1
|
Moschovakou D, Ntoupa SP, Dona A, Athanaselis S, Spiliopoulou C, Nikolaou P, Papoutsis I. Vitreous humor in the forensic toxicology of quetiapine and its metabolites. Forensic Toxicol 2024:10.1007/s11419-024-00687-z. [PMID: 38615314 DOI: 10.1007/s11419-024-00687-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Τhe aim of the present study was to investigate the use of vitreous humor as an alternative biological material in forensic toxicology for the determination of quetiapine, 7-hydroxy-quetiapine, and nor-quetiapine. The distribution of these substances in vitreous humor was studied by determining and correlating their concentrations in vitreous humor with the respective concentrations in blood. METHODS During this study, a method for the determination of these substances was developed, validated and applied to postmortem samples obtained from 16 relative forensic cases. The sample preparation procedure included the isolation of the analytes from vitreous humor and blood samples using solid-phase extraction, with Bond Elut LRC C18 columns followed by derivatization with BSTFA with 1% TMCS prior to GC/MS analysis. RESULTS The developed method is characterized by a dynamic range of 10.0-1000.0 ng/mL (R2 ≥ 0.991) for the three substances, with a limit of detection and quantification of 3.0 and 10.0 ng/mL, respectively. Accuracy and precision were below 8.09% and 8.99%, respectively, for both biological materials, while absolute recovery for the three substances was greater than 81%. According to the results, quetiapine, 7-hydroxy-quetiapine, and nor-quetiapine are easily distributed in vitreous humor. CONCLUSION The results of the study indicate the usefulness of vitreous humor in toxicological analysis for the determination of these substances, especially when the traditional biological materials are not available. The levels of quetiapine and its metabolites in vitreous humor as well as the vitreous humor to blood concentration ratios can provide important information for a more thorough toxicological investigation of forensic cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danai Moschovakou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias, 115 27, Athens, Greece
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Department of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 157 71, Athens, Greece
| | - Stamatina-Panagoula Ntoupa
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias, 115 27, Athens, Greece
| | - Artemisia Dona
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias, 115 27, Athens, Greece
| | - Sotirios Athanaselis
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias, 115 27, Athens, Greece
| | - Chara Spiliopoulou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias, 115 27, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiota Nikolaou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias, 115 27, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis Papoutsis
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias, 115 27, Athens, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Papoutsis I, Moschovakou D, Ntoupa PS, Athanaselis S, Spiliopoulou C. Study on the distribution of quetiapine and its metabolites in vitreous humor. Toxicologie Analytique et Clinique 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxac.2022.06.255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
3
|
Mina A, Boutzios G, Papoutsis I, Kaparos G, Christopoulos P, Kousta E, Mastrominas M, Athanaselis S, Mastorakos G. Bisphenol A correlates with fewer retrieved oocytes in women with tubal factor infertility. Hormones (Athens) 2022; 21:305-315. [PMID: 35524040 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-022-00370-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Serum and urinary bisphenol A (BPA) concentrations have been associated negatively with the number of retrieved oocytes after in vitro fertilization (IVF). The impact of BPA upon women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and women with tubal factor infertility (TFI), following IVF, was investigated. To this purpose, associations among serum and urinary and follicular fluid (FF) BPA concentrations and the number of retrieved and fertilized oocytes and comparisons between pregnancy rates were evaluated. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study conducted at a university-affiliated assisted conception unit between January and November 2019, including 93 women of reproductive age (PCOS: 45; TFI: 48) following IVF. Unconjugated FF and serum BPA concentrations and total urinary BPA concentration were measured using a novel gas chromatography-mass spectrometry method. The number of retrieved and fertilized oocytes and pregnancy rate were documented and evaluated. RESULTS The number of oocytes retrieved from PCOS women was greater than that of 21 TFI women, independently of BMI. Lower FF BPA concentrations were found in all PCOS women and in overweight/obese PCOS compared to TFI women (0.50, 0.38, and 1.13 ng/mL, respectively). In TFI women, FF BPA concentrations correlated negatively with the number of retrieved oocytes. Serum and FF and urinary BPA concentrations did not significantly affect the number of fertilized oocytes and pregnancy rate in both groups. CONCLUSION FF BPA concentrations were lower in all PCOS women and in overweight/obese PCOS than in TFI women. In TFI women, FF BPA concentrations correlated negatively with retrieved oocytes. Confirmation of these findings might lead to moderation of use of BPA-containing products by women undergoing IVF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Areti Mina
- Endocrine Unit, Medical School, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76 Vas. Sofias Str, PO Box 11528, Athens, Greece
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Str, PO Box 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Boutzios
- Endocrine Unit, Department of Pathophysiology, Medical School, Laiko University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Str, PO Box 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis Papoutsis
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Str, PO Box 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - George Kaparos
- Hormonal and Biochemical Laboratory, Medical School, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76 Vas. Sofias Str, PO Box 11528, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Christopoulos
- Endocrine Unit, Medical School, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76 Vas. Sofias Str, PO Box 11528, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Kousta
- Endocrine Unit, Medical School, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76 Vas. Sofias Str, PO Box 11528, Athens, Greece
| | - Minas Mastrominas
- Embryogenesis Assisted Conception Unit, Kifisias 49 Avenue, PO Box 15123, Athens, Greece
| | - Sotirios Athanaselis
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Str, PO Box 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - George Mastorakos
- Endocrine Unit, Medical School, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76 Vas. Sofias Str, PO Box 11528, Athens, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Papageorgiou S, Varvaresou A, Panderi I, Giannakou M, Spiliopoulou C, Athanaselis S. Development and validation of a reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic method for the quantitation and stability of α-lipoic acid in cosmetic creams. Int J Cosmet Sci 2020; 42:221-228. [PMID: 31985846 DOI: 10.1111/ics.12603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop and validate a simple reversed-phase HPLC method for the quantitation and evaluation of stability of α-lipoic acid in cosmetics, according to International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) Guidelines. METHODS The chromatography was performed on a reversed-phase Luna C18, analytical column (150 × 4.6 mm id, 5 μm particle size) with a mobile phase of potassium dihydrogen phosphate (pΗ 4.5; 0.05 M) and acetonitrile (60:40, v/v) and a flow rate of 1.0 mL min-1 with UV detection at 340 nm. Accelerated and long-term stability studies of α-lipoic acid in cosmetic cream were conducted under various degradation conditions including acid, basis, oxidation, and thermal and photolytic degradation, according to European Medicines Agency Guidelines CPMP/ICH/2736/99. RESULTS The limit of detection (LOD) for the cosmetic cream was 0.9 μg mL-1 and the limit of quantitation (LOQ) was 2.8 μg mL-1 , while the retention time was 7.2 min. The method proved to be linear, precise and accurate. The stability results demonstrated the selectivity of the proposed method to the analysis of α-LA, and the degradation products were determined and evaluated in specific stress conditions in cosmetic creams. The applicability of the method was tested in two different developed cosmetic products (cream with 1.5 % w/w and emulsion with 1.0 % w/w of LA) and proved to be reliable. CONCLUSION A reversed-phase HPLC-UV method was developed and fully validated for the analysis of α-lipoic acid in cosmetics. It is the first reported application on the quantitation of lipoic acid in cosmetic creams, while at the same time evaluates the stability in forced degradation conditions, in new cosmetic formulations. It proved to be suitable for the reliable quality control of cosmetic products, with a run time of <8 min that allows for the analysis of large number of samples per day.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Papageorgiou
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Welfare Sciences, Division of Aesthetics and Cosmetic Science, University of West Attica, Campus 1, Agiou Spyridonos, Egaleo, Athens, 12243, Greece
| | - A Varvaresou
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Welfare Sciences, Division of Aesthetics and Cosmetic Science, University of West Attica, Campus 1, Agiou Spyridonos, Egaleo, Athens, 12243, Greece
| | - I Panderi
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimipolis - Zografou, Athens, 15771, Greece
| | - M Giannakou
- Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimipolis - Ilissia, Athens, 15701, Greece
| | - C Spiliopoulou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, Athens, 11527, Greece
| | - S Athanaselis
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, Athens, 11527, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kalogera E, Pistos C, Provatopoulou X, Christophi CA, Zografos GC, Stefanidou M, Spiliopoulou C, Athanaselis S, Gounaris A. Bioanalytical LC-MS Method for the Quantification of Plasma Androgens and Androgen Glucuronides in Breast Cancer. J Chromatogr Sci 2016; 54:583-92. [PMID: 26762957 DOI: 10.1093/chromsci/bmv190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The physiological and pathological development of the breast is strongly affected by the hormonal milieu consisting of steroid hormones. Mass spectrometry (MS) technologies of high sensitivity and specificity enable the quantification of androgens and consequently the characterization of the hormonal status. The aim of this study is the assessment of plasma androgens and androgen glucuronides, in the par excellence hormone-sensitive tissue of the breast, through the application of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). A simple and efficient fit-for-purpose method for the simultaneous identification and quantification of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), androstenedione (A4), androsterone glucuronide (ADTG) and androstane-3α, 17β-diol-17-glucuronide (3α-diol-17G) in human plasma was developed and validated. The presented method permits omission of derivatization, requires a single solid-phase extraction procedure and the chromatographic separation can be achieved on a single C18 analytical column, for all four analytes. The validated method was successfully applied for the analysis of 191 human plasma samples from postmenopausal women with benign breast disease (BBD), lobular neoplasia (LN), ductal carcinoma in situ and invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC). DHEAS plasma levels exhibited significant differences between LN, IDC and BBD patients (P < 0.05). Additionally, ADTG levels were significantly higher in patients with LN compared with those with BBD (P < 0.05).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Kalogera
- Research Center, Hellenic Anticancer Institute, 11 Valtetsiou st, Athens, 10680, Greece
| | - Constantinos Pistos
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Xeni Provatopoulou
- Research Center, Hellenic Anticancer Institute, 11 Valtetsiou st, Athens, 10680, Greece
| | - Costas A Christophi
- Cyprus International Institute for Environmental and Public Health in association with Harvard School of Public Health, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - George C Zografos
- Breast Unit, 1st Department of Propaedeutic Surgery, Hippokratio Hospital, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Stefanidou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Chara Spiliopoulou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Sotirios Athanaselis
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Antonia Gounaris
- Research Center, Hellenic Anticancer Institute, 11 Valtetsiou st, Athens, 10680, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Vardakou I, Karampela S, Papoutsis I, Spiliopoulou C, Athanaselis S, Pistos C. Migration study of zinc dibutyldithiocarbamate in eye drops solutions. J Anal Chem 2014. [DOI: 10.1134/s1061934814110136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
7
|
Alexanian I, Parissis J, Farmakis D, Athanaselis S, Pappas L, Gavrielatos G, Mihas C, Paraskevaidis I, Sideris A, Kremastinos D, Spiliopoulou C, Anastasiou-Nana M, Lekakis J, Filippatos G. Clinical and echocardiographic correlates of serum copper and zinc in acute and chronic heart failure. Clin Res Cardiol 2014; 103:938-49. [PMID: 24908339 DOI: 10.1007/s00392-014-0735-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2014] [Accepted: 06/02/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
AIM Emerging evidence suggests a pathophysiological role of micronutrient dyshomeostasis in heart failure, including promotion of adverse remodeling and clinical deterioration. We sought to evaluate serum copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) levels in acute (AHF) and chronic (CHF) heart failure. METHODS We studied 125 patients, 71 % male, aged 69 ± 11 years, 37 % with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF ≥40 %) (HFPEF), including 81 with AHF and 44 with CHF; 21 healthy volunteers served as controls. Serum Cu and Zn levels were determined using air-acetylene flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. RESULTS Serum Cu levels were significantly higher in AHF (p = 0.006) and CHF (p = 0.002) patients compared to controls after adjusting for age, gender and comorbidities, whereas they did not differ between AHF and CHF (p = 0.840). Additionally, serum Cu in patients with LVEF <40 % was significantly higher compared to both controls (p < 0.001) and HFPEF patients (p = 0.003). Serum Zn was significantly lower in AHF (p < 0.001) and CHF (p = 0.039) compared to control after adjusting for the above-mentioned variables. Moreover, serum Zn was significantly lower in AHF than in CHF (p = 0.015). In multiple linear regression, LVEF (p = 0.033) and E/e ratio (p = 0.006) were independent predictors of serum Cu in total heart failure population, while NYHA class (p < 0.001) and E/e ratio (p = 0.007) were independent predictors of serum Zn. CONCLUSION Serum Cu was increased both in AHF and CHF and correlated with LV systolic and diastolic function. Serum Zn, in contrast, was decreased both in AHF and CHF and independently predicted by clinical status and LV diastolic function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Alexanian
- Department of Cardiology, Athens University Hospital Attikon, Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Papoutsis I, Nikolaou P, Pistos C, Dona A, Stefanidou M, Spiliopoulou C, Athanaselis S. Stability of Morphine, Codeine, and 6-Acetylmorphine in Blood at Different Sampling and Storage Conditions. J Forensic Sci 2013; 59:550-4. [DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.12337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Papoutsis
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology; School of Medicine; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Mikras Asias 75 Goudi Athens 11527 Greece
| | - Panagiota Nikolaou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology; School of Medicine; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Mikras Asias 75 Goudi Athens 11527 Greece
| | - Constantinos Pistos
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology; School of Medicine; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Mikras Asias 75 Goudi Athens 11527 Greece
| | - Artemisia Dona
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology; School of Medicine; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Mikras Asias 75 Goudi Athens 11527 Greece
| | - Maria Stefanidou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology; School of Medicine; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Mikras Asias 75 Goudi Athens 11527 Greece
| | - Chara Spiliopoulou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology; School of Medicine; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Mikras Asias 75 Goudi Athens 11527 Greece
| | - Sotirios Athanaselis
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology; School of Medicine; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Mikras Asias 75 Goudi Athens 11527 Greece
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Alexanian I, Parissis J, Athanaselis S, Pappas L, Gavrielatos G, Michas C, Sideris A, Kremastinos D, Anastasiou-Nana M, Filippatos G. Copper serum levels in patients with heart failure correlate with parameters of left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction. Eur Heart J 2013. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/eht307.p625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
10
|
Bruci Z, Papoutsis I, Athanaselis S, Nikolaou P, Pazari E, Spiliopoulou C, Vyshka G. First systematic evaluation of the potency of Cannabis sativa plants grown in Albania. Forensic Sci Int 2012; 222:40-6. [PMID: 22608266 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2012.04.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2011] [Revised: 04/18/2012] [Accepted: 04/30/2012] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis products (marijuana, hashish, cannabis oil) are the most frequently abused illegal substances worldwide. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main psychoactive component of Cannabis sativa plant, whereas cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabinol (CBN) are other major but no psychoactive constituents. Many studies have already been carried out on these compounds and chemical research was encouraged due to the legal implications concerning the misuse of marijuana. The aim of this study was to determine THC, CBD and CBN in a significant number of cannabis samples of Albanian origin, where cannabis is the most frequently used drug of abuse, in order to evaluate and classify them according to their cannabinoid composition. A GC-MS method was used, in order to assay cannabinoid content of hemp samples harvested at different maturation degree levels during the summer months and grown in different areas of Albania. This method can also be used for the determination of plant phenotype, the evaluation of psychoactive potency and the control of material quality. The highest cannabinoid concentrations were found in the flowers of cannabis. The THC concentrations in different locations of Albania ranged from 1.07 to 12.13%. The influence of environmental conditions on cannabinoid content is discussed. The cannabinoid content of cannabis plants were used for their profiling, and it was used for their classification, according to their geographical origin. The determined concentrations justify the fact that Albania is an area where cannabis is extensively cultivated for illegal purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zana Bruci
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Tirana, Albania.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Karampela S, Vardakou I, Papoutsis I, Dona A, Spiliopoulou C, Athanaselis S, Pistos C. Direct urine analysis for the identification and quantification of selected benzodiazepines for toxicology screening. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2012; 902:42-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2012.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2012] [Revised: 06/09/2012] [Accepted: 06/14/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
|
12
|
Nikolaou P, Papoutsis I, Stefanidou M, Dona A, Maravelias C, Spiliopoulou C, Athanaselis S. Accidental Poisoning after Ingestion of “Aphrodisiac” Berries: Diagnosis by Analytical Toxicology. J Emerg Med 2012; 42:662-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2011.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2010] [Revised: 09/08/2010] [Accepted: 03/20/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
13
|
Papoutsis I, Khraiwesh A, Nikolaou P, Pistos C, Spiliopoulou C, Athanaselis S. A fully validated method for the simultaneous determination of 11 antidepressant drugs in whole blood by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2012; 70:557-62. [PMID: 22658904 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2012.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2012] [Revised: 05/03/2012] [Accepted: 05/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Antidepressant drugs are widely used for the treatment of depression and other psychiatric disorders and as a result they are involved in numerous clinical and forensic cases. The aim of this study was the development, optimization and validation of a simple, specific and sensitive GC/MS method for the simultaneous determination of 11 antidepressant drugs and 4 of their metabolites (amitriptyline, citalopram, clomipramine, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, maprotiline, desmethyl-maprotiline, mirtazapine, desmethyl-mirtazapine, nortriptyline, paroxetine, sertraline, desmethyl-sertraline, venlafaxine and desmethyl-venlafaxine) in whole blood. The combination of solid-phase extraction with derivatization using heptafluorobutyric anhydride efficiently reduced matrix effect and improved sensitivity of the method. In this assay, protriptyline was used as internal standard. Absolute recovery values for all analytes were ranged from 79.2 to 102.6%. LODs and LOQs were found to be between 0.30-1.50 μg/L and 1.00-5.00 μg/L, respectively. The calibration curves were linear (R(2)≥0.990) within the range of 5.00-1000 μg/L for all analytes. Accuracy expressed as the % E(r) was found to be between -12.3 and 12.2%. Precision expressed as the % RSD was found to be less than 11.7% for all antidepressants. The developed method proved to be suitable for routine work and it was used to successfully analyze more than 2500 clinical and forensic blood samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Papoutsis
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Papoutsis I, Mendonis M, Nikolaou P, Athanaselis S, Pistos C, Maravelias C, Spiliopoulou C. Development and Validation of a Simple GC-MS Method for the Simultaneous Determination of 11 Anticholinesterase Pesticides in Blood-Clinical and Forensic Toxicology Applications. J Forensic Sci 2012; 57:806-12. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2011.02031.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
15
|
Papoutsis I, Nikolaou P, Spiliopoulou C, Pistos C, Stefanidou M, Athanaselis S. A simple and sensitive GC/MS method for the determination of atropine during therapy of anticholinesterase poisoning in serum samples. Drug Test Anal 2011; 4:229-34. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2011] [Revised: 07/19/2011] [Accepted: 07/20/2011] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Papoutsis
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology; School of Medicine; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Athens; 11527; Greece
| | - Panagiota Nikolaou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology; School of Medicine; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Athens; 11527; Greece
| | - Chara Spiliopoulou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology; School of Medicine; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Athens; 11527; Greece
| | - Constantinos Pistos
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology; School of Medicine; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Athens; 11527; Greece
| | - Maria Stefanidou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology; School of Medicine; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Athens; 11527; Greece
| | - Sotirios Athanaselis
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology; School of Medicine; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Athens; 11527; Greece
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Papoutsis I, Nikolaou P, Athanaselis S, Alevizopoulos G, Pistos C, Paraskevopoulou C, Spiliopoulou C. Development and validation of a gas chromatography-mass spectrometric method for the determination of sildenafil and desmethyl-sildenafil in whole blood. J Sep Sci 2011; 34:3037-42. [DOI: 10.1002/jssc.201100496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2011] [Revised: 07/19/2011] [Accepted: 07/22/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
|
17
|
Khraiwesh A, Papoutsis I, Nikolaou P, Pistos C, Spiliopoulou C, Athanaselis S. Development and validation of an EI-GC/MS method for the determination of sertraline and its major metabolite desmethyl-sertraline in blood. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2011; 879:2576-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2011.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2011] [Revised: 06/29/2011] [Accepted: 07/10/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
18
|
Sotiropoulos A, Papadodima SA, Papazafiropoulou AK, Ioannidis A, Kokkinari A, Apostolou O, Spiliopoulou CA, Athanaselis S. Serum selenium levels do not differ in type 2 diabetic subjects with and without coronary artery disease. BMC Res Notes 2011; 4:270. [PMID: 21801367 PMCID: PMC3161875 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-4-270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2011] [Accepted: 07/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the present study was to investigate whether selenium levels differ between type 2 diabetic subjects with and without coronary artery disease (CAD). METHODS A total of 200 subjects with type 2 diabetes (100 with CAD and 100 without CAD), consecutively selected from the diabetes outpatient clinic of our hospital were enrolled into the study. A detailed medical history and a physical examination were obtained by all the participants. RESULTS Serum selenium levels did not differ between diabetic subjects with and without CAD (102.40 ± 31.10 vs. 108.86 ± 33.88 microg/L, p = 0.16). In diabetic subjects with CAD multivariate linear regression analysis demonstrated significant independent associations between selenium and sex (beta = 0.21, p = 0.03) and glucose levels (beta = 0.25, p = 0.008). In diabetic subjects without CAD multivariate linear regression analysis demonstrated significant independent associations between selenium and peripheral artery disease (beta = 0.16, p = 0.05) and glucose levels (beta = -0.09, p = 0.05). CONCLUSION Serum selenium levels did not differ between diabetic subjects with and without CAD. In diabetic subjects with CAD, the only determinants of serum selenium levels were sex and glucose levels. In diabetic subjects without CAD the only determinants of serum selenium levels were peripheral artery disease and glucose levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexios Sotiropoulos
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine and Center of Diabetes, General Hospital of Nikaia "Ag, Panteleimon" - Piraeus, Greece.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Nikolaou P, Papoutsis I, Athanaselis S, Pistos C, Dona A, Spiliopoulou C. Development and validation of a method for the determination of buprenorphine and norbuprenorphine in breast milk by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Biomed Chromatogr 2011; 26:358-62. [PMID: 21721023 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.1666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2011] [Accepted: 05/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Buprenorphine (BUP) is used for the maintenance of opioid-addicted pregnant women. Because BUP and its main metabolite nor-BUP are excreted into breast milk, a sensitive and specific GC/MS method has been developed, optimized and validated for their determination in breast milk. BUP-d4 was used as internal standard. The sample preparation includes combination of protein precipitation with solid-phase extraction and derivatization (acetylation). The absolute recovery for both analytes was found to be higher than 87.3%. The limits of detection and quantification were 0.07 and 0.20 µg/L, respectively. The calibration curves were linear within the dynamic range 0.20-20.0 µg/L, with a correlation coefficient higher than 0.996. Intra- and inter-day accuracies were ranged from -7.06 to 4.50 and from -5.88 to 7.00%, respectively, while intra- and inter-day precision were less than 5.7 and 6.1%. The analytes were found to be stable in breast milk at 4 °C for one week, at -20 °C for one month, and after three freeze-thaw cycles. The method can be used for the determination of BUP and nor-BUP in breast milk of BUP-maintained mothers, in order to calculate the amount of drug that could pass to the newborn via breast milk and to avoid toxic consequences of breastfeeding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Panagiota Nikolaou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, 11527, Greece.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Papoutsis I, Nikolaou P, Athanaselis S, Pistos C, Maravelias C, Spiliopoulou C. A fully validated method for the determination of vardenafil in blood using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. J Mass Spectrom 2011; 46:71-76. [PMID: 21184398 DOI: 10.1002/jms.1868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Vardenafil (VDN) is one of the three commercially available phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors and it is mainly used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. A sensitive and specific gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) method for the determination of VDN in blood has been developed and validated. Sample preparation included solid-phase extraction and derivatization with N-methyl-N-tert-butyldimethylsilyl-trifluoroacetamide (MTBSTFA) and 1% tert-butyldimethylsilylchloride (TBDMSCl). Protriptyline was used as the internal standard for this assay. Limits of detection and quantification for VDN were 0.70 and 2.00 µg/l, respectively. The calibration curves were linear within the dynamic range 2.00-200.0 µg/l with a correlation coefficient higher than 0.991. Absolute recovery ranged from 88.6% to 95.7% for the analyte of interest at three quality control levels. Intra- and inter-day accuracy was found to be between - 6.1% to 10.8% and - 9.3% to 11.6%, respectively, whereas intra- and inter-day precision was < 7.8% and 9.7%, correspondingly. The proposed method is the first fully validated GC/MS method for the determination of VDN in blood samples and it can be used in routine every day analysis by clinical and forensic laboratories for pharmacokinetic studies, for therapeutic drug level monitoring or for the investigation of related forensic cases. A few blood samples analyzed using the developed method is reported herein to demonstrate the suitability of the method.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Papoutsis
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Abstract
The interpretation of toxicological findings is critical for the thorough investigation of the use and abuse of psychoactive substances. A positive analytical result for a sample taken could usually result in criminal proceedings and a punitive outcome for the defendant whose sample was analysed. The detection of markers of illicit opiate misuse is important both in the management of substance misuse and in the postmortem identification of illicit opiate use. The aim of this study was to emphasise the role of opiate biomarkers available at the laboratory and in the clinical environment. Urine remains the biological tool of choice for qualitative detection of illicit drug use in a clinical setting, while quantitative accuracy remains strictly the domain of blood. Accurate interpretation of the screening tests within a clinical setting alongside other relevant information remains the key to the usefulness of any test. Moreover, the finding of a morphine/codeine concentration ratio in blood exceeding unity is a strong evidence that the person had used heroin, as opposed to having taken a prescription analgesic drug containing codeine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Stefanidou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Vardakou I, Dona A, Pistos C, Alevisopoulos G, Athanaselis S, Maravelias C, Spiliopoulou C. Validated GC/MS method for the simultaneous determination of clozapine and norclozapine in human plasma. Application in psychiatric patients under clozapine treatment. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2010; 878:2327-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2010.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2010] [Revised: 06/25/2010] [Accepted: 07/04/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
23
|
Papoutsis I, Nikolaou P, Athanaselis S, Stefanidou M, Pistos C, Spiliopoulou C, Maravelias C. Mass intoxication withDatura innoxia—case series and confirmation by analytical toxicology. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2010; 48:143-5. [DOI: 10.3109/15563650903524134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
|
24
|
Pistos C, Karampela S, Papoutsis I, Athanaselis S, Spiliopoulou C, Maravelias C. Investigation of the identification point system adaptation in cocaine, benzoylecgonine and ecgonine methyl ester using a single quadrupole mass spectrometer. Rapid Commun Mass Spectrom 2009; 23:3772-3780. [PMID: 19902418 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.4312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
At present, no official criteria exist for drug identification using single quadrupole mass spectrometers although the European Union (EU) criteria for compound identification have been adopted. These criteria are evaluated with respect to the confirmation of cocaine and its metabolites by single quadrupole liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) and problems are highlighted. Spiked samples, proficiency testing samples, certified reference materials and samples from real cases that had screened positive for cocaine derivatives by immunoassay were subjected to confirmation by LC/MS using single ion monitoring with in-source fragmentation. The EU criteria for compound identification were applied for the confirmation of cocaine, benzoylecgonine and ecgonine methyl ester. The use of the identification point (IP) system in spiked, proficiency testing samples and certified reference materials provided acceptable results in all cases while in some cases real positive samples did not provide acceptable results. Failure to meet the EU criteria was attributed to low fragmentation at the lower concentrations and the ion suppression effect while both factors affected compliance with the IP system. The identification of cocaine and its metabolites was considerably improved by using a combination of ammonium formate and formic acid as the LC mobile phase. It appears that poor in-source fragmentation in single quadrupole LC/MS and ion suppression may constitute a problem with drug identification when implementing the IP system in real samples, resulting in false negative results. Further investigation is needed for the use of such IP systems to be suitable for use in LC/MS methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Pistos
- Laboratory of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Medical School, University of Athens, Greece.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Papoutsis I, Nikolaou P, Athanaselis S, Pistos C, Spiliopoulou C, Maravelias C. Development and validation of a GC/MS method for the determination of buprenorphine and norbuprenorphine in blood. Toxicol Lett 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2009.06.395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
26
|
Nikolaou P, Papoutsis I, Atta-Politou J, Athanaselis S, Spiliopoulou C, Maravelias C. Monitoring methadone milk concentrations of methadone-maintained women in postpartum period for breastfeeding safety. Toxicol Lett 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2009.06.394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
27
|
|
28
|
|
29
|
Abstract
Most fatalities from fires are not due to burns, but are a result of inhalation of toxic gases produced during combustion. Fire produces a complex toxic environment involving flame, heat, oxygen depletion, smoke and toxic gases. As a wide variety of synthetic materials is used in buildings (insulation, furniture, carpeting, and decorative items) the potential for severe health impacts from inhalation of products of combustion during building fires is continuously increasing. In forest fires the burning of biomass leads to smoke emissions, the composition of which, as well as the relative health impacts from their inhalation, depends on the ecosystem's chemical and physical features and the local environmental parameters. In the present review, health problems that appear to people exposed to fire smoke and especially to firefighters are described and suggestions for fire management and prevention are made.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Stefanidou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Papoutsis I, Athanaselis S. Error in the Article: "Driving Under the Influence of Opiates: Concentration Relationships Between Morphine, Codeine, 6-Acetyl Morphine, and Ethyl Morphine in Blood". J Anal Toxicol 2008; 32:392; author reply 392. [DOI: 10.1093/jat/32.5.392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
31
|
Athanaselis S, Panagiotopoulos E, Gliatis J, Dimacopoulos P, Lambiris E. A "silent" fracture mimicking osteomyelitis. Orthopedics 2006; 29:1127-8. [PMID: 17190174 DOI: 10.3928/01477447-20061201-01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
|
32
|
Abstract
A 61-year-old woman presented with mild pain and swelling on the volar aspect of the wrist, hand, and little finger. Radiography showed a soft-tissue mass shadow, and magnetic resonance imaging showed acute tenosynovitis of the flexor tendons and an inflammatory mass inside the carpal tunnel. Laboratory test results were normal, except for an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (40 mm/h). The patient had an ambiguous Mantoux test result but no history of mycobacterial exposure. Exhaustive investigations for rheumatic disease were negative. Surgical exploration of the lesion revealed rice bodies in the common flexor tendon synovial sheath, extending distally to the tip of the fifth finger. Removal of the rice bodies and thorough excision of the sheath was performed. The patient regained a full and painless range of motion in about 3 months. One-year follow-up revealed no underlying disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Tyllianakis
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University Hospital of Patras, Greece.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Stefanidou M, Athanaselis S. Toxicological aspects of fire. Vet Hum Toxicol 2004; 46:196-9. [PMID: 15303394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Most fatalities from fires are not due to burns, but are a result of inhalation of toxic gases produced during combustion. Fire produces a complex toxic environment, involving flame, heat, oxygen depletion, smoke and toxic gases. As a wide variety of synthetic materials is used in buildings (insulation, furniture, carpeting, electric wiring covering, decorative items), the potential for poisoning from inhalation of products of combustion is continuously increasing. In the present review, the problems that are present in a fire event, the toxicology of the toxic substances and the specific chemical hazards to firefighters are described. Regulatory toxicology aspects are presented concerning the use of non-flammable building and furnishing materials to prevent fires and decrease of poisonings and deaths resulting from fires.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Stefanidou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, University of Athens, School of Medicine, 75 Mikras Asias Street, Athens, I1 527 Greece
| | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
|
35
|
Stefanidou M, Athanaselis S, Koutselinis A. The toxicology of honey bee poisoning. Vet Hum Toxicol 2003; 45:261-5. [PMID: 14513897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
The use of insecticides continues to be a basic tool in pest management, since there are many pest situations for which there are no known alternative management methods. However, the harmful effects of insecticides against beneficial Insects continuous to be a serious problem. Poisoning of bee pollinators is a serious adverse effect of insecticide use which leads to a decrease in insect population, to reduction of honey yields, to destruction of plant communities, to insecticide residues in food, and to a significant loss of beekeepers' income. In bee poisoning, the identification of the responsible toxicant is necessary by both environmental and biological monitoring, to prevent bee poisoning and for the protection of public health. The different aspects of bee poisoning with anticholinesterase insecticides are discussed in detail.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Stefanidou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, University of Athens, Medical School, 75 M Asias street, Athens 115 27, Greece
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Stefanidou M, Athanaselis S, Velonakis M, Pappas F, Koutselinis A. Occupational exposure to cholinesterase inhibiting pesticides: a Greek case. Int J Environ Health Res 2003; 13:23-29. [PMID: 12745345 DOI: 10.1080/0960312021000063287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The determination of plasma or serum cholinesterase is absolute and it is considered as a reliable index of exposure in workers of organophosphorus pesticides industries. In the present study the plasma cholinesterase of 28 persons working in the packaging of an ortho-thio-phosphate was determined, before and after their exposure to this agent. The results of this study showed a plasma cholinesterase depression of 37%, a decrease which was statistically significant (P<0.001).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Stefanidou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Medical School, University of Athens, Goudi, Greece.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Pappas F, Stefanidou M, Athanaselis S, Alevisopoulos G, Koutselinis A. Lead content of fresh milk samples from different sites in Athens. Vet Hum Toxicol 2001; 43:290-2. [PMID: 11577936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
Milk and dairy products constitute a major food, especially for infants and children, and relatively low levels of toxic elements can contribute significantly to dietary intakes and be hazardous for public health. The purpose of this survey was to define the levels of lead in milk samples of different origin, to establish the presence or absence of contamination. The milks from different sites of the metropolitan area of Athens contained negligible traces of lead and thus are safe for the public health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Pappas
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Medical School of Athens, Goudi, Greece
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Methenitou G, Maravelias C, Athanaselis S, Dona A, Koutselinis A. Immunomodulative effects of aflatoxins and selenium on human natural killer cells. Vet Hum Toxicol 2001; 43:232-4. [PMID: 11474740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
The possible immunomodulative effects of aflatoxin B1 and selenium (as sodium selenite) at concentrations lower than 5.10(-11) M or 0.05ppb and 10(-5) M, respectively on natural killer (NK) cells from healthy volunteers were evaluated by a 51Cr release natural killer assay. Aflatoxin B1 and selenium separately had an immunosuppressive effect on NK cell activity. When they were studied in combination, they caused a statistically significant increase of the cytotoxic activity of NK cells in the presence of the lowest concentrations of aflatoxin B1 (0.005ppb) and of sodium selenite (10(-8)M).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Methenitou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Cominos X, Athanaselis S, Dona A, Koutselinis A. Analysis of total mercury in human tissues prepared by microwave decomposition using a hydride generator system coupled to an atomic absorption spectrometer. Forensic Sci Int 2001; 118:43-7. [PMID: 11343854 DOI: 10.1016/s0379-0738(00)00379-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A fast and efficient procedure has been developed for the analysis of total mercury in human tissues and blood using a hydride vapor generator system coupled to an atomic absorption spectrometer (HVG-AA). Tissue and blood samples were digested in a pressurized microwave decomposition system and the digest diluted prior to formation of free mercury vapor and analysis by atomic absorption. Recovery studies performed on 10 spiked/unspiked pairs of human liver and on 10 spiked/unspiked pairs of human blood samples yielded average recoveries of 99.7% (CV=0.4%) and 101.2% (CV=0.5%), respectively. The method detection limit for liver and blood was 50 microg Hg/kg and 12.5 microg Hg/l, respectively. The "normal" concentrations of mercury in human liver and blood are 33-490 microg Hg/kg and 0.6-59 microg Hg/l, respectively [1]. This method is able to determine mercury poisoning levels and may also be applied to detect mercury near the lower levels of these "normal" ranges, using the standard addition method approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- X Cominos
- Bioforma S.A. Analytical and Reference Laboratory, Sevastoupoleos 150, 11526, Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Maravelias C, Dona A, Athanaselis S, Koutselinis A. The importance of performing in vitro cytotoxicity testing before immunomodulation evaluation. Vet Hum Toxicol 2000; 42:292-6. [PMID: 11003123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
This study uses the well known sensitive and reproducible human peripheral blood lymphocyte (PBL) assay as a model for the possible discrimination between cytotoxic and/or immunomodulative properties of 5 reference compounds: cadmium chloride (CdCl2): didodecyl-dimethyl ammonium bromide (DDAB); cyclosporin (CsA); dexamethasone (DEXA); and theophylline. Two colorimetric cytotoxicity assays were employed, the thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide and neutral red, and the H-thymidine DNA incorporation assay on phytohemagglutinin stimulated or non-stimulated PBL was used, as a parameter of cell mediated immunity. This study demonstrated the importance of performing colorimetric or other cytotoxicity assays before any investigation of mechanisms of action of different substances on immunomodulation and relative human risk assessment. This study showed that CdCl2 and DDAB have a cytotoxic rather than immunomodulative effect on PBL and that CsA, DEXA and to a lesser extent theophylline have immunomodulative rather than cytotoxic effects on PBL within the range of the concentrations studied.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Maravelias
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Maravelias C, Dona A, Athanaselis S, Stefanidou M, Koutselinis A. Cytotoxic and immunomodulative effects of flunitrazepam, zipeprol and trihexyphenidyl on human peripheral blood lymphocytes. Vet Hum Toxicol 2000; 42:205-8. [PMID: 10928682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
The cytotoxic effects of flunitrazepam, zipeprol and trihexyphenidyl on cell viability of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy volunteers were studied at concentrations from 10(-2) to 10(-8) M by 2 colorimetric in vitro assays: the neutral red uptake assay and thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide assay. All tested drugs of abuse were non-cytotoxic at concentrations lower than 10(-5) M. Possible immunomodulative effects of these substances were evaluated through phytohemagglutinin induced lymphocyte proliferation ([3H]-thymidine DNA incorporation assay) and by a 51Cr release natural killer assay. The 3 drugs studied produced statistically significant immunomodulative alterations on both immunological parameters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Maravelias
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Stefanidou M, Athanaselis S, Alevisopoulos G, Papoutsis J, Koutselinis A. Delat9-tetrahydrocannabinol content in cannabis plants of greek origin. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 2000; 48:743-5. [PMID: 10823716 DOI: 10.1248/cpb.48.743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta9-THC) content was identified and determined quantitatively using a Gas Chromatography Detector (Gas Chromatography-Electron Ion Detector) instrument in samples of illicit herbal cannabis. Law enforcement authorities sent the samples to the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, University of Athens, for toxicological analysis. The concentrations of delta9-THC in these samples ranged from 0.08% to 4.41%. Such concentrations suggest that Greece might be at high risk, as an area for the illicit cultivation of "pedigree" cannabis plants. The forensic aspects of cannabis classification are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Stefanidou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, University of Athens, Medical School, Greece.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Kokori H, Giannakopoulou CH, Hatzidaki E, Athanaselis S, Tsatsakis A, Sbyrakis S. An unusual case of lead poisoning in an infant: nursing-associated plumbism. J Lab Clin Med 1999; 134:522-5. [PMID: 10560946 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-2143(99)90174-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Lead poisoning remains a common environmental threat for children today. The majority of cases of lead poisoning are caused by oral intake of lead dust or lead-containing paint flakes and thus occur during the second and third years of life. An unusual case of severe lead poisoning in a breast-feeding infant girl is here presented; the source proved to be a nipple shield made of a lead-containing metal. Despite the severity of the intoxication, by the end of treatment and for a year afterwards the infant has been well and her psychokinetic development has been normal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Kokori
- Department of General Pediatrics, University of Crete, Iraklion, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Maravelias C, Dona A, Athanaselis S, Koutsogeorgopoulou L, Koutselinis A. Immunomodulative effects of some drugs of abuse on human peripheral blood lymphocytes. Vet Hum Toxicol 1999; 41:205-10. [PMID: 10434372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
The cytotoxic effects of opiates, cocaine and their metabolites on peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy volunteers, concerning cell viability, were studied in a wide range of concentrations (ranging from 10-(2) to 10-(8) M), by 2 colorimetric in vitro assays, the neutral red uptake assay and thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide assay. All tested drugs of abuse and their metabolites were non-cytotoxic at concentrations lower than 10-(5) M. The possible immunomodulative effects of these substances were evaluated through phytohemagglutinin-induced lymphocyte proliferation ([3H]-thymidine DNA incorporation assay) as well as by a 51Cr release natural killer assay. The results showed immunomodulative effects of all the opiates tested. Cocaine, freebase cocaine and benzoylecgonine produced a statistically non-significant decrease of phytohemagglutinin proliferation. Cocaine induced a statistically non-significant increase, whereas freebase cocaine and benzoylecgonine showed a non-significant decrease of natural killer cell activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Maravelias
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Athanaselis S, Dona A, Papadodima S, Papoutsis G, Maravelias C, Koutselinis A. The use of alcohol and other psychoactive substances by victims of traffic accidents in Greece. Forensic Sci Int 1999; 102:103-9. [PMID: 10464928 DOI: 10.1016/s0379-0738(99)00053-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol is one of the main causes of traffic accidents worldwide. Its use decreases significantly the driving ability of an individual as well as the reflexes of a pedestrian increasing in this way the possibilities of their involvement in motor-vehicle accidents. The above possibilities are increased when a psychoactive substance has been taken in combination with alcohol due to their synergistic effect. The Laboratory of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology of the University of Athens is authorized to perform the toxicological investigation of traffic accidents that happen in the major part of Greece. The findings of the toxicological analyses that were performed in our laboratory during the years 1995 to 1997 are classified according to the alcohol concentration and the kind of psychoactive substance detected as well as to the gender and the age of the victims, drivers or pedestrians. The results of the above classification are evaluated and the conclusions regarding alcohol, drugs and traffic accidents in Greece are discussed thoroughly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Athanaselis
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Dona A, Athanaselis S, Maravelias C, Koutselinis A. Detection of "uncommon" tranquillizers-sedatives during screening toxicological analysis. Forensic Sci Int 1999; 99:71-7. [PMID: 10069024 DOI: 10.1016/s0379-0738(98)00170-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
47
|
Abstract
The detection of marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, PCP, alcohol and nicotine in saliva and sweat is reviewed, with emphasis on forensic applications. The short window of detection and lower levels of drugs present compared to levels found in urine limits the applications of sweat and saliva screening for drug use determination. However, these matrices may be applicable for use in driving while intoxicated and surveying populations for illicit drug use. Although not an illicit drug, the detection of ethanol is reviewed because of its importance in driving under the influence. Only with alcohol may saliva be used to estimate blood levels and the degree of impairment because of the problems with oral contamination and drug concentrations varying depending upon how the saliva is obtained. The detection of nicotine and cotinine (from smoking tobacco) is also covered because of its use in life insurance screening and surveying for passive exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D A Kidwell
- Chemistry Division, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC 20375, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Stefanidou M, Dona A, Athanaselis S, Papoutsis I, Koutselinis A. The cannabinoid content of marihuana samples seized in Greece and its forensic application. Forensic Sci Int 1998. [DOI: 10.1016/s0379-0738(98)00083-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
|
49
|
Athanaselis S, Dona A, Maravelias C, Koutselinis A. Analysis and identification of zipeprol and its metabolites during drug abuse screening. J Anal Toxicol 1996; 20:564-7. [PMID: 8934307 DOI: 10.1093/jat/20.7.564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Zipeprol and its two main metabolites were identified in urine samples from drug abusers. Their analytical behavior during screening procedures for drugs of abuse was examined, and their basic thin-layer chromatographic and gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric analytical parameters were determined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Athanaselis
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Medical School of Athens, Goudi, Greece
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Methenitou G, Maravelias C, Koutsogeorgopoulou L, Athanaselis S, Koutselinis A. Immunomodulative effects of aflatoxins and selenium on human peripheral blood lymphocytes. Vet Hum Toxicol 1996; 38:274-7. [PMID: 8829345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the antagonist immunomodulative properties of aflatoxin B1 and selenium on human peripheral blood lymphocytes by 2 colorimetric in vitro cytotoxicity assays, the neutral red uptake and the thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide assay. Immunotoxic properties of these substances were determined by a (3H)-thymidine DNA incorporation assay on phytohemagglutinin (PHA) stimulated and non-stimulated lymphocytes. Aflatoxin B1 and selenium, when studied separately, had an immunosuppressive effect on PHA stimulated and non-stimulated human peripheral blood lymphocytes. When they were studied together, they had an antagonistic effect on this immunological parameter.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Methenitou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|