Mean Total Antioxidant Capacity Research Articles

Salivary levels of catalase, total antioxidant capacity and interleukin-1β and oral health-related quality of life after matcha and green tea consumption for patients with gingivitis: A randomized clinical trial.

To evaluate the changes in salivary levels of catalase (CAT), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and IL-1β (primary outcomes) as well as gingival health and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQOL) 1 month after the consumption of matcha and green tea in adult patients with gingivitis. This study was a parallel randomized clinical trial. Forty gingivitis adult patients were randomly assigned to drink either matcha or green tea cup twice daily for a duration of 1 month. They were asked to keep their habitual oral hygiene measures. Plaque index (PI) and bleeding on probing (BOP) were recorded. In addition, saliva was collected at baseline and 1 month after tea consumption. Salivary levels of CAT, TAC and IL-1β were determined by ELISA. Each participant was asked to fill OHIP-14 questionnaire before and after tea consumption. Following tea intake, 40.6% of the study sample had healthy gingiva. Both groups similarly showed reductions in PI (0.32 ± 0.11-0.22 ± 0.08) and BOP (0.24 ± 0.08-0.13 ± 0.07) scores after tea consumption. There was a significant difference between mean TAC before and after matcha tea consumption only. Non-significant reductions in salivary levels of CAT and IL-1β were detected after tea consumption. OHRQOL of participants was improved after tea, both types, consumption. Despite study limitations, daily consumption of matcha and green tea might be beneficial as they potentially enhance OHRQOL of individuals with gingivitis and reduce the extent of gingivitis despite non-significant changes in salivary antioxidants and IL-1β levels.

Strategic administration of antioxidant multiminerals and vitamins to transitional buffaloes augments antioxidant and udder defense mechanisms in early lactation

The aim of the study was to examine the effects of repeated administrations of antioxidant multiminerals and vitamins in transition buffaloes on udder defense mechanism, antioxidant activity and occurrence of intramammary infection (IMI) in early lactation period. Forty clinically healthy pregnant buffaloes were enrolled 45 days before expected date of calving and randomly allocated into five different supplementation groups (n = 8): only basal ration (control), vitamin E and selenium (VES), multiminerals (MM), ascorbic acid (AA) and chromium (Cr) picolinate in basal diet. The udder defense mechanism was monitored by measuring phagocytic activity (PA), myeloperoxidase (MPO) and nitric oxide (NO) productions in milk leukocytes, antioxidant activity was evaluated by measuring total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in plasma and occurrence of IMI was assessed by milk cytology, bacterial count in milk and visible clinical signs of udder until day 28 post-calving. The results showed that the VES and MM supplementations exhibited significantly higher PA, MPO and NO productions of milk leukocytes till first week of lactation whereas, elevated mean TAC in plasma was maintained from day −7 to 1 of calving in MM supplementation group as compared to control group. Statistically, no significant difference in occurrences of subclinical or clinical IMI was noted across the groups until four weeks of lactation. Taken together, it is concluded that repeated administrations of VES and MM to transition buffaloes could be an effective strategy to maintain good udder health by augmenting milk leukocyte functions and antioxidant status and preventing incidence of IMI in early lactation.

Assessing the antioxidant potential of soft beverages in the Turkish market: a comprehensive study

ABSTRACT Soft beverages are an important part of fluid intake; however, it should be the main target to choose the right beverages according to healthy nutrition. This study aimed to determine, evaluate, and create a database of the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) contents of widely consumed soft beverages in local markets in Turkey. A total of 394 beverages, including 60 carbonated, 100 non-carbonated, 136 tea (teabags for cups and teapots and, shredded tea leaves), 75 coffee (instant and brewed), and 23 fermented beverages, with expiration dates at most half their shelf life, were analyzed. Shredded tea leaves and brewed coffees were prepared with different brewing techniques. TAC was analyzed on the MINDRAY-BS400 device using commercial kit ABTS (2,2’-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) and results are presented as mmol Trolox Equivalent(TE)/L. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 26. The mean TAC of all beverages was 3.7 ± 1.4 mmolTE/L (.120–5.535 mmolTE/L), with the highest content of tea and coffee (4.3 ± .6 mmol TE/L) and the lowest carbonated beverages (1.4 ± 1.5 mmolTE/L) (p < .05). The overall results showed that all soft beverages have antioxidant activity; however, the right choice of soft beverages might contribute to the dietary TAC and increase fluid intake.

Association of Follicular Fluid Antioxidants Activity with Aging and In Vitro Fertilization Outcome: A Cross-Sectional Study.

This research was aimed at assessing the relationship between the follicular fluid (FF) antioxidants activity, aging and in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome. The present cross-sectional study was carried out on 65 women undergoing IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) cycles due to unexplained infertility. Ovarian stimulation was performed using the long gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist protocol. After ovum pickup, FF was collected and processed to measure the level of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) activity, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and glutathione (GSH). Day 3 after ICSI, fresh embryos were transferred and later, possible pregnancy was assessed. Patients participating in this study were divided into four groups on the basis of age and pregnancy outcome. SOD activity was not significantly different between the groups (P=0.218). GSH in the group whose participants were aged ≤35 years and were pregnant was higher than that in other groups. CAT activity in groups with younger participants was higher compared to the other groups. The mean TAC was higher in groups with pregnant participants compared to the non-pregnant women. Correlation analysis showed that: GSH level had a significant negative correlation with age (P<0.001, R -0.55) and a significant positive correlation with pregnancy (P=0.015, R=0.30). CAT level also had a significant negative correlation with age (P<0.001, R=-0.42) and the level of TAC had a significant positive correlation with pregnancy (P<0.001, R=0.59). According to our results, the levels of TAC, GSH and CAT in younger and pregnant women were higher compared with those undergoing ICSI cycles. Given the correlation of FF antioxidant activity with age and pregnancy, it is necessary to carry out more research on these compounds and the maintenance of pregnancy.

Effect of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy ‎on the Oxidative Balance of Fibromyalgia ‎Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is acknowledged as an efficient therapeutic modality in fibromyalgia. However, its effect on the oxidative balance of fibromyalgia patients has not been investigated. Objectives: We investigated whether CBT intervention could influence serum markers of oxidative balance. Methods: Forty fibromyalgia patients were randomly assigned to either the intervention (CBT) or control (waiting list) group. For the intervention group, traditional face-to-face CBT was performed for 20 sessions over two months. Sixteen patients in the CBT group and 17 patients in the control group completed the study. Outcomes were the serum total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) that were assessed before the intervention and at the end of the intervention by an oxidation-reduction colorimetric assay. Within-group and between-group analyses were performed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Mann–Whitney U test, respectively. Results: Baseline characteristics showed no significant difference between the participants of the two groups. At the end of the study, mean TOS significantly reduced in the case group (P &lt; 0.001) but not in the control group (P = 0.61), and mean TAC showed no significant change in the case and control groups (P = 0.1 and P = 0.09, respectively). The mean change in TOS was 0.43 ± 0.3 mM in the CBT group and 0.03 ± 0.2 mM in the control group (P &lt; 0.001). The mean change in TAC was 0.015 ± 0.03 mM in the CBT group and 0.01 ± 0.02 mM in the control group (P = 0.57). Conclusions: Cognitive-behavioral therapy improves the oxidative balance of fibromyalgia patients. Our results further support the benefits of CBT implication in the treatment of fibromyalgia.

The effect of the dietary approaches to stop hypertension diet on total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and body composition in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a randomized controlled trial.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver without excessive alcohol consumption. Lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a healthy diet, represent the standard treatment for NAFLD. However, the impact of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet on oxidative stress biomarkers in patients with NAFLD remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of the DASH diet on total antioxidant capacity (TAC), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, and body composition in overweight and obese patients with NAFLD. A total of 70 overweight and obese patients aged 1870 years were randomly assigned to either the intervention (DASH diet, n = 35) or the control group (control diet, n = 35) for 12 weeks, with both groups following a calorie-restricted diet. The mean age of participants was 43.1 ± 8.1 years in the DASH group and 45.1 ± 8.6 years in the control group. At the end of the study, a significant difference was observed in the mean TAC and SOD levels between the two groups (p = 0.02). After adjusting for potential confounding factors, such as age, sex, diabetes, smoking, physical activity, and baseline values, the DASH diet maintained its significant effects on TAC and SOD compared to the control diet (p = 0.03). However, there were no significant differences in CAT levels between the two groups. Moreover, a significant reduction in visceral fat (p = 0.01) and a marginally significant decrease in BMI (p = 0.06) were observed in the DASH group compared to the control group after adjusting for potential confounders. In conclusion, our study showed that following the DASH diet for 12 weeks in overweight and obese patients with NAFLD has beneficial effects on TAC, SOD, and visceral fat. These findings support the use of the DASH diet as a potential therapeutic intervention for the improvement of oxidative biomarkers in patients with NAFLD. www.irct.ir/, identifier IRCT20170117032026N3.

Determination of total antioxidant capacity in patients with bladder cancer and its correlation with the results of pathology

Introduction: The accumulative consequence of all antioxidants that exist in the blood and body fluids is called total antioxidant capacity (TAOC). The major objective of this investigation is to determine the correlation between TAOC and pathology results in patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). Materials and Methods: Based on the cross-sectional method, 35 patients with NMIBC and 35 controls (healthy characters) were studied. Biochemical and haematological variables were achieved and noted for each individual. Two blood samples (n = 5 ml) from each patient were obtained and analysed using Trolox standard immunoassay kit. Three groups were made according to the pathology results. The significance level was set at P ≤ 0.05. Results: There were not any significant differences (P = 0.12) between the mean age of patients and controls (60.7 vs. 59.5 years old) correspondingly. The mean value of TAOC (μmol/L) was significantly (P = 0.005) lower in patients when compared to controls (24.5 μmol/L vs. 94 μmol/L), respectively. In patients with NMIBC, sodium, magnesium, calcium, albumin, MCH, MCHC, VHCO3, haemoglobin, haematocrit and lymph were lower than the normal range. Blood sugar, creatinine, prothrombin time and white blood cells were higher than the normal range. The mean TAOC was as follows: papillary cell carcinoma (26.3 μmol/L), radical cystectomy (19 μmol/L) and high-grade bladder cancer (15.9 μmol/L). Conclusion: As deregulation of reactive oxygen species and antioxidant defence is two important components, in this study, there was high variation in TAOC according to pathology results. Combing individual TAOC and pathology results might be able to contribute to the advanced management of NMIBC. Further studies in this direction seem to be advantageous.

Effects of oral probiotic and lactoferrin interventions on iron-zinc homeostasis, oxidant/antioxidant equilibrium and diarrhoea incidence of neonatal piglets.

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of early-life host specific probiotic and lactoferrin (LF) supplementations on diarrhoea incidence, iron (Fe)-zinc (Zn) balance and antioxidant capabilities in serum of neonatal piglets. A total of eight sow litters obtained from parity matched sows were randomly divided into four groups and assigned to one of the four interventions: control (2.0 ml normal saline), bovine lactoferrin (bLF) (100 mg bLF in normal saline), probiotic (Pb) (1×109 cfu of swine origin Pediococcus acidilactici FT28 strain) and bLF+Pb (both 100 mg bLF and 1×109 cfu of P. acidilactici FT28). All the piglets received supplementations once daily orally for first 7 days of life. The incidence of diarrhoea markedly decreased in bLF group compared to control group. Notably, no incidences of diarrhoea were recorded in Pb and bLF+Pb groups. The Zn and Fe concentrations were significantly increased from day 7 to 21 in bLF and on day 21 in bLF+Pb group. No such changes were noted in Pb group. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in serum was significantly increased on days 7 and 15 in bLF group and on days 7 and 21 in bLF+Pb group. Malonaldehyde concentration was markedly reduced from day 7 to 21 in bLF and bLF+Pb groups. The concentrations of nitrate on days 15 and 21 and malonaldehyde on day 7 were significantly higher in Pb group, but mean TAC was unaltered from day 0 to 21. Although no correlation between the incidence of diarrhoea and Zn/Fe and oxidant/antioxidant homeostasis was noted in the Pb group, the supplementation of P. acidilactici FT28 alone was sufficient to prevent the incidence of diarrhoea in neonatal piglets. Taken together, it is concluded that strategic supplementation of P. acidilactici FT28 in early life could help in preventing diarrhoea until weaning of piglets.

Total oxidant capacity, total antioxidant capacity, ischemic modified albumin, microRNA levels, and their relationship with psoriasis area and severity index.

Aims To examine the differences in the levels of microRNA, ischemic modified albumin (IMA), total oxidant capacity (TOC), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of persons with and without psoriasis and, in the case group, the relationship between these parameters and psoriasis area and severity index (PASI). Methods Blood samples were collected from patients and healthy participants to examine levels of these parameters. Results The mean serum TOC level was higher in the case group. The mean serum TAC and IMA levels were significantly lower in the case group (P <0.001). It was observed that the mean serum miR-203 and miR-146a levels were increased in psoriasis patients. It was determined that there was only a significant positive weak correlation between miR-203 and PASI (r = 0.232, P = 0.027). Limitations The small sample size, not controlling serum albumin and not evaluating the effects of the treatment agents used by the patients on oxidative and inflammatory processes. Conclusion In the case group changes in the mean serum TOC and TAC levels provide evidence that oxidative stress may play a critical role in disease pathogenesis. The increase in the mean serum miR-203 and miR-146a levels suggest the possibility of therapies targeting these microRNAs as a new option.

NON-INVASIVE INSTRUMENTAL EVALUATION OF COENZYME Q10 PHYTOSOME ON ENDOTHELIAL REACTIVITY IN HEALTHY NON-SMOKING YOUNG VOLUNTEERS: A RANDOMIZED, PLACEBO-CONTROLLED CROSS-OVER STUDY

Objective: The present study aimed to investigate the effect on endothelial reactivity and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of either acute and chronic supplementation with coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) phytosome in a sample of 20 healthy young not smoking subjects. Design and method: This was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over clinical trial. Enrolled subjects were adhering to a low-fat low-sodium Mediterranean diet for four weeks before being randomized to receive CoQ10 supplement or placebo. At baseline and on the day of crossover, the immediate acute effect of dietary supplementation with CoQ10 phytosome was assessed at baseline and two hours after receiving a double dose of either active treatment or placebo. Study’s participants received adequate doses of either CoQ10 phytosome or placebo to complete the one of two 4-week treatment sequences. The crossover to the second treatment was preceded by a 2-week wash-out period. Results: The immediate acute effect of dietary supplementation with CoQ10 phytosome on pulse volume (PV) was sustained in the actively treated group in comparison with placebo and the baseline (p &lt; 0.05). Chronic supplementation of the tested pharmaceutical formulation of CoQ10 significantly improved mean arterial pressure and TAC compared to placebo and baseline values (p &lt; 0.05 for both comparisons). In the actively treated group, the effect on dietary supplementation with CoQ10 phytosome on PV was also sustained when compared to the baseline (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: In conclusion, CoQ10 phytosome exerts beneficial effects on endothelial reactivity in healthy young subjects. Further studies are needed that confirms our observations in the long term by directly comparing different CoQ10 pharmaceutical formulations.

Non-invasive instrumental evaluation of coenzyme Q10 phytosome on endothelial reactivity in healthy non-smoking young volunteers: a double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over clinical trial

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): University of Bologna Background Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a natural antioxidant compound that prevents the vascular damage induced by free radicals and the activation of inflammatory signaling pathways. Supplementation with CoQ10 is safe though its bioavailability is generally low, as far as variable depending on the pharmaceutical form of preparation. Recently, the development of phytosome technology has improved the bioavailability of CoQ10 and definitely facilitated its effective use in clinical. Purpose and Methods The present double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over clinical study aimed to investigate the effect on endothelial reactivity and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of either acute and chronic supplementation with CoQ10 phytosome in a sample of 20 healthy young not smoking subjects. Results The immediate acute effect of dietary supplementation with CoQ10 phytosome on pulse volume (PV) was sustained in the actively treated group in comparison with placebo and the baseline (p&amp;lt; 0.05). Chronic supplementation of the tested pharmaceutical formulation of CoQ10 significantly improved mean arterial pressure and TAC compared to placebo and baseline values (p&amp;lt; 0.05 for both comparisons). In the actively treated group, the effect on dietary supplementation with CoQ10 phytosome on PV was also sustained when compared to the baseline (P&amp;lt;0.05).

Noninvasive instrumental evaluation of coenzyme Q10 phytosome on endothelial reactivity in healthy nonsmoking young volunteers: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10 ) is a natural antioxidant compound that prevents the vascular damage induced by free radicals and the activation of inflammatory signaling pathways. Supplementation with CoQ10 is safe though its bioavailability is generally low, as far as variable depending on the pharmaceutical form of preparation. Recently, the development of phytosome technology has improved the bioavailability of CoQ10 and definitely facilitated its effective use in clinical practice. The present double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover clinical study aimed to investigate the effect on endothelial reactivity and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of either acute and chronic supplementation with CoQ10 phytosome in a sample of 20 healthy young nonsmoking subjects. CoQ10 phytosome supplementation acutely improved endothelial reactivity in comparison with baseline and placebo (+4.7% ± 0.9% vs. -0.1%± 0.3% p< 0.05). Middle-term supplementation of the tested pharmaceutical formulation of CoQ10 significantly improved mean arterial pressure (-2.2± 1.1 mmHg vs. 0.2± 0.7 mmHg, p< 0.05 vs. placebo) and TAC (+29.6% ± 3.2% vs. +1.9% ± 0.8%, p< 0.05 vs. placebo). Endothelial reactivity improved compared with baseline following middle-term dietary supplementation with CoQ10 phytosome (+5.7% ± 1.1%, p< 0.05).

Salivary Antioxidant Capacity and Oral Health Status in Children with Visual Impairments—A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Background Children with visual impairment are at a higher risk for developing dental disease, and imbalances in the antioxidant levels may play an important role in the development and management of oral diseases. Aim Our aim was to evaluate and compare the oral health status and salivary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in children with and without visual impairment. Methods Oral health was evaluated among 6 to 11 years old children with and without visual impairment (50 each) using World Health Organization oral health assessment form for caries prevalence, gingival health, and oral hygiene levels. Unstimulated saliva was collected and assayed for TAC using the phosphomolybdic method. Statistical Analysis The data collected were tabulated, and the results, thus, obtained were subjected to statistical analysis using EZR software—version 1.37. The variables between the two groups were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test and Fisher's exact test. A correlation test was done using Spearman's correlation test. Results The mean TAC levels among children with and without visual impairment were 49.17 (±25.702) and 156.67 (±56.031) µg/mL, respectively, which was statistically significant (p &lt; 0.001). The children with visual impairment showed a significantly higher number of carious lesions compared with the control group (p &lt; 0.001). Oral hygiene status and gingival health status were significantly poorer in children with visual impairments than the children in the control group (p &lt; 0.001). Conclusions Oral health was significantly poorer, and salivary TAC levels were significantly lower in children with visual impairment. There may be an inverse correlation between salivary TAC and oral health status. Clinical Significance: Since these children have been shown to have poorer oral health status, a baseline assessment of their salivary antioxidant capacity may indicate the need to reinforce oral care efforts and supplement them using an antioxidant-rich diet.

Measurement of oxidative stress and total antioxidant capacity in hyperthyroid patients following treatment with carbimazole and antioxidant

Hyperthyroidism is a common endocrine disorder in which the thyroid produces too many hormones, resulting in the metabolism speed up. The present study was designed to measure oxidative stress and total antioxidant capacity in hyperthyroid patients following treatment with carbimazole and antioxidants supplements. This randomized clinical trial study was conducted to compare Malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) among 25 newly diagnosed hyperthyroid patients (Group A), 25 hyperthyroid patients treated with carbimazole (Group B) and 25 hyperthyroid patients treated with carbimazole and antioxidants supplement (Group C) of both sexes. In this study, the mean serum malondialdehyde (MDA) of the three groups were 4.60 ± 1.08 μmol/L (Group A), 2.79 ± 0.58 μmol/L (Group B), and 1.57 ± 0.29 μmol/L (Group C). We found the mean MDA level was significantly higher in Group A than Group B and Group C. This study found the MDA level was significantly higher in hyperthyroid patients treated with carbimazole alone (Group B, 2.79 ± 0.58 umol/L) than hyperthyroid patients treated with carbimazole and antioxidant combined (Group C, 1.57 ± 0.29 umol/L) among the study groups (p < 0.001). The results showed that the mean serum TAC was significantly lower in newly diagnosed hyperthyroid (Group A, 527.8 ± 78.44 umol/L] patients compared to carbimazole treated alone (Group B, 951.80 ± 99.67 umol/L) and combination with the antithyroid drug (carbimazole) and antioxidant treated (Group C, 1113.56 ± 121.69 umol/L). There was more improvement found in the treatment combined with the antithyroid drug (carbimazole) and antioxidant (Group C).Conventional treatment of hyperthyroid patients significantly reduced oxidative stress and elevated serum TAC but not up to normal level. Therefore, the supplementation of antioxidants could be utilized to improve thyroid function in hyperthyroid patients by boosting antioxidants and restoring oxidant-antioxidant balance. However, further studies are required to determine the optimal dosage, route of administration, and timing of antioxidant therapy needed before this supplementation could be officially recommended as adjuvant therapy.

Diseases, metals and bioactive compounds in seaweeds of Bangladesh

Seaweeds are photoautotrophic multi-cellular macro-algae and play a vital role in livelihoods by providing employment opportunities and food supply. Bangladesh is a maritime country with vast coastal and marine habitats which processes a suitable habitat for seaweed farming. To make the seaweed industry profitable in Bangladesh it is important understand the diseases, metal pollution, bioactive compounds and proximate compositions of seaweeds. Therefore, this study aimed to understand the status of diseases, metal pollution, bioactive compounds and proximate compositions in five commercially important species in Bangladesh. Samples were collected from 20 seaweed farms from the south east coastal area of Bangladesh. We encountered 7 types of diseases in the collected seaweed samples. Occurrences of epiphytes were found as the most common disease in the seaweeds of Bangladesh (9%). Seaweed samples contained metals, however their concentrations were found below the threshold level for human consumptions (average Hg: Se ratio and total health quotient were found 0.10 and 0.25, respectively). Collected seaweed samples were found highly nutritive (carbohydrate= 23 to 32%, protein=12 to 26%, fat = 0.1 to 0.4% and fiber = 2.6 to 3.5%). In addition, mean total antioxidant capacity, carotenoids, 2, 2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and total phenolic content in seaweeds were found between 19 to 20.6 mg AAE/g, 31.2 to 32.3 mg/g, 71.4 to 74.4 % and 10.6 to 12.2 mg GAE/g, respectively. Our study indicates that seaweeds of Bangladesh have great potentiality for local consumptions as well as foreign export.

Does vitamin E improve the smokers' salivary antioxidant status?

Background: Vitamin E is known as a preventive or therapeutic antioxidant that improves the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of saliva in individuals at risk of different oral cavity oxidative stresses. This study aimed to compare the effect of this vitamin on the salivary TAC between smokers and non-smokers. Materials and Methods: In this single-blind crossover clinical trial, non-stimulated saliva samples were collected from smoker and nonsmoker participants (n=60 per group) at three stages (baseline and after the two interventional phases). They were divided into subgroups to receive daily vitamin E (200 IU) and placebo for three weeks alternatively in the first or second phase. The salivary TAC was measured via fluorescence recovery after photobleaching method. The TAC changes were calculated in each phase. Data were analyzed by using SPSS software through repeated measures ANOVA, independent sample t-test, and covariate test. Results: The mean changes of TAC of smokers first receiving vitamin E and then placebo were 0.06±0.091 (U/mL) and 025.0±0.089 (U/mL), respectively (P=0.017). The non-smokers' mean TAC changes were 0.059±0.13 versus 0.053±0.129, respectively, after taking vitamin E and placebo; being statistically insignificant (P=0.791). Conclusion: Accordingly, vitamin E improved the salivary TAC in both non-smokers and smokers.

Antioxidant Potentials of Blue Whiting Fish (Micromesistus poutassous) Oil Extracts in Streptozotocin Induced Diabetic Rats

Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the antioxidant potentials of Blue Whiting Fish (Micromesistus poutassous) oil extracts in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats.&#x0D; Study Design: An experimental study.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: Animal House, Department of Applied and Environmental Biology, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt and University of Port Harcourt Rivers State, Nigeria, between February 2020 and August 2020.&#x0D; Methodology: Thirty Six (36) albino rats were purchased and allowed to acclimatize for two (2) weeks in the laboratory at the animal farm house of the Department of Animal and Environmental Biology, Rivers State University. They were fed the normal rat feed (Chow feed) and water was allowed ad libitum. The rats were weighed and randomly grouped into six (6) groups with six rats in each group. Group 1 (Negative control) was placed on normal diet while groups 2 to 6 were placed on a high fat diet (HFD) prior to the induction with Streptozotocin to achieve diabetes and the animals were treated according to their groupings for four weeks by means of oral gavage. The dose of Blue Whiting Fish (Micromesistus poutassous) oil extracts administered to the rats was extrapolated from human doses. The high fat diet was prepared by mixing the animal feed (Chow diet) with margarine in a ratio of 3:1. After each period of treatments, blood samples were collected from the rats at the end of the treatments via cardiac puncture by anaesthetizing the rats with chloroform after a six (6) hour fast. Fasting blood glucose was determined using the Glucose Oxidase method, total antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase and glutathione were analysed quantitatively and measured spectrophotometrically and the GC–MS analysis of bioactive compounds from Blue Whiting Fish (Micromesistus poutassous) oil was done using Agilent Technologies GC systems with GC-7890A/MS-5975C model. Data generated were analysed using SPSS version 22.0 of windows statistical package. Results were considered statistically significant at 95% confidence interval (p &lt; 0.05).&#x0D; Results: After week 1 - 4 of exposure, the mean SOD (Superoxide dismutase) value of the Negative control group (NC), Positive control (PC) group, diabetic groups exposed for weeks 1, 2, 3 and 4 expressed in U/ml were 299.41 ± 5.49, 217.38 ± 5.33, 220.56 ± 4.14, 240.45 ± 1.21, 258.19 ± 1.73 and 278.03 ± 1.98 respectively. The mean TAC (Total antioxidant capacity) value expressed in U/ml were 2.97 ± 0.10, 1.84 ± 0.04, 1.97 ± 0.04, 2.16 ± 0.02, 2.26 ± 0.02 and 2.46 ± 0.02 respectively. The mean GSH (Glutathione) expressed in µg/ml were 56.05 ± 0.60, 47.37 ±1.04, 47.94 ± 0.87, 50.80 ± 0.35, 53.07 ± 0.36 and 55.38 ± 0.33 respectively. The mean MDA (Malondialdehyde) expressed in nmol/l were 2.40 ± 0.13, 4.56 ± 0.28, 4.66 ± 0.06, 4.39 ± 0.01, 4.16 ± 0.03 and 3.70 ± 0.06 respectively. Comparison of different groups showed varying significant differences across groups.&#x0D; Conclusion: Hyperglycaemia induced in rats studied led to an increase in oxidative stress, depletion of antioxidant parameters was observed. However, after treatment with Blue Whiting Fish (Micromesistus poutassous) Oil extracts, it was observed that there was improvement in the overall antioxidant status of the rats.

The Preventive Role of Spirulina Platensis (Arthrospira Platensis) in Immune and Oxidative Insults in a Stress-induced Rat Model.

IntroductionThere is a balance between oxidative stress, antioxidant capacity and immune response. Their roles in physiological and behavioural mechanisms are important for the maintenance of the organism’s internal equilibrium. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant effects of the exogenous alga Spirulina platensis (Arthrospira platensis) in a stress-induced rat model, and to describe its possible mechanism of action.Material and MethodsThirty-six adult male Sprague Dawley rats were separated into four groups: control (C), stress (S), S. platensis (Sp), and S. platensis + stress (SpS). The rats in groups Sp and SpS were fed with 1,500 mg/kg b.w./day Spirulina platensis for 28 days. All rats were exposed to prolonged light phase conditions (18 h light : 6 h dark) for 14 days. The SpS and S groups were exposed to stress by being kept isolated and in a crowded environment. Blood samples were obtained by puncturing the heart on the 28th day. The effect of stress on serum corticosterone, oxidative stress markers (TOS, TAC, PON1, OSI) and immunological parameters (IL-2, IL-4, IFN-ɣ) were tested. Also, the brain, heart, intestines (duodenum, ileum, and colon), kidney, liver, spleen, and stomach of the rats were weighed.ResultsSerum corticosterone levels were higher in the S group than in the C group, and significantly lower in the SpS group than in the S group. Mean total antioxidant capacity were lower in the S group than in the C group, and Spirulina reversed this change. Although not significantly different, IL-2 was lower in the S group than in the C group. However, in the SpS group, IL-2 increased due to Spirulina platensis mitigating effects of stress.ConclusionMale rats fed a diet with Spirulina platensis could experience significantly milder physiological changes during stress, although stress patterns may be different. Exogenous antioxidant supplements merit further investigation in animals and humans where the endogenous defence mechanism against stress may not be sufficient.

Effect of Food Processing on Total Antioxidant Capacity

Abstract Objectives Ultra-processed foods (UPF) make up the majority of energy intake in the United States. Consumption of these foods is correlated with poor health outcomes related to chronic inflammation. The objective of this study is to examine the relationship between food processing and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). It was hypothesized that TAC will be highest in Minimally Processed (MIN), lower in Processed (PRO), and lowest in Ultra-processed foods (UPF). Methods TAC (mmol/100g) data were obtained for 3,139 foods from a published data set. Food items were coded to agreement by the research team into three groups of the NOVA classification (MIN, PRO, UPF) as well as MyPyramid food groups (with alcohol and beverage groups added). A Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U Test were used to determine significance across and between groups, respectively, with an alpha of 0.05. Results The mean TAC of all three NOVA groups for all food items were significantly different (MIN: 11.66 ± 46.29; PRO: 0.85 ± 1.79; UPF: 0.80 ± 1.93; P &amp;lt; 0.001). While all MyPyramid groups had significant differences in mean TAC between food processing groups (P &amp;lt; 0.05 for all), Fruits, Alcohol, and Bean, Nuts, and Seeds supported the hypothesis. Whereas, mixed results were found for all other MyPyramid groups and did not support the hypothesis (i.e., mean TAC was not always lower in higher processed foods). Conclusions Generally, foods that were more processed were lower in TAC. However, this trend does not hold for all MyPyramid food groups which could be attributed to the varying food processing techniques (e.g., fortification and additives). The lower total antioxidant capacity, on average, of UPFs could be a mechanism through which consumption of these foods promotes inflammatory chronic disease. Funding Sources None.

Levels of Total Antioxidant Capacity, sCD14, and TGF-β2 in Breast Milk Plasma of HIV-Infected and HIV-Uninfected Lactating Women.

Introduction: Breast milk provides nourishment for infants and nonnutritive bioactive factors, which possess key protective and developmental benefits essential in shaping the infant immune system. However, the impact of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and universal antiretroviral therapy (ART) on breast milk nutritional composition and immunity status is not well documented. Objective: The study aimed to compare breast milk immune factors; total antioxidant capacity (TAC), soluble cluster of differentiation 14 (sCD14), and transcription growth factor-beta 2 (TGF-β2) levels between HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected lactating mothers and determine the association between breast milk parameters with HIV disease progression and duration of ART. Methods: Breast milk sCD14, TAC, and TGF-β2 were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and spectrophotometric techniques in 57 HIV-infected breast feeding mothers on option B+ therapy for prevention of vertical transmission of HIV and 57 HIV-uninfected mothers at 6 weeks postpartum. The plasma HIV viral load was measured on enrollment and demographic data were recorded. Results: Mean breast milk plasma TAC levels were significantly lower in HIV-infected mothers (1,250.5 ± 280.4 μmolTE/L) compared to the HIV-uninfected participants (1,915.4 ± 326 μmolTE/L; p < 0.001). Soluble CD14 levels in HIV-infected mothers were significantly higher (7,059.3 ± 1,604.7 ng/mL) compared to the HIV-uninfected group (5,670.7 ± 1,268.3 pg/mL; p < 0.001). Similarly, TGF-β2 concentration was also significantly elevated in the HIV-infected mothers (1,426.1 ± 695.4 pg/mL) compared to the HIV-uninfected counterparts (709.2 ± 196.8 pg/mL; p < 0.001). A positive correlation was observed between breast milk plasma sCD14 concentration and the plasma viral load (r = 0.576, p < 0.001), while a significant negative correlation was observed with the duration of ART (r = -0.285, p = 0.032). TAC and TGF-β2 concentrations were inversely correlated with plasma viral load levels. Conclusion: HIV-infected mothers are at risk of oxidative stress. Nutritional intervention with antioxidant rich foods is recommended for this vulnerable group during breastfeeding.