Serum Se Concentrations Research Articles

Selected essential trace elements in maternal serum and risk for fetal orofacial clefts

BackgroundDisturbances in the homeostasis of essential trace elements (ETEs) may interfere with embryonic organogenesis. However, the effect of ETEs on the development of orofacial clefts (OFCs) remains unclear. ObjectivesThis study examined associations between concentrations of iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), cuprum (Cu), cobalt (Co), and molybdenum (Mo) in maternal serum and risk for OFCs in offspring. MethodsA total of 130 cases of OFCs and 260 nonmalformed controls were included in this study. Concentrations of Fe, Zn, Se, Cu, Co, and Mo in maternal serum were detected by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. We examined associations between levels of the six ETEs in maternal serum and risk for OFCs for each element separately using multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression and for all elements collectively using Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR). ResultsHigher concentrations of Mo and Co in maternal serum were associated with a decreased risk for OFCs in a dose-dependent manner, with odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals of 0.37 (0.20–0.66) for the second tertile of Mo, 0.28 (0.15–0.54) for the third tertile of Mo, 0.54 (0.29–1.00) for the second tertile of Co, and 0.47 (0.25–0.87) for the third tertile of Co, with the lowest tertile as the referent. When all six ETEs were considered together, increased levels of ETEs were associated with a decreased risk for OFCs. In addition, Mo showed a protective effect against risk for OFCs when the other ETEs were fixed at their 25th, 50th, or 75th percentile, whereas the protective effect of Co turned to a null effect in the BKMR model. No association was observed between levels of Fe, Zn, Se, or Cu and risk for OFCs in either statistical model. ConclusionElevated concentrations of Mo in maternal serum were associated with a reduced risk for OFCs.

Supplemental hot melt extruded nano-selenium increases expression profiles of antioxidant enzymes in the livers and spleens of weanling pigs

A study was conducted to determine the effect of dietary selenium (Se) concentration and source for weanling pigs on serum Se, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity and performance. A total of 120 weanling pigs with an average weight of 6.87 ± 0.4 kg were assigned to 4 diets with 10 pigs per cage and 3 replicates per treatment. The experimental diets were fed for 28 days in 2 phases (phase 1, d 0–14; and phase 2, d 15–28). Treatments were: Control (without Se supplementation), sodium selenite (INO; 0.30 ppm), hot melt extruded sodium selenite (HME; 0.30 ppm), and selenomethionine (ORG; 0.3 ppm). There were significant responses (P < 0.05) for higher serum Se concentration in the HME and ORG treatments in phase 1 and 2. The serum GPx analyses revealed that supplemental HME and ORG significantly increased the concentration of GPx in the serum in phase 1 and phase 2. There was an up-regulated (P < 0.01) expression of Selenoprotein W, GPx1, GPx3, GPx4, and GPx5 in the livers of the HME and ORG pigs. In conclusion, the HME and ORG Se showed increased antioxidant status, consequently being a more suitable source of Se than regular sodium selenite.

Selenium and Selenoprotein P Deficiency Correlates With Complications and Adverse Outcome After Major Trauma.

A declining selenium (Se) status constitutes a characteristic of critical illness and may affect disease course and survival. The dynamics of trauma-induced changes in biomarkers of Se status are poorly characterized, and an association with multiple organ failure (MOF) and mortality can be hypothesized. It was the aim of this study to investigate Se and selenoprotein P (SELENOP) concentrations in major trauma patients during the early posttraumatic period. Twenty-four patients after major trauma (ISS ≥16) were included at our level one trauma center. Se supplementation ever during the 90-day observation period was defined as an exclusion criterion. Serum samples were drawn within less than 60 min after trauma, and after 6 h, 12 h, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h. Serum Se was analyzed by X-ray fluorescence and SELENOP concentrations by ELISA. The data were correlated to clinical parameters, occurrence of MOF defined by MOF and APACHE II score, lung injury defined by Horowitz index and clinical outcome (90-days survival). Serum Se and SELENOP concentrations of the trauma patients were significantly below the average of healthy European subjects (mean ±SD; Se, 41.2±8.1 vs. 84.7±23.3 μg/L, P < 0.001; SePP, 1.5±0.3 vs. 4.3±1.0 mg/L, P < 0.001). A strong deficit was present already at the first time point (Se; 33.6±10.5 μg/L, SELENOP: 1.4±0.5 mg/L). The clinical scores collectively showed an inverse relation between health status and Se biomarkers. Patients who did not survive the 90-day observation period exhibited significantly lower initial post-trauma Se status than the surviving patients (mean±SD; Se, 24.7±7.2 vs. 39.2±8.4 μg/L, P<0.05; SePP, 1.1±0.4 vs. 1.6±0.4 mg/L, P<0.05). Very low Se and SELENOP concentrations occur fast after major trauma and are associated with poor survival odds. These findings support the notion that early Se substitution may constitute a meaningful adjuvant treatment strategy in trauma patients.

Can selenium deficiency in Malawi be alleviated through consumption of agro-biofortified maize flour? Study protocol for a randomised, double-blind, controlled trial

BackgroundMicronutrient deficiencies including selenium (Se) are widespread in Malawi and potentially underlie a substantial disease burden, particularly among poorer and marginalised populations. Concentrations of Se in staple cereal crops can be increased through application of Se fertilisers – a process known as agronomic biofortification (agro-biofortification) – and this may contribute to alleviating deficiencies. The Addressing Hidden Hunger with Agronomy (AHHA) trial aims to establish the efficacy of this approach for improving Se status in rural Malawi.MethodsA double-blind, randomised, controlled trial will be conducted in a rural community in Kasungu District, Central Region, Malawi. The hypothesis is that consumption of maize flour agro-biofortified with Se will increase serum Se concentration. We will recruit 180 women of reproductive age (WRA) (20–45 years) and 180 school-age children (SAC) (5–10 years) randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either maize flour enriched through agro-biofortification with Se or a control flour not enriched with Se. Households will receive flour (330 g per capita per day) for 12 weeks. The primary outcome is Se concentration in serum (μg/L). Serum will be extracted from venous blood samples drawn at baseline (prior to flour distribution) and end-line. Selenium concentration will be measured by using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.DiscussionFindings will be communicated to policy stakeholders and participating communities and reported in peer-reviewed journals.Trial registrationThe Addressing Hidden Hunger with Agronomy (Malawi) trial is registered (5th March 2019; ISCRTN85899451).

Prenatal Se concentrations and anthropometry at birth in the INMA study (Spain)

We assessed whether prenatal selenium (Se) exposure is associated with anthropometry at birth, placental weight and gestational age. Study subjects were 1249 mother-child pairs from the Valencia and Gipuzkoa cohorts of the Spanish Childhood and Environment Project (INMA, 2003–2008). Se was determined in serum samples taken at the first trimester of pregnancy. Socio-demographic and dietary characteristics were also collected by questionnaires. Mean (SD) serum Se concentration was 79.57 (9.64) μg/L. Se showed weak associations with both head circumference and gestational age. The association between serum Se concentration and birth weight and length was negative, and direct for placental weight and probability of preterm birth, although the coefficients did not reach statistical significance. Individuals with total mercury (THg) levels >15 μg/L reversed the serum Se concentration effect on head circumference. Significant interactions were found between sex and both gestational age and prematurity. Spontaneous birth gestational ages were estimated to be lower for males and their probability of prematurity was higher. In conclusion, prenatal Se exposure may be associated with lower head circumference and lower gestational ages at spontaneous birth. Interactions with THg exposure and gender should be considered when assessing these relationships.

Comparison of selenium bioavailability in milk and serum in dairy cows fed different sources of organic selenium

Context Selenium (Se) bioavailability is an important parameter to consider when supplementing trace minerals to optimise animal health and performance. Aims To assess the biological transfer of Se in milk and serum of three sources of organic Se in dairy cattle: two different pure selenomethionines (SM1, SM2) and Se-yeast (SY) containing selenomethionine, selenocysteine and other forms of organic Se. Methods Forty-five lactating Holstein dairy cows were randomly distributed in nine groups (three sources of organic Se supplemented at three doses: 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 ppm organic Se in addition to 0.3 ppm of inorganic Se) and the Se concentrations in milk and serum were analysed at different times over 34 days of supplementation. Dry matter intake, milk yield, as well as milk fat and protein contents were recorded daily for each cow. Selenium bioavailability in milk was assessed as the ratio between amount of Se secreted in milk and amount of Se consumed. Key results The lowest Se dose (0.1 ppm), independent of source, did not allow detection a different pattern of transfer into milk and serum, suggesting that at this level, the Se supplied was mainly used to cover the animal needs. Supplementing SY at 0.2 and 0.3 ppm resulted in the most consistent secretion of Se into milk, whereas SM2 was most effective at increasing serum Se concentrations. Conclusions At the supplementing doses of 0.2 and 0.3 ppm, SY elicits an increased transfer of Se into milk concentrations compared with SM1 and SM2, whereas SM2 induces the greatest increase in Se serum concentrations. Implications SY is more effective than SM1 and SM2 at increasing Se transfer into milk. Supplementation of SM2 induces a pattern of Se transfer into milk and serum that differs from the other Se sources suggesting a different metabolism of this particular Se source.

Association Between Thyroid Hormone Status and Trace Elements in Serum of Patients with Nodular Goiter.

The present study investigated the status of calcium and magnesium as well as essential trace elements including iodine, selenium, copper, iron, and zinc in adults residing in the Zhytomyr region of Ukraine. In addition, the relative risk of goiter occurrence was evaluated. In this comparative study, 40 adults without goiter (control group) and 16 adults with diagnosed nodular goiter (NG) were examined. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) was used for the measurements of Mg, Ca, Se, Zn, Cu, and Fe in serum of patients with NG and control group. Patients with nodular goiter had lower serum values of Ca, Mg, Se, Cu, Fe, and Zn than those in the control group. The presence of mild iodine deficiency was evident in both groups with the median urinary iodine excretion (UIE) 80.5 μg/L in the control group and 64.5 μg/L in goiter group. There was a positive association between goiter presence and low concentration of Ca in serum (odds ratio (OR) = 2.29 (1.26-3.55), p < 0.05) in the NG group. High relative risk of goiter was observed at low concentrations of magnesium (OR = 3.33 (1.39-7.62), p < 0.05) and selenium (OR = 1.63, (1.16-1.78), p < 0.05) in comparison with OR values in the control group. Low concentrations of Ca, Mg, Zn, and Se in serum combined with reduced UIE resulted in the highest risk of goiter (OR = 12.5, (2.15-79.42), p < 0.01). This study proved that Thyroglobulin concentration in serum is the reliable indicator of nodular goiter. We also suggest that a combination of low concentrations of Ca, Mg, Zn, Cu, and Se in blood serum, and reduced iodine concentration in urine resulted in the highest risk of nodular goiter development.

Selenium and copper status - potential signposts for neurological remission after traumatic spinal cord injury

IntroductionTraumatic Spinal Cord Injury (TSCI) is a severe incident resulting in loss of motor and sensory function caused by complex pathological mechanisms including massive oxidative stress and extensive inflammatory processes. The essential trace elements selenium (Se) and copper (Cu) play crucial roles as part of the antioxidant defense. HypothesisRemission after TSCI is associated with characteristic dynamics of early changes in serum Cu and Se status. Study designSingle-center prospective observational study. Patients and methodsSerum samples from TSCI patients were analyzed (n = 52); 21 recovered and showed a positive abbreviated injury score (AIS) conversion within 3 months (G1), whereas 21 had no remission (G0). Ten subjects with vertebral fractures without neurological impairment served as control (C). Different time points (at admission, and after 4, 9, 12, and 24 h) were analyzed for total serum Se and Cu concentrations by total reflection X-ray fluorescence, and for Selenoprotein P (SELENOP) and Ceruloplasmin (CP) by sandwich ELISA. ResultsAt admission, CP and SELENOP concentrations were higher in the remission group (G1) than in the non-remission group (G0). Within 24 h, there were marginal changes in Se, SELENOP, Cu and CP concentrations in the groups of controls (C) and G0. In contrast, these parameters decreased significantly in G1. Binary logistic regression analysis including Cu and Se levels at admission in combination with Se and CP levels after 24 h allowed a prediction for potential remission, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 87.7% (CI: 75.1%–100.0%). ConclusionThese data indicate a strong association between temporal changes of the Se and Cu status and the clinical outcome after TSCI. The dynamics observed may reflect an ongoing redistribution of the trace elements in favor of a better anti-inflammatory response and a more successful neurological regeneration.

346 Effect of supplemental vitamin E in feedlot receiving diets on steer performance and immune function

Abstract Single-source, Angus-cross steers (n = 204; 249 ± 23 kg) were utilized to determine the effect of supplemental vitamin (VE; ROVIMIX E-50 Adsorbate, DSM Nutritional Products) on performance and immunity during feedlot receiving. Seven days post-arrival, steers were blocked by BW and weaning protocol (pre-weaned or not) into pens (n = 5 or 6 steers/pen) and pens randomly assigned to VE treatments: no supplemental VE (CON), VE at 25 IU/kg DM (LOW; average 151 IU·steer-1·d-1), 500 IU·steer-1·d-1 (MED), or 1000 IU·steer-1·d-1 (HIGH). Steers were weighed on d -1, 0, 14, 26 and 27. On d 6, steers were boostered with Bovi-Shield Gold (One Shot, Zoetis). Serum collected from one steer per pen was analyzed for Se and α-tocopherol (d -1 and 26) and Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV) type 1 and 2 antibody titers (d 6, 14, 26). Data were analyzed using Proc Mixed of SAS with pen as the experimental unit (n = 9 pens/treatment), the fixed effects of treatment and block, and the random effect of pen. Linear, quadratic and cubic contrast statements were constructed. Serum Se and α-tocopherol concentrations from d -1 and titers from d 6 (prior to vaccination) served as covariates. From d 14 to 27, ADG and G:F quadratically increased (P ≤ 0.02), with MED being greatest; VE did not affect d 0 to 14 or overall trial performance (P ≥ 0.14). Day 26 BVDV type 1 antibody titers and α-tocopherol concentrations (2.7, 3.4, 4.6, and 5.8 mg/L for CON, LOW, MED, and HIGH, respectively) linearly increased due to VE (P ≤ 0.04). Increasing supplemental VE improved circulating VE concentrations and antibody response to a booster vaccine. Performance benefits were observed when VE was supplemented at 500 IU·steer-1·d-1, the dose recommended by NASEM (2016) for stressed cattle.

Effects of different levels of dietary hydroxy-analogue of selenomethionine on growth performance, selenium deposition and antioxidant status of weaned piglets

ABSTRACTThis study was conducted to assess the effects of the hydroxy-analogue of selenomethionine (HMSeBA) on growth performance, selenium (Se) deposition and antioxidant status of piglets. In a 28-d experiment, 252 piglets were assigned into seven treatments. These treatments were a negative control (Con-, basal diet without supplement Se), a positive control (Con+, basal diet + 0.3 mg Se from sodium selenite per kg), and five HMSeBA groups (basal diet + 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5 mg Se/kg from HMSeBA, respectively). Results showed that dietary HMSeBA supplementation did not affect growth performance of piglets. However, HMSeBA supplementation increased the Se concentrations in serum, liver, kidney and muscle compared with groups Con- and Con+ (p < 0.05). Compared with group Con-, supplementation with 0.2 and 0.4 mg Se from HMSeBA increased serum total antioxidant capability (T-AOC) and addition of 0.4 and 0.5 mg Se from HMSeBA increased serum glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities (p < 0.05). Compared with group Con-, the addition of 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.5 mg Se from HMSeBA increased GSH-Px activities and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) contents in the liver, and 0.3 mg Se from HMSeBA increased T-AOC and GSH-Px activities in the liver (p < 0.05). Compared with group Con+, 0.3 mg Se from HMSeBA increased serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) and hepatic T-AOC activities, and decreased the serum MDA level (p < 0.05). In general, dietary HMSeBA supplementation could improve Se deposition in serum and tissue and antioxidant capacity of piglets, suggesting that HMSeBA could be an effective Se source for piglets.

Serious Selenium Deficiency in the Serum of Patients with Kashin-Beck Disease and the Effect of Nano-Selenium on Their Chondrocytes.

To investigate selenium (Se) concentrations in serum of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA), and Kashin-Beck disease (KBD), together with the effect of Se supplement (chondroitin sulfate [CS] nano-Se [SeCS]) on CS structure-modifying sulfotransferases in KBD chondrocyte. Fifty serum samples from each group with aged-matched (40-60years), normal control (N), RA, OA, and KBD (25 males and females, respectively) were collected to determine Se concentrations. Furthermore, the KBD chondrocytes were divided into two groups following the intervention for 24h: (a) non-treated KBD group and (b) SeCS-treated KBD group (100ng/mL SeCS). The ultrastructural changes in chondrocytes were observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Live/dead staining was used to observe cell viability. The expression of CS-modifying sulfotransferases including carbohydrate sulfotransferase 12, 13, and 15 (CHST-12, CHST-13, and CHST-15, respectively), and uronyl 2-O-sulfotransferase (UST) were examined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting analysis after SeCS intervention. The Se concentrations in serum of KBD, OA, and RA patients were lower than those in control. In OA, RA, and control, Se concentrations were higher in male than in female, while it is opposite in KBD. In the cell experiment, cell survival rate and mitochondrial density were increased in SeCS-treated KBD groups. Expressions of CHST-15, or CHST-12, and CHST-15 on the mRNA or protein level were significantly increased. Expression of UST slightly increased on the mRNA level, but no change was visible on the protein level. Se deficiency in serum of RA, OA, and KBD was observed. SeCS supplemented in KBD chondrocytes improved their survival rate, ameliorated their ultrastructure, and increased the expression of CS structure-modifying sulfotransferases.

Circulating Selenium Concentration Is Inversely Associated With the Prevalence of Stroke: Results From the Canadian Health Measures Survey and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

BackgroundObservational studies have suggested that selenium (Se) may have beneficial effects against certain cardiovascular outcomes, with a possible U‐shaped association. We assessed the hypothesis that blood Se concentration might be inversely associated with the prevalence of stroke and the relationship would be nonlinear.Methods and ResultsData collected from adult participants (aged ≥20 years) in the Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS 2007–2011, n=7065) and the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 2011–2012, n=5030) were analyzed. A total of 82 (1.16%) and 202 (4.02%) stroke cases were identified in CHMS and NHANES. Respondents with stroke had lower Se levels than those without stroke, with a mean difference of 16 μg/L and 12 μg/L for CHMS and NHANES, respectively. Respondents with high blood Se concentration (tertile 3) had a lower prevalence of stroke compared with those with low Se concentration (tertile 1). The adjusted odds ratios were 0.38 (95% CI: 0.15, 0.92) and 0.57 (95% CI: 0.31, 1.03) for CHMS and NHANES, respectively. A continuous decreasing trend of stroke with whole blood selenium was observed in CHMS, whereas the curve plateaued starting at 190 μg/L for NHANES, based on the cubic restricted spline regression. Sensitivity analysis using the serum and urinary Se concentrations demonstrates that our results were consistent across different selenium biomarkers.ConclusionsWe observed inverse cross‐sectional associations between whole blood Se and the prevalence of stroke in representative samples of the Canadian and the US population.

Concentration of Selected Elements and Antioxidative Potential in a Group of Males Working in the Metal Industry: Elements And Antioxidative Potential In Men.

The purpose of this study was to show that some elements have a proven antioxidative effect and are essential for the proper development and functioning of the human body. The study also assessed the concentration of selected elements and total antioxidant status (TAS) in a group of male inhabitants of Białystok, Poland, who are professionally active in the metal industry. The study group comprised 163 men aged 55–64 years. The concentration of the analyzed elements was determined using flame (Zn and Cu) and electrothermal (Se, Cd, and Pb) atomic absorption spectrometry. Spectrophotometric test kits were used to assay the TAS and glutathione reductase (GR) activity in serum. The results suggested the mean concentration of Se in serum was 54.04 ± 12.10 μg/L, which was below the reference range. A significant negative correlation was observed between the concentration of Se in the serum and Pb and Cd concentrations in the whole blood of the studied men. The concentrations of the other elements, antioxidant potential, and GR activity were within the reference range. A statistically significant positive correlation was observed between Pb and Cd, indicating combined exposure and a considerable negative correlation between lead and selenium as well as between lead and TAS. Selenium and TAS are likely to modify the adverse effects of Pb in the bodies of the studied men. The results indicate that it is necessary to constantly monitor men who are occupationally exposed to heavy metals, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and introduce effective preventive measures at a local level.

Organic selenium supplementation increases muscle selenium content in growing lambs compared to inorganic source

The objective was to evaluate the selenium (Se) balance and Se concentration in serum, muscle and viscera as well hepatic glutathione peroxidase activity (GSH-Px) in lambs fed diets supplemented with different Se sources and levels. Forty male Suffolk lambs 90 ± 2.5 days old (19.8 ± 2.1 kg) received, during a 84 days period, a total mixed ration (TMR) with three Se sources [Sodium selenite (Na selenite), Selenium-Yeast (Se-Yeast) and Selenium-Methionine (Se-Methionine)] and three Se levels [0.2, 0.8 and 1.4 mg/kg dry matter (DM)]. Also, it was provided a control diet (no addition of Se) for regression comparisons. Contrasts and estimates were used for partition specific treatment effects and serum data were analyzed by time repeated measures. Absorption and retention of Se as well as Se excretion by feces and urine were higher as Se inclusion increased. At 1.4 mg/kg DM level, there was higher Se excretion by feces with inorganic source compared to organic sources. Also, linear increasing was detected to absorption of Se among sources supplemented relative to its intake. Regarding the Se retention efficiency (g/100 g of Se consumed) the Se-methionine treatment showed a linear pattern. Selenium concentrations in serum and liver were higher, regardless of the source, linearly to dose inclusion. The amount of Se in muscle was higher for organic sources at level 0.8 and 1.4 mg/kg DM. At the first cited level, Se-Methionine was superior compared to Se-Yeast and at the second, the opposite occurred. In addition, organic sources leaded to linear effect of Se content in muscle tissue. However, there was higher hepatic GSH-Px activity to Na selenite source compared to organic sources. Regarding to relative Se content, organic Se sources had higher content in muscle tissue compared to Na selenite.

Effects of different sources of selenium supplementation on antioxidant indices, biochemical parameters, thyroid hormones and Se status in transition cows

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of supplementing close-up and fresh dairy cows’ diets with sodium selenite or organic sources of selenium (Se) on the serum biochemical parameters and antioxidant indicators and Se status. Twenty-four multiparous Holstein dairy cows were balanced by body condition score (BCS), previous lactation milk yield and expected calving date and randomly assigned to 1 of 4 experimental treatments. Treatments were: control (basal diet without Se supplementation), sodium selenite supplementation (0.50 mg of Se kg -1 DM; Se-S), selenium yeast supplementation (0.50 mg of Se kg -1 DM; Se-Y) and selenomethionine supplementation (0.50 mg of Se kg -1 DM; Se-M). Serum Se concentrations were higher for cows in Se-Y (72.34 µg dL -1 ) and Se-Met (72.34 µg dL -1 ) than control (59.93µg/dl) and Se-S (64.79µg/dl). The Se supplementation and sources did not affect serum metabolites or indices of antioxidant pre and postpartum, except serum total protein and albumin concentrations. Cows in Se-M had greater serum total protein and albumin concentrations than those in control. The results of present study showed that serum Se concentrations increased in Se-Y and Se–M more effectively than Se-S, indicating that selenomethionine could replace Se-S as an effective organic Se source for transition dairy cows.

Microelements in seminal and serum plasma are associated with fresh semen quality in Yorkshire boars

This study aimed to explore associations between semen quality and trace element level in serum and seminal plasma in Yorkshire boars. Semen quality of 112 Yorkshire boars was assessed for 13 weeks to calculate semen utilization rate, which was then divided into three categories: low utilization rate group (LG, < 60% utilization rate), medium utilization rate group (MG, 60–80%), and high utilization rate group (HG, > 80%). After grouping, serum and seminal plasma samples of selected boars were collected to determine concentrations of 10 elements including Ca, Mg, Cu, Fe, Zn, Mn, Se, Cr, Pb and Cd using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Results showed the increase of semen utilization rate was accompanied by the increase of sperm motility and the decrease of abnormal sperm rate among three groups (P < 0.01). Serum Fe concentration in LG boars was lower than that in HG boars (P < 0.05). Regression analysis revealed serum Fe concentration was positively correlated with sperm motility (r = 0.251; P < 0.05), while negatively correlated with abnormal sperm rate (r = −0.207; P < 0.05). However, MG and HG boars had lower serum Se concentration than LG boars (P < 0.05), and serum Se concentration contribution to sperm motility varied in a quadratic manner (Sperm motility = −0.0004 Se(serum)2 +0.136 Se+74.06; r = 0.300; P < 0.01). Semen utilization rate tended to decrease with the increase of seminal plasma Pb concentration (P = 0.09). Regression analysis exhibited seminal plasma Pb negatively related to sperm motility (r = −0.237; P < 0.05), while positively correlated with abnormal sperm rate (r = 0.237; P < 0.05). Furthermore, seminal plasma Pb was the most influential factor among trace element in serum and seminal plasma on sperm motility basing on the generalized linear model analysis (P < 0.05). Sperm motility decreased by approximately 3.47% when seminal plasma Pb concentration increased from 0 μg/L to 11.16 μg/L. In conclusion, deficiency of serum Fe reduces semen utilization rate by impairing sperm motility and morphology, whereas excessive serum Se decreases sperm motility. More importantly, the mere existence of seminal plasma Pb has more impact on semen quality than other trace elements in serum and seminal plasma in Yorkshire boars.

Interactions Between Different Selenium Compounds and Essential Trace Elements Involved in the Antioxidant System of Laying Hens.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the interactions between different selenium (Se) compounds including sodium selenite (SS), selenium-enriched yeast (SY), and nano-selenium (NS) and various essential trace elements involved in the antioxidant systems, and to evaluate the effects on laying performance and egg quality. A total of 288 21-week-old Hyline Sophie hens were allotted to four dietary treatments: (1) basal diet without Se supplementation; (2) basal diet supplemented with 0.3mg/kg Se of SS; (3) basal diet supplemented with 0.3mg/kg Se of SY; (4) basal diet supplemented with 0.3mg/kg Se of NS. Each treatment had eight replicates with nine hens per replicate. The trial lasted for 35days. Results demonstrated that NS supplementation decreased the egg production (EP) and increased the feed conversion rate (FCR) and eggshell thickness and that SY changed the egg shape index (p < 0.05). Supplementation with three Se compounds significantly increased serum Se concentration and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in all treatment groups, as well as total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity in the SY and NS groups. Yolk iron (Fe) and copper (Cu) concentrations in the NS group were also increased with Se supplementation. While the serum zinc (Zn) concentration decreased in the NS and SY groups, as well as the yolk manganese (Mn) concentration in the SY group. And the total antioxidant capability (T-AOC) of yolk with 3days of storage in the SY and NS groups, malondialdehyde (MDA) value in the NS group, and the T-SOD activity and MDA value of yolk with 10days of storage in the SY group also decreased. Thus, the source of Se compounds may influence the balance between Se and other trace elements including Zn, Mn, Fe, and Cu, which is important for proper antioxidant defense in blood and egg yolk of laying hens.

Assessment of serum trace element levels in rheumatic heart disease: A case-control study

Aim: Some trace elements play important roles in various heart diseases. In this study, we aimed to determine the changes in some trace element concentrations in the serum of patients with rheumatic heart disease (RHD).Methods: Sixty-one patients with RHD and 60 healthy subjects were included in the study. Six subgroups were defined in the study group according to the Wilkins score, the degree of aortic involvement, and the presence or absence of pulmonary hypertension. Selenium (Se), Zinc (Zn), and Cupper (Cu) levels were measured, and transthoracic echocardiography was performed in all participants.Results: Serum Se and Zn concentrations were significantly lower in the patients compared to the controls (mean±SD and p 43.08±1.83 µg/dL vs. 60.75±2.44 µg/dL; t=-5.305‎, p=0.001 and 64.65±2.77 µg/dL vs. 87.34±3.33 µg/dL; t=-5.458, p=0.001, respectively). However, the serum Cu concentration was significantly higher in the patient group than in the control group (84.50±3.50 µg/dL vs. 74.23±3.08 µg/dL; t=2.309, p=0.023). Similarly, the Cu/Zn ratio in the patient group was found to be significantly higher than the control group (1.4±0.09 µg/dL vs. 0.9±0.04 µg/dL; t=5.267, p=0.001). In the patient group, there was no significant relationship between the Wilkins score, aortic involvement, pulmonary hypertension, the serum trace element concentrations, and Cu/Zn ratio (p&amp;gt;0.05 for all). Conclusions: We conclude that the changes in the concentrations of the measured trace elements can predispose ‎to RHD and play a role in the formation of certain factors that leads to the development of the ‎disease. Besides, serum Cu levels and Cu/Zn ratio can be used as inflammatory process markers.

Effects of Sodium Selenite, L-Selenomethionine, and Selenium Nanoparticles During Late Pregnancy on Selenium, Zinc, Copper, and Iron Concentrations in Khalkhali Goats and Their Kids.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of organic, inorganic, and selenium nanoparticle supplements at the final stage of pregnancy on selenium, zinc, copper, and iron concentrations of goats and placental, colostrum, and milk transfer of these trace minerals from goats to their kids. Forty pregnant Khalkhali goats (30 ± 5kg) were randomly allocated to four treatments including (1) no supplement (control), 0.6mgSehead-1day-1 of selenomethionine (SM), 0.6mgSehead-1day-1 of selenium nanoparticles (SN), and 0.6mgSehead-1day-1 of sodium selenite (SS), from 4weeks before the expected day of delivery to delivery day. Blood samples were taken from the goats 4weeks before the expected day of delivery and on the kidding day. Colostrum samples were collected from the goats immediately after kidding. Instantly after delivery, newborn kids were taken apart from their dams and their blood samples were collected from the jugular vein, before they drank their first colostrums and at 7, 14, 21, and 28 after birthday. The results demonstrated that the whole blood and serum Se concentration was greater in Se-supplemented goats compared with the control (P < 0.05). The total Se content of the whole blood and serum was higher in SN than in SM (P < 0.05) and SS goats (P < 0.05). At birth, the whole blood and serum concentration of Se was decreased (P < 0.05)in kids of SN-treated goats contrasted with the control ones (P < 0.05). The copper content of goats and their kids in treated goats was greater compared with control goats except for SN treated, which was decreased (P < 0.05). It was totally vice versa with Zn content trend in the whole blood, serum, and colostrum (P < 0.05), which was also concomitant with an increase in Fe content of kids of supplemented goats at birth and first week of life (P < 0.05). These results seem to indicate a higher efficacy of placental and colostral transfer of Se into kids of SM-treated goats when contrasted with either receiving comparable doses of SN or SS. It could be concluded that Se supplementation can affect and correlate with Cu, Zn, and Fe levels, and this effect depends a lot on the chemical or physical variety of Se supplementation.

Effects of source on bioavailability of selenium, antioxidant status, and performance in lactating dairy cows during oxidative stress-inducing conditions

In the current study, we used heat stress (HS) as an oxidative stress model to examine the effects of hydroxy-selenomethionine (HMSeBA), an organic selenium source, on selenium's bioavailability, antioxidant status, and performance when fed to dairy cows. Eight mid-lactation Holstein dairy cows (141 ± 27 d in milk, 35.3 ± 2.8 kg of milk/d, parity 2 or 3) were individually housed in environmental chambers and randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatments: inorganic Se supplementation (sodium selenite; SS; 0.3 mg of Se/kg of dry matter; n = 4) or HMSeBA supplementation (0.3 mg of Se/kg of dry matter; n = 4). The trial was divided into 3 continuous periods: a covariate period (9 d), a thermal neutral (TN) period (28 d), and a HS period (9 d). During the covariate and TN periods, all cows were housed in TN conditions (20°C, 55% humidity). During HS, all cows were exposed to cyclical HS conditions (32-36°C, 40% humidity). All cows were fed SS during the covariate period, and dietary treatments were implemented during the TN and HS periods. During HS, cows fed HMSeBA had increased Se concentrations in serum and milk, and total Se milk-to-serum concentration ratio compared with SS controls. Superoxide dismutase activity did not differ between Se sources, but we noted a treatment by day interaction in glutathione peroxidase activity as HS progressively reduced it in SS controls, whereas it was maintained in HMSeBA cows. Supplementation with HMSeBA increased total antioxidant capacity and decreased malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide, and nitric oxide serum concentrations compared with SS-fed controls. We found no treatment effects on rectal temperature, respiratory rate, or dry matter intake. Supplementing HMSeBA tended to increase milk yield and decrease milk fat percentage. No other milk composition parameters differed between treatments. We observed no treatment effects detected on blood biochemistry, except for a lower alanine aminotransferase activity in HMSeBA-fed cows. These results demonstrate that HMSeBA supplementation decreases some parameters of HS-induced oxidative stress.