Prognostic Value of B7H4 Expression in Patients with Solid Cancers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

V-set domain-containing T-cell activation inhibitor 1 (aliases VTCN1, B7H4) participates in tumour immune escape by delivering inhibitory signals to T cells. The purpose of this article was to assess the B7H4 prognostic value in solid cancers. Three databases were searched for relevant articles. The main endpoints were overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), progression-free survival (PFS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), and disease-free survival (DFS). Appropriate hazard ratios (HRs) were pooled. The R studio software (version 4.0.3) was used for data analysis. Thirty-one studies met the inclusion criteria. High expression of B7H4 was associated with worse OS (HR = 1.52, 95% CI: 1.37-1.68) but not with DSS (HR = 1.14, 95% CI: 0.49-2.63), RFS (HR = 1.77, 95% CI: 0.75-4.18), DFS (HR = 1.29, 95% CI: 0.8-2.09), or PFS (HR = 1.71, 95% CI: 0.91-3.2) in patients with solid cancers. High expression of B7H4 is associated with a poorer prognosis in patients with solid cancers. B7H4 is a promising prognostic biomarker and immunotherapeutic target for various solid cancers because of its activity in cancer immunity and tumourigenesis.

Prognostic Value of HHLA2 in Patients with Solid Tumors: A Meta-Analysis.

HHLA2 is a checkpoint from the B7 family that can play a co-stimulatory or co-inhibitory role in cancer, depending on the binding receptor. The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the relationship between HHLA2 levels and its impact on the prognosis of patients with solid cancers. The study used data from PubMed, Embase, Web of Science (WOS), Cochrane and SCOPUS databases. The R studio software was used for the data analysis. The study assessed overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), progression-free survival (PFS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), and disease-free survival (DFS) by pooling appropriate hazard ratios (HR). Eighteen studies (2880 patients' data) were included. High expression of HHLA2 was associated with worse OS (HR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.23-2.03), shorter RFS (HR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.38-2.77) and worse DFS (HR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.01-2.09) in patients with solid cancers. The current study suggests that high expression of HHLA2 is associated with poorer prognosis in patients with solid cancers.

Evaluations of the combined use of blood- and tissue-based protein biomarkers for pancreatic cancer.

BACKGROUND: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly aggressive malignancy with a low 5-year survival rate. Biomarkers may be of value for the early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. This study assessed blood- and tumour tissue-based biomarkers associated with pancreatic cancer. METHODS: We studied 61 patients who underwent pancreatic resection. Of these 61 patients, 46 patients had PDAC, and 15 patients had inflammatory tumours. Blood and tumour tissue levels of VEGF, hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) and glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) were measured. RESULTS: Blood concentrations of VEGF (p < 0.000001) and HIF-1α (p = 0.000002) were significantly higher in the PDAC group than in the inflammatory tumour group. Tumour tissue concentrations of VEGF (p < 0.000001), HIF-1α (p = 0.000005) and GLUT1 (0.000002) were also significantly higher in the PDAC group. Univariate analyses revealed that age, BMI, and blood levels of CA19-9, VEGF, and HIF-1α were potential predictors of PDAC. Potential predictors of PDAC in tumour tissue were VEGF, HIF-1α and GLUT1. Multivariate analyses found that VEGF was the most powerful independent predictor of PDAC in blood (OR = 1.016; 95% CI: 1.007-1.025; 0.001) and tumour tissue (OR = 1.02; 95% CI: 1.008-1.032, p = 0.001). The cut-off point for blood VEGF was 134.56 pg/ml, with a sensitivity of 97.8%, specificity of 86.7%, PPV of 95.7%, and NPV of 92.9%. The cut-off point for tissue tumour VEGF in PDAC was 208.59 pg/mg, with a sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of 97.7%, 92.9%, 97.7%, and 92.9%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: There are significant differences in blood-based biomarkers for differentiating between PDAC and inflammatory tumours of the pancreas. VEGF was an independent predictor of PDAC independent of its addition to the routinely used tumour marker CA19-9 antigen.

Blood-based protein biomarkers and red blood cell aggregation in pancreatic cancer.

BACKGROUND: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is highly malignant with a low 5-year survival rate. Blood biomarkers may be of value for the noninvasive diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. OBJECTIVE: This study assessed blood-based biomarkers and disturbances in red blood cell aggregation associated with pancreatic cancer. METHODS: We studied 61 patients who underwent pancreatic resection. Of these 61 patients, 46 patients had PDAC, and 15 patients had inflammatory tumours. Serum VEGF, hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF-1α), elastin-derived peptides (EDPs), total sialic acid (TSA) and resistin levels were measured. Red blood cell aggregation was assessed by a laser-assisted optical rotational cell analyser. RESULTS: VEGF (p < 0.000001), HIF-1α (p = 0.000002), resistin (p = 0.000349), EDP (p = 0.000089) and TSA (p = 0.000013) levels were significantly higher in the PDAC group than in the inflammatory tumour group. The aggregation index (AI), syllectogram amplitude (AMP) and threshold shear rate (γthr) were significantly higher in the PDAC group, whereas the aggregation half-time (t1/2) was lower than in the inflammatory tumour group. Multivariate analyses revealed that VEGF, TSA and EDP levels were variables that predicted PDAC. VEGF levels were the most powerful predictor of PDAC independent of CA 19-9 levels. The cut-off points for VEGF, TSA and EDP levels were 134.56 pg/ml, 109.11 mg/dl and 36.4 ng/ml, respectively, with sensitivities of 97.8%, 87% and 69.6%, respectively, and specificities of 86.7%, 86.7% and 93.3%, respectively. CONCLUSION: This study indicated that there are significant differences in blood-based biomarkers for differentiating between PDAC and inflammatory tumours of the pancreas. We also confirmed that PDAC is associated with the excessive aggregation of RBCs.

PiRNA Obtained through Liquid Biopsy as a Possible Cancer Biomarker.

In recent years PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) have gained the interest of scientists, mainly because of their possible implications in cancer. Many kinds of research showed how their expression can be linked to malignant diseases. However, most of them evaluated the expression of piRNAs in tumor tissues. It was shown how these non-coding RNAs can interfere with many signaling pathways involved in the regulation of proliferation or apoptosis. A comparison of piRNA expression in tumor tissue and adjacent healthy tissues has demonstrated they can be used as biomarkers. However, this way of obtaining samples has a significant drawback, which is the invasiveness of such a procedure. Liquid biopsy is an alternative for acquiring biological material with little to no harm to a patient. Several different piRNAs in various types of cancer were shown to be expressed in bodily fluids such as blood or urine. Furthermore, their expression significantly differed between cancer patients and healthy individuals. Hence, this review aimed to assess the possible use of liquid biopsy for cancer diagnosis with piRNAs as biomarkers.

B7H3 Role in Reshaping Immunosuppressive Landscape in MSI and MSS Colorectal Cancer Tumours.

The study aimed to assess the expression of B7H3 concerning clinicopathological and histological parameters, including MSI/MSS status, CD-8 cells, tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), budding, TNM scale and grading. Moreover, we analyzed the B7H3-related pathways using available online datasets and the immunological context of B7H3 expression, through the 48-cytokine screening panel of cancer tissues homogenates, immunogenic features and immune composition. The study included 158 patients diagnosed with CRC. To assess B7H3 levels, we performed an immunohistochemistry method (IHC) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). To elucidate the immune composition of colorectal cancer, we performed the Bio-Plex Pro Human 48-cytokine panel. To study biological characteristics of B7H3, we used online databases. Expression of B7H3 was upregulated in CRC tumour tissues in comparison to adjacent noncancerous margin tissues. The concentrations of B7H3 in tumours were positively associated with T parameter of patients and negatively with tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes score. Additionally, Principal Component Analysis showed that B7H3 expression in tumours correlated positively with cytokines associated with M2-macrophages and protumour growth factors. The expression of B7H3 in tumours was independent of MSI/MSS status. These findings will improve our understanding of B7H3 role in colorectal cancer immunity. Our study suggests that B7-H3 is a promising potential target for cancer therapy. Further studies must clarify the mechanisms of B7H3 overexpression and its therapeutic importance in colorectal cancer.

Do Elevated YKL-40 Levels Drive the Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironment in Colorectal Cancer? Assessment of the Association of the Expression of YKL-40, MMP-8, IL17A, and PD-L1 with Coexisting Type 2 Diabetes, Obesity, and Active Smoking.

The influence of chitinase-3-like protein 1 (YKL-40 or CHI3L1) expression on the immunological properties of the tumor microenvironment, which may affect the effectiveness of immunotherapy, is currently not sufficiently understood in colorectal cancer (CRC). The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between YKL-40 expression and the immunological properties of the tumor microenvironment in CRC. We performed in silico analysis, including analysis of immune cell infiltration scores and the immune landscape depending on YKL-40 expression, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), and analysis of three Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets. In 48 CRC tissue homogenates and the surgical margin, we analyzed the expression of YKL-40, MMP8, IL17A, and PD-L1. Moreover, we analyzed the expression of YKL-40 in tissue homogenates retrieved from patients with coexisting diabetes, obesity, and smoking. The expression of YKL-40 was significantly higher in CRC tumor tissue compared to healthy tissue and correlated with MMP-8, IL17A, and PD-L1 expression. In silico analysis revealed an association of YKL-40 with disease recurrence, and GSEA revealed a potential link between elevated YKL-40 expression and immunosuppressive properties of the tumor microenvironment in CRC.

Assessment of Interleukin-15 (IL-15) Concentration in Children with Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome.

Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) is a chronic glomerular disease in children, characterized by severe proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and/or presence of edema and hyperlipidemia. The pathogenesis, however, has not been yet established. The clinical course of the disease is characterized by frequent relapses. Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine, that apart from its involvement in the immune system, was found to be playing a vital role in various cells' functioning, including renal tissue. It is desirable to look for new predictors of INS. Our study aimed to evaluate IL-15 as a potential marker in the early diagnosis of the disease. The cohort participating in the study consisted of patients hospitalized in Clinical Hospital No. 1 in Zabrze, from December 2019 to December 2021, including study group with INS (n = 30) and control group (n = 44). Results: The concentration of IL-15 in both serum and urine was significantly elevated in patients with INS, compared to healthy controls. The cytokine might serve as a marker of the disease, however, further research on larger study groups is needed.

The Effect of Biological Treatment on Stress Parameters Determined in Saliva in Patients with Severe Psoriasis.

Background and objectives: In psoriatic patients, stress is the most common aggravating factor. Despite the use of quality-of-life assessment questionnaires, diagnosing stress in psoriatic patients is not a flawless procedure. This study aimed to assess the usefulness of potential stress biomarkers in saliva for monitoring the treatment of psoriasis. Materials and methods: A total of 104 adult patients with severe psoriasis were included and randomly treated via biological treatment or symptomatic therapy: 84 received biological treatment, with 20 formed a control group receiving symptomatic therapy. The administered biological treatment was adalimumab, whilst in controls calcipotriol/betamethasone dipropionate topical gel and emollients were used. Patients were monitored monthly with a dermatological examination and the dispensing of a biological drug. During each of the four visits, the severity of the disease was assessed (PASI, BSA, and DLQI), and a sample of the patient's saliva was taken. In all the participants, the saliva concentrations of immunoglobulin A (sIgA), α-amylase (sAA), and chromogranin A (CgA) were measured. Results: The majority of patients in both the study and control groups achieved clinical improvement, though favoring the group receiving biological treatment. The concentration of sIgA in the saliva was constantly increasing in the study group during subsequent visits (Fr = 27.26; p < 0.001). Meanwhile, there were no statistically significant changes in the control group during the same follow-up period (Fr = 6.66; p = 0.084). Levels of sAA underwent statistically significant changes in both groups (Fr = 58.02; p < 0.001-study group and Fr = 13.74; p = 0.003-control group). In the study group, a steady, statistically significant increase in sAA was observed from the first to the third visit. In the study group, a downward trend in CgA concentration was observed. In the control group, no significant differences in the level of CgA were obtained. Conclusions: sIgA, sAA, and CgA are potential markers of the severity of psoriasis and the associated stress reaction. Based on the presented observations, only sIgA and CgA seem to be valuable biomarkers for monitoring the effectiveness of the systemic treatment of psoriasis.

Overexpression and Role of HHLA2, a Novel Immune Checkpoint, in Colorectal Cancer.

The study aimed to investigate correlations between HHLA2 levels and parameters, including microsatellite instability (MSI) status, CD8+ cells, and histopathological features: budding, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), TNM scale, grading, cytokines, chemokines, and cell signaling moleculesin colorectal cancer (CRC). Furthermore, the immune infiltration landscape and HHLA2-related pathways in colorectal cancer using available online datasets were analyzed. The study included 167 patients diagnosed with CRC. Expression of HHLA2 was detected by immunohistochemistry method (IHC) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The IHC was used to evaluate the MSI and CD8+ status. The budding and TILs were measured using a light microscope. The concentrations of cytokines, chemokines, and cell signaling molecules were measured to analyze the data by the Bio-Plex Pro Human cytokine screening panel, 48 cytokine assay, and principal component analysis (PCA). Geneset enrichment analysis (GSEA) was conducted to identify HHLA2-related pathways. The biological function of HHLA2 was predicted by Gene Ontology (GO). Analysis of the immune infiltration landscape of HHLA2 in colorectal cancer was made by the web-based tool Camoip. High HHLA2 expression was detected in CRC tumor tissues compared to the adjacent noncancerous tissues. The percentage of HHLA2-positive tumors was 97%. GSEA and GO showed that HHLA2 upregulation correlated with cancer-related pathways and several biological functions. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes score correlated positively with IHC HHLA2 expression level percentage. There was a negative correlation between HHLA2, anti-tumor cytokines and pro-tumor growth factors. This study provides a valuable insight into the role of HHLA2 in CRC. We reveal the role of HHLA2 expression as well as a stimulatory and inhibitory immune checkpoint in colorectal cancer. Further research may verify the therapeutic values of the HHLA2-KIR3DL3/TMIGD2 pathway in colorectal cancer.

B7H4 Expression Is More Frequent in MSS Status Colorectal Cancer and Is Negatively Associated with Tumour Infiltrating Lymphocytes.

The immunotherapies based on ICIs in CRC are nowadays limited to microsatellite unstable tumours which are approximately 15% of all CRC cases. There are a few new immune checkpoints belonging to the B7 family, including B7H4. B7H4 expression is associated with so-called "cold tumours", and its function is linked to the downregulation of various immune cell populations. Our study aimed to investigate whether B7H4 expression is dependent on microsatellite status in CRC and on elucidating the immunological context in which the expression of B7H4 occurs. We enrolled 167 patients in the study. We prepared the homogenates from tumour tissues and healthy adjacent tissue to assess the B7H4 levels and the Bio-Plex Pro Human 48-cytokine panel. We assessed the microsatellite status of the tumour, B7H4 expression, CD8+ T cell population, and the TILs and budding in H + E stained slides by the IHC method. We used an online available database for further exploring the biological characteristics of B7H4. The expression of B7H4 was more frequent in microsatellite stable tumours, and was negatively associated with TILs. B7H4 is positively correlated with antitumour immunosuppressive iTME, thus contributing to the immunosuppressive environment in CRC.

The Role of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in Diagnosis and Treatment of Epilepsy, Depression, Schizophrenia, Anorexia Nervosa and Alzheimer's Disease as Highly Drug-Resistant Diseases: A Narrative Review.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) belongs to the family of neurotrophins, which are growth factors with trophic effects on neurons. BDNF is the most widely distributed neurotrophin in the central nervous system (CNS) and is highly expressed in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus. Its distribution outside the CNS has also been demonstrated, but most studies have focused on its effects in neuropsychiatric disorders. Despite the advances in medicine in recent decades, neurological and psychiatric diseases are still characterized by high drug resistance. This review focuses on the use of BDNF in the developmental assessment, treatment monitoring, and pharmacotherapy of selected diseases, with a particular emphasis on epilepsy, depression, anorexia, obesity, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease. The limitations of using a molecule with such a wide distribution range and inconsistent method of determination are also highlighted.

Assessment of selected interleukins (IL-6, IL-17A, IL-18, IL-23) and chemokines (RANTES, IP-10) in children with acute and chronic urticaria.

BACKGROUND: Urticarial lesions develop as a result of the activation of mast cells which, through the release of mediators, influence the formation of local inflammatory infiltrates. Changes in the expression of many cytokines and chemokines are observed in the course of urticaria. The aim of the study was to evaluate serum levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-17A, IL-18, IL-23, regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES) and interferon (IFN)-γ-inducible protein-10 (IP-10) in children with acute urticaria and exacerbation of chronic urticaria in comparison to healthy volunteers. Moreover, we made an attempt to identify factors associated with the acute phase of urticaria and factors predicting the course of the disease among the studied parameters. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 32 children with acute urticaria and 32 children with chronic urticaria. The control group consisted of 40 healthy children. Each patient was clinically evaluated. Serum concentrations of selected cytokines and chemokines were determined by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: Patients with acute and chronic urticaria had higher concentrations of IL-6 and IL-17A (p < 0.001) and lower concentrations of IL-18, IL-23, RANTES and IP-10 (p < 0.001) as compared to the control group. A significant association between IL-6 and IP-10 with the acute phase of urticaria has been demonstrated. There was no correlation of the studied cytokines and chemokines with disease activity. CONCLUSIONS: In children with acute phase of urticaria, the cytokine serum concentration differs compared to healthy subjects. IL-6 and IP-10 seem to be useful in differentiating children with acute phase of urticaria and healthy ones. The search for factors predicting the course of the disease requires further studies.

Analysis of ghrelin, leptin, and interleukin-6 salivary concentration among children aged 7-10 years and its relationship with nutritional status and some anthropometric data.

INTRODUCTION: Obesity is a complex condition with multifactorial aetiopathogenesis. Adipose tissue is reservoir of many adipokines which play a great role in proinflammatory response in obesity. Aim of the study: Comparative assessment of ghrelin, leptin, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) salivary concentration among children having proper and excess of body mass. Analysis of the interrelationship between the obtained concentrations of substances and selected anthropometric parameters and blood pressure values in the studied children. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study group comprised 102 children aged 7-10 years. The nutritional status of children was assessed by the use of the BMI index. The control group (n  = 74) comprised children with proper body mass, and the study group (n = 28) contained children having overweight/obesity. Saliva samples were taken from all children at school. Subsequently, some anthropometric parameters and blood pressure values of the children were measured. The laboratory assessment of substances was made by ELISA method. Next, statistical analysis of all obtained results was performed using professional software. RESULTS: Salivary ghrelin, leptin, and IL-6 concentrations were statistically significantly higher in the study group than in the control group (p = 0.001). The study revealed a positive correlation between salivary ghrelin concentration and BMI in the whole study population (p = 0.001), and between ghrelin concentration and body weight, waist circumference, hip circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio in all subjects. In the study group, the BMI value was positively correlated only with IL-6 saliva concentration (p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: The study revealed significant differences between saliva ghrelin, leptin, and IL-6 concentration between the control group and the study group. The above findings can be a good predictor with which to detect co-existing metabolic alternations in obese patients.

Assessment of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) Concentration in Children with Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome.

Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) is a chronic disease affecting children in early childhood. It is characterized by proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, edema and hyperlipidemia. To date, the diagnosis is usually established at an advanced stage of proteinuria. Therefore, new methods of early INS detection are desired. This study was designed to assess brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) as a potential marker in the early diagnosis of INS. The study group included patients with a diagnosis of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (n = 30) hospitalized in Clinical Hospital No. 1 in Zabrze, from December 2019 to December 2021. Our study shows that serum BDNF concentration decreased and urine BDNF concentration increased in a group of patients with INS, compared with healthy controls. Such outcomes might be related to loss of the BDNF contribution in podocyte structure maintenance. Moreover, we anticipate the role of BDNF in urine protein concentration increase, which could be used as a direct predictor of urine protein fluctuations in clinical practice. Moreover, the ROC curve has also shown that serum BDNF and urine BDNF levels might be useful as an INS marker.

Salivary Concentrations of Chemerin, α-Defensin 1, and TNF-α as Potential Biomarkers in the Early Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide. There is a great interest and need to find simple, inexpensive, and minimally invasive diagnostic tests. The aim of the study was to analyze the salivary concentrations of chemerin, α-defensin 1, and TNF-α in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients and in a healthy control group. The concentration of these proteins was simultaneously determined in the serum of subjects. We also aimed to assess the correlation of these results and selected clinicopathological features. This prospective study was comprised of 39 CRC patients and 40 control group patients. Salivary and serum concentrations were determined by enzyme immunoassays. The salivary and serum concentrations of chemerin, α-defensin 1, and TNF-α were significantly higher in cancer patients compared to the control group. No correlation was found between concentrations of the proteins and the clinical stage of cancer and tumor location. The ROC curve analysis showed that although salivary concentrations of all proteins showed 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity, serum concentrations of the analyzed proteins were characterized by 100% sensitivity and over 90% specificity. The assessment of chemerin, α-defensin 1, and TNF-α concentrations in saliva seem to have great potential as quick and useful biomarkers in the early diagnosis of CRC.

Concentration of hypoxia-inducible factor-1, glucose transporter 1 and vascular endothelial growth factor in tissue samples and serum in patients with primary laryngeal carcinoma.

BACKGROUND: Markers of tumorigenesis are essential factors which may play a major role in the early detection of head and neck carcinoma. AIMS/OBJECTIVES: To assess concentration of HIF-1, GLUT1 and VEGF in tissue samples and blood serum and its correlation to the tumour size, nodal disease, pathologic differentiation and patients' data. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Fifty-two patients diagnosed with laryngeal carcinoma stage I-IV in which concentration of HIF-1, GLUT1 and VEGF was assessed in tissue samples and blood serum using immunoassay method. RESULTS: HIF-1α, GLUT1, VEGF concentration was significantly higher in cancer tissue samples than in normal tissue (p < .001) and benign laryngeal lesions. Serum levels of the factors were significantly lower in the control group. Statistically significant difference regarding tumour size was found between T2 and T4 stages in HIF-1α concentration in cancer samples and serum. CONCLUSIONS: The results show that high concentration of HIF-1α, GLUT1 and VEGF might be suggestive of carcinogenic process when diagnosing patients with laryngeal lesions and could promote early detection of malignancy. SIGNIFICANCE: The results of this study show importance of biochemical assessment in malignant tumours which may affect clinical decisions.

Oral Hygiene and Periodontal Treatment Needs in Adult Patients with Cystic Fibrosis (CF).

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal multisystem recessive genetic disease. Patients with Cystic Fibrosis, oral bacteria related to dental and periodontal diseases that can also inhabit the lungs, increases the risk for systemic complications. Our study aimed at assessing oral hygiene status of cystic fibrosis adult patients. The study was conducted on 40 patients diagnosed with CF and 40 healthy participants. The following indices were included: Simplified Oral Hygiene (OHI-S), Approximal Plaque Index (API), Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN), and a questionnaire. Obtained results proved that the API was 44.63% in the study group, indicating sufficient hygiene, and 37% in the control group, indicating quite good hygiene. Significantly higher OHI-S was found in the study group. It was found based on the analysis of treatment needs that home care and professional instructions on proper oral hygiene were more often needed in the control group compared to CF patients. In conclusion, the obtained API and OHI-S values in adult CF patients were indicative of satisfactory oral hygiene. Periodontal treatment needs assessed based on the CPITN index in patients with CF indicated the need for professional preventive treatments. An interdisciplinary dental care to support oral health could be recommendable in individuals with chronic respiratory diseases such as Cystic Fibrosis.

The influence of cord blood renalase and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) on perinatal and anthropometric parameters of newborns of mothers with gestational hypertension.

BACKGROUND: Renalase is an enzyme secreted by the kidneys, which takes part in the regulation of arterial pressure, myocardial contractility and modulation of vascular resistance, but its effect on renalase levels in newborns has not been studied yet. The levels of advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) were also evaluated as a marker of oxidative stress. OBJECTIVES: This study examined whether renalase and AOPP levels are different in the cord blood of newborns exposed to gestational hypertension (HT). The association of both factors with perinatal and anthropometric data among the studied patients was assessed. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included 89 newborns: 30 newborns from the study group, whose mothers were diagnosed with gestational HT, and 59 newborns born from normal pregnancies, who formed the control group. Anthropometric measurements and perinatal data in newborns in both groups were recorded. RESULTS: A significantly lower (p < 0.001) concentration of renalase was found in the study group (median (Q1-Q3): 23.96 µg/mL (20.63-26.91 µg/mL)) as compared to the control group (median (Q1-Q3): 37.54 µg/mL (33.78-40.02 µg/mL)). In case of AOPPs, a significantly higher (p < 0.001) concentration of AOPPs was observed in the study group (median (Q1-Q3): 131.65 µmol/L (113.80-146.10 µmol/L)) than in the controls (median (Q1-Q3): 93.70 µmol/L (87.10-111.20 µmol/L)). CONCLUSIONS: A significant difference between renalase and AOPP concentrations between the study and control groups has been demonstrated. Both factors may influence anthropometric and perinatal outcomes of newborns.

The effect of aripiprazole on leptin levels of patients with chronic schizophrenia and a comparison of leptin, acute phase protein, and cytokine levels with regard to body mass and body composition indexes.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to test the effect of aripiprazole on leptin, insulin, acute phase proteins, and selected cytokines levels in patients with chronic schizophrenia. Additionally, levels of leptin, insulin, acute phase proteins, and cytokines were compared with body mass and body composition indexes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Levels of leptin, insulin, serum amyloid A (SAA), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and interleukins 17A (IL-17A) and 18 (IL-18) in blood serum were measured for 17 patients before and after 28 days of administering aripiprazole by means of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Before and after the study, body mass and waist circumference (WC) were also measured, and body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage (BF%) were estimated. The sex of each patient was taken into account. RESULTS: After administration of aripiprazole the reduction of levels of leptin, insulin, SAA, and TNF-a were statistically significant, similarly to body mass reduction and decrease in WC, BMI, and BF%, which were also statistically significant. A positive correlation between leptin and BF% and negative correlation between insulin and body mass and body composition indexes were observed before and after the study. High sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and hsCRP/albumin positively correlated with BMI before the treatment. In the group of women a statistically significant positive correlation between TNF-α and IL-17A and body mass and body composition indexes was observed, and in the group of men a negative correlation between IL-18 and BMI, WC, and BF% was noted. CONCLUSIONS: The effect of aripiprazole is connected to its anti-inflammatory activity. A 28-day treatment resulted in reduction of adipose tissue, and in the group of women it returned their leptin sensitivity to normal levels. A change of psychotropic treatment and administration of aripiprazole reduces cardiometabolic risks.