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Non-lamellar lyotropic liquid crystalline nanoparticles as nanocarriers for enhanced drug encapsulation of atorvastatin calcium and proanthocyanidins

Maslizan M, Haris MS, Ajat M, Md Jamil SNA, Azhar SC, Zahid NI, et al.

Chem Phys Lipids, 2024 May;260:105377.
PMID: 38325712 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemphyslip.2024.105377

Atorvastatin calcium (ATV) and proanthocyanidins (PAC) have a strong antioxidant activity, that can benefit to reduce the atherosclerotic plaque progression. Unfortunately, the bioavailability of ATV is greatly reduced due to its limited drug solubility while the PAC drug is unstable upon exposure to the atmospheric oxygen. Herein, the lyotropic liquid crystalline nanoparticles (LLCNPs) constructed by a binary mixture of soy phosphatidylcholine (SPC) and citric acid ester of monoglyceride (citrem) at different weight ratios were used to encapsulate the hydrophobic ATV and hydrophilic PAC. The LLCNPs were further characterized by small-angle X-ray scattering and dynamic light scattering. Depending on the lipid composition, the systems have a size range of 140-190 nm and were able to encapsulate both drugs in the range of 90-100%. Upon increasing the citrem content of drug-loaded LLCNPs, the hexosomes (H2) was completely transformed to an emulsified inverse micellar (L2). The optimum encapsulation efficiency (EE) of ATV and PAC were obtained in citrem/SPC weight ratio 4:1 (L2) and 1:1 (H2), respectively. There was a substantial change in the mean size and PDI of the nanoparticles upon 30 days of storage with the ATV-loaded LLCNPs exhibiting greater colloidal instability than PAC-loaded LLCNPs. The biphasic released pattern (burst released at the initial stage followed by the sustained released at the later stage) was perceived in ATV formulation, while the burst drug released pattern was observed in PAC formulations that could be attributed by its internal H2 structure. Interestingly, the cytokine studies showed that the PAC-LLCNPs promisingly up regulate the expressions of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) better than the drug-free and ATV-loaded LLCNPs samples. The structural tunability of citrem/SPC nanoparticles and their effect on physicochemical characteristic, biological activities and potential as an alternative drug delivery platform in the treatment of atherosclerosis are discussed.

Matched MeSH terms: Atorvastatin Calcium/chemistry
Fulltext A cross-sectional analysis of the PURE study on minerals intake among Malaysian adult population with hypertension

Mat Nasir N, Md Isa Z, Ismail NH, Ismail R, Mohd Tamil A, Jaafar MH, et al.

Sci Rep, 2024 Apr 13;14(1):8590.
PMID: 38615144 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59206-0

Hypertension (HPT) is the leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and premature death worldwide. Currently, attention is given to various dietary approaches with a special focus on the role of micronutrient intake in the regulation of blood pressure. This study aims to measure the dietary intake of selected minerals among Malaysian adults and its association with HPT. This cross-sectional study involved 10,031 participants from the Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiological study conducted in Malaysia. Participants were grouped into HPT if they reported having been diagnosed with high blood pressure [average systolic blood pressure (SBP)/average diastolic blood pressure (DBP) ≥ 140/90 mm Hg]. A validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to measure participants' habitual dietary intake. The dietary mineral intake of calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and zinc was measured. The chi-square test was used to assess differences in socio-demographic factors between HPT and non-HPT groups, while the Mann-Whitney U test was used to assess differences in dietary mineral intake between the groups. The participants' average dietary intake of calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, sodium, and zinc was 591.0 mg/day, 3.8 mg/day, 27.1 mg/day, 32.4 mg/day, 0.4 mg/day, 1431.1 mg/day, 2.3 g/day, 27.1 µg/day, 4526.7 mg/day and 1.5 mg/day, respectively. The intake was significantly lower among those with HPT than those without HPT except for calcium and manganese. Continuous education and intervention should be focused on decreasing sodium intake and increasing potassium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, and calcium intake for the general Malaysian population, particularly for the HPT patients.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium; Calcium, Dietary
Fulltext Nickel stocks and fluxes in a tropical agromining 'metal crop' farming system in Sabah (Malaysia)

Tisserand R, van der Ent A, Nkrumah PN, Didier S, Sumail S, Morel JL, et al.

Sci Total Environ, 2024 Apr 01;919:170691.
PMID: 38325468 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170691

Nickel hyperaccumulator plants play a major role in nickel recycling in ultramafic ecosystems, and under agromining the nickel dynamics in the farming system will be affected by removal of nickel-rich biomass. We investigated the biogeochemical cycling of nickel as well as key nutrients in an agromining operation that uses the metal crop Phyllanthus rufuschaneyi in the first tropical metal farm located in Borneo (Sabah, Malaysia). For two years, this study monitored nine 25-m2 plots and collected information on weather, biomass exportation, water, and litter fluxes to the soil. Without harvesting, nickel inputs and outputs had only minor contributions (<1 %) to the total nickel budget in this system. The nickel cycle was mainly driven by internal fluxes, particularly plant uptake, litterfall and throughfall. After two years of cropping, the nickel litter flux corresponded to 50 % of the total nickel stock in the aerial biomass (3.1 g m-2 year-1). Nickel was slowly released from the litter; after 15 months of degradation, 60 % of the initial biomass and the initial nickel quantities were still present in the organic layer. Calcium, phosphorus and potassium budgets in the system were negative without fertilisation. Unlike what is observed for nickel, sustained agromining would thus lead to a strong depletion of calcium stocks if mineral weathering cannot replenish it.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium/metabolism
Vitamin D, Calbindin, and calcium signaling: Unraveling the Alzheimer's connection

Acharya M, Singh N, Gupta G, Tambuwala MM, Aljabali AAA, Chellappan DK, et al.

Cell Signal, 2024 Apr;116:111043.
PMID: 38211841 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2024.111043

Calcium is a ubiquitous second messenger that is indispensable in regulating neurotransmission and memory formation. A precise intracellular calcium level is achieved through the concerted action of calcium channels, and calcium exerts its effect by binding to an array of calcium-binding proteins, including calmodulin (CAM), calcium-calmodulin complex-dependent protein kinase-II (CAMK-II), calbindin (CAL), and calcineurin (CAN). Calbindin orchestrates a plethora of signaling events that regulate synaptic transmission and depolarizing signals. Vitamin D, an endogenous fat-soluble metabolite, is synthesized in the skin upon exposure to ultraviolet B radiation. It modulates calcium signaling by increasing the expression of the calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR), stimulating phospholipase C activity, and regulating the expression of calcium channels such as TRPV6. Vitamin D also modulates the activity of calcium-binding proteins, including CAM and calbindin, and increases their expression. Calbindin, a high-affinity calcium-binding protein, is involved in calcium buffering and transport in neurons. It has been shown to inhibit apoptosis and caspase-3 activity stimulated by presenilin 1 and 2 in AD. Whereas CAM, another calcium-binding protein, is implicated in regulating neurotransmitter release and memory formation by phosphorylating CAN, CAMK-II, and other calcium-regulated proteins. CAMK-II and CAN regulate actin-induced spine shape changes, which are further modulated by CAM. Low levels of both calbindin and vitamin D are attributed to the pathology of Alzheimer's disease. Further research on vitamin D via calbindin-CAMK-II signaling may provide newer insights, revealing novel therapeutic targets and strategies for treatment.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium; Calcium-Binding Proteins; Calcium Channels; Calcium Signaling; Calcium-Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase Type 2
Carbide lime as substrates to boost energy recuperation and dyestuff removal in constructed wetland-microbial fuel cell integrated with copper oxide/carbon cloth cathode

Leow GY, Lam SM, Sin JC, Zeng H, Li H, Huang L, et al.

Environ Sci Pollut Res Int, 2024 Apr;31(16):23647-23663.
PMID: 38427169 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32637-y

Methylene blue (MB) was regarded as a highly toxic and hazardous substance owing to its irreparable hazard and deplorable damage on the ecosystem and the human body. The treatment of this colorant wastewater appeared to be one of the towering challenges in wastewater treatment. In this study, a microbial fuel cell coupled with constructed wetland (CW-MFC) with effective MB elimination and its energy recuperation concurrently based on the incorporation of carbide lime as a substrate in a new copper oxide-loaded on carbon cloth (CuO/CC) cathode system was studied. The crucial influencing parameters were also delved, and the MB degradation and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiencies were correspondingly incremented by 97.3% and 89.1% with maximum power output up to 74.1 mW m-2 at optimal conditions (0.2 g L-1 carbide lime loading and 500 Ω external resistance). The carbide lime with high calcium ion content was greatly conducive for the enrichment of critical microorganism and metabolic activities. The relative abundances of functional bacteria including Proteobacteria and Actinobacteriota were vividly increased. Moreover, the impressive results obtained in printed ink wastewater treatment with a COD removal efficiency of 81.3% and a maximum power density of 58.2 mW m-2, which showcased the potential application of CW-MFC.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium Compounds*
Effects of clitorienolactones from Clitoria ternatea root on calcium channel mediating hippocampal long-term potentiation in rats induced chronic cerebral hypoperfusion

Ahad MA, Chear NJ, Abdullah MH, Ching-Ga TAF, Liao P, Wei S, et al.

Ageing Res Rev, 2024 Apr;96:102252.
PMID: 38442748 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2024.102252

Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) is a common mechanism of acute brain injury due to impairment of blood flow to the brain. Moreover, a prolonged lack of oxygen supply may result in cerebral infarction or global ischemia, which subsequently causes long-term memory impairment. Research on using Clitoria ternatea root extract for treating long-term memory has been studied extensively. However, the bioactive compound contributing to its neuroprotective effects remains uncertain. In the present study, we investigate the effects of clitorienolactone A (CLA) and B (CLB) from the roots of Clitoria ternatea extract on hippocampal neuroplasticity in rats induced by CCH. CLA and CLB were obtained using column chromatography. The rat model of CCH was induced using two-vessel occlusion surgery (2VO). The 2VO rats were given 10 mg/kg of CLA and CLB orally, followed by hippocampal neuroplasticity recording using in vivo electrophysiological. Rats received CLA and CLB (10 mg/kg) significantly reversed the impairment of long-term potentiation following 2VO surgery. Furthermore, we investigate the effect of CLA and CLB on the calcium channel using the calcium imaging technique. During hypoxia, CLA and CLB sustain the increase in intracellular calcium levels. We next predict the binding interactions of CLA and CLB against NMDA receptors containing GluN2A and GluN2B subunits using in silico molecular docking. Our result found that both CLA and CLB exhibited lower binding affinity against GluN2A and GluN2B subunits. Our findings demonstrated that bioactive compounds from Clitoria ternatea improved long-term memory deficits in the chronic cerebral hypoperfusion rat model via calcium uptake. Hence, CLA and CLB could be potential therapeutic tools for treating cognitive dysfunction.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium; Calcium Channels/pharmacology; Calcium Channels/therapeutic use
Investigation on the enhancement of crack restoration properties in cement incorporated with Arthrospira platensis cultured in modified medium

M KS, Alengaram UJ, Ibrahim S, Vello V, Phang SM

Environ Sci Pollut Res Int, 2024 Apr;31(17):25538-25558.
PMID: 38478311 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32784-2

This study investigated the potential use of microalgae as partial cement replacement to heal cracks in cement mortar. Microbially induced calcite (CaCO3) precipitation (MICP) from Arthrospira platensis (A. platensis) (UMACC162) was utilised for crack-healing applications. Microalgae was cultivated in Kosaric Media (KM) together with filtered cement water (FCW), and used as a cement replacement material. The microalgal species was further evaluated for its capacity and adaptability towards large-scale culturing. The results showed that A. platensis could adapt and survive in cement water solution and cement mortar, suggesting the potential for self-healing in cement mortar. Further, the cultured species grown in both conditions (KM and KM & FCW) were harvested and incorporated into the cement mortar as a partial cement replacement material at different levels of 5%, 10%, 20%, and 30% of cement weight. The cement mortars partially replaced with microalgae were cured in water for 28 days. Pre-cracks were induced in the cured mortar with the 75% of their ultimate load. It took just 14 days for the microalgae-incorporated mortar to heal the cracks. The specimens with microalgae cultured in FCW showed a better performance and recovered 59% of their strength, with a maximum healed crack width of 0.7 mm. In terms of water tightness and porosity, they are comparable to the control mortar. The compressive strength measurements indicated the formation of calcite aggregate (crystal) that sealed the surface cracks, which was confirmed by a microstructural analysis. The results also demonstrate that the incorporation of microalgae into cement produced a self-healing effect, providing a new direction for crack healing. Additionally, the investigation indicated that replacing cement with microalgae reduced CO2 emissions by as much as 30%, with a substitution of 30% of microalgae. Exploring microalgae as a cement replacement could reduce carbon emissions and improve the state of the environment.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium Carbonate
EDXRF and the relative presence of K, Ca, Fe and as in amyloidogenic tissues

Mohd Nor Ihsan NS, Abdul Sani SF, Looi LM, Pathmanathan D, Cheah PL, Chiew SF, et al.

Spectrochim Acta A Mol Biomol Spectrosc, 2024 Mar 05;308:123743.
PMID: 38113556 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2023.123743

Trace and minor elements play crucial roles in a variety of biological processes, including amyloid fibrils formation. Mechanisms include activation or inhibition of enzymatic reactions, competition between elements and metal proteins for binding positions, also changes to the permeability of cellular membranes. These may influence carcinogenic processes, with trace and minor element concentrations in normal and amyloid tissues potentially aiding in cancer diagnosis and etiology. With the analytical capability of the spectroscopic technique X-ray fluorescence (XRF), this can be used to detect and quantify the presence of elements in amyloid characterization, two of the trace elements known to be associated with amyloid fibrils. In present work, involving samples from a total of 22 subjects, samples of normal and amyloid-containing tissues of heart, kidney, thyroid, and other tissue organs were obtained, analyzed via energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF). The elemental distribution of potassium (K), calcium (Ca), arsenic (As), and iron (Fe) was examined in both normal and amyloidogenic tissues using perpetual thin slices. In amyloidogenic tissues the levels of K, Ca, and Fe were found to be less than in corresponding normal tissues. Moreover, the presence of As was only observed in amyloidogenic samples; in a few cases in which there was an absence of As, amyloid samples were found to contain Fe. Analysis of arsenic in amyloid plaques has previously been difficult, often producing contradictory results. Using the present EDXRF facility we could distinguish between amyloidogenic and normal samples, with potential correlations in respect of the presence or concentration of specific elements.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium/analysis
Raynaud's phenomenon associated with psoriatic arthritis

Che Rahim MJ, Lim JA, Wan Ghazali WS

BMJ Case Rep, 2024 Mar 05;17(3).
PMID: 38442964 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2023-258215

We report a case of Raynaud's phenomenon in a patient with psoriatic arthritis (PsA). A middle-aged right-handed housewife presented with complaints of severely painful hand discolouration for 1 week, which usually worsened with cold exposure. She was diagnosed with PsA 6 months earlier. Her PsA was well controlled with weekly methotrexate. Physical examination showed no features of scleroderma or skin necrosis of her right hand. Both radial pulses were strong and symmetrical. Her nailfolds were visibly normal. The extractable nuclear antigen panel and other blood investigations were negative for scleroderma and other possible causes of secondary Raynaud's phenomenon. Occupational or environmental factors were also excluded. Dermatoscope examination of the nailfolds revealed some areas of dilated capillary loops, areas of vascular sparing and proximal nail fold telangiectasia. The diagnosis of secondary Raynaud's phenomenon was made, and an oral calcium channel blocker was started. The patient had significant improvement in symptoms shortly afterwards.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium Channel Blockers
Fulltext TRPM4 blocking antibody reduces neuronal excitotoxicity by specifically inhibiting glutamate-induced calcium influx under chronic hypoxia

Poore CP, Hazalin NAMN, Wei S, Low SW, Chen B, Nilius B, et al.

Neurobiol Dis, 2024 Feb;191:106408.
PMID: 38199274 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106408

Excitotoxicity arises from unusually excessive activation of excitatory amino acid receptors such as glutamate receptors. Following an energy crisis, excitotoxicity is a major cause for neuronal death in neurological disorders. Many glutamate antagonists have been examined for their efficacy in mitigating excitotoxicity, but failed to generate beneficial outcome due to their side effects on healthy neurons where glutamate receptors are also blocked. In this study, we found that during chronic hypoxia there is upregulation and activation of a nonselective cation channel TRPM4 that contributes to the depolarized neuronal membrane potential and enhanced glutamate-induced calcium entry. TRPM4 is involved in modulating neuronal membrane excitability and calcium signaling, with a complex and multifaceted role in the brain. Here, we inhibited TRPM4 using a newly developed blocking antibody M4P, which could repolarize the resting membrane potential and ameliorate calcium influx upon glutamate stimulation. Importantly, M4P did not affect the functions of healthy neurons as the activity of TRPM4 channel is not upregulated under normoxia. Using a rat model of chronic hypoxia with both common carotid arteries occluded, we found that M4P treatment could reduce apoptosis in the neurons within the hippocampus, attenuate long-term potentiation impairment and improve the functions of learning and memory in this rat model. With specificity to hypoxic neurons, TRPM4 blocking antibody can be a novel way of controlling excitotoxicity with minimal side effects that are common among direct blockers of glutamate receptors.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium/metabolism
Long-term evaluation of palm oil mill effluent (POME) steam reforming over lanthanum-based perovskite oxides

Cheng YW, Chong CC, Cheng CK, Wang CH, Ng KH, Witoon T, et al.

J Environ Manage, 2024 Feb;351:119919.
PMID: 38157572 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119919

To replace the obsolete ponding system, palm oil mill effluent (POME) steam reforming (SR) over net-acidic LaNiO3 and net-basic LaCoO3 were proposed as the POME primary treatments, with promising H2-rich syngas production. Herein, the long-term evaluation of POME SR was scrutinized with both catalysts under the optimal conditions (600 °C, 0.09 mL POME/min, 0.3 g catalyst, & 74-105 μm catalyst particle size) to examine the catalyst microstructure changes, transient process stability, and final effluent evaluation. Extensive characterization proved the (i) adsorption of POME vapour on catalysts before SR, (ii) deposition of carbon and minerals on spent SR catalysts, and (iii) dominance of coking deactivation over sintering deactivation at 600 °C. Despite its longer run, spent LaCoO3 (50.54 wt%) had similar carbon deposition with spent LaNiO3 (50.44 wt%), concurring with its excellent coke resistance. Spent LaCoO3 (6.12 wt%; large protruding crystals) suffered a harsher mineral deposition than spent LaNiO3 (3.71 wt%; thin film coating), confirming that lower reactivity increased residence time of reactants. Transient syngas evolution of both SR catalysts was relatively steady up to 4 h but perturbed by coking deactivation thereafter. La2O2CO3 acted as an intermediate species that hastened the coke removal via reverse Boudouard reaction upon its decarbonation. La2O2CO3 decarbonation occurred continuously in LaCoO3 system but intermittently in LaNiO3 system. LaNiO3 system only lasted for 13 h as its compact ash blocked the gas flow. LaCoO3 system lasted longer (17 h) with its porous ash, but it eventually failed because KCl crystallites blocked its active sites. Relatively, LaCoO3 system offered greater net H2 production (72.78%) and POME treatment volume (30.77%) than LaNiO3 system. SR could attain appreciable POME degradation (>97% COD, BOD5, TSS, & colour intensity). Withal, SR-treated POME should be polished to further reduce its incompliant COD and BOD5.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium Compounds*
Fulltext Bioactivity and remineralization potential of modified glass ionomer cement: A systematic review of the impact of calcium and phosphate ion release

Tuygunov N, Khairunnisa Z, Yahya NA, Aziz AA, Zakaria MN, Israilova NA, et al.

Dent Mater J, 2024 Jan 30;43(1):1-10.
PMID: 38220163 DOI: 10.4012/dmj.2023-132

This systematic review investigates the effectiveness of calcium and phosphate ions release on the bioactivity and remineralization potential of glass ionomer cement (GIC). Electronic databases, including PubMed-MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science, were systematically searched according to PRISMA guidelines. This review was registered in the PROSPERO database. Five eligible studies on modifying GIC with calcium and phosphate ions were included. The risk of bias was assessed using the RoBDEMAT tool. The incorporation of these ions into GIC enhanced its bioactivity and remineralization properties. It promoted hydroxyapatite formation, which is crucial for remineralization, increased pH and inhibited cariogenic bacteria growth. This finding has implications for the development of more effective dental materials. This can contribute to improved oral health outcomes and the management of dental caries, addressing a prevalent and costly oral health issue. Nevertheless, comprehensive longitudinal investigations are needed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of this GIC's modification.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium
Fixed-bed adsorption studies of endocrine-disrupting compounds from water by using novel calcium-based metal-organic frameworks

Sukatis FF, Looi LJ, Lim HN, Abdul Rahman MB, Mohd Zaki MR, Aris AZ

Environ Pollut, 2024 Jan 15;341:122980.
PMID: 37992953 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122980

The presence of emerging water pollutants such as endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs), including 17-ethynylestradiol (EE2), bisphenol A (BPA), and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), in contaminated water sources poses significant environmental and health challenges. This study aims to address this issue by investigating the efficiency of novel calcium-based metal-organic frameworks, known as mixed-linker calcium-based metal-organic frameworks (Ca-MIX), in adsorbing these endocrine-disrupting compounds. This study analyzed the influence of influent concentration, bed height, and flow rate on pollutant removal, with bed height emerging as a crucial factor. From the breakthrough curves, it was determined that the column maximum adsorption capacities followed the order of 17-ethynylestradiol (101.52 μg/g; 40%) > bisphenol A (99.07 μg/g; 39%) > perfluorooctanoic acid (81.28 μg/g; 32%). Three models were used to predict the adsorption process, with the Yan model outperforming the other models. This suggests the potential of mixed-linker calcium-based metal-organic frameworks for removing endocrine-disrupting compounds from water, using the Yan model as an effective predictor. Overall, this study provides valuable insights for the development of effective water treatment methods using mixed-linker calcium-based metal-organic frameworks to remove endocrine-disrupting compounds from contaminated water sources.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium
CmCML11 interacts with CmCAMTA5 to enhance γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) accumulation by regulating GABA shunt in fresh-cut cantaloupe

You W, Zhang J, Ru X, Xu F, Wu Z, Jin P, et al.

Plant Physiol Biochem, 2024 Jan;206:108217.
PMID: 38039581 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2023.108217

The effect of calcium chloride (CaCl2) treatment on γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) accumulation in fresh-cut cantaloupe and the involved mechanisms were investigated. The result showed that 1% (w/v) CaCl2 treatment increased GABA content and activities of glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) and succinate semialdehyde dehydrogenase (SSADH), while decreased glutamate (Glu) content and GABA transaminase (GABA-T) activities in fresh-cut cantaloupe. CmCML11 and CmCAMTA5 expressions of CaCl2-treated fruit increased by 187.4% and 165.6% than control fruit in the initial 6 h. Besides, expressions of GABA shunt genes, including CmGAD1, CmGAD2, CmGABA-T and CmSSADH were also up-regulated by CaCl2 treatment during early storage. Moreover, acting as a transcriptional activator, CmCAMTA5 could bind to the CG-box in promoters of CmGAD1, CmGABA-T and CmSSADH and activate their transcription. Furthermore, the interaction between CmCML11 and CmCAMTA5 could enhance the transcriptional activation on GABA shunt genes which were regulated by CmCAMTA5. Collectively, our findings revealed that CaCl2 treatment promoted GABA accumulation in fresh-cut cantaloupe via the combined effect of CmCML11 and CmCAMTA5 in the regulation of expressions of CmGAD1, CmGABA-T, and CmSSADH in GABA shunt.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium Chloride
Enhancing photosynthesis and root development for better fruit quality, aroma, and lessening of radioactive materials in key lime (Citrus aurantifolia) using Trichoderma harzianum and Bacillus thuringiensis

Salem A, Khandaker MM, Mahmud K, Alsufyani SJ, Majrashi AA, Rashid ZM, et al.

Plant Physiol Biochem, 2024 Jan;206:108295.
PMID: 38154296 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2023.108295

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of Trichoderma harzianum and Bacillus thuringiensis alone or with gradual levels of NPK on photosynthesis, growth, fruit quality, aroma improvement and reduced radionuclides of key lime fruits. The lemon seedlings were treated with (T0) without fertilizers as control, (T1) 100g of NPK at 100%, (T2) 5 g of Trichoderma. harzianum at 50% + 50 g of NPK at 50%, (T3) 5 g of Bacillus thuringiensis at 50% + 50 g of NPK at 50 %, (T4) 7.5 g of Trichoderma harzianum at 75% + 25 g of NPK at 25 %, (T5) 7.5 g of Bacillus thuringiensis at 75% + 25 g of NPK at 25 %, (T6) 10 g of Trichoderma harzianum at 100 % and (T7)10 g of Bacillus thuringiensis at 100 %. The results showed that T2 increased net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, internal CO2 concentration, fresh and dry root biomass by 209%, 74%, 56%, 376%, 69.4% and 71.6%, while, T5 increased root volume, root length, and root tip number by 27.1%, 167%, and 67%, respectively over the control trees. The microbial treatments developed cortex, vascular cylinder and tracheal elements of the root. Fruit number, length, diameter, weight, pulp thickness, pulp/peel ratio, juice, total soluble solids (TSS), pigment contents and antioxidant activity increased significantly in the T2 treatment. Vitamin C, total phenols, total flavonoids, and total sugar content increased by 1.59-, 1.66-, 1.44- and 2.07- fold in T5 treated fruits compared to the control. The two microbes increased volatile compounds and decreased radionucleotides in the fruit, moreover, 27 identified and 2 (two) unmatched volatile compounds were identified by GCMS analysis. It is concluded that T. harzianum and B. thuringiensis with 25-50 g NPK treatments improved photosynthesis, root structure, fruit growth, fruit quality, aroma and lessened radionuclides in key lime fruits.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium Compounds*
Fulltext Evaluation of stress distributions of calcium silicate-based root canal sealer in bulk or with main core material: A finite element analysis study

Smran A, Abdullah M, Ahmad NA, Ben Yahia F, Fouda AM, Alturaiki SA, et al.

PLoS One, 2024;19(3):e0299552.
PMID: 38483853 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299552

This research aimed to assess the stress distribution in lower premolars that were obturated with BioRoot RCS or AH Plus, with or without gutta percha (GP), and subjected to vertical and oblique forces. One 3D geometric model of a mandibular second premolar was created using SolidWorks software. Eight different scenarios representing different root canal filling techniques, single cone technique with GP and bulk technique with sealer only with occlusal load directions were simulated as follows: Model 1 (BioRoot RCS sealer and GP under vertical load [VL]), Model 2 (BioRoot RCS sealer and GP under oblique load [OL]), Model 3 (AH Plus sealer with GP under VL), Model 4 (AH Plus sealer with GP under OL), Model 5 (BioRoot RCS sealer in bulk under VL), Model 6 (BioRoot RCS in bulk under OL), Model 7 (AH Plus sealer in bulk under VL), and Model 8 (AH Plus sealer in bulk under OL). A static load of 200 N was applied at three occlusal contact points, with a 45° angle from lingual to buccal. The von Mises stresses in root dentin were higher in cases where AH Plus was used compared to BioRoot RCS. Furthermore, shifting the load to an oblique direction resulted in increased stress levels. Replacing GP with sealer material had no effect on the dentin maximum von Mises stress in BioRoot RCS cases. Presence of a core material resulted in lower stress in dentin for AH Plus cases, however, it did not affect the stress levels in dentin for cases filled with BioRoot RCS. Stress distribution in the dentin under oblique direction was higher regardless of sealer or technique used.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium Compounds*
Fulltext Preparation and characterization of vitamin E/calcium/soy protein isolate nanoparticles for soybean milk beverage fortification

Taha HAIM, Agamy NFM, Soliman TN, Younes NM, El-Enshasy HA, Darwish AMG

PeerJ, 2024;12:e17007.
PMID: 38584941 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17007

Soybean milk is a rich plant-based source of protein, and phenolic compounds. This study compared the nutritional value of soybean milk, flour, soy protein isolate (SPI) and evaluated the impact of prepared vitamin E/calcium salt/soy protein isolate nanoparticles (ECSPI-NPs) on fortification of developed soybean milk formulations. Results indicated that soybean flour protein content was 40.50 g/100 g, that fulfills 81% of the daily requirement (DV%), the unsaturated fatty acids (USFs), oleic and linoleic content was 21.98 and 56.7%, respectively, of total fatty acids content. In soybean milk, essential amino acids, threonine, leucine, lysine achieved 92.70, 90.81, 77.42% of amino acid scores (AAS) requirement values respectively. Ferulic acid was the main phenolic compound in soybean flour, milk and SPI (508.74, 13.28, 491.78 µg/g). Due to the moisture content of soybean milk (88.50%) against (7.10%) in soybean flour, the latest showed higher nutrients concentrations. The prepared calcium (20 mM/10 g SPI) and vitamin E (100 mg/g SPI) nanoparticles (ECSPI-NPs) exhibited that they were effectively synthesized under transmission electron microscope (TEM), stability in the zeta sizer analysis and safety up to IC50 value (202 ug/mL) on vero cell line. ECSPI-NPs fortification (NECM) enhanced significantly phenolic content (149.49 mg/mL), taste (6.10), texture (6.70) and consumer overall acceptance (6.54). Obtained results encourage the application of the prepared ECSPI-NPs for further functional foods applications.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium, Dietary/analysis
Fabrication, characterization, and application of light weight thermal insulation material from combined buffing dust and plaster of paris for construction industry

Ulfat W, Mohyuddin A, Amjad M, Othman MHD, Gikas P, Kurniawan TA

J Environ Manage, 2023 Dec 01;347:119129.
PMID: 37778073 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119129

Buffing dust, generated from tannery industries, is a source of air pollution in Pakistan. Valorization of the waste into another useful material is important to deal with the environmental pollution, while reducing waste disposal costs in landfills. To demonstrate its technological strength, this work fabricates a thermal insulation material made of plaster of Paris and the buffing dust (from tanning waste) in the form of a composite with superior mechanical properties and low thermal conductivity. Buffing dust with concentrations ranging from 5 to 20% (w/w) were loaded in the composite. The samples synthesized were made slurry of plaster of Paris, buffing dust, and water at ambient temperature. The physico-mechanical properties of composite were analyzed. It was found that the composite had better thermal insulation properties than the panels of the plaster of Paris. Its thermal conductivity was reduced to 15% after adding buffing dust (20% w/w). All the materials had physico-chemical properties like tensile strength (0.02 MPa and 0.06 MPa), density (700-400 kg/m3), water absorption (5.2-8.6%) and thermal conductivity (0.17000-0.09218 W/m-K). Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the material was thermally stable at temperatures ranging from 145 to 177 °C, while FT-IR results revealed that the composite contained O-H, N-H, and CO functional groups. SEM analysis displayed that the composite's homogeneity was reduced with low voids due to buffing dust addition, while EDX analysis showed that the composite contained 23.62% of S, 26.76% of Ca, 49.2% of O and 0.42% of C. This implies that buffing dust could be recycled to manufacture heat insulation materials for construction sector to reduce air pollution, while minimizing energy consumption. By integrating the buffing dust from tanning waste and the plaster of Paris as a composite for construction sector, this work promotes the recycling of unused waste, while saving public funds. Instead of paying landfill fees and polluting soil, the waste may be recycled at lower cost, while reducing environmental damage.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium Sulfate
Designing Calcium Silicate Cements with On-Demand Properties for Precision Endodontics

Cahyanto A, Rath P, Teo TX, Tong SS, Malhotra R, Cavalcanti BN, et al.

J Dent Res, 2023 Dec;102(13):1425-1433.
PMID: 37861249 DOI: 10.1177/00220345231198185

Calcium silicate (C3S) cements are available in kits that do not account for patients' specific needs or clinicians' preferences regarding setting time, radiopacity, mechanical, and handling properties. Moreover, slight variations in powder components and liquid content affect cement's properties and bioactivity. Unfortunately, it is virtually impossible to optimize several cement properties simultaneously via the traditional "one variable at a time" strategy, as inputs often induce trade-offs in properties (e.g., a higher water-to-powder ratio [W/P] increases flowability but decreases mechanical properties). Herein, we used Taguchi's methods and genetic algorithms (GAs) to simultaneously analyze the effect of multiple inputs (e.g., powder composition, radiopacifier concentration, and W/P) on setting time, pH, flowability, diametral tensile strength, and radiopacity, as well as prescribe recipes to produce cements with predicted properties. The properties of cements designed with GAs were experimentally tested, and the results matched the predictions. Finally, we show that the cements increased the genetic expression of odonto/osteogenic genes, alkaline phosphatase activity, and mineralization potential of dental pulp stem cells. Hence, GAs can produce cements with tailor-made properties and differentiation potential for personalized endodontic treatment.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium
Metabolic Syndrome and Dietary Intake are Associated With Quality of Life in Kidney Transplant Recipients

Nguyen TH, Mat Daud ZA, Abd Talib R, Mohd R, Poh BK

Transplant Proc, 2023 Nov;55(9):2176-2182.
PMID: 37743189 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2023.08.008

BACKGROUND: Although metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a significant risk factor, and dietary intake may affect the quality of life (QoL) of kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), the association between them are unclear. This study identified MetS and nutritional factors associated with the QoL of KTRs.
METHODS: This study reports baseline data from a longitudinal study that was conducted at a hospital in Vietnam. KTRs aged ≥18 years and >3 months post-transplantation were recruited. Assessments included sociodemographic and blood biomarkers. Dietary intake was estimated from 24-hour recalls. A Short Form-36 Health Survey, comprising physical (PCS) and mental component summaries (MCS), was administered to assess QoL. Multivariate linear regression models were performed.
RESULTS: The study included 106 patients (79 men) with a mean age of 43.2 years (± 11.9). Mean duration after kidney transplantation was 28.5 months (± 14.9). Patients with MetS had 6.43 lower PCS score (P < .05) and 3.20 lower MCS score (P < .05) than their counterparts without MetS. Calcium intake (β = -0.01; 95% CI, -0.03 to 0.00) and inadequate protein (β = -14.8; 95% CI, -23 to -6.65) were negatively associated with PCS score. MCS score was negatively associated with calcium intake (β = -0.02; 95% CI, -0.04 to -0.01) and inadequate protein intake (β = -15.1; 95% CI, -24.3 to -5.86), and positively associated with fat intake (β = 0.43, 95% CI, 0.02-0.85).
CONCLUSIONS: MetS and poor dietary intake are independently associated with the QoL of KTRs. Nutritional intervention plans developed specifically for the recipients will improve dietary intake, reduce the incidence of MetS, and help enhance QoL.

Matched MeSH terms: Calcium

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