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Context: Collecting, cooling, and cryopreserving semen is essential for accessing genetically superior stallions. However, preserving stallion sperm presents unique challenges compared with other species. Aims: This study aimed to investigate the effect of zinc (Zn) supplementation on the quality of equine sperm during cold storage. Methods: Various factors contributing to sperm quality were assessed at 24 and 48 h after cooling, and after subjecting the sperm samples to a heat-resistance test. In Experiment 1, four experimental groups were examined, each with different concentrations of Zn sulfate, as follows: 0, 1, 2, and 3 mM. Subsequently, Experiment 2 involved testing a wider range of concentrations (0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, 1.6, and 3.2 mM), including evaluation of samples after incubation for 240 min at 37°C (heat-resistance test). Key results: The addition of different concentrations of Zn to the extender INRA96 did not yield substantial improvements in sperm-quality parameters for cooling stallion semen after 24 or 48 h. Moreover, no protective benefits were observed when samples underwent a heat-resistance test. Concentrations of Zn surpassing 3 mM had an adverse effect on sperm-quality parameters. Conclusions and implications: These findings have contributed to the understanding of Zn supplementation as a strategy for improving semen preservation in stallions. This study explores the impact of zinc supplementation to improve the quality of cooled equine semen, addressing a crucial aspect of genetic preservation in horses. The findings showed that adding various concentrations of zinc to the sperm does not significantly enhance sperm quality during cold storage and concentrations exceeding 3 mM had detrimental effects. These findings challenge the common belief of the protective role of zinc in sperm preservation, contributing valuable insights for the equine breeding industry. This article belongs to the Collection Equine Science Part II. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boron toxicity significantly hinders the growth and development of cotton plants, therefore affecting the yield and quality of this important cash crop worldwide. Limited studies have explored the efficacy of ZnSO4 (zinc sulfate) and ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) in alleviating boron toxicity. Nanoparticles have emerged as a novel strategy to reduce abiotic stress directly. The precise mechanism underlying the alleviation of boron toxicity by ZnO NPs in cotton remains unclear. In this study, ZnO NPs demonstrated superior potential for alleviating boron toxicity compared to ZnSO4 in hydroponically cultivated cotton seedlings. Under boron stress, plants supplemented with ZnO NPs exhibited significant increases in total fresh weight (75.97%), root fresh weight (39.64%), and leaf fresh weight (69.91%). ZnO NPs positively affected photosynthetic parameters and SPAD values. ZnO NPs substantially reduced H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) by 27.87% and 32.26%, MDA (malondialdehyde) by 27.01% and 34.26%, and O2− (superoxide anion) by 41.64% and 48.70% after 24 and 72 h, respectively. The application of ZnO NPs increased the antioxidant activities of SOD (superoxide dismutase) by 82.09% and 76.52%, CAT (catalase) by 16.79% and 16.33%, and POD (peroxidase) by 23.77% and 21.66% after 24 and 72 h, respectively. ZnO NP and ZnSO4 application demonstrated remarkable efficiency in improving plant biomass, mineral nutrient content, and reducing boron levels in cotton seedlings under boron toxicity. A transcriptome analysis and corresponding verification revealed a significant up-regulation of genes encoding antioxidant enzymes, photosynthesis pathway, and ABC transporter genes with the application of ZnO NPs. These findings provide valuable insights for the mechanism of boron stress tolerance in cotton and provide a theoretical basis for applying ZnO NPs and ZnSO4 to reduce boron toxicity in cotton production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of nylon 6 and nylon 66 can be performed, starting with the selective hydrogenation of benzene to cyclohexene, which is deemed to be environmentally friendly and cost-saving and to have higher atom efficiency. Nano-Ru catalyst was synthesized via a precipitation method. The prepared catalyst was evaluated in the selective hydrogenation of benzene toward cyclohexene generation in the presence of ZnSO4 in a liquid batch reactor. The promotion effect of the addition of amines, i.e., ethylenediamine, ethanolamine, diethanolamine, and triethanolamine, was investigated. The fresh and spent catalysts were thoroughly characterized by XRD, TEM, AES, N2-sorption, FT-IR, and TPR. It was found that the addition of amines could significantly improve the catalytic selectivity toward cyclohexene formation in the presence of ZnSO4. This was attributed to the formation of (Zn(OH)2)5(ZnSO4)(H2O)x (x = 0.5, 3 or 4) through the reaction between ZnSO4 and the amines, which could be chemisorbed on the Ru surface. This led to retarding the formation of cyclohexane from the complete hydrogenation of benzene and, thus, increased the catalytic selectivity toward cyclohexene synthesis. Therefore, with the presence of ZnSO4, the amount of chemisorbed (Zn(OH)2)5(ZnSO4)(H2O)x increased with increasing amounts of added amines, leading to a decline in the catalytic activity toward benzene conversion and selectivity toward cyclohexene generation. When 7.6 mmol of diethanolamine and 10 g of ZrO2 were applied, the highest cyclohexene yields of 61.6% and 77.0% of benzene conversion were achieved over the Ru catalyst. Promising stability was demonstrated after six runs of catalytic experiments without regeneration. These achievements are not only promising for industrial application but also beneficial for designing other catalytic systems for selective hydrogenation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micronutrients play a crucial role in enabling crops and vegetables to achieve optimum productivity, improve storage quality, and overcome physiological disorders. The present study focuses on evaluating the effects of the foliar application of Zinc, Borax, and their combined application in enhancing onion yield and shelf life of Allium cepa L. (cultivars Red coral and Liberty). An experimental study was conducted for two years at Agriculture Research Unit, DIHAR Leh (34.1383˚N, 77.5725˚E) to assess the impact of different doses of ZnSO4, Borax, and their combination on onion yield and shelf-life improvement. Four treatments of ZnSO4 and Borax (T1: 0.5% ZnSO4; T2: 0.25% Borax; T3: 0.5% ZnSO4 + 0.25% Borax and T4: control) were applied twice, once at 30 DAT and again after 45 DAT. Among four treatments, T3 showed a significant impact on growth parameters, yield, and onion shelf-life followed by T1 and T2 compared to the control T4 treatment. Foliar sprays of ZnSO4 and Borax, rather than only ZnSO4 or Borax application, significantly improved plant height, leaves number, leaf area index, chlorophyll content, and onion yield. The storage examination revealed an important correlation between the concurrent application of ZnSO4 and Borax on onion, demonstrating a significant reduction in weight loss, an increase in Total Soluble Solids (T.S.S), and an extension of the onions' shelf life. These findings hold the potential for significant implications in elucidating the optimal utilization of micronutrients for improving onion cultivation and preservation practices in cold desert regions of Ladakh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation reports the thermodynamic efficiency analysis of a hybrid ZnSO 4 /ZnO water-splitting cycle. The data required for efficiency calculations are gathered from HSC Chemistry Software. The prime goal is to examine the effects of the thermal energy needed for heating inert sweep gas and separating the gaseous components in the cycle on the solar-to-fuel energy conversion efficiency. Complete dissociation of ZnSO 4 into ZnO, SO 2 , and O 2 is considered. Besides, a comprehensive re-oxidation of ZnO in the presence of SO 2 and H 2 O is assumed. A thermodynamic process model, which includes reduction and oxidation reactors, two separators, multiple gas-to-gas heat exchangers, two heaters, and one ideal H 2 /O 2 fuel cell, is developed and used to analyze the efficiency. The energy required for the separation of inert/O 2 /SO 2 gas mixture is observed to be one of the significant contributors to the energy needed to drive the ZnSO 4 /ZnO WS cycle. The solar power required (989.9 kW) is recorded to be the lowest for the inert gas molar flow rate equal to 10 mol/s. Because of the low solar energy requirement, the maximum solar-to-fuel energy conversion efficiency (28.4 %) is attained at the thermal reduction temperature of 1445 K. • Thermodynamic efficiency analysis of the ZnSO 4 /ZnO water splitting cycles is conducted. • The molar flow rate of inert gas is responsible for the variation in most process parameters. • Solar energy required is significantly affected by the rise in the energy penalty allied with the separators. • The maximum solar-to-fuel energy conversion efficiency (28.4 %) is achieved at a molar flow rate of inert gas equal to 10 mol/s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofortification is a global-scale agricultural approach that can improve human nutrition. Agronomic biofortification is viewed as a quick-fix and supplemental approach. Agronomic biofortification, especially foliar application, is highly effective for zinc and iron. A field experiment on agronomic biofortification of zinc and iron micronutrients in mango cv. Kesar was carried out in 2016-2017 at the Regional Horticultural Research Station, ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari (Gujarat). The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications containing 9 treatments. The results show that foliar application of ZnSO4 and FeSO4 (0.5% each) resulted in higher N (48.73 mg/100 g) and K (94.17 mg/100 g) in the pulp and P (0.056%) in the peel of mango. The iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) contents in pulp and peel were highest in treatment T9 (0.50% FeSO4 + 0.50% ZnSO4), which was on par with those in treatment T8 (0.50% FeSO4 + 0.25% ZnSO4). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pecan nut production is quite commonly limited by zinc (Zn) deficiency. Here, we evaluate the response in terms of the concentrations of non-structural carbohydrates, yield components, foliar nutrient levels and oxidative metabolism in young ‘Western Schley’ pecan nut trees in response to foliar applications of 200 mg · L−1 of Zn as one of the following: ZnSO4, Zn-EDTA, ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) or the proprietary product ‘nitrazinc’ (NZN) (the control). Across two consecutive growing seasons, the spraying of Zn in these various forms helped maintain the foliar concentrations of non-structural carbohydrates, foliar nutrients (total-N, Ca2+ and Mg2+) and the kernel percentage of nuts. Likewise, trees sprayed with ZnSO4 maintained the concentrations of Zn in the leaflets across seasons. On the other hand, Zn-EDTA decreased the concentration of chlorophyll and total carotenoids. In general, leaflets treated with ZnSO4, Zn-EDTA and ZnO NPs reduced their oxidative metabolism. Sources of Zn – such as ZnSO4 – are commercially viable alternatives suitable for increasing the performance of some parameters associated with the yield and quality of nuts in pecan. It would be worthwhile to determine the optimal Zn dose rates for the various pecan cultivars in common use and also to increase our understanding of the physiological and biochemical changes associated with foliar Zn applications.

In grapevines, Zn is essential for normal leaf growth, shoot elongation and pollen development, allowing a fully developed berry. In this context, using as a test system Vitis vinifera L. variety Syrah, this study aimed to assess the interactions between Zn enrichment in grapes and sugars and fatty acids profiles, further considering the sensory implications of red wine production. Vineyard conditions of the soil were assessed to ensure the natural optimal development of grapevines and the workflow for Zn enrichment considered three treatments: foliar spray with water (control) and with ZnSO4 (at 450 and 900g.ha-1). After the 2nd foliar application of ZnSO4, only minor changes of Zn, Ca and P contents were found in grapes (the levels of K, Cu and S increased significantly with ZnSO4 (450 g.ha-1). At harvest, the grapes submitted to foliar application of ZnSO4 showed significantly higher levels of Zn (between 33.38 - 54.41%), but significant deviations in sugars (sucrose, glucose and fructose), fatty acids (C18:0, C18:1, C18:2, C18:3, C16:0, C<16:0) and color parameters were not found. After winemaking, relative to the control, a higher content of Zn persisted (60.59 - 63.82%), without impairing the characteristics desired by consumers. In fact, the wine with ZnSO4 ( 900 g.ha-1) was the most sensorially accepted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and plays a crucial role in the female reproductive system. We aimed to investigate the protective effect of ZnSO 4 on premature ovarian failure (POF) in SD rats and granulosa cells (GCs) treated with cisplatin. We also explored the underlying mechanisms. In vivo experiments showed that ZnSO 4 increased the serum levels of Zn2+, increased estrogen (E 2) secretion, and decreased follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion in rats. ZnSO 4 increased ovarian index, protected ovarian tissues and blood vessels, reduced excessive follicular atresia, and maintained follicular development. At the same time, ZnSO 4 inhibited apoptosis in the ovaries. In vitro experiments showed that ZnSO 4 combination treatment restored the intracellular levels of Zn2+ and inhibited the apoptosis of GCs. ZnSO 4 inhibited cisplatin-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and preserved mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). We also found that ZnSO 4 protected against POF by activating the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway and reducing apoptosis of GCs. These data suggest that ZnSO 4 may be a potential therapeutic agent for protecting the ovaries and preserving fertility during chemotherapy. • Our in vitro and in vivo studies confirm that cisplatin damage disrupts zinc homeostasis in vivo and granulosa cells, induces apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells, and impairs ovarian structure and function. • ZnSO 4 treatment can increase estrogen secretion and decrease follicle-stimulating hormone secretion; it can protect the tissue interstitium and blood vessels from damage, reduce excessive follicular atresia, maintain follicular development, and play a protective role in the structure and function of prematurely failing ovaries. • ZnSO 4 treatment can inhibit cisplatin-induced reactive oxygen species production and reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential in GCs. • ZnSO 4 treatment can reduce the apoptosis of granulosa cells by activating the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway and play a protective role in POF. ZnSO 4 may be a potential therapeutic approach to protect ovaries and maintain fertility during chemotherapy in female cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial contamination means that infectious agents are identified on objects in the hospital environment. This serious issue is the most significant for healthcare organizations. Covering abiotic surfaces with a thin polymer film can be a promising way to fight against microbial adhesion and colonization. This film acts as a depot of an antibacterial substance. In this study, our aim was to investigate antimicrobial effects of new water compositions of polyacrylamides (PAM) with CuSO4 and ZnSO4. We examined antibacterial activity of 5%-solutions of CuSO4 and ZnSO4 and their compositions with various PAM types in a concentration equal to 0.075 % against such reference cultures as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniaе, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. We estimated use of PAM as a growth substrate as well as antimicrobial activity of the analyzed solutions and compositions in agar and liquid nutrient media. As a result, we established that bacterial cultures did not use PAM as sole nutrition source when growing in a liquid mineral medium and on PAM-films covering glass and plastic surfaces. More apparent inhibitory effects were produced on microorganisms cultivated on solid and liquid nutrient media by 5%-solution of ZnSO4. When PAM Praestol 857 and PAM Praestol were added to solutions of Cu2+ and Zn2+ cations, it resulted in an authentic increase in a diameter of a zone with inhibited bacterial growth in the agar medium. In the liquid medium, salts of both metals inhibited the growth and viability of all the analyzed microorganisms already in a concentration equal to 0.16 % or lower. Adding PAM Praestol 2530 led to a slight decrease in antibacterial efficiency of the examined metal salts whereas PAM Praestol 857 had practically no influence on bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects produced by them. Therefore, use of the obtained composite solutions where CuSO4 or ZnSO4, immobilized on a PAM matrix act as an antibacterial component seems a promising way to disinfect objects in the hospital environment. This can significantly reduce risks of hospital-acquired infections.

Boron toxicity significantly hinders the growth and development of cotton plants, therefore affecting the yield and quality of this important cash crop worldwide. Limited studies have explored the efficacy of ZnSO4 (zinc sulfate) and ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) in alleviating boron toxicity. Nanoparticles have emerged as a novel strategy to reduce abiotic stress directly. The precise mechanism underlying the alleviation of boron toxicity by ZnO NPs in cotton remains unclear. In this study, ZnO NPs demonstrated superior potential for alleviating boron toxicity compared to ZnSO4 in hydroponically cultivated cotton seedlings. Under boron stress, plants supplemented with ZnO NPs exhibited significant increases in total fresh weight (75.97%), root fresh weight (39.64%), and leaf fresh weight (69.91%). ZnO NPs positively affected photosynthetic parameters and SPAD values. ZnO NPs substantially reduced H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide) by 27.87% and 32.26%, MDA (malondialdehyde) by 27.01% and 34.26%, and O2− (superoxide anion) by 41.64% and 48.70% after 24 and 72 h, respectively. The application of ZnO NPs increased the antioxidant activities of SOD (superoxide dismutase) by 82.09% and 76.52%, CAT (catalase) by 16.79% and 16.33%, and POD (peroxidase) by 23.77% and 21.66% after 24 and 72 h, respectively. ZnO NP and ZnSO4 application demonstrated remarkable efficiency in improving plant biomass, mineral nutrient content, and reducing boron levels in cotton seedlings under boron toxicity. A transcriptome analysis and corresponding verification revealed a significant up-regulation of genes encoding antioxidant enzymes, photosynthesis pathway, and ABC transporter genes with the application of ZnO NPs. These findings provide valuable insights for the mechanism of boron stress tolerance in cotton and provide a theoretical basis for applying ZnO NPs and ZnSO4 to reduce boron toxicity in cotton production.

The synthesis of nylon 6 and nylon 66 can be performed, starting with the selective hydrogenation of benzene to cyclohexene, which is deemed to be environmentally friendly and cost-saving and to have higher atom efficiency. Nano-Ru catalyst was synthesized via a precipitation method. The prepared catalyst was evaluated in the selective hydrogenation of benzene toward cyclohexene generation in the presence of ZnSO4 in a liquid batch reactor. The promotion effect of the addition of amines, i.e., ethylenediamine, ethanolamine, diethanolamine, and triethanolamine, was investigated. The fresh and spent catalysts were thoroughly characterized by XRD, TEM, AES, N2-sorption, FT-IR, and TPR. It was found that the addition of amines could significantly improve the catalytic selectivity toward cyclohexene formation in the presence of ZnSO4. This was attributed to the formation of (Zn(OH)2)5(ZnSO4)(H2O)x (x = 0.5, 3 or 4) through the reaction between ZnSO4 and the amines, which could be chemisorbed on the Ru surface. This led to retarding the formation of cyclohexane from the complete hydrogenation of benzene and, thus, increased the catalytic selectivity toward cyclohexene synthesis. Therefore, with the presence of ZnSO4, the amount of chemisorbed (Zn(OH)2)5(ZnSO4)(H2O)x increased with increasing amounts of added amines, leading to a decline in the catalytic activity toward benzene conversion and selectivity toward cyclohexene generation. When 7.6 mmol of diethanolamine and 10 g of ZrO2 were applied, the highest cyclohexene yields of 61.6% and 77.0% of benzene conversion were achieved over the Ru catalyst. Promising stability was demonstrated after six runs of catalytic experiments without regeneration. These achievements are not only promising for industrial application but also beneficial for designing other catalytic systems for selective hydrogenation.

Biofortification is a global-scale agricultural approach that can improve human nutrition. Agronomic biofortification is viewed as a quick-fix and supplemental approach. Agronomic biofortification, especially foliar application, is highly effective for zinc and iron. A field experiment on agronomic biofortification of zinc and iron micronutrients in mango cv. Kesar was carried out in 2016-2017 at the Regional Horticultural Research Station, ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari (Gujarat). The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications containing 9 treatments. The results show that foliar application of ZnSO4 and FeSO4 (0.5% each) resulted in higher N (48.73 mg/100 g) and K (94.17 mg/100 g) in the pulp and P (0.056%) in the peel of mango. The iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) contents in pulp and peel were highest in treatment T9 (0.50% FeSO4 + 0.50% ZnSO4), which was on par with those in treatment T8 (0.50% FeSO4 + 0.25% ZnSO4).

Trimethylsilyl esters of P(III) acids were synthesized in high yields (89–94%) by the reaction of hydrophosphoryl compounds with hexamethyldisilazane at 20°C in the presence of ZnSO4 and diethylamine. The reaction is complete in 4 h, it does not require specially prepared solvents or an inert atmosphere, and can be proposed as a new synthetically useful and easy-to-perform method for the synthesis of trimethylsilyl esters of P(III) acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals have played a great role in the genesis of the present-day civilization. Human beings are affected when these metals are added to the food chain. Although these are the most important plant nutrients, they are phytotoxic at high concentrations. Heavy metals at super optimal concentrations affect different metabolic pathways in plants and result in their ceased growth and development. They may enter plants either by their root system or through foliar uptake; stunted growth, chlorosis, necrosis, and reddish-brown discoloration are visible symptoms of severe metallic phytotoxicity. The study of heavy metal stress tolerance on Momordica cymbalaria shows the effect on the plant growth and metabolism. All heavy metals treated with high concentrations affect the overall plant growth. The Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal medium with ZnSO4 at 100 µM concentration resulted in healthy shoot development (9) with a maximum shoot length of 7.2 cm. MS basal medium with low concentration of CuSO4 (50 µM) achieved a maximum shoot number (7) with healthy leaves and shoots. MS basal medium with higher concentration of CdCl2 (150 µM) affects plant growth and reduced the regeneration capability completely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many authors who researched the effect of Zn on seed germination, plant growth and development showed that zinc is reducing the rate of seed germination and inhibiting stem and root elongation in different plant species. The aim of this study is to investigate and compare the effect of different concentrations of zinc on seed germination, stem and root growth, as well as the increase in fresh and dry (dry) weight in peas which is a dicotyledonous plant. Material for this research was pea's seeds. The substance used in the experiments is zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) in the following concentrations: 10-5, 10-4, 10-3, 10-2, 2 x 10-2, 4 x 10-2, 5 x 10-2, 6 x 10-2, and 8 x 10-2 mol (M). These concentrations have been used in tests in the form of aqueous solutions prepared with distilled water. The action of the substance during the experiment was called permanent - Permanent Treatment (T.P.), and limited - Before Treatment (P. T.) for 24 h, 48 h and 72 h. In both types the treatment is the same. The seeds, before being placed in germination, are cleaned with ordinary water and then with distilled water two or three times. We placed the seeds in the soil at a temperature of 26 0C. The percentage of germinated seeds is determined after 96 hours from the moment they are placed for germination. Determination of the length of the plant organs was done 10 days after the placement of the seeds for germination. Their length is determined by measuring the buds and the main roots and is expressed as the average for a stalk, respectively root. Ten days after the seeds are planted for germination, the increase of fresh and dry weight of peas is determined, depending on the concentrations of ZnSO4. Based on the obtained results it can be noticed that zinc sulfate in lower concentrations (10-5, 10-4, and 10-3 M) not only does not inhibit seed germination, but in many cases stimulates seed germination, when compared to high concentrations (2 x 10-2, 4 x 10-2, 6 x 10-2, and 8 x 10-2 M). Zinc sulfate in small concentrations (5 x 10-2, to 2 x 10-2 M) did not inhibit further growth of previously germinated seeds. High concentrations with 48 h and 72 h pre-treatments (4 x 10-2 to 8 x 10-M) significantly inhibit further growth of shoots and roots. This phenomenon is more pronounced especially in peas because we do not have the development of these vegetative organs at all, while in maize we have a poor development. Small concentrations of zinc sulfate stimulate stem and root growth. The greatest inhibitory effect of high concentrations occurs on the growth of peas root rather than corn. This is because the cell wall as well as the cell membrane in peas is thinner and more permeable to zinc sulfate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc-ion batteries are considered as promising energy storage devices for large-scale energy storage due to the simple operation, low cost, and high safety, while their performances are determined by the cathode materials' properties. Polypyrrole (PPy) can be used as the cathode material of zinc-ion battery, however, its poor cyclic stability limits the practical application. Considering the fact that electrolytes containing zinc ions are used in zinc ion batteries, the PPy cathode material has been electrodeposited on carbon cloth (CC) by using ZnSO4 solution as electrolyte (PPy-ZS/CC). The results show that PPy/CC-ZS exhibits higher specific capacity and cyclic stability than the electrode prepared in NaH2PO4 solution because the participation of ZnSO4 in the deposition process makes PPy-ZS more suitable for the ZnSO4 electrolyte of batteries. The specific capacity of the PPy-ZS has been increased by 24 mAh g−1 compared with the capacity of PPy deposited in the NaH2PO4 system; after the 1000-cycle test, the capacity retention is 80%. Furthermore, PPy-ZS's specific capacity can reach 167 mAh g−1 at 0.05A g−1 when the battery is assembled in 2.0 mol L−1 ZnSO4 + 70 mmol L−1 NH4I electrolyte. After 2000 repeated charge/discharge tests at 4.5 A g−1, Zn//PPy-I-ZS still maintains 75% of the initial capacity, showing quite good stability. It provides an effective method to improve the performance of PPy-based cathode material in Zn-ion battery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of different methods of zinc application on yield and yield-attributing characters of rice at the Agriculture Knowledge Center, Banke, under the supervision of AFU and PMAMP from March to July using the Hardinath-1 variety of rice. Different amounts and application methods of Zinc were used as treatments, namely control using only the recommended dose of NPK (T1), soil application of 15 kg/ha ZnSO4 after transplanting (T2), seedling dipping with 7.5 kg/ha ZnSO4 by making solution (T3), foliar spray of 7.5 kg/ha ZnsO4 (T4), and soil application followed by foliar spray of 15 kg/ha (T5) using a RCBD design with four replications each. T5 produced the greatest plant height (98.43 cm), which was statistically significant to the treatment with zinc application to soil (95.90 cm). At 60 DAT, a significantly higher number of tillers were observed from T5, which is significantly different (17.30) from all other treatments except the second treatment at the 1% level of significance. Similarly, T5 had the longest panicle length (22.57 cm), while the control had the shortest panicle length (21.945 cm). The highest number of filled grains per panicle was obtained from the T5 (89%). From field experiments with different treatments, the highest TGW was obtained from T5 (22.89 g), which is a statistically significant attribute with an F value of 0.001. Thus, it can be concluded that soil application of zinc during transplanting followed by foliar spray at the flowering stage is the most appropriate method of zinc application for efficient production and economy.

In order to explore the effect of selenium-sulfur interaction on the glucosinolate content and antioxidant properties of Chinese cabbage sprouts, the seeds were sprayed with 4 mmol/L ZnSO4, 50 or 100 μmol/L Na2SeO3 or their combination during sprouting and the changes in the major physiological and biochemical indexes, antioxidant capacity and glucosinolates content of Chinese cabbage sprouts were analyzed. The results showed that the application of ZnSO4 alone caused growth stress on Chinese cabbage sprouts, while the application of Na2SeO3 alone increase the length and fresh mass of sprouts per plant. The combined application of Na2SeO3 and ZnSO4 could effectively alleviate the inhibitory effect of ZnSO4 on the growth and development of Chinese cabbage sprouts. Moreover, compared with the control group (deionized water), ZnSO4 combined with Na2SeO3 significantly increased total selenium content and the contents of total glucosinolates (P < 0.05), and the combined application of ZnSO4 and 50 μmol/L Na2SeO3 resulted in an approximate 50% increase in the total content of glucosinolates. The contents of total selenium and total glucosinolates were significantly higher on the sixth day than on the fourth day of sprouting. The results of the study provide data support for the production of functional Chinese cabbage sprouts rich in selenium and glucosinolates.

Zinc is one of the essential elements for the development of the body, both plant and human, facilitating the processes of cell division as well as the maintenance of cellular physiological processes in normal parameters. In this work, the effects of zinc were monitored regarding the activity of mitotic division, in different time intervals and with different concentrations. Following the effect of different concentrations of zinc sulfate (ZnSO4), through the correlative links between the number of cells in division (MI), the mitotic index, the index of chromosomal aberrations (IAC), and the exposure time to the treatment, we managed to monitor the cytotoxic effect of ZnSO4. From the analysis of the correlations between the percentage of chromosomal aberrations and the different concentrations of ZnSO4, it was found that there was a strong positive correlation (r> 0.89). Therefore, the increased Zn concentration in cells favors the appearance of chromosomal aberrations (IAC). The increase in the exposure time from 24 hours to 72 hours, as well as the increase of the concentration from 10 ppm to 50 ppm, causes a strong negative correlation (r=-0.84). From the experiments, we can deduce the importance that zinc has in the cell and how much it can affect if it is present in excess. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The accumulation of isothiocyanate in germinated broccoli under ZnSO4-melatonin treatment was optimized. The isothiocyanate content, bud length and fresh weight of broccoli during germination were used as indices to study the effects of germination temperature, germination time, ZnSO4 and melatonin treatment concentration on isothiocyanate by single factor experiment first, and on this basis, it was further optimized by response surface experiment. Meanwhile, the changes of isothiocyanate metabolism related indexes were analyzed. The results showed that germination temperature, germination time, ZnSO4 and melatonin treatment concentration all had significant effects on isothiocyanate enrichment. Response surface optimization experiment showed that when the broccoli was treated with 4.69 mmol/L ZnSO4 combined with 13.18 μmol/L melatonin at 30 ℃ for 3 days, the isothiocyanate content was up to the highest, which was 451.27 mg/100 g mf. The contents of glucosinolates and sulforapenin and the activity of myrosinase in broccoli sprouts under ZnSO4 combined with melatonin treatment were significantly higher than those in the control group(P

Abstract Background Reports have shown that humans are consistently exposed to environmental toxicants such as phthalate (PHT) during their daily activities. This results in reproductive dysfunction and infertility-related issues as already noted in human and experimental animals. We therefore designed this study to investigate fertility outcome in phthalate-exposed male rats treated with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) with the view of providing a therapeutic alternative to reproductive toxicity caused by phthalate. The research was done in two phases. In phase 1, thirty-five male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to one of five (n = 7) groups given the following treatments for 21 days: group A was given distilled water as a control, while groups B, C, D, and E were given phthalate (750 mg/kg/day). Animals in groups C to E were also given ZnSO4 (0.5 mg/kg/day), N-acetylcysteine (100 mg/kg/day), and ZnSO4 (0.5 mg/kg/day) + N-acetylcysteine (100 mg/kg/day) in addition to phthalate. In phase 2, animals from groups in phase 1 were mated with females for fecundity testing. Results The result shows alteration in testicular and epididymis weight and testis/epididymis ratio, semen parameters, sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction, sperm DNA, serum Zn and Mg, testicular mitochondria apoptosis mechanisms (TNF-α and BCL-2), and testicular Ca 2+ -ATPase as well as fecundity outcome in the phthalate-treated group. However, ZnSO4 and NAC successfully ameliorated the deleterious effects of phthalate on semen parameters, sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction, serum electrolyte and mitochondria apoptosis mechanisms, and testicular electrogenic Ca 2+ -ATPase in phthalate-induced male rats with a better outcome in the combined therapy. Pregnancy outcome and litter sizes were also higher in the combined therapy when also compared with the phthalate-treated groups. Conclusion According to the result, ZnSO4 and NAC increased fertility outcome in phthalate-treated male rats through enhancement of testicular BCL-2, serum electrolyte, testicular Ca 2+ ATPase pumps, and cytoprotection.

Soil secondary salinization is a serious menace that has significant influence on the sustainability of agriculture and threatens food security around the world. Zinc (Zn) as an essential plant nutrient associated with many physio-biochemical processes in plants and improve resistance against various abiotic stresses. The role of Zn in acclimation of Solanum lycopersicum L. challenged with salt stress is miserly understood. A hydroponic study was performed with two tomato varieties (Riogrande and Sungold) exposed to the salinity stress (0 mM and 160 mM NaCl) under two Zn concentrations (15 μM and 30 μM ZnSO 4). The results revealed that salt stress exerted strongly negative impacts on root and shoot length, fresh and dry biomass, plant water relations, membrane stability, chlorophyll contents, Na+/K+ ratio along with inferior gas exchange attributes and activities of antioxidant enzymes. Moreover, Riogrande was found to be more resistant to salinity stress than Sungold. However, Zn supply significantly alleviated the hazardous effects of salinity by altering compatible solutes accumulation, photosynthetic activity, water relation, soluble sugar contents and providing antioxidant defense against salt stress. The salinity + Zn2 treatment more obviously enhanced RWC (19.0%), MSI (30.8%), SPAD value (17.8%), and activities of SOD (31.7%), POD (28.5%), APX (64.5%) and CAT (23.3%) in Riogrande than Sungold, compared with the corresponding salinity treatment alone. In addition, salinity + Zn2 treatment significantly (P > 0.05) ameliorated salinity stress due to the depreciation in Na+/K+ ratio by 63.3% and 40.8%, Na+ ion relocation from root to shoot by 10.4% and 6.4%, and thereby significantly reduced Na+ ion accumulation by 47.4% and 16.3% in the leaves of Riogrande and Sungold respectively, compared to the salinity treatment alone. Therefore, it was obvious that 30 μM Zn concentration was more effective to induce resistance against salinity stress than 15 μM Zn concentration. Conclusively, it can be reported that exogenous Zn application helps tomato plant to combat adverse saline conditions by modulating photosynthetic and antioxidant capacity along with reduced Na+ uptake at the root surface of tomato plant. • Salt stress has a strong negative impact on the ecophysiology of tomato. • Salt stress also disturbed the mechanisms of antioxidant defense and ion homeostasis. • The salinity-induced impacts in tomato plants can be alleviated by the application of Zn. • Zn supply significantly regulated the relocation of Zn, Na, and K ions in tomato tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries are promising candidates for portable and large‐scale applications because of their intrinsically high safety, low cost and high theoretical energy density. However, existing aqueous zinc‐ion batteries usually suffer from zinc corrosion and poor performance at subzero temperatures. Herein, to address these problems, the electrolyte in aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (1 M ZnSO4) is modified by adding suitable amounts of ethylene glycol. The addition of ethylene glycol improves the antifreezing ability of the aqueous electrolyte and increases the conductivity of electrolyte at low temperatures. Ethylene glycol serves two purposes, as an antifreeze additive to significantly enhance the capacity of batteries at low temperatures and as a corrosion inhibitor to suppress zinc corrosion and byproduct precipitation. This work offers a facile strategy to realize aqueous zinc‐ion batteries with good performance at low temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mexican lime growing in Hormozgan province is an awesome example of industrial horticultural crops production in Iran. However, over the last two decades, witch's broom disease of Lime (WBDL), caused by Candidatus Phytoplasma aurantifolia, has devastated Mexican lime orchards in south of Iran. The disease can result in shortened internodes and small leaves in the infected trees, then gradually leading to dry trees out within five to eight years. Furthermore, infected trees undergo significant changes in phenol compounds and enzymes related, protein pattern, and chlorophyll as well as carotenoid contents. Despite about 30 years of progress this disease, the necessity to combat WBDL is still of interest. In the current study, the role of zinc sulfate and Bordeaux mixture in controlling WBDL was assessed. The study was conducted in completely randomized design in autumn 2017 with three replications, so that each WBDL-infected tree was considered as an experimental replicate. WBDL-infected trees were foliar sprayed with zinc sulfate and Bordeaux mixture. The morphological characteristics, chlorophyll and carotenoid content, total phenol content and protein content were analyzed before and 40 days after treatments. Our obtained data indicated that zinc sulfate treatment can positively change morphological parameters including length leaf (125.2 ± 35.5 %), width leaf (158.3 ± 32.1%) and internode length (231.1 ± 48.8%), while application of Bordeaux mixture showed increasing influence on chlorophyll a, b and total chlorophyll content in WBDL-infected trees. The total phenol content remained almost steady in zinc sulfate treatment (3.7 ± 1.01 %) in comparison to Bordeaux mixture (-64.7 ± 11.06 %). In addition, Bordeaux mixture and zinc sulfate enjoyed significant influence on PI, about 65 % and 50 % respectively. Their effectiveness on Fv/Fm were 7.7 % in Bordeaux mixture and 5.2 % in zinc sulfate.

The corrosion inhibition of sodium deodecylbenzenesulfonate (SDBS) surfactant and ZnSO4 on mild steel in 0.05 M NaCl solution was conducted through the impedance spectroscopy and linear polarisation measurement. The inhibitors performance was measured separately and as a mixed composite of both at a ratio of 200:200 ppm. Results obtained from both these measurements indicate high corrosion inhibition of the mild steel substrates was achieved. Porosity calculation of the formed inhibition layer was done through the obtained linear polarisation data, and its dielectric properties were deduced from the impedance measurements. Two possible structures of the formed inhibitive layers are proposed. The first structure involved the formation of a stable but porous zinc oxide/hydroxide layer with the surfactant filling up the pores, thus forming a continuous inhibitive barrier film layer while the second, involved a formation of a continuous inhibitive barrier layer due to the chelation of the surfactant and ZnSO4 compounds. The results obtained also indicated that corrosion resistance induced by the inhibitive barrier layers is much more dependent on its charge transfer resistance properties rather than its dielectric properties and that the corrosion inhibition provided is not directly related to the double-layer capacitance values of the barrier layer.

Many authors who investigated the effect of Zn on seed germination, and growth and development of plants showed that zinc is reducing the seed germination rate, and inhibits the elongation of shoot and root in various plant species. The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of different concentrations of zinc on seed germination, stem and root growth as well as the increase of fresh and dried (dry) weight in corn. The substance used in the experiments for this type of plant was: Zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) and that in the following concentrations: 10-5, 10-4, 10-3, 10-2, 2 x 10-2, 4 x 10-2, 5 x 10-2, 6 x 10-2, 8 x 10-3 M. These concentrations have been used in tests in the form of aqueous solutions prepared with distilled water. The action of the substance during the experiment was permanent- permanent treatment (T.P.) and limited- before treatment (P. T.) for 24, 48 and 72. The seeds, before being placed in germination, are cleaned with ordinary water and then with distilled water two or three times. The seeds were germinated in a thermostat at a temperature of 26°C. The percentage of germinated seeds is determined after 96 hours from the moment they are placed for germination. The determination of the length of the plant organs was done 10 days after the placement of the seeds for germination. Their length is determined by measuring the main shoots and roots and is expressed as the average for a stalk, respectively root. Ten days after the seeds are set for germination, the increase of fresh and dry weight of corn is also determined, depending on the concentrations of ZnSO4. Based on the obtained results it can be noticed that zinc sulfate in lower concentrations (10-5, 10-4, 10-3 M) not only does not inhibit seed germination but in many cases stimulates seed germination, compared to high concentrations (10-2, 2 x 10-2, 4 x 10-2, 6 x 10-2, and 8 x 10-2 M). Zinc sulfate in small concentrations (10-5 to 2 x 10-2 M) did not inhibit further growth of previously germinated seeds. High concentrations (4 x 10-2 to 8 x 10-2 M) significantly inhibit further shoot and root growth in germinated seeds. Small concentrations of zinc sulfate stimulate stem and root growth. The greatest inhibitory effect of high concentrations occurs in root growth because the cell membrane walls are thinner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The age of the seedlings at transplanting is a crucial component in achieving uniform rice stands since it influences prospective agronomic features. A micronutrient is the relative amount of a nutrient necessary for plant development. It participates in metabolic activities, enzymatic mechanisms. As a result, all of these, directly and indirectly, contribute to plant growth and development. The growth of rice depends on both the age of seedlings and micronutrients. So, based on the above considerations, we conducted our experiment entitled “Influence of different age of seedlings and micronutrient management practices on growth attributes and yield attributes of rice (Oryza sativa L.) under system of rice intensification.” Methods: An experiment was conducted at experimental research farm Rampur, Selaqui, Doon PG College of Agriculture and Allied Sciences, Dehradun during kharif season of 2016. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with twelve treatments and was replicated thrice viz., in which factor A consists of different age of seedlings viz., 14 days, 21 days and 28 days and factor B consists application of micronutrients at different days viz., 0.5% ZnSO4, FeSO4 at 20 and 30 DAT. Result: The results of the study revealed that the 14 days age of seedling with the foliar application of 0.5% ZnSO4 + 0.5% FeSO4 at 20 and 30 DAT resulted in maximum plant height, no. of tillers/m² and highest grain and straw yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BPA (Bisphenol-A) is an organic colorless crystalline synthetic compound with the chemical formula of (CH3)–C–(C6H4-OH)2. The chemical structure of BPA consists of two methyl functional groups which are connected by a bridge to the phenol rings. The purpose of this study is to investigate the treatability of containing BPA wastewater using by homogeneous (ZnSO4 catalyst) and heterogeneous (ZnO catalyst) catalytic ozone processes (COPs). The BPA removals of ZnO catalyst COP method and ZnSO4 catalyst COP methods were compared and using the ZnO catalyst COP process gave better results than the ZnSO4 catalyst COP process. For the BPA removals, the experimental parameters including pH, catalysts dose, ozone dose, and reaction time parameters were optimized by changing one parameter at a time. As a result of 12.5 min of ZnSO4 oxidation, 94.16% of BPA removal was achieved under the optimum conditions (pH 6.32, 1 mg/L ZnSO4 dose, 2400 mg/L O3 dose). However, under optimum conditions (pH 6.32, 50 mg/L ZnO dose, 2400 mg/L O3 doze, 20 min reaction time), the BPA removals have been obtained as 98.52%. The second-order kinetic model has been found to be the most suitable model for both processes and the regression coefficients (R2) have been found as 0.999 and 0.9979 for ZnSO4 and ZnO catalysts COPs, respectively. The reaction rate constants (k) have also been calculated as 0.0939 L.mg−1.min−1 and 0.0509 L.mg−1.min−1 for BPA in homogeneous and heterogeneous COPs, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Reports have shown that humans are consistently exposed to environmental toxicants such as phthalate (PHT) during their daily activities. This results in reproductive dysfunction and infertility-related issues as already noted in human and experimental animals. We therefore designed this study to investigate fertility outcome in phthalate-exposed male rats treated with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) with the view of providing a therapeutic alternative to reproductive toxicity caused by phthalate. The research was done in two phases. In phase 1, thirty-five male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to one of five (n = 7) groups given the following treatments for 21 days: group A was given distilled water as a control, while groups B, C, D, and E were given phthalate (750 mg/kg/day). Animals in groups C to E were also given ZnSO4 (0.5 mg/kg/day), N-acetylcysteine (100 mg/kg/day), and ZnSO4 (0.5 mg/kg/day) + N-acetylcysteine (100 mg/kg/day) in addition to phthalate. In phase 2, animals from groups in phase 1 were mated with females for fecundity testing. Results: The result shows alteration in testicular and epididymis weight and testis/epididymis ratio, semen parameters, sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction, sperm DNA, serum Zn and Mg, testicular mitochondria apoptosis mechanisms (TNF-α and BCL-2), and testicular Ca2+-ATPase as well as fecundity outcome in the phthalate-treated group. However, ZnSO4 and NAC successfully ameliorated the deleterious effects of phthalate on semen parameters, sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction, serum electrolyte and mitochondria apoptosis mechanisms, and testicular electrogenic Ca2+-ATPase in phthalate-induced male rats with a better outcome in the combined therapy. Pregnancy outcome and litter sizes were also higher in the combined therapy when also compared with the phthalate-treated groups. Conclusion: According to the result, ZnSO4 and NAC increased fertility outcome in phthalate-treated male rats through enhancement of testicular BCL-2, serum electrolyte, testicular Ca2+ATPase pumps, and cytoprotection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In India pulses production and productivity is low and inadequate to meet the demand of nation. The alternate option to increase the pulse production is through seed amelioration by combining the seed hardening, coating and pelleting techniques. The current study was aimed to evaluate integrated seed treatment on seed yield and quality in blackgram. Methods: The seeds were first preconditioned by keeping them in between two layers of moist gunny bag for one hour. Then, the preconditioned seeds were soaked for three hours in 100 ppm ZnSO4 solution at 1/3 volume of seeds and shade dried to their original moisture content (hardened seed). Then the hardened seeds were supplemented with Polymer 3 ml/kg + Carbendazim 2 g/kg + Imidacloprid 1 ml/kg for integrated seed treatment and field experiments were carried out along with untreated seed. Result: Among the seed treatments, integrated seed treatment recorded higher pod set per cent (84.00), number of pods/plant (52.00 pod yield/plant (27.60 g), pod yield/ha (752 kg), number of seeds/pod (6.00), seed yield/plant (17.6 g) and seed yield/ha (590 kg) which were respectively 3.70, 8.33, 4.15, 3.01, 20.00, 4.14 and 1.89 per cent higher than mere hardened and untreated control seeds thus suggesting that integrated seed treatment can be recommended for improving the productivity of blackgram. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc (Zn) deficiency is common on calcareous soils due to fixation with soil components and precipitation with other ions. ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) may serve a better source of Zn for improved growth and biofortification in maize grains. Pot and field experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of ZnO nanoparticles in comparison with conventional Zn fertilizer (ZnSO4) on growth and grain Zn contents of maize. In both experiments, Zn application improved growth and physiological parameters of plants; however, maximum improvement was observed in treatments receiving ZnSO4 (soluble) or ZnO nanoparticles (insoluble source of Zn). Application of ZnO nanoparticles also improved Zn concentration in shoots as well as in grains in field experiment. In field experiment, Zn partitioning was also calculated and interestingly it is found that Zn concentration at maturity stages was reduced in stem and mature leaves. Maximum Zn concentration (~80 mg kg−1) was observed in young leaves at vegetative growth stage in treatments receiving ZnO nanoparticles. Foliar applied ZnO NPs showed maximum increase in grain Zn concentration (82%). It is concluded that ZnO NPs improved maize growth, yield and grain Zn contents. Being cheaper and efficient source, it can be used for Zn biofortification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]