Significant Increase In Serum Research Articles

Accacia senegel extract ameliorates Lead Acetate-mediated Hepatotoxicity in rats

Lead is a toxic metal that induces a wide range of physiological and histological changes inhuman and animals. Oxidative damage has been the possible mechanism involved in lead toxicity. The current study was carried out to evaluate the antioxidant activities of Accacia senegel extract against leadacetate-induced hepatic injury in rats. Four groups of rats were used in this study, Control, Lead acetate(8 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneally), Accacia senegel(7.5g/kg body weight /day orally) and Accacia senegel (7.5g/kg body weight /day orally)followed by lead acetate (8 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneally) respectively.All groups received the oral treatment by stomach tube once daily for 4 weeks. Lead intoxication resulted in a significant increase inserum alanine transase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) ,alkaline phosphatase (ALP)activities,serum total cholesterol ,and triglycerides liver tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a), caspase-3, malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) levels and a significantdecline of serum total proteins, liver reduced glutathione (GSH) level and catalase. The hepatocytes showed degeneration with vacuolated cytoplasm and fibrosis. The administration ofAccacia senegel extractshowed a slight improving in the activities of Catalase, a slight decreasein AST, ALP activities, NO, Triglycerides but resulted in more increase in the levels of Total proteins, MDA, TNF-a and activity of Caspase-3 while did not induce any protection against elevated levels of ALT and Total cholesterol and against damage in hepatocytes including fibrosis and apoptosis.

Biomarkers of kidney injury and indicators of renal inflammation in African American men with diabetes and diabetic nephropathy

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a progressive kidney disease caused by damage to the capillaries in the kidneys' glomeruli due to changes in glomerular hemodynamics, causing renal lesions and fibrosis. Oxidative stress and inflammatory responses represent underlying causes for developing chronic kidney damage. Treatment outcomes for DN are poor because many patients with DN are diagnosed late due to lack of clinical tests based on sensitive biomarkers. Monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1) is a major promoter of inflammation, renal injury, and fibrosis in diabetic nephropathy. In the United States, minority ethnic communities bear a disproportionate burden of complications of diabetes and are at a higher risk of developing end stage renal disease. Participation in biomedical research by African American men is especially low due to historical mistrust with the research institutions. The objective of this study is to assess correlations between biomarkers of kidney injury and indicators of inflammation among three groups of African American men: 1) diabetic patients without DN, 2) diabetic patients with diagnosed DN, and 3) non‐diabetic controls. Fasting blood and urine samples were collected from patients recruited through a community health clinic. Surveys were administered to establish patient profiles and family history. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were used to determine the levels of plasma MCP‐1 and the levels of three biomarkers of kidney injury, namely, cystatin C, neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL), and kidney injury molecule 1 (KIM‐1). The data were analyzed by 2‐way ANOVA. The data showed that the levels of serum cystatin C were significantly higher in patients with diagnosed DN compared to non‐diabetic controls (p<0.01). Additionally, diabetic patients showed a significant increase in serum cystatin C levels relative to the non‐diabetic controls (p<0.05). In contrast, urine cystatin C levels were significantly lower in patients with DN compared to the other two groups. Plasma NGAL levels were significantly higher in patients with DN compared to both non‐diabetic and diabetic patients (p<0.01). However, there was no significant difference in the levels of urine KIM‐1 among the three groups. In conclusion, serum MCP‐1 exhibited higher levels in patients with DN compared to both diabetic patients and non‐diabetic controls (p<0.0001). The significant increase in serum MCP‐1 levels suggests that inflammation is an underlying cause of kidney injury in African American men who have DN. Furthermore, the data suggest that a significant number of diabetic African American men may have undiagnosed kidney injury as shown by elevated cystatin C levels.Support or Funding InformationThis study was supported by the Minority Men's Health Initiative (MMHI) through NIH/NIMHD Center Award # U54MD008621 (CFDA 93.307), Sub‐Award # HU140004 and sub‐award #HU150006.

Efficacy of High-Dose Vitamin D Supplements for Elite Athletes.

Supplementation with dietary forms of vitamin D is commonplace in clinical medicine, elite athletic cohorts, and the general population, yet the response of all major vitamin D metabolites to high doses of vitamin D is poorly characterized. We aimed to identify the responses of all major vitamin D metabolites to moderate- and high-dose supplemental vitamin D3. A repeated-measures design was implemented in which 46 elite professional European athletes were block randomized based on their basal 25[OH]D concentration into two treatment groups. Athletes received either 35,000 or 70,000 IU·wk vitamin D3 for 12 wk, and 42 athletes completed the trial. Blood samples were collected for 18 wk to monitor the response to supplementation and withdrawal from supplementation. Both doses led to significant increases in serum 25[OH]D, and 1,25[OH]2D3. 70,000 IU·wk also resulted in a significant increase of the metabolite 24,25[OH]2D at weeks 6 and 12 that persisted after supplementation withdrawal at week 18, despite a marked decrease in 1,25[OH]2D3. Intact parathyroid hormone was decreased in both groups by week 6 and remained suppressed throughout the trial. High-dose vitamin D3 supplementation (70,000 IU·wk) may be detrimental for its intended purposes because of increased 24,25[OH]2D production. Rapid withdrawal from high-dose supplementation may inhibit the bioactivity of 1,25[OH]2D3 as a consequence of sustained increases in 24,25[OH]2D that persist as 25[OH]D and 1,25[OH]2D concentrations decrease. These data imply that lower doses of vitamin D3 ingested frequently may be most appropriate and gradual withdrawal from supplementation as opposed to rapid withdrawal may be favorable.

Nitrate-rich beetroot juice selectively lowers ambulatory pressures and LDL cholesterol in uncontrolled but not controlled hypertension: a pilot study

Dietary nitrate has been shown to increase nitrate/nitrite levels in multiple populations, with potential blood pressure lowering effects. However, there are few reports among hypertensives. We aimed to assess the effect of daily nitrate in subjects with controlled hypertension vs. uncontrolled hypertension. On day 0, hypertensives wore an ambulatory BP monitor (ABPM) for 24h and fasting blood was taken. Subjects then consumed concentrated beetroot juice (12.9mmol nitrate) for 14 consecutive days. On day 14 subjects consumed their last nitrate dose after fasting blood was drawn and again had an ABPM for 24h. According to baseline ABPM, 11 subjects had controlled BP while 8 had uncontrolled BP. There were similar, significant increases in serum nitrate/nitrite in both groups. We observed little change in BP variables among controlled hypertensives. However, there were reductions in BP variables in uncontrolled hypertensives where decreases in nighttime DBP (-6±4.8mmHg), arterial stiffness (-0.08±0.03 ambulatory arterial stiffness index) and LDL (-0.36±0.42mmol/L) reached significance (p=003, 0.05 and 0.046, respectively). Our results support the existing data suggesting an anti-hypertensive effect of nitrate-containing beetroot juice, but only among those with uncontrolled hypertension.

Voluntary running improves depressive behaviours and the structure of the hippocampus in rats: A possible impact of myokines

This study investigated the impact of voluntary exercise on depressive behaviours, serum and hippocampal levels of myokines, and histopathological features of hippocampal formation in rats. Depressed rats were allowed to voluntarily run on a wheel for 3weeks. Locomotor activity was assessed by a forced swimming test and the myokine levels in sera and hippocampal homogenates were measured using Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay. Brain sections were analysed for hippocampal structure and neuronal counts. Voluntary running produced significant increase in the distance moved by rats and significant decrease in immobility duration. After voluntary running, there were significant increases in serum and hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), significant increase in hippocampal vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and significant decrease in serum interleukin-6 (IL-6). Significant correlation was detected between the serum levels of BDNF and MIF (r=0.276) as well as IL-6 (r=−0.340). In addition, significant correlation was observed between hippocampal BDNF levels and MIF (r=0.500) and VEGF levels (r=0.279). After voluntary running, there was significant decrease in number degenerated neurons in hippocampal areas and significant increase in number of healthy neurons in the upper limb of the dentate gyrus, but not in its lower limb, compared to depression group. This study showed the relation of myokines to the development and/or relief of depression, as well as the correlation between serum and hippocampal myokine levels. Attention should be paid to studying the biological effects of myokines on different hippocampal areas that could respond differently to treatments.

Efficacy of saffron extract and fenugreek seeds supplementation on liver of streptozotocin induced diabetic rats

The present study aimed to investigate the possible hypoglycemic and hepatoprotective effects of saffron extract (100mg/kg b.wt) and fenugreek supplementation (1.4 g/day/kg b.wt) in STZ- induced diabetic rats at biochemical, histological, histochemical and ultrastructural levels. The results indicated that a single dose of STZ (50 mg /kg b wt, i.p) caused a significant increase in serum and liver total lipids, total cholesterol and triglyceride as well as serum low density and a very low density lipoprotein, accompanied by an increase in serum glucose level and oxidative stress marker, malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide level as well as serum aspartate and alanine aminotransferase activities. The results also reported a significant decrease in the high density lipoprotein, serum and liver total protein, serum albumin and globulin contents and A/G ratio, as well as a significant decrease in serum insulin level and the liver enzyme activities and the hepatic glutathione content. Histologically, STZ treated group showed degenerative changes in the pancreas and alteration in the structural integrity of the hepatocytes and their intracellular organelles. Histochemically, liver sections of STZ treated animals displayed marked decrease in the glycogen and total protein contents. On the other hand, the intake of saffron or fenugreek minimize the disturbance observed in the most tested parameters resulted from STZ administration and improve the liver structure and functions. Finally, it can be concluded that the intake of natural product such as saffron or fenugreek may be effective in reducing the diabetic liver injury induced by streptozotocin and the fenugreek supplementation showed more amelioration than saffron extract.

Vitamin D supplementation reduces relapse rate in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients treated with natalizumab

BackgroundVitamin D insufficiency is common among multiple sclerosis patients, and hypovitaminosis D has been associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) risk and disease activity. ObjectiveTo investigate how recommendations on vitamin D3 supplements affect 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels in patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) and to examine the clinical effects associated with changes in 25(OH)D levels. MethodsIn this prospective cohort study, baseline blood samples were collected from 170 natalizumab-treated RRMS patients during winter 2009–2010 and were repeated the following winter. Vitamin D supplements were recommended according to standard clinical practice in our clinic to patients with serum 25(OH)D<50nmol/l at baseline. Information was obtained on annualized relapse-rate (ARR) the year prior to baseline and the following year. ResultsWe found that recommending vitamin D supplements in patients with vitamin D insufficiency was associated with a significant increase in serum 25(OH)D concentrations (p=5.1×10−10), which was significantly related with decreases in ARR; for each nmol/l increase in Δ25(OH)D a −0.014 (95% CI −0.026 to −0.003) decrease in ΔARR was observed, p=0.02. ConclusionCorrection of hypovitaminosis D in clinical practice by recommending oral D3 supplements resulted in increases in 25(OH)D levels in serum, which were associated with decreases in ARR in RRMS.

Acrolein increases macrophage atherogenicity in association with gut microbiota remodeling in atherosclerotic mice: protective role for the polyphenol-rich pomegranate juice.

The unsaturated aldehyde acrolein is pro-atherogenic, and the polyphenol-rich pomegranate juice (PJ), known for its anti-oxidative/anti-atherogenic properties, inhibits macrophage foam cell formation, the hallmark feature of early atherosclerosis. This study aimed to investigate two unexplored areas of acrolein atherogenicity: macrophage lipid metabolism and the gut microbiota composition. The protective effects of PJ against acrolein atherogenicity were also evaluated. Atherosclerotic apolipoprotein E-deficient (apoE-/-) mice that were fed acrolein (3mg/kg/day) for 1month showed significant increases in serum and aortic cholesterol, triglycerides, and lipid peroxides. In peritoneal macrophages isolated from the mice and in J774A.1 cultured macrophages, acrolein exposure increased intracellular oxidative stress and stimulated cholesterol and triglyceride accumulation via enhanced rates of their biosynthesis and over-expression of key regulators of cellular lipid biosynthesis: sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs), 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGCR), and diacylglycerol acyltransferase1 (DGAT1). Acrolein-fed mice demonstrated a major shift in the gut microbiota composition, including a significant phylum-level change in increased Firmicutes and decreased Bacteroidetes. At the family level, acrolein significantly increased the prevalence of Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae of which the Coprococcus genus was significantly and positively correlated with serum, aortic and macrophage lipid levels and peroxidation. The pro-atherogenic effects of acrolein on serum, aortas, macrophages, and the gut microbiota were substantially abolished by PJ. In conclusion, these findings provide novel mechanisms by which acrolein increases macrophage lipid accumulation and alters the gut microbiota composition in association with enhanced atherogenesis. Moreover, PJ was found as an effective strategy against acrolein atherogenicity.

Acute Effects of Vitamin D3 Supplementation on Muscle Strength in Judoka Athletes

Indoor athletes have been shown to be prone to vitamin D3 deficiency. The aim of the study was to examine the acute effects of vitamin D supplementation on muscle function using isokinetic dynamometry. Randomized placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Institutional. Adult male white national level judoka athletes (n = 22) who were involved in full-time training. Exclusion criteria were vitamin supplementation, overseas travel to sunny climes, and/or an injury incurred during the last 3 months before testing. Subjects were randomly allocated to the treatment (150 000IU vitamin D3) or placebo and given blinded supplements by an independent researcher. Participants were tested twice, 8 days apart, on a Monday morning before the start of judo training and after 2 days of rest. A 5 to 7 mL of blood sample was collected followed by isokinetic concentric quadriceps and hamstring muscle function assessments on the right leg at 30 and 200°·s. Repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to analyze isokinetic muscle force and serum 25(OH)D3. Regression to the mean was used to examine changes in 25(OH)D3 levels over the study period. The treatment group demonstrated a significant increase in serum 25(OH)D levels (34%, P ≤ 0.001) and muscle strength (13%, P = 0.01) between days 1 and 8. No significant differences were found for the placebo group for the same period. A single bolus of 150 000IU vitamin D3 had a significant positive effect on serum 25(OH)D levels and muscle function in vitamin D insufficient elite indoor athletes. Serum 25(OH)D3 levels of indoor athletes should be monitored throughout the year and especially during winter months. Beneficial responses, in muscle strength and serum 25(OH)D3, to 1 dose of vitamin D3 supplementation can be observed within 1 week of ingestion. Muscle strength is linked to serum 25(OH)D levels.

Efficacy of Rhus coriaria (sumac) juice in reducing muscle pain during aerobic exercise.

The main target of this study was to measure the influence of sumac juice drink on muscle indices and pain during an acute, intense exercise for 30days. Forty healthy volunteers (15-25 years) were involved in aerobic exercise program for 4 weeks. Participants ingested sumac juice or placebo drink twice daily for 30 days. All participants were subjected for the evaluation of pain and estimation of serum: creatine kinase (CK), lactic acid dehydrogenase (LDH), troponin I, hydroxyproline (hyp), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and in vitro antioxidant activity of sumac juice using pre-validated visual analog scale, colorimetric and immunoassays. The participants of both groups, placebo and sumac, showed an increment in pain scores both during exercise and post-exercise intervals. However, the sumac juice group showed a significant smaller increase in the pain scores compared to the placebo group. Participants in the sumac juice group were more willing to use the drink in the future. They achieved a higher satisfaction of sumac juice in ameliorating and the reduction of pain. Also, the sumac group showed a significant enhancement in the level of CK, LDH, troponin I, hyp, along with significant increase in serum (TAC) compared to the placebo group. The protective activity of muscle may relate to the antioxidant activity of phenolic component(s) in sumac juice as measured by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging (87.9%) and β-carotene-linoleic acid (68.7%) assays. These data suggest that oral administration of sumac juice may have a beneficial effect on muscle performance among athletes.

Effect of Vitamin D Fortified Cheese on Oral Glucose Tolerance in Individuals Exhibiting Marginal Vitamin D Status and an Increased Risk for Developing Type 2 Diabetes: A Double‐Blind, Randomized Placebo‐Controlled Clinical Trial

Epidemiological data suggest that vitamin D may play a role in glucose metabolism and homeostasis, and that it maybe particularly important for individuals at an increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).ObjectiveWe conducted a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial to examine the effects of 28,000 IU of vitamin D3 given in cheese once per week versus placebo on the 2hr oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and measures of insulin sensitivity, secretion and β‐cell function.Study DesignPotential participants were identified as being at an increased risk for developing diabetes using the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC) questionnaire. Participants who were vitamin D deficient (serum 25‐hydroxy vitamin‐D [25(OH)D] ≤65nmol/L) and who had elevated glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) between 5.4 and 6.4% and/or fasting glucose between 5.6 and 6.9 mmol/L were randomized to receive 28,000 IU of vitamin D3 or placebo (20 IU) once weekly for a period of 24 weeks. The primary outcome of interest was the difference in plasma glucose 2hr after an OGTT between baseline and 24 wks. Secondary outcomes include fasting glucose, fasting and postprandial insulin and indices of insulin sensitivity (Matsuda Index), secretion (insulinogenic index), β–cell function (ISSI‐2) and long‐term glycemic status (HbA1c). Data were analyzed by intention‐to‐treat.ResultsSeventy‐one participants (mean age 47.4) were randomized and sixty‐three completed the trial. Supplementation produced a significant increase in serum 25(OH)D in the vitamin D group (n= 35) versus placebo (n=36) (103.6±36.5 vs. 46.4±18.9 nmol/ L, p &lt;0.0001). After 24 wks of supplementation 74% of participants in the vitamin D group achieved 25(OH)D levels ≥75nmol/Lvs6% in the placebo group. Supplementation produced no significant improvements in fasting (p=0.89) and glucose 2hr after the OGTT (p= 0.88), fasting (p= 0.28) and postprandial (p= 0.77) insulin, HbA1c (p=0.34), HOMA‐IR (p= 0.32), Matsuda Index (p=0.72), and ISS1‐2 (p=0.86).ConclusionWeekly doses of 28,0000 IU of vitamin D3 for 24 wks in a group of multi‐ethnic, vitaminD–deficient individuals identified as being at high risk for developing T2DMdid not improve oral glucose tolerance, insulinsensitivity, β–cell function or HbA1c.Support or Funding InformationResearch funded by the Dairy Farmers of Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada.

Vitamin D3 for uncontrolled childhood asthma: A pilot study.

Observational and mechanistic data suggest a role for vitamin D in childhood asthma. However, subsequent interventional trials have been inconsistent. We aimed to assess the effect of 15 weeks of vitamin D3 supplementation compared with placebo (PL) in Irish children with asthma. We conducted a double-blind, randomized, PL-controlled trial of vitamin D supplementation (2000 IU/day) in 44 urban, Caucasian children at high latitude. Assessments were completed at baseline and after 15 weeks of supplementation. Outcome measures were lung function, subjective asthma control and biochemical parameters of total vitamin D, allergy, immunity, airway inflammation, and systemic inflammation. Finally, parents/guardians completed a weekly diary during the trial. There was no significant difference in baseline 25(OH)D levels, but there was a significant increase in median 25(OH)D in the vitamin D3 group (57.5-105 nmol/l) compared with the PL group (52.5-57.5 nmol/l) (p < 0.0001). There was no significant difference between groups regarding subjective asthma control. Compared with PL, there was a significant decrease in school days missed due to asthma (1 vs. 5 days, p = 0.04) and alkaline phosphatase (-3.4 vs. +16; p = 0.037) in the vitamin D3 group, but there were no beneficial effects regarding several other secondary end-points. However, there were non-significant, advantageous changes in the PL group compared with the vitamin D3 group in subjective asthma control and lung function, particularly percentage of predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s (+2.5 vs. -4; p = 0.06). Vitamin D3 supplementation led to a significant increase in serum 25(OH)D and decreased school days missed (p = 0.04), but no other advantageous changes in asthma parameters compared with PL. The potential adverse effect of vitamin D deficiency on growth and the potential negative effect of high serum 25(OH)D on pulmonary function warrant further investigation.

Potential impact of Paracentrotus lividus extract on diabetic rat models induced by high fat diet/streptozotocin

Antioxidant therapy has been thought to be effectual for the prevention and treatment of various diseases including diabetes. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the potency of Paracentrotus lividus extract (PLE) for alleviating the complications that resulted after induction of the diabetic rat models (T1DM and T2DM) using high fat diet (HFD)/streptozotocin (STZ). Thirty six male Wistar albino rats were assigned into normal control, T1DM and T2DM untreated, and PLE treated diabetic rat groups. Induction of T1DM was performed by streptozotocin injection (60mg/kg of dissolved in sodium citrate buffer, 0.1mol/L, i.p). T2DM induction through 4weeks of high fat diet (HFD) intervention was followed by a single low dosage of STZ (30mg/kg dissolved in 0.1mol/L citrate buffer at pH 4.5, i.p). Both diabetic rat models showed a significant increase in serum; levels of fasting glucose, total protein, bilirubin, activities of arginase, transaminases (AST and ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), γ glutamyl transferase (GGT), lipid profile parameters, and liver malondialdehyde (MDA). However, T1DM and T2DM rats have decreased levels of serum insulin, and liver glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), glutathione reduced (GSH), nitric oxide (NO), and antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, the present study showed the hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and antioxidant potency of the PLE as confirmed by its ability for ameliorating most of the alterations caused in the studied parameters of diabetic rats. In conclusion, PLE may be useful as therapy against oxidative stress and liver damage in both types of diabetes mellitus and is therefore recommended for further studies.

Evaluation of the changes of P1NP and CTX in synovial fluid and blood serum of dogs with experimental osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative and reparative process occurring in synovial joints. In the present study, collagen type I C-telopeptide (CTX) and procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide (P1NP) were measured in blood serum and synovial fluid of four cross-breed dogs with experimental CCL rupture. These biomarkers were selected as bone turnover biomarkers. The markers were measured on days 0, 14, 28, 90, and 180 post surgery. Statistical analysis showed significant increase in P1NP in both serum and synovial fluid. The CTX showed a significant increase in serum and a non significant increase in synovial fluid at the end of study. The changes in bone turnover biomarkers can be diagnostic in osteoarthritis. As time passes, the changes become more evident. Since the changes were the same in both serum and synovial fluid, measurement of the markers in serum is preferred as it is easier.

Ongoing transmission of avian influenza A viruses in Hong Kong despite very comprehensive poultry control measures: A prospective seroepidemiology study

Stringent measures have been implemented in Hong Kong to prevent human infections due to avian influenza viruses (AIVs). Here, we report the seroprevalence of AIVs among high risk population. In this prospective study, blood samples were collected in October and November 2013 and in July 2014 from workers at live poultry market (LPM) and pig/cattle slaughterhouse (SH) in Hong Kong. Serum antibody titers against A(H5N1), A(H7N9) and A(H9N2) were determined. When an hemagglutination inhibition (HI) titer of 40 was used as the cutoff, the A(H5N1) seropositive rate among LPM workers increased from 0% in 2013 to 37.8% in 2014 (P<0.001) and the A(H9N2) seropositive rate increased from 10% to 55.6% (P<0.001). There was no significant increase in A(H7N9) seropositive rate for LPM workers irrespective of cutoff titer. For SH workers, there was no significant increase in HI titer for any AIVs. Significantly more LPM workers had a ≥4-fold increase in A(H5N1) HI titer from 2013 to 2014 than SH workers (60% vs 8.3%, P=0.020). There was a significant increase of serum A(H5N1) and A(H9N2) HI titers among Hong Kong LPM workers between 2013 and 2014. Although we cannot exclude some degree of antibody cross-reactivity with other influenza viruses, our results suggest the occurrence of subclinical AIV infections in this population.

Effect of bariatric surgery on systemic and adipose tissue inflammation.

Obese patients are predisposed to developing insulin resistance and associated metabolic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of bariatric surgery on adipose-derived inflammatory cytokines (adipokines), which play a key role in insulin resistance and obesity. We hypothesized that there is a significant increase in serum and tissue anti-inflammatory adiponectin with a decrease in circulating pro-inflammatory TNF-α and MCP-1, leading to reduced inflammation post-bariatric surgery. In this study, we investigated the effects of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) and laparoscopic gastric band on serum and tissue levels of adiponectin and serum levels of MCP-1 and TNF-α. Samples of serum and adipose tissue were collected at the time of surgery, 2weeks and 6months postoperatively. Adipokine levels were assayed by ELISA kits. A significant increase in adiponectin levels 2weeks after surgery was observed in the subcutaneous adipose tissue in both groups combined. Serum adiponectin in LRYGB patients showed an increasing trend, while MCP-1 showed a decreasing trend post-surgery. There was no difference in TNF-α among the groups. The number of patients enrolled did not allow for statistical power to be reached. Our results show significant and rapid increases in subcutaneous adipose adiponectin as early as 2weeks post-bariatric surgery demonstrating reduced inflammation and possibly reduced insulin resistance. Future studies are warranted in larger cohorts with additional measurements of insulin sensitivity and inflammation.

Influence of zinc administration on its tissue concetration and activity of serum antioxidant enzymes in rats at physical activity

Aim. To investigate the effect of zinc supplementation at physical exercise on the distribution of the metal in the tissues and the activity of serum antioxidant enzymes.&#x0D; Methods. Physical activity was simulated using the treadmill. Laboratory animals were distributed to 6 even (n=12) groups. The first and fourth groups of animals received no zinc-containing additives and were imposed to low and high physical activity, respectively. Animals of the 2 and 3 as well as 5 and 6 groups received 5 and 15 mg/kg/day of zinc asparaginate intragastrically and were imposed to low and high physical activity, respectively. The zinc concentrantion in the organs and tissues was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The activity of antioxidant enzymes was determined by spectrophotometry.&#x0D; Results. Administration of zinc asparaginate to the laboratory animals with low physical activity resulted in a dose-dependent increase of the metal concentration in liver and kidney parenchyma and blood serum, as well as in increase of serum glutathione peroxidase activity. Intensive physical activity for 14 days was accompanied by a significant increase in serum and kidney tissue zinc level. At the 7-day exposure to zinc at physical activity, a dose-dependent increase in zinc concentration in the organs and increase of serum glutathione peroxidase activity was registered. Zinc administration together with physical activity for 14 days did not result in a significant change in the balance of metal in the body of animals. In contrast to the 7-day exposure, a combination of factors studied for 14 days was accompanied by increased activity of superoxide dismutase, but not glutathione peroxidase.&#x0D; Conclusion. Physical activity of different duration has a significant effect on the zinc kinetics at oral administration, and the activity of serum antioxidant enzymes in laboratory animals.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of flavocoxid in high-cholesterol-fed rabbits.

Flavocoxid is a mixed extract containing baicalin and catechin, and it acts as a dual balanced inhibitor of cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and COX-2 peroxidase enzyme activities with a significant inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) enzyme activity in vitro. Flavocoxid downregulates gene or protein expression of several inflammatory markers and exerts also strong antioxidant activity in several experimental models. Inflammation and oxidative stress contribute in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. In the present study, an experimental rabbit model of hypercholesterolemia was developed and the effects of flavocoxid were evaluated. Rabbits were divided into four groups-normal control, high-cholesterol-diet (HCD)-fed group, HCD plus flavocoxid (20mg/kg/day), or HCD plus atorvastatin (10mg/kg/day). Blood samples were collected at the end of the experiment for measuring serum total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), C-reactive protein (CRP), malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). In addition, the aorta was removed for measurement of antioxidant status, vascular reactivity, and intima/media (I/M) ratio. Elevated levels of serum TC, TGs, LDL-C, and CRP were measured in HCD group. Moreover, HCD caused a significant increase in serum and aortic MDA concomitantly with a reduction in serum and aortic GSH and SOD. Immunohistochemical staining of aortic specimens from HCD-fed rabbits revealed high expression levels of both tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and nuclear factor (NF)-κB. Rabbits in flavocoxid group showed significantly lower levels of serum CRP, serum, and aortic MDA and higher levels of serum HDL-C, serum, and aortic GSH and SOD compared to HCD group. HCD-induced elevations in serum TC and LDL-C did not significantly affected by flavocoxid treatment. Additionally, flavocoxid significantly enhanced rabbit aortic endothelium-dependent relaxation to acetylcholine and decreased the elevated I/M ratio. This effect was confirmed by histopathological examination of the aorta. Moreover, flavocoxid effectively suppresses the release of inflammatory markers. In conclusion, these findings demonstrated that flavocoxid would be useful in preventing oxidative stress, inflammation, and vascular dysfunction induced by HCD.

Black berry juice attenuates neurological disorders and oxidative stress associated with concurrent exposure of aluminum and fluoride in male rats

The objective of this study was to assess the protective effect of black berry juice (BBJ) on the neurological disorders and oxidative stress induced by co-exposure to ALCL3 and NaF in male albino rats. Administration of either AlCl3 (200 mg/kg bw) or NaF (10 mg/kg bw) or both of them caused a significant increase in serum and brain TL, TC, TG as well as serum LDLC and VLDLC levels while serum HDLC level was decreased significantly. Additionally, brain neurotransmitter (DA and 5-HT) levels, AChE, Na-K ATPase activity and ATP values were decreased significantly but NE level was increased in rats administered Al or F alone or in combination. Moreover, a significant increase in brain MDA, NO, H2O2 and free radical enzyme (xanthine oxidase (XO)) and a significant decrease in the level of TAC, SOD and GSH were recorded in AlCl3 or NaF intoxicated rats. In addition, the levels of serum Na, Ca, Cu and zinc (Zn) were significantly diminished, while the level of K was significantly increased. However ALCL3 appears to enhance the neurotoxic hazards caused by NaF. On the other hand, the administration of BBJ (1.6 g/kg bw) showed a marked neuroprotective effect against the biochemical abnormalities that occurred and oxidative stress of the brain induced by co-exposure to AlCl3 and NaF. So, it can be concluded that the consumption of BBJ might be useful for alleviating the neurological disorders and oxidative stress associated with concurrent exposure of ALCL3 and NaF indicating its free radical scavenging and potent antioxidant activity.

Effects of different routes of nicotine administration on gastric morphology and hormonal secretion in rats

What is the central question of this study? Does chronic administration of nicotine by different routes affect gastric hormonal secretions and morphology in rats? What is the main finding and its importance? Chronic nicotine administration increased levels of gastrin, ghrelin and histamine but decreased prostaglandinE2 . Nicotine administered orally and by inhalation had a marked negative impact on the histological structure of the gastric mucosa compared with intraperitoneal administration. The negative impact of nicotine administration on gastric structure was associated with an increased concentration of gastrin and decreased prostaglandinE2 , which might be the cause of gastric/peptic ulcers in heavy smokers. The increase in ghrelin concentration and its effect following chronic nicotine administration needs further investigation. The aim was to assess the effects of different routes of chronic nicotine administration on gastric morphology and hormonal secretion; mainly gastrin, ghrelin, histamine and prostaglandinE2 (PGE2 ). Forty adult male albino rats were randomly assigned into four groups (10rats per group), treated for 21 days as follows: control group (given standard rat pellets and water only); oral nicotine-treated group [50μg(ml drinking water)(-1) ]; intraperitoneal nicotine-treated group [0.5mg(kg body weight)(-1) ]; and inhaled nicotine-treated group [0.5mg(kg body weight)(-1) ]. Concentrations of gastrin, ghrelin, PGE2 and histamine in serum and gastric tissue homogenates were assessed using ELISA kits. Stomach fundus was processed for histopathology and immunohistochemistry using light and electron microscopy. Different routes of chronic nicotine administration resulted in a significant increase in serum and gastric homogenate gastrin and ghrelin concentrations and a significant decrease in serum and homogenate PGE2 concentrations compared with the control group. Moreover, nicotine administration via oral and inhalation routes caused gastric erosion, transformation of peptic cells into the mucous variety, a significant increase in parietal cell numbers and an increase in expression of gastrin. In conclusion, the negative impact of nicotine administration on gastric structure that is associated with an increased concentration of gastrin and decreased concentration PGE2 might be the leading cause of gastric/peptic ulcers in heavy smokers. The increased ghrelin concentration and its effect following nicotine chronic administration needs further investigation. Based on these findings, we suggest that the alteration in gastric structure following chronic administration of nicotine can be prevented by reducing gastrin secretion and/or targeting its receptors.