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Dustri-Verlag
Volume 21, No. 4/2004(4th Quarter)
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Abstracts
Report of the Fifth Workshop on Trace Elements and Electrolytes AKTE 2/2003
0
4$
Abstract
Hannover, Germany, November 15, 2003
Abstracts
Selected Abstracts of the Fifth Münster Workshop on Trace Elements and Electrolytes, AKTE 2/2003
F. Bruns, J. Büntzel, R. Mücke, O. Micke and K. Kisters
0
4$
Abstract
F. Bruns, J. Büntzel, R. Mücke, O. Micke and K. Kisters
Hannover, Germany, November 15, 2003
Originals
Assay of trace elements, thyroid gland and blood indices in children with alopecia
R. Naginiene, R. Kregzdyte, A. Abdrakhmanovas and S. Ryselis
207
20$
Abstract
Objective: Alopecia areata is considered an autoimmune hair loss disease, though its ethiopathophysiology remains not fully understood. Although medically benign, alopecia can cause tremendous emotional and psychological stress in affected patients and their families. There are claims that disbalance of trace elements, endocrine disorders or thyroid dysfunction may trigger the onset of alopecia. The aim of this trial was to assess the content of trace elements, hormones, blood indices and status of thyroid gland in children that have suffered from alopecia with various disseminations. Material and methods: The concentrations of lead, copper, manganese, chromium, cadmium, zinc and mercury in children (n = 80) from the Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Hospital of Kaunas University of Medicine, hair, vein blood and spot urine were determined by AAS; the evaluation of blood indices, hormones and thyroid gland were performed as well. Results: The analysis extracted a significant increase in chromium and copper concentration in hair, and blood lead content whereas the amount of manganese in blood and zinc in urine of children with alopecia was lower compared to the reference group, respectively (p < 0.05). However, the findings showed no changes in the hormones and blood indices, though 57% of the children with alopecia had mild diffuse thyroid enlargement. Conclusions: No changes in blood, biochemical and hormonal indices in children with alopecia were established. The zinc deficiency induced by trace element replacements with heavy metals can cause the onset of alopecia in children or other sensitive population groups besides other factors. Furthermore, the content of heavy metals increase in organisms might produce accumulative effects, and hence may cause a deficiency of zinc which may trigger the onset of alopecia in children together with the appearance of thyreocele. Yet, more detailed analyses of these issues remain to be performed.Correspondence to:
Dr. R. Naginiene
Institute for Biomedical Research
Kaunas University of Medicine
Eiveniu 4
LT-50009, Kaunas 7, Lithuania
Email: riman@kmu.lt
R. Naginiene, R. Kregzdyte, A. Abdrakhmanovas and S. Ryselis
Institute for Biomedical Research, Kaunas University of Medicine, Kaunas, Lithuania Objective: Alopecia areata is considered an autoimmune hair loss disease, though its ethiopathophysiology remains not fully understood. Although medically benign, alopecia can cause tremendous emotional and psychological stress in affected patients and their families. There are claims that disbalance of trace elements, endocrine disorders or thyroid dysfunction may trigger the onset of alopecia. The aim of this trial was to assess the content of trace elements, hormones, blood indices and status of thyroid gland in children that have suffered from alopecia with various disseminations. Material and methods: The concentrations of lead, copper, manganese, chromium, cadmium, zinc and mercury in children (n = 80) from the Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Hospital of Kaunas University of Medicine, hair, vein blood and spot urine were determined by AAS; the evaluation of blood indices, hormones and thyroid gland were performed as well. Results: The analysis extracted a significant increase in chromium and copper concentration in hair, and blood lead content whereas the amount of manganese in blood and zinc in urine of children with alopecia was lower compared to the reference group, respectively (p < 0.05). However, the findings showed no changes in the hormones and blood indices, though 57% of the children with alopecia had mild diffuse thyroid enlargement. Conclusions: No changes in blood, biochemical and hormonal indices in children with alopecia were established. The zinc deficiency induced by trace element replacements with heavy metals can cause the onset of alopecia in children or other sensitive population groups besides other factors. Furthermore, the content of heavy metals increase in organisms might produce accumulative effects, and hence may cause a deficiency of zinc which may trigger the onset of alopecia in children together with the appearance of thyreocele. Yet, more detailed analyses of these issues remain to be performed.Correspondence to:
Dr. R. Naginiene
Institute for Biomedical Research
Kaunas University of Medicine
Eiveniu 4
LT-50009, Kaunas 7, Lithuania
Email: riman@kmu.lt
Originals
Laboratorial investigations on effects of different concentrations of cadmium in broiler chickens
E. Kósa, Z. Rigó, I. Csutorás and Á. Szakács
211
20$
Abstract
The cadmium pollution of the environment continuously grows, and the cadmium loading increases parallel to these in the tissues and organs of living organisms. In this paper, the effect of the various cadmium concentrations in feedstuffs was studied on the activity of hydrolase enzymes in the broiler’s pancreas tissue and intestinal content. The observations were made on broilers of 21 days which were kept in climatized animal facilities. During the trials, 4 groups were created. The animal number in each group was 20 (control Cd: 75, 300 and 600 mg/feed kg). The animals were euthanized on day 28 of the trial. The measurement of enzyme activity was made on the pancreas tissue and intestinal content of 20 animals from each group. In the intestinal content, we found the following results: a-amylase activity in the Cd 600 group was decreased by 55%, lipase activity in the Cd 600 group was decreased by 46%, and trypsin activity in the Cd 600 group was decreased by 72% compared to control group. The protease activity in all treated groups significantly (p < 0.05) decreased (Cd 75 group: by 50%, Cd 300 group: by 55%, and the Cd 600 group: by 65% compared to control). In the pancreas tissue supernatant, the a-amylase activity was significantly increased (in the Cd 300 group by 164%, in the Cd 600 group by 171% compared to control), lipase activity was significantly increased (in the Cd 600 group by 127% compared to control), trypsin activity was significantly increased (in the Cd 75 group by 44%, in the Cd 300 group by 69% and the Cd 600 group by 33% compared to control). The protease activity significantly decreased (p < 0.05) in the 3 treated groups (Cd 75 group by 32%, Cd 300 group by 43%, Cd 600 group by 61% compared to the control). According to the results, the cadmium loading can significantly modify the hydrolase activity both in the pancreas and in intestinal content. The decrease of the hydrolase activity in the intestinal content and the increase (except the protease) in the pancreas may be explained by lower secretion.Correspondence to:
Dr. E. Kósa
Szent István University
Faculty of Veterinary Science
P.O. Box 2
H-1400 Budapest, Hungary
Email: ekosa@univet.hu
E. Kósa, Z. Rigó, I. Csutorás and Á. Szakács
Faculty of Veterinary Science, Szent István University, Budapest, Hungary The cadmium pollution of the environment continuously grows, and the cadmium loading increases parallel to these in the tissues and organs of living organisms. In this paper, the effect of the various cadmium concentrations in feedstuffs was studied on the activity of hydrolase enzymes in the broiler’s pancreas tissue and intestinal content. The observations were made on broilers of 21 days which were kept in climatized animal facilities. During the trials, 4 groups were created. The animal number in each group was 20 (control Cd: 75, 300 and 600 mg/feed kg). The animals were euthanized on day 28 of the trial. The measurement of enzyme activity was made on the pancreas tissue and intestinal content of 20 animals from each group. In the intestinal content, we found the following results: a-amylase activity in the Cd 600 group was decreased by 55%, lipase activity in the Cd 600 group was decreased by 46%, and trypsin activity in the Cd 600 group was decreased by 72% compared to control group. The protease activity in all treated groups significantly (p < 0.05) decreased (Cd 75 group: by 50%, Cd 300 group: by 55%, and the Cd 600 group: by 65% compared to control). In the pancreas tissue supernatant, the a-amylase activity was significantly increased (in the Cd 300 group by 164%, in the Cd 600 group by 171% compared to control), lipase activity was significantly increased (in the Cd 600 group by 127% compared to control), trypsin activity was significantly increased (in the Cd 75 group by 44%, in the Cd 300 group by 69% and the Cd 600 group by 33% compared to control). The protease activity significantly decreased (p < 0.05) in the 3 treated groups (Cd 75 group by 32%, Cd 300 group by 43%, Cd 600 group by 61% compared to the control). According to the results, the cadmium loading can significantly modify the hydrolase activity both in the pancreas and in intestinal content. The decrease of the hydrolase activity in the intestinal content and the increase (except the protease) in the pancreas may be explained by lower secretion.Correspondence to:
Dr. E. Kósa
Szent István University
Faculty of Veterinary Science
P.O. Box 2
H-1400 Budapest, Hungary
Email: ekosa@univet.hu
Originals
Effect of cadmium and zinc chronic exposure on the mice organs alterations and resistance to Listeria monocytogenes infection
S. Simonyte, R. Planciuniene, V. Lesauskaite, G. Cherkashin and L. Ivanov
215
24$
Abstract
Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of chronic exposure to cadmium and zinc on the mice resistance to experimental Listeria monocytogenes infection and mice spleen and liver alterations in vivo. Material and methods: For outbred and infected mice with the facultative intracellular pathogen L. monocytogenes, 8 weeks of the following oral treatment were given: for control group (n = 28) deionized drinking water, for Cd group (n = 37), water containing CdCl2 10 mg/l and for Cd+Zn group (n = 33), water containing CdCl2 10 mg/l and ZnSO4 100 mg/l. Results: Chronic low doses of cadmium and zinc poisoning during infection affect the growth rate and survival of mice in both experimental groups. Our experimental data indicate that mice receiving Zn+Cd are more resistant to bacterial infection than Cd-affected animals. After 8 weeks, bacterial colonization of mice liver was 9.5% and 48%, respectively. L. monocytogenes carriers in control group were found in 20%. It was markedly less than in Cd group, but not statistically significant more than in Zn+Cd-treated mice. In some cases, the spleen and liver were macroscopically enlarged at the end of the experiment in all mice groups, and hypertrophy of organs was established in animals by Cd exposure. Histologically, hyperplasia of liver and spleen cells, infiltration of lymphocytes and vacuoles formation in organs, was observed after 8 weeks in Cd- and Cd+Zn-intoxicated mice. Conclusions: Zn significantly reduces the negative effect of Cd on the mice antimicrobial defense. Chronic cadmium exposure at low doses under bacterial infection induced hyperplasia and infiltration of lymphocytes in mice organs.Correspondence to:
Dr. S. Simonyte
Laboratory of Pathochemistry
Institute for Biomedical Research of the Kaunas University of Medicine
Eiveniu 4
LT-3007, Kaunas, Lithuania
Email: sandija@centras.lt
S. Simonyte1, R. Planciuniene2, V. Lesauskaite3, G. Cherkashin1 and L. Ivanov1
1Institute for Biomedical Research, 2Department of Microbiology, and 3Institute of Cardiology, Kaunas University of Medicine, Kaunas, Lithuania Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of chronic exposure to cadmium and zinc on the mice resistance to experimental Listeria monocytogenes infection and mice spleen and liver alterations in vivo. Material and methods: For outbred and infected mice with the facultative intracellular pathogen L. monocytogenes, 8 weeks of the following oral treatment were given: for control group (n = 28) deionized drinking water, for Cd group (n = 37), water containing CdCl2 10 mg/l and for Cd+Zn group (n = 33), water containing CdCl2 10 mg/l and ZnSO4 100 mg/l. Results: Chronic low doses of cadmium and zinc poisoning during infection affect the growth rate and survival of mice in both experimental groups. Our experimental data indicate that mice receiving Zn+Cd are more resistant to bacterial infection than Cd-affected animals. After 8 weeks, bacterial colonization of mice liver was 9.5% and 48%, respectively. L. monocytogenes carriers in control group were found in 20%. It was markedly less than in Cd group, but not statistically significant more than in Zn+Cd-treated mice. In some cases, the spleen and liver were macroscopically enlarged at the end of the experiment in all mice groups, and hypertrophy of organs was established in animals by Cd exposure. Histologically, hyperplasia of liver and spleen cells, infiltration of lymphocytes and vacuoles formation in organs, was observed after 8 weeks in Cd- and Cd+Zn-intoxicated mice. Conclusions: Zn significantly reduces the negative effect of Cd on the mice antimicrobial defense. Chronic cadmium exposure at low doses under bacterial infection induced hyperplasia and infiltration of lymphocytes in mice organs.Correspondence to:
Dr. S. Simonyte
Laboratory of Pathochemistry
Institute for Biomedical Research of the Kaunas University of Medicine
Eiveniu 4
LT-3007, Kaunas, Lithuania
Email: sandija@centras.lt
Originals
Electrolyte content determination in skeletal bone of rat for disclosing bone mineral depletion during prolonged hypokinesia
Y.G. Zorbas, V.J. Kakurin, N.A. Kuznetsov and V.A. Deogenov
220
40$
Abstract
Measuring mineral absorption and mineral levels in bone, plasma and urine, during prolonged hypokinesia (HK), the objective of this study was to disclose if HK could depress bone mineral deposition contributing to significant mineral loss and thus bone mineral depletion development. Studies were conducted during the pre-HK period of 10 days and the hypokinetic period of 98 days. One-hundred-twenty 13-week-old male Wistar rats (370 – 390 g) were used for the study. Rats were equally divided into 2 groups: vivarium control rats (VCR) and hypokinetic rats (HKR). Hypokinetic rats were kept in small individual cages for 98-days that restricted their movements in all direction without hindering food and water consumption. Control rats were housed in small individual cages for 98-days under vivarium control conditions. Mineral absorption and bone calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), magnesium (Mg), potassium (K) and sodium (Na) content reduced significantly (p < 0.05) with time, while Ca, P, Mg, K and Na levels in plasma and urine increased significantly (p < 0.05) with time in HKR compared with their pre-HK values and their respective control (VCR). Conversely, electrolyte absorption, plasma, urinary and bone mineral levels did not change in VCR compared with their pre-HK values. All hypokinetic rats demonstrated a significant decrease of bone mineral content and a significant increase of mineral loss. The increase of mineral loss with the decrease of bone mineral content suggests reduced bone mineral deposition. It was concluded that dissociation between decreased bone electrolyte content and increased urinary mineral loss demonstrates decreased bone mineral deposition as the mechanism of bone mineral depletion development during prolonged HK.Correspondence to:
Dr. V.A. Deogenov
European Foundation of Environmental Sciences
Odos Kerasundos 2
GR-162 32 Athens, Greece
Y.G. Zorbas, V.J. Kakurin, N.A. Kuznetsov and V.A. Deogenov
European Foundation of Environmental Sciences, Athens, Greece Measuring mineral absorption and mineral levels in bone, plasma and urine, during prolonged hypokinesia (HK), the objective of this study was to disclose if HK could depress bone mineral deposition contributing to significant mineral loss and thus bone mineral depletion development. Studies were conducted during the pre-HK period of 10 days and the hypokinetic period of 98 days. One-hundred-twenty 13-week-old male Wistar rats (370 – 390 g) were used for the study. Rats were equally divided into 2 groups: vivarium control rats (VCR) and hypokinetic rats (HKR). Hypokinetic rats were kept in small individual cages for 98-days that restricted their movements in all direction without hindering food and water consumption. Control rats were housed in small individual cages for 98-days under vivarium control conditions. Mineral absorption and bone calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), magnesium (Mg), potassium (K) and sodium (Na) content reduced significantly (p < 0.05) with time, while Ca, P, Mg, K and Na levels in plasma and urine increased significantly (p < 0.05) with time in HKR compared with their pre-HK values and their respective control (VCR). Conversely, electrolyte absorption, plasma, urinary and bone mineral levels did not change in VCR compared with their pre-HK values. All hypokinetic rats demonstrated a significant decrease of bone mineral content and a significant increase of mineral loss. The increase of mineral loss with the decrease of bone mineral content suggests reduced bone mineral deposition. It was concluded that dissociation between decreased bone electrolyte content and increased urinary mineral loss demonstrates decreased bone mineral deposition as the mechanism of bone mineral depletion development during prolonged HK.Correspondence to:
Dr. V.A. Deogenov
European Foundation of Environmental Sciences
Odos Kerasundos 2
GR-162 32 Athens, Greece
Originals
Semen concentration of trace elements in stallions and relation to the spermatozoa quality
P. Massányi, J. Trandzik, P. Nad, N. Lukac, M. Skalicka, B. Korenekova, V. Cigankova, R. Toman, M. Halo and P. Strapak
229
16$
Abstract
Concentration of copper, zinc, iron, cadmium, lead and nickel in the semen of stallions (n = 10) and its relation to spermatozoa quality was investigated. Samples were analyzed on the atomic absorption spectrophotometer (Unicam Solar 939). The analysis of copper in semen showed that the concentration is 0.86 ± 0.10 mg/kg. The zinc concentration is 86.20 ± 45.88 mg/kg and the iron concentration is 12.68 ± 9.09 mg/kg. Concentration of cadmium is relatively low (0.09 ± 0.10 mg/kg). The concentration of lead in stallion is 0.05 ± 0.05 mg/kg and that of nickel is 0.20 ± 0.24 mg/kg. The total percentage of pathological spermatozoa was 17.09 ± 3.66%. From this total number, 4.93% had knob-twisted flagellum, 4.71% separated flagellum, 1.60% flagellum torso, 0.87% broken flagellum, 0.78% retention of the cytoplasmic drop, 0.74% acrosomal changes, 0.67% large heads, 0.51% small heads, 0.34% flagellum ball and 1.94% forms other of pathological changes. Correlation analysis showed significantly (p < 0.05) positive correlation between iron and cadmium (r = 0.78), iron and lead (r = 0.79), iron and nickel (r = 0.74) and between cadmium and lead (r = 0.97). High correlation between copper and flagellum torso (r = –0.77), zinc and total number of pathological spermatozoa (r = 0.86), zinc and flagellum torso (r = 0.89), iron and total number of pathological spermatozoa (r = 0.70), iron and flagellum ball (r = 0.91), cadmium and separated flagellum (r = 0.82), lead and total number of pathological spermatozoa (r = 0.71) and between lead and separated flagellum (r = 0.85) was determined. Generally, our results suggest that there are very significant effects of various trace elements in stallion semen which directly effect the spermatozoa quality.Correspondence to:
Dr. P. Massanyi
Slovak University of Agriculture
Department of Animal Physiology
Tr. A. Hlinku 2
SK-94976 Nitra, Slovak Republic
Email: massanyi@yahoo.com
P. Massányi1, J. Trandzik2, P. Nad3, N. Lukac4, M. Skalicka3, B. Korenekova3, V. Cigankova5, R. Toman6, M. Halo7 and P. Strapak7
1Department of Animal Physiology, Slovak University of Agriculture, 2State Breeding Institute, Nitra, 3Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine, Kosice, 4Department of Disease Prevention and Reproduction of Farm Animals Concentration of copper, zinc, iron, cadmium, lead and nickel in the semen of stallions (n = 10) and its relation to spermatozoa quality was investigated. Samples were analyzed on the atomic absorption spectrophotometer (Unicam Solar 939). The analysis of copper in semen showed that the concentration is 0.86 ± 0.10 mg/kg. The zinc concentration is 86.20 ± 45.88 mg/kg and the iron concentration is 12.68 ± 9.09 mg/kg. Concentration of cadmium is relatively low (0.09 ± 0.10 mg/kg). The concentration of lead in stallion is 0.05 ± 0.05 mg/kg and that of nickel is 0.20 ± 0.24 mg/kg. The total percentage of pathological spermatozoa was 17.09 ± 3.66%. From this total number, 4.93% had knob-twisted flagellum, 4.71% separated flagellum, 1.60% flagellum torso, 0.87% broken flagellum, 0.78% retention of the cytoplasmic drop, 0.74% acrosomal changes, 0.67% large heads, 0.51% small heads, 0.34% flagellum ball and 1.94% forms other of pathological changes. Correlation analysis showed significantly (p < 0.05) positive correlation between iron and cadmium (r = 0.78), iron and lead (r = 0.79), iron and nickel (r = 0.74) and between cadmium and lead (r = 0.97). High correlation between copper and flagellum torso (r = –0.77), zinc and total number of pathological spermatozoa (r = 0.86), zinc and flagellum torso (r = 0.89), iron and total number of pathological spermatozoa (r = 0.70), iron and flagellum ball (r = 0.91), cadmium and separated flagellum (r = 0.82), lead and total number of pathological spermatozoa (r = 0.71) and between lead and separated flagellum (r = 0.85) was determined. Generally, our results suggest that there are very significant effects of various trace elements in stallion semen which directly effect the spermatozoa quality.Correspondence to:
Dr. P. Massanyi
Slovak University of Agriculture
Department of Animal Physiology
Tr. A. Hlinku 2
SK-94976 Nitra, Slovak Republic
Email: massanyi@yahoo.com
Originals
Application of D-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase test for the assessment of occupational long-term lead exposure
D. Baranauskiene, R. Naginiene, R. Kregzdyte, S. Ryselis and O. Abdrakhmanovas
232
20$
Abstract
Objective: Lead and its compounds are still used in industry, and hence the prevention of the incidence of occupational diseases remains urgent. Because of this heavy metal toxicity and since there is no demonstrated biologic need for lead, the most important approach is to detect at which dose this metal becomes toxic. The decrease of heme biosynthesis enzyme D-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (d-ALAD) activity followed by increase of its substrate D-aminolevulinic acid (d-ALA) content in urine are one of the most informative and representative biomarkers of long-term exposure to low-level lead. Material and methods: The biological monitoring of all workers (n = 20) from Enterprise Kaunas Electricity Network who have been occupationally exposed both indoors and outdoors to lead and its compounds was conducted in 1998 – 2003. Lead concentrations in vein blood and urine were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometer as well as the erythrocytes d-ALAD activity and urinary d-ALA content were detected by spectrophotometer. Results: The determined lead concentration in workers did not exceed permissible level (10 mg/100 ml), though blood lead concentration during the monitored period decreased (p < 0.05). Despite clearing processes of organism, a significant inhibition (p < 0.01) of d-ALAD activity in erythrocytes along with an urinary d-ALA content increase were observed. Conclusions: The single determination of lead content does not always reflect the harmful processes occuring in organisms upon chronic exposure to lead and its compounds. Thus, the d-ALAD test might be applicable to diagnostic purposes and screening of the population having been exposed to low-level lead over a long-term period.Correspondence to:
Dr. R. Naginiene
Institute for Biomedical Research
Kaunas University of Medicine
Eiveniu 4
LT-50009 Kaunas 7, Lithuania
Email: riman@kmu.lt
D. Baranauskiene, R. Naginiene, R. Kregzdyte, S. Ryselis and O. Abdrakhmanovas
Institute for Biomedical Research, Kaunas University of Medicine, Kaunas, Lithuania Objective: Lead and its compounds are still used in industry, and hence the prevention of the incidence of occupational diseases remains urgent. Because of this heavy metal toxicity and since there is no demonstrated biologic need for lead, the most important approach is to detect at which dose this metal becomes toxic. The decrease of heme biosynthesis enzyme D-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (d-ALAD) activity followed by increase of its substrate D-aminolevulinic acid (d-ALA) content in urine are one of the most informative and representative biomarkers of long-term exposure to low-level lead. Material and methods: The biological monitoring of all workers (n = 20) from Enterprise Kaunas Electricity Network who have been occupationally exposed both indoors and outdoors to lead and its compounds was conducted in 1998 – 2003. Lead concentrations in vein blood and urine were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometer as well as the erythrocytes d-ALAD activity and urinary d-ALA content were detected by spectrophotometer. Results: The determined lead concentration in workers did not exceed permissible level (10 mg/100 ml), though blood lead concentration during the monitored period decreased (p < 0.05). Despite clearing processes of organism, a significant inhibition (p < 0.01) of d-ALAD activity in erythrocytes along with an urinary d-ALA content increase were observed. Conclusions: The single determination of lead content does not always reflect the harmful processes occuring in organisms upon chronic exposure to lead and its compounds. Thus, the d-ALAD test might be applicable to diagnostic purposes and screening of the population having been exposed to low-level lead over a long-term period.Correspondence to:
Dr. R. Naginiene
Institute for Biomedical Research
Kaunas University of Medicine
Eiveniu 4
LT-50009 Kaunas 7, Lithuania
Email: riman@kmu.lt
Originals
Serum zinc concentration in patients with colorectal cancer
M. Zowczak-Drabarczyk, T. Torlinska, M. Iskra, G. Mielcarz, G. Matylla and L. Torlinski
236
20$
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have shown a relationship of zinc concentration with the pathology of several types of cancer. Zinc is involved in the proliferation and growth of cells including colorectal epithelial cells. The majority of colon adenocarcinomas derive from precancerous lesions, mostly from adenomatous polyps. Hence, the aim of this study was to evaluate total plasma Zn concentrations in patients with cancer and polyp of colon. In the population of the present study, the mean Zn concentration was significantly decreased in both colorectal cancer and polyp groups compared to the control group. A significant difference in the plasma zinc level was also noted between patients with cancer (higher) and those with polyps (lower). Considering the advancement of the malignancy, we were unable to find any significant difference in the mean Zn concentration between the cancer subgroups under study. Zinc level in the cancer subgroup with metastases was decreased only in comparison with the control group. In the context of the possible role of zinc in cancer chemoprevention, of particular importance might be the finding of significant differences in plasma zinc levels between the polyp group (lower) and both: the cancer (higher) and control group (higher). Significantly decreased Zn levels were found in the polyp group compared to the local cancer subgroup.Correspondence to:
Dr. M. Zowczak-Drabarczyk
Department of Chemistry and Clinical Biochemistry
University of Medical Sciences
Grunwaldzka 6 Street
PL-60780 Poznan, Poland
Email: milazowczak@poczta.onet.pl
M. Zowczak-Drabarczyk1, T. Torlinska2, M. Iskra1, G. Mielcarz1, G. Matylla3 and L. Torlinski1
Department of Chemistry and 1Clinical Biochemistry and 2Department of Physiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences,and 3General Surgery Ward, HCP Medical Center, Poznan, Poland Epidemiological studies have shown a relationship of zinc concentration with the pathology of several types of cancer. Zinc is involved in the proliferation and growth of cells including colorectal epithelial cells. The majority of colon adenocarcinomas derive from precancerous lesions, mostly from adenomatous polyps. Hence, the aim of this study was to evaluate total plasma Zn concentrations in patients with cancer and polyp of colon. In the population of the present study, the mean Zn concentration was significantly decreased in both colorectal cancer and polyp groups compared to the control group. A significant difference in the plasma zinc level was also noted between patients with cancer (higher) and those with polyps (lower). Considering the advancement of the malignancy, we were unable to find any significant difference in the mean Zn concentration between the cancer subgroups under study. Zinc level in the cancer subgroup with metastases was decreased only in comparison with the control group. In the context of the possible role of zinc in cancer chemoprevention, of particular importance might be the finding of significant differences in plasma zinc levels between the polyp group (lower) and both: the cancer (higher) and control group (higher). Significantly decreased Zn levels were found in the polyp group compared to the local cancer subgroup.Correspondence to:
Dr. M. Zowczak-Drabarczyk
Department of Chemistry and Clinical Biochemistry
University of Medical Sciences
Grunwaldzka 6 Street
PL-60780 Poznan, Poland
Email: milazowczak@poczta.onet.pl
Originals
Zn overdose may cause disturbance in iron metabolism in inactive inflammatory bowel diseases
A. Blázovics, K. Szentmihályi, P. Vinkler and Á. Kovács
240
36$
Abstract
The antioxidant defense system is partly related to the element status via enzyme activity. Therefore, we wanted to examine whether or not the element content of blood shows alteration in inactive inflammatory bowel diseases, compared to the control. Element analysis of blood with ICP-OES and spectrophotometric as well as chemiluminometric methods were applied for redox reactions of plasma and erythrocytes in 8 Caucasian volunteers, and 12 randomly chosen Caucasian patients with inactive IBD. Elevated Zn concentration was observed for some IBD patients, consequently nutritional supplementation, and the Zn vs. Fe amount showed significant negative correlation in total blood. Negative correlation coefficients were calculated between Zn-MCHC, Zn-K, Zn-S, Zn-Na, Zn-Cu, however, a positive correlation was found between Zn-PLT and Cu-Fe in IBD patients. We could not find any significant difference between redox parameters and element states in inactive IBD vs. controls. The erythrocyte scavenger capacity was insufficient in IBD in spite of adequate therapy and nutritional supplementation, therefore we concluded, that the redox state of erythrocyte indicates previous active stages. Zn, Cu and Fe are essential elements and their deficiencies cause severe metabolic disorders, therefore, it is very important to know that simultaneous supplementation involves health risks, especially in IBD.Correspondence to:
Dr. A. Blázovics
II. Department of
Medicine,
Semmelweis University,
PO Box 277
H-1444 Budapest, Hungary
Email: blaz@bel2.sote.hu
A. Blázovics1,2, K. Szentmihályi2, P. Vinkler2 and Á. Kovács3
1II. Department of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 2Chemical Research Center, Chemical Institute, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, and 3Department of Gastroenterology, Péterfy Sándor Hospital, Budapest, Hungary The antioxidant defense system is partly related to the element status via enzyme activity. Therefore, we wanted to examine whether or not the element content of blood shows alteration in inactive inflammatory bowel diseases, compared to the control. Element analysis of blood with ICP-OES and spectrophotometric as well as chemiluminometric methods were applied for redox reactions of plasma and erythrocytes in 8 Caucasian volunteers, and 12 randomly chosen Caucasian patients with inactive IBD. Elevated Zn concentration was observed for some IBD patients, consequently nutritional supplementation, and the Zn vs. Fe amount showed significant negative correlation in total blood. Negative correlation coefficients were calculated between Zn-MCHC, Zn-K, Zn-S, Zn-Na, Zn-Cu, however, a positive correlation was found between Zn-PLT and Cu-Fe in IBD patients. We could not find any significant difference between redox parameters and element states in inactive IBD vs. controls. The erythrocyte scavenger capacity was insufficient in IBD in spite of adequate therapy and nutritional supplementation, therefore we concluded, that the redox state of erythrocyte indicates previous active stages. Zn, Cu and Fe are essential elements and their deficiencies cause severe metabolic disorders, therefore, it is very important to know that simultaneous supplementation involves health risks, especially in IBD.Correspondence to:
Dr. A. Blázovics
II. Department of
Medicine,
Semmelweis University,
PO Box 277
H-1444 Budapest, Hungary
Email: blaz@bel2.sote.hu
Originals
Biological monitoring of environmental exposure to arsenic in urine samples from residents of the city of Barcelona, Spain, after selective extraction of the toxicologically relevant arsenic forms
M. Torra, J.M. Augé, B. Ballell, M. Rodamilans, C. Casoliva and J. Corbella
248
20$
Abstract
Arsenic concentrations were determined in 150 urine samples obtained from healthy subjects. The study group consisted of 70 men and 80 women, ages 17 – 83 years, all residing in Barcelona, north-east Spain. Samples were analyzed by means of a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometer. Zeeman correction and a Ni/Mg modifier is used to provide a consistent analysis in terms of precision and accuracy. Creatinine adjustment is routinely used. To separate the nontoxic organic arsenic (arsenobetaine), present in sea food, from the toxic arsenic species arsenite, arsenate and its metabolites dimethylarsinic acid (DMA) and monomethylarsonic acid (MMA), a simple method based on solvent extraction was applied. The mean urine of total arsenic concentration was 43.3 mg/l (range: 0 – 399 mg/l). There are significant differences attributable to gender: males had higher total urinary As concentration than females (53.2 mg/l vs 32.8 mg/l). The reference value after selective extraction of toxic As species decreases up to 9.1 mg/l (range 0 – 29 mg/l). In this population, the 79% of As excreted in urine comes to the consumption of marine foods.Correspondence to:
Dr. M. Torra
Laboratori Toxicologia
Hospital Clinic
C/Villarroel 170
E-08036 Barcelona, Spain
Email: mtorra@clinic.ub.es
M. Torra, J.M. Augé, B. Ballell, M. Rodamilans, C. Casoliva and J. Corbella
Toxicology Unit, Hospital Clinic, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain Arsenic concentrations were determined in 150 urine samples obtained from healthy subjects. The study group consisted of 70 men and 80 women, ages 17 – 83 years, all residing in Barcelona, north-east Spain. Samples were analyzed by means of a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometer. Zeeman correction and a Ni/Mg modifier is used to provide a consistent analysis in terms of precision and accuracy. Creatinine adjustment is routinely used. To separate the nontoxic organic arsenic (arsenobetaine), present in sea food, from the toxic arsenic species arsenite, arsenate and its metabolites dimethylarsinic acid (DMA) and monomethylarsonic acid (MMA), a simple method based on solvent extraction was applied. The mean urine of total arsenic concentration was 43.3 mg/l (range: 0 – 399 mg/l). There are significant differences attributable to gender: males had higher total urinary As concentration than females (53.2 mg/l vs 32.8 mg/l). The reference value after selective extraction of toxic As species decreases up to 9.1 mg/l (range 0 – 29 mg/l). In this population, the 79% of As excreted in urine comes to the consumption of marine foods.Correspondence to:
Dr. M. Torra
Laboratori Toxicologia
Hospital Clinic
C/Villarroel 170
E-08036 Barcelona, Spain
Email: mtorra@clinic.ub.es
Originals
Trace element status of the brain in rats following cerebrolysin administration
A.V. Kudrin, O.A. Gromova, S.I. Kataev, S.S. Mazina and A.Y. Volkov
252
24$
Abstract
Trace elements have numerous neurophysiological functions. The mass-spectrometric measurement of trace element contents in the olfactory bulb, hypothalamus and frontal lobe of 60 rats treated with consecutive course of cerebrolysin (3 ml/g weight) and zinc sulfate (0.12 M solution, 3 ml/g weight) has shown a significant increase of lithium in hypothalamus, manganese in frontal cortex and moderate increase of selenium in all studied regions of brain. These effects of cerebrolysin can contribute to the overall neuroprotective and antioxidative effect of this drug and require further studies.Correspondence to:
Dr. A.V. Kudrin
23, Fairhaven Close, Lode
Cambridge, CB5 9HH, UK
Email: koudrine@hotmail.com
A.V. Kudrin1, O.A. Gromova1, S.I. Kataev2, S.S. Mazina1 and A.Y. Volkov3
1Department of Clinical Pharmacology, 2Department of Human Anatomy, Ivanovo Medical Academy, Ivanovo, and 3Institute of Independent Expertise and Certification, Moscow, Russian Federation Trace elements have numerous neurophysiological functions. The mass-spectrometric measurement of trace element contents in the olfactory bulb, hypothalamus and frontal lobe of 60 rats treated with consecutive course of cerebrolysin (3 ml/g weight) and zinc sulfate (0.12 M solution, 3 ml/g weight) has shown a significant increase of lithium in hypothalamus, manganese in frontal cortex and moderate increase of selenium in all studied regions of brain. These effects of cerebrolysin can contribute to the overall neuroprotective and antioxidative effect of this drug and require further studies.Correspondence to:
Dr. A.V. Kudrin
23, Fairhaven Close, Lode
Cambridge, CB5 9HH, UK
Email: koudrine@hotmail.com
Originals
Effects of low-protein diet and caloric restriction on strontium metabolism
E. González-Reimers, R. Martín-Olivera, A. López-Lirola, M. Arnay-de-la-Rosa, J. Velasco-Vázquez, L. Galindo-Martín, M.J. de la Vega-Prieto and F. Santolaria-Fernández
257
24$
Abstract
Objective: This study was performed in order to analyze the effects of protein deficiency and caloric restriction on bone strontium and fecal and urinary strontium excretion, and the relation of bone strontium with bone histology, bone calcium and magnesium and fecal and urinary excretion of these elements, serum osteocalcin, urinary hydroxyproline, and some of the hormones which govern divalent ions metabolism as PTH and 1,25 vitamin D. Methods: Twenty adult male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into two groups of 10 animals each and fed (following a pair-feeding process) the Lieber-DeCarli liquid rat control diet (18% protein) and an isocaloric 2% protein-containing diet. We also included another group of 5 rats fed the control diet ad libitum. Five weeks later, after sacrifice with lethal doses of ketamine, blood was obtained by direct cardiac puncture and centrifuged, in order to determine by radioimmunoassay osteocalcin, PTH and 1,25 vitamin D, and serum albumin and creatinine. We removed the first and second lumbar vertebrae and performed histomorphometry after inclusion of the sample in methylmetacrylate, and also the right tibia, to determine, by atomic absorption flame absorptiometry, bone content of calcium, magnesium and strontium. Also, 24-hour urine and feces were collected in order to determine hydroxyproline, calcium, magnesium, strontium and creatinine. Results: We observed lower bone strontium values in the ad libitum fed animals, whereas low-protein fed animals showed the lowest values of fecal strontium, calcium and magnesium excretions, but the highest ones of urinary calcium excretion. Bone strontium was inversely related with daily amount of diet consumed, and with weight at the end of the experiment. Serum osteocalcin was higher in the ad libitum fed animals, an inverse relation was observed between serum osteocalcin and bone strontium. Conclusions: Bone strontium accumulation is inversely related to the amount of diet consumed and to weight loss during the experiment.Correspondence to:
Dr. E. González- Reimers
Servicio de Medicina Interna
Hospital Universitario
Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
Email: egonrey@ull.es
E. González-Reimers1, R. Martín-Olivera1, A. López-Lirola1, M. Arnay-de-la-Rosa2, J. Velasco-Vázquez3, L. Galindo-Martín4, M.J. de la Vega-Prieto5 and F. Santolaria-Fernández1
1Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Universitario, 2Departamento de Prehistoria, Antropología e Historia Antigua, 3University de valladolid, 4Departamento de Química Analítica, and 5Servicio de Laboratorio, Hospital Universitario, Tenerife, Canary Objective: This study was performed in order to analyze the effects of protein deficiency and caloric restriction on bone strontium and fecal and urinary strontium excretion, and the relation of bone strontium with bone histology, bone calcium and magnesium and fecal and urinary excretion of these elements, serum osteocalcin, urinary hydroxyproline, and some of the hormones which govern divalent ions metabolism as PTH and 1,25 vitamin D. Methods: Twenty adult male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into two groups of 10 animals each and fed (following a pair-feeding process) the Lieber-DeCarli liquid rat control diet (18% protein) and an isocaloric 2% protein-containing diet. We also included another group of 5 rats fed the control diet ad libitum. Five weeks later, after sacrifice with lethal doses of ketamine, blood was obtained by direct cardiac puncture and centrifuged, in order to determine by radioimmunoassay osteocalcin, PTH and 1,25 vitamin D, and serum albumin and creatinine. We removed the first and second lumbar vertebrae and performed histomorphometry after inclusion of the sample in methylmetacrylate, and also the right tibia, to determine, by atomic absorption flame absorptiometry, bone content of calcium, magnesium and strontium. Also, 24-hour urine and feces were collected in order to determine hydroxyproline, calcium, magnesium, strontium and creatinine. Results: We observed lower bone strontium values in the ad libitum fed animals, whereas low-protein fed animals showed the lowest values of fecal strontium, calcium and magnesium excretions, but the highest ones of urinary calcium excretion. Bone strontium was inversely related with daily amount of diet consumed, and with weight at the end of the experiment. Serum osteocalcin was higher in the ad libitum fed animals, an inverse relation was observed between serum osteocalcin and bone strontium. Conclusions: Bone strontium accumulation is inversely related to the amount of diet consumed and to weight loss during the experiment.Correspondence to:
Dr. E. González- Reimers
Servicio de Medicina Interna
Hospital Universitario
Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
Email: egonrey@ull.es
Originals
Effect of cichorium intybus (L.) extract on the redox balance and metal ion content of fatty liver in hyperlipidemic rats
I. Kocsis, K. Szentmihályi, E. Rapavi, M. Hubay, A. Kéry,E. Stefanovits-Bányai, E. Szõke and A. Blázovics
262
32$
Abstract
In this study, the physiological effect of the chicory extract was investigated in a short-term animal experiment in two different dietary animal groups. Male Wistar rats (150 – 200 g) were fed with a normal diet, and another group with a fat-rich diet (2% cholesterol, 0.5% cholic acid and 20% sunflower oil added to the basic diet) for 10 days. In each group, 10 animals were treated ad libitum with chicory extract (daily 2 g/bw/kg) parallel with the basic feedings. Histologic examinations were performed to evaluate the tissue alterations in the liver. Serum cholesterol and triacylglycerol concentrations changed parallel with the tissue degradation. The concentration of blood glucose was enhanced in both chicory-treated groups. Element concentrations of the chicory extract and liver homogenates were determined by ICP-OES. Upon treatment with chicory, the differences between the mean concentration values of Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Na, P and Zn in the liver homogenate of rats on the normal diet were significant. It was well-detected that the mean concentration values of Cr, Fe, K, Na, P and S in the liver homogenate of rats on the lipid-rich diet increased significantly. In the chicory supplemented lipid-rich dietary group, due to metal ion accumulation, some slight decrease could be detected in the diene conjugate content of the liver. Only moderate elevation was determined in the concentration of the free SH groups or in the value of reducing power of the liver tissue of rats in this short-term experiment. Consequently, more attention should be paid to the metal element and the oligosaccharide content of Cichorium intybus (L.) which may decrease the beneficial effect of the antioxidant compounds of the plant on the redox balance, and may contribute to the impairment of lipid and carbohydrate metabolism in the fatty liver.Correspondence to:
Dr. I. Kocsis
II. Department of Medicine
Semmelweis University
PO Box 277
H-1444 Budapest, Hungary
Email: kocsis@bel2.sote.hu
I. Kocsis1, K. Szentmihályi2, E. Rapavi1, M. Hubay3, A. Kéry4,E. Stefanovits-Bányai5, E. Szõke4 and A. Blázovics1,2
1II. Department of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 2Chemical Research Center, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, 3II. Department of Forensic Medicine, 4Department of Pharmacognosy of Semmelweis University, and 5Faculty of Food Science, Szent István Universi In this study, the physiological effect of the chicory extract was investigated in a short-term animal experiment in two different dietary animal groups. Male Wistar rats (150 – 200 g) were fed with a normal diet, and another group with a fat-rich diet (2% cholesterol, 0.5% cholic acid and 20% sunflower oil added to the basic diet) for 10 days. In each group, 10 animals were treated ad libitum with chicory extract (daily 2 g/bw/kg) parallel with the basic feedings. Histologic examinations were performed to evaluate the tissue alterations in the liver. Serum cholesterol and triacylglycerol concentrations changed parallel with the tissue degradation. The concentration of blood glucose was enhanced in both chicory-treated groups. Element concentrations of the chicory extract and liver homogenates were determined by ICP-OES. Upon treatment with chicory, the differences between the mean concentration values of Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Na, P and Zn in the liver homogenate of rats on the normal diet were significant. It was well-detected that the mean concentration values of Cr, Fe, K, Na, P and S in the liver homogenate of rats on the lipid-rich diet increased significantly. In the chicory supplemented lipid-rich dietary group, due to metal ion accumulation, some slight decrease could be detected in the diene conjugate content of the liver. Only moderate elevation was determined in the concentration of the free SH groups or in the value of reducing power of the liver tissue of rats in this short-term experiment. Consequently, more attention should be paid to the metal element and the oligosaccharide content of Cichorium intybus (L.) which may decrease the beneficial effect of the antioxidant compounds of the plant on the redox balance, and may contribute to the impairment of lipid and carbohydrate metabolism in the fatty liver.Correspondence to:
Dr. I. Kocsis
II. Department of Medicine
Semmelweis University
PO Box 277
H-1444 Budapest, Hungary
Email: kocsis@bel2.sote.hu
Originals
Iron and ferritin status in hemodialysis patients under darbepoetin alfa therapy
F. Tokmak, K. Kisters, D. Rattensperger, G. Schieren, S. Weiner and L.C. Rump
264
44$
Abstract
It is well known, that iron status is often disturbed in patients undergoing regular hemodialysis treatment. Additionally, these patients suffer from anemia due to erythropoietin loss. Darbepoetin alfa therapy is a novel erythropoietin stimulating regimen. Only sparse data exists concerning iron metabolism and demand under darbepoetin alfa therapy. Therefore it was of interest to study iron and ferritin in hemodialysis patients before and after darbepoetin alfa therapy. 29 patients under regular hemodialysis treatment were investigated before and after a 40 weeks’ darbepoetin alfa therapy (10 – 60 mg darbepoetin alfa/week). In each patient iron and ferritin was measured. The results show that iron was 735 ± 364 mg/l before therapy versus 614 ± 242 mg/l after therapy (means ± SD, p < 0.05, paired t-test). Ferritin values were not significantly different (905 ± 394 versus 953 ± 437 mg/l). All patients were on iron supplementation (20 – 120 mg sodium ferric gluconate in sucrose injection per week on average). The results show that iron demand under regular hemodialysis conditions and darbepoetin alfa therapy is increased. Therefore a combined therapy with iron and darbepoetin alfa is necessary in patients undergoing regular hemodialysis treatment.Correspondence to:
Prof. Dr. K. Kisters
St.-Anna-Hospital
Hospitalstrasse 19
D–44649 Herne, Germany
Email: kisters@annahospital.de
F. Tokmak1, K. Kisters2, D. Rattensperger1, G. Schieren1, S. Weiner1 and L.C. Rump1
1Department of Nephrology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Marienhospital Herne, and 2Med. Clinic I, St. Anna Hospital, Herne, Germany It is well known, that iron status is often disturbed in patients undergoing regular hemodialysis treatment. Additionally, these patients suffer from anemia due to erythropoietin loss. Darbepoetin alfa therapy is a novel erythropoietin stimulating regimen. Only sparse data exists concerning iron metabolism and demand under darbepoetin alfa therapy. Therefore it was of interest to study iron and ferritin in hemodialysis patients before and after darbepoetin alfa therapy. 29 patients under regular hemodialysis treatment were investigated before and after a 40 weeks’ darbepoetin alfa therapy (10 – 60 mg darbepoetin alfa/week). In each patient iron and ferritin was measured. The results show that iron was 735 ± 364 mg/l before therapy versus 614 ± 242 mg/l after therapy (means ± SD, p < 0.05, paired t-test). Ferritin values were not significantly different (905 ± 394 versus 953 ± 437 mg/l). All patients were on iron supplementation (20 – 120 mg sodium ferric gluconate in sucrose injection per week on average). The results show that iron demand under regular hemodialysis conditions and darbepoetin alfa therapy is increased. Therefore a combined therapy with iron and darbepoetin alfa is necessary in patients undergoing regular hemodialysis treatment.Correspondence to:
Prof. Dr. K. Kisters
St.-Anna-Hospital
Hospitalstrasse 19
D–44649 Herne, Germany
Email: kisters@annahospital.de
Originals
Level of trace elements in patients with chronic lower limb ischemia based on their smoking habits
H.M. Al-Sayer, T.C. Mathew, S.K. Asfar, A.I. Behbehani, A. Hassan and H.M. Dashti
269
24$
Abstract
Ischemic disease is a major worldwide health problem. Recent studies indicate that chronic leg ischemia is related to increased free radical production and depletion of antioxidant enzymes. Trace elements such as zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn) and selenium (Se) are the integral components of major antioxidant enzymes. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that trace elements might play a vital role in maintaining the antioxidant defense system within the body. Furthermore, there is ample evidence that cigarette smoking leads to increased free radical production and accumulation of cadmium (Cd), which interferes with the metabolism of various other trace elements in several organs. The current study, therefore, is focused on the changes in the level of trace elements in the serum of ischemic patients in relation to their smoking habits, using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The concentration of Zn and Mn in the serum of ischemic patients decreased significantly (p < 0.0001), while the level of Cu and Cd increased (p < 0.0001). The level of Se remained unchanged as compared with control. Furthermore, there was a decrease in the level of serum copper (p < 0.01) and Cu/Zn ratio (p < 0.01) in smokers as compared to nonsmokers. Further studies on the role of trace elements in ischemia may lead to the development of novel therapeutic methods using trace elements for the treatment of ischemia.Correspondence to:
Prof. H.M. Dashti
Department of Surgery
Faculty of Medicine
PO Box 24923
13110 Safat, Kuwait
Email: dashti@hsc.edu.kw
H.M. Al-Sayer1, T.C. Mathew2, S.K. Asfar1, A.I. Behbehani1, A. Hassan1 and H.M. Dashti1
1Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, and 2Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Kuwait University, Kuwait Ischemic disease is a major worldwide health problem. Recent studies indicate that chronic leg ischemia is related to increased free radical production and depletion of antioxidant enzymes. Trace elements such as zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn) and selenium (Se) are the integral components of major antioxidant enzymes. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that trace elements might play a vital role in maintaining the antioxidant defense system within the body. Furthermore, there is ample evidence that cigarette smoking leads to increased free radical production and accumulation of cadmium (Cd), which interferes with the metabolism of various other trace elements in several organs. The current study, therefore, is focused on the changes in the level of trace elements in the serum of ischemic patients in relation to their smoking habits, using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The concentration of Zn and Mn in the serum of ischemic patients decreased significantly (p < 0.0001), while the level of Cu and Cd increased (p < 0.0001). The level of Se remained unchanged as compared with control. Furthermore, there was a decrease in the level of serum copper (p < 0.01) and Cu/Zn ratio (p < 0.01) in smokers as compared to nonsmokers. Further studies on the role of trace elements in ischemia may lead to the development of novel therapeutic methods using trace elements for the treatment of ischemia.Correspondence to:
Prof. H.M. Dashti
Department of Surgery
Faculty of Medicine
PO Box 24923
13110 Safat, Kuwait
Email: dashti@hsc.edu.kw
Abstracts
Selenium in the treatment of radiation-associated secondary lymphedema
O. Micke, F. Bruns, R. Mücke, U. Schäfer, M. Glatzel, A.F. DeVries, K. Schönekaes, K. Kisters, and J. Büntzel
277
8$
Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this explorative study was to evaluate the impact of selenium in the treatment of lymphedema after radiotherapy. Methods and materials: Between 6/1996 and 6/2001, 12 patients with arm edema and 36 with edema of the head and neck region were treated with selenium for therapy-related lymphedema. Of these 36 patients, 20 had interstitial endolaryngeal edema associated with stridor and dyspnea. All patients received sodium selenite for 4 – 6 weeks. Results: Self-assessment using a visual analogue scale (n = 48) showed a reduction of 4.3 points when comparing pre- and posttreatment values (p < 0.05). Of 20 patients with endolaryngeal edema, 13 underwent no, 5 a temporary and only 2 a permanent tracheostomy; 10 of 12 patients with arm edema showed a circumference reduction of the edematous limb and improvement in the skin fold index by 23.3 points. An improvement of one stage or more was shown by the Földi or the Miller score (n = 28) in 22 (Földi score) and in 24 (Miller score) patients. Conclusion: Treatment with sodium selenite is well-tolerated and easy to deliver. Additionally, our results suggest that sodium selenite has a positive effect on secondary developing lymphedema caused by radiation therapy alone or irradiation after surgery.
O. Micke1,4, F. Bruns1,4, R. Mücke2,4, U. Schäfer1,4, M. Glatzel3,4, A.F. DeVries5, K. Schönekaes4, K. Kisters4,6 and J. Büntzel4,7
1Department of Radiotherapy, Münster University Hospital, Münster, 2Department of Radiotherapy, Radiation Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Weiden Municipal Hospital, 3Department of Radiotherapy, Suhl Central Hospital, Suhl, 4German Working Group Trace Ele Purpose: The aim of this explorative study was to evaluate the impact of selenium in the treatment of lymphedema after radiotherapy. Methods and materials: Between 6/1996 and 6/2001, 12 patients with arm edema and 36 with edema of the head and neck region were treated with selenium for therapy-related lymphedema. Of these 36 patients, 20 had interstitial endolaryngeal edema associated with stridor and dyspnea. All patients received sodium selenite for 4 – 6 weeks. Results: Self-assessment using a visual analogue scale (n = 48) showed a reduction of 4.3 points when comparing pre- and posttreatment values (p < 0.05). Of 20 patients with endolaryngeal edema, 13 underwent no, 5 a temporary and only 2 a permanent tracheostomy; 10 of 12 patients with arm edema showed a circumference reduction of the edematous limb and improvement in the skin fold index by 23.3 points. An improvement of one stage or more was shown by the Földi or the Miller score (n = 28) in 22 (Földi score) and in 24 (Miller score) patients. Conclusion: Treatment with sodium selenite is well-tolerated and easy to deliver. Additionally, our results suggest that sodium selenite has a positive effect on secondary developing lymphedema caused by radiation therapy alone or irradiation after surgery.
