Vit Group Research Articles

The Beneficial Effects of Static Magnetic Field and Iron Oxide Nanoparticles on the Vitrification of Mature Mice Oocytes.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of static magnetic field (SMF) and nanoparticles (NPs) on the vitrification of cumulus-oocyte-complex (COC). To this end, the non-vitrified (nVit) and vitrified groups (Vit) that contain NPs, with or without SMF were labeled nVit_NPs, nVit_NPs_SMF, Vit_NPs, and Vit_NPs_SMF, respectively. The non-toxic dosages of NPs were first determined to be 0.008% w/v. The survival, apoptosis, and necrosis, mitochondrial activity, fertilization rate, subsequent-derived embryo development, and gene expressions were examined. The viability rates obtained by trypan blue and Anx-PI staining were meaningfully smaller in the Vit groups, compared to the nVit groups. The JC1 red/green signal ratios were reduced considerably in the Vit group, compared to the nVit. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was performed to assess the entry of the NPs into the oocytes. TEM images showed that NPs were present in nVit_NPs, and Vit_NPs. Thereafter, the effects of NPs and SMF on in vitro fertilization (IVF) were examined. The difference in blastocyst rates between nVit and Vit_NPs_SMF groups was significant. Finally, Nanog, Cdx2, Oct4, and Sox2 genes were evaluated. There were substantial differences in Cdx2 gene expressions between the Vit_NPs and nVit groups. The expression of Nanog in Vit was significantly higher than those of the Vit_NPs, Vit_NPs_SMF, and nVit groups. The data presented here provide deeper insight into the application of iron oxide nanoparticles in COC vitrification. It appears that using SMF and supplemented CPA by NPs inhibits cryoinjury and promote the embryo development capacity of vitrified-warmed COCs.

Exposure to automobile exhaust-derived PM2.5 induces spermatogenesis dysfunction by damaging UPRmt of prepubertal rats

Automobile exhaust-derived particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) can cause spermatogenic cell damage, potentially resulting in male infertility. This study uses male prepubertal Sprague Dawley (SD) rats to explore the molecular mechanisms by which automobile exhaust-derived PM2.5 causes spermatogenic cell damage and induces spermatogenesis dysfunction during sexual maturity by disrupting the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt) in spermatogenic cells. Male prepubertal SD rats were randomly divided into four groups: control (intratracheal instillation of normal saline), low-dose PM2.5 (5 mg/kg), high-dose PM2.5 (10 mg/kg), and PM2.5 10 mg/kg +Vit (100 mg/kg of vitamin C and 50 mg/kg of vitamin E). The rats were treated for four weeks, with five consecutive treatment days and two non-treatment days, followed by cohabitation. Testicular and epididymal tissues were harvested for analysis. The mitochondria in spermatogenic cells were observed under an electron microscope. UPRmt-, oxidative stress-, and apoptosis-related markers in spermatogenic cells were examined. Spermatogenic cell numbers and conception rate declined significantly with increasing PM2.5 dose, with their mitochondria becoming vacuolated, swollen, and degenerated to varying degrees. The apoptosis of spermatogenic cells was abnormally enhanced in PM2.5 exposed groups compared to the control group. Spermatogenic cell numbers of conception rate gradually recovered, mitochondrial damage in spermatogenic cells was alleviated, and spermatogenic cell apoptosis was significantly reduced after vitamin intervention. In addition, protein levels of superoxide dismutase 1 (Sod1), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) were significantly lower, while those of Bcl2-associated X apoptosis regulator (Bax), cleaved caspase 3 (Casp3), and cytochrome c (Cyt-c) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly higher in the high-dose PM2.5 group than in the control group. The levels of UPRmt-related proteins C/EBP homologous protein (Chop), heat shock protein 60 (Hsp60), and activating transcription factors 4 (Atf4) and 5 (Atf5) were higher in the low-dose PM2.5 group, lower in the high-dose PM2.5 group, and gradually recovered in PM2.5 10 mg/kg +Vit group. Our results show that exposure to automobile exhaust-derived PM2.5 induces oxidative stress responses, leads to post-sexual maturation UPRmt dysfunction and mitochondrial impairment, and abnormally enhances spermatogenic cell apoptosis in prepubertal rats, resulting in male infertility.

Effect of Electroacupuncture at Zusanli (ST36) on Intestinal Microbiota in Rats With Chronic Atrophic Gastritis.

Background: Electroacupuncture is a common treatment for chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) in China. We aimed to determine the effects of electroacupuncture at zusanli (ST36) on intestinal microbiota in CAG rats. Methods: In total, 42 SD rats were randomly divided into normal (NC, 10 rats) and model (MG, 32 rats) groups. Rats in the MG group were established as CAG disease models. After that, the rats in the MG group were randomly divided into CAG (10 rats), electroacupuncture (EA, 10 rats), and Vitacoenzyme (Vit, 10 rats) groups. Rats in the NC and CAG groups were subjected to a 30-min/d confinement for 4 weeks. Rats in the EA group were given electroacupuncture at zusanli for 30 min/d for 4 weeks. Rats in the Vit group were given Vitacoenzyme solution 10 ml/(kg d) for 4 weeks. Histopathological changes in the gastric mucosa were observed with hematoxylin and eosin staining, and the gene expression level of p53, Bcl-2, and c-myc was determined using the qPCR method. The 16S rDNA sequencing technique was used to determine structural changes and relative abundance expression of intestinal flora. Results: Compared with the NC group, gastric mucosal pathology in the CAG group revealed significant inflammatory infiltration, and the gastric mucosal lesions in the electroacupuncture group were improved remarkably; the expression of p53 and c-myc genes in the CAG group increased (p < 0.05), while the expression of Bcl-2 genes decreased (p < 0.05) in the EA group, that of p53 and c-myc genes decreased (p < 0.05), and that of Bcl-2 genes increased (p < 0.05). The abundance of bacteria such as Lactobacillus, Desulfobacterota, and Bacteroides pectinophilus group in the CAG group increased (p < 0.05), while that of bacteria such as Gastranaerophilales, Romboutsia, and Blautia decreased (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Desulfobacterota and Helicobacter in the EA group decreased (p < 0.05), while that of probiotic bacteria such as Oscillospirales, Romboutsia, and Christensenellaceae increased (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Electroacupuncture at zusanli can promote the repair of pathological damage to the gastric mucosa in rats with CAG, and the mechanism might relate to the reduction in the relative abundance of harmful bacteria, increase in the relative abundance of intestinal probiotics, and regulation of the intestinal microbiota.

A correlational study of Weifuchun and its clinical effect on intestinal flora in precancerous lesions of gastric cancer

BackgroundWeifuchun (WFC), a Chinese herbal prescription consisting of Red Ginseng, Isodon amethystoides and Fructus Aurantii, is commonly used in China to treat a variety of chronic stomach disorders. The aim of the paper was to determine the effect of WFC on intestinal microbiota changes in precancerous lesions of gastric cancer (PLGC) patients.MethodsPLGC patients of H. pylori negative were randomly divided into two groups and received either WFC tablets for a dose of 1.44 g three times a day or vitacoenzyme (Vit) tablets for a dose of 0.8 g three times a day. All patients were treated for 6 months consecutively. Gastroscopy and histopathology were used to assess the histopathological changes in gastric tissues before and after treatment. 16S rRNA gene sequencing was carried out to assess the effects WFC on intestinal microbiota changes in PLGC patients. Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) analysis was used to assess the sensitivity and specificity of different intestinal microbiota in distinguishing between PLGC patients and healthy control group.ResultsGastroscopy and histopathological results indicated that WFC could improve the pathological condition of PLGC patients, especially in the case of atrophy or intestinal metaplasia. The results of 16S rRNA gene sequencing indicated that WFC could regulate microbial diversity, microbial composition, and abundance of the intestinal microbiota of PLGC patients. Following WFC treatment, the relative abundance of Parabacteroides decreased in WFC group when compared with the Vit group. ROC analysis found that the Parabacteroides could effectively distinguish PLGC patients from healthy individuals with sensitivity of 0.79 and specificity of 0.8.ConclusionsWFC could slow down the progression of PLGC by regulating intestinal microbiota abundance.Trial registration NCT03814629. Name of registry: Randomized Clinical Trial: Weifuchun Treatment on Precancerous Lesions of Gastric Cancer. Registered 3 August 2018-Retrospectively registered, https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/ NCT03814629.

Clinical Evaluation of Platform Switching Implant Abutments Restored by Two Metal Free Restorations (IN VIVO STUDY).

Abstract Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the clinical effect of two abutment materials with two different types of superstructure metal free restoration on the platform switched implant. Subjects and Methods: Twenty human patients with missing maxillary central incisor were selected for implant placement and divided randomly into two groups according to abutment type Titanium abutment and PEEK abutment( n= 10 in each) .Each group was subdivided into two subgroubs according to superstructure crown (PEEK and VITA ENAMIC crown, n=5) All groups were evaluated clinically through measuring implant stability, determining screw loosening and color stability at base line, 3, 6 and 12 months . Results: As regarding to implant stability , there was no significant difference between four groups Ti PEEK ,Ti VIT , PEEK PEEK and PEEK VIT group (73.40 ± 3.44,73.80 ± 2.17,76.0 ± 1.87,73.40 ± 2.30). There is no screw loosening of all tested group. PEEK VIT group show the highest color change between all groups but the change is not significant . Conclusion: PEEK abutment with PEEK crown gives better result but in general implant stability is comparable with other groups. There is no screw loosening occur in all group. Color stability was better when use titanium abutment however the difference between all group was non significant. VITA ENAMIC crown with PEEK abutment show the higher color change, however the difference is non significant.

Radiographic Evaluation of Platform Switching Implant Abutments Restored by Two Metal Free Restorations.

Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the radiographic effect of two abutment materials with two different types of superstructure metal free restoration on the platform switched implant. Subjects and Methods: Twenty human patients with missing maxillary central incisor were selected for implant placement and divided randomly into two groups according to abutment type titanium abutment and PEEK abutment, (n= 10 in each) Each group was subdivided into two subgroubs according to superstructure crown (PEEK and VITA ENAMIC crown, n=5 in each) .All groups were evaluated radiographically. Preapical radiographs were taken by parlling technique at base line, 3, 6 and 12 months . Results: The mean value of marginal bone level were determined that PEEK PEEK group showed a lower Mean marginal bone loss , followed by PEEK VIT , followed by Ti PEEK, Ti VIT was the highest(0.64 ± 0.03, 0.67 ± 0.02, 0.96 ± 0.04, 1.01 ± 0.05) respectively. Regarding with each other PEEK PEEK and PEEK VIT groups were significantly lower than Ti VIT group. Conclusion: PEEK abutment is considered a better alternative to titanium abutment in relation to hard tissue response in addition to has a good role in occlusal force distribution, as marginal bone loss was reduced when use PEEK abutment than titanium abutment regardless the type of suberstructure crown.

Effects of injectable trace element and vitamin supplementation during the gestational, peri-parturient, or early lactational periods on neutrophil functions and pregnancy rate in dairy cows

The aim of this study was to evaluate effects of injectable trace element and vitamin combination on phagocytic, oxidative burst activity of neutrophils and reproductive outcomes in dairy cows. Cows were to assigned to the following groups: (1) injectable trace element supplementation (ITES, n = 44, containing zinc, manganese, copper, selenium); (2) injectable vitamin supplementation (VIT, n = 48, containing vitamins A, D3, E); (3) ITES + VIT (n = 46); and (4) control (CON, n = 44). Cows were administered four injections between 230 and 260 days of the gestational period, on day of parturition, and 30 days postpartum. Neutrophil function was assessed at 10 days before and after calving. Phagocytosis was greater in cows of the ITES + VIT group at 10 days prepartum (P < 0.05) while oxidative burst was similar among groups. There were greater non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations in cows of the ITES+VIT group at 10 days prepartum (P < 0.05). Cows supplemented with ITES+ VIT had less SOD activity than those supplemented with ITES or vitamin during the pre- to post-partum transition period (P < 0.05). The total odds of pregnancy were greater in cows supplemented with trace element and/or vitamin (P < 0.05). In conclusion, supplementation of ITES and/or VIT resulted in an increased total pregnancy rate. Vitamin or trace element supplementation did not differ with the control group in both the prepartum and postpartum period for immune variables. There, however, was greater phagocytosis in cows supplemented with vitamin and trace elements during the prepartum period that might be related to metabolic-induced inflammation.

Effect of strength training and antioxidant supplementation on perceived and performance fatigability in breast cancer survivors: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study.

This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study aimed to investigate the effect of strength training (ST) combined with vitamin C and E supplementation on perceived and performance fatigability in breast cancer survivors (BCS). Twenty-five BCS were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: vitamins (VIT; n = 12; 51.0 ± 9.0 years) or placebo (PLA; n = 13; 48.2 ± 8.3 years). Both groups performed a 10-week ST protocol, twice a week. The VIT group was supplemented with vitamins C (500 mg/day) and E (180 mg/day) and the PLA group with polydextrose (1 g/day), once a day after breakfast. At the beginning and at the end of the training period, perceived fatigability was assessed using Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI)-20 (general fatigue and physical fatigue). Performance fatigability was assessed during 30 maximal isokinetic knee extensions at 120°/s. General fatigue decreased similarly in the VIT (p = 0.004) and PLA (p = 0.011) groups. Physical fatigue decreased similarly in the VIT (p = 0.011) and PLA (p = 0.001) groups. Performance fatigability also decreased similarly in the VIT (p = 0.026) and PLA (p < 0.001) groups. There was no difference between groups at any moment (p > 0.05). In summary, antioxidant supplementation does not add any positive synergistic effect to ST in terms of improving perceived or performance fatigability in BCS. This clinical trial is registered in the Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry, number RBR-843pth (UTN no.: U1111-1222-6511). Novelty ST with maximal repetitions reduces perceived and performance fatigability of BCS. Vitamins C and E supplementation does not add any positive synergistic effect to ST in terms of reducing fatigability in BCS.

Effect of intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide injection at the end of vitrectomy for vitreous haemorrhage related to proliferative diabetic retinopathy

Background/AimsTo investigate whether intravitreal injection of triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) combined with vitrectomy prevents postoperative inflammation in patients with vitreous haemorrhage (VH) due to proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).MethodsThis prospective, multicentre, randomised...

The protective effect of folic acid and Vit B12 supplementation on albino rat lung injury due to cadmium inhalation

Background Folic acid and vitamin B12 are very important vitamins needed for normal cellular metabolic activities. Cadmium is a heavy metal that occurs naturally in the environment and Cadmium poisoning can occur through man-made pollution through agricultural and industrial activities. Aim Study of the effect of Cadmium of lung tissue of albino rats and the possible protective effect of administration of both Folic acid and vit B12 combination. Materials and Methods Thirty adult male albino rats were divided into 3 groups, a control group, Cadmium group, where rats received nebulized Cadmium chloride (CaCl2) and Cadmium + vit. group received Cadmium nebulization and both Folic acid and vit B12 supplementation. The lungs of rats of the 3 groups were collected and prepared for histopathological examination. Results Cadmium group sections showed disturbed lung architecture, shrunken alveoli and increased thickness of the alveolar wall. Vacuolation of the cytoplasm of some pneumocytes were noticed and some slides showed dilated congested blood sinusoids. Transmission electron microscopic sections revealed type II pneumocyte with hyperchromatic nucleus, perinuclear dilatation, dilated and mildly degenerated lamellar bodies. Cadmium + vit group showed that the lung tissue appears nearly normal with areas of mild thickening of the alveolar wall septa and mild edema inside alveoli. Conclusion It was concluded that both Folic acid and vit B12 supplementation proved to have a protective role against the harmful effects of Cadmium administration on the lung tissues of albino rats.

Epiretinal membrane surgery: an analysis of 2-step sequential- or combined phacovitrectomy surgery on refraction and macular anatomy in a prospective trial.

To assess the impact of combined phacoemulsification-vitrectomy and sequential surgery for idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM) on refractive error (RE) and macular morphology. In this prospective clinical trial, we allocated phakic eyes with ERM to (1) cataract surgery and subsequent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) (CAT group), (2) PPV and subsequent cataract surgery (VIT group) or (3) phaco-vitrectomy (COMBI group). Examinations were at baseline, one month after each surgery, and at 3months and 12months of follow-up. Primary outcome was the RE (the difference between predicted and achieved spherical equivalent); secondary outcomes were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and incidence of cystoid macular oedema (CME) defined as >10% increment of central subfield macular thickness (CSMT). Sixty-two eyes were enrolled. The mean RE showed a small myopic shift of -0.36D in all groups 1month after surgery, decreasing after 12months to -0.17D. The absolute value of the RE (ARE) ranged 0.49-0.68D after 12months. In the immediate postoperative period, there was a higher incidence of CME in the CAT group. There was no significant difference in final RE, ARE, BCVA and CSMT between the groups. Four cases (17%) in the CAT group had resolved visual complaints and improved BCVA after cataract surgery resulting in no need for PPV within the follow-up period. Surgery for idiopathic ERM in phakic eyes with either phaco-vitrectomy or sequential surgery are equal approaches with respect to functional- (RE, BCVA) and anatomical outcomes (CME, CSMT). However, if starting with cataract surgery, 17% of the cases may not need subsequent PPV.

Corneal endothelial cell loss and corneal biomechanical characteristics after two-step sequential or combined phaco-vitrectomy surgery for idiopathic epiretinal membrane.

To assess the impact of sequential and combined surgery [cataract surgery and 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with peeling] on corneal endothelium cell density (CED) and corneal biomechanical characteristics. Phakic eyes with epiretinal membrane (ERM) were prospectively allocated to (i) cataract surgery and subsequent PPV (CAT group), (ii) PPV and subsequent cataract surgery (VIT group) or (iii) phacovitrectomy (COMBI group). Eyes were examined at baseline, 1month after each surgery, and at 3 and 12months follow-up. Corneal endothelium cell density (CED) was assessed with non-contact specular microscopy. Pachymetry [central cornea thickness (CCT)], keratometry and cornea volume (CV) were measured with Pentacam Scheimpflug camera. Primary outcome was change in CED after 12months; secondary outcomes were changes in CCT and CV after 12months. Sixty-two eyes were enrolled and allocated to the three groups. The mean preoperative CED was 2776, 2794 and 2653 cells/mm2, which decreased significantly at 12months by 15.3, 20.0 and 19.3% in the CAT, VIT and COMBI group. There was no significant difference in percentage cell loss between the groups at final follow-up. The CED decreased significantly after cataract surgery, but was unaffected by PPV. Central cornea thickness (CCT) increased by 10μm (p=0.005) and CV by 1.38mm3 (2.3%, p<0.001) in the COMBI group. There were no significant differences in CCT or CV between the groups at final follow-up. Combined and sequential surgery in ERM leads to a small decrease in CED. Performing cataract surgery before, after or in combination with vitrectomy did not make any significant difference with respect to final CED, CCT or CV.

The “complete vitrectomy performed early” treatment philosophy

PurposeTo compare the impact of early versus late complete vitrectomy in the management of acute postoperative endophthalmitis (PE).MethodsRetrospective study.Results57 eyes from 57 patients were included in this study. 49.1% of patients were males. Baseline characteristics were similar in all groups (VIT, NVIT, VIT_early and VIT_late). Mean visual acuity at presentation was hand movements (2.3 logMAR) in all groups. After treatment mean visual acuity was 1.2 ± 1.1 logMAR in the NVIT group and 1.9 ± 1.2 logMAR in the VIT group (p = 0.075). The differences between visual outcomes in VIT_early and VIT_late groups, however, achieved statistical significance (p = 0.012): 0.8 ± 1.1 logMAR in the VIT_early group whereas in the VIT_late group it was 2.2 ± 1.0 logMAR. Significant differences between visual outcomes were also encountered when comparing NVIT and VIT_late groups (p = 0.008). The difference in final visual acuity between VIT_early and NVIT didn't not attain statistical difference (p = 0.459).ConclusionsThis study highlights the impact of a complete early vitrectomy in the management of PE. A complete vitrectomy didn't surpass the visual results of intravitreal antibiotics alone (p = 0.075). Howeverm a complete vitrectomy performed within the first 24 hours after presentation was clearly beneficial when compared to vitrectomy performed later (p = 0.012). Furthermore, our series suggests that a late vitrectomy is detrimental to visual results when compared to intravitreal antibiotics (p = 0.008).

The relationship between insect sting allergy treatment and patient anxiety and depression.

Quality of life is affected by history of bee sting allergy. In addition, worry about being stung and also the need to use self-injection of medicine can create or increase anxiety, which can further compromise a patient's ability to enjoy the outdoors and participate in activities. We sought to determine the depression and anxiety in three groups of individuals. We assessed patients with bee sting allergy without epinephrine, bee sting allergy with epinephrine, and bee sting allergy receiving immunotherapy (venom immunotherapy [VIT]). We use two standardized surveys after having Intuitional Review Board approval to determine depression and anxiety in the three cohorts noted previously. We compared the three groups using Wilcoxon rank sum test and statistical significance was considered present for a value of p = 0.05. Overall, the epinephrine group had higher mean anxiety and depression scores compared with the other treatment groups. The VIT group had the lowest mean and median scores for both anxiety and depression. It appears that VIT not only decreases the risk of anaphylaxis and death, but also improves quality of life by reduction of anxiety and depression, especially in female subjects. We found that VIT patients, when compared with nontreated and treated only with epinephrine, had lower anxiety and depression scores.

Effect of Vasopressin Injection Technique in Laparoscopic Excision of Bilateral Ovarian Endometriomas on Ovarian Reserve: Prospective Randomized Study

Study ObjectiveTo evaluate the effects of vasopressin injection technique in laparoscopic cystectomy on ovarian reserve in patients with bilateral endometriomas. DesignRandomized prospective study (Canadian Task Force classification I). SettingUniversity hospital. PatientsEighty-six women with bilateral endometriomas. InterventionsLaparoscopic cystectomy of bilateral endometriomas was performed using different techniques including laparoscopic cystectomy by stripping without injection (control group), laparoscopic cystectomy by stripping with injection of saline solution (saline group), and laparoscopic cystectomy by stripping with vasopressin injection technique (VIT group). Measurements and Main ResultsThe number of coagulation events on the ovarian cortex for hemostasis was counted in different groups, and the thickness of ovarian tissues removed was measured. The basal follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level was determined before surgery and at 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up after laparoscopic cystectomy in the different groups. In the saline group, fewer coagulation events were required to achieve hemostasis, less ovarian tissues were removed, and lower preoperative FSH levels were detected than in the control group (p < .01). In the VIT group, even fewer coagulation events (p < .01) and lower preoperative FSH levels (p < .01) were detected than in the saline group. There was no significant difference in the thickness of ovarian tissues removed in the 2 groups (p > .05). Basal FSH levels were significantly different before and after surgery in the control and saline groups (p < .01) but not in the VIT group (p > .05). ConclusionVasopressin injection is an ideal procedure to reduce damage from usual laparoscopic cystectomy of bilateral ovarian endometriomas to protect ovarian reserve.

Effects of vitrification on mitochondrial distribution and spindle configuration during in vitro maturation of human germinal vesicle-stage oocytes

Cryopreservation of human immature oocytes may be useful tool for fertility preservation in the future. However, vitrification of germinal vesicle (GV)-stage oocytes has poor result as for later development after fertilization. This may be due to abnormality of cytoplasmic maturation of the freeze-thawed oocytes. To elucidate this mechanism, we have investigated the distribution of mitochondria and spindle and chromosome configuration of in vitro matured oocytes with or without vitrification. GV oocytes were obtained from consenting patients undergoing ICSI treatment at our clinic. GV oocytes were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups: (1) GV group, GV oocytes; (2) IVM group, GV oocytes matured in vitro to metaphase II (MII); and (3) Vit group, oocytes vitrified at GV stage and matured in vitro. Confocal microscopy was applied to compared the mitochondrial distribution and configuration of the meiotic spindle and chromosomes in those oocytes. The maturation (MII) rate was 71.9% in the IVM group and 73.3% in the Vit group. There were no significant differences between the IVM and Vit groups. Compared to the IVM group (17.5%), the Vit group (45.9%) showed significant increase in diffuse mitochondria distribution. There was also a significantly lower proportion of oocytes with normal spindle configuration in the Vit group (18.9%) compared with the IVM group (47.5%). There were no significant differences in chromosome configuration between the IVM and Vit groups. This study revealed that vitrification of human GV oocytes has a detrimental effect on the spindle configuration of oocytes that have been thawed and matured in vitro which may explain decreased ability of further development.

The effect of intratympanic vitamin C administration on cisplatin-induced ototoxicity

The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of intratympanic injection of vitamin C on cisplatin-induced ototoxicity. The study included 24 albino adult female rats (48 ears). The study animals were divided into four groups each of which was composed of six animals including a control (intraperitoneal cisplatin), a cisplatin-saline (saline intratympanic + intraperitoneal cisplatin), a C vit (intratympanic vitamin C) and a cisplatin-C vit group (intraperitoneal cisplatin + intratympanic vitamin C). As two animals had died due to cisplatin-induced ototoxicity (one in the control and one in the cisplatin-saline group) they were excluded from the study. The experiment was terminated, performing distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) measurement prior to procedures and at the end of the experiment. The results of the statistical analysis were evaluated. In the cisplatin-C vit group, there were no significant decreases in DPOAE amplitudes at 2 kHz (p > 0.05). Although a decrease was observed in DPOAE amplitudes at 2.8, 4, 6, and 8 kHz frequencies, these amplitude reductions were significantly lower than the control group (p < 0.05). Intratympanic vit C infusion provided a protective effect against cisplatin-induced ototoxicity primarily at 2 kHz and at other frequencies (2.8, 4, 6, and 8 kHz), and it did not produce a toxic effect in the cochlea.

25-Gauge Vitrectomy versus Intravitreal Bevacizumab for Macular Edema Secondary to Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion: 1 Year Follow-Up

This study aims to compare the long-term efficacy of 25-gauge vitrectomy to that of intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) for the treatment of macular edema (ME) secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). The medical records of 46 eyes of 46 consecutive patients were reviewed. Twenty-seven eyes underwent 25-gauge vitrectomy (VIT Group) and 19 eyes received 1.25 mg of IVB (IVB Group). The best-corrected visual acuities (BCVAs) in logarithm of minimum angle resolution units and central macular thicknesses (CMTs) were evaluated before and 3, 6, and 12 months after the initial treatment. There was no significant difference in the pre-treatment BCVA and CMT between the 2 groups. In the VIT Group, the preoperative BCVA was 0.59 and the CMT was 587.3 μm and the BCVA was 0.35 and the CMT was 286.6 μm, 12 months after the vitrectomy. Both values were significantly (P <0.05) better at 12 months than the preoperative values. In the IVB Group, the average number of IVB was 2.4 during the 1-year period. The BCVA was 0.69 and the CMT was 590.9 μm before the IVB, and the BCVA was 0.36 and the CMT was 360.1 μm, 12 months after the initial IVB. The improvements of these 2 parameters were significant (P <0.05) at 12 months after the initial IVB. The differences in the BCVA and CMT at 12 months between the 2 groups were not significant. These results suggest that the 25-gauge vitrectomy and IVB have similar effects in improving the BCVA and CMT in eyes with ME secondary to BRVO. However, IVB often required several injections to preserve the improvement.

Effects of Exercise and B Vitamins on Homocysteine and Glutathione in Parkinson’s Disease: A Randomized Trial

Background: Individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD) have decreased glutathione levels and elevated homocysteine levels. These substances are considered markers of health, and an inverse relationship has been suggested through the transsulfuration pathway. This experiment tested the effects of exercise and B vitamin supplementation on homocysteine and glutathione levels, and if a relationship was present between these two markers in those with PD. Secondary aims included examining the impact of the interventions on aerobic efficiency and strength. Methods: Thirty-six subjects were randomly assigned to 4 groups. The Vit group received vitamins B₆, B₁₂ and folic acid daily for 6 weeks. The Ex group received aerobic and strength training twice weekly for 6 weeks. The Vit + Ex group received both interventions. A control group received no intervention. Subjects were tested prior to and after intervention on the following measures: glutathione and homocysteine levels, strength measures and oxygen consumption. Results: Subjects who received 6 weeks of B vitamin supplementation had lowered homocysteine levels. Subjects who received 6 weeks of exercise training had increased glutathione levels, strength and aerobic capacity. The combination of vitamin and exercise did not yield greater changes than the separate intervention. The control subjects did not change on any measures. Conclusion: Positive results were realized with each intervention; however, the expected relationship between glutathione and homocysteine was not found in this sample of subjects with PD. Homocysteine and glutathione levels can be improved independently in individuals with PD with exercise or vitamins B₆, B₁₂ and folic acid supplementation.

Diazinon-induced brain toxicity and protection by vitamins E plus C

Diazinon (DI) is a widely used pesticide in agriculture, resulting in environmental deleterious effects on neural systems. The current study was performed to investigate the effects of treatment with vitamins E plus C on brain toxicity, which is possibly induced by DI. Twenty-one male rats were divided into three groups (n = 7/group) as follows: (1) control group (C); (2) DI-treated group (DI); (3) DI + vitamins E plus C-treated group (DI + Vit). In order to examine lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status in rats, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA), activities of two free radical scavanging enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and catalase (CAT) have been studied in brain of rat. The results showed that treatment with DI induced significant (p < 0.05) increases in the level of serum MDA in rat brain. The vitamins E plus C combination reduced lipid peroxidation in rat brain. The activity of SOD level was significantly higher in DI + Vit group, compared to the control group. GSH-Px, SOD and CAT values were not significantly different in the DI group than in control. Oxidative stress contributes to DI-induced brain toxicity. Our results suggested that vitamins E plus C combination may have a protective effect on DI-induced brain toxicity.