Zinc Deficiency Research Articles

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.

Whole genome sequence analysis reveals high genomic diversity and potential host-driven adaptations among multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli from pre-weaned dairy calves.

Food-producing animals such as dairy cattle are potential reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), with multidrug-resistant (MDR) organisms such as Escherichia coli observed in higher frequency in young calves compared to older cattle. In this study, we characterized the genomes of enteric MDR E. coli from pre-weaned dairy calves with and without diarrhea and evaluated the influence of host-level factors on genomic composition. Whole genome sequence comparative analysis of E. coli (n = 43) revealed substantial genomic diversity that primarily clustered by sequence type and was minimally driven by calf diarrheal disease status (healthy, diarrheic, or recovered), antimicrobial exposure, and dietary zinc supplementation. Diverse AMR genes (ARGs)-including extended-spectrum beta-lactamase genes and quinolone resistance determinants-were identified (n = 40), with unique sets of ARGs co-occurring in gene clusters with large AMR plasmids IncA/C2 and IncFIB(AP001918). Zinc supplementation was not significantly associated with the selection of individual ARGs in E. coli, however analysis of ARG and metal resistance gene pairs identified positive associations between certain aminoglycoside, beta-lactam, sulfonamide, and trimethoprim ARGs with acid, tellurium and mercury resistance genes. Although E. coli in this study lacked the typical virulence factors of diarrheagenic strains, virulence genes overlapping with those in major pathotypes were identified. Among the 103 virulence genes detected, the highest abundance and diversity of genes corresponded to iron acquisition (siderophores and heme uptake). Our findings indicate that the host-level factors evaluated in this study were not key drivers of genomic variability, but that certain accessory genes in enteric MDR E. coli may be enriched. Collectively, this work provides insight into the genomic diversity and host-microbe interface of MDR E. coli from pre-weaned dairy calves.

Source-dependent effects of early-life zinc supplementation in milk on growth performance and starter intake of pre-weaned dairy calves

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of milk supplementation with different zinc (Zn) sources on growth rate, starter intake, diarrhea incidence, and nutrient digestibility in dairy calves during the pre-weaning period. Forty newborn Holstein heifer calves were assigned to four treatments: control (no Zn supplementation; CON) or supplementation with 80 mg/day Zn from zinc sulfate (Zn-Sul), chelated zinc (Zn-Bon), or zinc methionine (Zn-Met). The Zn supplements were provided via milk from days 3 to 14 of age. Body weight (BW) and starter intake (SI) were monitored until weaning on day 70. Serum metabolite concentrations were determined in blood samples collected on days 15 and 70. Fecal consistency index (FCI) and frequency of medical treatments were measured during the first 21 days of life. Apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) was determined in the 10th week of life. Although the effects of Zn supplementation on BW gain or body measurements were non-significant, a tendency for treatment × time interaction on BW was observed, with variations among the experimental groups becoming more pronounced on days 56 and 70, showing higher values in Zn-supplemented calves compared to CON. SI was improved by Zn supplementation, with the greatest response in the Zn-Bon group. Compared to control, ATTD of organic matter, neutral detergent fiber, and starch tended to increase with Zn supplementation. Blood metabolites and FCI did not differ among the experimental treatments. Although no significant difference was detected between Zn-Met and CON, the frequency of medical treatment was significantly lower in Zn-Bon and Zn-Sul compared to CON calves. In conclusion, zinc supplementation in milk, particularly with the organic chelated zinc source (Zn-Bon), showed promising effects on increasing starter intake and reducing medical treatments, along with trends toward enhanced growth and nutrient digestibility in pre-weaned calves.

The prevalence and risk factors associated with zinc deficiency after pancreatic surgery.

To clarify the prevalence, risk factors, and clinical implications associated with zinc deficiency in patients undergoing pancreatic surgery. The serum zinc levels were measured in 329 patients post-pancreatic surgery between January and April 2021. The postoperative serum zinc levels and clinicopathological variables were retrospectively analyzed. The median serum zinc level was 73µg/dL (33-218). Zinc deficiency (zinc level < 60µg/dL) was observed in 52 patients (16%). A total of 329 patients were classified into zinc-deficient (n = 52) and non-deficient (zinc ≥ 60µg/dL, n = 277) groups. A univariate analysis revealed significant differences in sex, postoperative body mass index, serum albumin, total cholesterol, creatinine, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), HbA1c levels, diabetes, surgical procedures, and operative blood loss. According to a multivariate analysis, male sex [odds ratio (OR) 3.70; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.67-8.20; p = 0.001], postoperative serum albumin levels < 3.9g/dL (OR 6.39; 95% CI 3.30-12.37; p < 0.001), postoperative serum AST ≥ 51 U/L (OR, 4.6; 95% CI 0.07-0.29; p < 0.001), and total pancreatectomy (OR 3.68; 95% CI 1.37-9.85; p = 0.009) were found to be independent predictors of zinc deficiency after pancreatic surgery. Zinc deficiency frequently occurs in patients undergoing pancreatic surgery. Lower postoperative zinc levels could be linked to sex, the serum albumin and AST levels, and surgery type.

Effect of Chinese Milk Vetch on Zinc Content and Zinc Absorption of Rice in Purple Tidal Mud Soil

Rice is a staple food crop that feeds billions globally. Addressing Zn deficiency in rice is crucial for improving nutrition and food security. Zn deficiency in rice is a widespread issue, especially in purple tidal mud substrates, which often exhibit low Zn availability. The objective of this two-year pot study was to explore the relationship between Zn content, yield components, and Zn absorption in rice grown in purple tidal mud substrate with varying amounts of Chinese milk vetch (Astragalus sinicus L.) incorporation. The experimental design consisted of seven treatments: an unfertilized control, a Chinese milk vetch control, a chemical fertilizer control, and four treatment variations incorporating Chinese milk vetch alongside chemical fertilizer applications. The results indicated that planting and applying Chinese milk vetch improved the grain yield of rice in purple tidal mud substrate, and the yield increased with higher levels of Chinese milk vetch applied. The increased grain yield resulted in higher Zn absorption in rice grains. The application of Chinese milk vetch, both solely and in combination with chemical fertilizers, had varying effects on zinc uptake and grain zinc formation efficiency in early and late rice, with the control and low-level Chinese milk vetch treatments generally exhibiting the highest performance across the two-year period. By introducing Chinese milkvetch following the use of chemical fertilizers, the Zn content in rice grains increased starting from the second year. The treatment with Chinese milkvetch applied at a rate of 2.25 t/hm2 showed the best results in increasing the Zn content in rice grains. The increase in Zn content and Zn uptake by the rice plants gave rise to a lowering of the DTPA-extractable Zn content in the purple tidal mud substrate. Sole Chinese milk vetch application and using Chinese milk vetch following chemical fertilizer application both increased Zn content extracted by DTPA in purple tidal mud substrate.

Effect of Zinc Supplementation on Glycemic Control in Newly Diagnosed Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a spectrum of metabolic disorders primarily characterized by elevated blood glucose levels. Type 2 DM (T2DM), the most common form, often requires adjunctive therapies to improve glycemic control and mitigate associated risks. Zinc has been implicated in glucose metabolism and insulin function, prompting this study to evaluate the impact of zinc supplementation on glycemic control in newly diagnosed T2DM patients. A randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted involving 80 newly diagnosed T2DM patients. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either zinc supplementation (50 mg/day) or a placebo, in conjunction with standard oral hypoglycemic medication, metformin. Key indicators, including fasting blood glucose (FBG), postprandial blood glucose (PPBG), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and lipid profiles, were measured at baseline and after the 12-month intervention period. The group receiving zinc supplementation demonstrated significant reductions in FBG, PPBG, and HbA1c levels compared to the placebo group. The mean FBG in the intervention group decreased by 21.52 mg/dL, PPBG decreased by 47.53 mg/dL, and HbA1c decreased by 0.79%. Additionally, zinc supplementation led to notable decreases in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol by 25.06 mg/dL, triglycerides by 22.2 mg/dL, and total cholesterol levels by 26.67 mg/dL. However, no significant changes were observed in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol, or erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). The findings suggest that zinc supplementation may be a beneficial adjunctive therapy in the early management of T2DM, contributing to improved glycemic control and favorable changes in lipid profiles. However, its effect on HDL, VLDL, and ESR was insignificant, indicating the need for further research to better understand the broader implications of zinc in T2DM management.

Serum zinc level in liver cirrhosis with hepatic encephalopathy and its correlation with different stages of hepatic encephalopathy.

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) severe complication of liver cirrhosis with high mortality. Few studies have found zinc deficiency in liver cirrhosis and HE patients and found it as a precipitating factor for the development of HE. This study was done to measure the serum zinc level in patients with liver cirrhosis with HE and a correlation was obtained between serum zinc level with grades of HE. A cross-sectional observational study was done on 150 patients with liver cirrhosis with HE at a tertiary care center in Jharkhand. All cases were evaluated by history taking, clinical examination, and a questionnaire and classified into different WHC grades of HE and CPC classes of cirrhosis. Routine blood investigations, imaging studies, and morning serum zinc levels were done for all patients. Majority of patients with liver cirrhosis with HE had zinc deficiency. There was a statistically highly significant (P < .00001) association between low serum zinc levels and WHC grades of HE. The serum zinc levels in different classes of cirrhosis showed highly significant differences (P < .00001). The mean serum zinc level was significantly low in patients who died (35.56 ± 11.65 vs 48.36 ± 10.91, P < .0001). The study revealed a strong positive correlation (r = .88, P = .048) between serum zinc and serum albumin levels. Serum zinc is deficient in patients with liver cirrhosis and HE. Zinc deficiency is significantly associated with higher severity of cirrhosis and higher grades of HE. All patients with liver cirrhosis with HE and hypoalbuminemia should be evaluated for zinc deficiency.