Effects of Bioactive Pulp-capping Materials on Cell Viability, Differentiation, and Mineralization Behaviors of Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells In Vitro

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of bioactive pulp-capping materials on human dental pulp stem cell (hDPSC) behavior in terms of cell viability and bioactivity via mineralization potential.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Nanoparticles of 58S5 bioactive glass (nBG) powder were elaborated by a sol-gel process. Primer hDPSCs were cultured with experimental nBG, Biodentine, TheraCal LC, and ProRoot mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) extracts. Cell viability was measured for 1, 3, and 7 days by water-soluble tetrazolium salts (WST-1) assay. Expression of mineralization-related marker genes (dentin sialophosphoprotein [DSPP] and osteocalcin [OCN]) was quantified by a real-time polymerase chain reaction. Detection of DSPP protein expression in hDPSCs was also assessed by western blotting. Alizarin red staining was used to detect the formation of mineralized nodules, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was quantified by a photometric method (days 7 and 14). All data were statistically analyzed with a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post-hoc test (p<0.05).

RESULTS

The cell viability of hDPSCs in all groups decreased except for nBG, and the lowest cell viability was determined in TheraCal LC at all incubation times. nBG and MTA showed significantly higher ALP activity than the control group. The tested materials elevated the calcium nodule form of hDPSCs except for TheraCal LC. The highest DSPP expression was seen in nBG for both incubation times.

CONCLUSION

nBG promotes differentiation and mineralization of hDPSCs at a higher rate than other bioactive pulp-capping materials tested.

Dexpanthenol and ascorbic acid ameliorate colistin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats

OBJECTIVE

Colistin is a potent antibiotic which is mainly preferred in the treatment of multidrug-resistant (MDR) gram-negative bacilli. However, due to the increased risk of acute kidney injury following its use, the clinical application is limited. This nephrotoxicity is known to be induced by oxidative stress and related inflammation. In this study on rats, potent antioxidants Dexpanthenol (DEX) and Ascorbic acid (Vit C) have been administered in combination with Colistin to find out whether they would weaken Colistin's nephrotoxic effects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Inflammation biomarkers were studied with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits, and oxidative stress biomarkers were studied with different photometric methods in blood and tissue samples taken after treatment with DEX and Vit C in rats with colistin nephrotoxicity. In addition, inflammation and necrosis in the kidney tissues were examined pathologically.

RESULTS

It has been observed in the serum and tissue samples that DEX and Vit C decrease oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers, therefore acting as nephroprotective agents.

CONCLUSIONS

These compounds have been found to ameliorate the nephrotoxic effects of Colistin, which were demonstrated in the rats treated with Colistin, as well as the combinations.

Integrase inhibitor-based antiretroviral treatments decrease oxidative stress caused by HIV infection

OBJECTIVE

Several chronic illnesses, including HIV infection are associated with oxidative stress. In addition to HIV itself, some antiretrovirals also increase oxidative stress while decreasing viral replication. To investigate the alterations in oxidative stress parameters and thiol-disulphide homeostasis in people living with HIV who were receiving integrase inhibitor-based antiretroviral therapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirty treatment-naive adult people living with HIV were prospectively enrolled in the study. Sera were collected from patients twice: at the beginning of antiretroviral therapy (group 1) and 6 months later (group 2). Thirty age-matched healthy volunteers were enrolled in the study as the control group (group 3). Serum levels of total antioxidant status (TAS) and total oxidative status (TOS) were determined using an automated measurement method. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl (PC) levels were measured spectrophotometrically. CD4+ T-cells were counted flow cytometrically. A mathematical equation was used to calculate the oxidative stress index (OSI) and determine disulfide levels (DIS).

RESULTS

TOS, OSI, MDA, and PC levels were significantly increased in treatment-naive people living with HIV than in those receiving ART (p<0.001). Total and native thiol were significantly lower in both HIV-infected groups than in the control group (p<0.001). PC and MDA levels were significantly higher in both HIV-infected groups than in the control group (p<0.001). In correlation analysis, MDA and age were negatively correlated, whereas TAS was positively correlated with CD4+ T-cell count in treatment-naive people living with HIV. Age was positively correlated with TOS (r:0.421, p:0.023) in healthy controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Integrase inhibitor-based antiretroviral treatments decrease the oxidative stress caused by HIV infection and may be a good therapeutic option in people living with HIV.

Investigation of DNA damage, oxidative stress, and inflammation in synthetic cannabinoid users

BACKGROUND

The widespread use of synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) among youth has become an important public health problem. Several life-threatening side effects of SC have been reported, including cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurological, renal, metabolic, ophthalmologic, and pulmonary effects, besides skin toxicity and hepatotoxicity.

METHODS

Given that high levels of SC can lead to oxidative stress, DNA damage, and inflammation, it has been aimed in this study to investigate the effects of SC in aspects of primary DNA damage, plasma total oxidant status (TOS)/total antioxidant status (TAS), thiol-disulfide homeostasis, myeloperoxidase (MPO) level, and cytokine levels (interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)) of 40 SC users (SCUs) in Turkey.

RESULTS

Mean plasma TOS levels were significantly higher in the SCUs group than in the healthy group (HG). Similarly, mononuclear leukocyte DNA damage, plasma TOS, MPO activity, disulfide, oxidative stress index levels, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α levels were significantly higher in the SCU group than in the HG, whereas plasma TAS, total, and native thiol levels were significantly lower in the SCU group than in the HG.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that SC can cause increase in oxidative stress and in inflammatory processes in addition to its potential for DNA damage. Additional studies with larger sample sizes and longer durations should be held to understand more specific outcomes of SC use.

P11.55 Thymoquinone enhances the sensitivity of B16-F10 melanoma cell line to Gamma Knife radiosurgery

BACKGROUND

Melanoma patients with brain metastasis have poor prognosis. Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKR) is an effective treatment to control brain metastasis from melanoma. Thymoquinone (TQ) has gained attention as a potential therapeutic option due to its anti-tumor effects on various cancers. The aim of the study was to invetsigate the effect of GKR in B16-F10 melanoma cells in vitro and in established intracerebral melanoma model in mice in vivo, and the sensitizing efficacy of TQ towards GKR.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Effects of GKR and combination treatment of GKR and TQ were studied on B16-F10 melanoma cells via analyzing cytotoxicty by adenosine triphosphate (ATP) assay; apoptosis induction by acridine orange staining and genotoxicity by comet assay. Expression of STAT3, p-STAT3 (Tyr705) and apoptotic pathway proteins was investigated by western blot analysis. Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) was performed to assess the expression of inflammatory cytokines. Also survival was evaluated in mice with brain tumor after GKR and its combination treatment with TQ.

RESULTS

The effects of GKR on cytotoxicity, apoptosis and genotxicity were significantly enhanced by TQ on B16-F10 melanoma cells. GKR induced apoptosis through inhibition of p-STAT3 expression, which subsequently regulated pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins such as caspase-3, Bax, Bcl-2, survivin. Combination TQ with GKR irradiation enhanced the apoptotic effect of GKR irradiation. Furthermore, GKR decreased the levels of tumor-related inflammatory cytokines on B16-F10 melanoma cells. This effect was more pronounced when TQ was added to GKR irradiation. GKR with 15 Gy improved the survival of mice with intracerebral melanoma compared to untreated mice. Although, the additive effect of TQ in combination with GKR irradiation on B16-F10 melanoma cells in vitro, TQ did not add any significant survival benefit to GKR treatment in mice with intracerebral melanoma.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that TQ would be a potential therapeutic and sensitizing agent in addition to GKR to enhance the anti-tumor effect of irradiation. Further studies are required to support our findings.

Effects of subcutaneous melatonin implants and short-term intravaginal progestagen treatments on estrus induction and fertility of Kivircik ewes on seasonal anestrus

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of estrus induction and fertility by using subcutaneous melatonin (MEL, T1) and short-term intravaginal medroxyprogesteronacetate plus pregnant mare serum gonadotropin treatments (sMAP+eCG, T2) in ewes on seasonaly anestrus. In this study, 105 mature clinically healthy Kivircik ewes in anestrus season and 4 rams were used. After synchronization applications, ewes exhibiting estrus signs were hand-mated with rams known to be fertile. Blood samples were collected at different times in order to determine progesterone (P4) concentrations. Results showed that estrus manipulation protocols induced significant improvement in pregnancy rate. All the fertility results obtained with the sMAP+eCG or MEL groups were similar, in seasonal anestrus. The efficacy duration of P4 in the MEL group was longer than that in short-term progestagen group. Plasma P4 concentrations was significantly different between the first (I) and last (III) measurement days (p0.01). Increase in P4 concentration in T2 group was faster than that in T1 group, and blood P4 concentrations at higher levels could successfully be achieved by using any of the protocols in this study during the seasonal anestrus. In conclusion, according to the results obtained, the hormone application groups received very high estrus response. In addition, the twin ratio was found to be higher in T1 group compared to those determined in the other groups (T2 and Control group). Furthermore, plasma P4 concentrations and high birth rates were obtained in ewes in T1 and T2 groups. These procedures can be considered a good alternative to traditional procedures due to its flexibility under field conditions.

Serum obestatin and omentin levels in patients with diabetic nephropathy

INTRODUCTION

Diabetic nephropathy is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease and accounts for almost 45% of all new patients requiring renal replacement therapy. Omentin and obestatin, two novel proteins were suggested to be associated with insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors. Thus, we postulated that they may also have an association with diabetic nephropathy which is known to be an independent cardiovascular risk factor. In order to investigate such an association we compared serum omentin and obestatin levels in type 2 diabetic patients with normoalbuminuria (NA) and macroalbuminuria (MA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 81 type 2 diabetic patients were separated into two groups according to their proteinuria status; patients with NA (n = 39) and patients with MA (n = 42). Two groups were compared in terms of serum omentin and obestatin levels.

RESULTS

While s erum omentin levels did not differ among two groups (P = 0.407), serum obestatin levels were significantly higher in MA group (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The results of this study showed that higher serum levels of obestatin were associated with macro albuminuria suggesting that obestatin may have a role in underlying pathogenic mechanisms that leads to diabetic nephropathy.

Effects of melatonin implantation on the fertility potentials of Kivircik and Charollais ewes and rams during the non-breeding season

This study examined the effect of melatonin implantation during the non-breeding season on the reproductive performance of ewes and the testicular dimensions of rams. In seasonally anestrus Kivircik and Charollais ewes and rams were subjected to melatonin. Estrus response was significantly higher in treated than control ewes of both breeds (p<0.001). The pregnancy rate was significantly lower (p<0.001) in the control than in the treated animals. The twinning rate was significantly lower in melatonin implanted Kivircik than Charollais ewes (p<0.05). The testicular dimensions after 42 days of melatonin treatment increased in both breeds. Scrotal length (SL) increased in Kivircik and Charollais rams (p<0.01). The increase in scrotal circumference (SC) was more marked in the Charollais (P<0.01) than in the Kivircik rams. There was a large increase in testicular volume (TV) in both Kivircik (p<0.01) and Charollais (p<0.001) rams. This study shows that melatonin implants can be applied to induce estrus in ewes approximately four months earlier than breeding season. Melatonin implantation in the non-breeding season significantly increased testicular dimensions in Kivircik and Charollais rams thus increasing their reproductive potential.

Leucemia inhibitory factor; investigating the time-dependent effect on viability of vitrified bovine embryos

Leucemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is involved in various reproductive processes, including sperm development, regulation of ovulation, as well as blastocyst formation, hatching and implantation in embryos. Moreover, LIF has also been shown significantly to enhance the blastocyst formation rates of bovine embryos, a finding that remains controversial. Our purpose was to investigate time-dependent effect of LIF on bovine embryo culture, especially in terms of addition timing. Presumptive zygotes were cultured in five different groups. In this study, 100 ng/ml LIF was added to the culture medium were as follows; control: SOF alone, group A: at day 0 (fertilization day), group B: at day 4 post-insemination (p.i.), group C: at day 4 to 7 (p.i. before vitrification) and group D: at day 8 (p.i. after thawing). Addition of LIF to the culture medium at day 4 significantly increased the percentage of blastocyst rate when compared day 0, day 4 at 6/7 and control group (41.8% versus 24.3%, 19.7%, 34.6%). In conclusion, the addition of LIF only on day 4 (p.i.) to the culture medium was found to be beneficial for bovine embryonic development based on several measures, including blastocysts rate, re-expansion rate and cellular cryotolerance after vitrification.

Comparison of sexual performance and testicular characteristics of melatonin treated Kivircik and Charollais rams during the non-breeding season

ABSTRACT This study was conducted to investigate the effects of melatonin implantation on basic testicular characteristics and reproductive performance of Kivircik and Charollais rams and ewes during the non-breeding season. In this study, 8 Kivircik and 6 Charollais rams were used. Rams were implanted with 54 mg melatonin according to the manufacturer's instructions. At melatonin implantation and at ram introduction the reproductive performance and testicular characteristics were evaluated. Throughout the experimental period, rams were permanently kept outdoors under conditions of natural day length and at ambient temperature. The effects of exogenous melatonin treatments on the reproductive performances of rams and ewes, estrus response, pregnancy rate, litter size and twinning rate of ewes were evaluated in all groups. Libido values were significantly higher in Charollais rams compared to Kivircik rams (P<0.001). Testicular volume (TV) was increased in both ram breeds. Scrotal length (SL) was also increased in both Kivircik and Charollais rams (P<0.01). In conclusion, we showed that the treatment of rams with slow release melatonin implants increased scrotal diameters and testicular volumes in both Kivircik and Charollais rams. Furthermore, melatonin implantation improved the reproductive performances of ewes naturally mated with these melatonin implanted rams during non-breeding season.

Oxidative Status and DNA Damage Following Analgesic Treatment in Patients with Acute Pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

This study is designed to investigate the effect of three different analgesics, used to treat pain in AP, on oxidative stress, DNA damage in mononuclear leukocytes, and on oxidative status.

METHODS

This parallel design randomized controlled trial is composed of three treatment arms, intravenous paracetamol, intravenous dexketoprofen, and intravenous tramadol.

RESULTS

A total of 107 patients were diagnosed with acute pancreatitis within the study period in the ED. Seventyseven of them were included in the study; 26 patients for the paracetamol group, 24 patients for the dexketoprofen group, and 27 patients for the tramadol group. The mean age of study subjects was 52.73 ± 15.38 and 66% (n = 51) of them were men. At the beginning of the study (before treatment), mean levels of DNA damage, TOS, and OSI levels were significantly higher and TAS was significantly lower in the acute pancreatitis groups than in the control group. DNA damage and OSI in HAPS-positive patients were found to be significantly greater than HAPS-negative patients (p = 0.046). DNA damage and oxidative stress were compared between the three groups. There were no differences between the groups in terms of DNA damage (p = 0.42) and also for the oxidatif stress parameters (OSI,TAS,TOS had p-values of p = 0.26, p = 0.78, p = 0.35, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

There is no difference between the effects of paracetamol, dexketoprofen, and tramadol, which are commonly used to manage acute pain in AP, on DNA damage in human T-lymphocytes and on serine parameters of oxidative status.

272 EFFECT OF DIETARY RESTRICTION ON SPERM CHARACTERISTICS AND OXIDATIVE STATUS ON TESTICULAR TISSUE IN YOUNG RATS EXPOSED TO LONG-TERM HEAT STRESS

The objective was to evaluate effects of dietary restriction on oxidative status and sperm parameters in rats exposed to long-term heat stress. Forty healthy Sprague-Dawley rats (2.5 months old) were equally allocated into 4 groups (with respect to diet and temperature): room temperature (22°C)-ad libitum; room temperature-dietary restriction (40%); high temperature (38°C)-ad libitum; and high temperature-dietary restriction. At the end of the 9th week, some oxidants (lipid hydroperoxide, total oxidant status, oxidative stress index) and some antioxidants (total antioxidant status, sulfhydryl groups, ceruloplasmin, paraoxonase and arylesterase activities) were measured in testicular tissues. In addition, concentration, motility, volume, abnormal sperm count, acrosome and membrane integrity of epididymal sperm were also evaluated. All data were analysed by 2-way ANOVA (P < 0.05). High temperature did not significantly affect most oxidative and antioxidative parameters (except for sulfhydryl groups and ceruloplasmin), yet it impaired all sperm values. Neither sperm values nor oxidative status, with the exception of sulfhydryl groups, ceruloplasmin and arylesterase in the testis tissue, were significantly affected by dietary restriction. We concluded that long-term heat stress did not significantly affect testicular oxidative status in young rats, although sperm were sensitive to heat stress. Furthermore, dietary restriction failed to improve sperm quality and oxidative status, except some individual antioxidant parameters in young rats exposed to long-term heat stress.

Erythrocyte antioxidative enzyme activities and lipid peroxidation levels in patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis

Although cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a local infection, the cellular immune response against the disease is systemic, and reactive oxygen intermediates (ROIs) are an important part of cellular immune response involved in killing the parasite. However, whether these intermediates cause oxidative damage in host is unknown. In this study, the metabolism of ROIs were investigated in patients with CL, and compared with healthy subjects. Erythrocyte lipid peroxidation was determined, as an index of oxidative damage, by measurement of malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Erythrocyte MDA levels and SOD activities were found to be significantly higher in CL patients than in control subjects (p < 0.01 and p < 0.01, respectively). However, CAT and GSH-Px activities were significantly lower in the CL group (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). There was a tendency to decreased hemoglobin (Hb) levels, but values did not reach statistical significance. These findings suggest that changes in antioxidant enzyme activities may amplify the leishmanicidal effect in patients with CL. However, these changes may not only cause the killing of parasite but also may cause oxidative damage in the other cells or tissues.

Resorption of a sequestered cervical disc confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging: long term follow-up. Case report

In literature cervical disc extrusions are considered by most neurosurgeons a definitive indication for surgery. This approach may stem from a fear of disc fragment migration with neurological deterioration. We report a rare case of cervical disc sequestration with a seldom prognosis which resolved spontaneously in a two-month follow-up on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), emphasizing the efficacy and applicability of conservative treatment in cervical disc herniations. Even with the basic conservative treatment methods we observed the prominent decrease in symptoms and spontaneous total resorption of the sequestered fragment. Conservative treatment in sequestered cervical discs with no neurological deficit can be an alternative therapeutic approach with the guidance of MRI.

DNA damage in metabolic syndrome and its association with antioxidative and oxidative measurements

The purpose of this study was to assess DNA damage levels in subjects with metabolic syndrome (MetS). Sixty-five subjects with MetS and 65 controls were enrolled in this study. Levels of DNA damage, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total peroxide and oxidative stress index (OSI) were measured. We found that DNA damage levels were significantly increased [155.5 (60-264) vs. 93.2 (0-208) arbitrary units; p < 0.001] and TAC levels were significantly decreased in MetS than in control (1.34 +/- 0.27 vs. 55 +/- 0.33 mmol Trolox equivalent/l; p < 0.001). A significant falling trend in TAC levels and a significant rising trend in DNA damage values with the increase in the number of metabolic disturbances (anova p < 0.001 for both) were observed. Total peroxide (30.9 +/- 4.9 vs. 21.3 +/- 2.5 micromol H2O2/l; p < 0.001) and OSI levels [2.4 (1.3-3.8) vs. 1.4 (0.7-2.3) arbitrary units; p < 0.001] were significantly higher in the subjects with MetS than in controls. We found significant negative correlation between DNA damage and TAC levels in MetS (r = -0.656, p < 0.001) and in control (r = -0.546, p < 0.001). In multiple linear regression analysis, age, body mass index, presence of MetS and number of the components of MetS were independent predictors of log-transformed DNA damage (p < 0.05, for all). DNA damage is increased in patients with MetS. The increase in DNA damage might be occur because of the increase in the imbalance between the production of oxidants and antioxidant defences in subjects with MetS.

Evaluation of systemic oxidative status and mononuclear leukocytes DNA damage in children with caustic esophageal stricture

Esophageal stricture (ES) due to accidentally caustic digestions is a common problem in children. Mucosal damage and repeated dilatations lead to chronic inflammation and finally ES. We investigated the oxidative status and DNA damage of children with ES. Five children with ES were compared with the same age- and sex-matched healthy subjects. Oxidative status of plasma was evaluated by measuring myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and total peroxide (TP) level. Anti-oxidative status of the plasma was evaluated by measuring catalase (CAT) activity, and total antioxidant response (TAR). We used the Single Cell Gel Electrophoresis (also called Comet Assay) to measure DNA strand break in peripheral blood mononuclear leukocytes. Mean MPO activity and TP levels in the ES group were significantly higher than the control group (0.83 +/- 0.35, 0.09 +/- 0.03 and 0.98 +/- 0.38, 0.34 +/- 0.20, P = 0.009 and P = 0.047 respectively). There was no significant difference in CAT activity and TAR levels between the two groups (P = 0.347). DNA damage in patients with ES was increased compared to control subjects (108.8 +/- 51.2 and 57.6 +/- 31.2 arbitrary units, respectively), but this difference was not significant statistically (P= 0.09). This study shows that systemic oxidative stress and alteration at the nuclear level occur in patients with ES, as a result of multiple dilatations and tissue injury. On the other hand, these results support that patients with ES may benefit from antioxidant treatment.

Effects of pistachio nuts consumption on plasma lipid profile and oxidative status in healthy volunteers

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Effects of pistachio nuts consumption on plasma lipid profile and oxidative status were investigated in healthy volunteers with normal lipid levels.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The study was conducted in 24 healthy men and 20 healthy women. All subjects consumed their regular diets during a 1-week period. After this period, half of the subjects (12 men and 10 women, mean age 32.8 +/- 6.7 years) were randomized to a regular diet group and the other half (12 men and 10 women, mean age 33.4 +/- 7.2 years) were randomized to a pistachio group which involved substituting pistachio nuts for 20% of their daily caloric intake for 3 weeks. Plasma total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglyceride, malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant potential (AOP) were measured before and after the dietary modification from all the subjects. After 3 weeks, with the pistachio diet, the mean plasma total cholesterol, MDA levels and, total cholesterol/HDL and LDL/HDL ratios were found to be significantly decreased (P < 0.05, P < 0.05, P < 0.001 and P < 0.01, respectively); on the contrary, HDL and AOP levels, and AOP/MDA ratios were significantly increased (P < 0.001, P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively). Triglyceride and LDL levels also decreased but this was not statistically significant (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that consumption of pistachio nuts decreased oxidative stress, and improved total cholesterol and HDL levels in healthy volunteers.

Synovial fluid and plasma selenium, copper, zinc, and iron concentrations in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis

In recent years, a great number of studies have investigated the possible role of trace elements in the etiology and pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoartritis (OA). We studied synovial fluid and plasma concentrations of selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and iron (Fe) in patients with RA and OA and compared them with sex- and age-matched healthy subjects. Plasma albumin levels were measured as an index of nutritional status. Plasma Se, Cu, and Zn concentrations were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry and Fe concentrations were determined by the colorimetric method. Although plasma and synovial fluid Se concentration were found to be significantly lower (p < 0.05, and p < 0.05, respectively), Cu concentrations were significantly higher in patients with RA than those of healthy subjects and OA (p < 0.05 and p < 0.05, respectively). There were no significant differences in plasma and synovial fluid Zn concentrations and albumin levels among three groups (p > 0.05). On the other hand, synovial fluid Cu and Fe concentrations were significantly higher in patients with OA than those of healthy subjects (p < 0.05). There was a significantly positive correlation between synovial fluid Se-Cu values and Zn-Fe values in patients with RA. Our results showed that synovial fluid and plasma trace element concentrations, excluding Zn, change in inflammatory RA, but not in OA. These alterations in trace element concentrations in inflammatory RA might be a result of the changes of the immunoregulatory cytokines.

Alterations in plasma essential trace elements selenium, manganese, zinc, copper, and iron concentrations and the possible role of these elements on oxidative status in patients with childhood asthma

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the status of plasma essential trace element selenium (Se), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) concentrations and the effect of these elements on oxidative status in patients with childhood asthma. Plasma Se, Mn, Cu, and Zn concentrations were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) and Fe concentrations, malondialdehyde (MDA), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were determined by the colorimetric method. The plasma MDA/TAC ratio was calculated as an index of oxidative status. Plasma albumin levels were measured to determine nutritional status. Plasma Fe concentrations, MDA levels and the MDA/TAC ratio were significantly higher (p<0.001, p<0.001, and p<0.01, respectively) and Se and Mn concentrations and TAC were lower (p<0.01, p<0.05, and p<0.01, respectively) in patients when compared to the healthy subjects. Plasma Zn, Cu, and albumin levels were not found to be significantly different in patients and controls (p>0.05). There were positive relationships between plasma MDA and Fe (r=0.545, p<0.001) and TAC and Se (r= 0.485, p<0.021), and a negative correlation between TAC and MDA values (r= -0.337, p<0.031) in patients with childhood asthma. However, there was no correlation between these trace elements and albumin content in patient groups. These observations suggest that increased Fe and decreased Se concentrations in patients with childhood asthma may be responsible for the oxidant/antioxidant imbalance.

Relationship among manganese, arginase, and nitric oxide in childhood asthma

It has been demonstrated that the lowest intakes of manganese (Mn) were associated with more than a fivefold increased risk of bronchial reactivity. It was also known that nitric oxide (NO) production was found to be significantly higher in asthmatics. There is a reciprocal pathway between arginase and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) for NO production, and Mn is required for arginase activity and stability. We investigated plasma NO, arginase, and its cofactor Mn levels to evaluate this reciprocal pathway in patients with childhood asthma. Arginase activities and Mn and NO levels were measured in plasma from 31 patients with childhood asthma and 22 healthy control subjects. Plasma arginase activities and Mn concentrations were found to be significantly lower and NO levels were significantly higher in patients with childhood asthma as compared to the control subjects. There was a significantly positive correlation between plasma Mn and arginase and negative correlations between arginase and NO values and Mn and NO values in patients with childhood asthma. These data indicate that the lower concentration of Mn could cause lower arginase activity and this could also upregulate NO production by increasing l-arginine content in patients with childhood asthma.

Role of plasma nitric oxide in complete hydatidiform mole

PURPOSE OF INVESTIGATION

This prospective study aimed to evaluate any relationship between development of complete hydatidiform mole and plasma levels of nitric oxide (a biologically active mediator derived from L-arginine), and human chorionic gonadotropin beta (beta-hCG; a metabolite involved in trophoblast production).

METHODS

Levels of plasma nitric oxide and beta-hCG were measured in 38 patients with complete hydatidiform mole pregnancies, and nitric oxide levels were measured in 31 women with normal pregnancies who formed the control group.

RESULTS

For patients compared with controls, mean plasma concentrations of nitric oxide were significantly higher (35.84 vs 29.54 microM; p < 0.001) and significantly associated with increased risk of hydatidiform mole (odds ratio 1.0105, 95% confidence interval 1.0034-1.0176). No significant relationship was found between plasma levels of nitric oxide and beta-hCG in the patient group.

CONCLUSION

In patients with complete hydatidiform mole compared with controls, plasma nitric oxide levels were found to be significantly higher and associated with increased molar risk.

Effects of tobacco smoking on plasma selenium, zinc, copper and iron concentrations and related antioxidative enzyme activities

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to investigate whether alterations in antioxidative enzyme activities are dependent on their cofactor concentrations in tobacco smokers.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Plasma selenium, copper, zinc and iron concentrations, and the activities of related erythrocyte antioxidative enzymes copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu-Zn SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were measured in tobacco smokers and compared with those of nonsmokers. Plasma thiocyanate levels were measured as an index of smoking status.

RESULTS

While plasma copper concentration and erythrocyte Cu-Zn SOD activity were significantly higher, plasma selenium concentration and erythrocyte GSH-Px activities were significantly lower in tobacco smokers than in nonsmokers. There was no significant difference in plasma iron and zinc concentrations or erythrocyte CAT activity between the two groups. There were significant positive correlations between erythrocyte GSH-Px and plasma selenium levels, between Cu-Zn SOD and copper levels, and between CAT and iron levels, and a negative correlation between plasma thiocyanate and selenium content in tobacco smokers.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that antioxidative enzyme activities change depending on their cofactor concentrations in tobacco smokers.

Systemic stress responses after laparoscopic or open hernia repair

OBJECTIVE

To compare systemic stress responses after laparoscopic and open hernia repair to find out if the laparoscopic approach caused less stress than an open operation.

DESIGN

Prospective randomised trial.

SETTING

Teaching hospital, Sanliurfa, Turkey.

SUBJECTS

50 patients who required preperitoneal hernia repair were randomised to be treated by either the open or laparoscopic approach (n = 25 in each).

INTERVENTIONS

Samples of venous blood were taken before operation and at 2, 24, and 48 hours afterwards for measurement of the concentrations of: glucose, cortisol, malonyldialdehyde (MDA), C-reactive protein (CRP), creatine phosphokinase (CPK), caeruloplasmin, transferrin, fibrinogen, and albumin, and counts of leucocytes, neutrophils, and lymphocytes.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Changes in these indicators of a stress response.

RESULTS

Concentrations of glucose, cortisol, CRP, MDA, and CPK, and counts of leucocytes and neutrophils increased significantly, and the concentration of albumin decreased significantly, in both groups postoperatively. Lymphocyte counts were lower postoperatively but not significantly so. Concentrations of CRP, MDA, and CPK, and leucocyte counts were significantly lower in the laparoscopic group.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that there is less systemic stress response after laparoscopic than after open hernia repair.

Efficacy of cryotherapy and intralesional pentostam in treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis

Forty-two CL patients with 60 lesions were treated with cryotherapy using liquid nitrogen twice for two months. Another group of fifty-five CL patients. With 73 lesions were treated with intralesional pentostam with pentostam, 67 of 73 lesions (92%) and with cryotherapy 47 of 60 lesions (78%) healed or markedly improved at the end of three months follow-up. This study shows that intralesional pentostam injection was effective than cryotherapy. However, both lines of treatment were well tolerated by the patients. They showed no severe side effects and no significant changes in laboratory values. It is suggested that cryotherapy is an alternative to intralesional pentostam injection.

Effects of antiadhesive agents on the healing of intestinal anastomosis

PURPOSE

The effects of antiadhesive agents on the healing of intestinal anastomosis were investigated.

METHODS

Eighty rats were divided into eight groups. Colotomy and anastomosis were performed to all rats. Saline solution (control), carboxymethylcellulose, aprotinin, verapamil, tenoxicam, cyclosporine, and dextran 70 were administered intraperitoneally. Vitamin E was administered intramuscularly. The rats were killed 15 days later. Anastomotic healing was assessed by bursting pressure and the hydroxyproline content of the anastomotic tissues. The results were evaluated by Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS

The mean (+/- standard deviation) bursting pressures of carboxymethylcellulose, cyclosporine, and aprotinin groups (108 +/- 6.73, 122.5 +/-14.39, and 127 +/- 20.23, respectively) were significantly lower than those of the control group (234 +/- 6.19). The mean level of hydroxyproline in the anastomotic tissues was significantly lower in the carboxymethylcellulose and cyclosporine groups (8.92 +/- 0.6 and 8.32 +/- 0.63) than that in the control group (16.33 +/- 0.68).

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that carboxymethylcellulose and cyclosporine had adverse effects on intestinal anastomosis in rats.

Role of lipids, lipoproteins and lipid peroxidation in thrombocytopenia in patients with vivax malaria

Possible roles of oxidative and metabolic changes of lipids in the development of thrombocytopenia in patients with vivax malaria were investigated. Serum total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterols, triglycerides, lipid peroxidation level and platelet counts were determined in 60 patients with vivax malaria and compared with 50 healthy individuals. Inter-relationships of parameters were investigated. In patients, serum total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterol concentrations and platelet counts were lower, and serum triglycerides and plasma lipid peroxidation concentrations were higher than those of control subjects. Significant relationships were found among serum lipid parameters, plasma lipid peroxidation and thrombocyte counts. Decrease in total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterols and platelet counts may be related or secondary to oxidative stress. In the treatment of thrombocytopenia required in the some cases of malaria, the supplementation of antioxidative vitamins may be considered.

Reactive nitrogen and oxygen intermediates in patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis

The metabolisms of reactive nitrogen and oxygen intermediates (RNI and ROI) in patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) were investigated and compared with those of healthy subjects. To determine RNI metabolism, nitrite plus nitrate concentrations were measured spectrophotometrically. Nitrite concentration in plasma was determined directly by the Griess method. Nitrate levels in plasma were measured after reduction into nitrite by using copper-cadmium-zinc. ROI metabolism was evaluated by measuring erythrocyte superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities. Plasma nitrite plus nitrate levels and erythrocyte superoxide dismutase activity were higher in the patient group than healthy subjects (p<0.01). In contrast, erythrocyte catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities were lower (p<0.05, p<0.01, respectively). ROI metabolism was altered in relation to hydrogen peroxide elevation in patients with CL. These alterations in ROI enable nitric oxide (NO) to amplify its leishmanicidal effect. The determination of ROI and RNI in patients with CL may be a useful tool to evaluate effector mechanisms of NO and clinical manifestations.

Alterations of serum selenium, zinc, copper, and iron concentrations and some related antioxidant enzyme activities in patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis

The aim of this study was to measure the alterations in serum selenium (Se), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) concentrations and their carrier proteins, ceruloplasmin (Cp), transferrin (Tf) albumin, and related antioxidant enzyme activities, erythrocyte Cu-Zn superoxide dismutase (Cu-Zn SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) activities in patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). Erythrocyte Cu-Zn SOD activities, serum Cu concentrations, and Cp levels were found to be significantly higher in the patients group than those of controls. However, GSH-Px and CAT activities and Se, Zn, Fe, and Tf levels were lower in patients than in the control subjects. There were positive important correlation's between Cu-Zn SOD and Cp, Cu-Zn SOD and Cu, Cp and Cu, GSH-Px and Se, and Fe and CAT in the patients group. Our results showed that serum essential trace elements Se, Zn, Cu, and Fe concentrations and their related enzymes Cu-Zn SOD, GSH-Px, and CAT activities change in CL patients. The changes may be a part of defense strategies of organism and are induced by the hormonelike substances.

Adenosine deaminase activities in sera, lymphocytes and granulocytes in patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis

Adenosine deaminase (ADA) activities in sera, lymphocytes and granulocytes in patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis were investigated and compared with control groups. Fifty patients and 50 healthy individuals were studied. The clinical diagnosis was parasitologically confirmed by culture and Giemsa stain. ADA activities were measured by colorimetric method. Serum ADA activities 37.80 +/- 11.90, 18.28 +/- 6.08 IU/L (p < 0.0001), lymphocyte specific ADA activities 14.90 +/- 7.42, 8.38 +/- 7.42 U/mg protein (p = 0.04), granulocyte specific ADA activities 1.15 +/- 0.73, 1.09 +/- 0.67 U/mg protein (p > 0.05) were found in patients and control groups, respectively. ADA activity increases in some infectious diseases were cell mediated immune mechanisms are dominant. In cutaneous leishmaniasis, lymphokine-mediated macrophage activity is the main effector mechanism. Increase in serum and lymphocyte ADA activities in patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis may be dependent on and reflects the increase in phagocytic activity of macrophages and maturation of T-lymphocytes.

Effects of antimonial therapy on serum zinc, copper and iron concentrations in patients with cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Turkey

The effects of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) infections on total content of the essential trace elements and alterations of these elements content during antimonial therapy, serum iron (Fe), copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn), were determined in 40 patients with CL. 32 healthy subjects were selected as control group. Pentavalent antimonial compounds (Glucantime) were given intramuscularly (20 mg/kg/day) for three weeks in patients group. Serum Cu and Zn levels were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry and Fe levels were determined by colorimetrically. Before antimonial therapy; Cu levels were found significantly higher. However, Zn and Fe levels were found significantly lower in the patients group than those of controls. Cu levels were found tended to decrease, while Zn and Fe levels tended to increase during antimonial therapy. There was a negative correlation between serum Cu and Zn levels in CL patients (r = -0.322, p < 0.05). The findings showed that CL affects the essential trace element content and these changes began to disappear during antimonial therapy.

Oxidative stress and antioxidative status of plasma and erythrocytes in patients with vivax malaria

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the oxidative stress and antioxidative status of plasma and erythrocytes in patients with vivax malaria and healthy persons.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Activities of antioxidative enzymes, rates of pathways of hexose monophosphate shunt and purine salvage, levels of lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione, methemoglobin and sulfhemoglobin of erythrocytes were determined. Lipid peroxidation and levels of antioxidant substances were measured.

RESULTS

Antioxidants levels and antioxidative enzymes activities were lower and lipid peroxidation, purine salvage rate were higher in patients group than controls. Erythrocyte glucose-6 phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) activity was not different from that of healthy subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

Oxidative mechanisms were observed to be dominant compared with antioxidative mechanisms in patients with vivax malaria. Therefore, oxidative stress may be produced and maintained by the host defense mechanisms against malarial infection.