Associations of plasma 8-iso-prostaglandin F2αlevels with fasting blood glucose (FBG) and intra-abdominal fat (IAF) area in various Glycometabolism populations

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the differences in oxidative stress (OS) levels represented by 8-iso-prostaglandin F_2α (8-iso-PGF_2α) and analyze its correlation with the intra-abdominal fat (IAF) area and the glycolipid index.

METHODS

We recruited a total of 160 eligible subjects. According to the blood glucose levels and the T2DM duration, subjects were divided into three groups: Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM) group, Prediabetic group, and Normal glucose-tolerance (NC) group, containing 66, 41, 53 patients, respectively. T2DM groups were additionally divided into a new-onset T2DM group including 29 patients and a non-new-onset T2DM group including 37 patients. General clinical data and biochemical indicators were collected. Intra-abdominal fat (IAF) was measured by MRI. 8-iso-PGF_2α was measured by ELISA.

RESULTS

Compared with the NC group, levels of systolic blood pressure (SBP), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), FBG, 2 h postprandial glycemia(2hPG), 2 h insulin (2 h INS), IAF area, HOMA-IR, and 8-iso-PGF_2α increased, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) decreased in T2DM groups and Prediabetic group (P < 0.05). The 2 h INS level was the highest in the Prediabetic group; 2hPG, and IAF area were the highest in the new-onset T2DM group; WHR, FBG, HOMA-IR and 8-iso-PGF_2α were the highest in the non-new-onset T2DM group. Multiple stepwise regression analysis identified IAF area and FBG as the strongest and independent determinant of 8-iso-PGF_2α (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In various glycometabolism populations, 8-iso-PGF2α is significantly correlated with FBG and IAF, this suggests that high blood glucose and abdominal obesity can increase the damage related to the OS in vivo.

Bradykinin Protects Human Endothelial Progenitor Cells from High-Glucose-Induced Senescence through B2 Receptor-Mediated Activation of the Akt/eNOS Signalling Pathway

BACKGROUND

Circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play important roles in vascular repair. However, the mechanisms of high-glucose- (HG-) induced cord blood EPC senescence and the role of B2 receptor (B2R) remain unknown.

METHODS

Cord blood samples from 26 patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and samples from 26 healthy controls were collected. B2R expression on circulating CD34+ cells of cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMCs) was detected using flow cytometry. The plasma concentrations of 8-isoprostaglandin F2α (8-iso-PGF2α) and nitric oxide (NO) were measured. EPCs were treated with HG (40 mM) alone or with bradykinin (BK) (1 nM). The B2R and eNOS small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and the PI3K antagonist LY294002 were added to block B2R, eNOS, and PI3K separately. To determine the number of senescent cells, senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) staining was performed. The level of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) in EPCs was assessed by Mito-Sox staining. Cell viability was evaluated by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assays. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number and the relative length of telomeres were detected by real time-PCR. The distribution of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) in the nucleus, cytosol, and mitochondria of EPCs was detected by immunofluorescence. The expression of B2R, p16, p21, p53, P-Ser473AKT, T-AKT, eNOS, and hTERT was demonstrated by Western blot.

RESULTS

B2R expression on circulating CD34+ cells of CBMCs was significantly reduced in patients with GDM compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, B2R expression on circulating CD34+ cells of CBMCs was inversely correlated with plasma 8-iso-PGF2α concentrations and positively correlated with plasma NO levels. BK treatment decreased EPC senescence and ROS generation. Furthermore, BK treatment of HG-exposed cells led to elevated P-Ser473AKT and eNOS protein expression compared with HG treatment alone. BK reduced hTERT translocation in HG-induced senescent EPCs. B2R siRNA, eNOS siRNA, and antagonist of the PI3K signalling pathway blocked the protective effects of BK.

CONCLUSION

BK, acting through PI3K-AKT-eNOS signalling pathways, reduced hTERT translocation, increased the relative length of telomeres while reducing mtDNA copy number, and finally protected against EPC senescence induced by HG.

Simulated vehicle exhaust exposure induces sex-dependent behavioral deficits in rats

Chronic exposure to vehicle exhaust emissions are known to cause several adverse health effects. In this study, we examined the impact of several parameters of behavioral, cardiovascular and biochemical functions upon exposure of pro-oxidants CO2, NO2 and CO (simulated vehicle exhaust exposure: SVEE) in male and female rats. Adult rats were subjected to SVEE or ambient air in whole body chambers (5 h/day, 2 weeks). Male, but not female, rats developed memory deficits, and exhibited anxiety- and depression-like behavior, accompanied with significantly high levels of serum corticosterone, oxidative stress, and inflammatory markers (CRP and TNFα), associated with lower levels of total antioxidant capacity, glutathione, glyoxalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities. Brain region-specific downregulation of Cu/Zn SOD, Mn SOD, GSR, PKCα, ERK1/2, CaMKIV, CREB, BDNF and NMDAR subunit protein expression were also observed in male, but not female, rats. Blood pressure, heart rate and eGFR were not negatively impacted by SVEE. Our results suggest that SVEE, through its pro-oxidant content, induces oxido-inflammation in susceptible brain regions in a sex-dependent manner.

Redox State and Lysosomal Activity in Women with Ovarian Cancer with Tumor Recurrence and Multiorgan Metastasis

The aim of the study is to evaluate oxidant-antioxidant balance as well as lysosomal and anti-protease activities in ovarian cancer since it has been emphasized that the crucial inducing factor of carcinogenesis may be reactive oxygen/nitrogen species or, more precisely, oxidative stress-induced inflammation. The study involved 15 women with ovarian cancer, aged 59.9 ± 7.8 years, and 9 healthy women aged 56.3 ± 4.3 years (controls). The study material was venous blood collected from fasting subjects. In erythrocytes, the activities of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase, as well as concentrations of conjugated dienes (CDs) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), were investigated. CD, TBARS, and vitamins A and E plasma concentrations were also determined. Moreover, total antioxidant capacity and concentrations of 4-hydroxynonenal adducts and 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α, as well as activities of acid phosphatase, arylsulfatase, cathepsin D, and α₁-antitrypsin, were studied in serum. The vitamin E and 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α concentrations as well as arylsulfatase activity were lower in the women with cancer compared to the controls (p = 0.006, p = 0.03, p = 0.001, respectively). In contrast, cathepsin D activity was lower in the controls (p = 0.04). In the peripheral blood of the women with cancer, oxidant-antioxidant and lysosomal disturbances were observed.

Airborne Benzo[a]Pyrene may contribute to divergent Pheno-Endotypes in children

BACKGROUND

Asthma represents a syndrome for which our understanding of the molecular processes underlying discrete sub-diseases (i.e., endotypes), beyond atopic asthma, is limited. The public health needs to characterize etiology-associated endotype risks is becoming urgent. In particular, the roles of polyaromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), globally distributed combustion by-products, toward the two known endotypes - T helper 2 cell high (Th2) or T helper 2 cell low (non-Th2) - warrants clarification.

OBJECTIVES

To explain ambient B[a]P association with non-atopic asthma (i.e., a proxy of non-Th2 endotype) is markedly different from that with atopic asthma (i.e., a proxy for Th2-high endotype).

METHODS

In a case-control study, we compare the non-atopic as well as atopic asthmatic boys and girls against their respective controls in terms of the ambient Benzo[a]pyrene concentration nearest to their home, plasma 15-Ft2-isoprostane (15-Ft2-isoP), urinary 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG), and lung function deficit. We repeated the analysis for i) dichotomous asthma outcome and ii) multinomial asthma-overweight/obese (OV/OB) combined outcomes.

RESULTS

The non-atopic asthma cases are associated with a significantly higher median B[a]P (11.16 ng/m3) compared to that in the non-atopic controls (3.83 ng/m3; P-value < 0.001). In asthma-OV/OB stratified analysis, the non-atopic girls with lean and OV/OB asthma are associated with a step-wisely elevated B[a]P (median,11.16 and 18.00 ng/m3, respectively), compared to the non-atopic lean control girls (median, 4.28 ng/m3, P-value < 0.001). In contrast, atopic asthmatic children (2.73 ng/m3) are not associated with a significantly elevated median B[a]P, compared to the atopic control children (2.60 ng/m3; P-value > 0.05). Based on the logistic regression model, on ln-unit increate in B[a]P is associated with 4.7-times greater odds (95% CI, 1.9-11.5, P = 0.001) of asthma among the non-atopic boys. The same unit increase in B[a]P is associated with 44.8-times greater odds (95% CI, 4.7-428.2, P = 0.001) among the non-atopic girls after adjusting for urinary Cotinine, lung function deficit, 15-Ft2-isoP, and 8-oxodG.

CONCLUSIONS

Ambient B[a]P is robustly associated with non-atopic asthma, while it has no clear associations with atopic asthma among lean children. Furthermore, lung function deficit, 15-Ft2-isoP, and 8-oxodG are associated with profound alteration of B[a]P-asthma associations among the non-atopic children.

Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in non-severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - a step forward in cardiovascular comorbidome

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) augments the likelihood of having left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD)–precursor of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). LVDD shares overlapping symptomatology (cough and dyspnea) with COPD. Stress induced LVDD is indicative of masked HFpEF. Our aim was to evaluate the predictive value of inflammatory, oxidative stress, cardio-pulmonary and echocardiographic parameters at rest for the diagnosis of stress LVDD in non-severe COPD patients, who complain of exertional dyspnea and are free of overt cardiovascular diseases. A total of 104 COPD patients (26 patients with mild and 78 with moderate COPD) underwent echocardiography before cardio-pulmonary exercise testing (CPET) and 1–2 minutes after peak exercise. Patients were divided into two groups based on peak average E/e’: patients with stress induced left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD)—E/e’ > 15 masked HFpEF and patients without LVDD—without masked HFpEF. CPET and echocardiographic parameters at rest were measured and their predictive value for stress E/e’ was analysed. Markers for inflammation (resistin, prostaglandine E2) and oxidative stress (8-isoprostanes) were also determined. Stress induced LVDD occurred in 67/104 patients (64%). Those patients showed higher VE/VCO2 slope. None of the CPET parameters was an independent predictor for stress LVDD.Except for prostglandine E2, none of the inflammatory or oxidative stress markers correlated to stress E/e’. The best independent predictors for stress LVDD (masked HFpEF) were RAVI, right ventricular parasternal diameter and RV E/A >0.75. Their combination predicted stress LVDD with the accuracy of 91.2%. There is a high prevalence of masked HFpEF in non-severe COPD with exertional dyspnea, free of overt cardiovascular disease. RAVI, right ventricular parasternal diameter and RV E/A >0.75 were the only independent clinical predictors of masked HFpEF. 288.

Circulating markers of oxidative stress are associated with a muscle injury in patients with muscular dystrophy Duchenne

BACKGROUND

A small number of studies have confirmed the presence of oxidative damage in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Nevertheless, it is unknown if there a relationship of circulating markers of oxidative stress with a muscle injury.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated if oxidative damage and anti-oxidant markers are associated with muscle damage in DMD.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 24 patients with DMD classified in ambulatory and non-ambulatory. Markers of muscle damage (creatine kinase [CK]), oxidative damage (malondialdehyde [MDA], and 8-isoprostane), anti-oxidant function (Thiol and mRNA of NRF2 and NF-κB) and nitric oxide (NO) were quantified in circulation.

RESULTS

Total NO, MDA, and 8-isoprostane concentrations were significantly (p < 0.05) higher, and thiol concentration was lower in non-ambulatory than ambulatory patients. A significant correlation (p < 0.05) between muscle injury (evaluated by Vignos scale) with CK (r = -0.382), NO (r = 0.444), MDA (r = 0.503), 8-isoprostanes (r = 0.435) and thiol (r = -0.430) was observed.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that non-ambulatory have high oxidative damage and low anti-oxidant function than ambulatory patients with DMD. Total nitric oxide and oxidative damage plasma markers increase, but the anti-oxidant marker thiol decreases with a muscle injury in boys with DMD. The findings of this study suggest that these markers could be considered as goods indicators of oxidative damage in longitudinal studies to evaluate the muscle injury during DMD progression. Additionally, these findings add new information about the pathophysiology of DMD.

The assessment of the serum levels of TWEAK and prostaglandin F2α in COVID – 19

Background/aim

It is claimed that aberrant immune response has a more important role than the cytopathic effect of the virus in the morbidity and mortality of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We aimed to investigate the possible roles of tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK)/Fn14 pathway and leukotrienes (LT) in uncontrolled immune response that occurs in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

Materials and methods

This study included 25 asymptomatic patients and 35 patients with lung involvement who were diagnosed with COVID-19 as well as 22 healthy volunteers. Lung involvement was determined using computed-tomography. Serum TWEAK, LTE4, and prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) levels were determined.

Results

Compared with the healthy control group, TWEAK, LTE4, and PGF2α levels were higher in the group of SARS-CoV-2 infection without lung involvement. In the group of SARS-CoV-2 infection with lung involvement, age, fibrinogen, sedimentation, C-reactive protein and ferritin, TWEAK, LTE4, and PGF2α levels were higher, and lymphocyte levels were lower compared with the asymptomatic group.

Conclusions

In the study, TWEAK and LTE4 levels increased in cases with COVID-19. These results support that TWEAK/Fn14 pathway and LT may involved in the pathology of aberrant immune response against SARS-CoV-2. Inhibition of each of these pathways may be a potential target in the treatment of COVID-19.

The Inhibitory Effect of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Its Active Compound Oleocanthal on Prostaglandin-Induced Uterine Hypercontraction and Pain-Ex Vivo and In Vivo Study

Primary dysmenorrhea is a common occurrence in adolescent women and is a type of chronic inflammation. Dysmenorrhea is due to an increase in oxidative stress, which increases cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression, increases the concentration of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α), and increases the calcium concentration in uterine smooth muscle, causing excessive uterine contractions and pain. The polyphenolic compound oleocanthal (OC) in extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) has been shown to have an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect. This study aimed to investigate the inhibitory effect of extra virgin olive oil and its active ingredient oleocanthal (OC) on prostaglandin-induced uterine hyper-contraction, its antioxidant ability, and related mechanisms. We used force-displacement transducers to calculate uterine contraction in an ex vivo study. To analyze the analgesic effect, in an in vivo study, we used an acetic acid/oxytocin-induced mice writhing model and determined uterus contraction-related signaling protein expression. The active compound OC inhibited calcium/PGF2α-induced uterine hyper-contraction. In the acetic acid and oxytocin-induced mice writhing model, the intervention of the EVOO acetonitrile layer extraction inhibited pain by inhibiting oxidative stress and the phosphorylation of the protein kinase C (PKC)/extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK)/ myosin light chain (MLC) signaling pathway. These findings supported the idea that EVOO and its active ingredient, OC, can effectively decrease oxidative stress and PGF2α-induced uterine hyper-contraction, representing a further treatment for dysmenorrhea.

Intradermal acupuncture for primary dysmenorrhea: A protocol of systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

BACKGROUND

Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is one of the common gynecological diseases, the incidence of PD is on the rise and young women are more likely to have it, which seriously affects women's physical, mental health and work life. Intradermal acupuncture is effective in treating PD. However, due to the lack of evidence, there is no specific method or suggestion, so it is necessary to carry out systematic evaluation on intradermal acupuncture and provide effective evidence for further research.

METHODS

We will search the following electronic databases from their inception to July 2020: Electronic database includes PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Chinese Biomedical Database WangFang, VIP medicine information, and CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure). Primary outcomes: the overall effective rate, VAS score.

SECONDARY OUTCOMES

blood serum estradiol (E2), progesterone (P), prostaglandin F2α (PGF-2α), adverse events Data will be extracted by 2 researchers independently, risk of bias of the meta-analysis will be evaluated based on the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. All data analysis will be conducted by data statistics software Review Manager V.5.3. and Stata V.12.0.

RESULTS

The results of this study will systematically evaluate the effectiveness and safety of intradermal acupuncture in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea.

CONCLUSION

The systematic review of this study will summarize the currently published evidence of intradermal acupuncture therapy for primary dysmenorrhea to further guide its promotion and application.

Maternal serum nitrotyrosine, 8-isoprostane and total antioxidant capacity levels in pre-gestational or gestational diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate serum concentration of 8-isoprostane, nitrotyrosine (NT), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in pregnant women with diabetes mellitus (DM) considering preconception planning and method of diabetes correction in 11-14 and 30-34 weeks.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 130 women: T1DM (n = 40), T2DM (n = 35), gestational diabetes (GDM, n = 40) and the control group (n = 15). The serum concentrations of NT, 8-isoprostane, and TAC were measured by ELISA methods.

RESULTS

Elevated 8-isoprostane levels were observed in all patients with DM, but this biomarker's maximum values have been seen in T1DM and T2DM on insulin groups. A similar tendency was observed for the concentration of NT in both the 1st and 3rd trimesters. TAC levels showed a statistically relevant decrease in all DM groups compared to the control. The correlation analysis showed a direct correlation between HbA1c and serum 8-isoprostane levels in the 1st (r = .27) and 3rd (r = .3) pregnancy trimesters as well as inverse correlation with TAC level (r = -.48). Direct (NT, 8-isoprostane) and inverse correlations (TAC) were fixated for this biomarker concentration and preeclampsia rates.

CONCLUSION

DM in pregnancy is related to oxidative stress activation, which might lead to the development of adverse perinatal outcomes.

Postpartum health disorders in lactating dairy cows and its associations with reproductive responses and pregnancy status after first timed-AI

The objective was to evaluate the association between postpartum health disorders, reproductive responses and pregnancy status in lactating multiparous cyclic Holstein cows. Cows were retrospectively categorized as healthy (n = 70) or sick (n = 60) based on postpartum health records and serum metabolites. Sick cows were further categorized as having metabolic (MET; n = 35), infectious (INF; n = 15), or both diseases (MET/INF; n = 10). Blood samples were collected on d 7 and 14 after calving to determine serum concentrations non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), on d 0 (TAI), 8, 16, 18 and 20 after TAI to determine concentrations of progesterone (P4; d 0, 8, 16, 18 and 20) and prostaglandin F metabolite (PGFM; d 16, 18 and 20) and interferon-stimulated gene-15 (ISG15; d 16) relative mRNA expression. Cyclicity was determined by transrectal ultrasonography 30 d postpartum and cows were subjected to a GnRH-based TAI protocol (to classify cows bearing a visible CL as cyclic). Prediction of pregnancy status on d 16 after TAI was determined by ISG15 mRNA gene expression relative to β actin and following, pregnancy was diagnosed by transrectal ultrasonography at 32 and 60 d after TAI. An interaction (P = 0.04) between occurrence of disease and pregnancy status was detected for the expression of ISG15 in blood, with healthy pregnant healthy cows having the greatest relative expression of ISG15. Postpartum health disorders were associated with reduced concentration (P < 0.05) of serum P4 post TAI. However, serum P4 concentrations at TAI were greater (P = 0.01) in sick cows (0.65 ± 0.09, 0.86 ± 0.13 and 0.75 ± 0.10 ng/mL for MET, INF and MET/INF cows, respectively) compared with that in healthy cows (0.24 ± 0.10 ng/mL). Serum concentrations of PGFM after TAI was reduced in healthy cows, regardless of pregnancy status. Pregnancy status on d 16 after TAI predicted by ISG15 mRNA expression and P/AI on d 32 and 60 after TAI based on ultrasonography, were negatively affected (P < 0.05) by occurrence of health disorders. Similarly, pregnancy loss from d 16 to 32 and d 16 to 60 after TAI was greater (P < 0.05) in sick cows compared to that in healthy cows. However, neither P/AI nor pregnancy loss were associated to the category of postpartum health disorder. Cows affected by postpartum health disorders had overall reduced P4 and greater PGFM serum concentrations after TAI, which were associated with reduced pregnancy success and enhanced pregnancy loss. Collectively, our findings support the hypothesis of a carryover effect of disease on reproductive responses, embryo survival and maintenance of pregnancy in lactating dairy cows independent of the category of postpartum health disorder.

Expression of uterine oxytocin receptors and blood progesterone, 13,14-dihydro-15-Keto-Prostaglandin F2α, and ionized calcium levels in dystocic bitches

This study aimed to examine the etiology of canine dystocia by measuring the relative expression of oxytocin receptor (OXTR) mRNA and the concentration of serum progesterone, plasma PGF_2α metabolite (PGFM), and blood ionized calcium (iCa) near term and in dystocia. Altogether 58 bitches were included in this study, 41 of which underwent cesarean section (CS). The four CS groups were based on history: complete uterine inertia (CUI; n = 7), partial uterine inertia (PUI; n = 13), obstructive dystocia (OD; n = 10), and elective cesarean section (ECS; n = 11). An additional group of medically treated dystocia without CS (MD; n = 8) and a control group (C; n = 9) with normal parturition (without CS and medical treatment) were also formed. Blood samples were taken prior to CS or medical treatment. Progesterone concentrations were highest in the ECS and a significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed between the ECS and the OD and between the ECS and the combined dystocia (CUI, PUI, OD, MD) groups (COMB). Highest concentrations of PGFM was observed in the C, the difference being significant (p < 0.05) between the C and the ECS and between the C and the COMB group. The progesterone:PGFM ratio was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the ECS than in the C and the COMB group. No significant difference (p > 0.05) was observed in iCa concentrations between the groups. Relative OXTR mRNA expression was evaluated with real-time PCR from full-thickness uterine samples taken from the incision site during CS. The expression was highest in the ECS and the difference in expression was significant (p < 0.05) between the ECS and the OD and between ECS and the combined dystocia (CUI, PUI, OD) groups (COMB2). The study supports previous reports of decreasing progesterone and increasing PGFM during prepartum luteolysis. Upregulation of OXTR occurs near term. In obstructive dystocia, a prolonged influence of oxytocin and uterine exhaustion may lead to downregulation of OXTR. Complete primary uterine inertia may have a different etiology as no clear decrease in OXTR was observed in CUI as in OD. It remains unclear if parturition ceases because of uterine inertia or if uterine inertia occurs because of ceased parturition and desensitization of receptors.

Physical fitness is associated with prostaglandin F2α isomers during pregnancy

INTRODUCTION

Pregnancy and physical activity are associated with oxidative stress and immune changes. We hypothesized that pregnant women physically more active in early pregnancy will display a better oxidative stress management and inflammatory response later in pregnancy compared with less active pregnant women.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Maternal physical activity using accelerometry monitors for 1 week and cardiorespiratory fitness (VO₂ at anaerobic threshold) were assessed at 14-18 weeks in 58 pregnant women. Plasma and erythrocytes membrane samples were obtained from maternal blood samples at 14-18 and 34-37 weeks of pregnancy. Pro-inflammatory prostaglandin (PG) F_2α and oxidative stress-derived F₂-isoprostanes were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

Higher physical activity levels at 14-18 weeks measured by mean counts per minute, >30 min/d of moderate to vigorous activity or >6500 steps/d at 14-18 weeks of pregnancy were associated with lower levels of total plasmatic PGF_2α later in pregnancy. Concentrations of 5 F₂-isomers in erythrocyte membranes in late pregnancy were significantly higher in the third (17.5-19.5 mL kg^-1 min^-1) and/or fourth (19.6-27.7 mL kg^-1 min^-1) quartiles of cardio-respiratory fitness compared to the first quartile (13.9-15.9 mL kg^-1 min^-1).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, higher cardio-respiratory fitness in early pregnancy is associated with enhanced erythrocyte membranes oxidation at 34-37 weeks reflecting a higher oxygen transfer capacity. Also, the most active women experienced lower circulating levels of pro-inflammatory PGF_2α in plasma at 34-37 weeks, a marker associated with adverse antenatal inflammation-associated conditions. These results support the practice of physical activity by pregnant women.

Depressed prostaglandins and leukotrienes in veterans with Gulf War illness

Background: There is need to understand biological markers and mechanisms in Gulf War illness (GWI). Goal: To examine whether and how eicosanoids - prostaglandins and leukotrienes - are altered in veterans with GWI. Methods: Seventy participants including 37 GWI and 33 healthy controls, shared exposure information, and had plasma eicosanoids assessed - prostaglandin F2 alpha (pgf2α), prostaglandin D2 (pgd2), leukotriene B4 (lb4) among others. Values were compared for GWI versus controls. Eicosanoid intercorrelations were compared in cases vs. controls. For the most significantly altered eicosanoid in GWI, exposure and symptom relations were assessed. Results: Prostaglandins and leukotrienes were depressed in GWI, strongest for pgf2α, then lb4. Eicosanoid intercorrelations differed in GWI vs. controls. Fuel-solvent, pesticide, radioactive chemicals and metal exposures related negatively to pgf2α; as, in GWI, did chemical attack and vaccines. Multivariate predictors included fuels-solvents and radioactive chemicals (negative); tetanus vaccine and herbicides (positive). Fuels-solvents and radioactive chemicals predicted lower pgf2α in cases, controls, and all participants controlled for case status. Lower pgf2α related to GWI "Kansas criteria" domains of pain, respiratory, and (borderline significantly) skin symptoms. Conclusion: Multiple eicosanoids are depressed in GWI, particularly pgf2α and lb4. Prior fuel-solvent exposures, radioactive chemicals, and (in GWI cases) vaccines were linked to lower pgf2α.

Elevation of isoprostanes in polycystic ovary syndrome and its relationship with cardiovascular risk factors

PURPOSE

To evaluate the plasma level of 8-isoprostanes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. To also investigate whether there is a relationship between 8-isoprostanes and several cardiovascular risk factors.

METHODS

A total of 125 women with polycystic ovary syndrome and 169 healthy women were enrolled in this case-control study. 8-Isoprostanes and different parameters were measured in all subjects. Patients were evaluated for the presence of polycystic ovary syndrome according to the Rotterdam Consensus Conference criteria.

RESULTS

8-Isoprostanes levels were significantly higher in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (138.4 ± 104.1 pg/mL) compared with control group (68.6 ± 34.3 pg/mL) (p < 0.001). The mean of triglycerides, lipid accumulation product, C-reactive protein, homocysteine, insulin, and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance were significantly higher in polycystic ovary syndrome patients with high 8-isoprostanes than those with normal 8-isoprostanes (p < 0.05). The Pearson correlation analyses showed that 8-isoprostanes levels in polycystic ovary syndrome group had a positive correlation with waist circumference, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein B, homocysteine, insulin, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with polycystic ovary syndrome have higher 8-isoprostanes levels and it is associated with several cardiovascular risk factors.

Effects of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on serum values of adiponectin, leptin, 8-isoprostane and malondialdehyde in women with type 2 diabetes

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have been known to be suffering from coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) deficiency which results in some complications in them. The purpose of this clinical trial study was to evaluate the effects of CoQ10 supplementation on serum values of adiponectin (A), leptin (L), 8-isoprostane, malondialdehyde (MDA), the A/L ratio in women with T2DM. Sixty-eight women with T2DM were enrolled in the current study and were randomly divided into drug (n = 34) and placebo (n = 34) groups who were consuming 100 mg CoQ10 and 100 mg cellulose acetate per day for 12 weeks, respectively. Measurements were performed at the beginning and after the intervention. Serum values of adiponectin (p = .001) and the A/L ratio (p = .001) were increased while values of leptin (p = .041), MDA (p = .023), 8-isoprostane (p = .004) were decreased significantly in drug group after intervention. This study had shown that CoQ10 supplementation in women with T2DM was effective in elevation of adiponectin and the A/L ratio and reduction of leptin, MDA and 8-isoprostane which could result in improving insulin resistance and modulating oxidative stress situation.

Hormonal and metabolic indicators before and after farrowing in sows affected with postpartum dysgalactia syndrome

BACKGROUND

Postpartum dysgalactia syndrome (PDS) in sows is difficult to diagnose and the pathogenesis is obscure. Hormonal changes related to the disease are often difficult to distinguish from those found in the normal transition period from gestation to lactation. The study aimed to investigate metabolic and hormonal changes related to PDS with the goal of identifying potential biomarkers in sows suffering from PDS (PDS+). Selected biomarkers were examined by comparing 38 PDS+ sows with 38 PDS negative (PDS-) sows. The sows were sampled every 24 h from 60 h ante partum (a.p.) to 36 h post partum (p.p.).

RESULTS

Compared to the baseline (60 to 36 h a.p.), cortisol in serum and saliva and fasting blood glucose concentrations increased in PDS+ as well as PDS- sows. C-peptide decreased relative to the baseline in PDS+ sows, and prolactin and 8-epi prostaglandin F2 alpha (8-epi-PGF2α) decreased in PDS- sows. Concentrations of cortisol in serum and saliva, salivary chromogranin A (CgA), fasting blood glucose, C-peptide, and 8-epi-PGF2α differed significantly between PDS+ and PDS- sows, with levels of cortisol in serum and saliva, salivary CgA, and 8-epi-PGF2α in serum being different in the two groups already before parturition. Concentrations of salivary CgA were significantly lower in PDS- sows than in PDS+ sows during the entire study period.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that salivary CgA, cortisol and serum 8-epi-PGF2α may potentially serve as early diagnostic indicators for PDS. The consistently higher salivary CgA concentration in PDS+ sows compared to PDS- sows may indicate that homeostatic disturbances are present between 36 to 60 h before parturition in sows developing PDS. The higher serum and saliva cortisol concentration in PDS+ sows compared to PDS- sows could reflect an early sign of inflammation or stress. The significantly lower C-peptide in PDS+ sows compared to PDS- sows may reflect a lower food intake. Our results contribute to the understanding of the pathogenesis of PDS, and the homeostatic disturbances detected before parturition warrants further investigation. The diagnostic potential of the markers identified in this study should be investigated further in a larger population of sows.

Development of a method for the determination of 8-iso-PGF2α in sheep and goat plasma using solid-phase microextraction and ultra-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry

RATIONALE

Isoprostane 8-iso-PGF2α is a biomarker of lipid peroxidation in cell membranes. The method developed to measure plasma total levels (esterified + free) of 8-iso-PGF2α must be reproducible and be able to reduce the use of solvents in solid phase extraction. It should be useful to evaluate oxidative stress due to the excess of free radicals that are generated by some disorder or disease.

METHODS

The method was developed using solid-phase microextraction with Oasis®MAX μElution plates and ultra-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC/MS/MS). Electrospray ionization was performed in the negative mode (ESI-); the multiple reaction monitoring mode (MRM) was used. The development of the method included the optimization of the chromatographic conditions to achieve the separation of PGF2α and 8-iso-PGF2α as well as the optimization of the microextraction conditions of the analyte of interest in ovine and goat plasma.

RESULTS

The developed method was validated with a calibration curve of plasma samples fortified with standards at five concentration levels in the range 49-639 pg/mL. The average recovery was 89% with a standard deviation of 10.73%. The inter-day precision was evaluated, obtaining a coefficient of variance (CV) less than 15%. The limit of quantification was 20 pg/mL and the limit of detection was 10 pg/mL. 8-iso-PGF2a was determined in the plasma of 14 sheep and 20 goats of 5 months of age and 6 goats of 24 months of age. The concentrations found were 50-300 pg/mL.

CONCLUSIONS

The method developed is precise, accurate and reliable with low reagent consumption compared with conventional solid-phase extraction. The analysis time was decreased because, with the use of the microextraction plate, the step of the evaporation and reconstitution of the analyte was avoided. The method is applicable to quantify the plasma total levels (esterified + free) of 8-iso-PGF2α.

Paeoniflorin regulates GALNT2-ANGPTL3-LPL pathway to attenuate dyslipidemia in mice

N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 2-Angiopoietin-like protein 3-lipoprotein lipase (GALNT2-ANGPTL3-LPL) pathway may be a useful pharmacologic objective for dyslipidemia. The present study was conducted to test the effect of paeoniflorin, a monoterpene Glycoside, on dyslipidemia in mice. Fifty mice were randomly divided into five groups (n = 10): three groups of apolipoprotein E-null (ApoE-/-) mice treated with paeoniflorin (10 or 20 or 30 mg/kg/day), untreated ApoE-/- mice group, and C57BL/6J control group. Six weeks after treatment, expression of hepatic ANGPTL3, hepatic GALNT2 and adipose tissue LPL, lipid levels in the liver and blood were quantified. Treatment with paeoniflorin (10 or 20 or 30 mg/kg) obviously down-regulated expression of ANGPTL3 and up-regulated expressions of GALNT2 and LPL concomitantly with elevated plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level, reduced plasma concentrations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglyceride, malonaldehyde, and 8-isoprostane. The present results suggest that paeoniflorin regulates GALNT2-ANGPTL3-LPL pathway to attenuate dyslipidemia in mice.

High levels of circulating prostaglandin F2α associated with ovulation stimulate female sexual receptivity and spawning behavior in the goldfish (Carassius auratus)

This study tested the hypothesis that blood-borne prostaglandin F_2α (PGF_2α) produced at the time of ovulation by female goldfish, a typical scramble-spawning, egg-laying cyprinid fish, functions as a hormone which stimulates female sexual receptivity, behavior, and pheromone release, thereby synchronizing female mating behavior with egg availability. We conducted 5 experiments. First, we tested whether PGF_2α is found in the blood of female fish and if it increases at the time of ovulation. Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, we found that circulating PGF_2α was approximately 1 ng/ml prior to ovulation, increased over 50-fold within 3 h of ovulation and returned to preovulatory values after spawning and egg release. Ovulated fish also released over 2 ng/h of PGF_2α and 800 ng/h of 15-keto-PGF_2α, a metabolite of PGF_2α - both compounds with known pheromonal function. Second, we tested how closely levels of circulating PGF_2α tracked the timing of ovulation by sampling fish at the time of ovulation and discovered that PGF_2α increased within 15 min of ovulation, peaked after 9 h, and fell to basal levels as fish spawned and released their eggs. Third, we tested whether an interaction between eggs and the reproductive tract serves as a source of circulating PGF_2α and its relationship with female sexual receptivity by injecting ovulated eggs (or an egg-substitute) into the reproductive tract of females stripped of ovulated eggs. We found both of these treatments elicited measurable increases in plasma PGF_2α as well as female sexual behavior. A fourth experiment showed that indothemacin, a PG synthase inhibitor, blocked both PGF_2α increase and female sexual behavior in egg-substitute-injected fish. Finally, we tested the relationship between the expression of female behavior and PGF_2α in PGF_2α-injected fish and found that circulating PGF_2α levels closely paralleled behavior, rising within 15 min and peaking at 45 min. Together, these experiments establish that PGF_2α functions as a behavioral blood-borne hormone in the goldfish, suggesting it likely has similar activity in other related, externally-fertilizing fishes.

Associations between repeated ultrasound measures of fetal growth and biomarkers of maternal oxidative stress and inflammation in pregnancy

PROBLEM

Perturbations in normal fetal growth during pregnancy are associated with poor child and adult health outcomes. Inflammation and oxidative stress are recognized as important mechanisms in preeclampsia and preterm birth but have been examined less in relation to fetal growth. We hypothesized that maternal inflammation and oxidative stress in pregnancy would be associated with reduced fetal growth and sought to identify windows of vulnerability.

METHOD OF STUDY

In a secondary analysis of 482 women from the LIFECODES birth cohort study, we measured inflammation (C-reactive protein [CRP] and the cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α) and oxidative stress (8-isoprostane and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine [8-OHdG]) biomarkers in plasma and urine, respectively, at four time points during pregnancy. We examined associations between repeated measures of each marker and ultrasound (head and abdominal circumference, femur length, and a summary measure of estimated fetal weight) as well as delivery (birthweight) metrics of growth.

RESULTS

In adjusted repeated-measures models, an interquartile range (IQR) increase in CRP was associated with a 0.12 standard deviation decrease in fetal weight z-score (95% confidence interval, CI, -0.21, -0.02), which corresponds to approximately 50 g at 40-week gestation. The association was greatest in magnitude (ie, most negative) with CRP measured later in pregnancy. Oxidative stress markers were not associated with fetal weight, although both were inversely associated with head circumference and femur length.

CONCLUSION

Inflammation and oxidative stress markers measured later in pregnancy were associated with reduced fetal growth as measured by repeated ultrasound scans.

Assessment of human 4-hydroxynonenal, 8-isoprostane concentrations and glutathione reductase activity after synbiotics administration

PURPOSE

Probiotics and prebiotics have become an object of intense research, to identify methods of mitigating oxidative stress. Over the past few years, the number of in vitro and in vivo studies, related to antioxidant properties of probiotics/prebiotics has significantly increased. The aim of the present study was to assess whether probiotic in combination with prebiotic influences the level of human 4-hydroxynonenal, 8-isoprostane and glutathione reductase activity.

MATERIAL/METHODS

Experiments were carried out on healthy volunteers (male and female). All oxidative stress markers were measured in blood plasma pre- and post-administration of synbiotic.

RESULTS

The administration of synbiotic resulted in a significant decrease in 4-hydroxynonenal in the female-synbiotic group (p < 0.05), 8-isoprostanes in the female-synbiotic group and male-synbiotic group (p < 0.05) and non-significant increase in the activity of glutathione reductase (p > 0.05) vs. control.

CONCLUSIONS

The present results show that supplementation of synbiotics contributed to the decrease in oxidative stress parameters in the female patients.

Adverse pregnancy outcomes and imbalance in angiogenic growth mediators and oxidative stress biomarkers is associated with advanced maternal age births: A prospective cohort study in Ghana

Background

Advanced maternal age (AMA) has been associated with negative pregnancy outcomes. Oxidative stress (OS) and defective placental dysfunction are contributing factors. This study determined the association between AMA and adverse pregnancy outcomes, OS biomarkers and angiogenic growth mediators (AGMs) in normal pregnancies.

Methods

This prospective cohort study conducted at the Obstetrics and Gynaecology (O&G) Department of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) finally included 175 normal pregnant women comprising, 58 AMA (35–45 years), 55 (30–34 years) and 62 optimal childbearing age (20–29 years). Venous blood samples were collected at 28–32 weeks for soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), placental growth factor (PIGF), 8-epiprostaglandinF2-α (8-epi-PGF2α) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) assays.

Results

Pregnancies of AMA had a significantly higher levels of sFlt-1, 8-epi-PGF2α and 8-epi-PGF2α: PIGF ratio but a reduced level of PIGF, TAC and PIGF: sFlt-1 ratio compared to 20–29 years (p<0.0001). A significant negative correlation between AMA and PIGF (r = -0.294; p = 0.038); TAC (r = -0.215; p = 0.001) and PIGF: sFlt-1 ratio (r = -0.457; p<0.0001) and a positive correlation with sFlt-1 (r = 0.269; p = 0.017), 8-epiPGF2α (r = 0.277; p = 0.029) and 8-epi-PGF2: PIGF ratio (r = 0.461; p<0.0001) levels were observed. The adjusted odds ratio (aOR), and 95% confidence interval, and p value for the significant independent adverse outcomes associated with AMA were emergency caesarean section [21.7 (5.9–121.3), p<00001], elective caesarean section [2.7(0.9–5.8), p = 0.0105], stillbirth [12.6(1.4–82.1), p<0.0001], post-partum haemorrhage [4.3(1.1–18.5), p = 0.0094], preterm delivery [8.2(3.5–28.4), p<0.0001], low birth weight babies [9.7(2.8–29.3), p<0.0001], birth asphyxia [3.8(1.6–12.7), p = 0.0054], Apgar score ≤ 7 after 5 min for babies [10.1(4.7–23.2), p<0.0001], placental abruption [3.5(1.3–8.4), p = 0.0117] and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) [4.6(2.3–12.9), p = 0.0001].

Conclusion

AMA pregnancies correlate with adverse pregnancy outcomes and imbalance in OS biomarkers and AGMs. It is incumbent on health care givers to provide effective antenatal care among AMA mothers as early identification of these imbalance and treatment can prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Strategies to decrease oxidative stress biomarker levels in human medical conditions: A meta-analysis on 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α

The widespread detection of elevated oxidative stress levels in many medical conditions has led to numerous efforts to design interventions to reduce its effects. Efforts have been wide-ranging, from dietary changes to administration of antioxidants, supplements, e.g., omega-3-fatty acids, and many medications. However, there is still no systemic assessment of the efficacy of treatments for oxidative stress reduction across a variety of medical conditions. The goal of this meta-analysis is, by combining multiple studies, to quantitate the change in the levels of the popular oxidative stress biomarker 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α (8-iso-PGF2α) after a variety of treatment strategies in human populations. Nearly 350 unique publications with 180 distinct strategies were included in the analysis. For each strategy, the difference between pre- or placebo and post-treatment levels calculated using Hedges' g value of effect. In general, administration of antibiotics, antihyperlipidemic agents, or changes in lifestyle (g = - 0.63, - 0.54, and 0.56) had the largest effect. Administration of supplements, antioxidants, or changes in diet (g = - 0.09, - 0.28, - 0.12) had small quantitative effects. To fully interpret the effectiveness of these treatments, comparisons to the increase in g value for each medical condition is required. For example, antioxidants in populations with coronary artery disease (CAD) reduce the 8-iso-PGF2α levels by g = - 0.34 ± 0.1, which is quantitatively considered a small effect. However, CAD populations, in comparison to healthy populations, have an increase in 8-iso-PGF2α levels by g = 0.38 ± 0.04; therefore, the overall reduction of 8-iso-PGF2α levels is ≈ 90% by this treatment in this specific medical condition. In conclusion, 8-iso-PGF2α levels can be reduced not only by antioxidants but by many other strategies. Not all strategies are equally effective at reducing 8-iso-PGF2α levels. In addition, the effectiveness of any strategy can be assessed only in relation to the medical condition investigated.

Investigation of the Oxidative Stress and DIO1 Expression in CRF Patients Accompanied With and Without Euthyroid Sick Syndrome

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Chronic renal failure (CRF) is often accompanied by increased oxidative stress and euthyroid sick syndrome (ESS). The cause of ESS is unknown, and it is unknown whether there exists a link between oxidant stress and ESS in CRF patients. Therefore, we aim to investigate oxidative stress and type 1 deiodinase (DIO1) expression, which plays the key role in the ESS in CRF patients.

METHODS

In-patients with CRF were divided into the two group: Group 1 is ESS patients consisting of 60 patients with low free triiodothyronine (FT3) and Group 2 consisting of 60 patients with normal FT3. Group 3 consisted of 60 healthy volunteers recruited as controls. The baseline clinical parameters of patients were evaluated with standard routine methods in a clinical laboratory. Serum levels of 8-isoprostane and DIO1 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Multiple regression analysis was used to analyze the relationship between oxidative stress, DIO1 and FT3.

RESULTS

The concentrations of serum 8-Isoprostane in Group 1 and Group 2 were substantially higher than that of Group 3 (p< 0.05), however there was no significant difference between Group 1 and Group 2 (p=0.516). The serum DIO1 level was higher in Group 2 than in Group 1 and Group 3 (p< 0.001). Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that the DIO1 concentration and FT3 level were not associated with the concentration of serum 8-Isoprostane.

CONCLUSIONS

CRF patients showed elevated oxidative stress. The CRF patients without ESS showed higher expression of DIO1 than patients with ESS and the control group. The concentration of serum 8-Isoprostane was not correlated with FT3 and DIO1 levels.

Early decrease of oxidative stress by non-invasive ventilation in patients with acute respiratory failure

Oxidative stress plays an important role in chronic respiratory diseases where the use of non-invasive ventilation seems to reduce the oxidative damage. Data on acute respiratory failure are still lacking. The aim of the study is to investigate the interplay between oxidative stress and acute respiratory failure, and the role of non-invasive ventilation in this setting. We enrolled 60 patients suffering from acute respiratory failure (PaO₂/FiO₂ ratio <300): 30 consecutive patients treated with non-invasive ventilation and 30 consecutive patients treated with conventional oxygen therapy. Serum levels of soluble Nox2-derived peptide (sNOX2-dp), a marker of NADPH-oxidase activation, and 8-iso-PGF2α and H₂O₂, markers of oxidative stress, were evaluated at baseline and after 3 h of treatment. At baseline, higher values of sNOX2-dp, 8-iso-PGF2α and H₂O₂ are associated with lower values of PaO₂/FiO₂ ratio (p < 0.001). After 3 h, serum levels of sNOX2-dp, H₂O₂, and 8-iso-PGF2α significantly decrease in patients treated with non-invasive ventilation, but not in patients treated with conventional oxygen therapy. Delta changes of oxidative stress parameters correlate inversely with the delta changes of PaO₂/FiO₂ (R = -0.623, p < 0.001 for sNOX2-dp; R = -0.428, p < 0.001 for H₂O₂; R = -0.548, p < 0.001 for 8-iso-PGF2α). In the acute respiratory failure setting, treatment with non-invasive ventilation reduces the levels of oxidative stress in the first hours. This reduction is associated with an improvement of PaO₂/FiO₂ ratio as well as in a reduction of NADPH-oxidase activity.

Elevated plasma 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α levels in human smokers originate primarily from enzymatic instead of non-enzymatic lipid peroxidation

It is widely accepted that free radicals in tobacco smoke lead to oxidative stress and generate the popular lipid peroxidation biomarker 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α (8-iso-PGF2α). However, 8-iso-PGF2α can simultaneously be produced in vivo by the prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthases (PGHS) induced by inflammation. This inflammation-dependent mechanism has never been considered as a source of elevated 8-iso-PGF2α in tobacco smokers. The goal of this study is to quantify the distribution of chemical- and PGHS-dependent 8-iso-PGF2α formation in the plasma of tobacco smokers and non-smokers. The influences of gender and hormonal contraceptive use were accounted for. The distribution was determined by measuring the 8-iso-PGF2α/prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) ratio. When comparing smokers (n = 28) against non-smokers (n = 30), there was a statistically significant increase in the 8-iso-PGF2α concentration. The source of this increased 8-iso-PGF2α was primarily from PGHS. When stratifying for gender, the increase in 8-iso-PGF2α in male smokers (n = 9) was primarily from PGHS. Interestingly, female smokers on hormonal contraceptives had increased 8-iso-PGF2α in both pathways, whereas those not on hormonal contraceptives did not have increased 8-iso-PGF2α. In conclusion, increased plasma 8-iso-PGF2α in tobacco smokers has complex origins, with PGHS-dependent formation as the primary source. Accounting for both pathways provides a definitive measurement of both oxidative stress and inflammation.

Concentrations of a PGF2α metabolite during pregnancy on the days that luteolysis occurs in nonbred heifers

Concentrations of a metabolite of PGF2α (PGFM) were compared between nonbred (n = 6) and pregnant (n = 8) heifers on days 16, 17, and 18 postovulation. On each day, an 8-h session of hourly blood sampling was done. Averaged over the 8-h sessions, mean concentration of PGFM was less (P < 0.0009) in the pregnant group (45.2 ± 3.2 pg/mL) than that in the nonbred group (65.6 ± 7.9 pg/mL), but the minimal concentration per session was not significantly different between groups. Pulses of PGFM (identified by coefficient of variance) were similar in frequency between groups but were less (P < 0.03) prominent at the peak in the pregnant group (60.0 ± 5.3 pg/mL) than that in the nonbred group (92.8 ± 10.7 pg/mL). These results indicated similarity between groups in frequency and initial development of a PGFM pulse but without later development and a reduction in prominence in the pregnant group. The progesterone response to a PGFM pulse of similar prominence was made before the beginning of luteolysis in individuals in the nonbred group and during the hourly sessions on days 16 to 18 in the pregnant group. Progesterone concentration in the nonbred group decreased (P < 0.05) during 2 h before the PGFM peak (8.8 ± 1.6 to 5.6 ± 1.0 ng/mL) and rebounded (P < 0.05) completely during the 2 h after the peak (5.6 ± 1.0 to 9.6 ± 2.2 ng/mL). A transient progesterone decrease during a similar PGFM pulse and similar initial progesterone concentration did not occur in the pregnant group. Results supported the hypotheses that (1) pregnant heifers have identifiable but less prominent PGFM pulses during the days that luteolysis occurs in nonbred heifers and (2) the corpus luteum locally resists the luteolytic effect of PGF2α in pregnant heifers before the days of onset of luteolysis in nonbred heifers.

Individuals with autism have higher 8-Iso-PGF2α levels than controls, but no correlation with quantitative assay of Paraoxonase 1 serum levels

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) represents a very large set of neurodevelopmental issues with diverse clinical outcomes. Various hypotheses have been put forth for the etiology of autism spectrum disorder, including issues pertaining to oxidative stress. In this study, we conducted measurements of serum 8-Iso-Prostaglanding F2 α (8-iso-PGF2α, which is the results of non-enzimatically mediated polyunsaturated fatty acid oxidation) in a population of individuals with autism and a control group of age and sex matched controls. A quantitative assay of Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) was conducted. Data regarding comorbidities, structural MRI scans, medication, intelligence quotient (IQ) and Childhood Autism Rating Scale scores (CARS) were also included in our study. Our results show that patients diagnosed with autism have higher levels of 8-iso-PGF2α than their neurotypical counterparts. Levels of this particular metabolite, however, do not correlate with quantitative serum levels of Paraoxonase 1, which has been shown to be altered in individuals with autism. Neither 8-iso-PGF2α nor quantitative levels of PON1 provide any meaningful correlation with clinical or neuroimaging data in this study group. Future research should focus on providing data regarding PON 1 phenotype, in addition to standard quantitative measurements, in relation to 8-iso-PGF2α as well as other clinical and structural brain findings.

Effects of dark chocolate on endothelial function in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in inducing endothelial dysfunction and progression from simple fatty liver steatosis (FLD) to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Polyphenols could reduce oxidative stress and restore endothelial function by inhibiting the nicotinamide-adenine-dinucleotide-phosphate (NADPH) oxidase isoform Nox2. The aim of this study was to assess endothelial function and oxidative stress in a population affected by simple FLD and NASH. Furthermore, we analysed the effect of high vs low content of cocoa polyphenols on endothelial function and oxidative stress in patients with NASH.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional study we analysed endothelial function, as assessed by flow-mediated dilation (FMD), and oxidative stress, as assessed by Nox2 activation, serum isoprostanes and nitric oxide bioavailability (NOx), in patients with NASH (n = 19), FLD (n = 19) and controls (n = 19). Then, we performed a randomized, cross-over study in 19 subjects with NASH comparing the effect of 14-days administration of 40 g of chocolate at high (dark chocolate, cocoa >85%) versus low content (milk chocolate, cocoa <35%) of polyphenols on FMD and oxidative stress. Compared to controls, NASH and FLD patients had higher Nox2 activity and isoprostanes levels and lower FMD and NOx, with a significant gradient between FLD and NASH. The interventional study showed that, compared to baseline, FMD and NOx increased (from 2.9 ± 2.4 to 7.2 ± 3.0% p < 0.001 and from 15.9 ± 3.6 to 20.6 ± 4.9 μM, p < 0.001, respectively) in subjects given dark but not in those given milk chocolate. A simple linear regression analysis showed that Δ (expressed by difference of values between before and after 14 days of chocolate assumption) of FMD was associated with Δ of Nox2 activity (Rs = -0.323; p = 0.04), serum isoprostanes (Rs: -0.553; p < 0.001) and NOx (Rs: 0.557; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Cocoa polyphenols improve endothelial function via Nox2 down-regulation in NASH patients.

Ozone exposure effect on systemic prostaglandin F2α in rat plasma and urine may not reveal pulmonary damage through inflammation

The acute ozone induced lung injury model has been widely used to explore injury and repair processes induced by oxidant overload. The current study evaluated acute ozone exposure effects on prostaglandin F_2α (PGF_2α) in male Fischer rat plasma and urine with the hypothesis that ozone may induce an inflammatory response in the body that can be measured by the induction of PGF_2α. That might then lead to the identification of potential marker for acute lung injury through systemic inflammation. The time and dose-dependent effects of ozone exposure on the plasma and urinary levels of a major PGF_2α metabolite15-keto-dihydro-PGF_2α were determined using a radioimmunoassay. No statistically significant differences in the PGF_2α metabolite were found between the control and the experimental groups at either ozone exposure dose (2ppm and 5ppm) or any time point (2h, 7h and 16h) post exposure for plasma and at 7 different post exposure time points (between 2 and 80h) for urine. It is concluded that acute ozone exposure does not cause changes in plasma and urinary PGF_2α, and therefore their measurement in plasma and urine may not be used to reveal pulmonary inflammation and damage by ozone.

The endocannabinoid system expression in the female reproductive tract is modulated by estrogen

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is involved in several physiological events that resulted in a growing interest in its modulation. Moreover, the uterine levels of anandamide (AEA), the major endocannabinoid, must be tightly regulated to create proper embryo implantation conditions. However, there are no evidences about the regulation of AEA in uterus by estrogen. Thus, the aim of this study is to elucidate whether estradiol benzoate (EB) and tamoxifen (TAM) administration to ovariectomized (OVX) rats can induce changes in the expression of cannabinoid receptors and AEA-metabolic enzymes in uterus by evaluating gene transcription and protein levels by qPCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry. Moreover, the plasmatic and uterine levels of AEA and of prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) and prostaglandin F₂α (PGF_2α), the major cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) products, were determined by UPLC-MS/MS. The immunohistochemistry showed that cannabinoid receptors, as well as AEA-metabolic enzymes are mainly located in the epithelial cells of both lumen and glands and, to a lesser extent, in the muscle cells. Moreover, EB administration to OVX rats significantly increased CB1, CB2, NAPE-PLD, FAAH and COX-2 expression and transcription. These effects were absent in TAM and TAM+EB treatments showing that this response is estrogen receptor dependent. Additionally, although uterine levels of AEA remained unchanged in EB or TAM treated animals, they showed a rise with EB treatment in plasma. The latter also produced a decrease in uterine PGE₂ levels. In summary, these data collectively indicate that the expression of ECS components, as well as, the AEA and PGE₂ levels in rat uterus is modulated by EB. Thus, estradiol may have a direct regulatory role in the modulation of ECS in female reproductive tissues.

Replacement therapy with levothyroxine modulates platelet activation in recent-onset post-thyroidectomy subclinical hypothyroidism

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Subclinical hypothyroidism has been linked to increased risk of atherosclerotic disease. Soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L), mainly derived from activated platelets, and the lipid peroxidation product 8-iso-prostaglandin F_2α (8-iso-PGF_2α) are known to play a relevant pathophysiological role in atherogenesis. In this study, we analyzed the relationship between thyroid hormones and circulating levels of sCD40L and 8-iso-PGF_2α in patient with recent-onset post-thyroidectomy subclinical hypothyroidism under replacement therapy.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Circulating levels of thyroid hormones, sCD40L, and 8-iso-PGF_2α were assessed in 40 recently thyroidectomized patients (33 females, mean age 52.0 ± 11.7 years) at baseline (5-7 day after surgery) and after 2 months under replacement therapy with levothyroxine (LT-4). At baseline, circulating levels of thyroid hormones were indicative of a subclinical hypothyroidism (TSH 7.7 ± 3.9 μU/mL, FT3 1.8 ± 0.6 pg/mL, and FT3 8.9 ± 3.0 pg/mL). Circulating levels of sCD40L and 8-iso-PGF_2α were directly correlated with each other (r = 0.360, p = 0.023) and with TSH levels (r = 0.322, p = 0.043 and r = 0.329 p = 0.038, respectively). After 2 months under the replacement therapy with LT-4 circulating levels of TSH (from 7.7 ± 3.9 to 2.7 ± 2.8 μU/mL, p < 0.0001), sCD40L (from 6.11 ± 2.41 to 2.43 ± 2.00 ng/mL, p < 0.0001) and 8-iso-PGF_2α (from 45.33 ± 6.94 to 40.36 ± 6.20, p < 0.0001) significantly decreased. Changes in circulating levels of sCD40L and 8-iso-PGF_2α were directly correlated with each other (r = 0.349 p = 0.028) and with changes in TSH levels (r = 0.367 p = 0.020 and r = 0.339 p = 0.032, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests an influential role of TSH on proatherogenic activation of platelets, probably through enhanced lipid peroxidation. These findings could partially explain the increased susceptibility of patients with subclinical hypothyroidism to develop atherosclerotic disease.

PATHOGENETIC ADVANCES OF FOSINOPRIL SODIUM WITH HYDROCHLOROTHIAZIDE IN OBESE HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS

Purpose - to improve antihypertensive therapy on the basis of studying the antioxidant properties of an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor (fosinopril sodium) and a diuretic (hydrochlorothiazide), their impact on endothelial dysfunction and pro-inflammatory cytokines activity in hypertensive patients with overweight and obesity. A combination of fosinopril sodium 20 mg/day and hydrochlorothiazid 12.5 mg/day was prescribed to 54 patients with essential hypertension of 1-3 grades, 30 to 65 years old . The control group included 10 healthy subjects matched for age and sex. During the course of combined antihypertensive therapy we observed a significant decrease of i-NOS activity, reduce of TNF-α type I of its soluble receptor (sTNF-αRI), and 8-iso-PgF2α in the patients. Activity of e-NOS, superoxide dismutase and catalase, in contrast, were increased in patients with hypertension and concomitant obesity. Thus, the improvement of endothelial function, a significant decrease autoimmune activation due to lower tension of oxidative stress in the examined patients optimizes use of a combination of fosinopril sodium and hydrochlorothiazid for differentiated therapy in hypertensive patients with obesity.

Analysis of endogenous lipids during intestinal wound healing

Intestinal wound healing is a new therapeutic goal for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) as complete healing of the mucosa is the key element of clinical remission in IBD. Previous studies showed that termination of inflammation can be achieved by adding pro-resolving lipids like DHA and EPA exogenously. However, the roles of these lipids in mucosal healing have not been investigated. To recapitulate intestinal healing process, mice were received dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) for 7 days in the drinking water followed by regular tap water for 5 additional days. DSS-induced intestinal inflammation featuring body weight loss, histological tissue damage, increased cytokine production and infiltration of inflammatory cells was gradually reduced upon switching to water. To investigate whether endogenous lipids play a role in mucosal healing, the lipidomics analysis of mouse serum was performed. Reduced levels of arachidonic acid, the biosynthetic precursor of prostaglandin F (PGF)_2α, 19H-PGF_1α, the metabolite of prostacyclin, and 20H-PGF_2α, the metabolite of PGF_2α, suggest subsiding inflammation. In contrast, increased levels of an active metabolite of resolvin D1 along with decreased levels of its precursor DHA as well as decreased levels of the precursor of resolvin E, 18-hydroxy-eicosapentaenoic acid, suggest inauguration of mucosal healing by endogenous lipids. Furthermore, exogenously supplied fish oil enhanced the process even further. These results suggest the presence of mucosal healing regulated by endogenous pro-healing lipids and also indicate that the remission state of IBD could be prolonged by enhancing the levels of these lipids.

Serum Levels of Oxidative Stress Markers in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis

INTRODUCTION

Oxidative stress is one of the key mechanisms responsible for disease progression in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum levels of oxidative stress markers in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DMT2) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and test their relationships with clinical and biochemical patient characteristics, compared to patients with DMT2 without non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and controls.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In all, 60 consecutive patients with DMT2 and NASH, 55 with DMT2 without NAFLD, and 50 age-and-gender-matched healthy subjects participated in the study. The serum levels of protein carbonyls and 8-isoprostane were determined by ELISA methods, while the serum levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) were detected by means of the spectrophotometric method. Clinical, demographic, and laboratory parameters were examined for all the subjects included in the study. Multivariate logistic regression was used to test the independent predictive factors in the relationships investigated here.

RESULTS

Patients with DMT2 and NASH displayed significantly higher serum levels of protein carbonyls (1.112 ± 0.42 nmol/dL), MDA (6.181 ± 1.81 ng/mL), and 8-isoprostane (338.6 ± 98.5 pg/mL) compared to patients with DMT2 without NAFLD, and controls. Results of multivariate logistic regression analyses indicate that in patients with DMT2 and NASH, the serum levels of oxidative stress markers were independently and positively associated with: HbA1c, duration of diabetes, the UKPDS cardiovascular risk score (for protein carbonyls); age, LDL-cholesterol (for 8-isoprostane); and triglycerides serum levels (for MDA).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that the process of oxidative stress tends to increase in patients with DMT2 and NASH, compared to patients with DMT2 without NAFLD, and controls. This evidence suggests that an antioxidant therapy might prove useful in the treatment of patients with DMT2 and NASH.

Moderate aerobic exercise training for improving reproductive function in infertile patients: A randomized controlled trial

This study investigated for the first time the changes in seminal markers of inflammation, oxidative stress status, semen parameters, sperm DNA integrity as well as pregnancy rate following 24weeks of moderate aerobic exercise in infertile patients. A total of 1026 sedentary men (aged 25-40years) attending the infertility clinic with history of more than one year of infertility, were screened and 419 were randomized to either exercise (EX, n=210) or non-exercise (NON-EX, n=209) groups. Exercise training favorably attenuated seminal markers of both inflammation (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α) and oxidative stress (ROS, MDA, 8-Isoprostane) as well as enhanced antioxidant defense system (SOD, catalase and TAC) (P<0.05). These changes correlate with favorable improvements in semen parameters, sperm DNA integrity and pregnancy rate (P<0.05). The results provide information about the effectiveness of moderate aerobic exercise training as a treatment option for male factor infertility. The 4-week detraining period was not enough to reverse all benefits promoted by exercise intervention.

The impact of flutamide on prostaglandin F2α synthase and prostaglandin F2α receptor expression, and prostaglandin F2α concentration in the porcine corpus luteum of pregnancy

Recently, we have indicated that flutamide-induced androgen deficiency diminished progesterone production in the porcine corpus luteum (CL) during late pregnancy and before parturition, as a sign of functional luteolysis. In pigs, the main luteolytic factor is prostaglandin F_2α (PGF_2α), which acts via specific receptors (PTGFRs), and its biosynthesis is catalyzed by prostaglandin F_2α synthase (PGFS). The present study investigated the impact of flutamide on luteal PGFS and PTGFR expression, as well as intraluteal PGF_2α content during pregnancy in pigs. Flutamide (50 mg/kg BW per day, for 7 d) or corn oil (control groups) were administered subcutaneously into pregnant gilts (n = 3 per group) between 83 and 89 (GD90) or 101-107 (GD108) days of gestation (GD). On GD90 and GD108 ovaries were collected and CLs were obtained. Real-time PCR and Western blot analyses were conducted to quantify PGFS and PTGFR mRNA and protein expression, respectively. In addition, immunohistochemical localization of both proteins was performed and the concentration of PGF_2α was analyzed by enzyme immunoassay method. Flutamide caused upregulation of PGFS mRNA and protein in GD90F (P = 0.008; P = 0.008, respectively) and GD108F (P = 0.041; P = 0.009, respectively) groups. The level of PTGFR mRNA increased only in the GD90F (P = 0.007) group, whereas PTGFR protein expression was greater in both gestational periods (P = 0.035; P = 0.038, respectively). On GD90 PGFS was immunolocalized in the cytoplasm of large luteal cells only, whereas on GD108, sparse small luteal cells also displayed positive staining. PTGFR showed membranous localization within large luteal cells on both days of pregnancy. In luteal tissue, PGF_2α concentration was greater after flutamide exposure on both days (P = 0.041; P = 0.038, respectively), when compared with control groups. Overall, the enhanced luteal PGF_2α content due to increased PGFS expression after flutamide administration might contribute to premature CL regression. Moreover, higher PTGFR protein levels indicate enhanced sensitivity of luteal cells to PGF_2α under androgen deficiency.

The oil-rich alga Schizochytrium sp. as a dietary source of docosahexaenoic acid improves shape discrimination learning associated with visual processing in a canine model of senescence

Whole cell Schizochytrium sp. is a rich source of omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LCPUFA) including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an important nutrient for brain health. Aged beagle dogs experienced on a visuospatial task of working memory, variable-delay delayed-non-matching-to-position were used to assess efficacy of DHA-rich microalgae based upon DHA wt% of total phospholipids and 8-iso-PGF_2α concentrations in plasma, and performance on cognitive assessments of visual object discrimination, learning, and memory consolidation after 25 weeks on fortified diet. Improved DHA status (p<0.001) and initial learning of the protocols for visual and variable contrast discrimination (p<0.05), but not long-term recall of the concurrent discrimination task were observed in animals fed the algal-fortified diet. Overall, results were consistent with dried Schizochytrium sp. as a source of n-3 LCPUFA nutrition to support DHA status in large mammals, and healthy brain function in a canine model of senescence.

Relationship between antioxidant in- take, nutritional factors and biochemical indicators in healthy volunteers

Oxidative stress is an important risk factor for the development of cardiovascular ciseases (CVD) due to the serious damage caused by reactive oxygen species to biomolecules, thus, adequate intake of vitamins with antioxidant properties could prevent or delay the onset of these diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between antioxidant intake, nutritional factors and biochemical markers in a group of healthy individuals in Caracas, Venezuela. The study included 29 participants between 18-40 years of age who underwent three 24-hour dietary recalls, anthropometric measurements [weight, height, waist circumference (WC), waist-hip ratio (WHR) and % body fat (% BF)] according to the International Biology Program (IBP) methodology. Tn addition, the lipid profile and the concentration of 8-isoprostane as a marker of oxidative stress was determined. The participants took one daily capsule of antioxidant vitamins for.30 days. After treatment with antioxidants, no significant changes in triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (14DL-C) levels were observed. Meanwhile, the 8-isoprostane recorded a significative correlation between before and after treatment (r=0.374; p<0.05). The decline in 8-isoprostane levels was more evident in those individuals with the highest % BF and WC. These findings suggest that antioxidant supplementation decreases oxidative stress in a short period of time, particularly in higher % BF individuals, and might help prevent CVDs.

A Retrospective Study in Adults with Metabolic Syndrome: Diabetic Risk Factor Response to Daily Consumption of Agaricus bisporus (White Button Mushrooms)

Adults with metabolic syndrome from different race/ethnicities are often predisposed to developing type 2 diabetes (T2D); however, growing evidence suggests that healthy diets and lifestyle choices can significantly slow or prevent progression to T2D. This poorly understood relationship to healthy dietary patterns and prevention of T2D motivated us to conduct a retrospective analysis to determine the potential impact of a minor dietary lifestyle change (daily mushroom consumption) on known T2D risk factors in racially diverse adults with confirmed features of the metabolic syndrome. Retrospectively, we studied 37 subjects who had participated in a dietary intervention focused on vitamin D bioavailability from white button mushrooms (WBM). All 37 had previously completed a 16-week study where they consumed 100 g of WBM daily and were then followed-up for one month during which no mushrooms were consumed. We analyzed differences in serum risk factors from baseline to 16-week, and from baseline to one-month follow-up. Measurement of serum diabetic risk factors included inflammatory and oxidative stress markers and the antioxidant component naturally rich in mushrooms, ergothioneine. Significant beneficial health effects were observed at 16-week with the doubling of ergothioneine from baseline, increases in the antioxidant marker ORAC (oxygen radical absorption capacity) and anti-inflammatory hormone, adiponectin and significant decreases in serum oxidative stress inducing factors, carboxymethyllysine (CML) and methylglyoxal (MG), but no change in the lipid oxidative stress marker 8-isoprostane, leptin or measures of insulin resistance or glucose metabolism. We conclude that WBM contain a variety of compounds with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant health benefits that can occur with frequent consumption over time in adults predisposed to T2D. Well-controlled studies are needed to confirm these findings and identify the specific mushroom components beneficial to health.

Serum 8-isoprostane levels and paraoxonase 1 activity in patients with stage I multiple myeloma

OBJECTIVE

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell malignancy comprising 15% of hematological malignancies. Many studies have assessed the relationship between free radicals and tumor progression or cancer risk. We aimed to evaluate the antioxidant activity of paraoxonase 1 (PON1), arylesterase (ARE), and 8-isoprostane in patients with stage I MM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Spectrophotometric assays of serum PON1 and ARE activities in addition to serum 8-isoprostane level were performed in 34 patients newly diagnosed with stage I MM as compared to 35 age- and sex-matched individuals who comprised the healthy control group.

RESULTS

A significant reduction was found in the activities of PON1 and ARE (for both, P < 0.001) in the patient group. The ratio of PON1/high-density lipoprotein was significantly lower in the MM patient group than in the control group (P < 0.001), while 8-isoprostane levels compared with the control group were significantly higher (P < 0.001), observations that may indicate an increase in oxidative stress in stage I MM patients.

CONCLUSION

A decrease in PON1 activity and increase in 8-isoprostane serum activities in patients may indicate the importance of lipid peroxidation in MM disease. Oxidative stress and especially lipid peroxidation could reduce the antioxidant activity of PON1 and ARE in MM patients and could be considered as factors in the pathogenesis of MM disease.

Preliminary case control study to establish the correlation between novel peroxidation biomarkers in cord serum and the severity of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy

BACKGROUND

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) has deleterious neurological consequences. To identify patients at risk of neuronal damage deserving implementation of neuroprotective strategies clinicians have relied on prenatal sentinel events, postnatal clinical assessment (Apgar score), and blood gas analysis. This feasibility study aimed to assess if lipid peroxidation byproducts associated with neuronal damage correlated with cord blood metabolic acidemia in patients with HIE.

POPULATION AND METHODS

This is a case/control study in which cases were newborn infants with severe acidemia (pH<7.00; base excess ≥12mmol/L) while control babies exhibited normal gases (pH=7.20-7.40; base excess=-4 to +4mmol/L) in the first cord blood analysis performed immediately after birth. Concomitantly, lipid peroxidation byproducts were determined using ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry in the same cord blood sample.

RESULTS

A total of 19 controls and 20 cases were recruited. No differences in gestational characteristics were present. However, cases exhibited profound metabolic alterations as compared to controls (Cases vs.

CONTROL

pH=6.90±0.1 vs. 7.33±0.03; base excess=-15±3 vs. -1±2mmol/L), 85% were admitted to the NICU, and 50% developed symptoms of HIE. 8-iso-15(R)-PGF2α (P=0.01) and total isoprostanes (P=0.045) presented statistically significant differences between cases and control groups and correlated with level of HIE.

CONCLUSIONS

The 8-iso-15(R)-PGF2α and isoprostanes reflecting oxidative damage are significantly increased in severe postnatal acidemia. Follow up studies with adequate power are necessary to confirm if these biomarkers measured in cord blood serum could be predictive of neonatal encephalopathy.

Concentrations of progesterone, a metabolite of PGF2α, prolactin, and luteinizing hormone during development of idiopathic persistent corpus luteum in mares

In experiment 1, daily blood samples were available from Days 0 to 20 (Day 0 = ovulation) in mares with an interovulatory interval (IOI, n = 5) and in mares that developed idiopathic persistent corpus luteum (PCL, n = 5). The PCL was confirmed by maintenance of progesterone (P4) concentration until end of the experiment (Day 20). Significant interactions of group and day revealed the novel findings that luteinizing hormone (LH) was lower (P < 0.05) in the PCL group than that in the IOI group on Days 0 to 4, and prolactin was lower (P < 0.05) on Days 1, 4, 6, and 7. In experiment 2, treatment with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist (n = 6) significantly reduced LH on Days 1 to 6 compared with the controls (n = 6) but did not support the hypothesis that low LH during the postovulatory period increases the frequency of PCL. In experiment 3, P4, PGFM (a PGF2α metabolite), and prolactin concentrations on Days 12 to 20 from 2 reported experiments were combined to increase the number of mares with an IOI (n = 11) or a PCL (n = 11). An abrupt and complete decrease in P4 (luteolysis) began on Day 13 in the IOI group compared with a gradual and partial P4 decline after Day 12 in the PCL group. Concentrations of PGFM and prolactin were lower (P < 0.05) in the PCL group than those in the IOI group on the day at the end of the most pronounced decrease in P4. The PCL mares were subgrouped into those with an abrupt but incomplete P4 decrease (partial luteolysis; n = 5) at the expected time and those without partial luteolysis (n = 6). There were no significant differences between the 2 subgroups in concentrations of PGFM and prolactin, but on a tentative basis (P < 0.10), the concentration of PGFM seemed more focused on the day of the most pronounced decrease in P4 in the subgroup with partial luteolysis. Results for PCL compared with IOI indicated (1) postovulatory LH and prolactin were lower, (2) treatment to reduce postovulatory LH did not increase the incidence, and (3) both PGFM and prolactin were lower on the day of the most pronounced decrease in P4.

Circulating Retinoic Acid Levels and the Development of Metabolic Syndrome

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE

In this prospective study, we evaluated the association of retinoic acid (RA) with the metabolic syndrome (MetS) in the Chinese population.

DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS

A total of 1042 nondiabetic adults from the population-based Nutrition and Health of Aging Population were prospectively followed up for 4 years. Serum RA concentrations was determined and its relationship with the MetS and its component was investigated.

RESULTS

At baseline, higher RA levels were inversely associated with the presence of MetS (odds ratio 0.61; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.44–0.74, P < .001) after adjustment for age, gender, body mass index, the homeostasis model assessment index for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and other confounding factors. Subjects with lower RA levels had a progressively worse cardiometabolic risk profile at baseline. Serum RA levels were inversely associated with 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α (P < .001), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (P = .015), and IL-6 (P = .020) and positively correlated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P = .038). Among 825 subjects without MetS at baseline, 146 had developed it at 4 years. Serum RA by quartiles was inversely correlated with the incident MetS (adjusted hazard ratio 0.67; 95% CI 0.48–0.81, P = .006). Apart from HOMA-IR (P < .001), the baseline RA level was the only independent predictor of the development of the MetS during the 4-year follow-up (odds ratio 0.53; 95% CI 0.40–0.69; P < .001) after adjustment for age, gender, body mass index, and HOMA-IR.

CONCLUSIONS

The serum RA level is inversely associated with the development of MetS independently of adiposity and insulin resistance.

Supplemental oxygen for caesarean section during regional anaesthesia

BACKGROUND

Supplementary oxygen is routinely administered to low-risk pregnant women during an elective caesarean section under regional anaesthesia; however, maternal and foetal outcomes have not been well established. This is an update of a review first published in 2013.

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective was to determine whether supplementary oxygen given to low-risk term pregnant women undergoing elective caesarean section under regional anaesthesia can prevent maternal and neonatal desaturation. The secondary objective was to compare the mean values of maternal and neonatal blood gas levels between mothers who received supplementary oxygen and those who did not (control group).

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2014, issue 11), MEDLINE (1948 to November 2014) and EMBASE (1980 to November 2014). The original search was first performed in February 2012. We reran the search in CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE in February 2016. One potential new study of interest was added to the list of 'Studies awaiting Classification' and will be incorporated into the formal review findings during the next review update.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of low-risk pregnant women undergoing an elective caesarean section under regional anaesthesia and compared outcomes with, and without, oxygen supplementation.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently extracted data, assessed methodological quality and performed subgroup and sensitivity analyses.

MAIN RESULTS

We found one new included study in this updated version. In total, our updated review includes 11 trials (with 753 participants). The low quality of evidence showed no significant differences in average Apgar scores at one minute (N = six trials, 519 participants; 95% confidence (CI) -0.16 to 0.31, P = 0.53) and at five minutes (N = six trials, 519 participants; 95% CI -0.06 to 0.06, P = 0.98). None of the 11 trials reported maternal desaturation. The very low quality of evidence showed that in comparison to room air, women in labour receiving supplementary oxygen had higher maternal oxygen saturation (N = three trials, 209 participants), maternal PaO2 (oxygen pressure in the blood; N = six trials, 241 participants), UaPO2 (foetal umbilical arterial blood; N = eight trials, 504 participants; 95% CI 1.8 to 4.9, P < 0.0001) and UvPO2 (foetal umbilical venous blood; N = 10 trials, 683 participants). There was high heterogeneity among these outcomes. A subgroup analysis showed no significant difference in UaPO2 between the two intervention groups in low-risk studies, whereas the high-risk studies showed a benefit for the neonatal oxygen group.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Overall, we found no convincing evidence that giving supplementary oxygen to healthy term pregnant women during elective caesarean section under regional anaesthesia is either beneficial or harmful for either the mother or the foetus' short-term clinical outcome as assessed by Apgar scores. Although, there were significant higher maternal and neonatal blood gas values and markers of free radicals when extra oxygen was given, the results should be interpreted with caution due to the low grade quality of the evidence.

Lipid peroxidation biomarkers in adolescents with or at high-risk for bipolar disorder

BACKGROUND

Prior work suggests that adult bipolar disorder (BD) is associated with increased oxidative stress and inflammation. This exploratory study examined markers of lipid and protein oxidation and inflammation in adolescents with and at varying risk for BD type I (BD-I).

METHODS

Blood was obtained from four groups of adolescents (9-20 years of age): (1) healthy comparison subjects with no personal or family history of psychiatric disorders (n=13), (2) subjects with no psychiatric diagnosis and at least one parent with BD-I ('high-risk', n=15), (3) subjects with at least one parent with BD-I and a diagnosis of depressive disorder not-otherwise-specified ('ultra-high-risk', n=20), and (4) first-episode patients exhibiting mixed or manic symptoms that received a diagnosis of BD-I (n=16). Plasma levels of lipid peroxidation (LPH, 4-HNE, 8-ISO), protein carbonyl, and inflammation (IL-1α-β, IL-6, IL-10, IFNγ, TNFα) were assessed using analysis of variance and covariance models.

RESULTS

LPH was lower in adolescents with fully syndromal BD than controls, while LPH levels in the at-risk groups were between healthy controls and fully syndromal BD. Post-hoc analysis showed a non-significant increase in the (4-HNE+8-ISO)/LPH ratio suggesting a potential conversion of LPH into late-stage markers of lipid peroxidation. There were no significant differences among protein carbonyl content and inflammatory markers.

CONCLUSIONS

In adolescents, fully syndromal BD is associated with significant reductions in LPH levels, and LPH levels decrease along the spectrum of risk for BD-I. Quantifying lipid peroxidation in longitudinal studies may help clarify the role of LPH in BD risk progression.

Paraoxonase-1 activity and pleiotropic properties of simvastatin in obese and non-obese patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD)

OBJECTIVES

The study was aimed to assess paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activity, pleiotropic effects of simvastatin, and its relationship to Q192R and M55L polymorphisms in obese and non-obese subjects with stable coronary artery disease (CAD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study included 53 subjects (22 obese) aged from 35 to 65 years with CAD. The control group consisted of 53 (18 obese) police officers without CAD. Patients with CAD were treated with simvastatin 40 mg/day for 12 months. The lipid profile, flow mediated dilation (FMD), intima media-thickness (IMT), fibrinogen, hs-CRP, TNF-α, urine 8-iso-PGF2α, and PON1 activity were evaluated in definite time points. PON1 polymorphisms were assessed at baseline in all observed individuals.

RESULTS

The patients with CAD and obesity presented at baseline significantly increased hs-CRP level, insignificantly decreased FMD and lower PON1 activity compared to non-obese individuals. There was no association of obesity with 8-iso-PGF2α in the CAD and control group. The PON1 activity was significantly higher in 192R carriers in patients and controls, irrespective of obesity. Obesity was not associated with the effects of simvastatin on PON1 activity, urine 8-iso-PGF2α, and TNF-α, whereas it blunted its effect on the FMD improvement. The Q192R polymorphism was associated with simvastatin effectiveness on hs-CRP and FMD.

CONCLUSION

Obesity and Q192R PON1 polymorphism are significantly associated with pleiotropic effects of simvastatin therapy in patients with stable CAD.

Exposure to Deepwater Horizon Crude Oil Burnoff Particulate Matter Induces Pulmonary Inflammation and Alters Adaptive Immune Response

The ″in situ burning" of trapped crude oil on the surface of Gulf waters during the 2010 Deepwater Horizon (DWH) oil spill released numerous pollutants, including combustion-generated particulate matter (PM). Limited information is available on the respiratory impact of inhaled in situ burned oil sail particulate matter (OSPM). Here we utilized PM collected from in situ burn plumes of the DWH oil spill to study the acute effects of exposure to OSPM on pulmonary health. OSPM caused dose-and time-dependent cytotoxicity and generated reactive oxygen species and superoxide radicals in vitro. Additionally, mice exposed to OSPM exhibited significant decreases in body weight gain, systemic oxidative stress in the form of increased serum 8-isoprostane (8-IP) levels, and airway inflammation in the form of increased macrophages and eosinophils in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Further, in a mouse model of allergic asthma, OSPM caused increased T helper 2 cells (Th2), peribronchiolar inflammation, and increased airway mucus production. These findings demonstrate that acute exposure to OSPM results in pulmonary inflammation and alteration of innate/adaptive immune responses in mice and highlight potential respiratory effects associated with cleaning up an oil spill.