Relationship between smoking and total antioxidant status, total oxidant status, oxidative stress index, vit C, vit E

Dietary total antioxidant capacity and odds of lung cancer: a large case-control study

BACKGROUND& AIMS

We aimed to study the association between dietary total antioxidant capacity (dTAC) and lung cancer (LC) odds in an Iranian population.

METHODS

We recruited histopathologically diagnosed LC patients and healthy subjects from 10 provinces of Iran. Trained interviewers conducted face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire to collect demographic and other non-dietary information. Dietary habits in the previous year were evaluated using a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). We calculated daily energy and nutrient intakes using the USDA Food Composition Table. DTAC was assessed as ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and total radical-trapping antioxidant parameters (TRAP) whose scores were calculated using published databases. The odd ratios (OR) of LC and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using unconditional logistic regression after adjusting for potential confounders. Moreover, we assessed the associations in stratified groups of age, gender, tobacco including waterpipe smoking, and opium use.

RESULTS

Six hundered and sixty patients and 3,412 healthy controls were included in our study. Higher FRAP and TRAP scores were associated with a lower odd of LC (FRAP, upper tertile (T3) vs. lower tertile (T1): OR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.40-0.68; TRAP, T3 vs. T1: OR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.33-0.57) with a significant dose-response trend for both scores (p < 0.01). The inverse association was seen for both indicators in all histologic types of LC and in all stratified analyses including male/female, tobacco smokers/nonsmokers, opium users/nonusers, water pipe users/nonusers, and subjects under/over 50 years of age. However, Interaction between none of these variables with dTAC scores was significant.

CONCLUSION

Higher dTAC is associated with a lower odd of LC. The strong association in all subgroups highlights the importance of an antioxidant-rich diet intake in all subjects, even in the low-risk group.

Potential anti-aging applications of microbial-derived surfactantsin cosmetic formulations

The skin aging process is a complex interaction of genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors, such as chemical pollution and UV radiation. There is growing evidence that biosurfactants, especially those of microbial origin, have distinct age-supportive effects through different mechanisms, such as stimulation of fibroblast growth, high antioxidant capacities, and favorable anti-inflammatory properties. With a growing financial contribution of more than 15 m€per year, microbial surfactants (MSs) display unique biological effects on the skin including improved cell mobility, better nutrient access, and facilitated cellular growth under harsh conditions. Their biodegradable nature, unusual surface activity, good safety profile and tolerance to high temperature and pH variations widen their potential spectrum in biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. MSs typically have lower critical micelle concentration (CMC) levels than chemical surfactants enhancing their effectiveness. As natural surfactants, MSs are considered possible "green" alternatives to synthetic surfactants with better biodegradability, sustainability, and beneficial functional properties. This review therefore aims to explore the potential impacts of MSs as anti-aging ingredients.

The effect of healthy eating on the development of stomach and colorectal cancer by the smoking and drinking status: Results from the Korean National Cancer Center (KNCC) community cohort study

BACKGROUND

Determining the effect of dietary factors on cancer is a crucial issue when accounting for the effect of other major risks, such as smoking and drinking.

METHOD

A total of 15,563 adults from the Korean National Cancer Center Community Cohort were analyzed to determine and to compare the effect of dietary factors on stomach and colorectal cancer in overall and in the subgroup of non-smokers (or urinary cotinine concentrations <5 ng/mg) and non-drinkers with Cox proportional-hazard models.

RESULTS

During the mean follow-up (13.7 years), 469 and 299 cases of stomach and colorectal cancer were identified, respectively. The preventive effect of vegetable, fish, and soybean/tofu intake on colorectal cancer was found in women after adjustment for smoking, drinking, BMI, and sociodemographic factors. In the subgroup analysis of non-smokers and non-drinkers, the effect on colorectal cancer was increased in women (≥1 time/week vs. almost never, vegetables: hazard ratio (HR) 0.30, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.13-0.69; fish: HR 0.46, 95% CI 0.26-0.83), and the fresh fish intake effect on stomach cancer was newly identified in men (HR 0.36, 95% CI 0.15-0.86). These effects were more pronounced and additionally shown in other dietary factors such as soybean or tofu in women and vegetables and fish in men, when subjects with <5 ng/mg urinary cotinine concentrations applied.

CONCLUSION

The protective effect of healthy eating on the risk of stomach and colorectal cancer were different by smoking and drinking status. Rigorous control of smoking and drinking effects is necessary when measuring the effect of dietary factors on cancer, properly.

Smoking and consumption of ultra-processed foods - a combination of risky choices: A cross-sectional study using Vigitel 2018 data

BACKGROUND

Smoking and unhealthy diet are important risk factors for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, contributing to public health crises.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the consumption of natural/minimally processed and ultra-processed foods by Brazilian adults (18-59 years old) according to smoking status.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Cross-sectional study of a representative population sample from 26 state capitals and the Federal District (Brazil-2018).

METHODS

Data were obtained from Vigitel-Surveillance System for Risk and Protection Factors for Chronic Diseases by Telephone Survey. Participants were categorized as smokers, ex-smokers, and never smokers. Multinomial logistic regression was used for analyses.

RESULTS

Of the 30,800 adults evaluated, 9.4% (95%CI: 8.7-10.2) were smokers and 16.5% (95%CI: 15.8-17.3) were ex-smokers. Smokers were less likely to consume fruit and natural juice, and more likely to consume soda or artificial juice (≥ 5 days/week) than ex-smokers and never smokers. Regarding the daily frequency of consumption, smokers were observed to be less likely to eat fruit more than 1 time/day and more likely to drink ≥ 3 cups/cans of soda/day. Compared to never smokers, smokers had a 42% higher chance of consuming ≥ 3 glasses of natural juice/day. On the day before the interview, fruit, milk, tubers, squash, and okra consumption were lower among smokers than non-smokers. Smokers were more likely to report consuming soft drinks, fruit juice, sauces, ready-made dishes, margarine, and sausages.

CONCLUSION

Smokers had lower fruit consumption, and higher consumption of natural juices and ultra-processed foods. We highlight the need for strategies that encourage healthy eating and smoking cessation.

Exocyclic DNA adducts and oxidative stress parameters: useful tools for biomonitoring exposure to aldehydes in smokers

CONTEXT

Exocyclic DNA adducts have been shown to be potential biomarkers of cancer risk related to oxidative stress and exposure to aldehydes in smokers. In fact, aldehydes potentially arise from tobacco combustion directly and endogenously through lipid peroxidation.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the relationship between a profile of nine aldehydes-induced DNA adducts and antioxidant activities, in order to evaluate new biomarkers of systemic exposure to aldehydes.

METHODS

Using our previously published UPLC-MS/MS method, adducts levels were quantified in the blood DNA of 34 active smokers. The levels of antioxidant vitamins (A, C and E), coenzyme Q10, β-carotene, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and autoantibodies against oxidized low-density lipoprotein were measured.

RESULTS

Adducts induced by tobacco smoking-related aldehydes were quantified at levels reflecting an oxidative production from lipid peroxidation. A significant correlation between SOD and crotonaldehyde-induced adducts (p = 0.0251) was also observed. β-Carotene was negatively correlated with the adducts of formaldehyde (p = 0.0351) and acetaldehyde (p = 0.0413). Vitamin C tended to inversely correlate with acetaldehyde-induced adducts (p = 0.0584).

CONCLUSION

These results are promising, and the study is now being conducted on a larger cohort with the aim of evaluating the impact of smoking cessation programs on the evolution of adducts profile and antioxidants activities.

Integrated use of biofeedback and neurofeedback techniques in treating pathological conditions and improving performance: a narrative review

In recent years, the scientific community has begun tо explore the efficacy оf an integrated neurofeedback + biofeedback approach іn various conditions, both pathological and non-pathological. Although several studies have contributed valuable insights into its potential benefits, this review aims tо further investigate its effectiveness by synthesizing current findings and identifying areas for future research. Our goal іs tо provide a comprehensive overview that may highlight gaps іn the existing literature and propose directions for subsequent studies. The search for articles was conducted on the digital databases PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies to have used the integrated neurofeedback + biofeedback approach published between 2014 and 2023 and reviews to have analyzed the efficacy of neurofeedback and biofeedback, separately, related to the same time interval and topics were selected. The search identified five studies compatible with the objectives of the review, related to several conditions: nicotine addiction, sports performance, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The integrated neurofeedback + biofeedback approach has been shown to be effective in improving several aspects of these conditions, such as a reduction in the presence of psychiatric symptoms, anxiety, depression, and withdrawal symptoms and an increase in self-esteem in smokers; improvements in communication, imitation, social/cognitive awareness, and social behavior in ASD subjects; improvements in attention, alertness, and reaction time in sports champions; and improvements in attention and inhibitory control in ADHD subjects. Further research, characterized by greater methodological rigor, is therefore needed to determine the effectiveness of this method and the superiority, if any, of this type of training over the single administration of either. This review іs intended tо serve as a catalyst for future research, signaling promising directions for the advancement оf biofeedback and neurofeedback methodologies.

Electronic cigarettes can damage lingual papillae and taste buds. Can vitamins C and E supplementation reverse this damage?

AIMS

This histological study focuses on the impact of electronic cigarette liquid (EC) on lingual papillae, especially taste buds, compare it to nicotine, and investigates the potential of vitamins in reversing these unwanted changes.

MAIN METHODS

40 adult male rats were allocated into 5 groups. Control injected saline intraperitoneally, electronic cigarettes group injected EC-liquid containing nicotine of dose (0.75 mg/kg), electronic cigarette group injected EC-liquid then supplemented orally with vitamins C and E, nicotine group injected pure nicotine of dose (0.75 mg/kg) and lastly nicotine group injected with pure nicotine of dose (0.75 mg/kg) then supplemented orally with vitamins C and E. Keratin surface area and the ratio between taste buds and its epithelial covering surface areas in fungiform papillae were measured.

KEY FINDINGS

Histological examination of EC group revealed abnormal epithelial stratification and mitotic figs. EC plus V group showed intact basal cell layer. N group showed better histological stratification than EC group. Fungiform and circumvallate papillae in EC and N groups showed distorted appearance of taste buds. Histomorphometry analysis showed a significant decrease in taste buds to epithelium surface areas in EC, nicotine, and EC plus V groups, p-value (<0.05). There was no significant difference between control and N plus V groups.

SIGNIFICANCE

Administration of vitamins C and E showed preservation of normal histological features of the lingual mucous membrane. EC caused striking damage to taste buds even after the administration of vitamins. The negative effects of electronic cigarettes are not confined only to the presence of nicotine.

Vegetable and fruit intake and colorectal cancer risk by smoking status in adults: The Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective Study

BACKGROUND

Cigarette smoke contains many oxidants and free radicals which may affect the association between vegetable and fruit intake and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk. However, this relationship remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the associations between vegetable and fruit intake and CRC risk by smoking status.

METHODS

The Japan Public Health Center-based Prospective Study is a population-based prospective cohort study. Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire in 1995-1999 (baseline survey) and were followed through to 2013. At the baseline survey, 89,283 residents (41,797 men and 47,486 women) aged 45-74 years were included. Participants were asked about their lifestyle and dietary habits. To investigate the association of vegetable and fruit intake with risk of CRC, Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We analyzed the relationship between vegetable and fruit intake and CRC risk stratified by sex and smoking status.

RESULTS

During follow-up, 2261 participants were diagnosed with CRC. Overall, vegetable and fruit intake were not associated with CRC risk in either sex. When stratified by sex and smoking status, CRC risk among male never smokers was inversely associated with intake of vegetables and fruit combined (HR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.53, 0.98; highest vs lowest quartile p trend = 0.01) and fruit alone (HR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.45, 0.86; p trend < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Cigarette smoking may affect the association between vegetable and fruit intake and CRC risk among men.

Does combined training of biofeedback and neurofeedback affect smoking status, behavior, and longitudinal brain plasticity?

Introduction: Investigations of biofeedback (BF) and neurofeedback (NF) training for nicotine addiction have been long documented to lead to positive gains in smoking status, behavior and to changes in brain activity. We aimed to: (a) evaluate a multi-visit combined BF/NF intervention as an alternative smoking cessation approach, (b) validate training-induced feedback learning, and (c) document effects on resting-state functional connectivity networks (rsFCN); considering gender and degree of nicotine dependence in a longitudinal design. Methods: We analyzed clinical, behavioral, and electrophysiological data from 17 smokers who completed five BF and 20 NF sessions and three evaluation stages. Possible neuroplastic effects were explored comparing whole-brain rsFCN by phase-lag index (PLI) for different brain rhythms. PLI connections with significant change across time were investigated according to different resting-state networks (RSNs). Results: Improvements in smoking status were observed as exhaled carbon monoxide levels, Total Oxidative Stress, and Fageström scores decreased while Vitamin E levels increased across time. BF/NF promoted gains in anxiety, self-esteem, and several aspects of cognitive performance. BF learning in temperature enhancement was observed within sessions. NF learning in theta/alpha ratio increase was achieved across baselines and within sessions. PLI network connections significantly changed across time mainly between or within visual, default mode and frontoparietal networks in theta and alpha rhythms, while beta band RSNs mostly changed significantly after BF sessions. Discussion: Combined BF/NF training positively affects the clinical and behavioral status of smokers, displays benefit in smoking harm reduction, plays a neuroprotective role, leads to learning effects and to positive reorganization of RSNs across time. Clinical Trial Registration: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02991781.

Molecular docking and dynamics studies of cigarette smoke carcinogens interacting with acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase enzymes of the central nervous system

The free radicals produced by cigarette smoking are responsible for tissue damage, heart and lung diseases, and carcinogenesis. The effect of tobacco on the central nervous system (CNS) has received increased attention nowadays in research. Therefore, to explore the molecular interaction of cigarette smoke carcinogens (CSC) 4-(methylnitrosamine)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol (NNAL), 4-(methylnitrosamine)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK), and N'-nitrosonornicotine (NNN) with well-known targets of CNS-related disorders, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) enzymes, a cascade of the computational study was conducted including molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations (MDS). The investigated results of NNAL+AChEcomplex, NNK+AChEcomplex, and NNK+BuChEcomplex based on intermolecular energies (∆G) were found to -8.57 kcal/mol, -8.21 kcal/mol, and -8.08 kcal/mol, respectively. MDS deviation and fluctuation plots of the NNAL and NNK interaction with AChE and BuChE have shown significant results. Further, Molecular Mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann Surface Area (MM-PBSA) results shown the best total binding energy (Binding∆G) -87.381 (+/-13.119) kJ/mol during NNK interaction with AChE. Our study suggests that CSC is well capable of altering the normal biomolecular mechanism of CNS; thus, obtained data could be useful to design extensive wet laboratory experimentation to know the effects of CSC on human CNS.

Carotenoids in Human SkinIn Vivo: Antioxidant and Photo-Protectant Role against External and Internal Stressors

The antioxidant system of the human body plays a crucial role in maintaining redox homeostasis and has an important protective function. Carotenoids have pronounced antioxidant properties in the neutralization of free radicals. In human skin, carotenoids have a high concentration in the stratum corneum (SC)-the horny outermost layer of the epidermis, where they accumulate within lipid lamellae. Resonance Raman spectroscopy and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy are optical methods that are used to non-invasively determine the carotenoid concentration in the human SC in vivo. It was shown by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy that carotenoids support the entire antioxidant status of the human SC in vivo by neutralizing free radicals and thus, counteracting the development of oxidative stress. This review is devoted to assembling the kinetics of the carotenoids in the human SC in vivo using non-invasive optical and spectroscopic methods. Factors contributing to the changes of the carotenoid concentration in the human SC and their influence on the antioxidant status of the SC in vivo are summarized. The effect of chemotherapy on the carotenoid concentration of the SC in cancer patients is presented. A potential antioxidant-based pathomechanism of chemotherapy-induced hand-foot syndrome and a method to reduce its frequency and severity are discussed.

Comparison of Oxidative Effects of Electronic Cigarette and Tobacco Smoke Exposure Performed Experimentally

OBJECTIVE

Cigarette smoking is a life-threatening habit that has rapidly spread in every socioeconomic part of the public worldwide. There exist mechanisms of nicotine delivery available to use in the hope of halting cigarette smoking, and the electronic cigarette (EC) is one of the common methods used for tobacco smoking replacement. This study aimed to investigate experimentally the oxidative effects of tobacco smoke and EC smoke which contain nicotine.

METHOD

We constructed smoke circuit rooms for exposing the rats to EC or tobacco smoke. Three groups were created, the control group (N = 8); the electronic cigarette group (N = 8), exposure to electronic cigarette smoke for 2 h per day; and the tobacco group (N = 8), exposure to traditional cigarette smoke for 2 h per day. After the first and second week of exposure, blood samples were obtained, and serum oxidative stress index (OSI), paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activity, and prolidase levels were evaluated.

RESULTS

Higher values of OSI and prolidase levels were detected in the first week of EC or tobacco smoke exposure in both study groups (p < 0.001) when compared with the control group, and partial decrements were observed in the second week. By contrast, elevated PON1 levels were observed in the second week after EC or tobacco smoke exposure. The highest OSI levels were observed in the tobacco smoke group (p < 0.001). The lowest values of PON1 levels were detected in the first week of the electronic cigarette smoke group, and this decremental value was statistically different than normal, the second week of the electronic cigarette smoke group, the first week of the traditional cigarette smoke exposure group, and the second week of the traditional cigarette smoke exposure group values (p < 0.000).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that EC smoke induced oxidative stress. Therefore, ECs are potentially risky for human health and can lead to important health problems.

Comparative study of the effects of cigarette smoke versus next generation tobacco and nicotine product extracts on endothelial function

Tobacco smoking and hemodynamic forces are key stimuli for the development of endothelial dysfunction. As an alternative to smoking, next generation tobacco and nicotine products (NGP) are now widely used. However, little is known about their potential pro-inflammatory and atherogenic effects on the endothelium. In this study, we analyzed key parameters of endothelial function after exposure to aqueous smoke extracts (AqE) of a heated tobacco product (HTP), an electronic cigarette (e-cig), a conventional cigarette (3R4F) and pure nicotine. All experiments were performed under atheroprotective high laminar or atherogenic low flow with primary human endothelial cells. Treatment with 3R4F, but not alternative smoking products, reduced endothelial cell viability and wound healing capability via the PI3K/AKT/eNOS(NOS3) pathway. Laminar flow delayed detrimental effects on cell viability by 3R4F treatment. 3R4F stimulation led to activation of NRF2 antioxidant defense system at nicotine concentrations ≥0.56 μg/ml and increased expression of its target genes HMOX1 and NQO1. Treatment with HTP revealed an induction of HMOX1 and NQO1 at dosages with ≥1.68 μg/ml nicotine, whereas e-cig and nicotine exposure had no impact. Analyses of pro-inflammatory genes revealed an increased ICAM1 expression under 3R4F treatment. 3R4F reduced VCAM1 expression in a dose-dependent manner; HTP treatment had similar but milder effects; e-cig and nicotine treatment had no impact. SELE expression was induced by 3R4F under static conditions. High laminar flow prevented this upregulation. Stimulation with laminar flow led to downregulation of CCL2 (MCP-1). From this downregulated level, only 3R4F increased CCL2 expression at higher concentrations. Finally, under static conditions, all components increased adhesion of monocytes to endothelial cells. Interestingly, only stimulation with 3R4F revealed increased monocyte adhesion under atherosclerosis-prone low flow. In conclusion, all product categories activated anti-oxidative or pro-inflammatory patterns. NGP responses were typically lower than in 3R4F exposed cells. Also, 3R4F stimulation led to an impaired endothelial wound healing and induced a pro-inflammatory phenotype compared to NGP treatment.

Insufficient Vitamin C Levels among Adults in the United States: Results from the NHANES Surveys, 2003-2006

Vitamin C, well-established in immune function and a key factor in epigenetic inflammatory modifications, is only obtained through consistent dietary intake. Identifying individuals at risk for Vitamin C insufficiency may guide prevention and treatment, however, national surveillance has not been evaluated in the United States since 2006. A descriptive, cross-sectional secondary analysis was performed utilizing data from the 2003–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) assessing non-institutionalized adults. Five categories of plasma Vitamin C were delineated: deficiency (<11 μmol/L), hypovitaminosis (11–23 μmol/L), inadequate (23–49 μmol/L), adequate (50–69 μmol/L), and saturating (≥70 μmol/L). Results indicated 41.8% of the population possessed insufficient levels (deficiency, hypovitaminosis, and inadequate) of Vitamin C. Males, adults aged 20–59, Black and Mexican Americans, smokers, individuals with increased BMI, middle and high poverty to income ratio and food insecurity were significantly associated with insufficient Vitamin C plasma levels. Plasma Vitamin C levels reveal a large proportion of the population still at risk for inflammatory driven disease with little to no symptoms of Vitamin C hypovitaminosis. Recognition and regulation of the health impact of Vitamin C support the goal of Nutrition and Healthy Eating as part of the Healthy People 2030.

Electronic and Tobacco Cigarettes Alter Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Oxidative Biomarkers

[Figure: see text].

Antioxidants in smokers

Cigarette smoke (CS) is likely the most common preventable cause of human morbidity and mortality worldwide. Consequently, inexpensive interventional strategies for preventing CS-related diseases would positively impact health systems. Inhaled CS is a powerful inflammatory stimulus and produces a shift in the normal balance between antioxidants and oxidants, inducing oxidative stress in both the respiratory system and throughout the body. This enduring and systemic pro-oxidative state within the body is reflected by increased levels of oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers seen in smokers. Smokers might benefit from consuming antioxidant supplements, or a diet rich in fruit and vegetables, which can reduce the CS-related oxidative stress. This review provides an overview of the plasma profile of antioxidants observable in smokers and examines the heterogeneous literature to elucidate and discuss the effectiveness of interventional strategies based on antioxidant supplements or an antioxidant-rich diet to improve the health of smokers. An antioxidant-rich diet can provide an easy-to-implement and cost-effective preventative strategy to reduce the risk of CS-related diseases, thus being one of the simplest ways for smokers to stay in good health for as long as possible. The health benefits attributable to the intake of antioxidants have been observed predominantly when these have been consumed within their natural food matrices in an optimal antioxidant-rich diet, while these preventive effects are rarely achieved with the intake of individual antioxidants, even at high doses.

The Effect of Smoking on Mitochondrial Biogenesis in Patients With Graves Ophthalmopathy

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effects of cigarette smoking on oxidative stress (OS) and mitochondrial biogenesis related parameters in patients Graves Ophthalmopathy (GO).

METHODS

Patients with moderate-to-severe GO according to the European Group on Graves Orbitopathy (EUGOGO) criteria were prospectively enrolled in this study. Age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers who applied to outpatient clinic due to refractive problems consisted the control group. Participants were divided into 4 groups based on their diagnosis and smoking status: group 1 (n = 30) smoker GO patients, group 2 (n = 30) nonsmoker GO patients, group 3 (n = 30) smoker healthy controls, and group 4 (n = 30) nonsmoker healthy controls. In the sera, total antioxidant status, total oxidant status and OS index values, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator 1-α, mitochondrial transcriptional factor A levels, and paraoxonase-1 enzyme activity were evaluated.

RESULTS

Total oxidant status and OS index values were the highest in group 1 compared to other groups (p = 0.031, p = 0.042; respectively). There was no statistically significant difference in total antioxidant status and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator 1α levels among the groups (p = 0.521, p = 0.388; respectively). Paraoxonase-1 enzyme activity was the lowest in group 1 and highest in group 4 (p = 0.024). The levels of mitochondrial transcriptional factor A was the lowest in group 1 compared to other groups (p = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

Cigarette smoking in GO patients seems to be a risk factor that increases OS, and therefore, it may have an unfavorable impact on the mitochondrial biogenesis.

Associations between Lifestyle Factors and Vitamin E Metabolites in the General Population

The antioxidant vitamin E (α-tocopherol, α-TOH) protects lipids from oxidation by reactive oxygen species. We hypothesized that lifestyle factors associate with vitamin E metabolism marked by urinary α-tocopheronolactone hydroquinone (α-TLHQ) and α-carboxymethyl-hydroxychroman (α-CEHC levels), as potential reflection of lipid oxidation. We conducted a cross-sectional study in the Netherlands Epidemiology of Obesity Study. Serum α-TOH, and urinary α-TLHQ and α-CEHC were quantified by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. Information on the lifestyle factors (sleep, physical activity (PA), smoking and alcohol) were collected through questionnaires. Multivariable linear regression analyses were performed to assess the associations between the lifestyle factors and α-TOH measures. A total of 530 participants (46% men) were included with mean (SD) age of 56 (6) years. Of the examined lifestyle factors, only poor sleep was associated with a higher serum α-TOH (mean difference: 4% (95% CI: 1, 7%)). Current smoking was associated with higher urinary α-CEHC (32%: (14%, 53%)), with evidence of a dose–response relationship with smoking intensity (low pack years, 24% (2, 52%); high pack years, 55% (25, 93%)). Moderate physical activity was associated with a lower α-TLHQ relative to α-CEHC (−17%: (−26, −6%), compared with low PA). Only specific lifestyle factors associate with vitamin E metabolism. Examining serum α-TOH does not provide complete insight in vitamin E antioxidant capacity.

The effect of smoking on chronic inflammation, immune function and blood cell composition

Smoking is the number one risk factor for cancer mortality but only 15-20% of heavy smokers develop lung cancer. It would, therefore, be of great benefit to identify those at high risk early on so that preventative measures can be initiated. To investigate this, we evaluated the effects of smoking on inflammatory markers, innate and adaptive immune responses to bacterial and viral challenges and blood cell composition. We found that plasma samples from 30 heavy smokers (16 men and 14 women) had significantly higher CRP, fibrinogen, IL-6 and CEA levels than 36 non-smoking controls. Whole blood samples from smokers, incubated for 7 h at 37 °C in the absence of any exogenous stimuli, secreted significantly higher levels of IL-8 and a number of other cytokines/chemokines than non-smokers. When challenged for 7 h with E. coli, whole blood samples from smokers secreted significantly lower levels of many inflammatory cytokines/chemokines. However, when stimulated with HSV-1, significantly higher levels of both PGE₂ and many cytokines/chemokines were secreted from smokers' blood samples than from controls. In terms of blood cell composition, red blood cells, hematocrits, hemoglobin levels, MCV, MCH, MCHC, Pct and RDW levels were all elevated in smokers, in keeping with their compromised lung capacity. As well, total leukocytes were significantly higher, driven by increases in granulocytes and monocytes. In addition, smokers had lower NK cells and higher Tregs than controls, suggesting that smoking may reduce the ability to kill nascent tumor cells. Importantly, there was substantial person-to person variation amongst smokers with some showing markedly different values from controls and others showing normal levels of many parameters measured, indicating the former may be at significantly higher risk of developing lung cancer.

The flavoring and not the nicotine content is a decisive factor for the effects of refill liquids of electronic cigarette on the redox status of endothelial cells

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The pattern of the effect on Ea.hy926 redox status differs among flavored e-liquids.

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Tobacco flavored e-liquids increase ROS generation with concomitant increase in TBARS.

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Vanilla flavored e-liquids profile depends on the nicotine content.

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Apple/mint flavored e-liquids activate the cellular antioxidant defense.

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Flavorings and not the nicotine content play a key role in free radical generation.

Electronic cigarettes are constantly gaining ground as they are considered less harmful than conventional cigarettes, and there is also the perception that they may serve as a potential smoking cessation tool. Although the acute effects of electronic cigarette use have been extensively studied, the long-term potential adverse effects on human health remain largely unknown. It has been well-established that oxidative stress is involved in the development of various pathological conditions. So far, most studies on e-cigarettes concern the effects on the respiratory system while fewer have focused on the vascular system. In the present study, we attempted to reveal the effects of electronic cigarette refill liquids on the redox state of human endothelial cells (EA.hy926 cell line). For this purpose, the cytotoxic effect of three e-liquids with different flavors (tobacco, vanilla, apple/mint) and nicotine concentrations (0, 6, 12, 18 mg/ml) were initially examined for their impact on cell viability of EA.hy926 cells. Then, five redox biomarkers [reduced form of glutathione (GSH), reactive oxygen species (ROS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and protein carbonyls (CARBS)] were measured. The results showed a disturbance in the redox balance in favor of free radicals in tobacco flavored e-liquids while vanilla flavored e-liquids exhibited a more complex profile depending on the nicotine content. The most interesting finding of the present study concerns the apple/mint flavored e-liquids that seemed to activate the cellular antioxidant defense and, thus, to protect the cells from the adverse effects of free radicals. Conclusively, it appears that the flavorings and not the nicotine content play a key role in the oxidative stress-induced toxicity of the e-liquids.

Advances in biofeedback and neurofeedback studies on smoking

Smoking is a leading cause of morbidity and premature death constituting a global health challenge. Although, pharmacological and behavioral approaches comprise the mainstay of smoking cessation interventions, the efficacy and safety of pharmacotherapy is not demonstrated for some populations. Non-pharmacological approaches, such as biofeedback (BF) and neurofeedback (NF) could facilitate self-regulation of predisposing factors of relapse such as craving and stress. The current review aims to aggregate the existing evidence regarding the effects of BF and NF training on smokers. Relevant studies were identified through searching in Scopus, PubMed and Cochrane Library, and through hand-searching the references of screened articles. Peer-reviewed controlled and uncontrolled studies, where BF and/or NF training was administered, were included and evaluated according to PICOS framework. Narrative qualitative synthesis of ten eligible studies was performed, aggregated into three categories according to training provided. BF outcomes seem to be affected by smoking behavior prior to training; individualized EEG NF training holds promise for modulating craving-related response while minimizing the required number of sessions. Real-time fMRI NF studies concluded that nicotine-dependent individuals could modulate craving-related brain responses, while mixed results were revealed regarding smokers' ability to modulate brain responses related to resistance towards the urge to smoke. BF and NF training seem to facilitate modulation of autonomous and/or central nervous system activity while also transferring this learned self-regulation to behavioral outcomes. BF and NF training should a) address remaining issues on specificity and scientific validity, b) target diverse demographics, and c) produce robust reproducible methodologies and clinical guidelines for relevant health care providers, in order to be considered as viable complementary tools to standard smoking cessation care.

A simple and useful method for evaluation of oxidative stress in vivo by spectrofluorometric estimation of urinary pteridines

Pteridine derivatives are intermediate metabolites of folic acid and its cofactors. Oxidized-form pteridines, but not reduced-form pteridines, are fluorescent substances. The purpose of this study was to clarify whether oxidized-form pteridine level in urine, estimated by spectrofluorometry, reflects oxidative stress in vivo. The subjects were healthy middle-aged men (n = 258). Urinary pteridine level was estimated by spectrofluorometry with an excitation wavelength of 360 nm and an emission wavelength of 450 nm. Relationships of urinary pteridines with oxidative stress markers (urinary DNA/RNA oxidation products and 15-isoprostane F_2t) and with smoking were analyzed. Concentrations of pteridines, DNA/RNA oxidation products and 15-isoprostane F_2t were used after logarithmic transformation in linear analyses. Pteridine levels were significantly correlated with levels of DNA/RNA oxidation products (Pearson’s correlation coefficient: 0.626, p < 0.01) and 15-isoprostane F_2t (Pearson’s correlation coefficient: 0.695, p < 0.01). These correlations were not confounded by age, body mass index, history of smoking and estimated glomerular filtration rate in multivariate analysis. The mean urinary pteridine level was significantly higher in heavy smokers (16 cigarettes or more per day) than in nonsmokers and light smokers (less than 16 cigarettes per day) and was higher in light smokers than in nonsmokers. Thus, urinary fluorometric pteridine levels were shown to be associated with known biomarkers of oxidative stress as well as smoking, which causes oxidative stress in vivo. We propose spectrofluorometrical estimation of urinary pteridines as a simple and useful method for evaluation of oxidative stress in vivo.

Protective effect of the medicinal herb infusion "horchata" against oxidative damage in cigarette smokers: An ex vivo study

Cigarette smoking has been associated with an increase in oxidative stress (OS) and is considered a predisposing factor to chronic noncommunicable diseases, whilst dietary antioxidants has been proposed as an alternative to cope with this oxidative stress. In this study, 20 smokers and 20 non-smokers were studied with the aim of determining their antioxidant status, as well as the ability of an infusion of 23 medicinal plants, to counteract the damage caused by OS. The plasma, red blood cells (RBCs) and polymorphonuclear cells (PBMCs) of both groups were incubated or not with the horchata infusion extract and then the OS markers, genotoxicity, nanostructure of RBCs membrane and genes related to oxidative responses and cellular functionality were evaluated. Up to 33 different compounds, mainly quercetin glycosides, were identified in the extract. A significant deterioration in the antioxidant status in smokers compared to non-smokers was found. The horchata infusion extract improved the nanostructure of RBCs and DNA damage, as well as the activity of the endogenous antioxidant enzymes and markers of oxidative damage to lipid, and proteins in plasma, RBCs and PBMCs in both groups, whilst no significant changes were found in the expression of different genes related to OS response.

Two Faces of Vitamin C-Antioxidative and Pro-Oxidative Agent

Vitamin C has been known for decades. It is common in everyday use as an element of the diet, supplementation, and a preservative. For years, research has been conducted to precisely determine the mechanism of action of ascorbate in the cell. Available results indicate its multi-directional cellular effects. Vitamin C, which belongs to antioxidants scavenging free radicals, also has a ‘second face’—as a pro-oxidative factor. However, whether is the latter nature a defect harmful to the cell, or whether a virtue that is a source of benefit? In this review, we discuss the effects of vitamin C treatment in cancer prevention and the role of ascorbate in maintaining redox balance in the central nervous system (CNS). Finally, we discuss the effect of vitamin C supplementation on biomarkers of oxidative DNA damage and review the evidence that vitamin C has radioprotective properties.

Effect of Vitamins C and E Co-Supplementation on Serum C-Reactive Protein Level: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Studies assessing the effect of vitamin C and E co-supplementation on levels of circulating C-reactive protein (CRP) show contradictory results. We carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the effect of vitamin C and E co-supplementation on CRP. A systematic search was carried out using PubMed, Scopus, Ovid, Cochrane, Embase, and the Web of Science without any language or time restriction (until 31 March 2019) to retrieve RCTs that examined the effect of vitamin C and E co-supplementation on CRP. A meta-analysis was carried out using a random effects model, and I² indexes were used to evaluate the heterogeneity. The search yielded 5,134 publications, including 8 eligible RCTs. The results indicate that vitamin C and E co-supplementation does not significantly impact levels of serum CRP [weighted mean difference and 95% confidence interval with random effects model analysis: −0.22 mg/L (−0.85, 0.41), P=0.5]. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that vitamin C and E co-supplementation significantly reduced serum CRP in participants ≥30 years of age, but significantly increased serum CRP in participants <30 years of age. The results of this meta-analysis indicate beneficial effects of vitamins C and E co-supplementation on CRP in participants ≥30 years of age, and not in younger participants. To confirm these results, further well-designed RCTs are needed.

Total Antioxidant Capacity and Pancreatic Cancer Incidence and Mortality in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial

BACKGROUND

Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) reflects an individual's overall antioxidant intake. We sought to clarify whether higher TAC is associated with lower risks of pancreatic cancer incidence and mortality in the U.S. general population.

METHODS

A total of 96,018 American adults were identified from the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial. A ferric-reducing ability of plasma score was used to reflect an individual's TAC intake from diet and/or supplements. Cox regression was used to calculate hazard ratios (HR) for pancreatic cancer incidence, and competing risk regression was used to calculate subdistribution HRs for pancreatic cancer mortality. Restricted cubic spline regression was used to test nonlinearity.

RESULTS

A total of 393 pancreatic cancer cases and 353 pancreatic cancer-related deaths were documented. Total (diet + supplements) TAC was found to be inversely associated with pancreatic cancer incidence (HR _{quartile 4 vs. quartile 1} = 0.53; 95% confidence interval, 0.39-0.72; P _trend = 0.0002) and mortality (subdistribution HR _{quartile 4 vs. quartile 1} = 0.52; 95% confidence interval 0.38-0.72; P _trend = 0.0003) in a nonlinear dose-response manner (all P _nonlinearity < 0.01). Similar results were observed for dietary TAC. No association of supplemental TAC with pancreatic cancer incidence and mortality was found.

CONCLUSIONS

In the U.S. general population, dietary but not supplemental TAC level is inversely associated with risks of pancreatic cancer incidence and mortality in a nonlinear dose-response pattern.

IMPACT

This is the first prospective study indicating that a diet rich in antioxidants may be beneficial in decreasing pancreatic cancer incidence and mortality.

Trends of Lipophilic, Antioxidant and Hematological Parameters Associated with Conventional and Electronic Smoking Habits in Middle-Age Romanians

It is known that cigarette smoking is correlated with medical associated inquires. New electronic cigarettes are intensively advertised as an alternative to conventional smoking, but only a few studies demonstrate their harmful potential. A cross-sectional study was designed using 150 subjects from Brasov (Romania), divided into three groups: non-smokers (NS = 58), conventional cigarettes smokers (CS = 58) and electronic cigarettes users (ECS = 34). The aim of this study was to determine levels of some plasma lipophilic and hematological components, and the total antioxidant status that could be associated with the smoking status of the subjects. Serum low density lipoproteins (LDL) cholesterol increased significantly for ECS participants versus NS group (18.9% difference) (p < 0.05). Also, the CS group is characterized by an increase of serum LDL cholesterol (7.9% difference vs. NS), but with no significant statistical difference. The variation of median values of serum very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) was in order NS < ECS < CS, with statistical difference between NS and CS groups (34.6% difference; p = 0.023). When comparing the antioxidant status of the three groups, significant differences (p < 0.05) were obtained between NS vs. CS and NS vs. ECS. Similar behavior was identified for CS and ECS. Statistically significant changes (p < 0.0001) for both vitamin A and vitamin E were identified in the blood of NS vs. CS and NS vs. ECS, and also when comparing vitamin A in the blood of the CS group versus the ECS group (p < 0.05). When all groups were compared, the difference in the white blood cell (WBC) was (p = 0.008). A slight increase in the red blood cell (RBC) count was observed, but with no statistical difference between groups. These results indicated that conventional cigarette and e-cigarette usage promotes the production of excess reactive oxygen species, involving different pathways, different antioxidants and bioactive molecules.

Evaluation of serum prolidase activity and oxidative stress in patients with temporomandibular joint internal derangement

Objective: To investigate serum prolidase activity and oxidative stress in patients with temporomandibular joint internal derangement (TMJ-ID).Methods: Seventy patients with Wilkes stage III, IV, and V joints and 70 healthy controls were included. Serum prolidase activity and oxidative stress parameters, including total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), glutathione (GSH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and lipid hydroperoxide (LOOH) were measured.Results: The levels of prolidase, TOS, OSI, AOPP, and LOOH were significantly higher in the TMJ-ID group than in the control (p = .0001). TAS and FRAP level was significantly lower in the TMJ-ID group than in the control (p = .0001). There was no significant difference in GSH between groups.Conclusion: Significantly increased prolidase activity and oxidative stress in patients with TMJ-ID may be related to long-term collagen tissue damage, and inflammation and can be effective in the etiology of TMJ-ID.

Altered fibrin clot properties in advanced lung cancer: strong impact of cigarette smoking

BACKGROUND

Dense fibrin networks resistant to lysis have been reported in patients at high risk of thromboembolism. Little is known about fibrin clot properties in cancer. We investigated fibrin clot properties and their determinants in patients with inoperable lung cancer.

METHODS

We enrolled 150 patients with advanced lung cancer prior to therapy and 90 control subjects matched by age, sex, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. Plasma clot permeability (K_s), turbidimetric analysis of clot formation, clot lysis time (CLT), microparticle-associated tissue factor (MP-TF) activity, thrombin generation, and serum cotinine levels were determined.

RESULTS

Lung cancer patients, compared with controls, formed at a faster rate (- 8.1% lag phase) denser plasma fibrin networks (- 27.2% K_s) that displayed impaired lysis (+ 26.5% CLT), along with 19.5% higher MP-TF activity and 100% higher peak thrombin generated, also after adjustment for potential confounders. Cotinine levels were associated with fibrin maximum absorbance (r = 0.20, p = 0.016) and K_s (r = - 0.50, p < 0.0001) in cancer patients. On multivariate regression analysis, an increase in cotinine levels was a predictor of low K_s (the lower quartile, < 5.8 × 10^-9 cm²; odds ratio = 1.21 per 10 ng/ml, 95% confidence interval 1.02-1.46), but not CLT.

CONCLUSION

Advanced lung cancer is associated with the prothrombotic plasma clot phenotype largely driven by smoking.

The Role of Tocotrienol in Preventing Male Osteoporosis-A Review of Current Evidence

Male osteoporosis is a significant but undetermined healthcare problem. Men suffer from a higher mortality rate post-fracture than women and they are marginalized in osteoporosis treatment. The current prophylactic agents for osteoporosis are limited. Functional food components such as tocotrienol may be an alternative option for osteoporosis prevention in men. This paper aims to review the current evidence regarding the skeletal effects of tocotrienol in animal models of male osteoporosis and its potential antiosteoporotic mechanism. The efficacy of tocotrienol of various sources (single isoform, palm and annatto vitamin E mixture) had been tested in animal models of bone loss induced by testosterone deficiency (orchidectomy and buserelin), metabolic syndrome, nicotine, alcoholism, and glucocorticoid. The treated animals showed improvements ranging from bone microstructural indices, histomorphometric indices, calcium content, and mechanical strength. The bone-sparing effects of tocotrienol may be exerted through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mevalonate-suppressive pathways. However, information pertaining to its mechanism of actions is superficial and warrants further studies. As a conclusion, tocotrienol could serve as a functional food component to prevent male osteoporosis, but its application requires validation from a clinical trial in men.