Search Results (346)

Hypomagnesemia is a frequent and often underrecognized electrolyte disturbance with important clinical consequences, especially in hospitalized and critically ill patients. This multifactorial condition arises from impaired intestinal absorption, renal magnesium wasting, and the effects of various medications. Magnesium, the second most abundant intracellular cation, is crucial in enzymatic and physiological processes; its deficiency is associated with neuromuscular, cardiovascular, and metabolic complications. This narrative review focuses on the mechanisms and clinical consequences of drug-induced hypomagnesemia, highlighting the major drug classes involved such as diuretics, antibiotics, antineoplastic agents, and immunosuppressants. Management strategies include magnesium supplementation and adjunctive therapies like amiloride and SGLT2 inhibitors to reduce renal magnesium losses. Recognizing and addressing drug-induced hypomagnesemia is essential to improve patient outcomes and prevent long-term complications. Full article

The accelerated hydrolytic degradation of poly(L-lactide) (PLA)/magnesium (Mg) composite films was investigated to elucidate the influence of surface modification of Mg particles on the degradation behavior and characteristics of PLA composites. Accelerated degradation studies were conducted at 60 °C in a pH 7.4 phosphate-buffered solution over 7 weeks, with degradation monitored using several techniques: mass loss, water absorption, thermal analysis, and Raman spectroscopy. The results indicated that all composite films experienced more than 90% mass loss at the end of experiment; however, PLA/5MgTT and PLA/5MgPEI exhibited the highest resistance to degradation, likely due to the protective effect of the surface modification induced by thermal treatment and polyethylenimine (PEI). Notably, these characteristics did not compromise the biocompatibility or osteogenic potential of the films, which remained comparable to the control samples when tested on human bone marrow multipotent mesenchymal/stromal cells. Full article

Sustainability in the construction sector has become a fundamental objective for mitigating escalating environmental challenges; given that concrete is the most widely used man-made material, extending its service life is therefore critical. Among durability concerns, magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄) attack is particularly deleterious to concrete structures. Therefore, this study investigates the short- and long-term performance of concrete produced with copper slag (CS)—a massive waste generated by copper mining activities worldwide—employed as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM), together with recycled coarse aggregate (RCA), obtained from concrete construction and demolition waste, when exposed to MgSO₄. CS was used as a 15 vol% cement replacement, while RCA was incorporated at 0%, 20%, 50%, and 100 vol%. Compressive strength, bulk density, water absorption, and porosity were measured after water curing (7–388 days) and following immersion in a 5 wt.% MgSO₄ solution for 180 and 360 days. Microstructural characteristics were assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis with its differential thermogravimetric derivative (TG-DTG), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) techniques. The results indicated that replacing 15% cement with CS reduced 7-day strength by ≤10%, yet parity with the reference mix was reached at 90 days. Strength losses increased monotonically with RCA content. Under MgSO₄ exposure, all mixtures experienced an initial compressive strength gain during the short-term exposures (28–100 days), attributed to the pore-filling effect of expansive sulfate phases. However, at long-term exposure (180–360 days), a clear strength decline was observed, mainly due to internal cracking, brucite formation, and the transformation of C–S–H into non-cementitious M–S–H gel. Based on these findings, the combined use of CS and RCA at low replacement levels shows potential for producing environmentally friendly concrete with mechanical and durability performance comparable to those of concrete made entirely with virgin materials. Full article

Hybrid implants composed of magnesium and titanium are a promising direction in orthopaedics, as these implants combine the stability of titanium with the biological activity of magnesium. These partly soluble implants require careful investigation, as the degradation of magnesium releases hydrogen, which can enter the Ti matrix and thus alter the mechanical properties. To investigate this scenario and quantify the hydrogen uptake along with its structural impacts, we employed inert gas fusion, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and a combination of synchrotron absorption and X-ray diffraction tomography. These techniques enabled us to investigate the concentration and distribution of hydrogen and the formation of hydrides in the samples. Titanium hydride formation was observed in a region approximately 120 µm away from the titanium surface and correlates with the amount of absorbed hydrogen. We speculate that the degradation of magnesium at the magnesium/titanium implant interface leads to the penetration of hydrogen due to a combination of electrochemical and gaseous charging. Full article

With increasing global challenges related to water scarcity and phosphorus depletion, the recovery and reuse of wastewater-derived nutrients offer a sustainable path forward. This study evaluates the dual role of lanthanides (Ce³⁺ and La³⁺) in recovering phosphorus from municipal wastewater and supporting corn (Zea mays) cultivation through lanthanide phosphate (Ln-P) and lanthanide-reclaimed wastewater (LRWW, wastewater spiked with lanthanide). High-purity precipitates of CePO₄ (98%) and LaPO₄ (92%) were successfully obtained without pH adjustment, as confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Germination assays revealed that lanthanides, even at concentrations up to 2000 mg/L, did not significantly alter germination rates compared to traditional coagulants, though root and shoot development declined above this threshold—likely due to reduced hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) production and elevated total dissolved solids (TDSs), which induced physiological drought. Greenhouse experiments using desert-like soil amended with Ln-P and irrigated with LRWW showed no statistically significant differences in corn growth parameters—including plant height, stem diameter, leaf number, leaf area, and biomass—when compared to control treatments. Photosynthetic performance, including stomatal conductance, quantum efficiency, and chlorophyll content, remained unaffected by lanthanide application. Metal uptake analysis indicated that lanthanides did not inhibit phosphorus absorption and even enhanced the uptake of calcium and magnesium. Minimal lanthanide accumulation was detected in plant tissues, with most retained in the root zone, highlighting their limited mobility. These findings suggest that lanthanides can be safely and effectively used for phosphorus recovery and agricultural reuse, contributing to sustainable nutrient cycling and aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals of zero hunger and sustainable cities. Full article

The development of lightweight composites with superior mechanical properties and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding performance is essential for various structural and functional applications. This study investigates the effect of hybrid nanocarbon (graphene nanosheet (GNS) and carbon nanotube (CNT)) reinforcements on the properties of magnesium (Mg) matrix composites. Specifically, the GNS-CNT hybrid, which forms a three-dimensional interconnected network structure, was analyzed and compared to composites reinforced with only GNSs or CNTs. The objective was to determine the benefits of hybrid reinforcements on the mechanical strength and EMI shielding capability of the composites. The results indicated that the GNS-CNT/Mg composite, at a nanocarbon content of 0.5 wt.% and a GNS-CNT ratio of 1:2, achieved optimal performance, with a 55% increase in tensile strength and an EMI shielding effectiveness of 70 dB. The observed enhancements can be attributed to several key mechanisms: effective load transfer, which promotes tensile twinning, along with improved impedance matching and multiple internal reflections within the GNS-CNT network, which enhance absorption loss. These significant improvements position the composite as a promising candidate for advanced applications requiring high strength, toughness, and efficient electromagnetic shielding, providing valuable insights into the design of high-performance lightweight materials. Full article

This work presents the synthesis, characterization and evaluation of physicochemical and biological properties of two new aminoporphyrazine derivatives bearing magnesium(II) cations in their cores and peripheral pyrrolyl groups. The synthesis was carried out in several stages, using classical methods and the Microwave-Assisted Organic Synthesis (MAOS) approach. The obtained compounds were characterized using spectral techniques: UV-Vis spectrophotometry, mass spectrometry, ¹H and ¹³C NMR spectroscopy. The porphyrazine derivatives were tested for their electrochemical properties (CV and DPV), which revealed four redox processes, of which in compound 7 positive shifts of oxidation potentials were observed, resulting from the presence of free phenolic hydroxyl groups. In spectroelectrochemical measurements, changes in UV-Vis spectra associated with the formation of positive-charged states were noted. Photophysical studies revealed the presence of characteristic absorption Q and Soret bands, low fluorescence quantum yields and small Stokes shifts. The efficiency of singlet oxygen generation (Φ_Δ) was higher for compound 6 (up to 0.06), but compound 7, despite its lower efficiency (0.02), was distinguished by a better biological activity profile. Toxicity tests using the Aliivibrio fischeri bacteria indicated the lower toxicity of 7 compared to 6. The most promising result was the strong photodynamic activity of porphyrazine 7 against the Methicillin-resistant Stapylococcus aureus (MRSA) strain, leading to a more-than-5.6-log decrease in viable counts after the colony forming units (CFU) after light irradiation. Compound 6 did not show any significant antibacterial activity. The obtained data indicate that porphyrazine 7 is a promising candidate for applications in photodynamic therapy of bacterial infections. Full article

This study aimed to compare the contents of copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), and iron (Fe) in healthy liver tissue from deceased liver donors (DGs), in cirrhotic tissue from patients without (CIR) or with hepatocellular carcinoma (CIR-HCC) and in HCC tissue from the latter patients. Liver tissue samples were obtained from cirrhotic liver transplant recipients, with (n = 14) and without HCC (n = 14), and from DGs (n = 18). In patients with HCC, both cirrhotic and tumor tissue was collected. The tissue metal content was measured using atomic absorption spectrometry. The Cu content of DG tissue was significantly lower than that of CIR-HCC and HCC tissue but not CIR tissue. The tissue Zn and Mg contents were significantly higher in DG tissue than in CIR, CIR-HCC, and HCC tissues. No difference was observed for Fe. The Cu/Zn ratio progressively increased in DG, CIR, CIR-HCC, and HCC tissues. The increased Cu content in cirrhotic and tumor tissue of HCC patients and the fact that the latter had the highest value for the Cu/Zn ratio indirectly suggest the potential role of these metals in hepatocarcinogenesis. These findings support a pathophysiological basis for further experimental studies to investigate the potential therapeutic implications of pharmacological agents targeting metal homeostasis in this malignancy. Full article

Background: Magnesium (Mg²⁺) plays a fundamental role in various physiological processes, including neuromuscular function, glucose metabolism, cardiovascular regulation, and bone health. Despite its significance, the influence of sex on magnesium metabolism, requirements, and health outcomes remains unexplored. The aim of this review is to analyze sex-based differences in magnesium homeostasis, with a particular focus on hormonal regulation, body composition, and disease susceptibility. Methods: This narrative review, based on a non-systematic MEDLINE search conducted in January 2025, prioritized clinical trials from the past 15 years on human subjects and explored gender-specific aspects of magnesium intake, status, metabolism, and supplementation. Results: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly variations in estrogen levels, affect magnesium absorption, distribution, and retention, thereby influencing magnesium balance across different life stages such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Additionally, dietary intake and lifestyle factors often differ between men and women, further impacting magnesium status. Emerging evidence suggests that suboptimal magnesium levels may differentially contribute to conditions such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic disorders in each sex. Conclusions: In conclusion, acknowledging sex-specific differences in magnesium metabolism is essential for developing personalized dietary guidelines and therapeutic strategies. Tailored nutritional approaches could significantly improve magnesium status, enhance overall health, and reduce the burden of chronic diseases linked to magnesium imbalance. Full article

This research evaluated the recovery and reuse of dolomitic calcareous amendment saturated with nutrients adsorbed from hydroponic effluent as a soil improver and its impact on the agronomic performance of Phaseolus vulgaris. Initially, the dolomitic calcareous amendment (DCA) was saturated with nutrients from the hydroponic effluent through adsorption tests. The characterization of the DCA was conducted before and after nutrient saturation to verify its composition. Soil analysis was carried out prior to the trial, and a completely randomized experimental design was applied with four treatments and five replications, totaling 20 experimental units for each soil type (sandy and clayey): T1 (control), T2 (raw dolomitic calcareous amendment—DCA), T3 (saturated dolomitic calcareous amendment—DCAS), and T4 (granulated dolomitic calcareous amendment—DCAG). Agronomic performance parameters of Phaseolus vulgaris were assessed to determine nutrient availability to the plant: number of pods, pod length (cm), number of seeds per pod, and weight of 100 seeds (g). Data normality was verified using the Shapiro–Wilk test, and results were analyzed using ANOVA and mean comparisons through Tukey’s test (p < 0.05) using InfoStat software 2020I. Additionally, plant tissue was analyzed to determine nutrient absorption in the seeds, and both soil types were analyzed after harvest. Adsorption results indicated that the DCA retained phosphorus, manganese, calcium, and zinc. According to the characterization, DCA primarily consisted of calcium and magnesium carbonates; following the saturation process, an increase in carbonate groups was observed due to calcium adsorption from the hydroponic effluent. Results in both soil types showed no significant differences in pod number, pod length, or seeds per pod, except for the weight of 100 seeds in sandy soil, where T1, T2, and T3 differed significantly from T4. Based on references, the phosphorus content in the harvested seeds from T3 in sandy soil is classified as sufficient. The findings demonstrate the potential of recovering and reusing nutrients from hydroponic effluent using DCA and transforming it into a value-added agricultural input for soil improvement, presenting a promising alternative for more sustainable and efficient agriculture. Full article

This study investigated the effects of potassium magnesium sulfate (PMS) on intestinal dissociation and absorption rate, immune function, and expression of the NOD-like receptor thermal domain-associated protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, aquaporins (AQPs), and potassium and magnesium ion channels in weaned piglets. Experiment 1 involved the assessment of the dissociation rate of PMS in pig digestive fluid and the absorption rate of PMS in the small intestine using an Ussing chamber in vitro. In Experiment 2, 216 healthy 21-day-old weaned piglets were selected and randomly assigned to six groups (0%, 0.15%, 0.30%, 0.45%, 0.60%, and 0.75% PMS), with each group 6 replicates of six piglets per replicate. The in vitro Ussing chamber results indicated that the absorption of K⁺ and Mg²⁺ in the jejunum and ileum was significantly higher than that in the duodenum (p < 0.05). The in vivo study demonstrated that the addition of PMS resulted in a linear increase in serum K⁺, IgG, and interleukin (IL)-2 levels while simultaneously reducing serum IL-1β levels (p < 0.05). Dietary PMS significantly elevated serum IL-10 and Mg²⁺ levels in feces (p < 0.05). Furthermore, supplementation with 0.60% or 0.75% PMS significantly downregulated the mRNA expression of NLRP3 in the jejunum (p < 0.05). Dietary PMS supplementation linearly reduced the mRNA expression levels of cysteine protease 1 (Caspase-1) and IL-1β in both the jejunum and colon as well as the mRNA expression levels of two-pore domain channel subfamily K member 5 (KCNK5) in these regions (p < 0.05). Notably, supplementation with 0.15% PMS significantly decreased the mRNA expression of transient receptor potential channel 6 (TRPM6) in the jejunum and significantly increased the expression of TRPM6 in the colon (p < 0.05). Dietary addition of 0.45% and 0.60% PMS significantly increased the mRNA expression of aquaporin 3 (AQP3) in the colon (p < 0.05), whereas 0.75% PMS significantly increased the mRNA expression of aquaporin 8 (AQP8) in both the jejunum and colon. Moreover, the expression levels of AQP3 and AQP8 were significantly negatively correlated with the diarrhea rate observed between days 29 and 42. In conclusion, dietary PMS supplementation improved immune function, inhibited the activation of intestinal NLRP3, and modulated the expression of water and ion channels in weaned piglets, thereby contributing to the maintenance of intestinal water and ion homeostasis, which could potentially alleviate post-weaning diarrhea in piglets. The recommended supplemental level of PMS in the corn-soybean basal diet for weaned piglets is 0.30%. Full article

It is now widely recognized that maintaining magnesium (Mg) homeostasis is critical for health, especially in the context of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Patients with CKD commonly develop hyperphosphatemia and secondary hyperparathyroidism, which are controlled by therapies targeting intestinal phosphate absorption and circulating calcium levels or by modulating parathyroid calcium sensing. Notably, Mg supplementation may provide dual benefits by promoting bone formation and maintaining normal mineralization with slightly elevated serum levels. Importantly, low Mg levels are associated with mortality risk in CKD, highlighting the importance of maintaining adequate serum Mg levels in these patients. Particularly, kidney transplant (KT) patients have lower circulating Mg levels, likely due to interactions with immunosuppressive treatments. Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have shown survival benefits in CKD and increased serum Mg levels, suggesting that Mg regulation may contribute to these outcomes. Overall, Mg plays a key role in CKD-associated mineral and bone disorders (CKD-MBD). Thus, understanding the mechanisms underlying the alteration of Mg homeostasis in CKD could improve clinical outcomes. This review summarizes the basic and clinical studies demonstrating (1) the key actions of Mg in CKD-MBD, including secondary hyperparathyroidism and bone abnormalities; (2) the distinctive profile of KT patients for Mg homeostasis; and (3) the interaction between commonly used drugs, such as SGLT2 inhibitors or immunosuppressive treatments, and Mg metabolism, providing a broad understanding of both the key role of Mg in the context of CKD and the treatments that should be considered to manage Mg levels in CKD patients. Full article

Sustainable agriculture necessitates innovative solutions to enhance plant growth while optimizing resource efficiency. Plasma discharge generates reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (NH₄⁺, NO₃⁻, and NO₂⁻), which form plasma-activated water upon dissolution, affecting the nutritional solution pH and electrical conductivity (EC) and, consequently, plant development. Four treatments were applied, resulting from combining high or low plasma discharge intensities at 45 or 60 min spray intervals: low plasma discharge with a 45 min interval (T1), low plasma discharge with a 60 min interval (T2), high plasma discharge with a 45 min interval (T3), and high plasma discharge with a 60 min interval (T4). The experiment followed a 4 × 5 × 2 factorial design comprising the four treatments, five replications per treatment, and two independent experimental repeats, resulting in forty experimental units. Each unit contained 12 lettuce plants, for a total of 480 plants. The multivariate analysis of variance confirmed statistically significant treatment effects. The combination of high plasma intensity and a 45 min spray interval significantly increased the growth parameters and yield as compared with the other treatments. In particular, compared with T1, which produced the lowest values across all measured parameters, T3 resulted in a 97% increase in leaf area, a 72% increase in stem diameter, a 49% increase in leaf number, a 44% increase in leaf width, and a 30% increase in leaf length. Additionally, T3 increased edible yield by 210% and total biomass production by 203% compared with T1. These results demonstrate the combined effect of plasma intensity and spraying frequency in optimizing plant development in aeroponic systems. As far as mineral uptake is concerned, T3 increased the nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium concentrations by 18.2%, 16.7%, 32.3%, 20.2%, and 11.2%, respectively, compared with T1. The regression analysis further validated the robustness of the findings, indicating plasma intensity to be a dominant factor. Enhanced mineral uptake (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg) and consistent growth trends across treatments highlighted the significance of plasma technology in optimizing plant growth, yield, and nutrient absorption, suggesting it is a sustainable and efficient approach to modern agriculture. Full article

This study investigates the impact of dynamically adjusting the potassium-to-calcium ratio (molar ratio) in nutrient solutions used on cherry tomatoes at different growth stages (seedling, flowering and fruit setting, and maturity) to enhance fruit appearance, nutritional quality, and mineral content. By focusing on the ‘Saopolo’ variety, 17 treatments were implemented, each involving a specific potassium-to-calcium ratio in the nutrient solutions applied during the seedling, flowering and fruit setting, and fruiting stages. The aim was to optimize the nutrient solution formula and enhance fruit quality. Fruit quality parameters were assessed at the initial maturity stage across various treatments, encompassing commodity quality (fruit stalk length, fruit shape index, and fruit hardness), taste quality (total soluble sugar, titratable acid content, and sugar-acid ratio), nutritional quality (vitamin C (Vc), soluble protein, and lycopene content), antioxidant quality (total phenol and flavonoid content), as well as comprehensive quality (soluble solids content). Principal component analysis was conducted on these parameters. Additionally, mineral element levels in fruits were analyzed at different developmental stages (white ripe, color transition, and mature stages). When tomato plants were treated with nutrient solutions containing varying potassium-to-calcium ratios at different growth stages, observations revealed distinct outcomes in the first fruit cluster. T15 (seedling stage (A): 0.5 times standard nutrient solution; flowering and fruit-setting stage (B): potassium-to-calcium = 1.6:1; fruiting stage (C): potassium-to-calcium = 2.1:1) exhibited the highest fruit firmness (1.54 kg·cm⁻²), while T14 (A; B (K:Ca = 1.6:1); C (K:Ca = 2.0:1)) elevated levels of total soluble sugars (6.59%), titratable acidity (0.74%), soluble proteins (2.79 mg·g⁻¹), and total phenolics (2.56 mg·g⁻¹). T13 (A; B (K:Ca = 1.6:1); C (K:Ca = 1.9:1)) demonstrated superior soluble solids (5.9%), lycopene (32.09 µg·g⁻¹), and flavonoid contents (0.77 mg·g⁻¹), whereas T12 (A; B (K:Ca = 1.6:1); C (K:Ca = 1.8:1)) showcased the highest sugar–acid ratio (12.63) and soluble solids content (5.9%). Notably, T8 (A; B (K:Ca = 1.5: 1); C (K:Ca = 1.9:1)) exhibited the highest Vc content (10.03 mg·100 g⁻¹). Mineral element analysis indicated that an increased potassium-to-calcium ratio in the nutrient solution during various growth stages enhanced phosphorus and potassium uptake by the fruits but hindered the absorption of nitrogen, calcium, magnesium, and iron. In summary, employing half the standard nutrient solution dosage during the seedling stage, utilizing a potassium-to-calcium ratio of 1.6:1 in the nutrient solution at the flowering and fruit setting stage, and applying nutrient solution T13 with a potassium-to-calcium ratio of 1.9:1 during the fruit-bearing phase, optimally coordinates fruit nutrient accrual and enhances flavor quality. These findings support the use of stage-specific nutrient modulation to improve cherry tomato quality in controlled-environment agriculture. Full article

Potassium (K⁺) functions as a critical “regulator” and “quality element” in plants, with its physiological roles varying across developmental stages. To clarify the effects of different K⁺ amounts in nutrient solution on water and nutrient absorption characteristics and potassium utilization efficiency in substrate-grown tomato, a controlled experiment was conducted in a climate-regulated solar greenhouse using “Saint Ness” tomato as the plant material. Four K⁺ supply levels (1, 4, 8, and 16 mmol/L, designated as K1, K4, K8, and K16 treatment, respectively) were tested to systematically evaluate the responses of tomato plants at different growth stages in terms of water and nutrient absorption capacity, potassium physiological efficiency (KPE), and potassium utilization efficiency (KUE). The results showed that water absorption capacity did not differ significantly among treatments during the vegetative growth stage. However, during the reproductive stage, the K8 treatment exhibited the highest water absorption capacity (47.05 kg/plant) and water absorption efficiency (84.6%). In addition, K8 significantly promoted the coordinated uptake of K⁺, nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium, with a total potassium absorption capacity of 7.2 g/plant and a potassium absorption efficiency of 79.1%. In contrast, excessive K⁺ supply (16 mmol/L) increased total potassium absorption capacity (5.09 g/plant) but led to a marked decline in physiological efficiency (by 27.9%) and water absorption efficiency (by 10.3%) due to luxury consumption and substrate-induced salt stress. Insufficient K⁺ levels (1–4 mmol/L) also restricted root-mediated water and nutrient flux. The study further revealed a dose-dependent and stage-specific pattern in water and potassium absorption. Therefore, an appropriate K⁺ supply of 8 mmol/L not only improved the plant’s absorption capacity for water and nutrients and potassium utilization efficiency but also maintained ionic balance among essential nutrients. These findings provide a theoretical basis for precision water and fertilizer integration strategies in substrate-cultivated tomato production under greenhouse conditions. Full article