Cobalt Deficiency Research Articles

Micronutrient homeostasis disturbances in women with gestational diabetes mellitus and subclinical hypothyroidism: effects on pregnancy and outcomes

Aim. To characterize micronutrient homeostasis in women with a combination of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH), and to determine the significance of micronutrient imbalance in complicated pregnancies.Material and Methods. The study analyzed 439 birth histories of patients with GDM and SCH, who underwent plasma micronutrient analysis at 12−13 weeks of gestation. The study examined the patients' anthropometric and medical history data, complications during the current pregnancy, the timing and method of delivery, and newborn conditions. Some of these indicators were compared with previously obtained plasma micronutrient levels (Al, Co, Cu, Fe and others) measured at 12−13 weeks of gestation.Results. The analysis of micronutrient concentrations in plasma at 12−13 weeks of gestation revealed iron deficiency in 250 patients (57%), iodine deficiency in 231 patients (52.6%), cobalt deficiency in 229 patients (52.2%), vitamin B12 deficiency in 285 patients (64.9%), and vitamin D deficiency in 280 patients (63.6%). Iron deficiency was significantly more common in pregnant women with overweight and obesity than in those with normal body weight (χ2 =.14 and 5.32, respectively). The risk of developing iron deficiency also increased with higher body weight (1.81-fold for overweight (95% CI 1.2–2.73) and 2.07-fold for obesity (95% CI 1.11–3.86). Around 50% of patients with threatened preterm birth had cobalt deficiency and 59% of patients with anemia had iron deficiency. Selenium, calcium, and vitamin B12 deficiencies were observed in 55%, 70%, and 73% of patients with preeclampsia (PE), respectively.Conclusion. The observed deficiency of certain micronutrients in specific pregnancy complications suggests that correcting micronutrient levels during pre-conception or early gestation may improve pregnancy outcomes.

The Role of Cobalt in Human Health: A Brief Overview

Cobalt is a crucial trace element for the human body. It serves as an essentialcomponent of vitamin B12 and plays a pivotal role in the synthesis of amino acids andselect proteins within nerve cells, as well as in the synthesis of neurotransmitters vitalfor the proper functioning of the body. Both excess and deficiency of cobalt can havedetrimental effects on the human body. Notwithstanding the paramount significanceof cobalt as a trace element, comprehensive studies are necessary to evaluate its rolein physiological processes.
 Keywords: cobalt, human health, trace element, vitamin B12, physiological processes

Alcohol dehydrogenase system acts as the sole pathway for methanol oxidation in Desulfofundulus kuznetsovii strain TPOSR

Desulfofundulus kuznetsovii is a thermophilic, spore-forming sulphate-reducing bacterium in the family Peptococcaceae. In this study, we describe a newly isolated strain of D. kuznetsovii, strain TPOSR, and compare its metabolism to the type strain D. kuznetsovii 17T. Both strains grow on a large variety of alcohols, such as methanol, ethanol and propane-diols, coupled to the reduction of sulphate. Strain 17T metabolizes methanol via two routes, one involving a cobalt-dependent methyl transferase and the other using a cobalt-independent alcohol dehydrogenase. However, strain TPOSR, which shares 97% average nucleotide identity with D. kuznetsovii strain 17T, lacks several genes from the methyl transferase operon found in strain 17T. The gene encoding the catalytically active methyl transferase subunit B is missing, indicating that strain TPOSR utilizes the alcohol dehydrogenase pathway exclusively. Both strains grew with methanol during cobalt starvation, but growth was impaired. Strain 17T was more sensitive to cobalt deficiency, due to the repression of its methyl transferase system. Our findings shed light on the metabolic diversity of D. kuznetsovii and their metabolic differences of encoding one or two routes for the conversion of methanol.

Effects of dietary minerals deficiency and supplementation on different parts of muscle minerals content in grazing Mongolian sheep.

The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of dietary deficiency and supplementation of calcium, zinc, copper, cobalt, manganese or selenium on minerals content in the longissimus dorsi (LD), biceps femoris (BF) and triceps brachii (TB) of grazing Mongolian sheep. We randomly divided 98 sheep into 7 treatment groups and fed them specific diets for 60 days: a total mineral nutrition diet (LCG), a calcium deficiency diet (LCa), a zinc deficiency diet (LZn), a copper deficiency diet (LCu), a cobalt deficiency diet (LCo), a manganese deficiency diet (LMn) and a selenium deficiency diet (LSe). Then 7 sheep from each group were slaughtered and samples of LD, BF and TB were collected for mineral content analysis. The remaining sheep in each group were subsequently fed specific diets for an additional 41 days: a total mineral nutrition diet (SCG), a calcium supplementation diet (SCa), a zinc supplementation diet (SZn), a copper supplementation diet (SCu), a cobalt supplementation diet (SCo), a manganese supplementation diet (SMn) and a selenium supplementation diet (SSe). Afterward, all sheep were slaughtered, and muscle samples were collected and analyzed. Significant findings emerged that LCa decreased sulfur (S) content in BF and increased Ca content in LD and BF, while SCa increased S and Ca content in BF and TB, respectively (P < 0.05). LZn decreased Zn, S, and potassium (K) content in LD and BF, while SZn increased Zn and S content in LD and BF, respectively (P < 0.05). LCu decreased Cu and iron (Fe) content in LD and TB, while SCu increased Fe content in TB (P < 0.05). LCo decreased phosphorus, S, K, Ca, Mn, Fe, Cu, and Zn content in LD (P < 0.05). LMn decreased Mn content and increased K content in TB, while SMn decreased K content in BF and TB (P < 0.05). LSe and SSe decreased and increased Se content in LD, BF, and TB, respectively (P < 0.05). Dietary mineral levels have varying effects on lamb meat minerals content. It is important to ensure an adequate intake of minerals in the diet to enhance the mineral nutrition of lamb meat.

Low-Voltage Hydrogen Production via Hydrogen Peroxide Oxidation Facilitated by Oxo Ligand Axially Coordinated to Cobalt in Phthalocyanine Moiety

The global energy sector is shifting from fossil-based systems of energy production and consumption to renewable-based ones like wind and solar energy. Hydrogen has emerged as one of the energy carriers for the renewable-based economy, storing electrical energy generated from the renewables and being used as a fuel to generate power. Water electrolysis, powered by renewable energies, is one of the most feasible green hydrogen production technologies. At least 1.23 V and typically > 2 V is required between hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions (HER and OER) for splitting water. OER is notorious for its slow kinetics so that the OER determines hydrogen production rate. Therefore, it has been emphasized to develop high-performance and low-cost OER electrocatalysts for reducing overpotentials required for electrolyzing water. Even if up-to-date upgraded electrocatalysts have decreased the kinetic overpotentials, it is clearly evident that it is impossible to split water molecules at the cell voltage less than 1.23 V. To decrease the potential required for water electrolysis, water oxidation reaction to drive OER was suggested to be replaced by oxidation of organic molecules or nitrogen hydrides such as formic acid and hydrazine. However, even if the more negative E o of the organic molecules allowed the open-circuit potential difference between cathodic and anodic processes to be reduced, it sounds self-contradictory to employ carbon-based organic molecules and therefore produce carbon dioxide for producing green hydrogen.Suggesting hydrogen peroxide as an electrolysis medium for hydrogen production and therefore as a hydrogen carrier, in this work, we present a cobalt phthalocyanine having electron-poor CoN4 (+δ) in its phthalocyanine moiety as an electrocatalyst for hydrogen peroxide oxidation reaction (HPOR), demonstrating that the electrocatalyst guaranteed high hydrogen production rate by hydrogen peroxide splitting. The electron deficiency of cobalt allowed CoN4 to have the highly HPOR-active monovalent oxidation state and facilitate HPOR at small overpotentials range around the onset potential. The strong interaction between the electron-deficient cobalt and oxygen of peroxide adsorbates in Co-OOH- encouraged an axially coordinated cobalt oxo complex (O=CoN4) to form, the O=CoN4 facilitating the HPOR efficiently at high overpotentials. Low-voltage oxygen evolution reaction (OER) guaranteeing low-voltage hydrogen production was successfully demonstrated in the presence of the metal-oxo complex having electron-deficient CoN4. Hydrogen production by 391 mA cm-2 at 1 V and 870 mA cm-2 at 1.5 V was obtained.Also, we evaluated the techno-economic benefit of hydrogen peroxide as a hydrogen carrier by comparing hydrogen peroxide with other hydrogen carriers. Here, even though water (H2O) can be considered as a carrier, about 61 kWh/kg of energy is required for converting transported H2O to H2 again. Thus, in this case, if renewable energy can be supplied from the demand site, H2 can be produced directly on-site from the demand site without having to transport the H2 produced from another renewable energy complex. If renewable power cannot be supplied from the demand site, all the required energy for water electrolysis should be supplied with existing fossil fuel-based energy, it is like losing the eco-friendly significance of H2 energy, and considering energy consumption, using other carriers will be more economical and environmental. In this situation, H2O2 can act as a hydrogen carrier as a hydrogen/oxygen simultaneous receptor. When generated hydrogen is stored and transported, high cost arises. To lower the cost, many countries are paying attention to LOHC (=liquid organic hydrogen carrier) and ammonia which are materials to storage hydrogen energy. For LOHC, methylcyclohexane 6.1 wt.% and 47 kg H2/m3, dibenzyltoluene 6.2 wt.% and 57 kg H2/m3, ethylcarbazole 5.8 wt. % and 57 kg H2/m3, with a hydrogen storage capacity of 47 - 57 kg H2/m3. For ammonia, it has a hydrogen storage capacity of 17.6 wt. %, and 108 kg H2/m3. In the case of H2O2, it has 5.9 wt.% and 85.3 kg H2/m3, which belongs to the high hydrogen storage capacity compared to other hydrogen storage materials. To evaluate the economic analysis, we conducted to identify that H2O2 can be utilized for green H2 supply by comparing diverse hydrogen storage and transportation pathways. Furthermore, the scenario analysis was performed for CGH2, LH2, NH3, toluene-based LOHC, and H2O2. Figure 1

Liver biopsy procedure and indications

Liver biopsy sampling and subsequent analysis for mineral content can be a valuable diagnostic tool for micronutrient associated illness in cattle. Although there may be some ap­prehension when using the blind technique, the procedure has little risk of adverse consequences. Utilizing proper biopsy site preparation and appropriate landmarks reduces risk of compli­cations while optimizing the probability of obtaining a sample large enough for micronutrient evaluation. Liver samples are appropriate for evaluating toxicity associated with cobalt, cop­per, manganese, selenium and zinc and deficiency associated with copper, manganese, selenium and zinc.

Low-Voltage Hydrogen Production via Hydrogen Peroxide Oxidation Facilitated by Oxo Ligand Axially Coordinated to Cobalt in Phthalocyanine Moiety.

A cobalt phthalocyanine having an electron-poor CoN4 (+δ) in its phthalocyanine moietywas presented as an electrocatalyst for hydrogen peroxide oxidation reaction (HPOR). Wesuggested that hydrogen peroxide as an electrolysis medium for hydrogen production and therefore as a hydrogen carrier, demonstrating that the electrocatalyst guaranteed high hydrogen production rate by hydrogen peroxide splitting. The electron deficiency of cobalt allows CoN4 to have the highly HPOR-active monovalent oxidation state and facilitates HPOR at small overpotentials range around the onset potential. The strong interaction between the electron-deficient cobalt and oxygen of peroxide adsorbates in Co─OOH- encourages an axially coordinated cobalt oxo complex (O═CoN4 ) to form, the O═CoN4 facilitating the HPOR efficiently at high overpotentials. Low-voltage oxygen evolution reaction guaranteeing low-voltage hydrogen production is successfully demonstrated in the presence of the metal-oxo complex having electron-deficient CoN4 . Hydrogen production by 391mA cm-2 at 1V and 870mA cm-2 at 1.5V is obtained. Also, the techno-economic benefit of hydrogen peroxide as a hydrogen carrier is evaluated by comparing hydrogen peroxide with other hydrogen carriers such as ammonia and liquid organic hydrogen carriers.

Interplay between copper and cobalt in hematopoiesis and the impact of their deficiency on anemia development

Hematopoiesis is a complex process that requires a specific set of blood components to function properly. Blood diseases can result from imbalances or deficiencies in these components. The body has physiological sensors that respond to environmental changes by maintaining elemental homeostasis. A deficiency in one micronutrient can lead to imbalances in others. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role and interaction of copper, cobalt, and iron in hematopoiesis and to determine the prevalence of anemia in children living in the Aral Sea region.A total of 1120 children and adolescents were examined, and their physical development was measured using anthropometric measurements and laboratory tests. Hair samples were analyzed to determine the children's micronutrient status. The results revealed that 78% of the children had a decrease in hemoglobin, and anemia was more prevalent in adolescents. A correlation was found between high growth and increased levels of erythrocytes and hemoglobin. The study also identified the most common hypomicroelementoses in the Aral Sea region, including copper deficiency in 98.4% of cases, cobalt deficiency in 92.1%, and zinc deficiency in 57.8%.The study also analyzed the ratio of trace elements, revealing an increased Fe/Cu and Fe/Cu ratio in all age groups. Imbalances and deficiencies in copper, cobalt, zinc, and manganese were found to contribute to the development of anemia in children. Hair analysis for trace elements was shown to be significant in the differential diagnosis and treatment of children with anemia.In conclusion, the study highlights the importance of maintaining a proper balance of trace elements in hematopoiesis. Deficiencies in copper, cobalt, zinc, and manganese can contribute to anemia in children, and hair analysis can be used to diagnose and treat the condition. Further research is needed to better understand the role of trace elements in hematopoiesis and their impact on human health.

Status of Vitamin B12, Zinc, Copper, Selenium, Manganese, Molybdenum and Cobalt in Severe Acute Malnutrition.

To define the vitamin B12 levels and other micronutrients status in severe acute malnutrition (SAM) children. This was a prospective hospital based cross-sectional study. Children with severe acute malnutrition as per WHO criteria. (i) Pernicious anemia (ii) Autoimmune gastritis (iii) SAM children on exclusive vitamin B12 supplementation. All enrolled children underwent a detailed clinical history, general physical examination with more emphasis on clinical features of vitamin B12 and other micronutrients deficiencies. Three ml of venous blood was collected to estimate vitamin B12 and other micronutrients. Primary outcome was percentage of deficiency of serum vitamin B12, zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, molybdenum and cobalt in SAM children. Fifty children were included in the study. The mean age of children was 15.60±12.90 mo with male to female ratio 0.85:1. The common clinical presentation in order of frequency were upper respiratory infection (URI) symptoms 35 (70%), hepatomegaly 24 (48%), Hyperpigmentation17 (34%), angular cheilitis 14 (28%), tremors 11 (22%), edema 07 (14%), and hypotonia 05 (10%). Anemia was found in 44 (88%) children. Prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency was 34%. Other micronutrient deficiencies observed were cobalt 24 (100%), copper 05 (12%), zinc 04 (9.5%), and molybdenum 03 (12.5%). No statistical significance was found between clinical symptoms and levels of vitamin B12 with different age and sex. Prevalence of low vitamin B12 and cobalt were more common than other micronutrients.

INFLUENCE OF MINERAL-VITAMIN PREMIX ON INDIVIDUAL LINKS OF METABOLISM AND PRODUCTIVITY OF COWS

The recipe of mineral-vitamin premix, made on the basis of salts of mineral elements (Cuprum, Zinc, Cobalt, Iodine and Selenium) and fat-soluble vitamins (A and D), which are deficient in the Pre-Carpathian zone, has been developed and its influence on individual metabolic links and productivity of dairy cows has been investigated. The experiment was conducted on two groups of highly productive cows of Simental breed, analogues in origin and productivity in the summer-pasture period of keeping. The main diet for animals of both groups consisted of pasture grass, mowed mass of cereal-bean mixtures of green conveyor, hay cereal-mixed grass, molasses and standard feed K 60-32-89 with premix P 60-5M. The experimental group received a similar amount of this feed, but with an experimental mineral-vitamin premix. It was found that in the herbal-concentrate type of diet in the control group, the deficiency of Cuprum, Zinc, Cobalt, Iodine and Selenium was 16.6, respectively; 13,2; 6,9; 26,2; 51.8%, and the deficiency of vitamins A and D - 60.0 and 16.3%. Introduction of mineral-vitamin premix into the compound feed, which contained salts of the specified elements deficient for the Pre-Carpathians, made it possible to better balance the rations according to the mineral part, which significantly influenced both the intensity of metabolic processes in the rumen and blood, and the milk productivity of cows and the quality of milk. In particular, the positive effect of its feeding on the level of fermentation, the activity of enzyme systems and the intensity of synthetic processes in the rumen of cows of the experimental group was noted. The study of the hematological picture showed a tendency to increase the level of red blood cells and hemoglobin in the blood of cows of the experimental group, an increase in the concentration of nitrogen fractions and urea (P &lt; 0.01). Analyzing the results of research, it can be argued that ensuring the optimal level of mineral-vitamin nutrition led to an increase in the intensity of metabolic processes in the body of animals and therefore contributed to an increase in dairy productivity.&#x0D; The average daily yield of natural milk in the experimental group for 90 days of the accounting period was 21.6 kg and was 10.8% higher than in the control (19.5 kg). The chemical composition of milk of cows that received a mineral-vitamin premix as part of the feed was preferable. It showed a probable increase in the content of dry matter, total protein (P &lt; 0.05) and calcium (P &lt; 0.02).

ВЛИЯНИЕ АЛИМЕНТАРНОГО ФАКТОРА НА ГЕМАТОЛОГИЧЕСКИЙ ПРОФИЛЬ У МОЛОЧНЫХ КОРОВ

The article shows the findings of the research of the effect of the dietary factor on the hematological parameters of Holstein cows. We carried out the analysis of winter dairy food, general and biochemical blood test. The food analysis showed an excess of dry matter and a lack of raw and digestible protein, crude fiber, crude fat, a lack of macronutrients Ca and P, carotene. The relationship between the food quality of and the biochemical composition, as well as the complete blood count of cows, was established. The research revealed that deviations in the diet of dairy cows affect their hematological parameters. Thus, in the blood serum of experimental animals, there was a pronounced deficiency of glucose, iron, manganese, calcium, zinc, copper, nickel and cobalt. All these deviations from the physiological norm are directly dependent on the chemical composition of the food. The insufficiency of these elements is responsible for the development of osteodystrophy, disruptions in sex hormone production (due to a manganese deficiency), and, as a result, an extension of the open period due to repeat breeding. These deficiencies lead to disturbances in the body's metabolic processes in animals, consequently affecting their fertility. Hematological parameters indicate a decrease in segmented neutrophils, along with elevated levels of leukocytes and monocytes. Other parameters (platelets and white blood cell (stab cells, basophils, lymphocytes, erythrocyte sedimentation rate) were found to comply with physiological standard.

Concentrações de microminerais (cobre, cobalto, ferro, molibdênio e zinco) no fígado de vacas leiteiras da Região de Campos Gerais, Paraná, Brasil

ABSTRACT: This study collected samples from 50 Holstein cows, most intensively bred, and from the Campos Gerais region, Paraná, with an average milk production of 30.21L/day. Samples of the liver, spleen and lymph nodes were collected to determine the levels of copper, cobalt, iron, molybdenum and zinc. Spleen and lymph nodes were subjected to histological analysis and evaluation of the degree of hemosiderosis. The average concentrations of copper (495.05ppm), molybdenum (4.19ppm), and zinc (274.49ppm) were higher than those established for the bovines. For cobalt 26% of the animals presented levels below the established level, which characterized cobalt deficiency. Only iron (299.12ppm) exhibited an adequate average level. Histopathologically hemosiderosis was observed mainly in the spleen (78%) and less frequently in the lymph nodes (20%). The observation of hemosiderin in the spleen and lymph nodes is not related to copper deficiency. Still it may be related to high levels of molybdenum, zinc, iron, or other undetermined causes.

Green and sustainable route for the efficient leaching and recovery of valuable metals from spent Ni−Cd batteries

Recycling of Ni, Cd and Co from spent Ni−Cd batteries is significant for preventing nickel and cobalt deficiency and protecting the environment. Although several studies have developed methods for recycling these metals from spent Ni−Cd batteries, the simultaneous leaching (extraction) and recovery of Ni, Cd and Co via an environmentally benign and economical manner is still challenging. Herein, a formic acid-assisted method for leaching and recovering valuable metals from the cathode and anode materials of spent Ni−Cd batteries is proposed. The effects of temperature, time, and liquid/solid ratio on Ni, Cd, and Co leaching were also extensively investigated. The single factor experimental results and statistical analysis revealed that more than 95 % leaching efficiencies of Cd and Co could be achieved from the cathode and anode materials at 80 °C and 2.5 h, while a maximum of 81 % Ni leaching was attained in formic acid at 90 °C, 4 h and a 30 mL/g liquid/solid ratio. Moreover, the statistical analysis results revealed that the temperature and time had significant effect (ρ < 0.0001) on Ni and Cd leaching. It was difficult to leach metallic Ni present in the cathode material because of its high inertness property; however, a conversion of 99.70 % Ni was achieved at 60 °C for 2 h when H2O2 (15 %, v/v) was used as an oxidizing agent. The findings of this study suggest that the formic acid-assisted recycling process could be a sustainable alternative for the efficient leaching and recovery of valuable metals from spent Ni−Cd batteries because it features a reduced highly corrosive acid consumption, mild leaching conditions, and less environmental footprints.

Microelement provision of cows of the western region of Ukraine

The article presents the results of research on the content of trace elements: Cobalt, Zinc, Copper and Manganese in the soils, fodder and blood of cows of the black and spotted Ukrainian breed in farms from the mountain, foothill and plain zones of the Western region of Ukraine. The western biogeochemical zone of Ukraine includes Zakarpattia, Lviv, Chernivtsi, Ternopil, Volyn and Rivne regions.&#x0D; It was established (mg per 1 kg of soil) that the amount of Cobalt was 0.5 mg/kg; Cuprum – 7.2; Zinc – 3.1; Manganese – 6.5; in the foothills – Cobalt – 0.6; Cuprum – 4.5; Zinc – 1.8; Manganese – 32; in the plain – Cobalt – 0.55; Cuprum – 5.0; Zinc – 1.5; Manganese – 39. During the analysis of the rations, it was established that the provision of other mineral substances did not meet the physiological needs. Thus, in the diets of cows from mountain, foothill and plain regions, an excess of Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium and Ferrum and a deficiency of Phosphorus, Sulfur, Zinc, Cobalt, Iodine and Copper were observed.&#x0D; Clinical studies of cows indicate the prevalence of trace element diseases in them. Anemia of visible mucous membranes and non-pigmented areas of the skin was recorded in cows, the number of erythrocytes in animals of the mountain zone was 5.7±0.29 T/l, in the foothills – 5.8±0.29, and in the plains – 6.2±0.30 T / l. The hemoglobin content in the blood of cows in the mountain zone was at the level of 97.0±5.40 g/l, in the foothills – 94.0±5.30, and in the plain zone – 98.0±3.70 g/l. Physiological values of the number of erythrocytes in the blood of cows range from 5.0–7.5 T/l, and the hemoglobin content – 95–125 g/l.

Elemental and Phytochemical Variation among Healthy and Cracked Fruit of Punica granatum L. From Selected Areas of Kachchh Region, India

Punica granatum L. also called Pomegranate is an commercially important fruit plant belonging to Punicaceae family. Cultivation for pomegranate in Kachchh district is increasing drastically but cracking of pomegranate is one of the serious problem that badly affects the production and quality of pomegranate and also economic loss to farmers. For this purpose, the study was conducted to identify elemental and phytochemicals variation in leaves among healthy and cracked fruit. Identification of elements in leaves was carried using scanning electron microscope (SEM) energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) technique while acetone extracts were used for phytochemical variation using Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The result of the SEM-EDX analysis revealed that in cracked fruit deficiency of calcium, magnesium, cobalt, and tin and excess amount of chloride and potassium was found when compared with healthy fruit while lupeol acetate and sclareol phytochemical were observed in healthy fruit while cracked fruit showed its absence.

Микроэлементы - источник повышения продуктивности овец

Several biogeochemical provinces with deficiency or excess of copper and cobalt have been established on the territory of Azerbaijan. The use of microelements in the feeding of farm animals, especially sheep, is one of the little-studied issues in Azerbaijan. In particular, the influence of copper and cobalt on some physiological functions and economic indicators in sheep has not been studied at all.

Cobalt deficiency

This datasheet on cobalt deficiency covers Identity, Hosts/Species Affected, Diagnosis.

A Case of Concurrent Molybdenosis, Secondary Copper, Cobalt and Selenium Deficiency in a Small Sheep Herd in Northern Germany.

Simple SummaryMineral deficiencies are very widespread among small ruminant herds throughout the world and play a big role in small ruminant herd health management. This paper describes the occurrence of a primary molybdenosis causing secondary copper deficiency, combined with ovine white liver disease (cobalt deficiency) and white muscle disease (selenium deficiency) in a group of pastured ram lambs in Northern Germany. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first proven report of multiple trace element deficiencies in sheep in Germany for decades.To the author’s knowledge this paper describes the first proven report of a combined primary molybdenosis, secondary copper (Cu) deficiency, Ovine White Liver Disease—Cobalt (Co) deficiency, and selenium (Se) deficiency in a small pedigree herd of White Horned Heath sheep in Germany (8 ewes, 2 rams, 3 yearling ewes, 17 lambs) for decades. Clinical signs associated with these mineral deficiencies in a group of pastured ram lambs included emaciation, conjunctivitis, anaemia, growth retardation, discolouration of the wool and photodermatitis. Morbidities and mortalities arose in 4–6-month-old lambs despite intensive veterinary treatment in the summer of 2014 and 2015 (n = 13, 23% died). Se (3/5), Cu (4/7), and Co (3/3) deficiencies in combination with elevated values for Molybdenum (Mo, 2/2) were found. Hamburg is a large industrial city and an input of heavy metals from surrounding industries and coal-fired power stations in combination with a sandy, non-fertilised soil and monoculture grass species might offer a potential explanation for the severity of mineral deficiencies observed in this herd.

Déficits nutritionnels en oligoéléments

AbstractOligo-elements are contained at low concentrations in the body, but they share important biological functions. They are bringing by the alimentation in adequate quantities if the alimentation is equilibrated; deficits are found in risk populations. When we can easily recognize iron deficiency also detecting copper deficiency, the situation is different for zinc where the deficiencies are rather acquired. Iodine deficiency is particularly serious as a cause for hypothyroidism, with a low intellectual development in children and with a goiter; despite the use of iodate salts, iodine deficiencies follow the causes of malnutrition. Selenium deficiency is rather found in countries with soils pauper in selenium, and selenium supplementation must be limited to these zones. Fluor supplementation is no more recommended in infants. Molybdenum, nickel, chrome, cobalt and vanadium deficiencies are still bad known and rather poorly explored.

Modulation of electrical transport in calcium cobaltite ceramics and thick films through microstructure control and doping

Ca3Co4O9 is a promising p-type thermoelectric oxide material having intrinsically low thermal conductivity. With low cost and opportunities for automatic large scale production, thick film technologies offer considerable potential for a new generation of micro-sized thermoelectric coolers or generators. Here, based on the chemical composition optimized by traditional solid state reaction for bulk samples, we present a viable approach to modulating the electrical transport properties of screen-printed calcium cobaltite thick films through control of the microstructural evolution by optimized heat-treatment. XRD and TEM analysis confirmed the formation of high-quality calcium cobaltite grains. By creating 2.0 at% cobalt deficiency in Ca2.7Bi0.3Co4O9+δ, the pressureless sintered ceramics reached the highest power factor of 98.0 μWm−1 K-2 at 823 K, through enhancement of electrical conductivity by reduction of poorly conducting secondary phases. Subsequently, textured thick films of Ca2.7Bi0.3Co3.92O9+δ were efficiently tailored by controlling the sintering temperature and holding time. Optimized Ca2.7Bi0.3Co3.92O9+δ thick films sintered at 1203 K for 8 h exhibited the maximum power factor of 55.5 μWm−1 K-2 at 673 K through microstructure control.