Serum Zinc Levels Research Articles

Pre-Post Assessment of Serum Zinc and Copper Status in Uncomplicated Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients Receiving Directly Observed Treatment Short Course

Mycobacterium tuberculosis causing the infectious disease tuberculosis has a predilection for the lungs although it is common to see other organs involved. India has adopted the TB-DOTS program for the treatment of the same. Undernutrition and tuberculosis are mutually inclusive. Micronutrients like zinc and copper play a key role in cytokine kinetics and immunity and thus are important in an individual’s response to infectious disease. Serum copper and zinc levels in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (pTB) before and after two months of directly observed treatment short course (DOTS) were assessed in this study. The serum samples of 39 pTB patients were collected before the commencement of anti-tubercular therapy (ATT) and tested for copper and zinc levels. At the end of the intensive phase of treatment, blood samples of 31 out of the 39 pTB patients were again collected and tested for the same trace elements. In the pre-post comparison of 31 patients who could be followed up, an increase in serum zinc levels [101 (74.9) μg/ dl vs 112(155.5) μg/dl)] after the treatment was not statistically significant (p=0.15). The serum copper levels [184(105.7) μg/dl vs 247(80.8) μg/dl)] were significantly (p<0.01) increased after two months of DOTS therapy. Sputum negativity was close to 81%.Serum copper, as well as zinc levels, were increased after DOTS therapy for two months. Since the response to therapy was 69%, supplementation of copper and zinc may benefit the pTB patients in achieving sputum negativity sooner and completely.

1169 Zinc and Copper Deficiency in Bariatric Patients: Time to Revise Guidelines?

Abstract Aim The number of bariatric surgeries performed is increasing due to the rising incidence of obesity. It is known that mineral deficiencies can occur in the postoperative period for these procedures. We examined the prevalence of zinc and copper deficiencies before and after various bariatric procedures, with the aim of assessing the relevance of current recommendations, specifically the American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the British Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society (BOMSS) guidelines, regarding monitoring and supplementation. Method We retrospectively analysed data of 327 patients who underwent one of three bariatric operations: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and mini-gastric bypass (MGB) between January 2018 and December 2019. Copper and zinc serum levels prior to surgery, and at 3-, 6-, and 12-months post-operation were collected. Results Preoperatively, 56.7% of patients undergoing bariatric surgery were zinc deficient and 32.4% had hypercupraemia. Twelve months post-surgery, 42.9% of RYGB, 35.3% of SG, and 57.7% of MGB patients with preoperative zinc deficiency presented again with a zinc deficiency requiring supplementation. Only 1 patient displayed copper deficiency preoperatively, and 6 postoperatively. Conclusions Screening for zinc and copper deficiencies at 6 and 12 months postoperatively, rather than at 3 months, is a more clinical and cost-effective strategy.

Use of serum copper and zinc levels in the diagnostic evaluation of endometrioma and epithelial ovarian carcinoma.

The aim of this study is to evaluate serum copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) levels in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer and endometrioma. We included 21 epithelial ovarian cancer patients, 47 endometrioma patients, 31 healthy women of reproductive age, and 10 healthy women in menopause. Cu and Zn levels and Cu/Zn ratios were compared. In the endometrioma group, Cu levels (P = 0.04) and Cu/Zn ratio (P < 0.01) were higher, while Zn levels (P < 0.01) were lower compared to the control group. The threshold value of 1.15 with 62% sensitivity and 61% specificity was calculated for the Cu/Zn ratio using the ROC curve (AUC = 0.688; P = 0.005). In the ovarian cancer group, Cu levels (P ≤ 0.01) and Cu/Zn ratio (P = 0.02) were higher, whereas Zn levels (P ≤ 0.02) were lower compared to the control group. The Cu/Zn ratio threshold value of 1.37 was calculated with 76% sensitivity and 90% specificity (AUC = 0.829; P = 0.004). The Zn level was lower (P = 0.02), and the Cu/Zn ratio was higher (P = 0.01) in the ovarian cancer group compared to the endometrioma group. The threshold value of the Cu/Zn ratio for ovarian cancer could be determined with a specificity of 90%, whereas the sensitivity and specificity of the Cu/Zn ratio for endometrioma were low.

Evaluation of liver enzymes activity and some trace elements in sickle cell anemia patients in Basrah Governorate – Iraq.

Sickle cell anemia is one of genetic diseases caused by hemoglobin biochemical disorder in especially in polypeptidic chain of this protein. The study was conducted from October 2019 to December 2020 and included two sets of samples Patient and Healthy .The current study was curried out to evaluate some enzymes and trace elements in patients with sickle cell anemia. The levels of copper (Cu) were estimated spectrophotometrically by reaction of copper with 4 – (3,5 – dibromo – 2- pyridylazo) – N – ethyl sulphopropylaniline to produce a chelating complex.The determination was carried out at wavelength equal to 520 nm. Finally, absorbances were recorded and they are proportional to concentration of copper in the sample . Also, the levels of zinc in serum of blood belonging to sickle cell anemia (SCA) were investigated and estimated by reaction of zinc with chromogen existing in the characteristic kit to produce coloured complex. The absorbances were recorded spectrophotometrically which are proportional to concentration of zinc in blood sample . The levels of biochemical variables were estimated using ARCHITECT c4000 systems provided by ABBOTT Company, which are designed with advanced technology, accuracy in clinical results and ease of handling. The device uses a sample size at a rate of 6µL in all measurements of chemical variables.The total values of the current results were made and expressed by calculation of the mean ± standard deviation. Analysis of all results data were carried out by using a statistical procedure according to analysis of variance univariate . Statistical programmer of social science (SPSS ,v.23 ) was depended for calculation of significant differences for the different groups of patients infected by SCA disease and healthy persons . The correlation regression coefficient (r) was used and depended to distinguish between the means of groups belonging to all patients and healthy individuals ( control group ) .The p-value was agreed for less than 0.05 to the limit of lowest significance . A highly significant difference was recorded belong to levels of GPT, ALP and GOT in patients compared with healthy individuals (control group) according to age and sex factor.

Relationship between zinc levels, anthropometric parameters and socio-demographic status among primary school pupils in a semi-urban community in Nigeria

Background: Zinc plays important roles in many biological processes in the body such as acting as a catalyst for numerous enzymes involved in nucleic acid metabolism cellular replication tissue repair and the growth of tissues hence, the study was aimed to determine the relationship between zinc levels, anthropometric parameters and socio-demographic status among primary school pupils. Methods: The study was a cross-sectional descriptive design carried out among four hundred primary school pupils between the ages 6-12 years in Ogbomoso. Questionnaires were distributed to obtain socio-demographic information from pupils and blood was collected for serum zinc analysis using ELISA technique. The data obtained were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21 Results: The level of serum zinc deficiency in the study population was 9.5%. Serum zinc levels are significantly higher among younger age groups compared to older age groups (F=6.913, p value=0.001). The family size and socio-economic class are significantly associated with zinc levels. Zinc level was significantly lower in underweight children (0.389±0.25) compared to normal weight (0.819±0.39), overweight (0.991±0.62) and obese children (0.654±0.41), F=7.264, p=0.001 Conclusions: Zinc deficiency is an important component of nutritionally related morbidity worldwide. Zinc supplementation or food fortification among school children will have beneficial effects on the incidence and outcome of serious childhood infectious diseases.

Ceruloplasmin and some biochemical parameters as a marker for acute myeloid leukemic patients

Acute myeloid leukemia is a second type of leukemia and has more effect on elder patients than adult. This research's objective was to measure the serum levels of ceruloplasmin (CP), ferritin (FR), vitamin B12 (VitB12), folic acid (FA), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and iron (Fe) in acute myeloid leukemic patients (AML) (before and after taking chemotherapy) and healthy control groups. In this study, about (160) blood samples (males and females) were collected from acute myeloid leukemic patients in Erbil’s Nanakali hospital and they were separated into four groups: Group 1 (G1) including (40) Apparently healthy control group, Group 2 (G2) include (40) acute myeloid leukemic patients before taking chemotherapy (new cases), Group 3 (G3) include (40) acute myeloid leukemia patients taking chemotherapy for one cycle, and Group 4 (G4) include (40) acute myeloid leukemic patients with taking chemotherapy for more than one cycle. The outcomes display a significant increase in serum concentration of ceruloplasmin, ferritin, vitamin B12, and iron in all patient groups when compared with control groups. While the serum concentration of folic acid, zinc, and copper decreased in all patient groups when compared with the healthy control group. In addition, the correlation analysis displays that there was a significant positive correlation between ceruloplasmin with ferritin, vitamin B12, and iron, on another hand have a non-significant negative correlation between ceruloplasmin with folic acid, zinc, and copper. According to the present study, there was a direct correlation between AML patients with the serum levels of CP, FR, VitB12, FA, Zn, Cu, and Fe. A high area under the curve of our data suggests that testing for (CP, FR, VitB12, FA, Cu, and Fe) could be helpful to detect AML. However, zinc is not a good biomarker for detecting AML patients.

Relation between Serum and Dietary Zinc Levels and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Medical Students of Ain Shams University

Background Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), is one of the commonest gastrointestinal disorders and IBS symptoms control often involve food restrictions that may cause zinc deficiency which is in turn may contribute to pathophysiology of IBS. Objectives To measure the proportion of IBS and its subtypes in medical students and to correlate between serum zinc level and dietary zinc intake with IBS. Methods A cross sectional study was carried out among a sample of students at The Nutritional Assessment of Medical Students of Ain Shams University (NAMS/ASU). A total of 199 students were involved, all participants were subjected to direct interviews self-administered questionnaires including GIT clinical symptoms, 24 hours food recall and food frequency questionnaire. They were also subjected to serum zinc level measurement. In addition to calculation of dietary zinc intake daily using food composition analysis software according to the Egyptian Food Composition Tables. Results The number of medical students that had positive ROME IV criteria were 104 students, in a proportion of 8.5% of the students participated in NAMES/ASU, with IBS-C was the commonest type. Serum zinc level was significantly low in IBS students with positive significance correlation to dietary zinc intake. Dietary consumption of zinc rich food showed significant reduction of serum zinc level with milk and dairy products intake of less than 3 servings per week. Conclusion the proportion of IBS in NAMES/ASU project was about 8.5% with the IBS-C was the most common subtype. They had low serum zinc level and a positive significant correlation with dietary zinc intake.

Trace Elements Status (Zinc & Copper) in Pediatric Patients on Regular Hemodialysis

Background Hemodialysis patients are at risk for deficiency of essential trace elements and excess of toxic trace elements, both of which can affect health. Objectives Up to our knowledge, there is no previous data about the normal values of trace elements in pediatric hemodialysis patient, so our aim was to evaluate the status of both serum zinc & copper in our pediatric hemodialysis patients in order to evaluate the need for supplementation. Methodology This is a case control study which involved 2 groups: Patients’ group included 60 children with end stage kidney disease on regular hemodialysis following up at Pediatric Dialysis Unit, Ain Shams University Hospitals and 60 healthy children served as a control group. Measurements of serum copper and zinc were performed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, complete blood count (CBC), iron and lipid profiles were done and correlated to serum copper and zinc level. Results Patients’ group were 32 males (53.3%) and 28 females (46.6%) with an average age of 13.06 ± 2.08, 8-17 years, BMI of (15.07 ± 3.30, 8.38-21.14 Kg/m2) and duration of hemodialysis was (3.28 ± 2.33, 1-10 years). The control group were 39 males (65%) and 21 females (35%) with age of (8 ± 2.14, 5-12 years) and BMI was (16.36 ± 1.30, 14.6-18.5 Kg/m2). Six patients (10%) had low serum zinc level with values between 58 to 59 mcg% (normal:60-120 mcg%), while only two patients (3.3%) had low serum copper level with values of 66 mcg% (normal:70140 mcg%). All control group had normal serum zinc and copper levels with a significant difference between patients and control groups as regards serum copper level (Patients’ group 78.06 ± 7.5 mcg%, control group 82.46 ± 8.13 mcg%, P = 0.03). We found a negative correlation between blood copper and ferritin level (r = 0.334, P value = 0.009). We also found a positive correlation between blood copper and cholesterol level (r = 0.276, P value = 0.033). Conclusion Hemodialysis could lead to depletion of biologically essential trace elements, thus routine monitoring of trace element blood levels is important for proper nutritional support of patients on hemodialysis.

Association of Serum Zinc Level and Clinical Outcome in Patients with COVID19 Virus

Abstract Background Zinc, one of the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant micronutrient found in food with well-established role in immunity, is currently being used in some clinical trials against COVID-19. Objective The aim of our study was to assess the association between mean levels of Zinc in the patients and mortality caused by COVID-19. Patients and Methods This was a comparative cross-sectional study that was performed on 60 Egyptian patients at Ain Shams University Quarantine field hospital, Ain Shams University Quarantine hospital In Al OboUr, and outpatient clinics at Ain shams university hospitals for 6 months period This study patients were divided according to clinical outcome into: Group I that included patients admitted to ICU and Group II that included patients admitted to ward. Results There was no statistically significant difference found between two groups regarding Sex, Age and Special habits, and there was no statistically significant difference found between two groups regarding CO-RADS classification, and there was statistically highly significant difference found found between two groups regarding Medical history. There was statistically significant difference found between two groups regarding Zinc level. There was statistically no significant difference found between two groups regarding Lymphocytes, Hemoglobin, Platelets, BUN, S. Creatinine, Total Bilirubin and S. Albumin, and there was statistically significant difference found between two groups regarding Neutrophil- Lymphocyte ratio, CRP, ESR, AST, ALT, FERRITIN and LDH, and there was statistically highly significant difference found between two groups regarding TLC, Neutrophils, D-DIMER and VIT D. Conclusion This study concluded a correlation between low SZC and COVID-19 severity and mortality. The cause is likely to be a combination of immune system imbalance and a direct benefit of viral replication. Thus, we propose SZC as a novel and additional parameter to predict COVID19 outcome.

FTP5.5 Zinc and Copper Deficiency in Bariatric Patients: Time to Revise Guidelines?

Abstract Aim The number of bariatric surgeries performed is increasing due to the rising incidence of obesity. It is known that mineral deficiencies can occur in the postoperative period for these procedures. We examined the prevalence of zinc and copper deficiencies before and after various bariatric procedures, with the aim of assessing the relevance of current recommendations, specifically the American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the British Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society (BOMSS) guidelines, regarding monitoring and supplementation. Method We retrospectively analysed data of 327 patients who underwent one of three bariatric operations: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and mini-gastric bypass (MGB) between January 2018 and December 2019. Copper and zinc serum levels prior to surgery, and at 3, 6, and 12 months post-operation were collected. Results Preoperatively, 56.7% of patients undergoing bariatric surgery were zinc deficient and 32.4% had hypercupraemia. Twelve months post-surgery, 42.9% of RYGB, 35.3% of SG, and 57.7% of MGB patients with preoperative zinc deficiency presented again with a zinc deficiency requiring supplementation. Only 1 patient displayed copper deficiency preoperatively, and 6 postoperatively. Conclusion Screening for zinc and copper deficiencies at 6 and 12 months postoperatively, rather than at 3 months, is a more clinical and cost-effective strategy.

Assessment of Serum Zn, Cu, Mn, and Fe Concentration in Women with Endometrial Cancer and Different Endometrial Pathologies.

There is conflicting evidence on the effect of specific micronutrient concentration and cancer risk. In this study, we investigated the differences in serum zinc, copper, iron, and manganese levels and different endometrial pathologies, including endometrial cancer. 110 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of endometrial cancer, benign uterine conditions (endometrial polyp, endometrial hyperplasia, uterine myoma), or normal endometrium were included in the study and assessed in terms of endometrial cancer risk factors. The measurements of serum micronutrients were conducted using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. When assessing for differences between serum concentrations of trace metals, we found significant differences in the distribution of Mn (p < 0.001) and Fe (0.034). There was also a significant difference in Cu/Zn ratio between the analyzed groups (p = 0.002). Patients' BMI was found to influence Cu concentration, with obese patients having higher mean copper concentration (p = 0.006). Also, patients' menopausal status was shown to influence Cu concentration with postmenopausal patients having higher Cu levels (p = 0.001). The menopausal status was found to influence Cu/Zn ratio (p = 0.002). Univariable regression analysis did not confirm that any of the micronutrients significantly influence the risk of endometrial cancer. The concentration of specific trace metals varies between different histopathological diagnoses of endometrial pathologies. Menopausal status and patient BMI are endometrial cancer risk factors impacted by the concentrations of Cu and Zn and their ratio.

Association of dietary zinc consumption with periodontitis in diabetes mellitus patients: A cross-sectional study of national health and nutrition examination surveys database (2009–2014)

Background/purposePeriodontitis is an independent risk factor for diabetes mellitus (DM), and DM patients had an increased risk in susceptibility to periodontitis. And serum zinc (Zn) levels were low in patients with periodontitis combined with DM. Herein, this study aimed to explore the association between dietary Zn intake and the risk of periodontitis in DM patients, in order to provide some scientific references for the prevention and treatment for periodontitis clinically. Materials and methodsDemographic and clinical data of DM patients were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) database in 2009–2014 in this cross-sectional study. Weighted univariate logistic regression and backward regression analyses were used for covariates screening. Weighted univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to explore the association between Zn and periodontitis with odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses of age and gender were also performed. ResultsOf the eligible participants, 1281 had moderate or severe periodontitis. After adjusting for the covariates, we found that comparing to DM patients who had not reach the recommended Zn intake level, those who reached had low odds for periodontitis [OR = 0.76, 95% CI: (0.58–0.99)]. In patients who aged ≥65 years old [OR = 0.59, 95% CI: (0.36–0.97)] and were female [OR = 0.71, 95% CI: (0.51–0.99)], reaching the recommended level of Zn intake was related to low odds of periodontitis. ConclusionSufficient dietary Zn intake antagonized the risk of periodontitis, which may provide some references for diet management in DM patients to reduce the risk of periodontitis.

Serum Zinc Level and Efficacy of Zinc Therapy in Cutaneous Leishmaniasis: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is a parasitic skin disease prevalent in many parts of the world. Zinc has been investigated for its potential role in the immune response against Leishmania parasites. This study aimed to systematically review the literature and conduct meta-analyses to evaluate the serum zinc level and efficacy of zinc therapy in cutaneous leishmaniasis. A comprehensive search of electronic databases was performed to find studies reporting serum zinc levels and the efficacy of zinc therapy in cutaneous leishmaniasis. Meta-analyses were conducted using RevMan software (version 5.4), calculating the mean difference for serum zinc levels and risk ratio for the efficacy of zinc therapy. A total of 11 studies with 1009 participants were evaluated. Five of these studies, comprising 637 participants, examined serum zinc levels; the remaining six, involving 372 individuals, examined the effectiveness of zinc therapy in treating cutaneous leishmaniasis. The results showed that the serum zinc level was significantly lower in cutaneous leishmaniasis patients compared to controls (MD: - 26.65; 95% CI: [- 42.74, - 10.57]; p = 0.001). However, zinc therapy did not demonstrate a significant clinical improvement compared to standard treatment (RR: 0.96; 95% CI: [0.74, 1.23], p = 0.73).

Evaluation of Serum Zinc Levels in Children of 6 Months to 5 Years of Age Diagnosed with Simple Febrile Seizures

Background: Febrile seizures are defined as seizures associated with a febrile illness that developed without central nervous system infection or acute electrolyte imbalance, intoxication, trauma, and metabolic disorder in children aged 1 month to 5 years without previous afebrile seizures. Various studies show a relationship between zinc levels and febrile seizures. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between serum zinc levels and febrile seizures. Methods: This prospective, cross-sectional, and descriptive study was conducted from 04/10/2021 to 04/02/2022. A total of 85 children aged 6 months to 5 years admitted to the pediatric emergency service of the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health Cemil Taşcıoğlu City Hospital were included in the study. The patients who met the inclusion criteria and whose consent was obtained were included in the study. Complex and febrile status patients were not included in the study due to the small number of patients. The cases included in the study were divided into 2 groups of patients and healthy controls. The patients with fever were divided into 2 groups, including those with and without febrile seizures. The levels of zinc and complete blood count parameters were measured in the blood samples taken from all the patients. IBM SPSS 22 package software was used for the statistical examination of the data. Results: When the cases included in this study were divided according to gender, 33 (38.8%) and 52 (61.2%) patients were female and male, respectively. The mean age of the cases was 29.2 ± 15.9 months (range: 6 - 60). Of the 85 participating cases, 30 patients had febrile seizures, 30 were only febrile patients, and 25 were healthy controls. When zinc levels were compared between the groups, the plasma zinc levels of the febrile seizures and febrile groups were observed to be lower than the healthy control group (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: In this study, the group consisting of patients with febrile seizures and the groups of patients who had a fever but did not have febrile seizures during the study had reduced serum zinc levels than the control group consisting of healthy patients without fever.

Effect of Recommended Dietary Intake versus Higher Doses of Supplemental Zinc on Iron and Copper Deficiency Anemia Among Patients with Chronic Kidney Diseases, A Double-Blinded, Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Complex interplays happen in absorption and function of iron, zinc and copper. Both zinc deficiency and excess may lead to anemia. In Iran, commonly available supplements for chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients contain 25 mg-zinc (Zn). This study compared 25 mg versus 7.5 mg dose of zinc in anemia of CKD patients, the latter dose approximates to recommended dietary intake (RDI) of zinc. Methods: In this double-blinded clinical trial, 51 non-dialysis CKD patients were randomized to continue previous formulation (25 mg-Zn group) or change to a new preparation (7.5 mg-Zn group) for three months. Blood counts and serum iron, zinc and copper status were compared between and within the groups. Results: At the end of the study, serum copper and ceruloplasmin concentrations were significantly higher in 7.5 mg-Zn group compared with those in 25 mg-Zn arm (115.04± 23.05 vs. 102.48±14.98 µg/dL; P= 0.02 and 29.97±7.94 vs. 25.42±4.23 mg/dL; P= 0.01, respectively). Serum zinc levels did not differ between two groups (76.73±15.35 vs. 77.68±18.07 µg/dL for 7.5 mg-Zn and 25 mg-Zn groups, respectively; P= 0.84). After three months, patients in 7.5 mg-Zn group experienced increase in their Hb (11.11±1.17 vs. 10.72±1.03 g/dL; P= 0.04), HCT (35.28± 4.01 vs. 33.96± 3.74%; P= 0.03), MCV (86.30 (81.40-90.82) vs. 86.00 (80.35-88.77) ¦L; P= 0.01) and ferritin (202.60 (79.29-298.97) vs. 129.07 (42.25-225.87) ng/mL; P&lt;0.001) compared to their baseline values. Conclusion: Reducing zinc content to its RDI value in supplement for CKD patients led to increased serum copper and ceruloplasmin concentrations. Moreover, patients who switched to RDI zinc-containing formula experienced a significant rise in blood hemoglobin. hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and ferritin concentration.

Correlation between serum zinc and brain injury in infants with mild gastroenteritis complicated with benign infantile convulsion and febrile convulsion

To investigate the association between serum zinc levels and convulsive brain injury in infants with mild gastroenteritis complicated with benign infantile seizures (BICE) and febrile seizures (FC). A case-control study method was conducted. 120 children with mild gastroenteritis and convulsion admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University from January 2020 to January 2022 were enrolled as the research subjects. They were divided into BICE group and FC group according to the type of convulsion. The serum zinc level, the frequency and duration of convulsion, and the occurrence of convulsive brain injury in the two groups were recorded. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis was used to screen the risk factors for convulsive brain injury. The Spearman correlation method was used to analyze the association between serum zinc levels, clinical characteristics of convulsion and convulsive brain injury. A total of 120 children were enrolled, of which 81 developed to BICE and 39 developed to FC during hospitalization. The serum zinc level of children in the FC group was significantly lower than that in the BICE group (μmol/L: 39.24±6.50 vs. 48.65±7.21, P < 0.01). In the BICE group and FC group, the serum zinc level in children with more than 2 convulsions was significantly lower than that in the children with one convulsion (μmol/L: 37.65±6.50 vs. 53.17±7.55 in the BICE group, and 30.27±5.58 vs. 44.16±7.57 in the FC group, both P < 0.01). Serum zinc level in children with convulsion duration ≥ 5 minutes was significantly lower than that in the children with convulsion duration < 5 minutes (μmol/L: 38.75±6.74 vs. 51.21±7.58 in the BICE group, and 31.08±5.46 vs. 45.19±7.25 in the FC group, both P < 0.01). Moreover, the serum zinc level of children with different convulsion frequency and duration in the FC group was significantly lower than that in the BICE group (all P < 0.01). Among the 120 children, 9 cases of convulsive brain injury occurred, and the incidence rate was 7.50%. The incidence of convulsive brain injury in the BICE group was 1.23% (1/81), which was significantly lower than 20.51% in the FC group (8/39, P < 0.01). The serum zinc level of children with convulsive brain injury was significantly lower than that of children with non-brain injury (μmol/L: 28.50±5.00 vs. 60.22±7.31, P < 0.01), and the number of convulsion was significantly higher than that of non-cerebral injury (≥ 2 convulsions: 100.00% vs. 1.80%, P < 0.01), and the duration of convulsion in children with brain injury was significantly longer than that of non-brain-injured children (convulsion duration ≥ 5 minutes: 100.00% vs. 11.71%, P < 0.01). Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that decreased serum zinc level [odds ratio (OR) = 2.147, 95% confidence interval (95%CI) was 1.354-3.403], increased number of convulsion (OR = 3.452, 95%CI was 1.266-9.417), and prolonged convulsion duration (OR = 3.117, 95%CI was 1.326-7.327) were independent risk factor for convulsive brain injury in children with mild gastroenteritis and convulsion (all P < 0.05). Spearman correlation analysis showed that serum zinc level, convulsion ≥ 2 times, duration of convulsion ≥ 5 minutes and convulsion ≥ 2 times + convulsion duration ≥ 5 minutes were significantly negatively correlated with the occurrence of convulsive brain injury in FC children (r values were -0.546, -0.517, -0.522, and -0.528, all P < 0.01). There was no significant correlation between serum zinc level, convulsion ≥ 2 times, convulsion duration ≥ 5 minutes and convulsion ≥ 2 times+convulsion duration ≥ 5 minutes and convulsive brain injury in BICE children (r values were -0.281, -0.129, -0.201, -0.243, all P > 0.05). Serum zinc level is related to the characteristics of convulsive symptoms in children with mild gastroenteritis complicated with FC, and has a strong negative correlation with the occurrence of convulsive brain injury. Active targeted intervention and treatment may help reduce the incidence of brain injury in children.

Micronutrient Deficiencies and Digital Computerized Phototrichogram Analysis in Telogen Effluvium: a Retrospective Correlation Study in a Tertiary Medical Center.

Telogen effluvium (TE) is a common form of non-scarring alopecia that may manifest as acute or chronic hair shedding. Several studies evaluated a possible relationship between various vitamin and mineral deficiencies and TE, but it is still a controversial topic. This study aimed to investigate the status of vitamin and mineral deficiencies in patients diagnosed with TE and to evaluate their correlation with anagen hair ratios (AHR) calculated with an automated digital phototrichogram (ADCP). Electronic records of 973 TE patients were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic, clinical data, parameters such as ferritin, vitamin B12 (Vit-B12), vitamin D (Vit-D), folic acid, zinc and hemoglobin (HGB) serum levels were evaluated. Anagen to telogen hair ratios were also assessed in forty-two patients via ADCP. The rates of anemia, low ferritin level, and Vit-B12, folate, Vit-D, and zinc deficiencies were 11.9% (N = 109), 44% (N = 332), 1.5% (N = 13), 2.5% (N = 14), 87% (N = 51), and 4.5% (N = 2), respectively. A positive correlation was found between HGB levels and AHR in female patients (Spearman rank, r = 0.417, P = 0.008). No statistically significant relationship was found between ferritin, Vit-B12, folate, zinc serum levels and AHR. The relationship between Vit-D and AHR could not be assessed due to the insufficient number of patients with Vit-D data. HGB value is the only marker that is positively correlated with the AHR of patients with TE. Ordering HGB can be used as an initial test for managing TE patients cost-effectively.

Serum zinc levels in youth with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder and anorexia nervosa: Clinical correlation with weight and psychopathology.

Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) and anorexia nervosa (AN) are characterized by restrictive eating and micronutrient deficiencies. While zinc deficiency has been identified in AN, zinc level in ARFID has not been systematically assessed. Examine serum zinc levels and their association with eating pathology, psychopathology, and executive functioning in youth with ARFID and AN. This study included 28 adolescents (Mage = 13, 75% female) receiving treatment for ARFID (n = 13) and AN (n = 15). Demographic data and intake mood metrics were obtained via chart review. Participants completed the Delis-Kaplan Executive Functioning Systems and their mothers completed the behavior rating inventory of executive function (BRIEF-2). Zinc level was collected via blood draw. Independent samples t-tests, Pearson's chi-square, and Pearson's correlations were used to evaluate between-group differences and the relationship between zinc level and clinical correlates. No between-groups differences emerged in zinc levels, though half the sample demonstrated low levels for their ages. No significant correlations were found between zinc level and demographic data, mood measures, or executive functioning tasks. AN had relatively lower zinc levels, higher eating pathology, and anxiety, though ARFID had a longer duration of illness. Correlations between zinc and BRIEF-2 scores were mixed. This is the first study to systematically assess zinc levels in ARFID. While there were no group differences for zinc levels, 50% of the sample had low zinc levels. Zinc level did not correlate with higher psychopathology. Monitoring zinc levels throughout treatment in the context of anabolic processes can inform treatment strategies.

Structural Characterization of Zinc-Sucrose Complex and Its Ability to Promote Zinc Absorption in Caco-2 Monolayer Cells and Mice.

Sucrose emerges as a metal-ion chelating agent with excellent stability that may increase metal-ion absorption. This study aimed to characterize the structure of zinc-sucrose complex and investigate its ability to promote zinc absorption in Caco-2 monolayer cells and mice. Based on the results of the inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometer (ICP-ES), scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), it can be inferred that zinc and sucrose were chelated at a 1:1 ratio, with the hydroxyl groups playing a significant role. The Caco-2 monolayer cell model revealed that zinc-sucrose complex increased the amount of zinc uptake, retention, and transport in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Through the upregulation of genes and proteins for ZIP4, MT1, and DMT1, treatment with zinc-sucrose complex improved the proportion of absorbed zinc utilized for transport compared to ZnCl2 (26.21 ± 4.96 versus 8.50 ± 1.51%). Pharmacokinetic analysis of mice confirmed the zinc absorption-promoting effect of zinc-sucrose complex, as indicated by the considerably higher serum zinc level (4.16 ± 0.53 versus 2.56 ± 0.45 mg/L) and intestinal ZIP4, MT1, and DMT1 gene expression than ZnCl2. Further treatment of different zinc channel inhibitors and CETSA demonstrated the direct interaction of zinc-sucrose complex with ZIP4 protein and ZIP4-mediated cellular transport of zinc-sucrose complex. These findings provide a novel insight into the zinc absorption-promoting mechanism of zinc-sucrose complex, which could be used as an ingredient in functional foods to treat zinc deficiency.

Evaluation of the Serum Zinc Level in Patients Followed in Hospital with the Diagnosis of COVID-19 in Samsun Province, Türkiye

The COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) outbreak has not yet ended and poses a persistent hazard to individuals, communities, and healthcare systems globally. Similar to numerous other diseases, the immune system of the patient is intricately associated with the advancement and mortality rates of COVID-19. In general, the immune system plays a crucial role in protecting the host against infections and neoplastic cells, and a well-balanced diet can enhance the immune system's ability to effectively defend against infectious agents. There have been suggestions that the administration of zinc supplements may decrease the occurrence of lower respiratory tract infections in children who are deficient in zinc. This study will thus examine the potential of zinc as a preventive and therapeutic agent, either on its own or in conjunction with other techniques, as zinc fulfills all the requirements outlined above. The study cohort was stratified into three distinct groups, namely critical care patients, service patients, and a healthy control group; a total of 24 COVID-19 patients in critical care, 27 ward-treated COVID-19 patients, and 26 healthy individuals. The groups exhibited a notable disparity in age distribution (p&lt;0.001). A statistically significant difference was seen among the groups in relation to the survey results, presence of chronic disease, and length of hospital stay (p&lt;0.001, p&lt;0.001, and p=0.007, respectively). COVID-19 patients (n=51) exhibited markedly reduced zinc levels in comparison to a control group of healthy individuals (n=26). It was observed that the average zinc level in patients diagnosed with COVID-19 was 89 μg/dl (range: 43-123 μg/dl). In comparison, the median zinc level in individuals without COVID-19 was found to be 99.5 μg/dl (range: 79-125 μg/dl). A statistically significant difference was observed between the groups (p=0.023). The study revealed that a total of 13 individuals, accounting for 25.5% of the COVID-19 patients, exhibited a deficiency in zinc levels. The findings of our study indicate that zinc potentially plays a significant role in the context of COVID-19. However, additional research is required to get a comprehensive understanding of the association between COVID-19 and zinc.