High amniotic fluid fractalkine and MIP-1ß levels are associated with intrauterine growth restriction: a prospective cohort study.

Background/aim: Proinflammatory chemokines have been shown to play crucial roles in implantation, spiral artery invasion, and the fetomaternal immunological response. In this context, we investigated the levels of fractalkine (CX3CL1) and chemokine CC motif ligand 4 (CCL4 or MIP-1ß) in maternal serum and amniotic fluids in pregnant women with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Materials and methods: This prospective cohort study was carried out at Firat University Obstetrics Clinic between January 1, 2022 and July 1, 2022. Group (G) 1: The control group consisted of 40 pregnant women who underwent elective cesarean section (CS) at 38-40 weeks of gestation. G2: A total of 40 pregnant women with IUGR at 28-37 weeks of gestation were included in the study group. Levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1ß), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α), macrophage inflammatory protein-1 beta (MIP-1ß), and fractalkine were measured in maternal serum and amniotic fluid samples obtained during CS. Results: When maternal age was compared, no statistically significant difference was observed between G1 and G2 (p = 0.374). The number of gravidity was found to be statistically higher in G1 compared to G2 (p = 0.003). The mean gestational week was statistically higher in G1 (p < 0.001). Maternal serum MIP-1ß (p = 0.03) and IFN-γ (p = 0.006) levels were higher in G1. The birth weight of the baby (p < 0.001) and umbilical cord blood gas pH value (p < 0.001) at birth were higher in G1. HIF-1α (p < 0.001), fractalkine (p < 0.001), MIP-1ß (p < 0.001), TNF-α (p = 0.007), IL-1ß (p < 0.001), and IFN-γ levels (p = 0.007) in amniotic fluid were higher in G2. Conclusion: Elevated levels of proinflammatory factors, including fractalkine and MIP-1ß, along with inflammatory factors such as TNF-α, IL-1ß, and IFN-γ, as well as increased HIF-1α levels in amniotic fluid, are associated with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) attributed to a hypoxic amniotic environment.

Is serum homocysteine level a biomarker of suicide attempts: A preliminary study.

Suicide is a global public health concern, and understanding its multifaceted determinants is crucial for effective prevention. This study was designed to find an answer to the question of whether serum homocysteine level can be a biomarker of suicide attempts. This preliminary study involving 90 participants (45 suicide attempt cases and 45 controls) was conducted at Elazig Fethi Sekin City Hospital. Biochemical analyses were performed to assess serum homocysteine, vitamin B12, and folic acid levels. Statistical analyses, including t-tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, and ROC analysis, were employed to explore differences between groups and assess the diagnostic potential of homocysteine. Elevated homocysteine levels were found in individuals who attempted suicide compared to the control group (p= <0.001). Additionally, lower levels of vitamin B12 (p=<0.001) and folic acid (p=<0.001) were observed in the suicide attempt group. ROC analysis indicated a significant diagnostic potential for homocysteine in predicting suicide attempts (AUC = 0.845, sensitivity = 91%, specificity = 71%). This study establishes a significant association between high homocysteine levels and suicide attempts, accompanied by lower vitamin B12 and folic acid levels. The findings suggest a potential link between disturbances in homocysteine metabolism and suicidal tendencies, urging further research to establish causation and explore therapeutic implications. Consideration of the study's limitations and directions for future research are warranted.

Leptin, Nesfatin-1, Orexin-A, and Total Ghrelin Levels in Drug-Naive Panic Disorder.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the changes in serum nesfatin-1, leptin, orexin-A, and total ghrelin levels of patients diagnosed with drug-naive panic disorder (PD) before and after six weeks of the treatment and to compare the findings with the healthy subjects. METHODS: The neuropeptides were measured in venous blood samples taken from 32 patients and 32 healthy subjects. The blood samples of the patients who used paroxetine 20 mg/day plus alprazolam 0.5 mg/day were retaken again after six weeks. Measurements were performed with the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) method. RESULTS: Serum nesfatin-1, leptin, orexin-A and total ghrelin levels of the patient group were found to be significantly lower than the control group (p<0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001, and p<0.001, respectively). When the serum nesfatin-1, leptin, orexin-A and total ghrelin levels of the patient group were compared before and after treatment, significant differences were found in terms of orexin-A and total ghrelin levels (p=0.046, p<0.001, respectively). However, no significant differences were found in terms of nesfatin-1and leptin levels (p=0.205, p=0.988, respectively). CONCLUSION: This study reports that PD, like other anxiety disorders, may affect serum nesfatin-1, leptin, orexin-A, and total ghrelin levels, and there may be a relationship between PD treatment and the levels of these neuropeptides. The variability of this relationship among the neuropeptides examined indicates that various factors other than treatment play a role in this process.

The investigation of cholinergic receptor muscarinic 1 activity in the rat ovary with induced ovarian hyperstimulation.

Objective: We look at the immunoreactivity of cholinergic receptor muscarinic 1 (CHRM1) in the ovarian tissues of rats with ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) considering the possibility that the muscarinic activity may contribute to the pathophysiology of OHSS. Materials and Methods: In this study, 14 immature female Wistar Albino rats were divided into two groups at random. The rats were 22 days old. Rats in the control group (n=7) were 22 days old, while those in the OHSS group (n=7) received 10 IU follicle-stimulating hormone subcutaneously over the course of four days and 30 IU human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) on the fifth day to induce ovarian hyperstimulation. All the rats were sacrificed after all the groups' ovaries and blood samples were collected at the conclusion of the experiment. The left ovarian tissues were kept in aluminum foil at -80 °C, while the right ovarian tissues were kept in 10% formalin. Tissue vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), interleukin (IL)-1ß, IL-6, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured by The Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay technique in the ovarian tissues. CHRM1 immunoreactivity was scored immunohistochemically. Results: Ovarian weight, tissue IL-10, TNF-α, VEGF and MDA levels, and CHRM1 immunoreactivity were significantly increased in the OHSS group. Conclusion: Increased levels of CHRM1 activity may play a role in the pathophysiology of OHSS. With further studies, the effect of luteinizing hormone and hCG on the ovarian and hypothalamic cholinergic system can be further investigated, and useful information can be obtained in determining OHSS prevention strategies.

Subfatin concentration decreases in acute coronary syndrome.

Introduction: We investigated the association of serum subfatin concentration and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-STEMI (NSTEMI). Materials and methods: In this study, patients who presented with chest pain (STEMI, NSTEMI, or non-cardiac chest pain) were included, i.e. 49 patients with non-cardiac chest pain (control) and 66 patients hospitalised with AMI. In the AMI group, 35 patients had NSTEMI and 31 had STEMI. Serum subfatin concentrations were determined via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Descriptive data on the patients and their comorbidities were recorded, and subfatin concentrations were analysed. Results: Subfatin concentrations were significantly different in the control, STEMI and NSTEMI groups (P = 0.002). In addition, subfatin concentrations were significantly lower in patients in the NSTEMI group than those in the control group (P < 0.001), but there was no significant difference between STEMI and the control group (P = 0.143). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis performed for differentiating the AMI and control groups found that subfatin had 64% sensitivity and 69% specificity, whereas troponin had 59% sensitivity and 95% specificity. In patients with AMI, the ROC analysis for differentiating NSTEMI from STEMI found that subfatin had 94% sensitivity and 41% specificity, while troponin had 65% sensitivity and 88% specificity. Conclusions: Subfatin concentrations were lower in patients without STEMI than in patients with STEMI. Subfatin concentration is associated with NSTEMI.

Protective effects of rosmarinic acid against azoxymethane-induced colorectal cancer in rats.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence is increasing gradually and has been become one of the most common cancers worldwide. Hence, it is important to discover cheap, naturally occurring compounds to be effective in suppressing the devastating effect of colon-related tumors. Rosmarinic acid (RA), one of the compounds of plant origin, possesses attractive features for use as an agent for cancer prevention and treatment. This study investigated the ability of RA to prevent azoxymethane (AOM)-induced rat colon carcinogenesis by evaluating the effect of RA on tumor formation and circulatory oxidant-antioxidant status. Moreover, plasma levels of adiponectin (APN) monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6) were detected by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. The animals were divided into three groups: Control, AOM, and AOM + RA. Rats were fed a modified pellet diet (15.8% peanut oil was added to the standard diet) during the experimental period. Colon cancer was formed by applying 15 mg/kg AOM intraperitoneal once a week for 4 weeks in both the CRC group and AOM + RA group. Besides AOM, AOM + RA group received 5 mg/kg body weight RA orally every day during the study. The results showed that adenocarcinoma rates formed 87.5% of the AOM group. With treatment of RA, a reduction in the incidence of adenocarcinoma was observed in the AOM + RA group. The plasma MCP-1, IL-6, and TO levels were significantly higher, APN and TAS levels were significantly lower in the AOM group with respect to controls. In addition, there was a significant increase in TAS levels in the RA treatment group compared to the AOM group. These findings suggested that RA may be beneficial in preventing AOM-induced colon carcinogenesis formation.

Investigation of effect of nintedanib in experimental uveitis model.

PURPOSE: This study aims to investigate the protective efficacy of nintedanib in experimental uveitis induced by endotoxins. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, 24 Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into three groups: Group I was the healthy control with no uveitis that did not receive any treatment, Group II (sham) group did not receive treatment, and Group III (nintedanib) received oral nintedanib for 10 days. On the 10th day, endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU) was induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection in Groups II and III. The clinical activity score was evaluated in all groups at the 24th hour, when uveitis formation was thought to be the most intense after LPS injection. All rats were then killed via anaesthesia. Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels were measured in their right eyes using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Further, histopathological examinations were performed on their left eyes. RESULTS: For Groups I, II, and III, the IL-6 levels were 30.88 ± 1.79, 36.77 ± 1.21, and 30.93 ± 3.96 mg/pr, respectively, and TNF-α levels were 50.20 ± 3.24, 59.87 ± 2.98, and 50.23 ± 4.83 mg/pr, respectively. IL-6, TNF-α levels and clinical activity score were higher in the sham group compared to the other groups, and it decreased significantly in the treatment group (p < 0.05). Intense inflammatory cell infiltration of the ciliary body, edema and hyperaemia were evident in the sham group compared to the healthy control group (p < 0.05). These pathological findings were significantly decreased in the treatment group compared to the sham group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Nintedanib may be preferable as a new agent for treating non-infectious uveitis. However, further studies are needed to evaluate its long-term effects, effects on other antiinflammatory pathways, side-effects, and ideal dose optimization.

Protective effect of filgotinib in rat endotoxin-induced uveitis model.

PURPOSE: To investigate the protective effect of filgotinib in endotoxin-induced uveitis model in rats. MATERIALS AND METHOD: This study used 24 Wistar Albino rats. Group I (control group) included the healthy controls; in Group II (sham group), only 300 µg/kg intraperitoneal (ip) lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was administered; and in Group III (treatment group), 3 mg/kg/day filgotinib was administered orally for 10 days followed by 300 µg/kg ip LPS. In all groups, clinical activity scores were evaluated after 24 h. Moreover, histopathological and immunological examinations were performed. RESULTS: In Groups I, II, and III, the mean clinical activity and histopathological examination scores were 0.00, 3.25 ± 0.70, and 1.89 ± 0.60 and 0.00, 2.88 ± 1.12, and 1.44 ± 0.52, respectively. The clinical activity and histopathological examination scores were significantly increased in the sham group compared to the control group (p < 0.05); these findings were significantly reduced in the treatment group (p < 0.05). The mean TNF-α and IL-6 ELISA levels in all groups were 50.20 ± 3.24, 59.87 ± 2.98, and 54.34 ± 4.62 and 30.88 ± 1.79, 36.77 ± 1.21, and 33.66 ± 1.86, respectively. The TNF-α and IL-6 ELISA levels were significantly decreased in the treatment group compared to the sham group (p < 0.05); there was no significant difference between the treatment group and the control group (p = 0.105, p = 0.067, respectively) CONCLUSION: Filgotinib may be an alternative treatment option in preventing the development of noninfectious uveitis.

The effects of sponges soaked with chlorhexidine gluconate and metronidazole on safety of colonic anastomosis in an experimental model of peritonitis.

BACKGROUND: The present study aims to evaluate the use of the chlorhexidine gluconate and metronidazole impregnated compresses concerning anastomosis safety in the left colonic anastomosis in the presence of peritonitis. METHODS: This study was conducted on 21 Wistar-Albino-rats divided into three equal groups. After median laparotomy, the whole layer of the left colon was cut 2 cm over the pelvic peritoneum. The faeces were spread around the injury for fecal contamination. Then, fasia and skin were closed with 3/0 silk. After one day period, relaparatomy was performed. The abdomen was cleared isotonic sodium chloride with impregnated material before starting colonic anastomosis in the first group and then double layer colonic anastomosis was performed. In the second Group-II, abdomen was cleared with the metronidazole impregnated compresses then double layer colonic anastomosis was performed. In the group-III, abdomen was cleared with the chlorhexidine gluconate impregnated compresses then double layer colonic anastomosis was performed. Tissue hydroksiproline levels and anastomosis bursting pressures were measured and histopathologic findings on the anastomosis line were evaluated on the postoperative tenth day by performing relaparatomy. RESULTS: The highest anastomosis bursting pressure was found in Group-III (p<0.05). The highest tissue hydroksiproline level was found in Group-III (p<0.005 Group I-III, Group II-III). When histopathologic findings were evaluated by comparing the three groups in this study, the healing of the intestine tissue score was statistically insignificant between group-II and III, for both group-II and III, healing score was statistically significant higher than Group-I (p<0.05 Group I-III and Group I-II). CONCLUSION: Cleaning the abdomen before the anastomosis using antibacterial soaked material increased resection safety in the presence of peritonitis and anastomosis safety in primary anastomosis.

Endocan as a potential biomarker of disease severity and exacerbations in COPD.

INTRODUCTION: Endocan is a proteoglycan that is regarded as a novel marker of endothelial dysfunction. Endothelial dysfunction in pulmonary vascular bed is known to play an important role for the pathogenesis of COPD. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine serum endocan levels in patients with stable COPD and acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD) and to test the relationship between serum endocan levels and exacerbations. METHODS: This study enrolled a total of 55 COPD patients, 24 of which had AECOPD and 31 had stable COPD. All patients' basic demographic and clinical data were recorded and blood samples were collected. RESULTS: Serum endocan levels were significantly higher in the AECOPD group compared to the stable COPD and control groups (for both p < 0.001) and stable COPD group had higher levels than the control group (p < 0.005). Additionally, serum endocan levels were negatively correlated with FVC, FEV1, partial oxygen pressure and oxygen saturation (r = -0.30, p = 0.03; r = -0.34, p = 0.01; r = -0.34, p = 0.01 and r = -0.36, p = 0.007 respectively), and positively correlated with disease duration and systolic pulmonary artery pressure (r = 0.47, p < 0.001; r = 0.31, p = 0.02 respectively). A cut-off value of 434.29 pg/ml for endocan predicted exacerbation with a sensitivity of 79% and a specificity of 84% (AUC: 0.778, 95% Cl 0.648-0.909; p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis revealed that increased endocan levels was independent predictor of COPD exacerbation (OR = 9.32, 95%CI, 1.64-52.95; p = 0.01). CONCLUSION: Endocan may be a novel biomarker for detection of endothelial dysfunction and prediction of exacerbations in patients with COPD.

The combined effect of pomegranate extract and tangeretin on the DMBA-induced breast cancer model.

The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of pomegranate extract and tangeretin alone or in combination in DMBA-induced rat breast cancer model. A total of 68 female rats were randomly divided into 8 groups. The first 4 groups were designed as controls for cancer and treatment groups, and the control groups were composed of only control (C), Pomegranate (P), Tangeretin (T), and Pomegranate+Tangeretin (P+T) groups. The other four groups were designed as cancer and treatment groups and were composed of DMBA (D) and DMBA+Pomegranate (D+P), DMBA+Tangeretin (D+T), DMBA+Pomegranate+Tangeretin (D+P+T) groups. Tumor markers and angiogenesis parameters were studied from plasma samples obtained from rats. Histopathological, immunohistochemical, and TUNEL analyses and expressions of proteins affecting apoptosis and cell cycle were determined in breast tissue samples. In the DMBA group, plasma CA15-3, CEA, VEGF, MMP-9, and NF-κB levels were significantly increased compared to the controls, but significant decreases were observed in these parameters except MMP-9 in the treatment groups. It was observed that p53 and Bax expressions significantly increased in both D+P and D+P+T groups compared to the DMBA group, and these findings were supported by Tunel and immunohistochemical findings. Cyclin D1 expressions were found to be significantly decreased only in the D+T group and supported by TUNEL and immunohistochemical findings. Immunohistochemical ER-α and Ki-67 immune reactivities were significantly decreased in all treatment groups compared to the DMBA group. Our results showed that combined application of pomegranate extract and tangeretin may be more beneficial in preventing breast cancer development.

Transient receptor potential melastatin 2 ion channel activity in ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome physiopathology

Background/aim: Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a complication of ovarian stimulation with increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and vascular permeability in the ovarian tissue. Transient receptor potential melastatin 2 (TRPM2) is known to be associated with angiogenesis and vascular permeability. In this experimental study, we aimed to investigate the activity of TRPM2 in the development of OHSS. Materials and methods: Fourteen immature female rats were divided into two groups. Group 1 was the control group, and Group 2 was the OHSS group that was exposed to 10 IU of subcutaneous application of FSH for four days and 30 IU of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) on the 5th day. At the end of the experiment, the ovaries were removed. The right ovarian tissues were stored in 10% formol for histopathological and immunohistochemical examination. The left ovarian tissues were stored at ­80 °C for biochemical examinations. VEGF, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF­α) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured in the ovarian tissue. Congestion, edema, apoptosis and TRPM2 immunoreactivity were evaluated. Results: There was a significant increase in ovarian weight in the OHSS group compared to the control group. There was a significant increase in congestion, edema, apoptosis and TRPM2 immunoreactivity in the OHSS group. A significant increase in tissue levels of VEGF, TNF­α and MDA was also found in the OHSS group compared to the control group. Conclusion: As a result of our experiment, it was found that increased TRPM2 immunoreactivity on hyperstimulated rat ovary may be the reason or result of edema and congestion. Further studies are needed to discuss our results.

Evaluation of Serum Concentration of the Myokine Irisin (FNDC5) in Patients with Age-Related.

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the serum irisin level of patients with age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) and compared it with that of healthy individuals. METHODS: The serum irisin level of 15 healthy controls (Group 1) and 15 dry ARMD patients (Group 2) and 15 wet ARMD patients (Group 3) were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method and compared. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of age or gender (p>0.05). The mean serum irisin levels of Group 1, Group 2, and Group 3 were 25.81±24.04 ng/mL, 22.93±19.05 ng/mL, and 12.38±8.16 ng/mL, respectively. Although the mean irisin level in the wet ARMD patients was lower than that of the control and dry ARMD groups, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: The results suggest that the serum irisin level in ARMD patients is not different from that of healthy individuals. Studies of larger groups that examine the irisin level in the vitreous and neovascular membranes will further elucidate any role in the pathogenesis of ARMD.

Serum Cystatin C Concentrations in Patients with Graves' Ophthalmopathy.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the concentration of serum cystatin C (CysC) in patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) and the usability of the serum CysC concentrations in the follow-up of the disease. METHODS: Thirty patients with GO and 30 healthy age-matched volunteers were included in this cross-sectional study. GO was diagnosed based on the European Group on Graves' Orbitopathy consensus. Serum thyroid-stimulating hormone, free triiodothyronine, free thyroxine, and CysC concentrations were measured in the participants. The serum CysC concentrations were compared between patients with GO and controls. Patients with GO were subdivided into hyperthyroid and euthyroid patients, and their serum CysC concentrations were compared. In addition, the CysC concentrations in hyperthyroid and euthyroid patients with GO were compared separately with those of healthy subjects. Kruskal-Wallis test and Student's t-test were used for statistical evaluation. RESULTS: The mean serum CysC concentrations in GO patients and controls were 1.04 ± 0.36 and 0.74 ± 0.09 mg/L, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference in the serum CysC concentrations between patients with GO and control subjects (p < 0.001). Fifteen patients had hyperthyroid status, and 15 patients had euthyroid status. The mean serum CysC concentrations in hyperthyroid and euthyroid patients with GO were 1.35 ± 0.22 and 0.72 ± 0.13 mg/L, respectively. Serum CysC concentrations were significantly higher in hyperthyroid patients than in euthyroid patients (p = 0.001). In addition, hyperthyroid patients had significantly higher serum CysC concentrations than healthy subjects. Among patients with GO, 21 and nine had mild and moderate-to-severe GO, respectively. Active and inactive GO were observed in eight and 22 patients, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The serum CysC concentrations in hyperthyroid patients were higher than those in healthy subjects. Moreover, hyperthyroid patients had higher serum CysC concentrations than euthyroid patients. Further studies with a larger sample size are needed to confirm these results.

Evaluation of ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase-L1 enzyme levels in patients with epilepsy.

OBJECTIVE: Ubiquitin C-terminal Hydrolase-L1 (UCH-L1) enzyme levels were investigated in patients with epilepsy, epileptic seizure, remission period, and healthy individuals. METHODS: Three main groups were evaluated, including epileptic seizure, patients with epilepsy in the non-seizure period, and healthy volunteers. The patients having a seizure in the Emergency department or brought by a postictal confusion were included in the epileptic attack group. The patients having a seizure attack or presenting to the Neurology outpatient department for follow up were included in the non-seizure (remission period) group. RESULTS: The UCH-L1 enzyme levels of 160 patients with epilepsy (80 patients with epileptic attack and 80 patients with epilepsy in the non-seizure period) and 100 healthy volunteers were compared. Whereas the UCH-L1 enzyme levels were 8.30 (IQR=6.57‒11.40) ng/mL in all patients with epilepsy, they were detected as 3.90 (IQR=3.31‒7.22) ng/mL in healthy volunteers, and significantly increased in numbers for those with epilepsy (p<0.001). However, whereas the UCH-L1 levels were 8.50 (IQR=6.93‒11.16) ng/mL in the patients with epileptic seizures, they were 8.10 (IQR=6.22‒11.93) ng/mL in the non-seizure period, and no significant difference was detected (p=0.6123). When the UCH-L1 cut-off value was taken as 4.34 mg/mL in Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) Curve analysis, the sensitivity and specificity detected were 93.75 and 66.00%, respectively (AUG=0.801; p<0.0001; 95%CI 0.747‒0.848) for patients with epilepsy. CONCLUSION: Even though UCH-L1 levels significantly increased more in patients with epilepsy than in healthy individuals, there was no difference between epileptic seizure and non-seizure periods.

Evaluation of ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase-L1 enzyme levels in patients with epilepsy / Avaliação dos níveis de enzima ubiquitina C-terminal hidrolase-L1 em pacientes com epilepsia

ABSTRACT Objective: Ubiquitin C-terminal Hydrolase-L1 (UCH-L1) enzyme levels were investigated in patients with epilepsy, epileptic seizure, remission period, and healthy individuals. Methods: Three main groups were evaluated, including epileptic seizure, patients with epilepsy in the non-seizure period, and healthy volunteers. The patients having a seizure in the Emergency department or brought by a postictal confusion were included in the epileptic attack group. The patients having a seizure attack or presenting to the Neurology outpatient department for follow up were included in the non-seizure (remission period) group. Results: The UCH-L1 enzyme levels of 160 patients with epilepsy (80 patients with epileptic attack and 80 patients with epilepsy in the non-seizure period) and 100 healthy volunteers were compared. Whereas the UCH-L1 enzyme levels were 8.30 (IQR=6.57‒11.40) ng/mL in all patients with epilepsy, they were detected as 3.90 (IQR=3.31‒7.22) ng/mL in healthy volunteers, and significantly increased in numbers for those with epilepsy (p<0.001). However, whereas the UCH-L1 levels were 8.50 (IQR=6.93‒11.16) ng/mL in the patients with epileptic seizures, they were 8.10 (IQR=6.22‒11.93) ng/mL in the non-seizure period, and no significant difference was detected (p=0.6123). When the UCH-L1 cut-off value was taken as 4.34 mg/mL in Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) Curve analysis, the sensitivity and specificity detected were 93.75 and 66.00%, respectively (AUG=0.801; p<0.0001; 95%CI 0.747‒0.848) for patients with epilepsy. Conclusion: Even though UCH-L1 levels significantly increased more in patients with epilepsy than in healthy individuals, there was no difference between epileptic seizure and non-seizure periods.

RESUMO Objetivo: Níveis da enzima ubiquitina C-terminal hidrolase-L1 (UCH-L1) foram investigados em pacientes com epilepsia, crise epiléptica, período de remissão e indivíduos saudáveis. Método: Foram avaliados três grupos principais, incluindo crise epiléptica, epilepsia no período não convulsivo e voluntários saudáveis. Pacientes com convulsão no departamento de emergência ou trazidos por confusão pós-ictal foram incluídos no grupo de crise epiléptica. Os pacientes que tiveram crise epiléptica ou foram ao ambulatório de Neurologia para acompanhamento foram incluídos no grupo não convulsivo (período de remissão). Resultados: Os níveis da enzima UCH-L1 de 160 pacientes com epilepsia (80 pacientes com crise epiléptica e 80 pacientes com epilepsia no período não convulsivo) e 100 voluntários saudáveis foram comparados. Enquanto os níveis da enzima UCH-L1 foram 8,30 (IQR=6,57‒11,40) ng/mL em todos os pacientes com epilepsia, os níveis detectados foram de 3,90 (IQR=3,31‒7,22) ng/mL em voluntários saudáveis e aumentaram significativamente na epilepsia (p<0,001). No entanto, ao passo que os níveis de UCH-L1 foram 8,50 (IQR=6,93‒11,16) ng/mL nos pacientes com crise epiléptica, foram 8,10 (IQR=6,22‒11,93) ng/mL no período não convulsivo, e nenhuma diferença significativa foi detectada (p=0,6123). Quando o valor de corte de UCH-L1 foi considerado 4,34 mg/mL com base na análise da curva ROC, sensibilidade e especificidade foram detectadas como 93,75 e 66,00%, respectivamente (AUG=0,801; p<0,0001; IC95% 0,747‒0,848) para os pacientes com epilepsia. Conclusão: Embora os níveis de UCH-L1 tenham aumentado significativamente nos pacientes com epilepsia em relação aos indivíduos saudáveis, não foi observada diferença entre crise epiléptica e períodos não convulsivos.

Comparison of the effect of topical bevacizumab and sorafenib in experimental corneal neovascularization.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the neovascularization inhibiting the effect of topical bevacizumab and sorafenib and to determine the effective dose of sorafenib. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty-two healthy Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into six groups. The right corneas of all rats except group 1 were cauterised with silver nitrate. Group 2 received DMSO, group 3 received topical bevacizumab (5 mg/dL, 3 times a day) and group 4, 5 and 6 received topical sorafenib (2.5 mg/dl, 5 mg/dL, 7.5 mg/dL, 2 times a day respectively), between days 1 and 7. Corneal photographs were taken on day 8 and the corneal neovascular area percentage was calculated. Following decapitation, the corneas were removed to determine the levels of VEGF ELISA and corneal immune staining. The Mann-Whitney U-test was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The neovascular corneal area percentage was statistically significantly lower in the treatment groups than group 2 (p < 0.05). The intensity of VEGF immune staining was also lower in groups 3, 5 and 6 from the group 2. Group 3, 5 and 6 were no significant differences compared to group 1. The VEGF ELISA levels were statistically significantly lower in group 3, 5 and 6 compared to group 2 (p < 0.05). There was no statistically difference between VEGF ELISA levels of group 2 and 4 (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Sorafenib was as effective as bevacizumab in the regression of corneal neovascularization. The effect of sorafenib seems to be dose-dependent. The low doses and twice a day administration are important advantages of sorafenib.

The effect of infliximab and octreotide on cytokine levels experimental proliferative vitreoretinopathy.

Purpose: To investigate the efficiency of intravitreal octreotide, which has previously been shown to have benefits in the treatment of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), and intravitreal infliximab as a novel option in an experimental dispase-induced PVR model.Methods: A total of 28 pigmented guinea pigs were divided into four groups, and each group consisted of seven subjects. Group 1 (control) was treated with a 0.2 mL saline solution intravitreally from 1.5 mm behind the limbus. Group 2 (sham) was treated with 0.07 IU/0.1 mL dispase 0.1 mL saline solution using the same method. Group 3(infliximab) received 0.07 IU/0.1 mL dispase and 1 mg/0.1 mL infliximab, and group 4(octreotide) was treated with 0.07 IU/0.1 mL dispase and 1 mg/0.1 mL octreotide. An intravitreal injection of infliximab and octreotide was administered to groups 3 and 4 two times during the experiment. The subjects were held for a 10-week period to await for the formation of PVR. At the end of ten weeks, the eyes were enucleated, and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1(IL-1), interleukin 6 (IL-6), transforming growth factor (TGF-ß), and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and levels in homogenised retina tissue were measured using the enzyme linked-immuno-sorbent assay (ELISA) method.Results: Retinal TNF-α, IL-1, IL-6, and PDGF levels had significantly decreased in treatment groups compared to the sham group (p < 0.05). The decrease in the level of TGF-ß was not statistically significant between the treatment and the sham groups (p > 0.05).Conclusions: Intravitreal infliximab can inhibit the development of PVR and reduce levels of cytokine, which plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of PVR. The results of our study suggest that it may be possible to identify the ideal adjuvant pharmacological drugs that are effective in preventing PVR.

Endocan as a marker of disease severity in pulmonary thromboembolism.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study is to determine the serum endocan levels in patients with pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) and investigate whether a relationship exists between serum endocan levels and the disease severity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 85 patients with acute PTE and 40 healthy control subjects. The patients with PTE were divided into three groups at admission as "high-risk", "intermediate-risk" and "low-risk", considering the guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology. Serum endocan levels in all participants' blood samples were measured. RESULTS: The mean serum endocan levels were significantly higher in the PTE group, compared to the control subjects (P < 0.001). Serum endocan levels were significantly higher in the "high-risk" group when compared with patients in the "low-risk" and "intermediate-risk" groups (P < 0.001 and P < 0.01 respectively). Similarly, serum endocan levels were higher in the "intermediate-risk" group compared to those in the "low-risk" group (P < 0.001). There was a negative correlation between serum endocan levels and partial oxygen pressure (r = -0.262, P = 0.016), whereas a positive correlation was found between the serum endocan levels and systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (r = 0.296, P = 0.006). Additionally, endocan had an area under the curve in the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.837 (0.768-0.907; 95% CI; P < 0.001) and cut-off value was 194.5 pg/mL (sensitivity 80%, specificity 72.5%). CONCLUSION: Serum endocan levels were higher and related to the severity of the disease in PTE patients. Additionally, endocan could be an indicator to be used in the diagnosis of PTE and in the prediction of the disease severity.

Is there any potential anticancer effect of raloxifene and fluoxetine on DMBA-induced rat breast cancer?

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the world and the incidence is increasing alarmingly. It was aimed to determine the effect of raloxifene (RAL) and fluoxetine (FLX) on selected parameters in 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)-induced mammary carcinoma. Thirty-two female Wistar albino rats were assorted into four groups: DMBA (group I), DMBA+RAL (group II), DMBA+FLX (group III), and DMBA+RAL+FLX (group IV). Mammary tissue vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) levels were determined by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. The tissue VEGF levels were lower in group IV compared with DMBA group. Decreased M-CSF levels were observed in all therapeutic groups rather than the DMBA group, but the most effective decrease was found in group IV. Compared with the DMBA group, MMP-9 levels were statistically significantly decreased in group II and group IV. However, TIMP-1 levels were higher in the whole therapeutic groups rather than the DMBA group and the most effective increase was observed in group IV. Results of the present study suggest that combined therapy of RAL with FLX might lead to a better outcome targeting breast tumor.