The Effect of a Nutritional Intervention with the Use of Biofortified Beef Meat on Selected Biochemical Parameters in Blood from Older Adults.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of meat biofortified with antioxidants and canola oil on the health of older adults through blood parameters. Eighty institutionalized older persons were divided into four groups who received the following treatments: C-control meat with 46 µg/kg of meat with selenium, 3.80 g/kg of meat with vitamin E and 0.78 g/100 g of meat with conjugated linoleic acid (CLA); A-antioxidant meat with 422 µg/kg of meat with selenium, 7.65 g/kg of meat with vitamin E and 0.85 g/100 g of meat with CLA; O-oil meat with 57 µg/kg of meat with selenium, 3.98 g/kg of meat with vitamin E and 1.27 g/100 g of meat with CLA; OA-oil and antioxidant meat with 367 µg/kg of meat with selenium, 7.78 g/kg of meat with vitamin E and 1.08 g/100 g of meat with CLA. Blood samples were collected at 0, 45 and 90 days after the start of meat intake. Older adults who consumed ANT (A and AO) meat had higher concentrations of selenium (p = 0.039), vitamin E and HDL (higher concentrations of high-density lipoprotein, p = 0.048) in their blood. This study demonstrates that the consumption of Se- and vitamin E-biofortified meat increases the concentration of these metabolites in blood from older adults.

Antioxidant Status in Patients after Breast Mastopexy and Augmentation.

Background and Objectives: Mammary gland surgery has become very common, but there are complications of these operations, including the concept of breast implant illness (BII) in women with silicone gel breast implants (SBI), who suffer from various symptoms such as myalgia, arthralgia, fatigue, fever, dry eyes, or dry mouth. Silicone biomaterials are synthetic polymers that have their own physical and chemical properties and can exert their effect at the site of use and possibly on the general status of the body, causing inflammation and oxidative stress signs. The aim of the study was to examine components of the blood antioxidant system (AOS) of the mastopexy and breast augmentation patients before the operation, on the first post-op day, and 6 months after surgery. Materials and Methods: Healthy breast surgery patients (women aged 31 to 60 years without visible pathologies) were selected for the study and formed 2 groups: breast lift-mastopexy without silicone biomaterials (I group, 30 patients) and breast augmentation using silicone biomaterials (II group, 28 patients). All patients underwent standard preoperative tests. Glutathione peroxidase (GPxSe) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) in blood, selenium (Se), selenium protein P (SelPP), and total antioxidant status (TAS) in plasma were measured as AOS parameters. The concentration of vitamin D was also determined. A total of 174 blood tests were performed. Results: Overall, there were no differences in both groups in measured antioxidant system indicators over time; neither changes in objective nor subjective status were observed. However, baseline activity of GPxSe was relatively high but restored to normal values 6 months after surgery. In the mastopexy group, GPxSe decreased from 12,961.7 U/L by 18.9% to 10,513.4 U/L, and in the breast augmentation group, from 15,505.0 U/L by 25.1% to 11,265.5 U/L, which is a decrease of 18.9% and 25.1%, respectively. The patients did not note any complaints; other indicators of standard biochemical tests were within normal limits. Conclusions: The two types of surgical interventions, breast mastopexy and augmentation of the mammary glands, do not significantly impact blood AOS and are physiological in nature.

Selenium Discrepancies in Fetal Bovine Serum: Impact on Cellular Selenoprotein Expression.

Selenium is an essential trace element in our diet, crucial for the composition of human selenoproteins, which include 25 genes such as glutathione peroxidases and thioredoxin reductases. The regulation of the selenoproteome primarily hinges on the bioavailability of selenium, either from dietary sources or cell culture media. This selenium-dependent control follows a specific hierarchy, with "housekeeping" selenoproteins maintaining constant expression while "stress-regulated" counterparts respond to selenium level fluctuations. This study investigates the variability in fetal bovine serum (FBS) selenium concentrations among commercial batches and its effects on the expression of specific stress-related cellular selenoproteins. Despite the limitations of our study, which exclusively used HEK293 cells and focused on a subset of selenoproteins, our findings highlight the substantial impact of serum selenium levels on selenoprotein expression, particularly for GPX1 and GPX4. The luciferase reporter assay emerged as a sensitive and precise method for evaluating selenium levels in cell culture environments. While not exhaustive, this analysis provides valuable insights into selenium-mediated selenoprotein regulation, emphasizing the importance of serum composition in cellular responses and offering guidance for researchers in the selenoprotein field.

Serum macroelements and microelements levels in periparturient dairy cows in relation to fatty liver diseases.

BACKGROUND: Fatty liver in dairy cows is a common metabolic disease defined by triglyceride (TG) buildup in the hepatocyte. Clinical diagnosis of fatty liver is usually done by liver biopsy, causing considerable economic losses in the dairy industry owing to the lack of more effective diagnostic methods. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the potential utility of blood biomarkers for the diagnosis and early warning of fatty liver in dairy cows. RESULTS: A total of twenty-four lactating cows within 28 days after parturition were randomly selected as experimental animals and divided into healthy cows (liver biopsy tested, n = 12) and cows with fatty liver (liver biopsy tested, n = 12). Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to determine the macroelements and microelements in the serum of two groups of cows. Compared to healthy cows (C), concentrations of calcium (Ca), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), strontium (Sr), selenium (Se), manganese (Mn), boron (B) and molybdenum (Mo) were lower and copper (Cu) was higher in fatty liver cows (F). Meanwhile, the observed differences in macroelements and microelements were related to delivery time, with the greatest major disparity between C and F occurring 7 days after delivery. Multivariable analysis was used to test the correlation between nine serum macroelements, microelements and fatty liver. Based on variable importance projection and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, minerals Ca, Se, K, B and Mo were screened as the best diagnostic indicators of fatty liver in postpartum cows. CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggested that serum levels of Ca, K, Mg, Se, B, Mo, Mn, and Sr were lower in F than in C. The most suitable period for an early-warning identification of fatty liver in cows was 7 days after delivery, and Ca, Se, K, B and Mo were the best diagnostic indicators of fatty liver in postpartum cows.

Association between serum selenium and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Results from NHANES: An observational study.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) encompasses a broad spectrum of diseases and stands as the second most prevalent liver disorder in the 21st century. Advanced hepatic fibrosis (AHF) is a crucial indicator of the progression of NAFLD. Selenium (Se) is an indispensable trace element for human physiology; however, excessive intake can lead to poisoning and detrimental effects. Notably, males exhibit significantly higher serum Se levels compared to females. To investigate the correlation between serum Se levels and the prevalence of NAFLD and AHF across different genders. Utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017-2020, 7271 participants were included. Through descriptive analysis, multivariable logistic regression, subgroup analysis, interaction, and restricted cubic spline regression analysis, the relationship between serum Se levels and the prevalence of NAFLD and AHF was investigated. serum Se levels were significantly higher in both male and female NAFLD groups compared to the non-NAFLD groups (Males: 187.570 vs 183.300, Z = -16.169, P < .001; Females: 184.780 vs 180.130, Z = -4.102, P < .001). After adjusting for confounders, an increase in one quartile of serum Se was associated with a 17.60% increase in NAFLD prevalence in males (OR, 1.176; 95% CI: 1.052-1.315) and a 38.50% decrease in AHF prevalence (OR, 0.615; 95% CI: 0.479-0.789). In females, each quartile increase in serum Se was associated with a 29.10% increase in NAFLD prevalence (OR,1.291;95%CI: 1.155-1.442) and a 51.60% decrease in AHF prevalence (OR, 0.484; 95% CI: 0.344-0.682). serum Se levels are positively correlated with the prevalence of NAFLD and negatively correlated with the prevalence of AHF in both males and females.

Trace Element Deficiency in Systemic Sclerosis-Too Much Effort for Some Traces?

Trace elements are essential for several physiological processes. To date, various data have suggested that inadequate levels of trace elements may be involved in the pathogenesis of different chronic diseases, including immune-mediated ones, or may develop during their course. Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex autoimmune multisystemic disease, primarily characterized by microvascular dysregulation, the widespread activation of the immune system and tissue fibrosis. According to the latest reports regarding the pathogenesis of SSc, the main pathophysiological processes-inflammation, vasculopathy and fibrosis-may include various trace element derangements. The present literature review aims to update the available data regarding iron, zinc, copper and selenium status in SSc as well as to underline the possible implications of these trace elements in the complexity of the pathogenic process of the disease. We observe that the status of trace elements in SSc plays a crucial role in numerous pathogenic processes, emphasizing the necessity for proper monitoring and supplementation. The reported data are heterogenous and scarce, and future studies are needed in order to draw clearer conclusions about their complete spectrum.

A Plea for Monitoring Serum Selenium Levels in Breast Cancer Patients: Selenium Deficiency Is Rare during the First Year of Therapy, and Selenium Supplementation Is Associated with Elevated Risk of Overdosing.

(1) Background: The role of selenium in cancer biology remains poorly understood. Our aim was to study the course of selenium serum levels and the use of selenium supplements during breast cancer therapy. (2) Methods: Serum selenium levels, clinical-pathological data, selenium supplementation, and lifestyle factors were monitored quarterly over one year. (3) Results: A total of 110 non-metastatic breast cancer patients were enrolled in the prospective observational "BEGYN-1" study. At baseline, 2.9% of patients were selenium-deficient (<50 ng/mL), 1.9% were overdosed (>120 ng/mL), and 6.4% received substitution. The median selenium level was 81.5 ng/mL and ranged between 78.7 and 84.5 ng/mL within the year. A total of 25.3% of the patients received supplementation, resulting in significantly higher selenium levels (p < 0.05). A total of 8.7-28.6% of the patients using supplements were overdosed. Selenium levels strongly correlated with mushroom consumption (p = 0.003), but no association was found with therapy or clinical characteristics. (4) Conclusions: Although selenium deficiency is rare, serum selenium levels should be assessed in breast cancer patients. Mushrooms and nuts should be preferred over supplements to correct selenium deficiency. Ruling out selenium deficiency helps prevent the risk of selenosis and avoid unnecessary, costly supplementation in patients who are often financially burdened due to their disease.

Serum selenium and fasting blood glucose: a cross-sectional study in women of different menopause status.

BACKGROUND: This cross-sectional study aims to explore whether there exists an interaction between selenium and menopause concerning type 2 diabetes (T2D) prevalence and its related indicators such as fasting blood glucose (FBG) and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). METHODS: 150 women aged 35-60 years old were finally analyzed in this study. Multivariate linear or logistic regression modeling was conducted to explore the association of selenium and the prevalence of T2D besides its related indicators. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on menopause status to assess the potential impact on the relationship. RESULTS: In the fully adjusted model, serum selenium was positively associated with FBG (ß: 0.03, CI: 0.01-0.05) and the prevalence of T2D (OR: 1.04, CI: 1.00-1.08). After stratifying the data by menopause status, compared with the postmenopausal women group, as the serum selenium concentrations increased, the FBG concentrations were significantly higher in the premenopausal women group (p for interaction = 0.0020). CONCLUSIONS: The present study found serum selenium was positively associated with FBG and the prevalence of T2D. Furthermore, the relationship between serum selenium and FBG was different in the premenopausal and postmenopausal women. More studies are still needed in the future to verify the relationship as well as to explore the specific mechanisms.

Genome-Wide Admixture and Association Study of Serum Selenium Deficiency to Identify Genetic Variants Indirectly Linked to Selenium Regulation in Brazilian Adults.

Blood selenium (Se) concentrations differ substantially by population and could be influenced by genetic variants, increasing Se deficiency-related diseases. We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with serum Se deficiency in 382 adults with admixed ancestry. Genotyping arrays were combined to yield 90,937 SNPs. R packages were applied to quality control and imputation. We also performed the ancestral proportion analysis. The Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes was used to interrogate known protein-protein interaction networks (PPIs). Our ancestral proportion analysis estimated 71% of the genome was from Caucasians, 22% was from Africans, and 8% was from East Asians. We identified the SNP rs1561573 in the TraB domain containing 2B (TRABD2B), rs425664 in MAF bZIP transcription factor (MAF), rs10444656 in spermatogenesis-associated 13 (SPATA13), and rs6592284 in heat shock protein nuclear import factor (HIKESHI) genes. The PPI analysis showed functional associations of Se deficiency, thyroid hormone metabolism, NRF2-ARE and the Wnt pathway, and heat stress. Our findings show evidence of a genetic association between Se deficiency and metabolic pathways indirectly linked to Se regulation, reinforcing the complex relationship between Se intake and the endogenous factors affecting the Se requirements for optimal health.

Identification of Factors on Blood Selenium Levels in the US Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element for humans and its low or high concentration in vivo is associated with the high risk of many diseases. It is important to identify influential factors of Se status. The present study aimed to explore the association between several factors (Se intake, gender, age, race, education, body mass index (BMI), income, smoking and alcohol status) and blood Se concentration using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2017-2020 data. Demographic characteristics, physical examination, health interviews and diets were compared among quartiles of blood Se concentration using the Rao-Scott χ2 test. Se levels were compared between the different groups of factors studied, measuring the strength of their association. A total of 6205 participants were finally included. The normal reference ranges of blood Se concentration were 142.3 (2.5th percentile) and 240.8 µg/L (97.5th percentile), respectively. The mean values of dietary Se intake, total Se intake and blood Se concentration of the participants were 111.5 µg/day, 122.7 µg/day and 188.7 µg/L, respectively, indicating they were in the normal range. Total Se intake was the most important contributor of blood Se concentration. Gender, race, education status, income, BMI, smoking and alcohol status were associated with blood Se concentration.

Trace mineral concentrations in Canadian beef calves at weaning.

Objective: To describe the copper and selenium statuses of beef calves at weaning. Animal: Calves (n = 1998) were sampled from 106 Canadian cow-calf herds in the fall of 2021. Procedure: Serum samples from calves were tested for copper, selenium, and molybdenum concentrations. Results: Although the percentages of calves classified as selenium deficient (< 0.025 ppm) were relatively low (0.5% western Canada, 3% eastern Canada), 53% of calves from western Canada and 77% of calves from eastern Canada were classified as having less than adequate selenium concentrations (< 0.08 ppm). Copper deficiency (< 0.5 ppm) was common in calves from both western (17%) and eastern (14%) Canada. High molybdenum concentrations (> 0.10 ppm) were identified in 6% of calves from western Canada and 7% of calves from eastern Canada. Conclusion: Selenium concentrations were higher in calves from western Canada than from those in eastern Canada (P < 0.001). Copper and molybdenum concentrations were not significantly different between western and eastern Canada. Less-than-adequate serum copper was the most common deficiency identified in Canadian beef calves at weaning. Clinical relevance: Trace minerals are important for immune system function in calves at weaning. Selenium concentrations in calves at weaning were lower than in cows from the same herds collected at pregnancy testing 2 y earlier. Copper deficiency was also identified, though less frequently than for mature cows. Supplementation programs for calves should be customized based on testing and recognize both regional and age differences in risk.

Concentrations d'oligo-éléments minéraux chez les veaux de boucherie canadiens au sevrage. Objectif: Décrire les statuts en cuivre et en sélénium des veaux de boucherie au sevrage. Animal: Des veaux (n = 1998) ont été échantillonnés dans 106 troupeaux de type vache-veau canadiens à l'automne 2021. Procédure: Des échantillons de sérum de veaux ont été testés pour déterminer les concentrations de cuivre, de sélénium et de molybdène. Résultats: Même si les pourcentages de veaux classés comme déficients en sélénium (< 0,025 ppm) étaient relativement faibles (0,5 % dans l'ouest du Canada, 3 % dans l'est du Canada), 53 % des veaux de l'ouest du Canada et 77 % des veaux de l'est du Canada étaient classés comme ayant moins des concentrations de sélénium moins qu'adéquates (< 0,08 ppm). Une carence en cuivre (< 0,5 ppm) était courante chez les veaux de l'ouest (17 %) et de l'est (14 %) du Canada. Des concentrations élevées de molybdène (> 0,10 ppm) ont été identifiées chez 6 % des veaux de l'ouest du Canada et 7 % des veaux de l'est du Canada. Conclusion: Les concentrations de sélénium étaient plus élevées chez les veaux de l'ouest du Canada que chez ceux de l'est du Canada (P < 0,001). Les concentrations de cuivre et de molybdène n'étaient pas significativement différentes entre l'ouest et l'est du Canada. Un taux de cuivre sérique nettement insuffisamment était la carence la plus courante identifiée chez les veaux de boucherie canadiens au sevrage. Pertinence clinique: Les oligo-éléments sont importants pour le fonctionnement du système immunitaire des veaux au sevrage. Les concentrations de sélénium chez les veaux au sevrage étaient inférieures à celles des vaches des mêmes troupeaux collectées lors des tests de gestation deux ans plus tôt. Des carences en cuivre ont également été identifiées, quoique moins fréquemment que chez les vaches matures. Les programmes de supplémentation pour les veaux doivent être personnalisés en fonction des tests et reconnaître les différences de risque selon la région et l'âge.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Effect of selenium nanoparticle on lipid profile in local Awassi male lambs.

Background: This research describes the methodology used for the preparation of selenium nanoparticles from Pseudomonas aeruginosa and their administration to lambs for lipid profile checking, administration of selenium nanoparticles as a medication in lambs results in hypolipidemia. Aimed: The study aimed to investigate the potential of selenium nanoparticles in improving lipid profiles in lambs. Methods: Healthy lambs (n = 10) of similar age and weight were selected for the study. The animals were housed in individual pens with free access to water and a standard diet. The lambs were randomly divided into two groups: the control group (n = 5) and the treatment group (n = 5). The control group received a standard diet, while the treatment group received the same diet and oral administrated with selenium nanoparticles at 0.1 mg/kg body weight. The administration was carried out daily for a period of 8 weeks. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein of each lamb at the beginning of the study (baseline) and at the end of the 2 weeks treatment period. The samples were collected in vacutainer tubes and allowed to clot. Serum was separated by centrifugation at 3,000 rpm for 10 minutes and stored at -80°C for estimation of lipid profile total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). The serum samples were used for the estimation of lipid profile levels using an enzymatic colorimetric method. The absorbance was measured at 540 nm using a spectrophotometer. Results: The results showed a significant decrease in serum TC, triglyceride, and very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels after selenium nanoparticle supplementation compared to the control group (p < 0.05), the results indicated a significant increase in serum HDL levels after selenium nanoparticle supplementation compared to the control group (p < 0.05). This indicates that selenium nanoparticle supplementation has a beneficial effect on reducing TC levels in lambs. Conclusion: The conclusion section will summarize the findings of the study and highlight the potential of selenium nanoparticles in improving lipid profiles in lambs. The implications of the study for animal nutrition and health will be discussed, along with the need for further research in this area.

Selenium levels and their association with thyroid autoimmunity and severe preeclampsia in pregnancy: Insights from a prospective ideal breast milk cohort study.

Objective: This study aimed to assess selenium status in South Korean pregnant women and its impact on maternal thyroid function and pregnancy outcomes. Methods: 'Ideal Breast Milk (IBM) Cohort Study' included 367 pregnant women out of 442 participants and categorized into three groups based on plasma selenium levels: deficient (< 70 µg/L), suboptimal (70-99 µg/L), and optimal (≥ 100 µg/L). During the second or third trimester, various blood parameters, including selenium, thyroid-stimulating hormone, free T4, free T3, and anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody levels, were measured. Thyroid parenchymal echogenicity was assessed as another surrogate marker for thyroid autoimmunity using ultrasonography. Results: The median plasma selenium was 98.8 (range: 46.7-206.4) µg/L, and 30 individuals (8%) were categorized as deficient, while 164 (45%) were classified in the suboptimal group. Selenium deficiency was associated with markers of autoimmune thyroiditis, including positive anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody results (13.3 (deficient) vs 4.6 (optimal) %, P = 0.031) and thyroid parenchymal heterogeneity on ultrasound (33.3 (deficient) vs 14.6 (suboptimal) vs 17.3 (optimal) %, P = 0.042), independently of gestational age. The incidence of severe preeclampsia was higher in the group not taking selenium supplements, particularly among those with twin pregnancies, compared to the group taking selenium supplements (0 (selenium supplement) vs 9.0 (no supplement) %, P = 0.015). Conclusion: Pregnant women experience mild selenium deficiency, which can lead to significant health issues including maternal thyroid autoimmunity and obstetrical complications during pregnancy. Guidelines for appropriate selenium intake according to the stage of pregnancy and the number of fetuses are needed.

Estimation of calories intake, iron, zinc, and selenium among children of the underprivileged area in Sindh, Pakistan.

INTRODUCTION: Malnutrition is one of the most serious community health issues in developing countries. This study estimated total energy intake, Iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn), Selenium (Se), Calcium (Ca), and Phosphate (PO4) levels among school-going children (aged 13-17 years) of the underprivileged area in Sindh, Pakistan. METHODS: Children from Mithi City, District Tharparkar, were selected for this cross-sectional investigation. Students from various schools from both genders who fulfilled the selection criteria were selected. A questionnaire was filled, and five ml blood samples were taken to analyze blood parameters. Each participant's estimated nutrient intake (ENI) per day was assessed and matched to the recommended daily allowance (RDA) to determine their micro and macronutrient intake. RESULTS: A total of 300 school-going children [150(50%) boys (mean age 15± 0.8 years) and 150(50%) girls (mean age 14±1.3years)] were included in this study. Total calories (1449±949 Kcal vs. 1245±215 Kcal; p < .001), carbohydrates (138±27 gm vs. 126 ±25 gm; p < .001) protein (47±9.1 gm vs. 44±6 gm; p < .001) was significantly higher among boys compared to girls. In contrast, calcium (1094±105 mg vs. 1144±100; 0.004), phosphate 1050±125 vs. 1148±147; p<0.001), iron (9.2±1.7 mg vs. 10±1.3 mg; p<0.001), and Zinc (7.4±1.8 mg vs. 9.9±1.7 mg; p<0.001) intake was significantly higher among girls than boys. Gender-wise comparison of serum metals in school-going children showed that serum iron was significantly lower among girls than boys (100.86±25.65 µg/dl vs. 78.48±28.66 µg/dl; p<0.001), and no difference was found in serum Zn, Se, and Ca levels. Total proteins were also significantly lower among girls than boys (6.48±1.01g/dl vs. 4.87±1.4301g/dl; p<0.001). Serum iron, Ca, and total proteins were significantly lower among girls with normal ranges compared to boys with normal ranges. Total protein was significantly lower among girls below normal ranges than boys with normal ranges (p < .001). The correlation of carbohydrates, protein, and fat with some serum biochemical parameters in school-going children showed that serum Fe was significantly linked with proteins (r = 0.255; p < .0.05). CONCLUSION: Our findings showed a concurrent shortage of macro and micronutrients. The current study also revealed that total energy intake was lower than the RDA and significant Fe, Zn, and Se deficiencies. The findings highlight the importance of measures aimed at improving children's nutritional status.

Prevalence of T-2 Toxin in the Food and Beverages of Residents Living in a Kashin-Beck-Disease Area of Qamdo, Tibet.

It has been strongly suggested that selenium deficiency and T-2 toxin contamination have a strong relationship with the occurrence and development of Kashin-Beck disease (KBD). In order to provide information for understanding the high prevalence of KBD in Tibet, this study collected the responses to a cubital venous blood and dietary questionnaire of 125 subjects including 75 KBD patients and 50 healthy controls in a KBD-prevalent county (Luolong County) in Tibet, China. A total of 10 household local families were randomly selected in this area, and local diet samples of brick tea, Zanba powder, milk residue, and hulless Barley were collected from these residents. Selenium content in blood was detected by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The T-2 toxin contamination level in food sample was assayed using an ELISA kit. The selenium levels of patients and controls were 42.0 ± 19.8 and 56.06 ± 22.4 µg/L, respectively. The serum selenium level in controls was higher than that in patients, but there was no significant difference, and the serum selenium level both in patients and controls in Tibet was lower than the normal range. The results of the dietary survey showed that the number of respondents who consumed butter tea was large; 46.67% of patients indicated that they drank buttered tea every day, which was significantly higher than in controls. The contents of T-2 toxin in Zanba powder, milk residue, hulless barley and drinking water samples were below the detection limit (0.05 µg/kg); this result was labeled Tr. Unexpectedly, the contents of T-2 toxin in brick tea were higher, with average levels of 424 ± 56 µg/kg in Detong village and 396 ± 24 µg/kg in Langcuo village. For the first time, we report the presence of an extremely high concentration of T-2 toxin in brick tea of Tibet.

Maternal selenium deficiency during pregnancy in association with autism and ADHD traits in children: The Odense Child Cohort.

BACKGROUND: Selenoproteins regulate pathways controlling neurodevelopment, e.g., redox signaling and thyroid hormone metabolism. However, studies investigating maternal selenium in relation to child neurodevelopmental disorders are scarce. METHODS: 719 mother-child pairs from the prospective population-based Odense Child Cohort study in Denmark were included. Three selenium biomarkers, i.e. concentrations of serum selenium, selenoprotein P (SELENOP), and activity of glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPX3), along with serum copper, zinc and iron were measured in early third trimester (at 28.9+/-0.8 weeks of pregnancy). ADHD and ASD traits in children were assessed systematically using the established Child Behaviour Checklist at 5 years of age, based on a Danish reference cohort with cut-off at 90th percentile. Multivariable regression models adjusted for biologically relevant confounders were applied. RESULTS: 155 of 719 (21.6 %) children had ASD traits and 59 of 719 (8.2 %) children had traits of ADHD at 5 years of age. In crude and adjusted models, all three selenium biomarkers associated inversely with ADHD traits. For ADHD, fully adjusted OR for 10 µg/L increment in selenium was 0.76 (95 % CI 0.60, 0.94), for one mg/L increment in SELENOP was 0.73 (0.56, 0.95), and for 10 U/L increment in GPx3 was 0.93 (0.87,1.00). Maternal total selenium was inversely associated with child ASD traits, OR per 10 µg/L increment was 0.85 (0.74, 0,98). SELENOP and GPx3 were not associated with ASD traits. The associations were specific to selenium, as other trace elements such as copper, zinc, or iron were not associated with the outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The results provide coherent evidence for selenium deficiency as a risk factor for ADHD and ASD traits in an environment with borderline supply, the causality of which should be elucidated in a randomized controlled trial.

Association of dietary selenium intake and all-cause mortality of Parkinson's disease and its interaction with blood cadmium level: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a slowly progressive neurodegenerating disease that may eventually lead to disabling condition and pose a threat to the health of aging populations. This study aimed to explore the association of two potential risk factors, selenium and cadmium, with the prognosis of Parkinson's disease as well as their interaction effect. METHODS: Data were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005-2006 to 2015-2016 and National Death Index (NDI). Participants were classified as Parkinson's patients by self-reported anti-Parkinson medications usage. Cox regression models and restricted cubic spline models were applied to evaluate the association between PD mortality and selenium intake level as well as blood cadmium level. Subgroup analysis was also conducted to explore the interaction between them. RESULTS: A total of 184 individuals were included. In full adjusted cox regression model (adjusted for age, gender, race, hypertension, pesticide exposure, smoking status and caffeine intake), compared with participants with low selenium intake, those with normal selenium intake level were significantly associated with less risk of death (95%CI: 0.18-0.76, P = 0.005) while no significant association was found between low selenium intake group and high selenium group (95%CI: 0.16-1.20, P = 0.112). Restricted cubic spline model indicated a nonlinear relationship between selenium intake and PD mortality (P for nonlinearity = 0.050). The association between PD mortality and blood cadmium level was not significant (95%CI: 0.19-5.57, P = 0.112). However, the interaction term of selenium intake and blood cadmium showed significance in the cox model (P for interaction = 0.048). Subgroup analysis showed that the significant protective effect of selenium intake existed in populations with high blood cadmium but not in populations with low blood cadmium. CONCLUSION: Moderate increase of selenium intake had a protective effect on PD mortality especially in high blood cadmium populations.

Comparative mathematical modeling of causal association between metal exposure and development of chronic kidney disease.

Background: Previous studies have identified several genetic and environmental risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, little is known about the relationship between serum metals and CKD risk. Methods: We investigated associations between serum metals levels and CKD risk among 100 medical examiners and 443 CKD patients in the medical center of the First Hospital Affiliated to China Medical University. Serum metal concentrations were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). We analyzed factors influencing CKD, including abnormalities in Creatine and Cystatin C, using univariate and multiple analysis such as Lasso and Logistic regression. Metal levels among CKD patients at different stages were also explored. The study utilized machine learning and Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) to assess associations and predict CKD risk based on serum metals. A chained mediation model was applied to investigate how interventions with different heavy metals influence renal function indicators (creatinine and cystatin C) and their impact on diagnosing and treating renal impairment. Results: Serum potassium (K), sodium (Na), and calcium (Ca) showed positive trends with CKD, while selenium (Se) and molybdenum (Mo) showed negative trends. Metal mixtures had a significant negative effect on CKD when concentrations were all from 30th to 45th percentiles compared to the median, but the opposite was observed for the 55th to 60th percentiles. For example, a change in serum K concentration from the 25th to the 75th percentile was associated with a significant increase in CKD risk of 5.15(1.77,8.53), 13.62(8.91,18.33) and 31.81(14.03,49.58) when other metals were fixed at the 25th, 50th and 75th percentiles, respectively. Conclusions: Cumulative metal exposures, especially double-exposure to serum K and Se may impact CKD risk. Machine learning methods validated the external relevance of the metal factors. Our study highlights the importance of employing diverse methodologies to evaluate health effects of metal mixtures.

Serum concentrations of selenium, copper, and zinc in neonatal foals: Influence of failure of passive transfer and age-related changes.

Background: An adequate supply of trace elements is very important for equine neonates, as deficiencies can lead to health problems and even death. Objective: This study investigated serum concentrations of selenium (Se), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) in neonatal foals up to the 8th day of life. The influences of disease, age, and failure of passive transfer (FPT) on these concentrations were analyzed. Animals and procedure: Serum concentrations of Se, Cu, and Zn were determined from blood samples of 93 foals by means of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The foals were divided into 2 groups based on health status: clinically sick (n = 51) and clinically healthy (n = 42). The latter group was further divided into foals with FPT (n = 20) and those without (n = 22). Results: Mean serum concentrations for Se, Cu, and Zn were 60 ± 40 µg/L, 0.25 ± 0.22 mg/L, and 605 ± 285 µg/L, respectively. A significant influence of age on serum Cu concentration was observed (P < 0.0001). No differences were observed between any of the serum concentrations in clinically sick and clinically healthy foals on the 1st day of life. The FPT status was not associated with reduced serum concentrations of Se, Cu, or Zn. Conclusion and clinical relevance: It is not necessary to supplement trace elements in all foals with FPT.

Concentrations sériques de sélénium, de cuivre et de zinc chez les poulains nouveau-nés : influence de l'échec du transfert passif et des changements liés à l'âge. Contexte: Un apport suffisant en oligo-éléments est très important pour les nouveau-nés équins, car des carences peuvent entraîner des problèmes de santé, voire la mort. Objectif: Cette étude a examiné les concentrations sériques de sélénium (Se), de cuivre (Cu) et de zinc (Zn) chez les poulains nouveau-nés jusqu'au 8ème jour de vie. Les influences de maladies, de l'âge et de l'échec du transfert passif (FPT) sur ces concentrations ont été analysées. Animaux et procédure: Les concentrations sériques de Se, Cu et Zn ont été déterminées à partir d'échantillons de sang de 93 poulains au moyen d'une spectrométrie de masse à plasma à couplage inductif. Les poulains ont été divisés en 2 groupes en fonction de leur état de santé: cliniquement malades (n = 51) et cliniquement sains (n = 42). Ce dernier groupe a été divisé en poulains avec FPT (n = 20) et ceux sans (n = 22). Résultats: Les concentrations sériques moyennes de Se, Cu et Zn étaient respectivement de 60 ± 40 µg/L, 0,25 ± 0,22 mg/L et 605 ± 285 µg/L. Une influence significative de l'âge sur la concentration sérique de Cu a été observée (P < 0,0001). Aucune différence n'a été observée entre les concentrations sériques chez les poulains cliniquement malades et cliniquement sains au premier jour de leur vie. Le statut FPT n'était pas associé à une réduction des concentrations sériques de Se, Cu ou Zn. Conclusion et pertinence clinique: Il n'est pas nécessaire de supplémenter tous les poulains en oligo-éléments avec FPT.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Genetic prediction of micronutrient levels and the risk of colorectal polyps: A mendelian randomization study.

OBJECTIVE: Previous epidemiological and experimental studies have yielded conflicting results regarding the influence of human micronutrient levels on the risk of colorectal polyps (CP). In our study, we conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) investigation to probe the link between 13 human micronutrients (calcium, selenium, magnesium, phosphorus, folate, vitamins B-6, B-12, C, D, beta-carotene, iron, zinc, and copper) and the genetic susceptibility to CP. METHODS: Summary statistics for CP (n = 463,010) were obtained from pan-European genome-wide association studies, and instrumental variables for 13 micronutrients were screened from published genome-wide association studies (GWAS). After selecting suitable instrumental variables, we performed a two-sample MR study, deploying sensitivity analyses to judge heterogeneity and pleiotropy, using inverse variance weighted methods as our primary estimation tool. RESULTS: Our study identified that a genetic predisposition to elevated toenail and circulating selenium or serum ß-carotene concentrations lowers the risk of CP occurrence. However, no statistically significant association was observed between the other 11 micronutrients and the risk of CP. CONCLUSION: The study findings provide evidence that the micronutrient selenium and ß-carotene may confer protective effects against the development of CP.