Evaluation of a commercially available kit for the colorimetric determination of zinc in human seminal plasma

A new clustering model based on the seminal plasma/serum ratios of multiple trace element concentrations in male patients with subfertility

Purpose

To investigate whether seminal plasma (SP)/serum ratios of multiple trace elements (TEs) can classify patients with male subfertility.

Methods

SP/serum ratios of 20 TEs (lithium, sodium, magnesium, phosphorus, sulfur, potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, cobalt, copper, zinc, arsenic, selenium, rubidium, strontium, molybdenum, cesium, barium, and thallium) were calculated for healthy volunteers (n = 4) and those consulting for male subfertility (n = 245). Volunteer semen samples were collected by split ejaculation into early and subsequent fractions, and SP/serum ratio data were compared between fractions. The patients' SP/serum ratio data were used in an unsupervised clustering analysis and qualitatively compared with the data from the fractions of ejaculation from the volunteers. Semen quality parameters and pregnancy outcomes were compared between patient clusters.

Results

The early fraction of volunteers was characterized by lower phosphorus and arsenic and 18 other higher TEs than the subsequent fraction. Cluster analysis classified patients into four distinct clusters, one sharing characteristics with the early fraction and another with the subsequent fraction. One cluster with the early fraction characteristics had significantly lower semen volume and higher pregnancy rates from spontaneous pregnancies or intrauterine insemination.

Conclusions

Classification of patients based on SP/serum ratios of multiple TEs represents the dominance of fractions of ejaculation samples.

Correlation of zinc level in spermoplasm with fertility characteristics of human ejaculate

Background: Zinc is essential for the normal functioning of the male reproductive system. The data on the diagnostic value of the determination of zinc in human spermoplasm and the relationship of its level with the main parameters of sperm fertility are contradictory. Aims: Study of correlations of zinc level in spermoplasm with spermogram characteristics. Methods: Sperm of men of reproductive age (n=486, average age 33.073.03 years) was studied. In addition to the standard spermogram, MAR tests (IgA, IgG and IgM) were performed in the sperm samples, the degree of fragmentation of sperm DNA was assessed, the interaction of sperm with hyaluronic acid was assessed, acrosine activity, neutral alpha-glucosidase activity was determined, citric acid, fructose and glycodelin levels were determined, the level of reactive oxygen species was studied. Determination of the zinc level in the spermoplasm was carried out by a standard spectrophotometric method with 5-Br-PAPS chromogen. Pearson's formula was used for correlation analysis. The study was conducted from 2018 to May 2022, once. Results: A significant negative correlation of the zinc level in the spermoplasm with the age of men was revealed (r=-0.1625, p0.001). The level of zinc in the spermoplasm was weakly negatively correlated with the dilution time and with the viscosity of the sperm. The positive correlation was with the number of spermatozoa (r=0.1345, p0.01) and their mobility (r=0.3825, p0.00001). The level of zinc in the spermoplasm negatively correlates with the degree of fragmentation of sperm DNA and with the amount of reactive oxygen species, and with the test for binding of sperm with hyaluronic acid positively. Conclusions: The level of zinc in the spermoplasm significantly correlates with a number of physiological and biochemical characteristics of sperm. The data obtained allow us to recommend the determination of zinc in the sperm plasma not only to assess the functional activity of the prostate gland, but also to diagnose the fertility of the ejaculate, as well as to optimize therapy with zinc-containing drugs and improve control over the effectiveness of the treatment.

Mahfouz N, Abushady MM, El-Alameey IR. Relation of Serum Micronutrients to Growth and Nutritional Habits of School-Aged Children in Egypt

Proper growth of children depends on several micronutrients. A fundamental role of Zinc and vitamins as A, B12 and D is crucial to prevent a failure to thrive. To study the relationship between Egyptian school aged children growth, nutritional habits and micronutrients deficiencies. Materials and methods: A case control research involved 60 school aged children (age ranged from 6 to 12 years). Group 1 (malnourished) compared with group II (apparently healthy children of matched peers). Serum concentrations of Zinc, Copper, and vitamins as A, B12, and D were measured using ELISA kits. Compared to controls, the cases showed significantly lower serum concentrations of Zinc, vitamin A, B12, and D (P<0.000 in all), while serum concentration of Copper was significantly higher. In the patient's group, serum vitamin B12, and Zinc concentrations showed significant positive correlation with height for age z- score, while serum Copper concentration showed significant negative correlation with BMI for age z- score. Serum Zinc, vitamin B12, and D concentrations were significantly correlated positively with serum vitamin A. Multiple logistic regression showed statistically significant association of high serum Copper and weekly consumption of sweetened beverages among the studied patients (P < 0.01). Vitamins and Zinc deficiencies showed high prevalence among the school children. Serum vitamin B12 and Zinc concentrations showed significant positive correlation with height. The significant association between high serum Copper and sugary beverages among the studied patients may be due to contained preservatives.

J-shaped relationship between serum zinc levels and the severity of hepatic necro-inflammation in patients with MAFLD

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Zinc is an essential trace element that plays an important role in maintaining health, and affecting gene expression, signal transduction and regulation of apoptosis. It is uncertain whether serum zinc levels are altered in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). We aimed to investigate the association between serum zinc levels and the severity of hepatic necro-inflammation (HN) in patients with MAFLD.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Liver disease severity was graded histologically using the NAFLD activity score. HN was defined as the sum of ballooning and lobular inflammation. We used a smooth function regression model to analyze the relationship between serum zinc levels and HN. A total of 561 (76.5% men) patients with biopsy-confirmed MAFLD were enrolled. They had a mean age of 41.3 years, and a mean serum zinc level of 17.0 ± 4.1 μmol/L. Compared to those with mild hepatic necro-inflammation (MHN, grades 0-2; n = 286), patients with severe hepatic necro-inflammation (SHN, grades 3-5; n = 275) had lower serum zinc concentrations (16.3 ± 4.2 vs. 17.6 ± 4.0 μmol/L; p < 0.001). However, a threshold saturation effect analysis showed that there was an inflection in serum zinc levels at 24 μmol/L. After adjustment for potential confounders, serum zinc levels <24 μmol/L were inversely associated with SHN (adjusted-odds ratio 0.88, 95%CI 0.83-0.93; p < 0.001), whereas serum zinc levels >24 μmol/L were positively associated with SHN (adjusted-odds ratio 1.42, 95%CI: 1.03-1.97; p = 0.035).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a J-shaped relationship between serum zinc levels and the severity of hepatic necro-inflammation in patients with biopsy-proven MAFLD.

Assessment of YKL-40, lipid profile, antioxidant status, and some trace elements in benign and malignant breast proliferation

Breast cancer is mainly the common form of cancer in women and is a leading cause of death worldwide associated with cancer. The objective of this study was to assess the possible association of lipid profiles (total cholesterol TC, low-density lipoprotein LDL, very-low-density lipoprotein VLDL, high-density lipoprotein HDL, non-HDL and triglyceride TG), Chitinase-3-Like Protein1 (YKL-40) and changes in the levels of certain trace elements (Cu, Mg, Fe, and Zn), antioxidant status (TAC) and nitric oxide (NO) in benign and breast cancer in Egyptian females population. For 56 females with a benign breast tumor, 58 females with breast cancer, besides 52 healthy controls, Serum lipid profile, YKL-40, TAC, NO, Cu, Fe, Zn, and Mg have been determined. Our results showed a significant difference in lipid profile and a significant increase in, YKL-40, NO, and iron in breast benign tumor and cancer patients compared to control one. Besides, there is a significant reduction in serum magnesium and TAC levels in the patients' group compared to the healthy group. There is also a significant correlation between serum YKL-40 level and TC, LDL-C, VLDL-C, non-HDL-C, and TG in the breast cancer group; although only YKL-40 and VLDL-C showed a significant positive correlation in benign tumor patients. It is recommended that non-HDL-cholesterol, TAC, and Mg be used as biomarkers for breast cancer and its progression.

Percentile values of serum zinc concentration and prevalence of its deficiency in Iranian children and adolescents: the CASPIAN-V study

Background To determine the prevalence of serum zinc deficiency and provide the age- and sex-specific percentile values of serum zinc in children and adolescents. Methods We used the gathered data through the CASPIAN-V study, a national survey conducted on 3500 students aged 7-18 years from 30 provinces of Iran. In this study, 1370 blood samples were selected randomly, and serum zinc concentration was measured using a Hitachi automated analyzer. Zinc deficiency was defined as a serum zinc level of less than 75 μg/dL. Age-sex specific reference percentile values were developed for serum zinc concentration. Results The mean age of participants was 12.4 ± 3.0 years; 49.3% were girls and 73% were urban inhabitants. Mean (standard deviation [SD]) of serum zinc concentration was 107.23 (25.81) μg/dL with a significant sex difference; 109.03 ± 26.12 μg/dL for males compared to 105.41 ± 25.3 μg/dL for females (p = 0.009). The prevalence of subclinical zinc deficiency was 4.9% (95% confidence intervals [CI]: 3.0, 6.9) in children and adolescents. Both zinc deficient and sufficient groups were similar in terms of age, sex and residential areas (all p-value > 0.05). Overall, the 5th and 95th percentile values for serum zinc were 68.28 and 151.87 μg/dL, respectively. The value of all percentiles consistently decreased with age. The 10-99th percentile values for serum zinc were greater in boys than girls at all ages. Conclusions Nearly 5% of subjects had zinc deficiency. Age-sex specific percentile values were established for Iranian children and adolescents.

BLOOD ZINC LEVEL IN CHILDREN WITH COMBINED GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE AND CHRONIC GASTRODUODENAL PATHOLOGY

Pathology of the upper digestive tract is the most common among gastroenterological diseases in children of different ages and is 48-50 %. Recently, there has been an increase in combined lesions of the esophagus and organs of the gastroduodenal zone. Currently, microelements are considered to play a role in the etiopathogenesis of the diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. The aim of the work was to study zinc level in the blood of children with combined gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and chronic gastroduodenal pathology. Materials and methods. 110 children with combined GERD and lesions of the gastroduodenal zone at the age of 10–18 years were under observation. In order to verify the diagnosis, esophagogastroduodenoscopy was performed. The level of zinc in the blood of children was studied using photometric method. Results. 52.5 % of children with concomitant GERD and chronic gastroduodenal pathologies had a reduced zinc level in the blood. According to the results of the study, the risk factors of zinc deficiency in children with combined pathology of the upper digestive tract include male sex, age older than 14 years, the duration of the disease longer than 3 years. The level of zinc in the blood of children was significantly reduced in destructive lesions of the esophagus, as well as with more pronounced inflammation of the gastric mucosa, in duodenitis and erosions in the duodenal bulb. Conclusions. Thus, the results of the study showed the importance of studying the level of zinc in the blood of patients with combined GERD and chronic gastroduodenal pathology to achieve positive changes by its correction. Zinc deficiency more often develops in boys over 14 year old, who has inflammatory changes of digestive tract.

Possible factors influencing post-ejaculatory changes of the osmolality of human semen in vitro

The human ejaculate is made up of secretions from the different accessory sex glands that empty in sequence at ejaculation. However, the different secretions only mix completely in vitro when the entire ejaculate is collected in a container and handled in the laboratory. At ejaculation, proteins from the seminal vesicles form a gel in the ejaculate and semen cannot be properly analysed and processed until the gel is liquefied. During and after liquefaction, there is continuous enzymatic activities and an ongoing increase in osmolality. The aim of this study was to investigate possible factors that influence the increase in semen osmolality in vitro. Osmolality was measured by freezing-point depression. Prostatic secretion was measured as zinc concentration. The presence of spermatozoa neither influenced the actual measurement of semen osmolality, nor the increase in osmolality. Enzymatic inhibitors reduced the increase in osmolality, and semen dilution prevented any increase in semen osmolality. However, the increase in osmolality covaried with the seminal zinc concentration, indicating that the observed increase was related to factors of prostatic origin. A simple and convenient procedure to reduce the risk for osmotic challenges for spermatozoa during handling for assisted reproductive technologies might be early dilution of semen.

Improved Eating Behaviour and Nutrient Intake in Noncompliant Patients with Phenylketonuria after Reintroducing a Protein Substitute: Observations from a Multicentre Study

Noncompliance is widespread in adults with PKU and is associated with adverse metabolic, nutritional and cognitive abnormalities. Returning to the PKU diet is important for this at-risk population, yet for many this is challenging to achieve. Strategies that ease the return to the PKU diet, while offering nutritional and cognitive advantages, are needed. Twelve PKU adults (33.7 ± 2.6 years), who had been noncompliant for 4.5 years (range: 1 to 11 years), took 33 g of a low-volume, nutrient-enriched, protein substitute daily for 28 days. Outcomes of eating behaviour, nutrient intake and mood were assessed at entry (baseline, days 1-3) and after the intervention period (days 29-31). At baseline, intakes of natural protein and estimated phenylalanine were high (66.4 g and 3318.5 mg, respectively) and intakes of calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, iodine and vitamin D were below country-specific recommendations. With use of the experimental protein substitute, natural protein and estimated phenylalanine intake declined (p = 0.043 for both). Fat and saturated fat intakes also decreased (p = 0.019 and p = 0.041, respectively), while energy and carbohydrate intake remained unchanged. Micronutrient intake increased (p ≤ 0.05 for all aforementioned) to levels well within reference nutrient intake recommendations. Blood vitamin B₁₂ and vitamin D increased by 19.8% and 10.4%, respectively. Reductions in anxiety and confusion were also observed during the course of the study yet should be handled as preliminary data. This study demonstrates that reintroducing a low-volume, nutrient-enriched protein substitute delivers favourable nutritional and possible mood benefits in noncompliant PKU patients, yet longer-term studies are needed to further confirm this. This preliminary knowledge should be used in the design of new strategies to better facilitate patients' return to the PKU diet, with the approach described here as a foundation.

Effects of zinc supplementation on oxidant/antioxidant and lipids status of pesticides sprayers

Background

Excess exposure to pesticides induces oxidative stress and causes alteration in the lipid profile

Objectives

The study aimed to evaluate the effects of Zinc (Zn) supplementation on the oxidant/antioxidant and lipid status in pesticide sprayers.

Methods

Forty pesticide sprayers were included in the study. Blood lipids, malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and Zn were estimated; before and after Zn supplementation.

Results

Statistical analysis revealed that after Zn supplementation, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low density lipoprotein (LDL), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), and MDA were significantly decreased. However, there was a significant increase in the high density lipoprotein (HDL), SOD, GPx, and Zn levels. After Zn supplementation, significant inverse correlations were detected between the Zn and the levels of MDA, TG, and VLDL, while positive correlation between Zn and the levels of HDL and TC.

Conclusions

Zn supplementation improves the oxidative/antioxidants and lipid status in pesticide sprayers.

Consumption of Dark Green Leafy Vegetables Predicts Vitamin A and Iron Intake and Status among Female Small-Scale Farmers in Tanzania

Inadequate consumption of micronutrient-dense foods such as vegetables and meat are an important contributing cause for anemia and deficiencies of iron and vitamin A in rural communities of Tanzania. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2016 to examine nutritional and micronutrient status and their associations to the diet of female small-scale farmers in the sub-humid Kilosa (n = 333) and the semi-arid Chamwino (n = 333) districts, in the Morogoro and Dodoma region. An overall higher prevalence of overweight (19.7%) and obesity (7.1%) than of underweight (5.9%) was detected. Significantly more women in the two villages of Kilosa (27-40%) than in the two villages of Chamwino district (19-21%) were overweight/obese, but also more frequently had anemia (34-41% vs. 11-17%), iron deficiency (24-32% vs. 15-17%), and low serum retinol (21-24% vs. 8-9%). Overall, only a small proportion of women reached recommended daily micronutrient intakes: 27% for vitamin A, 17% for iron, 7% for zinc, and 12-38% for B-vitamins. The amount of dark green leafy vegetables (DGLV) consumed was the main determinant of vitamin A and iron intake by women in Chamwino and corresponded to higher hemoglobin, serum retinol and iron status than in the villages of the Kilosa district; in agreement, DGLV consumption also predicted iron and vitamin A intake in Kilosa district. DGLV consumed with wholemeal millet was advantageous in terms of women's vitamin A and iron intake and status over the predominantly maize-rice-based diet lacking vegetables.

Serum vitamin A and E, copper, zinc and selenium concentrations and their relationship with health outcomes in dromedary hospitalized camels (Camelus dromedarius)

The goals of this study were to measure serum vitamin A (retinol) and E (α-tocopherol) and trace elements concentrations (copper, zinc and selenium) during diseases condition and to determine their association with hematological parameters and immune status of hospitalized camels. A total of 95 dromedary camels [healthy (n=65); hospitalized camels (n=30)] were included in this study. Vitamin A and E concentrations were significantly lower in hospitalized camels than apparently healthy ones (P<0.05). Hospitalized camels had lower concentrations of zinc and selenium compared to healthy camels (P<0.05). Vitamin E, copper, zinc and selenium concentrations were positively correlated with phagocytic activity in hospitalized camels (P<0.05). The likelihood of deficiency of vitamin A and E, zinc and selenium concentrations were significant in female hospitalized camels than males and in young age hospitalized camels < 6 years old compared to old ones (P<0.05). Decreased vitamin A and E and trace elements concentrations were associated with hospitalized camels’ phagocytic activity and index. The prevalence of low vitamin A and E, zinc and selenium concentrations were frequent in female hospitalized camels and hospitalized camels of age < 6 years old suggesting severe oxidative stress.

Metabolic profile of oxidative stress and trace elements in febrile seizures among children

Febrile seizures (FS) are frequent convulsive disorders, occurring in infants and young children. The present study aims to assess and compare the serum levels of oxidative stress markers and some essential trace minerals in FS with normal or abnormal EEG and evaluate the effect of antioxidant therapy on the clinical outcome. This study has been carried out on 80 children with FS (40 with simple FS and 40 with complex FS) and 40 febrile children without seizures. Clinical and EEG findings were recorded for the included patients. Biochemical assays of serum nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn) and selenium (Se), using colorimetric methods, were measured in the studied groups. The overall results showed an increased values of NO, MDA and Cu with decreased values of SOD, Zn and Se in patients with FS (simple and complex) in comparison with febrile children without seizures (p < 0.05 for all). Additionally, NO and MDA was increased in complex FS patients with EEG abnormalities in comparison with complex FS with normal EEG findings (p < 0.05); NO and MDA were also significantly decreased after valproate therapy in complex FS patients (p < 0.05 for all). In conclusions, oxidative stress, decreased Zn and Se with increased Cu may play a role in FS. Valproate improves the oxidative stress status in complex FS.

Trace elements and oxidative stress in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

The early imbalances of trace elements in type 1 diabetes (T1D) may cause disturbance of glucose metabolism and more oxidative stress that may enhance the development of insulin resistance and diabetic complications. We aim to evaluate the serum level of selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), and copper (Cu), the degree of oxidative stress and evaluate their relations to glycemic control in children with T1D.

METHODS

A case-control study which included 100 diabetic children and 40 healthy children age, sex, and ethnicity-matched as a control group. The diabetic children were divided into poor and good controlled patients according to glycosylated hemoglobin (A1c %). Studied children underwent history taking, clinical examination and laboratory measurement of serum Se, Zn, Mg, and Cu levels, erythrocyte reduced glutathione (GSH) and peroxidase enzyme activity (GPx).

RESULTS

Serum Se, Zn, Mg, Cu, erythrocyte GSH, and GPx were significantly lower in the diabetic group in comparison to the control group (P<0.05) and their levels were lower in poorly controlled patients compared to good controlled patients (P<0.05). The serum Se, Zn, Mg, erythrocyte GSH, and GPx showed a negative correlation with A1c %. The serum Se showed a positive correlation with erythrocyte GSH and GPx ([r=0.56, P<0.001], [r=0.78, P<0.001], respectively).

CONCLUSION

Children with T1D, especially poorly controlled cases, had low serum Se, Zn, Mg, Cu, GSH, and GPx. Low serum Se in diabetic children may affect the erythrocyte GSH-GPx system.

Evaluation of Serum Zinc and Antioxidant Vitamins in Adolescent Homozygous Sickle Cell Patients in Wardha, District of Central India

INTRODUCTION

Sickle cell anaemia is a condition characterized by haemolytic and vaso-occlusive crisis. Previous studies in different part of the world have reported deficiency of zinc, vitamin C and E but the role of their supplementation in sickle cell disease remains question. Nutritional factors may contribute to clinical manifestation in rural population of developing countries specially in adolescent age group. Thus, the present study was designed in rural population of Wardha district of Maharashtra in adolescent sickle cell homozygous patients in view to evaluate serum zinc and antioxidant vitamins C and E.

AIM

To evaluate the serum zinc and antioxidant vitamins C and E in cases of adolescent homozygous sickle cell disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study includes adolescent (between 10-20 years) individuals in two groups of 33 each. Group A included confirmed cases of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and Group B included age and sex matched normal healthy controls. Serum zinc, vitamins C and E were analysed in all the subjects of both the groups. Data were expressed as Mean±SD; unpaired t-test was used to compare the two groups. Statistical significance was decided by calculating the p-value.

RESULTS

Serum levels of zinc and antioxidant vitamins E and C were significantly low in sickle cell anaemia patients when compared to normal health controls (p-value<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that the adolescent patients with SCD have significant low levels of zinc and significantly low antioxidant vitamins C and E, which may contribute to some of the manifestations of sickle cell disease.

Circulating Protein Carbonyls, Antioxidant Enzymes and Related Trace Minerals among Preterms with Respiratory Distress Syndrome

INTRODUCTION

Information about oxidative stress in preterms with Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) is defective, so various researches in this area are required, which may open new roads in understanding the pathogenesis of the disease, hence provide additional helpful therapeutic approaches.

AIM

To assess and compare the plasma level of protein carbonyls as a marker for oxidant status and the antioxidant enzymes; Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) and the related trace minerals in the form of Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn) and Selenium (Se) as markers for antioxidant status, in preterms with and without RDS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A hospital-based case-control study was conducted on fifty-seven preterm neonates (37 preterms with RDS and 20 preterms without RDS) admitted to neonatal intensive care unit of Qena University Hospitals after approval of the University Hospital Ethical Committee. Plasma protein carbonyls assay was done using commercially available ELISA assay kit. Plasma Cu, Zn, Se, erythrocyte SOD and GPx activities assays were done using commercially available colorimetric assay kits.

RESULTS

Significant higher plasma levels of protein carbonyls and oxidant/antioxidants ratio (protein carbonyls/{SOD+GPx}) with significant lower plasma levels of Zn, Cu, Se, erythrocyte SOD and GPx activities were found in the preterms with RDS when compared with the preterms without RDS (p<0.001 for all measured markers for both groups). In terms of birth weights and gestational ages, they were negatively correlated with both plasma protein carbonyls and oxidant/antioxidants ratio and positively correlated with plasma copper, zinc, selenium, erythrocyte SOD and GPx activities in a statistically significant manner. Non-significant correlations were found between the measured oxidative stress markers and the severity of RDS.

CONCLUSION

Oxidative stress may have a contributory role in the development of RDS among preterms. Lower birth weight and prematurity may increase the susceptibity to oxidative stress among such patients.

Hepatoprotective effect of blocking N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors in male albino rats exposed to acute and repeated restraint stress

Stress affects many organs in addition to the brain, including the liver. We assessed the effects on the liver of blocking N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) glutamate receptors with memantine in acute and repeated restraint stress. Forty-two male albino rats were divided into 7 groups; control, acute restraint stress (ARS), ARS + memantine, repeated restraint stress, repeated restraint + memantine, and positive control groups. We measured serum iron, zinc, alanine transferase and aspartame transferase, hepatic malondialdehyde, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, metallothionein content, zinc transporter ZRT/IRT-like protein 14 mRNA expression, and hepcidin expression. We conducted a histopathological evaluation via histological staining and immunostaining for glial fibrillary acidic protein and synaptophysin expression, both of which are markers of hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. Both ARS and repeated stress increased markers of hepatic cell injury, oxidative stress, and HSC activation. Blocking NMDA with memantine provided a hepatoprotective effect in acute and repeated restraint stress and decreased hepatic cell injury, oxidative stress, and HSC activation.

Thyroid Hormone Indices in Computer Workers with Emphasis on the Role of Zinc Supplementation

AIM

This study aimed to investigate the effects of computer monitor-emitted radiation on thyroid hormones and the possible protective role of zinc supplementation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included three groups. The first group (group B) consisted of 42 computer workers. This group was given Zinc supplementation in the form of one tablet daily for eight weeks. The second group (group A) comprised the same 42 computer workers after zinc supplementation. A group of 63 subjects whose job does not entail computer use was recruited as a control Group (Group C). All participants filled a questionnaire including detailed medical and occupational histories. They were subjected to full clinical examination. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4) and zinc levels were measured in all participants.

RESULTS

TSH, FT3, FT4 and zinc concentrations were decreased significantly in group B relative to group C. In group A, all tested parameters were improved when compared with group B. The obtained results revealed that radiation emitted from computers led to changes in TSH and thyroid hormones (FT3 and FT4) in the workers.

CONCLUSION

Improvement after supplementation suggests that zinc can ameliorate hazards of such radiation on thyroid hormone indices.

Monoclonal Antibody RYSK173 Recognizes the Dinuclear Zn Center of Serum Carnosinase 1 (CN-1): Possible Consequences of Zn Binding for CN-1 Recognition by RYSK173

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The proportion of serum carnosinase (CN-1) recognized by RYSK173 monoclonal antibody negatively correlates with CN-1 activity. We thus hypothesized that the epitope recognized by RYSK173 is accessible only in a catalytically incompetent conformation of the zinc dependent enzyme and we mapped its position in the CN-1 structure. Since patients with kidney failure are often deficient in zinc and other trace elements we also assessed the RYSK173 CN-1 proportion in serum of these patients and studied the influence of hemodialysis hereon in relation to Zn2+ and Cu2+ concentration during hemodialysis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Epitope mapping using myc-tagged CN-1 fragments and overlapping peptides revealed that the RYSK173 epitope directly contributes to the formation of the dinuclear Zn center in the catalytic domain of homodimeric CN-1. Binding of RYSK173 to CN-1 was however not influenced by addition of Zn2+ or Cu2+ to serum. In serum of healthy controls the proportion of CN-1 recognized by RYSK173 was significantly lower compared to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients (1.12 ± 0.17 vs. 1.56 ± 0.40% of total CN-1; p<0.001). During hemodialysis the relative proportion of RYSK173 CN-1 decreased in parallel with increased serum Zn2+ and Cu2+ concentrations after dialysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study clearly indicates that RYSK173 recognizes a sequence within the transition metal binding site of CN-1, thus supporting our hypothesis that metal binding to CN-1 masks the epitope. The CN-1 RYSK173 proportion appears overall increased in ESRD patients, yet it decreases during hemodialysis possibly as a consequence of a relative increase in transition metal bound enzyme.

Effect of zinc supplementation on body mass index and serum levels of zinc and leptin in pediatric hemodialysis patients

Introduction

Zinc is an essential trace element for human nutrition, and its deficiency is associated with anorexia, poor food efficiency, growth retardation, and impaired neurological and immune systems. The zinc-deficiency rate is particularly high in many disease states, such as with end-stage renal disease patients undertaking hemodialysis. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of zinc supplementation on body mass index (BMI) and serum levels of zinc and leptin in pediatric hemodialysis patients.

Patients and methods

This was a prospective clinical trial study in which 60 hemodialysis patients were randomly divided into two groups: group I received 50–100 mg zinc sulfate (equivalent to 11–22 mg elemental zinc) according to age, sex, and nutritional status of the child; and group II received placebo (cornstarch) twice daily for 90 days. Anthropometric measurements were taken, and serum zinc and leptin levels were determined by colorimetric test with 5-Br-3′-phosphoadenosine-5′-phosphosulfate and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively, at days 0 and 90 of the study.

Results

Zinc supplementation resulted in a significant increase in mean serum zinc level and BMI. Serum leptin decreased significantly after supplementation in children under hemodialysis. A significant negative correlation was observed between serum zinc and leptin levels as a result of zinc supplementation.

Conclusion

There was an increase in serum zinc level and BMI and decreased serum leptin after zinc supplementation in children under hemodialysis.

Assessment of the level of trace element zinc in seminal plasma of males and evaluation of its role in male infertility

Background:

Male infertility is a serious problem all over the world. Nutritional deficiency of trace element Zinc (Zn) may play a role in male infertility as Zn plays an important role not only in normal testicular development, but also in spermatogenesis and sperm motility. Deficiency of Zn is associated with hypogonadism and insufficient development of secondary sex characteristics.

Objective:

The present study was designed to analyze the level of seminal Zn among different groups of infertile patients and to correlate it with sperm concentration, active, sluggish and immotile fractions of seminal parameters, with an objective to establish the role of Zn in male infertility.

Setting and Design:

The present study was carried out in five- years period from 2004 to 2009. It was a descriptive analytical study with non probability sampling.

Materials and Methods:

Semen examination of the patients was carried out according to the standardized method of the World Health Organization. Semen Zn was estimated by color 5 Br. PAPS method.

Statistical Analysis:

All statistical analyses were performed by using SPSS (Version 14.0 for windows) software, by applying student's t-test.

Results:

The result showed that seminal Zn was 702.92±10.60, 598.48±12.95, 617.54±9.55, 542.29±22.75, 710.36±7.87, 712.06±7.96, 789.36±21.33, and 762.06±8.99 mg/dl in azoospermic, oligozoospermic, asthenozoospermic, oligoasthenozoospermic, teratozoospermic, normozoospermic, polyzoospermic, and proven fathers group, respectively.

Conclusions:

Decreased concentration of seminal Zn do affect the sperm count, while increased level of seminal plasma Zn causes decreased sperm motility; so, it is suggested that administration of Zn should be very carefully monitored in such patients having low sperm count but normal sperm motility, as adequate seminal Zn is required for normal sperm function.

Effects of smoking on the oxidant/antioxidant balance and the blood lipids in pesticide sprayers

The present study was conducted on 80 pesticide male sprayers (42 nonsmokers and 38 smokers). Our aim was to estimate the smoking effects on blood lipids and oxidant/antioxidant status in pesticide sprayers. Results revealed that cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and glutathion peroxidase (GPx) enzyme were significantly higher in the 38 smoker sprayers than in the 42 nonsmoker sprayers. Cholesterol and LDL were correlated with smoking index and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme and zinc (Zn) were inversely correlated with duration of pesticides' exposure. In nonsmokers, LDL and cholesterol were negatively correlated with SOD and correlated with malondialdehyde (MDA), and cholesterol was negatively correlated with Zn. HDL was negatively correlated with MDA in all the sprayers, but was correlated with GPx in smokers and with Zn in nonsmokers. In smokers, LDL was negatively correlated with GPx, HDL was negatively correlated with MDA and triglycerides and very-low-density lipoprotein were negatively correlated with Zn. MDA was negatively correlated with SOD, GPx and Zn. Smoking and pesticide exposure could be responsible for hyperlipidemia and oxidative stress. Therefore, improvement in the antioxidant status is mandatory for pesticide sprayers especially the ones who smoke.

Low serum zinc levels in patients undergoing coronary angiography correlate with immune activation and inflammation

INTRODUCTION

Low serum zinc concentrations are associated with adverse outcomes. To explain this phenomenon we aimed to investigate whether low zinc levels are related to immune activation, renal function and coronary artery disease (CAD).

METHODS

Serum concentrations of zinc and the immune activation markers neopterin and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured in 2048 patients derived from the LUdwigshafen RIsk and Cardiovascular Health (LURIC) study, a cohort study among patients referred for coronary angiography.

RESULTS

Zinc concentrations did not differ between patients with CAD (mean±SD: 13.3±2.4 μmol/L) and controls (13.3±2.2 μmol/L; Welch's t test: p=n.s.) but CAD patients had higher neopterin (8.6±7.4 nmol/L) and CRP (9.7±19.6 mg/L) concentrations compared to controls (neopterin: 7.5±4.8 nmol/L, p=0.0005; CRP: 5.5±10.0 mg/L, p<0.0001). There was an inverse correlation between serum zinc concentrations and neopterin (Spearman's rank correlation: r(s)=-0.222) and CRP (r(s)=-0.166; both p<0.0001) concentrations.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate increased inflammatory processes in patients with low zinc levels. Further studies should clarify whether inflammation related processes such as renal wasting contribute to zinc deficiency and underlie the adverse health consequences of low serum zinc levels.

Semen analysis and sperm function tests: How much to test?

Semen analysis as an integral part of infertility investigations is taken as a surrogate measure for male fecundity in clinical andrology, male fertility, and pregnancy risk assessments. Clearly, laboratory seminology is still very much in its infancy. In as much as the creation of a conventional semen profile will always represent the foundations of male fertility evaluation, the 5th edition of the World Health Organization (WHO) manual is a definitive statement on how such assessments should be carried out and how the quality should be controlled. A major advance in this new edition of the WHO manual, resolving the most salient critique of previous editions, is the development of the first well-defined reference ranges for semen analysis based on the analysis of over 1900 recent fathers. The methodology used in the assessment of the usual variables in semen analysis is described, as are many of the less common, but very valuable, sperm function tests. Sperm function testing is used to determine if the sperm have the biologic capacity to perform the tasks necessary to reach and fertilize ova and ultimately result in live births. A variety of tests are available to evaluate different aspects of these functions. To accurately use these functional assays, the clinician must understand what the tests measure, what the indications are for the assays, and how to interpret the results to direct further testing or patient management.

Flow cytometric technique for determination of prostasomal quantity, size and expression of CD10, CD13, CD26 and CD59 in human seminal plasma

Summary Prostasomes are prostate-derived organelles in seminal plasma exhibiting pluripotent properties to facilitate the fertilization process. Seminal prostasome concentration, size distribution and expression of the prostasomal surface antigens CD10, CD13, CD26 and CD59 were examined by flow cytometry. The study group consisted of 79 men with involuntary infertility. Very strong correlations existed between the prostasome expressions of the different CD markers. Significant correlations between prostasome concentration and CD molecules were weak or lacking. Further, no or weak relationships were observed between the prostasomal CD markers and sperm morphology, seminal fructose, neutral alpha-glucosidase activity, zinc and tumour necrosis factor alpha concentrations. Flow cytometry is a practical way to study prostasomes in seminal fluid without prior separation. This is a new technique for evaluation of the role of prostasomes and their functions in male reproductive physiology.

Semen characteristics: Advancement in andrological assessment

Progress in diagnosis of infertility, has been dramatically increased during the past decades with changes occurring in virtually all aspects of infertility research, thus providing innovative diagnostic testing and sophisticated instrumentation for improved management and treatment of infertility. There are about 50% of infertile couples who are suffering because of male infertility. Semen examination is a basic investigation for these infertile couples. It not only reveals the quantity and quality of sperm but also the quality of the seminal plasma, which is essential for normal sperm function. In this review, the recent advancement in investigation procedures has been analyzed which are very important in clinical practice to (a) evaluate the sperm fertilizing ability (Acrosin, aniline blue, HOS), (b) characterization of male accessory sex glands secretions (Fructose, alpha-glucosidase, PSA) and (c) the management of azoospermic patients. It is believed that use of such diagnostic procedures will facilitate wide selection of patients for whom an effective therapy might be then possible.

Does transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT) affect emission of semen?

In the patient's choice of treatment for symptomatic BPH today, more importance has become attached to disturbances in sexual function as a side-effect. This study concerns analyses of semen after TUMT.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

TUMT was performed with Prostatron, Prostasoft 2.0. Fourteen men were able to provide semen specimens for this study. One sample was collected before and one three to seven months after TUMT. The analyses of semen included determinations of volume, sperm number, sperm morphology and secretory contribution of seminal vesicular and prostatic fluid.

RESULTS

One of the fourteen men could not provide a post-TUMT specimen, despite normal erection. One patient developed pain in the perineum/prostate region post-TUMT when ejaculating and showed azoospermia after the treatment. In analysing the whole group, no statistically significant differences were found between pre- and post-TUMT specimens, regarding semen emission (semen volume, total sperm number, total fructose and zinc) or sperm morphology.

Study of the accuracy of physical and biochemical markers in semen to detect infectious dysfunction of the accessory sex glands

Infection of the male accessory sex glands may result in impaired secretory function and alteration of the composition of seminal plasma. Using receiver operating characteristic curves and accuracy tests, the power of several biochemical and physical markers was evaluated for their ability to discriminate between semen of infected and noninfected infertile men. The total output of citric acid had the strongest discriminating power, followed by acid phosphatase and gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase. Measurement of the concentration of fructose was found to be nondiscriminatory.