Zinc Deficiency Research Articles

Ethambutol induced optic neuropathy: A remerging ocular emergency needing strict vigilance and screening

: To investigate the clinical manifestations and incidence of ethambutol induced optic neuropathy (EON) and identify its risk factors.: A cross sectional, hospital based observational study was conducted in 100 patients, who were on anti-tubercular drugs (ATT) and complained of diminution of vision. The following data was collected in every patient regarding age, gender, co-morbid conditions, clinical manifestation of (tuberculosis)TB, duration and dose of ethambutol. Complete ophthalmic examination was conducted in every patient including best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), color vision, relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD), fundus examination, visual field analysis and OCT RNFL & GCL. Statistical analysis of the data was done and represented suitably using appropriate statistical tests that included Chi Square test for checking associations and T test for comparing quantitative data with the help of SPSS ver. 26.0 software. All p-values reported were two sided and a value less than 0.05 was considered significant. :Out of 100 patients, only 18 patients were diagnosed with EON and calculated incidence was 1.8%. The most common presenting feature of EON was bilateral diminution of vision (89%) followed by abnormal color vision (11%). On examination, RAPD was seen in 40% cases because of asymmetrical optic nerve involvement and disc abnormality was present in 66% cases. The duration and dose of ethambutol medication, advanced age (>65 years), hypertension, chronic smoking and presence of renal dysfunction were shown to be positively correlated with EON development.:At present, there is no effective treatment for EON except supplementation of zinc, copper, methylcobalamine and pyridoxine. Therefore, early detection and discontinuation of ethambutol is only way to prevent permanent loss of vision, as in early stage it is reversible.

Micro- and Macronutrients in Endometrial Cancer-From Metallomic Analysis to Improvements in Treatment Strategies.

Endometrial cancer is reported to be one of the most prevalent cancers of the female reproductive organs worldwide, with increasing incidence and mortality rates over the past decade. Early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment. Recently, there has been a growing focus on the role of nutrition and micronutrient and macronutrient status in patients with gynecologic cancers, including endometrial cancer. In the following paper, we have conducted an in-depth narrative literature review with the aim of evaluating the results of metallomic studies specifically concerning the micro- and macronutrient status of patients with endometrial cancer. The main objective of the paper was to analyze the results regarding the nutritional status of endometrial cancer patients and describe the role of chosen elements in the onset and progression of endometrial carcinogenesis. Further, we have focused on the evaluation of the usage of the described elements in the potential treatment of the abovementioned cancer, as well as the possible prevention of cancer considering proper supplementation of chosen elements in healthy individuals. Calcium supplementation has been proposed to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer, although some studies offer conflicting evidence. Deficiencies in phosphorus, selenium, and zinc have been inversely associated with endometrial cancer risk, suggesting they may play a protective role, whereas excessive levels of iron, copper, and cadmium have been positively correlated with increased risk. However, the molecular mechanisms by which these elements affect endometrial carcinogenesis are not fully understood, and current findings are often contradictory. Further research is needed to clarify these relationships and to evaluate the potential of nutritional interventions for the prevention and treatment of endometrial cancer.

26 Trace minerals to improve bull fertility

Abstract Bull fertility is paramount for reproductive success in cow-calf production systems and there are a variety of factors that influence bull fertility. Trace mineral requirements and recommendations have been established for growing and finishing steers, as well as lactating and pregnant cows, yet no specific requirements have been established for young or mature beef bulls. Nonetheless, trace minerals have been shown to have an important role in sexual maturation and semen quality of ruminants. Research performed in rams indicates that zinc deficiency results in reduced testicular development, decreased testicular concentrations of testosterone, and impaired development of seminiferous tubules. Deficiency of Zn has also been reported to negatively impact male fertility in humans, where men diagnosed with infertility responded positively to Zn supplementation. In growing bulls, diets with greater concentrations of organic forms of Zn, Cu, and Mn, tended to result in earlier attainment of puberty compared with control diets containing inorganic minerals. Furthermore, greater liver concentrations of Zn have been negatively correlated with sperm acrosomal damage in growing bulls, based on flow cytometry analyses. More recent research indicates that the use of hydroxichloride-based trace minerals results in greater liver concentrations of Zn and Cu compared with sulfate sources. While evidence indicates that trace mineral status has an important role in bull fertility, further research is required to better understand the contributions of trace minerals to semen quality. In addition, investigating the impact of trace mineral sources with greater bioavailability on semen quality may result in the development of practical recommendations that optimize bull fertility.

Adherence to Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Acute Infectious Gastroenteritis in Children as a Measure of Quality of Care Delivered by a Primary Care Facility in Rural Philippines: A Descriptive Retrospective Study.

This study aimed to describe the pattern of prescription and laboratory use in the management of infectious acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in children seen in a rural service delivery network (SDN) and to determine their adherence to the 2019 Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Acute Infectious Diarrhea in Children and Adults from the Department of Health (DOH). A descriptive retrospective study was done using the electronic medical records (EMR) of patients less than 19 years old seen by the rural SDN from April 2019-2021 and diagnosed with infectious AGE. Data were extracted on diagnostic and therapeutic management. Adherence to strong CPG recommendations focusing on rehydration, zinc supplementation, rational laboratory use, and antibiotic prescription was chosen as indicator of quality of care. Adherence of less than 70% was defined as low. There were 227 infectious AGE cases, with 72% diagnosed under non-specific infectious AGE. Fifty two percent (52%) were prescribed with low-osmolarity oral rehydration solutions (ORS), while 74% were given zinc. Stool analysis was done in 25% of cases while CBC was done in 20%. Top antibiotics given were metronidazole at 44% and cotrimoxazole at 33%. There was low adherence to prescribing low-osmolarity ORS for rehydration (52%) and to deferring routine antibiotic prescription for non-specific infectious AGE cases (24%). Adherence to deferring routine stool analysis and CBC were relatively high at 73% and 70%, respectively while adherence to antibiotic use for indicated cases was high at 95%. Frequency of diagnostics ordered were low resulting to high adherence rates to recommendations concerning judicious laboratory use. Prescription frequency of appropriate antibiotics and interventions for AGE were low, leading to low adherence rates to recommendations concerning rational antibiotic use and prescription of cornerstone therapies for infectious AGE.

354 Zinc supplementation prior to transit and transit duration effects on feedlot performance and muscle fatigue of beef steers: Part II – Feeding Behavior

Abstract This study assessed the effects of supplemental Zn on cattle feeding behavior after varying transit duration. Angus crossbred steers (80; 265 ± 18 kg) were used in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Steers were assigned to a dietary Zn treatment (DIET) and transit duration (DUR; d 0): Zn0 (no supplemental Zn) or Zn100 (100 mg Zn/kg DM; supplemented as ZnSO4, starting d -42 relative to transit) and short duration (8H; 8 h transit; 707 km) or long duration (18H; 18 h transit; 1608 km). Steers were fed ad libitum via GrowSafe bunks (GrowSafe Systems Ltd., Airdrie, AB, Canada), and steer was experimental unit (n = 1 bunk/pen; n = 5 steers/pen). On d 0, steers were stratified to trailer compartments across diets. The 8H and 18H groups departed at 1000 and 1300 h and returned at 1800 and 0700 h to pre-transit pens, respectively. Following transit, all steers received Zn100. Utilizing GrowSafe Behavior module, a feed event was characterized as a reading with < 300 s interruption with head down (FE-HD; recorded in seconds) and count (number of HD events). Intake rate (g/s) was feed consumed per FE-HD divided by FE-HD duration. Data for the 6-d post transit were analyzed as a complete randomized design utilizing PROC MIXED of SAS 9.4 (SAS Inst. Inc., Cary, NC) with fixed effects DIET, DUR, and DAY as repeated. Pre-transit values served as a covariate. During the week prior to transit, there was a DUR effect for FE-HD average and intake rate (P ≤ 0.03) where 8H had longer FE-HD but reduced intake rate than 18H. There was also a tendency for Zn100 to consume more feed per FE pre-transit (P = 0.07). Post-transit, both average intake and FE-HD average increased with days post-transit (DAY; P ≤ 0.01). Additionally, a DIET × DUR effect was observed for FE-HD count (P = 0.01) where 100 was greater than 0 within 18H and 0 was greater than 100 in 8H. A tendency for a TRT × DAY effect was noted for FE-HD count (P = 0.07) driven by Zn0 decreasing from d 3 to 4. A DUR × DAY effect (P = 0.02) was also noted for FE-HD count where 18H was greater on d 2, 4, and 5. A DUR × DAY effect was observed for FE-HD average (P = 0.01) driven by a d 3 difference where 8H was greater than 18H. Conversely, a DUR × DAY effect was observed for intake rate (P = 0.01) where 18H was greater on d 2, 3, and 6. These data indicate both transit duration and dietary Zn concentration influenced animal behavior post-transit.

353 Zinc supplementation prior to transit and transit duration effects on feedlot performance and muscle fatigue of beef steers: Part I – Performance and Muscle Fatigue

Abstract This study investigated zinc (Zn) as a mitigation strategy for transit-induced muscle fatigue. Recently weaned Angus-cross steers (n = 80) were stratified by body weight (BW = 265 ± 18.0 kg) to a 2×2 factorial. Dietary (DIET) treatments of no supplemental Zn (Zn0) or 100 mg supplemental Zn/kg DM (Zn100; Zn as ZnSO4), were fed for 42 d before transit. Along with a transit duration (DUR) of 8 h (~707 km; 8H) or 18 h (~1,608 km; 18H) on d 0. Upon return, and for 56 d post-transit, all steers received Zn100. Individual feed disappearance was monitored using GrowSafe bunks (1 bunk/pen; 5 steers/pen). Body weights were collected on d -42, -41, -1, 0 (on truck), 1 (off truck), 2, 7, 28, 55, and 56. Blood samples for analysis of non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and serum L-lactate were collected on d -1, 1, 2, and 7. Data were analyzed via ProcMixed of SAS (experimental unit = steer; 15 to 20/treatment) as a 2 × 2 factorial, with fixed effects of DIET, DUR, and the interaction. Individual initial (d -42) BW was used as a covariate in BW analysis. Average DMI of d -11 to d -2 (pre-trucking) was used as a covariate in post-transit DMI analysis. Blood parameters were log-transformed and analyzed as repeated measures with repeated effect of day. Pre-transit (d -1) concentrations were used as a covariate. Pre-transit average daily gain (ADG) and dry matter intake (DMI) were greater (P ≤ 0.02) and feed efficiency (gain to feed; G:F) tended to be greater (P = 0.10) in Zn100 vs. Zn0. BW on d -1 and 7 (P = 0.01) was greater for Zn100 than Zn0. There was a DIET effect and DUR tendency on post-transit G:F where Zn0 was greater than Zn100 (P ≤ 0.01) and 18H tended to be greater than 8H (P = 0.05). 56-d post-transit ADG was least for Zn100-8H (DIET×DUR, P = 0.02). Post-transit DMI was greatest for Zn0-8H with Zn100-8H being the lowest and other treatments being not different (DIET × DUR, P = 0.04). Diet did not affect L- lactate or NEFA concentrations (P > 0.13). NEFA was greater for 18H vs. 8H on d 1 and 2 but less on d 7 (DUR×DAY, P < 0.01). There was a DUR×DAY effect (P ≤ 0.01) for L-Lactate where 8H tended to be greater than 18H on d 1, but by d 2 8H was lesser than 18H, and on d 7 they were not different. In conclusion, longer transit duration increases some indicators of muscle fatigue and Zn supplementation improved pre-transit performance. Receiving Zn supplementation after trucking also improved the post-transit performance of those not previously supplemented with Zn.

17 Effects of trace mineral source on dry matter digestibility of silage and mineral absorption

Abstract Copper, manganese, and zinc when coming from highly soluble sources in the rumen can strongly bind to diet fiber, which reduces it intestinal absorption and DM digestibility. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the digestibility of dry matter and the apparent absorption of Cu, Mn, and Zn depending on different sources of these trace minerals. Four ruminally cannulated crossbred steers [body weight (BW = 560 ± 35 kg)] were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square design and offered corn silage ad libitum, and mineral supplement for four 21-d periods (14-d adaptation and 7-d data collection). Treatments assigned were: 1) Control (No Cu, Mn, and Zn); 2) Cu, Mn, and Zn-sulfate; 3) Cu, Mn, and Zn-organic; and 4) Cu, Mn, and Zn-hydroxychloride. In each period, two dry matter intake measurements and two total feces collections were carried out for 24 h. Thus, the digestibility of dry matter (DMd) and the apparent absorption (aA = trace minerals intake - trace minerals in feces/trace minerals intake) of Cu, Mn, and Zn were calculated. Data were subjected to analysis of variance (P < 0.05), and when significant, a multiple comparison test was performed (SNK test). No treatment x animal x period interactions were observed (P ≥ 0.05). The greatest DM digestibility was in the diets with Cu, Mn, and Zn-hydroxychloride and Cu, Mn, and Zn-organic, and the least DMd were Cu, Mn, and Zn-sulfate and control diet (P < 0.05), respectively 588, 575, 468 e, 449 g/kg (Table 1). Copper apparent absorption was greater (P < 0.05) in steers receiving Cu-hydroxychloride (0.14) and Cu-organic (0.12) and was equal (P ≥ 0.05) between those receiving Cu-sulfate (0.05) and those not receiving (-0.006) supplemental Cu. The sources did not affect (P ≥ 0.05) manganese aA, and the absorption of Mn was greater (P < 0.05) in steers receiving Mn than those not receiving. Diets with Zn-hydroxychloride (0.16) and Zn-organic (0.12) had greater (P < 0.05) aA than diet with Zn-sulfate (0.01), and steers that did not receive supplemental zinc (-0.10) had the least (P < 0.05) zinc aA. Low ruminal solubility trace minerals sources result in greater DM digestibility. Hydroxychloride and organic are more absorbable than Cu and Zn sulfates. Non-supplementation resulted in a net loss of Cu, Mn, and Zn, regardless of the type of trace minerals source.

Effects of zinc in podocytes and cortical collecting duct in vitro and Dahl salt-sensitive rats in vivo

Zinc is one of the essential divalent cations in the human body and a fundamental microelement involved in the regulation of many cellular and subcellular functions. Experimental studies reported that zinc deficiency is associated with renal damage and could increase blood pressure. It was proposed that zinc dietary supplementation plays a renoprotective role. Our study aimed to investigate the effects of zinc on intracellular signaling in renal cells and explore the correlation between dietary zinc and the progression of salt-induced hypertension. The impact of extracellular zinc concentrations on two different kidney epithelial cell types - podocytes and principal cells of the cortical collecting duct (CCD), was tested. In podocytes, a rise in extracellular zinc promotes TRPC6 channel-mediated calcium entry but not altered intracellular zinc levels. However, we observe the opposite effect in CCD cells with no alteration in calcium levels and steady-state elevation in intracellular zinc. Moreover, prolonged extracellular zinc exposure leads to cytotoxic insults in CCD cells but not in podocytes, characterized by increased cell death and disrupted cytoskeletal organization. Next, we tested if dietary zinc plays a role in the development of hypertension in Dahl salt-sensitive rats. Neither zinc-rich nor deficient diets impact the regular development of salt-sensitive hypertension. These results suggest specialized roles for zinc in renal function, implicating its involvement in proliferation and apoptosis in CCD cells and calcium signaling and cytoskeletal dynamics modulation in podocytes. Further research is required to elucidate the detailed mechanisms of zinc action and its implications in renal health and disease.

The interplay between oxidative stress, zinc, and metabolic dysfunction in polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a functional endocrine disorder characterized by hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and polycystic ovarian morphology that has been associated with chronic disease and comorbidities including adverse metabolic and cardiac disorders. This review aims to evaluate the role of oxidative stress and zinc in the metabolic dysfunction observed in PCOS, with a focus on insulin resistance. Recent studies indicate that oxidative stress markers are elevated in PCOS and correlate with hyperandrogenemia, obesity, and insulin resistance. Zinc, an essential trace element, is crucial for metabolic processes, particularly in the pancreas for beta-cell function and glucagon secretion. Insufficient zinc levels have been linked to diabetes, obesity, and lipid metabolism disorders. This review aims to highlight the interplay between oxidative stress, zinc, and metabolic dysfunction in PCOS, suggesting that zinc supplementation could mitigate some metabolic and endocrine manifestations of PCOS.

Trace Element Supplementation in Burn Patients: Exploring the Relationship Between Burn Size and Mineral Needs.

Trace element deficiency is an adverse nutritional outcome that can occur with burn injuries, and can interfere with a patient's recovery. The aim of this study was to review the efficacy of our predominately enteral trace element supplementation strategy and determine the burn size at which patients are at risk for trace element deficiency. We reviewed 53 burn patients admitted to our burn center from August 1, 2019 to May 31, 2022 who had their trace element levels and C-reactive protein monitored in two-week increments. Receiver operating characteristic analysis indicated a 22.1% BSAB cutoff for zinc supplementation to prevent deficiency with 91.7% sensitivity and 92.6% specificity, and a 27.5% BSAB cutoff with 88.9% sensitivity and 81% specificity for copper. No patient in our cohort developed selenium deficiency, regardless of burn size. Patients with greater than 30% body surface area burned developed deficiencies in both zinc and copper within the first two weeks of hospitalization. Our results provide guidance for trace element replacement based on burn size.

Functional carbon nanodots enhance tomato tolerance to zinc deficient soils: Mechanisms and structure-function relationships

Zinc (Zn) deficiency is a global problem disorder affecting both crops and humans. Herein, modified functional carbon nanodots (MFCNs) with various structures and characteristics were developed to regulate tomato yields and Zn migration in plant–soil systems affected by Zn deficiency through structure–function relationships. Sulfur-doped FCNs (S-FCNs), nitrogen-doped FCNs (N-FCNs), and nitrogen‑sulfur co-doped FCNs (N,S-FCNs) were hydrothermally modified using FCNs as precursors. Their regulatory effects on tomatoes growing in Zn-deficient alkaline soils were studied in pot culture experiments. Specifically, 8 mg kg−1 of FCNs and S-FCNs improved tomato yields by 132 % and 108 %, respectively, compared with the control. However, N-FCNs and N,S-FCNs showed no significant effect on yield compared with the control (P < 0.05). Moreover, the application of FCNs or S-FCNs significantly improved fruit quality and nutritional value, including Zn content (by 26.3 % and 22.0 %, respectively) and naturally occurring antioxidants (by 3.37- and 2.08-fold for lycopene, 1.31- and 1.18-fold for flavonoids, and 2.28- and 1.89-fold for phenolics, respectively; P < 0.05). Although N-FCNs and N,S-FCNs increased Zn contents, they inhibited the synthesis of naturally occurring antioxidants in fruits. Zn bioaccessibility, uptake, and transportation in plant-soil systems were regulated by MFCNs through both direct and indirect mechanisms, including ionic reactions, plant physiology, and environmental effects. MFCNs regulated plant tolerance to Zn deficiency not only by affecting root activity, redox homeostasis, micronutrient balance, chelator synthesis, genetic expression, and plant photosynthesis but also by influencing rhizosphere soil properties and the microbial environment. Based on their dual role as “plant growth regulators” and “soil conditioners”, MFCNs may have general applicability in agriculture. This study highlights the behavior of MFCNs in plant-soil systems, providing innovative nanotools for enhancing Zn availability, crop stress resistance and environmental preservation in sustainable agriculture.

Multicentric Post-Marketing Surveillance (PMS) Observational Study of Ascorbic Acid and Zinc Effervescent Tablets in Indian Patients with Vitamin C and Zinc Deficiency.

The objective of this Multicentric Post-Marketing Surveillance (PMS) study was to evaluate the safety and tolerance of vitamin C and zinc tablets in the Indian population experiencing deficiencies of these nutrients. Furthermore, the study aimed to provide insights into physicians' prescription practices and characterise the patient population receiving the study medication. This prospective observational study involved 358 participants from 8 study sites across India (including 2 government hospital sites), spanning a duration of approximately 12 weeks (3 months). The primary aim was to evaluate the safety and tolerability of zinc and ascorbic acid effervescent tablets for those who were deficient in zinc and vitamin C. Throughout the study period, adverse events were monitored and categorised by MedDRA Primary System Organ Class and Preferred Term. The analysis included evaluating the incidence, percentage, and correlation of adverse events with the treatment (safety population). Additionally, the frequencies of adverse drug reactions were examined across all enrolled patients. Vital signs and symptom-focused physical examinations were conducted during each visit in the safety population. Out of 358 (100%) patients, only 12 (3.35%) experienced minor symptoms in the study period. The majority of patients reported gastrointestinal disorders, i.e., two (0.6%) patients reported constipation and gastritis, respectively. Diarrhoea was reported by four (1.1%) patients. One (0.3%) patient reported gastrointestinal pain. Three (0.8%) patients reported vomiting. Diarrhoea was the most common symptom reported. All patients possess a mild intensity of adverse drug reactions in safety populations. The P-value is less than 0.05 (p-value < 0.05), and therefore there is a statistically significant relationship between the predictor variables and the response variable (i.e., the expected count of adverse drug reactions). The fixed-dose combination of vitamin C and zinc effervescent tablets appears to be safe and tolerable for the treatment of vitamin C and zinc deficiencies in Indian patients. The favorable outcome underscores the mild nature of the adverse reactions and the right medical interventions and support.<p>.

IMPACT OF DIFFERENT ZINC APPLICATION METHODS AND PHOSPHORUS DOSES ON GROWTH, YIELD AND GRAIN ZINC CONTENTS OF WHEAT

Wheat is a staple crop of around half of the world's population. About 30 percent of the world’s population is suffering from Zn deficiency. Zn deficiency problems can be encountered by agronomic and genetic biofortification. Phosphorus (P) is an important plant macronutrient and has an antagonistic relationship with Zn. A field study was performed to evaluate the impact of different Zn application methods and P doses on growth, yield, and grain Zn contents of wheat at the Agronomic Research Farm, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan, using a high accumulation wheat variety Zincol-2016. Three doses of P (100, 150, and 200% of recommended P) along with three Zn application methods (seed priming, soil mixing, and foliar application) were applied to wheat using randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates under split-plot arrangement. All agronomic practices were kept normal and uniform for all treatments. Parameters including growth, yield, and Zn content in wheat grains were monitored using standard protocols. The results were evaluated using Fisher’s analysis of variance at a 5% probability level. A comparison of means of treatments was performed using the least significant difference (LSD) test. The highest value of SPAD reading (56.38) was noted in treatment where Zn was applied as priming and P was applied at 200%. Maximum crop growth rate (63.17) was observed in P3 where Zn was applied as mix in soil. Maximum spike length (14.25), spikelets per spike (17.67), and Zn concentration were observed in P3 as a result of foliar application of Zn. Highest grain weight per spike (1.89g), no. of tillers (691.01), grain yield (4.09 t ha-1), biological yield (11.01 t ha-1), harvest index (36.54%) and NDVI (0.42 were observed in P3 where Zn was applied as soil mix.

Zinc adherence among caregivers of under five children with diarrhea in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia

IntroductionZinc with oral re-hydration salt supplementation provides much improved outcomes for managing childhood diarrhea. There is scarcity of evidence in the study area regarding zinc supplementation adherence and factors associated with. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess zinc supplementation adherence and associated factors among caregivers of under five children with diarrhea attending health centers in Gondar City.MethodsAn institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted with 405 caregivers of under-five children with diarrhea who received zinc supplementation in Gondar City health centers. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis were computed.Results35% (95% CI: 29.91, 39.21) of caregivers of under five children adhered for zinc supplementation. Adherence was observed among caregivers with good knowledge about zinc supplementation (AOR = 3.01 95%CI = 1.73, 5.24), and who received counseling (AOR = 8.4, 95%CI = 4.66, 15.13), presence of side effects (AOR = 0.35, 95% CI 0.20, 0.65) was negatively associated with zinc supplementation adherence.ConclusionIn the study area, more than one third of children with diarrhea were adhered to zinc supplementation. Thus, improving the knowledge of caregivers and enhancing counseling services on benefits, dosage, duration and side effects of zinc supplementation are vital to improve adherence in the area.

Paternal zinc deficiency alters offspring metabolic status in Drosophila melanogaster

BackgroundThis study delves into the understudied yet potentially crucial role of paternal zinc deficiency in programming offspring metabolic outcomes. By examining paternal zinc deficiency, we aim to shed light on a previously unexplored avenue with the potential to significantly impact future generations. We investigated the intergenerational effects of paternal zinc deficiency on metabolic parameters in Drosophila melanogaster. MethodsDietary zinc deficiency was induced by supplementing the diet of Drosophila F0 male flies with TPEN (N,N,N′,N′-tetrakis(2-pyridylmethyl)ethylenediamine) from egg stage. The F0 male flies after eclosion were mated with age-matched virgin female flies from the control group, resulting in the F1 offspring generation. The F1 generation were then cultured on a standard diet for subsequent metabolic analyses, including assessments of body weight, locomotion, and levels of glucose, trehalose, glycogen, and triglycerides as well as the expression of related genes. ResultsWe observed an increase (p<0.05) in body weight in male parent flies and female offspring. Negative geotaxis performance was also impaired in the female offspring. Paternal zinc deficiency exerted distinct effects on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, as evidenced by a significant (p<0.05) increase in trehalose and triglyceride levels in both parent and offspring. Additionally, zinc deficiency led to alterations in the expression of key metabolic genes, including significant (p<0.05) increase in DILP2 mRNA levels, highlighting potential links to insulin signaling. Also, there were reduced mRNA levels of SOD1 and CAT in both parental and offspring generations. Parental zinc deficiency also increased the expression of Eiger and UPD2 mRNA in the offspring, suggesting potential perturbations in the immune response system. ConclusionThese findings underscore the link between zinc status and various physiological and molecular processes, revealing both immediate and intergenerational impacts on metabolic, antioxidant, and inflammatory pathways and providing valuable insights on the implications of paternal zinc deficiency in Drosophila melanogaster.

The Alarming of Zinc Deficiency and Vitamin D Insufficiency and The Associated Factors Among Vietnamese Adolescents 10-14 Years Old

The Alarming of Zinc Deficiency and Vitamin D Insufficiency and The Associated Factors Among Vietnamese Adolescents 10-14 Years Old

Comparative study of serum zinc levels in stable asthmatic versus non-asthmatic children

Objective: Zinc is an essential trace element that plays a critical role in various physiological processes, including immune function and antioxidant defense. Serum zinc levels are often used as a marker to assess nutritional status and potential deficiencies. This study aims to compare serum zinc levels between stable asthmatic children and non-asthmatic controls at ESUT Teaching Hospital, Parklane Enugu, to understand whether asthmatic children have different zinc status compared to their non-asthmatic counterparts. Materials and Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted involving 85 asthmatic and 85 non-asthmatic children aged 5–11 years. Serum zinc levels were assessed using a Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (FAAS). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: The median serum zinc levels were 11.95 µmol/L in asthmatic children and 8.81 µmol/L in non-asthmatic children (p &lt; 0.001). Nutritional status and socio-economic class did not significantly affect serum zinc levels. Conclusion: Stable asthmatic children have higher median serum zinc levels compared to non-asthmatic children. There was no significant relationship between serum zinc levels and socio-economic or nutritional status in the asthmatic group. Blind zinc supplementation in asthmatic children should be approached with caution.

Combining Transfer Learning and Ensemble Algorithms for Improved Citrus Leaf Disease Classification

Accurate categorization and timely control of leaf diseases are crucial for citrus growth. We proposed the Multi-Models Fusion Network (MMFN) for citrus leaf diseases detection based on model fusion and transfer learning. Compared to traditional methods, the algorithm (integrating transfer learning Alexnet, VGG, and Resnet) we proposed can address the issues of limited categories, slow processing speed, and low recognition accuracy. By constructing efficient deep learning models and training and optimizing them with a large dataset of citrus leaf images, we ensured the broad applicability and accuracy of citrus leaf disease detection, achieving high-precision classification. Herein, various deep learning algorithms, including original Alexnet, VGG, Resnet, and transfer learning versions Resnet34 (Pre_Resnet34) and Resnet50 (Pre_Resnet50) were also discussed and compared. The results demonstrated that the MMFN model achieved an average accuracy of 99.72% in distinguishing between diseased and healthy leaves. Additionally, the model attained an average accuracy of 98.68% in the classification of multiple diseases (citrus huanglongbing (HLB), greasy spot disease and citrus canker), insect pests (citrus leaf miner), and deficiency disease (zinc deficiency). These findings conclusively illustrate that deep learning model fusion networks combining transfer learning and integration algorithms can automatically extract image features, enhance the automation and accuracy of disease recognition, demonstrate the significant potential and application value in citrus leaf disease classification, and potentially drive the development of smart agriculture.

Dietary Organic Zinc Supplementation Modifies the Oxidative Genes via RORγ and Epigenetic Regulations in the Ileum of Broiler Chickens Exposed to High-Temperature Stress.

Heat stress (HS) is a significant concern in broiler chickens, which is vital for global meat supply in the dynamic field of poultry farming. The impact of heat stress on the ileum and its influence on the redox homeostatic genes in chickens remains unclear. We hypothesized that adding zinc to the feed of heat-stressed broilers would improve their resilience to heat stress. However, this study aimed to explore the effects of organic zinc supplementation under HS conditions on broiler chickens' intestinal histology and regulation of HS index genes. In this study, 512 Xueshan chickens were divided into four groups: vehicle, HS, 60 mg/kg zinc, and HS + 60 mg/kg zinc groups. Findings revealed that zinc supply positively increased the VH and VH: CD in the ileum of the broilers compared to the HS group, while CD and VW decreased in Zn and HS+Zn supplemented broilers. Zn administration significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), and decreased the enzymatic activities of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) compared to the HS group. In addition, Zn administration significantly increased relative ATP, complex I, III, and V enzyme activity compared to the HS group. Furthermore, the expression of acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4 (ACSL4), lactate transporter 3 (LPCAT3), peroxiredoxin (PRX), and transferrin receptor (TFRC) in the protein levels was extremely downregulated in HS+Zn compared to the HS group. Zn supply significantly decreased the enrichment of RORγ, P300, and SRC1 at target loci of ACSL4, LPCAT3, and PRX compared to the HS group. The occupancies of histone active marks H3K9ac, H3K18ac, H3K27ac, H3K4me1, and H3K18bhb at the locus of ACSL4 and LPCAT3 were significantly decreased in HS+Zn compared to the HS group. Moreover, H3K9la and H3K18la at the locus of ACSL4 and LPCAT3 were significantly decreased in HS+Zn compared to the HS group. This study emphasizes that organic Zn is a potential strategy for modulating the oxidative genes ACSL4, LPCAT3, PRX, and TFRC in the ileum of chickens via nuclear receptor RORγ regulation and histone modifications.

Soil zinc surveillance frameworks can inform human nutrition studies: opportunities in India

Mineral micronutrient deficiencies are widespread in global food systems and can affect plant growth, crop quality, and human and livestock health. The mapping of soils and soil properties linked to micronutrient supply in food systems is now enabling us to better understand the linkages between soil health and function and its relationship with food quality and human health. Zinc (Zn) deficiencies in Indian soils are of particular concern in the context of crop yields and food quality. This current review aims to understand the data landscapes on soil Zn and related soil properties in India, with a particular focus on three states: Uttar Pradesh (UP), Bihar, and Odisha. The scope of the review is to identify and describe data sets from national and state-wide programmes and research experiments in which soil Zn has been reported, which could be used to provide a framework for integrated surveys and would combine wider agriculture, food systems, nutrition, and public health sectors. The largest data set on soil Zn was collected under a soil health management (SHM) programme, during which the Indian government analysed more than 30 million soil samples for Zn concentration (mg/kg) from 2015 to 2019. This study showed that 39% of Indian soils are considered Zn deficient for crop production (i.e., based on a threshold of &amp;lt;0.6 mg/kg); soil Zn deficiency varied from 2% to 67% across different Indian states. From this survey, soil Zn deficiency was 29%, 67%, and 48% in UP, Bihar, and Odisha, respectively. Individual data points are available for re-use at the Government of India soil health card website (https://www.soilhealth.dac.gov.in/). In addition, the All India Coordinated Research Project on Micro and Secondary Nutrients and Pollutant Elements in Soils and Plants (AICRP-MSPE) programme under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) analysed &amp;gt;240,000 soil samples from 2012 to 2018 from 28 states of India and reported ~38% soil Zn deficiency in the Indian soils. There is no programme in India that currently maps micronutrients in soil and crops together using “GeoNutrition” approaches recently reported in two countries in Africa, Ethiopia, and Malawi. Future co-ordinated soil and crop micronutrient mapping in India can help us to understand better the movement of Zn (and other micronutrients) in food systems and to inform strategies to improve the Zn status in the soil, e.g., the use of Zn fertilisers for yield and agronomic biofortification, and in the edible tissues of crops, e.g., through genetic biofortification.