Plasma levels of copper, manganese and selenium in an adult population in southern Spain: influence of age, obesity and lifestyle factors

Urinary concentrations of mineral elements and their predictors in pregnant women in Jinan, China

BACKGROUND

The essential mineral elements play important roles in proper growth, development and maintenance of physiological homeostasis of an organism. Women are at greater risk of mineral deficiency during pregnancy. However, the predictors of mineral element levels in pregnant women remain unclear. This study was conducted to determine the urinary levels of calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn) and selenium (Se) in women during early pregnancy and to explore the predictors of urinary exposure to each mineral element and high co-exposure to mineral element mixture.

METHODS

298 pregnant women in first trimester were recruited when they attended antenatal care in a hospital in Jinan, Shandong Province, China. We collected their spot urine samples and questionnaire data on their sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle habits, food and dietary supplement intake, and residential environment. The concentrations of Ca, Fe, Cu, Mn and Se in all urine samples were measured. LASSO regression, multiple linear regression and binary logistic regression were used to analyze the predictors affecting mineral element levels.

RESULTS

The geometric means of creatinine-corrected Ca, Fe, Cu, Mn and Se concentrations were 99.37 mg/g, 1.75 µg/g, 8.97 µg/g, 0.16 µg/g and 16.83 µg/g creatinine, respectively. Factors that influenced the concentrations of individual mineral element were as follows: (1) Se and Ca concentrations increased with maternal age; (2) women taking tap water as family drinking water had higher Ca levels and those taking polyunsaturated fatty acids intermittently had higher Cu levels; (3) Fe was adversely related to consumption frequency of barbecued foods; (4) Pregnant women with more frequent consumption of shellfish/shrimp/crab and living near green spaces or parks had higher Mn exposure, and those with higher frequency of meat consumption had lower Mn exposure. In addition, maternal age and the frequency of egg consumption were associated with odds of exposure to a mixture of high Ca, Fe, Cu and Se.

CONCLUSIONS

The pregnant women in this study had comparable concentrations of urinary Cu and Se but lower concentrations of Ca, Fe and Mn compared with those in other areas. Predictors of urinary mineral elements included maternal age (Se and Ca), type of domestic drinking water (Ca), consumption frequency of barbecued food (Fe), polyunsaturated fatty acid use (Cu), the presence of urban green spaces or parks near the home and frequency of meat and shellfish/shrimp/crab intake (Mn). Moreover, maternal age and egg consumption frequency were significant predictors of high-level co-exposure to urinary Ca, Fe, Cu and Se.

Associations between plasma metal/metalloid mixtures and the risk of central obesity: A prospective cohort study of Chinese adults

Central obesity has increased rapidly over the past decade and posed a substantial disease burden worldwide. Exposure to metals/metalloids has been acknowledged to be involved in the development of central obesity through regulation of cortisol, insulin resistance, and glucocorticoid receptor reduction. Despite the importance, it is lack of prospective study which comprehensively evaluate the relations between multiple metals exposure and central obesity. We explored the prospective associations of plasma metal concentrations with central obesity in a prospective study of the Dongfeng-Tongji cohort. The present study included 2127 participants with a 6.87-year mean follow-up duration. We measured 23 plasma metal/metalloid concentrations at baseline. The associations between metals and incident central obesity were examined utilizing the Cox proportional hazard regression in single and multiple metals models. Additionally, we applied elastic net (ENET), Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR), plasma metal score (PMS), and quantile-based g-computation (Qgcomp) models to explore the joint associations of metal mixtures with central obesity. After adjusting potential confounders, we found significant associations of plasma manganese (Mn) and thallium (Tl) concentrations with a higher risk of central obesity, whereas plasma rubidium (Rb) concentration was associated with a lower risk of central obesity both in single and multiple metals models (all FDR <0.05). The ENET and Qqcomp models verified similar metals (Mn, Rb, and Tl) as important predictors for central obesity. The results of both BKMR model and PMS suggested cumulative exposure to metal mixtures was associated with a higher risk of central obesity. Our findings suggested that co-exposure to metals was associated with a higher risk of central obesity. This study expands our knowledge that the management of metals/metalloids exposure may be beneficial for the prevention of new-onset central obesity, which may subsequently alleviate the disease burden of late-life health outcomes.

Essential Trace Elements Status in Portuguese Pregnant Women and Their Association with Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes: A Prospective Study from the IoMum Cohort

Cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), and zinc (Zn) are essential trace elements (ETEs) and important cofactors for intermediary metabolism or redox balance. These ETEs are crucial during pregnancy, their role on specific pregnancy outcomes is largely unknown. This prospective study (#NCT04010708) aimed to assess urinary levels of these ETEs in pregnancy and to evaluate their association with pregnancy outcomes. First trimester pregnant women of Porto and Lisbon provided a random spot urine sample, and sociodemographic and lifestyle data. Clinical data were obtained from clinical records. Urinary ETEs were quantified by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). A total of 635 mother:child pairs were included. Having urinary Zn levels above the 50th percentile (P50) was an independent risk factor for pre-eclampsia (PE) (aOR [95% CI]: 5.350 [1.044-27.423], p = 0.044). Urinary Zn levels above the P50 decreased the risk of small for gestational age (SGA) birth head circumference (aOR [95% CI]: 0.315 [0.113-0.883], p = 0.028), but it increased the risk SGA length (aOR [95% CI]: 2.531 [1.057-6.062], p = 0.037). This study may provide valuable information for public health policies related to prenatal nutrition, while informing future efforts to de-fine urinary reference intervals for ETEs in pregnant women.

Inimical impact of high-fat diet on expression of heme oxygenase-1, trace metals content, and associated intestinal histopathology

A high-fat diet (HFD) is one of the most prominent causative factors for obesity and metabolic inflammation. The effects of HFD overconsumption on intestinal histology, expression of haem oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and transferrin receptor-2 (TFR2) remain elusive. The present study was conducted to analyze the effect of HFD on these parameters. To develop the HFD-induced obese model, rat colonies were divided into 3 groups; the control group was reared on normal rat chow, whereas groups I and II were given HFD for 16 weeks. Hematoxylin and eosin (H & E) staining revealed marked epithelial changes, inflammatory cell infiltrates, and destruction of mucosal architecture in both experimental groups as compared to the control group. Sudan Black B staining showed a high triglyceride deposition in the intestinal mucosa of animals fed on HFD. Atomic absorption spectroscopy revealed a decrease in tissue copper (Cu) and selenium (Se) concentration in both HFD experimental groups. Whereas the cobalt (Co) and manganese (Mn) levels were comparable to controls. The mRNA expression levels of HO-1 and TFR2 were found to be significantly upregulated in HFD groups compared to the control group. Hence, HFD consumption leads to histopathological changes and altered gene expression in the rodent intestine. So, one should remove HFD from daily meals to avoid related metabolic complications.

Exploring the association between circulating trace elements, metabolic risk factors, and the adherence to a Mediterranean diet among children and adolescents with obesity

Diet is one of the most important modifiable lifestyle factors for preventing and treating obesity. In this respect, the Mediterranean diet (MD) has proven to be a rich source of a myriad of micronutrients with positive repercussions on human health. Herein, we studied an observational cohort of children and adolescents with obesity (N = 26) to explore the association between circulating blood trace elements and the degree of MD adherence, as assessed through the KIDMED questionnaire. Participants with higher MD adherence showed better glycemic/insulinemic control and a healthier lipid profile, as well as raised plasma levels of selenium, zinc, cobalt, molybdenum, and arsenic, and increased erythroid content of selenium. Interestingly, we found that these MD-related mineral alterations were closely correlated with the characteristic metabolic complications behind childhood obesity, namely hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and dyslipidemia (p < 0.05, |r| > 0.35). These findings highlight the pivotal role that dietary trace elements may play in the pathogenesis of obesity and related disorders.

Single and Combined Associations of Plasma and Urine Essential Trace Elements (Zn, Cu, Se, and Mn) with Cardiovascular Risk Factors in a Mediterranean Population

Trace elements are micronutrients that are required in very small quantities through diet but are crucial for the prevention of acute and chronic diseases. Despite the fact that initial studies demonstrated inverse associations between some of the most important essential trace elements (Zn, Cu, Se, and Mn) and cardiovascular disease, several recent studies have reported a direct association with cardiovascular risk factors due to the fact that these elements can act as both antioxidants and pro-oxidants, depending on several factors. This study aims to investigate the association between plasma and urine concentrations of trace elements and cardiovascular risk factors in a general population from the Mediterranean region, including 484 men and women aged 18−80 years and considering trace elements individually and as joint exposure. Zn, Cu, Se, and Mn were determined in plasma and urine using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). Single and combined analysis of trace elements with plasma lipid, blood pressure, diabetes, and anthropometric variables was undertaken. Principal component analysis, quantile-based g-computation, and calculation of trace element risk scores (TERS) were used for the combined analyses. Models were adjusted for covariates. In single trace element models, we found statistically significant associations between plasma Se and increased total cholesterol and systolic blood pressure; plasma Cu and increased triglycerides and body mass index; and urine Zn and increased glucose. Moreover, in the joint exposure analysis using quantile g-computation and TERS, the combined plasma levels of Zn, Cu, Se (directly), and Mn (inversely) were strongly associated with hypercholesterolemia (OR: 2.03; 95%CI: 1.37−2.99; p < 0.001 per quartile increase in the g-computation approach). The analysis of urine mixtures revealed a significant relationship with both fasting glucose and diabetes (OR: 1.91; 95%CI: 1.01−3.04; p = 0.046). In conclusion, in this Mediterranean population, the combined effect of higher plasma trace element levels (primarily Se, Cu, and Zn) was directly associated with elevated plasma lipids, whereas the mixture effect in urine was primarily associated with plasma glucose. Both parameters are relevant cardiovascular risk factors, and increased trace element exposures should be considered with caution.

Higher baseline copper levels are associated with worse outcome in burn patients with overweight and obesity

INTRODUCTION

We examined the interactive effects of copper (Cu) and overweight (overweight) and obesity on outcomes of burn patients. We posited that higher baseline Cu among burn patients with overweight or obesity will be associated with poor clinical outcomes vs. patients with a normal weight.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted on patients with ≥20% total burn surface area (TBSA) with an initial measurement of Cu. Patients were grouped by body mass index (BMI). The interactions between baseline Cu and BMI groups on multiple burn patient outcomes were examined in a series of multiple regression models.

RESULTS

One-hundred-and-sixty patients met eligibility (age 43.9 ± 17.5, males 86.3%, normal weight:overweight:obesity = 53:38:69). BMI groups did not differ significantly on demographics, burn severity, or baseline biochemistry. Normal weight patients with higher baseline Cu had shorter ICU stay (ICUS), shorter length of stay (LOS), and had fewer operations (Ps < 0.05). In contrast, overweight and obese patients with higher baseline Cu had longer ICU stay (p = 0.001 and p = 0.034), LOS (p = 0.005 and p = 0.066), and increased operations (p = 0.001 and p = 0.067).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher baseline Cu seems associated with adverse outcomes in overweight and obese burn patients. Further research is needed to confirm this association and explore the direction of causality.

Novel Strategies for Assessing Associations Between Selenium Biomarkers and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors: Concentration, Visit-to-Visit Variability, or Individual Mean? Evidence From a Repeated-Measures Study of Older Adults With High Selenium

Background and Aims

Previous studies have focused only on the cardiometabolic effects of selenium concentrations. We explored whether selenium levels and their visit-to-visit variability (VVV) and individual mean (IM) are independently associated with cardiometabolic risk factors.

Methods

A three-wave repeated-measures study of older adults with high selenium (n = 201) was conducted in Beijing from 2016 to 2018. Whole blood selenium and urinary selenium concentrations were measured. VVV and IM were used to profile the homeostasis of the selenium biomarkers. Four indicators, namely standard deviation, coefficient of variation, average real variability, and variability independent of the mean, were employed to characterize VVV. We considered 13 cardiometabolic factors: four lipid profile indicators, three blood pressure indices, glucose, uric acid, waistline, hipline, waist-hip ratio, and sex-specific metabolic syndrome score. Linear mixed-effects regression models with random intercepts for the participants were employed to explore the associations of the selenium concentrations, VVV, and IM with the cardiometabolic factors.

Results

The geometric mean whole blood and urinary selenium levels were 134.30 and 18.00 μg/L, respectively. Selenium concentrations were significantly associated with numerous cardiometabolic factors. Specifically, whole blood selenium was positively associated with total cholesterol [0.22, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.12, 0.33], low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C; 0.28, 95% CI: 0.13, 0.42), glucose (0.22, 95% CI: 0.10, 0.34), and uric acid (0.16, 95% CI: 0.04, 0.28). After adjustment for VVV, the IM of whole blood selenium was positively correlated with total cholesterol (0.002, 95% CI: 0.001, 0.004), triglycerides (0.007, 95% CI: 0.004, 0.011), and LDL-C (0.002, 95% CI: 0.000, 0.004). However, we did not observe any robust associations between the VVV of the selenium biomarkers and cardiometabolic risk factors after adjustment for IM.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that selenium concentrations and their IMs are significantly associated with cardiometabolic risk factors among older adults with high selenium. Longer repeated-measures studies among the general population are required to validate our findings and elucidate the relevant underlying mechanisms.

Analysis of Intracellular and Extracellular Selenium Concentrations: Differences According to Training Level

Trace mineral element concentrations are under homeostatic control. Selenium (Se) is a very important micronutrient for the antioxidant and immune system. Se metabolism could be modified due to physical training. This research aimed to analyze the extracellular (plasma, urine and serum) and intracellular (platelets and erythrocytes) concentrations of Se in athletes and to compare it with subjects with low levels of physical training. Forty young men divided into a control group (CG; n = 20; 19.25 ± 0.39 years) and a training group (TG; n = 20; 18.15 ± 0.27 years) participated in this study. The TG was formed by semi-professional soccer players. The analysis of Se was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The TG obtained higher values of maximum oxygen consumption and muscle percentage (p < 0.05). The TG showed reduced absolute (p < 0.01) and relative (p < 0.05) Se concentrations in erythrocytes and platelets in comparison to CG. Trace element assessments should not be limited only to extracellular compartments as there could be deficiencies at the intracellular level.

The Role of Nutritional Habits and Moderate Red Wine Consumption in PON1 Status in Healthy Population

Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) plays a role as antioxidant on HDL. Including in diet additionally ingest of polyphenolic compounds can stimulate PON1 transcription and increase its activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary intake, red wine consumption, and PON1 genotypes (Q192R, L55M and C-108T) on the specific activity of PON1 in a healthy population. A descriptive and analytical pilot study was conducted in Mexican volunteers clinically healthy (n = 45) aged from 21–59 years. Over 6 weeks, the study participants ingested 120 mL of red wine per day. PON1 concentration, PON1 activities, genetic polymorphisms and dietary intake were evaluated. The preliminary fingerprinting of the wine was determined to corroborate the presence of phenolic compounds such as tannins and gallotannins. Neither dietary intake nor PON1 genotypes showed an effect on the specific activity of PON1. However, a significant increase in specific AREase activity after red wine consumption period was observed in the study participants. Our data suggest that the moderate consumption of red wine has a beneficial effect on PON1 specific AREase activity in this healthy Mexican population.

Alterations in manganese level in the biological samples of young obese Saudi women

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to evaluate the changes in serum manganese levels in the nails of women with obesity.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted between 2018 and 2019 at Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, KSA. It was conducted in a convenience sample of 30 women with obesity and 40 without obesity. We obtained biological samples of nails from the participants and analysed these samples using a plasma atomic emission spectrometer to estimate the levels of manganese. A standard questionnaire containing items related to demographic features, such as address, age, education, and marital status, was used. In addition, the data on the usual consumption of water, milk, and soft drinks during a day or week, eating habits, and other health information were included in the questionnaire.

RESULTS

The results of this study show that manganese levels are significantly lower (p < 0.001) in the group with obesity at 0.34 ± 0.06 mg/kg than in the group without obesity at 0.62 ± 0.02 mg/kg. Regular sports activity in a week and consumption of fruit, vegetables, fish, meat, and water are significant predictors of the levels of manganese in the body.

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrates a significant difference in the levels of manganese in the nails of obese participants compared to non-obese participants. Further studies are needed to determine whether Saudi women are at risk for manganese deficiency.

Copper exposure association with prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and insulin resistance among US adults (NHANES 2011-2014)

BACKGROUND

Excessive copper (Cu) has risky effect on insulin resistance (IR), oxidative stress and inflammation. Instead, some studies reported serum Cu to be protective for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The aim of this study was to reevaluate the evidence for a potential risky correlation of serum Cu to NAFLD in large-scale and non-institutionalized American subjects.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study of 3211 subjects was from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Logistic regression and cubic spline-based curve-fitting analyses were used to estimate the independent risky effect of Cu to hepatic steatosis index (HSI), US fatty liver index (USFLI) and NAFLD and their dose-effect relationship. Moreover, this association was analyzed in stratification of HOMA-IR, Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and severity of NAFLD, besides age and gender.

RESULTS

The average level of serum Cu was 18.67 μmol/L and the prevalence of NAFLD was 54.53% and 32.60%, respectively defined by HSI and USFLI. Generally, the level of Cu was higher in females than males. Serum Cu was positively associated with higher HSI, USFLI index and risk of NAFLD. In fully adjusted models, compared with the lowest quartile, the risk of NAFLD increased 97% in the highest quartile of Cu. Interestingly, stratified analysis showed that the risky effect of Cu to NAFLD was more prominent in the middle-aged, females and subjects with improved status of IR (lower HOMA-IR and non-Mets) compared with their counterparts. Moreover, we further found that circulating copper was correlated to severity of NAFLD only in males.

CONCLUSION

Excess serum Cu is significantly associated with risk of NAFLD, which is prominent in females, middle-aged and subjects with improved status of IR, and seems to be related to the severity of NAFLD, additionally. It is necessary to be cautious of the toxic effect of Cu and prospective cohort and mechanism studies are needed to verify the causal effect of Cu to NAFLD.

Evaluation of Serum Selenium Status by Age and Gender: A Retrospective Observational Cohort Study in Western Romania

Selenium, residing in a series of selenoproteins, plays an important role in both female and male reproductive function. Of particular significance for reproduction is the antioxidant glutathione peroxidase (GPx), a main selenoenzyme, whose level is regulated by the availability of Se in the body. We hypothesized that changes in Se status, closely related to GPx activity, would result in an increased risk of reproductive dysfunction in individuals. We retrospectively investigated the serum selenium (SeS) concentrations of 1264 apparently healthy people, aged 16–89 years, from Western Romania. The general analysis revealed a non-normal SeS distribution with a median SeS of 100.26 ± 18.32 μg/L and a significant difference in SeS levels between age groups. The analysis of the young group (16–35 years) revealed that up to 50% of individuals did not reach the SeS threshold corresponding to maximum GPx activity (80 μg/L), and a significant imbalance between the genders was apparent when looking at SeS values outside the range. Our results correlated with the general diminished reproductive ability registered in Romania during the last few years. Serum selenium content proves to offer a proper reflection of the fertility competence of the young population, and its monitoring is important for guiding dietary adjustments and attaining normal reproductive function.

Association between Trace Elements and Body Composition Parameters in Endurance Runners

The aim of this study was to determine the possible correlations between essential and toxic trace elements of plasma with several anthropometric and body composition parameters and performance in endurance runners. Sixty-five high-level middle and long-distance runners (21  ±  3 years; 1.77 ± 0.05 m; 64.97 ± 7.36 kg; VO₂ max. 67.55 ± 4.11 mL/min/kg) participated in the present study. Abdominal, subscapular, iliac crest, triceps, front thigh and medial calf skinfold thicknesses and an incremental test until exhaustion were recorded. Body, fat, muscle and bone mass were estimated. Plasma trace elements were analyzed with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Correlations and simple linear regression were used to assess the relationship between trace elements and several variables. Different skinfolds, fat mass, muscle mass and bone mass correlated positively and negatively with trace elements such as copper, manganese, selenium, vanadium, zinc, lithium, rubidium, strontium, arsenic, beryllium and lead. Lithium was related with performance. In conclusion, endurance training causes changes in the body concentrations of several trace elements that trigger modifications in body composition that may be interesting, if confirmed in the future, for the control of metabolic diseases such as obesity.

Alterations in Concentration/Activity of Superoxide Dismutases in Context of Obesity and Selected Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Genes: SOD1, SOD2, SOD3

Little is known about the contribution of each of the three superoxide dismutase isozymes (SODs) to the total SOD activity in extracellular fluids. This study was aimed to investigate the alterations in concentration/activity of (SODs) in plasma, in context of sex, obesity, exposition to cigarette smoke, and genotypic variability of five selected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes SOD1, SOD2, SOD3. Men showed higher SOD1 concentration, lower SOD3 concentration and higher total antioxidative capacity (TAC) values. Intersexual variability was observed in concentration of copper, zinc, and cadmium. The obese showed higher total oxidative capacity regardless of sex. An increase in SOD2 activity was coexistent with obesity in men, and exposition to cigarette smoke in non-obese individuals. Additionally, in state of this exposition, Cu,Zn-SOD contribution to the total SOD was lower. Interestingly, over 90% of the obese were of C/T genotype of rs4880 (SOD2). Non-obese of T/T genotype (rs4880) were of lower total SOD activity due to decrease in both Cu,Zn-SOD and Mn-SOD activities. SNP rs2234694 was associated with differences in concentration of SODs, depending on obesity status. Correlations indicate that both TAC and SODs, together, may adapt to insulin resistance and inflammation-derived oxidative stress found in obesity. This topic should be further investigated.

Design of a Multifunctional Biomaterial Inspired by Ancient Chinese Medicine for Hair Regeneration in Burned Skin

In deep burn injuries, the dermis of the skin is often severely damaged, and hair follicles are also lost and lose the potential for regeneration. Therefore, the development of wound dressings that promote hair follicle regeneration has important clinical significance. In this study, inspired by an ancient Chinese medicine prescription, a novel fibrous membrane (P/Qu/Cup; P, PCL; Qu, quercetin; Cup, cuprorivaite, CaCuSi₄O₁₀) containing quercetin-copper (Qu-Cu) chelates was fabricated by using quercetin and a highly bioactive bioceramic (CaCuSi₄O₁₀) incorporated in PCL/gelatin electrospun fibers. The fibrous membrane can effectively release Qu and Cu ions to induce proliferation, migration, and differentiation of skin and hair follicle related cells, and the Qu, Cu ions, and Si ions released from the composite membrane revealed synergistic activity to stimulate hair follicle regeneration and wound healing. Our study demonstrated that the analysis of the common components in ancient Chinese prescription is an effective approach to design novel bioactive materials for regenerative medicine.

Selenium, Zinc, and Manganese Status in Pregnant Women and Its Relation to Maternal and Child Complications

Micronutrients, as essential components of prenatal care, are important to reduce the risk for maternal and child morbidity and mortality by lowering pregnancy-related complications. The present study aimed to investigate the status of the trace elements, i.e., selenium, zinc, and manganese in pregnant and non-pregnant women from a developing country and to evaluate its relationship with maternal and child complications. Selenium, zinc, and manganese concentrations were measured in the blood serum of 80 pregnant women and compared with 40 non-pregnant healthy controls. The quantitative analyses of trace elements were performed by using the inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) method. The information about the dietary habits of the study participants was recorded by using a food frequency questionnaire. The results showed significant lower selenium and zinc levels in pregnant women as compared to the controls (2.26 ± 1.09 vs. 2.76 ± 1.15 µmol/L, p = 0.031; 21.86 ± 7.21 vs. 29.54 ± 7.62 µmol/L, p < 0.001) respectively, with no difference in manganese concentrations (1.40 ± 0.09 vs.1.38 ± 0.09 log₁₀ nmol/L, p = 0.365). Regarding maternal and child complications, higher manganese levels were associated with an increased odds ratio for maternal complications (OR = 3.175, CI (95%) 1.631−6.181; p = 0.038). Consumption of dairy products was associated with lower selenium and manganese values. Pregnant women showed a lower serum selenium and zinc status, and in addition elevated serum manganese concentrations, which might be associated with a higher risk for maternal pregnancy/birth complications, although more studies are necessary to evaluate this association.

Influence of a 6-month physical training program on serum and urinary concentrations of trace metals in middle distance elite runners

Background

The aim of this survey was to determine the effects of an aerobic physical training program of six months duration on the serum and urinary concentrations of essential trace elements among middle distance runners and untrained, non-sportsmen participants.

Methods

24 well-trained, middle-distance (1500 and 5000 m), aerobic male runners (AG) were recruited at the beginning of their training season and 26 untrained males formed the control group (CG). All participants were from the same region of Spain, and all of them had been living in this area for at least two years. Serum and urine of samples of Cobalt (Co), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), Molybdenum (Mo), Selenium (Se), Vanadium (V) and Zinc (Zn) were obtained at the beginning of the training season, and six months later, from all participants. All samples were analyzed with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).

Results

Two-way ANOVA showed significant differences relative to group effect in serum concentrations of Co, Cu, Mn, Mo, Se and Zn. Attending to time effect, there were differences in Mn (p = 0.003) and Zn (p = 0.001). The group x time interaction revealed differences only in the case of Mn (p = 0.04). In urine, significant differences between group were obtained in Co, Cu, Mn, Se and V. Time effect showed changes in Co, Cy, Mo and Se. Finally, the group and time interaction revealed significant differences in urinary Cu (p = 0.001), Mn (p = 0.01) and Se (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

A six-month aerobic training program for well-trained athletes induced modifications in the body values of several minerals, a fact which may reflect adaptive responses to physical exercise. The obtained data could be interesting for physicians or coaches in order to consider specific modifications in sportsmen’s diets as well as to determine specific nutritional supplementation strategies.

Baru Almonds Increase the Activity of Glutathione Peroxidase in Overweight and Obese Women: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Obesity-induced inflammation is frequently associated with higher oxidative stress. In vitro and experimental studies have considered baru almonds (Dipteryx alata Vog) as a legume seed with high antioxidant capacity. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether baru almonds are capable of improving the inflammatory and antioxidant status in overweight and obese women.

METHODS

In a parallel-arm, randomized placebo-controlled trial, 46 overweight and obese women (age: 40 ± 11 years; body mass index: 33.3 ± 4.3) were randomly assigned to receive advice to follow a normocaloric and isoenergetic diet with placebo (PLA, n = 22) or similar advice plus 20 g baru almonds (BARU, n = 24) for 8 wk. Malondialdehyde (MDA), adiponectin, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, interleukin-10, antioxidant enzymes activities (catalase-CAT; glutathione peroxidase-GPx; superoxide dismutase-SOD), and minerals were analyzed in plasma samples.

RESULTS

At baseline, groups were similar regarding the body composition, oxidative, and inflammatory parameters. The BARU group increased the activity of GPx (+0.08 U/mg, 95%CI + 0.05 to +0.12 vs. -0.07, 95%CI -0.12 to -0.03, p < 0.01) and plasma copper concentration (p = 0.037) when compared to the PLA group. No differences were observed between groups in CAT and SOD activity or MDA and cytokines concentrations.

CONCLUSIONS

Baru almond supplementation increased the GPx activity in overweight and obese women.

An acidic loop within the human soluble CD23 protein may direct the interaction between sCD23 and the αXβ2 integrin

CD23 is involved in a myriad of immune reactions. It is not only a receptor for IgE, but also functions in the regulation of IgE synthesis, isotype switching in B cells, and induction of the inflammatory response. These effector functions of CD23 arise through its interaction with another leukocyte-specific cell surface receptor - the β₂ integrin subfamily. It has been shown that CD23 is also capable of interacting with the β₃ and β₅ integrin β-subunit of integrins via a basic RKC motif in a metal cation-independent fashion. In this study the interaction was probed for whether or not the RKC motif governs the interaction between CD23 and the α_Xβ₂ integrin as well. This was done by performing bioinformatic docking predictions between CD23 and α_Xβ₂ integrin αI domain and SPR spectroscopy analysis of the interaction. This revealed that in the absence of cations, the RKC motif is involved in interaction with the integrin αI domain. However, in the presence of divalent metal cations the interaction showed the involvement of a novel acidic motif within the CD23 protein. This same pattern of interaction was seen in docking predictions between CD23 and the β₃I-like domain. This study thus presents an alternative site as a possible contributor to the CD23-integrin interaction exhibiting cation-dependence.

How Important are Cereals and Cereal Products in the Average Polish Diet?

The main aim of this study was to identify the food sources of energy and 28 nutrients from cereals and cereal products in the average Polish diet based on data from a nationally representative sample of the Polish population attending in 2016 Household Budget Survey (i.e., 36,886 households). The contribution of energy and nutrients from cereals and cereal products were compared with reference values. The detailded analysis included five main groups and nine sub-groups of cereal food category. Our findings indicated that cereals and cereal products contributed 30.4% of total dietary energy supply, providing a significant percentage of six nutrients to the average Polish diet (i.e., 64.1% of manganese, 51% of carbohydrates, 48.5% of dietary fibre, 34.1% of iron, 33.6% of folate, and 31.3% of copper). Supply at the level of 20⁻30% was observed for protein, thiamin, phosphorus and zinc, and at 10⁻20% for polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), sodium, potassium, calcium, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin B6. For other nutrients i.e., total fat, saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), cholesterol, iodine, vitamins: A, D, B12, and C, the share of cereals and cereal products contribution was below 10%. Cereals and cereal products were the major food category in meeting the reference values for the Polish population in case of manganese, carbohydrates (approximately100%), and sodium (50%). The reference values was reached at the level of 30⁻40% for dietary fibre, protein, iron, copper, zinc, phosphorus and thiamin, and 20⁻30% for energy, magnesium, folate, niacin, riboflavin, vitamins B6 and E. For such nutrients as total fat, SFA, and potassium, the fulfillment of the reference values amounted to 10⁻20%. Our results document the importance of cereals and cereal products in the Polish diet, which should be emphasized from a nutritional and health point of view.

Trace element profiles in pregnant women's sera and umbilical cord sera and influencing factors: Repeated measurements

In utero exposure to toxic heavy metals and deficient or excessive essential trace elements during pregnancy may have adverse effects on pregnant women and their offsprings, which are of great concern. The objective of the present study was to characterize serum concentrations of multiple trace elements at multiple time points during pregnancy in Chinese women. Three thousand four hundred and sixteen pregnant women in total were included from MABC (Ma'anshan Birth Cohort) study. Fasting sera in the morning and questionnaires were obtained at three separate follow-up visits. Nineteen trace elements from serum samples were analyzed, including aluminum (Al), vanadium (V), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), arsenic (As), selenium (Se), cadmium (Cd), barium (Ba), thallium (Tl), lead (Pb), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), mercury (Hg) and molybdenum (Mo). The total detection rates for most elements were 100% rather than Ni (99.98%), As (99.97%), Cd (99.6%), Ba (99.9%), Pb (99.8%), Hg (99.8%). The concentration distributions of 19 elements varied vastly. Median concentrations for all trace elements ranged from 38.5 ng/L to 102.9 mg/L. The moderate interclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were observed for Co, Cu, Se and Hg, ranging from 0.40 to 0.62; the lower ICCs, ranging from 0.13 to 0.32 were for Fe, Zn, Cd, Ba, Tl, Mg and Mo. The intraclass correlation effects were not observed for the remaining elements, such as Al, V, Cr, Mn, Ni, As and Pb. The concentrations of each element between three time points were significantly different; significant differences were also found between any two time points except for Ni, Cd and Mo. Many factors could affect the levels of trace elements, and a very important factor of them was season. Consequently, a single measurement of elements in sera seems not enough to describe exposure levels throughout pregnancy; additionally, season affected exposure levels of trace elements with moderate ICCs showed certain regularity. Future analyses should take sampling seasons into consideration carefully.

Serum concentrations of trace elements and their relationships with paraoxonase-1 in morbidly obese women

The metabolic alterations associated with obesity include mineral dysregulation. Essential trace elements are nutrients with a relevant function in a large number of cellular processes and multiple roles in the correct functioning of metabolic enzymes. Paraoxonase-1 (PON1) is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory enzyme that is compromised in obesity. In the present study, the potential alterations in trace elements in morbidly obese women were assessed in relation to serum PON1 activity and concentration, as well as to other obesity-related comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus and fatty liver. We recruited 41 morbidly obese women and 51 control individuals. The serum concentrations of 30 elements, PON1 paraoxonase and lactonase activities, and PON1 concentration were measured. We observed significant alterations in the levels of As, Ba, Cu, Ca, Fe, Mg, Na, Se, Sr, and Zn in obese women; some of them (As, Ca, Cr, Cu, Mg, and Se) being significantly correlated with serum PON1 values. The most relevant changes were observed in the concentrations of As, Sr and Mg, the last of which was also significantly associated with diabetes mellitus. The current results raise the possibility that increased ingestion and/or storage of a number of trace elements may be factors predisposing to obesity-related comorbidities and metabolic alterations.

Socio-demographic, lifestyle, and dietary determinants of essential and possibly-essential trace element levels in adipose tissue from an adult cohort

There is increasing evidence linking levels of trace elements (TEs) in adipose tissue with certain chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes or obesity). The objectives of this study were to assess concentrations of a selection of nine essential and possibly-essential TEs in adipose tissue samples from an adult cohort and to explore their socio-demographic, dietary, and lifestyle determinants. Adipose tissue samples were intraoperatively collected from 226 volunteers recruited in two public hospitals from Granada province. Trace elements (Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Se, V, and Zn) were analyzed in adipose tissue by high-resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (HR-ICP-MS). Data were collected on socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle, diet, and health status by face-to-face interview. Predictors of TE concentrations were assessed by using multivariable linear and logistic regression. All TEs were detected in all samples with the exception of Se (53.50%). Iron, zinc, and copper showed the highest concentrations (42.60 mg/kg, 9.80 mg/kg, and 0.68 mg/kg, respectively). Diet was the main predictor of Cr, Fe, Mo, and Se concentrations. Body mass index was negatively associated with all TEs (β coefficients = -0.018 to -0.593, p = 0.001-0.090) except for Mn and V. Age showed a borderline-significant positive correlation with Cu (β = 0.004, p = 0.089). Residence in a rural or semi-rural area was associated with increased Co, Cr, Fe, Mo, Mn, V and Zn concentrations and with β coefficients ranging from 0.196 to 0.544 (p < 0.05). Furthermore, individuals with higher educational level showed increased Cr, Co, Fe and V concentrations (β coefficients = 0.276-0.368, p = 0.022-0.071). This is the first report on the distribution of these TEs in adipose tissue and on their determinants in a human cohort and might serve as an initial step in the elucidation of their clinical relevance.

The Essential Element Manganese, Oxidative Stress, and Metabolic Diseases: Links and Interactions

Manganese (Mn) is an essential element that is involved in the synthesis and activation of many enzymes and in the regulation of the metabolism of glucose and lipids in humans. In addition, Mn is one of the required components for Mn superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) that is mainly responsible for scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) in mitochondrial oxidative stress. Both Mn deficiency and intoxication are associated with adverse metabolic and neuropsychiatric effects. Over the past few decades, the prevalence of metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2MD), obesity, insulin resistance, atherosclerosis, hyperlipidemia, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and hepatic steatosis, has increased dramatically. Previous studies have found that ROS generation, oxidative stress, and inflammation are critical for the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases. In addition, deficiency in dietary Mn as well as excessive Mn exposure could increase ROS generation and result in further oxidative stress. However, the relationship between Mn and metabolic diseases is not clear. In this review, we provide insights into the role Mn plays in the prevention and development of metabolic diseases.

Seric concentrations of copper, chromium, manganesum, nickel and selenium in aerobic, anaerobic and mixed professional sportsmen

Background

The aim of the present study was to determine changes in serum concentrations of trace elements Cooper (Cu), Chromiun (Cr), Manganesum (Mn), Nickel (Ni) and Selenium (Se) in high-level sportsmen.

Methods

Eighty professional athletes of different metabolic modalities, were recruited before the start of their training period. Thirty one sedentary participants of the same geographic area constituted the control group. Cu, Cr, Mn, Ni and Se analysis was performed by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS).

Results

Higher concentrations of Cr (p < 0.001), Mn (p < 0.085), and Ni (p < 0.001) were found in sportsmen in comparison to controls, inversely, Se values were lower (p < 0.001) among sportsmen. When sportsmen were classified by metabolic modalities, it was found that aerobic-anaerobic group had higher (p < 0.01) Cu concentrations than controls and the other sportsmen. The highest Cr values were found in aerobic participants. For Mn, the major levels were found in aerobic and aerobic-anaerobic groups as well (p < 0.001). The lowest Se levels were found among anaerobic sportsmen (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This research showed that daily, continuum physical training induced alterations in serum essential minerals concentrations, as well as that these changes can be dependent of the exercise modality practiced.

Selenium, selenoproteins and selenometabolites in mothers and babies at the time of birth

The deficiency of Se, an essential micronutrient, has been implicated in adverse pregnancy outcomes. Our study was designed to determine total serum Se, selenoproteins (extracellular glutathione peroxidase (GPx-3), selenoprotein P (SeP)), selenoalbumin (SeAlb) and selenometabolites in healthy women and their newborns at delivery. This cross-sectional study included eighty-three healthy mother-baby couples. Total Se and Se species concentrations were measured in maternal and umbilical cord sera by an in-series coupling of two-dimensional size-exclusion and affinity HPLC. Additional measurements of serum SeP concentration and of serum GPx-3 enzyme activity were carried out using ELISA. Total Se concentration was significantly higher in maternal serum than in cord serum (68·9 (sd 15·2) and 56·1 (sd 14·6) µg/l, respectively; P<0·01). There were significant correlations between selenoprotein and SeAlb concentrations in mothers and newborns, although they also showed significant differences in GPx-3 (11·2 (sd 3·7) v. 10·5 (sd 3·5) µg/l; P<0·01), SeP (42·5 (sd 9·5) v. 28·1 (sd 7·7) µg/l; P<0·01) and SeAlb (11·6 (sd 3·6) v. 14·1 (sd 4·3) µg/l; P<0·01) concentrations in maternal and cord sera, respectively. Serum GPx-3 activity and concentration were positively correlated in mothers (r 0·33; P=0·038) but not in newborns. GPx-3 activity in cord serum was significantly correlated with gestational age (r 0·44; P=0·009). SeAlb concentration was significantly higher in babies, whereas SeP and GPx-3 concentrations were significantly higher in mothers. The differences cannot be explained by simple diffusion; specific transfer mechanisms are probably involved. GPx-3 concentrations in mothers, at delivery, are related to maternal Se status, whereas the GPx-3 activity in cord serum depends on gestational age.

Copper in Diabetes Mellitus: a Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review of Plasma and Serum Studies

Copper (Cu) is an important trace element involved in oxidative stress, which is associated with the onset and progression of diabetes mellitus (DM). However, clinical studies comparing plasma or serum Cu levels in patients with DM and in healthy individuals report conflicting findings. Therefore, in this meta-analysis, we analyzed the circulating levels of Cu associated with DM (including type 1 diabetes mellitus [T1DM] and type 2 diabetes mellitus [T2DM]). We searched the articles indexed in PubMed, OVID, and Cochrane databases, published through January 2016 and meeting our predefined criteria. Requisite data were extracted, and a random-effect model or a fixed-effect model was used to conduct the meta-analysis. Fifteen eligible studies involving a total of 1079 DM patients and 561 healthy controls were identified. Overall, the DM patients showed higher Cu levels than the healthy controls (plasma Cu mean difference [MD] = 1.69 μmol/L, p < 0.0001; serum Cu MD = 4.06 μmol/L, p = 0.005; plasma and serum Cu MD = 2.67 μmol/L, p = 0.006). Stratification based on the type of diabetes also indicated higher levels of Cu in the plasma and serum of DM patients than in healthy controls, respectively. Stratification of DM patients associated with and without complications also revealed similar results. This meta-analysis suggests that DM patients carried higher levels of Cu than healthy individuals. However, international cohort studies are needed to corroborate our findings.

Determinants of serum manganese levels in an Italian population

Manganese (Mn) is both essential and toxic for humans, mainly depending on the total levels and its species. Main sources of exposure include food and air pollution, particularly motorized traffic. We sought to determine the potential influence of these sources on serum total levels of Mn and Mn species. We selected a random sample of municipality residents from an Italian urban municipality, from whom we collected detailed personal information, dietary habits and a blood sample for serum Mn determination. We also assessed outdoor air Mn exposure, by modeling levels of particulate matter ≤10 µm (PM10) from motorized traffic at the residence of geocoded subjects. Serum Mn species generally showed higher levels in males and positive correlation with age, while no such differences were found according to smoking habits or use of dietary supplements. Among nutrients, only iron intake showed a relation with Mn [an inverse correlation with Mn‑ferritin (Mn‑Fer) and a direct one with inorganic‑Mn (Inorg‑Mn)]. Meat consumption directly correlated and fish and seafood inversely correlated with total Mn, Mn‑transferrin (Mn‑Tf) and Mn-citrate (Mn-Cit). Fruits and vegetables, including legumes and nuts, generally showed a positive correlation with all Mn species, especially Mn‑Cit, and an inverse one with Inorg‑Mn. Odds ratios (ORs) of having serum Mn levels above median value increased with increasing PM10 tertiles, with an OR for highest‑to‑lowest tertile of 7.40 (1.36‑40.25) in multivariate analysis. Analyses for Mn species did not highlight a clear comparable pattern. In conclusion, our results seem to demonstrate that PM10 exposure positively influences total Mn serum levels, while single Mn species show conflicting results.

Relationship between Selected Serum Metallic Elements and Obesity in Children and Adolescent in the U.S

The prevalence of obesity has increased at an alarming rate worldwide. Metallic elements are involved in the pathogenesis of obesity and related diseases. To date, whether environmental exposure to metallic elements has effects on obesity in children and adolescents is still unclear. The aim of the current study was to investigate the association of blood metallic elements with obesity in U.S. children and adolescents. This cross-sectional study was performed with 5404 children and adolescents (6-19 years, 2745 males and 2659 females) who participated in the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2014. Blood lead, mercury, selenium, manganese, copper, and zinc, as well as biochemical parameters including triglyceride (TG), cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were assessed for all subjects. Multivariate logistic regression and linear regression were applied to assess associations of metallic elements and overweight, obesity status, and serum metabolites as distinct outcomes adjusted for age, gender, ethnicity, and the poverty income ratio. When stratified by age and sex, significant associations were found between the highest quartile of copper concentrations in blood with obesity status (OR = 9.27, 95% CI: 5.43, 15.82, p_{for trend} < 0.001) and cholesterol (OR = 3.08, 95% CI: 1.43, 6.63, p_{for trend} < 0.001). The highest concentrations of manganese in the blood was associated with obesity in those aged 6-19 years (OR = 2.29, 95% CI: 1.74, 3.02, p_{for trend} < 0.001). Moreover, blood mercury and selenium showed positive relationships with cholesterol. Further, a negative association existed between blood zinc and obesity. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data provide epidemiological evidence that blood metallic elements are positively associated with obesity in children and adolescents. However, the underlying mechanisms still need further exploration.

Early High-Fat Feeding Induces Alteration of Trace Element Content in Tissues of Juvenile Male Wistar Rats

The primary objective of the current study was to assess the influence of early high-fat feeding on tissue trace element content in young male Wistar rats. Twenty weanling male Wistar rats were divided into two groups fed standard (STD) or high-fat diet (HFD) containing 10 and 31.6 % of total calories from fat, respectively, for 1 month. Serum lipid spectrum, apolipoproteins, glucose, insulin, adiponectin, and leptin levels were assessed. The level of trace elements was estimated using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. High-fat feeding significantly increased epidydimal (EDAT) and retroperitoneal adipose tissue (RPAT), as well as total adipose tissue mass by 34, 103, and 59 %, respectively. Serum leptin levels in HFD animals were twofold higher than those in the control rats. No significant difference in serum lipid spectrum, apolipoproteins, glucose, adiponectin, and insulin was detected between the groups. HFD significantly altered tissue trace element content. In particular, HFD-fed animals were characterized by significantly lower levels of Cu, I, Mn, Se, and Zn in the liver; Cr, V, Co, Cu, Fe, and I content of EDAT; Co, Cu, I, Cr, V, Fe, and Zn concentration in RPAT samples. At the same time, only serum Cu was significantly depressed in HFD-fed animals as compared to the control ones. Hair Co, Mn, Si, and V levels were significantly increased in comparison to the control values, whereas Se and I content was decreased. HFD feeding induced excessive adiposity and altered tissue trace element content in rats without insulin resistance, adiponectin deficiency, and proatherogenic state. Hypothetically, trace element disbalance may precede obesity-associated metabolic disturbances.

Selenium, Zinc, Copper, and Total Antioxidant Status in the Serum of Patients with Chronic Tonsillitis

Antioxidants can play a significant role in chronic inflammatory process. The aim of this study was to evaluate the content of selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and total antioxidant status (TAS) of patients with chronic tonsillitis (CT). The study group consisted of 84 patients with CT from 18 to 62 years old and the control group of 67 healthy people aged 19-65 years. Se, Zn, and Cu concentration in serum samples were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. Serum TAS was measured spectrophotometrically, using the test by Randox Laboratories-Us Ltd. The mean content of Se and Zn in the serum of patients with CT (61.122 ± 12.73 μg/L, 0.887 ± 0.26 mg/L, respectively) was lower compared to the control group (77.969 ± 12.73 μg/L, 0.993 ± 0.32 mg/L, respectively). The mean serum concentration of Cu in patients with CT (1.219 ± 0.35 mg/L) was higher compared to its serum concentration in healthy people (1.033 ± 0.37 mg/L). Serum TAS of patients with CT (1.171 ± 0.33 mmol/L) was lower in comparison with healthy volunteers (1.333 ± 0.42 mmol/L). The serum concentration of Se, Zn, and TAS in patients with CT was lower, whereas the concentration of Cu was higher compared to healthy volunteers. Smoking has an influence on reducing the concentration of Se and TAS of patients with CT.

Trace metal levels in serum and urine of a population in southern Brazil

This study aimed to evaluate serum and urine concentrations of several trace metals of a non-directly exposed population in southern Brazil and establish reference values. Serum and urine samples were obtained from 240 volunteers (175 males and 65 females, age ranging from 18 to 74 years old). Levels of arsenic, chromium, cobalt, copper, lead, nickel, manganese and zinc were determined by means of dynamic reaction cell inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (DRC-ICP-MS). Comparison between genders resulted in no significant difference for all metals but serum copper, as concentrations are higher in females than males. For most metals assessed, a negative correlation between serum concentrations and age was found, but no significant correlation was found between urine concentrations and age.

Effect of ion release from Cu-doped 45S5 Bioglass® on 3D endothelial cell morphogenesis

Both silicate-based bioactive glasses and copper ions have demonstrated angiogenic activity and therefore represent promising bioinorganic agents for the promotion of vascularization in tissue-engineered scaffolds. This study examined the effect of ionic release products from 45S5 Bioglass® doped with 0 and 2.5 wt.% CuO (BG and Cu-BG respectively) on the formation of capillary-like networks by SVEC4-10 endothelial cells (ECs) seeded in a three-dimensional (3D) type I collagen matrix. Copper and silicon release following 24h dissolution increased non-proportionally with Cu-BG concentration in cell culture medium, while calcium levels were decreased below the initial medium concentration. EC network length, connectivity, branching, quantified by means of a 3D morphometric image analysis method, as well as proliferation and metabolic activity were reduced in a dose-dependent fashion by BG and Cu-BG ionic release products. This reduction was less prominent for BG compared to an equivalent concentration of Cu-BG, which was attributed to a lower extent of silicon release and calcium consumption. Moreover, a CuCl2 dose equivalent to the highest concentration of Cu-BG exhibited no effect on ECs. In conclusion, while the previously reported pro-angiogenic activity of both Bioglass® and copper may not be reflected in a direct response of ECs, this study provides a maximum glass concentration for non-harmful angiogenic stimulation to be examined in future work.

A review of dietary selenium intake and selenium status in Europe and the Middle East

This is a systematic review of existing data on dietary selenium (Se) intake and status for various population groups in Europe (including the United Kingdom (UK)) and the Middle East. It includes English language systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomised controlled trials, cohort studies, cross-sectional and case-control studies obtained through PUBMED searches from January, 2002, to November, 2014, for European data and from 1990 to November 2014, for Middle Eastern data. Reports were selected if they included data on Se intake and status. The search identified 19 European/UK studies and 15 investigations in the Middle East that reported Se intake and Se concentration in water and/or food and 48 European/UK studies and 44 investigations in the Middle East reporting Se status. Suboptimal Se status was reported to be widespread throughout Europe, the UK and the Middle East, and these results agreed with previous reports highlighting the problem. Eastern European countries had lower Se intake than Western European countries. Middle Eastern studies provided varying results, possibly due to varying food habits and imports in different regions and within differing socioeconomic groups. In conclusion, Se intake and status is suboptimal in European and Middle Eastern countries, with less consistency in the Middle East.

Antioxidant status in blood of obese children: the relation between trace elements, paraoxonase, and arylesterase values

Obesity is known to lead to complications involving several systems. The basic mechanism in obesity-related complications is chronic inflammation and increased oxidative stress. Trace element levels in obese children may vary due to poor nutritional habits. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relation between serum paraoxonase (PON1) and arylesterase (ARE) levels, markers of the oxidant-antioxidant balance in the body, and serum zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and selenium (Se) concentrations in obese children. Fifty-seven overweight patients aged 6-17 and 48 age- and sex-matched healthy children were included in the study. Serum PON1 and ARE activity levels were measured, together with Cu, Zn, Mn, Se, total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, very low-density lipoprotein, glucose, aspartate amino transferase, and alanine amino transferase levels. PON1 and ARE activity levels were significantly lower in obese patients compared to those in healthy individuals (P < 0.05). Various changes were determined in Cu, Zn, Mn, and Se levels between the study and control groups (P < 0.05). In terms of the relation between trace elements and PON1 and ARE levels, a significant positive correlation was determined between serum Se and PON1 levels in the study group (P < 0.05, r = 0.31). No significant correlation was determined between other trace element levels and PON1 and ARE levels (P > 0.05). In conclusion, the detection in our study of a positive correlation between Se and PON1 levels in obese children may be significant in terms of showing a relation between Se and antioxidant systems in obese children.

Dietary habits and selenium, glutathione peroxidase and total antioxidant status in the serum of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis

Background

Dietary habits and adequate dietary intake of antioxidants in the diet may be one of the most important environmental factors for the prevention of Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Objectives

The aim of this study was to estimate selenium (Se) concentration, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity and total antioxidant status (TAS) in the serum of patients with MS and the influence of dietary habits on the status.

Methods

101 patients with relapsing-remitting MS (aged 18-58 years), as well as control group of 63 healthy people (aged 19-65 years) were studied. Food-frequency questionnaires were implemented to collect the dietary data. Se concentration in the serum samples was determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. GSH-Px activity and TAS in examined serum was measured using the ready-made sets of tests by Randox Laboratories Ltd., UK.

Results

Serum Se concentration and GSH-Px activity in the serum of patients with MS (55.2±16.2 μg/L, 6676.1±2386.4 U/L; respectively) were significantly decreased (p<0.01, p<0.05; respectively) compared with control group (79.2±20.6 μg/L, 8029.9±2650.1 U/L; respectively). A significant correlation (r=0.39, p<0.01) was observed between Se concentration and GSH-Px activity in the serum of examined patients. TAS value in the serum of patients with MS (1.03±0.37 mmol/L) was also significantly lower (p<0.01) than in healthy volunteers (1.48±0.41 mmol/L). Frequent consumption of poultry, bakery products, pulses and fish seemed to increase serum Se concentration in the group of patients; whereas frequent consumption of butter, wholegrain bread, sweet beverages and sugar was found to accompany with lower values of Se in the serum. We have observed significant decrease TAS (p<0.05, p<0.01; respectively) in the serum of smokers and those patients who received immunomodulatory drugs (0.95±0.39 mmol/L, 0.92±0.34 mmol/L; respectively) compared with no-smoking patients and not taking immunomodulators (1.14±0.33 mmol/L, 1.31±0.31 mmol/L; respectively).

Conclusions

Serum Se concentration, GSH-Px activity and TAS value were significantly lower in patients with relapsing-remitting MS compared with healthy volunteers. Dietary habits have a significant influence on Se status. Smoking cigarettes and intake of immunomodulatory drugs therapy have a negative impact on TAS of examined patients.

Study of selenium intake and disposition in various matrices based on mathematical algorithms derived from pooled biomonitoring data

Biomonitoring is increasingly used to assess exposure to selenium (Se) in the population. However, there is little harmonization among protocols used in the different studies (varying biological matrices, differences in expression of results (concentrations versus amounts, units)). This makes inter-comparison of biomonitoring results across studies difficult. From a public health risk perspective, it also becomes challenging to estimate baseline levels in biological matrices for populations exposed by various sources. The aim of this study was thus to perform a systematic analysis of the relationship between Se intakes and biological concentrations based on published data. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were used and led to select 75 published biomonitoring data in humans from an extended review of Se biomonitoring studies. This represents 8 628 individuals who provided biological samples aiming at documenting Se exposure and/or Se concentrations in two or more biological matrices. Mathematical algorithms that relate Se intakes to biological concentrations and establish matrix-to-matrix associations were derived from these pooled biomonitoring data. Logarithmic regressions showed good correlations between Se intakes and whole blood concentrations (R(2)=0.884), plasma concentrations (R(2)=0.863) and urinary excretion rates (R(2)=0.958). Blood and plasma concentrations were also strongly related (R(2)=0.874), as were whole blood concentrations and urinary excretion rates (R(2)=0.953). The interpretation of the log-regression coefficients allowed illustrating Se physiology. Se concentrations in plasma tend to plateau when daily intake exceed 150 μg/d, whereas Se in urine increases rapidly above this threshold. The application of the algorithms to other independent data sets in order to reconstruct past Se intakes confirmed that interpretation of results on the basis of Se in integuments may be misleading if external contamination is not avoided. This approach based on pooled data covered a wide range of exposure and the large number of data integrated increased the level of confidence of results.

Thyroid functions and trace elements in pediatric patients with exogenous obesity

Obesity is a multifactorial disease developing following impairment of the energy balance. The endocrine system is known to be affected by the condition. Serum thyroid hormones and trace element levels have been shown to be affected in obese children. Changes in serum thyroid hormones may result from alterations occurring in serum trace element levels. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether or not changes in serum thyroid hormone levels in children with exogenous obesity are associated with changes in trace element levels. Eighty-five children diagnosed with exogenous obesity constituted the study group, and 24 age- and sex-matched healthy children made up the control group. Serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (fT4), free triiodothyronine (fT3), thyroglobulin (TG), selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and manganese (Mn) levels in the study group were measured before and at the third and sixth months of treatment, and once only in the control group. Pretreatment fT4 levels in the study group rose significantly by the sixth month (p = 0.006). Zn levels in the patient group were significantly low compared to the control group (p = 0.009). Mn and Se levels in the obese children before and at the third and sixth months of treatment were significantly higher than those of the control group (p = 0.001, p = 0.001). In conclusion, fT4, Zn, Cu, Mn, and Se levels are significantly affected in children diagnosed with exogenous obesity. The change in serum fT4 levels is not associated with changes in trace element concentrations.

High-fat diet induced an oxidative stress in white adipose tissue and disturbed plasma transition metals in rat: prevention by grape seed and skin extract

Obesity is a public health problem characterized by increased accumulation of fat into adipose tissues leading to oxidative stress, dyslipidemia, and chronic inflammatory status. We used an experimental model of high-fat diet-induced obesity to analyze the link between dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, and fat accumulation into adipose tissue of rats, as well as the involvement of intracellular mediators such as transition metals on signal transduction. We also looked at the ability of a grape seed and skin extract (GSSE) from a Tunisian cultivar to prevent fat-induced disturbances. Data showed that a high-fat diet (HFD) provoked dyslipidemia into plasma which is linked to an oxidative stress, an accumulation of transition metals such as manganese, copper, and zinc and a depletion of iron. GSSE prevented dyslipidemia by modulating lipase activity, together with increased antioxidant capacity and depletion of transition metals as well as of free radicals such as O2 (-) and OH. These data indicated that GSSE has important preventive effects on HFD-induced obesity and oxidative stress whose transduction seems to involve transition metals. GSSE should be used as a safe anti-obesity agent that could find potential applications in metabolic disorders involving transition metals dyshomeostasis.

Potentially-toxic and essential elements profile of AH1N1 patients in Mexico City

During spring of 2009, a new influenza virus AH1N1 spread in the world causing acute respiratory illness and death, resulting in the first influenza pandemic since 1968. Blood levels of potentially-toxic and essential elements of 40 pneumonia and confirmed AH1N1 were evaluated against two different groups of controls, both not infected with the pandemic strain. Significant concentrations of potentially-toxic elements (lead, mercury, cadmium, chromium, arsenic) along with deficiency of selenium or increased Zn/Cu ratios characterized AH1N1 cases under study when evaluated versus controlled cases. Deficiency of selenium is progressively observed from controls I (influenza like illness) through controls II (pneumonia) and finally pneumonia -AH1N1 infected patients. Cases with blood Se levels greater than the recommended for an optimal cut-off to activate glutathione peroxidase (12.5 μg/dL) recovered from illness and survived. Evaluation of this essential element in critical pneumonia patients at the National Institutes is under evaluation as a clinical trial.

Micronutrient deficiency in obese subjects undergoing low calorie diet

Background

The prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies is higher in obese individuals compared to normal-weight people, probably because of inadequate eating habits but also due to increased demands among overweight persons, which are underestimated by dietary reference intakes (DRI) intended for the general population. We therefore evaluated the dietary micronutrient intake in obese individuals compared to a reference population and DRI recommendations. Furthermore, we determined the micronutrient status in obese subjects undergoing a standardized DRI-covering low-calorie formula diet to analyze if the DRI meet the micronutrient requirements of obese individuals.

Methods

In 104 subjects baseline micronutrient intake was determined by dietary record collection. A randomly assigned subgroup of subjects (n = 32) underwent a standardized DRI-covering low-calorie formula diet over a period of three months. Pre- and post-interventional intracellular micronutrient status in buccal mucosa cells (BMC) was analyzed, as well as additional micronutrient serum concentrations in 14 of the subjects.

Results

Prior to dietetic intervention, nutrition was calorie-rich and micronutrient-poor. Baseline deficiencies in serum concentrations were observed for 25-hydroxyvitamin-D, vitamin C, selenium, iron, as well as ß-carotene, vitamin C, and lycopene in BMC. After a three-month period of formula diet even more subjects had reduced micronutrient levels of vitamin C (serum, BMC), zinc, and lycopene. There was a significant negative correlation between lipophilic serum vitamin concentrations and body fat, as well as between iron and C-reactive protein.

Conclusions

The present pilot study shows that micronutrient deficiency occurring in obese individuals is not corrected by protein-rich formula diet containing vitamins and minerals according to DRI. In contrast, micronutrient levels remain low or become even lower, which might be explained by insufficient intake, increased demand and unbalanced dispersal of lipophilic compounds in the body.

Trial registration

The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01344525). The study protocol comprises only a part of the approved trial protocol.

Serum trace elements and heavy metals in polycystic ovary syndrome

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the serum levels of essential trace elements copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), magnesium (Mg) and heavy metals cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co) and lead (Pb) in the patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

METHODS

A total of 65 (35 patients with PCOS and 30 healthy controls) women were included in the study. Serum Cu, Zn, Mn, Pb, Mg, Co and Cd levels were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometric method.

RESULTS

Serum Cu and Zn levels were significantly higher, but Mn and Pb levels were lower in patients with PCOS compared with the healthy participants (p < 0.01). There was no difference between patients with PCOS and the controls with respect to the serum levels of Mg, Co and Cd.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study investigating serum Cu, Zn, Mn, Pb, Co, Mg and Cd levels in the patients with PCOS. The serum levels of trace elements and heavy metals might change in patients with PCOS. The findings in this study should be investigated with further trials in order to obtain new insights into PCOS.

Selenium and bladder cancer risk: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Selenium is considered to be an antioxidant, and its high levels have been inversely associated with cancer risk of several sites. This meta-analysis examined the relationship between levels of selenium measured in serum and toenails, and the risk of bladder cancer.

METHODS

A meta-analysis using data from seven published epidemiologic studies (three case-control, three nested case-control, one case-cohort) published before March 2010 was done to examine the association between levels of selenium and bladder cancer. Fixed and random effects analyses were done to calculate meta-odds ratio (mOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Heterogeneity among studies was measured by the I(2) statistic.

RESULTS

Overall, the risk of bladder cancer was inversely associated with elevated levels of selenium according to a random-effects model (mOR = 0.61; 95% CI, 0.42-0.87). The mORs were 0.95 (95% CI, 0.69-1.27) and 0.55 (95% CI, 0.32-0.95) among men and women, respectively. Sex, type of sample specimen, smoking status, and study design were found to be potential sources of heterogeneity.

CONCLUSIONS

A significant protective effect of selenium, observed mainly among women, may result from gender-specific differences in its accumulation and excretion. The heterogeneity found among studies was mainly linked to the different biological sample specimens used to measure the selenium concentrations and the small size of the studies. Although these results suggest a protective effect of selenium for bladder cancer risk, additional large studies are warranted to support these preliminary evidence.

IMPACT

The present results suggest a beneficial effect of high selenium intake for bladder cancer risk.