Alpha-amylase Concentrations Research Articles

PSXI-13 Effects of corn containing gene for high concentration of alpha amylase (Enogen Feed corn) on fermentative parameters, digestibility and methane in vitro

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate different corn hybrids, with (Enogen) or without high amylase concentration, on fermentative parameters, dry matter disappearance and in vitro gas production. The treatments evaluated were Tropical flint corn (TFC), Enogen flint corn (EFC) and Enogen dent corn (EDC). All corn was processed and had the same average particle size. The experiment was carried out using automatic gas pressure detection modules (ANKOM, RF). Rumen fluid was collected from two animals fitted with a rumen cannula and fed a diet containing 60% forage. The ruminal liquid was combined with buffer in a 1:4 ratio, respectively, and each bottle received 150 mL of this mixture plus 1.5g of DM corn sample. After 24 h of testing, the pH was measured in each bottle, samples were collected for analysis of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), ammonia, gas samples for methane quantification and the final residue was taken to determine the DM disappearance. The data were analyzed using Proc Mixed from SAS (9.4), using the following contrasts: 1) TFC (without Enogen technology) vs. Enogen corn (EFC and EDC) and; 2) EFC vs. EDC. Corn with Enogen technology increased the proportion of propionate (TFC: 28.2; EFC: 29.8; EDC: 30.7 mM/100mM; P < 0.01), butyrate (TFC: 9.83; EFC: 10.8; EDC: 11.3 mM/100mM; P = 0.01), isovalerate (TFC: 1.48; EFC: 1.68; EDC: 1.61; P < 0.01) and valerate (TFC: 1.06; EFC: 1.23; EDC: 1.08 mM/100mM; P = 0.03) and decreased acetate (TFC: 58.7; EFC: 55.8; EDC: 54.6 mM/100mM; P < 0.01) and the acetate:propionate ratio (TFC: 2.09; EFC: 1.88; EDC: 1.79; P < 0.01), without affecting ruminal pH and total SCFA. The EDC reduced acetate (P < 0.01), valerate (P = 0.01) and ammonia (TFC: 0.58; EFC: 0.60; EDC: 0.40 mg/dL; P < 0.01) compared with EFC, without affecting the other fermentation variables. The Enogen technology increased the disappearance of DM (TFC: 75.6; EFC: 78.4; EDC: 82.4%; P < 0.01) and reduced the concentration of methane (TFC: 2.99 EFC: 2.09 EDC: 1.87%; P = 0.05) in relation to TFC. Furthermore, EDC corn increased the disappearance of DM (P < 0.01) without affecting gas and methane production when compared with EFC. In conclusion, Enogen technology optimizes the fermentation and DM disappearance, in addition to reducing the concentration of methane, and using the Enogen technology, dent corn is superior to flint corn.

Cognitive performance during exposure to moderate normobaric hypoxia after sleep restriction: Relationship to physiological and stress biomarkers

IntroductionExposure to moderate levels of simulated hypoxia has subtle cognitive effects relative to ground level, in healthy individuals. However, there are few data on the cognitive consequences of the combination of hypoxia and partial sleep deprivation, which is a classic military or civilian operational context. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that exposure to moderate hypoxia while sleep-restricted impairs several domains of cognition, and we also assessed physiological parameters and salivary concentrations of cortisol and alpha-amylase. MethodSeventeen healthy males completed two sessions of cognitive tests (sustained attention using the PVT psychomotor vigilance task and executive functions using the Go-NoGo inhibition task and N-Back working memory task) after 30 min (T + 30′) and 4 h (T + 240′) of exposure in a normobaric hypoxic tent (FIO2 = 13.6 %, ≃ 3,500 m) (HY). This was completed after one night of sleep restriction (3 a.m. to 6 a.m. bedtime, SRHY) and one night of habitual sleep (10 p.m. to 6 a.m. bedtime, HSHY) (with cross-over randomization). The two nights sleep architecture and physiological parameters (oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate (HR) during T + 30′ and T + 240′sessions were analyzed. Salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase (sAA) concentrations were analyzed before hypoxia, after the T + 30′ and T + 240′ cognitive sessions, and after leaving the hypoxic tent. ResultsSustained attention (RT and number of lapses in the PVT) and executive functions (Go-NoGo and 1-Back and 2-Back parameters, as inhibition and working memory signatures) were impaired in the SRHY condition compared to HSHY. SpO2 and HR were higher after 4 h compared with 30 min of hypoxia in the HSHY condition, while only HR was statistically higher in the SRHY condition. In SRHY, salivary AA concentration was lower and cortisol was higher than in HSHY. A significant increase in sAA concentration is observed after the cognitive session at 4 h of hypoxia exposure compared to that at 30 min, only in the SRHY condition. There are significant positive correlations between reaction time and the corresponding heart rate (a non-invasive marker of physiological stress) for the executive tasks in the two sleep conditions. This was not observed for salivary levels of sAA and cortisol, respective reliable indicators of the sympathoadrenomedullary system and the hypothalamic-pituitary adrenocortical system. ConclusionExposure to moderate normobaric hypoxia (≃ 3500 m / ≃ 11,500 ft simulated) after a single night of 3-hour sleep impairs cognitive performance after 30 min and 4 h of exposure. The key determinants and/or mechanism(s) responsible for cognitive impairment when exposed to moderate hypoxia with sleep restriction, particularly on the executive function, have yet to be elucidated.

Impact of Stimulation Duration in taVNS-Exploring Multiple Physiological and Cognitive Outcomes.

Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that modulates the noradrenergic activity of the locus coeruleus (LC). Yet, there is still uncertainty about the most effective stimulation and reliable outcome parameters. In a double blind, sham-controlled study including a sample of healthy young individuals (N = 29), we compared a shorter (3.4 s) and a longer (30 s) stimulation duration and investigated the effects of taVNS (real vs. sham) on saliva samples (alpha amylase and cortisol concentration), pupil (pupillary light reflex and pupil size at rest) and EEG data (alpha and theta activity at rest, ERPs for No-Go signals), and cognitive tasks (Go/No-Go and Stop Signal Tasks). Salivary alpha amylase concentration was significantly increased in the real as compared to sham stimulation for the 30 s stimulation condition. In the 3.4 s stimulation condition, we found prolonged reaction times and increased error rates in the Go/No-Go task and increased maximum acceleration in the pupillary light reflex. For the other outcomes, no significant differences were found. Our results show that prolonged stimulation increases salivary alpha-amylase, which was expected from the functional properties of the LC. The finding of longer response times to short taVNS stimulation was not expected and cannot be explained by an increase in LC activity. We also discuss the difficulties in assessing pupil size as an expression of taVNS-mediated LC functional changes.

Synthesis of Maltodextrin from Comercial Corn Starch with Variation of Alpha Amylase Concentration, Temperature and Hydrolisis Period for Determining Dextrose Equivalen Value

Maltodextrin is defined as a partial starch hydrolysis product prepared by the addition of an acid or an enzyme, which contains α-D-glucose units which are mostly bound by - (1,4) glycosidic bonds. Maltodextrin is usually described by DE (Dextrose Equivalent). The commercial use of starch is affected by the DE value. The greater DE value means the more percentage of starch that turns into reducing sugars. This research was conducted by testing the DE value with maltodextrin production using alpha amylase enzyme catalyst by varying the enzyme concentration (0.2 ml; 0.4 ml; 0.6 ml), hydrolysis time (60 min; 90 min) and hydrolysis temperature (70°C ; 80°C). The results of the research give some point that's the DE value obtained with the independent variables, which is the time of hydrolysis and the concentration of the enzyme catalyst, experienced data fluctuations because the sample still had a lot of water. Also the higher of hydrolysis temperature, the greater DE value of maltodextrin was obtained.

Relationship Between Stress And Alpha Amylase Levels Among Presenters

Background: Stress occurs when the internal homeostasis is disrupted by external environmental stressors. Salivary Alpha Amylase (sAA) levels are increased in response to stress, and it is frequently used as a biomarker of stress. Aims: To determine the relationship between stress and alpha-amylase levels among presenters by the difference in levels scored in pre and post presentation. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted to achieve the objectives of the study and was achieved to determine the association between stress and salivary alpha amylase levels for presenters during the period from 10th. Jan, 2022 to Jan, 20th. Mar, 2022. The study was conducted by selecting a typical form of non-probability (Purposive) sample. The size of the sample of 70 participants was included in the study. Results: The relationship between stress and the level of alpha amylase concentration was low in post presentation in comparison with pre presentation (0.11±0.03) and (0.13±0.02) respectively. This result was statistically highly significant according to paired t-test and the P-value was < 0.001. Furthermore, the level of Alpha amylase activity was low in post presentation in comparison with pre presentation (289658.5±76490.7) and (321693.9±52219.2) respectively. This result was statistically highly significant according to paired one group t-test and the P-value was<=0.0001. Conclusion: It was concluded Stress was elevated in the post-presentation in compare with the pre-presentation. and the levels of alpha amylase were affected by the presenters’ age groups.

Bottom-up approach to explore alpha-amylase assisted membrane remodelling

Soluble alpha-amylases play an important role in the catabolism of polysaccharides. In this work, we show that the malt α -amylase can interact with the lipid membrane and further alter its mechanical properties. Vesicle fluctuation spectroscopy is used for quantitative measurement of the membrane bending rigidity of phosphatidylcholines lipid vesicles from the shape fluctuation based on the whole contour of Giant Unilamellar Vesicles (GUVs). The bending rigidity of the 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine lipid vesicles in water increases significantly with the presence of 0.14 micromolar alpha-amylase (AA) in the exterior solution. It appears that the enzyme present in the external solution interacts with the outer layer of the bilayer membrane, leading to an asymmetry of the solution on either side of the bilayer membrane and altering its elasticity. At AA concentration of 1.5 micromolars and above, changes in the morphology of the GUV membrane are observed. The interaction between AA in the external solution and the external leaflet causes the bilayer membrane to curve spontaneously, leading to the formation of outbuds, giving a positive spontaneous curvature of C0 ≤ 0.05 μm−1 at ≈ 1 mg / ml of the AA concentration. We validate and characterize its concentration-dependent role in stabilizing the membrane curvature. Our findings indicate that the involvement of the enzyme, depending on the concentration, can have a considerable effect on the mechanical characteristics of the membrane.

Assessing the Role of Salivary Alpha-Amylase in Dental Caries in Children aged 6–9 Years – A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract Introduction: Salivary alpha-amylase is an enzymatic powerhouse, breaking down starch in food and whisking it away from the oral cavity. Its presence in the acquired enamel pellicle hints at involvement in the adhesion of α-amylase-binding bacteria. This study delves into the impact of salivary alpha-amylase in children with varying caries statuses, aiming to understand its correlation with the severity of dental caries. Aims: The aim of this study was to determine the relation between salivary alpha-amylase levels in children with dental caries. Material and Methods: Ninety children in the age range from 6 to 9 years were enrolled. The caries status is assessed using the decayed, missing, and filled teeth index. Each participant provided unstimulated whole saliva samples, which were centrifuged at 5000 rpm for 5 min to eliminate debris. Alpha-amylase concentration was estimated using Auto-analyzer (ERBA EM-200). Results: The mean values of salivary α-amylase were 4.2% higher in girls than in boys. The salivary α-amylase levels were found to increase slightly from the control group to the caries group though statistically nonsignificant. Conclusions: Although salivary α-amylase levels not showed a statistical significance correlation to dental caries, it does throw a light on the biochemical aspect of salivary alpha-amylase correlated to other factors, influencing dental caries such as gender, dietary preferences, adverse oral habits, and hormonal influence.

Relation of Salivary Alpha-Amylase (sAA) Concentration to Fatigue Biomarkers in Palm Oil Office Workers in Jambi Province: Preliminary Study

Relation of Salivary Alpha-Amylase (sAA) Concentration to Fatigue Biomarkers in Palm Oil Office Workers in Jambi Province: Preliminary Study

Academic stress and practical performance of freshmen in human anatomy

Objective: to evaluate salivary Cortisol and Alpha-amylase levels, relating them to the level of stress and academic performance of calories in the Human Anatomy discipline. Methods: Saliva collection procedures were performed before and after the application of the practical assessment of Human Anatomy. Saliva Cortisol and alpha-amylase concentrations were evaluated by ELISA method. The short version of the Stress Assessment Questionnaire for Nursing Students (ASNS) was used. Results: There was an increase in the students' stress level, with a significant increase of 46.8% in the levels of Cortisol and 46.1% of Alpha-amylase, (p <0.0009 and p <0.0001, respectively) after performing the proof. Initial averages were evaluated, before the start of the evaluation, of 0.440 ± 0.047 µg/dL for Cortisol and 111.19 ± 11.86 U/mL for salivary Alpha-amylase, and final average, after the evaluation was carried out, of Cortisol and final Alpha-amylase of 0.646 ± 0.178 µg/dL and 162.45 ± 44.69, respectively. The level of stress detected by the questionnaire presented significantly and positively (Cortisol: r²= 0.4353; p=0.0272/Alpha-amylase: r²= 0.4413; p=0.0258), with peak Cortisol (0, 21±0.15 μg/dL) and alpha-amylase (162.5 ± 44.7 U/ml). There was a significant and negative glow of academic performance with the peak of Cortisol (r²= 0.4169; p=0.0319) and Alpha-amylase (r²=0.4178; p=0.0316). Conclusion: The increase in declared stress is multifactorial, in which the university routine and emotional instability intensify the increase in anxiety and self-demand, which has repercussions on the performance of academics.

Multifactorial stress reactivity to virtual TSST-C in healthy children and adolescents—It works, but not as well as a real TSST-C

A virtual version of the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) has been increasingly used in stress research. Benefits of the virtual TSST include that it is more economical, and offers improved control of context and enhanced flexibility of use. Many studies have confirmed the applicability of virtual TSSTs in stress research, but only in adulthood. In the present study, we aimed to experimentally verify the transferability of a virtual TSST to adolescence. A total of 73 healthy adolescents (aged 11–17 years) of both sexes completed either a real (IV-TSST-C) or virtual (VR-TSST-C) TSST for children. The surveyed stress parameters included salivary cortisol and alpha amylase concentrations, heart rate, heart rate variability, and subjective stress ratings across test sessions, as well as a pre- to post-TSST-C comparison. All parameters revealed significant stress responses over time. We observed significant effects of group on cortisol and subjective stress ratings, with the VR-TSST-C inducing less stress than the IV-TSST-C. In alpha amylase, heart rate, and heart rate variability, we found no significant difference between TSST versions, but only significant equivalence for alpha amylase. Some parameters may have been influenced by an expectancy effect and the participant’s sex. In conclusion, among adolescents, a virtual TSST-C effectively elicits stress at multiple levels (endocrinological, autonomic, and subjective); however, the magnitude is not always comparable to with the real TSST-C, which should be considered when applied.

Hypothesis that alpha-amylase evokes regulatory mechanisms originating in the pancreas, gut and circulation, which govern glucose/insulin homeostasis.

The anti-incretin theory involving the abolishment of diabetes type (DT) II by some of methods used in bariatric surgery, first appeared during the early years of the XXI century and considers the existence of anti-incretin substances. However, to date no exogenous or endogenous anti-incretins have been found. Our concept of the acini-islet-acinar axis assumes that insulin intra-pancreatically stimulates alpha-amylase synthesis ("halo phenomenon") and in turn, alpha-amylase reciprocally inhibits insulin production, thus making alpha-amylase a candidate for being an anti-incretin. Additionally, gut as well as plasma alpha-amylase, of pancreatic and other origins, inhibits the appearance of dietary glucose in the blood, lowering the glucose peak after iv or oral glucose loading. This effect of alpha-amylase can be interpreted as an insulin down regulatory mechanism, possibly limiting the depletion of pancreatic beta cells and preventing their failure. Clinical observations agree with the above statements, where patients with high blood alpha-amylase concentrations are seldom obese and seldom develop DT2. Obese-DT2, as well as DT1 patients, usually develop exo-crine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) and vice versa. Ultimately, DT2 patients develop DT1, when the pancreatic beta cells are exhausted and insulin production ceases. Studies on biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) and on BPD with duodenal switch, a type of bariatric surgery, as well as studies on EPI pigs, allow us to observe and investigate the above-mentioned phenomena of intra-pancreatic interactions.

Reduction of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in Finishing Cattle Fed Corn Genetically Modified to Produce Increased Concentrations of Alpha Amylase in the Corn Kernel.

Cattle are recognized as the principal reservoir for Escherichia coli O157:H7 and preharvest food safety efforts often focus on decreasing shedding of this pathogen in cattle feces. Enogen® corn (EC; Syngenta Seeds, LLC) is genetically modified to produce enhanced concentrations of α-amylase in the corn kernel endosperm. Research has demonstrated improvements in feed efficiency for cattle fed EC and research has not yet explored whether improved digestion impacts foodborne pathogen populations in cattle. Therefore, this study explored effects of finishing diets containing EC on Escherichia coli O157:H7 prevalence in cattle. A 2 × 2 factorial experiment was conducted with steers (n = 960) fed diets consisting of 2 types of silage (EC or Control) and grain (EC or Control), fed daily ad libitum. Steers were grouped into 12 blocks by incoming body weight, blocks were randomly assigned to one of four pens, and pens were randomly assigned to one diet. Cattle were sampled using rectoanal mucosal swabs in cohorts of 298-337 cattle per day, for a total of 3 sampling days (15-16 days apart). Escherichia coli O157:H7 prevalence rates ranged from not detected (0/75) to 10.0% (8/80) depending on sampling day. Tests for the silage × corn interaction, and the main effects of silage and corn, were not significant (p > 0.05); however, EC reduced the odds of Escherichia coli O157:H7 prevalence by 43% compared to the control corn diet (p = 0.07). Diets containing EC tended to decrease Escherichia coli O157:H7 prevalence in feedlot cattle; however, this reduction was not significant. Before a conclusion can be drawn about impact of EC on Escherichia coli O157:H7 in cattle, further research is necessary to (1) determine if this tendency is due to increased alpha amylase activity and (2) elucidate impact on Escherichia coli O157:H7 prevalence and concentration, as well as a possible mechanism of action.

Eugenia sonderiana O. Berg leaves: Phytochemical characterization, evaluation of in vitro and in vivo antidiabetic effects, and structure-activity correlation

Several medicinal plants have drawn the attention of researchers by its phytochemical composition regarding their potential for treating chronic complications of diabetes mellitus. In this context, plants of the Myrtaceae family popularly used in Brazil for the treatment of diabetes mellitus, including Eugenia sonderiana, have shown beneficial effects due to the presence of phenolic compounds and saponins in their chemical constitution. Thus, the present work aimed to perform the phytochemical characterization of the hydroethanolic extract of E. sonderiana leaves using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS), along with in vitro and in vivo studies of antidiabetic activity. The chemical characterization revealed the presence of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, neolignans, tannins, and saponins. In addition, the extract exhibited minimum inhibitory concentrations of alpha-amylase and alpha-glycosidase higher than the acarbose in the in vitro tests. Also, the in vivo tests revealed a slight increase in body mass in diabetic rats, as well as a significant decrease in water and feed consumption provided by the extract. Regarding serum biochemical parameters, the extract showed significant activity in decreasing the levels of glucose, hepatic enzymes, and triglycerides, in addition to maintaining HDL cholesterol levels within normal ranges, protecting the cell membranes against oxidative damage. Thus, the extract of E. sonderiana leaves was considered promising pharmaceutical ingredient in the production of a phytotherapy medication.

Salivary Biomarkers: Noninvasive Ways for Diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease.

Finding reliable biomarkers has a crucial role in Parkinson's disease (PD) assessments. Saliva is a bodily fluid, which might be used as a source of biomarkers for PD. Our article has reviewed several publications on salivary proteins in PD patients and their potential as biomarkers. We find out that α-Syn's proportion in oligomeric form is higher in PD patients' saliva, which is potent to use as a biomarker for PD. The salivary concentration of DJ-1 and alpha-amylase is lower in PD patients. Also, substance P level is more moderate in PD patients. Although salivary flow rate is decreased in PD patients, high levels of heme oxygenase and acetylcholinesterase might be used as noninvasive biomarkers. Salivary miRNAs (miR-153, miR-223, miR-874, and miR-145-3p) are novel diagnostic biomarkers that should be given more attention.

Characterization and determination of hydrolysis process parameters of superior sweet starch CIP-types enzymatically

Indonesia is rich in starch raw materials, but until now is still importing sugar and modified starch for food and non-food industrial raw materials. One of the reasons is the limited information regarding the feasibility of starches as industrial raw materials. Based on the whiteness and the high content of starch, the research institution of Centro International de La Papa (CIP) in Indonesia has produced five clones of superior sweet potatoes, which are CIP-1, CIP-2, CIP-3, CIP-4 and CIP-5. The feasibility of starch for industrial raw materials is not only seen from the physical aspect but also from the chemical aspect and process parameters. This research aims to study the physical and chemical properties of superior CIP-type and local sweet potato starch, as well as determine the best process parameter to be used in the enzymatic hydrolysis industry. Sweet potato starches that had been tested were five CIP starches and local sweet potato starches, using descriptive statistics method and Completely Randomized Design. The characteristics of physical and chemical properties under the study were degree of whiteness, granule size, amylose and amylopectin levels. The parameter processes tested were temperature and concentration of alpha amylase enzyme with observed variables comprising gelatinization time, reaction speed, dextrose equivalent (DE) and Unit Brabender (UB). According to the results of the research, it was found that starch types CIP-1, CIP-2 and CIP-5 were more qualified to be used for raw materials in the hydrolysis industry than CIP-3, CIP-4 and local sweet potato starch. Meanwhile, the best process parameter for hydrolysis was liquification at a temperature of 85oC and concentration of alpha amylase enzyme of 0.07%.

Enzymatic liquification pattern of superior sweet potato starch of CIP-type

The liquification pattern of each type of starch at the best temperature and enzyme concentration varies, and the physical and chemical properties influence it. The whiter the starch, the smaller and more uniform the size of the granule and the higher amylose level and more amorphous regions, thus it results in a better liquification pattern and feasibility of starch for industrial raw materials. This research aimed to study the best changes in saccharide pattern during the liquification process of superior Centro International de La Papa (CIP)-type sweet potato starch at a temperature of 85oC and the concentration of alpha-amylase enzyme (0.07%) obtained from preliminary research. Hence, the advantages of the resulting hydrolyzate products were compared. The sweet potato starches tested were CIP-1, CIP-2, and CIP-5, tested using the Completely Randomized Design method with two repetitions. The variables observed were DE, dextrin, changes in amylase and amylopectin levels, high saccharide levels, maltotriose, maltose, glucose, and viscosity. The results showed that liquification of CIP-1 sweet potato starch for 225 mins produced better hydrolysate (30.52% DE, 16.28% maltose, 18.70% maltotriose, 1.06% glucose). Meanwhile, 20 mins of liquification resulted in higher dextrin (84.86%). However, the viscosity of CIP-1 was slightly thicker (22 cPs) than CIP-2 (15 cPs) and CIP -5 (15 cPs). The results showed that three types of starch were qualified for raw materials in the advanced hydrolysis industry (DE value was in the range of 20 - 45%), such as saccharification, with the order that CIP-1 was better than CIP-2 and CP-2 was better than CIP-5.

The relationship between salivary alpha-amylase, nitric oxide, pain and anxiety-induced stress in patients during dental treatment.

Pain and anxiety are the most reported negative effect of orthodontic treatment which can influence the quality of life and are responsible for the discontinuation of treatment. These unpleasant experiences raise the stress levels reflected by the increase in the concentration of salivary alpha-amylase and nitric oxide. These can be assessed through various subjective methods which have limited value as it depends on the patient's honesty, assessing whether using objective methods are reliable. To assess pain and anxiety-induced stress levels using both physiological (Salivary alpha-amylase and Salivary nitric oxide) and psychological testing instruments (Visual analog scale and State Trait Anxiety Inventory Y6) during the initial phases of fixed orthodontic treatment. A total of 30 patients were included. Pain and anxiety instruments were applied and saliva samples were collected from patients before and after separator placement, before and 48 h after archwire insertion and 1 month after archwire insertion. The mean values of alpha-amylase (235.3600), nitric oxide levels (2.060) and pain scores (7.8667) were higher 48 h after archwire insertion (T3) which are statistically significant, P = 0.00. Anxiety scores (57.7000) were high before separator placement (T0). No statistically significant correlation was found among pain and alpha-amylase, anxiety and nitric oxide levels. Initial alignment phases of fixed orthodontic treatment affect patients' anxiety and stress levels. The findings could be a result of the psychological stress due to procedures in the initial phases of the treatment.

The effect of an internet-based intervention for depression on cortisol and alpha-amylase

IntroductionPsychotherapeutic interventions for major depressive disorder (MDD) have been suggested to be associated with a normalization of biological stress system (i.e., the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the autonomic nervous system) dysregulation. Furthermore, pre-intervention cortisol parameters have been identified as prescriptive biological markers of treatment success. However, evidence of treatment effects on the biological stress systems is still sparse, and results are heterogeneous. The current study examined the effect of an internet-based intervention for MDD on salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase as well as hair cortisol concentrations. Moreover, the prescriptive capacity of pre-intervention cortisol and alpha-amylase concentrations on treatment response was explored. MethodsThirty-eight participants suffering from mild to moderate MDD collected saliva and hair samples throughout the intervention. Biological outcome parameters were salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase (awakening response, total diurnal output, diurnal slope) and hair cortisol concentrations. Treatment response was indicated by change in depression severity and perceived chronic stress. ResultsTreatment response on depression scores or chronic stress was not associated with changes in any of the cortisol or alpha-amylase parameters. Exploratory analysis indicated that non-responders showed a steeper alpha-amylase slope pre-intervention. DiscussionThe results indicate that changes in depressive symptoms did not correspond to changes of the biological stress systems, contradicting the suggested normalization of dysregulated hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis or autonomic nervous system activity through a psychotherapeutic intervention. However, the results point to a potential role of pre-intervention alpha-amylase slope as a prescriptive marker of treatment response for depression.

Effect of Traffic Noise on Salivary Cortisol and Alpha-amylase Concentration while Driving

Effect of Traffic Noise on Salivary Cortisol and Alpha-amylase Concentration while Driving

The salivary alpha-amylase concentration in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A case–control study

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the most common chronic inflammatory diseases. Previous studies have reported an association between stress and salivary alpha-amylase. The aim of this study was to investigate the concentration of salivary alpha-amylase in patients with RA (by elimination of stress factor). Materials and Methods: In this case–control study, we enrolled 50 patients with RA and 48 healthy patients as the control group. The perceived stress scale questionnaire was used to evaluate scores of stress in both case and control groups, and then the participants with high scores of stress were excluded from the study. Moreover, the alpha-amylase activity kit was used for the assessment of the levels of salivary alpha-amylase. In all analyses, the significance level was considered to be < 0.05. Finally, the obtained data were analyzed by SPSS22. Results: Our results indicated a high score of stress in the case group (19.42 ± 5.83 units) compared with the control group (18.02 ± 6.07 units) which was not statistically significant (P < 0.248). Moreover, we demonstrated a high salivary alpha-amylase concentration in the case group (340.65 ± 38.04 units) compared to the control group (302.62 ± 58.72 units), which was statistically significant (P < 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of this method, at >312 alpha-amylase concentrations, were 80% and 46%, respectively. Conclusion: In general, we indicated that the alpha-amylase concentration in patients with RA is higher than the healthy controls, and can be used as a codiagnostic factor.