A review is given of the methods that have been proposed for enrichment of trace elements in samples that are to be analysed by neutron-activation methods. The emphasis is on classification of methods, with full illustrations by means of practical examples.

During the past decade there has been a large upsurge in interest in nutritionally essential trace elements. In the clinical field the recognition that deficiency can occur in human subjects in many practical dietary situations has been of crucial importance from the public health viewpoint worldwide. In this chapter we review briefly our knowledge of the ultra trace elements chromium, manganes...

The procedure of restorative proctocolectomy is associated with a complete removal of the colon and slight reduction of ileum length, which together can lead to systemic shortages of trace elements. Inflammatory changes in the pouch mucosa may also have some impact. However, there is no data on trace elements in pouchitis. Therefore, in the present study we aimed to assess the effect of acute p...

The incidence of diabetes worldwide is expected to double in the next 10 years affecting over 200 million people. It is known that dietary modifications can help considerably in improving blood-glucose control and therefore reduce the many complications caused by this condition. Mooradian and Morely published an excellent review article discussing the serum micronutrient status in patients diag...

Zinc is known to be essential for all highly proliferating cells in the human body, especially the immune system. A variety of in vivo and in vitro effects of zinc on immune cells mainly depend on the zinc concentration. All kinds of immune cells show decreased function after zinc depletion. In monocytes, all functions are impaired, whereas in natural killer cells, cytotoxicity is decreased, an...

The immune system (immunoglobulins, cell mediated immunity, phagocytosis complement, lysosomes, interferon, metabolic function, hormones, metabolic and respiratory alkalosis) is the natural mechanism which defends against cancer. Trace elements zinc, selenium, molybdenum, and manganese augment this natural mechanism. Zinc is essential for normal development and maintenance of the thymus. Reduce...

A number of studies (mainly in vitro and in vivo animal models) have examined the interaction of trace elements with DNA. Normal dietary levels of various trace elements are required to prevent the occurrence of oxidative damage, and deficiency may increase susceptibility. Conversely, overload of some trace elements, including copper and iron, has been demonstrated to result in adverse effects....