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Cryptorchidism, the absence of one or both testicles in the scrotum, is the most common anomaly of genitourinary tract in males. The pathogenesis of undescended testes is unknown however the role of inflammation, tissue remodeling and oxidative stress is postulated. The aim of this study was to explore the role of HSP-70, MMP-3, MMP-17 and IL-8 in possible pathogenic pathways connected with cryptorchidism. Cryptorchid patients with high scrotal and inguinal canal localization were included. The study group consisted of 63 patients aged 12–24 months, whereas the control group included 17 healthy infants with the same demographic characteristics. The analysis of plasma samples was carried out using ELISA enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique. The plasma concentration of MMP-17 in boys with cryptorchidism was significantly higher compared to the control group (p = 0.0365). The concentration of plasma IL-8, MMP-3, and HSP-70 in boys with cryptorchidism increased in comparison to the control group but these increases were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). A positive correlation was found between plasma MMP-17 and HSP-70 concentration (r = 0.5153; p < 0.0001). Our results demonstrate that MMP-17 and HSP-70 might be involved in pathogenesis of cryptorchidism and are in line with current knowledge that high temperature has a negative influence on male gonads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies indicate that oxidative/nitrosative stress is involved in the pathogenesis of asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, and urticaria. The article aimed to review the latest literature on disruptions in redox homeostasis and protein glycation in allergy patients. It has been shown that enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems are impaired in allergic conditions, which increases cell susceptibility to oxidative damage. Reactive oxygen/nitrogen species exacerbate the severity of asthma symptoms by activating inflammatory mediators that cause airway smooth muscle contraction, promote mucus hypersecretion, increase the permeability of lung capillaries, and damage cell membranes. Redox biomarkers could have considerable diagnostic potential in allergy patients. There is no compelling evidence to indicate that antioxidants reduce allergy symptoms' severity or slow disease progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Glycoprotein clusterin (CLU) has many functions such as phagocyte recruitment, complement system inhibition, apoptosis inhibition, hormone and lipid transport, as well as in the immune response. The study aimed to assess the changes in CLU concentrations and the profile and degree of CLU glycosylation between patients with severe COVID-19, convalescents, and healthy subjects (control). The profile and degree of serum CLU N-glycosylation were analyzed using lectin-ELISA with specific lectins. CLU concentrations were significantly lower and relative reactivities of CLU glycans with SNA (Sambucus nigra agglutinin) were significantly higher in severe COVID-19 patients in comparison to convalescents and the control group. The relative reactivities of CLU glycans with MAA (Maackia amurensis agglutinin), together with relative reactivity with LCA (Lens culinaris agglutinin), were also significantly higher in patients with severe COVID-19 than in convalescents and the control group, but they also significantly differed between convalescents and control. The development of acute inflammation in the course of severe COVID-19 is associated with a decrease in CLU concentration, accompanied by an increase in the expression of α2,3-linked sialic acid, and core fucose. Both of these parameters can be included as useful glycomarkers differentiating patients with severe COVID-19 from convalescents and the control group, as well as convalescents and healthy subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Colorectal cancer have been one of the most common malignant neoplasm in the world. In most patients with this cancer, we can observe both redox homeostasis and nutritional disorders. Aim: To assess the occurrence of oxidative stress in patients with colorectal cancer and its severity depending on the nutritional status of patients. Material and methods: The study group consisted of 50 patients with colorectal cancer. In the control group, samples were obtained from 40 healthy subjects. Basal metabolic index and nutrition risk screening (NRS) 2002 scale was completed. The total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS), malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined yielding the oxidative stress index (OSI) determined by the TOS/TAC ratio and TAC/MDA ratio. Results: There were statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in the levels of not only TAC, TOS, OSI, but also MDA and TAC/MDA. In healthy patients, the TAC and TAC/MDA level was significantly higher (p < 0.05) compared to the cancer patients, while the TOS, OSI and MDA level was significantly lower (p < 0.05). In patients with BMI < 24.9 kg/m2, the level of TAC was significantly higher and the level of TOS was significantly lower (p < 0.05) compared to patients with BMI > 24.9 kg/m2. In patients with features of malnutrition according to the NRS 2002 scale, TOS and OSI were statistically significantly higher (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Neoplastic disease, such as colorectal cancer, precipitates an increase in oxidative stress. Concurrently, the nutritional status of patients, especially malnutrition, further intensifies this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Pancreatic cancer represents one of the greatest challenges in oncology. It is often diagnosed at a stage when treatment options are already limited. Inflammation is one of the key factors influencing the dynamics of pancreatic cancer development and progression. Aim of the research: The aim of this study is to assess the relationship between the location of pancreatic cancer and the levels of selected inflammatory cytokines, and to examine the differences in the concentration of these cytokines depending on the location of the tumour. We also assessed the diagnostic utility of inflammatory cytokines by conducting ROC curve analysis, as well as the correlations of cytokines with selected clinicopathological parameters and with the results of selected laboratory tests. Material and methods: Concentrations of 37 cytokines: CTACK, eotaxin, basic FGF, G-CSF, GRO-α, HGF, IL-1β, IL-1ra, IL-2Rα, IL-4, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8, IL-9, IL-10, IL-12, IL-16, IL-17, IL-18, IP-10, LIF, MCP-1, M-CSF, MIF, MIG, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, β-NGF, PDGF-BB, RANTES, SCF, SCGF-β, SDF-1α, TNF-α, TNF-β, and TRIAL was measured in the venous blood of 42 patients with pancreatic cancer. Results: Eotaxin levels (p = 0.002), basic FGF (p = 0.316), G-CSF (p = 0.0408), IL-2Rα (p = 0.0487), IL-6 (p = 0.0001), IL-9 (p = 0.0002), IL-17 (p = 0.0153), IP-10 (p = 0.0228), MIP-1α (p = 0.0117), MIP-1β (p = 0.0021), RANTES (p = 0.0228), SCGF-β (p = 0.223), TNF-α (p = 0.0398), TNF-β (p = 0.002) was statistically significantly higher in the patient group with tumours located in the head compared to patients with tumours in the body and tail of the pancreas. ROC analysis demonstrated that cytokines may be useful in differentiating the location of pancreatic cancer. There is a correlation between cytokine concentrations and the location of pancreatic cancer. Conclusions: Cytokines such as FGF, G-CSF, IL-2Rα, IL-6, IL-9, IL-17, IP-10, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, RANTES, SCGF-β, TNF-α, and TNF-β differentiate patients with cancer located in the head of the pancreas from patients with a distal location of this cancer with a high degree of sensitivity and specificity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: COVID-19 triggers the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which, in combination with a weakened antioxidant barrier, can lead to protein oxidation and lipid peroxidation. The aim of this study was to evaluate enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, the overall redox potential, and protein and lipid peroxidation products in COVID-19 patients, convalescents, and healthy subjects, and to the determine the diagnostic applicability of these parameters in COVID-19 patients. Materials and Methods: The study involved 218 patients with COVID-19, 69 convalescents, and 48 healthy subjects who were selected for the research based on age and sex. The study was conducted between 20 February 2021 and 20 November 2021 in Białystok, Poland. The antioxidant barrier, redox status, and oxidative damage products were assessed in serum/plasma samples with the use of colorimetric and spectrophotometric assays. Results: Glutathione reductase (GR) activity was higher, whereas total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was lower in COVID-19 patients than in convalescents (p< 0.0001) and the control group (p< 0.0001). The concentrations of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were higher in COVID-19 patients (p< 0.0001) and convalescents (p< 0.0001) than in the control group. AGEs were the most effective diagnostic biomarker for differentiating COVID-19 patients from the control group (AUC=0.9971) and convalescents from the control group (AUC=1.000). Conclusion: An infection with the SARS-CoV-2 disrupts the redox balance and increases protein oxidation and lipid peroxidation. AGEs fulfill the criteria for a potential diagnostic biomarker in COVID-19 patients and convalescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) glycosylation affects its effector functions and is essential in many steps of the inflammatory cascade. Therefore, it may be an important parameter for assessing the body's immune response during the course of COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease 2019). Methods: The N- and O-glycosylation of serum IgG in severe COVID-19 patients (n=87), convalescents (n=50), and healthy subjects (n=65) were examined using a modified lectin-ELISA method with specific biotinylated lectins. The obtained data were analyzed using STATISTICA 13.3PL software. Results: We showed significantly higher expression of Lewisx oligosaccharide structures in severe COVID-19 patients than in the other two groups. Moreover, significantly lower expression of Lewisy sugar structures in IgG glycans was observed in the convalescents when compared with COVID-19 patients and healthy subjects. The lowest expression of highly branched N-glycans in cases of severe COVID-19 indicates that the development of the disease is associated with the presence of typical IgG biantennary N-glycans. The lack of significant differences in the expression of Tn antigen in IgG between studied groups and the significantly lower expression of T antigen in convalescents compared to the patients with severe COVID-19 and healthy subjects indicates a decrease in the content of the T antigen in IgG O-glycans in subjects recovered from COVID-19. Substantially higher reactivities of IgG O-glycans with Jacalin observed in COVID-19 patients and convalescents in comparison to the control group were most probably caused by increased expression of core 3 O-glycans in IgG. Conclusion: Severe COVID-19 is accompanied by the expression in serum IgG of sialylated biantennary and highly branched N-glycans, decorated by fucose of Lewisx and Lewisy structures. The higher reactivity of IgG O-glycans with Jacalin in severe COVID-19 patients and convalescents indicates that the disease development and the recovery process are most probably accompanied by increased expression of the core 3 O-glycans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of the present study was to assess differences in the serum levels of chemokines and growth factors (GFs) between COVID-19 patients and healthy controls. The diagnostic utility of the analyzed proteins for monitoring the severity of the SARS-CoV- 2 infection based on the patients’ MEWS scores was also assessed. Materials and methods: The serum levels of chemokines and growth factors were analyzed in hospitalized COVID-19 patients (50 women, 50 men) with the use of the Bio-Plex Pro™ Human Cytokine Screening Panel (Biorad) and the Bio-Plex Multiplex system. Results: The study demonstrated that serum levels of MIP-1a, RANTES, Eotaxin, CTACK, GRO-α, IP-10, MIG, basic-FGF, HGF, SCGF-b, G-CSF, MCSF, SCF, MIF, LIF, and TRAIL were significant higher in COVID-19 patients than in the control group. The concentrations of CTACK, GRO-a, IP-10, MIG, basic-FGF, HGF, PDGF- BB, GM-CSF, SCF, LIF, and TRAIL were higher in asymptomatic/mildly symptomatic COVID-19 patients (stage 1) and COVID19 patients with pneumonia without respiratory failure (stage 2). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed that IP-10, MIF, MIG, and basic-FGF differentiated patients with COVID-19 from healthy controls with the highest sensitivity and specificity, whereas GM-CSF, basic-FGF, and MIG differentiated asymptomatic/mildly symptomatic COVID-19 patients (stage 1). from COVID-19 patients with pneumonia without respiratory failure (stage 2) with the highest sensitivity and specificity. Conclusions: MIG, basic-FGF, and GM-CSF can be useful biomarkers for monitoring disease severity in patients with COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: It is believed that pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia is an important element of pancreatic carcinogenesis. Apoptosis is the process of programmed cell death. Survivin is one of the proteins that inhibit apoptosis. Caspase-3 is a cysteine protease, and plays important roles in the process of apoptosis. Aim of the research: The authors focus on analyzing the expression of survivin and caspase-3 in unchanged tissue and tissue from PanIN lesions. This study may help to better understand the cause-and-effect chain from low-grade intraepithelial neoplasia to high-grade neoplasia and invasive cancer. Material and methods: The study used tissue material obtained from 70 patients operated on at the 2nd Department of General, Gastroenterological and Oncological Surgery at the Medical University of Bialystok due to pancreatic diseases: adenocarcinoma (38 patients), chronic pancreatitis (23 patients), pancreatic cysts (9 patients). A total of 239 tissue samples were isolated for clinical examination. Results: There were statistically significant differences in survivin expression by sex (p < 0.05) and age (p < 0.05). The level of survivin expression was higher in male patients and patients over 60. There were statistically significant differences between the expression levels of survivin as well as caspase-3 depending on the degree of PanIN [PanIN 1A vs PanIN 1b survivin 15% vs. 38.8% (p < 0.05), and caspase-3 17%; vs. 26.9% (p < 0.05). PanIN 2 vs. PaIN3 survivin 62.4% vs. 85.7% (p < 0.05), caspase-3 36.1% vs. 54.3% (p < 0.05)]. Conclusions: The expression level of survivin and caspase-3 is inextricably linked with the progression of pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia. The more advanced neoplasia is, the higher is the expression level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the redox status, antioxidant barrier, and oxidative damage to proteins, lipids, and DNA in patients with gastric cancer (GC). We are also the first to assess the diagnostic utility of redox parameters in patients with GC with respect to histopathological parameters. Fifty patients with gastric cancer and 50 healthy controls matched for sex and age were included in the study. The antioxidant barrier, redox status, and oxidative damage products were measured in serum/plasma samples using colorimetric or spectrophotometric methods. The activity of superoxide dismutase – SOD (p < 0.05) was significantly higher, whereas the activities of catalase – CAT (p < 0.0001), glutathione peroxidase – GPx (p < 0.0001), glutathione reductase – GR (p < 0.0001), and reduced glutathione – GSH (p < 0.05) were considerably lower in GC patients than in the control group. The levels of total oxidant status – TOS (p < 0.0001), oxidative stress index – OSI (p < 0.0001), advanced oxidation protein products – AOPP (p < 0.0001), ischaemia modified albumin – IMA (p < 0.01), lipid hydroperoxides – LOOH (p < 0.0001), 8-IsoProstane − 8-Iso-P (p < 0.0001), and DNA/RNA (p < 0.0001) were significantly higher, and the levels of total antioxidant capacity – TAC (p < 0.0001) and total thiols (p < 0.0001) were considerably lower in patients compared to the healthy controls. Some redox parameters are characterized by high AUC values in patients with differentiated GC according to histopathological parameters. Gastric cancer is strongly linked to a systemic redox imbalance and increased oxidative damage to proteins, lipids, and DNA. Redox biomarkers are potential diagnostic indicators of gastric cancer advancement. Gastric cancer is associated with redox imbalance and increased oxidative damage to proteins, lipids and DNA. Histopathological parameters of the tumour, such as size, histological type, histological differentiation grade, tumour invasion depth, presence of lymph node and distant metastasis, Lauren and Goseki classification, and presence of vascular and neural infiltration, are associated with the level of antioxidants and oxidative damage products of proteins, lipids, and DNA. Determination of redox parameters may be useful in the assessment of the tumour progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective of this study is to identify biomarkers for diagnosing and predicting the severity of COVID-19.Materials and Methods: Cytokine levels were determined in the serum from venous blood samples collected from 100 patients with COVID-19 and 50 healthy controls. COVID-19 patients classified based on the Modified Early Warning (MEWS) score. Cytokine concentrations were determined with a multiplex ELISA kit (Bio-Plex Pro™ Human Cytokine Screening Panel).Results: The concentrations of all analyzed cytokines were elevated in the serum of COVID-19 patients relative to the control group, but no significant differences were observed in interleukin-9 (IL-9) and IL-12 p70 levels. In addition, the concentrations of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-1ra, IL-2Rα, IL-6, IL-12 p40, IL-18, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) were significantly higher in symptomatic patients with accompanying pneumonia without respiratory failure (stage 2) than in asymptomatic/mildly symptomatic patients (stage 1).Conclusion: The study revealed that IL-1ra, IL-2Rα, IL-6, IL-8, IL-12 p40, IL-16, and IL-18 levels serve as potential diagnostic biomarkers in COVID-19 patients. Furthermore, elevated IL-1α levels proved to be valuable in assessing the severity of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A third (booster) dose of the anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine became necessary due to the observed decrease in anti-SARS-CoV-2S antibody levels over time, new mutations, and low global vaccination rates. In this study, anti-SARS-CoV-2S antibody levels were measured (ECLIA assay) in 50 healthcare workers with and without a history of COVID-19 infection to determine the humoral immune response to the third dose of the BNT162b2 vaccine. Antibody levels were determined in the blood serum, and blood was sampled for analysis 20–40 days after the administration of the booster dose. A greater increase in anti-SARS-CoV-2S antibody titers was noted in persons without a history of infection, but antibody levels continued to be higher in previously infected individuals when the results were adjusted for age, gender, BMI, type of work, and presence of comorbidities. The results of this study can be used to improve the vaccination strategy for the general population. Three doses of the vaccine BNT162b2 strongly stimulate the immune system to produce anti-SARS-CoV-2s antibodies, especially in people with a previous infection COVID-19. Age, gender, and BMI may be associated with different humoral immune response to the BNT162b2 vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Progesterone (P4) via PGRMC1/NENF may stimulate the proliferation and invasion of colorectal cancer DLD-1 and HT-29 cells. PGRMC1 inhibition abolishes the effect of P4, suggesting that P4 in advanced colorectal cancer may act primarily through PGRMC1. Our data may provide the novel insights into the action of P4, PGRMC1, and NENF in colorectal cancer. It seems that PGRMC1 and NENF may interact as possible cofactors in non-classical P4 signaling. Targeting the PGRMC1/NENF complex may open-up new therapeutic possibilities for patients with advanced colorectal cancer. Therefore, future studies aimed at developing treatment strategies for colorectal cancer could consider simultaneous PGRMC1 inhibition along with a blockage of NENF production and secretion. The literature data regarding the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) in the context of hormone therapy (HT), including both estrogen–progestogen combinations and estrogen alone, are inconclusive. The precise relationship underlying the action of progesterone (P4) and progesterone receptors in CRC has yet to be determined. We characterized the expression profiles of both nuclear and membrane progesterone receptors and their potential cofactors in CRC tissues. Additionally, we analyzed the P4 and NENF treatment effects on the cell proliferation and invasion of DLD-1 and HT-29 colorectal cancer cells. We observed a weak expression of the nuclear P4 receptor (PGR), but an abundant expression of the P4 receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) and neuron-derived neurotrophic factor (NENF) in the CRC tissues. P4 treatment stimulated the proliferation of the DLD-1 and HT-29 CRC cells. The co-treatment of P4 and NENF significantly increased the invasiveness of the DLD-1 and HT-29 cells. A functional analysis revealed that these effects were dependent on PGRMC1. AN immunocytochemical analysis demonstrated a cytoplasmic co-localization of PGRMC1 and NENF in the CRC cells. Moreover, the concentration of serum NENF was significantly higher in CRC patients, and P4 treatment significantly increased the release of NENF in the DLD-1 cells. P4 or NENF treatment also significantly increased the IL-8 release in the DLD-1 cells. Our data may provide novel insights into the action of P4 and PGRMC1/NENF in CRC progression, where NENF may act as a potential PGRMC1 co-activator in non-classical P4 signaling. Furthermore, NENF, as a secreted protein, potentially could serve as a promising circulating biomarker candidate for distinguishing between colorectal cancer patients and healthy individuals, although large-scale extensive studies are needed to establish this. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Histamine H2 receptor antagonists are a group of drugs that inhibit gastric juice secretion in gastrointestinal diseases. However, there is evidence to suggest that H2 blockers have a broader spectrum of activity. The antioxidant properties of H2 blockers have not been fully elucidated, and their anti-glycation potential has not been studied to date. Therefore, this is the first study to compare the antioxidant and antiglycation potentials of the most popular H2 antagonists (ranitidine, cimetidine, and famotidine) on protein glycoxidation in vitro. Methods: Bovine serum albumin (BSA) was glycated using sugars (glucose, fructose, galactose, and ribose) as well as aldehydes (glyoxal and methylglyoxal). Results: In the analyzed group of drugs, ranitidine was the only H2 blocker that significantly inhibited BSA glycation in all tested models. The contents of protein carbonyls, protein glycoxidation products (↓dityrosine, ↓N-formylkynurenine), and early (↓Amadori products) and late-stage (↓AGEs) protein glycation products decreased in samples of glycated BSA with the addition of ranitidine relative to BSA with the addition of the glycating agents. The anti-glycation potential of ranitidine was comparable to those of aminoguanidine and Trolox. In the molecular docking analysis, ranitidine was characterized by the lowest binding energy for BSA sites and could compete with protein amino groups for the addition of carbonyl groups. H2 blockers also scavenge free radicals. The strongest antioxidant properties are found in ranitidine, which additionally has the ability to bind transition metal ions. The systematic literature review also revealed that the anti-glycation effects of ranitidine could be attributed to its antioxidant properties. Conclusions: Ranitidine showed anti-glycation and antioxidant properties. Further research is needed, particularly in patients with diseases that promote protein glycation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nitrosative stress leads to protein glycoxidation, but both processes may be strongly related to the cancer development. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the nitrosative stress and protein glycoxidation products in patients with gastric cancer in comparison with healthy controls. We are also the first to evaluate the diagnostic utility of nitrosative stress and protein glycoxidation markers in gastric cancer patients in respect to histopathological classifications (TNM, Lauren's and Goseki's classification) and histopathological parameters such as histological type, histological differentiation grade, presence of vascular or neural invasion, desmoplasia and Helicobacter pylori infection. Methods: The study included 50 patients with gastric cancer and 50 healthy controls matched for sex and age. Nitrosative stress parameters and protein glycoxidation products were measured colorimetrically/fluorometrically in plasma or serum samples. Student's t-test or Mann-Whitney U-test were used for statistical analysis. Results: NO, S-nitrosothiols, nitrotyrosine, kynurenine, N-formylkynurenine, dityrosine, AGE and Amadori products were significantly increased whereas tryptophan fluorescence was decreased in patients with gastric cancer compared to the healthy control. Nitrosative stress and glycoxidation products may be useful in diagnosis of gastric cancer because they differentiate patients with gastric cancer from healthy individuals with high sensitivity and specificity. Some of the determined parameters are characterised by high AUC value in differentiation of GC patients according to the histopathological parameters. Conclusions: Gastric cancer is associated with enhanced circulating nitrosative stress and protein glycation. Although further research on a tissue model is needed, plasma/serum biomarkers may be dependent on tumour size, histological type, tumour invasion depth, presence of lymph node and distant metastasis, vascular and neural invasion and Helicobacter pylori infection. Thus, circulating biomarkers of nitrosative stress/protein glycoxidation may have potential diagnostic significance in gastric cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Around 200,000 new cases of pancreatic cancer are diagnosed yearly worldwide. It is the fourth most common cause of cancer deaths. Pancreatic cancer has a high mortality rate due to unspecific symptoms being responsible for late diagnosis. Aim: In this study, the authors analysed selected nutritional parameters and the severity of anaemia in patients diagnosed with pancreatic head cancer. Material and methods: Data were collected upon admission to the 2nd Clinical Department of General, Gastrointestinal, and Oncological Surgery in the University Clinical Hospital in Bialystok, Poland and retrospectively with the help of correctly collected anamnesis. Results: It has been shown that most patients with pancreatic cancer are malnourished at the time of diagnosis. Body mass index (BMI) is the least valuable parameter primarily. Weight loss has been determined to be the most accurate predictor of the patient's metabolic status, although it should never be the only parameter. Although these factors do not suggest an inflammatory process, serum protein levels and albumin concentration should be considered. Conclusions: When assessing the nutritional status of patients with pancreatic cancer, many predictive factors should be considered. BMI seems to be the least accurate parameter for assessing nutritional status in patients diagnosed with cancer. However, when combined with weight loss and serum albumin levels, it can be quite useful as a prognostic factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of our retrospective study was search for new prognostic parameters, which can help quickly and cheaply identify patients with risk for severe course of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Materials and Methods: The following peripheral blood combination biomarkers were calculated: NLR (neutrophil/lymphocytes ratio), LMR (lymphocyte/monocyte ratio), PLR (platelet/lymphocyte ratio), dNLR (neutrophils/(white blood cells − neutrophils)), NLPR (neutrophil/(lymphocyte × platelet ratio)) in 374 patients who were admitted to the Temporary Hospital no 2 of Clinical Hospital in Bialystok (Poland) with COVID-19. The patients were divided into four groups depending on the severity of the course of COVID-19 using MEWS classification. Results: The NLR and dNLR were significantly increased with the severity of COVID-19, according to MEWS score. The AUC for the assessed parameters was higher in predicting death in patients with COVID-19: NLR (0.656, p=0.0018, cut-off=6.22), dNLR (0.615, p=0.02, cut-off=3.52) and LMR (0.609, p=0.03, cut-off=2.06). Multivariate COX regression analysis showed that NLR median above 5.56 (OR: 1.050, P=0.002), LMR median below 2.23 (OR: 1.021, P=0.011), and age > 75 years old (OR: 1.072, P=0.000) had a significant association with high risk of death during COVID-19. Conclusion: Our results indicate that NLR, dNLR, and LMR calculated on admission to the hospital can quickly and easy identify patients with risk of a more severe course of COVID-19. Increase NLR and decrease LMR have a significant predictive value in COVID-19 patient's mortality and might be a potential biomarker for predicting death in COVID-19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Various diagnostic tools are used to assess the severity of COVID-19 symptoms and the risk of mortality, including laboratory tests and scoring indices such as the Modified Early Warning Score (MEWS). The diagnostic value of inflammatory markers for assessing patients with different severity of COVID-19 symptoms according to the MEWS was evaluated in this study. Materials and Methods: The concentrations of CRP (C-reactive protein) (immunoassay) and IL6 (interleukin 6) (electrochemiluminescence assay) were determined, and CRP/IL6, CRP/L, and LCR ratios were calculated in blood serum samples collected from 374 COVID-19 patients. Results: We demonstrated that CRP, IL6, CRP/IL6, CRP/L, LCR inflammatory markers increase significantly with disease progression assessed based on the MEWS in COVID-19 patients and may be used to differentiating patients with severe and non-severe COVID-19 and to assess the mortality. Conclusion: The diagnostic value of inflammatory markers for assessing the risk of mortality and differentiating between patients with mild and severe COVID-19 was confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A global vaccination program was implemented in late 2020 to end the pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. However, the immune response elicited by the vaccines proved to be insufficient due to the rapid emergence of new viral mutations. Therefore, the factors influencing cellular and humoral immune responses after the administration of different vaccines against SARS-CoV2 need to be identified. Materials: In the present study, anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers were analyzed 20 to 50 days after the administration of a third (booster) dose of the BNT162b2 vaccine in 192 residents of the city of Olsztyn (Poland) primed with two AstraZeneca or Pfizer/BioNTech vaccines. Methods: Antibody titers were determined in venous blood serum in the ECLIA test using the Cobas e411 Roche analyzer. Results: The study revealed that persons who received three doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine had significantly higher antibody titers than those who received two doses of AstraZeneca and a booster dose of Pfizer/BioNTech. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Splenic cysts are quite rare. In this publication, authors focus on presenting their own observations related to the management of patients with such lesions. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of laparoscopic procedures in the case of patients with splenic cysts. Material and methods: The study included patients treated surgically for cystic lesions located in the spleen at the 2nd Department of General, Gastroenterological and Oncological Surgery of the Medical University of Bialystok over the years 2017-01.2020. Results: All patients were referred for elective excision of the spleen lesion (the size of the lesions ranged from 7 to 15 cm -- based on CT examination). In all cases, excision of the anterior wall of the cyst was performed with the help of advanced surgical tools. The duration of the procedure ranged between 65 and 100 minutes. No significant blood loss was observed. No postoperative complications were found. Conclusions: In conclusion, sparing laparoscopic surgery for cystic lesions of the spleen seem to be safe and rarely associated with complications or relapses. Extending the scope of the procedure to total splenectomy should also not pose a major problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Overproduction of reactive nitrogen species (RNS) causes the nitrosative stress, which plays a vital role in the development of metabolic, inflammatory, and cancerous diseases. However, the role of nitrosative and carbonyl stress in the biology of colorectal cancer (CRC) is still not well understood. Therefore, this study evaluated nitrosative stress, protein and DNA oxidation/glycoxidation, and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in CRC patients compared with healthy controls. Patients and Methods: Fifty-five CRC patients (21 women, 34 men) and 55 healthy controls matched for sex and age were included in the experiment. Nitrosative stress parameters (nitric oxide (NO), peroxynitrite, S-nitrosothiols, and nitrotyrosine), protein oxidation (total thiols) and glycoxidation products (kynurenine N-formylkynurenine, dityrosine, Amadori products, and amyloid), and DNA damage markers (8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG)), as well as levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, were measured in serum or plasma samples. Results: The levels of NO, peroxynitrite, S-nitrosothiols, nitrotyrosine, total thiols, kynurenine, N-formylkynurenine, dityrosine, Amadori product, amyloid, and 8-OHdG, as well as IL1α, IL1β, IL6, IL10, and TNF-α, were significantly higher in CRC patients than in controls. Oxidation and glycoxidation products were positively correlated with pro-inflammatory (IL1α, IL1β, IL6, TNFα) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL10), indicating that redox damages may promote inflammation in CRC patients. Many redox biomarkers differentiate patients with CRC from healthy individuals with high sensitivity and specificity. Conclusion: Correlations of chosen oxidative products with pro-inflammatory (IL1α, IL1β, IL6, TNFα) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL10) suggest that redox damages may promote inflammation in CRC patients. Thus, our research is the first point for further clinical trials focusing on the evaluation of the diagnostic utility of nitrosative stress biomarkers in a larger group of CRC patients. Graphical [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibody levels that confer full protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection after the administration of different vaccine brands as well as the factors influencing the humoral immune response have been analyzed extensively ever since the vaccination program was launched in late 2020. The aim of this study was to determine anti-SARS-CoV-2S antibody titers in 100 healthcare workers 10 months after the administration of two BNT162b2 vaccine doses, and to investigate the influence of demographic characteristics, the presence of comorbidities and history of COVID-19 infection. The results were compared with antibody levels that were determined eight months after the administration of two BNT162b2 vaccine doses in our previous study. Antibody levels in venous blood serum were measured by the ECLIA method with the use of the Roche Cobas e411 analyzer. In all tested subjects, antibody titers remained high 10 months after vaccination, particularly in recovered COVID-19 patients, and only a minor decrease was observed relative to the values noted two months earlier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: The aim of the current study was to assess the use of determinations of total alcohol dehydrogenase and the activity of its isoenzymes as well as aldehyde dehydrogenase in the serum of patients with alcohol liver disease. Materials and Methods: The testing was performed on the serum of 38 patients with alcoholic fatty liver (26 males and 12 females aged 31–75). The total activity of ADH was determined by the colorimetric method. The activity of ADH I and ADH II, as well as ALDH, was determined by the spectrofluorometric method using fluorogenic specific substrates. The activity of isoenzymes of other classes was determined by spectrophotometric methods using substrates. Results: A statistically significantly higher ADH I activity was noted in the serum of patients with alcoholic fatty liver (4.45 mIU/L) compared to the control group (2.04 mIU/L). A statistically significant increase in the activity was also noted for the class II alcohol dehydrogenase isoenzyme (29.21 mIU/L, control group: 15.56 mIU/L) and the total ADH (1.41 IU/L, control group: 0.63 IU/L). Conclusions: The obtained results imply the diagnostic usefulness of the determination of AHD total, ADH I, and ADH II activity in the serum of patients with alcoholic fatty liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At the end of 2020, COVID-19 vaccination programs were initiated in many countries, including Poland. The first vaccine approved in Poland was the BNT162b2 mRNA preparation (Pfizer/BioNTech), and the first vaccinated group were healthcare workers. The aim of the present study was to evaluate post-vaccine antibody titers 8 months after the second vaccine dose had been administered to a group of employees of the Hospital of the Ministry of the Interior and Administration in Olsztyn (Poland). The employees were divided into two groups: persons who had COVID-19 in the fourth quarter of 2020 and were vaccinated in January–February 2021, and persons without a history of COVID-19 who were vaccinated during the same period. The analyzed material was venous blood serum collected from 100 hospital employees on 23–28 September 2021. The level of anti-SARS-CoV-2 S antibodies was measured with a Roche Cobas e411 analyzer using the electrochemiluminescence (ECLIA) method. The study demonstrated that persons with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection had significantly higher antibody levels (taking into account gender, age, type of work performed, and severity of post-vaccination symptoms) than employees without a history of COVID-19. The study also revealed that the type of work, age, gender, and the course of SARS-CoV-2 infection can influence the humoral immune response. The presented results may prove helpful in the context of administering additional vaccine doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers of the gastrointestinal tract. The aetiopathogenesis of this neoplasm includes obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, a diet rich in fat and low in vegetables, smoking, alcohol consumption, and inflammatory bowel diseases. Available research raises concerns of malnutrition, or even cachexia, accompanying cancer or colorectal cancer. Aim of the research: To evaluate the nutritional status of patients qualified for surgery due to colorectal cancer. Material and methods: In this study, the authors analysed selected nutritional parameters and the severity of anaemia in 296 patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Data were collected upon admission to the 2nd Department of General and Gastrointestinal Surgery in University Clinical Hospital in Bialystok, Poland and, retrospectively, with the help of correctly collected anamnesis. Results: Based on body mass index (BMI) results, there was no evidence of malnutrition in the study group. Normal BMI values were found in 37% of respondents, while overweight or obesity was found in 63% of patients. Unintentional weight loss was observed in 167 patients and ranged from 2 to 15 kg. Hypoproteinaemia and hypoalbuminaemia were found in 35% of the examined patients. Anaemia occurred in 64% of the examined men and 52% of the examined women. In 70% of respondents abnormal total lymphocyte count (TLC) values were found, which indicated malnutrition. The NRS 2002 scale showed malnutrition in 60% of the respondents. Conclusions: Malnutrition in patients with colorectal neoplasms seems to be underestimated. When assessing the nutritional status of patients, one should consider several parameters. BMI seems to be the parameter that is the least valuable and at the same time an overused indicator in everyday clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, society is increasingly struggling with infectious diseases that are characterized by severe course and even death. Recently, the whole world has faced the greatest epidemiological threat, which is COVID-19 caused by SARS CoV-2 virus. SARS CoV-2 infection is often accompanied by severe inflammation, which can lead to the development of different complications. Consequently, clinicians need easily interpreted and effective markers of inflammation that can predict the efficacy of the treatment and patient prognosis. Inflammation is associated with changes in many biochemical and hematological parameters, including leukocyte counts and their populations. In COVID-19, changes in leukocytes count populations such as neutrophils, lymphocytes or monocytes are observed. The numerous research confirm that indicators like neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), platelets-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and systemic inflammatory index (SII) may prove effective in assessment patient prognosis and choosing optimal therapy. Therefore, in this review, we would like to summarize the latest knowledge about the diagnostic utility of systemic inflammatory ratios - NLR, LMR, PLR and SII in patients with COVID-19. We focused on the papers evaluating the diagnostic utility of inflammatory ratios using ROC curve published in the recent 3 years. Identification of biomarkers associated with inflammation would help the selection of patients with severe course of COVID-19 and high risk of death., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (© 2023 Kosidło et al.)

Introduction: A global vaccination program was implemented in late 2020 to end the pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. However, the immune response elicited by the vaccines proved to be insufficient due to the rapid emergence of new viral mutations. Therefore, the factors influencing cellular and humoral immune responses after the administration of different vaccines against SARS-CoV2 need to be identified., Materials: In the present study, anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers were analyzed 20 to 50 days after the administration of a third (booster) dose of the BNT162b2 vaccine in 192 residents of the city of Olsztyn (Poland) primed with two AstraZeneca or Pfizer/BioNTech vaccines., Methods: Antibody titers were determined in venous blood serum in the ECLIA test using the Cobas e411 Roche analyzer., Results: The study revealed that persons who received three doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine had significantly higher antibody titers than those who received two doses of AstraZeneca and a booster dose of Pfizer/BioNTech., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest., (© 2022 Wolszczak Biedrzycka et al.)

Background and objectives : The aim of the current study was to assess the use of determinations of total alcohol dehydrogenase and the activity of its isoenzymes as well as aldehyde dehydrogenase in the serum of patients with alcohol liver disease. Materials and Methods : The testing was performed on the serum of 38 patients with alcoholic fatty liver (26 males and 12 females aged 31-75). The total activity of ADH was determined by the colorimetric method. The activity of ADH I and ADH II, as well as ALDH, was determined by the spectrofluorometric method using fluorogenic specific substrates. The activity of isoenzymes of other classes was determined by spectrophotometric methods using substrates. Results : A statistically significantly higher ADH I activity was noted in the serum of patients with alcoholic fatty liver (4.45 mIU/L) compared to the control group (2.04 mIU/L). A statistically significant increase in the activity was also noted for the class II alcohol dehydrogenase isoenzyme (29.21 mIU/L, control group: 15.56 mIU/L) and the total ADH (1.41 IU/L, control group: 0.63 IU/L). Conclusions : The obtained results imply the diagnostic usefulness of the determination of AHD total, ADH I, and ADH II activity in the serum of patients with alcoholic fatty liver.