Search Results (154)

Calcium tartrate (CaT) instability in bottled wines has become a recurrent issue. Conventional stabilization strategies, such as cold stabilization or the use of protective colloids, can be ineffective or yield inconsistent results. Cation-exchange resins and electrodialysis can reduce the risk of CaT precipitation, but their use is limited by cost and availability. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess sodium alginate, a natural divalent metal chelator, as a processing aid to remove calcium and improve CaT stability. The study began with the characterization of the alginate composites formed in wines, followed by an evaluation of different doses and contact times. Subsequently, a series of conventional and dealcoholized wines was evaluated, showing significant reductions in calcium concentration (i.e., 27–32% in conventional wines and 10–21% in dealcoholized or reduced-alcohol wines) and improved CaT stability. Besides a significant increase in sodium content, conductivity, and turbidity (p < 0.05), most other compositional parameters remained stable, with variations observed only in some wines for certain parameters (e.g., CIELab parameters). These findings demonstrate the potential of sodium alginate as a practical calcium-binding agent and suggest the need for further studies to continue evaluating its applicability in winemaking. Full article

This article presents a comprehensive study of the nitrogen-radon thermal mineral waters of the Jety-Oguz area, located in the southeastern part of the Issyk-Kul intermountain artesian basin (Northern Tien Shan). Based on new data from chemical and isotopic (δ¹⁸O, δD) analyses of natural waters (lake, river, and mineral) and the chemical composition of the water-bearing rocks, we identify the formation mechanisms of mineral waters with diverse composition, total dissolved solids (TDS), and temperature. Three main genetic types have been identified: (1) saline, high-TDS (up to 12.8 g/L) chloride sodium-calcium thermal waters (up to 32 °C). These waters are of meteoric origin and circulate within Middle Carboniferous carbonate rocks, acquiring their unique composition at depths of up to 3.0 km, where reservoir temperatures reach ~105 °C; (2) chloride-sulfate sodium-calcium waters (0.5 g/L, fresh, 22 °C), formed in alluvial deposits within the zone of active water exchange; and (3) low-TDS (1.8 g/L, brackish) waters of mixed composition, resulting from the mixing of a deep fluid with infiltrating meteoric waters. Isotopic data confirm a meteoric origin for all studied waters, including the high-TDS thermal types. The chemical composition diversity is attributed to several processes: mixing between the deep, high-TDS fluid and low-TDS infiltration waters, intense dissolution of evaporite rocks, and water–rock interaction. These findings are crucial for understanding the genesis of mineral waters in the Tien Shan intermountain basins and provide a scientific basis for their sustainable balneological exploitation. Full article

We investigated the roles and regulation of contractile and sodium ion transporter proteins in the pathogenesis of diarrhea in the acute ulcerative colitis. Acute ulcerative colitis was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats using dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in drinking water for seven days. The effects of nobiletin, a citrus flavonoid, were also examined. Increased myeloperoxidase activity, colon mass, and inflammatory cell infiltration were associated with damage to goblet cells and the epithelial cell lining indicating the development of acute ulcerative colitis. SERCA-2 calcium pump expression remained unchanged, whereas the phospholamban (PLN) regulatory peptide was reduced and its phosphorylated form (PLN-P) increased, suggesting a post-translational increase in SERCA-2 activity in the inflamed colon. Higher levels of IP3 were associated with a decrease in the Gαq protein levels without altering phospholipase C expression, suggesting that IP3 regulation is independent of Gαq protein signaling. In addition, the expression of sodium/hydrogen exchanger isoforms NHE-1, NHE-3 and carbonic anhydrase-1 and sodium pump activity were decreased in the inflamed colon. Nobiletin treatment of colitis selectively reversed the inflammatory and oxidative stress markers, including superoxide dismutase and catalase without restoring the expression of ion transporters. This study highlights alterations in the expression of ion transporters and their regulatory proteins in acute ulcerative colitis. These changes in the ion transporters are likely to reduce NaCl absorption and alter contractility, thereby contributing to the pathogenesis of diarrhea in the present model of acute ulcerative colitis. Nobiletin selectively ameliorates acute colitis in this model. Full article

Boreholes in the Teleghma region of northeastern Algeria discharge thermal water with temperatures between 40 and 49 °C and total dissolved solids (TDS) ranging from 570 to 940 mg/L. The stable isotope compositions range from –7.8‰ to –6.2‰ for δ¹⁸O and –52.6‰ to –43.3‰ for δ²H, indicating a meteoric origin. Based on these isotopic signatures, the water is classified as immature and undersaturated with respect to the equilibrium line on the Giggenbach Na–K–Mg ternary diagram. The water exhibits a sodium–chloride (Na–Cl) facies, closely associated with Triassic formations rich in evaporitic deposits. This association was confirmed by the IIGR method, which illustrates the chemical evolution of the hydrothermal fluid as it ascends from the karstic carbonate reservoir through conduits and traverses clay formations. Consequently, computed saturation indices and applied inverse modeling significantly contributed to understanding the interactions between the hydrothermal water and the traversed rock. At the local scale, halite dissolution is the primary mineral phase driving chemical changes. Regionally, however, the processes are dominated by gypsum dissolution and cation exchange reactions between calcium and sodium ions. These findings offer valuable insights into the geochemical processes that shape the Teleghma geothermal system, with implications for resource management and potential applications. Full article

Bentonites used for wine clarification vary widely in their ability to remove proteins and alter wine composition, yet the role of their intrinsic properties remains unclear. To address this, eight commercial bentonites with diverse physico-chemical characteristics were analyzed. The doses required for complete protein removal and stabilization were determined and then applied to clarify a Malvazija istarska (Vitis vinifera L.) white wine. Clarified wines were compared with one another and with a non-clarified control using ICP-OES for elemental composition, HPLC-DAD for phenolic compounds, and HS-SPME-GC/MS for volatile compounds. Protein removal efficiency correlated positively with Na/Ca ratio, cation exchange capacity, swelling capacity, negative ζ-potential, and internal specific surface area, and negatively with particle size and external specific surface area. Sodium and calcium showed the greatest increases in wine concentrations. Effects on individual low-molecular-weight phenols were inconsistent, though all bentonites removed a fraction of total phenols. Volatile compounds, particularly esters, were significantly reduced. When compared on a per-gram basis, bentonites that were more efficient in protein removal also showed greater removal of phenols and volatile compounds; however, at full application doses, many of these differences diminished or reversed. Overall, the study advances understanding of bentonite–wine interactions and supports more informed selection of bentonites in oenological practice. Full article

Frequent and severe droughts intensify water scarcity in arid and semi-arid regions, creating an urgent need for alternative water resources in agriculture. Treated wastewater (TWW) has emerged as a sustainable option; however, its long-term use may alter soil properties and pose risks if not carefully managed. This study tested the hypothesis that long-term TWW irrigation increases soil salinity, alters fertility, and affects microbial quality, with rainfall partially mitigating these effects. Soil samples (n = 96 at each time point) were collected from two calcareous soils in Jordan, silt loam (Mafraq) and silty clay loam (Ramtha), under four treatments (control and 2, 5, and 10 years of TWW irrigation) at three depths (0–30, 30–60, and 60–90 cm). Sampling was conducted at two intervals, before and after rainfall, to capture the seasonal variation. Soil indicators included the pH, electrical conductivity (EC), sodium (Na⁺), chloride (Cl⁻), calcium (Ca²⁺), magnesium (Mg²⁺), exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP), sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), organic matter (OM), total nitrogen (TN), and microbial parameters (total coliforms (TC), fecal coliforms (FC), and Escherichia coli). Data were analyzed using a linear mixed-effects model with repeated measures, and significant differences were determined using Tukey’s Honest Significant Difference (HSD) test at p < 0.05. The results showed that rainfall reduced Na⁺ by 70%, Cl⁻ by 86%, EC by 73%, the ESP by 28%, and the SAR by 30%. Furthermore, the TC and FC concentrations were diminished by almost 96%. Moderate TWW irrigation (5 years) provided the most balanced outcomes across both sites. This study provides one of the few long-term field-based assessments of TWW irrigation in semi-arid calcareous soils of Jordan, underscoring its value in mitigating water scarcity while emphasizing the need for monitoring to ensure soil sustainability. Full article

Na⁺/Ca²⁺ exchangers (NCXs) are membrane transporters crucial for calcium homeostasis in excitable tissues, particularly in the central nervous system. Growing evidence indicates that NCX dysfunction contributes to calcium overload and neuronal damage in several neurological conditions. Thus, pharmacological modulation of NCX isoforms (NCX1, NCX2, and NCX3) has emerged as a potential therapeutic strategy for disorders such as stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, the identification of selective modulators directed at specific NCX isoforms, or even different splice variants, remains challenging and limits their clinical validation. This Review aims to provide an updated overview of small-molecule NCX modulators, described over the last two decades. Chemical structures, mechanisms of action, and isoform specificity are discussed, along with the most commonly used biological assays for their functional evaluation. Full article

In coastal countries facing a shortage of drinking water, seawater desalination is essential for the production of potable water. During desalination, a large volume of waste stream, known as brine, is generated. This stream contains high concentrations of salts, particularly those of economic importance to the European Union, such as magnesium and calcium. By further processing this stream, these materials can be recovered. One method studied for separating magnesium from wastewater is membrane crystallization (MCr). The MCr process developed in this work utilizes ion-exchange membranes that separate the model brine solution from a precipitating agent, which is a solution of sodium hydroxide. During the process, the membrane allows the transport of anions between the two solutions, enabling the reaction between OH⁻ anions and Mg²⁺ cations, which leads to the formation of a magnesium hydroxide precipitate. The formed precipitate can then be filtered out of the brine solution, which now has decreased salinity due to crystallization facilitated by the ion-exchange membrane. However, precipitation occurs near the membrane surface, resulting in the deposition of magnesium hydroxide onto the outer surface of the membrane. The aim of this study is to investigate methods for effectively removing magnesium hydroxide from the membrane surface, with a primary focus on maximizing the yield of magnesium hydroxide crystals in suspension. Crystal removal was induced by circulation of hydrochloric acid, followed by circulation of demineralized water through the membrane module after crystallization. In this study, a membrane module made of hollow-fiber anion-exchange membranes was employed. The production cost of these membranes is approximately 50% lower per square meter compared to flat-sheet membranes commonly used in electrodialysis, demonstrating strong potential for commercial application. More than 85% magnesium conversion was achieved during the process, yet the majority of the crystals remained attached to the membrane. Circulation of hydrochloric acid and demineralized water after the crystallization process caused detachment of the crystals into suspension, nearly doubling their yield. Full article

In this study, the effects of biochar and compost on the amelioration of coastal saline soil were investigated through indoor leaching experiments and soil culture experiments. The results revealed that the multivoid structure of biochar and compost, when applied to soil, effectively improved soil hydraulic conductivity, promoted the leaching of salt ions, and reduced soil electrical conductivity. Owing to the high pH value of biochar and the lower pH value of compost, the combined application of the two has a complementary effect on improving the pH value of coastal saline soils. The calcium (Ca²⁺) and magnesium (Mg²⁺) contained in biochar and compost are exchanged with Na⁺ adsorbed by soil colloids, which reduces the sodium (Na⁺) adsorption ratio (SAR) value of the soil. Biochar and compost improve the physical properties of the soil, and the organic matter they contain helps soil particles aggregate with each other and form stable clusters, thus promoting the formation of soil agglomerates, which are conducive to the formation of clusters with a diameter of ≤0.25 mm. Biochar and compost are rich in nutrients, and their application significantly increased the contents of available nutrients and organic matter as well as the activities of urease, phosphatase, and dehydrogenase in saline soils. However, too high of an application rate of biochar increases the soil pH value, and excessive application of compost can lead to greater soil conductivity, which inhibits the activities of soil urease, phosphatase and dehydrogenase. Therefore, rational control of application rates is essential for improving coastal saline soils. Future research should further explore the synergistic effects of biochar and compost in improving soil structure, nutrient effectiveness, and microbial activity to promote their effective application in coastal saline–alkaline soil improvement. Full article

Background: Cardiac glycosides such as digoxin have been commonly used for patients with heart failure; however, their toxicity remains a main concern. 17βH-neriifolin (SNA209), a cardiac glycoside compound, has been recently isolated from Ceberra odollum Gaertn and was shown to improve the heart’s pumping ability in failing hearts ex vivo. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the potential use of SNA209 as a treatment for isoprenaline (ISO)-induced heart failure in rats. Methods: Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups. Heart failure was induced by isoprenaline (ISO, 10 mg/kg/s.c) for 14 days daily, followed by SNA209 treatment (5 mg/kg; p.o) for another 14 days daily. Control rats were given saline as a vehicle for ISO and DMSO as a vehicle for SNA209. Results: Systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP) in all ISO-treated groups were significantly increased compared to the control group (p < 0.05), and SNA209 treatment managed to reduce the SBP and DBP. Additionally, SNA209 treatment significantly increased the heart rate and normalized the ECG parameters in ISO-treated rats. Pro-B-type natriuretic peptide and troponin T level, a cardiac injury markers, was remarkably reduced by SNA209 in the ISO-treated group. Cardiac hypertrophy was evident in increased cardiomyocyte size in ISO groups; however, SNA reduced the cardiomyocyte size. The left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP) in ISO treated with SNA209 was significantly raised, indicating a chronotropic effect. Cardiac Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase expression of the α1 subunit, sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺ ATPase 2a (SERCA2a), and sodium–calcium exchanger subunit were significantly increased in the SNA treatment groups. Conclusions: The SNA 209 treatment improved cardiac function and structure, likely via modulating intracellular calcium management, so underscoring its potential as an adjuvant therapy for heart failure. Full article

Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) is a cardiac dysfunction in patients with cirrhosis, occurring in the absence of structural heart disease. It increases perioperative risk, especially in liver transplantation, and may contribute to hepatorenal syndrome. Despite its clinical significance, CCM remains poorly understood and lacks effective treatments. This review aims to summarize recent findings on the pathogenesis of CCM and highlight potential therapeutic targets. A focused literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Clarivate databases, selecting studies from the last five years. Included studies investigated molecular, cellular, and receptor-mediated mechanisms involved in CCM. Results: CCM results from neurohumoral, inflammatory, and electrophysiological disturbances. Key mechanisms involve dysfunction of β-adrenergic and muscarinic receptors, altered ion channels (potassium, L-type calcium), impaired sodium–calcium exchange, and suppression of the P2X7 receptor (P2X7R). Dysregulation of the CD73 (5’-nucleotidase, ecto-5’-nucleotidase)–A2 adenosine axis, along with effects from endocannabinoids, nitric oxide (NO) inhibition by tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), carbon monoxide (CO), and elevated galectin-3 (Gal-3), further contribute to myocardial dysfunction. Conclusions: CCM is a multifactorial condition linked to systemic and myocardial effects of cirrhosis. A deeper understanding of its mechanisms is essential for developing targeted therapies. Further research is needed to improve patient outcomes. Full article

This study aims to develop environmentally friendly soil-stabilization materials by investigating the synergistic enhancement mechanism of industrial by-product lignin fibers (LFs) and sodium sulfate (Na₂SO₄) on the mechanical and micro-structural properties of cement-stabilized soil. A systematic evaluation was conducted through unconfined compressive strength (UCS), splitting tensile strength, and capillary water absorption tests, supplemented by microscopic analyses including XRD and SEM. The results indicate that the optimal synergistic effect occurs at 1.0% LF and 0.10% Na₂SO₄, which increases UCS and splitting tensile strength by 9.23% and 18.37%, respectively, compared to cement-stabilized soil. Meanwhile, early strength development is accelerated. Microscopically, LF physically bridges soil particles, forming aggregates, reducing porosity, and enhancing cohesion. Chemically, Na₂SO₄ acts as an activator, accelerating cement hydration and stimulating pozzolanic reactions to form calcium aluminosilicate hydrate and gypsum, which fill pores and densify the matrix. The synergistic mechanism lies in Na₂SO₄ enhancing the interaction between the LFs and clay minerals through ion exchange, facilitating the formation of a stable spatial network structure that inhibits particle sliding and crack propagation. This technology offers substantial sustainability benefits by utilizing paper-making waste LF and low-cost Na₂SO₄ to improve soil strength, toughness, and impermeability. Full article

The increasing shortage of drinking water, driven by reduced rainfall and the intensification of industrial and agricultural activities, has raised justified concerns about the quantity and quality of available water resources. These sectors not only demand high water consumption but also discharge large amounts of toxic substances such as organic matter, metal ions and inorganic anions, posing risks to both public health and the environment. This study evaluated the effectiveness of clay-based nanomaterials in the treatment of contaminated industrial wastewater from the mining sector. The materials tested included montmorillonite, high-loading expandable synthetic mica, and their organically functionalized forms (MMT, Mica-Na-4, C18-MMT, and C18-Mica-4). The experimental results show that these clays had minimal impact on the pH of the water, while a notable decrease in the chemical oxygen demand (COD) was observed. Ion chromatography indicated an increase in nitrogen and sulfur compounds with higher oxidation states. Inductively coupled plasma analysis revealed a significant reduction in the calcium concentration and an increase in the sodium concentration, likely due to cation exchange mechanisms. However, the removal of copper and iron was ineffective, possibly due to competitive interactions with other cations in the solution. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the structural modifications and interlayer spacing changes in the clay materials upon exposure to contaminated water. These findings demonstrate the potential of clay minerals as effective and low-cost materials for the remediation of industrial wastewater. Full article

The thermo-chemical treatment of dental implants leads to the formation of sodium titanate crystals on their surface. When in contact with blood, these crystals dissolve and trigger an ionic exchange cascade, resulting in the formation of a calcium apatite layer. This study, carried out both in vitro and in an animal model, aimed to determine whether the cooling rate of the treatment affects the size of the deposited crystals, and whether this in turn influences wettability and early bone-to-implant contact (BIC). A total of 50 dental implants and 50 titanium discs were treated using four different cooling rates, along with a control group. Crystal size was analyzed on implant surfaces using scanning electron microscopy, and wettability was assessed on titanium discs using a goniometer. Finally, the implants were placed in the tibiae of 13 rabbits, and histological analysis was performed after three weeks to compare BIC among groups. Results suggest that a cooling rate of 75 °C/h produces smaller sodium titanate crystals, which are associated with significantly improved surface wettability and a higher percentage of bone-to-implant contact after 3 weeks of healing (p < 0.05). Full article

Based on an integrated analysis, this study summarized the current status of soil quality in Yantai apple orchards, developed a multivariate regulation model for key soil physicochemical properties, and proposed optimized fertilization strategies to improve soil quality in the region. The study analyzed the physicochemical properties of the topsoil (0–30 cm) in 19 representative apple orchards across Yantai, including indicators like pH, organic matter (OM), major nutrient ions, and salinity indicators, using standardized measurements and multivariate statistical methods, including descriptive statistics analysis, frequency distribution analysis, canonical correlation analysis, stepwise regression equation analysis, and regression fit model analysis. The results demonstrated that in apple orchards across the Yantai region, reductions in pH were significantly mitigated under the combined increased OM and exchangeable calcium (Ca). Exchangeable potassium (EK) rose in response to the joint elevation of OM and available nitrogen (AN), and AN was also positively influenced by EK, while OM also exhibited a promotive effect on Olsen phosphorus (OP). Furthermore, Ca increased with higher pH. AN and EK jointly contributed to the increases in electrical conductivity (EC) and chloride ions (Cl), while elevated exchangeable sodium (Na) and soluble salts (SS) were primarily driven by EK. Accordingly, enhancing organic and calcium source fertilizers is recommended to boost OM and Ca levels, reduce acidification, and maintain EC within optimal limits. By primarily reducing potassium’s application, followed by nitrogen and phosphorus source fertilizers, the supply of macronutrients can be optimized, and the accumulation of Na, Cl, and SS can be controlled. Collectively, the combined analysis of soil quality status and the multivariate regulation model clarified the optimized fertilization strategies, thereby establishing a solid theoretical and practical foundation for recognizing the necessity of soil testing and formula fertilization, the urgency of improving soil quality, and the scientific rationale for nutrient input management in Yantai apple orchards. Full article