Impact Of Zinc Research Articles

Impact of Zinc on Oxidative Signaling Pathways in the Development of Pulmonary Vasoconstriction Induced by Hypobaric Hypoxia.

Hypobaric hypoxia is a condition that occurs at high altitudes (>2500 m) where the partial pressure of gases, particularly oxygen (PO2), decreases. This condition triggers several physiological and molecular responses. One of the principal responses is pulmonary vascular contraction, which seeks to optimize gas exchange under this condition, known as hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV); however, when this physiological response is exacerbated, it contributes to the development of high-altitude pulmonary hypertension (HAPH). Increased levels of zinc (Zn2+) and oxidative stress (known as the “ROS hypothesis”) have been demonstrated in the vasoconstriction process. Therefore, the aim of this review is to determine the relationship between molecular pathways associated with altered Zn2+ levels and oxidative stress in HPV in hypobaric hypoxic conditions. The results indicate an increased level of Zn2+, which is related to increasing mitochondrial ROS (mtROS), alterations in nitric oxide (NO), metallothionein (MT), zinc-regulated, iron-regulated transporter-like protein (ZIP), and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase-induced protein kinase C epsilon (PKCε) activation in the development of HPV. In conclusion, there is an association between elevated Zn2+ levels and oxidative stress in HPV under different models of hypoxia, which contribute to understanding the molecular mechanism involved in HPV to prevent the development of HAPH.

Impact of Zinc to Copper Ratio and Lipocalin 2 in Obese Patients Undergoing Sleeve Gastrectomy.

Worldwide, obesity constitutes a significant health issue. There is the perception that obesity is influenced by subclinical inflammation caused by trace elements (TE). Lipocalin 2 (Lcn2) is an adipokine that is abundantly expressed in adipose tissue, largely in response to metabolic stress; TE deficiency is expressed in metabolic dysfunction as increased oxidative stress, the development of dyslipidaemia and insulin resistance. The primary aim of this study is to explore the relationship between Lcn2 inflammatory biomarkers and the TE status of subjects with morbid obesity who are undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG); the secondary aim is to evaluate the Zn-to-Cu ratio in those with a detected TE deficiency. When this prospective cohort study was conducted, 107 subjects with morbid obesity (i.e., 69 women, 38 men) ranging in age from 20 to 55 years were recruited. Anthropometric measurements and laboratory investigations were performed preoperatively and nine months postoperatively; and blood samples were collected to determine the subjects' iron, Zn, Cu, Lcn2, and other inflammatory biomarkers. The results revealed 16.82% of the subjects exhibited preoperative Zn deficiency, which increased to 22.43% postoperatively; none of studied subjects exhibited Cu deficiency in the two consecutive measurements; and the 10.28% preoperative prevalence of iron deficiency increased to 15.89% postoperatively. While a negative correlation was observed between the delta body weight change and Lcn2, leptin, and HOMA-IR, a positive correlation was observed between the delta body weight change and the Zn-to-Cu ratio. These findings suggest the existence of preoperative obesity is associated with inflammatory status that may be triggered by TE deficiency and impaired insulin sensitivity; moreover, LSG may accentuate TE deficiency. As such, a patient's Lcn2 and Zn-to-Cu ratio may be utilized as potential biomarkers of their TE status and metabolic improvement after LSG.

Zinc and Magnesium vs COVID - 19

Abstract Zinc and magnesium are among the most important elements for the human body. A deficiency or excess of either of them may pose a potential threat to the homeostatic mechanisms of the body. Both elements condition the proper functioning of the immune system. Zinc and magnesium deficiency significantly reduces the body's immunity, facilitating infection with various pathogens, including SARS-COV-2 infection. In this paper, we reviewed the literature on the impact of zinc and magnesium deficiencies on the incidence and course of COVID-19.

Influence of modern aluminium alloys on the reaction behavior of refractory linings

AbstractFor modern aluminum alloy production, constituents of silicon, zinc, and magnesium contribute mainly to the degradation of refractory furnace linings. The alloy constituents increasingly penetrate the material via the vapor phase. This study intends to enhance understanding, describe and characterize the interactions between refractories used in holding and melting furnaces of the aluminum industry. The damage mechanisms occurring due to corrosion are verified and determined by applying various test methods and atmospheres.The present study focuses on the impact of zinc (Zn) and magnesium (Mg) as a gaseous component on refractory linings. The examined materials of this study are bauxite‐based bricks with phosphate bonding and bricks with either CA6 or sol‐gel bonding, both based on high alumina.The experimental setup of the corrosion tube furnace consists of a crucible filled with solid metal and two identical bars of the refractory sample. Metallic zinc, magnesium, and the Al alloy EN‐AW7075 are within this study's scope. Further conditions are a testing temperature of 1050°C and increasing test duration of 2, 8, 24, and 36 h. The experiments have shown that zinc and magnesium both have an extreme influence, especially on the microstructure, which is accompanied by both positive and negative property changes. These are dependent on both the bonding type and the ambient atmosphere.

Impact of zinc and plant growth-promoting bacteria on soil health as well as aboveground biomass of desi and kabuli chickpea under arid conditions.

Zinc (Zn) deficiency and low soil fertility are the major factors responsible for low yield in chickpea. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Zn application and plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) (endophyte Enterobacter sp. MN17) on soil health and aboveground biomass of desi and kabuli chickpea under natural field conditions. Zn was applied as seed priming (0.001 mol L-1 ) and soil application (10 kg Zn ha-1 ) with and without PGPB. To determine the impacts of Zn and PGPB on soil biological health, soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and soil extracellular enzyme activities were analyzed at two growth stages: vegetative (90 days after sowing) and maturity (163 days after sowing). The highest aboveground biomass (5.1 t ha-1 ) was recorded with Zn seed priming + PGPB in kabuli chickpea and in desi chickpea (4.8 t ha-1 ) with Zn seed priming only. The application of Zn significantly increased soil MBC, which was higher in kabuli (795 and 731 μg C g-1 ) compared to desi chickpea (655 and 533 μg C g-1 ) at both vegetative and reproductive growth stages, respectively. The highest extracellular soil enzyme activities, - β-glucosidase (4758 nmol g-1 h-1 ), acid phosphatase (5508 nmol g-1 h-1 ), chitinase (5997 nmol g-1 h-1 ) and leucine aminopeptidase (993 nmol g-1 h-1 ) - were recorded with Zn seed priming. Of the chickpea types, kabuli chickpea had higher soil extracellular enzyme activities in the rhizosphere than desi chickpea. Zn seed priming along with PGPB application may improve soil health and chickpea biomass in marginal soils. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

The impact of zinc and folic acid supplementation on sperm DNA methylation: results from the folic acid and zinc supplementation randomized clinical trial (FAZST)

To determine if 6-month folic acid (5 mg) and zinc (30 mg) supplementation impacts sperm DNA methylation patterns. A multicenter, double-blind, block randomized, placebo-controlled trial titled "The Folic Acid and Zinc Supplementation Trial (FAZST)." Infertility care centers. Male partners (18 years and older) from heterosexual couples (female partners aged 18-45 years) seeking fertility treatment were recruited. Men were randomized 1:1 to receive folic acid (5 mg) and elemental zinc (30 mg) (n = 713) or a matching placebo (n=757) daily for 6 months. Sperm DNA methylation was analyzed using the EPIC methylation array (Illumina) at 6 months. Differential sperm DNA methylation was assessed at multiple levels (regional, single cytosine phosphate guanine, etc.). We additionally assessed the impact of supplementation on epigenetic age. No significant differences were identified between the treatment and placebo groups although some trends appeared to be present. To determine if these trends were noteworthy, we implemented various permutations and found that the patterns we identified were no more than would be expected by random chance. The data presented here strongly suggest that this supplementation regimen is not effective at altering sperm DNA methylation. These data comport well with previous findings from the FAZST study that found no impact of supplementation on basic semen analysis parameters or live birth. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01857310.

Значение цинка при инфекционных заболеваниях у детей

Цинк играет разные роли в различных биологических процессах и имеет важное значение в росте клеток, дифференцировке клеток и обмене веществ. Его дефицит ассоциируется с нарушением роста и развития у детей, а также с нарушениями иммунитета и повышенной восприимчивостью к инфекциям. Согласно данным ВОЗ, тяжелый дефицит цинка у людей встречается редко, но дефицит легкой и умеренной степени широко распространен во всем мире. В этом обзоре обобщены данные о влиянии цинка на иммунную систему, его роли в воспалении и аспектах клинического использования. Клиническое применение препаратов цинка у детей с инфекционными заболеваниями направлено в основном на коррекцию дефицита и, следовательно, на повышение иммунного ответа. На сегодняшний день имеются доказательства эффективности применения препаратов цинка для лечения и профилактики инфекций верхних дыхательных путей, а также кишечных инфекций.

Nutritional Immunity, Zinc Sufficiency, and COVID-19 Mortality in Socially Similar European Populations.

The impact of zinc (Zn) sufficiency/supplementation on COVID-19-associated mortality and incidence (SARS-CoV-2 infections) remains unknown. During an infection, the levels of free Zn are reduced as part of “nutritional immunity” to limit the growth and replication of pathogen and the ensuing inflammatory damage. Considering its key role in immune competency and frequently recorded deficiency in large sections of different populations, Zn has been prescribed for both prophylactic and therapeutic purposes in COVID-19 without any corroborating evidence for its protective role. Multiple trials are underway evaluating the effect of Zn supplementation on COVID-19 outcome in patients getting standard of care treatment. However, the trial designs presumably lack the power to identify negative effects of Zn supplementation, especially in the vulnerable groups of elderly and patients with comorbidities (contributing 9 out of 10 deaths; up to >8,000-fold higher mortality). In this study, we have analyzed COVID-19 mortality and incidence (case) data from 23 socially similar European populations with comparable confounders (population: 522.47 million; experiencing up to >150-fold difference in death rates) and at the matching stage of the pandemic (March 12 to June 26, 2020; first wave of COVID-19 incidence and mortality). Our results suggest a positive correlation between populations’ Zn-sufficiency status and COVID-19 mortality [r (23): 0.7893–0.6849, p-value < 0.0003] as well as incidence [r (23):0.8084–0.5658; p-value < 0.005]. The observed association is contrary to what would be expected if Zn sufficiency was protective in COVID-19. Thus, controlled trials or retrospective analyses of the adverse event patients’ data should be undertaken to correctly guide the practice of Zn supplementation in COVID-19.

Copper and zinc impact on stress biomarkers and growth parameters in a model organism, Galleria mellonellalarvae.

The objective of the present study was to investigate the impact of zinc and copper on some biomarkers in a model organism Galleria mellonella L. We investigated the effects of Cu and Zn (10, 50, and 100mg/100 g diets) on different biomarkers such as oxidative stress parameters (SOD and CAT activities and MDA levels), energy resources (protein, lipid and glycogen levels), electrolyte contents (Ca, Na, and K levels), total hemocyte count (THC), and growth and development of G. mellonella. Additionally, the accumulation levels of the used metals were also studied. Cu caused a significant decrease in protein, lipid and glycogen levels. SOD and CAT activities significantly increased at all concentrations of Cu, while they significantly increased at only high concentrations of Zn (50 and 100mg). Lipid peroxidation levels (MDA) significantly elevated at high concentrations of both metals. It was determined that the Cu and Zn accumulation increased depending on the increase of the concentration. Zn caused an alteration in Ca level at the concentrations of 50 and 100mg, and K and Na levels at all concentrations. While, THC significantly reduced at all Cu concentrations, this reduction was observed only at higher Zn concentrations (50 and 100mg). Larval and pupal development time significantly extended at the highest concentration (100mg) of Cu, and females' lifespan significantly shortened at all concentrations of Cu. Zinc caused an extension in larval development time at the highest concentration (100mg), and caused a shortening in females and males' lifetime at all concentrations.The observed changes in biomarkers can be used as the illustration of potential toxic effects of high levels of Cu and Zn in organisms.

Impact of Zinc- or Copper-Doped Mesoporous Bioactive Glass Nanoparticles on the Osteogenic Differentiation and Matrix Formation of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells.

Mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles (MBGNs) have gained relevance in bone tissue engineering, especially since they can be used as vectors for therapeutically active ions like zinc (Zn) or copper (Cu). In this study, the osteogenic properties of the ionic dissolution products (IDPs) of undoped MBGNs (composition in mol%: 70 SiO2, 30 CaO) and MBGNs doped with 5 mol% of either Zn (5Zn-MBGNs) or Cu (5Cu-MBGNs; compositions in mol%: 70 SiO2, 25 CaO, 5 ZnO/CuO) on human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells were evaluated. Extracellular matrix (ECM) formation and calcification were assessed, as well as the IDPs’ influence on viability, cellular osteogenic differentiation and the expression of genes encoding for relevant members of the ECM. The IDPs of undoped MBGNs and 5Zn-MBGNs had a comparable influence on cell viability, while it was enhanced by IDPs of 5Cu-MBGNs compared to the other MBGNs. IDPs of 5Cu-MBGNs had slightly positive effects on ECM formation and calcification. 5Zn-MBGNs provided the most favorable pro-osteogenic properties since they increased not only cellular osteogenic differentiation and ECM-related gene expression but also ECM formation and calcification significantly. Future studies should analyze other relevant properties of MBGNs, such as their impact on angiogenesis.

Impact of Zinc, Glutathione, and Polyphenols as Antioxidants in the Immune Response against SARS-CoV-2

SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus triggering the disease COVID-19, has a catastrophic health and socioeconomic impact at a global scale. Three key factors contribute to the pathogenesis of COVID-19: excessive inflammation, immune system depression/inhibition, and a set of proinflammatory cytokines. Common to these factors, a central function of oxidative stress has been highlighted. A diversity of clinical trials focused predominantly on antioxidants are being implemented as potential therapies for COVID-19. In this study, we look at the role of zinc, glutathione, and polyphenols, as key antioxidants of possible medicinal or nutritional significance, and examine their role in the antiviral immune response induced by SARS-Cov-2. An unresolved question is why some people experience chronic COVID and others do not. Understanding the relationship between SARS-CoV-2 and the immune system, as well as the role of defective immune responses to disease development, would be essential to recognize the pathogenesis of COVID-19, the risk factors that affect the harmful consequences of the disease, and the rational design of successful therapies and vaccinations. We expect that our research will provide a novel perspective that contributes to the design of clinical or nutritional targets for the prevention of this pandemic.

Impact of zinc and boron foliar application on fruit yield, nutritional quality and oil content of three pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cultivars

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) productivity is largely governed by the growing condition and cultivar type. In this context a study was undertaken to find out the effect of zinc (Zn) and boron (B) foliar sprays on fruit yield, quality and seed oil content of three pomegranate cultivars viz. Bhagawa, Mridula and Ganesh. Zinc sulfate (0.30%), boric acid (0.25%) and zinc sulfate (0.30%) + boric acid (0.25%) were sprayed on selected trees thrice; at flower bud initiation, 15 and 45 days after blooming. Results showed that foliar sprays of Zn and B alone or in combination increased their concentration in leaves and consequently increased fruit yield. The effect was more pronounced with B than with Zn. Foliar treatment of these elements also significantly improved micronutrient concentration (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu and B) in fruit. In addition, foliar fertilization of Zn led to significant improvement in fruit quality comprising of 2.84-8.87% increases in aril per cent, 7.84-10.72% increases in ascorbic acid, 0.71-17.48% increases in total phenol, 23.42-120.48% increases in anthocyanin and 30.73-55.30% increases in non-reducing sugar content, while B application resulted 5.09-16.98% increase in seed oil content. The highest level of seed oil content (29.63%) was recorded in cv. Mridula. In conclusion, foliar sprays of either zinc sulfate (0.30%) or boric acid (0.25%) could enhance the economic yield while zinc sulfate was superior in improving the nutritional quality and boric acid in increasing the seed oil content of pomegranate fruit in semiarid region.

Impact of Zinc and/or Herbal Mixture on Ruminal Fermentation, Microbiota, and Histopathology in Lambs.

We investigated the effect of diets containing organic zinc and a mixture of medicinal herbs on ruminal microbial fermentation and histopathology in lambs. Twenty-eight lambs were divided into four groups: unsupplemented animals (Control), animals supplemented with organic zinc (Zn, 70 mg Zn/kg diet), animals supplemented with a mixture of dry medicinal herbs (Herbs, 100 g dry matter (DM)/d) and animals supplemented with both zinc and herbs (Zn+Herbs). Each lamb was fed a basal diet composed of meadow hay (700 g DM/d) and barley (300 g DM/d). The herbs Fumaria officinalis L. (FO), Malva sylvestris L. (MS), Artemisia absinthium L. (AA) and Matricaria chamomilla L. (MC) were mixed in equal proportions. The lambs were slaughtered after 70 d. The ruminal contents were used to determine the parameters of fermentation in vitro and in vivo and to quantify the microbes by molecular and microscopic methods. Samples of fresh ruminal tissue were used for histopathological evaluation. Quantitative analyses of the bioactive compounds in FO, MS, AA, and MC identified 3.961, 0.654, 6.482, and 12.084 g/kg DM phenolic acids and 12.211, 6.479, 0.349, and 2.442 g/kg DM flavonoids, respectively. The alkaloid content in FO was 6.015 g/kg DM. The diets affected the levels of total gas, methane and n-butyrate in vitro (P < 0.046, < 0.001, and < 0.001, respectively). Relative quantification by real-time PCR indicated a lower total ruminal bacterial population in the lambs in the Zn and Zn+Herbs groups than the Control group (P < 0.05). The relative abundances of Ruminococcus albus, R. flavefaciens, Streptococcus bovis, and Butyrivibrio proteoclasticus shifted in the Zn group. Morphological observation found a focally mixed infiltration of inflammatory cells in the lamina propria of the rumen in the Zn+Herbs group. The effect of the organic zinc and the herbal mixture on the parameters of ruminal fermentation in vitro was not confirmed in vivo, perhaps because the ruminal microbiota of the lambs adapted to the zinc-supplemented diets. Long-term supplementation of a diet combining zinc and medicinal herbs, however, may negatively affect the health of the ruminal epithelium of lambs.

Impact of zinc: Early prevention of obesity and fatty in children

Abstract Objective Get the effect of zinc supplementation on the fat profile consisting of blood glucose levels, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides in obese and fatty children. Methods Primary data are anthropometric, nutritional intake and blood sugar levels at the time, total cholesterol, glycerides, HDL and LDL collected before and after intervention, namely in March to April 2018. Zinc supplements in the form of 1 teaspoon (20 mg) syrup used one day. The researcher got a sample, namely by criteria of obese and fatty children age 6–12 years, Bugis-Makassar tribes, physically healthy, received parental approval. Finally, there were 12 samples based on sample size calculations. Blood serum was examined using Roche Cobas C111 to in the Tajuddin Chalik General Hospital Laboratory Makassar, Indonesia. Anthropometric data consists of weight and 24-h intake. Results Latest, obese and fatty students who received zinc supplements caused blood sugar levels, total cholesterol and HDL to decrease significantly while triglyceride and LDL levels dropped not significantly. Conclusions Zinc supplements can be used as substances that can maintain the balance of blood fats and blood sugar levels for obese and fatty students.

Impact of Zinc, Boron and Molybdenum Addition in Soil on Mungbean Productivity, Nutrient Uptake and Economics

Zinc (Zn), boron (B) and molybdenum (Mo) are essential to increase the productivity of mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) and help to maintain the soil fertility but mostly ignored. Hence, an experiment was conducted during the years of 2016 and 2017 to know the impact of Zn, B and Mo on mungbean yield, nutrient uptake, economics and soil fertility improvement. The experiments were planned in randomized complete block design including of eight treatments with three replications. The treatments were T1 = Control, T2 = Zn 2 kg ha-1, T3 = B 1.5 kg ha-1, T4 = Mo 1 kg ha-1, T5 = Zn2B1.5, T6 = Zn2Mo1, T7 = B1.5Mo1 and T8 = Zn2B1.5Mo1. The other fertilizers, N, P, K and S at 20, 20, 30 and 10 kg ha-1, respectively were used in all treatments. The results indicate that the highest seed yield (1522 kg ha-1) was obtained from T8 treatment followed by T7. The highest percent seed yield increment (51.6%) over control was achieved in T8 treatment. Most of the growth and yield contributing characters of mungbean were recorded highest in T8 treatment. The maximum nodulation (37.6) and highest amount of protein (24.3%) was also obtained from T8 treatment. The T8 treatment contributed positively to attain higher total uptake of N, P, K, S, Zn and B by mungbean. The combination of Zn, B and Mo is showed more productive compare to sole or couple use of these micronutrients. The T8 (Zn2B1.5Mo1 kg ha-1) treatment exhibited helpful effects on soil organic matter, total N, available P, Zn and B. This treatment also showed economically better on the basis of net return. Results of the present study suggest that the combination of Zn, B and Mo applied at 2, 1.5 and 1 kg ha-1, respectively could be recommended for mungbean cultivation.

Behavioral responses of two sympatric species Armadillo officinalis and Chaetophiloscia elongata (Crustacea, Oniscidae) towards zinc contaminated litter

ABSTRACT This study deals with the impact of zinc on the locomotor activity rhythm of two terrestrial isopods Armadillo officinalis and Chetophiloscia elongata. Specimens are collected from the banks of Ghar El Melh lagoon. The locomotor rhythm of untreated and treated individuals with zinc is studied in the laboratory under constant darkness for 10 days. Results showed that untreated individuals of A. officinalis and C. elongata exhibited nocturnal behavior. After Zn exposure, these species concentrated their locomotor activities more or less in the subjective day. Whatever the species, the locomotor patterns became in majority multimodal for treated individuals. We noted, in addition, the absence of the unimodal profile. Through periodogram analysis, ultradian and circadian components were determined whatever the experimental conditions. The most important rhythmicity was determined in the control individual of A. officinalis (73.7%) as well as of C. elongata (52.6%). Furthermore, the locomotor behavior is less stable for contaminated individuals of the two sympatric species. Moreover, contrary to C. elongata, A. officinalis individuals became significantly more active after their exposure to zinc contaminated litter (αDD+Zn = 5h03 ± 2h33).

Formation of iron plaque on roots of Iris pseudacorus and its consequence for cadmium immobilization is impacted by zinc concentration

The impact of iron plaque (IP) on bioavailability of heavy metals to plants has been well documented, but the role of zinc (Zn) in modulating the associated processes remains elusive. We took Iris pseudacorus used in wetland for remediating Cd-contaminated water as an example and systematically studied the combined influence of Cd and Zn concentration on formation of IP and its consequence for immobilization and plant uptake of Cd. The experiment was conducted in hydroponic culture and in each treatment, we measured the physiological traits, activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, POD, CAT), mass of the IP, as well as the Cd content in both plant tissues and IP. The results showed that increasing Cd concentration resulted in a steady reduction in IP while the impact of zinc on IP was complicated and appeared to be coupled with Cd. When the Cd concentration was low (0.5mgL-1 measured as CdCl2 2·5H2O) increasing Zn concentration reduced IP, while when the Cd concentration was increased to 5mgL-1 increasing zinc concentration led to an increase in IP mass first followed by a decline after Zn concentration exceeded 100mgL-1 (measured as ZnSO4·7H2O). The change in IP as affected by Zn had a strong consequence for immobilization and plant uptake of Cd. When Cd concentration was low, the IP was comparatively abundant and hence adsorbed most Cd. In contrast, when Cd concentration was high, the IP reduced and the amount of Cd taken up by plant roots and translocated to shoots and leaves increased. Both Cd immobilization and its plant uptake were modulated by Zn concentration. At low Cd concentration the combined Cd immobilized and taken up by plant peaked when the Zn concentration was 50mgL-1, while at high Cd concentration the combined Cd reached maxima when theZn concentration was 100mgL-1. The activity of the antioxidant enzymes changed significantly with Zn rather than with Cd. Regardless of Cd concentration, the activity of all three antioxidant enzymes increased first with zinc concentration before declining when the Zn concentration exceeded approximately 100mgL-1 in all treatments, comparable with the change in immobilization and plant uptake of Cd as the Zn concentration increased. SEM analysis did prove the formation and variation of IP on the root surface of Iris pseudacorus in different treatments. We also found that the plant developed a survival strategy by scarifying its leaves with high Cd content. The results presented in this paper has wide implications as it revealed that care needs to be taken in applying Zn to enhance Cd immobilization and its plant uptake as exceeding the optimal application rate might reduce remediating efficiency rather than increase it.

Cadmium Fractions in Two Calcareous Soils Affected by Incubation Time, Zinc and Moisture Regime

ABSTRACTThis study has been performed to determine the impact of zinc (Zn) on cadmium (Cd) fractions in two types of calcareous soils of the Fars province in Iran at the waterlogged condition. High-reduced conditions in soil reduce Cd solubility because of the development of Cd Sulfide. Cadmium and Zn have similar physical-chemical properties; they are maintained in soil’s exchangeable sites as a divalent ion. Since such few studies have been conducted in calcareous soils of Iran, we examined the effect of Zn on Cd fractions due to their similar characteristics. Treatments were three levels of Cd (0, 30 and 60 mg kg−1 of soil as CdSO4.8H2O), three levels of Zn (0, 5 and 10 mg kg−1 of soil as ZnSO4 .7 H2O), three levels of incubation times (2, 4 and 8 weeks), and two types of soils (clay and sandy clay loam). The randomized completed block design (RCBD) was used for this experiment. After 2, 4, and 8 weeks of treatments, the sequential extraction technique was used to determine the Cd concentration in (WsEx), (Fe-MnOx), (Car), (OM) and (Res.) fractions. The data indicated that based on the soil texture 64% to 70% of the Cd was extracted in the WsEx and Fe-MnOx fractions. The waterlogged condition decreased the Cd concentration in the WsEx fraction and increased the Fe-MnOx, Car and OM fractions. Cd concentration in Res. fraction was higher in the clay soil while WsEx, Car and OM fractions were higher in the sandy clay loam soil. Adding Zn as zinc sulfate reduced the concentration of Cd in Fe-MnOx, Car and OM fractions but had no significant effect on the WsEx and Res. fractions. It can be concluded that the change in the Cd concentration in its chemical fractions caused by Zn addition might be from the competitive transport and adsorption interaction between these two ions. The presence of Zn reduces the concentration of Cd in those forms that are easily released into the soil solution from where they can be absorbed by plants.Abbreviation: WsEx: Water Soluble and Exchangeable; Car: Carbonate; Fe-MnOx: Iron-Manganese Oxides; OM: Organic Matter; Res: Residual

Growth and Productivity Response of Rice to Applied Zinc and Organic Manure

The objective of this research was to find out the impact of zinc and organic fertilization on the productivity of rice. Two separate field experiments were conducted in a zinc deficient soil belonging to Typic Haplusterts and Typic Ustifluvents during Rabi 2011-2012. The results revealed that grain and straw yield was significantly enhanced on addition of zinc or organics or both over control in both soils. The rice yield increased with zinc doses and maximum yields was noticed with 5 mg Zn kg-1 and declined at 7.5 mg Zn kg-1. While addition of poultry manure recorded the maximum rice yields and was on par with vermicompost. However the highest grain yield (6103, 6344 kg ha-1) and straw yield (8369, 8459 kg ha-1) was recorded with application of 5 mg Zn kg-1 and poultry manure in Vertisol and Entisol respectively. Similarly, addition of 5.0 mg Zn kg-1 along with poultry manure @ 10 t ha-1 registered the highest growth traits it was comparable with vermicompost at same level of zinc, but superior to other treatment combination.

Alterations in membrane fluidity are involved in inhibition of GM-CSF-induced signaling in myeloid cells by zinc

Zinc has a strong influence on the function of the immune system and is a driving factor for immune cell development. In this regard, studies revealed cell type specific effects of zinc. During zinc deficiency for example, development and activity of myeloid cells seems to be prioritized at the cost of cells from the lymphoid lineage. In T-cells, the altered proliferation was found to be due to zinc’s effect on IL-2-induced signaling processes, but in contrast to lymphoid cells, effects of zinc homeostasis on growth-factor-induced signaling in myeloid cells have not been investigated yet. The granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) is one of the major factors inducing monopoiesis. Considering the structural similarities between the GM-CSF receptor and those of the IL-receptor family as well as a similar set of signaling molecules involved, an impact of zinc on the GM-CSF signaling seems to be likely.Therefore, the effect of zinc on GM-CSF-induced signaling molecules was investigated here, using U937 cells as a model myeloid cell line.GM-CSF stimulation significantly increased STAT5 phosphorylation which was prevented completely by pre-incubation with zinc and pyrithione. U937 cells showed a strong pre-activation regarding c-Raf, which was significantly decreased by zinc and pyrithione incubation, independently from GM-CSF stimulation.As current literature was not sufficient to explain the observed effects, we hypothesized an altered receptor-complex assembly. As membrane composition and plasticity, subsumed under the term of membrane fluidity, was found to affect receptor multimerization, the impact of zinc on membrane fluidity was considered as a completely novel approach. Indeed, addition of zinc also decreased GM-CSFR expression on the cell surface and most interestingly altered membrane fluidity.In conclusion, we hypothesize that the incubation with zinc causes an alteration of membrane fluidity that hinders efficient receptor assembly as well as phosphorylation of signal molecules and therefore signal transduction.