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28 pages, 9411 KiB  
Article
Localization and Expression of Aquaporin 1 (AQP1) in the Tissues of the Spiny Dogfish (Squalus acanthias)
by Christopher P. Cutler and Bryce MacIver
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(12), 5593; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26125593 - 11 Jun 2025
Viewed by 323
Abstract
Aquaporin 1 is a membrane water channel protein, which was studied here in spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias) osmoregulatory tissues using a variety of techniques. The cloning of aquaporin 1 (AQP1) in the spiny dogfish identified a splice variant version [...] Read more.
Aquaporin 1 is a membrane water channel protein, which was studied here in spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias) osmoregulatory tissues using a variety of techniques. The cloning of aquaporin 1 (AQP1) in the spiny dogfish identified a splice variant version of the mRNA/protein (AQP1SV1/AQP1SV1). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in a range of tissues showed AQP1 to be expressed at very high levels in the rectal gland with ubiquitous mRNA expression at lower levels in other tissues. Northern blotting showed that AQP1 had a mRNA size of 5.3 kb in kidney total RNA. The level of AQP1 mRNA was significantly lower in the rectal glands of fish acclimated to 120% seawater (SW; vs. 75% SW (p = 0.0007) and 100% SW (p = 0.0025)) but was significantly higher in those fish in the kidney (vs. 100% SW (p = 0.0178)) and intestine (vs. 75% SW (p= 0.0355) and 100% SW (p = 0.0285)). Quantitative PCR determined that AQP1SV1 mRNA levels were also significantly lower in the rectal glands of both 120% (p = 0.0134) and 100% SW (p = 0.0343) fish in comparison to 75% SW-acclimated dogfish. Functional expression in Xenopus oocytes showed that AQP1 exhibited significant apparent membrane water permeability (p = 0.000008–0.0158) across a range of pH values, whereas AQP1SV1 showed no similar permeability. Polyclonal antibodies produced against AQP1 (AQP1 and AQP1/2 antibodies) and AQP1SV1 had bands at the expected sizes of 28 kDa and 24 kDa, respectively, as well as some other banding. The weak AQP1 antibody and the stronger AQP1/2 antibody exhibited staining in the apical membranes of rectal gland secretory tubules, particularly towards the periphery of the gland. In the gill, the AQP1/2 antibody in particular showed staining in secondary-lamellar pavement-cell basal membranes, and in blood vessels and connective tissue in the gill arch. In the spiral valve intestine side wall and valve flap, the AQP1/2 antibody stained muscle tissue and blood vessel walls and, after tyramide signal amplification, showed some staining in the apical membranes of epithelial cells at the ends of the luminal surface of epithelial folds. In the rectum/colon, there was also some muscle and blood vessel staining, but the AQP1 and AQP1/2 antibodies both stained a layer of cells at the base of the surface epithelium. In the kidney convoluted bundle zone, all three antibodies stained bundle sheath membranes to variable extents, and the AQP1/2 antibody also showed staining in the straight bundle zone bundle sheath. In the kidney sinus zone, the AQP1/2 antibody stained the apical membranes of late distal tubule (LDT) nephron loop cells most strongly, with the strongest staining in the middle of the LDT loop and in patches towards the start of the LDT loop. There was also a somewhat less strong staining of segments of the first sinus zone nephron loop, particularly in the intermediate I (IS-I) tubule segment. Some tubules appeared to show no or only low levels of staining. The results suggest that AQP1 plays a role in rectal gland fluid secretion, kidney fluid reabsorption and gill pavement-cell volume regulation and probably a minor role in intestinal/rectal/colon fluid absorption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Aquaporins: 2nd Edition)
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31 pages, 16566 KiB  
Article
The Role of Fluid Chemistry in the Diagenetic Transformation of Detrital Clay Minerals: Experimental Insights from Modern Estuarine Sediments
by Anas Muhammad Salisu, Abdulwahab Muhammad Bello, Abduljamiu O. Amao and Khalid Al-Ramadan
Minerals 2025, 15(3), 317; https://doi.org/10.3390/min15030317 - 19 Mar 2025
Viewed by 697
Abstract
The diagenetic transformation of detrital clay minerals significantly influences sandstone reservoir quality, with fluid chemistry and temperature playing key roles in dictating transformation pathways during burial diagenesis. While these processes are well-documented in basinal settings, the diagenetic alterations of sediments in dynamic environments [...] Read more.
The diagenetic transformation of detrital clay minerals significantly influences sandstone reservoir quality, with fluid chemistry and temperature playing key roles in dictating transformation pathways during burial diagenesis. While these processes are well-documented in basinal settings, the diagenetic alterations of sediments in dynamic environments like estuaries remain underexplored. This study investigates the impact of fluid composition on the transformation of modern estuarine sediments through hydrothermal experiments using sediments from the Gironde estuary, SW France. A range of natural and synthetic solutions including seawater (SW), 0.1 M KCl (SF1), 0.1 M NaCl, KCl, CaCl2·2H2O, MgCl2·6H2O (SF2), estuarine water (EW), and 0.1 M Na2CO3 (SF3) were used under temperatures from 50 °C to 250 °C for 14 days, with a fixed fluid-to-sediment ratio of 10:1. The results revealed distinct mineralogical transformations driven by fluid composition. Dissolution of detrital feldspars and clay materials began at lower temperatures (<100 °C). The authigenic formation of smectite and its subsequent illitization in K-rich fluids (SW, SF1) occurred between 150 °C and 250 °C, replicating potassium-driven illitization processes observed in natural sandstones. Additionally, chlorite formation occurred through the conversion of smectite in SF2 and EW. Geochemical analysis showed that SF2 produced Mg-rich chlorites, while EW yielded Fe-rich chlorites. This aligns with diagenetic trends in coastal environments, where Fe-rich chlorites are typically associated with estuarine systems. The resulting authigenic illite and chlorite exhibited morphological and chemical characteristics similar to those found in natural sandstones, forming through dissolution-crystallization and solid-state transformation mechanisms. In contrast to illite and chlorite, SF3 produced entirely different mineral phases, including halite and analcime (zeolite), attributed to the high alkalinity and Na-rich composition of the solution. These findings provide valuable insights into the role of fluid chemistry in the diagenetic alteration of modern sediments and their implications for the evolution of sandstone reservoirs, which is critical for energy exploration and transition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clays and Engineered Mineral Materials)
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16 pages, 5587 KiB  
Article
Using Polymeric Carbon Nitride/ZrO2 Nanocomposite for Low Salinity Water Flooding in Carbonate Porous Media at Real Reservoir Conditions
by Yaser Ahmadi and Marjan Tanzifi
Polymers 2025, 17(5), 649; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17050649 - 28 Feb 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 783
Abstract
Nanoparticles and nanocomposites have been used in recent studies to improve oil reservoir recovery. With the introduction of a newly constructed smart water injection scenario, this work investigated the physicochemical characteristics of the polymeric carbon nitride/ZrO2 nanocomposite (ZrO2/g-C3N [...] Read more.
Nanoparticles and nanocomposites have been used in recent studies to improve oil reservoir recovery. With the introduction of a newly constructed smart water injection scenario, this work investigated the physicochemical characteristics of the polymeric carbon nitride/ZrO2 nanocomposite (ZrO2/g-C3N4), and the results were compared with pure ZrO2 nanoparticles as a known enhanced oil recovery agent. The effects of ZrO2/g-C3N4 and ZrO2 on the wettability change, zeta potential, and interfacial tension under reservoir conditions (78 °C and 3800 psi) were determined after characterization experiments, which included X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), a field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), energy-dispersive x-ray testing (EDX), and a Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis. Based on the highest zeta potential and the greatest reduction in the contact angle and interfacial tension, the optimum concentrations for ZrO2/g-C3N4 and ZrO2 were determined to be 30 and 40 ppm, respectively. Moreover, the ZrO2/g-C3N4 nanocomposite demonstrated better results in enhancing the oil recovery parameters, and it was selected for low salinity flooding scenarios with three different salinities, including MgCl2 + seawater (SW), CaCl2 + SW, and MgSO4 + SW, at 30 ppm of the nanocomposite. The best readings for the ZrO2/g-C3N4 nanocomposite in its interfacial tension, contact angle, and zeta potential show that 1000 ppm has the best interfacial tension reduction among the tested concentrations of 500–50,000 ppm. At 30 ppm, MgCl2 + SW had the maximum recovery (i.e., 49.36%), and this resulted from better interfacial tension reduction, contact angle reduction, and stability compared to other salinities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites and Nanocomposites)
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14 pages, 4762 KiB  
Article
Immunohistochemical Localization and Expression of Aquaporin 3-2 (AQP3C1) in the Spiny Dogfish, Squalus acanthias
by Christopher P. Cutler and Tolulope Ojo
Hydrobiology 2024, 3(4), 378-391; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrobiology3040024 - 4 Dec 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1131
Abstract
The previously available coding region for the spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias) AQP3-2 gene was amplified from cDNAs using PCR. Agarose gel electrophoresis gave a band of the AQP3-2 coding region, as well as multiple smaller splice variant bands. The main AQP3-2 [...] Read more.
The previously available coding region for the spiny dogfish (Squalus acanthias) AQP3-2 gene was amplified from cDNAs using PCR. Agarose gel electrophoresis gave a band of the AQP3-2 coding region, as well as multiple smaller splice variant bands. The main AQP3-2 band and the largest and most fluorescently intense pair of these splice variant bands were cloned and sequenced. Amplifications were performed on a range of tissue cDNAs, but AQP3-2 was only expressed in the kidney and brain. Quantitative PCR amplifications using pre-existing kidney cDNA from an environmental salinity acclimation experiment showed that the abundance of mRNA from both the main AQP3-2 transcript and the largest splice variant (Splice Variant 1) was lower in 120% seawater (SW) acclimated fish, although only the values for Splice Variant 1 were statistically significant. A custom-made affinity-purified rabbit polyclonal AQP3-2 antibody was produced, and this gave four bands of around the correct sizes (which were 27 and 32 kDa) for the complete AQP3-2 and Splice Variant 1 proteins. Two of the bands may have been N-glycosylated forms of these proteins. Other bands were also present on the Western blot. No bands were present when the antibody was pre-blocked by the peptide antigen. In tissue sections of the dogfish kidney, immunohistochemical localization experiments showed that AQP3-2 was expressed in the early distal tubule (EDT) and late distal tubule (LDT) nephron segments. The results suggest that AQP3-2 may be involved in cell volume regulation in the EDT and water and urea absorption in the LDT nephron segment. Full article
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26 pages, 18161 KiB  
Article
Novel Cement-Based Materials Using Seawater, Reused Construction Waste, and Alkali Agents
by Yang Bai, Yajun Wang, Tao Yang and Xiaoyang Chen
Buildings 2024, 14(11), 3696; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14113696 - 20 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1010
Abstract
This study aimed to develop marine alkali paste (MAP) produced using seawater (SW), recyclable particle material from paste specimens (RPPs), and alkali agents including NaOH (NH) and Na2O·3SiO2 (NS). The physicochemical properties and strength of the MAP were investigated with [...] Read more.
This study aimed to develop marine alkali paste (MAP) produced using seawater (SW), recyclable particle material from paste specimens (RPPs), and alkali agents including NaOH (NH) and Na2O·3SiO2 (NS). The physicochemical properties and strength of the MAP were investigated with uniaxial compression tests (UCTs), an Energy-Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermal-field emission scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The key information on the MAP preparation and experiments, including mix ratios, ages, curing, and sub-specimen locations, were recorded during the investigation. The results indicated that 8-day-old MAP prepared with NS reached a maximum compressive strength of 8.3 MPa, while 8-day-old NH-prepared specimens achieved up to 5.59 MPa. By 49 days, NS-prepared MAP had strengths between 5.46 MPa and 7.34 MPa, while the strength of NH-prepared MAP ranged from 3.59 MPa to 5.83 MPa. The key hydration products were Friedel’s salt (3CaO·Al2O3·CaCl2·10H2O, FS), xCaO·SiO2·nH2O (C-S-H), CaO·Al2O3·2SiO2·4H2O (C-A-S-H), and Na2O·Al2O3·zSiO2·2H2O (N-A-S-H). C-S-H was generated under the critical curing and working conditions in SW. C-A-S-H development contributed to C-S-H network compaction. N-A-S-H development helped in resistance to SO42− erosion, thereby cutting down ettringite (Ca6Al2(SO4)3(OH)12·26H2O) development. The active ion exchange between MAP and SW mainly involving SO42− and Cl led to the significant formation of FS at the interface of C-A-S-H and xCaO·Al2O3·nH2O (C-A-H). Therefore, FS generation inhibited SO42− and Cl corrosion in the MAP and rebounded the interface cracks of the hydration products. Consequently, FS contributed to the protection and development of C-S-H in the MAP, which ensured the suitability and applicability of the MAP in marine environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)
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35 pages, 18094 KiB  
Article
Multi-Phase Dolomitization in the Jurassic Paleo-Oil Reservoir Zone, Qiangtang Basin (SW China): Implications for Reservoir Development
by Ruilin Hao, Liyin Pan, Nana Mu, Xi Li, Xiaodong Fu, Shaoyun Xiong, Siqi Liu, Jianfeng Zheng, Min She and Axel Munnecke
Minerals 2024, 14(9), 908; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14090908 - 5 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1097
Abstract
The age and dolomitization processes in the Paleo-oil reservoir zone, which is composed of massive dolostones found in the Qiangtang Basin (SW China), are still debated. In this research, the Long’eni-Geluguanna Area was selected. Macroscopic information, thin sections, and geochemical methods were used [...] Read more.
The age and dolomitization processes in the Paleo-oil reservoir zone, which is composed of massive dolostones found in the Qiangtang Basin (SW China), are still debated. In this research, the Long’eni-Geluguanna Area was selected. Macroscopic information, thin sections, and geochemical methods were used to investigate the dolomitization characteristics and the processes that controlled dolomitization. Five types of replacive dolomites and two types of dolomite cement were observed. Some of the dolomites displayed ghosts of primary sedimentary structures. Saddle dolomites were prevalent, occurring in the interparticle and moldic pores of the limestone which should have been filled at an early diagenetic stage. Ten microfacies types were identified. The foraminifera assemblage provides evidence that the studied interval is of Early Jurassic age. The δ13C values are similar to the contemporaneous seawater signature. The REE+Y patterns of limestones and dolostones exhibit similarities to that of seawater. The mean Na and Sr values are comparable to those of other near-normal seawater dolomites. The δ18O values of all lithologies are markedly depleted. The dolomitization started penecontemporaneously, with deposition. A general sand shoal setting with patch reefs developed. The dolomitizing fluids, near-normal seawater, was probably formed by slight evaporation on top of the shoal. Saddle dolomites in the interparticle and moldic pores might indicate hydrothermal activity, which also caused the recrystallization of some pre-existing dolomites. The recrystallization might have slightly increased the crystal size, demolished the ghost structures, formed saddle dolomites, and altered the REE+Y patterns. The recrystallization extent diminished with increasing distance from the fluids-providing fracture. Furthermore, the existence of protected areas within the sand shoal settings could enhance the vertical and horizontal heterogeneity of dolostone reservoirs. Full article
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18 pages, 1810 KiB  
Article
Mixotrophic Cultivation of Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) under Salt Stress: Effect on Biomass Composition, FAME Profile and Phycocyanin Content
by Nicola Pio Russo, Marika Ballotta, Luca Usai, Serenella Torre, Maurizio Giordano, Giacomo Fais, Mattia Casula, Debora Dessì, Paola Nieri, Eya Damergi, Giovanni Antonio Lutzu and Alessandro Concas
Mar. Drugs 2024, 22(9), 381; https://doi.org/10.3390/md22090381 - 24 Aug 2024
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4895
Abstract
Arthrospira platensis holds promise for biotechnological applications due to its rapid growth and ability to produce valuable bioactive compounds like phycocyanin (PC). This study explores the impact of salinity and brewery wastewater (BWW) on the mixotrophic cultivation of A. platensis. Utilizing BWW [...] Read more.
Arthrospira platensis holds promise for biotechnological applications due to its rapid growth and ability to produce valuable bioactive compounds like phycocyanin (PC). This study explores the impact of salinity and brewery wastewater (BWW) on the mixotrophic cultivation of A. platensis. Utilizing BWW as an organic carbon source and seawater (SW) for salt stress, we aim to optimize PC production and biomass composition. Under mixotrophic conditions with 2% BWW and SW, A. platensis showed enhanced biomass productivity, reaching a maximum of 3.70 g L−1 and significant increases in PC concentration. This study also observed changes in biochemical composition, with elevated protein and carbohydrate levels under salt stress that mimics the use of seawater. Mixotrophic cultivation with BWW and SW also influenced the FAME profile, enhancing the content of C16:0 and C18:1 FAMES. The purity (EP of 1.15) and yield (100 mg g−1) of PC were notably higher in mixotrophic cultures, indicating the potential for commercial applications in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. This research underscores the benefits of integrating the use of saline water with waste valorization in microalgae cultivation, promoting sustainability and economic efficiency in biotechnological processes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Algal Cultivation for Obtaining High-Value Products)
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13 pages, 2460 KiB  
Article
Evaluating Seawater and Wood Distillate for Sustainable Hydroponic Cultivation: Implications for Crop Growth and Nutritional Quality
by Riccardo Fedeli, Stefano Loppi, Cristina Cruz and Silvana Munzi
Sustainability 2024, 16(16), 7186; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16167186 - 21 Aug 2024
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1831
Abstract
The adoption of innovative cultivation methods, such as hydroponics and aeroponics, is gaining attention due to the unprecedented demand for food that an increasing population is posing on agricultural systems, exacerbating the pressure on already limited arable land. Seeking sustainable and circular economy [...] Read more.
The adoption of innovative cultivation methods, such as hydroponics and aeroponics, is gaining attention due to the unprecedented demand for food that an increasing population is posing on agricultural systems, exacerbating the pressure on already limited arable land. Seeking sustainable and circular economy solutions is imperative, aiming to optimize water consumption and enhance crop yields and quality without resorting to synthetic chemical fertilizers. This study investigated the use of seawater at various concentrations as a base for nutrient solutions, with and without the addition of a natural biostimulant, wood distillate (WD). Four seawater (SW) concentrations (0, 3, 6, and 12%) and two wood distillate concentrations (0 and 0.2%) were applied to assess their impacts on lettuce growth. Findings reveal that seawater at low concentrations (< 6%) serves as an effective water-saving strategy, despite the reduction in the plant ascorbic acid contents. The addition of WD did not inflate growth; in fact, the results obtained are comparable to that of the controls for each concentration of seawater, except at the highest concentration (12% SW), resulting in reduced fresh leaf weights and root areas. Significantly, there was a notable increase in the ascorbic acid contents in all plants grown with WD. Moreover, the WD increased the leaf concentrations in Ca, Mg, P, and K, indicating the higher nutritional value of the crop. This research highlights the potential of combining seawater and WD for sustainable and efficient plant cultivation, suggesting new strategies for exploration across diverse plant species and hydroponic applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)
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31 pages, 9240 KiB  
Review
State of the Art on Fe Precipitation in Porous Media: Hydrogeochemical Processes and Evolving Parameters
by Wenran Cao, Guanxi Yan, Harald Hofmann and Alexander Scheuermann
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(4), 690; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12040690 - 22 Apr 2024
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2336
Abstract
The mixing of terrestrial groundwater and seawater creates dynamic reaction zones in intertidal areas, where land-derived Fe(II) is oxidized to Fe(III) and then precipitates as Fe hydroxides at the groundwater–seawater interface. These hydrogeochemical processes contribute to the formation of iron bands at the [...] Read more.
The mixing of terrestrial groundwater and seawater creates dynamic reaction zones in intertidal areas, where land-derived Fe(II) is oxidized to Fe(III) and then precipitates as Fe hydroxides at the groundwater–seawater interface. These hydrogeochemical processes contribute to the formation of iron bands at the saltwater wedge (SW) and beneath the upper saline plume (USP). This study provides a comprehensive review of physical and geochemical processes at field scale in coastal areas, explores the impact of mineral precipitation on pore structure at pore scale, and synthesizes reactive transport modeling (RTM) approaches for illustrating continuum-scale soil physio-chemical parameters during the evolution of porous media. Upon this review, knowledge gaps and research needs are identified. Additionally, challenges and opportunities are presented. Therefore, we reach the conclusion that the incorporation of observational data into a comprehensive physico-mathematical model becomes imperative for capturing the pore-scale processes in porous media and their influence on groundwater flow and solute transport at large scales. Additionally, a synergistic approach, integrating pore-scale modeling and non-invasive imaging, is equally essential for providing detailed insights into intricate fluid–pore–solid interactions for future studies, as well as facilitating the development of regional engineering-scale models and physio-chemical coupled models with diverse applications in marine science and engineering. Full article
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25 pages, 6333 KiB  
Article
Metallogeny and Genesis of Fault-Filling Barite-Sulfide Veins (Ougnat, Morocco): Petrography, Fluid Inclusion, and Sr-S Isotopic Constraints
by Samir Samaoui, Ayoub Aabi, Abdellah Boushaba, Belkasmi Mohammed, Abdellah Nait Bba, Abderrahim Essaifi, Lahssen Baidder and Othmane Lamrani
Geosciences 2024, 14(3), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences14030083 - 18 Mar 2024
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3077
Abstract
The Ougnat Massif of the eastern Anti-Atlas (Morocco) hosts barite and sulfide vein-type deposits of vital economic importance. With over 150 mineralized structures reported in the Ougnat Massif, the ore-bearing ones are predominantly composed of barite, quartz, calcite, and minor portions of sulfides. [...] Read more.
The Ougnat Massif of the eastern Anti-Atlas (Morocco) hosts barite and sulfide vein-type deposits of vital economic importance. With over 150 mineralized structures reported in the Ougnat Massif, the ore-bearing ones are predominantly composed of barite, quartz, calcite, and minor portions of sulfides. The mineralized veins are driven by NW-SE and NE-SW to E-W oblique-slip opening faults that cross both the Precambrian basement and its Paleozoic cover. The mineralized structures occur as lenses and sigmoidal veins that follow stepped tension fracture sets oblique to the fault planes. These geometries and kinematic indicators of these structures point to a predominantly normal-sinistral opening in a brittle-ductile tectonic setting. The S isotopic compositions of barite from the Ougnat Massif (+10.8 to +19.5‰) fall mostly within the range of δ34S values of Late Triassic to Jurassic seawater, thus suggesting that some of the SO2− in barite comes from seawater sulfate. This range of δ34S values also corresponds approximately to the hydrothermal barite context. The 87Sr/86Sr ratios of barite, which range from 0.710772 to 0.710816, lie between the radiogenic strontium isotopic compositions of deposition by hydrothermal solutions, and also coincide with the non-radiogenic isotopic signature of Triassic to Jurassic seawater. Based on a fluid inclusions study, the ore-forming fluids were a mixture of two or more fluids. A deep hot fluid with an average temperature of 368 °C leached the granodiorites and volcanic-sedimentary complex of the Ouarzazate Group. This fluid provided the hydrothermal system with most of the Ba, radiogenic Sr, and some of the dissolved S. A second, shallow fluid with an average temperature of 242 °C was derived from Late Triassic to Jurassic seawater. The barite mineralization of the Ougnat Massif constitutes a typical example of vein-type mineralization that occurred along the northern margin of the West African Craton and regionally tied to the central Atlantic opening. Full article
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21 pages, 24476 KiB  
Article
The Effect of the Emeishan Mantle Plume on the Genetic Mechanism of the Maokou Formation Reservoir in the Central Sichuan Region
by Qimin Guo, Xizhe Li, Zhenhua Guo, Lin Zhang, Mao Zhu, Mengfei Zhou, Yize Huang, Xiangyang Pei, Yunlong Wu, Wen Li, Mengnan Yan, Shan Du and Hongming Zhan
Minerals 2024, 14(2), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/min14020129 - 24 Jan 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1500
Abstract
Thin layers and high-yield dolomite reservoirs were recently discovered in the Permian Guadeloupian Maokou Formation. The genetic mechanism of this reservoir is controversial because of its complex sedimentation and diagenesis in the Maokou Formation. Traditionally, the genesis has focused on sedimentation, karst, and [...] Read more.
Thin layers and high-yield dolomite reservoirs were recently discovered in the Permian Guadeloupian Maokou Formation. The genetic mechanism of this reservoir is controversial because of its complex sedimentation and diagenesis in the Maokou Formation. Traditionally, the genesis has focused on sedimentation, karst, and fracture, whereas the influence of the Emeishan mantle plume activity (EMP) has been ignored. In this study, we enumerated petrographic (grouped into micritic bioclastic limestone, limy dolomite, grain dolomite, dolomite cement, calcite cement, and saddle dolomite) and geochemical data (δ13C, δ18O, REE, and 87Sr/86Sr) from a microscopic perspective to support the impact of EMP on reservoirs. We conclude that EMP activity altered the sedimentary environment and induced a complex diagenesis. The paleogeomorphic reconstruction data indicate that the EMP caused an uplift zone in the NE–SW direction, depositing advantageous high-energy beach facies. In terms of diagenesis, the abnormally high 87Sr/86Sr ratios and REE with positive Eu anomalies suggest that dolomitization was influenced by both seawater and hydrothermal fluids. Based on the above evidence, we established a reservoir genetic model for the Maokou Formation related to the intensity of the EMP. This study provides a new perspective on the mantle plume activity for the study of carbonate reservoir genesis. Full article
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14 pages, 1782 KiB  
Article
Long-Term Effects of Microfiltered Seawater and Resistance Training with Elastic Bands on Hepatic Parameters, Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Blood Pressure of Older Women: A 32-Week, Double-Blinded, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
by Carlos Babiloni-Lopez, Pedro Gargallo, Alvaro Juesas, Javier Gene-Morales, Angel Saez-Berlanga, Pablo Jiménez-Martínez, Jose Casaña, Josep C. Benitez-Martinez, Guillermo T. Sáez, Julio Fernández-Garrido, Carlos Alix-Fages and Juan C. Colado
Healthcare 2024, 12(2), 204; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12020204 - 15 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2534
Abstract
The bulk of research on microfiltered seawater (SW) is based on its short-term effects. However, the long-term physiological adaptations to combining SW and resistance training (RT) are unknown. This study aimed to analyse the impact of an RT program using elastic bands combined [...] Read more.
The bulk of research on microfiltered seawater (SW) is based on its short-term effects. However, the long-term physiological adaptations to combining SW and resistance training (RT) are unknown. This study aimed to analyse the impact of an RT program using elastic bands combined with SW intake on hepatic biomarkers, inflammation, oxidative stress, and blood pressure in post-menopausal women. Ninety-three women voluntarily participated (age: 70 ± 6.26 years; body mass index: 22.05 ± 3.20 kg/m2; Up-and-Go Test: 6.66 ± 1.01 s). RT consisted of six exercises (32 weeks, 2 days/week). Nonsignificant differences were reported for hepatic biomarkers except for a reduction in glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (GPT) in both RT groups (RT + SW: p = 0.003, ES = 0.51; RT + Placebo: p = 0.012, ES = 0.36). Concerning oxidative stress, vitamin D increased significantly in RT + SW (p = 0.008, ES = 0.25). Regarding inflammation, interleukin 6 significantly decreased (p = 0.003, ES = 0.69) in RT + SW. Finally, systolic blood pressure significantly decreased in both RT groups (RT + placebo: p < 0.001, ES = 0.79; RT + SW: p < 0.001, ES = 0.71) as did diastolic blood pressure in both SW groups (RT + SW: p = 0.002, ES = 0.51; CON + SW: p = 0.028, ES = 0.50). Therefore, RT + SW or SW alone are safe strategies in the long term with no influences on hepatic and oxidative stress biomarkers. Additionally, SW in combination with RT positively influences vitamin D levels, inflammation, and blood pressure in older women. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Fitness—Effects on Muscle Function and Sports Performance)
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14 pages, 2897 KiB  
Article
Tetrodotoxin/Saxitoxin Accumulation Profile in the Euryhaline Marine Pufferfish Chelonodontops patoca
by Hongchen Zhu, Takashi Sakai, Hiroyuki Doi, Kenichi Yamaguchi, Akinori Yamada, Tomohiro Takatani and Osamu Arakawa
Toxins 2024, 16(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins16010018 - 28 Dec 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2803
Abstract
Marine Takifugu pufferfish, which naturally possess tetrodotoxins (TTXs), selectively take up and accumulate TTXs, whereas freshwater Pao pufferfish, which naturally possess saxitoxins (STXs), selectively take up and accumulate STXs. To further clarify the TTXs/STXs selectivity in pufferfish, we conducted a TTX/STX administration experiment [...] Read more.
Marine Takifugu pufferfish, which naturally possess tetrodotoxins (TTXs), selectively take up and accumulate TTXs, whereas freshwater Pao pufferfish, which naturally possess saxitoxins (STXs), selectively take up and accumulate STXs. To further clarify the TTXs/STXs selectivity in pufferfish, we conducted a TTX/STX administration experiment using Chelonodontops patoca, a euryhaline marine pufferfish possessing both TTXs and STXs. Forty nontoxic cultured individuals of C. patoca were divided into a seawater group (SW, acclimated/reared at 33‰ salinity; n = 20) and a brackish water group (BW, acclimated/reared at 8‰ salinity; n = 20). An aqueous TTX/STX mixture was intrarectally administered (both at 7.5 nmol/fish), and five individuals/group were analyzed after 1–48 h. Instrumental toxin analyses revealed that both TTX and STX were taken up, transferred, and retained, but more STX than TTX was retained in both groups. TTX gradually decreased and eventually became almost undetectable in the intestinal tissue, while STX was retained at ~5–10% of the dose level, and only STX showed transient transfer in the liver. The BW group showed a faster decrease/disappearance of TTX, greater STX retention in the intestine, and greater STX transient transfer to the liver. Thus, C. patoca appears to more easily accumulate STXs than TTXs, especially under hypoosmotic conditions. Full article
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20 pages, 4281 KiB  
Article
Regulation of PGC-1α of the Mitochondrial Energy Metabolism Pathway in the Gills of Indian Medaka (Oryzias dancena) under Hypothermal Stress
by Naveen Ranasinghe, Wei-Zhu Chen, Yau-Chung Hu, Lahiru Gamage, Tsung-Han Lee and Chuan-Wen Ho
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(22), 16187; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms242216187 - 10 Nov 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1918
Abstract
Ectothermic fish exposure to hypothermal stress requires adjusting their metabolic molecular machinery, which was investigated using Indian medaka (Oryzias dancena; 10 weeks old, 2.5 ± 0.5 cm) cultured in fresh water (FW) and seawater (SW; 35‰) at room temperature (28 ± [...] Read more.
Ectothermic fish exposure to hypothermal stress requires adjusting their metabolic molecular machinery, which was investigated using Indian medaka (Oryzias dancena; 10 weeks old, 2.5 ± 0.5 cm) cultured in fresh water (FW) and seawater (SW; 35‰) at room temperature (28 ± 1 °C). The fish were fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, and the photoperiod was 12 h:12 h light: dark. In this study, we applied two hypothermal treatments to reveal the mechanisms of energy metabolism via pgc-1α regulation in the gills of Indian medaka; cold-stress (18 °C) and cold-tolerance (extreme cold; 15 °C). The branchial ATP content was significantly higher in the cold-stress group, but not in the cold-tolerance group. In FW- and SW-acclimated medaka, the expression of genes related to mitochondrial energy metabolism, including pgc-1α, prc, Nrf2, tfam, and nd5, was analyzed to illustrate differential responses of mitochondrial energy metabolism to cold-stress and cold-tolerance environments. When exposed to cold-stress, the relative mRNA expression of pgc-1α, prc, and Nrf2 increased from 2 h, whereas that of tfam and nd5 increased significantly from 168 h. When exposed to a cold-tolerant environment, prc was significantly upregulated at 2 h post-cooling in the FW and SW groups, and pgc-1α was significantly upregulated at 2 and 12 h post-cooling in the FW group, while tfam and nd5 were downregulated in both FW and SW fish. Hierarchical clustering revealed gene interactions in the cold-stress group, which promoted diverse mitochondrial energy adaptations, causing an increase in ATP production. However, the cold-tolerant group demonstrated limitations in enhancing ATP levels through mitochondrial regulation via the PGC-1α energy metabolism pathway. These findings suggest that ectothermic fish may develop varying degrees of thermal tolerance over time in response to climate change. This study provides insights into the complex ways in which fish adjust their metabolism when exposed to cold stress, contributing to our knowledge of how they adapt. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Biology)
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11 pages, 1428 KiB  
Article
Advancements in Portable Voltammetry: A Promising Approach for Iron Speciation Analysis
by Paolo Inaudi, Ornella Abollino, Monica Argenziano, Mery Malandrino, Caterina Guiot, Stefano Bertinetti, Laura Favilli and Agnese Giacomino
Molecules 2023, 28(21), 7404; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28217404 - 3 Nov 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1819
Abstract
Iron, a crucial element in our environment, plays a vital role in numerous natural processes. Understanding the presence and concentration of iron in the environment is very important as it impacts various aspects of our planet’s health. The on-site detection and speciation of [...] Read more.
Iron, a crucial element in our environment, plays a vital role in numerous natural processes. Understanding the presence and concentration of iron in the environment is very important as it impacts various aspects of our planet’s health. The on-site detection and speciation of iron are significant for several reasons. In this context, the present work aims to evaluate the applicability of voltammetry for the on-site determination of iron and its possible speciation using a portable voltammetric analyzer. Voltammetry offers the advantage of convenience and cost-effectiveness. For iron (III) determination, the modification of a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) with an antimony-bismuth film (SbBiFE) using the acetate buffer (pH = 4) as a supporting electrolyte was used. The technique adopted was Square Wave Adsoptive Cathodic Stripping Voltammetry (SW-AdCSV), and we used 1-(2-piridylazo)-2-naphthol (PAN) as the iron (III) ligand. Linearity, repeatability, detection limit, and accuracy were determined using synthetic solutions; then, a Standard Reference Material (SRM) of 1643f Trace Elements in Water (iron content: 93.44 ± 0.78 µg L−1) was used for validation measurements in the real matrix. the accuracy of this technique was found to be excellent since we obtained a recovery of 103.16%. The procedure was finally applied to real samples (tap, lake, and seawater), and the results obtained were compared via Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The amount of iron found was 207.8 ± 6.6 µg L−1 for tap water using voltammetry and 200.9 ± 1.5 µg L−1 with ICP-OES. For lake water, 171.7 ± 3.8 µg L−1, 169.8 ± 4.1 µg L−1, and 187.5 ± 5.7 µg L−1 were found using voltammetry in the lab both on-site and using ICP-OES, respectively. The results obtained demonstrate the excellent applicability of the proposed on-site voltammetric procedure for the determination of iron and its speciation in water. Full article
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