Serum Zn Concentrations Research Articles

Zinc Deficiency, Plasma Fatty Acid Profile and Desaturase Activities in Hemodialysis Patients: Is Supplementation Necessary?

Background: Desaturation and elongation are critical processes in endogenous metabolic fatty acid pathways. Zinc (Zn) is a cofactor for desaturases and elongases enzymes. There is limited evidence regarding the relationships between biomarkers of Zn status, nutritional intake, plasma phospholipid fatty acid profile and clinical outcomes among patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD).Objective: To examine the relationships between dietary and serum levels of Zn and Cu/Zn ratio and to explore associations of these micronutrients with PUFA profile and estimated desaturase and elongase enzyme activities in serum phospholipids among HD patients.Methods: This study included 40 adult patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment. Repeated 24-h recalls were applied for dietary intake assessment. Serum concentration of Zn and Cu were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and fatty acid composition by gas-liquid chromatography. Desaturase and elongase activities were calculated from product-precursor fatty acid ratios.Results: Inadequate dietary Zn intake was found in 55% of HD patients. They all had serum Zn concentration below the reference value of 60 μg/dL (mean 38.8 ± 7.72 μg/dL). Adequate zinc intake was accompanied with significantly higher intake of energy, total fats, SFA, MUFA and proteins. There was no correlation between Zn serum status and Zn intake estimates. Serum Cu/Zn ratio was high, (2.76 ± 0.68), directly and significantly associated with HD period, CRP, BMI, VFA, and inversely with Kt/V, albumin, iron, and iPTH. The n-6/n-3 ratio in plasma phospholipids was elevated (12.25 ± 3.45) and patients with inadequate Zn intake had lower n-3 PUFA intake and status compared to those with adequate intake. Serum Zn concentrations were inversely correlated with linoleic/dihomo-γ-linolenic acid ratio (LA/DGLA) (p = 0.037), related to D6-desaturase activity (p = 0.033) and directly with DGLA relative abundances (p = 0.024). Cu status was inversely associated with EPA level (p = 0.03) and estimates of elongase activity (p = 0.001). Furthermore, positive relationship was found between the Cu/Zn ratio and determined elongase value (p = 0.01).Conclusion: Findings of this study underpin the high prevalence of Zn deficiency and inadequate n-3 PUFA intake and status among subjects undergoing HD. The results obtained indicate that the assessment of Zn status should be a standard parameter of nutritional status screening in HD patients while emphasizing the importance of Cu/Zn determination. Although further research is warranted, Zn and-n-3 PUFA supplementation in HD patients might be beneficial for the prevention and attenuation of adverse health outcomes

Evaluation of potentiated zinc oxide as a source of zinc in broiler chickens

This study was conducted to test the effects of supplemental potentiated zinc oxide (ZnO) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, relative organ weight, breast muscle quality, zinc (Zn) status, intestinal microbial shedding, and excreta microbial shedding in broilers. A total of 680 1-day-old Ross 308 male broiler chicks were randomly divided into 4 dietary treatments in a randomized complete block design, including basal diets supplemented 0, 50, 75, or 100 mg/kg Zn from potentiated ZnO. During days 1–7, 8–21, and 1–35, increasing dietary potentiated ZnO resulted in increased (linear, P < 0.05) body weight gain. Throughout the experiment, there was a significant linear decrease (P < 0.05) in feed conversion ratio with increasing levels of dietary potentiated ZnO supplementation. The dry matter retention, concentrations of Zn in serum and liver increased (P < 0.05) linearly with increasing potentiated ZnO dose. There were significant linear increases (P < 0.05) in relative weigh to body weight, lightness, and water-holding capacity of breast muscle in response to increasing potentiated ZnO supplementation. A significant linear increase in lactic acid bacteria counts and a significant linear decrease in coliform bacteria numbers in ileal and cecal digesta were observed due to increasing dietary potentiated ZnO supplementation (P < 0.05). In conclusion, these results indicated that dietary supplementation with increasing potentiated ZnO linearly enhanced growth performance and dry matter retention, improved the relative breast muscle weight, lightness and water-holding capacity of breast muscle, increased excreta lactic acid bacteria, and decreased excreta coliform bacteria numbers in broilers.

Impact of seminal and serum zinc on semen quality and hormonal status: A population-based cohort study of Russian young men

BackgroundTrace elements are important factors in human reproductive health. Among them, special attention is paid to zinc, which is an essential trace element and is necessary for the normal functioning of the male reproductive system and the process of spermatogenesis. The aim of the study was to investigate the association between seminal and serum zinc concentrations and semen quality and reproductive hormone levels in population of Russian young men. MethodsThe study population consisted of 626 young Russian men (median age 22.5 years), recruited from the general population, regardless of their fertility status. Each participant provided semen and blood sample, information about his lifestyle and ethnicity. Semen quality (sperm concentration, motility and morphology), reproductive hormone levels (testosterone, estradiol, LH, FSH and inhibin B), and serum and seminal zinc concentrations were evaluated. The semen samples were analyzed according to the WHO laboratory manual (WHO, 2010). Serum hormones were measured by enzyme immunoassay, zinc concentrations were determined using spectrophotometry and direct colorimetry without deproteinization. ResultsZinc was present in the seminal plasma in a significantly higher concentration than in the blood serum (median serum Zn concentration was 23.6 μmol/L vs seminal Zn concentration 1571.8 μmol/L). The seminal zinc concentration was positively related to the total sperm count, sperm concentration, progressive motility and normal morphology (Spearman’s test: 0.221; 0.286; 0.269; 0.183, respectively, p < 0.001), while the serum Zn concentration was negatively related to serum testosterone and estradiol levels (r = −0.249 and r = −0.096, respectively, p < 0.001−0.05). It was found that the seminal Zn content in men with normal semen quality was higher compared to men with lowered semen quality (means: 6.37 and 5.03 μmol/ejaculate, respectively, p < 0.001). Similarly, the semen volume, total sperm count, sperm concentration, progressive motility, normal morphology and the serum testosterone level in men with the seminal Zn deficiency were lower than in men with the normal seminal Zn content. ConclusionBased on the results of our population-based study, seminal Zn levels were closely associated with semen parameters in young men, so Zn deficiency may be an important risk factor for lowered semen quality. Seminal Zn determinations should be considered as a useful tool in addition to other parameters in assessing male fertility.

Prolonged blood coagulation time among occupationally exposed automobile technicians in Abeokuta, Nigeria.

Automobile technicians in resource-poor settings often work in poor environments and are exposed to chemicals that put them at risk of ill health and disease. These chemical exposures could affect blood coagulation, leading to bleeding disorders or thrombosis. The present study is aimed at assessing prothrombin test (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin test (aPTT) values, serum zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) concentrations, and blood lead level (BLL) among occupationally exposed automobile technicians compared to unexposed controls. A total of 140 consenting participants comprising 70 automobile technicians and 70 unexposed controls were recruited for this case-control study. A 6-mL blood sample was drawn from each participant for estimation of BLL, serum Zn and Cu concentrations, and PT and aPTT values. Blood lead level, and serum Zn and Cu concentrations were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry, while PT and aPTT values were determined using Innovin PT and Actin FS Activated PTT reagents on the Sysmex CA-101 coagulation analyser. Data were analysed using t-tests, chi-square tests, and logistic and multiple linear regression analyses with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. The mean BLL, serum Zn concentration, and PT and aPTT values were significantly higher in automobile technicians compared to controls. Binary logistic regression showed that automobile technicians had higher odds of elevated PT value (OR = 21.769; p = 0.000), aPTT value (OR = 1.348; p = 0.018), BLL (OR = 1.261; p = 0.000) and serum Zn concentration (OR = 1.063; p = 0.005) than unexposed controls. Linear regression showed significant positive association of PT value with BLL and with serum Zn concentration. Higher PT and aPTT values reflect prolonged blood coagulation time among automobile technicians, which indicates impairment of extrinsic and intrinsic coagulation pathways associated with work-related exposures.

Evaluation of Zinc Supplement on Biochemical Parameters among Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients

Introduction: Zinc (Zn) is an essential micronutrient in humans, and its deficiency is reported in many disorders, including tuberculosis (TB). The current study's goal is to evaluate the anti-TB effect of Zn supplementation among pulmonary tuberculosis patients. &#x0D; Material and Methods: In this study, 74 newly diagnosed tuberculosis patients referred to Qom Health Center were distributed into two groups of receiving 50 mg of zinc sulfate and placebo. All patients in both groups received the same antituberculosis antibiotics. Before starting treatment and after two and six months of treatment with antituberculosis drugs, the serum levels of zinc and biochemical parameters were measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometry and a RA1000 Auto Analyzer, respectively. &#x0D; Results: After two months of treatment, the serum Zn concentration in the Zn receiving group was higher than the placebo group. After anti-TB treatment, body mass index (BMI) and serum albumin were significantly higher than pretreatment in both groups. The serum alkaline phosphatase changes, uric acid, creatinine, and urea were not significantly different in both groups at different times.&#x0D; Conclusion: The supplementation of Zn micronutrient results in improved BMI, serum Zn, and other biochemical parameters compared to before treatment.

Quantification of zinc concentrations in serum, milk and faeces of dairy cattle as a measure of effective zinc supplementation for management of facial eczema

Aims: To investigate the relationship between Zn concentrations in serum and those in milk or faeces, and to assess the ability of the Zn concentrations in milk, serum and faeces to predict intake of ZnO in dairy cattle. Method Seventy cows from one commercial farm in the Waikato region of New Zealand received one of seven dose rates (0, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 g/100 kg bodyweight (BW)) of ZnO given by oral drench, every morning, for 7 consecutive days. Every afternoon, milk and blood samples were collected from all cows. Free-catch faecal samples were collected during the afternoon milking on 3 days throughout the trial. Linear mixed models were used to assess the relationship between the concentration of Zn in serum and that in milk, and in faeces, respectively, and the relationship between dose rate of ZnO and concentrations of Zn in serum, faeces and milk, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to determine the ability of the Zn concentration in serum, milk and faeces to predict that a cow had been treated with a dose of ZnO ≥2.5 g/100 kg, the industry-recommended dose rate needed to protect against facial eczema. Results: A 1-µmol/L increase in Zn concentration in milk was associated with a 0.14 (95% CI=0.11–0.17) µmol/L increase in Zn concentration in serum. Zn concentration in faeces was scaled by its SD; a 1 SD increase was associated with a 1.83 (95% CI=0.54–3.12) µmol/L increase in zinc concentration in serum. Zn concentrations in serum and faeces increased with increasing dose rates of ZnO. No differences in Zn concentrations in milk were noted between animals dosed with 1.5–3.5 g ZnO/100 kg BW, inclusive. At the optimal threshold for Zn concentration in serum, 22 µmol/L, the sensitivity was 0.76 (95% CI=0.69–0.82) and specificity 0.85 (95% CI=0.80–0.89). For the concentration of Zn in faeces, the optimal threshold was defined as 17.36 mmol/kg, with a corresponding sensitivity of 0.84 (95% CI=0.84–0.85) and specificity of 0.85 (95% CI=0.73–0.94). At the optimal threshold for the Zn concentration in milk (76.6 µmol/L), the sensitivity was lower than the other two sample types at 0.59 (95% CI=0.52–0.67), but with a similar specificity of 0.84 (95% CI=0.79–0.88). Conclusions and clinical relevance: The concentration of Zn in milk shows promise as an initial screening test to identify dairy farms that do not provide adequate zinc to provide protection against FE.

An observational study on the relationship between zinc concentrations in bulk tank milk and in serum and farmer-reported zinc supplementation of dairy cattle for facial eczema prophylaxis

ABSTRACT Aims To describe the concentration of Zn in bulk tank milk (BTM) in a sample of New Zealand dairy farms, investigate the association between the method of Zn administration for facial eczema prophylaxis and Zn concentrations in BTM and investigate the relationship between the concentration of Zn in serum and that in BTM. Methods Multiple BTM samples (n = 3,330) collected during milk pick-up by the milk tanker driver were stored and tested for 121 farms, in Northland (n = 50), Waikato (n = 51) and Southland (n = 20) from February to May 2017. Enrolled farms provided retrospective information on the type of Zn supplementation (if any) used for the prevention of facial eczema and the timeframe over which supplementation occurred. In addition, the concentration of Zn in serum was measured in blood samples collected from ≥15 cattle per farm for 22 farms from Northland (n = 11) and Waikato (n = 11), and compared against the concentrations of Zn in BTM on the day of blood sampling. A linear mixed model was used to model log Zn concentrations in BTM using method of Zn supplementation, region, milk fat and protein percentage, volume of milk, and frequency of milk pick-up as risk factors. A mixed logistic regression model was used to assess the relationship between Zn concentrations in BTM and the presence of cows with a concentration of Zn in serum of ≥20 µmol/L. Results The median Zn concentration in BTM was 67.9 (min 38.9, max 146.6) µmol/L. The median range of Zn concentrations for repeated samples of BTM within farm was 22.6 µmol/L. In comparison to farms that did not use any form of Zn supplementation, farms that supplemented Zn through a slow-release capsule, oral drench, in feed or a combination of in-feed and water were associated with increased concentrations of Zn in BTM (p < 0.001). There was no difference in Zn concentrations in BTM between farms that administered Zn through the water only and farms that did not administer Zn (p = 0.22). Every 15.3 μmol/L increase in Zn concentration in BTM was associated with 2.2 times (95% CI=1.7–2.9) the odds of a cow having Zn concentration in serum ≥20 μmol/L. Conclusion and clinical relevance Zn concentration in BTM is highly variable between farms, days and Zn administration method. Zn concentration in BTM content has modest potential as a way to signal whether a herd has achieved the high Zn status considered to be protective against FE.

Selenium, Copper, Zinc Concentrations and Cu/Zn, Cu/Se Molar Ratios in the Serum of Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke in Northeastern Poland—A New Insight into Stroke Pathophysiology

Background: In recent years, trace elements (TEs) have gained considerable attention in the course of treatment and diagnosis of ischemic stroke. The purpose of the conducted research was to determine the trace mineral status (Se, Cu, Zn, Cu/Zn ratio, and Cu/Se ratio) in patients with acute ischemic stroke compared to the population of healthy people in the northeastern region of Poland. Materials and methods: 141 patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and 69 healthy control subjects were examined. The serum concentrations of mineral components were assessed by the atomic absorption spectrometry method. Clinical parameters were updated based on medical records. Results: The serum Se and Zn concentrations were significantly decreased (p < 0.0001; p < 0.0001) in patients with AIS compared with healthy control subjects. However, no significant differences were revealed in terms of the serum Cu concentration (p = 0.283). As expected, we found that the serum Cu/Zn and Cu/Se molar ratios were significantly higher (p = 0.001; p < 0.0001) in patients with AIS compared with healthy control subjects. Conclusions: Disturbed metal homeostasis is a significant contributor to AIS pathogenesis. Furthermore, marked disruption of the serum Cu/Zn and Cu/Se molar ratios could serve as a valuable indicator of AIS patients’ nutritional status and oxidative stress levels.

The Protective Effects of a Combination of an Arginine Silicate Complex and Magnesium Biotinate Against UV-Induced Skin Damage in Rats

The purpose of this study was to observe the effects of a novel combination of inositol-stabilized arginine silicate complex (ASI) and magnesium biotinate (MgB) on the prevention of skin damage after UVB exposure in rats. Forty-nine Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into one of the following groups: (1) NC, normal control, (2) SC, shaved control, (3) UVB (exposed to UVB radiation), (4) ASI+MgB-L (Low Dose), (5) ASI+MgB-H (High Dose), (6) ASI+MgB-L+MgB cream, (7) ASI+MgB-H+MgB cream. The results showed that ASI+MgB treatment alleviated the macroscopic and histopathological damages in the skin of rats caused by UVB exposure. Skin elasticity evaluation showed a similar trend. ASI+MgB increased serum Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu, Si, biotin, and arginine concentrations and skin hydroxyproline and biotinidase levels while decreasing skin elastase activity (p < 0.05) and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration (p < 0.001). Moreover, ASI+MgB treatment increased skin levels of biotin-dependent carboxylases (ACC1, ACC2, PC, PCC, MCC) and decreased mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathways and matrix metalloproteinase protein levels by the regulation of the activator protein 1 (AP-1), and mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) signaling pathways. In addition, ASI+MgB caused lower levels of inflammatory factors, including TNF-α, NFκB, IL-6, IL-8, and COX-2 in the skin samples (p < 0.05). The levels of Bax and caspase-3 were increased, while anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 was decreased by UVB exposure, which was reversed by ASI+MgB treatment. These results show that treatment with ASI and MgB protects against skin damage by improving skin appearance, elasticity, inflammation, apoptosis, and overall health.

Serum zinc concentration and risk of adverse outcomes to in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer: A prospective cohort study in northern China

Zinc (Zn) plays an important role in female reproductive health. Few studies have currently assessed the effects of female Zn level on the outcome of in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET). This study investigated the association between serum Zn concentration and IVF-ET outcomes, and the potential effects of some lifestyles on this association. A prospective cohort study design was adopted, and 305 women undergoing IVF-ET were recruited from two cities, Beijing and Shandong, in northern China. Fasting blood specimens were obtained on the day prior to the first treatment cycle. A questionnaire was used to collect demographic characteristics and lifestyle information. Serum Zn concentration was measured using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Female serum Zn levels in Beijing center were found to be significantly higher than those in Shandong center. Women who failed to achieve clinical pregnancy had significantly lower Zn concentrations among Shandong subjects, but not in Beijing or the total participants in both centers. For Beijing participants, no statistically significant associations were found between Zn concentrations and the failure risk of IVF-ET [adjusted relative risk (aRR) = 0.65, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.37–1.15]. For Shandong participants, lower Zn concentrations (< 610.3 ng/mL) were associated with a 66% increased risk of IVF-ET failure (aRR = 1.66, 95% CI: 1.10–2.51). Also, significantly positive correlations were observed between Zn concentrations and the habitual consumption of two food types, including fresh vegetables and beans or bean products, but this was not the case in Beijing. It was concluded that the effect of serum Zn concentrations on IVF-ET outcome may vary by the geographic location. Lower Zn levels might be a risk factor for IVF-ET failure among Shandong women, which can be addressed by adjusting the food intakes. These findings have implications for human infertility treatment and public health problem addressing.

Comparison of Serum Copper, Selenium and Zinc Concentrations Among the States of Glucose Tolerance

Trace element is essential for the proper growth, development, and physiology of the organism and the primary source of trace element is dietary intake. Among trace elements, the role of copper (Cu), selenium (Se), and zinc (Zn) in the pathogenesis of diabetes have been widely recognized. However, there is little information available about these 3 trace elements across the different states of glucose tolerance.We examined associations between serum levels of trace elements - Cu, Zn, and Se with various stages of glucose tolerance in a representative, cross-sectional sample of US adults. Our sample included 5,087 adults (≥20 years) with available serum concentrations of Cu, Zn and Se as well as states of glucose tolerance, defined by history, HbA1c, fasting, and 2-hour plasma glucose concentrations. Serum concentrations of trace elements were compared with glucose tolerance status with the consideration of covariates. Regression analyses was used to examine the relationship of trace elements with HOMA-IR, HOMA-B, and BMI in non-diabetic subjects with the consideration of appropriate covariates.Serum Se (P<0.0001) and Zn (P<0.0001) concentrations differed significantly among 3 groups based on the states of glucose tolerance, while no difference was noted in serum Cu concentration. In non-diabetic subjects, serum Cu concentration was positively correlated with BMI (P<0.0001) with a possible compensatory increased beta cell function (P=0.018). Serum Se concentration was negatively correlated with insulin resistance (P=0.016) but not with beta cell function or BMI. Serum Zn concertation was negatively correlated with beta cell function (P=0.0023) and BMI (P=0.018), but not with insulin resistance.We found that a higher serum concentration of trace elements was associated with negative glucose and fuel homeostasis in a non-deficiency population possibly through different mechanisms. Although the casual relationship remains to be elucidated, we recommend against trace element supplementation in a non-deficiency population.

Relationships of the Trace Elements Zinc and Magnesium With Diabetic Nephropathy-Associated Renal Functional Damage in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Zinc (Zn) and magnesium (Mg) are essential trace elements in humans. Their deficiency may be associated with inflammation and oxidative stress (OS) in patients with diabetic nephropathy (DN), but the mechanisms involved have not been fully characterized. We aimed to investigate the relationships between circulating concentrations of Zn and Mg and pro-inflammatory factors with DN-associated renal functional damage in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). To this end, we studied 20 healthy people, 24 patients with T2DM, and 59 patients with T2DM and T2DN. Serum and urine Zn and Mg concentrations were measured using the 2-(5-nitro-2-pyridylazo)-5-(N-propyl-N-sulfopropylamine) phenol (nitro-PAPS) chromogenic method and the xylidyl blue method, respectively, and the circulating concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)] were measured using flow cytometry. The serum concentrations of Zn and Mg were significantly lower in patients with T2DM and DN than in healthy controls. Serum Zn, urine Zn, and urine Mg concentrations decreased, while those of IL-6 and IL-8 increased with the progression of DN-associated renal functional damage. Furthermore, the serum and urine Zn concentrations negatively correlated with the serum IL-6 and IL-8 concentrations. Notably, the serum Zn concentration was found to independently protect against DN in patients with T2DM. Hypozincemia may be associated with the T2DN-associated renal functional damage because it exacerbates inflammation.

Zinc deficiency is highly prevalent and spatially dependent over short distances in Ethiopia

Zinc (Zn) is an essential nutrient for human health. In Ethiopia, a high prevalence of Zn deficiency has been reported. To explore demographic variation and spatial dependencies in the Zn status of the Ethiopian population, we analyzed archived serum samples (n = 3373) from the 2015 Ethiopian National Micronutrient Survey (ENMS), a cross-sectional survey of young children, school-age children, women of reproductive age (WRA) and men conducted in all 9 regions and two city administration of Ethiopia. Serum Zn concentrations, measured using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICPMS), were compared to thresholds based on age, sex, fasting status, and time of blood collection, after adjusting for inflammation status. Median serum Zn concentration of the population was 57.5 μg dL−1. Overall, it is estimated that 72% of the population was Zn deficient, with high prevalence in all demographic groups. Spatial statistical analysis showed that there was spatial dependence in Zn status of WRA at distances of up to 45 km. Zinc deficiency is spatially dependent over short distances. Although WRA in most areas are likely to be Zn deficient, prevalence of deficiency varies at regional scale and between rural and urban inhabitants, suggesting there is scope to explore drivers of this variation, prioritize nutritional interventions, and to design more representative surveillance programs.

Low Serum Zinc Concentration Is Associated With Infection Particularly in Patients With Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease Medicated with Proton Pump Inhibitors

Zinc (Zn) plays an important role in immune function. Several studies have identified an association between a Zn deficiency and infection. Infectious diseases are major complications of chronic kidney disease (CKD). We investigated whether serum Zn concentrations are associated with risk of infection in patients with advanced CKD. We retrospectively analyzed data from 299 patients with CKD whose serum Zn values were measured to evaluate anemia between January 2013 and December 2016. Among them, 9 who were supplemented with Zn and 67 who had started urgent dialysis at the time of measurement were excluded. We analyzed infection events, length of infection-related hospitalization and infection-related and all-cause mortality in the remaining 223 patients during a median follow-up of 36months. We assigned the patients to groups with low or high Zn values (≤50 and>50μg/dL, respectively) based on a median value of 50μg/dL. Data were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox hazards models. During a median follow-up of 36months, 40 patients were hospitalized with infections. The rate of infection-related and long-term hospitalization (>10days) due to infection was higher for patients with low, than high, Zn values (23.3% vs. 12.6%; P=.042 and 26.2% vs. 12.4%; P=.007, respectively). After adjustment in Cox hazards models, low serum Zn values remained an independent risk factor for infection-related hospitalization (Hazard ratio [HR], 1.93; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01-3.71; P=.048), especially for patients on proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medications (HR, 2.66, 95%; CI, 1.22-5.81; P=.014). Patients with advanced CKD accompanied by low serum Zn concentration, and particularly those medicated with PPI, are at high risk of infection-related hospitalization, which results in long-term hospitalization.

Effect of Supplementation of Zinc-Methionine on Egg Production, Semen Quality, Reproductive Hormones, and Hatchability in Broiler Breeders.

A biological study was conducted to explore the effect of zinc-methionine (Zn-Met) supplementation on productive, reproductive, and immunological response in broiler breeders. Adult healthy 45-week breeder males (192) and females (288) were used in a completely randomized design. Birds were randomly divided into four treatments consisting of six replicates and fed basal diet (control, 40mg/kg), basal diet supplemented with Zn-Met 20 (T1), 40 (T2), and 60mg/kg (T3). There was no effect (P > 0.05) on body weight and feed consumption among the breeders due to the supplementation of organic Zn. The T3 group had significantly (P < 0.05) higher semen volume, sperm motility, concentration, and live sperm count. The seminal plasma calcium and alkaline phosphatase activity were higher (P < 0.05), and total cholesterol and aspartate transaminase levels were low in the T3 group. Birds fed with additional supplementation of Zn (60mg/kg) had improved both cellular and humoral immunity. Throughout the experimental period, the hen day egg production was comparable (P > 0.05) among the experimental groups. Organic Zn-supplemented group showed significant difference in both the internal and external egg qualities-albumen, yolk index, and shell thickness. The higher dose of organic Zn-fed groups had a significant difference in estrogen and progesterone concentration, and the highest testosterone concentration was observed in the T2 group. Supplementary organic Zn had a significant effect on the concentration of Zn and Cu in the seminal plasma. Serum Zn and Cu concentration was significantly increased due to the supplementation of organic zinc in both male and female breeders. The fertility and hatchability percentage were higher (P < 0.05) in the T2 group. It could be concluded that the additional supplementation of organic Zn (zinc-methionine) at 40mg/kg to the basal diet improved the reproductive performance in broiler breeders.

Association between serum zinc concentrations and metabolic risk factors among Chinese children and adolescents.

The aim of the present study was to examine whether serum Zn concentrations were associated with metabolic risk factors in Chinese children and adolescents. This was a cross-sectional study including 3241 participants, aged 6 to 17 years, from Jiangsu, China. Metabolic risk factors included fasting glucose (FG), total cholesterol (TC), TAG, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure. Data were analysed using multi-variable linear regression and generalised additive models, which were adjusted for age, sex, high-sensitive C-reactive protein, estimated glomerular filtration rate, BMI and region of residence, to assess the associations of serum Zn concentrations with metabolic risk factors. We observed a negative association between serum Zn concentrations and FG (coefficient=-0·532; 95 % CI -0·569, -0·495; P<0·001). Moreover, TC (coefficient = 0·175; 95 % CI 0·127, 0·222; P<0·001), HDL-cholesterol (coefficient = 0·137; 95 % CI 0·082, 0·193; P<0·001) and LDL-cholesterol (coefficient = 0·195; 95 % CI 0·128, 0·263; P<0·001) were found to be positively associated with Zn levels. A generalised additive model showed that the negative association between serum Zn and FG was weak at lower serum Zn concentrations and was stronger with the increase in serum Zn concentrations. Additionally, a U-shaped association between serum Zn and TAG was observed. Serum Zn concentrations were associated with FG, TC, TAG, HDL-cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol levels in Chinese children and adolescents. Lower levels of serum Zn were more likely related to a poor metabolic status.

Serum copper, zinc &amp; magnesium levels in asthma patients

In our study we have 50 patients, matured 10-65 years, with asthma in moderate or serious stages, and whereas 25 healthy controls. Asthma is a multifactorial infection and its seriousness fluctuates with the incendiary evaluation. The subjects of serum concentration of Zn, Cu, and Mg were estimated by means of semiautoanalyser after data findings &amp; clinical assessments at Saraswati Medical College, Unnao, U.P. 25 Healthy cases 44% are Males whereas 56% are Females, &amp; in patient category 48% were males &amp; 52% were females. The Mean levels of Serum Mean &amp; SD of Magnesium concentration of patients was 131.5 ± 24.7 µg/L where as Healthy were 131.3 ± 19.3 µg/L. Mean &amp; SD of Copper concentration of patients was 1021.9 ± 188 µg/L same Mean value with healthy were 1021.9 ± 188 µg/L. Mean &amp; SD of Zinc concentration of patients was 1013 ± 178 µg/L where as Healthy were 957 ± 284 µg/L. Zn &amp; Mg in patients among allergic asthma were lesser as compared than in the healthy control group In our study we found the Low levels of trace elements, mainly Zn, may have a important role to play in the pathogenesis of allergic asthma, meanwhile the substitution of these elements may be a useful asthma patients treatment.

Vascular endothelial growth factor VEGF and metal-ligand homeostasis in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke

To study the conjugate dynamics of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and the components of metal-ligand homeostasis in the development of ischemic stroke. The main group included patients with ischemic stroke (n=158). The comparison group consisted of healthy volunteers (n=150). The concentration of VEGF (pg/ml) in the blood serum was determined by ELISA and concentrations of Mg, Cu, Mn, Se, Zn and Fe (mcg/ml) by inductively coupled argon plasma mass spectrometry. Data analysis was carried out using the Statistica 10 application software package and the optimal reliable partitioning (SDR) method, which is part of the Date mining group of data mining methods. A significant increase in the concentrations of VEGF and trace elements Mg, Mn, Cu, Zn, and Se in the blood serum of patients with ischemic stroke was revealed. A significant relationship between the concentration of VEGF and the concentrations of Cu and Mn in the blood serum of patients with ischemic stroke was shown. The dynamics of VEGF and the concentrations of trace elements in the development of the ischemic process contribute to the solution of therapeutic and prognostic problems in clinical conditions.

Trace elements in patients with aortic valve sclerosis.

Background:Aortic valve sclerosis (AVSc) is defined as the thickening and calcification of aortic valve cusps, in the absence of obstruction of ventricular outflow. AVSc is linked with a clear imbalance in some trace elements.Aims:The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between AVSc and serum levels of iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), and copper (Cu). Additionally, this research aimed to explore the clinical significance of human serum zinc, selenium, copper, and iron concentrations as a potential new biomarker for AVSc patients and to clarify the pathophysiological role in individuals at risk of developing AVSc.Patients and methods:The study included 40 subjects with AVSc (25% male and 75% female) who were compared with a healthy control group with the same gender ratio. AVSc was based on comprehensive echocardiographic assessments. Blood samples were taken and Zn and Cu concentrations were determined through the use of atomic absorption spectroscopy. Se was measured using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry device and Fe was measured using a Beckman Coulter instrument.Results:There was a significant difference in the prevalence of diabetes, blood pressure levels, and body mass index between the patients and the healthy subjects (p < 0.05). The differences between the serum Fe, Se, and Cu levels of the AVSc patients and the healthy subjects (p > 0.05) were recorded. The serum Zn of AVSc patients when compared was significantly lower compared with that of the control group (p < 0.01).Conclusion:Patients with AVSc had an imbalance in some of the trace elements in their blood. The patient group’s valves had higher serum Cu levels and lower serum Se, Zn, and Fe concentrations compared with the healthy group’s valves. In the valve patients as compared, AVSc had a high prevalence of obesity, hypertension, and diabetes.

Effect of serum zinc and copper levels on insulin secretion, insulin resistance and pancreatic β cell dysfunction in US adults: Findings from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2012

AimTo compare zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) levels in US adults with normoglycemia, prediabetes and diabetes, and study the association of serum Zn and Cu levels with pancreatic β cell insulin secretion, pancreatic dysfunction and insulin resistance in US adults with normoglycemia and prediabetes. MethodHomeostatic Model Assessment (HOMA2) calculator was used to compute estimates of steady state β cell insulin secretion (HOMA2-B), peripheral insulin sensitivity (HOMA2-S), insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and disposition index (HOMA-DI) in 804 adult individuals from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 2011–2012). ResultsThere was no significant difference between serum Zn and Cu levels among subjects with normoglycemia, prediabetes, and diabetes. After adjusting for multiple possible confounders, higher serum Zn concentrations were associated with lower β cell insulin secretion (HOMA2-B; p = 0.01) and lower insulin resistance (HOMA-IR; p = 0.04) in the prediabetic subjects. In normoglycemic group, higher serum Zn levels were associated with improved pancreatic function (HOMA-DI; P = 0.02). On the other hand, higher serum Cu levels were associated with increased β cell insulin secretion (HOMA2-B, P = 0.03) only in the subjects with prediabetes. ConclusionThese findings support the need for further studies to investigate the role of trace elements in diabetes pathogenesis.