of these minerals vary between salmon and controls affected. There was a significant difference in the percentage of P, which indicates that there is less P in affected fish vertebrae. Spearman correlation noted that the percentages of the minerals studied in dental bone and vertebral segments are uncorrelated. Rather, Von Kossa distribution indicates that Ca/P is not homogeneous in the dental bone, as a result of mineral resorption from the skeleton including the operculum, articular bone and dental towards kype. This paper states that Von Kossa histochemical technique showed significant differences between deformed fish and controls and also showed differences between the various segments of the dental bone. The alveolar bone is a dynamic structure adapted to continuous histological changes may be involved in MD, phosphorus deficient diets, coupled with the initial formation of Kippe.

La deformación mandibular es una patología que afecta al hueso dentario de salmones adultos, se observó en Noruega y en Chile, ocasionando disminución de peso, baja calidad de peces cultivados y aumento de la mortalidad. Las causas varían desde temperaturas elevadas al estado de ovas, hasta alimentación deficitaria en fósforo o vitamina C. Este trabajo tiene como propósito analizar esta deformación mediante una técnica histoquímica y de análisis de minerales durante un episodio presentado en centros de mar de Escocia. Se utilizó la mandíbula y segmento vertebral de 21 salmones del Atlántico de Escocia. Estas muestras se clasificaron en tres grupos Grupo 1: Severamente deformes. Grupo 2: Levemente afectados. Grupo 3: Controles normales. Cuatro mandíbulas por grupo fueron fijadas en formalina al 10 % y se incluyeron en paraplast, se realizaron cortes de 5 µm utilizando un micrótomo Microm®. Se utilizó la técnica histoquímica de Von Kossa para la detección de depósitos de calcio la cual destaca al calcio de color negro y el osteoide de color rojo. Para el análisis químico proximal, y con el propósito de obtener y comparar niveles de calcio, fósforo, zinc y magnesio en los huesos se utilizó un total de 9 mandíbulas (6 afectadas con DM y 3 controles) y sus 9 secciones corporales. Para comparar estos valores entre salmones deformes y controles se utilizó la prueba de Mann-Whitney. Para correlacionar los valores de mandíbula y segmento corporal se hizo una correlación por jerarquías de Spearman. Los peces del grupo 1, presentaron una desviación ventral del cuerpo del hueso dentario. En los peces del grupo 2 se observó la prominencia de la articulación visible en ambos lados o unilateralmente. Al comparar los valores de % Ca, % P, % Mg y Zn de las mandíbulas con DM y sanas con el método de Mann Witney se encontró que los valores de estos minerales no varían entre salmones afectados y controles. Hubo una diferencia significativa en el porcentaje de P, lo cual indica que existe menos P en vértebras de peces afectados. La correlación de Spearman señaló que los porcentajes de los minerales estudiados en huesos dentarios y segmentos vertebrales no están correlacionados. Por el contrario, la técnica Von Kossa mostró que la distribución de Ca/ P no es homogénea en el hueso dental producto de la reabsorción mineral desde el esqueleto incluyendo el opérculo, hueso articular y dental hacia la kype. El presente trabajo establece que la técnica histoquímica de Von Kossa fue la que permitió observar diferencias importantes entre peces deformados y controles, además mostró diferencias entre los distintos segmentos del hueso dentario. El hueso dentario es una estructura dinámica adaptada a continuos cambios histológicos pudiendo estar involucrados en la DM, dietas deficientes de fósforo, sumado a la formación inicial del Kippe.

Effects of seasonal variations and collection methods on the mineral composition of propolis from Apis mellifera Linnaeus Beehives / Efeitos de variações sazonais e métodos de coleta sobre a composição mineral de própolis de colmeias de Apis mellifera Linnaeus

Abstract The effects of seasonal variations and the methods of collection of propolis produced by Africanized honey bees Apis mellifera Linnaeus, 1758, on the composition of constituent minerals such as magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), sodium (Na), calcium (Ca), copper (Cu), and potassium (K) were evaluated. Propolis was harvested from 25 beehives by scraping or by means of propolis collectors (screen, “intelligent” collector propolis [ICP], lateral opening of the super [LOS], and underlay method). During the one-year study, the propolis produced was harvested each month, ground, homogenized, and stored in a freezer at -10 ºC. Seasonal analyses of the mineral composition were carried out by atomic absorption spectrophotometry and the results were evaluated by analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Tukey-Kramer’s test to compare the mean values (p<0.05). The results showed that seasonal variations influence the contents of 5 minerals (Mg, Fe, Na, Ca, and Cu), and the propolis harvesting method affects the contents of 4 minerals (Mg, Zn, Fe, and Ca).

Resumo A influência da sazonalidade e de métodos de produção de própolis por abelhas africanizadas Apis mellifera Linnaeus, 1758, sobre a concentração de magnésio (Mg), zinco (Zn), ferro (Fe), sódio (Na), cálcio (Ca), cobre (Cu) e potássio (K) foram avaliados. 25 colmeias foram utilizadas, e a colheita de propolis ocorreu por raspagem ou a partir de coletores (tela, coletor de própolis “inteligente” – CPI, abertura lateral da melgueira – ALM e calço). Durante um ano a própolis foi colhida mensalmente, homogeneizada e armazenada em freezer a -10 ºC. A análise sazonal de minerais foi realizada por espectrofotometria de absorção atômica e os resultados avaliados por análise de variância (ANOVA) seguida do teste de Tukey-Kramer para comparação de médias (p<0,05). Os resultados demostraram que a sazonalidade afetou o conteúdo de cinco minerais (Mg, Fe, Na, Ca e Cu) e os métodos de coleta afetaram o conteúdo de quatro minerais (Mg, Zn, Fe e Ca).

Salinity-induced changes in the morphology and major mineral nutrient composition of purslane (Portulaca oleracea L) accessions

This study was undertaken to determine the effects of varied salinity regimes on the morphological traits (plant height, number of leaves, number of flowers, fresh and dry weight) and major mineral composition of 13 selected purslane accessions. Most of the morphological traits measured were reduced at varied salinity levels (0.0, 8, 16, 24 and 32 dS m-1), but plant height was found to increase in Ac1 at 16 dS m-1 salinity, and Ac13 was the most affected accession. The highest reductions in the number of leaves and number of flowers were recorded in Ac13 at 32 dS m-1 salinity compared to the control. The highest fresh and dry weight reductions were noted in Ac8 and Ac6, respectively, at 32 dS m-1 salinity, whereas the highest increase in both fresh and dry weight was recorded in Ac9 at 24 dS m-1 salinity compared to the control. In contrast, at lower salinity levels, all of the measured mineral levels were found to increase and later decrease with increasing salinity, but the performance of different accessions was different depending on the salinity level. A dendrogram was also constructed by UPGMA based on the morphological traits and mineral compositions, in which the 13 accessions were grouped into 5 clusters, indicating greater diversity among them. A three-dimensional principal component analysis also confirmed the output of grouping from cluster analysis.

Antilithiatic Activity of phlorotannin rich extract of Sarghassum Wightii on Calcium Oxalate Urolithiais ­ In Vitro and In VivoEvaluation

Urolithiasis is a common urological disorder responsible for serious human affliction and cost to the society with a high recurrence rate. The aim of the present study was to systematically evaluate the phlorotannin rich extract of Sargassum wightii using suitable in vitro and in vivo models to provide scientific evidence for its antilithiatic activity.

Cadmium toxicity affects chlorophyll a and b content, antioxidant enzyme activities and mineral nutrient accumulation in strawberry

BACKGROUND: Cadmium (Cd) is well known as one of the most toxic metals affecting the environment and can severely restrict plant growth and development. In this study, Cd toxicities were studied in strawberry cv. Camarosa using pot experiment. Chlorophyll and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities and mineral nutrient concentrations were investigated in both roots and leaves of strawberry plant after exposure Cd. RESULTS: Cd content in both roots and leaves was increased with the application of increasing concentrations of Cd. We found higher Cd concentration in roots rather than in leaves. Chlorophyll a and b was decreased in leaves but MDA significantly increased under increased Cd concentration treatments in both roots and leaves. SOD and CAT activities was also increased with the increase Cd concentrations. K, Mn and Mg concentrations were found higher in leaves than roots under Cd stress. In general, increased Cd treatments increased K, Mg, Fe, Ca, Cu and Zn concentration in both roots and leaves. Excessive Cd treatments reduced chlorophyll contents, increased antioxidant enzyme activities and changes in plant nutrition concentrations in both roots and leaves. CONCLUSION: The results presented in this work suggested that Cd treatments have negative effect on chlorophyll content and nearly decreased 30% of plant growth in strawberry. Strawberry roots accumulated higher Cd than leaves. We found that MDA and antioxidant enzyme (CAT, SOD and APX) contents may have considered a good indicator in determining Cd tolerance in strawberry plant.

Influence of rootstocks on growth, yield, fruit quality and leaf mineral element contents of pear cv. 'Santa Maria' in semi-arid conditions

BACKGROUND: Rootstocks play an essential role to determining orchard performance of fruit trees. Pyrus communisand Cydonia oblonga are widely used rootstocks for European pear cultivars. The lack of rootstocks adapted to different soil conditions and different grafted cultivars is widely acknowledged in pear culture. Cydonia rootstocks (clonal) and Pyrus rootstocks (seedling or clonal) have their advantages and disadvantages. In each case, site-specific environmental characteristics, specific cultivar response and production objectives must be considered before choosing the best rootstock. In this study, the influence of three Quince (BA 29, Quince A = MA, Quince C = MC) and a local European pear seedling rootstocks on the scion yield, some fruit quality characteristics and leaf macro (N, P, K, Ca and Mg) and micro element (Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn and B) content of 'Santa Maria' pear (Pyrus communis L.) were investigated. RESULTS: Trees on seedling rootstock had the highest annual yield, highest cumulative yield (kg tree(-1)), largest trunk cross-sectional area (TCSA), lowest yield efficiency and lowest cumulative yield (ton ha(-1)) in the 10th year after planting. The rootstocks had no significant effect on average fruit weight and fruit volume. Significantly higher fruit firmness was obtained on BA 29 and Quince A. The effect of rootstocks on the mineral element accumulation (N, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn and B) was significant. Leaf analysis showed that rootstocks used had different mineral uptake efficiencies throughout the early season. CONCLUSION: The results showed that the rootstocks strongly affected fruit yield, fruit quality and leaf mineral element uptake of 'Santa Maria' pear cultivar. Pear seedling and BA 29 rootstock found to be more prominent in terms of several characteristics for 'Santa Maria' pear cultivar that is grown in highly calcareous soil in semi-arid climate conditions. We determined the highest N, P (although insignificant), K, Ca, Mg, Fe and Cu mineral element concentrations on the pear seedling and BA 29 rootstocks. According to the results, we recommend the seedling rootstock for normal density plantings (400 trees ha(-1)) and BA 29 rootstock for high-density plantings (800 trees ha(-1)) for 'Santa Maria' pear cultivar in semi-arid conditions.

Avaliação do status de magnésio e da sua associação com o estresse oxidativo e as citocinas inflamatórias na pré-eclâmpsia / Assessment of the magnesium status and its association with oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines in preeclampsia

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o status de magnésio (Mg) e a sua relação com o estresse oxidativo e as citocinas inflamatórias na pré-eclâmpsia (PE). Participaram do estudo, 18 gestantes saudáveis (controle - CT) e 18 gestantes com PE, diagnosticadas com pressão arterial >= 140/90 mmHg, proteinúria >= 0,3 g/24 h e sem doenças associadas. Sangue e urina de 24 horas foram coletados para análise de status de Mg, estresse oxidativo [malondialdeído (MDA), 8-isoprostano urinário e a atividade antioxidante das enzimas catalase (CAT) e glutationa peroxidase (GSH-Px)], a concentração de óxido nítrico (NO), e das citocinas inflamatórias [proteína C reativa, interleucina 6 (IL-6) e fator de necrose tumoral (TNF-α)]; Foi aplicado um questionário quantitativo de frequência alimentar para gestantes. As comparações entre os grupos foram feitas pelos testes Qui-quadrado, t-Student ou Mann Whitney. O coeficiente de correlação de Spearman foi usado para verificar associação entre as variáveis. A análise do Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) foi realizada para identificar as variáveis que melhor discriminassem os grupos (α=5%). As concentrações de Mg plasmático e eritrocitário, bem como a concentração de NO, a atividade da CAT e as concentrações de TNF-α e IL-6 foram maiores na PE do que no CT. Associações positivas entre o Mg plasmático e a proteinúria (p=0,04), o TNFα (p=0,03) e a IL-6 (p=0,02) foram verificadas; associações negativas foram encontradas entre a atividade da CAT e a concentração de 8-isoprostano urinário (p=0,02) e entre a atividade da GSH-Px e os níveis de pressão arterial diastólica (p=0,01). A análise ROC mostrou que o Mg plasmático e o TNF-α foram as variáveis que mellhor discriminaram as gestantes com PE das CT. Os resultados mostraram que o estresse oxidativo não foi evidente na fisiopatologia da PE, possivelmente devido aos mecanismos antioxidantes compensatórios do organismo. A inflamação e os eventos inerentes à PE, como vasoconstrição, podem ter promovido as alterações no status de Mg

The aim of this study was to assess the magnesium (Mg) status and its relationship with oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines in preeclampsia (PE). Were included 18 healthy pregnant women (CT- control) and 18 PE, diagnosed with blood pressure >= 140/90 mmHg, proteinuria >= 0,3 g/24 h, and without other diseases. Blood and 24h urine were collected for analyses of the Mg status, oxidative stress [malondialdehyde (MDA), 8-isoprostane urinary and activities of the antioxidant enzymes: catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px)], nitric oxide (NO) and inflammatory cytokines concentrations [protein C reactive, interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α); Furthermore, a quantitative food frequency questionnaire was applied to pregnant women. The comparisons between groups were done by Chi-square, t-Student or Mann Whitney tests. Spearman correlation coefficient was used to verify association among variables and the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to identify variables that better discriminated the groups (α = 5 %). The Mg concentration, in plasma and in erythrocyte, as well as NO concentration, CAT activity and TNF-α and IL-6 concentrations were higher in PE than CT group. Positive associations between plasma Mg and proteinuria (p=0,04), TNF-α (p=0,03) and IL-6 (p=0,02) were verified; Negative associations were found between CAT activity and 8-isoprostane urinary concentration (p=0,02) and between GSH-Px activity and diastolic blood pressure levels (p=0,01). ROC analyses showed that plasma Mg and TNF-α were the variables which better discriminate pregnant women with PE from CT. The results showed that oxidative stress was not evident in physiopathology of PE, possibly due to compensatory antioxidant mechanisms present in the body. The inflammatory and the events inherent to PE, such as vasoconstriction, possibly have promoted changes in Mg status

Determinación de cobre, magnesio y zinc en leucocitos mononucleares mediante espectrometría de absorción atómica con llama / Determination of copper, magnesium and zinc in mononuclear leukocytes by flame atomic absorption spectrometry

En este trabajo se evaluó un nuevo microinyector de inyección en flujo para la determinación de Cu, Mg y Zn en células mononucleares de la sangre. Este dispositivo permitió analizar muestras en el orden de microlitros mediante espectrometría de absorción atómica con llama, es fácil de construir y adaptar al inyector convencional del espectrofotómetro de absorción atómica. En la determinación de Cu, Mg y Zn se obtuvieron límites de detección de 106, 65 y 37 µg L-1,respectivamente. En las pruebas de recuperación de estos elementos en leucocitos mononucleares se encontraron porcentajes de recuperación entre 98 y 110%.

In this paper we evaluated a new micro-flow injector for the determination of the concentrations of Cu, Mg and Zn in mononuclear blood cells. This device analyzed sample volumes in the order of microliters by flame atomic absorption spectrometry; it is inexpensive, and easy to build and to adapt to the conventional injector of the atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Detection limits of 106, 65 and 37 µg L-1 for Cu, Mg and Zn were obtained, respectively. The percentages of recovery tests were found between 98 and 110%.

A biochemical and histopathological evaluation of generalized pulp calcification in young permanent teeth.

Pulp calcifications are a frequent finding on bitewing and periapical radiographs in older age-groups but their occurrence in the entire dentition in young subjects is unusual. We report such an unusual occurrence of generalized pulp calcification in a 13-year-old Indian female. Radiographic examination of the dentition revealed pulp calcifications in all permanent teeth, located mostly in the pulp chamber but with some in the root canals. The patient's dental, medical, and family history was noncontributory. Biochemical analysis of the removed pulp calcification from one of the teeth during endodontic treatment showed large amounts of calcium, phosphorus, and carbonate. However, metabolic evaluation of patient through liver and kidney function tests and other blood investigations did not reveal any metabolic disorder. The patient was also evaluated for any systemic, syndromic, or genetic involvement but this was also noncontributory. Therefore, we propose that this unusual case of generalized pulp calcification is of idiopathic origin. In this work, histopathological and biochemical evaluations of the pulp calcification was done to try and understand the initiation and progress of calcifications in pulpal tissue.

Tiempo de filtración del citrato de calcio y magnesio obtenido a partir de dolomita cubana / Filtration time for calcium cytrate and magnesium from the Cuban dolomite

El citrato de calcio y magnesio es una materia prima de calidad farmacéutica obtenida a partir de dolomitas cubanas, con la finalidad de ser empleada en la producción de formas terminadas para suplir calcio y magnesio en personas con deficiencias de estos minerales. Como parte de la optimización del proceso tecnológico de obtención, se estudió el tiempo de filtración con el objetivo de evaluar el comportamiento a escalas superiores. Para ello se realizó un estudio de desescalado para determinar las condiciones en la escala de banco, empleando como criterio de escalado mantener igual consumo de potencia por unidad de volumen. A través de la ecuación fundamental de la filtración, se determinó el tiempo de esta operación. El estudio de filtración dio como resultados que el valor de la resistencia del medio filtrante era Rm= 6,08 × 1010 m-1 y la resistencia de la torta a= 1,239 × 1010 m/kg-1 a una diferencia de presión constante (Dp= 9,99 × 104 kg/m·s2). Mientras que el tiempo medio de filtración fue de 494,6 s (8,24 ± 3,0 min). En conclusión, los resultados mostraron que el tiempo de filtración es adecuado para el proceso tecnológico estudiado, y el estudio de escalado demostró la viabilidad del proceso de filtración

Calcium and magnesium citrate is a raw material of pharmaceutical quality obtained from Cuban dolomites to be used in those people with deficiency in these two minerals. As part of the technological process optimization, the filtering time was studied to evaluate the possible behaviour at higher scales. To this end, one scale-down study was made to determine the conditions at bench scale by keeping the same power consumption per volume unit. The fundamental filtering equation allowed determining the time for this operation. The results of this study showed that the resistance value of the filtering material was Rm= 6.08 · 1010 m-1 and the resistance of the mass was a= 1,239 , 1010 m·kg-1 at constant pressure (Dp= 9,99 × 104 kg/m·s2). The filtration time was 494,6 s (8,24 ± 3,0 min). The results showed that the filtration time was correct for the studied technological process and the scale up study demonstrated the feasibility of the filtration process

Chemical migration during soil water retention curve evaluation

Wetting and drying (W-D) cycles can induce important elemental migrations in soils. The main purpose of this work was to study the possible existence of soil chemical elemental migrations in samples submitted to repeated W-D cycles during evaluations of soil water retention curve (SWRC). The experimental measurements were carried out by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS) for Ca2+, Mg2+ and K+ on samples of three different Brazilian tropical soils (Geric Ferralsol, Eutric Nitosol and Rhodic Ferralsol). Results demonstrate an increase in the electrical conductivity of the water extracted from the samples and significant losses of Ca2+, Mg2+ and K+ during the applications of up to nine W-D cycles. It was also observed differences in SWRC for all soils when samples submitted to the application of several W-D cycles were compared with samples not submitted to it. These differences occurred at the region of both structural and textural pores. A possible explanation for these results could be the soil chemical migration during the sequences of W-D cycles, which can affect the soil structure development.

Os ciclos de umedecimento e secamento (U-S) podem induzir importantes migrações de elementos químicos no solo. O objetivo principal deste trabalho foi estudar a possível existência de migração de elementos químicos em amostras de solos submetidas a repetidos ciclos de U-S durante a avaliação da curva de retenção de água do solo. As determinações de Ca2+,Mg2+ e K+ foram obtidas por Espectrometria de Absorção Atômica em três diferentes solos tropicais do Brasil (Latossolo Vermelho-Amarelo, Nitossolo Vermelho e Latossolo Vermelho). Os resultados demonstram um aumento da condutividade elétrica da água extraída das amostras de solo e perda significativa de Ca2+, Mg2+ e K+ após a aplicação de nove ciclos de U-S. Diferenças nas curvas de retenção foram também observadas para todos os solos quando as amostras submetidas aos ciclos de U-S foram comparadas com as amostras não submetidas. Essas diferenças ocorreram tanto na região estrutural quanto textural dos poros do solo. Uma possível explicação para esses resultados pode ser a migração de elementos químicos do solo durante as sequências de ciclos de U-S, os quais podem afetar o desenvolvimento da estrutura do solo.

Effects of milk curd on saliva secretion in healthy volunteer compared to baseline, 2% pilocarpine and equivalent pH adjusted acetic acid solutions.

Background: Dry mouth is a common clinical problem, and different products have been proposed to improve it. In this investigation, the effects of "milk curd" on the amount of saliva secretion were studied. Materials and Methods: A total of 32 patients (aged 20-30) were selected from healthy volunteers. Milk curd concentrations of 0.5, 1, 2 and 4%, and 2% pilocarpine were prepared as drops. The impact of the drugs on the saliva weight was assessed after 1-5 min. To determine the effects of the pH of the milk curd on the amount of saliva secretion, different concentrations of acetic acid were used. Results: At the end of the first minute, the differences between the data for all groups were statistically significant, and the difference between the 2% and 4% milk curd groups was higher than the others (P < 0.0001). The differences in the amount of the saliva secreted at the end of the second minute between the baseline and 4% milk curd groups and between the 0.5% and 4% MC groups were significant (P = 0.006 and P = 0.025, respectively). In total, there was no significant difference between the effect of various pH treatments and the amount of baseline saliva secretion. Conclusion: Milk curd has a significant local impact, and the saliva increase depends on the dose. It seems that this effect is not only related to its acidic taste. As a result, factors other than pH are involved in the effect.

Urolitíase: estudo comparativo em bovinos Guzerá oriundos de propriedades com e sem o problema / Urolithiasis: a comparative study in Guzerá cattle from properties with and without the problem

Diversos fatores podem contribuir para a formação de cálculos urinários, dentre estes, o desequilíbrio nutricional e a dureza da água consumida pelos ruminantes. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar as características de propriedades que predispõem à urolitíase, através da avaliação da água, da dieta e determinações séricas e urinárias de cálcio, fósforo, magnésio, cloretos, sódio, potássio, cálculo da excreção fracionada (EF) dos eletrólitos, e da creatinina, proteína total, albumina e globulinas séricas. Foram colhidas amostras de sangue e urina de bovinos, Guzerá, criados semi intensivamente, distribuídos por dois grupos. O primeiro denominado grupo urolitíase (Gu), composto de animais com histórico, sinais clínicos e confirmação ultrassonográfica que apresentavam urolitíase; o segundo: grupo controle (Gc), sem histórico, nem sintomas da doença. Os bovinos do grupo urolitíase consumiam água com dureza total na concentração de 166,0mg CaCO3/L. A dieta dos animais do Gu apresentava maior concentração de fósforo e relação Ca:P inadequada. Os teores de fósforo sérico e urinário dos animais do Gu foram maiores do que os do Gc, assim como a concentração sérica de magnésio (p<0,05). Não houve aumento nas concentrações de creatinina no grupo urolitíase, mas ocorreu hipoproteinemia por hipoglobulinemia (p<0,05). As EFs de cálcio, fósforo e sódio não diferiram entre os grupos (p>0,05), mas houve diminuição significativa nas EFs de magnésio, cloretos e de potássio do grupo urolitíase (p<0,05). A união destes fatores contribuiu para a ocorrência da urolitíase, sendo dureza total da água e a alta concentração de fósforo na dieta os principais fatores na gênese dos cálculos em bovinos.

Many factors can contribute to the formation of urinary calculi, amongst these, the nutritional imbalances and the hardness of the water consumed by ruminants. The objective of this study was to identify the characteristics of properties which predispose to urolithiasis, through the evaluation in rural properties of the water, diet, and serum and urinary determinations of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, chlorides, sodium, potassium, calculation of the fractional electrolyte excretion (FE), and creatinine, total protein serum levels, albumin and globulins. Samples of blood and urine of bovines, Guzerá, reared semi intensively, distributed for two groups, the first one, called urolithiasis group (Gu), composed by animals with history, clinical signals and ultrasonography confirmation of urolithiasis; the second one: controlled group (Gc), without history, nor signs of the illness. The bovines of the urolithiasis group consumed water with total hardness in the concentration of 166.0mg CaCO3/ L. The diet of the animals of the Gu presented greater phosphorus concentration and inadequate Ca:P relation. The levels of serum and urinary phosphorus of the animals of the Gu were higher of the Gc, as well as the serum magnesium concentration (p<0,05). The creatinine concentrations didn’t have an increase in the urolithiasis group, but occurred hypoproteinemia for hypoglobulinemia in the Gu (p<0,05). The FEs of calcium, phosphorus and sodium had not differed between the groups (p>0,05), but had significant reduction in the FEs of magnesium, chlorides and potassium of the urolithiasis group (p<0.05). The union of these factors contributed for urolithiasis occurrence, being the total hardness of the water and the high phosphorus diet concentration the major factors in genesis of the calculations in bovines.