Different Concentrations Of Zinc Research Articles

Effect of zinc on sperm recovered by swim-up.

Zinc is known to influence chromatin stability, motility and protection against oxidative stress. While swim-up remains the preferred method for selecting sperm in Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART), concerns arise regarding sperm DNA fragmentation associated with this procedure. Given zinc's significant role in protecting sperm DNA integrity and motility, we aimed to investigate the impact of zinc supplementation during the swim-up process on sperm quality. Semen samples from 203 normozoospermic men were used. Samples were divided into fractions and swim-up procedure was applied using human tubal fluid (mHTF) supplemented with three different concentrations of zinc or medium without supplementation as control. DNA fragmentation, chromatin maturity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, motility and protein phosphorylation levels analyses were addressed to each fraction. The sperm DNA fragmentation was reduced in sperm recovered by swim-up in media with all concentrations of zinc assayed with respect to the control (p < 0.0001). Aniline blue staining showed better chromatin maturity in sperm recovered with 2.5- and 3.5-mM zinc (p = 0.045; p = 0.021). Kinematic parameters such as curvilinear velocity and beat-cross frequency showed improvement with 2.5mM zinc (p = 0.0080 and p = 0.0400), whereas straightness, linearity, and hypermotility showed improvement with 5mM zinc (p = 0.0075, p = 0.0069, and p = 0.0244). Protein phosphorylation patterns showed changes associated with treatment with zinc, and only 5mM zinc treatment showed a decrease in ROS levels. The addition of zinc to mHTF provided optimal physiological conditions for sperm recovered through swim-up. This supplementation should be considered for selecting sperm for use in ART.

Effects of hydrotalcites with different laminate element composition on the properties of sulfoaluminate cement-based materials

Sulfoaluminate cement-based materials (SCBMs) are widely used for grout reinforcement. It is common to use a large water-to-binder ratio in the construction of sulfoaluminate cement-based materials (SAGMs) to obtain good workability and permeability, which results in poor early strength. Nanotechnology has been increasingly employed to enhance the mechanical properties of cementitious materials. Nano Zn-Mg-Al hydrotalcite-like (LDHs) and nano Mg-Al LDHs increased the early compressive strength, while nano Zn-Al LDHs had the opposite effect. However, the reason for this observation remains unclear. In this study, the influence of LDHs structures with different laminar element compositions on the hydration and hardening processes of SCBMs was analysed. The results showed that nano-ZnAl-LDHs, ZnAl-LDHs, and MgAl-LDHs could provide nucleation sites for ettringites. The three hydrotalcite-like materials slowly released different concentrations of zinc and/or magnesium ions and carbonate ions in the cement paste. Zinc ions entered the hydration product of ettringite and aluminum gel and promoted the transformation of amorphous aluminum gel to bayerite, which inhibited the hydration reaction of SCBMs. Magnesium ions could also enter the ettringite, and carbonate ions promoted the formation of calcium carbonate, which facilitated the hydration reaction of SCBMs. The nucleation effect and the release of zinc and/or magnesium ions and carbonate ions acted synergically to influence the hydration rate, pore size distribution, and compressive strength of SCBMs.

Effects of Exogenous Zinc on Growth and Root Architecture Classification of Maize Seedlings Under Cadmium Stress

To explore the effects of different concentrations of zinc （Zn） on the growth and root architecture classification of maize seedlings under cadmium （Cd） stress， a hydroponic experiment was conducted to study the effects of different concentrations of Zn （0， 10， 25， 50， 100， 200， and 400 μmol·L-1） on the growth， root architecture and classification characteristics， Cd content， root Cd uptake capacity， and photosynthetic system of maize seedlings under Cd stress （50 μmol·L-1） by using Zhengdan 958 as the experimental material. Principal component analysis and the membership function method were used for comprehensive evaluation. The results showed that the 50 μmol·L-1 Cd stress had a significant toxic effect on maize seedlings， which significantly reduced chlorophyll content and photosynthetic parameters. The main root length， plant height， biomass， root forks， and root tips， including the root length and root surface area of the grade Ⅰ-Ⅲ diameter range and the root volume of the grade Ⅰ-Ⅱ diameter range， decreased significantly， which hindered the normal growth and development of maize seedlings. Compared with that under no Zn application， 100 μmol·L-1 and 200 μmol·L-1 Zn application reduced the uptake of Cd by maize seedlings， significantly reduced the Cd content in shoots and roots and the Cd uptake efficiency. The toxic effect on maize seedlings was alleviated， and the fresh weight， dry weight， tolerance index， and root forks of shoots and roots were significantly increased. The photosynthesis of maize seedlings was significantly enhanced， and the photosynthetic rate and the total chlorophyll content was significantly increased. The RL， SA， and RV in the Ⅰ-Ⅱ diameter range reached the maximum at 100 μmol·L-1 Zn， and the RL， SA， and RV in the Ⅲ diameter range reached the maximum at 200 μmol·L-1 Zn， which were significantly higher than those without Zn treatment. The comprehensive evaluation of the growth tolerance of maize seedlings showed that 100 μmol·L-1 and 200 μmol·L-1 Zn had better effects on alleviating Cd toxicity. Comprehensive analysis showed that the application of appropriate concentration of Zn could reduce the Cd content in maize seedlings， the Cd uptake capacity， and Cd uptake efficiency of roots； increase the biomass accumulation of maize seedlings； reduce the effect of Cd toxicity on root architecture； reduce the effect on the light and system； and improve the tolerance of maize seedlings to Cd.

Study the impact of spraying different concentrations of zinc on the vegetative growth characteristics and biological yield components of wheat plant (Triticum aestivum L.) variety Abu Ghraib

Study the impact of spraying different concentrations of zinc on the vegetative growth characteristics and biological yield components of wheat plant (Triticum aestivum L.) variety Abu Ghraib

Investigating the Impact of Zinc on Chlorophyll Content and Leaf Area in Arecanut Seedlings

A sand culture experiment was carried out at ICAR-CPCRI, Regional Station, Vittal in the year 2021, to evaluate the impact of different concentrations of Zinc (Zn) on chlorophyll content and leaf area in arecanut seedlings. Eight varieties of arecanut seedlings (Mangala, Swarnamangala, Madhuramangala, Shatamangala, South Kanara local (S K local), Thirthahalli, Sirsi arecanut selection -1 (SAS -1), Hirehalli dwarf) were cultivated in a naturally ventilated glasshouse using sand culture provided with 0.031, 0.093 and 0.156 ppm of Zn. After six months of growth, the seedlings were assessed for chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll content, and total leaf area. The results indicated that the chlorophyll content and total leaf area of arecanut seedlings were significantly influenced by different varieties and varying levels of zinc supplementation. Maximum values for both chlorophyll content and total leaf area were observed at a Zn concentration of 0.093 ppm (Z2 level). This study suggests that among the different levels of Zn, a concentration of 0.093 ppm (medium level) is optimal for promoting the growth of arecanut seedlings.

Zinc’s impact on the growth and laccase activity of Trametes pubescens and an equilibrium study of zinc adsorption

ABSTRACT Due to the influence of some ions on laccase production by Trametes pubescens, the impact of different concentrations of zinc (Zn) on fungus growth and laccase production was investigated. The removal kinetics and adsorption isotherm of Zn by T. pubescens from an aqueous solution were evaluated. The results demonstrated the growth inhibition of fungus by an increase in Zn concentration. Zn concentrations of 10 and 20 mg L−1 in the medium caused an increase in the growth of fungus. Laccase production reduced at 100 and 200 mg L−1 of Zn. The kinetic parameters of Zn adsorption onto the biomass of fungus from aqueous solutions (containing 200 mg L−1 Zn) obtained by experiments at different contact times. The results indicated a trend of increasing Zn removal by fungus with the contact time, and it was well-described by the Intra-particle diffusion and Elovich models. The maximum removal of Zn was 67.1% at 7200 min, with a maximum sorption capacity of 44.7 mg g−1. The adsorption of Zn was well-fitted to the Freundlich and Langmuir sorption models. This study indicated an impact of a low concentration of Zn to increase laccase production and the feasibility of this fungus to remove Zn from aqueous solutions.

Effects of Different Zinc and Copper Concentrations in Soil on Morphological and Biochemical Properties of Ipomea aquatica

Zinc and copper pollution in agricultural lands due to anthropogenic activities has become a major environmental problem. While these metals are essential for plant growth, their excessive presence can lead to plant toxicity. This experiment aimed to investigate the effects of different concentrations of zinc and copper (0, 100, 200, and 300 ppm) in soil on the morphological and biochemical properties of I. aquatica, commonly known as water spinach. The morphological properties, including plant height, number of leaves, and stem diameter, were assessed, along with soil pH and electrical conductivity (EC). Biochemical properties, specifically the Total Phenolic Content (TPC) and Total Flavonoid Content (TFC) in plant tissues, were measured using colorimetric assays. The results revealed significant morphological changes in plant height, stem diameter, and number of leaves at 200 ppm zinc treatment compared to the control. Additionally, the number of leaves significantly increased at the 100 ppm copper treatment, while the stem diameter decreased significantly at 300 ppm. Both zinc and copper treatments slightly reduced soil pH and increased soil EC. At the 300 ppm treatment, substantial changes in phenolic and flavonoid contents were observed in the stems and leaves of I. aquatica. Copper treatment at 200 ppm increased the TPC of leaves, while 100 ppm copper treatment increased the TFC of stems. Furthermore, the 300 ppm zinc treatment significantly increased the TPC and TFC in stems and leaves. These findings indicate that zinc and copper concentrations have notable effects on the morphological and biochemical properties of I. aquatica. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain an appropriate balance of these metal elements to cultivate plants that are morphologically and physiologically resilient.

Morphological and Biochemical Responses of Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis in Different Zinc Concentrations

Zinc is an essential trace element required by plants. However, high zinc concentrations can lead to environmental pollution and plant toxicity. This research aimed to investigate how plants respond to different concentrations of zinc (0, 100, 200 and 300 ppm) in soil, using Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis (Yard long bean) as a model plant. A total of 12 parameters were collected including plant morphological characteristics such as plant height, leaf number, yield, root length, pod length and fresh weight. Furthermore, key biochemical properties including chlorophyll content, total protein content, total phenolic and flavonoid content in plants were analyzed, in addition to soil pH and electrical conductivity. These parameters were used to determine the morphological and biochemical responses of plants under zinc-stress conditions. The results indicated that different concentrations of zinc significantly decreased the leaf number and pod length V. unguiculata. Soil electrical conductivity was significantly high at 200 ppm zinc. Significant changes in total protein were observed in stems and pods. Moreover, the total phenolic content in leaves showed a significant increase with higher zinc concentrations, while the opposite trend was observed for total phenolic content in V. unguiculata pods. In summary, varying concentrations of zinc had a significant impact on various morphological and biochemical properties of V. unguiculata, exhibiting a distinct pattern specific to each organ. This suggests that V. unguiculata is responsive, adaptive and capable of tolerating abiotic stress induced by a broad range of zinc concentrations.

Using ZnO/PMMA Nanocomposite Coating to Improve the Polycrystalline Solar Cell in Hot Weather Conditions

Solar energy is the most significant future energy source as the world keeps working to minimize emissions caused by the use of fossil fuels. The most popular method for transforming sunlight into electrical energy is the photovoltaic solar cell (PV). The main two problems with PV solar cells highlighted in this paper are the high solar cell surface temperature and the high reflection light of PV solar cells. Because each 1 °C increase in surface temperature reduces efficiency by 0.45%, and approximately 35% of total sunlight reflected in crystalline silicon solar cells. In this experimental work, the sol-gel process was used to prepare different concentrations of zinc oxide/polymethyl methacrylate (ZnO/PMMA) nanocomposite coatings and apply them to the top side of the polycrystalline solar cell in order to increase the solar cell efficiency. The results demonstrate a maximum temperature drop of 8.6 ºC and light reflection reduced up to 5.6%, so this led to an increase in solar cell efficiency from (11.33%) to (15.22%), where the results of the electrical properties after one hour (test time) showed that the uncoated cell was (ISC = 0.33 A, VOC = 0.38 V, and Pmax = 97 mW), while the results of the coated cell with the best concentration (3.875 wt%) were (ISC = 0.36 A, VOC = 0.43 V, and Pmax = 130 mW).

Effect of Activation of Cucumber Seeds with Different Concentrations of Zinc under Different Soaking Periods on Growth and Yield Characteristics (Cucumis sativus L.)

This study was conducted in the greenhouses of Fallujah University - Biotechnology and Environmental Center. During planting season (2021-2022), to determine the effect of three zinc concentrations (0, 8, 16) mg L-1 and three soaking periods (6, 12, 18) hours, on the growth and yield characteristics of the cucumber (queen variety). It was implemented as a factorial experiment with randomized complete block design (RCBD) and with three replicates, the results are summed up as follows: The concentrations of 8 and 16 mg L-1 of zinc were achieved by giving the highest average plant height (127.26 cm) and (130.56 cm), leaf area (3934 cm2) and (4582 cm2) plant-1, as well as the fruit length accorded 15.46 and 15.62 cm, respectively, and the plant yield reached 1.16 and 1.74 kg plant-1, respectively. Also, the concentration of 16 mg L-1 of zinc in yield per area (m2) reached 13.91 kg m2 was superior to the concentration of 8 mg L-1 zinc (9.26) kg m2, which was superior to the control (7.85) kg m2. As for the soaking periods, the 18-hour soaking period grants the highest average of plant height, leaf area, plant yield, and yield per area (m2), reaching 131.41 cm, 4385 cm2 plant-1, 1.45 kg plant-1, and 11.55 kg m2, respectively. While the 12-hour soaking treatment gave the highest average fruit length of 15.724 cm over the 18-hour soaking treatment, and it excelled the 6-hour soaking treatment in all studied characteristics except for the fruit diameter, which was not significant for all treatments used. The binary interaction between soaking at a concentration of 16 mg L-1 of zinc with a soaking period of 18 hours gave the highest average plant height, fruit length, plant yield and yield per area (m2) accorded 143.63 cm, 15.89 cm, 1.98 kg plant-1 and 15.82 kg m2, respectively. The effect of interference was non-significant for the mean of leaf area of the plant as well as the diameter of the fruit.

Optical and thermal characterization of pure CuO and Zn/CuO using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), x-ray fluorescence (XRF), and ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy techniques

We present elemental analysis and thermal characterization of pure and two different concentrations of zinc-doped copper oxide (CuO) samples using different analytical techniques. The quantitative as well as qualitative investigations, were performed by incorporating calibration-free laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (CF-LIBS) technique. The plasma was generated on the samples surface by focusing a first harmonic of Nd: YAG laser of 1064 nm wavelength and the time-integrated emission spectra was achieved through a set of five spectrometers equipped with a charge-coupled-device. The acquired optical emission spectra from laser-generated plasma show different concentrations of zinc and copper in different samples which are consistent with their percentage composition measured during the sample synthesis. Using LIBS emission analytical lines, the Boltzmann technique was utilized for estimating the excitation temperature, while the number density was evaluated using the well-known Stark broadening line profile method. Besides, the CF-LIBS elemental analysis was validated by the x-ray fluorescence technique. For the optical study, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopical analysis was performed to find the bandgap of pure and zinc-doped copper oxide samples and consequently, variation in bandgap was studied with the growth of zinc doping. In addition, the thermal properties of the samples were analyzed using the beam deflection spectroscopy technique. The results shows that thermal diffusivity () and thermal conductivity (), increased with an increase in zinc concentration.

Zinc and phosphorus fertilization in Galanthus elwesii Hook: Changes in the total alkaloid, flavonoid, and phenolic content, and evaluation of anti-cancer, anti-microbial, and antioxidant activities

Galanthus elwesii Hook belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family and is an ornamental plant that naturally spreads in the region between Turkey and Europe. It also contains bioactive compounds in the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical field. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of zinc (Zn) and phosphorus (P) in the synthesis of alkaloid compounds and bioactive properties in G. elwesii. The plants were subjected to three different concentrations of zinc (2.5, 5, and 10 mg kg−1), and phosphorus (3, 6, and 12 mg kg−1), and compared with the control. Two harvests were evaluated, between 2020 and 2021. The total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and total alkaloid content (TAC) were identified by Folin-Ciocalteu, aluminum chloride, and bromocresol green-complex assays, respectively. TPC (85.09 ± 0.4 mg QE/g), TFC (267.7 ± 1.6 mg GAE/g), and TAC (320.58 ± 2.4 mg CoE/g) were the highest in the treatments of Zn 10, Zn 10 and Zn 2.5 + P 3 mg kg−1, respectively. RP-HPLC analysis revealed that, compared with the control group, galanthamine, and lycorine synthesis were increased by 755% (Zn 5 + P 3 mg kg−1) and 815% (Zn 2.5 mg kg−1) respectively. The highest antioxidant activities of were found to be 80.21% (10 mg kg−1 Zn) and 78.05% (2.5 mg kg−1Zn + 3mg kg−1 P), respectively. The extracts exhibit strong anti-microbial activity, particularly against Bacillus subtilis, Candida albicans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Staphylococcus aureus. The MCF-7 cell line was used to investigate its anti-cancer activity properties. The MTT assay result was obtained from extracts treated with Zn 10 mg kg−1 for the best cytotoxic activity against the MCF-7 cell line (IC50 value: 31.57 ± 0.70 μg/mL).

Expression of the H2O2 Biosensor roGFP-Tpx1.C169S in Fission and Budding Yeasts and Jurkat Cells to Compare Intracellular H2O2 Levels, Transmembrane Gradients, and Response to Metals

Intracellular hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels can oscillate from low, physiological concentrations, to intermediate, signaling ones, and can participate in toxic reactions when overcoming certain thresholds. Fluorescent protein-based reporters to measure intracellular H2O2 have been developed in recent decades. In particular, the redox-sensitive green fluorescent protein (roGFP)-based proteins fused to peroxiredoxins are among the most sensitive H2O2 biosensors. Using fission yeast as a model system, we recently demonstrated that the gradient of extracellular-to-intracellular peroxides through the plasma membrane is around 300:1, and that the concentration of physiological H2O2 is in the low nanomolar range. Here, we have expressed the very sensitive probe roGFP2-Tpx1.C169S in two other model systems, budding yeast and human Jurkat cells. As in fission yeast, the biosensor is ~40-50% oxidized in these cell types, suggesting similar peroxide steady-state levels. Furthermore, probe oxidation upon the addition of extracellular peroxides is also quantitatively similar, suggesting comparable plasma membrane H2O2 gradients. Finally, as a proof of concept, we have applied different concentrations of zinc to all three model systems and have detected probe oxidation, demonstrating that an excess of this metal can cause fluctuations of peroxides, which are moderate in yeasts and severe in mammalian cells. We conclude that the principles governing H2O2 fluxes are very similar in different model organisms.

Selected micronutrients effect on growth, development, and yield of black nightshade (Solanum nigrum)

AbstractBlack nightshade (Solanum nigrum) is an important indigenous leafy vegetable consumed in sub‐Saharan Africa. The species is an important source of micronutrients for medicinal purposes. A controlled experiment was conducted at the University of KwaZulu‐Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, to investigate the effect of zinc and boron applications on the growth, development, and yield of black nightshade. Each micronutrient (zinc and boron) was applied at five different concentrations, namely, 100 (T1), 200 (T2), 300 (T3), 400 (T4), and 500 (T5) ppm, including a control (T0) (distilled/high pressure liquid chromatography water spray), giving a total of six treatments. Treatments were arranged in a complete randomized design (CRD) with three replications, giving a total of 18 experimental units (pots). After 14 days of transplanting, the treatments were applied through foliar spraying three times over 24 h with an 8‐h interval between each spraying event. Data collection started 14 days after transplanting, and thereafter, measurements were taken fortnightly. At harvest (70 days after transplanting), fruit number, fresh shoot weight, dry shoot weight, root fresh mass, and root dry mass were determined. The results showed significant growth and yield differences with respect to the different concentrations of zinc and boron (p &lt; 0.05). The application of 500 ppm of boron performed significantly better than all other treatments, viz., zinc, and control across the measured variables (p &lt; 0.05). Therefore, it is concluded that the application of boron at 500 ppm was found to be effective in enhancing plant growth and higher fruit yield (45 fruits) of black nightshade.

Vegetative Growth Responses of Castor (Ricinus communis) and Senna (Senna occidentalis) to Low Dose Zinc (Zn) Spiking of Agricultural Soil in Kano, Northern Nigeria

The aim of the research is to assess the viability of castor (Ricinus communis) and senna (Senna occidentalis) plants up to 90 days after planting (DAP) in agricultural soil spiked with different concentration of zinc in the screen house. Agricultural soil was collected from Bayero University Kano, at 11° 98ʹ 32.59″N; 8°42ʹ 43.97″E. Soil texture, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic carbon (OC), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and exchangeable cations (K + , Ca + , Mg + and Na + ) were determined. Castor and senna were planted in soil spiked with 2 mg/kg, 4mg/kg and 8 mg/kg of zinc sulphate (ZnSO4) each. Control plants containing only agricultural soil without spiking with zinc were added and the set up replicated 4 times. Plant height, number of leaves and root length were assessed at 45 and 90 days after planting (DAP). The soil was sandy loam, slightly acidic, C, N, P and K+ had mean values of 0.41%, 0.33 mg/kg, 14.33 mg/kg and 0.39 cmol/kg respectively. There were significantly higher (p&lt;0.05) mean values for height (16.85cm) and root length (17.35 cm) of control castor plants than those treated with zinc at 45 DAP. At the termination of the experiment (90 DAP), senna plants in control had significantly higher mean values for height (29.5 cm) than all other treatments. All concentrations of zinc used in this work did not seem to have much negative effects on the vegetative growth of both test plants.

Assessment of metal-reducing bacteria residing in industrial wastewater: a bacterial-based bioremediation approach

Background: Metals are required in minor amounts in the human body to perform vital functions, but beyond that level, they become toxic and cause many harmful effects. At present, polluted water is a large source of these heavy metals inside our body. Bioremediation is one of best treatments for the removal of these heavy metals from water. Objectives: The main objective of the current study was to isolate metal-reducing bacteria from soil and wastewater samples from different industries. Furthermore, the metal reducing potential of the bacteria was also evaluated under various environmental conditions (pH, temperature, incubation time, and UV exposure). Methodology: Different bacterial strains were isolated that were resistant to different concentrations of zinc (Zn) and chromium (Cr) from wastewater and soil samples from four different industries (Riaz textile mills, Sitara chemical industry, Mandiali paper mills and Siddique leather works). Morphological characterization was carried out with the help of Gram staining, spore staining and motility tests. Biochemical tests were performed, such as catalase, oxidase, and H2S production tests, starch hydrolysis tests and Simon citrate tests. Chromium reduction after UV exposure was calculated to check mutation effects on chromium reduction. Results: A total of 14 bacterial strains were isolated from the soil and wastewater samples. Six strains were Zn resistant, while eight strains were chromium resistant. A total of five strains were isolated from wastewater out of fourteen strains, while the remaining nine strains were isolated from soil samples of these industries. The bacterial strains were rod-shaped cocci and coccobacillus. The growth of bacterial strains under different environmental conditions, such as temperature, pH and incubation time, was observed, and the best growth was found at 37◦C, pH 7.0 and after 48 hrs. Maximum reduction at different concentrations was observed at pH 7.0 and 37◦C and after 48 hrs. Conclusion: In conclusion, the bacterial strains isolated from industrial wastes and soils showed significant resistivity against various concentrations of Zn and Cr and reduced it efficiently under different conditions (pH, incubation time, temperature and UV light). The use of microorganisms for bioremediation is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective approach to reduce heavy metals present in our water and soil.

Assessment of biochemical and physiological tolerance mechanism of the multipurpose paradise tree (Simarouba amara Aubl.) under zinc and copper stress

Simarouba amara Aubl., commonly known as paradise tree, is a multipurpose, evergreen, poly-gamodioecious, and oil yielding tree. The plant is famous for its seeds containing 55-65% oil, a potent source of biodiesel production and is being utilized in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and other industries. The study aimed to evaluate the physiological and biochemical changes that occur in S. amara seedlings under heavy metals stress. Two-month-old S. amara seedlings were exposed to different concentrations of zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) (Zn and Cu: 10 mg Kg-1, 50 mg Kg-1, 100 mg Kg-1, 200 mg Kg-1). The study indicated that both the heavy metals resulted in a significant decrease in leaf relative water content (LRWC), photosynthetic pigments and an increase in lipid peroxidation and antioxidant levels. Regarding lipid peroxidation, Cu proved to be more toxic to seedlings compared to Zn. However, in terms of LRWC and photosynthetic pigments, Zn showed higher toxic effects than Cu. Proline and cysteine content increased by 234% and 270%, respectively, due to Zn stress and 117% and 102%, respectively, due to Cu stress at 200 mg Kg-1. Among antioxidant enzymes, a maximum increase in glutathione reductase (GR) activity was observed (600% due to Cu stress and 320% due to Zn stress) at 200 mg Kg-1. At the same concentration, a minimum increase was seen in glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity (60% under Cu stress) and catalase (CAT) activity (69% under Zn stress). The present study revealed that S. amara has a better antioxidant defensive mechanism against oxidative stress and can be used for its large scale cultivation on wastelands.

Chemical and biological evaluation of fortified biscuits with different concentrations of zinc or selenium

Chemical and biological evaluation of fortified biscuits with different concentrations of zinc or selenium

Effect of Zinc in Submandibular Salivary Gland Branching Morphogenesis

IntroductionNerves from the parasympathetic branch are critical for the function of the glandular tissue including salivary gland. Parasympathetic innervation influences organ regeneration: tissue regrowth impaired after parasympathectomy in the salivary gland. As it is difficult to treat the damaged nerves, there is a need to develop new materials and treatment methods to treat the nerves. Zinc ions are reported to be important metal ions in the physiological functions of the nervous system and involved in neural cell proliferation and differentiation. Here, we aimed to study the influence and neuroprotective role of the extracellular zinc during submandibular salivary gland (SMG) development using ex vivo tissue culture system. Also we prepared zinc ion‐containing agarose hydrogel beads (Zn+Aga) for sustained release of zinc ion.Materials and Methods300~500µm size beads prepared. Different concentration of zinc were incorporated in the beads. LY294002 an antagonist of PI3Kinase pathway also incorporate as needed. Next, 0.3 wt%~4 wt% alginate hydrogel sheets prepared for ex‐vivo organ culture. SMG were isolated from the pregnant ICR mouse at day 13 (E13) and culture on hydrogel sheet with or without Zn ion and LY294002 containing beads. Finally, the data analyzed histomorphometrically.ResultsWe successfully prepare the Zn+Aga and observed the sustain release of Zn+ upto 48 hours. Histological evaluation showed that zinc ion promoted the growth of submandibular tissue. The immuno expression of AKT was promoted by the administration of zinc ion. AKT decreased by using ly294002, which is an inhibitor of PI3kinase, and it recovered after administration of zinc. This indicates that zinc administration is involved in the AKT‐pathway.Discussion &amp; ConclusionCollectively, these data clearly illustrate that the Zn is essential element during salivary gland organogenesis through activation of the PI3Kinase‐AKT pathway.

The Relation Between Trace Elements and Latent Tuberculosis Infection: a Study Based on National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey 2011-2012.

This study aimed to analyze the potential association between trace elements and latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) based on the data from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES) during 2011-2012. In this cross-sectional study, tuberculin skin testing (TST) and QuantiFERON®-TB Gold In-Tube (QFT-GIT) were utilized to screen for LTBI. Participants with positive results of TST or/and QFT-GIT were defined as LTBI. Weighted univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to explore the association between trace elements and LTBI. Subgroup analyses were conducted according to gender, age, birthplace, race, and health insurance holding status. A total of 6064 participants were included in this study, of whom 655 (10.80%) participants were with positive results of LTBI. Weighted multivariable analysis demonstrated that zinc [odds ratio (OR) = 0.89; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.82-0.97] and selenium (OR = 0.31; 95%CI, 0.13-0.70) in the serum may be associated with a reduced risk of LTBI. In different concentrations of zinc and selenium, serum zinc concentration of 12.56-13.99μmol/l (vs. < 11.23μmol/l; OR = 0.37, 95% CI, 0.20-0.67) was related to a reduced risk of LTBI, while no significant difference was observed under different selenium levels (P > 0.05). Subgroup analyses indicated that the role of zinc and selenium in reducing TB risk may be more significant in males, people aged 21-64, people born in the USA, people with health insurance, and non-Hispanic Whites. Maintaining serum zinc and selenium levels may help reduce the risk of LTBI and indirectly help people prevent TB.