Bioelements in the treatment of burn injuries - The complex review of metabolism and supplementation (copper, selenium, zinc, iron, manganese, chromium and magnesium).

Appropriate nutrition is a key component of burn treatment and should be regarded as an integral part of the therapeutic process in burn patients. A nutritional intervention plan should not only allow for adequate quantities of energy and protein but also carefully consider the supply of macro- and micronutrients. As a result of the severe inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and hypermetabolic state, accompanied by often extensive exudation in burn patients, there is a considerable loss of macro- and micronutrients, including essential trace elements. This leads to certain complications, involving e.g. more frequent infections and impaired wound healing. Our current body of knowledge is still insufficient, and the studies carried out to date focus for the most part on the imbalances in trace elements, such as copper (Cu), selenium (Se), and zinc (Zn). Nevertheless, there are many other trace elements involved in immune functions, regulating gene expression or antioxidant defense, and many of those have not been properly investigated in a clinical setting. Due to the insufficient amount of unambiguous literature data and relatively few, often dated, studies carried out with small patient groups, further evaluation of macro- and microelements in burn patients seems indispensable, e.g. to bring up to date local nutritional protocols.

The Use of Antioxidants in the Treatment of Migraine.

Despite numerous studies concerning the pathophysiology of migraine, the exact molecular mechanism of disturbances underlying migraine is still unknown. Furthermore, oxidative stress is considered to play a significant role in migraine pathogenesis. The notion of oxidative stress in migraine patients has been discussed for several decades. Over the past few years, among the substances that could potentially be used for migraine treatment, particular attention has been paid to the so-called nutraceutics, including antioxidants. Antioxidants supplied with food prevent oxidative stress by inhibiting initiation, propagation, and the oxidative chain reaction itself. Additionally, the agents used so far in the prevention of migraine indeed show some anti-oxidative action. The antioxidants discussed in the present paper are increasingly more often used by migraine patients not only due to mild or even a lack of side effects but also because of their effectiveness (decreased frequency of migraine episodes or shortening of an episode duration). The present review provides a summary of the studies on nutraceuticals with antioxidative properties.

The Influence of New Silicate Cement Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA Repair HP) on Metalloproteinase MMP-2 and MMP-9 Expression in Cultured THP-1 Macrophages.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the new silicate cement mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA Repair HP) with respect to its effect on the inflammation process involving the tooth and periodontal tissues. The composition of MTA Repair HP was supplemented with plasticizer agents which can have a negative effect on the modulation of tooth inflammation. The silicate-based material in question is widely used in regeneration of the pulp-dentin complex, treatment of perforations of various locations in the tooth, as well as in surgical treatment of the complications of periapical tissue. The improved bioceramic restorative cement can affect the expression of metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 in monocytes/macrophages involved in modulation of inflammation and regenerative processes of the tooth and periodontal tissues. The novel aspect of the present study lies in the application of the model of THP-1 monocyte/macrophage and applying the biomaterial in direct contact with the cells. Hence, it provides a representation of clinical conditions with respect to regenerative pulp and periodontal treatment with the use of MTA Repair HP. A lack of macrophage activation (as measured with flow cytometry) was found. Moreover, the study identified a lack of expression stimulation of the studied metalloproteinases (with the use of Western blotting and fluorescent microscopy). Similarly, no increase in MMP-2 and MMP-9 concentration was found (measured by ELISA method) in vitro when incubated with MTA Repair HP. Based on the results it can be concluded that new MTA Repair HP does not increase the inflammatory response in monocytes/macrophages associated with the activity of the described enzymes. It can also be speculated that they do not affect the process of dentin regeneration in which MMP-2 and MMP-9 play significant roles.

Analysis of Bone Mineral Profile After Prolonged Every-Other-Day Feeding in C57BL/6J Male and Female Mice.

Intermitted fasting or every-other-day feeding (EOD) has many positive effects in rodents and humans. Our goal was to describe how EOD influences bone mineral composition in female and male mice under prolonged EOD feeding. Male and female adult mice were fed EOD for 9 months. After this time, we used a direct method of measurement of mineral components in ashes of long bones (humerus and radius) to estimate the content of calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and sodium (Na). We also performed histological analysis of sections of long bones. We found no significant changes in mineral composition between ad libitum and EOD fed males and females. We noted higher Ca and P contents in control males vs. females and lower content of Mg in control males vs. females. We observed the presence of marrow adipose tissue (MAT) in sections of EOD-fed females. EOD without supplementation during feeding days did not increase loss of mineral content of bones in C57BL/6J mice, but the presence of MAT only in EOD females indicates a gender-dependent response to EOD treatment in C57BL/6J mice.

Old and New Threats-Trace Metals and Fluoride Contamination in Soils at Defunct Smithy Sites.

The aim of this study was to investigate soil contamination with trace elements and fluoride at sites in Szczecin (NW Poland) where economic activity was historically associated with the use of trace metals. As the Polish legislation does not recognize the lasting impact of historical pollution on soils, land developers are not obliged to determine soil pollution in the new residential areas, including parks and playgrounds for children. Therefore, in this study, at the locations of defunct metalwork enterprises (smithies, foundries, chemical plants, and small metal production plants), which were closed down after World War II, we determined lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), and cobalt (Co) levels in the soil. In addition, we also determined fluoride (F) levels due to the contemporary fluoride pollution in the area generated by a large chemical plant with a post-production phosphogypsum waste landfill and a power plant complex. Our results show that soil at the sites of now-defunct smithies can still act as a significant source of trace metals. Pb concentration in the surface (0⁻20 cm) and subsurface (20⁻40 cm) layers exceeded concentration thresholds for soils with first-degree pollution. The concentrations of Zn and Cu also exceeded their natural background limits. Furthermore, our research indicates an increased concentration of fluoride in surface layers of the soil; however, not exceeding the fluoride content threshold. These observations have important consequences for public health and safety because, presently, the studied sites function as housing estates and other public facilities. Therefore, contaminated soil at these sites may pose a threat to the health of local residents and should be closely monitored for trace metal contamination levels.

Macro- and Microelement Content and Other Properties of Chaenomeles japonica L. Fruit and Protective Effects of Its Aqueous Extract on Hepatocyte Metabolism.

This growing interest in the cultivation of Japanese quince Chaenomeles japonica L. results from the potentially beneficial properties of its fruit. Fresh fruits are very firm and too acidic to eat raw, but their bioactive components, distinctive aroma, and high amount of dietary fiber make the fruits well suited for industrial processing. However, not all the properties of the fruit have been investigated. For example, there are no comprehensive reports about the mineral content or potentially harmful effects on liver metabolism. Hence, the purpose of our study was to examine fresh Japanese quince fruit in terms of (1) ascorbic acid, oxalate, fiber, macro- and micronutrients, dry matter, extract, total acidity, antioxidant activity, and phenolic compound levels; and (2) the effect of its extract on in vitro hepatocyte metabolism, measured by the concentration of lipid peroxides (LPO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the severity of apoptosis and necrosis. The fruit of C. japonica had high levels of macro- and microelements, ascorbic acid, phenolic compounds, fiber, and low oxalate levels. Our analysis of macro- and microelements showed that the average content of Fe was 0.516 mg/g, Cu 0.146 mg/g, Zn 0.546 mg/g, Mg 16.729 mg/g, and Ca 22.920 mg/g of fresh fruit. A characteristic feature of the fresh fruit of C. japonica is a high level of polyphenols, which-combined with a high content of vitamin C-affect their high antioxidant potential. In the tested hepatocyte cultures incubated with extract of the Japanese quince, we observed a significant decrease in the concentration of lipid peroxides compared to the control. There were also no signs of increased formation of ROS in the mitochondria of hepatocytes incubated with the extract of quince. Malondialdehyde was strongly negatively correlated with the concentration of Japanese quince extract, which indicates the hepatoprotective properties of Japanese quince. In addition, our analysis of confocal microscopy images showed that the hepatocytes incubated with the extract of Japanese quince at any concentration did not show any signs of apoptosis or necrosis. The aqueous extract of quince fruit has antioxidative and antiapoptotic hepatocytes, thus exerting a hepatoprotective effect.

The content of linoleic and alpha-linolenic acid in different types of Yerba Mate, depending on country of origin and the conditions of the infusion.

INTRODUCTION: Yerba Mate (Ilexparaguariensis) is one of the most widely consumed teas in South America. It is becoming more and more popular in North America and Europe. The aim of the study was a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the fatty acids from the omega 6 and omega 3 families in Yerba Mate teas. METHODS: There were two types of infusions - cold and hot (three brews from the same leaves). Yerba Mate was incu bated for 10 min, then 2 mL of the brew was taken for isola tion. Fatty acids were extracted by the Folch method. The resulting fatty acid methyl esters were analyzed using gas chromatography. RESULTS: The analysis of fatty acids in the infusions of Yerba Mate showed a significant amount of linoleic acid (LA) and alpha linolenic acids (ALA). The concentrations of these acids present in fresh infusions were approx. 250 ug/mL for infusion of LA, and 600 ug/mL infusion for ALA. With the subsequent brew using the same leaves the amount of fatty acids decreased significantly (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Drinking Yerba Mate can supply ALA and LA, which are essential in a well-balanced diet. For individuals who regularly consume Yerba Mate, it can be an important source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) supplementation. The most preferred way to brew the tea is cold infusion, which delivers the highest dose of unchanged PUFAs. This method of brewing also reduces the gastrointestinal exposure to high temperature, and thus reduces the risk of cancer incidence.

The effect of L-ascorbic acid and/or tocopherol supplementation on electrophysiological parameters of the colon of rats chronically exposed to lead.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of diet supplementation with L-ascorbic acid (500 mg/L), tocopherol (3 mg/kg b.w.), and/or a water soluble analog of tocopherol (Trolox) (48 mg/L) on ion transport in the colon of rats subjected to a chronic exposure (9 months) to 0.1% lead acetate in drinking water. MATERIAL/METHODS: The electrophysiological parameters of the colon wall were measured with Ussing methods. Lead content in the whole blood was analyzed by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS) using Zeeman correction. L-ascorbic acid and tocopherol in plasma was measured by high performance liquid chromatography. Immunohistochemical reaction was carried out for visualization of occludin, the intracellular tight junction protein. RESULTS: We showed a strong inhibitory effect of lead on the electrophysiological parameters, changes in intestinal permeability, disappearance of junctional occludin, decreased amount of mucus covering the colon surface, and the accumulation of PAS-positive substance in the apical region of the cytoplasm in the absorptive cells. CONCLUSIONS: Supplementation with tocopherol or Trolox did not exert a beneficial influence on the studied parameters. L-ascorbic acid positively influenced the examined electrophysiological parameters, as it cancelled the inhibitory influence of lead on ion transport in the rat colon. L-ascorbic acid also protected against tight junction disruption of epithelial cells in the colon of the lead-treated rats. A similar effect was observed in the group of rats receiving lead and supplemented with L-ascorbic acid plus Trolox.

Changes in male reproductive system and mineral metabolism induced by soy isoflavones administered to rats from prenatal life until sexual maturity.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the influence of high-dose soy isoflavones (daidzein and genistein) administered from prenatal life to sexual maturity on testosterone and estradiol levels, testicular and epididymal morphology, the number of epididymal spermatozoa, and mineral metabolism in rats. METHODS: Pregnant Wistar rats received orally soy isoflavones, daidzein, and genistein at a dose of 200 mg/kg of body weight per day. After separating sucklings from their mothers, male rats received the same dose of isoflavones until reaching the age of sexual maturity, i.e., for 3 mo. RESULTS: In the isoflavone-treated group, statistically significant decreased concentrations of zinc (determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry) in blood serum and increased concentrations in bone were observed. The isoflavones induced changes in the morphology of the seminiferous epithelium of rat testes. However, there were no significant changes in the number of spermatozoa in the epididymis. The levels of estradiol in serum and cauda epididymis homogenates of rats receiving phytoestrogens were significantly higher than in the control group. No differences were observed in testosterone concentrations in the serum of treated and control rats. The testosterone levels in the homogenates of the treated rat testes were significantly lower than in the control group. CONCLUSION: The relatively mild effects of phytoestrogen administration on the morphology of testes and epididymides and the number of epididymal spermatozoa were observed despite the high dose used. The exposure of rats to genistein and daidzein during intrauterine life until sexual maturity influenced the mineral metabolism of the organism by significant decreases of Zn concentration in serum and increased Zn concentration in bones.

Conjugated linoleic acid increases intracellular ROS synthesis and oxygenation of arachidonic acid in macrophages.

OBJECTIVE: Conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs) have potential antiatherosclerotic properties: they may inhibit atherosclerotic processes by reducing the intensity of inflammatory processes. However, in vivo studies have shown that the application of trans-10, cis-12 CLA in obese men increased their oxidative stress. The objective of this study was to determine whether CLA can lead to an increase in oxidative stress and to isoprostane synthesis in macrophages. METHODS: Monocytes from peripheral blood and human monocytic leukemia cells were used in this study. Monocytes were differentiated to macrophages, and were incubated with 30 microM cis-9, trans-11 CLA and trans-10, cis-12 CLA or linoleic acid for 2 days. In some experiments the inhibitors of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-alpha) or respiratory chain were added. After incubation, synthesis of reactive oxygen species (ROS), total cellular concentration of adenosine triphosphate, concentration of 8-epi-prostaglandin F2 alpha, activity of cytoplasolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2), activity of mitochondria, and expression of mRNA of PPAR-alpha were measured. RESULTS: In cells cultured with CLAs intercellular ROS synthesis increased. In this condition the mitochondrial energy potential was high, and the inhibitors of the respiratory chain and PPAR-alpha reduced ROS concentration. At the same time, the cPLA2 activity was abolished. In contrast, 8-iPF2 alpha III synthesis increased in CLA cells. CONCLUSION: Cultivation of cells with CLA leads to an increased ROS synthesis, partly by PPAR-alpha mechanism. An increase in ROS concentration and inhibition of cPLA2 activity can stimulate oxygenation of arachidonic acid and contribute to an increase in 8-epi-PF2 alpha III level and in the apoptosis process in macrophages.