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HIGHLIGHTS • Serum vitamin D levels were significantly different between POP and in healthy women. • Micronutrient MMP-1 expression is increased in POP patients. ABSTRACT Objective: Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) is when pelvic tissues sink into the vagina due to weakened ligaments or muscles. POP is common globally. Adequate nutrition, including Vitamin D, is vital for prevention. Vitamin D maintains bone and muscle health, regulates MMP-9 to control collagen, essential for pelvic support. Increased MMPs lead to collagen breakdown and POP. Recognizing vitamin D's role in collagen and POP is crucial for prevention. This study aimed to determine definitive association between vitamin D, collagen type I and MMP-1 in POP patients. Materials and Methods: Our search yielded 1375 studies, of which 7 were included in the present investigation. Two studies addressed the micronutrient status of vitamin D, four investigated the micronutrient status of type 1 collagen, and two studied the micronutrient status of MMP-1 in postpartum POP patients. Results: The results showed that the mean of vitamin D levels from POP group was substantially decreased compared to a those of healthy women in the control group (95% confidence interval (CI), -3.64; -3.44 and p

Micronutrient-malnutrition is one of the most serious battle human beings are fighting. The so-called Hidden hunger is all because of micronutrient deficiencies. Iron deficiency anemia is affecting more people than any other prevailing disorder. However, iron-supplementation aggravate the infectious diseases and present policies of iron therapy carefully evaluate the pros and cons. In current review, we have evaluated the biofortification approaches for combating hidden hunger, in the light of medical and nutritional advancements. Enhancement of iron in edible plant parts is expected to improve nutrient status of human beings via crops. The density of minerals and vitamins in staple foods consumed by the poor can be raised using either traditional plant breeding or transgenic approaches, a process known as biofortification. Microbial iron biofortification is a valuable approach for human being especially in developing countries where poor people cannot afford to buy expensive supplementation. Moreover, prevailing condition of Covid-19 demands a fighting immune system and iron is likely to play vital role in improving human immune system.

Abstract Background Micronutrients, namely vitamins and minerals, are associated with cancer outcomes; however, their reported effects have been inconsistent across studies. We aimed to identify the causally estimated effects of micronutrients on cancer by applying the Mendelian randomization (MR) method, using single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with micronutrient levels as instrumental variables. Methods We obtained instrumental variables of 14 genetically predicted micronutrient levels and applied two-sample MR to estimate their causal effects on 22 cancer outcomes from a meta-analysis of the UK Biobank (UKB) and FinnGen cohorts (overall cancer and 21 site-specific cancers, including breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer), in addition to six major cancer outcomes and 20 cancer subset outcomes from cancer consortia. We used sensitivity MR methods, including weighted median, MR-Egger, and MR-PRESSO, to assess potential horizontal pleiotropy or heterogeneity. Genome-wide association summary statistical data of European descent were used for both exposure and outcome data, including up to 940,633 participants of European descent with 133,384 cancer cases. Results In total, 672 MR tests (14 micronutrients × 48 cancer outcomes) were performed. The following two associations met Bonferroni significance by the number of associations (P

Metabolomics is an emerging tool to understand the potential implications of nanotechnology, particularly for agriculture. Although molybdenum (Mo) is a known plant micronutrient, little is known of its metabolic perturbations. Here, corn and wheat seedlings were exposed to MoO3 nanoparticles (NPs) and the corresponding bioavailable Mo6+ ion at moderate and excessive levels through root exposures. Physiologically, corn was more sensitive to Mo, which accumulated up to 3.63 times more Mo than wheat. In contrast, metabolomics indicated 21 dysregulated metabolites in corn leaves and 53 in wheat leaves. Five more metabolomic pathways were perturbed in wheat leaves compared to corn leaves. In addition to the overall metabolomics analysis, we also analyzed individual metabolite classes (e.g., amino acids, organic acids, etc.), yielding additional dysregulated metabolites in plant tissues: 7 for corn and 7 for wheat. Most of these were amino acids as well as some sugars. Additional significantly dysregulated metabolites (e.g., asparagine, fructose, reduced glutathione, mannose) were identified in both corn and wheat, due to Mo NP exposure, by employing individual metabolite group analysis. Targeted metabolite analysis of individual groups is thus important for finding additional significant metabolites. We demonstrate the value of metabolomics to study early stage plant responses to NP exposure.

Potassium (K) deficiency in corn is an emerging concern, especially when the crop is exposed to stress conditions. The insufficient replenishment of K in soil heightens the severity. A good K management requires adequate knowledge of its effect on plant growth and physiology. A sunlit growth chamber study was conducted under five levels of potassium concentrations, 100% (control; 193 ppm), 40%, 20%, 5%, and 0%, using modified Hoagland’s nutrient solution applied at first leaf stage and continued until tasseling. The plant growth and development were monitored at different growth stages. Physiological parameters were measured at the tasseling stage. Significant differences (p < 0.05 to 0.001) in plant growth and physiological parameters were recorded in response to potassium rates. The 0% K treatment reduced the leaf K content and addition of leaf area day−1 by 85% and 8%, respectively, compared to the control. The rate of total biomass accumulation reduced to 5.4 g day−1 under 0% K compared to 7.7 g day−1 under the control. The root-to-shoot ratio increased to 0.33 at 5% K compared to 0.16 at the control treatment. The photosynthetic rate was reduced by 30% and 35% under 5% and 0% potassium concentrations, respectively, compared to the control. The 0% K deficiency decreased the stomatal conductance by 60% over control, lowering the internal CO2 level and transpiration. Linear and quadratic relationships were observed between leaf K content and electron transport rate (R2 = 0.98) and transpiration rate (R2 = 0.96), respectively. The functional relationships generated from this study will help improve corn models for field applications.

Background: Micronutrient (MN) supplementation has a positive impact on clinical outcomes. However, the evidence for the impact of MN supplementation remains controversial. Therefore, our study aims to assess the impact on nutritional outcomes according to exploring the implementation of MN support with multidisciplinary collaboration. Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a university hospital in Incheon, Korea. All patients referred to a nutrition support team (NST) between July and November 2022 were included. The NST reviews the MN protocol, which includes multivitamins and trace elements, based on international nutrient guidelines. All patients who were on nothing per oral and did not meet ≥70% of their nutritional requirements within 1 week were recommended MN supplements. Compliance with the MN protocol was evaluated, alterations in nutritional status based on the Nutrition Risk Screening 2002 (NRS 2002) scoring system and clinical outcomes were assessed after 7 day and at discharge. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with high nutritional risk in discharged patients. In addition, a sub-analysis was performed on changes in the nutritional of patients on the ward and in the ICU. Results: A total of 255 patients were eligible for analysis, with many patients requiring an MN supply of nothing per oral. The rate of implementation of MN supplementation was 50.2%. The findings indicate a significant decrease in the NRS 2002 score in the good compliance group with MN supplementation. No significant differences in protocol compliance were observed in terms of mortality, hospital stay, or length of stay in the intensive care unit. However, bad compliance with MN supplementation was correlated with risk factors for malnutrition at discharge. In subgroup analysis, nutritional status in the ICU and wards improved, with a significant difference between the two groups. Conclusions: The implementation of a MN supplementation protocol by a multidisciplinary NST is a feasible approach for improving the nutritional status of inpatients. Ensuring high compliance with this protocol is crucial, as poor compliance has been identified as a risk factor for malnutrition at discharge. Active intervention by the NST is essential to achieve optimal nutritional outcomes.

Deep seawater (DS), obtained from a depth over 200 m, has health benefits due to its rich nutrients and minerals, and intake of DS has shown diverse immunomodulatory effects in allergies and cancer. Therefore, the immunostimulatory effects of Korean mineral-rich seawaters were examined in a cyclophosphamide (CPA)-induced immunosuppression model. Three samples of Korean seawater, namely DS from the East Sea off the coasts of Pohang (PDS) and Uljin (UDS), and seawater from the West Sea off the coast of Boryeong (BS), were collected. The seawaters were abundant in several minerals (calcium, iron, zinc, selenium, etc.). Mice were orally administered the seawaters for 42 days, followed by CPA-induced immunosuppression. The CPA induction reduced the weight of the spleen and lymph nodes; however, the administration of seawaters increased the weight of the lymphoid organs, accompanied by stimulation of natural killer cells’ activity and NF-kB-mediated cytokine production (IFNγ, TNFα, IL1β, IL6, and IL12). The mouse-derived splenocytes showed lymphoproliferation without cytotoxicity in the seawater groups. Histopathological analysis revealed that the seawaters improved the CPA-induced atrophic changes by promoting lymphoproliferation in the spleen and lymph nodes. These results provide useful information for the use of Korean mineral-rich seawaters, particularly PDS and UDS, as alternative immunostimulants under immunosuppressive conditions.

Iron supplements are widely consumed. However, excess iron may accelerate intestinal tumorigenesis. To determine the effect of excess iron on intestinal tumor burden and protein expression changes between tumor and normal tissues, ApcMin/+ mice were fed control (adequate) and excess iron (45 and 450 mg iron/kg diet, respectively; n = 9/group) for 10 wk. Tumor burden was measured, and two-dimensional fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis was used to identify differentially expressed proteins in tumor and normal intestinal tissues. There was a significant increase (78.3%; p ≤ 0.05) in intestinal tumor burden (mm2/cm) with excess iron at wk 10. Of 980 analyzed protein spots, 69 differentially expressed (p ≤ 0.05) protein isoforms were identified, representing 55 genes. Of the isoforms, 56 differed (p ≤ 0.05) between tumor vs. normal tissues from the adequate iron group and 23 differed (p ≤ 0.05) between tumors from the adequate vs. excess iron. Differentially expressed proteins include those involved in cell integrity and adaptive response to reactive oxygen species (including, by gene ID: ANPEP, DPP7, ITGB1, PSMA1 HSPA5). Biochemical pathway analysis found that iron supplementation modulated four highly significant (p ≤ 0.05) functional networks. These findings enhance our understanding of interplay between dietary iron and intestinal tumorigenesis and may help develop more specific dietary guidelines regarding trace element intake.

Micronutrient deficiencies are pervasive in the diets of millions of people in developing countries, calling for effective mitigation measures. The development of biofortified cultivars through breeding holds promise for sustainable and affordable solutions to combat micronutrient deficiencies. Breeding efforts in the past decade have resulted in dozens of biofortified open-pollinated varieties and hybrids adapted to diverse agroecological zones. Advances in genomics and molecular tools enabled rapid identification of maize cultivars enriched with essential micronutrients such as pro vitamin A (PVA), iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn). Leveraging Multi-omics-driven discovery of the genetic factors underlying the vast array of nutritional traits is paramount to mainstreaming breeding for quality traits in the product profile. Molecular breeding schemes, and integrating emerging Omics tools at every stage of the breeding pipeline, are vital to enhancing genetic gain. The recent momentum in elucidating the metabolism of micronutrients should be expanded to novel breeding targets as well as to the simultaneous enhancement of nutritional qualities while curtailing anti-nutritional factors in staple food crops. Harnessing new technologies to establish comprehensive and integrated breeding approaches involving nutrigenomics, genome editing, and agronomic biofortification is crucial in tackling nutritional insecurity. This review highlights the prospect of integrating modern tools in hastening the genetic improvement of nutritionally enriched maize.

Iron (Fe) plays a pivotal role in biogeochemical cycling in the soil-plant-human continuum; however, much research has focused on Fe deficiency with limited knowledge about Fe toxicity impacts on micronutrient (e.g., zinc: Zn) accumulation in cassava, an important staple tuber food in the Tropics. A sand-hydroponic-hybrid technique was undertaken for 60 days to investigate the effects of variable Fe concentrations (0.1–500 μmol Fe L−1) on the root-proton and root-organic acid release, rhizosphere Fe solubility, and levels of cassava nutrient accumulation. The results showed that high Fe concentrations (50–500 μmol Fe L−1) significantly decreased the root (0.34–0.51 g dry weight) biomass compared to the control (0.82–0.83 g dry weight). The Fe concentrations significantly regulated the net proton release from the roots by upregulating (25–45 μmol L−1 h−1 g−1 fresh weight root) and downregulating (1.8–7.1 μmol L−1 h−1 g−1 fresh weight root) the net proton efflux at low (1.0 μmol Fe L−1) and high Fe concentrations (500 μmol Fe L−1), respectively. Succinic acid was the sole organic acid observed and only in the Fe-sensitive cultivar. The water-extractable Fe in the rhizosphere sand (average 3.37 mg kg−1) was lower than in the bulk sand (average 5.31 mg kg−1), indicating that net proton efflux controlled rhizosphere Fe solubility. The high Fe concentrations significantly decreased Zn accumulation (20–29 mg Zn kg−1) but increased phosphorus (P) accumulation (2.7–3.4 g P kg−1) in the roots compared to the control (48–59 mg Zn kg−1 and 2.0–2.3 g P kg−1, respectively), implying that Fe toxicity could be responsible for the undernourished Zn content in the tuber. This study suggested the importance of alleviating Fe toxicity in soil-plant systems to mitigate cassava root Zn deficiency, which is relevant to human Zn malnutrition in countries consuming cassava as the main staple diet.

Alopesia areata telah dikenal sejak 20 abad yang lalu, namun sampai saat ini penyebab pasti belum diketahui. Pengobatan terhadap alopesia areataAA banyak macamnya, baik pengobatan topikal, injeksi intralesi atau , sistemik, dll. Setiap dokter berusaha memberikan pengobatan sesuai dengan teori-teori etiologi yang dianutnya. Tujuan dari laporan kasus ini untuk menelaah penggunaan suplemen multivitamin dan mineral serta herbal pada kasus alopesia areataAA. Seorang laki-laki berusia 18 tahun datang ke rumah sakit (RS) untuk kontrol berkala atas keluhan kebotakan yang dialaminya. Pasien terdiagnosis alopesia areata (AA) sejak 3 tahun yang lalu. Selama rawat jalan, pasien pernah mendapatkan terapi injeksi kortikosteroid intralesi (KIL) dan topikal, laser diode, minoksidil 2% topical solusio, methisoprinol oral, antivirus oral, serta berbagai supplemen multivitamin dan mineral per oral. Meskipun pengetahuan terkait peran mikronutrien dan herbal pada alopesia areataAA terus berkembang, tetapi bukti ilmiah belum cukup untuk dapat dijadikan suatu rekomendasi klinis definitif seperti anjuran pemeriksaan kadar nutrien dalam darah secara rutin atau suplementasi sebagai terapi alopesia areata AA. Oleh karena itu, klinisi perlu memberikan edukasi yang baik kepada pasien terkait penggunaan suplemen dan bahan herbal untuk terapi alopesia areatapenyakit kulit.

Abstract Objective The present study explored the relationship between maternal copper and zinc levels and preterm labor. Design The design of the present study was a case-control. Two groups were matched in terms of early-pregnancy body mass index (BMI), pregnancy and childbirth rating, education level, income, and employment status. Blood samples were taken from mothers after meeting the inclusion criteria when admitted to the maternity ward to check copper and zinc serum levels. Demographic and midwifery data were also collected using a questionnaire and patient records. The data were analyzed in SPSS26 using independent-samples T-test, chi-square, Fisher exact test, and regression analysis, and the p

Background: The population of elderly worldwide is increasing unnoticed, including in Indonesia. The world's population is aging, and many elderly people experience age-related malnutrition, including deficiencies in some micronutrients. Malnutrition in the elderly is a serious condition when the nutritional needs of the elderly do not match their food intake. Objectives: This systematic review broadly reviews various micronutrient problems and health impacts on the elderly in several countries. Methods: Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines. Several databases have been accessed; the PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect databases use a combination of MESH terms and relevant keywords. The inclusion criteria applied were studies written in English, evaluating relevant topics, providing full text, and published studies from 2017-2022 Discussion: Many disorders associated with aging are related to micronutrient deficiencies. Various factors cause micronutrient deficiencies in the elderly, but inadequate food intake is the main factor influencing this deficiency. Nutritional deficiencies experienced by the elderly are closely related to decreased immune function. The results of this review explain that the elderly experience malnutrition due to a lack of the following nutrients: vitamin D, folic acid, calcium, and vitamin B12. Conclusions: Micronutrient deficiency in the elderly causes a variety of comorbidities that reduce the elderly's quality of life in old age, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, electrolyte imbalance, dementia, and anemia. The development of food-based dietary guidelines and health promotion regarding elderly nutrition in several countries should be recommended, and it is also necessary to update national food intake references.

AbstractTo evaluate the impact of intervention strategies on helminthiasis, the nutritional and cognitive status of School-Age Children (SAC), we conducted a community trial with 4 intervention arms; “Nutrition Education Only” (NutEd), “Supplementation Only” (Suppl), “Nutrition Education+Supplementation” (NutEd+Suppl) versus a ‘Non-intervention‘(Control) group. The intervention was conducted on 358 SAC from 8 randomly selected schools (4 schools from fishing and 4 schools from farming communities) in the Kwahu Afram Plains South District of Ghana. Data were collected at baseline, third, and sixth-month post-intervention. Data were obtained through questionnaire, anthropometry, parasitology (faecal and urine analysis), hemoglobin levels (Hb) and whole blood zinc levels. The Ravens Colored Progressive Matrices (RCPM) were used for the cognitive assessment. At baseline, the overall helminthiasis prevalence was 29.6%, which decreased to 6.3% at the 6th-month post-intervention. About 7.5% of all the children were underweight, 11.2% were stunted, 21.5% were acutely malnourished, 46.1% were anemic and 31.4% were zinc deficient. These decreased to 5.3% (underweight), 8.5% (stunting), 9.8% (acute malnutrition), 16.1% (anemia) and 9.3% (zinc deficiency), respectively, at the 6th-month post-intervention. At baseline, 15.6% of the children passed the cognitive test which increased to 32.4% at the 6th-month post-intervention. The “NutEd” treatment recorded the most significantly improved of bmi-for-age z-score (0.27 ± 0.88, p = 0.002), height-for-age z-score (0.16 ± 0.38, p

In the present manuscript, the growth profile of the microalgae Spirulina sp. NCIM 5143 was studied. Screening was performed on four commercial media, i.e., blue‒green-11 (BG-11), Bold’s basal medium (BBM), algal culture medium (ACM), Zarrouk’s medium (ZM), and different concentrations (20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%) of unsterilized dairy effluent (UDE). Characterization of biomass was performed to assess its biochemical composition through various assays. Elemental composition and bioactive compound analysis were accomplished by inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP‒AES) and gas chromatography‒mass spectrometry (GC‒MS), respectively. The results revealed that maximum values of most of the parameters, i.e., optical density (0.21), chlorophyll (2.00 mg/l), proteins (119.17 mg/l), and wet (4.06 g/l) and dry biomass weight (0.28 g/l), were found on ZM. For UDE, maximum growth parameters and the highest nutrient removal efficiency were obtained at 100% concentration. Biochemical analysis revealed that total Kjeldahl nitrogen (7.14±0.49%), crude protein (48.23± 3.34%), total antioxidant activity (3.07±0.03 mg AAE/g), and total phenols (8.88±1.93 mg GAE/g) were present in the biomass. Elemental and GC‒MS analysis detected essential micronutrients and many bioactive compounds, respectively. Hence, this study proved that Spirulina sp. NCIM 5143 has the potential for the management of waste dairy effluent. This study also showed its cost-effectiveness, as the dairy effluent analyzed is used without any kind of sterilization. In addition, its biomass is rich in several essential elements, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds of therapeutic and nutraceutical importance.

Neuropathic pain is a condition with varying origins, including reduced dietary micronutrient intake. Phytate is a polyphosphate found in seeds and grains that can act as an antinutrient due to the ability of sequester essential divalent metals. Here we tested whether moderate dietary phytate intake could alter nociceptive pain. We subjected weaning mice to a chow supplemented with 1% phytate for eight weeks. Body weight gain, glycemic responses, food ingestion, water ingestion, and liver and adipose tissue weights were not altered compared to controls. We observed a decreased mechanical allodynia threshold in the intervention group, although there were no changes in heat- or cold-induced pain. Animals consuming phytate showed reduced spinal cord tumor necrosis factor (TNF), indicating altered inflammatory process. These data provide evidence for a subclinical induction of mechanical allodynia that is independent of phytate consumption in animals with otherwise normal phenotypic pattern.

Maternal vitamin D may be important for several organ systems in the offspring, including the reproductive system. In this population-based follow-up study of 12,991 Danish boys and girls born 2000–2003, we investigated if maternal intake of vitamin D supplements during pregnancy was associated with pubertal timing in boys and girls. Information on maternal intake of vitamin D supplements was obtained by self-report in mid-pregnancy. Self-reported information on the current status of various pubertal milestones was obtained every six months throughout puberty. Mean differences in months at attaining each pubertal milestone and an average estimate for the mean difference in attaining all pubertal milestones were estimated according to maternal intake of vitamin D supplements using multivariable interval-censored regression models. Lower maternal intake of vitamin D supplements was associated with later pubertal timing in boys. For the average estimate, boys had 0.5 months (95% CI 0.1; 0.9) later pubertal timing per 5 µg/day lower maternal vitamin D supplement intake. Maternal intake of vitamin D supplements was not associated with pubertal timing in girls. Spline plots and sensitivity analyses supported the findings. Whether the observed association with boys' pubertal timing translates into an increased risk of disease in adulthood is unknown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Nutrient dearth of K, p and fe are main hurdles for plant production in aquaponics. • Foliar application of deficient nutrients enhanced plant production in aquaponics. • Foliar spray inflates vegetative growth, yield and mineral content of okra. • Optimal fish and plant production improves the economic return of aquaponics. A 90-day study was conducted to investigate the combined effect of foliar application of macronutrients (phosphorus and potassium) and micronutrient (iron) on the performance of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) with pangasius (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) in an aquaponic system. A total of four treatments with variable phosphorus dosages of 2.7, 5.4, 8.1 and 10.8 g.l−1 as T1, T2, T3, and T4, respectively, in combination with 5 g.l−1 potassium and 1.0 g.l−1 iron in all treatments was compared with control. The water quality parameters were within the favourable limit for optimal aquaponic production. The foliar application of macro and micronutrients increased the vegetative growth of okra resulting in higher plant height, leaf number, length, and width in the treatments than in control, particularly in T3. A remarkable increase (p <0.05) in pod weight per plant and production of okra was observed in treatments, particularly in T3 (38.49±0.99 g per plant and 513.26±9.28 g.m−2) than the control (24.32±1.08 g.plant−1 and 324.30±18.71 g.m−2). No significant difference (p >0.05) was observed in the proximate and mineral composition of okra leaves and pods except for higher phosphorus levels in the treatment groups. The growth, haematological, biochemical and antioxidant enzyme parameters of P. hypophthalmus exhibited no significant variation (p >0.05) between the control and treatments. Thus, the study manifested that the combined foliar application of 8.1 g.l−1 of phosphorus with 5 g.l−1 of potassium and 1 g.l−1 of iron could significantly improve okra production in aquaponics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Brown spot, caused by Bipolaris oryzae, is one of the most important diseases reducing rice yield worldwide. In order to reduce the use of fungicides, more environmentally friendly alternatives for disease control need to be available to growers. The hypothesis that rice resistance against brown spot could be boosted by nickel (Ni) was investigated in this study. Methods: Rice plants (cultivar Metica-1, susceptible to brown spot) were grown in nutrient solution with (0.1 mM Ni; + Ni plants) and without Ni (-Ni plants) and challenged with B. oryzae. Histopathological changes, photosynthetic performance, activities of defense and antioxidant enzymes as well as concentrations of metabolites (hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anion radical, malondialdehyde, phenolics, and lignin) were determined. Results: Fungal hyphae massively colonized leaf tissues of -Ni plants compared to + Ni plants resulting in intense cellular damage as indicated by the higher concentration of malondialdehyde. High peroxidase (POX) activity for + Ni inoculated plants occurred at the earlier stage of fungal infection. Great lipoxygenase activity for -Ni plants possibly contributed for brown spot development. The -Ni infected plants showed less photochemical performance (lower values for maximum photochemical efficiency of photosystem II) compared to + Ni infected plants. Conclusion: Rice resistance to brown spot was increased by Ni and was a result of the potentiation of defense reactions (greater activities of β-1,3-glucanase and POX) and reduced impairment of the photosynthetic apparatus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An open label randomized control trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of micronutrients among pregnant women and assessing the antenatal and fetal complications associated with the same. The participants were randomized into intervention and control groups. The intervention group was administered with micronutrient supplementation. Demographic characteristics were captured following which analysis was done. The distribution of the demographic characteristics was assessed using independent t test and Chi square test. Multivariate analysis was performed to find the efficacy of micronutrients in terms of gestational week, body mass index, blood pressure, maternal body weight and birth weight of babies between the groups. Out of 33 subjects participated in the study, 9.09 % of the subjects delivered babies with low birth weight in treatment group, while 13.6 in control group. Patients who received 5 mo and 6 mo of micronutrients showed acceptable gestational period of 34 mo. There was a significant increase in body mass index and mid abdominal circumference in treatment group (p=0.04) in comparison to the control group. Study concluded that the addition of multiple micronutrients during gestation improves pregnancy outcomes in terms of gestational week, birth weight of babies and also body mass index, mid arm circumference and mid abdominal circumference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micronutrient iron (Fe) deficiency poses a widespread agricultural challenge with global implications. Fe deficiency affects plant growth and immune function, leading to reduced yields and contributing to the global "hidden hunger." While conventional Fe-based fertilizers are available, their efficacy is limited under certain conditions. Most recently, nanofertilizers have been shown as promising alternatives to conventional fertilizers. In this study, three nanohematite/nanoferrihydrite preparations (NHs) with different coatings were applied through the roots and shoots to Fe-deficient cucumber plants. To enhance Fe mobilization to leaves during foliar treatment, the plants were pre-treated with various acids (citric acid, ascorbic acid, and glycine) at a concentration of 0.5 mM. Multiple physiological parameters were examined, revealing that both root and foliar treatments resulted in improved chlorophyll content, biomass, photosynthetic parameters, and reduced ferric chelate reductase activity. The plants also significantly accumulated Fe in their developing leaves and its distribution after NHs treatment, detected by X-ray fluorescence mapping, implied long-distance mobilization in their veins. These findings suggest that the applied NHs effectively mitigated Fe deficiency in cucumber plants through both modes of application, highlighting their potential as nanofertilizers on a larger scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The regular consumption of citrus fruits by humans has been associated with lower incidence of chronic-degenerative diseases, especially those mediated by free radicals. Most of the health-promoting properties of citrus fruits derive from their antioxidant content of carotenoids and ascorbic acid (ASC). In the current work we have investigated the scavenging (against hydroxyl radical) and quenching capacities (against singlet oxygen) of four different carotenoid extracts of citrus fruits in the presence or absence of ASC (μM range) in organic solvent, aqueous solution, micelles and in an innovative biomimicking liposomal system of animal cell membrane (AML). The fruits of four varieties of citrus were selected for their distinctive carotenoid composition (liquid chromatography characterization): 'Nadorcott' mandarin and the sweet oranges 'Valencia late', 'Ruby Valencia' and 'Pinalate' mutant. The quenching activity of citrus carotenoids strongly depended on the biological assemblage: freely diffusible in organic solvent, 'Ruby Valencia' carotenoids (containing lycopene) showed the highest quenching activity, whereas 'Nadorcott' mandarin extracts, rich in β-cryptoxanthin, prevailed in micellar systems. Interestingly, the addition of 10 μM ASC significantly increased the quenching activity of all citrus extracts in micelles: 'Valencia' orange (+53%), 'Pinalate' (+87%), 'Ruby' (4-fold higher) and 'Nadorcott' mandarins (+20%). Accurate C11-BODIPY581/591 fluorescence assays showed solid scavenging activities of all citrus extracts against AML oxidation: 'Valencia' (−61%), 'Pinalate' (−58%) and 'Ruby' oranges (−29%), and 'Nadorcott' mandarins (−70%). Indeed, all four citrus extracts tested here have balanced antioxidant properties; extracts from the 'Nadorcott' mandarin slightly prevailed overall, due, at least in part, to its high content of β-cryptoxanthin. This study depicts some of the antioxidant interactions between citrus fruit carotenoids and ascorbic acid in models of animal cell membranes and reinforces the contribution of them in promoting health benefits for humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A healthy-balanced diet and adequate energy intake during pregnancy prevent many diseases and complaints in during pregnancy, while ensuring physical and mental growth and development of the fetus. Aims: This research aimed to analyze nutritional levels of pregnant women registered to family health centers in Amasya city center in Turkey with the Nutrition Information System (BeBIS 8.0) software, a valid and reliable one, and to evaluate effects of nutrition training given according to analysis results and Turkey Nutrition Guide on anthropometric measurements of pregnant women and newborn health. Method: Data for this a randomized controlled trial were obtained from pregnant woman living in a city center in Turkey between December 20th, 2019 and May 20th, 2021. Those who met the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to either intervention (n = 20) or control (n = 16) groups. Study data were collected using a participant information form, risk assessment and anthropometric measurements form, and daily nutrition record form. Mann Whitney U test and Chi square test were used for categorical data, since it did not show normal distribution in the evaluation between groups. Results: It was determined that no difference was found between the groups in terms of total weight gained during pregnancy, newborn birth weight, delivery type and ideal weight to be gained during pregnancy according to BMI. A statistically significant correlation was found between having problems in the postpartum period and weight gain according to BMI (p=0.04). It was determined that 87.5% of those who had problems gained less or more weight during pregnancy. A statistically significant relationship was found between the state of having problems in the postpartum period and the type of delivery (p=0.02). Conclusions: Nutrition and weight gain during pregnancy change delivery type, so they affect maternal and newborn health. Some changes were observed in the dietary habits of the pregnant women in the intervention group. Dietary habits for pregnant women should be monitored at more frequent intervals throughout the entire pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the gene action and inheritance pattern greatly help in improving desired traits including grain Fe (GFeC) and Zn (GZnC). This study was conducted to detect the gene action and improve the awareness of the genetics of GFeC and GZnC, as well as some grain-related traits in two wheat crosses using generation mean analysis (GMA) under normal and drought stress conditions. Analysis of variance revealed significant variation between the generations for most of the traits. GMA revealed that early selection in both derived populations may not be effective for improving GFeC and GZnC as well as most of the traits, due to the greater role of the dominance gene effects along with relatively low narrow-sense heritability. Therefore, it is advisable to use line fixation until advanced generations. Expression of HGW, GL and GW in Marvdasht × Sistan cross were found to be exhibited by fixable gene effects, and hence, a breeding method through pedigree selection could be adopted to exploit the additive gene effects. Heritability estimates in broad sense for GFeC in Marvdasht × Sistan cross was moderate and for GZnC in Marvdasht × Norstar cross was moderate to high. Both heterosis were significantly negative for GFeC and GZnC. The efforts reported here could be useful criteria to improve our knowledge of the genetic systems controlling GFeC and GZnC as well as helping to formulate suitable procedures to be followed for breeding these traits in bread wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of foliar spraying can be practical in critical stages for alleviating plant nutritional needs in the short term. To investigate the effect of growth enhancers in the tillering stage of wheat on the compensation of required compounds from storage sources to grain in the remobilization process in the stopping last irrigation, an experiment was carried out in a split-plot arrangement based on a randomized complete block design with three replications at the farm of Kashmar research station in 2020-2021. The main plots were two variety of wheat: V1: Sirvan and V2: Rakhshan, the subplots were growth enhancers including (T1: Control, T2: Urea phosphate (10 kg.ha-1) + solopotas (8 kg.ha-1) + amino acid (2:1000); T3: Urea phosphate (10 kg.ha-1) + solopotas (8 kg.ha-1) + micronutrient (2:1000); T4: Urea phosphate (10 kg.ha-1) + solopotas (8 kg.ha-1) + humic acid (2:1000). The results showed that the highest plant height was obtained from T3 treatment in the Sirvan cultivar. In both Sirvan and Rakhshan varieties, the highest peduncle length was recorded from a foliar spray of T3. The highest plant dry weight (1290 g.m-2) per square meter was also obtained from T2 in Sirvan. Grain weight per square meter in the Sirvan cultivar was 651, 582, and 462 g.m-2 from the application of T2, T3, and T4, respectively, which was higher than the Rakhshan cultivar in these treatments. The highest amount of photosynthesis was 19.1 μCO2mol.m-2. s-1, stomatal conductance, and intercellular CO2 (Ci) were obtained in the Sirvan cultivar by T2 application. In general, the effect of T2 treatment on photosynthesis and yield indicates compensation for the lack of grain yield (52% increase) and biomass (51%) due to the last water stop in the Sirvan cultivar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Micronutrients, namely vitamins and minerals, are associated with cancer outcomes; however, their reported effects have been inconsistent across studies. We aimed to identify the causally estimated effects of micronutrients on cancer by applying the Mendelian randomization (MR) method, using single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with micronutrient levels as instrumental variables. Methods: We obtained instrumental variables of 14 genetically predicted micronutrient levels and applied two-sample MR to estimate their causal effects on 22 cancer outcomes from a meta-analysis of the UK Biobank (UKB) and FinnGen cohorts (overall cancer and 21 site-specific cancers, including breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer), in addition to six major cancer outcomes and 20 cancer subset outcomes from cancer consortia. We used sensitivity MR methods, including weighted median, MR-Egger, and MR-PRESSO, to assess potential horizontal pleiotropy or heterogeneity. Genome-wide association summary statistical data of European descent were used for both exposure and outcome data, including up to 940,633 participants of European descent with 133,384 cancer cases. Results: In total, 672 MR tests (14 micronutrients × 48 cancer outcomes) were performed. The following two associations met Bonferroni significance by the number of associations (P < 0.00016) in the UKB plus FinnGen cohorts: increased risk of breast cancer with magnesium levels (odds ratio [OR] = 1.281 per 1 standard deviation [SD] higher magnesium level, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.151 to 1.426, P < 0.0001) and increased risk of colorectal cancer with vitamin B12 level (OR = 1.22 per 1 SD higher vitamin B12 level, 95% CI = 1.107 to 1.345, P < 0.0001). These two associations remained significant in the analysis of the cancer consortia. No significant heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy was observed. Micronutrient levels were not associated with overall cancer risk. Conclusions: Our results may aid clinicians in deciding whether to regulate the intake of certain micronutrients, particularly in high-risk groups without nutritional deficiencies, and may help in the design of future clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Exogenous EBR promoted benefits in leaf anatomy. • EBR stimulated the net photosynthetic rate. • Organic molecule increased the biomass. Zinc (Zn) is the most abundant and important transition metal in plants, involved in the metabolism of nucleic acids, carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids. Inadequate Zn supplementation negatively affects leaf development and photosynthetic performance, impairing plant growth. However, recent research has demonstrated the potential of 24-epibrassinolide (EBR) to mitigate the effects of abiotic stresses. This study aims to verify whether exogenous application of EBR can alleviate stress caused by Zn in tomato plants, evaluating the possible repercussions on leaf structures, photosynthesis, and growth. The experiment followed a completely randomized factorial design with 100 nM EBR and Zn supplies (0.006, 3, and 1500 µM Zn, described as low, control, and high supply of Zn). Exogenous EBR promoted benefits in leaf anatomy, with increments in epidermis from the adaxial leaf side, palisade parenchyma and spongy parenchyma of 28%, 12%, and 38% (low Zn) and 12%, 11% and 30% (high Zn), respectively. This organic molecule increased the stomatal density and effective quantum yield of photosystem II photochemistry, resulting in a higher net photosynthetic rate. EBR attenuated the harmful effects of low and high Zn supplies on biomass. Therefore, this research proves that EBR application could partially reverse disturbances in zinc-stressed plants, synergistically stimulating leaf structures, photosynthesis and growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to its rising prevalence, which parallels that of ultraprocessed food (UPF) consumption, inadequate micronutrient intake in childhood is a public health concern. This study aimed to evaluate the association between UPF consumption and inadequate intake of 20 micronutrients in a sample of children from the Mediterranean area. Cross-sectional information from participants in the "Seguimiento del Niño para un Desarrollo Óptimo" (SENDO) project 2015–2021 was used. Dietary information was gathered with a previously validated 147-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire and the NOVA system was used to classify food items. Children were classified by tertiles of energy intake from UPF. Twenty micronutrients were evaluated, and inadequate intake was defined using the estimated average requirement as a cutoff. Crude and multivariable adjusted OR (95% CI) for the inadequacy of ≥ 3 micronutrients associated with UPF consumption were calculated fitting hierarchical models to take into account intra-cluster correlation between siblings. Analyses were adjusted for individual and family confounders. This study included 806 participants (51% boys) with a mean age of 5 years old (SD: 0.90) and an average energy intake from UPF of 37.64% (SD: 9.59). An inverse association between UPF consumption and the intake of 15 out of the 20 micronutrients evaluated was found (p < 0.01). After the adjustment for individual and family confounders, compared with children in the first tertile of UPF consumption, those in the third tertile showed higher odds of inadequate intake of ≥ 3 micronutrients (OR 2.57; 95%CI [1.51–4.40]). Conclusion: High UPF consumption is associated with increased odds of inadequate intake of micronutrients in childhood. What is Known: • Micronutrient deficiency is among the 20 most important risk factors for disease and affect around two billion people worldwide. • UPF are rich in total fat, carbohydrates and added sugar, but poor in vitamins and minerals. What is New: • Compared with children in the 1sttertile of UPF consumption, those in the 3rdtertile had 2.57 times higher odds (95% CI: 1.51-4.40) of inadequate intake of ≥ 3 micronutrients after adjusting for potential confounders. • The adjusted proportions of children with inadequate intake of ≥ 3 micronutrients were 23%, 27% and 35% in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rdtertiles of UPF consumption respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytic acid (PA), an endogenous antinutrient in cereals and legumes, hinders mineral absorption by forming less bioavailable, stable PA-mineral complexes. For individual micronutrients, the PA-to-mineral molar ratio below the critical level ensures better bioavailability and is achieved by adding minerals or removing PA from cereals and pulses. Although several PA reduction and fortification strategies are available, the inability to completely eradicate or degrade PA using available techniques always subdues fortification's impact by hindering fortified micronutrient absorption. The bioavailability of micronutrients could be increased through simultaneous PA degradation and fortification. Following primary PA reduction of the raw material, the fortification step should also incorporate additional essential control stages to further PA inactivation, improving micronutrient absorption. In this review, the chemistry of PA interaction with metal ions, associated controlling parameters, and its impact on PA reduction during fortification is also evaluated, and further suggestions were made for the fortification's success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The isolated study of calcium (Ca) as a cause of blossom-end rot (BER), has not demonstrated advances in the knowledge of this physiological disorder. Recent studies have shown that the Ni-Ca interaction can increase tomato yield and reduce the incidence of BER. Thus, this work aimed to evaluate the effect of nickel (Ni) and Ca interaction on the physiology of tomato plants focusing on nutrient balance, gas exchange and activity of urease and glyoxalase I and II enzymes. Tomato plants were grown in pots with substrate. A random design was used in a 2 x 4 factorial scheme. Two Ca doses (sufficient Ca - Ca S = 0.35; and deficient Ca - Ca D = 0.70 g kg−1) and four Ni doses (0.0, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 mg dm−3) was used. The activity of the glyoxalases I and II were used as an indicator of a stress condition. In plants grown under Ca S, the Ni application showed an increase in leaf content of nitrogen, phosphorus, Ca, iron, zinc, boron, copper and Ni, as well the gas exchange enhanced. The urease activity increased as a function of the Ni doses increase. Plants grown with Ca S and Ni doses of 0.5 and 1.0 mg dm−3 showed the lowest glyoxalase activities. The use of Ni at the mentioned doses should be considered in tomato fertilization programs focused on BER reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seafloor hydrothermal vents represent potential sources of Mo and other biologically relevant transition metals to the global ocean, complementing continental runoff. Here, we use a combination of experimental, theoretical, and field-sampling approaches to investigate the behavior of Mo in basalt-hosted seafloor hydrothermal systems to provide insight into the processes controlling Mo concentrations in hydrothermal fluids and to derive estimates of vent fluid Mo concentrations and fluxes. Results of this study demonstrate that reaction fluids generated from 350 °C, 500 bar hydrothermal basalt alteration experiments contain 775–801 nmol/kg Mo and are thus comparable to a recently collected time series of natural seafloor vent fluids that contained 200–220 nmol/kg Mo at 302 °C and 29–30 nmol/kg at 281–282 °C (Evans et al., 2023). Synchrotron-based analyses of experimentally altered basalt produced in this study and additional natural samples of altered oceanic crust originally collected from Pito Deep Rift reveal the presence of Mo-rich particles consistent with trace molybdenite. Comparisons of Mo:Cu ratios in natural vent fluids and near-vent sediment trap samples from Main Endeavour Field indicate that vent fluid Mo is readily incorporated into buoyant plume particles and advected out of the near-vent field, analogous to previous mass balance studies of Cu in this region. Thermodynamic calculations of molybdenite solubility in the context of mineral-buffered hydrothermal fluids and comparisons with natural and experimental hydrothermal fluids suggest that high-temperature vent fluids contain 30–1500 nmol/kg Mo. While a minor component of the modern Mo budget, hydrothermal Mo fluxes are estimated to have constituted 0.3–200× the contemporaneous continental weathering fluxes prior to the ∼2.4 Ga ago "Great Oxidation Event" and widespread oxidative continental weathering. Overall, identification of hydrothermal vents as a source of Mo-rich plume particles with potential for dispersal into the wider marine environment has significant implications for hypotheses regarding the co-evolution of Life and Earth's environments, specifically the form and availability of Mo in anoxic Archean-Eon oceans, where Mo-dependent enzymatic pathways are thought to have emerged and subsequently evolved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foliar nutrient application could be used to improve plant nutrition status and be the fastest way to compensate for nutrient and soil fertility deficiency. Productivity and quality of red cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata L. f. rubra) are affected by contents of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) which regulate enzymatic activity and enzymes mobilize carbon transformation into glucose. Use of red cabbage genotypes able to utilize nutrients efficiently is important in management of plant nutritional status. Five genotypes of red cabbage were chosen. The foliar spray rates, 0, 1, or 2 ml·L−1, of FoliartalⓇ were applied. The cv. Rio Grande treated with 2 ml∙L−1 FoliartalⓇ presented the most chlorophyll content (SPAD index = 68.73), highest leaf dry matter (17.82%), highest total soluble solids (9.55%), longest, widest and heaviest heads (35.83, 38.73 cm and 1.71 kg) respectively, most yield (71.45 t·ha−1) and highest head content of anthocyanin (611.52 mg/100 g). The cv. Mini plants given a 2 ml·L−1 FoliartalⓇ had the highest nitrate content in the head (57.12 mg·kg−1). The cv. Bordeaux treated with 2 mL∙L−1 FoliartalⓇ had the highest nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in heads (1.72, 0.59 and 4.56%), respectively. Foliar application of FoliartalⓇ, regardless of cultivar, improved vegetative growth, productivity and quality traits of red cabbage under field conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc supplementation has been explored as a potential intervention to reduce the risk of malaria parasitaemia in randomised controlled trials (RCTs). However, inconsistent evidence has been obtained regarding the efficacy of zinc supplementation in the context of malaria prevention. This systematic review was implemented to survey the existing literature to determine the effects of the daily oral administration of zinc, either alone or in combination with other nutrient supplements, on the risk of malaria parasitaemia. The systematic review was prospectively registered in the PROSPERO database CRD42023424345 and followed PRISMA protocols. A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, including Embase, MEDLINE, Ovid, PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, and Google Scholar, from their inception until 6 May 2023. The risk of bias in RCTs was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2 (RoB 2). The effect sizes, represented as risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), were standardised by transforming them into log RRs and then pooling them using a fixed-effects or random-effects model depending on the heterogeneity across studies. Comparisons were made between individuals who received zinc alone or zinc in combination with other micronutrient supplements and those who did not receive zinc. A total of 1339 articles were identified through the database searches, and after the screening and selection process, 10 studies were included in the final synthesis. The meta-analysis revealed that zinc supplementation alone did not significantly affect the risk of malaria parasitaemia compared with placebo (p = 0.30, log RR = 0.05, 95% CI: −0.05–0.15, I2 = 0.00%, with 566 malaria cases in the zinc intake group and 521 malaria cases in the placebo group). However, the analysis demonstrated a borderline significant effect of zinc supplementation in combination with other micronutrients on the risk of malaria parasitaemia compared with placebo (p = 0.05, log RR = 1.31, 95% CI: 0.03–2.59, I2 = 99.22%, with 8904 malaria cases in the zinc intake group and 522 malaria cases in the placebo group). The findings of this systematic review indicate that zinc supplementation, either alone or combined with the supplementation of other micronutrients such as vitamin A, iron, or multiple nutrients, does not significantly alter the risk of malaria parasitaemia. Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted to explore the potential effects of multi-nutrient supplementation and to identify more specific micronutrients and additional factors associated with the risk of malaria, rather than just zinc alone, among individuals in different malaria-endemic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutritional quality of food is critical role to improving human health. Even mild micronutrient deficiencies in foods have negative health consequences. Finding ways to address micronutrient deficiencies is central to meeting the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The micronutrient content in plant foods depends on their content in the soil. One of the ways to increase the supply of these nutrients (when the content in the soil is low) is to add them when growing the plants. The experiment was carried out in order to investigate the effect of the introduction of micronutrients Zn, Cu and Co in different variants in the cultivation of carrots, beets and cabbage. It was carried out under irrigated conditions. The use of microfertilizers has an ambiguous effect on micronutrient content in vegetables. Zn content slightly increased in cabbage, but almost unchanged in carrots and beets. Cu content increased in cabbage and beets, but almost unchanged in carrots. Co content increased in carrots, beets and cabbage. The use of microfertilizers has increased the yield of vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Gestational diabetes is a multifactorial disease that genetic and environmental factors affect insulin sensitivity. This study was designed with consideration towards the importance of micronutrients in carbohydrate metabolism.Methods: The present case-control study was performed on 100 pregnant women referred to Imam Reza Hospital in Mashhad, Iran. Fifty pregnant women with gestational diabetes as defined by the American Diabetes Association guideline were considered as the case group and 50 non-diabetic pregnant women formed the control group. Maternal demographic information was recorded in the checklist . Serum levels of zinc, copper, selenium and chromium were measured in both groups. After data collection, they were processed with spss16 software.Results:The mean age of diabetic and non-diabetic pregnant mothers was 32.33 ± 5.92 and 26.32 ± 5.38 years respectively, and their mean weight was 82.87 ± 10.81 kg in the case and 73.18 ± 10.6 kg in the control group. Maternal weight and age in the gestational diabetes group were significantly higher. (both p < 0.05). There was a significant difference between the case and control groups in terms of family history of diabetes in first-degree relatives; history of formula fed mothers during infancy, gravid > 3 ,and low gestational age were all more common in women with gestational diabetes (p < 0.05). In contrast to chromium, serum levels of zinc, copper and selenium were higher in the group with gestational diabetes.Conclusion: No significant relation was observed between serum zinc, copper, chromium and selenium levels with gestational diabetes.

Abstract Objective: To identify ultra-processed foods (UPF) contribution to daily energy and nutrient intake in Iranians and examine whether UPF intake is associated with nutrient profile and diet quality. Design: In this cross-sectional study, a validated FFQ was used to evaluate usual dietary intake over the preceding year. NOVA system was applied to categorise foods based on their levels of processing. Diet quality was evaluated using the nutrient adequacy ratio (NAR), Nutrient Rich Food Index (NRF) and hybrid nutrient density. Setting: The LIPOKAP study conducted in five cities of Iran (Isfahan, Birjand, Bandar Abbas, Kermanshah and Shahrekord). Participants: A total of 1994 adults aged ≥18 years were recruited using stratified multistage random cluster sampling method. Results: UPF were responsible for 8·5 % of daily energy intake. In the adjusted model, UPF consumption was inversely associated with carbohydrate, protein, refined and whole grains, fibre, fruit and meat, but was positively linked to energy, total fat, saturated and trans fatty acids and cholesterol. Compared with those in the lowest tertile, individuals in the highest tertile of UPF had smaller NAR for Ca, Mg, Zn, Fe, phosphorus, thiamin, niacin, folate and vitamin C. Both NRF and hybrid nutrient density decreased when the share of daily energy intake from UPF increased. Conclusion: The higher consumption of UPF is associated with poorer diet quality and lower nutrient intake. It is recommended that UPF be replaced with minimally processed foods to improve diet quality and nutrient profile.