Selenium
Glutathione Peroxidase
Selenoproteins
Selenoprotein P
Organoselenium Compounds
Selenic Acid
Selenium Radioisotopes
Selenious Acid
Selenocysteine
Nails
Trace Elements
Vitamin E
Dietary Supplements
Selenium-Binding Proteins
Thioredoxin-Disulfide Reductase
Yeast, Dried
Antioxidants
Iodine
Spectrophotometry, Atomic
Selenoprotein W
Isotopes
Deficiency Diseases
White Muscle Disease
Infleuce of dietary levels of vitamin E and selenium on tissue and blood parameters in pigs. (1/2336)
Eighteen barrows approximately three weeks of age were used in a 3 X 3 factorial arrangement to investigate the effect of level of supplemental vitamin E and selenium on tissue and blood parameters. Tissue selenium concentrations increased in a quadratic manner with increased selenium intake with kidney tissue containing considerably greater concentrations than liver, heart or muscle. Supplementation of the diet caused a three-fold increase in serum selenium within the first week with a slight tendency to further increases in subsequent weeks. Serum vitamin E of unsupplemented pigs declined by fifty percent during the experiment, whereas supplemental vitamin E resulted in increased serum vitamin E. There was a considerable viration in percent peroxide hemolysis. Correlation of -0.63 between percent peroxide hemolysis and vitamin E intake and -0.85 between percent peroxide hemolysis and serum vitamin E were observed. (+info)A family of S-methylmethionine-dependent thiol/selenol methyltransferases. Role in selenium tolerance and evolutionary relation. (2/2336)
Several plant species can tolerate high concentrations of selenium in the environment, and they accumulate organoselenium compounds. One of these compounds is Se-methylselenocysteine, synthesized by a number of species from the genus Astragalus (Fabaceae), like A. bisulcatus. An enzyme has been previously isolated from this organism that catalyzes methyl transfer from S-adenosylmethionine to selenocysteine. To elucidate the role of the enzyme in selenium tolerance, the cDNA coding for selenocysteine methyltransferase from A. bisulcatus was cloned and sequenced. Data base searches revealed the existence of several apparent homologs of hitherto unassigned function. The gene for one of them, yagD from Escherichia coli, was cloned, and the protein was overproduced and purified. A functional analysis showed that the YagD protein catalyzes methylation of homocysteine, selenohomocysteine, and selenocysteine with S-adenosylmethionine and S-methylmethionine as methyl group donors. S-Methylmethionine was now shown to be also the physiological methyl group donor for the A. bisulcatus selenocysteine methyltransferase. A model system was set up in E. coli which demonstrated that expression of the plant and, although to a much lesser degree, of the bacterial methyltransferase gene increases selenium tolerance and strongly reduces unspecific selenium incorporation into proteins, provided that S-methylmethionine is present in the medium. It is postulated that the selenocysteine methyltransferase under selective pressure developed from an S-methylmethionine-dependent thiol/selenol methyltransferase. (+info)Selenium redox biochemistry of zinc-sulfur coordination sites in proteins and enzymes. (3/2336)
Selenium has been increasingly recognized as an essential element in biology and medicine. Its biochemistry resembles that of sulfur, yet differs from it by virtue of both redox potentials and stabilities of its oxidation states. Selenium can substitute for the more ubiquitous sulfur of cysteine and as such plays an important role in more than a dozen selenoproteins. We have chosen to examine zinc-sulfur centers as possible targets of selenium redox biochemistry. Selenium compounds release zinc from zinc/thiolate-coordination environments, thereby affecting the cellular thiol redox state and the distribution of zinc and likely of other metal ions. Aromatic selenium compounds are excellent spectroscopic probes of the otherwise relatively unstable functional selenium groups. Zinc-coordinated thiolates, e.g., metallothionein (MT), and uncoordinated thiolates, e.g., glutathione, react with benzeneseleninic acid (oxidation state +2), benzeneselenenyl chloride (oxidation state 0) and selenocystamine (oxidation state -1). Benzeneseleninic acid and benzeneselenenyl chloride react very rapidly with MT and titrate substoichiometrically and with a 1:1 stoichiometry, respectively. Selenium compounds also catalyze the release of zinc from MT in peroxidation and thiol/disulfide-interchange reactions. The selenoenzyme glutathione peroxidase catalytically oxidizes MT and releases zinc in the presence of t-butyl hydroperoxide, suggesting that this type of redox chemistry may be employed in biology for the control of metal metabolism. Moreover, selenium compounds are likely targets for zinc/thiolate coordination centers in vivo, because the reactions are only partially suppressed by excess glutathione. This specificity and the potential to undergo catalytic reactions at low concentrations suggests that zinc release is a significant aspect of the therapeutic antioxidant actions of selenium compounds in antiinflammatory and anticarcinogenic agents. (+info)Effects of pre- or postpartum selenium supplementation on selenium status in beef cows and their calves. (4/2336)
The effect of Se supplementation before or after calving on Se status in deficient cows and their calves was studied using 72 beef cows in two experiments. In Exp. 1, cows calving in February or March 1997 were supplemented orally for 15 d in late pregnancy with 13.0, 32.5, or 45.5 mg of Se/d as sodium selenite. Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities were measured in red blood cells (RBC) or plasma of cows and calves at d 15 and between d 17 and 88 after calving. In Exp. 2, cows calving in January 1997 were supplemented orally with .0, 13.0, or 32.5 mg of Se/d for 15 d postpartum, and calves were injected with 1.38 mg of Se when 2 d old and at an average age of 49 d. The GSH-Px activities were measured in 30-d-old calves and in cows and calves between d 77 and 115 after calving. In both experiments, Se supplementation resulted in adequate Se status for the dams. The increase in RBC GSH-Px activity was faster with 45.5 mg of Se/d, and GSH-Px activities remained high for up to 98 d after the end of supplementation. The improvement in Se status in calves as a result of maternal supplementation was greater in Exp. 1 than in Exp. 2, suggesting that the placental transfer of Se is more efficient than milk transfer. Prepartum oral Se supplementation of deficient beef cows with 13.0 mg of Se/d for 15 d allowed adequate Se status of dams and calves, and 45.5 mg of Se/d resulted in a faster improvement of Se status. Parenteral administration of 1.38 mg of Se to newborn calves did not sustain normal Se status in calves issued from deficient cows. (+info)Selenium toxicosis in a flock of Katahdin hair sheep. (5/2336)
Selenium supplementation by injection is a common practice. Acute toxicosis from dosaging errors may occur. In this report, 23 of 56 ewes and all 24 lambs injected with selenium died. Tissue, whole blood, and serum concentrations aided in the diagnosis. Caution should be taken when supplementing selenium by injection. (+info)The role of humic substances in drinking water in Kashin-Beck disease in China. (6/2336)
We conducted in vitro and in vivo assays in a selenium-deficient system to determine if organic matter (mainly fulvic acid; FA) is involved in a free radical mechanism of action for Kashin-Beck disease. Cartilage cell culture experiments indicated that the oxy or hydroxy functional groups in FA may interfere with the cell membrane and result in enhancement of lipid peroxidation. Experiments with rats demonstrated that toxicity from FA was reduced when the hydroxy group was blocked. Induction of lipid peroxidation by FA in liver and blood of rats was similar to that exhibited by acetyl phenyl hydrazine. FA accumulated in bone and cartilage, where selenium rarely concentrates. In addition, selenium supplementation in rats' drinking water inhibited the generation of oxy-free radicals in bone. We hypothesized that FA in drinking water is an etiological factor of Kashin-Beck disease and that the mechanism of action involves the oxy and hydroxy groups in FA for the generation of free radicals. Selenium was confirmed to be a preventive factor for Kashin-Beck disease. (+info)Biotransformation of methylmercury in vitro. (7/2336)
Inorganic mercury formation from methylmercury by the mouse liver and kidney was studied in vitro. With chopped liver or kidney, inorganic mercury was formed from added methylmercury, but when the tissue was homogenized, the activity was diminished. Equimolar addition of selenium had no effect on the reaction. (+info)The retention and distribution by healthy young men of stable isotopes of selenium consumed as selenite, selenate or hydroponically-grown broccoli are dependent on the isotopic form. (8/2336)
Twenty-seven healthy young men were randomly assigned to diets that supplied low (32.6 microg/d) or high (226.5 microg/d) levels of selenium for a 105-d study. After consuming the diets for 85 d, subjects were fed a test meal that contained 74Se in the form of selenite or selenate and 82Se incorporated into hydroponically-raised broccoli. Urine, fecal and blood samples were collected daily. Isotope absorption was not different (P > 0.05) for selenate and Se in broccoli; Se absorption from selenite was highly variable and was not included in statistical analyses. Significantly more isotope was absorbed by subjects fed the high Se diet (P = 0. 015). Urinary isotope excretion was greater when selenate was fed than when broccoli was fed (P = 0.0001), and consequently more Se from broccoli (as compared to selenate) was retained (59.2 +/- 2.4 and 36.4 +/- 4.6% for Se in broccoli and selenate, respectively; P = 0.0001). Despite the higher retention, less isotope from broccoli than from selenate was present in the plasma. Plasma proteins separated by gel permeation chromatography showed that most of the isotopes were distributed between two medium molecular weight peaks. Less isotope was found in plasma proteins of subjects fed the high Se diet, but the form of Se had no effect on isotope distribution. These results show that dietary Se intake alters the retention of stable isotopes of Se and that humans retain and distribute Se from broccoli in a different manner than Se from inorganic salts. (+info)Selenium is a trace element that is essential for the proper functioning of the human body. According to the medical definitions provided by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), selenium is a component of several major metabolic pathways, including thyroid hormone metabolism, antioxidant defense systems, and immune function.
Selenium is found in a variety of foods, including nuts (particularly Brazil nuts), cereals, fish, and meat. It exists in several forms, with selenomethionine being the most common form found in food. Other forms include selenocysteine, which is incorporated into proteins, and selenite and selenate, which are inorganic forms of selenium.
The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for selenium is 55 micrograms per day for adults. While selenium deficiency is rare, chronic selenium deficiency can lead to conditions such as Keshan disease, a type of cardiomyopathy, and Kaschin-Beck disease, which affects the bones and joints.
It's important to note that while selenium is essential for health, excessive intake can be harmful. High levels of selenium can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and neurological damage. The tolerable upper intake level (UL) for selenium is 400 micrograms per day for adults.
Selenomethionine is an organic form of selenium, which is an essential trace element in human nutrition. It is incorporated into proteins in place of methionine, one of the 20 standard amino acids, and functions as an antioxidant by helping to prevent cellular damage from free radicals. Selenomethionine can be found in a variety of foods, including brazil nuts, fish, meat, and whole grains, and is also available as a dietary supplement.
Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) is a family of enzymes with peroxidase activity whose main function is to protect the organism from oxidative damage. They catalyze the reduction of hydrogen peroxide, lipid peroxides, and organic hydroperoxides to water or corresponding alcohols, using glutathione (GSH) as a reducing agent, which is converted to its oxidized form (GSSG). There are several isoforms of GPx found in different tissues, including GPx1 (also known as cellular GPx), GPx2 (gastrointestinal GPx), GPx3 (plasma GPx), GPx4 (also known as phospholipid hydroperoxide GPx), and GPx5-GPx8. These enzymes play crucial roles in various biological processes, such as antioxidant defense, cell signaling, and apoptosis regulation.
Selenoproteins are a specific group of proteins that contain the essential micronutrient selenium in the form of selenocysteine (Sec), which is a naturally occurring amino acid. Selenocysteine is encoded by the opal codon UGA, which typically serves as a stop codon in mRNA.
There are 25 known human selenoproteins, and they play crucial roles in various physiological processes, including antioxidant defense, DNA synthesis, thyroid hormone metabolism, and immune function. Some of the well-known selenoproteins include glutathione peroxidases (GPxs), thioredoxin reductases (TrxRs), and iodothyronine deiodinases (IDIs).
The presence of selenocysteine in these proteins makes them particularly efficient at catalyzing redox reactions, which involve the gain or loss of electrons. This property is essential for their functions as antioxidants and regulators of cellular signaling pathways.
Deficiencies in selenium can lead to impaired function of selenoproteins, potentially resulting in various health issues, such as increased oxidative stress, weakened immune response, and disrupted thyroid hormone metabolism.
Selenoprotein P is a protein that contains several selenocysteine residues and is encoded by the SEPP1 gene in humans. It is primarily synthesized in the liver and secreted into the bloodstream, where it functions as a major antioxidant and a selenium transport protein. Selenoprotein P plays a crucial role in protecting cells against oxidative stress and has been implicated in various physiological processes, including neuroprotection, fertility, and immune function. Additionally, selenoprotein P has been suggested as a potential biomarker for selenium status and oxidative stress in the body.
Organoselenium compounds are organic chemicals that contain selenium, a naturally occurring non-metal element, in their structure. Selenium is chemically related to sulfur and can replace it in many organic molecules. Organoselenium compounds have been studied for their potential therapeutic benefits, including antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory effects. They are also used as catalysts in chemical reactions. These compounds contain at least one carbon atom bonded to selenium, which can take the form of a variety of functional groups such as selenoethers, selenols, and selenoesters.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Selenic Acid" is not a recognized term in medicine or physiology. Selenium, however, is an essential trace element that is important for proper immune function, antioxidant activity, and thyroid hormone metabolism. Selenious acid (H2SeO3) is a compound of selenium, but it's more commonly used in the context of chemistry or industrial processes rather than medicine or biology. If you have any questions related to medicine or health, I'd be happy to try and help with those!
Selenium radioisotopes are unstable forms of the element selenium that emit radiation as they decay into more stable forms. These isotopes can be produced through various nuclear reactions, such as irradiating a stable selenium target with protons or alpha particles. Some examples of selenium radioisotopes include selenium-75, selenium-79, and selenium-81.
Selenium-75 is commonly used in medical imaging to study the function of the thyroid gland, as it accumulates in this gland and can be detected using a gamma camera. Selenium-79 and selenium-81 have potential uses in cancer treatment, as they can be incorporated into compounds that selectively target and destroy cancer cells. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of using these radioisotopes in medical treatments.
It's important to note that handling and using radioisotopes requires special training and precautions, as they can be dangerous if not handled properly. Exposure to radiation from radioisotopes can increase the risk of cancer and other health problems, so it's essential to use them only under controlled conditions and with appropriate safety measures in place.
Selenious acid, also known as selenic acid or hydrogen selenite, is not a substance that has a widely accepted medical definition. However, it is a chemical compound with the formula H2SeO3. It is a colorless, odorless liquid that is used in some industrial processes and is highly toxic if ingested or inhaled.
In the context of human health, selenium is an essential trace element that plays a critical role in various biological processes, including antioxidant defense systems, thyroid hormone metabolism, and immune function. Selenium can be found in various forms, including selenomethionine, selenocysteine, and selenite.
Selenious acid is not a form of selenium that is typically used or encountered in medical or nutritional contexts. However, it is possible that small amounts of selenious acid may be produced as an intermediate during the metabolism of certain selenium compounds in the body.
Selenocysteine (Sec) is a rare, naturally occurring amino acid that contains selenium. It is encoded by the opal (TGA) codon, which typically signals stop translation in mRNA. However, when followed by a specific hairpin-like structure called the Sec insertion sequence (SECIS) element in the 3' untranslated region of the mRNA, the TGA codon is interpreted as a signal for selenocysteine incorporation during protein synthesis.
Selenocysteine plays an essential role in several enzymes involved in antioxidant defense and redox homeostasis, such as glutathione peroxidases, thioredoxin reductases, and iodothyronine deiodinases. These enzymes require selenocysteine for their catalytic activity due to its unique chemical properties, which allow them to neutralize harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS) and maintain proper cellular function.
In summary, selenocysteine is a specialized amino acid containing selenium that is encoded by the TGA codon in mRNA when accompanied by a SECIS element. It is crucial for the activity of several enzymes involved in antioxidant defense and redox homeostasis.
Selenium oxides are inorganic compounds that contain selenium in an oxidized state combined with oxygen. The most common forms of selenium oxides include:
1. Selenium dioxide (SeO2): A red or yellow crystalline solid, selenium dioxide is formed by the oxidation of elemental selenium or by the burning of selenium in air. It is soluble in water and alcohol, forming selenous acid.
2. Selenium trioxide (SeO3): A white crystalline solid, selenium trioxide is a strong oxidizing agent that can react violently with reducing agents. It is used as a catalyst in the industrial production of certain chemicals and as a reagent in organic synthesis.
Selenium oxides have been studied for their potential use in various medical applications, such as antimicrobial agents and drug delivery systems. However, they are not currently used as therapeutic agents in clinical medicine due to their toxicity and potential health hazards.
In the context of medical terminology, "nails" primarily refer to the keratinous plates that are found at the tips of fingers and toes. These specialized structures are part of the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis) and are formed by a type of cells called keratinocytes. The nails serve to protect the delicate underlying tissues from trauma, and they also aid in tasks such as picking up small objects or scratching itches.
The medical term for fingernails and toenails is "unguis," which comes from Latin. Each nail consists of several parts:
1. Nail plate: The visible part of the nail that is hard and flat, made up of keratin.
2. Nail bed: The skin beneath the nail plate to which the nail plate is attached; it supplies blood to the nail.
3. Matrix: The area where new cells are produced for the growth of the nail plate; located under the cuticle and extends slightly onto the finger or toe.
4. Lunula: The crescent-shaped white area at the base of the nail plate, which is the visible portion of the matrix.
5. Cuticle: The thin layer of skin that overlaps the nail plate and protects the underlying tissue from infection.
6. Eponychium: The fold of skin that surrounds and covers the nail plate; also known as the "proximal nail fold."
7. Hyponychium: The area of skin between the free edge of the nail plate and the fingertip or toe tip.
8. Perionychiun: The skin surrounding the nail on all sides.
Understanding the anatomy and medical aspects of nails is essential for healthcare professionals, as various conditions can affect nail health, such as fungal infections, ingrown nails, or tumors.
Trace elements are essential minerals that the body needs in very small or tiny amounts, usually less than 100 milligrams per day, for various biological processes. These include elements like iron, zinc, copper, manganese, fluoride, selenium, and iodine. They are vital for maintaining good health and proper functioning of the human body, but they are required in such minute quantities that even a slight excess or deficiency can lead to significant health issues.
Medical Definition of Vitamin E:
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that plays a crucial role in protecting your body's cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules produced when your body breaks down food or is exposed to environmental toxins like cigarette smoke and radiation. Vitamin E is also involved in immune function, DNA repair, and other metabolic processes.
It is a collective name for a group of eight fat-soluble compounds that include four tocopherols and four tocotrienols. Alpha-tocopherol is the most biologically active form of vitamin E in humans and is the one most commonly found in supplements.
Vitamin E deficiency is rare but can occur in people with certain genetic disorders or who cannot absorb fat properly. Symptoms of deficiency include nerve and muscle damage, loss of feeling in the arms and legs, muscle weakness, and vision problems.
Food sources of vitamin E include vegetable oils (such as sunflower, safflower, and wheat germ oil), nuts and seeds (like almonds, peanuts, and sunflower seeds), and fortified foods (such as cereals and some fruit juices).
A dietary supplement is a product that contains nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbs or other botanicals, and is intended to be taken by mouth, to supplement the diet. Dietary supplements can include a wide range of products, such as vitamin and mineral supplements, herbal supplements, and sports nutrition products.
Dietary supplements are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or alleviate the effects of diseases. They are intended to be used as a way to add extra nutrients to the diet or to support specific health functions. It is important to note that dietary supplements are not subject to the same rigorous testing and regulations as drugs, so it is important to choose products carefully and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about using them.
Selenium-binding proteins (Se-binding proteins) are a group of proteins that contain selenocysteine, an amino acid containing selenium. Selenocysteine is incorporated into these proteins at specific positions during protein synthesis, and it plays a crucial role in the function of Se-binding proteins.
One of the most well-known Se-binding proteins is glutathione peroxidase (GPx), an antioxidant enzyme that protects cells from oxidative damage by reducing hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxides to water and alcohols, respectively. Other Se-binding proteins include thioredoxin reductase, which plays a role in redox regulation, and iodothyronine deiodinases, which are involved in thyroid hormone metabolism.
Se-binding proteins have been identified in various organisms, including bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes. In humans, Se-binding proteins are found in a variety of tissues, including the liver, kidney, and brain. The expression and activity of Se-binding proteins can be influenced by factors such as selenium status, oxidative stress, and inflammation.
Thioredoxin-disulfide reductase (Txnrd, TrxR) is an enzyme that belongs to the pyridine nucleotide-disulfide oxidoreductase family. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the intracellular redox balance by reducing disulfide bonds in proteins and keeping them in their reduced state. This enzyme utilizes NADPH as an electron donor to reduce thioredoxin (Trx), which then transfers its electrons to various target proteins, thereby regulating their activity, protein folding, and antioxidant defense mechanisms.
Txnrd is essential for several cellular processes, including DNA synthesis, gene expression, signal transduction, and protection against oxidative stress. Dysregulation of Txnrd has been implicated in various pathological conditions, such as cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and inflammatory disorders. Therefore, understanding the function and regulation of this enzyme is of great interest for developing novel therapeutic strategies.
A diet, in medical terms, refers to the planned and regular consumption of food and drinks. It is a balanced selection of nutrient-rich foods that an individual eats on a daily or periodic basis to meet their energy needs and maintain good health. A well-balanced diet typically includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products.
A diet may also be prescribed for therapeutic purposes, such as in the management of certain medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or obesity. In these cases, a healthcare professional may recommend specific restrictions or modifications to an individual's regular diet to help manage their condition and improve their overall health.
It is important to note that a healthy and balanced diet should be tailored to an individual's age, gender, body size, activity level, and any underlying medical conditions. Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian or nutritionist, can help ensure that an individual's dietary needs are being met in a safe and effective way.
Dried yeast, in a medical context, typically refers to the inactive form of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a type of yeast that has been dried and used as a dietary supplement. It contains proteins, B vitamins, and minerals. When rehydrated and consumed, it can help with digestion by providing live yeast cells to the gut flora. However, it is not a source of viable probiotics, as the drying process typically kills the yeast cells. It's important to note that overconsumption may lead to bloating, gas, and other digestive discomforts in some individuals.
Antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures. Antioxidants are able to neutralize free radicals by donating an electron to them, thus stabilizing them and preventing them from causing further damage to the cells.
Antioxidants can be found in a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains. Some common antioxidants include vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and selenium. Antioxidants are also available as dietary supplements.
In addition to their role in protecting cells from damage, antioxidants have been studied for their potential to prevent or treat a number of health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and age-related macular degeneration. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of using antioxidant supplements.
Iodine is an essential trace element that is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones in the body. These hormones play crucial roles in various bodily functions, including growth and development, metabolism, and brain development during pregnancy and infancy. Iodine can be found in various foods such as seaweed, dairy products, and iodized salt. In a medical context, iodine is also used as an antiseptic to disinfect surfaces, wounds, and skin infections due to its ability to kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Atomic spectrophotometry is a type of analytical technique used to determine the concentration of specific atoms or ions in a sample by measuring the intensity of light absorbed or emitted at wavelengths characteristic of those atoms or ions. This technique involves the use of an atomic spectrometer, which uses a source of energy (such as a flame, plasma, or electrode) to excite the atoms or ions in the sample, causing them to emit light at specific wavelengths. The intensity of this emitted light is then measured and used to calculate the concentration of the element of interest.
Atomic spectrophotometry can be further divided into two main categories: atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) and atomic emission spectrophotometry (AES). In AAS, the sample is atomized in a flame or graphite furnace and the light from a lamp that emits light at the same wavelength as one of the elements in the sample is passed through the atoms. The amount of light absorbed by the atoms is then measured and used to determine the concentration of the element. In AES, the sample is atomized and excited to emit its own light, which is then measured and analyzed to determine the concentration of the element.
Atomic spectrophotometry is widely used in various fields such as environmental monitoring, clinical chemistry, forensic science, and industrial quality control for the determination of trace elements in a variety of sample types including liquids, solids, and gases.
Selenoprotein W is a protein that contains selenocysteine, an amino acid containing selenium. It is primarily found in muscle tissue and plays a role in protecting muscles from oxidative damage and maintaining the proper function of calcium channels. Selenoprotein W has been studied for its potential role in various health conditions related to muscle function and oxidative stress, such as muscular dystrophy and inflammation.
Isotopes are variants of a chemical element that have the same number of protons in their atomic nucleus, but a different number of neutrons. This means they have different atomic masses, but share similar chemical properties. Some isotopes are stable and do not decay naturally, while others are unstable and radioactive, undergoing radioactive decay and emitting radiation in the process. These radioisotopes are often used in medical imaging and treatment procedures.
Deficiency diseases are a group of medical conditions that occur when an individual's diet lacks essential nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals. These diseases develop because the body needs these nutrients to function correctly, and without them, various bodily functions can become impaired, leading to disease.
Deficiency diseases can manifest in many different ways, depending on which nutrient is lacking. For example:
* Vitamin A deficiency can lead to night blindness and increased susceptibility to infectious diseases.
* Vitamin C deficiency can result in scurvy, a condition characterized by fatigue, swollen gums, joint pain, and anemia.
* Vitamin D deficiency can cause rickets in children, a disease that leads to weakened bones and skeletal deformities.
* Iron deficiency can result in anemia, a condition in which the blood lacks adequate healthy red blood cells.
Preventing deficiency diseases involves eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods from all the major food groups. In some cases, supplements may be necessary to ensure adequate nutrient intake, especially for individuals who have restricted diets or medical conditions that affect nutrient absorption.
White muscle disease is not a formal medical term, but it is a condition commonly referred to in veterinary medicine, particularly in the context of livestock and wildlife. It's also known as nutritional muscular dystrophy or enzootic muscular dystrophy.
The term "white muscle disease" refers to a group of conditions characterized by degeneration and necrosis (death) of skeletal and cardiac muscle tissue, primarily caused by deficiencies in certain nutrients, particularly selenium and vitamin E. These nutrients play crucial roles in the antioxidant defense system within the body, protecting cells from oxidative damage.
In affected animals, the lack of these essential nutrients leads to muscle damage, which can result in various clinical signs, such as:
1. Weakness
2. Stiffness
3. Reluctance to move
4. Difficulty swallowing or breathing (in severe cases)
5. Sudden death (often due to heart failure)
White muscle disease is most commonly observed in ruminants like cattle, sheep, and goats, as well as certain species of swine, poultry, and wild animals. It can be prevented through dietary supplementation with selenium and vitamin E or by providing these nutrients through mineral-rich soil and forage. In some cases, treatment may involve administering selenium and vitamin E injections to help support muscle recovery and prevent further damage.
Nutritional status is a concept that refers to the condition of an individual in relation to their nutrient intake, absorption, metabolism, and excretion. It encompasses various aspects such as body weight, muscle mass, fat distribution, presence of any deficiencies or excesses of specific nutrients, and overall health status.
A comprehensive assessment of nutritional status typically includes a review of dietary intake, anthropometric measurements (such as height, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure), laboratory tests (such as serum albumin, total protein, cholesterol levels, vitamin and mineral levels), and clinical evaluation for signs of malnutrition or overnutrition.
Malnutrition can result from inadequate intake or absorption of nutrients, increased nutrient requirements due to illness or injury, or excessive loss of nutrients due to medical conditions. On the other hand, overnutrition can lead to obesity and related health problems such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer.
Therefore, maintaining a good nutritional status is essential for overall health and well-being, and it is an important consideration in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of various medical conditions.
The liver is a large, solid organ located in the upper right portion of the abdomen, beneath the diaphragm and above the stomach. It plays a vital role in several bodily functions, including:
1. Metabolism: The liver helps to metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins from the food we eat into energy and nutrients that our bodies can use.
2. Detoxification: The liver detoxifies harmful substances in the body by breaking them down into less toxic forms or excreting them through bile.
3. Synthesis: The liver synthesizes important proteins, such as albumin and clotting factors, that are necessary for proper bodily function.
4. Storage: The liver stores glucose, vitamins, and minerals that can be released when the body needs them.
5. Bile production: The liver produces bile, a digestive juice that helps to break down fats in the small intestine.
6. Immune function: The liver plays a role in the immune system by filtering out bacteria and other harmful substances from the blood.
Overall, the liver is an essential organ that plays a critical role in maintaining overall health and well-being.