Effects of Anesthetic Administration on Rat Hypothalamus and Cerebral Cortex Peptidome

Prohormone-derived neuropeptides act as cell-cell signaling molecules to mediate a wide variety of biological processes in the animal brain. Mass spectrometry-based peptidomic experiments are valuable approaches to gain insight into the dynamics of individual peptides under different physiological conditions or experimental treatments. However, the use of anesthetics during animal procedures may confound experimental peptide measurements, especially in the brain, where anesthetics act. Here, we investigated the effects of the commonly used anesthetics isoflurane and sodium pentobarbital on the peptide profile in the rodent hypothalamus and cerebral cortex, as assessed by label-free quantitative peptidomics. Our results showed that neither anesthetic dramatically alters peptide levels, although extended isoflurane exposure did cause changes in a small number of prohormone-derived peptides in the cerebral cortex. Overall, our results demonstrate that acute anesthetic administration can be utilized in peptidomic experiments of the hypothalamus and cerebral cortex without greatly affecting the measured peptide profiles.

Peptidomic Analysis Reveals Seasonal Neuropeptide and Peptide Hormone Changes in the Hypothalamus and Pituitary of a Hibernating Mammal

During the winter, hibernating mammals undergo extreme changes in physiology, which allow them to survive several months without access to food. These animals enter a state of torpor, which is characterized by decreased metabolism, near-freezing body temperatures, and a dramatically reduced heart rate. The neurochemical basis of this regulation is largely unknown. Based on prior evidence suggesting that the peptide-rich hypothalamus plays critical roles in hibernation, we hypothesized that changes in specific cell-cell signaling peptides (neuropeptides and peptide hormones) underlie physiological changes during torpor/arousal cycles. To test this hypothesis, we used a mass spectrometry-based peptidomics approach to examine seasonal changes of endogenous peptides that occur in the hypothalamus and pituitary of a model hibernating mammal, the thirteen-lined ground squirrel (Ictidomys tridecemlineatus). In the pituitary, we observed changes in several distinct peptide hormones as animals prepared for torpor in October, exited torpor in March, and progressed from spring (March) to fall (August). In the hypothalamus, we observed an overall increase in neuropeptides in October (pre-torpor), a decrease as the animal entered torpor, and an increase in a subset of neuropeptides during normothermic interbout arousals. Notable changes were observed for feeding regulatory peptides, opioid peptides, and several peptides without well-established functions. Overall, our study provides critical insight into changes in endogenous peptides in the hypothalamus and pituitary during mammalian hibernation that were not available from transcriptomic measurements. Understanding the molecular basis of the hibernation phenotype may pave the way for future efforts to employ hibernation-like strategies for organ preservation, combating obesity, and treatment of stroke.

Inhibition of mouse colon cancer growth following immunotherapy with a fraction of hydatid cyst fluid

BACKGROUND

Hydatid cyst is the larval stage of the tape worm Echinococcus granulosus which is located in human and livestock viscera. There are some scientific evidences indicating that parasitic infections induce antitumor activity against certain types of cancers. In this study, the effects of a fraction of hydatid cyst fluid on colon cancer tumor in BALB/c mice were investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental work six groups of mice were challenged with mouse colon cancer cells. 5 days later when the sign of tumor growth in mice was seen, group 1-4 were injected with hydatid cyst fluid, the 78 kDa fraction, live protoscolices and BCG respectively. Group five was injected with alum alone and the sixth group left intact without any injection. The size of the tumor was measured and compared in all groups. Then blood samples of mice were evaluated for serum cytokine levels.

RESULT

In mice injected with hydatid cyst antigens especially a fraction of hydatid cyst fluid, tumor size was smaller than the that of control groups and the difference of tumor size in cases and control groups was statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study showed that injection of mice with a fraction of hydatid cyst fluid significantly inhibits the growth of mouse colon cancer and this inhibition may be related to effect of immune response to these antigens.

Molecular and microscopy detection of Pneumocystis jirovecii in hospitalized patients during the COVID-19 pandemic

Introduction

Early detection of Pneumocystis jirovecii as an opportunistic pathogen that may endanger predisposed persons, including COVID-19 patients, may help to choose the optimal management.

Methods

In this study, 585, including 530 COVID-19 patients, with clinical and radiological evidence of respiratory diseases, were investigated for P. jirovecii screening. Clinical specimens were examined by direct microscopy and PCR, and randomly selected positive PCR products were confirmed through DNA sequence analysis.

Results

Thirty-one (5.3%) samples were positive in P. jirovecii-specific nested-PCR, while by direct microscopic tests, Pneumocystis was observed in 22 (3.76%) samples. Males (61.7%) and patients over 50 years old (75.6%) were more commonly affected than others, and malaise and fatigue (84%), and wheezing (75%) were the most common symptoms, followed by fever (40.48%) and dyspnea (39.51%). Among the Pneumocystis-positive patients, three cases had coinfection with Aspergillus fumigatus, A. flavus, and A. niger (each n = 1), as documented by direct microscopy, culture, and species identification by PCR-sequencing.

Conclusion

Pneumocystis pneumonia is still a diagnostic challenge; therefore, additional large-scale studies are needed to clarify the epidemiology of the disease in immunocompromised or COVID-19 patients.

Differentially Expressed Genes Enrichment Analysis of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma and Pancreatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia; an In Silico Study

Introduction/Objective

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States. Determining the genetic alterations involved in the formation of PDAC and its precursor, pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN), may lead to earlier detection and new therapeutic options. We performed an analysis of the genetic alterations responsible for the progression of the normal pancreatic tissue to PanIN and ultimately from PanIN to PDAC.

Methods/Case Report

Initially, we used the continuous bioinformatic analysis in such a way that the RNA-seq datasets were extracted from the Biojupies database. We separately analyzed two datasets that included PDAC and PanIN, where their differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained by comparison with controls. A Venn diagram was drawn to visualize the overlapping and non-overlapping DEGs in both groups. Using the Enrichr and ShinyGO databases, we examined the cell signaling pathways and ontologies of up/down-regulated genes. We mapped the protein network of important genes involved in cancer pathways by the STRING database. Finally, the shared and non-shared candidate proteins in the PDAC and PanIN pathways with the GEPIA database were confirmed in human samples.

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

We found six shared genes in PDAC and PanIN including RAC1, RAP1A, ITGA5, RHOA, FZD2, and FN1, which appear to take part in the transition of PanIN to PDAC. Our result showed that the aforementioned genes are critical in the cell cycle, angiogenesis, and cell death processes. In the next step, the DEGs analysis in both PDAC and PanIN revealed the role of candidate genes (COX5B, NME2, MGLL, and PAICS for PanIN and PRKCA, PLCG2, NOS3, and PTK2 for PDAC) in cellular aging, MAPK, and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways.

Conclusion

Our findings showed that the overexpression of RAC1, RAP1A, ITGA5, RHOA, FZD2, and FN1 may have an important role in PanIN shifting to PDAC.

Short-Term Administration of Common Anesthetics Does Not Dramatically Change the Endogenous Peptide Profile in the Rat Pituitary

Cell-cell signaling peptides (e.g., peptide hormones, neuropeptides) are among the largest class of cellular transmitters and regulate a variety of physiological processes. To identify and quantify the relative abundances of cell-cell signaling peptides in different physiological states, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based peptidomics workflows are commonly utilized on freshly dissected tissues. In such animal experiments, the administration of general anesthetics is an important step for many research projects. However, acute anesthetic administration may rapidly change the measured abundance of transmitter molecules and metabolites, especially in the brain and endocrine system, which would confound experimental results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of short-term (<5 min) anesthetic administration on the measured abundance of cell-cell signaling peptides, as evaluated by a typical peptidomics workflow. To accomplish this goal, we compared endogenous peptide abundances in the rat pituitary following administration of 5% isoflurane, 200 mg/kg sodium pentobarbital, or no anesthetic administration. Label-free peptidomics analysis demonstrated that acute use of isoflurane changed the levels of a small number of peptides, primarily degradation products of the hormone somatotropin, but did not influence the levels of most other peptide hormones. Acute use of sodium pentobarbital had negligible impact on the relative abundance of all measured peptides. Overall, our results suggest that anesthetics used in pituitary peptidomics studies do not dramatically confound observed results.

Melting curve-based assay as an alternative technique for the accurate detection of SARS-CoV-2

Background:

Early and cost-effective diagnosis and monitoring of the infection caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are critically important to anticipate and control the disease. We aimed to set up a SYBR Green-based one-step real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as a lower-cost alternative method to detect the virus.

Materials and Methods:

An in-house SYBR Green-based PCR assay targeting the envelope (E) and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) genes, was set up to diagnose the infection, and was compared with the reference probe-based PCR method.

Results:

When the commercial probe-based assay was considered as the reference method, SYBR Green-based PCR had a slightly lower sensitivity (81.98% and 86.25% for E and RdRp targets, respectively) and a good specificity (100% and 94.44% for E and RdRp targets, respectively). For both gene targets, three different melting temperature (Tm) patterns were found in the PCRs of the nasopharyngeal/oropharyngeal swab samples, but no size polymorphism was seen in agarose gel electrophoresis.

Conclusion:

Further studies to improvement of the assay are needed to make it an inexpensive and reliable tool for the diagnosis of COVID-19.

Identifying Receptors for Neuropeptides and Peptide Hormones: Challenges and Recent Progress

Intercellular signaling events mediated by neuropeptides and peptide hormones represent important targets for both basic science and drug discovery. For many bioactive peptides, the protein receptors that transmit information across the receiving cell membrane are not known, severely limiting these signaling pathways as potential therapeutic targets. Identifying the receptor(s) for a given peptide of interest is complicated by several factors. Most notably, cell-cell signaling peptides are generated through dynamic biosynthetic pathways, can act on many different families of receptor proteins, and can participate in complex ligand-receptor interactions that extend beyond a simple one-to-one archetype. Here, we discuss recent methodological advances to identify signaling partners for bioactive peptides. Recent efforts have centered on methods to identify candidate receptors via transcript expression, methods to match peptide-receptor pairs through high throughput screening, and methods to capture direct ligand-receptor interactions using chemical probes. Future applications of the receptor identification approaches discussed here, as well as technical advancements to address their limitations, promise to lead to a greater understanding of how cells communicate to deliver complex physiologies. Importantly, such advancements will likely provide novel targets for the treatment of human diseases within the central nervous and endocrine systems.

Asymptomatic carriers of coronavirus disease 2019 among healthcare workers in Isfahan, Iran

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among healthcare workers (HCWs) in Isfahan, Iran. Materials & methods: HCWs in COVID-19 wards of three referral COVID-19 hospitals in Isfahan were screened and tested for COVID-19 infection. Results: In total, 102 HCWs were screened whose median age was 43 years old. Moreover, 21 (20.5%) of them had a history of suspected infection with SARS-CoV2, mostly (66.6%) without any symptoms while six (28.5%) of them suffered from relatively mild diseases and one (4.7%) was diagnosed with pulmonary embolism. Conclusion: It was found that HCWs were prone to be asymptomatic carriers while their computed tomography images were normal. Therefore, it is recommended that reverse-transcriptase real-time-PCR be essential for the diagnosis of infections.

Characterization and validation of olive FAD and SAD gene families: expression analysis in different tissues and during fruit development

Stearoyl-ACP desaturases (SADs) and fatty acid desaturases (FADs) play a critical role in plant lipid metabolism and also affect oil fatty acid composition introducing double bonds into the hydrocarbon chains to produce unsaturated fatty acids. In the present study, the genomic sequences of three SAD and three FAD candidate genes were characterized in olive and their expression was evaluated in different plant tissues. OeSAD genes corresponded to olive SAD1 and SAD2 and to a newly identified OeSAD4, sharing the conserved protein structure with other plant species. On the other hand, the full-length genomic sequences of two microsomal OeFAD genes (FAD2-1 and FAD2-2) and the plastidial FAD6, were released. When the level of expression was tested on different tissues of cv. Leccino, OeSAD1 and OeSAD2 were mainly expressed in the fruits, while OeFAD genes showed the lowest expression in this tissue. The mRNA profiling of all genes was directly studied in fruits of Leccino and Coratina cultivars during fruit development. In both genotypes, the expression level of OeSAD1 and OeSAD2 had the highest value during and after the pit-hardening period, when oil accumulation in fruit mesocarp is intensively increasing. Furthermore, the expression level of both OeFAD2 genes, which were the main candidates for oleic acid desaturation, were almost negligible during fruit ripening. These results have made possible to define candidate genes of the machinery regulation of fatty acid composition in olive oil, providing information on their sequence, gene structure and chromosomal location.

Coenzyme Q10 improves the survival and reduces inflammatory markers in septic patients

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) administration to patients in the early phase of sepsis to determine its effect on the markers of inflammation and the clinical outcomes of septic patients.

BACKGROUND

Previous studies showed that CoQ10 levels were decreased in septic patients and worsening of mitochondrial dysfunction was observed.

METHODS

In this randomized controlled trial septic patients (n=40) received 100 mg CoQ10 twice a day for seven days added to standard treatment of sepsis. As a primary endpoint levels of Interleukin 6 (IL-6), Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α), Glutathione peroxidase and malondialdehyde (MDA) were assessed at baseline, third and 7th day after the intervention. Secondary endpoints included assessment of clinical scores and     in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS

There was no difference in baseline inflammatory and oxidative injury markers between the groups. TNF-α and MDA levels decreased significantly in the CoQ10 group on the 7th day of the study (P:0.003 for both). There was a significant difference in the in-hospital mortality in the CoQ10 group compared to the control group (P:0.01).

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that CoQ10 has a positive effect on clinical parameters as well as mitochondrial dysfunction when administered in the early phase of sepsis (Tab. 2, Fig. 1, Ref. 38).

Simultaneous Determination of 2-Nitrophenol and 4-Nitrophenol in Pharmaceutical Industrial Wastewater by Electromembrane Extraction Coupled with HPLC-UV Analysis

Background: In the present study, an electromembrane extraction (EME) followed by a simple high performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection (HPLC-UV) was developed and validated for simultaneous determination of 2-nitrophenol (2-NP) and 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) in pharmaceutical industrial wastewater sample. Main parameters of electromembrane extraction were evaluated and optimized. Methods: 1-octanol was immobilized in the pores of a polypropylene hollow fiber as supported liquid membrane. As a driving force, a 100 volt electrical voltage was applied to transfer the analytes from the sample solution (pH, 7.5) through the supported liquid membrane into an acceptor solution (pH, 12). Results: The best enrichment factors were obtained 36 and 72 for 2-NP and 4-NP, respectively after 15 minutes of extraction. The effect of carbon nanotube, as a solid nano-sorbent on EME efficiency, was also evaluated. The proposed method provided the linearity in the range of 10-1000 ng/mL for 2-NP (R2> 0.9997) and 4-NP (R2> 0.9999) with repeatability range (% RSD) between 2.6-10.3 % (n = 3). The limit of detection was 3 ng/mL and the limit of quantitation was 10 ng/mL. Conclusion: Finally, the method was applied for the determination of 2-NP and 4-NP in industrial wastewater samples with relative recoveries in the range between 67–76 %. EME improved the sensitivity of HPLC-UV for the determination of trace concentrations of these analytes.

The Paradox of Self-Fertile Varieties in the Context of Self-Incompatible Genotypes in Olive

Olive, representing one of the most important fruit crops of the Mediterranean area, is characterized by a general low fruit yield, due to numerous constraints, including alternate bearing, low flower viability, male-sterility, inter-incompatibility, and self-incompatibility (SI). Early efforts to clarify the genetic control of SI in olive gave conflicting results, and only recently, the genetic control of SI has been disclosed, revealing that olive possesses an unconventional homomorphic sporophytic diallelic system of SI, dissimilar from other described plants. This system, characterized by the presence of two SI groups, prevents self-fertilization and regulates inter-compatibility between cultivars, such that cultivars bearing the same incompatibility group are incompatible. Despite the presence of a functional SI, some varieties, in particular conditions, are able to set seeds following self-fertilization, a mechanism known as pseudo-self-compatibility (PSC), as widely reported in previous literature. Here, we summarize the results of previous works on SI in olive, particularly focusing on the occurrence of self-fertility, and offer a new perspective in view of the recent elucidation of the genetic architecture of the SI system in olive. Recent advances in research aimed at unraveling the molecular bases of SI and its breakdown in olive are also presented. The clarification of these mechanisms may have a huge impact on orchard management and will provide fundamental information for the future of olive breeding programs.

One-pot Synthesis of Benzo[c]acridine Derivatives Using SBA-Pr-SO3H as Nano Catalyst

One-pot synthesis of benzo[<em>c</em>]acridine derivatives via the three-component condensation reaction of aromatic aldehydes, 1-naphtylamine, and dimedone using sulfonic acid functionalized SBA-15 (SBA-Pr-SO₃H) as nanoporous acid catalyst under solvent-free conditions was studied. This reaction is an efficient, green and  environmentally friendly procedure.

Carnosine ameliorates liver fibrosis and hyperammonemia in cirrhotic rats

AIM

Chronic liver injury and cirrhosis leads to liver failure. Hyperammonemia is a deleterious consequence of liver failure. On the other hand, oxidative stress seems to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis as well as in the cytotoxic mechanism of ammonia. There is no promising therapeutic agent against ammonia-induced complications. The present study was conducted to evaluate the role of carnosine (CA) administration on liver pathological changes, elevated plasma ammonia, and its consequent events in cirrhotic rats.

METHODS

Bile duct ligated (BDL) rats were used as a model of cirrhosis. CA (250, 500, and 1000mg/kg, daily, i.p) was administered for 28 consecutive days to BDL animals. At the end of treatments, markers of oxidative stress and liver fibrosis was determined in liver and serum biomarkers of liver injury and plasma ammonia was assessed. Moreover, changes in animals' locomotor activity were monitored.

RESULTS

Severe bridging fibrosis, inflammation, and necrosis in liver, along with elevated serum biomarkers of liver injury were evident in BDL animals. Furthermore, plasma ammonia was drastically elevated in cirrhotic rats and animals' locomotor activity was suppressed. It was found that CA (250, 500, and 1000mg/kg, daily, i.p) significantly alleviated liver injury and its consequent events in cirrhotic rats. The data suggested that CA is not only a useful and safe agent to preserve liver function, but also prevented hyperammonemia and brain damage as a deleterious consequence of cirrhosis and liver failure.

Self-reported knee pain and disability among healthy individuals: reference data and factors associated with the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and KOOS-Child

OBJECTIVE

To develop normative reference data for the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and KOOS-Child, as well as investigate socio-demographic, psychological and physical factors associated with knee pain and disability among healthy adults.

METHOD

The KOOS or KOOS-Child (each containing five subscales) was administered to participants aged 8-101 years within the 1000 Norms Project, an observational study of 1000 self-reported healthy individuals. Self-efficacy, physical activity, body mass index (BMI), lower limb alignment, knee frontal plane projection angle (FPPA), knee range of motion (ROM), knee and hip strength, six-minute walk, 30-second chair stand and timed up and down stairs tests were collected. KOOS data were dichotomised using established cut-off scores and logistic regression analyses were conducted for each subscale.

RESULTS

Socio-demographic characteristics were similar to the Australian population. Normative reference data were generated for children (8-17 years) and adults (18-101 years). Female adults were up to twice as likely to report knee pain, symptoms and sport/recreation (Sport/Rec) limitations compared to males (P < .05). Older age, lower self-efficacy, greater BMI, varus lower limb alignment, lower knee flexion ROM and lower hip external rotation (ER) strength were independently associated with knee pain and disability among adults.

CONCLUSIONS

Age- and gender-stratified reference data for the KOOS and KOOS-Child have been developed to guide interpretation of results in practice and research for individuals with knee disorders. Psychological and physical factors are linked with self-reported knee pain/disability among adults, and longitudinal studies to investigate causation are required.

Thermal behaviour and kinetic study of the olive oil production chain residues and their mixtures during co-combustion

The kinetic behaviour of olive tree pruning (PR), two- (2PH) and three-phase (3PH) olive pomace and their blends was investigated under combustion condition using thermogravimetric analysis. PR was blended with 2PH and 3PH at different ratios (25:75, 50:50 and 75:25) and tested in the temperature range from ambient to 1000°C in order to evaluate the co-combustion behaviour. Results showed that the thermal degradation of all samples can be divided into three regions (drying, devolatilisation, char oxidation) with different combustion properties, depending on the percentage of PR. Significant interaction was detected between the fuels, and reactivity of 2PH and 3PH was improved upon blending with PR. The iso-conversional methods, Ozawa-Flynn-Wall and Vyazovkin, were employed for the kinetic analysis of the oxidation process. The results revealed that the activation energy of PR was higher than the one of 2PH and 3PH, and the minimum value was obtained for 25PR752PH sample.

Molecular expression of adenosine receptors in OVCAR-3, Caov-4 and SKOV-3 human ovarian cancer cell lines

Adenosine receptors (A1, A2a, A2b and A3) have several physiological and pathological roles in cancer cell lines. The present study was carried out to evaluate the mRNA and protein expression profile and functional role of adenosine receptors in OVCAR-3, Caov-4 and SKOV-3 ovarian cancer cell lines. The levels of mRNA and protein expression of A1, A2a, A2b and A3 adenosine receptors in the ovarian cancer cell lines were measured by Real-time PCR and western blotting. The functional roles of adenosine receptors were investigated through measurement of cAMP levels after agonist treatment. The mRNA and protein of all adenosine receptors subtypes were expressed in the ovarian cancer cell lines. Our findings demonstrated that A2b and A3 had the most mRNA and protein expression. Moreover, cAMP assay confirmed the functional role of A2b and A3 adenosine receptors. This findings demonstrated that A2b and A3 subtypes are most important adenosine receptors in humn ovarian cancer cell lines. This information provide a strong possibility into the relationship of A2b and A3 adenosine receptor and ovarian cancer.

Malondialdehyde-Modified LDL IgG Antibody Levels and Indices of Cardiac Function in Valvular Heart and Coronary Artery Disease Patients

OBJECTIVE

To compare the changes in anti-malondialdehyde-modified low-density lipoprotein (MDA-LDL) IgG levels among patients undergoing off-pump and on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or valvuloplasty.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A total of 38, 39 and 34 patients who underwent off-pump CABG, on-pump CABG and valvuloplasty, respectively, were enrolled in this study. Serum anti-MDA-LDL IgG values were measured 24 h before and after the operative procedures and at discharge. Echocardiography was also done before surgery and before discharge. The results were compared with values from 50 healthy controls.

RESULTS

In all patients, a reduction in antibody titers was observed post-operatively. However, the decrease was significant only in the off-pump CABG - before surgery: 42.33 (25.83-58.51), after surgery: 30.86 (16.36-51.33) and at discharge: 10.96 (6.82-23.57; p = 0.027). There was a significant positive association between anti-MDA-LDL IgG levels and ejection fraction (r = 0.248, p = 0.036) and a negative association with E/E', a marker of pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, in the coronary patients (r = -0.345, p = 0.012), but no significant associations were found in patients with valvular heart disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum anti-MDA-LDL IgG levels were associated with cardiac function indices in coronary patients undergoing CABG.

Obese subjects have significantly higher serum prooxidantantioxidant balance values compared to normal-weight subjects

BACKGROUND

It has been reported that obesity is associated with higher levels of oxidative stress. We aimed to evaluate the hypothesis that pro-oxidant antioxidant balance (PAB) values could be affected by adiposity and to assess the association between PAB levels and indices of obesity.

METHODS

Subjects (n = 733) were recruited and tlen were divided into 3 groups of normal-weight (BMI < 25, n = 207), overweight (25 < BMI < 30, n = 375), and obese (BMI > 30, n = 151). PAB values were measured in all participants.

RESULTS

There was a significant association between PAB values and weight when the correlation was determined for all subjects (p < 0.05). Obese subject had significantly higher levels of PAB values [40.8 (34.3 - 51.1) HK unit] compared with overweight [37.5 (29.7 - 47.3) HK unit] and normal-weight subjects [37.2 (29.6 - 45.2) HK unit] (p < 0.05 in each case). However, there was no significant difference in PAB values between normal and over-weight subjects (p > 0.05). On performing the analysis of covariance, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) was found to have a significant independent association with PAB values (j = 0.046, p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

The high levels of PAB values in obese subjects without overt signs/symptoms of cardiovascular disease may be related to a heightened state of oxidative stress associated with obesity.

Prooxidant-antioxidant balance and cardiac function in patients with cardiovascular disease following cardiac surgery

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is used during on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and heart valvular replacement surgery, and is associated with the induction of oxidative stress. The aim of the study was to assess the association between indices of cardiac function and prooxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) values in patients undergoing valve replacement surgery and on-or off-pump CABG.

METHODS

Data were obtained from 44, 33, and 41 patients undergoing off-pump CABG, on-pump CABG, and valve replacement surgery, respectively. The PAB values were measured 24 h before and after the operative procedure, and at the time of discharge. Echocardiography was performed before surgery and before discharge.

RESULTS

The changes in E/E', end-diastolic volume, end-systolic volume, left ventricular diastolic and systolic diameter were significantly related to baseline PAB values. In the valve replacement group, neither baseline nor changes in PAB values were associated with echocardiographic measurements. Also, neither off-pump nor on-pump CABG were significantly different in inducing oxidative stress (p = 0.596). When PAB values were measured in CABG patients, there was a significant difference in values between the three time points (p = 0.013). In the valve replacement group, PAB values were not significantly different between the preoperative and postoperative samples.

CONCLUSION

The inverse association between the level of oxidative stress and cardiac function measurement may indicate that high levels of oxidative stress may be a predictor of the deterioration of cardiac function in CABG patients. However, in valvular heart disease patients the serum PAB value was not associated with changes in cardiac function. Levels of oxidative stress, as assessed by the PAB assay, were not significantly different for patients undergoing surgery with or without CPB.

Nitric oxide and peroxynitrite serum levels in Parkinson's disease: correlation of oxidative stress and the severity of the disease

BACKGROUND

Nitric oxide (NO) and its toxic product peroxynitrite contribute to oxidative stress and neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease (PD). The relationship of serum levels of these oxidants with the severity of the disease [evaluated by the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS)] is not established.

AIM

This study was designed to evaluate whether patients with PD had higher NO and peroxynitrite serum level or not.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fifty eight patients with PD and 15 healthy volunteers entered this study. The concentrations of serum NO and peroxynitrite were assayed and their correlation with the UPDRS score was assessed.

RESULTS

Mean serum NO levels in patient group was 29.8 ± 21.631 versus 7.49 ± 2.573 in control group, which was significantly higher in patients (p ≤ 0.0001). Peroxynitrite levels in patient and control groups were 7.37±3.501 µmol/L and 3.94 ±1.389 µmol/L respectively. Patients had a significantly higher peroxynitrite level (p = 0.0004).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher levels of NO and peroxynitrite leads to higher UPDRS scores. It seems since current PD treatments do not affect the pathology of the disease, using drugs that exert neuroprotective properties should be considered for the treatment of PD in order to prevent further neuronal cell loss.  

Association between C-reactive protein, pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance and traditional cardiovascular risk factors in an Iranian population

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory states are known to cause an imbalance in the redox status. We aimed to study the possible associations between pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) and serum high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) concentrations and traditional cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in an unselected Iranian population and in groups of individuals with specific disease.

METHODS

The study was conducted among an unselected population of 758 male subjects. Biochemical markers, including hs-CRP and PAB values, were measured.

RESULTS

Serum hs-CRP concentrations were positively associated with serum PAB values (r = 0.260, P ≤ 0.001). Univariate analysis showed that PAB values were statistically higher in individuals who were obese or smokers compared with non-obese and non-smokers individuals (P < 0.01). While serum hs-CRP concentrations were significantly higher in older subjects, subjects with obesity, diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, central obesity, hypertriglyceridaemia, higher low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations, positive history of CVD and lower physical activity than subjects without these risk factors (P < 0.05). Comparing hs-CRP and PAB values in different CVD risk score subgroups showed a significant incremental rise in both parameters as CVD risk score increased (P < 0.05). Using multiple linear regression analysis we found a strong association between PAB values and hs-CRP concentrations.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that among Iranian subjects, the inflammatory marker, hs-CRP, was strongly and positively associated with a marker of oxidative stress and also with several traditional risk factors of CVD. Moreover, the impact of traditional cardiovascular risk factors on hs-CRP concentrations and PAB values differed.

Reliability of calcium-binding protein S100B measurement toward optimization of hyperosmolal therapy in traumatic brain injury

BACKGROUND

Osmotherapy is a cornerstone for the management of severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Hypertonic saline (HTS) has advantages as being preferred osmotic agent, but there is inadequte knowledge regarding dose and its saftey in comparison to mannitol. S100B, as a specific neuroinflammatory biomarker in TBI might be a reliable therapeutic index following osmotic therapy.

AIM

To compare both administration ways of HTS 5% (bolus and infusion) with mannitol upon S100B as a therapeutic tool for monitoring treatment in TBI patients.

METHOD

Adult patients wih modrate to severe TBI were recruited and have randomly received one of the three protocols: 125 cc of HTS 5% every 6 hrs (N: 11) as bolus; 500 cc of HTS 5% (N: 12) as infusion for 24 hrs; or 1 g/kg mannitol of 20% (N: 10) as a bolus, repeated with a dose of 0.25-0.5 g/kg every 6 hrs based on patient's response for 3 days. Serum S100B, blood pressure, serum sodium and osmolality and Glascow coma score (GCS) were measured at baseline and daily for 3 days.

RESULTS

Initial serum S100B level in TBI patients was higher than control group (p < 0.0001). Levels of measured S100B have decreased for all treatment groups, but reduction wasn't significantly after hyperosmolal therapy. GCS level increased significantly in infusion group (p = 0.002) and there were negative and significant correlation between serum S100B level and GCS level in some days. Mean arterial pressure increased significantly in HTS groups (bolus: p = 0.002, infusion < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

S100B is closely related to the pathophysiological mechanism in TBI and may be useful as a therapeutic tool for treatment monitoring in TBI patients HTS is a safe and effective osmotic agent in TBI setting.  

Changes in anti-heat shock protein 27 antibody and C-reactive protein levels following cardiac surgery and their association with cardiac function in patients with cardiovascular disease

The relationship between serum anti-heat shock protein (Hsp)27 antibody and high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels and indices of cardiac function were investigated in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or heart valve replacement. The changes in anti-Hsp27 antibody titers and hs-CRP levels were compared among patients undergoing off-pump and on-pump CABG or valvular heart replacement. Fifty-three patients underwent off-pump, on-pump CABG, and heart valvular replacement in each group. Serum anti-Hsp27 titers and hs-CRP values were measured 24 h before and after the operation and at discharge. Echocardiography was performed before surgery and before discharge. The results were compared with values from 83 healthy controls. hs-CRP levels increased and anti-Hsp27 antibody decreased following surgery (P < 0.001 and P < 0.05, respectively), although these changes were independent of operative procedure (P = 0.361 and P = 0.120, respectively). Anti-Hsp27 antibody levels were higher at the time of discharge (P = 0.016). Only in coronary patients were anti-Hsp27 antibody levels negatively associated with E/E' (r = -0.268, P = 0.022), a marker of pulmonary capillary wedge pressure. In conclusions, anti-Hsp27 antibody levels are associated with indices of cardiac function in coronary patients. Cardiopulmonary bypass had no significant effect on the induction of changes in anti-Hsp27 levels. Moreover, anti-Hsp27 antibody levels fell in all groups postoperatively; this may be due to the formation of immune complexes of antigen-antibody, and antibody levels were higher at the time of discharge.

Coincidence of trisomy 18 and robertsonian (13; 14)

This case report presents a coincidence of trisomy 18 and balanced Robertsonian translocation (13;14). Aneuploidy was suspected based on anomalies detected in ultrasound scan and confirmed with karyotype. In a 31 years-old healthy woman with a history of one miscarriage, second trimester ultrasound scan reported IUGR (<3rd percentile) with normal amniotic fluid, bilateral choroid plexus cysts, suspicious agenesis of corpus callosum and clenched hands. Amniocentesis was performed and karyotype was 46xx,der(13;14) (q10;q10),+18. Maternal karyotype was 45xx,der(13;14)(q10;q10). Pregnancy was continued due to legal limitation for termination after 20 weeks gestation. Delivery was done at 36 weeks gestation. A female newborn was borned and a physical feature was hypotonia, small mouth, prominent occiput, low-set and posteriorly rotated ears, clenched hands with overlapping fingers and rocker bottom feet. Ultrasound scan and echocardiography detected agenesis of corpus callosum and VSD, ASD, PDA and cardiomegaly. These features are typical of trisomy 18. Balanced Robertsonian translocation usually has no phenotypic expression. Genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis for future pregnancy was recommended.

Anti-Heat Shock Protein 27 Titers and Oxidative Stress Levels are Elevated in Patients With Valvular Heart Disease

We studied the immune responses to heat shock protein (Hsp)-27 and pro-oxidant–antioxidant balance (PAB) values in patients with valvular heart disease, but free of angiographically evident coronary artery disease (CAD). Patients who were candidates for valvuloplasty surgery and 30 healthy matched controls were recruited. The anti-Hsp-27 antibody titers were 0.35 ± 0.04 absorbency units (AU) in the valvuloplasty group, being significantly higher than for the controls (0.11 ± 0.02 AU; P < .05). The PAB values were significantly higher in cases (134.67 ± 13.69 Hamidi-Koliakos(HK) unit) when compared with controls (49.78 ± 6.75 HK unit; P < .05). In cases, the ejection fraction was inversely correlated with anti-Hsp-27 antibody ( P < .05) but was not significantly related to PAB values ( P > .05). Based on the echocardiographic findings, the patients had no evident heart failure, but the high levels of anti-Hsp-27 and PAB values in patients with valvular heart disease may indicate that these variables can be used as markers of heart failure. However, a longitudinal study is required to confirm this hypothesis.

The dilemma of hyperoxia following positive pressure mechanical ventilation: role of iron and the benefit of iron chelation with deferasirox

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Increased oxidative stress in patients under treatment with high concentrations of oxygen (hyperoxia) is considered to be one of the major mechanisms of lung injury, which is thought among different mediators, transition metal ion, iron, by generation of very reactive free radicals which play an important role. Disruption of normal iron homeostasis has been reported in hyperoxic conditions. We hypothesized that chelation of iron can reduce hyperoxia-induced lung injury.

METHODS

Mechanically ventilated patients, who received oxygen with FiO2 >0.5 for at least 3 days, underwent bronchoscopy before and 72 hours after receiving "Deferasirox". Oxidative injury index and iron homeostasis markers were measured in lavage fluid and plasma.

RESULTS

In 12 patients, the concentrations of 8-isoprostane (p=0.005), 8-oxoguanine (p=0.04), carbonyl proteins (p=0.04)--as markers of oxidative stress--decreased significantly in lavage fluid after intervention. Levels of iron-related proteins, ferritin (p=0.04) and transferrin (p=0.005) also decreased significantly in lavage fluid.

CONCLUSION

Deferasirox--as an iron chelator--decrease oxidative injury index in hyperoxic condition and it could be consider safe and beneficial agent, along with other supportive measures in hyperoxia-induced lung injury for better toleration of oxygen therapy.

A systematic review on pharmacokinetic changes in critically ill patients: role of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

OBJECTIVE

Several factors including disease condition and different procedures could alter pharmacokinetic profile of drugs in critically ill patients. For optimizing patient's outcome, changing in dosing regimen is necessary. Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is one of the procedures which could change pharmacokinetic parameters.The aim of this review was to evaluate the effect of ECMO support on pharmacokinetic parameters and subsequently pharmacotherapy.

METHOD

A systematic review was conducted by reviewing all papers found by searching following key words; extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, ECMO, pharmacokinetic and pharmacotherapy in bibliography database.

RESULTS

Different drug classes have been studied; mostly antibiotics. Almost all of the studies have been performed in neonates (as a case series). ECMO support is associated with altered pharmacokinetic parameters that may result in acute changes in plasma concentrations with potentially unpredictable pharmacological effect. Altreation in volume of distribution, protein binding, renal or hepatic clearance and sequestration of drugs by ECMO circuit may result in higher or lower doses requirement during ECMO. As yet, definite dosing guideline is not available. ECMO is extensively used recently for therapy and as a procedure affects pharmacokinetics profile along with other factors in critically ill patients. For optimizing the pharmacodynamic response and outcome of patients, drug regimen should be individualized through therapeutic drug monitoring whenever possible.

Antinociceptive study of extracts of Platanus orientalis leaves in mice

Platanus orientalis L. (Platanaceae) is a medicinal tree used in Iranian folklore and traditional medicine as a pain and inflammation reliever. In this study, the polyphenolic and total extract of P. orientalis leaves were prepared and their antinociceptive effects were studied in mice using the acetic acid-induced writhing, formalin and light tail flick tests. Both hydroalcoholic and polyphenolic extracts of P. orientalis at a dose of 2 g/kg significantly (P<0.05) reduced acetic acid-induced abdominal writhes. These extracts were also effective in suppression of formalin-induced pain behavior but they did not show any significant analgesia in light tail flick test. It is concluded that P. orientalis extracts have moderate analgesic effect and further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanism and active constituents.

The relationship between symptoms, clinical tests and nerve conduction study findings in carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common entrapment neuropathy. The aim of the present study was to determine the relationship between patients reported symptoms and clinical tests with electrodiagnostic findings. Three hundred and nine patients with a mean age of 48.35 +/- 12.26 (range = 19-81 years) participated. Patients were assessed clinically and electrophysiologically. The main outcome measures were CTS related symptoms of pain and paraesthesia, Tinel sign, Phalen's test, distal sensory latency, and distal motor latency. The symptoms of presence of pain and diurnal paraesthesia showed a statistical relationship with the distal sensory latency. No relationship was found between the Tinel sign and either the distal sensory latency or the distal motor latency. Furtheremore, no relationship could be shown between Phalen 60 s, Phalen 45 s and distal sensory and motor latency. The Phalen 30 s had a significant relationship with both sensory and motor distal latency. The findings of this study indicate that both CTS related symptoms of pain, diurnal paraesthesia, and Phalen 30 s are associated with electrodiagnostic tests.

Viscoelastic characterization of compacted pharmaceutical excipient materials by analysis of frequency-dependent mechanical relaxation processes

A newly developed method for determining the frequency-dependent complex Young's modulus was employed to analyze the mechanical response of compacted microcrystalline cellulose, sorbitol, ethyl cellulose and starch for frequencies up to 20 kHz. A Debye-like relaxation was observed in all the studied pharmaceutical excipient materials and a comparison with corresponding dielectric spectroscopy data was made. The location in frequency of the relaxation peak was shown to correlate to the measured tensile strength of the tablets, and the relaxation was interpreted as the vibrational response of the interparticle hydrogen and van der Waals bindings in the tablets. Further, the measured relaxation strength, holding information about the energy loss involved in the relaxation processes, showed that the weakest material in terms of tensile strength, starch, is the material among the four tested ones that is able to absorb the most energy within its structure when exposed to external perturbations inducing vibrations in the studied frequency range. The results indicate that mechanical relaxation analysis performed over relatively broad frequency ranges should be useful for predicting material properties of importance for the functionality of a material in applications such as, e.g., drug delivery, drug storage and handling, and also for clarifying the origin of hitherto unexplained molecular processes.