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Micronutrient deficiencies are mostly hidden; clinically less visible compared to macronutrient deficiencies. Food fortification with multiple micronutrients (MMN) is provided for children between 6-23 months, daily for two months at three-time points. We assessed the acceptance and adherence of this nutritional intervention in an urban community setting in Sri Lanka. This cross-sectional study enrolled caregivers of children aged 7 to 23 months with a cluster sampling method. Caregivers ' acceptance of taste and smell, health gains, ease of use, and need perception (Cronbach's reliability: 0.801) were assessed. Also, anemia knowledge (Cronbach's reliability: 0.642), MMN knowledge, and reported adherence (number of sachets consumed per month) were evaluated through a self-administered questionnaire. Adequate adherence was defined as the use of ≥80% sachets. The univariate and multivariate statistical analysis examined the association of acceptability, adherence, and anemia knowledge with independent variables (socio-demographic, household characteristics, and knowledge). The survey included 153 respondents. The Median (range) age of children was 12 months (7-23). The mean (SD) acceptability score was 66.82% (9.78%). Acceptance of sensory qualities (smell/taste) had a lower score than perceived health benefit. Most consumed MMN adequately (72.5%). The mean (SD) anemia knowledge score was 62.20% (25.79%). In multivariate analysis, child's age (OR: -0.360, 95% CI:-0.510,-0.211) and father's education (OR: 2.148, 95% CI: 0.439, 3.857) were independently associated with acceptability. Child's age (OR: -0.108, 95% CI:0.818, 0.985), anemia knowledge (OR:0.016, 95% CI: 1.003, 1.031) and acceptability (OR:0.236, 95% CI:1.140, 1.406) were significant determinants of adherence. Anemia knowledge was significantly associated with the mother's education and household income when adjusted. In conclusion, unpleasant smell/taste and daily schedule were reported as barriers to MMN use. Yet, perception and trust regarding health benefits were encouraging. Reported adherence was somewhat high. Improving acceptability and anemia knowledge could enhance adherence further in this population., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

The cell wall fulfils several functions in the biology of fungi. For instance, it provides mechanical strength, interacts with the (a)biotic environment, and acts as a molecular sieve. Recently, it was shown that proteins and β-glucans in the cell wall of Schizophyllum commune bind Cu2+. We here show that the cell wall of this mushroom forming fungus also binds other (micro-)nutrients. Ca2+, Mg2+, Mn2+, NO3–, PO43-, and SO42- bound at levels > 1 mg per gram dry weight cell wall, while binding of BO3-, Cu2+, Zn2+ and MoO42- was lower. Sorption of Ca2+, Mn2+, Zn2+ and PO43- was promoted at alkaline pH. These compounds as well as BO33-, Cu2+, Mg2+, NO3–, and SO42- that had bound at pH 4, 6, or 8 could be released from the cell wall at pH 4 with a maximum efficiency of 46–93 %. Solid-state NMR spectroscopy showed that the metals had the same binding sites as Cu2+ when a low concentration of this ion is used. Moreover, data indicate that anions bind to the cell wall as well as to the metal ions. Together, it is shown that the cell wall of S. commune binds various (micro-)nutrients and that this binding is higher than the uptake by hyphae. The binding to the cell wall may be used as a storage mechanism or may reduce availability of these molecules to competitors or prevent toxic influx in the cytoplasm.

Algae are one of the promising agents for greenhouse gas reduction and biofuel production. Different technologies have been developed and introduced in last decades for algae growth. Algae plays a very imperative role in the aquatic ecosystem regarding CO 2 reduction and micro-nutrient removal. In present investigation, eight locally isolated (microalgae) strains and two pure strains were studied. The selected microalgae were grown under variable CO 2 concentration and CO 2 biofixation efficiencies along with micro-nutrient removal were monitored. Among selected strains, three strains (UMN266, UMN268 and UTEX 2714 showed adaptability up to 20% CO 2 concentration with high biomass production of 1.3, 1.4 and 1.21g/L, respectively, whereas UTEX 78 and UMN 230 growth was slow under high CO 2 concentration (20% CO 2 ). However, in step wise CO 2 feeding, the growth of UTEX 78 and UMN 230 improved considerably and up to 0.9 and 0.97 (g/L) biomasses were recorded, respectively. All algae strains showed high growth rate at 2% CO 2 feeding and nitrogen, phosphorus and ammonia removal from the simulated media were also significant. The fast-growing microalgae species tolerant up to 20% CO 2 concentration and could be used for flue gas mitigation and valuable products production. These results can contribute to understand the nature of CO 2 bio-fixation and microalgae could be a potential alternative for CO 2 fixation., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background/objectives: There is limited evidence that prominent calorie labelling on out-of-home meals helps consumers reduce calorie intakes and avoid weight gain, but no evidence on its effects on macro- and micro-nutrients. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of prominent calorie labelling on energy, macro- and micro-nutrients., Subjects/methods: Young adults in a catered residential setting were observed when choosing main meals over three study periods in fixed order in this observational study. Period 1: with calorie labels (20 weeks); period 2: without calorie labels (10 weeks); period 3: with calorie labels plus information on estimated energy requirements (10 weeks). Nutrient contents of meal choices were analysed from food composition tables., Results: Energy, 4 macronutrients and 19 micronutrients levels were derived from 4200 meals chosen by 120 subjects over 40 weeks. Means (s.d. or Median) for key macro- and micro-nutrients were for period 1: energy=658 (94) kcal, fat=31 (8.6) g, saturated fat=10.5 (2.7) g, B12=2.5 (1.7) μg, folate=119 (46.8) μg, vitamin C=80.0 (42) mg, Ca=278 (129) mg, Na=1230 (119) mg, Fe=22 (10) g, Se=19 (10.1) μg, I=34 (10.1) μg, period 2: energy=723 (87) kcal, fat=35 (7.6) g, saturated fat=12 (2.7) g, B12=3.4 (1.7) μg, Folate=182 (13.3) μg, vitamin C=87.0 (49.7) mg, Ca=379 (149) mg, Na=1352 (114) mg, Fe=41.6 (14) g, Se=26 (10.3) μg, I=38.0 (18.4) μg, period 3: energy=578 (109) kcal, fat=27.3 (9.1) g, saturated fat=8.5 (2.7) g, B12=2.2 (0.5) μg, Folate=90 (50.8) μg, vitamin C=75.0 (34) mg, Ca=277 (119) mg, Na=1205 (99) mg, Fe=14.5 (10.9) g, Se=15.0 (10) μg, I=32.0 (18.4) μg. All macro- and micro-nutrients, except for B1, vitamin C, vitamin E and Ca were significantly different between the three periods (P<0.001), but all mean intakes remained above recommended levels., Conclusions: Calorie labelling resulted in reductions in calories, fat and saturated fat contents of the meals chosen, without compromising micronutrient consumptions.

Understanding the accumulation and distribution of essential nutrients in cereals is of primary importance for improving the nutritional quality of this staple food. While recent studies have improved the understanding of micronutrient loading into the barley grain, a detailed characterization of the distribution of micronutrients within the grain is still lacking. High-definition synchrotron X-ray fluorescence was used to investigate the distribution and association of essential elements in barley grain at the micro scale. Micronutrient distribution within the scutellum and the embryo was shown to be highly variable between elements in relation to various morphological features. In the rest of the grain, the distribution of some elements such as Cu and Zn was not limited to the aleurone layer but extended into the endosperm. This pattern of distribution was less marked in the case of Fe and, in particular, Mn. A significant difference in element distribution was also found between the ventral and dorsal part of the grains. The correlation between the elements was not consistent between and within tissues, indicating that the transport and storage of elements is highly regulated. The complexity of the spatial distribution and associations has important implications for improving the nutritional content of cereal crops such as barley.

The maximum propionic acid (HPr) removal rate (R(HPr)) was investigated in two lab-scale Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Bed (UASB) reactors. Two feeding strategies were applied by modifying the hydraulic retention time (HRT) in the UASB(HRT) and the influent HPr concentration in the UASB(HPr), respectively. The experiment was divided into three main phases: phase 1, influent with only HPr; phase 2, HPr with macro-nutrients supplementation and phase 3, HPr with macro- and micro-nutrients supplementation. During phase 1, the maximum R(HPr) achieved was less than 3 g HPr-CODL(-1)d(-1) in both reactors. However, the subsequent supplementation of macro- and micro-nutrients during phases 2 and 3 allowed to increase the R(HPr) up to 18.1 and 32.8 g HPr-CODL(-1)d(-1), respectively, corresponding with an HRT of 0.5h in the UASB(HRT) and an influent HPr concentration of 10.5 g HPr-CODL(-1) in the UASB(HPr). Therefore, the high operational capacity of these reactor systems, specifically converting HPr with high throughput and high influent HPr level, was demonstrated. Moreover, the presence of macro- and micro-nutrients is clearly essential for stable and high HPr removal in anaerobic digestion.

The nutrient richness of dairy products is widely recognized, but mainly low fat or skimmed versions are generally advocated given the proportion of saturated fatty acids in milk fat. The question arises how to appraise this nutrient richness relative to the contribution of the saturated fraction of dairy fat. We reviewed available data--collected from elderly people--on nutrient contributions by dairy products in The Netherlands, on the relevance of nutrients specifically supplied by dairy products and shown to be associated with ageing-related functional losses, and from prospective studies in selected elderly populations in Europe on the impact of dietary and lifestyle factors on morbidity and mortality. In the current daily food pattern of older adults in The Netherlands dairy products provide significant to substantial amounts of protein and a number of minerals and vitamins relevant for healthy ageing. Especially in the frail elderly it will be difficult to replace dairy products by other foods. Dietary advice should focus on an adequate supply of energy, protein and micronutrients rather than on avoiding saturated fats. For the younger healthy 65 + we estimated that including lower fat dairy products rather their whole fat equivalents, may help to improve the dietary pattern. However, prospective analyses on morbidity and mortality do not suggest that moderate dietary intake of dairy products is associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk in this age group. In dietary risk-benefit analyses the ultimate perspective should be the nutritional status, the risk profile of the target group and the place of the foods in the dietary pattern. Such analyses need more sophisticated methods than currently available and applied in this paper. In Europe initiatives have been taken to develop such methods.

Objective: Moderate beer consumption can be part of a healthy diet, like the Mediterranean diet. The aim of the present study was to analyse the contribution a moderate beer consumption makes to energy and nutrient intake in Spanish healthy adults., Material and Methods: As part of a larger intervention study, dietary intake was measured by means of a 7-day food dietary record in 24 men and 22 women (age 34.18 +/- 5.80 years) twice: during the last week of the 30 days of complete alcohol abstinence and during the last week of 30 days of moderate beer consumption. Energy and nutrient content of food was analysed by means of the GEA program, based on the Spanish food composition tables., Results: In women, moderate beer consumption increased significantly (p < 0.05) mean vitamin B6 (1.24 +/- 0.32 to 1.47 +/- 0.34 mg), B12 (3.87 +/- 1.46 to 5.58 +/- 2.76 microg), A (614.45 +/- 224.75 to 788.3 +/- 486.1 microg), and folate (139.5 +/- 39.88 to 168.25 +/- 56.32 microg) intake, whereas there was a decrease in mean iodine intake (327.1 +/- 148.4 to 281.2 +/- 135.02 microg). In men, mean vitamin B2 (1.64 +/- 0.62 to 1.91 +/- 0.46 mg), B6 (1.54 +/- 0.63 to 1.80 +/- 0.37 mg), niacin (30.01 +/- 8.13 to 34.78 +/- 6.26 mg) and folate (153.23 +/- 68.70 to 192.32 +/- 46.73 mg) intake also increased significantly. Energy, macronutrient and mineral intake had non-significant oscillations., Conclusion: Moderate beer consumption can improve diet quality in regard to B vitamins in healthy adults.

Cancer of the larynx is fourteenth most common cancer in the world. Evidence from case-control studies conducted in developed as well as developing countries suggest that specific micro-nutrients and trace elements have been implicated to be significantly associated with laryngeal carcinoma. The association of these micro-nutrients and trace elements with laryngeal cancer has been discussed in this review article.

The presence of harmful heavy metals (HMs) in the aquatic environment can damage the environment and threaten human health. Traditional remediation techniques can have secondary impacts. Thus, more sustainable approaches must be developed. Microalgae have biological properties (such as high photosynthetic efficiency and growth), which are of great advantage in the HMs removal. In this study, the effect of various concentrations (2×, 4×, and 6×) of copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), and zinc (Zn) on microalgae (C. sorokiniana GEEL-01, P. kessleri GEEL-02, D. asymmetricus GEEL-05) was investigated. The microalgal growth kinetics, HMs removal, total nitrogen (TN), total phosphor (TP), and fatty acids (FAs) compositions were analyzed. The highest growth of 1.474 OD680nm and 1.348 OD680nm was obtained at 2× and 4×, respectively, for P. kessleri GEEL-02. P. kessleri GEEL-02 showed high removal efficiency of Cu, Co, and Zn (38.92–55.44%), (36.27–68.38%), and (32.94–51.71%), respectively. Fatty acids (FAs) analysis showed that saturated FAs in C. sorokiniana GEEL-01 and P. kessleri GEEL-02 increased at 2× and 4× concentrations while decreasing at 6×. For P. kessleri GEEL-02, the properties of biodiesel including the degree of unsaturation (UD) and cetane value (CN) increased at 2×, 4×, and 6× as compared to the control. Thus, this study demonstrated that the three microalgae (particularly P. kessleri GEEL-02) are more suitable for nutrient and HMs removal coupled with biomass/biodiesel production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was carried out at the Department of Agronomy Experimental Farm, Faculty of Agriculture, Assiut University, during the growing seasons 2017/18 and 2018/19 to study the impact of foliar spray by some Nano Micro-nutrients on grain yield and quality of three cultivars of bread wheat. Randomized complete block design (RCBD) was used in this experiment in three replications using strip plot arrangement. The bread wheat varieties i.e., Sids-1, Sids-12, and Gemmeaza-11 were arranged vertically, while foliar sprays with tap water (solvent as a control) and Iron, Manganese, Zinc, Iron + Manganese, Iron + Zinc, Manganese+ Zinc and Iron + Manganese + Zinc in Nano form at 200 ppm concentration were distributed horizontally. In both seasons, the foliar spray treatment with certain micronutrient nano-particles had a significant impact on grain yield, flour percentage, coarse bran percentage, wet gluten percentage, and dry gluten percentage. As a result, wheat plants sprayed with Fe + Mn + Zn had the greatest average values of the previous traits. Furthermore, the cultivars studied had a substantial impact on the majority of the traits studied. In addition, in both seasons, the Sids-1 cultivar produced the greatest mean values of the most investigated traits. In both the 1st and 2nd seasons, the interaction between some micro-nutrients, nano-particles, and cultivars had a significant (P ≤ 0.05) and highly significant (P ≤ 0.01) impact on fermentation time. In this approach, the Sids-12 cultivar, which was sprayed with Mn+Zn in the 1st season, and the same cultivar when sprayed with Mn or Fe+Zn in the 2nd season, yielded the most elevated mean values of fermentation time (37.00 and 36.50 minutes within the two seasons). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field trials were conducted over two years at ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, to examine the effect of different rate, time, source and method of potassium fertilization on the uptake of Fe, Cu, and Zn by basmati rice under aerobic rice system. The study found that, with the exception of K fertilizer source, application timing, method, and rate significantly affected the uptake and translocation of Fe, Cu, and Zn in rice, with all three nutrients showing higher concentrations in straw than in grain across all treatments. The grain nutrient concentration improved with K application rates up to 60 kg K2O/ha, beyond which the effect was insignificant. Split application of K fertilizer in two doses of 30 kg K2O/ha each resulted in 7.1%, 2.3%, and 1.7% (pooled data) increase in grain Zn, Fe, and Cu concentrations, respectively, compared to basal application of 60 kg K2O/ha. The foliar sprays of K (2.5%) during active tillering and panicle initiation, along with basal (45 kg K2O/ha), had a statistically equivalent effect to that of two split applications of K. The harvest index (ratio between the amounts of nutrient stored in the grain to the total nutrient uptake by the plant) for Zn (21–26%), Fe (10–13%), and Cu (17–21%) indicates that only one-fourth, one-tenth, and one-fifth of the absorbed nutrients are transported to the grain, respectively. Thus, best K fertilization in aerobic rice increases uptake of Zn, Fe, and Cu from soil, enhances remobilization from straw to grain thereby improves grain nutritional quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spatial variability characterization of micronutrients is needed for agricultural quality produce and environmental safety. However, study on this aspect is weakly implicit. In present study, Global Positioning System (GPS)-based 283 surface soil samples were collected and analyzed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic carbon (OC), and micronutrients. Classical results revealed that soils are slightly acidic pH, safe in EC, low to medium in OC, and non-calcareous. OC was in order of Typic Haplustalfs-Chromic Haplusterts (S8)>Vertic Ustochrepts-Chromic Haplusterts (S3)>Typic Haplustalfs-Typic Haplustalfs (S9)>Typic Haplustalfs-Typic Ustipsammarts (S7)>Typic Haplusterts-Typic Ustorthents (S6)>Vertic Ustochrepts -Chromic Haplusterts (S5)> Lithic Ustochrepts -Typic Haplusterts (S4)>Typic Haplusterts -Vertic Ustochrepts(S2)>Typic Haplusterts-Typic Haplusterts (S1). In soils, zinc (Zn) and hot water-soluble boron (HWS-B) in order of S4>S5>S7>S9>S3>S2>S8>S1>S6 and S1>S2>S3>S4>S5>S9>S6>S7>S8, respectively. Overall, about 54.06 and 9.89% soil samples to be deficient in Zn and HWS-B in study area, respectively. Geo-statistical results showed that the exponential model was best-fitted for pH, calcium carbonate (CaCO3), OC, Zn and HWS-B and spherical model for EC and iron (Fe). However, the circular model was fitted for copper (Cu) and Manganese (Mn). The pH, EC, OC Zn, Cu, and Fe fall between 26 and 71%, which exhibit moderate spatial dependency. However, CaCO3 and Mn show 81 and 76% Nugget/sill ratios, respectively. Variability maps also showed the prediction of micronutrients using geo-statistical method better than classical methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Black gram is the important pulses crop, grown throughout the country; gives low seed yield mainly due to poor management and low soil fertility. Development of suitable technology is essential to enhance productivity. Seed priming is one such effective technology which enhance rapid and uniform emergence to achieve high vigour, leading to better stand establishment and yield. The current research aimed to study micronutrient seed priming and rhizobium coating on seed germination, seedling vigour, crop growth and seed yield in black gram. Methods: Blackgram seeds were primed with 10 different micronutrient solutions with different concentrations and evaluated for its quality parameters to find out suitable seed priming technique. Seeds from two best priming treatments were coated with rhizobium @ 30 g/kg of seed and evaluated for its production potential and resultant seed quality under field condition. Result: Seed priming with 0.5% ZnSO4 at 1/3rd seed to solution ratio for 3 hours recorded higher germination (96%) and vigour index (3811) than control which recorded 84% seed germination and 2528 of vigour index under laboratory experiment. Field experiments revealed that, seeds primed with 0.5% ZnSO4 and coated with rhizobium @ 30 g per kg of seeds improved seed yield by 13.2% over control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By transferring energy and nutrients from plankton to top predators, forage species play a major ecological role in marine food webs. While large differences in energy densities have been demonstrated among these species, other determinants of their quality remain poorly explored. We analysed 78 forage species from the Bay of Biscay, NE Atlantic, for their concentrations in various chemical elements with a documented biological role (i.e. micro‐nutrients). Species encompassed jellyfish, crustaceans, cephalopods, cartilaginous and bony fish. Elements included two essential macro‐minerals (nitrogen and phosphorous) and nine trace elements (arsenic (As), cobalt, copper (Cu), chromium, iron, manganese, nickel, selenium (Se), zinc). We showed a broad range of elemental composition values across forage species, partly driven by taxonomy (fish versus crustaceans/cephalopods) or their habitat (coastal versus oceanic, pelagic versus benthic). Some elements (As, Cu or Se) were more variable than others, especially in fish for Cu and Se. The 78 forage species were then classified by hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) into different nutritional groups, based on their composition in eleven elements. Mean concentrations of each element in the diet of eight cetacean species was finally calculated, as well as the importance of each nutritional group (as defined by HCA including all elements) for each predator species. We revealed contrasting diets in terms of exposure to elements. Neritic common dolphins and harbour porpoises but also minke whales were thus mainly supplied by the Se‐enriched nutritional group composed of small (pelagic) schooling fish (including sandeels, (horse) mackerel and also some Clupeids), while the diets of pilot whales or Risso's dolphins that mostly consume benthic cephalopods were clearly Cu‐enriched. This study raises the issue of essential element composition as another determinant of food quality, and the risk associated with changes in forage species' availability for the proper functioning of marine food webs and ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis of germinated seeds and microgreens derived from Perilla frutescens var. crispa f. viridis, hypothesizing that microgreens would exhibit higher concentrations of nutrients and bioactive compounds compared to their precursors. Perilla frutescens was chosen for its popularity and wide use in Asian cuisine. A series of analytical methods was employed to quantify and qualify various components. The findings indicate that germinated seeds exhibit significantly higher quantities of lipids, proteins, sugars, free amino acids, and minerals, whereas microgreens possess significantly high concentration of vitamins and polyphenols. These results provide valuable insights into the nutritional differences between germinated seeds and microgreens, highlighting their distinct contributions to diet. Specifically, incorporating germinated seeds can enhance macronutrient intake, while microgreens can boost antioxidant intake. These findings can inform the development of targeted dietary recommendations, promoting the inclusion of both germinated seeds and microgreens to meet specific nutritional needs and improve health outcomes. • Microgreens and germinated seeds exhibit distinct macro- and micro-nutrient compositions. • Microgreens produced without a growth medium have lower macronutrient content. • Germinated seeds contain only vitamin E, microgreens are rich in polyphenols and other vitamins. • Growth medium used for microgreens significantly influences their nutrient composition. • Carotenoids and polyphenols concentration raises from the gemination to adult plant stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is the most prevalent autoimmune disease of the central nervous system, and it has been suggested that nutrition might play a role in the etiology of MS. This study was aimed to evaluate the relationship between MS risk and intake of some macro- and micro-nutrients in Tehran (Iran). Materials and Methods: In this hospital based, case-control study, a total of 60 newly diagnosed patients with MS and 140 controls underwent face-to-face interviews. Information regarding the usual dietary intake of each individual in the past year was collected by using a valid and reliable 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Results: Inverse significant associations were observed (P< 0.05) between the intake of protein (OR=0.19; 95% CI: 0.04-0.76) and micro-nutrients such as vitamin B1 (OR=0.10; 95% CI: 0.02-0.53) , vitamin B2 (OR=0.15; 95% CI: 0.04-0.50), cobalamin (OR=0.13; 95% CI: 0.04-0.38), vitamin C (OR=0.20; 95% CI: 0.07-0.58), vitamin A (OR=0.23; 95% CI: 0.09-0.59), vitamin D (OR=0.28; 95% CI: 0.11-0.72), vitamin E (OR=0.15; 95% CI: 0.05-0.41), β-carotene (OR=0.38; 95% CI: 0.15-0.97), zinc (OR=0.05; 95% CI: 0.01-0.27), magnesium (OR=0.12; 95% CI: 0.03-0.47) and calcium (OR=0.23; 95% CI: 0.08-0.67) and the risk of MS. Conclusions: The results suggest that intake of some macro- and micro-nutrients might be associated with reduced risk of MS. It seems promising that intake of nutrients at least in the dietary reference levels may decrease the risk of MS. Keywords: Multiple Sclerosis (MS); Micronutrients; Case-control study

Background: Legumes are one of the major sources of dietary proteins for the people of India and is an inevitable component of vegetarians' diet. Among them cowpea pods and seeds are rich source of protein and accrue delicacy in cuisines. Adequate amounts of fertilizers applied through most effective and economic means can raise productivity and profitability of cowpea cultivation. Hence the present study was formulated with an objective to study the effect of water-soluble macro and micro nutrient fertilizers on nodulation, quality and nutrient uptake of vegetable cowpea. Methods: Field experiment was conducted at Coconut Research Station, Balaramapuram during the period from 12 November 2020 to 31 January 2021. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 13 treatments in 3 replications. The treatments comprised of recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) as control and RDF + foliar application of NPK 19:19:19 (0.5%) or potassium nitrate (0.5%) alone or in combination with ZnSO4 (0.05%) and solubor (0.025%). Result: Foliar nutrition of micro and macro nutrients had significant effect on nodulation, quality and nutrient uptake. Foliar nutrition of 19:19:19 resulted in the production of higher number of nodules than KNO3. Among the treatments, RDF (20:30: 10 kg NPK ha-1) + foliar application of 19:19:19 (0.5%) + solubor (0.025%) at 45 DAS resulted in higher number of nodules and nodule fresh weight per plant, however higher number of effective nodules was recorded in RDF + foliar nutrition of 19:19:19 (0.5%) alone at 45 DAS. The highest uptake of N, P and K by the crop was also recorded in RDF + foliar application of 19:19:19 (0.5%) + solubor (0.025%) at 45 DAS. Zinc uptake was the highest in RDF + foliar application of KNO3 (0.5%) 45 and 60 DAS and B uptake was the highest in RDF + foliar application of KNO3 (0.5%) + solubor (0.025%) at 45 DAS. The highest crude protein content was recorded in RDF + foliar nutrition of 19:19:19 (0.5%) + ZnSO4 (0.05%) and solubor (0.025%) at 45 DAS fb 19:19:19 (0.5%) at 60 DAS. The treatment, RDF + foliar application of 19:19:19 (0.5%) + solubor (0.025%) at 45 DAS resulted in the highest number of pods and green pod yield per plant in bush type vegetable cowpea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was focused on the current status of some micro-nutrients such as (Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu) and some heavy metals such as (Pb, Co, and Ni) representing Wadi Al-Hawawer area that located at Marsa Matrouh Governorate, Egypt. The obtained results illustrated that the vertical distribution of total concentrations of Fe were decreased with increasing profile depth. However, the available concentrations of Fe were oscillated in different soil profiles. Also, the released percentage of Fe tended to decrease with depth. The released percentages of Mn in different soil profile were found to be between 0.66% and 1.66 %, respectively. The distribution of total concentrations of Mn in different soil profiles tended to be osculated with depth. The available concentrations of Zn in different soil profiles were between 2.15 mg/kg and 3.95 mg/kg in the deepest layer of profile No. 3 and in the second and last layer of profile No. 1, respectively. Generally, micro-nutrients concentrations in the studied soil profile were found to take the following sequence Fe > Mn > Zn > Cu, and the available concentrations of micronutrients in the studied soil profile were found to take the same tendency. However, the released percentages of micro- nutrients took the following order Cu > Fe > Mn > Zn. The released percentages of Pb in different soil profiles were between 2.98% to 6.67 % in the deepest layer of soil profiles No. 4 and 6 and the top surface of soil profile No. 3, respectively. The vertical distribution of available concentration of Co tended to osculate with increasing depth. The released percentages of Co were between 0.07% to 0.89% in the surface layer of soil profile No. 1 and 3, respectively. The vertical distribution of total concentration of Ni tended to increase with increasing soil depth in soil profiles No. 3, 4, and 5 respectively and vice versa with soil profiles numbers 1, 2, and 6, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the causality of micro-nutrients concentrations and risk of ovarian cancer using the Mendelian randomization approach. Analyses were conducted using summary statistics data for SNPs robustly associated with concentrations of thirteen micro-nutrients (iron, copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, selenium, vitamin A, β-carotene, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin E, folate). The corresponding data for ovarian cancer were obtained from the Ovarian Cancer Association Consortium (25,509 cases and 40,941 controls). In standard Mendelian randomization analysis, the odds ratios (OR) of invasive epithelial ovarian cancer were 0.14 (95% CI, 0.03–0.70; P = 0.02) per 0.1 mmol/L (about one standard deviation, SD) increase in genetically predicted magnesium concentration, 1.04 (95% CI, 1.00–1.09; P = 0.03) per 0.3 μmol/liter (about one SD) increase in genetically predicted β-carotene concentration. The OR of low malignant potential tumours were 0.82 (95% CI, 0.76–0.90; P = 1.01 × 10−5) per 0.3 μmol/liter (about one SD) increase in β-carotene concentration, 1.42 (95% CI, 1.21–1.68; P = 3 × 10−5) per 153 pmol/L (about one SD) increase in vitamin B12 concentration, 0.21 (95% CI, 0.06–0.76; P = 0.02) per 6 mg/L (about one SD) increase in vitamin E concentration. No significant associations of other micro-nutrients and ovarian cancer were observed. This study found that an increased risk of invasive epithelial ovarian cancer was observed with a genetically higher concentration of β-carotene, whereas a decreased risk of invasive epithelial ovarian cancer was found with a higher concentration of magnesium. As for low malignant potential tumours, increased concentration of vitamin B12 could increase the risk of low malignant potential tumours, while increased concentrations of β-carotene and vitamin E could lower the risk of low malignant potential tumours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJETIVO: El consumo moderado de cerveza puede formar parte de una dieta saludable, como la dieta mediterránea. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la contribución del consumo moderado de cerveza a la ingestión de energía y nutrientes en adultos españoles sanos. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Como parte de un estudio intervencionista más amplio, se midió la ingestión dietética mediante un registro de 7 días de los alimentos de la dieta en 24 hombres y 22 mujeres (edad: 34,18 ± 5,80 años) dos veces: durante la última semana de un periodo de 30 días de abstinencia absoluta de alcohol y durante la última semana de un periodo de 30 días de consumo moderado de cerveza. Se analizó el contenido energético y en nutrientes de los alimentos mediante el programa GEA, basado en las tablas españolas de composición de los alimentos¹. RESULTADOS: En las mujeres, el consumo moderado de cerveza aumentó de forma significativa (p < 0,05) el promedio de ingestión de vitamina B6 (1,24 ± 0,32 a 1,47 ± 0,34 mg), B12 (3,87 ± 1,46 a 5,58 ± 2,76 µg) A (614.45 ± 224.75 to 788.3 ± 468.1 µg), y folatos (139,5 ± 39,88 a 168,25 ± 56,32 µg). En hombres, también aumentó de forma significativa la ingestión de vitamina B12 (1,64 ± 0,62 a 1,91 ± 0,46 mg), B6 (1,54 ± 0,63 a 1,80 ± 0,37 mg), niacina (30,01 ± 8,13 a 34,78 ± 6,26 mg), y folatos (153,23 ± 68,70 a 192,32 ± 46,73 mg). No hubo oscilaciones significativas en la ingestión de macronutrientes ni minerales. CONCLUSIÓN: El consumo moderado de cerveza puede mejorar la calidad de la dieta con respecto a las vitaminas del grupo B in adultos sanos.OBJECTIVE: Moderate beer consumption can be part of a healthy diet, like the Mediterranean diet. The aim of the present study was to analyse the contribution a moderate beer consumption makes to energy and nutrient intake in Spanish healthy adults. MATERIAL AND METHODS: As part of a larger intervention study, dietary intake was measured by means of a 7-day food dietary record in 24 men and 22 women (age 34.18 ± 5.80 years) twice: during the last week of the 30 days of complete alcohol abstinence and during the last week of 30 days of moderate beer consumption. Energy and nutrient content of food was analysed by means of the GEA program, based on the Spanish food composition tables. RESULTS: In women, moderate beer consumption increased significantly (p < 0.05) mean vitamin B6 (1.24 ± 0.32 to 1.47 ± 0.34 mg), B12 (3.87 ± 1.46 to 5.58 ± 2.76 µg), A (614.45 ± 224.75 to 788.3 ± 486.1 µg), and folate (139.5 ± 39.88 to 168.25 ± 56.32 µg) intake, whereas there was a decrease in mean iodine intake (327.1 ± 148.4 to 281.2 ± 135.02 µg). In men, mean vitamin B2 (1.64 ± 0.62 to 1.91 ± 0.46 mg), B6 (1.54 ± 0.63 to 1.80 ± 0.37 mg), niacin (30.01 ± 8.13 to 34.78 ± 6.26 mg) and folate (153.23 ± 68.70 to 192.32 ± 46.73 mg) intake also increased significantly. Energy, macronutrient and mineral intake had non-significant oscillations. CONCLUSION: Moderate beer consumption can improve diet quality in regard to B vitamins in healthy adults.

Two field experiments were carried out during two summer seasons of 2018 and 2019 at the Experimental Farm of the Faculty of Agriculture, Assiut University, Assiut, to study the response of two maize hybrids [Single Cross (S.C.) 10 (H1) and Trible Cross (T.C.) 321 (H2)] on yield and its components of three micro-nutrients (M1= B, M2= Zn and M3= Mn) and three foliar spray levels= control (water only), S1= (25 ppm B, 50 ppm Zn and 34 ppm Mn) and S2= (50 ppm B, 100 ppm Zn and 68 ppm Mn). Experimental design was randomized complete block design (RCBD) using split-plot in strips, where nutrients allocated in the main vertically, foliar spray levels were arranged in the main horizontally and maize hybrids were occupied the sub-plots. According to research results, the maximum values for plant height in two seasons, 100 grain weight and grain yield/fed. in the 2nd season were obtained by Zn treatment, as well as the maximum ones for grain yield/fed. and its components were achieved by B treatment in the 1st season. - The highest values of plant height, ear length, ear diameter, grains weight/ear, 100 grain weight and grain yield/fed. were recorded by foliar (25, 50 and 34 ppm B, Zn and Mn, respectively) in the 1st season only. - The hybrid S.C. 10 gave the highest values for plant height and ear length in both seasons, grain weight/ear and grain yield/fed. in the 1st season, while the hybrid T.C. 321 surpassed for 100 grain weight in both seasons, ear diameter, grains weight/ear and grain yield/fed. in the 2nd season. - The first order interaction H1xM2 (hybrid S.C. 10 x Zn) achieved the maximum values for ear length in both seasons, plant height and grain yield/fed. (18.8 ard.) in the 1st season, as well as H2xM3 interaction (hybrid T.C. 321 x Mn) achieved the maximum ones for grain weight/ear, 100 grain weight and grain yield/fed. (20.2 ard.) in the 2nd season. - The H1xS1 interaction (hybrid S.C. 10 x foliar 25, 50 and 34 ppm B, Zn and Mn) and H2xS2 interaction (hybrid T.C. 321 x foliar 50, 100 and 68 ppm B, Zn and Mn) gave the maximum values for grains weight/ear and grain yield/fed. (19.7 and 22.5 ard.) in the 1st and 2nd seasons, respectively. - The M1xS1 interaction (B x foliar 25 ppm B) showed the highest values for grains weight and grain yield/fed. in the 1st season, while M3xS2 interaction (Mn x foliar 68 Mn) showed the highest ones for ear diameter and grain yield/fed. in the 2nd season. - The second order interactions H1xM2xS1 (hybrid S.C. 10 x Zn x foliar 50 ppm Zn) and H2xM3xS2 (hybrid T.C. 321 x Mn x foliar 68 ppm Mn) gave the highest values for grains weight/ear and grains yield/fed. (21.1 and 29.1 ard.) in the 1st and 2nd seasons, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil fertility is an important factor, which determines the growth of plant. In general soil chemical fertility and in particular lack of nutrient inputs is a major factor in soil degradation (Hartemink et al., 2010). The available nitrogen was measured by Jain and Singh 2014 from Madhya Pradesh, India its value ranges from 172 ±2.1 to 193.3 kgha-1 for red, and brown soil and 197±4.9 to 215±21 kgha-1 for black soil, 183±19 kgha-1 nitrogen investigate in yellow soil (Jain and Singh, 2014). Phosphorus is also part of every living cell in plant. It is one of the most important micronutrient essential for plant growth. Phosphorus is most often limiting nutrients remains present in plant nuclei and act as a energy storage. It helps in transfer of energy (Jain et al., 2014). Adequate phosphorus availability for plants stimulates early plant growth and hastens maturity. The soil with minimum leaching is known to contain high amount of phosphorus as compared to the soil with maximum leaching (Ashraf et al., 2012). Potassium is not an integral part of any major plant component but it plays a key role in a vast array of physiological process vital to plant growth from protein synthesis to maintenance of plant water balance (Sumithra et al., 2013). Soil characterization in relation to evaluation of fertility status of the soils of an area or region is an important aspect in context of sustainable agricultural production. Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur are important soil elements that control its fertility and yields of the crops. The use of plant nutrients in a balanced manner is the prime factor for efficient fertilizer program. Balanced nutrient use ensures high production level and helps to maintain the soil health. Because of imbalanced and inadequate fertilizer use coupled with low efficiency of other inputs, the response (production) efficiency of chemical fertilizer nutrients has declined tremendously under intensive agriculture in recent years. Variation in nutrient supply is natural phenomenon and some of them may be sufficient where others deficient. The stagnation in crop productivity cannot be boosted without judicious use of macro and micronutrient fertilizers to overcome existing deficiencies/imbalances. Soil fertility is determined by the presence or absence of nutrients i.e. macro and micronutrients. Soil fertility is the inherent ability of soils to supply nutrient elements to plants. Soil fertility is related to the amount of available nutrients. Some measure it by the yield capacity, and others look it to be a function of organic matter or even soil texture. In brief, soil fertility refers to the availability status of essential macro and micro nutrients in the soil (Tisdale et.al., 1993). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chemical methods allowing a single soil extraction followed by multi‐elemental simultaneous measurement by ICP‐OES are increasingly used to predict plant uptake; however, calibration results against crop response are scarce and contradictory. Aims: Our aims were to evaluate the efficacy of five extractants to predict nutrient uptake by a greenhouse wheat crop, as well as the influence of soil properties on nutrient concentrations in soil extracts and wheat plants. Methods: Unlike other calibration studies, we monitored the pre‐seeding to post‐harvesting changes in soil available Ca, K, Mg, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, and Al. We extracted 14 acidic soils (C content: 47–114 g kg−1) with two traditional (AA: ammonium acetate; DTPA: diethylenetriamine‐pentaacetic acid) and three multi‐element extractants (AB‐DTPA: ammonium bicarbonate‐DTPA; Mehlich‐3; AA‐DTPA: ammonium acetate‐DTPA). Results: Relationships between bioavailable and chemically extractable elements were strong for K (R2 = 0.776 to R2 = 0.882; p < 0.001) and Zn (R2 = 0.663 to R2 = 0.721; p < 0.001), especially for AB‐DTPA and AA‐DTPA. Multiple regressions including also soil properties can predict wheat‐Ca (Feoxihydroxides, clay and CaAB‐DTPA; R2 = 0.656; p < 0.001) and wheat‐Cu [Aloxihydroxides and either CuAB‐DTPA (R2 = 0.515; p < 0.01) or CuAA‐DTPA (R2 = 0.472; p < 0.01)]. Pre‐seeding to post‐harvesting changes in KAA‐DTPA and KAB‐DTPA were strongly related with K uptake by wheat (R2 = 0.927 and R2 = 0.949, respectively; p < 0.001); similarly, for wheat‐Zn the best relationships were with ZnMehlich‐3 and ZnAA‐DTPA (R2 = 0.654 and R2 = 0.757, respectively; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Consequently, chemical extractants alone can adequately predict K and Zn bio‐availability, and combined with some soil properties can predict wheat uptake of Ca and Cu, but not that of other nutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted in the Plum orchard zone of district Peshawar. The study was aimed to investigate the levels of different micronutrients in the orchard soil and crop in corresponding to non-orchards. For this purpose, samples of soil and seasonal crop (wheat crop) were collected from both orchard and non-orchard fields. The collected samples were analyzed for various metals such as Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd, Cr, Ni and Co through Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The results showed that in orchard soils, mean concentrations of Mn (486.9 mg/Kg), Cu (81.66 mg/Kg), Cd (2.21 mg/Kg), Cr (54.2 mg/Kg) and Ni (27.9 mg/Kg) were observed above their allowable limits. Similarly, in orchard wheat crops, a higher accumulation of Fe (416.1 mg/Kg), Cu (18.6 mg/Kg), Cr (1.5 mg/Kg) and Cd (0.63 mg/Kg) was calculated in the wheat grain/seed part. In non-orchards, all metals were found at safe levels. Analysis of the irrigation water revealed higher limits of Mn (0.06 mg/L), Fe (1.94 mg/L), Cd (1.29 mg/L), Cr (3.14 mg/L) and Ni (1.23 mg/L). Geo-accumulation Index showed a moderate and heavy level of contamination in orchard soils (Igeo. <1, 2). Higher uptakes of Mn (0.81) and Cu (0.87) were calculated in wheat crops of orchards through Transfer Factor (TF). Based on the observations, it is concluded that metals enrichment in orchard fields can be attributed due to excessive applications of fungicide sprays, fertilizers and contaminated water sources that introduce trace-elements into the soil and are subsequently absorbed by plants. Therefore, it is considered important to take appropriate measures to monitor the soils, crops and water for different micronutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Disease-related malnutrition, as a major cause of morbidity and mortality in cancer patients, is very common in patients with gastric cancer (GC). Malnutrition in cancer patients was reported to have important adverse effects, including a decreased response and tolerance to treatment, a decrease of performance, shorter survival, and lower quality of life. The treatment approaches involving chemotherapy is known to develop various acute and chronic symptoms that restrict eating and, thereby, exert a profound impact on nutritional status. Method: In this study, 82 patients with GC with an average age of 48.33 ± 10.74 were enrolled. Patients were followed up for 6 months without any nutritional intervention and/or education. A 168 item semi-quantities food frequency questioner was completed by a trained nutritionist at the beginning of the study and six months after the start of chemotherapy. Results: Intake of vitamin A (T0:585.52 ± 203.34 vs. T6:529.48 ± 138.91, t = 2.96), Thiamin (T0:2.09 ± 0.76 vs. T6:1.80 ± 0.72, t = 2.81), vitamin B6 (T0:2.03 ± 0.53 vs. T6:2.29 ± 0.73, t = 2.56), and vitamin B12 (T0:5.79 ± 3.96 vs. T6:4.48 ± 2.20, t = 2.43) significantly decreased after 6 months of receiving chemotherapy. On the other intake of beef (T0:17.79 ± 25.48 vs. T6:12.58 ± 16.66, t = 2.06), low-fat milk (T0:52.57 ± 69.80 vs. T6:29.18 ± 45.89, t = 2.95), cream (T0:2.42 ± 4.16 vs. T6:1.06 ± 1.68, t = 2.88), and raw vegetable (T0:6.54 ± 9.55 vs. T6:3.85 ± 5.23, t = 2.54) significantly decreased. Conclusion: Nutritional deterioration is an important part of the pathogenesis of cancer and its treatment that can occur at any point in the timeline of cancer diagnosis, treatment or support. Therefore nutritional counseling and supportive services are needed for cancer patients, especially when their disease is diagnosed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) is a drought-tolerant legume crop widely cultivated in arid and semi-arid regions of sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), including South Africa. The leaves, young and immature pods, and grains of cowpea are a vital source of plant-based proteins and essential nutrients for human wellbeing. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of genotype-by-environment interaction (GEI) on the contents of micro-nutrients and protein content of the green pods of cowpea to recommend superior genotypes for cultivation and breeding. Fifteen genetically diverse cowpea genotypes were evaluated across six test environments in South Africa, using a randomized complete block design replicated three times. Micro-nutrients such as iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), and total protein (TP) content were determined in the immature pods of cowpea. Data were subjected to additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) analysis. Significant (p < 0.05) genotype (G) differences were detected for Fe, Mn, Zn and TP, suggesting the presence of genetic divergence for selection. Furthermore, a significant (p < 0.05) environment (E) effect was recorded for all studied nutrient, indicating the impact of the test environments on nutrient compositions. The GEI effect was significant for all the assessed nutrients, indicating that specific and broadly adapted genotypes could be identified. Based on best linear unbiased estimates (BLUEs) and best linear unbiased predictors (BLUPs) analyses, the following ranges of nutrient compositions were observed: Fe (83.70–109.03 and 69.77–134.16 mg/kg), Mn (20.60–33.83 and 18.75–36.83 mg/kg), Zn (33.79–40.53 and 28.81 mg/kg), and TP (22.37–24.54 and 21.44–25.25 mg/kg), respectively, across the tested environments. The AMMI test procedure (FR-test) identified the first interaction principal component axis (IPCA-1) to be a significant (p < 0.05) component of the GEI, explaining >91% of phenotypic variation in nutrient contents among the tested genotypes across environments. Cowpea genotypes Meterlong Bean and TVU-14196 were identified for their high Fe, Zn and Mn contents and recommended for cultivation in Mafikeng, Potchefstroom and Roodeplaat in South Africa. For TP, genotypes Meterlong Bean and Kisumu Mix had stable performance and are recommended for production at all the test environments. The identified genotypes are recommended for future cultivation and breeding to supplement micro-nutrients and protein and combat nutrient deficiencies and malnutrition in South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of macro- (NH4Cl) (set I) and micro-nutrients (Fe, Ni, Co and Mo) (set II) addition on chemical oxygen demand (COD) solubilisation during anaerobic mono-digestion of grass silage was investigated in two sets of leach bed reactor experiments at 35°C. Results showed that addition of NH4Cl and micro-nutrients improved COD solubilisation by 18% (0.56 g SCOD g−1 volatile solids) and 7% (0.45 g SCOD g−1 VS), respectively than control. About 20-50% of the added micro-nutrients were bioavailable in the produced leachates, while the rest (50-80%) were adsorbed onto the grass silage. Results of biological methane potential assays showed that, specific methane yields of grass silage were improved by 17% (0.36 ± 0.02 m3 CH4 kg−1 VSadded) when NH4Cl was supplemented while Fe, Ni, Co and Mo addition improved methane yields by 15% (0.33 ± 0.005 m3 CH4 kg−1 VSadded) when compared to control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known about the response of pomegranate to the foliar application with nutrients and gibberellic acid. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) experiment was conducted on 40-years old Manfalouty pomegranate trees grown on Upper Egypt. The study aims to investigate the effect of foliar application with gibberellic acid (GA3), potassium silicate (PS), zinc sulphate (ZS) and fetrilon compi (FC) which is a mixture of micronutrients on fruiting of pomegranate trees. All the tested treatments significantly (P< 0.05) improved the yield and fruit quality and reduced the fruit cracking percentage. GA3 and FC spraying induced a 15 and 11% increase in the fruit yield and minimized the cracking percentage by 47 and 61% compared to the control treatment, respectively. It is recommended to spray Manfalouty pomegranate trees with micronutrients, potassium silicate, or zinc sulphate twice at mid of June and August to enhance the pomegranate yield and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recycling of livestock manure in cropping systems is considered to enhance soil fertility and crop productivity. However, there have been no systematic long-term studies of the effects of manure application on soil and crop macro- and micro-nutrients, heavy metals, and crop yields in China, despite their great importance for sustainable crop production and food safety. Thus, we conducted field experiments in a typical cereal crop production area of the North China Plain to investigate the effects of compost manure application rates on wheat yield, as well as on the macro-/micro-nutrients and heavy metals contents of soil and wheat. We found that compost application increased the soil total N and the available K, Fe, Zn, and Mn concentrations, whereas the available P in soil was not affected, and the available Cu decreased. In general, compost application had no significant effects on the grain yield, biomass, and harvest index of winter wheat. However, during 2012 and 2013, the N concentration decreased by 9% and 18% in straw, and by 16% and 12% in grain, respectively. With compost application, the straw P concentration only increased in 2012 but the grain P generally increased, while the straw K concentration tended to decrease and the grain K concentration increased in 2013. Compost application generally increased the Fe and Zn concentrations in straw and grain, whereas the Cu and Mn concentrations decreased significantly compared with the control. The heavy metal concentrations increased at some compost application rates, but they were still within the safe range. The balances of the macro-and micro-nutrients indicated that the removal of nutrients by wheat was compensated for by the addition of compost, whereas the level of N decreased without the application of compost. The daily intake levels of micronutrients via the consumption of wheat grain were still lower than the recommended levels when sheep manure compost was applied, except for that of Mn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pasture micro-nutrient concentrations are often deficient for herbage productivity and the health of livestock. The aim of this study was to investigate soil and herbage micro-nutrient content and the effects on yield on the three pasture systems of the North Wyke Farm Platform (NWFP): high-sugar grass + legume mix minus nitrogen (N) fertilizer (blue/HSG + L); permanent pasture plus N fertilizer (green/P + N); high-sugar grass plus N fertilizer (red/HSG + N). The locations with high soil total micro-nutrient concentrations had a greater slope and higher soil organic matter (SOM) content. Herbage micro-nutrient concentrations were often greater at the locations with high soil total micro-nutrient concentrations. The concentration and uptake of nearly all micro-nutrients was greatest in the herbage of the green/P + N system, which had the highest SOM content, whereas they were often lowest in the red/HSG + N system, which had the lowest SOM and the highest yield, indicating biomass dilution of micro-nutrients in the herbage. At the locations with high soil micro-nutrient concentrations, yield was higher than at locations with low micro-nutrient concentrations, and was equal across the three pasture systems, regardless of fertilizer N treatment. Variation in micro-nutrient uptake/yield in the blue grass–legume system was predominantly explained by the soil molybdenum (Mo) concentration, possibly relating to the requirement for Mo in biological nitrogen fixation. There was, therefore, a trade-off in ploughing and re-seeding for higher yield, with the maintenance of SOM being important for herbage micro-nutrient content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, as of 2010, an estimated 285 million people had diabetes, with type 2 making up about 90% of the cases. Its incidence is increasing rapidly and by 2030, this number is estimated to almost double. Diabetes mellitus occurs throughout the world, but is more common (especially type 2) in the more developed countries. All forms of diabetes have been treatable since insulin became available in 1921 and type2 diabetes may be controlled with medications. Insulin and some oral medications can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugars). Both types 1 and 2 are chronic conditions that cannot be cured. In healthy control group microphotographs of liver tissues showed normal architecture of hepatocytes, sinusoids and hepatic central vein. Photomicrograph of diabetic liver treated with micronutrient Zinc showed portal vein and congestion in sinusoid, treated with micronutrient Selenium showed increased pycnotic nuclei, atrophy and Kupfer cells were also seen and treated with micronutrient Chromium showed normal portal vein and slight necrosis and degeneration. In liver sections, hepatocytes have lost their normal architecture and a number of hepatocytes showed marked cytoplasmic vacuolization. After 30 days expose the dilated portal vein were shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]