Zinc Sulfate Monohydrate Research Articles

Effect of pH on Toxicity of Zinc Sulphate Hydrate Solutions Using the Spirotox Test

Introduction: Spirostomum ambiguum is commonly used as a biological indicator due to its high sensitivity to heavy metals. It functions normally across a wide pH range of 4.5 to 8.0. Testing on protozoan organisms provides a general understanding of the impact of pH on the toxicity of zinc in pharmaceuticals. By investigating the toxicity of zinc in environment with varying pH levels, the optimal environment for zinc absorption can be determined. Objective: The objective of this study is to assess the toxicity of zinc sulphate solutions using different forms of hydrating and at various pH levels, applying the Spirotox method. Methods: An experiment was conducted using a solution of pharmaceutical substances, specifically zinc sulphate heptahydrate and zinc sulphate monohydrate, with a concentration of 0.01 M. The study aimed to investigate the effect of the solution on the lifespan of S.ambiguum within the pH range of 4.8-6.5. Results: Arrhenius activation energy (Ea linear correlates with LD50 oral toxicity for rats) decreases as pH increases from 4.8 to 6.5 for ⋅7 and ⋅ solutions. The values decrease from 140±10 kJ/mol to 55±10 kJ/mol and from 110±2 kJ/mol to 60±10 kJ/mol, respectively. Conclusion: It was found that the toxicity of zinc sulphate hydrate solution towards S. ambiguum increased as the pH value increased. Hydrating of the active pharmaceutical substance was a crucial factor, it is critically important for preparation of solutions of an active pharmaceutical substance. Keywords: zinc sulphate, Spirotox test, pH, activation energy, toxicity.

ТЕХНОЛОГИЯ ПОЛУЧЕНИЯ МОНОГИДРАТА СУЛЬФАТА ЦИНКА

The article presents the results of studies on the production of zinc sulfate monohydrate. Zinc sulfate hydrates are chemical compounds used in various industries. They are used in agriculture to increase yields, as well as in the production of paints, medicines, beer and other products. The main element is zinc, which contributes to the active growth and development of plants. Powders, zinc oxide production waste with zinc content from 75 to 99% and 25% sulfuric acid were used as study objects. The content of basic elements was determined by ICP spectroscopy. Based on the data obtained, a production scheme was developed, including the following stages: preliminary preparation of components, chemical interaction, purification of the resulting zinc sulfate solution, evaporation of the solution, drying. Zinc-containing raw materials must be crushed beforehand. In order to increase the rate of interaction between the components, the zinc-containing powders are premixed with water. The amount of concentrated sulfuric acid injected is adjusted so that a 25% solution is formed after dilution with water. During the reaction of the interaction of the components at temperatures above 70°C, strong foaming is observed, indicating the presence of metallic zinc (Zn) in addition to ZnO particles. Hydrogen peroxide can be used to purify zinc sulfate solution from impurities of iron, copper, cadmium and nickel. Evaporation is carried out with periodic stirring for 1-2 hours, at a temperature of 70 to 90°C. The filtered zinc sulfate monohydrate precipitate is dried at 105°C to constant weight. The zinc sulfate monohydrate powder obtained according to the developed scheme can be further used as a fertilizer or feed additive.

The effects of zinc sulfate mineral supplementation on Achilles tendon healing in rats.

The Achilles tendon is the most commonly injured and ruptured tendon in the body and typically occurs during participation in sports or recreational activities in men between 30 and 50 years of age. Treatment options for Achilles tendon rupture include conservative and surgical approaches. Conservative treatment is associated with a higher risk of rerupture, while surgical treatment carries a risk of wound site complications. Generally, both methods result in a prolonged tendon healing time. Studies are ongoing to identify biomolecules that aid tendon repair. The main objective of our study is to investigate the effects of zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) mineral supplementation on Achilles tendon healing in rats. Forty-eight female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four equal groups (C-15, C-30, ZnSO4-15, and ZnSO4-30) after standard Achilles tendon repair surgery. The ZnSO4-15 and ZnSO4-30 groups received an oral zinc sulfate monohydrate solution (50 mg/kg/day) for 15 and 30 days, respectively. The C-15 and C-30 groups were given 1 mL of distilled water per day orally during the experimental periods. Rats were sacrificed on the 15th and 30th day depending on their groups, and the healing of the operated tendons was evaluated using Movin and Bonar histopathologic scoring. For biomechanical analyses, the operated and intact Achilles tendons of all groups were removed, and tensile tests were performed to determine the tensile strength and toughness values for each tendon. Movin and Bonar scores were significantly lower in the ZnSO4-15 group than in the C-15 group and in the ZnSO4-30 group than in the C-30 group (p<0.05). Although we did not find the biomechanical results statistically significant, the intact tendons of the ZnSO4-15 group exhibited higher toughness than those of the C-15 group, and the tensile strength and toughness values of the operated and intact tendons of the ZnSO4-30 group were also higher than those of the C-30 group. Zinc sulfate monohydrate mineral supplementation had histopathologically positive effects on the proliferation and remodeling stages of Achilles tendon healing and may biomechanically benefit both operated and intact tendons.

Management of Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi.) Goid. Causing Leaf Blight Disease in Mung Bean in Maharashtra State

Leaf blight (LB) disease caused by Macrophomina phaseolina, an important constraint in mung bean production in India. In the present investigations, the aimed to evaluate the loss in yield, better mung bean cultivars against LB and the efficient management. Based on symptomatology, cultural and morphological characteristics the pathogen isolated from cv JL-781 it was identified as M. phaseolina (Tassi.) Goid. inducing LB disease. Pathogenicity of M. phaseolina was proved on the mung bean cv JL-781. Subsequently, field experiment was conducted for the management of LB disease using seed treatment with carbendazim 50 WP a.i. 0.2% (2 g/kg) + spraying of zinc sulphate monohydrate @ 0.01% + soil application of Trichoderma viride @ 5 g/ha mixed with 3 kg of FYM + foliar spray of garlic extract (10%) showed 15.45% incidence. This result was followed by 16.79% disease incidence and 15.44% disease severity by seed treatment with carbendazim, foliar spray of zinc sulphate, and soil application with T. viride @ 5 g/ha mixed with 3 kg of FYM.

Zinc methionine or zinc sulphate supplementation modulate the development of the hypopharyngeal gland and expression of major royal jelly protein genes in Apis mellifera L. bees

AbstractWe analysed whether the source of zinc (inorganic and organic) influences the morphology of the hypopharyngeal gland (HPG) and the relative expression of major royal jelly protein (MRJP) genes in nursing bees at 6 days of age. For this, 15 colonies of Apis mellifera bees were subjected to the following treatments: Zn0 (control), zinc methionine (50 ppm) and zinc sulphate monohydrate (50 ppm) during the off‐season (characterized by food reduction). MRJP1 and MRJP5 gene expression was analysed using real‐time PCR and HPG sections under a microscope. Bee mortality and population development were also evaluated for 30 days. It was observed that the honeybees consumed all sugar syrup containing zinc both in its organic and inorganic forms, which did not promote mortality or affect population development. Regarding HPG morphometry, it was observed that zinc, regardless of the source, promoted the acini area significantly greater than that of the control. Zn methionine promoted a significant increase in HPG area compared with that of an inorganic source. The relative expression of MRJP1 and MRJP5 was not significantly affected compared with the control. We conclude that the mineral Zn promotes an increase in the HPG area and does not alter the pattern of expression of the MRJP1 and MRJP5 genes, and that the organic source of the mineral presents the best results.

Impact of Zinc, Vitamins C and D on Disease Prognosis among Patients with COVID-19 in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study

Vitamin C, (ascorbic acid), vitamin D (cholecalciferol) and zinc (zinc sulfate monohydrate) supplements are important in immunity against coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). However, a limited number of studies have been conducted on the association of vitamins and supplements with the reduced risks of COVID-19 infection. This study aims to evaluate the association of vitamins and supplements as treatment options to reduce the severity of COVID-19. Data were collected from 962 participants from 13 December 2020 to 4 February 2021. The presence of COVID-19 was confirmed by qRT-PCR. The Chi-square test and multivariate regression analyses were conducted. The ratio of uptake of vitamin C:vitamin D:zinc was 1:1:0.95. Uptake of vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc were significantly associated with the reduced risk of infection and severity of COVID-19 (OR: 0.006 (95% CI: 0.03-0.11) (p = 0.004)) and (OR: 0.03 (95% CI: 0.01-0.22) (p = 0.005)). The tendency of taking supplements was associated with the presence of infection of COVID-19 (p = 0.001), age (p = 0.02), sex (p = 0.05) and residence (p = 0.04). The duration of supplementation and medication was significantly associated with reduced hospitalization (p = 0.0001). Vitamins C, D and zinc were not significantly (p = 0.9) associated with a reduced risk of severity when taken through the diet. Hospitalization (p = 0.000001) and access to health facilities (p = 0.0097) were significantly associated with the survival period of the participants. Participants with better access to health facilities recovered early (OR: 6.21, 95% CI 1.56-24.7). This study will add knowledge in the field of treatment of COVID-19 by using vitamins and zinc supplements.

Unusual synthesis of nanostructured Zn-MOF by bipolar electrochemistry in ionic liquid-based electrolyte: Intrinsic alkaline phosphatase-like activity

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as a unique class of multifunctional materials have increasingly attracted interest. So, the development of available and straightforward strategies for the synthesis of MOFs reminds challenging. Here, we developed an indirect bipolar electrodeposition method to construct a novel and fine nanostructured Zn-MOF on the indium tin oxide (ITO) surface. The room temperature ionic liquid (1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate) is used as an electrolyte, zinc sulfate (monohydrate) as the source of metal ion, and 1,3,5 benzenetricarboxylic acid (BTC) as an organic ligand. The synthesized MOF was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) along with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX), grazing Incidence X-ray Diffraction (GIXRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photo spectroscopy (XPS), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Furthermore, we have explored the structure of Zn-BTC MOF and their enzyme cofactor's similarity to alkaline phosphatase mimics in aqueous solutions. The proposed MOF nanostructures have been investigated as a promoter for hydrolysis of sodium para-nitrophenylphosphate (PNPP) to para-nitrophenol (PNP) and inorganic phosphate.

Relative Bioavailability of Broiler Chickens Fed with Zinc Hydroxychloride and Sulfate Sources for Corn-Soybean Meal.

This study was conducted to determine relative bioavailability (RBV) of basic zinc chloride (BZC) compared to zinc sulfate monohydrate (ZSM) for broilers. A randomized design involving a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement of the different treatment regimens plus one negative control was set up for this study. A total of 630 newly hatched male AA broiler chicks were randomly allocated to 42 different pens (15 chickens/pen) and assigned to 7 dietary treatments in a completely randomized design. The diet was supplemented with 0, 20, 40, or 80mg of Zn mg/kg of feed in the form of ZSM or BZC. The results showed that zinc supplementation altered average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) (P < 0.05) for both zinc sources. It was observed that the weight gain increased linearly (P < 0.01) and FCR decreased linearly as dietary BZC and ZSM concentration increased. Moreover, compared with chickens fed with ZSM, chickens fed with BZC had higher ADG and lower FCR from days 0 to 14 (P < 0.05), and higher activity of plasma alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (P < 0.05), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), and CuZn superoxide dismutase (CuZn-SOD) (P < 0.01) in the plasma of chickens fed with BZC at zinc level 80mg/kg at day 14. The pancreas divalent metal-ion transporter-1 (DMT1) mRNA expression of chickens fed with BZC was found to be significantly enhanced at day 28, and the pancreas metallothionein (MT) mRNA expression for BZC fed group was also markedly increased at Zn levels of 20 and 40mg/kg respectively. The relative bioavailability (RBV) of BZC (Zn sulfate 100%) based on ADG in the starter phase was 110.82%, whereas the tibia zinc content, as well as the activities of plasma ALP and CuZn-SOD, and the pancreas MT mRNA level were in the range between 108 and 119%. It was thus concluded that BZC was more efficacious than Zn sulfate and could serve as a potentially novel zinc source in the broilers.

Development and Validation of Method for the Quantitative Determination of Zinc in its Chelate Complexes Using Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy

Introduction. The production, standardization and quality control process of various dietary supplements containing chelated zinc requires validated quantitative assessment methods. In this work, we propose an X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) technique for determining the zinc content in the composition of coordination compounds using the example of a synthesized chelate complex with methionine.Aim. To synthesize Zn(Met)2 chelate complex, to develop and validate a method for its quantitative analysis using the XRF method.Materials and methods. The synthesized zinc chelate complex was investigated by IR spectroscopy. The XRF method was used to develop a method for quantifying the zinc content in the synthesized complex. We used dry mixtures of zinc sulfate monohydrate and L-methionine (Met) in a molar ratio of Zn to Met – 1 : 1, 1 : 2, 1 : 4, 1 : 8 and 1 : 16 and also aqueous solutions of zinc sulfate and L-methionine in a molar ratio of Zn to Met 1 : 2 with Zn concentrations from 0.5 to 100 mmol/l as calibration standards. Complexometric titration was used as an arbitration method for the quantitative determination of zinc content in the samples under study.Results and discussion. The IR spectrum of chelate complex confirmed the presence of a donor-acceptor bond between Zn2+ and the nitrogen atom of amino group in methionine. The titration results showed chelate compounds have a composition corresponding to the stoichiometric formula Zn(Met)2. XRF analysis of dry standard mixed samples demonstrated the presence of matrix effect, that makes impossible an accurate assessment of zinc content in the chelate compound. According to the XRF spectra of aqueous solutions containing zinc sulfate and methionine in a ratio of 1 : 2 at a zinc concentration of 0.5; 1; 2; 3; 4; 5; 10; 25; 50 and 100 mmol/L, a calibration graph was constructed – the dependence of the fluorescence signal intensity for the Kα line of zinc on the concentration of zinc in the solution (r = 0.9996). The method was evaluated by the following validation parameters: specificity, linearity, correctness, precision, and analytical range. The specificity of the validated method was proven in the presence of copper, iron, and silver.Conclusion. The developed method make it possible to determine with sufficient precision and correctness the content of Zn2+ in its aqueous solutions of inorganic and organic nature by the XRF method in the concentration range from 3 to 100 mmol/l without the influence of the matrix.

Does Foliar Zinc Application Boost Leaf Photosynthesis of ‘Wichita’ Pecan Fertigated with Zinc-EDTA?

Many growers fertigating their orchards with zinc–ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (Zn-EDTA) are still using supplemental zinc foliar sprays because of a lack of confidence that soil-applied Zn-EDTA is supplying enough Zn to the trees. A field study was conducted in a pecan orchard located near San Simon, AZ, on 8-year-old ‘Wichita’ trees growing in an alkaline, calcareous Vekol loam soil to evaluate the effectiveness of supplemental foliar Zn sprays. All trees were fertigated with 6.0 kg⋅ha–1 Zn in the form of Zn-EDTA in 2018 and 11.0 kg⋅ha–1 Zn in 2019 and did not exhibit visible signs of Zn deficiency. Foliar treatments of 3.75 mL⋅L–1 urea–ammonium nitrate (UAN), 3.6 g⋅L–1 zinc sulfate monohydrate (ZnSO4·H2O), 3.6 g⋅L–1 ZnSO4·H2O with 3.75 mL⋅L–1 UAN, 11 mL⋅L–1 Zn-EDTA, and water alone were applied to individual fruiting shoot terminals of trees on two dates each in 2018 and 2019. Treatments were sprayed directly onto the leaves of the selected terminals. Zn-EDTA was included as a foliar treatment in 2019 only. Leaf photosynthesis was measured to determine the impact of leaf Zn concentrations on plant function. Midday stem water potential (MDSWP) was measured to verify that water stress was not limiting photosynthesis. Both measurements were taken about 2 to 4 weeks after the application of foliar treatments. MDSWP measurements indicated a lack of water stress and therefore no effect on photosynthesis. Leaf samples collected from untreated branches indicated that the average foliar Zn concentration of untreated leaves was 21.3 mg⋅kg–1 in 2018 and 15.7 mg⋅kg–1 in 2019. No differences were observed in photosynthesis rates of treated branches. No additional benefit to leaf photosynthetic function or appearance was observed from spraying Zn on foliage of trees fertigated with Zn-EDTA.

Punicalagin and zinc (II) ions inhibit the activity of SARS-CoV-2 3CL-protease in vitro.

Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) has now been declared as a worldwide pandemic. Currently, no drugs have been endorsed for its treatment; in this manner, a pressing need has been developed for any antiviral drugs that will treat COVID-19. Coronaviruses require the SARS-CoV-2 3CL-Protease (3CL-protease) for cleavage of its polyprotein to yield a single useful protein and assume a basic role in the disease progression. In this study, we demonstrated that punicalagin, the fundamental active element of pomegranate in addition to the combination of punicalagin with zinc (Zn) II, appear to show powerful inhibitory activity against SARS-CoV-2. The 3CL protease assay kit was used to quantify 3CL protease action. The tetrazolium dye, MTS, was used to evaluate cytotoxicity. Punicalagin showed inhibitory action against the 3CL-protease in a dose-dependent manner, and IC50 was found to be 6.192 μg/ml for punicalagin. Punicalagin (10 µg/mL) demonstrated a significant inhibitory activity toward 3CL-protease activity (p < 0.001), yet when punicalagin is combined with zinc sulfate monohydrate (punicalagin/Zn-II) extremely strong 3CL-protease activity (p < 0.001) was obtained. The action of 3CL-protease with punicalagin/Zn-II was decreased by approximately 4.4-fold in contrast to only punicalagin (10 µg/mL). Likewise, we did not notice any significant cytotoxicity caused by punicalagin, Zn-II, or punicalagin/Zn-II. We suggest that these compounds could be used as potential antiviral drugs against COVID-19.

Functional biodegradable protein‐based matrices as a potential candidate for micronutrients and water supply

AbstractThe excessive use of fertilizers in horticulture applications generates subsoil and groundwater contamination due to their high solubility. A possible solution to this problem is the incorporation of nutrients in biodegradable matrices, allowing nutrients to be released in a controlled manner depending on the needs of the crops. The principal objective of this work was the evaluation of the incorporation of different salts into soy protein‐based matrices to develop devices that could release micronutrients in a controlled manner. Thus, the processability of matrices with different incorporated salts such as zinc sulfate heptahydrate (ZnSO4·7H2O), zinc sulfate monohydrate (ZnSO4·H2O), zinc carbonate (ZnCO3), and zinc perchlorate (Zn(ClO3)2), as well as their integrity and functionality have been evaluated. Results show the great potential of soy protein‐based matrices for the incorporation of micronutrients such as zinc. However, salt incorporation has a detrimental effect on the water uptake capacity of the matrices.

Evaluation of Superabsorbent Capacity of Soy Protein-Based Bioplastic Matrices with Incorporated Fertilizer for Crops

Recent studies proposed the use of soy protein-based bioplastic matrices with incorporated micronutrient to mitigate against the excessive use of fertilizers in horticulture. However, the micronutrient incorporation reduced the superabsorbent capacity of these bioplastic matrices. All this reduces their use as a source of water for crops in times of drought, among other possibilities. The objective of this study was to evaluate different alternatives in order to incorporate the desired micronutrient (Zn) in soy protein-based bioplastics without losing the superabsorbent capacity of the latter. For this, three salts were used: zinc sulphate monohydrate (ZnSO4·H2O), zinc chloride (ZnCl2) and zinc chelated with 2,2′,2′′,2′′′-(Ethene-1,2-diydinitrilo)tetraacetic acid (Zn-EDTA). Considering the possible factors that can affect the absorption of these bioplastic matrices, modifications were made in their pH, ionic strength and complex character of the salt. Thus, the amount of load micronutrient, mechanical and morphological properties, as well as water uptake capacity of the bioplastic matrices with different salts incorporated were evaluated. The results of this study helped to understand the effects of the loss of the superabsorbent capacity of soy protein-based bioplastic matrices with incorporated zinc.

Evaluation of yield performance and establishment methods of drought tolerant rice genotypes under rainfed condition in drought prone areas of Bangladesh

Two field experiments were carried out at farmer’s field of Rajshahi and Chapainawabgonj under the Department of Agronomy, BINA during aman season of 2017 and 2018 consecutively to evaluate the drought tolerant rice varieties under different establishment methods in rain fed condition. First experiment (E1) was conducted to find out the performance of varieties and second experiment (E2) was to find out the suitability of method of transplanting/sowing in combination with short duration aman varieties. Different methods were as direct seeding, puddled and un-puddled transplanting and cultivars were used to cultivate BRRI dhan56, Binadhan-7, Binadhan-17 (except in second experiment) and Huttra (local cultivar). The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The recommended fertilizer doses applied for the experiment were 80 kg N ha-1, 15 kg P ha-1, 50 kg K ha-1, 20 kg S ha-1 and 2 kg Zn ha-1. Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur and zinc were supplied from urea, TSP, MoP, gypsum and zinc sulphate monohydrate respectively while urea was applied in three equal splits. Among the cultivar Binadhan-17 produced statistically higher grain yield (5.62 t ha-1) at Chapainawabgonj. Among methods Binadhan-7 statistically higher grain yield 5.32 t ha-1 and 5.21 t ha-1, respectively) in puddle transplanting method both Chapainawabgonj and Rajshahi region during 2017. Among the cultivar Huttra (local) produced statistically higher grain yield (5.43 t ha-1) at Chapainawabgonj. Among methods, BRRI dhan56 statistically higher grain yield 6.37 t ha-1 and 6.19 t ha-1, respectively) in puddle transplanting method bothat Rajshahi and Chapainawabgonj during 2018. Overall results indicates that BRRI dhan56, Binadhan-7, Binadhan-17 performed better in puddled transplanting, Huttra (local) in direct seeding method in drought prone region of Bangladesh.

Alterations in Semen Quality by Antioxidants in Stressed Healthy Individuals

The study was conducted to evaluate the role of antioxidants in current therapeutic use on stress induced by exercise on sperm profile. 68 unmarried healthy medical students between 18-24 years of G.S.V.M Medical College who with informed written consentacted as volunteers for study duration of 90 days. Their identities were strictly confidential and were selected randomly. Complete and fresh specimen semen was collected by accepted method of masturbation after abstinence for more than 3 days. Two samples were taken first on commencement and second on conclusion of 3 monthperiod. The subjects have been divided into 4 groups of 17 subjects in a single blinded study. Group I- control and were administered placebo capsules containing arrow root powder. Group II-administered placebo capsules and performed moderate exercise daily for 30 minutes for 3 months on a bicycle ergo meter with persistent increase in heart rate 30 to 50 per minute above their basal heart rate. The subjects carried out exercised for 30 minutes or exercise was stopped due to pain. Group III- carried out the exercise with the same protocol as in group II and were given 1 capsule daily of antioxidant preparation, ECarotin (Franco Indian Pharmaceuticals, India) composition Beta carotene 10 mg, vitamin E acetate I.P. 25 mg, Vitamin C I.P.150 mg, Selenium dioxide monohydrates U.S.P. 75 mcg, Zinc sulphate monohydrate U.S.P. 61.8 mg (equivalent to elemental zinc 22.5 mg). Group IV - Subjects of this group did not perform any exercise and were administered 1 capsule daily of ECarotin. The following physical features of the ejaculate were recorded Color, Liquefaction Time, pH, Volume Microscopic Examination included Sperm Count, Motility, Sperm morphology while Biochemical estimation done for seminal fluid Fructose. A statistically significant (p &lt; .005)decrease in sperm countin group II (exercising and taking placebo) and group III (exercising and taking [ECarotin]) but group IV taking only (ECarotin) showed a significant increase in sperm count (p &lt; 0.05).Group’s III and IV consuming antioxidant (ECarotin) showed a significant increase in the number of motile sperms (p &lt; 0.05) and a significant decrease in the number of non-motile/dead sperms (p &lt; 0.05). Most of the subjects had pus cell in mild to moderate quantity.

EXTRACEREBRAL ZINC-DEPENDENT DISORDERS AND THEIR CORRECTION IN PATIENTS WITH ACUTE CEREBRAL INSUFFICIENCY

Introduction: zinc metabolism disorders, which often accompany the development of a critical state, may lead to numerous heterogeneous metabolic and functional disorders, both in the nervous system and in the other body systems. Objective: to improve intensive care of patients with acute cerebral insufficiency by correcting extracerebral disorders associated with zinc deficiency. Materials and methods: a clinical randomized cohort study included 94 patients aged 18 years with acute cerebral insufficiency. The concentrations of zinc, thiol compounds, intestinal fatty-acid-binding proteins, and interleukin-1β were analyzed. The dynamic changes of these indicators, their relationships with each other, depending on the underlying pathology and the medical correction of zinc sulphate monohydrate and acetylcysteine, were evaluated. Results and discussion: there was a decrease in zinc and thiol compounds serum level in the examined patients that indicates an impairment of transport zinc regulation and antioxidant defence, an increase in the level of intestinal fatty-acid-binding proteins that is a marker of gastrointestinal damage of the mucous membrane of the tract. These changes, as well as the concentration of interleukin-1β, are interrelated and depend on the zinc concentration. The exogenous introduction of zinc sulphate monohydrate and acetylcysteine promotes the normalization of the parameters studied. Conclusions: Patients with acute cerebral insufficiency have extracerebral disorders in the content of thiol compounds, as well as the disorders of the gastrointestinal mucous membrane and pro-inflammatory response. The exogenous introduction of zinc sulphate monohydrate and acetylcysteine contribute to eliminating such disorders.

Influence of electroplating temperature on the characteristic properties of zinc sulphide

The effect of deposition temperature on the material and electronic properties of ZnS layers grown using a two-electrode electroplating configuration was explored and reported. The aqueous electrolyte from which ZnS layers were deposited contains 0.2 M ammonium thiosulphate ((NH4)2S2O3) and 0.2 M zinc sulphate monohydrate (ZnSO4 · H2O). Deposition temperatures of 30 °C, 55 °C and 80 °C were utilised. The electroplated thin-films were deposited on glass/fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) substrate and characterised for their structural, optical, morphological, compositional and electrical properties using x-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-Visible spectrophotometer (Optical absorption), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive x-ray analysis (EDX), Photoelectrochemical (PEC) cell measurements and DC conductivity measurements techniques. The XRD results indicate that the electroplated ZnS layers at 30 °C are polycrystalline with the dominant orientation along the ZnS(111)C plane. The XRD micrograph shows the presence of ZnO and unreacted Zn diffractions and amorphisation of the ZnS layers after heat treatment. The readings and estimations made from the UV-Visible spectrophotometric data depict a transition from a bandgap of ∼3.6 eV for the ZnS layers grown at 30 °C to ∼3.1 eV for layers grown at 80 °C. The ∼3.6 eV and ∼3.1 eV obtained bandgaps correspond to the bulk bandgaps of ZnS (of ∼3.7 eV) and ZnO (of ∼3.7 eV), respectively. PEC cell measurements show that the grown ZnS layers are n-type and the magnitude of the PEC signal varies with an increase in the deposition temperature. The DC conductivity measurements revealed that the conductivity of the ZnS layers is between (2 and 6) ×10−4 Ω−1 cm−1. There was a gradual increase in the ZnS layer conductivity as the deposition temperature increased.

Effect of Transplanting Method and Gypsum Rate on Yield and Yield Contributing Characters of Boro Rice in Saline Zone of Bangladesh

Salinity intrusion causes problems in the coastal areas of Bangladesh. Climate change creates hazards like cyclone, sea level rise, and storm surge have been increasing the salinity problem in many folds. The coastal region covers about 20% of the country; from where cultivable land more than 30%. Agricultural land uses in these areas are very poor, because of high content of salinity in Rabi season. Already, 830,000 million hectares of land already identified as affected by soil salinity. A field experiment was carried out at saline prone area at Binerpota, Satkhira under natural salinity condition during Rabi season 2017-2018. The experiment was carried out with rice variety Binadhan-10.This variety was evaluated under four transplanting methods i.e., M0: Control (No Slope/flat land), M1: Ridge and furrow (each furrow 30 cm wide accommodating 3 lines transplanting), M2: Ridge and furrow (each furrow 60 cm wide accommodating 5 lines transplanting) and four levels of gypsum with control G0: control, G1: 75 kg ha-1, G2: 150 kg ha-1 as basal and G3: 150 kg ha-1(75 kg ha-1 as basal +75 kg ha-1 42 DAT). The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with three replications. The unit plot size was 3 m x 4 m. The recommended fertilizer doses applied for the experiment were 80 kg N ha-1, 15 kg P ha-1, 50 kg K ha-1. Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur and zinc were supplied from urea, TSP, MoP, gypsum and zinc sulphate monohydrate respectively while urea was applied in three equal splits. Application of gypsum had significant effect on plant height, number of effective tiller m-2, length of panicle, total number of spikelets panicle-1, thousand grain weight, number of filled spikelets panicle-1, grain yield straw yield. It seems that the crop responded to the application of gypsum. Overall results suggest that an application of gypsum The highest grain yield (7.7 t ha-1) was produced in ridge and furrow method where gypsum rate was 150 kg ha-1 (75 kg ha-1 as basal + 75kg ha-1 at weeks after transplanting followed by (7.4 t ha-1) basal application of 150 kg ha-1 gypsum along with N, P, K, Zn and Boron might be necessary to ensure satisfactory yield of rice in saline prone area under natural salinity condition.

Awareness and practice of zinc therapy in diarrheal management among under-five caregivers in Enugu State, Nigeria

Background: Acute diarrhea remains one of the leading causes of under -five years of age (u-5) childhood deaths in Nigeria. Use of zinc (Zn) sulfate monohydrate with low-osmolality oral rehydration solution (ORS) therapy reduces both the duration and severity of the diarrhea episodes in children. There has been little progress in the widespread introduction and adoption of ORS plus Zn sulfate (ORS+Zn) therapy in Nigeria. Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the level of awareness and practice of ORS+Zn therapy among u-5 caregivers. Materials and Methods: Two local government areas, each representing urban and rural settings, were randomly selected. Awareness and practice of ORS+Zn therapy by 386 caregivers was assessed using a semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Frequency and percentages were used for categorical data and the influence of sociodemography was analyzed by using Pearson’s correlation method. Results: Awareness and practice of Zn therapy was higher among the caregivers in the urban setting, who seems to be more exposed to information on the efficacy of ORS+Zn therapy (p < 0.05). Caregivers of u-5 children living in the rural settings were deficient in information on the use of ORS and Zn salts in the management of child diarrhea. In summary, of the 386 caregivers, 123 (62%) indicated awareness of Zn salt, and of these only 39 (10%) practiced Zn salt treatment. Level of education seems to influence awareness and practice positively in the urban setting (p < 0.05). Economic status underscored by employment type, clinic visits, and health campaigns influenced positively the adoption of ORS+Zn therapy in the rural and urban communities (p < 0.05). Tertiary education, which is the highest level of education, showed a positive association with awareness and practice of ORS+Zn treatment in both study areas (p < 0.05). One hundred and ninety-nine caregivers (52%) of all the respondents still preferred to treat child diarrhea with ORS with antibiotics adjuvant. Conclusion: Practice of ORS+Zn therapy is low and seems to be influenced by level of education, awareness, and location and availability. Advocacy and sensitization programs should be intensified, and intake of food rich in Zn and Zn supplement should be promoted in infant-feeding practices.

Effects of foliar application of zinc sulfate and zinc nanoparticles in coffee (Coffea arabica L.) plants

A greenhouse study comparing the physiological responses and uptake of coffee (Coffea arabica L.) plants to foliar applications of zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) and zinc nano-fertilizer (ZnO NPs) was conducted with the aim to understand their effects on plant physiology. One-year old coffee plants were grown in greenhouse conditions and treated with two foliar applications of 10 mg/L of Zn as either zinc sulfate monohydrate (ZnSO4 ‧ H2O) or zinc oxide nanoparticle (ZnO NPs 20% w/t) and compared to untreated control plants over the course of 45 days. ZnO NPs positively affected the fresh weight and dry weight (FW and DW) of roots and leaves, increasing the FW by 37% (root) and 95% (leaves) when compared to control. The DW increase was 28%, 85%, and 20% in roots, stems, and leaves, respectively. The net photosynthetic rate increased 55% in response to ZnO NPs treatment at the end of experiment when compared to control. ZnO NPs-treated leaves contained significantly higher amounts of Zn (1267.1 ± 367.2 mg/kg DW) when compared to ZnSO4-treated plants (344.1 ± 106.2 mg/kg DW), while control plants had the lowest Zn content in the leaf tissue (53.6 ± 18.9 mg/kg DW). X-ray micro-analyses maps demonstrated the increased penetrance of ZnO NPs in coffee leaf tissue. Overall, ZnO NPs had a more positive impact on coffee growth and physiology than conventional Zn salts, which was most likely due to their increased ability to be absorbed by the leaf. These results indicate that the application of ZnO NPs could be considered for coffee systems to improve fruit set and quality, especially in areas where Zn deficiency is high.