Optimization of the Extraction Conditions of Polyphenols from Red Clover (Trifolium pratense L.) Flowers and Evaluation of the Antiradical Activity of the Resulting Extracts

The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of the type of extraction solution (water, different concentrations of ethanol), temperature and time on the polyphenol content and antioxidant properties of red clover extracts and the effect of the addition of selected extracts on the antioxidant properties of enriched blackcurrant beverages. In both the extractions carried out under different conditions and in the enriched beverages, the content of selected polyphenols was determined by HPLC. This study confirmed the significant effect of the alcohol content of the extract, extraction time and temperature on the antioxidant properties of clover extracts. Ethanolic extracts had better antioxidant properties than aqueous extracts. The addition of ethanol extracts had a significant effect on the antioxidant properties of the fortified beverages. Increasing the temperature, time or ethanol content in the extracts mostly resulted in an increase in the total polyphenol content in the obtained extracts. Based on the analysis of the response surface, it was found that for the DPPH radical, the best activity was obtained by extraction for 20 min with a solution of approximately 65% at low temperatures. In the case of the ABTS radical, the best antiradical activity was obtained after extraction for 60 min at 80 °C with a solution of approximately 50% ethanol. It was also found that the use of a solution of approximately 60% ethanol after extraction for 60 min at 80 °C would provide an extract with high antiradical activity against both radicals.

Chemical Structures, Properties, and Applications of Selected Crude Oil-Based and Bio-Based Polymers

The growing perspective of running out of crude oil followed by increasing prices for all crude oil-based materials, e.g., crude oil-based polymers, which have a huge number of practical applications but are usually neither biodegradable nor environmentally friendly, has resulted in searching for their substitutes-namely, bio-based polymers. Currently, both these types of polymers are used in practice worldwide. Owing to the advantages and disadvantages occurring among plastics with different origin, in this current review data on selected popular crude oil-based and bio-based polymers has been collected in order to compare their practical applications resulting from their composition, chemical structure, and related physical and chemical properties. The main goal is to compare polymers in pairs, which have the same or similar practical applications, regardless of different origin and composition. It has been proven that many crude oil-based polymers can be effectively replaced by bio-based polymers without significant loss of properties that ensure practical applications. Additionally, biopolymers have higher potential than crude oil-based polymers in many modern applications. It is concluded that the future of polymers will belong to bio-based rather than crude oil-based polymers.

The Slave, Antigone and the Housewife: Hegel’s Dialectics of the Weak

This article moves across the wide spectrum of feminist interpretations of Hegel, starting with Carla Lonzi and revisiting the queer analysis of Judith Butler, in order to re-interpret the famous figure of “Unhappy Consciousness.” From a feminist perspective, these passages in Phenomenology of Spirit should be read as a re-evaluation of the care and reproductive labour, which the Subject experiences as miserably repetitive and mundane, at the stage of dialectics focused on symbolic realm of recognition. The dialectics of the weak can be established based on an in-depth re-evaluation of the material, life maintaining activities traditionally neglected in the discussions of Hegel’s legacy. Here these marginalized elements of the Subject’s lived experience are taken into account, thus allowing the introduction of the Housewife into the dialectical process.

The Return of Hegel: History, Dialectics and the Weak: Introduction

Introduction to the issue “The Return of Hegel: Dialectics and the Weak”.

Comparison of the Content of Selected Bioactive Components and Antiradical Properties in Yoghurts Enriched with Chia Seeds (Salvia hispanica L.) and Chia Seeds Soaked in Apple Juice

Due to the fact that consumers are looking for new, health-promoting products, there is a growing interest in various ingredients with a high biological activity that could enrich conventional foods. As is known, chia seeds are a rich source of various health-promoting compounds. The objective of this study was to determine the content of selected biologically active compounds and their antioxidant properties by means of DPPH●, ABTS+●, and the ability to chelate Fe (II) ions in chia seeds and yoghurts with the addition of these seeds and seeds soaked in apple juice. It was found that chia seeds are a rich source of bioactive ingredients with beneficial effects on human health-especially polyphenols. All the extracts showed antioxidant properties against the radicals used. The addition of seeds to yoghurt contributed to the presence of polyphenols, while soaking in apple juice resulted in a higher content of polyphenols in yoghurts. The enriched yoghurt extracts showed antioxidant properties against DPPH radicals and the ability to chelate Fe (II) ions. The addition of seeds soaked in apple juice significantly influenced the antioxidant activity against ABTS radicals. The addition of seeds (plain and soaked) did not cause significant changes in the pH of the yoghurts.

The opioid excess theory in autism spectrum disorders - is it worth investigating further?

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are defined as neurodevelopmental disorders, which are highly variable in nature and do not form a uniform picture, either in terms of symptomatology or depth of the disturbance. Diagnosis of ASD is made for children who show signs of impairment in social interaction, communication and cognitive skills. The exact cause of autism spectrum disorders has not been determined to date. Although there is no cure for ASD, a variety interventions have been proposed. The most commonly used restrictive dietary intervention is the gluten-free casein-free diet (GFCF), which is based on the opioid excess theory. This paper summarizes and discusses research on the core elements of the opioid excess theory in ASD: increased levels of opioid peptides in body fluids in ASD patients, increased intestinal permeability, altered peptidase activity and the effectiveness of GFCF diet in alleviating symptoms of ASD. Furthermore, we discuss the difficulties and their causes in conducting research with ASD patients. The assumptions of the opioid excess theory have neither been definitively confirmed nor disproved. Research in this area should continue, taking into account the highest possible quality standards and the specific needs and abilities of patients with ASD and their families.

Difficulties and factors influencing purchase decision. The perspective of families with children with autism spectrum disorders on a gluten-free and casein-free diet. Preliminary study

Background

Gluten-free and casein-free diet is frequently used in the support of therapy of children with autism spectrum disorders. In addition, many parents restrict the consumption of simple sugars for their children.

Objective

The aim of this paper was to understand factors influencing purchase decision in case of family with children with autism spectrum disorders on gluten-free and/or casein-free and/or sugar-free diet and the difficulties associated with this type of nutrition.

Material and methods

The study covered a group of 40 families with children with autism spectrum disorders (32 boys and 8 girls) aged 3 to 10 years. Data were collected with questionnaire included questions concerning overall characteristics of caregivers, availability of foods used in the special diet, factors affecting decision on the purchase of products, difficulties in maintaining the child nutrition method.

Results

The factors having strongest impact on parents' decisions on the purchase of products were product composition, presence of a certificate confirming the absence of gluten and/or milk and taste values. Exclusion diet constituted a considerable obstruction for traveling, social gatherings and resulted in conflicts with family and the environment. The limited range of healthy gluten-free, casein-free and sugar-free foods, low taste quality and unsatisfactory quality impeded purchase and preparation of varied meals.

Conclusions

The surveyed parents were aware consumers, paying attention primarily to product composition and safety. The respondents were looking for healthy, organic and nutritionally valuable products with low sugar content. Further development of the gluten/casein/ sugar free products market may considerably improve certain aspects of family's life with children with autism spectrum disorders.

Precarity and Gender: What’s Love Got to Do with it?

This article examines the concept of precarity from a feminist perspective, focused on love and affective labour, critically addressing the gender inequalities of neoliberal capitalism. The romantic, heterosexual model of love, typical for modern Western societies, has been dismantled and criticized in various ways, leading to contradictory solutions, which include its annihilation, sublation and modification, as well as (rather conservative) efforts to preserve it. However, love – in its different versions, both as theory and in practice – still provides models and solutions, not only for the neoliberal labour market and new forms of exploitation and expropria- tion of care and affective labour, but also for revolutionary ideas and transformations, among both feminists and Marxi- sts. It thus requires a theory focusing on the sublation, rather than annihilation, of love’s past models. In my article I build such a perspective, signalling its potential for resistance and models for revolution in the times of neoliberal capitalism.

Development of

Novel zero-trans frying shortenings were formed by enzymatic transesterification by exploring a palm stearin and canola oil mixture and stearic acid as substrates. Both immobilized (Novozym 435, Lipase PS “Amano” IM) and non-immobilized (Lipomod TM 34P) enzymes were applied as biocatalysts. Palmitic acid, the fatty acid which defines the proper type of crystal formation, was present at the 15% level in the reaction mixtures. The novel structured lipids had comparable physical properties and offered similar frying performance to those of commercial shortening. Needle-shaped crystals were predominant both in the transesterification products and the commercial frying shortening. Furthermore, solid fat content profiles of the zero-trans structured lipids produced by Novozym 435 and Lipase PS “Amano” IM were close to those of the commercial shortening.

Influence of sucrose substitutes and agglomeration on volatile compounds in powdered cocoa beverages

Volatile aromatic substances are the main factors contributing to the acceptability of cocoa products. The beneficial effect of fat-free ingredients of cocoa beans on human health has been scientifically proven. This encourages the consumption of cocoa products as well as further research on improving their processing technology. The aim of this study was to analyse changes in the composition of volatile compounds and their impact on the sensory characteristics of an agglomerated cocoa powder mixture with modified composition for the raw material. The basic mixture was composed of 20% cocoa and 80% sucrose. Changes in mixture composition involved partial or total replacement of sucrose with maltodextrin or a mixture of glucose and fructose. Mixing and agglomeration were carried out in a fluid bed agglomerator. The analysis of volatile compounds was carried out using a gas chromatograph coupled with mass spectrometer, and 1,2-dichlorobenzene was used as an internal standard. The analysis showed the presence of over 70 various chemical compounds. Such volatile compounds as acetic acid, 2,3-butanediol, nonanal, and pentanoic acid, were found in almost all tested products. The highest content of acetic acid was determined in cocoa powder. In the case of the investigated cocoa beverages, the raw material composition and agglomeration affected their volatile compounds content. The analyses demonstrated a reduction in the content of volatile compounds caused by agglomeration.

SŁABY OPÓR. OBRAZ, WSPÓLNOTA I UTOPIA POZA PARADYGMATEM HEROICZNYM

Niniejszy artykuł stanowi wprowadzenie do numeru Praktyki Teoretycznej poświęconego problematyce słabego oporu. Oprócz głównych inspiracji teoretycznych zjawiska, które można by pokrótce nazwać zwrotem w stronę codzienności czy też odwrotem od heroicznego modelu podmiotowości, redaktorka omawia też opublikowane w numerze artykuły.

Usefulness of New Indicators of Obesity (BAI and VAI) in Estimation of Weight Reduction

Objective: Obesity is responsible for a large proportion of the total burden of diseases in Europe. The aim of this study was to compare classic anthropometric parameters with new obesity-related indices (the visceral adiposity index [VAI] and the body adiposity index [BAI]) and to examine their usefulness in the assessment of weight reduction and its effect on the leptin concentration.Methods: We tested 50 patients with obesity, undergoing the implementation of the BioEnterics^® Intragastric Balloon (BIB-system) for 6 months. The leptin concentrations and the calculated subcutaneous fat thickness as well as the anthropometric indices were determined prior to the implementation and after the balloon removal.Results: The therapy resulted in a drop in the BAI value without a significant effect on the VAI in subgroups of patients with class I, II, and III obesity. The therapy-induced changes in BAI both in the entire tested group and in patients with class I and II obesity correlated well with the percentage of drop in body weight, body mass index (BMI), subcutaneous fat thickness, waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and leptin concentration. Changes in the VAI value correlated with changes in the body weight, BMI, WHtR values, subcutaneous fat thickness, and leptin concentration decrease only in patients with class III obesity.Conclusions: BAI seems to be a better indicator than VAI for reflecting the reduction in body weight in people with class I and II obesity treated with the BIB-System. VAI appears to be a better obesity indicator than BAI only in people with class III obesity.

Impact of Allergic Rhinitis on Nasal Mucociliary Clearance Time in Children

BACKGROUND

Mucociliary clearance is one of the most important protective functions of the airway. Previous studies, checking the influence of allergic rhinitis (AR) on mucociliary clearance time (MCT), were made on small patient groups and brought contradictive results.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study is to confirm whether AR in children influences MCT.

METHODS

The examined group consisted of 842 AR children. A total of 96 children with no history of allergy rhinitis served as a comparative group. All patients underwent saccharin and skin prick tests and tests for blood eosinophilia, nasal eosinophilia, vitamin D3 serum concentration, total and specific IgE serum concentration.

RESULTS

Nasal MCT was significantly longer in AR patients (mean ± SD: 10.5 ± 5.65 min) compared to controls (mean ± SD: 7.25 ± 4.3 min). Percentage of eosinophils in nasal smears in patients was significantly higher compared to controls and a weak, but significant positive correlation was observed between the percentage and MCT (r > 0.10, p < 0.008). Patients with intermittent and persistent moderate/ severe AR had significantly longer MCT and higher eosinophilia in nasal smears compared both to patients with intermittent and persistent mild RA and controls. No correlation was observed between MCT and: participant's age, total serum IgE, vitamin D3 serum concentration, absolute number or percentage of eosinophils in blood, prick test results or duration of illness.

CONCLUSIONS

AR affects the mucociliary clearance in children, and its deterioration is related to more severe rhinitis with higher intensity of local nasal inflammation, reflected in nasal smear eosinophilia.

The influence of melatonin on apoptosis of human neutrophils

Aim: Melatonin (Mel) besides its main role in circadian and seasonal rhythm coordination, plays a role in immunoregulation and inflammatory responses. The melatonin’s ability to modulate apoptosis is one of its important roles related to its effect on immune system but the exact effect of its action and the mechanisms of apoptosis control by melatonin remain still unclear. The goal of our study was to examine the involvement of melatonin in the apoptosis of human neutrophils in vitro and possible mechanisms of this action. Material/Methods: We measured the effect of melatonin on the spontaneous and TNF-α-induced apoptosis of human neutrophils using propidium iodide and Annexin-V and on caspase-3 activation, apoptosis-related surface antigen expressions, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and cytochrome c release using flow cytometry and commercial reagents. Results: Melatonin does not affect spontaneous apoptosis of human neutrophils and mitochondrial cytochrome c release but protects the cells from the significant rise of TNF-α-induced apoptosis and cytochrome c release. Intracellular ROS generation in PMA-stimulated neutrophils did not change after the influence of melatonin but the significant drop of ROS generation in neutrophils stimulated with TNF- α was upregulated to the control level after preincubation of the neutrophils with melatonin. Melatonin did not change significantly Fas, Fas-L and active caspase-3 expressions in neutrophils. Conclusions: Melatonin does not affect the spontaneous apoptosis, however, inhibits TNF-α-induced apoptosis of human neutrophils. Our findings suggest that the intrinsic pathway of the process is a result of the melatonin induced mitochondrial alterations.

Effect of Sterilization Process and Storage on the Antioxidative Properties of Runner Bean

In this study, we investigated the effect of standard preservation of bean seeds on changes in contents and activity of their selected components: dry matter, ash, different forms of nitrogen, composition of protein fractions; total phenolics and condensed tannins; ability to chelate iron(II) ions; antiradical activity against ABTS•+ and DPPH•; and capability for inhibiting autoxidation and enzymatic oxidation of linoleic acid. The conducted technological process caused various changes in contents of nitrogen forms and partial loss of phenolic compounds. The antiradical and antioxidative activity of the extracts decreased significantly, while an increase was observed in their ability to chelate Fe(II). These changes were due to the migration of active compounds to the brine, and to their structural transformations and degradation. Longer storage of the sterilized product caused restoration of part of the antiradical activity of the seeds.

Furan in roasted, ground and brewed coffee

Coffee is the most popular hot beverage in the world. The annual coffee production in 2010, 2014 and 2016 was 8.1, 9.0 and 9.3 million tons respectively. There are more than 100 coffee species, but only two of them: Arabica (Coffea arabica) and Robusta (Coffea canephora) have gained commercial importance. During roasting of green coffee beans not only desirable compounds are formed, that exert positive influence on the taste and flavour of coffee, but also small quantities of undesirable ones. Furan (C4H4O) is one of the latter. Furan is a volatile compound (boiling temp. of 31.4 oC) formed during thermal processing of food. The toxicity of furan has been well documented and it is classified as “possible human carcinogen” (Group 2B) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Various pathways have been reported for furan formation during food processing. It can be formed from carbohydrates, amino acids by their thermal degradation or thermal re-arrangement and by oxidation of ascorbic acid and polyunsaturated acids and carotenoids. High concentrations of furan have been reported in coffee, baked and roasted food and in food subjected to preserving in cans and jars. Furan levels in brewed coffee are typically near or below 120 μg/L, but it can approach thousands μg/kg in roasted whole beans or ground coffee. The highest concentration of furan in roasted coffee reaches the level of 7000 μg/kg. Taking into account that coffee is the most popular hot drink, it becomes the main contributor to furan exposure from dietary sources for adults. In this article the published scientific papers concerned with the presence of furan in roasted non-brewed and brewed coffee have been reviewed. The formation mechanisms and occurrence of furan in coffee and the harmful influence of furan on the consumer health have been discussed.

Characterization of the essential oil from cone-berries of Juniperus communis L. (Cupressaceae)

Juniperus communis L. (Cupressaceae) is a plant widely cultivated in the Northern hemisphere. Juniper berries, the fruit of Juniperus communis L. are a highly valued, essential oil-rich plant material used traditionally in folk medicine as antiseptic, diuretic, antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungicidal agent. This paper reviews information on extraction methods of the essential oil from the juniper berries, its chemical composition and antimicrobial as well as antioxidant properties.

Transcription factor GATA3 expression is induced by GLS2 overexpression in a glioblastoma cell line but is GLS2-independent in patient-derived glioblastoma

Phosphate-activated glutaminase (GA), a ubiquitous glutamine-metabolizing enzyme, is encoded by two genes, GLS and GLS2. In mammalian cancers, GLS isoforms are perceived as molecules promoting cell proliferation and invasion, whereas the role of GLS2 isoforms seems to be more complex and cell type-specific. Previous studies have shown abundance of GLS and lack of GLS2 transcripts in T98G human glioblastoma (GBM) cell line and patient-derived GBM. Transfection with GAB sequence, the whole GLS2 cDNA transcript, suppressed malignant phenotype of T98G cells. Microarray analysis revealed upregulation of GATA3, the product of which has been implicated in suppressing growth of some peripheral cancers. In this study we confirmed a significant upregulation of GATA3 expression in the transfected cells both at mRNA and protein level. Considerable expression of GATA3 was also observed in GBM tissues (previously shown as not expressing GLS2), while only traces or no GATA3 was detected in (GLS2-expressing) non-tumorigenic brain samples. In conclusion, while mechanistic relation between GAB and GATA3 expression is evident following in vitro manipulation of GBM cell line, it does not appear to be an intrinsic property of GBM nor non-tumorigenic brain tissue.

Immunoregulatory action of melatonin. The mechanism of action and the effect on inflammatory cells

Literature data indicate a significant immunoregulatory role of melatonin. Melatonin exerts an effect directly affecting leucocytes bearing specific melatonin receptors or indirectly by means of melatonin regulating other hormones, opioids or cytokines. Despite numerous experiments, the influence of the hormone on the immune system is still controversial. Melatonin affects the immune response acting as both an activator and an inhibitor of the inflammatory process. The hormone acts as an "immunological buffer" activating impaired immunity in immunosuppression, chronic stress or old age as well as suppressing overreaction of the immune system. Melatonin mediates between neurohormonal and immune systems by means of the immune-pineal axis acting as a negative feedback mechanism. The axis connects development of the immune reaction with pineal activity and melatonin secretion induced by inflammatory mediators. The seasonal and circadian fluctuation of the melatonin level and the fluctuation related changes of the immune parameters can be responsible for some autoimmune and infectious diseases. In spite of that, there is a growing number of papers suggesting considerable therapeutic potential of melatonin in inflammatory disease treatment. This paper presents well-systematized information on the mechanism of melatonin action and its influence on cells involved in the inflammatory process - neutrophils and monocytes.

Does the Selenium (SE) Level and Se-Dependent Enzyme Activity in Blood Plasma Correlate with Human Lymphocyte Subpopulations and Function?

Recent literature data on the effects of Se on subpopulations of T lymphocytes, on autologous mixed lymphocyte reaction (AMLR) and on natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity are limited or poorly defined. In healthy volunteers we have estimated se levels, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity and lipid peroxide levels in human plasma and simultaneously, the subpopulations of T lymphocytes, proliferation in AMLR, and activity of NK cells.

We found a significantly positive correlation between the selenium level and GSH-Px activity. The proliferative response in AMLR significantly correlated with plasma selenium levels but not with GSH-Px activity. NK cytotoxicity, subpopulations of T lymphocytes, and lipid peroxide levels did not correlate with both selenium concentration and GSH-Px activity. We suppose that the effect of Se on the proliferation of suppressor T lymphocytes (Ts) in AMLR is not mediated through GSH-Px activity and fluctuations of Se concentration within a physiological range in healthy persons do not affect NK cytotoxicity.

[Chosen anthropometric parameters and concentrations of leptin and adiponectin in extreme obese patients treated with implantation of a gastric balloon]

Fatty tissue derived adipocytokines regulate appetite, but in abnormal concentration impair systemic metabolic homeostasis and make the patients prone to inflammatory related disorders. The aim of study was to examine whether weight loss in patients after implementation of a gastric balloon is reflected in changes in chosen anthropometrical parameters and in the concentration of leptin and adiponectin in serum.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 18 extreme obese patients (BMI>39.9, mean age 39.5±12.1 years, 12 men, 6 women), undergoing implementation of a gastric balloon for 6 months. The control group consisted of 18 healthy volunteers. The adiponectin and leptin concentrations in the sera and the calculated % body fat and indicators: BMI, WHR, VAI, BAI, WHtR were determined prior to implementation and after the balloon removal and then further parameters were calculated: % excessive weight loss, % weight loss.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

All the parameters and leptin concentration in the tested group were markedly upregulated and adiponectin concentration was significantly lower compared to controls. Reduction in the body mass in patients subjected to BIB, reflected in leptin and anthropometrical parameters down-regulation, (except WHR and VAI), was accompanied with normalization of adiponectin concentration that affect metabolism and is important regulator of hunger and satiety.

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF SOME MEDICINAL PLANTS FROM LAMIACEAE FAMILY

Chemical composition and antibacterial activity of aqueous (ethanolic and methanolic) extracts from herbs often used in Polish cuisine and traditional herbal medicine including thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.), oregano (Origanum vulgare L.), peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) and sage (Salvia officinalis L.) were compared. The aqueous ethanolic extracts contained slightly higher levels of phenolics compared to the aqueous methanolic extracts. In turn, GC-MS analysis showed that the aqueous methanolic extracts of thyme, rosemary and sage contained several additional compounds such as eugenol or ledol. The present studies also indicated that the bacterial species applied in the experiment exhibited different sensitivities towards tested extracts. Staphylococcus aureus strains were found to be the most sensitive bacteria to aqueous (ethanolic and methanolic) rosemary and sage extracts and aqueous methanolic thyme extract. Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 13883 and Proteus vulgaris NCTC 4635 were more susceptible to the aqueous methanolic thyme extract. However, Listeria monocytogenes 1043S was the most sensitive to the aqueous ethanolic rosemary extract. Gram-positive bacteria were generally more sensitive to the tested extracts than Gram-negative ones.

Evaluation of the efficiency of different disruption methods on yeast cell wall preparation for β-glucan isolation

Selected methods for yeast cell disruption were evaluated to establish their suitability for cell wall preparation in the process of β-glucan isolation. The effect of different disruption methods on contents of total saccharides, β-glucans and proteins in the produced cell walls preparations was analyzed. The degree of cell wall purification from intracellular components was established on the basis of the ratio of solubilised material. The investigated methods included: cell exposure to hot water (autoclaving), thermally-induced autolysis, homogenization in a bead mill, sonication and their combinations. Experimental systems were prepared in water (pH 5.0 and pH 7.0) and Tris-HCl buffer (pH 8.0). The Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast cell wall preparations with the highest degree of cytosol component release and purification of β-glucans were produced by 30 min of cell homogenization with zirconium-glass beads (0.5 mm in diameter). This was confirmed by the highest ratio of solubilised material (approx. 64%–67%). The thus-produced preparations contained ca. 60% of total saccharides, 13%–14% of β(1,3)/(1,6)-glucans, and approx. 35% of crude proteins. Similar results were obtained after autolysis coupled with bead milling as well as with sonication, but the time required for these processes was more than 24 h. Homogenization in a bead mill could be valuable for general isolation procedures because allows one to eliminate the different autolytic activity of various yeast strains.

Regioselective hydrolysis of acetates in the presence of different yeast strains

The model compound, hexane-1,2-diol diacetate, was hydrolyzed in the presence of supernatant obtained after cultivation of 4 yeast strains: Pichia jadinii, Rhodotorula glutinis and Yarrowia lipolytica KKP 379 and Saccharomyces cerevisiae 102 to evaluate the type of catalysis. The regioselectivity of extracellular enzymes as a function of hydrolysis towards primary and secondary acetic acid ester groups was monitored. The enzymes secreted by P. jadinii, R. glutinis and Y. lipolytica KKP 379 exhibited high regioselectivity towards primary position, while those from S. cerevisiae showed practically no discrimination between the ester groups.

The influence of uremic high cystatin C concentration on neutrophil apoptosis and selected neutrophil functions isolated from healthy subjects

Background

Cystatin C (cC) is a cysteine protease inhibitor that may influence immune response. Our aim was to test the effect of a high concentration of cC, characteristic for uremic patients, on neutrophil (PMN) apoptosis and respiratory burst, as well as the cC secretion from PMNs stimulated with proinflammatory cytokines.

Material/Methods

PMNs from 35 healthy volunteers aged 27–61 years were cultured in presence of cC, IL-1β or TNF-α. The percentage of apoptotic cells based on DNA depletion, Fas, FasL and caspase -3 expression were assessed. CC concentrations were determined by ELISA test. The influence of cC on spontaneous, fMLP-, PMA- or OZ-induced burst response of PMNs was tested using chemiluminescence.

Results

PMN cultured in the presence of cC resulted in a significant drop in apoptotic cell percentage (38% [11%; 65%]) compared both to control (70% [29%; 92%], and to the cells cultured with TNF-α (58% [24%; 85%]). These differences were not accompanied by Fas, FasL and caspase-3 expression changes. Spontaneous, fMLP- and PMA-stimulated oxidative burst of PMNs preincubated with cC were significantly downregulated. IL-1β markedly diminished and TNF-α significantly increased cC concentration in culture supernatants.

Conclusions

The presented results suggest that antiapoptotic activity of cC results from its inhibitory effect on ROS production. Thus, the higher concentration of cC characteristic for uremic patients may modulate acute inflammation through maintaining PMN longevity and inhibiting their respiratory burst and proinflammatory cytokine-related changes in cC release from PMNs.

The effect of uremia and hemodialysis on caspase-1 and caspase-3 activity in neutrophils

BACKGROUND

Neutrophils in uremia maintain chronic inflammation, which contributes to malnutrition and immunity disorders. The influence of hemodialysis on the life span of neutrophils is unclear, although many authors postulate its apoptotic effect. Erythropoietin (EPO) is an antiapoptotic factor for various cells. We investigated factors possibly interfering in apoptosis of neutrophils in hemodialysis (HD) patients, such as HD session, parathormone (PTH), dose of EPO, inflammation and nutrition.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Twenty HD patients and ten healthy controls were donors of neutrophils. We evaluated caspase-1 and caspase-3 activities, related to apoptosis of neutrophils, before and after a 4-hour HD session with cuprophane or polysulphone dialyzer. We measured serum concentrations of C-reactive protein, cholesterol, albumin, prealbumin and transferrin. Time of dialysis treatment, PTH level and dose of EPO were also evaluated.

RESULTS

We observed a significant increase in caspase-1 activity and decrease in caspase-3 activity in neutrophils after HD with cuprophane, but not with polysulphone. Caspase-1 activity correlated positively with EPO dose and negatively with PTH level. Caspase-3 correlated negatively with the time of dialysis treatment. No correlation between caspase activity and markers of inflammation or nutrition was noticed.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that HD with bioincompatible cuprophane may prolong the life span of neutrophils due to the intense inflammatory reaction and high activity of caspase-1. Time of dialysis treatment, PTH level and EPO dose potentially influence the life span of neutrophils. PTH seems to have a proapoptotic effect of neutrophils, while EPO is an antiapoptotic factor.

[Cystatin C--modulator of immune processes]

Cystatin C is a lowmolecular protein (13 kDa) that inhibits the activity of lysosomal cysteine proteinases with the strongest activity against cathepsin B and H. The recent experiments show that the level of cystatin C is independented of chronic and acute inflammatory process which frequently coexist with end stage renal diseases. Recent studies challange the theory because a higher concentration of cystatin C in serum correlated well with a higher concentration of inflammatory markers such as a CRP and fibrinogen in the patients. In vitro experiments on cultured monocytes and macrophages discovered that after stimulation by LPS and INF the expression of the cystatin C gene and synthesis of this protein was reduced. Cystatin C plays important modulatory function in regulation of the natural immunity, protecting our body against viruses, bacteries and parasites. Moreover, cystatin C binds the C4 component and modulates activation of the classical complement pathway. The experiments also show that cystatin C could influence non-specific immune response through the inhibition of the superoxide anion generation (respiratory burst), phagocytosis, chemotaxis and apoptosis of neutrophils. Similarly, the cystatin C can modulate the specific immune response through the inhibition of cathepsin S, bindining membrane receptors for TGF-beta or increasing MHC class II expression on dendritic cells.

Mevalonate pathway modulation is associated with hepatitis C virus RNA presence in peripheral blood mononuclear cells

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) constitute the main extrahepatic reservoir of hepatitis C virus (HCV). Lipid metabolism of host seems to play important role in HCV infection. The relationship between HCV presence in PBMC and the expression of mevalonate pathway has not been elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between mevalonate pathway and HCV RNA presence in PBMC after anti-HCV treatment. 67 serum and corresponding PBMC samples were collected from patients at the end of interferon alpha and ribavirin treatment. Serum total cholesterol, HDL-C and LDL-C fractions, triglycerides, as well as intracellular cholesterol and expression level of HMG-CoA reductase, geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate synthase in PBMC were measured and matched for the HCV RNA presence or absence in sera/PBMC. HCV RNA elimination from sera and PBMC was associated with higher serum cholesterol (118.5mg/dL) and LDL-C (66.42mg/dL) levels, compared to the group, where HCV RNA was detected only in PBMC (100.94 and 53.22mg/dL) or the group, where HCV RNA was found in both sera and PBMC (86.79 and 43.79mg/dL) after treatment. Increased expression of geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate synthase was found in the majority of PBMC samples that harbored HCV RNA after elimination of HCV RNA from sera. The expression of mevalonate pathway after antiviral treatment seems to be modulated depending on HCV RNA status in peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

Effect of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analogue treatment on a cytokine profile in prostate cancer patients

The aim of the study was to test serum concentrations of the chosen cytokines in patients with prostate cancer (PCa) treated with an luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) analogue. We tested interleukin (IL)-2, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interferon (INF)-gamma in blood at three time points; I - before the injection, II - 10 days and III - 20 days after the injection in 14 men with PCa. Patients had one depot injection of the LHRH analogue monthly. The cytokine concentrations in serum samples were determined by ELISA method. Prostate specific antigen (PSA) level was examined before and after six months of the LHRH analogue treatment. After six months of the therapy, we observed normalization of serum PSA value from 16.48 ng/ml to 1.45 ng/ml. LHRH analogue injection resulted in a significant drop of the IL-2 concentration, and the value gradually returned to normal in the next 20 days. IL-10 concentration transiently increased and then was down-regulated. Serum TNF-alpha and INF-gamma concentrations in PCa patients were significantly lower compared to controls and were not affected by the treatment. LHRH analogue treatment in PCa patients modulates concentrations of the chosen cytokines which may result both in antitumor and a transient immunosuppressive effect.

Increased levels of soluble TNF-alpha receptors and cellular adhesion molecules in patients undergoing bioincompatible hemodialysis

BACKGROUND

The study aimed to differentiate the effects of hemodialysis (HD) and chronic renal failure (CRF) on the levels of circulating tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and TNF-alpha receptors p55 and p75, soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), soluble endothelial-leukocyte adhesion molecule-1 (sE-selectin) and sP-selectin in 18 patients on regular HD treatment with cuprophane membrane in relation to 15 non-dialyzed CRF patients and 15 healthy controls.

METHODS

The serum concentrations were determined with standard ELISA assays.

RESULTS

Blood serum p75 and p55 were approximately tenfold increased in CRF (36.7 +/- 6.2 and 27.1 +/- 5.6 ng/ml) and HD patients (45.6 +/- 18.4 and 28.7 +/- 5.9 ng/ml) before the HD session (HD 0), during (HD 20) the session (45.7 +/- 18.4 and 28.5 +/- 7.3 ng/ml) and after (HD 240) the HD session (52.1 +/- 17.4 and 30.9 +/- 8.2 ng/ml) in comparison to control values (5.6 +/- 1.3 and 2.4 +/- 0.8 ng/ml, respectively) (p < 0.01). The highest increment of p75 at the end of HD session (HD 240) was also significantly higher than at preceding time points (HD 0 and 20) (p < 0.05). However, the remaining study parameters did not change during an HD session. Also, there were no relevant changes in TNF-alpha levels if (HD 0) 22.7 +/- 21.5 ng/ml and (HD 240) 21.1 +/- 18.9 ng/ml were compared. Chronic HD status was related to the increase of sVCAM-1 and sICAM-1 levels. Prior to HD, T0 sVCAM-1 and sICAM-1 concentrations were 2,180.4 +/- 761.8 and 567.3 +/- 218.8 ng/ml, during HD (T20): 2,172.7 +/- 759.2 and 602.3 +/- 379.9 ng/ml, and after HD (T240): 2,401.6 +/- 756.4 and 648.3 +/- 183.5 ng/ml, respectively (p < 0.05 vs. controls and CRF patients). sVCAM-1 and sICAM-1 serum levels (1,262.2 +/- 472.9 and 165.6 +/- 50.4 ng/ml) were similar in CRF patients and healthy controls (854.4 +/- 241.5 and 217.6 +/- 74.2 ng/ml, respectively). Even though serum sE- and sP-selectin in CRF patients did not differ from the control (39.8 +/- 21.3 vs. 42.1 +/- 18.9 ng/ml and 187.9 +/- 66.9 vs. 198.8 +/- 62.2 ng/ml, respectively), their levels were increased in HD patients up to 111.9 +/- 54.6 and 453.2 +/- 231.1 ng/ml in patients prior to HD, 118.7 +/- 66.2 and 350.8 +/- 114.8 ng/ml during the HD session and then 132.3 +/- 61.1 and 368.3 +/- 126.6 ng/ml, respectively, after its completion (p < 0.05 in comparison with CRF patients and controls).

CONCLUSIONS

The increased circulating TNF-alpha receptors appear more associated with the uremic milieu than HD-related systemic inflammation, whereas increased soluble cellular adhesion molecules in patients undergoing bioincompatible HD may be related to the enhanced systemic inflammation specifically due to maintenance HD.

Quantitative analysis of cyclin E and protein p34 cdc2 expression in superficial bladder cancer

In the present study, the expression of cyclin E and kinase p34 cdc2 was investigated in preinvasive bladder tumors. The study material consisted of bladder sections (grades: GI--16 cases, GII--10, and GIII--12) collected from 38 patients in the course of the tumor electroresection. Immunohistochemical examinations were carried out with immunoperoxidase method. Antigens were labeled with NCL-CYCLIN E or NCL-p34 cdc2 monoclonal antibodies (Novocastra, UK). Positive reaction was demonstrated using ABC-universal Kit (Novocastra, UK). Differences in the protein expression in relation to the tumor grade were determined with a non-parametric Mann-Whitney's test. Increasing grade of tumors was associated with down regulation of cyclin E visible as lower percentage of cyclin E-positive cells. These changes were statistically significant for GI group as compared to groups GII and GIII (p<0.001). There were no differences between the study groups in the p34 protein expression. Cyclin E expression was inversely correlated with tumor grade therefore may be helpful in establishing therapeutic procedure.

Flow cytometric evaluation of human neutrophil apoptosis during nitric oxide generation in vitro: the role of exogenous antioxidants

Among numerous inflammatory mediators a nitric oxide molecule is supposed to be important in the modulation of neutrophil survival in vivo and in vitro. The effect of exogenous supply of NO donors such as SNP, SIN-1, and GEA-3162 on the course of human neutrophil apoptosis and the role of extracellular antioxidants in this process was investigated. Isolated from peripheral blood, neutrophils were cultured in the presence or absence of NO donor compounds and antioxidants for 8, 12, and 20 hours. Apoptosis of neutrophils was determined in vitro by flow cytometric analysis of cellular DNA content and Annexin V protein binding to the cell surface. Exposure of human neutrophils to GEA-3162 and SIN-1 significantly accelerates and enhances their apoptosis in vitro in a time-dependent fashion. In the presence of SNP, intensification of apoptosis has not been revealed until 12 hours after the culture. The inhibition of GEA-3162- and SIN-1-mediated neutrophil apoptosis by superoxide dismutase (SOD) but not by catalase (CAT) was observed. Our results show that SOD and CAT can protect neutrophils against NO-donors-induced apoptosis and suggest that the interaction of NO and oxygen metabolites signals may determine the destructive or protective role of NO donor compounds during apoptotic neutrophil death.

Effects of uraemia and haemodialysis on neutrophil apoptosis and expression of apoptosis-related proteins

BACKGROUND

In haemodialysis (HD) patients, it is unclear whether increased apoptosis of neutrophils is due to uraemia or HD itself. The purpose of the current study was to assess the effect of uraemia and HD on the rate of apoptosis and apoptosis-related protein expression in whole blood neutrophils.

METHODS

We employed a whole-blood micromethod to test spontaneous apoptosis and expression of apoptosis-regulating proteins in cultured neutrophils from uraemic patients (pre-HD), HD patients and healthy controls. Blood samples were drawn before, after 20 min and after 4 h of haemodialysis, and were then cultured for 20 h. We evaluated the rate of apoptosis from annexin V and propidium iodide staining, and examined bcl-2, Fas/Apo-1 and p53 expression in the cultured neutrophils.

RESULTS

Fas/APO-1 expression and total percentage of apoptotic whole blood neutrophils of pre-HD and HD patients before HD were significantly higher than controls. There was a transient but significant decrease in the percentage of apoptotic neutrophils and Fas/APO-1 expression after 20 min of dialysis. The expression of bcl-2 protein was significantly lower from neutrophils in HD patients compared with controls, and HD significantly downregulated bcl-2 expression. The p53 protein content in HD patients before HD was significantly higher than in pre-HD patients.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that uraemia accelerates neutrophil apoptosis by increasing Fas/Apo-1, and that HD does not affect neutrophil apoptosis more than uraemia. In addition, HD produces only in a transient sequestration of potentially apoptotic neutrophils.

Effect of exogenous opioid peptides on TNF-alpha-induced human neutrophil apoptosis in vitro

Polymorphonuclear leukocyte (neutrophil) apoptosis is an important mechanism regulating the life span and some functions of neutrophils at inflamed sites. Opioid peptides are present in the peripheral circulation and their concentrations rapidly increase as a result of stress and inflammation. The effect of opioid peptides such as met-enkephalin (M-ENK) and beta-endorphin (beta-END) on tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha-induced apoptosis in human neutrophils in vitro was investigated. Neutrophils isolated from peripheral blood were cultured in the absence or presence of 10(-6)-10(-10) M of opioid peptides for 8, 12 and 18 h. Features of apoptotic neutrophils were measured by a flow cytometric method based on analysis of the apoptotic nuclei (DNA content). We found that M-ENK and beta-END enhanced both uninduced and TNF-alpha-induced neutrophil apoptosis in vitro in a dose-dependent manner. The effect of opioid peptides on the modulation of neutrophil apoptosis was not reversed by the opioid-receptor antagonist naloxone. The results suggest that M-ENK and beta-END can regulate neutrophil life span via apoptosis and in this way may participate in the resolution of inflammation.