Volume 22, No. 4/2005(4th Quarter)
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 Trace Elements and Electrolytes
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Letter to the Editor
NTP-proBNP values in Black and Caucasian hypertensive patients
B. Gremmler, L. Ulbricht, M. Hausberg and K. Kisters
Abstract
B. Gremmler, L. Ulbricht, M. Hausberg and K. Kisters
Originals
Polarographic investigation of tin(II), thiosemicarbazide and selenium(IV) interaction
H. Arslan and E. Hasdemir
Abstract
H. Arslan and E. Hasdemir
Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Art and Science, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
In this study, the interaction between tin(II), thiosemicarbazide and selenium(IV) was examined polarographically. It was seen that in acidic medium, there is a reaction between selenium(IV) – tin(II) and selenium(IV) – thiosemicarbazide, but there is no reaction between thiosemicarbazide – tin(II). It was observed that, when Se(IV) is added to Sn(II)-thiosemicarbazide mixture, there is a sharp decrease at the reduction peak of Sn(II), but there is no decrease at the reduction peak of thiosemicarbazide. As the amount of selenite increases, it was observed that after the disappearance of reduction peak of Sn(II), decrease at the reduction peak of thiosemicarbazide starts, and also, the reduction peak of selenium (IV) which appears around –550 mV disappears at the new polarograms that are obtained by just waiting, (without making any process) and during this process thiosemicarbazide peak decreases more. As a result, it was found that there is a more rapid and having a priority reaction between Sn(II) – Se(IV), than thiosemicarbazide – Se(IV). It was also found that thiosemicarbazide – Se(IV) reaction appears after all Sn(II) in the medium is consumed. The decrease at the thiosemicarbazide peak, after waiting a certain time, proved that this reaction is slow.Correspondence to:
Dr. H. Arslan
Department of Chemistry
Faculty of Science and Arts
Gazi University
06500 Ankara, Turkey
Email: halit@gazi.edu.tr
Originals
The importance of the different ionic current components in action potential generation in vascular smooth muscle (portal vein)
R. Patejdl, P. Noack, H.-H. Hopp, A. Weston and Th. Noack
Abstract
R. Patejdl1, P. Noack1, H.-H. Hopp1, A. Weston2 and Th. Noack1
1Institute of Physiology, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany and 2Department of Physiology, Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
Spontaneous electrical activity of portal vein smooth muscle tissue was recorded using sharp microelectrode measurements. The activity showed rhythmical action potentials which triggered mechanical contractions which were as well recorded. Furthermore, ion currents of isolated single smooth muscle cells were measured using patch clamp method. The mathematical description of the ion currents and the microelectrode data using Hodgkin-Huxley algorithms demonstrated that the calcium inward current described the depolarizations well [Hodgkin and Huxley 1952]. The calcium independent outward currents, namely voltage dependent and outward rectifying potassium currents (Kv currents), could explain only the smaller part of the outward currents which was indicated by their current density and time course. This implies that the major ion currents which initiate the repolarization phase are calcium dependent ion currents.Correspondence to:
Th. Noack
Institute of Physiology
University of Rostock
Gertrudenstraße 9
18055 Rostock, Germany
Email: thomas.noack@uni-rostock.de
Originals
Plasma magnesium status and pulse pressure in essential hypertension
K. Kisters, O. Hoffmann, M. Hausberg, M. Quang Nguyen, O. Micke and B. Gremmler
Abstract
K. Kisters1, O. Hoffmann1, M. Hausberg1, M. Quang Nguyen1, O. Micke1 and B. Gremmler2
1Medical Clinic I, St. Anna-Hospital, Herne, and 2Cardiological Department, Marienhospital Bottrop, Bottrop, Germany
The influence of a magnesium deficiency in the development of primary hypertension has often been described. However, several investigations were performed in human blood cells or smooth muscle cells in hypertension. Possibly a disturbed calcium/ magnesium antagonism, reduced ATPase activities or disturbed magnesium channels are responsible for this magnesium deficiency. The height of pulse pressure (difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure values) is known to be a risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. In this context, it was of interest to study plasma magnesium concentrations in essential hypertensives with pulse pressure > 60 mmHg and < 50 mmHg (ten patients in each group). Our results show that in the group with a high pulse pressure plasma magnesium concentrations were measured 0.72 ± 0.1 mmol/l versus 0.88 ± 0.07 mmol/l in essential hypertensives with a pulse pressure < 50 mmHg (p < 0.05, r –0,73). In conclusion the presented data shows that in patients with elevated pulse pressure values a magnesium deficiency may occur. The magnesium deficiency significantly correlates with the height of pulse pressure. The results are similar to previous investigations in essential hypertensives. As a benefit of magnesium supplementation has been well documented in the treatment of primary hypertension, further studies are necessary to demonstrate a positive effect of a magnesium therapy in reducing pulse pressure values.Correspondence to:
Prof. K. Kisters
Medical Clinic I
St. Anna-Hospital
Hospitalstraße 19
44649 Herne, Germany
Email: kisters@annahospital.de
Originals
Effect of protein and caloric restriction on bone strontium
E. González-Reimers, M. Arnay-de-la-Rosa, J. Velasco-Vázquez, L. Galindo-Martín and F. Santolaria-Fernández
Abstract
E. González-Reimers1, M. Arnay-de-la-Rosa2, J. Velasco-Vázquez3, L. Galindo-Martín4 and F. Santolaria-Fernández1
1Service of Internal Medicine, University Hospital, Tenerife, 2Department for Prehistory, Anthropology and Ancient History, University of La Laguna, Tenerife, 3University of Valladolid, and 4Department for Analytical Chemistry, University of La Laguna, Te
The finding of a high bone strontium content in paleodietary analysis may suggest consumption of a vegetable-based diet and/or marine products. Some previous results have pointed out that protein- and caloric restriction also lead to an increase in bone strontium. Based on this fact, we analyze bone strontium, calcium and magnesium contents in 140 adult male Sprague Dawley rats fed the Lieber-DeCarli liquid control diet (18% protein), 124 fed an isocaloric, 2% protein-containing diet (following a pair-feeding process) and 17, an 18% protein-containing diet ad libitum. Bone strontium was lower in the ad libitum fed animals (F = 6.75, p = 0.001) and kept an inverse relationship with the amount of diet consumed (r = –0.24) and with weight at the end of the experiment (r = –0.34). Thus, protein-calorie malnutrition leads to raised bone strontium content, at least in the Lieber-de Carli rat model.Correspondence to:
Dr. E. González-Reimers
Service of Internal Medicine
University Hospital
Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
Email: egonrey@ull.es
Originals
Effects of subacute boric acid administration on rat testis tissue
P. Aribal Kocatürk, O. Yaman, B. Tavil Sabuncuoglu, G. Ozelci Kavas and M. Tekelioglu
Abstract
P. Aribal Kocatürk1, O. Yaman2, B. Tavil Sabuncuoglu3, G. Ozelci Kavas1 and M. Tekelioglu3
1Department of Pathophysiology, 2Department of Urology, and 3Department of Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
Objectives: To determine boron concentration and histopathological changes in testis tissue after subacute boric acid exposure. Material: Control group was constituted of 24 male albino Sprague-Dawley rats, 10 – 12 weeks of age, weighing 280 g. For experimental group, 72 male, albino Sprague-Dawley rats, 10 – 12 weeks of age, weighing 290 g were used. Body and testis weights and also plasma and testis boron concentrations of control and experimental rats were measured. Methods: Different doses of boric acid (100 – 275 – 400 mg/kg/ day) were administered and blood samples and testis tissues were collected at 10th, 30th and 45th days. For each dose, 8 rats from experimental and 8 rats from control groups were operated on these days. Body and testis weights were calculated. Testis boron concentrations were measured by spectrophotometer. Microscopic examinations were done. Results: Body weight of control groups was increased. Testis weights, in the third experimental group, was decreased on the 10th day compared to the 30th and 45th days. Testis boron concentrations were increased significantly in each experimental group. In histopathological examinations, time- and dose-dependent degenerations were seen in spermato-spermiogenesis. Decreased numbers of seminiferous tubules and increase in interstitial connective tissue were detected. Conclusion: Subacute boric acid exposure revealed a significant accumulation of boron in testis associated with histopathological changes.Correspondence to:
Dr. P. Aribal Kocatürk
Department of Pathophysiology
School of Medicine
Ankara University
Sihhiye
06100 Ankara, Turkey
Email: kocaturk@medicine.ankara.edu.tr
Originals
Gunshot residues of blank firing pistols
H.B. Üner and A. Özaslan
Abstract
H.B. Üner1 and A. Özaslan2
1The Institute of Forensic Sciences, and 2Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical Faculty of Cerrahpasa, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
A blank firing pistol is an instrument or device which is designed to use only blank or tear gas cartridges. Neither in blank nor in tear gas cartridges are projectiles used. Unfortunately, this weapon can be easily converted to a lethal firearm by cutting off and changing the barrel. In cases like this, the weapon is less expensive than regularly rifled firearms and no license is needed. Also, in some cases, without any changes they can function like lethal weapons. In this study, using 9 mm blank ammunitions and a blank firing pistol, experimental shots were done. Gunshot residues on both firing hand and cloth target were examined by scanning electron microscope/energy-dispersive x-ray analysis and sodium rhodizonate test, respectively. The results similar to other experiments were done with regular firearms.Correspondence to:
Dr. H.B. Üner
Istanbul Universitesi
Adli Tip Enstitüsü
34303 Istanbul, Turkey
Email: hbuner@istanbul.edu.tr
Originals
Hepatic and renal tissue selenium levels in a mouse model of candidiasis
A. Kalkanci, N. Bukan, B. Sancak and S. Kustimur
Abstract
A. Kalkanci1, N. Bukan2, B. Sancak2 and S. Kustimur1
1Department of Microbiology, and 2Department of Biochemistry, Gazi University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
Objective: Candidemia is a form of sepsis resulting in a complicated inflammatory response in living organisms. There is no sufficient data about selenium levels in candidiasis. Methods: Selenium levels were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry in different organs of mouse model of candidiasis. Results: We found that selenium levels increased in hepatic tissue of the mice (1 045.9 ± 166.29 ng/ml), while they decreased in renal tissue (518.48 ± 258.18 ng/ml) when compared with control groups (p > 0.001). Conclusions: This can be explained by the different selenium uptake of the metabolic pathways in renal and hepatic tissues.Correspondence to:
Dr. A. Kalkanci
Emek Mah. 75. Sok 120/9
06510 Ankara, Turkey
Email: aysekalkanci@email.com
kalkanci@gazi.edu.tr
Originals
Zinc status of different organs in rat pups following maternal zinc supplementation
N.S. Al-Zaid, T.C. Mathew, M. Al-Bader, M.N. Bou-Resli
Abstract
N.S. Al-Zaid1, T.C. Mathew2, M. Al-Bader1, M.N. Bou-Resli3
Departments of 1Physiology and 4Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, 2Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, and 3Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Kuwait University, Kuwait
Zinc (Zn) has a major role in normal mammalian growth and development. Its deficiency is associated with abnormal prenatal and postnatal development. Many of its effects are due to its association with Zn finger proteins that initiates the transcription process and gene expression. Furthermore, Zn is an integral component of the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase, that protects the cell from the oxidative destruction caused by free radicals. Considering the importance of Zn in cellular and subcellular metabolism, the current study is aimed at understanding the Zn status of different organs in rat pups following maternal supplementation with either 125 mg or 250 mg of Zn per liter of drinking water throughout the period of their pregnancy. The results of this study indicate that the change in Zn level in lung, heart, spleen and kidney of rat pups following maternal Zn supplementation was not statistically significant. However, administration of 125 mg/l Zn significantly increased the hepatic (p < 0.01) and serum (p < 0.001) levels of Zn. These results indicate that some kind of regulatory mechanism that keeps the homeostasis of Zn level is occurring in different organs of rat pups whose mothers are supplemented with Zn during pregnancy. Further studies are required to understand the postnatal benefits and the molecular regulatory mechanisms of Zn homeostasis in different organs following maternal Zn supplementation.Correspondence to:
Prof. N. Al-Zaid
Department of Physiology
Faculty of Medicine
Kuwait University Health Sciences Center
P.O Box 24923
13110 Safat, Kuwait
Email: alzaidnajeee@hotmail.com
Originals
Diagnosis of zinc deficiency in population studies
D. Oberleas and B.F. Harland
Abstract
D. Oberleas1 and B.F. Harland2
1Texas Tech University (Emeritus), Lubbock, TX, and 2Department of Nutritional Sciences, College of Allied Health Sciences, Howard University, Washington, D.C., USA
Phytate, a natural constituent of plant seeds, is the major determinant of nutritional zinc deficiency. The correlation between dietary phytate:zinc molar ratio and growth rate in rats is 0.97. Few deficiencies are predictable with this degree of precision and no invasive techniques are required to diagnose zinc deficiency. Growth rate in children is not always a sensitive criterion because of the diversity of heights and weights within a population and this criterion is not applicable to adults. Technology is available for precise analysis of foodstuffs for phytate and zinc. An HPLC method for phytate that takes advantage of ferric ions binding to phytate in dilute acid under precisely controlled conditions is both specific and precise. Microwave ashing with nitric acid decreases the loss of zinc during analysis compared to other methods, improves the precision, and decreases the time required for completion of the zinc analyses. Children of the Maya culture of Guatemala are the subjects studied in this test population. The major components of the Maya diet are maize tortillas and refried black beans, both of plant seed origin and rich in phytate. The methodology and the results from studies of Maya children will be demonstrated as an example of a population with zinc deficiency.Correspondence to:
D. Oberleas, PhD
Texas Tech University (Emeritus)
3404 88th Street
Lubbock, TX 79423, USA
Email: doberlea@aol.com
Originals
Protein synthesis and activities of tRNALeu and leucyl-tRNA synthetase in mouse liver under acute lead and zinc exposure
H. Rodovicius, D. Viezeliene, I. Sadauskiene, and L. Ivanov
Abstract
H. Rodovicius1, D. Viezeliene1,2, I. Sadauskiene1,2 and L. Ivanov1,2
1Department of Biochemistry, and 2Institute for Biomedical Research, Kaunas University of Medicine, Kaunas, Lithuania
Objective: To evaluate the effects of lead ions (Pb2+) and zinc ions (Zn2+) on total protein synthesis in mice liver and on the activities of mice liver tRNALeu and leucyl-tRNA synthetase in vivo and in vitro. Methods: Experiments were done on the liver of white laboratory mice of 20 – 25 g body mass. To study effect of Pb2+ or/and Zn2+, mice were injected i.p. with subtoxic dose of Pb(CH3COO)2 solution (50 mg Pb2+/kg body mass) or/and with ZnSO4 solution (1.56 mg Zn2+/kg body mass). For measurement of protein synthesis [14C]-leucine was injected i.p. 1h before killing. Intensity of the protein synthesis in mouse liver was evaluated by incorporation of [14C]-leucine into newly synthesized proteins and peptides. Activities of tRNALeu and leucyl-tRNA synthetase were measured in aminoacylation reaction using [14C]-leucine. Results: Protein synthesis was increased by 31% 8 hours after the exposure to Pb2+. Zn2+ did not affect the intensity of this process and protected liver cells from Pb-induced changes in protein synthesis. Acceptor activity of tRNALeu was decreased by 24% 8 hours after exposure to Pb2+ and was increased by 29% after treatment with Zn2+. Activity of leucyl-tRNA synthetase was increased 8 hours after treatment with Pb2+ or Zn2+ by 15% and 20%, respectively. Zn2+ injected 20 min before administration of Pb2+ protected tRNALeu and leucyl-tRNA synthetase from Pb-induced changes. The experiments in vitro showed that low concentrations of Pb2+ or/and Zn2+ increased activities of tRNALeu and leucyl-tRNA synthetase and high concentrations decreased. tRNALeu is more susceptible to the action of Pb2+ and Zn2+ than leucyl-tRNA synthetase. Conclusions: Zn2+ showed protective effect on the total protein synthesis, acceptor activity of tRNALeu and activity of leucyl-tRNA synthetase in Pb2+-treated mice liver. tRNALeu molecules are more susceptible to the action of Pb2+ and Zn2+ than leucyl-tRNA synthetase molecules.Correspondence to:
Dr. H. Rodovicius
Department of Biochemistry
Kaunas University of Medicine
Mickeviciaus 9
44307 Kaunas
Email: Lithuaniahiliaras@med.kmu.lt
Originals
Investigations of lead biomarker – urinary d-aminolevulinic acid among the population residing in different areas of Vilnius city
D. Zabulyte, A. Paltanaviciene, J. Kalibatas, N. Jatuliene, S. Uleckiene, V. Drebickas and V. Semaska
Abstract
D. Zabulyte1, A. Paltanaviciene1, J. Kalibatas1, N. Jatuliene1, S. Uleckiene2, V. Drebickas3 and V. Semaska3
1Institute of Hygiene, 2Institute of Oncology, Vilnius University, and 3Vilnius Pedagogical University, Vilnius, Lithuania
The aim of this study was to determine urinary levels of d-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) as a lead biomarker among the population of Vilnius (capital city of Lithuania). Material and methods: Urine samples were obtained from 228 healthy people not having any chronic diseases of kidneys or the liver who resided in different areas of the city. ALA was being measured by chromatographic-spectrophotometric analysis. Results: Data of the investigations have shown that the main source of lead affecting the population of Vilnius city is transport. It was found that in residents living in industrial areas of Vilkpede and Zirmunai where traffic is the heaviest, the levels of urinary d-aminolevulinic acid were higher than in those living in unpolluted areas like Old Town and Pilaite area. Apart from industrial pollution, an important factor of exposure to lead is tobacco smoking. Conclusions: It was found that in any case under study the level of ALA did not exceed the maximum permissible level, namely 4.5 mg/g creatinine. Urinary levels of d-aminolevulinic acid for smoking residents (up to 20 cigarettes per day) were 1.6 times higher compared to non-smokers (p < 0.05).Correspondence to:
Dr. D. Zabulyte
Institute of Hygiene
Didzioji Street 22
01128 Vilnius, Lithuania
Email: toksikologija@hi.lt
Originals
Microprobe studies of the uric acid calculi
A. Wróbel, E. Rokita, and P. Thor
Abstract
A. Wróbel1,2, E. Rokita2,3 and P. Thor4
1Institute of Physics, Jagiellonian University and 2Regional Laboratory of Physicochemical Analyses and Structure Research, Jagiellonian University, 3Department of Biophysics and 4Department of Pathophysiology, Medical College, Jagiellonian University, Kr
The studies were designed to ascertain composition and structure of the uric acid calculi at the microscopic level. The samples consisted of 100 mm thick sections of the stones. The energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF) was used to determine the average elemental composition while the X-ray diffraction (XRD) served to establish crystalline structure. The PIXE (particle-induced X-ray emission) in combination with proton microprobe and XRD based on a synchrotron microbeam were used to determine composition and structure at the microscopic level. It was shown that the stones had lamellar structure and were composed of two types of layers. The first type was ~50 mm thick while the second type had thickness of ~100 – ~250 mm. The concentrations of the elements, except for Ca and Sr, were identical in both layers. Calcium formed deposits 20 – 50 mm in diameter. The deposits were observed only in the thinner layers. The calcium concentrations in the deposits ranged from 1 000 – 8 000 ppm. The micro-XRD measurements revealed that in 65% of the samples under study, the deposits were composed of calcium oxalates and uric acids. In 35% of the samples, only uric acid was identified whereas Ca-containing phase has not been unequivocally identified. Hypothesis explaining the observed calcium distribution was discussed.Correspondence to:
Dr. A. Wróbel
Institute of Physics
Jagiellonian University
Reymonta 4
30-059 Kraków, Poland
Email: ufawrobe@cyf-kr.edu.pl
Originals
Content of macroelements in chosen organs of racoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides)
D. Mertin, E. Hanusová, O. Szeleszczuk, K. Süvegová
Abstract
D. Mertin1, E. Hanusová1, O. Szeleszczuk2, K. Süvegová1
1Research Institute for Animal Production, Nitra, Slovakia, and 2Akademia Rolnicza, Krakow, Poland
The objective of the experiment was to assess the concentration of Ca, Mg, Na and K in chosen organs of racoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides). Macroelements were determined by the method of atomic absorption spectral photometry in the apparatus Unicam 939. Concentration of elements was assessed in g per kg dry matter (g/kg). Obtained results were processed mathematically and statistically [SAS/STAT 1999-2001]. Significant differences in concentration of elements between sexes were in bone, kidneys and liver. In the bone of males was a higher concentration of Ca (702.00 g/kg), Mg (3.15 g/kg), Na (7.23 g/kg) compared with females; the content of these elements in them was: 130.00, 1.80, 5.05 g/kg, respectively. In kidneys there was a higher concentration of Mg (0.51 g/kg), Na (7.27), and K (6.86 g/kg) in females compared with males (0.37 g/kg, 4.87, 4.01 g/kg, respectively), and in liver only the K concentration was higher (females 7.86 g/kg, males 5.75 g/kg). Significant correlations (r) were found in the liver: Ca : Na (0.744), Mg : Na (0.548), Mg : K (0.503), and Na : K (0.600); in the bone: Ca : Mg (0.935), Ca : Na (0.698), and Mg : Na (0.794); in the kidneys: Mg : Na (0.874), Mg : K (0.731), and Na : K (0.834); and in the muscle: Mg : Na (0.801), Mg : K (0.828), and Na : K (0.768). Fewer correlations were in the lungs: Mg : Na (0.695), Mg : K (0.849); in the spleen: Mg : Na (0.758), Mg : K (0.658); in the heart: Mg : Na (0.565), Mg : K (0.778); and in the stomach: Mg : Na (0.818), Na : K (0.677). In the brain we found a significant correlation between the concentration of magnesium and potassium only (0.745).Correspondence to:
Dr. D. Mertin
Research Institute of Animal Production
Hlohovska 2
949 92 Nitra, Slovakia
Originals
The influence of magnesium sulphate and labetalol on human placental cotyledon fetal vessels in vitro
M. Skoczynski, A. Kwasniewska and M. Semczuk
Abstract
M. Skoczynski, A. Kwasniewska and M. Semczuk
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine, Lublin, Poland
Increased systemic vascular resistance and blood pressure during pregnancy may be due to impaired prostacyclin PGI2 thromboxane A2 balance. The aim of the study was to compare the influence of magnesium sulphate and labetalol on the placental vascular resistance induced by stable thromboxane analogue U 46 619 in experimental bilateral perfusion of the human placental cotyledon. Constant increase in perfusion pressure of mean value 185% of the initial pressure was obtained from about the 60th minute of the study and maintained till the end. The experiment during which constant, increased perfusion pressure is obtained after the administration of stable thromboxane A2 analogue U 46 619 seems to imitate vascular motor activity in vivo in preeclampsia. Having obtained constant increase in perfusion pressure from the 60th min of the experiment, magnesium sulphate and labetalol were administered along with thromboxane A2 analogue into the fetal circulation. Only magnesium sulphate lowered perfusion pressure, experimentally increased by thromboxane analogue U 46 619. Labetalol did not significantly affect the hemodynamics of fetoplacental vessels. According to the results of our in vitro study, magnesium sulfate may also have a beneficial effect on the vascular resistance of cotyledon vessels in pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) in vivo, too.Correspondence to:
Dr. M. Skoczynski
Klinika Poloznictwa
ul. Staszica 16
20-081 Lublin, Poland
Email: mariuszs@panaceum.am.lublin.pl
Originals
Trace elements supplementation in radiation oncology – an empirical study assessing the quality of health information for consumers on the World Wide Web in Germany
F. Bruns, R. Mücke, J. Büntzel, K. Kisters and O. Micke
Abstract
F. Bruns1, R. Mücke2, J. Büntzel3, K. Kisters4 and O. Micke5
1Abteilung Strahlentherapie und spezielle Onkologie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, 2Strahlentherapie Wiesbaden, St. Josefs-Hospital Wiesbaden, 3HNO-Klinik, Südharzkrankenhaus Nordhausen, 4Klinik für Innere Medizin I, St. Anna Hospital Herne, and 5Kl
Objective: The supplementation of trace elements as one method of complementary/alternative medicine (CAM) is becoming more important in the radiooncology. Actually, the internet is one of the main sources of information for CAM users but little is known regarding the quality of this kind of offered health information. Material and methods: To evaluate the quality of health information on the World Wide Web about the supplementation of trace elements in radiooncology, we performed an analysis of consumer websites in German for this topic after screening of all citations listed in the search engines “Fireball”, “AltaVista”, “Google”, “Yahoo”, and “Lycos”. Two reviewers, both experienced radiooncologists, independently analyzed this health information using the quality criteria and the scoring system of the Health Summit Working Group. Results: We found at maximum 522 web sites according to this topic, if the combination “trace element” and “cancer” and “radiotherapy” was used for search. The majority of the obtained web information was comprehensible and partly detailed, but frequently irrelevant. Only 4.4% of the analyzed web sites contained relevant statements concerning the supplementation of trace elements corresponding to scores 1 and 2 of the Health Summit Working Group scale. The observed inter-rater discrepancy was 4.3%. Conclusions: The majority of the information about the supplementation of trace elements in radiooncology, which can be found in the World Wide Web, was only of a poor quality. Therefore, qualified websites are needed to ensure an objective point of view for cancer patients with regard to the use of standard and experimental therapies of CAM for each tumor entity.Correspondence to:
Dr. F. Bruns
Department of Radiation Oncology
Hannover Medical School (MHH)
Carl-Neuberg-Straße 1
30625 Hannover, Germany
Email: Bruns.Frank@MH-Hannover.de
