Mineral Levels Research Articles

Boosting cherry tomato yield, quality, and mineral profile through the application of a plant-derived biostimulant

The present experiment addressed the effects of a plant-derived biostimulant (PDB, Bioup® TF) on fruit quality and composition of two greenhouse cherry tomato cultivars (Caravaggio and Creativo) grown during the autumn-winter. The biostimulant application enhanced the marketable fruit yield up to 1.148 g m−2 of ‘Creativo’ (+16 %) and increased the fruit dry matter, firmness, and chroma (C*), particularly of ‘Caravaggio’ (by 23, 12, and 11 %, respectively). ‘Caravaggio’ also showed the strongest increase in total polyphenols (+26 %) and carotenoid contents (+50 %) in response to the treatment. This trend paralleled the strongest rise of the in vitro antioxidant activity of its fruit extracts, as revealed by the DPPH and FRAP assays. Moreover, the biostimulant treatment resulted in higher concentrations of 10 among 12 minerals analyzed in fresh fruit. This effect was particularly relevant for calcium, manganese, and copper, whereas ‘Caravaggio’ proved the strongest rise for potassium, magnesium, sodium, and zinc. Interestingly, the biostimulant application did not promote or even reduced the concentration of nickel in fresh ‘Caravaggio’ and ‘Creativo’ (-38 %) fruit, respectively. This suggests that the integration of PDBs in the framework of agronomic strategies could assist in producing Ni-poor tomatoes while increasing, at the same time, their levels in health-promoting minerals.

Mineral Concentrations in Different Types of Honey Originating from Three Regions of Continental Croatia.

Honey has been recognized as a reliable indicator of environmental quality because of honeybees' intense foraging activity, which brings them into contact with many persistent organic pollutants around the hive. In this study, four types of honey (meadow, acacia, chestnut, and honey in comb) collected at three different locations were analyzed for Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb, and Zn levels. The highest levels of Fe and Cu in chestnut honey, Co and Zn in meadow honey, and Pb in honey in comb were observed in Varaždin County. The lowest levels of Pb in meadow honey and Co in comb honey were found from apiaries in Sisak-Moslavina County. Significant differences in the mean concentrations of Cr, Cu, Mn, and Fe were observed among the four honey types. Conversely, no significant differences in Co, Pb, and Zn levels were found. Most of the significant differences between the elements are related to chestnut honey. While sampling location (Fe) and type of honey (Pb), or both (Cr and Zn), significantly influenced the concentrations of some elements, these factors were found to be irrelevant for Mn, Co, and Cu. The results showed varying degrees of similarities and differences in mineral levels in honey samples, depending on floral and geographical origin.

Maximum levels of vitamins and minerals in fortified food and food supplements in the European Union

The European Commission and a Task Force of seven EU Member States, led by Germany and involving Belgium, Spain, France, Greece, Ireland and the Netherlands, have been trying to set maximum levels for vitamin and mineral supplementation in fortified foods and food supplements. After submitting it to all Member States for consideration, the Commission will consult the stakeholders. This article analyzes the evolution and current situation on various issues related to this purpose: applicable EU legislation and comments on it, nutrient reference values in the EU and their possible update, maximum tolerable intake levels in the EU and their recent updates, alternatives when there are no tolerable maximum intake levels in the EU, dietary intake surveys in the EU and models to establish maximum levels for their supplementation in the EU. Finally, some conclusions are formulated on the two objectives to be achieved in setting the maximum amounts for this supplementation and, in addition, the updating of the nutrient reference values and their expansion with specific values for children under 3 years old is suggested.

Assessment of groundwater quality using hydrochemical process, GIS and multivariate statistical analysis at central Rif, North Morocco

This study investigated groundwater in the central Rif region of northern Morocco by analysing 55 water sampling points to assess its physicochemical and hydrogeochemical properties. Through hydrochemical analysis, GIS spatial exploration, and multivariate statistical analysis, a direct correlation was found between EC, TDS, and major ions, influencing overall water mineralization. The key findings included pH levels ranging from 6.10 to 8.52, EC from 828 to 4581 μS/cm, and varying concentrations of Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, HCO2–, Cl–, N–NO2–, and SO42–. Notably, TDS and TH ranged from 647.19–3609.36 mg/L and 64.23–1051.24 mg/L, respectively, with a significant portion of samples exceeding WHO guidelines, particularly chloride (61.81%), sulfate (92.72%), and nitrate (12.72%) samples. The Piper diagram highlights sodium chlorides (Na–Cl) as the predominant chemical facies (70.9%), while the Gibbs diagram emphasizes the impact of evaporation on water chemistry dynamics. This study revealed the complex influence of geological and anthropogenic factors on groundwater quality, potentially leading to seawater intrusion in coastal aquifers. The observed high mineralization and hardness levels, in addition to mild alkalinity, pose public health risks, underscoring the need for continuous monitoring and sustainable management practices in coastal groundwater management to protect human health and the environment.

Simulation of Maize Growth Under the Applications of Brackish Water in Northwest China

The objective of this study is to assess the suitability of the AquaCrop model for growing maize using brackish water irrigation in Northwest China. Additionally, this study aims to examine how maize utilizes water in various soil layers when irrigated with varying water qualities. The AquaCrop model was calibrated and verified using experimental data from the years 2022 and 2023 in this research. (1) The findings indicated that the AquaCrop model effectively simulated the canopy cover, biomass, and yield of maize when irrigated with brackish water. The validation year’s R2, MAPE, and RMSE values for canopy cover, biomass, and yield of maize were 0.95, 5.36%, and 4.77%, respectively. For biomass, the R2, MAPE, and RMSE values were 0.91, 16.61%, and 2.12 t·hm−2, respectively. For yield, the R2, MAPE, and RMSE values were 0.84, 3.62%, and 0.42 t·hm−2, respectively. (2) Irrigation with water of high mineral content, measured at 1.6 ds/m, as well as with fresh water over the whole reproductive period, resulted in an increased reliance on groundwater for maize cultivation. There was no notable disparity in the usage of various soil layers between the irrigation with alternating freshwater and brackish water. (3) The AquaCrop model simulated the effects of seven different irrigation water quality treatments. It was shown that using water with mineralization levels of 0.5 and 0.8 ds/m resulted in decreased freshwater use without causing a substantial decrease in maize yield and biomass.

Phosphorus use efficiency in common bean genotypes

Phosphorus absorption in plants can vary depending on the genotypes, mineral levels, and environmental conditions. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate phosphorus use efficiency and the response capacity of five common bean genotypes in two cultivation cycles. A 2x5 factorial scheme was used with three replicates. Factor A consisted of using and not phosphorus fertilization, and factor B consisted of five common bean genotypes (BRS Expedito, Iraí, Pérola, Maronze, and Vermelho). The evaluated yield components were the number of pods per plant (NPP), the number of grains per plant (NGP), and the mass of 1000 grains (M1000G). The yield was calculated and extrapolated to kg ha-1. We also evaluated the phosphorus levels accumulated in the leaves and grains (mg and %) and estimated the use efficiency of using phosphorus in the grains. The data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance and compared using the Scott-Knott test at a 5% significance level. There was a significant interaction for all studied variables, indicating the interference of phosphorus fertilization in the behavior of the genotypes. The growing season influenced the genotypes' responses regarding phosphorus use. Yields increased with phosphorus fertilization and changed according to genotype. The phosphorus accumulated in the leaves and grains showed little divergence. The Iraí, Pérola, and Maronze genotypes stand out for their efficient use of phosphorus, presenting an increase above 50% when grown in soil with phosphorus fertilization. When fertilized, the Vermelho variety most accumulated phosphorus in the grains in the first season. In the second season, it showed a significant change in its response when using the phosphate fertilizer, indicating a change in behavior due to the environmental component.

Nanominerals Packaged in pH‐Responsive Alginate Microcapsules Exhibit Selective Delivery in Small Intestine and Enhanced Absorption and Bioavailability

AbstractMineral supplementation is crucial for human nutrition to facilitate appropriate growth, disease prevention, and improved reproductive health. The conventional forms of mineral supplementation involve an ionic form of elements mixed with biomolecules; however, suffer from unfavorable reactions under an acidic environment of stomach, ROS generation, and poor absorption in the small intestine. To address this, nanominerals (NMs) of six essential mineral elements are synthesized and packed in pH‐responsive microcapsule. Each NMs is coated with biomolecules that are known to rapidly absorb through the intestinal epithelium. Microcapsules are found intact at acidic pH (pH: 2.0–6.5); however, selectively release NMs at pH ≥7.0. The in vitro study demonstrates that the mixture of NMs and microcapsules is biocompatible and exhibits excellent ROS scavenging ability at physiological pH. Oral administration of NMs‐loaded microcapsules to rats shows enhanced levels of minerals, vitamin B12, hemoglobin, and total antioxidant activity in blood. The liver, kidneys, and spleen show enhanced expression of Cu/Zn‐SOD and Mn‐SOD enzymes due to high absorption and bioavailability of ZnO, Cu2O, and MnO2 NMs through the intestine. Thus, the pH‐responsive microcapsules hold promise to effectively stealth the encapsulated nutrient materials from the acidic environment of stomach and precisely deliver them to small intestine.

Education and Training on Making Carrot Hard Candy and Dragon Fruit Soft Candy for Stunting Prevention

Stunting is a form of chronic malnutrition associated with prolonged nutritional deficiencies. One crucial way to meet the nutritional needs of young children is by consuming vegetables and fruits, which are primary sources of micronutrients. Vegetables and fruits are vital for the body as sources of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, essential for achieving a healthy diet according to balanced nutrition guidelines. Vitamins are particularly crucial for maintaining body health. Carrots (Daucus carota L) and dragon fruit (Hylocereus sp.) are highly nutritious vegetables and fruits, containing high levels of carotene, vitamin A, B, C, and various minerals. Providing education and training to individuals and community groups, especially those at risk, aims to enhance knowledge, foster healthy habits and behaviors, and ultimately prevent stunting in the community. This community service project consists of preparation, observation, and implementation stages. The project involved 30 participants from the community and the PKK women's group in Kerang Village, Takeran District, Magetan Regency, East Java Province. The results indicated high participant enthusiasm, as seen from their active engagement. The community learned about the benefits of carrot hard candy and dragon fruit soft candy and understood the process of making these nutritious candies. From a low level of understanding before the education, there was an increase in understanding, and the community's low skill level improved after the training.

Nutritional Value of the Larvae of the Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) and the House Fly (Musca domestica) as a Food Alternative for Farm Animals-A Systematic Review.

Dietary alternatives using insect-based products as an alternative for farm animal nutrition have been the object of study due to the high nutritional value of these feeds and the costs related to both their production and consequently their commercialization. Thus, the use of flies, especially larvae, has a high content of proteins and lipids (fat), as well as minerals and essential nutrients for development and growth, directly impacting the production of these animals, whether meat or milk. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compile data from the literature on the nutritional value of adults and larvae of Black soldier (Hermetia illucens) and housefly (Musca domestica) as a dietary alternative for animal feed. The Prisma checklist was used. After reviewing the data found in the literature, following the systematic review, it was noted that studies emerge that larvae of black soldier flies and domestic flies of the order Diptera obtain essential sources in the nutrition of ruminants, in addition to obtaining rapid digestibility, thus adhering to reproduction with high nutritional content, due to incident levels of protein, lipids, and minerals in M. domestica and Lucilia sericata, making it a target for inclusion in the diet of farm animals. In addition, it is concluded that both species are studied for their sustainable potential as well as for offering greater economic and nutritional viability when compared to ingredients present in production animal feed.

Analysis of heavy metals and minerals in edible vegetable oils produced and marketed in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia

IntroductionNowadays, food safety is regarded as one of the most critical global public health issues. Edible oil, a key ingredient in food processing, is widely used and consumed in every Ethiopian household. However, its safety is often overlooked. Currently, edible oil is produced in Ethiopia from small-scale operations to large industrial levels, as well as imported from other countries.ObjectiveThis study aimed to determine the levels of heavy metals and essential minerals in edible vegetable oils produced and marketed in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia.MethodsA laboratory-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May to July 2021 in Gondar City. Seventeen edible oil samples were collected using simple random sampling techniques. Heavy metal content was determined using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer with the standard procedures and techniques after microwave digestion. The efficiency and validity of the method used were evaluated by determining the limit of detection (LOD), the limit of quantification (LOQ), accuracy, and precision. The collected data were entered into Microsoft Excel and transported to Stata for analysis.ResultA total of seventeen vegetable oil samples were analyzed. The accuracy of the method was evaluated by recovery studies, which ranged from 81 to 115%, and the relative standard deviations were found to be below 15%. The concentrations of Zn, Cu, Fe, Cd, and Pb were in the range of 0.07 to 0.8 mg/l, 0.002 to 0.06 mg/l, 0.01 to 0.8 mg/l, 0.08 to 0.18 mg/l, and 0.003 to 0.27 mg/l, respectively. In general, the lead and cadmium content was higher than other metals in some of the investigated edible vegetable oils. Most values fell within the permissible quality limits for edibility as prescribed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). However, the levels of Pb and Cd exceeded the reference levels in some locally produced vegetable oils.ConclusionTo address the exceeded levels of heavy metals, it is imperative to implement more careful handling, processing of raw materials, and filtering practices. Producers and marketers should take the necessary precautions to prevent contamination. Strict regulatory control from responsible bodies and stakeholders is recommended to ensure the safety and metal contents of vegetable oils originating from the study area.

Mathematical optimization of multilinear and artificial neural network regressions for mineral composition of different tea types infusions

The objective of this study was to investigate the change in mineral composition depending on tea variety, tea concentration, and steeping time. Four different tea varieties, black Ceylon (BC), black Turkish (BT), green Ceylon (GC), and green Turkish (GT), were used to produce teas at concentrations of 1, 2, and 3%, respectively. These teas were produced using 7 different steeping times: 2, 5, 10, 20, 30, 45, and 60 min. It was also aimed to optimize the regression equations utilizing these factors to identify parameters conducive to maximizing Zn, K, Cu, Mg, Ca, Na, and Fe levels; minimizing Al content, and maintaining Mn level at 5.3 mg/L. The optimal conditions for achieving a Mn content of 5.3 mg/L in black Turkish tea entailed steeping at a concentration of 1.94% for 11.4 min. Variations in K and Mg levels across teas were inconsistent with those observed for other minerals, whereas variations in Al, Cu, Fe, Mn, Na, and Zn levels exhibited a close relationship. Overall, mineral levels in tea can be predicted through regression analysis, and by mathematically optimizing the resultant equations, the requisite conditions for tea production can be determined to achieve maximum, minimum, or target mineral values.

A comprehensive investigation of biochemical status in patients with telogen effluvium: Analysis of Hb, ferritin, vitamin B12, vitamin D, thyroid function tests, zinc, copper, biotin, and selenium levels.

The etiology of telogen effluvium (TE) includes situations that may cause physiological stress, surgical trauma, inflammatory, infectious, iatrogenic causes, medications and nutritional deficiencies. TE has been associated with iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency and thyroid diseases. In recent years, the use of over-the-counter food supplements containing vitamins and minerals such as biotin, vitamin D, zinc (Zn), copper (Cu) and selenium (Se) has been increasing in TE patients. The aim of this study is to investigate whether there are differences in nutritional status, vitamin and mineral levels by comparing individuals with TE and a control group. This case-control study included 90 female patients diagnosed with chronic telogen effluvium (CTE), and 90 female controls volunteered to participate in the study who consulted for reasons other than TE. Both groups aged 18 and over and applied to dermatology polyclinic between 01.09.2022 and 01.09.2023. A detailed anamnesis was taken from all patients, a hair pull test was performed, and TE was diagnosed after a dermoscopic examination was performed on all areas of the scalp. Then, serum vitamin D, Zn, Cu, Se levels and biotin levels in serum and urine were measured. Hemoglobin (Hb), ferritin, vitamin B12 and thyroid function tests were retrospectively scanned from the hospital database. It was determined that Zn levels were significantly lower in CTE patients than in controls. Se levels were found to be significantly higher in patients than in controls. There was no difference in Hb, ferritin, vitamin B12, thyroid function tests, vitamin D, Cu levels, serum and urine biotin levels between the two groups. Zn, Cu/Zn and Se levels were found to have statistically significant diagnostic performance in predicting the diagnosis of CTE. Cu/Zn ratio and Se value were found to be significant predictors of CTE. This study shows us that nutritional deficiencies are not as common as thought in patients diagnosed with TE. Other causes that may cause TE should be investigated by a detailed anamnesis and a good physical examination. After all, tests for suspected conditions should be performed and individualized treatment options should be created for each patient.

Effect of organic and nano trace minerals at reduced levels in layer diets on egg quality characteristics and its trace mineral content

An experiment was conducted to assess the effect of organic and nano trace minerals (copper, zinc, manganese and iron) at reduced levels in layer diets on various egg quality characteristics and its trace mineral content. 240 Hy- Line W80 layer birds of 29 weeks old were randomly distributed to five treatment groups with four replicates having twelve birds each. Basal diet was supplemented with inorganic trace minerals to meet 100 per cent requirement to form control diet or with organic trace minerals at 75 and 50% of requirement or with nano trace minerals at 50 and 25% of requirement to form four test diets. Each diet was offered to four replicate groups for 84 days which was conveniently divided into three phases of 28 days each. Egg quality parameters, viz. egg weight, egg shape index, albumen index, yolk index, yolk color score, Haugh unit score, egg shell weight, albumen weight and yolk weight among the treatment groups were not affected by source and level of trace minerals. However, egg shell thickness was significantly higher in 25% nano trace mineral group on 28th day. The trace minerals (Zn and Fe) in the yolk were significantly lower at reduced trace mineral levels (50% organic or nano and 25% nano form) when compared to 100% (inorganic) and 75% levels (organic form). It was concluded that the substitution of inorganic trace minerals with organic or nano trace minerals at reduced levels (50 or 25%, respectively) in layer diets does not affect the egg quality parameters, but reduces Zn and Fe content in egg yolk.

Reliable Fabrication of Mineral-Graded Scaffolds by Spin-Coating and Laser Machining for Use in Tendon-to-Bone Insertion Repair.

A reliable method for fabricating biomimetic scaffolds with a controllable mineral gradient to facilitate the surgical repair of tendon-to-bone injuries and the regeneration of the enthesis is reported. The gradient in mineral content is created by sequentially spin-coating with hydroxyapatite/poly(ε-caprolactone) suspensions containing hydroxyapatite nanoparticles in decreasing concentrations. To produce pores and facilitate cell infiltration, the spin-coated film is released and patterned with an array of funnel-shaped microchannels by laser machining. The unique design provided both mechanical (i.e., substrate stiffness) and biochemical (e.g., hydroxyapatite content) cues to spatially control the graded differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. Immunocytochemical analysis of human mesenchymal stem cell-seeded scaffolds after 14 days of culture demonstrated the formation of a spatial phenotypic cell gradient from osteoblasts to mineralized chondrocytes based on the level of mineralization in the scaffold. By successfully recreating compositional and cellular features of the native tendon enthesis, the biomimetic scaffolds offer a promising avenue for improved tendon-to-bone repair.

The effects of coated inorganic trace minerals on the growth performance, mineral retention, and intestinal health comparing with inorganic and organic trace minerals for juvenile American eels (Anguilla rostrata)

This study was conducted to compare the effects of coated inorganic trace minerals (CITM) with those of inorganic and organic trace minerals on the growth performance, mineral retention in the whole-body, and intestinal health of juvenile American eels (Anguilla rostrata). Eels were randomly divided into the inorganic trace minerals (ITM) group, organic trace minerals (OTM) group, coated inorganic trace minerals I (CITM I) group, and coated inorganic trace minerals II (CITM II) group, respectively. The supplementation level of trace minerals in the CITM II group was 50 % of those in the CITM I group. Eels were fed experimental diets for ten weeks. Compared with the ITM group, weight gain rate, specific growth rate, protein efficiency, and feed efficiency of those in the CITM I and CITM II groups were increased. Eels in the CITM I group exhibited higher retention rates of calcium, phosphorus, and zinc in whole body than those in the ITM and OTM groups. CITM I group displayed the increased levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, immunoglobulin M, and D-lactic acid compared to the ITE group. Compared with the ITM and OTM groups, CITM I and CITM II groups showed enhanced intestinal histology and activities of intestinal amylase, lipase, and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), coupled with an increase of GSH content. Proteome analysis demonstrated that, compared to the ITE group, CITM I group displayed enhanced intestinal protein abundance associated with vitamin digestion and absorption, fat digestion and absorption, cysteine and methionine metabolism, and amino acid biosynthesis. In conclusion, CITM is more beneficial for the growth performance, mineral retention in the whole-body, and intestinal health of juvenile American eels compared to ITM and OTM sources. Our findings provide valuable insights into the application of the coated trace minerals sources in the diets for American eels and potentially for other fish species.

A comprehensive analysis of the role of cuproptosis in periodontitis through integrated analysis of single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing.

Trace mineral micronutrients are essential for periodontal health, and unbalanced levels of trace minerals are related to chronic periodontitis, including copper. We attempted to explore the relationship between cuproptosis and periodontitis. Bulk RNA-seq and single-cell RNA sequencing data were used to analyze expression of cuproptosis-related genes (CRGs) in periodontitis. A mouse periodontitis model was established to verify the expression of key genes. Cuproptosis-related genes were differentially expressed in periodontitis. RT-PCR results confirmed the alteration of five key genes in the mouse model. Cuproptosis is an important player in the pathophysiological process of periodontitis.

In vivo mapping of the mouse Galnt3-specific O-glycoproteome

The UDP-N-acetylgalactosamine polypeptide:N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase (GalNAc-T) family of enzymes initiates O-linked glycosylation by catalyzing the addition of the first GalNAc sugar to serine or threonine on proteins destined to be membrane-bound or secreted. Defects in individual isoforms of the GalNAc-T family can lead to certain congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG). The GALNT3-CDG, is caused by mutations in GALNT3, resulting in hyperphosphatemic familial tumoral calcinosis (HFTC) due to impaired glycosylation of the phosphate-regulating hormone FGF23 within osteocytes of the bone. Patients with hyperphosphatemia present altered bone density, abnormal tooth structure and calcified masses throughout the body. It is therefore important to identify all potential substrates of GalNAc-T3 throughout the body to understand the complex disease phenotypes. Here, we compared the Galnt3-/- mouse model, which partially phenocopies GALNT3-CDG, with wild-type mice and employed a multi-component approach utilizing chemoenzymatic conditions, a product-dependent method constructed using EThcD triggered scans in a mass spectrometry workflow, quantitative O-glycoproteomics, and global proteomics to identify 663 Galnt3-specific O-glycosites from 269 glycoproteins across multiple tissues. Consistent with the mouse and human phenotypes, functional networks of glycoproteins that contain GalNAc-T3-specific O-glycosites involved in skeletal morphology, mineral level maintenance and hemostasis were identified. This library of in vivo GalNAc-T3-specific substrate proteins and O-glycosites will serve as a valuable resource to understand the functional implications of O-glycosylation and to unravel the underlying causes of complex human GALNT3-CDG phenotypes.

Influence of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae-based probiotic complex on gut microbiota, serum biochemistry, and circulating trace element and mineral levels in lactating dairy cows.

The existing data demonstrate that gut microbiota is involved in regulating mineral metabolism in cattle, although the data are quite contradictory. The study aimed to evaluate Saccharomyces cerevisiae-based probiotic's effects on gut microbiota, systemic metabolism, and dairy cows' essential trace element and mineral body burden. Fifteen cows received a daily supplement of a 50 g S. cerevisiae-based probiotic, fortified with methionine, choline, eugenol, cinnamaldehyde, and Capsicum oleoresin, for a month. 16S metagenomic sequencing was used to evaluate the taxonomic features of fecal microbiota. Serum trace elements and minerals levels were determined through inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Supplementation with S. cerevisiae-based probiotic complex significantly increased alpha and beta diversity, as well as the abundance of Mediterranea and Clostridium IV within the Bacillota phylum, whereas that of Bacteroidota and specifically unclassified Bacteroidales and unclassified Oscillospiraceae decreased. Following probiotic supplementation with the S. cerevisiae-based complex, gut microbiota modulation led to a significant boost in circulating levels of calcium, copper, selenium, and zinc. Creatinine levels decreased while total cholesterol levels increased within normal limits in the serum analysis. The observed improvement in trace elements and minerals in dairy cows might be due to changes in intestinal microflora caused by supplementation. Therefore, probiotic supplementation in cattle may be considered a potential tool for improvement of mineral nutrition in cattle. However, the influence of probiotic treatment and modulation of mineral metabolism on milk productivity and overall performance in cattle is yet to be estimated.

Loss of the long form of Plod2 phenocopies contractures of Bruck syndrome-osteogenesis imperfecta.

Bruck syndrome is an autosomal recessive form of osteogenesis imperfecta caused by biallelic variants in PLOD2 or FKBP10 and is characterized by joint contractures, bone fragility, short stature, and scoliosis. PLOD2 encodes LH2, which hydroxylates type I collagen telopeptide lysines, a critical step for collagen crosslinking. The Plod2 global knockout mouse model is limited by early embryonic lethality, and thus, the role of PLOD2 in skeletogenesis is not well understood. We generated a novel Plod2 mouse line modeling a variant identified in two unrelated individuals with Bruck syndrome: PLOD2 c.1559dupC, predicting a frameshift and loss of the long isoform LH2b. In the mouse, the duplication led to loss of LH2b mRNA as well as significantly reduced total LH2 protein. This model, Plod2fs/fs, survived up to E18.5 although in non-Mendelian genotype frequencies. The homozygous frameshift model recapitulated the joint contractures seen in Bruck syndrome and had indications of absent type I collagen telopeptide lysine hydroxylation in bone. Genetically labeling tendons with Scleraxis-GFP in Plod2fs/fs mice revealed the loss of extensor tendons in the forelimb by E18.5, and developmental studies showed extensor tendons developed through E14.5 but were absent starting at E16.5. Second harmonic generation showed abnormal tendon type I collagen fiber organization, suggesting structurally abnormal tendons. Characterization of the skeleton by μCT and Raman spectroscopy showed normal bone mineralization levels. This work highlights the importance of properly crosslinked type I collagen in tendon and bone, providing a promising new mouse model to further our understanding of Bruck syndrome.

Characterization of the nutritional profile of three plant-based drinks

This study aimed to analyze the nutrient composition of plant-based drinks (oat, almond, soy) available on the German market, focusing on 36 samples, representing non-fortified and unsweetened products. Due to the absence of standardized legal specifications, macronutrient variations within each category were observed. Besides this, distinct differences especially in macronutrients were identified among oat, almond, and soy drinks. This can be observed in the varying fat contents from 1.01 (oat) to 2.16 g/ 100 g (almond). Soy drinks exhibited the highest levels of minerals (e.g. potassium: 131.99 mg/100 g), trace elements (e.g. copper: 116.51 µg/100 g), vitamins (e.g. thiamine: 44.02 µg/100 g; folate: 9.7 µg/100 g), and protein (3.23 g/100 g).The presence of phytates found in all plant-based drinks, particularly the high concentrations in soy drinks (up to 81.5 mg/100 g) could negatively affect the bioavailability of essential elements like zinc, iron, and calcium. The study noted generally low concentrations of water-soluble (e.g. 8.25 µg/100 g riboflavin in oat) and fat-soluble vitamins (e.g. 0.35 mg/100 g vitamin E in soy) in the drinks. The insights gained from this research are expected to contribute to the enhancement of the German nutrient database Bundeslebensmittelschlüssel (BLS), facilitating better evaluation of dietary intake studies and dietary counseling.