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Calcium Content (calcium + content)
Selected AbstractsRelation Between Echinocytosis and Erythrocyte Calcium Content in Hemodialyzed Uremic PatientsARTIFICIAL ORGANS, Issue 6 2001B. Agroyannis Abstract: A rise in intracellular calcium concentration in erythrocytes has multiple effects on these cells. The purpose of this study was to determine the changes of calcium content in red blood cells (RBCs) and of echinocyte percentages in uremic patients during hemodialysis sessions. In 30 uremic patients under hemodialysis, the calcium content of RBCs and echinocyte percentages were determined in 3 blood samples collected at 0 min hemodialysis (prehemodialysis), 45 min hemodialysis, and 240 min hemodialysis (end hemodialysis) for a 4 h hemodialysis session. Calcium content of RBCs and echinocytes were also determined in 22 normal subjects (controls). The findings of the present study were that the mean values (±SD) of calcium content of RBCs in patients at 0 min hemodialysis, 45 min hemodialysis, and 240 min hemodialysis were 2.00 ± 1.0, 2.66 ± 0.87, and 1.62 ± 0.66 ,g/ml respectively and 0.65 ± 0.07 ,g/ml in controls. These values show that the calcium content of RBCs in uremic patients at 0 min hemodialysis, 45 min hemodialysis, and 240 hemodialysis was significantly higher than in controls (p < 0.0001), and that RBC calcium content at 45 min hemodialysis was significantly higher in comparison to that at 0 min hemodialysis (p < 0.001) and to that at 240 min hemodialysis (p < 0.0001), while that at 240 min hemodialysis was significantly lower than at 0 min hemodialysis (p < 0.05). The mean values (±SD) of echinocyte percentages in patients at 0 min hemodialysis, 45 min hemodialysis, and 240 hemodialysis were 11.93 ± 6.18, 17.23 ± 4.1, and 7.96 ± 5.67% respectively, and in controls ranged from 0 to 1%. The values in uremic patients show a transient increase of echinocyte percentages at 45 min hemodialysis, which is significant in comparison to that at 0 min hemodialysis (p < 0.001) and to that at 240 min hemodialysis (p < 0.0001). Echinocyte percentages at 240 min hemodialysis were significantly lower to those at 0 min hemodialysis (p < 0.001). Correlation between calcium content of erythrocytes and echinocyte percentages shows a significantly positive relationship at 45 min hemodialysis (r = 0.368, p < 0.05) but no significant relationship at 0 min hemodialysis and 240 min hemodialysis. In conclusion, uremic patients under hemodialysis present with high calcium content in erythrocytes and abnormal erythrocytes like echinocytes. A rapid and transient increase of erythrocyte calcium is also accompanied by transient elevation of echinocytes in the first hour of hemodialysis (45 min hemodialysis), which returns after hemodialysis to lower than prehemodialysis levels. [source] ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Effect of Lactobacillus fermentum and Enterococcus faecium strains on internal milieu, antioxidant status and body weight of broiler chickensJOURNAL OF ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY AND NUTRITION, Issue 5 2010M. Capcarova Summary The aim of the present study was to evaluate the functional efficiency of two probiotic strains Lactobacillus fermentum CCM 7158 and Enterococcus faecium M 74 given to the drinking water on internal milieu, antioxidant status and body weight of broiler chickens. The experiment was conducted on hybrid Hybro (n = 180). The feeding period lasted 42 days. Experimental chickens of E1 group received a probiotic preparation in drinking water with concentration of 1 × 109 colony forming units (CFU) of L. fermentum CCM 7158 in 1 g of nutrient medium and experimental chickens of E2 group concentration of 2 × 109 CFU of E. faecium M 74 in 1 g of nutrient medium. The control group of animals received water without any additives. Triglycerides content in serum mainly with L. fermentum strain against the control group was decreased. Calcium content in both experimental groups and significantly in E. faecium group was increased. Antioxidant status in both probiotic groups was significantly increased. The content of bilirubin in group with E. faecium M 74 was significantly increased. In conclusion, addition of a microbial feed additive (L. fermentum and E. faecium) increased serum calcium and iron level, decreased triglycerides content in blood and slightly increased body weight of broiler chickens. [source] Relation Between Echinocytosis and Erythrocyte Calcium Content in Hemodialyzed Uremic PatientsARTIFICIAL ORGANS, Issue 6 2001B. Agroyannis Abstract: A rise in intracellular calcium concentration in erythrocytes has multiple effects on these cells. The purpose of this study was to determine the changes of calcium content in red blood cells (RBCs) and of echinocyte percentages in uremic patients during hemodialysis sessions. In 30 uremic patients under hemodialysis, the calcium content of RBCs and echinocyte percentages were determined in 3 blood samples collected at 0 min hemodialysis (prehemodialysis), 45 min hemodialysis, and 240 min hemodialysis (end hemodialysis) for a 4 h hemodialysis session. Calcium content of RBCs and echinocytes were also determined in 22 normal subjects (controls). The findings of the present study were that the mean values (±SD) of calcium content of RBCs in patients at 0 min hemodialysis, 45 min hemodialysis, and 240 min hemodialysis were 2.00 ± 1.0, 2.66 ± 0.87, and 1.62 ± 0.66 ,g/ml respectively and 0.65 ± 0.07 ,g/ml in controls. These values show that the calcium content of RBCs in uremic patients at 0 min hemodialysis, 45 min hemodialysis, and 240 hemodialysis was significantly higher than in controls (p < 0.0001), and that RBC calcium content at 45 min hemodialysis was significantly higher in comparison to that at 0 min hemodialysis (p < 0.001) and to that at 240 min hemodialysis (p < 0.0001), while that at 240 min hemodialysis was significantly lower than at 0 min hemodialysis (p < 0.05). The mean values (±SD) of echinocyte percentages in patients at 0 min hemodialysis, 45 min hemodialysis, and 240 hemodialysis were 11.93 ± 6.18, 17.23 ± 4.1, and 7.96 ± 5.67% respectively, and in controls ranged from 0 to 1%. The values in uremic patients show a transient increase of echinocyte percentages at 45 min hemodialysis, which is significant in comparison to that at 0 min hemodialysis (p < 0.001) and to that at 240 min hemodialysis (p < 0.0001). Echinocyte percentages at 240 min hemodialysis were significantly lower to those at 0 min hemodialysis (p < 0.001). Correlation between calcium content of erythrocytes and echinocyte percentages shows a significantly positive relationship at 45 min hemodialysis (r = 0.368, p < 0.05) but no significant relationship at 0 min hemodialysis and 240 min hemodialysis. In conclusion, uremic patients under hemodialysis present with high calcium content in erythrocytes and abnormal erythrocytes like echinocytes. A rapid and transient increase of erythrocyte calcium is also accompanied by transient elevation of echinocytes in the first hour of hemodialysis (45 min hemodialysis), which returns after hemodialysis to lower than prehemodialysis levels. [source] Pressor and vascular effects of cardiac glycosidesEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION, Issue S2 2001W. Kirch Background: For the past two decades, it has generally been accepted ('Blaustein hypothesis') that cardiac glycosides such as ouabain and digoxin increase the sodium and calcium content of smooth muscle cells, so inducing arterial vasoconstriction and a rise in blood pressure. Recent data from an experimental study we carried out led us to question this assumption. Design: A retrospective literature survey covering 20 years and including animal and human studies was performed. Representative results are presented. Results: Contradictory effects of cardiac glycosides on blood pressure and vasculature have been described. Increased, decreased or unaltered blood-pressure values have been observed following administration of the glycosides ouabain, digoxin and digitoxin. Moreover, vasoconstricting as well as vasodilating effects of cardiac glycosides have been demonstrated. Several recent studies show that cardiac glycosides such as digoxin and digitoxin can lead to a reduction of at least diastolic blood pressure. Conclusion: A slight vasodilation of resistance vessels followed by a fall in diastolic blood pressure could be a contributing factor for the beneficial effects of cardiac glycosides in patients with congestive heart failure. This vasodilation may be caused by central (neurohumoral) effects of digitalis glycosides. [source] An Ab Initio Molecular Dynamics Study of Bioactive Phosphate Glasses,ADVANCED ENGINEERING MATERIALS, Issue 7 2010Emilia Tang First principles molecular dynamics simulations of ternary phosphate-based glasses P2O5CaONa2O (PBGs) have been carried out in order to provide an accurate description of the local structure and properties of these important materials for biomedical applications. The structures of PBGs with compositions (P2O5)0.45(CaO)x(Na2O)0.55,,,x (x,=,0.30, 0.35, and 0.40) were generated using a full ab initio molecular dynamics melt-and-quench procedure. The analysis of the structure of the glasses at 300,K shows the prevalence of the metaphosphate Q2 and pyrophosphate Q1 species, whereas the number of Q3 units, which constitute the three-dimensional phosphate network, significantly decreases with the increase in calcium content in the glass. Calculation of the pair and angular distribution functions suggests that the rigidity of the phosphate tetrahedral glass network increases with the concentration of calcium, an observation which is interpreted in terms of the tendency of Ca2+ to be a stronger coordinator than sodium. [source] Effect of stannous fluoride toothpaste on erosion-like lesions: an in vivo studyEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORAL SCIENCES, Issue 3 2006Alix Young It has recently been shown that stannous fluoride (SnF2), in the form of aqueous solutions and as toothpaste, can reduce the dissolution of enamel in erosive acids in vitro and in situ. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of toothpastes containing SnF2 or NaF on enamel dissolution using an in vivo model. Four healthy anterior teeth in each subject (n = 20) were exposed to diluted citric acid (100 mmol l,1 or 10 mmol l,1) applied using a peristaltic pump (5 ml @7 ml min,1) and the acid was collected in a test tube before and after application of the respective toothpastes (etch I and etch II). Toothpaste was applied to the labial surfaces with a soft brush (four applications, each of 1-min duration), with gentle water rinsing between applications. Each subject had one pair of teeth treated with each of the test toothpastes. Enamel dissolution was examined by assessment of calcium content in the citric acid applied before and after the treatment with toothpaste. The results indicate that the SnF2 toothpaste markedly reduced the dissolution of teeth in vivo (etch II < etch I), whereas the NaF toothpaste provided no protection (etch II > etch I). Toothpaste appears to be an acceptable vehicle for SnF2 and maintains the dissolution-reducing effect exhibited by aqueous solutions of this fluoride salt. [source] Iatrogenic calcinosis cutis following nadroparin injectionINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 10 2005Simonetta Giorgini MD Accumulation of calcium in the skin is usually classified as a group of disorders referred to as calcinosis cutis. We report the case of a patient who developed iatrogenic calcinosis at the site of subcutaneous administration of low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWH) as nadroparin. This is usually used for the prevention of deep venous thrombosis, especially following renal transplantation. The role of calcium content in nadroparin is discussed. [source] Quality attributes of vegetable soybean as a function of boiling time and conditionINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 11 2009Leandro A. Mozzoni Summary Vegetable soybeans are marketed fresh or frozen, either shelled or in pods. The objective of this research was to characterise the change in quality attributes of vegetable soybean with boiling time (0,20 min), and presence/absence of pods, using an electrical-resistance stove or a steam-jacketed kettle. Trypsin inhibitor activity (TIA), texture, colour, soluble sugars, nitrogen, calcium and iron content were analysed. Blanching using a steam-jacketed kettle for approximately 2 min rendered 80% inactivation of TIA, and resulted in high colour, texture and sucrose. There were no differences between blanching in pods or shelled for TIA, colour and texture; however, blanching in pods prevented losses of sucrose. Blanching did not affect iron, mono- and oligosaccharide levels, but increased nitrogen and calcium content. Additionally, we observed that all traits decreased linearly with cooking time when using an electrical-resistance stove, except for calcium and nitrogen that increased, and oligosaccharides that remained constant. [source] Formation of three-dimensional cell/polymer constructs for bone tissue engineering in a spinner flask and a rotating wall vessel bioreactorJOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL MATERIALS RESEARCH, Issue 1 2002Vassilios I. Sikavitsas Abstract The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of the cell culture conditions of three-dimensional polymer scaffolds seeded with rat marrow stromal cells (MSCs) cultured in different bioreactors concerning the ability of these cells to proliferate, differentiate towards the osteoblastic lineage, and generate mineralized extracellular matrix. MSCs harvested from male Sprague,Dawley rats were culture expanded, seeded on three-dimensional porous 75:25 poly(D,L -lactic- co -glycolic acid) biodegradable scaffolds, and cultured for 21 days under static conditions or in two model bioreactors (a spinner flask and a rotating wall vessel) that enhance mixing of the media and provide better nutrient transport to the seeded cells. The spinner flask culture demonstrated a 60% enhanced proliferation at the end of the first week when compared to static culture. On day 14, all cell/polymer constructs exhibited their maximum alkaline phosphatase activity (AP). Cell/polymer constructs cultured in the spinner flask had 2.4 times higher AP activity than constructs cultured under static conditions on day 14. The total osteocalcin (OC) secretion in the spinner flask culture was 3.5 times higher than the static culture, with a peak OC secretion occurring on day 18. No considerable AP activity and OC secretion were detected in the rotating wall vessel culture throughout the 21-day culture period. The spinner flask culture had the highest calcium content at day 14. On day 21, the calcium deposition in the spinner flask culture was 6.6 times higher than the static cultured constructs and over 30 times higher than the rotating wall vessel culture. Histological sections showed concentration of cells and mineralization at the exterior of the foams at day 21. This phenomenon may arise from the potential existence of nutrient concentration gradients at the interior of the scaffolds. The better mixing provided in the spinner flask, external to the outer surface of the scaffolds, may explain the accelerated proliferation and differentiation of marrow stromal osteoblasts, and the localization of the enhanced mineralization on the external surface of the scaffolds. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 62: 136,148, 2002 [source] Bone material quality in transiliac bone biopsies of postmenopausal osteoporotic women after 3 years of strontium ranelate treatmentJOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 4 2010Paul Roschger Abstract Strontium ranelate (SrR) is a relatively new treatment for osteoporosis. In this study we investigated its potential impact on human bone material quality in transiliac bone biopsies from postmenopausal osteoporotic women treated 3 years with calcium and vitamin D plus either 2,g SrR per day or placebo. Bone mineralization density distribution (BMDD), strontium (Sr) concentration, collagen cross-link ratio, and indentation modulus were analyzed by quantitative backscattered electron imaging, electron-induced X-ray fluorescence analysis, synchrotron radiation induced micro X-ray fluorescence elemental mapping, Fourier transform infrared imaging, and nanoindentation, respectively. The BMDD of SrR-treated patients was shifted to higher atomic numbers (Zmean +1.5%, p,<,.05 versus placebo). We observed Sr being preferentially incorporated in bone packets formed during SrR treatment up to 6% atom fraction [Sr/(Sr,+,Ca)] depending on the SrR serum levels of the individuals (correlation r,=,0.84, p,=,.018). Collagen cross-link ratio was preserved in SR-treated bone. The indentation modulus was significantly decreased in younger versus older bone packets for both placebo- (,20.5%, p,<,.0001) and SrR-treated individuals (,24.3%, p,<,.001), whereas no differences were found between the treatment groups. In conclusion, our findings indicate that after SrR treatment, Sr is heterogeneously distributed in bone and preferentially present in bone packets formed during treatment. The effect of SrR on BMDD seems to be due mainly to the uptake of Sr and not to changes in bone calcium content. Taken together, these data provide evidence that the investigated bone quality determinants at tissue level were preserved in postmenopausal osteoporotic women after 3-year treatment with 2,g SrR per day plus calcium and vitamin D. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research [source] Shock Wave Application Enhances Pertussis Toxin Protein-Sensitive Bone Formation of Segmental Femoral Defect in Rats,JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 12 2003Yeung-Jen Chen Abstract Extracorporeal shock waves (ESWs) elicit a dose-dependent effect on the healing of segmental femoral defects in rats. After ESW treatment, the segmental defect underwent progressive mesenchymal aggregation, endochondral ossification, and hard callus formation. Along with the intensive bone formation, there was a persistent increase in TGF-,1 and BMP-2 expression. Pretreatment with pertussis toxin reduced ESW-promoted callus formation and gap healing, which presumably suggests that Gi proteins mediate osteogenic signaling. Introduction: Extracorporeal shock waves (ESWs) have previously been used to promote bone repair. In our previous report, we found that ESWs promoted osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal cells through membrane perturbation and activation of Ras protein. In this report, we show that ESWs elicit a dose-dependent effect on the healing of segmental defects and that Gi proteins play an important role in mediating ESW stimulation. Materials and Methods: Rats with segmental femoral defects were subjected to ESW treatment at different energy flux densities (EFD) and impulses. Bone mass (mineral density and calcium content), osteogenic activities (bone alkaline phosphatase activity and osteocalcin content), and immunohistochemistry were assessed. Results: An optimal ESW energy (500 impulses at 0.16 mJ/mm2 EFD) stimulated complete bone healing without complications. ESW-augmented healing was characterized by significant increases (p < 0.01) in callus size, bone mineral density, and bone tissue formation. With exposure to ESW, alkaline phosphatase activity and osteocalcin production in calluses were found to be significantly enhanced (p < 0.05). After ESW treatment, the histological changes we noted included progressive mesenchymal aggregation, endochondral ossification, and hard callus formation. Intensive bone formation was associated with a persistent increase in transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-,1) and bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) expression, suggesting both growth factors were active in ESW-promoted bone formation. We also found that pertussis toxin, an inhibitor of membrane-bound Gi proteins, significantly reduced (p < 0.01) ESW promotion of callus formation and fracture healing. Conclusion: ESW treatments enhanced bone formation and the healing of segmental femoral defects in rats. It also seems likely that TGF-,1 and BMP-2 are important osteogenic factors for ESW promotion of fracture healing, presumably through Gi protein-mediated osteogenic signaling. [source] QUALITY OF BREAD SUPPLEMENTED WITH POPPED AMARANTHUS CRUENTUS GRAINJOURNAL OF FOOD PROCESS ENGINEERING, Issue 5 2008A-SOLAROV, MARIJA BODRO ABSTRACT The addition of popped Amaranthus cruentus grain to wheat bread formulation at 10, 15 and 20% levels (flour basis) was carried out to test the effects on sensory and nutritional characteristics of the supplemented bread samples. The addition of popped amaranth grain increased ash, protein and crude fiber content significantly. Zinc content increased by 42.6,74.6%, manganese content by 51.7,90.8%, magnesium content by 75.7,88.0% and calcium content by 57,171% in the supplementation ranges from 10 to 20% of popped amaranth grain. Bread samples supplemented with popped grains had a significantly higher content of squalene in comparison with the control sample (8,12 times higher). Loaf volume of supplemented bread samples decreased from 3.54 to 2.36 mL/g. Also, a significant increase in crumb hardness and lower crumb elasticity was observed. The supplementation contributed to denser crumb structure, more uniform porosity, improved crust color and flavor. It might be concluded that supplementation levels up to 15% (flour basis) were sensorially acceptable. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Bread made from refined wheat flour, besides being a good source of energy, is considered to be nutritionally poor. Therefore, the addition of inexpensive staples with superior nutritional quality such as some pulses, cereals or pseudocereals to wheat flour could improve the nutritional quality of wheat products. Amaranth is a pseudocereal that contains high levels of fat, dietary fibers, lysine and minerals, especially calcium and magnesium. The addition of amaranth grain to wheat bread contributes to higher intakes of proteins, fibers, fat and minerals. The usage of popped amaranth grain is advantageous because it excludes the need for grain milling and the necessity for preparative steps before mixing in bakeries. In addition, thermal treatment increases the protein efficiency ratio and gelatinizes starch that affects positively the stability, strength and freshness of the crumb. Popped amaranth grain also contributes to the pleasant taste and overall acceptability of supplemented bread. [source] The effect of Emdogain® on the growth and differentiation of rat bone marrow cellsJOURNAL OF PERIODONTAL RESEARCH, Issue 5 2006J. Van Den Dolder Background and Objective:, The major extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in developing enamel can induce and maintain the formation and mineralization of other skeletal hard tissue, such as bone. Therefore, dental matrix proteins are ideal therapeutic agents when direct formation of functional bone is required for a successful clinical outcome. Emdogain® (EMD) consists of enamel matrix proteins which are known to stimulate bone formation. However, only a few studies in the literature have reported the effect of EMD on osteoblast-like cells in vitro. Material and Methods:, In this study, rat bone marrow cells, obtained from the femora of Wistar rats, were precultured for 7 d in osteogenic medium. Then, the cells were harvested and seeded in 24-well plates at a concentration of 20,000 cells/well. The wells were either precoated with 100 µg/ml EMD, or left uncoated. The seeded cells were cultured in osteogenic medium for 32 d and analysed for cell attachment (by using the Live and Dead assay), cell growth (by determining DNA content) and cell differentiation (by measuring alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium content, and by using scanning electron microscopy and the reverse transcription,polymerase chain reaction). Results:, The results showed that at the 4-h time point of the experiment, more cells were attached to EMD-negative wells, but this effect was no longer apparent at 24 h. DNA analysis revealed that both groups showed a similar linear trend of cell growth. No differences in alkaline phosphatase activity or calcium content were observed, and no differences in gene expression (osteocalcin, alkaline phosphatase and collagen type I) were found between the groups. Conclusion:, Based on our results, we conclude that EMD had no significant effect on the cell growth and differentiation of rat bone marrow cells. [source] Effect of bone chip orientation on quantitative estimates of changes in bone mass using digital subtraction radiographyJOURNAL OF PERIODONTAL RESEARCH, Issue 3 2003André Mol Objectives:, To assess the effect of the orientation of arbitrarily shaped bone chips on the correlation between radiographic estimates of bone loss and true mineral loss using digital subtraction radiography. Methods:, Twenty arbitrarily shaped bone chips (dry weight 1,10 mg) were placed individually on the superior lingual aspect of the interdental alveolar bone of a dry dentate hemi-mandible. After acquiring the first baseline image, each chip was rotated 90 degrees and a second radiograph was captured. Follow-up images were created without the bone chips and after rotating the mandible 0, 1, 2, 4, and 6 degrees around a vertical axis. Aluminum step tablet intensities were used to normalize image intensities for each image pair. Follow-up images were registered and geometrically standardized using projective standardization. Bone chips were dry ashed and analyzed for calcium content using atomic absorption. Results:, No significant difference was found between the radiographic estimates of bone loss from the different bone chip orientations (Wilcoxon: P > 0.05). The correlation between the two series of estimates for all rotations was 0.93 (Spearman: P < 0.05). Linear regression analysis indicated that both correlates did not differ appreciably ( and ). Conclusion:, It is concluded that the spatial orientation of arbitrarily shaped bone chips does not have a significant impact on quantitative estimates of changes in bone mass in digital subtraction radiography. These results were obtained in the presence of irreversible projection errors of up to six degrees and after application of projective standardization for image reconstruction and image registration. [source] Chitosan,alginate,CaCl2 system for membrane coat applicationJOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, Issue 8 2001Lishan Wang Abstract Water-based formulations are preferred for membrane coat application because they do not require the use of noxious solvents. A novel aqueous chitosan,alginate,CaCl2 system was evaluated as a potential formulation to produce water-insoluble membranes of biodegradable polymers. Chitosan,alginate coacervates were prepared by controlled reaction of chitosan (0.25% w/v) and sodium alginate (0.25% w/v) solutions. Coherent membranes were obtained by casting and drying the coacervates suspended in aqueous CaCl2 solutions (0.05,0.07% w/v). Increasing the calcium content did not modify membrane thickness (25,26 ,m), but reduced the water vapor transmission rate from 658 to 566 g/m2/day, and improved the tensile strength of the membranes from 9.33 to 17.13 MPa. Differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and elemental analyses of the chitosan,alginate coacervates indicated they were stable for up to 4 weeks of storage in distilled water at ambient temperature. Membranes of the stored coacervates required less calcium to attain maximum mechanical strength. They also had higher water vapor transmission rates than corresponding films prepared from fresh coacervates. On the basis of the properties of the cast film and its storage stability, the chitosan,alginate,CaCl2 system can be considered for potential membrane coat application. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmaceutical Association J Pharm Sci 90:1134,1142, 2001 [source] Wheat Resistance to Spot Blotch Potentiated by SiliconJOURNAL OF PHYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 5 2010Gisele Pereira Domiciano Abstract Spot blotch, caused by the fungus Bipolaris sorokiniana, is one of the most important diseases on wheat. The effects of silicon (Si) on this wheat disease were studied. Plants of wheat cultivars BR-18 and BRS-208 were grown in plastic pots containing Si-deficient soil amended with either calcium silicate (+Si) or calcium carbonate (,Si). The content of Si in leaf tissue was significantly increased by 90.5% for the +Si treatment. There was no significant difference between Si treatments for calcium content, so variations in Si accounted for differences in the level of resistance to spot blotch. The incubation period was significantly increased by 40% for the +Si treatment. The area under spot blotch progress curve, number of lesions per cm2 of leaf area, and real disease severity significantly decreased by 62, 36 and 43.5% in +Si treatment. There was no significant effect of Si on lesion size. The role played by total soluble phenolics in the increased resistance to spot blotch of plants from both cultivars supplied with Si was not clear. Plants from cultivar BR-18 supplied with Si showed the highest values for concentration of lignin-thioglycolic acid derivatives during the most advanced stages of fungus infection. Chitinase activity was high at the most advanced stages of fungus infection on leaves from both cultivars supplied with Si and may have had an effect on fungus growth based on the reduction of the components of resistance evaluated. Peroxidase activity was found to be high only at 96 h after inoculation of both cultivars supplied with Si. Polyphenoloxidase activity had no apparent effect on resistance regardless of Si treatments. Results revealed that supplying Si to wheat plants can increase resistance against spot blotch. [source] Electrochemical Behavior of Gel-Derived Lanthanum Calcium Cobalt Ferrite Cathode in Contact with LAMOX ElectrolyteJOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN CERAMIC SOCIETY, Issue 7 2008Tsu-Yung Jin The electrochemical performance and structural features of (La1,yCay)(CoxFe1,x)O3 cathode prepared via a citrate acid gel route are studied when it is interfaced with the (La1.8Dy0.2)(Mo2,zWz)O9 electrolyte. The resistance and chemical capacitance of a low-frequency arc are extracted from the impedance results to evaluate its catalytic activity in oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). (La0.75Ca0.25)(Co0.8Fe0.2)O3 cathode exhibits the minimum area-specific resistance of 0.9 , cm2 and maximum capacitance of 5.7 mF/cm2 at 800°C among the compositions of x=0.1,0.9 and y=0.25. As the Co content increases, the decrease in resistance outweighs the increase in capacitance so that the product of resistance and capacitance (RC time constant) decreases. In contrast, when varying the Ca content of the A-site, the changes in resistance and the capacitance compensate each other; hence the RC time constant is virtually unchanged with respect to the calcium content. Thus, Co is a more influential element than Ca on the ORR catalytic activity. The pore structure study reveals a small amount of Mo diffuses from the electrolyte into the cathode, and its quantity is reduced when interfaced to an electrolyte of high W content. [source] Influence of Impurities on Dispersion Properties of Bayer AluminaJOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN CERAMIC SOCIETY, Issue 12 2004J. Kiennemann Among the different impurities contained in Bayer alumina (Ca, Fe, Na, Si, Mg), calcium was found to greatly influence the dispersion of alumina particles in water. Up to 90% of calcium is dissolved at acidic pH, whereas calcium remains on the alumina surface in the basic pH range and screens the negative Al,O, charges. The presence of calcium, through reducing repulsive interactions between particles, has a negative effect on the dispersion of alumina. The adsorption of the Na+ salt of poly(acrylic acid) (PAA-Na) is strongly influenced by Ca2+/PAA-Na interactions in suspension with an increase of the maximum adsorbed amount of PAA-Na in the presence of calcium. The amount of PAA-Na needed to reach a high electrostatic repulsion and a minimum of viscosity is 2 times higher in the presence of 400 pm calcium than for a low calcium content (,80 ppm). Finally, with an appropriate amount of PAA-Na, a similar state of dispersion can be reached with or without the presence of calcium. [source] Effect of pea and soya bean interaction on zinc dialyzability in weaning foodsJOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE, Issue 10 2005F Rincón Abstract Higher values are reported for Zn dialyzability of homogenized infant formulas when pea content is high and soya bean content is low, but also when the reverse is the case, ie low pea content and high soya bean content. This apparent paradox is examined in terms of a potential antagonistic effect of the pea × soya bean interaction on Zn dialyzability. The antagonistic effect is traced to the linear combined effect of the two ingredients on pH over a narrow interval around 5.90 and on calcium content. This combined effect may account for the difference in results between in vivo and in vitro studies reported by several authors. The combination of certain vegetables in an infant formula may, in certain circumstances, enhance Zn dialyzability, contradicting the general view that increased legume content diminishes Zn dialyzability due to an increase in phytic acid levels. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry [source] Chemical composition and physical properties of extruded snacks containing crab-processing by-productJOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE, Issue 11 2003Michael G Murphy Abstract The crab-processing industries generate millions of pounds of by-product annually, which results in a loss of edible product and presents a considerable waste disposal problem. The purpose of this research was to investigate the use of crab-processing by-product (CB) in the development of a calcium-rich expanded snack. The specific objectives were to examine the effects of type of CB (wet or dry), feed composition and screw speed (150 or 250 rpm) on selected properties of extruded snacks. Product formulations consisting of 0,400 g kg,1 CB combined with corn meal and potato flakes were processed in a twin-screw extruder. The resulting extrudates were analysed for proximate and mineral (calcium, sodium) composition, pH, water activity (aw), total plate count, bulk density, expansion ratio and colour. Both CB type and level of incorporation had significant effects (P < 0.05) on the calcium content, expansion ratio, bulk density and pH of the extrudates. Increasing the CB level resulted in increased calcium content (from 5.1 to 52.4 mg g,1) and pH (from 6.1 to 8.8). Screw speed had no significant effects (P > 0.05) on expansion ratio and bulk density. A high processing temperature (157 °C) and low aw resulted in undetectable microbial growth on the extrudates. This research demonstrates that ground crab-processing by-product can be successfully incorporated into an expanded snack product. Further research will evaluate consumer response to this novel value-added product. Copyright © 2003 Society of Chemical Industry [source] Unusual preservation of crustaceans and microbial colonies in a vadose zone, northwest MoroccoLETHAIA, Issue 1 2003MICHAEL J. DUANE Exceptional fossil preservation is observed in self-sealing microcavities in limestones where lichens, cyanobacteria and fungi together entombed themselves and organic walled microfossils, crustaceans and their eggs. Preservation has been enabled by calcite coating, lining and impregnation of the exoskeleton of the crustaceans, which had a high original calcium content and acted as a nucleus for precipitation. The good preservation was facilitated by the microcavities, the surrounding limestone, the seasonality and rapidity of precipitation, the microbial colonies living on the specimens, and the fluxing of vadose waters through the karst. The microbes and the crustaceans probably became trapped by the very high rate of calcite precipitation promoted within the cavities. Entrapment in mucous-secreting mats of cyanobacteria and fungi preceded the destruction of some of the soft parts of the crustaceans. By the time the mats and the incorporated biota were sealed into the cavities in the limestone, the mucosic mats and their bacterial communities had mediated production of a range of calcite cements promoting preservation of the refractory tissues. This process has important implications for cementation studies in arid zones (and especially in the Martian subsurface), since a range of microbes are involved in progressive biomineralization leading to fossilization within a perched, vadose karst. [source] Polypyrrole Thin Films Formed by Admicellar Polymerization Support the Osteogenic Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem CellsMACROMOLECULAR BIOSCIENCE, Issue 8 2004Harold Castano Abstract Summary: The objective of this study was to evaluate the attachment, proliferation, and differentiation of rat mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) toward the osteoblastic phenotype seeded on polypyrrole (PPy) thin films made by admicellar polymerization. Three different concentrations of pyrrole (Py) monomer (20, 35, and 50,×,10,3M) were used with the PPy films deposited on tissue culture polystyrene dishes (TCP). Regular TCP dishes and PPy polymerized on TCP by chemical polymerization without surfactant using 5,×,10,3M Py, were used as controls. Rat MSC were seeded on these surfaces and cultured for up to 20 d in osteogenic media. Surface topography was characterized by atomic force microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and static contact angle. Cell attachment, proliferation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and calcium content were measured to evaluate the ability of MSC to adhere and differentiate on PPy-coated TCP. Increased monomer concentrations resulted in PPy films of increased thickness and surface roughness. PPy films generated by different monomer concentrations induced drastically different cellular events. A wide spectrum of cell attachment characteristics (from excellent cell attachment to the complete inability to adhere) were obtained by varying the monomer concentration from 20 m to 50,×,10,3M. In particular the 20,×,10,3M PPy thin films demonstrated superior induction of MSC osteogenicity, which was comparable to standard TCP dishes, unlike PPy films of similar thickness prepared by chemical polymerization without surfactant. Adhesion of mesenchymal stem cells on tissue culture plates (TCP) coated with polypyrrole thin films made by admicellar polymerization. [source] The temperature dependence of the band edge energy in calcium barium niobatePHYSICA STATUS SOLIDI - RAPID RESEARCH LETTERS, Issue 7 2010Urs Heine Abstract The temperature dependent band edge energy of the novel tungsten bronze type calcium barium niobate (CBN) is measured over a temperature range from 80 K to 573 K. CBN has been under investigation for serveral years and is believed to be a promising material for future applications. Czochralski-grown, colorless single crystals from the congruently melting composition with a calcium content of 0.281 were used. A numerical fit has been applied, comparing the results of CBN to those of the well known relaxor ferroelectric strontium barium niobate (SBN). The band edge energy of CBN was found to be higher than in SBN over the whole temperature range. (© 2010 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source] Quantifying histological changes in archaeological bones using BSE,SEM image analysisARCHAEOMETRY, Issue 3 2002G. Turner, Walker Recent years have seen rapid developments in the understanding of diagenetic changes to archaeological bones. In particular, the degradation or preservation of proteins and other biomolecules has been explored using an increasingly sophisticated battery of analytical techniques. Problems remain, however, in correlating these parameters with physical changes to bone that may be observed microscopically. This is due, in part, to the problems in reproducibly quantifying histological changes to archaeological bone. This paper introduces a novel method for the accurate quantification of these changes employing image analysis of SEM images. Self,consistency of results was tested using measurements of total calcium content at different magnifications. The term ,bioerosion index' is suggested for the measured parameter. [source] Relation Between Echinocytosis and Erythrocyte Calcium Content in Hemodialyzed Uremic PatientsARTIFICIAL ORGANS, Issue 6 2001B. Agroyannis Abstract: A rise in intracellular calcium concentration in erythrocytes has multiple effects on these cells. The purpose of this study was to determine the changes of calcium content in red blood cells (RBCs) and of echinocyte percentages in uremic patients during hemodialysis sessions. In 30 uremic patients under hemodialysis, the calcium content of RBCs and echinocyte percentages were determined in 3 blood samples collected at 0 min hemodialysis (prehemodialysis), 45 min hemodialysis, and 240 min hemodialysis (end hemodialysis) for a 4 h hemodialysis session. Calcium content of RBCs and echinocytes were also determined in 22 normal subjects (controls). The findings of the present study were that the mean values (±SD) of calcium content of RBCs in patients at 0 min hemodialysis, 45 min hemodialysis, and 240 min hemodialysis were 2.00 ± 1.0, 2.66 ± 0.87, and 1.62 ± 0.66 ,g/ml respectively and 0.65 ± 0.07 ,g/ml in controls. These values show that the calcium content of RBCs in uremic patients at 0 min hemodialysis, 45 min hemodialysis, and 240 hemodialysis was significantly higher than in controls (p < 0.0001), and that RBC calcium content at 45 min hemodialysis was significantly higher in comparison to that at 0 min hemodialysis (p < 0.001) and to that at 240 min hemodialysis (p < 0.0001), while that at 240 min hemodialysis was significantly lower than at 0 min hemodialysis (p < 0.05). The mean values (±SD) of echinocyte percentages in patients at 0 min hemodialysis, 45 min hemodialysis, and 240 hemodialysis were 11.93 ± 6.18, 17.23 ± 4.1, and 7.96 ± 5.67% respectively, and in controls ranged from 0 to 1%. The values in uremic patients show a transient increase of echinocyte percentages at 45 min hemodialysis, which is significant in comparison to that at 0 min hemodialysis (p < 0.001) and to that at 240 min hemodialysis (p < 0.0001). Echinocyte percentages at 240 min hemodialysis were significantly lower to those at 0 min hemodialysis (p < 0.001). Correlation between calcium content of erythrocytes and echinocyte percentages shows a significantly positive relationship at 45 min hemodialysis (r = 0.368, p < 0.05) but no significant relationship at 0 min hemodialysis and 240 min hemodialysis. In conclusion, uremic patients under hemodialysis present with high calcium content in erythrocytes and abnormal erythrocytes like echinocytes. A rapid and transient increase of erythrocyte calcium is also accompanied by transient elevation of echinocytes in the first hour of hemodialysis (45 min hemodialysis), which returns after hemodialysis to lower than prehemodialysis levels. [source] Effects of 0.4 T rotating magnetic field exposure on density, strength, calcium and metabolism of rat thigh bonesBIOELECTROMAGNETICS, Issue 1 2006Xiao-yun Zhang Abstract The current study investigated the effects of 0.4 T rotary non-uniform magnetic field (RMF) exposure on bone density in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Results showed that many bone indexes are significantly elevated after RMF exposure compared to the control OVX group and confirmed mechanistic evidence that strong magnetic field (MF) exposure could effectively increase bone density and might be used to treat osteoporosis. Synergy of daily RMF exposure (30 min a day for 30 days using an 8 Hz rotary 0.4 T MF) with calcium supplement tended to increase the indexes of thigh bone density, energy absorption, maximum load, maximum flexibility, and elastic deformation as compared to those of untreated OVX control group. Results also revealed that the indexes of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), serum phosphate, and serum calcium were higher in rats exposed to RMF with calcium than in the untreated OVX control group. Changes in bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC) were observed in rats for three months including the first month RMF exposure. Bone density in rats exposed each day for 60 min increased during 1-month exposure and continued to increase during the post-exposure period. Furthermore, bone density and calcium content in rats exposed for 90 min daily decreased initially in the exposure month; however, ratio of increase was well above the control values by the end of the post-exposure period suggesting possible window and delayed effects. The study indicated that RMF exposure to both male and OVX female rats for 120 min a day over 15 day period should effectively promote increase of bone calcium contents (BCC) and bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP) in rats thigh bone as well as a corresponding decrease in deoxypyridinoline crosslinks (DPD). Bioelectromagnetics 27:1,9, 2006. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Chronic acid ingestion promotes renal stone formation in rats treated with vitamin D3INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 1 2007Naohiko Okamoto Objective: Although hypercalciuria, a well-established adverse effect of vitamin D3, can be a risk factor of renal stone formation, the risk of nephrolithiasis has not been well defined. The consumption of a diet high in acid precursors is often cited as a risk factor for the development of calcium-based kidney stones. In the present study, we investigated the effect of chronic acid ingestion on kidney stone formation in rats treated with calcitriol (1,25[OH]2 D3). Methods: Control rats (C-C), calcitriol-treated rats (C-V; three treatments of 0.5 µg of calcitriol per week) and acid-ingested (water containing 0.21 mol/L NH4Cl), calcitriol-treated (three treatments of 0.5 µg of calcitriol per week) rats (A-V) were fed in metabolic cages. After 1 month, urine, blood, kidney and bone samples were analyzed. Results: The A-V rats exhibited elevated serum calcium concentrations, urinary calcium and phosphate excretion, urinary type I collagen cross-linked N-peptide (NTx)/creatinine values, mRNA expression of osteopontin in the kidney, and renal calcium contents as well as decreased bone mineral densities, compared with the C-C and C-V rats. Urinary citrate excretion was lower and NaDC-1 mRNA expression in the kidney was higher in the A-V rats than in the C-C and C-V rats. Calcium phosphate kidney stones were found in the A-V rats. Conclusions: The ingestion of NH4Cl, an acid precursor, promotes calcium phosphate kidney stone formation in calcitriol-treated rats. The chronic intake of a diet rich in acid precursors may be a risk factor for the development of kidney stones in subjects who are being treated with calcitriol. [source] Bioactivity, pre-osteoblastic cell responses, and osteoconductivity evaluations of the electrospun non-woven SiO2,CaO gel fabricsJOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL MATERIALS RESEARCH, Issue 2 2009Yang-Jo Seol Abstract The evaluations of the fibers characteristics, bioactivity, pre-osteoblastic cell responses, and osteoconductivity of the non-woven SiO2,CaO gel fabric made by electrospinning method was carried out. Silica gels with four different calcium contents were prepared by condensation following hydrolysis of tetraethyl orthosilicate under acidic conditions. The molar ratios of Ca to Si prepared ranged from 0 to 0.15. SiO2,CaO gel fabrics were heat-treated at 300°C for 3 h after spinning under an electric field of 2 kV/cm. As the Ca to Si ratio increased, the diameter of electrospun SiO2,CaO gel fibers increased because the viscosity of the SiO2,CaO gel solution increased. The apatite-forming ability of heat-treated, non-woven SiO2,CaO gel fabric was evaluated in simulated body fluid and tended to increase with an increasing Ca to Si molar ratio. However, proliferation and differentiation tended to decrease with an increasing Ca to Si molar ratio. The sample which had the Ca to Si ratio as 0.10 showed good osteoconductivity in vivo in the calvarial defect New Zealand white rabbit model compared to that had the Ca to Si ratio as 0 and empty defect. These results strongly suggest that non-woven SiO2,CaO gel fabric made by the electrospinning method has potential for application as a bone grafting material. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009 [source] Mineral contents and distribution between the soluble and the micellar phases in calcium-enriched UHT milksJOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE, Issue 13 2004Miguel Angel de la Fuente Abstract A study concerning the content of mineral elements (calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium and phosphorus) and the distribution between the soluble and the micellar phases has been carried out on mineral,mainly calcium,enriched UHT milks. Total calcium contents were 1371,1793 mg l,1 in the 10 brands examined. Percentages of calcium in the soluble phase varied from 23.6 to 37.2%, whereas ionic calcium concentrations found were within a very wide range (44,91 mg l,1). The different forms of phosphorus were studied by 31P-NMR. Spectra indicated that the majority of the brands employed polyphosphates as stabilizers. Ingredients used to fortify these products consisted of dairy fractions and calcium salts. The modifications in salt balance as consequence of these practices are discussed. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry [source] Effects of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and calcium nutrition on strawberry anthracnosePLANT PATHOLOGY, Issue 2 2006M. H. Nam The effects of a range of concentrations of four nutrients , nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and calcium , in fertilizer solutions on the severity of anthracnose on strawberry cv. Nyoho cultivated under a noncirculation hydroponics system were determined after inoculation with Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Crop growth and tissue nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and calcium contents of the entire above-ground parts of the plant were also investigated. Elevated nitrogen and potassium concentrations in the fertilizer solution increased disease severity in contrast to phosphorus and calcium. Treatment with either NH4 or NO3 nitrogen was not significantly different. The dry weight of the strawberry plants increased significantly with elevated concentrations of nitrogen (R2 = 0·9078) and phosphorus (R2 = 0·8842), but was not influenced by the elevated amounts of potassium (R2 = 0·8587) and calcium (R2 = 0·6526) concentrations. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||