A nationwide multicentre study in Turkey for establishing reference intervals of haematological parameters with novel use of a panel of whole blood.

INTRODUCTION: A nationwide multicentre study was conducted to establish well-defined reference intervals (RIs) of haematological parameters for the Turkish population in consideration of sources of variation in reference values (RVs). MATERIALS AND METHODS: K2-EDTA whole blood samples (total of 3363) were collected from 12 laboratories. Sera were also collected for measurements of iron, UIBC, TIBC, and ferritin for use in the latent abnormal values exclusion (LAVE) method. The blood samples were analysed within 2 hours in each laboratory using Cell Dyn and Ruby (Abbott), LH780 (Beckman Coulter), or XT-2000i (Sysmex). A panel of freshly prepared blood from 40 healthy volunteers was measured in common to assess any analyser-dependent bias in the measurements. The SD ratio (SDR) based on ANOVA was used to judge the need for partitioning RVs. RIs were computed by the parametric method with/without applying the LAVE method. RESULTS: Analyser-dependent bias was found for basophils (Bas), MCHC, RDW and MPV from the panel test results and thus those RIs were derived for each manufacturer. RIs were determined from all volunteers' results for WBC, neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, MCV, MCH and platelets. Gender-specific RIs were required for RBC, haemoglobin, haematocrit, iron, UIBC and ferritin. Region-specific RIs were required for RBC, haemoglobin, haematocrit, UIBC, and TIBC. CONCLUSIONS: With the novel use of a freshly prepared blood panel, manufacturer-specific RIs' were derived for Bas, Bas%, MCHC, RDW and MPV. Regional differences in RIs were observed among the 7 regions of Turkey, which may be attributed to nutritional or environmental factors, including altitude.

The relationships among the levels of oxidative and antioxidative parameters, FEV1 and prolidase activity in COPD.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive condition characterized by poorly reversible airflow limitations associated with an abnormal inflammatory response of the lung. METHODS: We investigated whether prolidase levels in serum, total antioxidant status, total oxidative status (TOS), and the oxidative stress index (OSI) were associated with the etiopathogenesis of COPD, and whether there is a relationship between prolidase activity and oxidative parameters and carotid artery intima-media thickness (CIMT) in patients with COPD. This study included 91 patients with COPD and 15 control cases. Routine haematological and biochemical parameters were determined in all patients. All subjects were fully informed about the study and provided consent. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients with COPD was 61.3 ± 10.5 years and that of the control group was 56.2 ± 12.1 years. The control group had a significantly higher plasma prolidase level than that in the COPD group. TOS and OSI levels in the control group were significantly lower than those in the COPD group. However, no significant differences were found in TALs or CIMT levels between the COPD and control groups. A negative correlation was detected between prolidase activity and age; however, no significant difference in age was observed between the two groups. CONCLUSION: These results indicate that prolidase activity decreases in patients with COPD.

Circulating levels of apoptotic markers and oxidative stress parameters in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a case-controlled descriptive study.

CONTEXT: Apoptotic dysregulation plays a role in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). OBJECTIVE: To evaluate circulatory apoptotic markers and oxidative stress in patients with PCOS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-four women with PCOS, and 44 healthy women as controls were enrolled in the study. Oxidative stress parameters and caspases levels were measured in serum. RESULTS: The caspase 9 level was significantly lower and related with oxidant status in patients with PCOS, while the circulating levels of caspases 3 and 7 were statistically similar in both groups. DISCUSSION: This study is the first report demonstrating the circulating levels of apoptotic markers and their relationship with oxidant status in PCOS. CONCLUSION: The circulating caspase 9 and oxidant status might contribute to apoptotic dysregulation in PCOS.

Anti-inflammatory effect of lycopene on endotoxin-induced uveitis in rats / Efeito anti-inflamatório do licopeno na uveíte induzida por endotoxina em ratos

ABSTRACT Purpose: We evaluated the efficacy of lycopene, a dietary carotenoid and potent antioxidant, against ocular inflammation and oxidative stress in an experimental uveitis model. Methods: Endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU) was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats by a single subcutaneous injection of 200 μg lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Induction of EIU was preceded by daily intraperitoneal injection of 10 mg/kg lycopene for three consecutive days (Lycopene + LPS group) or equivolume vehicle (Vehicle + LPS group). A positive control group received 1 mg/kg dexamethasone pretreatment (DEX + LPS), and a negative control group received daily vehicle injection but no LPS (Vehicle Control). Twenty-four hours after LPS or final vehicle administration, eyes were enucleated, and aqueous humor was collected for measurement of the number of infiltrating cells, total protein concentration, and levels of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and oxidative stress markers. Inflammatory response severity was compared among groups clinically and histopathologically. Results: Infiltrating cell number, total protein concentration, and NO, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels were significantly elevated in the aqueous humor of Vehicle + LPS group rats compared to Vehicle Controls. Compared to the Vehicle + LPS group, lycopene pretreatment significantly reduced aqueous humor concentrations of oxidative stress markers, NO (0.29 ± 0.1 μM vs. 0.19 ± 0.1 μM, p=0.003), TNF-α (71.0 ± 22.3 ng/ml vs. 50.1 ± 2.1 ng/ml, p=0.043), and IL-6 (121.6 ± 3.0 pg/ml vs. 111.1 ± 5.6 pg/ml, p=0.008). Inflammatory score was also reduced (2.0 ± 0.0 vs. 0.4 ± 0.5, p=0.001). Lycopene reduced the infiltrating cell count and protein concentration, but differences did not reach significance. Most lycopene effects were equivalent to dexamethasone. Conclusions: Lycopene may aid in the clinical management of uveitis by suppressing inflammation and oxidative stress.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliamos o efeito do licopeno, um carotenóide dietético e um potente anti-oxidante, sobre a inflamação ocular e estresse oxidativo em modelo de uveíte experimental. Métodos: Uveíte foi induzida por endotoxina (EIU) em ratos Sprague-Dawley por uma única injeção subcutânea de 200 ug de lipopolissacárido (LPS). A indução de EIU foi precedida por injeção intraperitoneal de licopeno em uma dose de 10 mg/kg (grupo LPS + Licopeno) ou veículo de mesmo volume (grupo LPS + Veículo), durante 3 dias consecutivos. O grupo controle positivo recebeu uma dose de 1 mg/kg de Dexametasona (grupo DEX + LPS) e o grupo controle negativo recebeu doses diárias de veículo mas sem LPS (grupo Controle Veículo). Vinte e quatro horas após a administração do LPS, os olhos foram enucleados, humor aquoso foi recolhido, e o número de células infiltrativas, a concentração de proteína, assim como os níveis de óxido nítrico (NO), fator de necrose tumoral α (TNF-α), interleucina-6 e marcadores de estresse oxidativo foram determinados no humor aquoso. Além disso, a resposta inflamatória foi avaliada clinicamente e histologicamente. Resultados: As células infiltrativas, concentração de proteína, o NO, TNF-α, interleucina-6 foram significativamente elevados no humor aquoso de ratos do grupo Grupo LPS + Veículo quando comparados ao Grupo Controle Veículo. O tratamento com licopeno diminuiu significativamente estes aumentos. Comparado ao Grupo LPS + Veículo, o licopeno reduziu significativamente as concentrações no humor aquoso dos marcadores de estresse oxidativo e NO (de 0,29 ± 0,1 μM para 0,19 ± 0,1 μM, p=0,003), o TNF-α (de 71,0 ± 22,3 ng/ml para 50,1 ± 2,1 ng/ml, p=0,043), interleucina-6 (de 121,6 ± 3,0 pg/ml para 111,1 ± 5,6 pg/ml, p=0,008). Do mesmo modo, o aumento do número de células infiltrativas no tecido uveal em seções histológicas foi significativamente inibido pelo licopeno, a pontuação inflamatória diminuiu de 2,0 ± 0,0 para 0,4 ± 0,5, p=0,001. Embora, não tenha sido estatisticamente significativo, o licopeno reduziu a contagem de células infiltrativas e a concentração de proteínas no humor aquoso. Conclusões: Estes resultados sugerem que o licopeno pode ter efeitos benéficos no tratamento da inflamação ocular, através dos seus efeitos anti-inflamatórios e antioxidantes.

Relationship Between Echocardiographically Evaluated Aortic Stiffness and Prolidase Activity in Aortic Tissue of Patients with Critical Coronary Artery Disease.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between echocardiographically evaluated aortic stiffness and prolidase activity in aortic tissue of patients with critical coronary occlusion. METHODS: Thirty six patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) scheduled for CABG and 30 control patients with no CAD proven angiographically were enrolled in this study. Plasma prolidase activities were quantified spectrophotometrically. During performance of the proximal anastomoses in the study group, a piece of aortic tissue was taken by punch and tissue prolidase activity was quantified spectrophotometrically and also evaluated pathologically by prolidase immunostaining. Eventually, the correlation of plasma prolidase activity, aortic tissue prolidase activity and aortic prolidase immunohistochemical staining with aortic stiffness was studied. RESULTS: The correlation of aortic stiffness with aortic tissue prolidase activity (rs = 0.364; p = 0.029) and aortic prolidase immunohistochemical staining (rs = 0.354; p = 0.034) was significant in the study group. However, the correlation of plasma prolidase activity with aortic stiffness was not statistically significant (rs = 0.083; p = 0.292). Linear regression analysis showed that the aortic stiffness ß index was significantly associated with aortic tissue prolidase activity (ß = 0.354; p = 0.034) and statin usage (ß = -0.334; 0.047) in the study group. Regression analysis revealed that ATPA and statin use were predictors of aortic stiffness, and API+ was found to be the predictor for ATPA (ß = 0.449; p = 0.006). CONCLUSION: Aortic tissue prolidase activity was more significant than plasma prolidase activity and aortic tissue prolidase immunohistochemical staining in the relationship with aortic stiffness in the critical CAD group.

Relation of elastic properties of pulmonary artery with left ventricular abnormalities and aortic stiffness in patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea: A cross-sectional echocardiographic study.

OBJECTIVE: In this study, the associations between pulmonary artery stiffness (PAS) and aortic stiffness, left ventricular diastolic parameters, and left ventricular mass (LVM) index in moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) patients without coexisting disorders were investigated. METHODS: A total of 66 non-diabetic, non-hypertensive, and non-smoking volunteers were enrolled. Participants were categorized by apnea-hypopnea index (AHI; event/hour). The control group was defined as no OSAS: AHI<5 (n=35), and OSAS group had moderate to severe OSAS: AHI>15 (n=31).Echocardiographic and biochemical tests, including measurement of C-reactive protein (CRP), were performed. PAS (kHz/s) was calculated by dividing the maximal frequency shift of the pulmonary flow by the acceleration time. RESULTS: PAS (kHz/s), obtained by echocardiography, was statistically significantly higher in the OSAS group than the control group (28±5 vs 18±4, p<0.001), and was positively correlated with AHI, CRP, aortic stiffness index, E/E', and LVM index (p=0.034, p=0.039, p<0.001, p=0.040, and p<0.001, respectively), and negatively correlated with aortic strain (AS), aortic distensibility (AD), E/A, E'/A', and E' (p<0.001). Regression analyses indicated that CRP and PAS are independent predictors of aortic stiffness (p<0.05). E/A and LVM index were independent predictors of PAS (p=0.002 and p=0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION: Increased PAS is associated with aortic stiffness, left ventricular diastolic function, and increased LVM index. PAS may be a more effective indicator of aortic stiffness in OSAS patients than CRP.

The relation of serum thiol levels and thiol/disulphide homeostasis with the severity of coronary artery disease.

BACKGROUND: The balance of oxidant and antioxidant status plays a key role in the coronary artery diseases (CAD). Thiol is one of the most important antioxidant barriers in humans, and thiol/disulphide homeostasis is a novel oxidative stress marker. AIM: We aimed to investigate the relation of serum thiol levels and thiol/disulphide homeostasis with the presence and severity of CAD. METHODS: A total of 161 patients who underwent coronary angiography owing to stable angina pectoris were consecutively enrolled. They were divided into three groups. Group I - 47 age- and gender-matched subjects with normal coronary angiography (control); group II - 71 newly diagnosed CAD patients with noncritical stenosis; and group III - 43 newly diagnosed CAD patients with critical stenosis. Serum native thiol, total thiol, and disulphide levels were measured, and disulphide/thiol ratios were calculated. Gensini scores were calculated in CAD patients. RESULTS: While the highest thiol levels were found in group I, the lowest one was observed in group III (p < 0.001). Total and native thiol levels were significantly lower in group II than in group I (p < 0.001 for each), but they increased considerably in group II compared with group III (p = 0.031 and p = 0.028, respectively). Disulphide levels decreased in group II and III compared with group I (p < 0.001 for each). No statistically significant changes were observed in disulphide/thiol ratios (p > 0.05). Gensini scores were negatively correlated with total and native thiols, and positively with age and dyslipidaemia. Stepwise linear regression analyses showed that native thiol was an independent predictor in the final model for Gensini score. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated that thiol values of 310.7 or below could predict CAD with 89% sensitivity and 85% specificity (AUC = 0.918; 95% CI 0.870-0.965). CONCLUSIONS: While the disulphide/thiol ratio did not change significantly, decreased native thiol levels were associated with the presence and severity of CAD. This result indicates that the reduction of thiols may be an important factor in the development of CAD.

Evaluation of thiol levels, thiol/disulfide homeostasis and their relation with inflammation in cardiac syndrome X.

OBJECTIVES: Cardiac syndrome X (CSX) is characterized by the presence of myocardial ischemia in the absence of coronary artery stenosis on angiograms. Its relation to oxidative stress and inflammation is well known. There are no data on thiols and their relation with inflammation in CSX. The aim of this study was to investigate thiol levels and thiol/disulfide homeostasis in CSX patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty consecutive patients who had documented myocardial ischemia and normal coronary angiogram (CSX group), and 45 age-matched and sex-matched consecutive patients who had normal coronary angiogram without myocardial ischemia (control group) were enrolled in this study. C-reactive protein (CRP), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), native thiol, total thiol, and disulfide levels were measured and disulfide/thiol ratios were calculated in all patients. RESULTS: Demographic, clinical, basic laboratory, and echocardiographic characteristics were similar in the two groups (P>0.05). Serum total thiol, native thiol, and disulfide levels decreased significantly in the CSX group compared with the control group (P<0.001). CRP and NLR increased significantly in the CSX group compared with the control group (P<0.001). Although disulfide/native thiol levels increased in the CSX group, this reduction did not reach statistical significance (5.8 vs. 5.5, P>0.05). The reduction of thiols was correlated negatively with CRP and NLR (P<0.001). Although univariate logistic regression analyses showed that serum total and native thiol levels, CRP and NLR were independent predictors for CSX estimation, stepwise multivariate logistic regression analysis showed only total thiol levels as an independent predictor for CSX (odds ratio=0.966, 95% confidence interval: 0.950-0.982, P<0.001). Also, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that serum total thiol values of 338.4 or below could predict the CSX with 86% sensitivity and 84% specificity (area under curve=0.903; 95% confidence interval: 0.842-0.965). CONCLUSION: Serum total thiol levels decreased significantly in CSX and this reduction independently predicted CSX with strong sensitivity and specificity. This suggests that the reduction in thiols along with increased inflammation may play a pathophysiological role in the development of CSX.

Usefulness of ceruloplasmin testing as a screening methodology for geriatric patients with osteoporosis.

[Purpose] To evaluate serum ceruloplasmin levels in geriatric patients with osteoporosis. [Subjects and Methods] Seventy geriatric patients over 65 years of age were recruited. Patients were divided into two groups: group 1 ('OP', n=35) consisted of patients with osteoporosis, and group 2 (n=35) consisted of patients without osteoporosis. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scanning was used in the measurement of bone mineral density in all cases. Inflammatory parameters, including C-reactive protein, sedimentation rate, and serum ceruloplasmin levels were analyzed in blood samples. [Results] No statistical differences in inflammatory parameters were observed between the two groups, however, serum ceruloplasmin levels were significantly higher in group 1 than in group 2. In Pearson analysis, serum ceruloplasmin levels were not found to be correlated with any biochemical parameters. Receiver operator characteristic curve analysis revealed that serum ceruloplasmin levels were predictive of osteoporosis with 85.7% sensitivity and 85.7% specificity over the level of 830.15. [Conclusion] Our study demonstrated that measurement of serum ceruloplasmin levels may have potential as a screening methodology for geriatric patients with osteoporosis.

High aortic pulse-wave velocity may be responsible for elevated red blood cell distribution width in overweight and obese people: a community-based, cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Obesity and overweight are risk factors for atherosclerosis. Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) is associated with subclinical cardiac diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between RDW and aortic stiffness in overweight or obese subjects. METHODS: A total of 101 overweight or obese subjects without overt cardiovascular disorders, and 48 healthy controls were enrolled. RDW, aortic pulse-wave velocity (PWV) and augmentation index 75 (Aix75) were evaluated. The case subjects were divided into two sub-groups according to PWV values; ≥ 10 m/s in group I, and < 10 m/s in group II. Bivariate correlation and multiple regression analyses (stepwise) were performed. RESULTS: RDW and PWV were considerably increased in the case groups compared with the controls. RDW was significantly increased in group I compared with group II and the controls [median 12.0 m/s, interquartile range (IQR): 10.5-17.5; median 11.7 m/s, IQR: 10.2-14.2, and median 11.4 m/s, IQR: 9.6-15.5, p < 0.05, respectively]. Resting heart rate and age were higher in group I than group II (81 ± 11 vs 74 ± 12 beats/min and 41 ± 120 vs 36 ± 9 years, respectively, p < 0.05). Regression analyses revealed that while log-RDW, age and resting heart rate were independent predictors for aortic PWV, log-RDW was the most important predictor in the final model. CONCLUSIONS: RDW, resting heart rate and age independently predicted arterial stiffness, and RDW may be useful to provide an early recognition of subclinical atherosclerosis in overweight and obese individuals.

Increased oxidative stress in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to investigate oxidative stress in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). METHODS: Total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), paraxonase-1 (PON-1) and arylesterase (ARE) activity were measured in 76 children (44 boys, 32 girls) diagnosed with ADHD according to the DSM-IV and 78 healthy children (46 boys, 32 girls). RESULTS: Age and sex were similar between the groups (P > 0.05). TOS and the oxidative stress index (OSI) were higher in the patient group than the control group (P < 0.001). PON-1 (P = 0.002), ARE (P = 0.010) activity and TAS (P < 0.001) were lower in the patient group than the control group. DISCUSSION: We found decreased PON-1, ARE activity and TAS, and increased TOS and OSI in children with ADHD. Our study showed that there is significantly increased oxidative stress in children with ADHD.

Anti-inflammatory effect of lycopene on endotoxin-induced uveitis in rats.

PURPOSE:: We evaluated the efficacy of lycopene, a dietary carotenoid and potent antioxidant, against ocular inflammation and oxidative stress in an experimental uveitis model. METHODS:: Endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU) was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats by a single subcutaneous injection of 200 µg lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Induction of EIU was preceded by daily intraperitoneal injection of 10 mg/kg lycopene for three consecutive days (Lycopene + LPS group) or equivolume vehicle (Vehicle + LPS group). A positive control group received 1 mg/kg dexamethasone pretreatment (DEX + LPS), and a negative control group received daily vehicle injection but no LPS (Vehicle Control). Twenty-four hours after LPS or final vehicle administration, eyes were enucleated, and aqueous humor was collected for measurement of the number of infiltrating cells, total protein concentration, and levels of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and oxidative stress markers. Inflammatory response severity was compared among groups clinically and histopathologically. RESULTS:: Infiltrating cell number, total protein concentration, and NO, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels were significantly elevated in the aqueous humor of Vehicle + LPS group rats compared to Vehicle Controls. Compared to the Vehicle + LPS group, lycopene pretreatment significantly reduced aqueous humor concentrations of oxidative stress markers, NO (0.29 ± 0.1 µM vs. 0.19 ± 0.1 µM, p=0.003), TNF-α (71.0 ± 22.3 ng/ml vs. 50.1 ± 2.1 ng/ml, p=0.043), and IL-6 (121.6 ± 3.0 pg/ml vs. 111.1 ± 5.6 pg/ml, p=0.008). Inflammatory score was also reduced (2.0 ± 0.0 vs. 0.4 ± 0.5, p=0.001). Lycopene reduced the infiltrating cell count and protein concentration, but differences did not reach significance. Most lycopene effects were equivalent to dexamethasone. CONCLUSIONS:: Lycopene may aid in the clinical management of uveitis by suppressing inflammation and oxidative stress.

The Relationship Among Oxidative and Anti-Oxidative Parameters and Myeloperoxidase in Subjects With Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a highly prevalent breathing disorder in sleep. It is characterized by intermittent hypoxia leading to hypoxemia, hypercapnia, sleep fragmentation, and increased respiratory efforts. We evaluated the relationship between OSA and myeloperoxidase activity, the oxidative stress index (OSI), total anti-oxidative capacity (TAC), and total oxidative capacity (TOC). METHODS: A total of 70 consecutive subjects (mean age ± SD: 51.7 ± 11.7 y) were diagnosed with OSA after a night polysomnography recording between January 2014 and June 2014 consecutively. The subjects in the OSA group were divided according to the severity of the disease into three subgroups, consisting of 11 mild, 17 moderate OSA, and 22 severe OSA subjects. Twenty subjects with simple snoring were considered as the control group. RESULTS: We included a total of 70 subjects: 50 with OSA (11 subjects 6.9% mild, 17 subjects 24.7% moderate, and 22 subjects 68.5% severe) and 20 subjects with simple snoring as control cases. The mean age of the mild OSA subjects was 44.5 ± 11.7 y, moderate OSA subjects' mean age was 52.5 ± 11.9 y, and severe OSA subjects' mean age was 52.1 ± 10.1 y; 54.2% were male. There were statistically significant differences among the 4 groups' OSI, TAC, and TOC levels, but there was no statistically significant difference between the other values. The mean myeloperoxidase, TOC, OSI, and TAC levels were 55 ± 12, 61.2 ± 21.1, 3.04 ± 1.04, and 2.03 ± 0.4 in the mild OSA group; 58.7 ± 17.2, 60 ± 18.9, 3.05 ± 1, and 2 ± 0.33 in the moderate OSA group; 56.6 ± 17.9, 52.1 ± 17.9, 2.7 ± 0.76, and 1.94 ± 0.24 in the severe OSA group; and 49.8 ± 12.5, 54.3 ± 16.4, 3.08 ± 0.88, and 1.78 ± 0.26 in the control group, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: In our study, there were no differences in studied parameters between control and OSA groups. Furthermore, our low number of cases was a restrictive factor. Further studies should be undertaken to clarify this relation.

Evaluation of serum prolidase activity in patients with slow coronary flow.

INTRODUCTION: Slow coronary flow (SCF) is described as the slow passage of contrast to distal coronaries despite anatomically normal coronary arteries. It has been shown that increased serum prolidase activity (SPA) correlates with collagen turnover. Increased collagen turnover might be associated with the development of atherosclerotic plaques. AIM: To investigate the relationship between serum prolidase activity and slow coronary flow. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 40 SCF patients (mean age: 55.0 ±9.5 years, 20 females) and 40 controls (mean age: 53.9 ±8.2 years, 21 females) with normal coronary anatomy and normal coronary flow. The Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) frame-count (TFC) method was used for SCF diagnosis. Serum prolidase activity was measured spectrophotometrically, and the relevant parameters were compared between the groups. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences between the SCF and control groups in terms of basic demographic, clinical, and laboratory data. However, the SPA was significantly higher in the SCF group compared to the control (702.7 ±13.8 and 683.9 ±13.2 respectively, p<0.001). Serum prolidase activity was significantly correlated with the mean TFC (r=0.463, p<0.001). The overall findings of this study support the predictive accuracy of the serum prolidase activity in our cohort, with a statistically significant ROC value of 681.3. CONCLUSIONS: Our study showed that SPA was increased in SCF patients. The activity of this enzyme was significantly correlated with the mean TFC.

Usefulness of the epicardial fat tissue thickness as a diagnostic criterion for geriatric patients with metabolic syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the epicardial fat tissue thickness (EFTT) as a diagnostic criterion for geriatric patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS). METHODS: Sixty geriatric patients over 65 years of age were recruited for the study. Patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 (n = 30) consisted of patients with MetS; Group 2 (n = 30) consisted of patients without MetS. Echocardiography was used to measure EFTT in all patients, and blood samples were analyzed for biochemical parameters. RESULTS: Compared to Group 2, EFTT levels of Group 1 were statistically higher (P < 0.05). In a binary logistic regression analysis, EFTT levels served as the independent factor for metabolic syndrome (B = 17.35, SE = 4.93, Wald = 12.36, P < 0.001). Receivers operating characteristic Curve (ROC-curve) analysis revealed that EFTT predicted MetS with 96.7% sensitivity and 86.7% specificity above the level of 7.3 mm [area under the curve = 0.969; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.928-1.00]. CONCLUSIONS: The present study demonstrated that serum EFTT levels were higher in geriatric patients with MetS and can therefore be used as a diagnostic criterion for MetS.

Effects of Lycopene Alone or Combined with Melatonin on Methotrexate-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats.

Methotrexate (Mtx), used for its anticancer and immunsuppresive properties, is known to be a nephrotoxic agent. We aimed to investigate the effects of lycopene (Lyc) alone or combined with melatonin (Mel) on Mtx- induced nephrotoxicity since both of these agents have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Nephrotoxicity was induced by intraperitoneal administration of methotrexate at a dose of 20 mg/kg. Treatment both with Lyc alone and Lyc combined with Mel provided significant reduction in tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin 1-beta and ceruloplasmin levels in Mtx administered rats. Hovewer, Lyc combined with Mel provided a significant reduction also in NO levels. Hstopathological examination showed that there was an obvious improvement in the degenerative changes compared to Mtx administrated group with the Lyc combined Mel group giving best protection. In conclusion Lyc alone and combined with Mel provided significant improvement against renal damage caused by Mtx, preseumably via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

Reduced SIRT1 expression correlates with enhanced oxidative stress in compensated and decompensated heart failure.

Sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) is a longevity factor in mammals initiating the cell survival mechanisms, and preventing ischemic injury in heart. In the etiopathogenesis of heart failure (HF), impairment in cardiomyocyte survival is a notable factor. Oxidative stress comprises a critical impact on cardiomyocyte lifespan in HF. The aim of the present study was to investigate SIRT1 expression in patients with compensated (cHF) and decompensated HF (dHF), and its correlation with oxidative stress. SIRT1 expression in peripheral leukocytes was examined using quantitative RT-PCR in 163 HF patients and 84 controls. Serum total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS) were measured via colorimetric assays, and oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated. Lipid parameters were also determined by routine laboratory methods. SIRT1 mRNA expression was significantly downregulated in HF with more robust decrease in dHF (p=0.002, control vs cHF; p<0.001, control vs dHF). Markedly increased oxidative stress defined as elevated TOS, OSI and low TAS levels were detected in HF patients comparing with the controls (TAS; p=0.010, control vs cHF, p=0.045 control vs dHF, TOS; p=0.004 control vs cHF; p<0.001 control vs dHF, OSI; p<0.001 for both comparisons, respectively). With SIRT1 expression levels, TAS, TOS, OSI, and high density lipoprotein levels in cHF and dHF were determined correlated. SIRT1 expression were significantly reduced in both HF subtypes, particularly in dHF. SIRT1 expression was correlated with the oxidant levels and antioxidant capacity. Data suggest that SIRT1 may have a significant contribution in regulation of oxidant/antioxidant balance in HF etiology and compensation status.

Evaluating the safety of intracameral bevacizumab application using oxidative stress and apoptotic parameters in corneal tissue.

AIM: To investigate the possible effects of intracameral bevacizumab on oxidative stress parameters and apoptosis in corneal tissue. METHODS: In total, 30 rats were assigned randomly into the following three groups of 10 rats each: a sham group (Group 1; n=10), a control group [Group 2; balanced salt solution (BSS) was administered at 0.01 mL; n=10], and a treatment group (Group 3; bevacizumab was administered at 0.25 mg/0.01 mL; n=10). The total antioxidant status (TAS) and the total oxidant status (TOS) in the corneal tissue and blood samples were measured, and the oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated. Additionally, corneal tissue histopathology was evaluated for caspase-3 and -8 staining and apoptotic activity. RESULTS: In the blood samples, the TAS, TOS, and OSI levels were not significantly different (all P>0.05). Compared with the sham and control groups, the TOS and OSI levels in the corneal tissues were significantly different in the bevacizumab group (all P<0.05). No statistically significant differences were observed between the sham and control groups (all P>0.05). However, compared with the sham and control groups, greater immunohistochemical staining for caspases-3 and -8 and an elevated level of apoptotic activity were observed in the bevacizumab group. CONCLUSION: This study revealed that intracameral bevacizumab injections seemed to be systemically safe but may have elicited local toxic effects in the corneal tissue, as indicated by the oxidative stress parameters and histopathological evaluations.

Serum prolidase activity in patients with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction.

OBJECTIVES: Prolidase is an important factor in collagen metabolism, matrix remodelling and cell growth. Increased collagen turnover leading to increased ventricular stiffness plays an important role in the pathophysiology of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD). This study aims to investigate whether serum prolidase activity is related to left ventricular diastolic function. METHODS: We studied 144 participants, and divided them into four groups according to the phase of diastolic dysfunction (66 with normal function, 46 with impaired relaxation, 19 with pseudonormalization, and 13 with restrictive-like filling). Assessment of diastolic filling was carried out with the measurements of E wave, A wave, E-wave deceleration time, isovolumic relaxation time, lateral tissue Doppler E S, E and A wave. Serum prolidase activity was measured by spectrophotometrical methods. RESULTS: Serum prolidase activity level was higher in patients with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) than without LVDD (P = 0.004). Also, prolidase activity values gradually increased from stage I through stage III in patients with LVDD. Multivariate analysis shows that LVDD is independently associated with age (ß = 0.066, SE = 0.017, P = 0.006), hypertension (ß = -1.252, SE = 0.354, P = 0.037) and prolidase activity (ß = 0.021, SE= 0.088, P= 0.045). CONCLUSION: Our data have shown that, in a selected group of patients, serum prolidase activity was positively and independently associated with the presence and severity of LVDD.

Tear Film and Serum Prolidase Activity and Oxidative Stress in Patients With Keratoconus.

PURPOSE: To determine and compare the serum and tear film prolidase activity (PA) between patients with keratoconus and healthy subjects. Also, we aimed to evaluate the serum oxidative stress level and the correlation with serum PA in patients with keratoconus. METHODS: This prospective, comparative clinical study included 31 patients with keratoconus and 33 age-matched and sex-matched control subjects. All participants underwent a detailed ophthalmologic examination. Serum and tear samples were obtained from all participants. Tears and serum PA and serum oxidative stress markers were measured. RESULTS: No significant differences in demographic characteristics were detected between groups (P > 0.05). The serum PA was significantly lower in the keratoconus group than in the control group (895.6 ± 198.7 vs. 1145.9 ± 285.4 U/L, P < 0.001). A tear film comparison showed that PA was lower in the keratoconus group than in the control group; however, this difference was not significant (3075.4 ± 672.2 vs. 3225.8 ± 903.2 U·L⁻¹·g⁻¹ protein, P = 0.45). Oxidative stress markers, such as total oxidant status and oxidative stress index, were found to be significantly higher in the keratoconus group (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The serum PA was found to be lower in patients with keratoconus than in the controls. Additionally, serum oxidative stress markers were found to be higher than those of the controls. Thus, prolidase and systemic oxidative stress may have a role in the pathogenesis of keratoconus.