Lower albumin levels are associated with frailty measures, trace elements, and an inflammation marker in a cross-sectional study in Tanushimaru

BACKGROUND@#There is little data on the association between the lower nutrition represented by serum albumin levels and related factors in a general population. The present study aimed to determine whether the albumin level positioned as some kind of biomarker with frailty measures, trace elements, and an inflammation marker.@*METHODS@#In 2018, we performed an epidemiological survey in 1368 subjects who resided in Tanushimaru, Japan, in which we examined the blood chemistry including albumin, trace elements, hormone levels, and carotid ultrasonography. Albumin levels were categorized into 4 groups (G1 [3.2-3.9 mg/dL], G2 [4.0-4.3 mg/dL], G3 [4.4-4.6 mg/dL], and G4 [4.7-5.3 mg/dL]). The participants underwent measurements of handgrip strength and were tested by asking to walk 5 m. Their cognitive functions were evaluated by the mini-mental state examination (MMSE).@*RESULTS@#Multiple stepwise regression analysis demonstrated that albumin levels were significantly and independently associated with age (inversely), systolic blood pressures, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), MMSE score, frailty measures (handgrip strength), an inflammation marker (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein), hormones (growth hormone (inversely) and insulin-like growth factor-1), and trace elements (calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc), with a linear trend.@*CONCLUSIONS@#Lower albumin levels, even in the normal range, were found to be related factors of frailty measures, trace elements, and an inflammation marker in a general population.

Toxic metals in maternal blood, cord blood and meconium of newborn infants in Pakistan

Toxic metals and deficiency/excess of trace elements can have adverse effects on health. The aim of this study was to quantify toxic metals lead, cadmium and trace elements zinc, copper, aluminium [Al] and Iron [Fe] levels in pregnant women, cord blood and meconium of new-born infants from industrial zones of Karachi, Pakistan. Analytical research was performed from 2011–2012 in low socio-economic pregnant mothers and newborn infants from 20 towns near Sindh Industrial Trading Estates, Federal B industrial area and Korangi industrial areas, Karachi, where environmental pollution was anticipated. Blood samples of pregnant women [n = 416], cord blood [n = 309] and meconium [n = 309] were analyzed quantitatively for metals and trace elements. Results indicated that mothers residing in steel towns were found to have the highest levels of lead. Meconium contained high levels of toxic heavy metals and trace elements compared to cord blood and maternal blood. Maternal blood toxic metals were present in high quantities. Therefore, safety measures should be taken when industrial waste is disposed of in order to prevent population contamination

Trace elements in plasma and nutritional assessment in patients with compensated cirrhosis on a liver transplant list

ABSTRACT Background - In chronic liver disease, trace element levels in plasma are usually low. However, the specific cause and functional implications of this abnormality are yet not well understood. These element levels may decrease as a result of abnormal liver function in patients with cirrhosis and/or malnutrition. Objective - To evaluate the nutritional status and the profile of trace elements in plasma of patients with cirrhosis on a liver transplant list and to correlate them with disease severity. Methods - This cross-sectional study evaluated 31 male patients diagnosed with compensated liver cirrhosis on a waiting list for liver transplant. Nutritional status was objectively evaluated through anthropometry using Mendenhall score and Blackburn classification, subjectively through the Detsky questionnaire and severity of the disease by MELD and CTP score. Trace elements (Zn, Se, Cu, Ca, Fe, Mg and Mn) in plasma were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Statistical analysis was performed using Mann-Whitney test. Results - According to the nutritional assessment 19 (61.3%) were malnourished and 12 (38.7%) were overweight. Regarding disease severity 12 (39%) were classified as Child A, 17 (55%), Child B and 2 (6%) Child C, with 46.9% of patients with MELD score >17. The trace element analysis indicated that 31 (100%) had Mn levels above the reference range, 23 (74.2%) low levels of Cu, 29 (93.5%) with deficiency of Se, and 31 (100%) low levels of Ca and Mg. Disease severity did not show statistical difference between the studied trace elements, in contrast to the nutritional status, in which the malnourished group showed higher levels of Mn (P=0.01) and Fe (P=0.01) and low levels of Zn (P=0.03) when compared to the overweight group. Conclusion - The results showed that the trace elements in plasma are altered in chronic liver disease; without significant correlation to disease severity, but correlated to nutritional status. Malnutrition is present in the patients studied, nonetheless a new scenario with an increase in the prevalence of overweight was verified regardless of the degree of hepatic decompensation.

RESUMO Contexto - Na doença hepática crônica os níveis plasmáticos de oligoelementos normalmente apresentam-se baixos, mas a causa específica e implicações funcionais desta anormalidade ainda não estão bem esclarecidas. Estes elementos podem estar diminuídos em consequência da função hepática alterada em pacientes com cirrose e/ou desnutrição. Objetivo - Avaliar o estado nutricional e o perfil de oligoelementos plasmáticos dos pacientes com cirrose hepática em lista para transplante e correlacionar com a gravidade da doença. Métodos - Trata-se de um estudo transversal, no qual foram avaliados 31 pacientes do sexo masculino com diagnóstico de cirrose hepática compensada em lista de espera para transplante de fígado. O estado nutricional foi avaliado objetivamente por medidas antropométricas através do escore de Mendenhall e classificado segundo Blackburn, subjetivamente por um questionário sistematizado por Detsky e a gravidade da doença pelo escore MELD e CTP. Os oligoelementos plasmáticos (Zn, Se, Cu, Ca, Fe, Mg e Mn) foram analisados pelo método de espectrometria de massas com fonte de plasma indutivamente acoplado (ICP-MS). Para análise estatística foi utilizado o Teste de Mann-Whitney. Resultados - De acordo com a avaliação nutricional 19 (61,3%) estavam com desnutrição e 12 (38,7%) com sobrepeso. Em relação à gravidade da doença 12 (39%) foram classificados como Child A, 17 (55%), Child B e 2 (6%) Child C, sendo 46,9% dos pacientes com o escore MELD >17. Na análise dos oligoelementos 31 (100%) apresentaram níveis de Mn acima dos valores de referência, 23 (74,2%) níveis baixos de Cu, 29 (93,5%) com deficiência de Se, e 31 (100%) níveis baixos de Ca e Mg. Em relação à gravidade da doença não houve diferença estatística entre os oligoelementos estudados, já em relação ao estado nutricional o grupo desnutrido apresentou níveis maiores de Mn (P=0,01) e Fe (P=0,01) e níveis diminuídos de Zn (P=0,03) quando comparado ao grupo sobrepeso. Conclusão - Os resultados mostraram que os oligoelementos estão alterados na doença hepática crônica, sem associação significativa com a gravidade da doença, mas sim com o estado nutricional. A desnutrição está presente nos pacientes estudados, porém um novo cenário com aumento na prevalência de sobrepeso foi verificado independente do grau de descompensação hepática.

Serum Levels of Trace Elements in Patients with Testicular Cancers

Introduction: Trace elements are primary components of biological structures; however, they can be toxic when their concentrations are higher than those needed for biological functions. Materials and Methods: In the present study serum levels of trace elements were measured in 30 patients (mean age was 26.9±11.2 years) newly diagnosed with germ cell testicular cancer and 32 healthy volunteers (mean age: 27.4±10.8) by using furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Serum samples were stored at-20°C until assays. Results: In patients with germ cell testicular cancer, the diagnosis was seminoma in 15, mix germ cell tumor in 7, embryonal carcinoma in 4, yolk sac tumor in 2 and teratoma in 2 patients. There was stage I testicular tumor in 19 patients (63.3%) while stage II in 6 patients (20.0%), stage IIIA in 4 patients (13.3%) and stage IIIC in one patient (3.4%). It was found that serum Co, Cu, Mg and Pb levels were increased (p<0.05), whereas Fe, Mn, and Zn levels were decreased in patients with testicular cancer (p<0.05). Conclusions: These alterations may be important in the pathogenesis of testicular cancers; however, further prospective studies are needed to identify the relationship between testicular cancer and trace elements.

Normal Range of 33 Elements in Blood Samples from General Population in Hunan Province / 法医学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To determine the normal range of the 33 elements (Li, Be, B, Mg, Al, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, As, Se, Rb, Sr, Zr, Mo, Ag, Cd, Sb, Cs, Ba Au, Hg, Tl, Pb, Th and U) in human whole blood of general population in Hunan province.@*METHODS@#Blood samples were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to determine the normal range. The influences of district, gender and age to the element content in blood samples were also observed.@*RESULTS@#The normal range of 33 elements in blood samples from general population in Hunan province were obtained. Gender was shown to statistically influence the concentrations of B, Mg, Ca, Ti, Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Rb, Sr, Ag, Cd, Cs, Hg and Pb (P < 0.05), while age was shown to influence the concentrations of Co, Ni, Cs and Hg in women (P < 0.05) as well as Cu, Se and Hg in men (P < 0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Although there are variables in different districts, the normal ranges of trace element in blood of the four cities in Hunan province are established.

Effects of contraceptives on serum trace elements, calcium and phosphorus levels / Efectos de los contraceptivos sobre los elementos traza en suero, y los niveles de calcio y fósforo

BACKGROUND: Women on different contraceptive methods have been linked with the development of various diseases and possible changes in serum trace elements and vitamins of women on contraceptives have been postulated. Therefore, the relationship between contraceptive use and trace elements needs to be investigated. Methods:This is a cross-sectional randomized study. After informed consent was obtained, blood samples were collected from a total of 100 women of child-bearing age on different contraceptive methods: 50 on oral contraceptives, 25 on injectables and another 25 on intra-uterine device. Blood samples were also collected from another 50 age-matched non-contraceptive users to serve as control. Serum was analysed using atomic absorption spectrophotometer for zinc, copper, manganese, iron, selenium, cadmium, lead and magnesium while colorimetric method was used for phosphorus and calcium. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated as weight in kilogram/height in meter squared. Results obtained from laboratory analysis and anthropometric measurements were analysed using computer SPSS package. Results:The mean serum zinc, selenium, phosphorus and magnesium levels obtained from subjects on contraceptives were significantly lower (p < 0.01, p < 0.05, p < 0.05 and p < 0.05 respectively) than those of the control group. However, the mean serum copper, iron, calcium and cadmium levels were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in participants on contraceptive when compared with the control group. Manganese and lead levels were similar in participants and control groups. Correlation analysis shows significant association between some trace elements and the duration ofcontraception and body mass index ofthe participants. CONCLUSION: The study showed and confirmed reduced levels of trace elements in women on contraceptives. The reduction is proportional to the duration ofcontraceptive use.

ANTECEDENTES: Mujeres que usan diferentes métodos anticonceptivos han sido vinculadas al desarrollo de varias enfermedades, y se han presupuesto cambios en los elementos traza en suero y las vitaminas de mujeres en torno a los contraceptivos. Por lo tanto, se hace necesario investigar la relación entre el uso de contraceptivos y los elementos traza. MÉTODOS: Éste es un estudio transversal randomizado. Después de obtener el consentimiento infor mado, se recogieron muestras de sangre de un total de 100 mujeres de edad de maternidad en relación con diferentes métodos anticonceptivos: 50 con contraceptivos orales, 25 con inyectables, y otras 25 con dispositivos intrauterinos. También se tomaron muestras de sangre de otras 50 mujeres pareadas por edad y no usuarias de anticonceptivos, para servir de control. Se analizó el suero usando el espectrofotómetro de absorción atómico para zinc, cobre, manganeso, hierro, selenio, cadmio, plomo, y magnesio, mientras que el método colorimétrico se usó para el fósforo y el calcio. El índice de masa corporal (IMC) fue calculado como el peso en altura/kilogramo en metro cuadrado. Los resultados obtenidos del análisis de laboratorio así como las dimensiones antropométricas, se analizaron usando el paquete computacional SPSS. RESULTADOS: Los niveles promedio en suero de zinc, selenio, fósforo y los niveles de magnesio obtenidos de sujetos bajo el uso de contraceptivos fueron significativamente más bajos (p < 0.01, p < 0.05, p < 0.05 y p < 0.05 respectivamente) que aquéllos del grupo de control. Sin embargo, los niveles promedio en suero de cobre, hierro, calcio y cadmio fueron significativamente más altos (p < 0.05) en los participantes bajo el uso de contraceptivos, en comparación con el grupo de control. Los niveles de manganeso y plomo fueron similares en los participantes y los grupos de control. El análisis de la correlación muestra una asociación significativa entre algunos elementos traza, y la duración de la contracepción y el índice de masa corporal de los participantes. CONCLUSIÓN: El estudio mostró y confirmó niveles reducidos de elementos traza en las mujeres bajo contraceptivos. La reducción es proporcional a la duración del uso de contraceptivos.

Study of some minerals, trace elements and antioxidants in refractory childhood epilepsy

The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of some minerals, trace elements and anti-oxidants in children with intractable epilepsy compared to healthy children. In a case control study, 45 epileptic patients [24 male and 21 female] with age range between 3 to 14.5 years presented to Assiut pediatric university hospital, suffering from various types of refractory epileptic seizures compared with 20 healthy sex- and age-matched children served as controls. Serum Se, Zn, Cu, Mg, Glutathione peroxidase [GSH-PX] and Superoxide dismutase [SOD] were measured. The mean age of the patients +/- SD was 8.4 +/- 3.1y. The serum levels of Zn, Mg and Se are significant lower in patients in comparison with control, p value < 0.001 for each, with no significant difference between both groups in serum Cu. Glutathione peroxidase [GSH-PX] was significantly lower in patients in comparison with control group [p value < 0.001] with no significant difference between both groups in SOD. Some minerals [Mg], trace elements [Zn, Se] and antioxidants [GSHúPX] may play an important role in the pathogenesis of intractable epilepsy

role of trace elements in helicobacter pylori infected patients

To evaluate the effect of trace elements in patients with Helicobacter pylori associated chronic gastritis. Prospective study. Clinical services of the clinical microbiology and infectious diseases and gastroenterology clinics at Dicle University, Turkey A total of 92 patients with variable severity of chronic gastritis [45 Helicobacter pylori positive and 47 Helicobacter pylori negative gastritis] and 90 age and sex matched healthy subjects were included in the study conducted between October 2006 and November 2008. Histopathologic examination, culture of Helicobacter pylori and urease tests were performed for each patient. The atomic absorption spectrophotometer was used in the measurement of trace elements in the serum. Serum copper and zinc levels were significantly elevated in patients with Helicobacter pylori associated gastritis compared to Helicobacter pylori negative gastritis and healthy controls [p < 0.0001]. Serum copper, zinc and Cu / Zn levels in patients with Helicobacter pylori negative chronic gastritis was not significantly different from the serum levels in healthy controls [p > 0.05]. Our results suggest a relationship between Helicobacter pylori associated chronic gastritis and the elevation of trace element levels in serum. This study confirms that the elevation of trace element levels in serum [Cu and Zn levels] will be helpful in the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori associated chronic gastritis in the abscence of invasive procedures, and is useful in predicting the severity of infection in patients with chronic gastritis

Determination of trace metals abnormalities in patients with vivax malaria

In the present study, blood serum level of metals were determined in malarial patients and compared with those in the normal subjects without complication using Atomic Absorption Spectrometer. For the determination of these metals twelve intravenous blood samples each from referred malarial patients and a group of normal subjects were collected and immediately centrifuged to obtain the supernatant liquid, serum of both the groups for analysis. The blood serum levels of copper in malarial patients determined to be 2.6917 ppm, which is higher as compared to that found 2.045 in normal subjects. Whereas the blood serum levels of iron, magnesium, and zinc found 2.0708 ppm, 12.2467 ppm and 4.9017 ppm respectively in malarial patients, who are lower than those, are determined in the blood serum of normal subjects. Blood serum levels of iron, magnesium, and zinc in normal subjects found 3.950 ppm, 19.4892 ppm, and 5.242 ppm respectively. In this study the metal content of copper, iron, magnesium and zinc in vary in malarial patients as compared those in the normal subjects. It may suggest that the decreased levels of iron, magnesium, and zinc can be maintained by giving as supplement of these metals in therapy

Impacts of elevated prenatal blood lead on trace element status and pregnancy outcomes in occupationally non-exposed women

Lead toxicity has been reported to affect hematopoietic, nervous, reproductive, cardiovascular and urinary tract systems. Many investigators have so far studied the effects of high blood lead levels on pregnancy outcomes. To investigate the effects of elevated maternal blood lead during pregnancy on some trace elements and pregnancy outcomes. Blood lead and plasma copper, iron and zinc were measured in 349 pregnant women with a mean_SD age of 27.0 +/- 4.8 years, and gestational age of 21.8 +/- 3.1 weeks, at recruitment using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Maternal and fetal outcomes were recorded during follow-up and at delivery, respectively. A blood lead level of >10 pg/dL was considered high. Women with elevated blood lead had significantly higher plasma copper and iron and lower plasma zinc than women with low blood lead level [<10 microg/dL]. Blood lead level correlated with maternal hemoglobin concentration [r=-0.1054, p=0.051] and total white blood cell count [r=0.1045, p=0.053]. Hypertension, malaria and low birth weight were significantly higher [p<0.05] in women with elevated blood lead than in those with low blood lead level. Complications of pregnancy may be induced by a high blood lead level possibly through the alterations in trace element metabolism

Biochemical changes among workers occupationally exposed to vibration

With the increasing interaction between workers and mechanical tools, vibration at critical frequencies and acceleration has become an important source of injury. Exposure to occupational vibration has its adverse effects on musculoskeletal, nervous and cardiovascular systems. Certain biochemical changes may occur. Some psychological and physiological disorders were observed. The present study aimed to study biochemical changes among workers occupationally exposed to vibration. The study included a total number of 165 workers [104 exposed to vibration and 61 as a comparison group]. Exposed workers were selected from Mousahama El-Behera, Zahran and Lecico companies in Alexandria. They were exposed to Whole - Body Vibration [WBV] [n=77] or Hand -Arm Vibration [HAV] [n=27]. Non-exposed workers [n=61] were selected from the same companies. Biochemical changes including hematological changes, coagulation profile, lipid profile, liver and cardiac enzymes, some of trace elements and urinary catecholamine were studied among exposed and control subjects. Significant changes in the levels of tested biochemical parameters were observed among workers exposed to WBV, HAV and control subjects. It can be concluded that workers exposed to occupational vibrations may develop certain occupational diseases, that might be related to the vibration itself

Biophysical approach to anemia of rheumatoid arthritis

Serum iron, zinc and copper concentrations in Rheumatoid Arthritic [RA] patients as compared to normal controls were measured. Serum calcium, magnesium, phosphorus concentrations, and alkaline phosphatase activity as well as 1, 25 [OH][2] Vitamin D in RA patients as compared to normal controls were measured. In addition, Hemoglobin derivatives, and the dielectric relaxation in the frequency range 100 KHz up to 10 MHz of Hb molecules of RA patients compared to normal controls were measured. It was found that a significant increase in Met-Hb, abnormal dynamic motion of Hb and changes in the overall shape of Hb. Also, The dielectric results indicated that the molecular shape of hemoglobin tends to deviate from the spherical form as the disease geos to the severity

[Relationship between occupational exposure and concentration of some trace elements in radiology and radiotherapy workers]

Investigating the chronic radiation effects in radiotherapy workers requires consideration of those parameters in which any small changes could result in profound effect on biological system. In this regard, body trace elements are believed to have important roles. To assess the biological effect of occupational exposure on blood trace elements concentrations. This was a case-control study performed at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2006. Fifty radiotherapy workers were selected as case group and an equal number of hospital staff with similar social class and no radiation exposure as control group. Blood samples were collected from all members of two groups followed by determination of serum content of trace elements including copper, iron, zinc and magnesium. The data were analyzed using variance and regression tests. The mean concentrations of copper, iron, zinc and magnesium in technician group were 1.026 +/- 0.287, 1.052 +/- 0.185, 0.768 +/- 0.143, 21.112 +/- 1.272 and in control group 0.903 +/- 0.208, 1.00 +/- 0.134, 0.872 +/- 0.156, and 21.105 +/- 1.372, respectively. Values obtained for copper in technicians group were found to be higher than those of control group [p<0.02]. Zinc concentration was shown to be significantly lower in female technicians [p<0.03] than in males. No significant difference was found for magnesium or iron between two study groups. Based on data found in present study, the likelihood of the idea that chronic exposure to radiation could affect the concentration of body trace element is highlighted

Effect of environment and nutrition on minerals, heavy metals and trace elements on Sinai breeding camel. Trace elements [zinc and copper] profile

The present work was preformed to special part of our country, the land which observed four wars in the last century and many trips, journeys from friends and enemies, Sinai, with special reference to animal especially tread as desert boat, the camel. Our data demonstrated that the Camel Dromedary [Camelus dromedaries] in Sinai area, the zinc level in serum was [33.79 +/- 0.17 micro g/dl]; liver [112.57 +/- 0.008 micro g/gm DM], muscle [112.42 +/- 0.04 micro g/gm DM], kidney [103.77 +/- 0.01 micro g/gm DM], heart [54.66 +/- 0.007 micro g/gm DM], spleen [54.66 +/- 0.007 micro g/gm DM], ovary [36.15 +/- 0.05 micro g/gm DM] and testis [15.27 +/- 0.008 micro g/gm DM]. While serum copper concentrations was 54.66 +/- 0.21 micro g/dl; kidney [124.65 +/- 0.017 micro g/gm DM], liver [115.30 +/- 0.24 micro g/gm DM], muscle [111.25+0.45 micro g/gm DM], spleen [55.94 +/- 0.018 micro g/gm DM], heart [48.49 +/- 0.025 micro g/gm DM], ovary [40.80 +/- 0.017 micro g/gm DM] and testis [28.46 +/- 0.016]. The present data revealed that the higher concentrations of both serum zinc and copper levels are present in sera of camels in south Sinai than north Sinai and in the female she-camel than male camel with age related references to over 5 years. The serum zinc level was highest values, in south Sinai especially in female over 5 years [41.87 +/- 0.05 micro g/dl] but lower in female and male age [2-4 years] and males over 5 years in the same area [34.65 +/- 0.22 micro g/dl]. The serum copper concentrations in south Sinai female over 5 years were 57.12 +/- 0.34 micro g/dl compared with female [2-4 years] [53.93 +/- 0.16 micro g/dl]. There was influence of the breeding season on the serum zinc and copper levels in either male or female, the serum zinc concentrations increased during breeding season especially in female in the south Sinai [32.25 +/- 0.18 micro g/dl]. Serum copper level showed high significant increase in its level in female in south Sinai [60.3011.08 micro g/dl] than in north Sinai [56.50 +/- 0.11 micro g/dl]. Zinc concentrations in kidney of she camel were [187.05 +/- 0.013 micro g/gm DM], heart [79.18 +/- 0.005 micro g/gm DM], spleen [58.59 +/- 0.02 micro g/gm DM] and ovary [36.15 +/- 0.05 micro g/gm DM]. Similarly, copper concentrations were higher in kidney [211.05 +/- 0.022 micro g/gm DM], followed by heart [89.35 +/- 0.016 micro g/gm DM], spleen [66.19 +/- 0.018 micro g/gm DM] and ovary [40.80 +/- 0.05 micro g/gm DM] than male in the she-camel. The data indicated that the camel breeds in south Sinai contain higher concentrations of zinc and copper levels than camels in north Sinai and there were significant differences between camels due to age and/or sex and/or breeding season and/or geographical variations

Evaluating the trace elements in preoperative and postoperative duration of hydatid surgery

To evaluate the preoperative and postoperative values of serum levels of zinc, magnesium, and copper in patients with cystic echinococcosis [CE]. This study was conducted on patients with CE between 2000-2005 at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Cukurova, Adana, Turkey. Serum levels of zinc, copper, and magnesium of 85 patients with CE were measured both before and one year after the operation. Patients with liver CE [85 patients, 48 males] and healthy adults [40 adults, 17 males] as the control group were enrolled in the study. When compared with the control group, the mean serum levels of zinc and magnesium were lower and the mean serum level of copper was higher in the preoperative period. It was found that as duration of symptoms increased, serum zinc and magnesium levels decreased and copper levels increased. The serum levels of these elements in postoperative and control patients after one year compared equally with the levels in the initial control. The probability of increased consumption of zinc and magnesium and secretion of copper by the parasite may lead to evaluating the follow up of hydatid surgery in addition to radiological and serological methods

Evaluation of some essenial element levels in thalassemia major patients in Mosul district, Iraq

To evaluate the levels of some essential elements in thalassemic patients in Mosul, Iraq. One hundred and five thalassemic blood transfusion dependent children, 2.5-18 years of age attending Ibn-Al-Atheer teaching hospital in Mosul City, Iraq, during 2005, were used in this study. Fifty-four healthy subjects served as a control group. Patients were allocated in a non-randomized prospective cross-sectional hospital based study. Essential elements levels were estimated. The mean, standard deviation, correlation coefficient, and z-test were used. P-values <0.05 were considered statistically significant. Low serum zinc, and magnesium, and high serum copper, and potassium levels were found among the 105 thalassemic patients compared to the 54 controls. Levels of calcium, phosphate, and sodium were within normal limits. Fluctuations in the essential elements levels seem to be related to the different complications associated with the disease. Zinc deficiency may be attributed to hyperzincuria resulted from the release of Zn from hemolyzed red cells. Hypercupremia occurs in acute and chronic infections and hemochromatosis, which is a principal complication of thalassemia. Increased Na levels may be due to renal damage. Hypomagnesemia may occur due to hypoparathyroidism

Interaction between anemia and blood levels of iron, zinc, copper, cadmium and lead in children.

OBJECTIVE: Anemia is a widespread problem among infants and children in many parts of the world, and it is often associated with some trace elements (iron, zinc, copper) and heavy metals (cadmium and lead). Aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between anemia and these elements. METHODS: This research was performed on 256 children (mean age 6.8 +/- 0.2) living in Denizli city center. We observed iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in 23 children, iron deficiency without anemia (ID) in 36 children and only anemia (ferritin level normal) (OA) in 18 children, and 179 children were found healthy and they were regarded as controls (C). Blood samples were taken from subjects and the concentrations of zinc, copper, iron, cadmium and lead in serum were measured with atomic absorption spectrophotometer. RESULTS: The levels of copper, cadmium and lead in serum were significantly higher in children with IDA than those of controls (p<0.05, p<0.05, p<0.01, respectively). The other elements in the serum of ID were not different from controls. CONCLUSION: High copper, cadmium and lead decreased iron absorption and negatively affected hematological parameters.

Study of oxidative stress and trace element levels in patients with alcoholic and non-alcoholic coronary artery disease.

Alcohol consumption induces oxidative stress, and leads to lipid peroxidation. These effects have been linked to alcohol-related toxicity and diseases are considered relevant to alcohol-atherosclerosis interrelationship. Deficiency of many antioxidants and trace elements may impair the antioxidant defense leading to ethanol induced oxidative stress. In the present study, our aim was to investigate the lipid peroxidation, lipid profile, antioxidant enzymes and trace elements in patients with and without alcoholic coronary artery disease (CAD). Our study included 61 patients suffering from CAD, 124 patients suffering from alcoholic CAD with high to moderate alcohol intake, 75 controls were randomly selected for our study. Increased serum lipid peroxidation, total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol and copper levels were high while levels of HDL cholesterol, glutathione peroxdiase, superoxide dismutase, trace elements like Selenium and Zinc were low in high alcoholic CAD patients compared with moderate and non alcoholic CAD patients. The results obtained from present study indicate that high alcohol intake predicts low antioxidant enzyme and that trace element may contribute to the increased susceptibility for the development of CAD.

Comparison of essential trace elements in blood of patients receiving Ramathibodi Standard Parenteral Nutrition with Ramatrace or a commercial formular.

OBJECTIVE: Commercially intravenous trace element product is very expensive compared to Ramatrace. Therefore, the present research was designed to compare the levels of zinc, copper chromium and manganese in the blood of patients receiving Ramathibodi Standard Parenteral Nutrition (STD) containing the Ramatrace or the commercial product. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Two groups of patients receiving STD were recruited. Group 1 (19 males and 11 females) received Ramatrace and Group 2 (19 males and 11 females) received a commercial product. Blood samples on day 0, day 3 and day 10 were measured for zinc, copper chromium and manganese levels by atomic absorption spectrophotometer (model 3100, Perkin Elmer). RESULTS: The present results showed that levels of zinc, copper, chromium and manganese were not significantly different between the two groups. On day 0, day 3 and day 10, the levels of zinc, copper and manganese in the blood of both groups were significantly increased (p < 0.05). Blood chromium levels of Group 1 were significantly increased from day 0 (0.14 +/- 0.02 microg/dL) to day 3 (0.23 +/- 0.02 microg/dL) but there was no significant difference between day 3 and day 10. In Group 2, the blood levels of chromium from day 0 to day 10 were significantly increased. CONCLUSION: In patients receiving STD, Ramatrace could improve the levels of zinc, copper, chromium and manganese as well as the commercial product. This may be one way to reduce the cost of treatment.

Essential trace elements and antioxidant status in relation to severity of HIV in Nigerian patients

This study was designed to determine the plasma levels of some antioxidants and trace elements in three severity groups of HIV patients compared with non-HIV-infected controls. The plasma levels of antioxidants [total antioxidant, albumin, bilirubin and uric acid] and trace elements [Mg, Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, Cr, Cd and Se] were estimated spectrophotometrically in controls and patients with CD4 counts of <200; 200-499 and >/= 500 cells/microl. Uric acid and Zn were significantly higher, while vitamin E and all the trace elements [except Zn] were significantly lower in HIV-infected patients compared to healthy controls. The highest level of uric acid was observed in those with CD4 counts of <200 cells/ micro l. All the trace elements [except Zn] were higher in HIV subjects with a CD4 count of 200-499 cells/ micro l compared to >500 cells/ micro l. Only uric acid and Zn showed significant correlation with CD4 count. Based on the results of this study, we recommend routine assessment and appropriate supplementation of antioxidants/trace elements in HIV subjects. This supplementation is hoped to strengthen the immune system and reduce the adverse consequences of HIV- related oxidative stress