Mineral Levels Research Articles

Preparation and Characterization of Anti-Microbial Wound Healing Materials from Natural Origins

Abstract Many types of polymers utilized as wound dressings, Polycaprolactone (PCL) displays high degree of biocompatibility as well as biodegradability, the mechanical strength states PCL in the foreground materials used in wound healing therapies. Current work aims to develop new types of wound plaster dressing, a multiple of natural and medical materials (aloe Vera, calendula and phenobarbital) were used to enhance the anti-microbial behavior as well as pain removal during wound healing period. Aloe Vera gels, Calendula extraction, with phenobarbital drug were precipitates on PCL layer in different percentage. Microstructure observation proves that polycaprolactone polymer is good base material supports dressing constituents, wound dressing homogeneity increased due to chemical reactions between the Aloe Vera and other materials. the main elements of dressing (carbon and oxygen) observed from chemical analysis (EDS) which is also showed that using combination of natural plants (aloe vera and Calendula) with phenobarbital medicine create wound plaster layer with wide range of active elements lead to therapeutic effects including antibacterial, In (FTIR) the results show using mixture of natural additives (aloe, calendula), medicine like phenobarbital in PCL lead to create wound plaster with high (OH) content acts to expedite the skin’s healing process by maintaining the natural level of minerals and hydration at wound area. Hydrophobicity of wound can minimized when adding some hydrophilic materials like Aloe Vera, phenobarbital and calendula, Aloe Vera gel, phenobarbital, as well as calendula decrease the contact angle value. Providing high adhesion between wound plaster and skin tissue. All prepared wound plaster has same and high resistance to Staphylococcus bacteria (40mm).

Enhancing yields of Pleurotus ostreatus and Lentinula edodes mushrooms using water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes [Mart.] Solms) supplemented with locally available feedstock as substrate

This study assessed the performance of Pleurotus ostreatus and Lentinula edodes mushrooms on a variety of substrate combinations. Water hyacinth, rice husk, and cow dung were employed as substrates. Mushroom growth performance, yield, proximate composition, and mineral content were among the variables evaluated. The results indicate significant differences (p < 0.05) in spawn run duration, first harvest duration, total yield, and biological efficiency among the substrate combinations for the mushroom species. The substrate combination of 80% water hyacinth and 20% cow dung consistently exceeded the performances of others, demonstrating higher total yield (863.00 and 799.81 g/bag) and biological efficiency (88.51% and 82.03%) for P. ostreatus and L. edodes mushrooms, respectively. Proximate analysis results also demonstrated that this substrate combination produced mushrooms with higher protein (14.72 and 12.04%) and carbohydrate (55.11 and 58.05%) contents for P. ostreatus and L. edodes, respectively. P, K, Mg, Na, Ca, Fe, Zn, and Cd levels in P. ostreatus samples ranged from 1700 to 2700, 28100 to 39500, 1600 to 7800, 291.55 to 400.23, 310.37 to 372.70, 26.42 to 45.47, 61.87 to 70.40, and 1.13–1.25 mg/kg on average, respectively. The levels for P, K, Mg, Na, Ca, Fe, Zn, and Cd ranged from 19700 to 22700, 22500 to 25000, 2100 to 2500, 250.96 to 300.90, 284.66 to 296.19, 24.04 to 29.49, 74.03 to 83.98, and 1.31–1.45 mg/kg for L. edodes samples. The evaluated mushrooms grown on the various substrate combinations contain higher major and minor minerals needed in the human diet than toxic elements. This indicated that the evaluated edible mushrooms had high important mineral levels and could be considered a good source of vital elements. They are also very good at balancing nutrient supply scarcity, which is common in developing countries like Ethiopia. However, according to the World Health Organization's permissible limits for human intake, adequate attention and control of daily dietary intake is necessary for specific elements.

Comparative Analysis of Vitamin D, Folic Acid, and Trace Minerals Levels in Various Stages of Invasive Ductal Breast Cancer.

Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) is one of the most commonly diagnosed subtypes of breast cancer, representing the majority of breast cancer cases. This study investigates the levels of vitamin D, folic acid, and antioxidant minerals (zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and magnesium (Mg)) in IDC patients across different disease stages to explore their potential roles in disease progression. We analyzed a cohort of 150 female patients with IDC, aged between 30 and 67 years (51 ± 15.5 years). Blood samples were collected to measure levels of vitamin D, folic acid, Cu, Mg, and Zn. Patients were categorized into Stage1 to Stage 4 of cancer. Variations in nutrient levels across these stages were statistically assessed using ANOVA and post-hoc tests. The study results revealed varying levels of key nutrients across different stages of the disease. Vitamin D levels averaged 17.7 ng/mL, with higher concentrations in early-stage patients, indicating a possible correlation with disease severity. Folic acid levels had a mean of 12.2 ng/mL, showing a decline in later stages, potentially linking it to cancer progression. Copper levels averaged 161.3μg/dL, peaking at 170μg/dL in Stage 3, suggesting a connection with cancer aggressiveness. Magnesium levels, with an average of 1.4 mg/dL, dropped notably to 0.6 mg/dL by Stage 4, highlighting its possible involvement in disease progression. Zinc levels averaged 69.4 μg/dL, with a significant decrease in advanced stages, emphasizing its importance for immune function and cellular health. The study demonstrates significant variations in the levels of vitamin D, folic acid, and antioxidant minerals across different stages of IDC. These nutrients may influence cancer progression, underscoring the potential benefits of nutritional assessments and interventions in managing IDC.

Sustainable agriculture through qanat systems in Karabakh: Water and soil characteristics in the context of climate change

This study investigates the water quality and soil characteristics associated with qanat systems in the Cebrail district of the Karabakh region, Azerbaijan. Qanat systems, traditional underground channels designed for water transport, play a crucial role in providing reliable water sources for drinking and irrigation. Water and soil samples were collected from seven qanat systems and analyzed for various physicochemical properties. Water quality parameters included pH, electrical conductivity, hardness, mineralization, and concentrations of calcium, magnesium, sodium, and other ions. Soil analyses focused on pH, electrical conductivity, organic matter content, salinization degree, and the presence of key ions like sulfate and nitrate. The results indicated that qanat water is generally of high quality, with pH levels suitable for both drinking and irrigation. However, some qanat systems exhibited high electrical conductivity and mineralization levels, suggesting potential salinity issues for sensitive crops. Soil samples showed favorable conditions for agriculture, with good pH levels, low salinity, and high organic matter content. The analysis revealed a significant interaction between water quality and soil characteristics, emphasizing the importance of integrated management practices. In the context of climate change, the sustainability of qanat systems is critical. Recommendations include regular monitoring of water and soil quality, soil amendments to mitigate salinity, efficient irrigation techniques, and the use of climate-resilient infrastructure. This study underscores the importance of qanat systems in arid and semi-arid regions and provides practical recommendations for sustainable land and water resource management, enhancing the socio-economic well-being of local communities.

Ecological and toxicological screening of the safety of drinking water for livestock enterprises of Odesa region

Our scientific and industrial research aimed to determine tap water's safety for watering productive animals (cows, goats, sheep) in three different livestock enterprises of the Odesa region. By using the microbiological method - ecological-toxicological express biotesting (with the help of the preparation of test organisms of the dry culture of ciliates Colpoda steinii), it was determined that among 106 samples of tap water for watering animals, an average of 65.62 received a rating of “general weak toxicity”; 67.01 and 64.88 % of the samples, respectively, for each farm (P &lt; 0.001, which highlighted the problem of the unsatisfactory quality of drinking tap water for dairy cattle. A trend was established to increase the indicator of weak toxicity of drinking water in enterprises by +0.22–4.33 % during the year in each farm (P &lt; 0.001). Determination of the comprehensive indicator of the quality of tap water for watering animals (farm No. 3) by express analysis of samples by the TDS - metric method showed that the level of mineralization of untreated drinking water exceeded recommended norms in 27.65 and 31.17 times (in 2023 and 2024, respectively, (P &lt; 0.001), and samples of water purified on the “ECOSOFT-6500” line were within the recommended norms of high-quality drinking water: on average 35.63–33.59 mg/l, respectively (P &lt; 0.001). The analysis of experimental comparative data and literature sources showed the need for further studies on the quality and safety of water for watering productive animals to optimize the management of safe water supply and obtain organic livestock products.

Correlation of serum zinc and magnesium with reduced heart rate variability in male Parkinson’s disease patients

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurological disorder associated with altered cardiac autonomic function. Heart rate variability (HRV) analysis is a tool to assess the cardiac autonomic status. Altered serum zinc (Zn) and magnesium (Mg) levels are observed in PD. The serum Zn and Mg alteration is associated with nerve function impairment. Objective: To evaluate the relationship between serum zinc, magnesium, and time domain measures of HRV in male patients with PD. Methods: This observational analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023on 30 newly diagnosed male PD patients aged 50-60 years. In this study, 30 healthy volunteers were the control. The 30 patients were divided into different categories based on serum mineral levels. The HRV was recorded by Power Lab 8/35, AD Instruments, Australia and the time domain measures of HRV were used in data analysis. The serum Zn and Mg levels were measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Independent sample ‘t’ test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient test were used for statistical analysis and p&lt;0.05 was considered statistical significance. Results: Significantly higher mean HR (Heart rate) (p&lt;0.01) and significantly lower mean RR (Normal to normal QRS complex) interval,CVRR (Coefficient variation of RR interval) (p&lt;0.01), SDRR (Standard deviation of the RR intervals), SDSD (Standard deviation of the difference between successive RR intervals), RMSSD (Square root of mean squared differences of successive RR intervals), pRR50% (Proportion of RR interval with duration &gt;50 ms) (p&lt;0.001)were observed in PD patients compared to control. In PD patients, significantly lower (p&lt;0.001) serum Zn and significantly higher (p&lt;0.01) serum Mg were observed compared to control. In addition,significant decrement was observed in SDRR, CVRR (p&lt;0.05), SDSD, RMSSD, and pRR50% (p&lt;0.01) in hypozincemic PD patients compared to normozincemic patients. On correlation analysis, significant positive correlations of serum Zn were observed with SDRR (p&lt;0.05),SDSD (p&lt;0.001), RMSSD (p&lt;0.001) and pRR50% (p&lt;0.01). Moreover,serum Mg was positively correlated with SDRR (p&lt;0.05) in PD patients. Conclusion: Hypozincemia and magnesium were directly related to reduced HRV in male PD patients. J Bangladesh Soc Physiol 2023;18(2): 63-71

Tap water filtration and purification usage and their impact on the concentrations of fluoride and other minerals – A community-based study

ObjectiveThis study investigated the prevalence of water filtration and purification system (WFPS) use among residents of central Indiana (USA) and determined the effects of WFPS on the concentrations of fluoride, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium in tap water. MethodsA census-based questionnaire collected data on demographics, water use, and water sources. Participants were also asked to provide water samples from their tap water or the WFPS they used. Water samples were analyzed using ion-specific electrodes (fluoride) and atomic absorption spectrometry (metals). Mineral concentration comparisons between water sources used nonparametric tests; questionnaire associations were testing using correlations, chi-square tests, and nonparametric tests. ResultsOne hundred and one participants completed the study, of which 71 % used some type of WFPS. Blacks were less likely to use WFPS than Asian or White participants (p = 0.045). Those with bachelor's degrees or higher were more likely to use WFPS (p = 0.003). The most used WFPS were pitcher filters (31 %), water softeners (21 %), reverse osmosis systems (11 %), faucet-mounted filters (4 %), and whole-house carbon filters (1 %). Reverse osmosis systems resulted in the lowest mineral concentrations (median, ppm; F-0.08, Ca-2.30, Mg-0.46, Na-4.60, P-0.35). Pitcher filters were largely comparable to unfiltered tap water. Water softeners resulted in the highest sodium concentrations (78.40 ppm). ConclusionA large proportion of study participants use WFPS, with pitcher filters being the most common. Reverse osmosis systems had the most significant impact on reducing mineral levels in tap water, while pitcher filters do not adversely affect mineral concentrations. Clinical SignificanceUnderstanding how different WFPS affect the various minerals in tap water is essential for helping consumers in choosing the right system and for oral care providers to guide patients on water consumption and the need for fluoride supplementation, especially for those at high risk of dental caries.

Increased bone mass but delayed mineralization: in vivo and in vitro study for zoledronate in bone regeneration

BackgroundBisphosphonates (BPs) are widely used to inhibit excessive osteoclast activity. However, the potential to compromise bone defect healing has limited their broader application. To better understand the influence of BPs on bone regeneration, we established a bone grafting model with Zoledronate administration, aiming to deepen the understanding of bone remodeling and mineralization processes.MethodsA bone grafting model was established in the distal femurs of male Sprague–Dawley rats. The experimental group received systemic administration of Zoledronate (ZOL, 0.2 mg/kg, administered twice). Histological analysis and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were employed to assess osteoblastic and macrophage activity, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining was used to evaluate osteoclastogenesis. Mineralization was assessed through Micro-CT analysis, Raman spectroscopy, and back-scatter scanning electron microscopy (BSE-SEM). Additionally, the in vitro effects of ZOL on osteoblast and osteoclast activity were investigated to further elucidate its impact on bone regeneration.ResultsIn vivo, the ZOL group showed increased bone mass, as observed in histological and radiological assessments. However, Micro-CT, Raman spectroscopy, and BSE-SEM detection revealed lower mineralization levels in ZOL group's regenerated bone. Acid-etched SEM analysis showed abnormal osteocyte characteristics in ZOL-group’s regenerated bone. Simultaneously, elevated osteopontin (OPN), F4/80 expression along with reduced TRAP expressing was found in the grafting region of ZOL group. In vitro, ZOL did not negatively impact osteogenetic activity (ALP, BMP4, OCN expression) at the tested concentrations (0.02–0.5 g/ml) but significantly impaired mineralization and inhibited osteoclast formation, even at the lowest concentration.ConclusionsThis study highlights a less recognized negative effect of ZOL on bone mineralization during bone regeneration. More research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanism.

Methods established for the detection of mineral levels in whole blood by the dried blood spot technique

Mineral are intimately related to human health and disease, and detection of mineral content in the body is of great significance for the diagnosis and prevention of diseases. In this study, we validated the method developed to detect magnesium (Mg), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and selenium (Se) levels in dried blood spots (DBS). In accordance with the requirements of the guidelines for the Bioanalytical Method Validation Guidance for Industry, we evaluate the linearity, sensitivity, precision, accuracy and selectivity of the developed methods. In addition, Mg, Cu, Fe, Zn and Se were quantified in 195 older adults using DBS technique, and its accuracy was assessed by comparing the results to those detected by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The method has excellent sensitivity and linear range to cover the concentration range of mineral elements in the general population with the required precision, accuracy and selectivity. The correlation coefficients of Mg, Cu, Fe, Zn and Se levels in blood detected by the DBS technique and ICP-MS were 0.638, 0.823, 0.463, 0.728 and 0.751, respectively (all P < 0.05), which indicated that there was a strong correlation between the detection results of the two methods. More than 95 % of the sample results in the Bland-Altman consistency test were within the acceptable limits of agreement (LOA) range, indicating that they had good consistency. DBS technique has good accuracy and reliability in detecting blood mineral levels in the elderly, suggesting potential in the quantification of mineral level in blood.

Magnetized Saline Water Drip Irrigation Alters Soil Water-Salt Infiltration and Redistribution Characteristics

Magnetization constitutes an efficacious physical treatment technique applicable to saline water. The new spiral flow magnetizer, in conjunction with the cyclic magnetization process, has the effect of maximizing effective magnetization time and thereby achieving the optimal magnetization results. Based on this, saline water (0.27, 3, 6, and 10 g L−1) was treated with different levels of magnetization (0, 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6 T), and the effects of magnetized saline water (MSW) drip irrigation on loamy-sand soil moisture, soluble salt infiltration, and redistribution characteristics were studied through a vertical soil column simulation experiment. The results showed that the wetting front migration in MSW drip irrigation experiments exhibited minimal variation during soil water infiltration, and a notable change during redistribution with the experimental duration of 0.27 and 3g L−1 saline water treatments being significantly different (p &lt; 0.05). Treating saline water with different mineralization levels with magnetization demonstrated water retention (0.27 g L−1 excluded) and salt drainage characteristics; calculated soil water storage increased by 1.58–14.19% and salt storage decreased by 0.22–7.66%. The optimal magnetization intensity for low-mineralization (0.27 and 3 g L−1) saline water was 0.2 T and for high-mineralization (6 and 10 g L−1) it was 0.6 T. The adsorption and exchange of cations (19.58–32.12%) by the optimum MSW treatments was greater than that of anions (9.46–14.15%); specifically, the relative exchange capacity of Ca2+ and Mg2+ in cations was more than K+ and Na+, while HCO3− and SO42− in anions was more than Cl−. This study provides theoretical and technical support for the irrigation of farmland with poor-quality water, as well as for the development of magnetized water irrigation technology.

Causes of the Groundwater Levels Rise in the Absheron Peninsula and the Ways of its Regulation

In connection with the growth of Baku city and its adjacent regions located in the Absheron Peninsula, this territory is the most densely populated part of our republic. The waste from industrial enterprises and oil and gas fields, a significant part of which is also located within the Peninsula, has a negative influence on the ecological situation of the studied area. This article provides an overview of the hydrogeological conditions of various areas of the object under study and identifies changes in the level of groundwater in these areas while establishing the reasons for its rise. Physical and chemical analyses of water samples taken from drilled wells and dug wells throughout the region were carried out. The reasons for the increase in the level of underground water were established, which lead to flooding, swamping, and recurrent salinization of the soil in the Absheron Peninsula. Measures and recommendations were developed to restore the ecological balance of the study area. In addition, groundwater, phreatimetric data, and water reservoir strikes in cities, villages, and settlements located on the peninsula were studied. The physico-chemical composition of underground waters and their mineralization levels were studied in laboratory conditions. The groundwater levels in drilled and dug wells across the peninsula were established and compared with data from historical records and literature. The studies conducted allowed for the evaluation of the suitability of groundwater for various national and economic uses. It has been established that, simultaneously with natural factors, anthropogenic factors have had a significant influence on the rise in the level of groundwater, including the absence of central sewage and drainage systems, the discharge of water from industrial enterprises, and household water, among others. To eliminate the environmental emergency, it is recommended to carry out priority temporary measures in some areas of the Absheron Peninsula at the initial stage.

Engineering-geological conditions of the Shirvan Steppe of the Kura-Aras Lowland of Azerbaijan Republic and the influence of the Upper-Shirvan Canal on it

Since 1950, the area of the Shirvan Steppe has been subject to numerous ameliora- tive measures, as well as the construction of a number of hydrotechnical facilities. Natural and anthropogenic effects have altered the level of groundwater, mineralization level, chemical composition, engineering-geological conditions, soil salinity, and chemical composition of soils. In order to reflect the engineering-geological conditions of the Shirvan Steppe, geological-hydrochemical sections were created in two directions, in the direction of groundwater flow (I-I) and the direction across the flow of groundwater (II-II). The analysis consid- ered the engineering-geological, physical-geographical, geomorphological, geological, and other conditions of the studied area before and after construction of the Upper Shirvan Canal. Along the route of the Upper Shirvan Canal, the research revealed the main soils as follows: loam, clay, gravel-pebble, sand, and loamy sand. The engineering-geological parameters such as minimum moisture capacity, hygroscopic moisture, volume, weight, density, porosity, and granulometric composition of the soils along the route of Ujar, Kurdamir, Goychay regions, and the Upper Shirvan Canal have been determined. Over the 70-year continuous operation of the Upper Shirvan Canal, settlements in the area of its influence expanded, thereby increasing the loading on the canal beyond the norm. As a result of damage to the concrete coatings of the canal, the quality of operation has decreased, some infrastructure located on it has ceased to function, and water losses from the canal have increased. In such conditions, it is important to study the formation of engineering-geological conditions resulting from natural and anthropogenic effects and to take preventive measures against negative impacts. During the reconstruction and subsequent operation of the canal to provide water to the newly irrigated land areas in the Shirvan Steppe, there should be taken into account the technogenic effects on the geological environment and relevant proposals of important scientific and practical importance regarding the reconstruction project.

Salt Tolerance of Fungi and Prospects for Mycodiagnostics of Contamination in Saline Soils

The review is devoted to the analysis of the characteristics of salt-tolerant fungi in order to identify the possibility of their use for indicating chemical contamination of highly mineralized soils and the search for potential test species for laboratory mycotesting. A list of representatives of halophilic and halotolerant genera of micromycetes is given, which can serve as indicators of pollution by heavy metals, oil products and other toxicants against the background of increased mineralization of soil substrates. For biotesting of soils with an average level of mineralization, micromycetes belonging to moderate halotolerant species are proposed as promising. The morphological, physiological and molecular mechanisms of adaptation of halophilic and halotolerant fungi to conditions of increased salinity of habitats are analyzed. The effects on fungal communities, which are caused by a combination of salinity with chemical pollution of different nature, are considered. Methodological aspects of the practical use of salt-tolerant fungi for biodiagnostics of the degree of unfavourability of saline soils are considered: the composition of media, cultivation conditions, and test reactions of fungal cultures that are optimal for an adequate assessment of the degree of halotolerance of fungi and ecotoxicity of soil samples.

The Effect of Vitamins and Minerals on Dental Implants: A Review

Aims: The focus of this review study was to examine and analyze the impact of vitamins and minerals on dental implants. Methods and Material: In order to obtain information on the effects of vitamins and minerals on dental implants, a group of existing articles was thoroughly examined for their findings. This examination process involved the selection of specific articles that met the necessary criteria to be included in the analysis, which were then subjected to an extensive review process. The duration of this review process was over a time span of 11 years, starting from the year 2011 and concluding in the year 2022. Results: A total of 23 articles were included in the study, consisting of 9 clinical studies, 6 animal studies, 1 laboratory study, and 7 reviews. Clinical studies were limited due to uncertain results regarding the impact of vitamins and minerals on DIT, with most focusing on vitamin D levels rather than other nutrients. Conclusions: It has been concluded that vitamins and minerals play an important role in forming bone tissue. The lack of these essential elements may result in several diseases, such as diabetes mellitus and osteoporosis. It is therefore recommended to increase the levels of vitamins and minerals in patients before undergoing dental implant treatment (DIT), even though the quality of the patient's bone can also impact the success of the implant. Consequently, the patient's diet should be modified, and essential supplements and vitamins should be administered to ensure optimal implant success.

27 Effects of particle size and trace mineral source on vitamin stability in premix

Abstract Trace minerals and vitamins are necessary in diets for multiple physiological processes related to structural development, catalytic and regulatory systems in the animal. They become especially important when animals are challenged. These ingredients are commonly added to commercial diets through a concentrated mix, a premix. Unfortunately, vitamins are relatively unstable, and minerals are highly reactive, leading to reduction of the vitamins by the minerals. Feeding a mineral of a different particle size can influence this mechanic, as well as a different source, for example hydroxy trace minerals. The objective of this work was to evaluate vitamin A stability in presence of different sources of trace minerals as well as premix conditions. A microcrystalline cellulose matrix was created by dissolving vitamin A in an organic solvent (IPA). A fixed amount of vitamin MCC mix was added to a sample tube per analysis, containing common premix vitamin and mineral levels. Fixed amount of moisture and antioxidant (BHT) was added to evaluate these effects. Results on the effect of moisture indicated that 10% moisture addition had a large effect on vitamin A stability, reducing it by over 50% after 11 d. Vitamin A loss in premixes containing no moisture showed no difference between MCC mixes containing no mineral and ones containing hydroxy Cu, whereas there was a significant drop in vitamin A with CuSO4. Vitamin A stability was significantly affected by a lower particle size Cu source, with CuSO4 below 75 µm showed almost full degradation after 13 d. Hydroxy Cu showed relatively low degradation for its particle size. Overall, the results showed that moisture and particle size can have a huge impact on vitamin A stability, with BHT or antioxidants only partly being able to reduce this. Feeding a higher quality trace mineral source such as hydroxy trace minerals lead to a less reactive Cu, and hence, a higher vitamin A stability.

PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS OF BROWN EGG-TYPE LAYERS WITH OR WITHOUT VITAMIN-MINERAL PREMIX SUPPLEMENTATION

The inclusion of vitamins and mineral premix in the diet of egg-type layers can positively influence their overall health and egg production. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of different inclusion levels of mineral and vitamin premix on performance characteristics of brown egg-type layers. One hundred and sixty-two (162) “1sa Brown” strain of layers at 16 weeks old were used for the experiment. They were randomly allocated into nine dietary treatments replicated three times with six birds per replicate to make a total of 18 birds per treatment. Nine isonitrogenous and isocaloric diet were formulated, each were supplemented appropriately at two inclusion levels of 0.20 - 0.25% of different Vitamin-Mineral Premix (VMP)1, 2, 3 and 4 to T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8, T9 respectively while T1 was the control diet with no VMP. The experiment lasted for twelve (12) weeks. The results showed that the supplementation of different concentration of mineral and vitamin premix had significant effect (P&lt;0.05) on the performance of laying hens. The highest percentage of hen day egg production (56.45%) was observed in group fed VMP2 (0.25%), while the control (VMP0) gave the best result in-terms of gross profit and final weight. Different inclusion levels of dietary mineral and vitamin premix affect the final weight, daily feed intake and egg traits of the birds.

EFFECT OF CRYSTALLINE PROGESTERONE LEVELS ON MINERAL PROFILE IN LOHMANN BROWN LAYERS

The present experiment was conducted to determine the effect of crystalline progesterone (CP) on serum levels of minerals profile in eighteen Lohmann Brown layers. A single factor completely randomized design was employed with each treatment (0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 mg/bird) administered intramuscularly via the keel muscle and replicated thrice. Data were analyzed using GraphPad InStat® statistical package. Statistically non-significant changes in median serum mineral levels across CP treatment groups were recorded, except for serum calcium, phosphorus and sodium.Median serum calcium (2.9 mmol/L) at CP dose of 20 mg decreased significantly by a magnitude of 0.7 mmol/L from the median calcium value (3.6 mmol/L) at 5 mg CP. Serum phosphorus decreased significantly from 2.8 mmol/L in control hens to 1.6 mmol/L in hens that received 20 mg CP. There was a significant increase in serum sodium median value (4.67 ppm) at treatment dose of 10 mg CP when compared to the corresponding sodium level (2.00 ppm) in the control group. It is recommended that serum biochemistry, hematological parameters and reproductive hormones were determined after exogenous crystalline progesterone on Lohman brown layers.

Variability Assessment of Banana Cultivars and Intercropping with Lemongrass Based on Fruit Quality Indicators

Bananas are one of the most consumed fruits in the world and are essential for food security and in the agricultural economy. Their sustainable production is vital for many communities. Herein, the effects of banana cultivars, cropping systems (monocropping and intercropping with lemongrass), and the interaction between these factors on the physicochemical characteristics of ripe and unripe fruit were evaluated. The intercropping of bananas with lemongrass did not alter the main quality indicators of the fruit. The ripe fruits of the SCS451 Catarina cultivar stood out for their higher fruit mass, pulp/peel ratio, and firmness, while the fruits of the Prata Anã and BRS FHIA Maravilha cultivars had the highest SS, SS/TA ratio, pH, and reducing and total sugars. The cultivar SCS451 Catarina had the highest mineral content in the unripe fruit, and for all cultivars, the order of mineral levels was K &gt; N &gt; Mg &gt; P &gt; Ca &gt; Fe &gt; Zn. The higher content of total and resistant starch in the unripe fruit of the Prata Anã and BRS FHIA Maravilha cultivars, combined with the characteristics of the ripe fruit, make them suitable for both fresh consumption and industrial use. Diversifying cultivars improves the quality of banana fruit, and intercropping with lemongrass can be a sustainable method of managing banana fields.

Bambara groundnut as a food, nutritional and income security crop in SubSaharan Africa

An over-reliance on the three major global food staples; maize, wheat, and rice, to continue feeding the world is a dangerous approach. Bambara groundnut originated in West-Africa, but was adopted in many African countries, and is produced almost exclusively by small-scale farmers. It has good levels of nutrients, particularly protein, carbohydrates and fat, as well as lysine, in such a balanced manner that it has been termed a “complete food”. The long duration of cooking (hard-to-cook) of bambara groundnut, and the low number of uses in food preparation (in contrast to groundnut) are also factors responsible for lower levels of production and utilization compared to other legumes. Bambara groundnuts have more than 20% protein and can be used as a meat supplement or replacer. It also has high levels of iron and zinc. Landraces with dark-coloured seeds such as red or black, generally contain higher levels of nutrients and minerals than the cream-white or plain-white coloured landraces. The iron content of red bambara seeds was found to be double that of cream-coloured seeds. Antinutrients such as phytic acid can reduce the bioavailability of iron and zinc, but dehulling of the seed can reduce antinutrients significantly. Bambara groundnut has significant potential as a food security crop, but concerted efforts should be made by governments to market the crop, and to develop products and new uses for the seed and the plant. Plant breeding efforts can improve yield and cooking quality. This paper presents progress on the industrial application for food and nutritional security and genetic improvement of bambara groundnut through breeding.

Correlation of Co-Morbidities with Symptom Severity of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Cross-Sectional Survey.

This study aims to identify potential correlations of the severity of symptoms of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with serum nutritional levels, body composition indicators, diet partiality, and sleep disturbances. The cohort of this cross-sectional study included 120 children with ASD and 110 typically developing (TD) children to assess symptoms of ASD, and to measure serum levels of vitamins and minerals and the body composition values. Diet partiality and sleep disturbances were assessed by administering questionnaires. The serum levels of folic acid, copper, and vitamin B were lower in children with ASD than in TD children, while magnesium and homocysteine were higher (p < 0.05). Children with ASD had greater chest circumference, abdominal skinfold thickness, and body mass index (BMI) than TD children (p < 0.05), and higher prevalences of diet partiality and sleep disturbances (p < 0.001). Lower vitamin A levels and higher vitamin D levels were related to social impairment in children with ASD. Moreover, there were significantly positive correlations of BMI, chest circumference, diet partiality, and sleep disturbances with severity of ASD symptoms (p < 0.05). Collectively, rational nutritional supplementation, dietary management, and behavioral interventions are essential for children with ASD.