Chronobiology of serum iron concentration in subjects of different ages at different geographic locations.

PubMed

Nicolau, G Y; Haus, E; Lakatua, D J; Bogdan, C; Plîngă, L; Irvine, P; Popescu, M; Petrescu, E; Sackett-Lundeen, L; Swoyer, J

1987-01-01

The circadian rhythm in serum iron concentration was studied in 61 elderly men (74 +/- 6 years of age) and 93 women (78 +/- 8 years of age) in Bucharest, Romania, in 81 clinically healthy boys and 103 girls (11 +/- 1.5 years of age) in Tîrgovişte, Romania, in 4 elderly men and 19 women (71 +/- 5 years of age) and in 75 young-adult men (24 +/- 11 years of age) and 52 women (24 +/- 9 years of age) in St. Paul, Minnesota, USA. Six samples were obtained from each subject around a 24-hour span. The sampling sessions in the elderly subjects in Romania and in the children extended over all four seasons. A circadian rhythm statistically verified by Cosinor analysis was evident in all groups in both locations. A statistically significant sex difference with lower circadian mean (mesor) and a lower amplitude in the women was found in the Romanian elderly subjects. The children in Romania showed no sex difference in any circadian rhythm parameters. The young adult subjects in Minnesota showed a significantly higher mesor and a phase delay in the men as compared with the women. The elderly subjects of both sexes at both geographic locations had a lower circadian mesor than the young adults and the children. In the Romanian elderly subjects also the circadian amplitude was lower, which was not the case in the Minnesotans. While the acrophase in the elderly subjects and in the children in Romania was comparable (0928 and 0932 local time resp.), the young adults in Minnesota showed in comparison to the Romanians a phase delay (1132 local time) and the elderly in Minnesota showed a phase advance (0732 local time) in comparison to all other groups. The latter finding will have to be confirmed by more extensive studies. In the elderly subjects in Romania the circadian rhythm in serum iron concentration was in phase with the circadian rhythms in total serum bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase but showed significant phase differences from the circadian rhythms in serum albumin, urea

Age and sex variation in serum albumin concentration: an observational study.

PubMed

Weaving, Gary; Batstone, Gifford F; Jones, Richard G

2016-01-01

In the UK, a common reference interval for serum albumin is widely used irrespective of age or sex. Implicit in this is that laboratories produce analytically similar results. This paper challenges the validity of this approach. A three-week collection of results sent to all primary care centres in England has been analysed by age, sex and laboratory. In all, 1,079,193 serum albumin reports were included in this analysis. The mean population serum albumin concentration increases to peak at around age 20 years and then decreases with increasing age. Values in females decrease more rapidly but become close to male values at 60 years. The variation between laboratories was large and potentially clinically significant. Reference intervals for serum albumin should be stratified by age and sex. Until there is greater methodological standardization, laboratories should determine their own reference intervals and not accept a single consensus reference interval. © The Author(s) 2015.

Metabolomic Quality Assessment of EDTA Plasma and Serum Samples.

PubMed

Malm, Linus; Tybring, Gunnel; Moritz, Thomas; Landin, Britta; Galli, Joakim

2016-10-01

Handling and processing of blood can significantly alter the molecular composition and consistency of biobank samples and can have a major impact on the identification of biomarkers. It is thus crucial to identify tools to determine the quality of samples to be used in biomarker discovery studies. In this study, a non-targeted gas chromatography/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC-TOFMS) metabolomic strategy was used with the aim of identifying quality markers for serum and plasma biobank collections lacking proper documentation of preanalytical handling. The effect of postcentrifugation delay was examined in serum stored in tubes with gel separation plugs and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) plasma in tubes with or without gel separation plugs. The change in metabolic pattern was negligible in all sample types processed within 3 hours after centrifugation regardless of whether the samples were kept at 4°C or 22°C. After 8 and 24 hours postcentrifugation delay before aliquoting, there was a pronounced increase in the number of affected metabolites, as well as in the magnitude of the observed changes. No protective effect on the metabolites was observed in gel-separated EDTA plasma samples. In a separate series of experiments, lactate and glucose levels were determined in plasma to estimate the effect of precentrifugation delay. This separate experiment indicates that the lactate to glucose ratio may serve as a marker to identify samples with delayed time to centrifugation. Although our data from the untargeted GC-TOFMS analysis did not identify any specific markers, we conclude that plasma and serum metabolic profiles remain quite stable when plasma and serum are centrifuged and separated from the blood cells within 3 hours.

The reduction of serum soluble Flt-1 in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration.

PubMed

Uehara, Hironori; Mamalis, Christina; McFadden, Molly; Taggart, Michael; Stagg, Brian; Passi, Samuel; Earle, Phillip; Chakravarthy, Usha; Hogg, Ruth E; Ambati, Balamurali K

2015-01-01

To evaluate serum soluble Flt-1 (sFlt-1) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) patients. Case-control study. Study involved 56 non-AMD participants, 53 early AMD patients, and 97 neovascular AMD patients from Belfast in Northern Ireland. Serum samples were collected from each patient. Serum sFlt-1 was measured by human sVEGFR1/sFlt-1 ELISA kit. The results were analyzed by Excel and SPSS. Serum sFlt-1 concentration of non-AMD, early AMD, and neovascular AMD were 90.8 ± 2.9 pg/mL (± standard error of the mean), 88.2 ± 2.6 pg/mL, and 79.9 ± 2.2 pg/mL. sFlt-1 from neovascular AMD patients was significantly decreased compared to non-AMD and early AMD patients (ANOVA, P < .01). For each 10-point increase in sFlt-1, the odds for having neovascular AMD compared with non-AMD and neovascular AMD decrease by 27.8%, odds ratio (OR) = 0.722 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.588-0.888, P = .002) and 27.0%, OR = 0.730 (95% CI: 0.594-0.898, P = .003), respectively. In patients over 73 years of age, serum sFlt-1 <80 pg/mL was associated with a >6-fold higher risk of neovascular AMD. Reduced serum sFlt-1 differentiates those patients with neovascular AMD from both early AMD and non-AMD participants. In those aged over 73, serum sFlt <80 pg/mL seems to indicate a particularly high risk of neovascular AMD. Our results indicate serum sFlt-1 could be a biomarker for development of neovascular AMD. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Clinical and Biochemical Correlates of Serum L-Ergothioneine Concentrations in Community-Dwelling Middle-Aged and Older Adults

PubMed Central

Sotgia, Salvatore; Zinellu, Angelo; Mangoni, Arduino A.; Pintus, Gianfranco; Attia, John; Carru, Ciriaco; McEvoy, Mark

2014-01-01

Background Despite the increasing interest towards the biological role of L-ergothioneine, little is known about the serum concentrations of this unusual aminothiol in older adults. We addressed this issue in a representative sample of community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults. Methods Body mass index, estimated glomerular filtration rate, serum concentrations of L-ergothioneine, taurine, homocysteine, cysteine, glutathione, cysteinylglycine, and glutamylcysteine were evaluated in 439 subjects (age 55–85 years) randomly selected from the Hunter Community Study. Results Median L-ergothioneine concentration in the entire cohort was 1.01 IQR 0.78–1.33 µmol/L. Concentrations were not affected by gender (P = 0.41) or by presence of chronic medical conditions (P = 0.15). By considering only healthy subjects, we defined a reference interval for L-ergothioneine serum concentrations from 0.36 (90% CI 0.31–0.44) to 3.08 (90% CI 2.45–3.76) µmol/L. Using stepwise multiple linear regression analysis L-ergothioneine was negatively correlated with age (rpartial = −0.15; P = 0.0018) and with glutamylcysteine concentrations (rpartial = −0.13; P = 0.0063). Conclusions A thorough analysis of serum L-ergothioneine concentrations was performed in a large group of community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults. Reference intervals were established. Age and glutamylcysteine were independently negatively associated with L-ergothioneine serum concentration. PMID:24392160

Decreased serum level of HMGB1 and MyD88 during human aging progress in healthy individuals.

PubMed

Fu, Guo-Xiang; Chen, Alex F; Zhong, Yuan; Zhao, Jian; Gu, Ying-Jia

2016-04-01

Previous studies have suggested that high mobility group box-1 protein (HMGB1) binds to the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling mediates the progression of various inflammatory diseases. But the roles of HMGB1 and TLR4 in aging remain poorly unknown. In this study, we aimed to investigate the serum levels of HMGB1 and myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), which is one of TLR4's intracellular adaptor proteins during human aging process and their relevance with cathepsin B (CTSB). This research was conducted using the blood samples provided by healthy people (n = 90, 63 men and 27 women). Subjects were subdivided into groups with respect to age: young (about 25 years old, n = 30), middle age (about 40 years old, n = 30), and aged (above 65 years old, n = 30). Altered serum levels of HMGB1, MyD88 and CTSB were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The serum levels of HMGB1 and MyD88 were significantly decreased in the aged group compared with those in the young group. Linear regression analysis showed that HMGB1 and MyD88 positively correlated with CTSB among the whole healthy people. A negative correlation was determined between MyD88 and age. The serum levels of HMGB1 and MyD88 significantly decreased with age. MyD88, but not HMGB1, was negatively correlated with age.

Detection of human parvovirus B19 in serum samples from children under 5 years of age with rash-fever illnesses in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

PubMed

Wawina, Tony Bokalanga; Tshiani, Olivier Mbaya; Ahuka, Steve Mundeke; Pukuta, Elisabeth Simbu; Aloni, Michel Ntetani; Kasanga, Christopher Jacob; Muyembe, Jean-Jacques Tamfum

2017-12-01

It has been demonstrated that infection with human parvovirus B19 (B19V) is associated with rash-fever illnesses. The present study aimed to investigate B19V as an aetiological agent of rash-fever syndromes in Congolese children confirmed as measles and rubella IgM-negative. An ELISA IgM test and PCR were performed to screen for B19V. A total of 177 archived serum samples were randomly selected from the measles biobank of the National Institute for Biomedical Research (INRB). Samples were investigated for anti-B19V IgM and B19V DNA. These samples originated from children <5years of age with measles-like rashes, previously confirmed as negative for both measles and rubella IgM. Out of 177 serum samples tested by ELISA and 168 tested by PCR, 109 were positive for B19V IgM antibodies (61.6%) and 87 (51.8%) were positive for B19V DNA. Positive samples in both assays were from all provinces of DRC. B19V plays a role in rash-fever illnesses in children under 5 years of age suspected of having measles or rubella infections in DRC. As an aetiological cause of rash and fever syndromes, the present study demonstrates that B19V should also be considered during the laboratory investigation of rash-fever illnesses in DRC, particularly in the paediatric population. There is a need to conduct further studies in order to gain a better understanding of the spatiotemporal pattern of B19V and to define the genotype(s) of B19V circulating in DRC. Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Effects of aging on serum levels of lipid molecular species as determined by lipidomics analysis in Japanese men and women.

PubMed

Kawanishi, Noriaki; Kato, Yuki; Yokozeki, Kyosuke; Sawada, Shuji; Sakurai, Ryota; Fujiwara, Yoshinori; Shinkai, Shoji; Goda, Nobuhito; Suzuki, Katsuhiko

2018-06-06

Aging is known to be associated with increased risk of lipid disorders related to the development of type 2 diabetes. Recent evidence revealed that change of lipid molecule species in blood is associated with the risk of type 2 diabetes. However, changes in lipid molecular species induced by aging are still unknown. We assessed the effects of age on the serum levels of lipid molecular species as determined by lipidomics analysis. Serum samples were collected from ten elderly men (71.7 ± 0.5 years old) and women (70.2 ± 1.0 years old), ten young men (23.9 ± 0.4 years old), and women (23.9 ± 0.7 years old). Serum levels of lipid molecular species were determined by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry-based lipidomics analysis. Our mass spectrometry analysis revealed increases in the levels of multiple triacylglycerol molecular species in the serum of elderly men and women. Moreover, serum levels of total ester-linked phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) were increased by aging. In contrast, serum levels of specific ether-linked PC and PE molecular species were lower in elderly individuals than in young individuals. Our finding indicates that specific lipid molecular species, such as ether- and ester- linked phospholipids, may be selectively altered by aging.

Antibodies reacting with Simian Virus 40 mimotopes in serum samples from patients with thalassaemia major

PubMed Central

Borgna-Pignatti, Caterina; Mazzoni, Elisa; Felletti, Marcella; Turlà, Giuliana; Malaventura, Cristina; Cappellini, Maria Domenica; Cianciulli, Paolo; Forni, Gian Luca; Corallini, Alfredo; Martini, Fernanda; Tognon, Mauro

2014-01-01

Background Simian virus 40 (SV40) is a small DNA tumour virus. Footprints of the virus have been detected in different humam lymphoproliferative disorders and in blood specimens of blood from healthy blood donors. This study was carried out to verify whether SV40 antibodies can be detected in serum samples from multiply transfused patients with thalassaemia major. Materials and methods An indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was employed, using SV40 specific synthetic peptides mimicking the antigens of the viral capsid proteins 1-2-3, to test for the presence of antibodies to SV40 in serum samples taken from patients affected by transfusion-dependent thalassaemia major (n=190) and healthy blood donors (n=251). Results The prevalence of antibodies against SV40 was higher in patients than in controls (24% vs 17%). The prevalence increased and was significantly higher in the older age group of patients affected by thalassemia major than in controls (38% vs 20%, p<0.04). Discussion The higher prevalence of serum antibodies against simian virus 40 in older, multiply transfused patients with thalassamia major than in controls suggests that this virus, or a closely related yet unknown human polyomavirus, could have been transmitted in the past by transfusion with whole blood. At the same time, our data indicate no significant differences in prevalence of SV40 antibodies in patients and controls of younger age thus suggesting that current transfusion methods with leucodepletion and filtered red cells are safe. PMID:24887224

Antibodies reacting with Simian virus 40 mimotopes in serum samples from patients with thalassaemia major.

PubMed

Borgna-Pignatti, Caterina; Mazzoni, Elisa; Felletti, Marcella; Turlà, Giuliana; Malaventura, Cristina; Cappellini, Maria Domenica; Cianciulli, Paolo; Forni, Gian Luca; Corallini, Alfredo; Martini, Fernanda; Tognon, Mauro

2014-10-01

Simian virus 40 (SV40) is a small DNA tumour virus. Footprints of the virus have been detected in different humam lymphoproliferative disorders and in blood specimens of blood from healthy blood donors. This study was carried out to verify whether SV40 antibodies can be detected in serum samples from multiply transfused patients with thalassaemia major. An indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was employed, using SV40 specific synthetic peptides mimicking the antigens of the viral capsid proteins 1-2-3, to test for the presence of antibodies to SV40 in serum samples taken from patients affected by transfusion-dependent thalassaemia major (n=190) and healthy blood donors (n=251). The prevalence of antibodies against SV40 was higher in patients than in controls (24% vs 17%). The prevalence increased and was significantly higher in the older age group of patients affected by thalassemia major than in controls (38% vs 20%, p<0.04). The higher prevalence of serum antibodies against simian virus 40 in older, multiply transfused patients with thalassamia major than in controls suggests that this virus, or a closely related yet unknown human polyomavirus, could have been transmitted in the past by transfusion with whole blood. At the same time, our data indicate no significant differences in prevalence of SV40 antibodies in patients and controls of younger age thus suggesting that current transfusion methods with leucodepletion and filtered red cells are safe.

Serum YKL-40 and uterine artery Doppler -- a prospective cohort study, with focus on preeclampsia and small-for-gestational-age.

PubMed

Gybel-Brask, Dorte; Høgdall, Estrid; Johansen, Julia; Christensen, Ib Jarle; Skibsted, Lillian

2014-08-01

To test if serum YKL-40 is increased in women developing preeclampsia or small-for-gestational age fetuses. We also assessed the association between uterine artery pulsatility index, notching and serum YKL-40 levels. Prospective cohort study. A primary referral unit for obstetric ultrasound. A total of 1214 unselected pregnant women enrolled at nuchal translucency examination between 11(+3) and 13(+6)  weeks of gestation. All women had ultrasound and blood sample collection at the nuchal translucency scan, a 20-week malformation scan and 25-week and 32-week fetal growth examinations. Uterine artery Doppler was assessed and outcome was registered from medical records. Preeclampsia, hypertension, small-for-gestational age. Serum YKL-40 was associated with increasing maternal age (p < 0.0001), body mass index (p = 0.0002), primiparity (p = 0.0003), and hypertension (p = 0.015). Serum YKL-40 increased from 12 to 20 weeks and decreased from 20-25 and 25-32 weeks of gestation. No association was found between preeclampsia and serum YKL-40. Small-for-gestational-age at birth was significantly associated with a 5.4% increase in serum YKL-40 at 32 weeks of gestation (95% CI 1.5-9.3, p = 0.005). An association was found between uterine artery pulsatility index at 32 weeks and small-for-gestational age (p = 0.0015) but not between YKL-40 and uterine artery notching (p = 0.83). Serum YKL-40 was not associated with preeclampsia. Increasing serum YKL-40 was related to maternal age, body mass index and small-for-gestational age and may reflect an exaggerated inflammatory response. © 2014 Nordic Federation of Societies of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Low serum IGF-1 and increased cytokine levels in tracheal aspirate samples are associated with bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

PubMed

Yılmaz, Cansu; Köksal, Nilgün; Özkan, Hilal; Dorum, Bayram Ali; Bağcı, Onur

2017-01-01

Yılmaz C, Köksal N, Özkan H, Dorum BA, Bağcı O. Low serum IGF-1 and increased cytokine levels in tracheal aspirate samples are associated with bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Turk J Pediatr 2017; 59: 122-129. Despite developments in the perinatal and neonatal care, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is still the most frequently seen long-term complication in preterm infants. The aim of this prospective study is to investigate the association between the development of BPD and serial measurements of IGF-1 levels and their relationship with levels of IGF-1 and cytokine in tracheal aspirate fluids. A total of 40 premature infants, born at a gestational age of ≤ 32 weeks, were enrolled in the study. On postnatal day-1, 3, 7, 21 and 28 serum IGF-1 levels and IGF-1 levels, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and TNF-alpha levels in tracheal aspirate fluid samples of intubated cases were examined. Mean gestational age of 40 patients included in the study was 29.41 ± 2.23 weeks, and their mean birth weight was 1,256.85 ± 311.48 g. BPD was detected in 35% of cases. Mean gestational week and birth weight of the cases that developed BPD were 30 ± 3 weeks and 1,150 ± 295 g, respectively. Serum IGF-1 levels on postnatal day-1, 3, 7, 21 and 28 in cases who developed BPD were significantly lower when compared with those without BPD (p < 0.01). Levels of IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and TNF-alpha in tracheal aspirate samples were significantly higher in cases with BPD compared to those without BPD (p < 0.05). IGF-1 levels in tracheal aspirate fluid samples did not differ significantly based on the presence of BPD (p > 0.05). Severity of BPD was associated with decreased serum IGF-1 levels and increased cytokine levels in tracheal aspirate samples.

Transplacental transfer of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in paired samples of maternal serum, umbilical cord serum, and placenta in Shanghai, China.

PubMed

Zhang, Xiaolan; Li, Xiaojing; Jing, Ye; Fang, Xiangming; Zhang, Xinyu; Lei, Bingli; Yu, Yingxin

2017-03-01

Prenatal exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is a high-priority public health concern. However, maternal to fetal transplacental transfer of PAHs has not been systematically studied. To investigate the transplacental transfer of PAHs from mother to fetus and determine the influence of lipophilicity (octanol-water partition coefficient, K OW ) on transfer process, in the present study, we measured the concentrations of 15 PAHs in 95 paired maternal and umbilical cord serum, and placenta samples (in total 285 samples) collected in Shanghai, China. The average concentration of total PAHs was the highest in maternal serums (1290 ng g -1 lipid), followed by umbilical cord serums (1150 ng g -1 lipid). The value was the lowest in placenta samples (673 ng g -1 lipid). Low molecular weight PAHs were the predominant compounds in the three matrices. Increases in fish and meat consumption did not lead to increases in maternal PAH levels, and no obvious gender differences in umbilical cord serums were observed. The widespread presence of PAHs in umbilical cord serums indicated the occurrence of transplacental transfer. The ratios of PAH concentrations in umbilical cord serum to those in maternal serum (F/M) and the concentrations in placenta to those in maternal serum (P/M) of paired samples were analyzed to characterize the transfer process of individual PAHs. Most F/M ratios on lipid basis were close to one (range: 0.79 to 1.36), which suggested that passive diffusion may control the transplacental transfer of PAHs from maternal serum to the fetal circulation. The P/M and F/M values calculated on lipid basis showed that PAHs with lower K OW were more likely to transfer from mother to fetus via the placenta. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Prevalence of Parvovirus B19 and Parvovirus V9 DNA and Antibodies in Paired Bone Marrow and Serum Samples from Healthy Individuals

PubMed Central

Heegaard, Erik D.; Petersen, Bodil Laub; Heilmann, Carsten J.; Hornsleth, Allan

2002-01-01

Parvovirus B19 (hereafter referred to as B19) exhibits a marked tropism to human bone marrow (BM), and infection may lead to erythema infectiosum, arthropathy, hydrops fetalis, and various hematologic disorders. Recently, a distinct parvovirus isolate termed V9 with an unknown clinical spectrum was discovered. In contrast to the many studies of B19 serology and viremia, valid information on the frequency of B19 or V9 DNA in the BM of healthy individuals is limited. To develop a reference value, paired BM and serum samples from healthy subjects were tested for the presence of B19 and V9 DNA and specific antibodies. Immunoglobulin M (IgM) was not found in any of the serum samples. The prevalence of IgG showed a gradual and steady increase from 37% in children aged 1 to 5 years to 87% in people aged >50 years. When 190 well-characterized subjects were examined, B19 DNA was detected in the BM of 4 individuals (2.1%; 95% confidence interval, 0.58 to 5.3%) while none of the paired serum samples showed evidence of circulating viral DNA. V9 DNA was not found in any of the BM or serum samples. The finding of B19 DNA probably indicated a primary infection in one 7-year-old individual and reinfection or reactivation of persistent infection in the remaining three persons, aged 47 to 58 years. Serving as a benchmark for future studies, these findings are useful when interpreting epidemiologic data, performing BM transplantation, or considering clinical implications of parvovirus infection. PMID:11880419

Prevalence of parvovirus B19 and parvovirus V9 DNA and antibodies in paired bone marrow and serum samples from healthy individuals.

PubMed

Heegaard, Erik D; Petersen, Bodil Laub; Heilmann, Carsten J; Hornsleth, Allan

2002-03-01

Parvovirus B19 (hereafter referred to as B19) exhibits a marked tropism to human bone marrow (BM), and infection may lead to erythema infectiosum, arthropathy, hydrops fetalis, and various hematologic disorders. Recently, a distinct parvovirus isolate termed V9 with an unknown clinical spectrum was discovered. In contrast to the many studies of B19 serology and viremia, valid information on the frequency of B19 or V9 DNA in the BM of healthy individuals is limited. To develop a reference value, paired BM and serum samples from healthy subjects were tested for the presence of B19 and V9 DNA and specific antibodies. Immunoglobulin M (IgM) was not found in any of the serum samples. The prevalence of IgG showed a gradual and steady increase from 37% in children aged 1 to 5 years to 87% in people aged >50 years. When 190 well-characterized subjects were examined, B19 DNA was detected in the BM of 4 individuals (2.1%; 95% confidence interval, 0.58 to 5.3%) while none of the paired serum samples showed evidence of circulating viral DNA. V9 DNA was not found in any of the BM or serum samples. The finding of B19 DNA probably indicated a primary infection in one 7-year-old individual and reinfection or reactivation of persistent infection in the remaining three persons, aged 47 to 58 years. Serving as a benchmark for future studies, these findings are useful when interpreting epidemiologic data, performing BM transplantation, or considering clinical implications of parvovirus infection.

Interrelationships of serum testosterone and free testosterone index with FFM and strength in aging men.

PubMed

Roy, Tracey Ann; Blackman, Marc R; Harman, S Mitchell; Tobin, Jordan D; Schrager, Matthew; Metter, E Jeffery

2002-08-01

Muscle mass and strength losses during aging may be associated with declining levels of serum testosterone (T) in men. Few studies have shown a direct relationship between T and muscle mass and strength. Subjects were 262 men, aged 24-90 yr, from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, who had T and sex hormone-binding globulin sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) measurements, from which the free T index (FTI) was calculated (T/SHBG) from serum samples collected longitudinally since 1963, total body fat mass and arm and leg fat-free mass (FFM) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and arm and leg strength by dynanomometry. Mixed-effects models estimated T and FTI at the time of mass and strength measurements. Age, total body fat, arm and leg FFM, T, and FTI were significantly associated with concentric and eccentric strength. FTI, not T, was modestly, but directly, related to arm and leg strength after fat, arm and leg FFM, height, and age were accounted for and indirectly through body mass. FTI is a better predictor of arm and leg strength than T in aging men.

Age-related changes of serum mitochondrial uncoupling 1, rumen and rectal temperature in goats.

PubMed

Arfuso, Francesca; Rizzo, Maria; Giannetto, Claudia; Giudice, Elisabetta; Fazio, Francesco; Piccione, Giuseppe

2016-07-01

Thermoregulatory processes are induced not only by exposure to cold or heat but also by a variety of physiological situations including age, fasting and food intake that result in changes in body temperature. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the differences in serum mitochondrial uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), rumen temperature (TRUMEN) and rectal temperature (TRECTAL) values between adult and kids goats. Ten adult male Maltese goats aged 3-5 years old (Group A) and 30 male kids, raised for meat, were enrolled in this study. The kids were equally divided into 3 groups according to their age: Group B included kids aged 3 months, Group C included kids aged 4 months and Group D included kids aged 5 months. Blood samples and measurements of TRUMEN and TRECTAL were obtained from each animal. One-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied to evaluate the effect of age on the studied parameters. Statistically significant higher serum UCP1 levels (P<0.001) were found in Group A as compared to Groups B, C and D. Higher TRUMEN values (P<0.001) were found in Group A than in Groups B, C and D, and in Group B than in Groups C and D. Group A showed lower TRECTAL values (P<0.001) than Groups B, C and D. The Pearson's Correlation test was applied to assess significant relationship among studied parameters showing a statistically significant negative correlation between the values of TRECTAL and serum UCP1 in all studied Groups (P<0.001). These results indicate that goats have good control of body temperature suggesting that further details about the thermogenic capacity and the function of UCP1 in kids and adult goats are worth exploring. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Human placental growth hormone is increased in maternal serum at 20 weeks of gestation in pregnancies with large-for-gestational-age babies.

PubMed

Liao, Shutan; Vickers, Mark H; Taylor, Rennae S; Jones, Beatrix; Fraser, Mhoyra; McCowan, Lesley M E; Baker, Philip N; Perry, Jo K

2016-12-01

To investigate the relationship between maternal serum concentrations of placental growth hormone (GH-V), insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 and 2, IGF binding proteins (IGFBP)-1 and 3 and birth weight in appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA), large-for-gestational-age (LGA) and small-for-gestational-age (SGA) cases in a nested case-control study. Maternal serum samples were selected from the Screening for Pregnancy Endpoints (SCOPE) biobank in Auckland, New Zealand. Serum hormone concentrations were determined by ELISA. We found that maternal serum GH-V concentrations at 20 weeks of gestation in LGA pregnancies were significantly higher than in AGA and SGA pregnancies. Maternal GH-V concentrations were positively correlated to birth weights and customized birth weight centiles, while IGFBP-1 concentrations were inversely related to birth weights and customized birth weight centiles. Our findings suggest that maternal serum GH-V and IGFBP-1 concentrations at 20 weeks' gestation are associated with fetal growth.

Serum thyrotropin and thyroid hormone levels in elderly and middle-aged euthyroid persons.

PubMed

Hershman, J M; Pekary, A E; Berg, L; Solomon, D H; Sawin, C T

1993-08-01

To determine whether serum thyrotropin (TSH) levels are altered in euthyroid older persons compared with middle-aged adults. Serum TSH and thyroid hormone levels were measured in a large group of older persons (> 70 years old, n = 216) and their middle-aged offspring (40-60 years old, n = 211) after excluding those with clinical or historical evidence of thyroid disease or abnormal thyroid function. Serum TSH, thyroxine (T4), free T4 index, estimated free T4, triiodothyronine (T3), estimated free T3, and ferritin levels were measured on the Abbott IMx instrument. Peroxidase and thyroglobulin antibodies were measured by radioimmunoassay using Kronus kits. Overall, serum TSH showed a log-normal distribution. The geometric mean TSH (mU/L) and 95% confidence limits in the older persons, 1.24 (0.29-5.4), did not differ significantly from that in the middle-aged, 1.45 (0.54-3.9). The mean TSH in the 264 women, 1.37 (0.34-5.5), was similar to that of the 163 men, 1.30 (0.48-3.5). The mean TSH in older women, 1.21 (0.22-6.6), was slightly but significantly lower than that in middle-aged women, 1.52 (0.55-4.2). However, when euthyroid women with positive antibodies were excluded, this difference was not significant. Four of the 123 older women had TSH < 0.1 mU/L, but none of the men or middle-aged women had a suppressed serum TSH. The mean TSH in older men, 1.28 (0.43-3.8), was similar to that in middle-aged men, 1.32 (0.55-3.2). Free T4 was slightly higher in older women than middle-aged women. There were no significant correlations between TSH and any thyroid hormone level. Serum ferritin, measured as a potential marker for the action of thyroid hormone, did not correlate with any measure of thyroid function. At least one antibody level was > 10 U/mL in 14.6% of older women, 15.6% of middle-aged women, 4.3% of older men, and no middle-aged men. When those with milder elevations of antibody levels were included (at least one level > 1 U/mL), the prevalence was 32% of older

Serum copper and zinc concentrations in a representative sample of the Canarian population.

PubMed

Díaz Romero, Carlos; Henríquez Sánchez, Patricia; López Blanco, Félix; Rodríguez Rodríguez, Elena; Serra Majem, Lluis

2002-01-01

Serum copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) concentrations of 395 individuals (187 males + 208 females) living in Canary Islands were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The mean copper and zinc concentrations were 1.10 +/- 0.25 mg/L and 1.16 +/- 0.52 mg/L respectively. Our data were similar to other data published in other Spanish regions. Individuals from Lanzarote presented a mean Cu and Zn concentrations higher (p < 0.05) than individuals from the rest of islands; Individuals from EL Hierro showed the lowest (p < 0.05) mean Zn concentration. These differences could be attributed a differences in Cu and Zn contents of soil and/or differences in dietary habits of the populations. The mean serum Cu concentration in females was higher (p < 0.05) than in males, however serum Zn concentration did not vary with the sex of the subjects. No relation to socio-economic status and educational level were found with respect to the serum Cu and Zn concentrations. The serum Cu concentration varied with age of individuals, observing the highest (p < 0.05) Cu concentration in the 20-30 year old interval. A higher serum Cu concentration in females within 20-30 year old interval was observed. This could be due to a higher use of oral contraceptives or to the higher number of pregnancies. Boys (younger than 15) showed a decrease (p < 0.05) of the serum Cu concentration with age. The mean Zn concentrations in serum did not change (p > 0.05) among the different age intervals. No clear trends in the serum Cu and Zn concentrations were observed when drinking and smoking habits were considered. The increase of physical exercise reduced (p < 0.05) the serum Cu concentrations.

Clinical utility of serum samples for human parechovirus type 3 infection in neonates and young infants: The 2014 epidemic in Japan.

PubMed

Aizawa, Yuta; Suzuki, Yuko; Watanabe, Kanako; Oishi, Tomohiro; Saitoh, Akihiko

2016-02-01

During the 2014 human parechovirus type 3 (HPeV3) epidemic in Niigata, Japan, this prospective observational study identified HPeV3 from 43/85 (51%) febrile young infants <4 months using PCR analysis of serum (n = 42) and/or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) (n = 32) and genetic sequencing of the VP1 region of HPeV3. HPeV3-infected patients (median age, 32 days; range, 4-113 days) were diagnosed as having sepsis (79%), sepsis-like syndrome (19%), or encephalitis with septic shock (2%). Other than fever, mottled skin (67%) was significantly more frequent in HPeV3-infected patients than other virus-infected patients (P = 0.005). The rate of HPeV3 RNA detection in CSF without pleocytosis was high (88%; 28/32). Among the 32 patients whose serum and CSF samples were available, all patients were positive for serum PCR; however, 4 (12%) patients were negative for CSF PCR. Serum HPeV3 RNA level on admission was associated with younger age (P = 0.002), bad temper (P = 0.041), and grunting (P = 0.008). Among 6 patients with sequential data on serum HPeV3 RNA level, levels decreased rapidly without specific therapy. In conclusion, serum samples at disease onset are the most useful compared to CSF in detection of HPeV RNA and serum HPeV3 RNA level on admission was associated with important clinical manifestations in HPeV3-infected patients. Copyright © 2015 The British Infection Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Serum transthyretin levels in senile systemic amyloidosis: effects of age, gender and ethnicity

PubMed Central

Buxbaum, Joel; Koziol, James; Connors, Lawreen H.

2017-01-01

Serum transthyretin (TTR) levels are reduced in familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy (FAP). A single study of patients with senile systemic amyloidosis (SSA) in Sweden found that those individuals also had a significantly lower mean serum TTR concentration than age- and gender-matched controls. To determine if the same phenomenon prevailed in an ethnically more heterogeneous population, we compared the serum TTR levels, as determined by ELISA, in 45 documented SSA patients with congestive heart failure, 20 AL patients with congestive heart failure and population controls. Serum TTR concentrations in the controls were influenced in a statistically significant manner by age, gender and ethnicity. Although it is unlikely that such differences are clinically relevant, they must be considered when assessing the meaning of serum TTR concentrations in any clinically defined population. The serum concentrations in patients with SSA did not differ from age, gender and ethnically matched controls or from a group of AL patients with significant clinical cardiac involvement. We also compared TTR concentrations in 12 African-Americans carrying the TTR V122I allele with those in 826 African-Americans who were homozygous wild type at the TTR locus. The TTR V122I carriers had significantly lower serum TTR concentrations than appropriate controls even though the majority of such individuals had not reached the age of clinical or anatomic risk, i.e. over 60. Thus, as in carriers of other TTR mutations the serum TTR level is lower than normal, despite having a much later appearance of clinical disease. PMID:19065297

Dietary acid, age, and serum bicarbonate levels among adults in the United States.

PubMed

Amodu, Afolarin; Abramowitz, Matthew K

2013-12-01

Greater dietary acid has been associated with lower serum bicarbonate levels in patients with CKD. Whether this association extends to the general population and if it is modified by age are unknown. This study examined the association of the dietary acid load, estimated by net endogenous acid production, with serum bicarbonate levels in adult participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2004. The mean serum bicarbonate was 24.9 mEq/L (SEM=0.1), and the mean estimated net endogenous acid production was 57.4 mEq/d (SEM=0.4). Serum bicarbonate was linearly associated with age, such that the oldest participants had the highest serum bicarbonate levels. After multivariable adjustment, participants in the highest quartile of net endogenous acid production had 0.40 mEq/L (95% confidence interval, -0.55 to -0.26) lower serum bicarbonate and a 33% (95% confidence interval, 3 to 72) higher likelihood of acidosis compared with those participants in the lowest quartile. There was a significant interaction by age of the association of net endogenous acid production with serum bicarbonate (P=0.005). Among participants 20-39, 40-59, and ≥60 years old, those participants in the highest net endogenous acid production quartile had 0.26 (95% confidence interval, -0.49 to -0.03), 0.60 (95% confidence interval, -0.92 to -0.29), and 0.49 (95% confidence interval, -0.84 to -0.14) mEq/L lower serum bicarbonate, respectively, compared with participants in the lowest quartile. Greater dietary acid is associated with lower serum bicarbonate in the general US population, and the magnitude of this association is greater among middle-aged and elderly persons than younger adults.

Dietary Acid, Age, and Serum Bicarbonate Levels among Adults in the United States

PubMed Central

Amodu, Afolarin

2013-01-01

Summary Background and objectives Greater dietary acid has been associated with lower serum bicarbonate levels in patients with CKD. Whether this association extends to the general population and if it is modified by age are unknown. Design, setting, participants, & measurements This study examined the association of the dietary acid load, estimated by net endogenous acid production, with serum bicarbonate levels in adult participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2004. Results The mean serum bicarbonate was 24.9 mEq/L (SEM=0.1), and the mean estimated net endogenous acid production was 57.4 mEq/d (SEM=0.4). Serum bicarbonate was linearly associated with age, such that the oldest participants had the highest serum bicarbonate levels. After multivariable adjustment, participants in the highest quartile of net endogenous acid production had 0.40 mEq/L (95% confidence interval, −0.55 to −0.26) lower serum bicarbonate and a 33% (95% confidence interval, 3 to 72) higher likelihood of acidosis compared with those participants in the lowest quartile. There was a significant interaction by age of the association of net endogenous acid production with serum bicarbonate (P=0.005). Among participants 20–39, 40–59, and ≥60 years old, those participants in the highest net endogenous acid production quartile had 0.26 (95% confidence interval, −0.49 to −0.03), 0.60 (95% confidence interval, −0.92 to −0.29), and 0.49 (95% confidence interval, −0.84 to −0.14) mEq/L lower serum bicarbonate, respectively, compared with participants in the lowest quartile. Conclusion Greater dietary acid is associated with lower serum bicarbonate in the general US population, and the magnitude of this association is greater among middle-aged and elderly persons than younger adults. PMID:24052219

The importance of sample collection when using single cytokine levels and systemic cytokine profiles as biomarkers--a comparative study of serum versus plasma samples.

PubMed

Tvedt, Tor Henrik Anderson; Rye, Kristin Paulsen; Reikvam, Håkon; Brenner, Annette K; Bruserud, Øystein

2015-03-01

Cytokines, soluble adhesion molecules and metalloproteinases can be detected in human serum or plasma samples. Such systemic levels are widely used as biomarkers in epidemiological and clinical studies. We prepared serum samples and three types of plasma samples (EDTA, heparin, citric acid) from 20 healthy individuals. The levels of 31 cytokines, four soluble adhesion molecules and eight matrix metalloproteinases were analyzed by Luminex technology. Most mediators showed detectable levels in both plasma and serum. Several mediators that can be released by platelets showed increased serum levels, especially CCL5 and CD40L, but for the other mediators the serum levels did not correlate with peripheral blood platelet counts and for these last mediators serum and plasma levels often showed strong correlations. The use of bivalirudin for anticoagulation significantly increased and citric acid combined with platelet inhibitors (ticagrelor, acetylsalicylic acid plus prostaglandin E2) did not alter plasma levels of platelet-store mediators compared with citric acid alone. The impact of sample preparation differed between mediators; for many mediators strong correlations were seen between serum and plasma levels even when absolute levels differed. Soluble adhesion molecule levels showed only minor differences between samples. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering suggested that the effect of sampling/preparation was strongest for serum and heparin plasma samples. Careful standardization of sample preparation is usually necessary when analyzing systemic mediator levels, and differences caused by sample preparation should be considered as a possible explanation if studies show conflicting results. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Determinants of serum zinc in a random population sample of four Belgian towns with different degrees of environmental exposure to cadmium

PubMed Central

Thijs, Lutgarde; Staessen, Jan; Amery, Antoon; Bruaux, Pierre; Buchet, Jean-Pierre; Claeys, FranÇoise; De Plaen, Pierre; Ducoffre, Geneviève; Lauwerys, Robert; Lijnen, Paul; Nick, Laurence; Remy, Annie Saint; Roels, Harry; Rondia, Désiré; Sartor, Francis

1992-01-01

This report investigated the distribution of serum zinc and the factors determining serum zinc concentration in a large random population sample. The 1977 participants (959 men and 1018 women), 20–80 years old, constituted a stratified random sample of the population of four Belgian districts, representing two areas with low and two with high environmental exposure to cadmium. For each exposure level, a rural and an urban area were selected. The serum concentration of zinc, frequently used as an index for zinc status in human subjects, was higher in men (13.1 μmole/L, range 6.5–23.0 μmole/L) than in women (12.6 μmole/L, range 6.3–23.2 μmole/L). In men, 20% of the variance of serum zinc was explained by age (linear and squared term, R = 0.29), diurnal variation (r = 0.29), and total cholesterol (r = 0.16). After adjustment for these covariates, a negative relationship was observed between serum zinc and both blood (r = −0.10) and urinary cadmium (r = −0.14). In women, 11% of the variance could be explained by age (linear and squared term, R = 0.15), diurnal variation in serum zinc (r = 0.27), creatinine clearance (r = −0.11), log γ-glutamyltranspeptidase (r = 0.08), cholesterol (r = 0.07), contraceptive pill intake (r = −0.07), and log serum ferritin (r = 0.06). Before and after adjustment for significant covariates, serum zinc was, on average, lowest in the two districts where the body burden of cadmium, as assessed by urinary cadmium excretion, was highest. These results were not altered when subjects exposed to heavy metals at work were excluded from analysis. PMID:1486857

Variation of calcium, copper and iron levels in serum, bile and stone samples of patients having different types of gallstone: A comparative study.

PubMed

Khan, Mustafa; Kazi, Tasneem Gul; Afridi, Hassan Imran; Sirajuddin; Bilal, Muhammad; Akhtar, Asma; Khan, Sabir; Kadar, Salma

2017-08-01

Epidemiological data among the human population has shown a significantly increased incidence of gallstone (GS) disease worldwide. It was studied that some essential (calcium) and transition elements (iron and copper) in bile play an important role in the development of GS. The estimation of calcium, copper and iron were carried out in the serum, gall bladder bile and different types of GS (cholesterol, mixed and pigmented) of 172 patients, age ranged 20-55years. For comparative purpose age matched referents not suffering from GS diseases were also selected. Biliary concentrations of calcium (Ca), iron (Fe) and copper (Cu) were correlated with their concentrations in serum and different types of GS samples. The ratio of Ca, Fe and Cu in bile with serum was also calculated. Understudy metals were determined by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy after acid decomposition of matrices of selected samples. The Ca concentrations in serum samples were significantly higher in patients with pigmented GS as compared to controls (p<0.005), whereas for patients having cholesterol and mixed GS the concentrations were on the lower side. Biliary Ca concentrations of patients were found to be higher than controls, but difference was significant for pigmented GS patients (p>0.001). The contents of Cu and Fe in serum and bile of all patients (except female cholesterol GS patient have low serum iron concentration) were found to be higher than control, but difference was significant in those patients who have pigmented GS. The concentration of Ca, Fe and Cu in different types GS were found in the order, Pigmented>mixed>cholesterol. The bile/serum ratio for Ca, Cu and Fe was found to be significantly higher in pigmented GS patients. Gall bladder bile was slightly alkaline in patients as compared to referents. The density of bile was found to be higher in patients as compared to the referents. Various functional groups present in different types of GS samples were confirmed by Fourier

Changes to Serum Sample Tube and Processing Methodology Does Not Cause Inter-Individual Variation in Automated Whole Serum N-Glycan Profiling in Health and Disease

PubMed Central

Shubhakar, Archana; Kalla, Rahul; Nimmo, Elaine R.; Fernandes, Daryl L.; Satsangi, Jack; Spencer, Daniel I. R.

2015-01-01

Introduction Serum N-glycans have been identified as putative biomarkers for numerous diseases. The impact of different serum sample tubes and processing methods on N-glycan analysis has received relatively little attention. This study aimed to determine the effect of different sample tubes and processing methods on the whole serum N-glycan profile in both health and disease. A secondary objective was to describe a robot automated N-glycan release, labeling and cleanup process for use in a biomarker discovery system. Methods 25 patients with active and quiescent inflammatory bowel disease and controls had three different serum sample tubes taken at the same draw. Two different processing methods were used for three types of tube (with and without gel-separation medium). Samples were randomised and processed in a blinded fashion. Whole serum N-glycan release, 2-aminobenzamide labeling and cleanup was automated using a Hamilton Microlab STARlet Liquid Handling robot. Samples were analysed using a hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography/ethylene bridged hybrid(BEH) column on an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography instrument. Data were analysed quantitatively by pairwise correlation and hierarchical clustering using the area under each chromatogram peak. Qualitatively, a blinded assessor attempted to match chromatograms to each individual. Results There was small intra-individual variation in serum N-glycan profiles from samples collected using different sample processing methods. Intra-individual correlation coefficients were between 0.99 and 1. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering and principal coordinate analyses accurately matched samples from the same individual. Qualitative analysis demonstrated good chromatogram overlay and a blinded assessor was able to accurately match individuals based on chromatogram profile, regardless of disease status. Conclusions The three different serum sample tubes processed using the described methods cause minimal

Changes to serum sample tube and processing methodology does not cause Intra-Individual [corrected] variation in automated whole serum N-glycan profiling in health and disease.

PubMed

Ventham, Nicholas T; Gardner, Richard A; Kennedy, Nicholas A; Shubhakar, Archana; Kalla, Rahul; Nimmo, Elaine R; Fernandes, Daryl L; Satsangi, Jack; Spencer, Daniel I R

2015-01-01

Serum N-glycans have been identified as putative biomarkers for numerous diseases. The impact of different serum sample tubes and processing methods on N-glycan analysis has received relatively little attention. This study aimed to determine the effect of different sample tubes and processing methods on the whole serum N-glycan profile in both health and disease. A secondary objective was to describe a robot automated N-glycan release, labeling and cleanup process for use in a biomarker discovery system. 25 patients with active and quiescent inflammatory bowel disease and controls had three different serum sample tubes taken at the same draw. Two different processing methods were used for three types of tube (with and without gel-separation medium). Samples were randomised and processed in a blinded fashion. Whole serum N-glycan release, 2-aminobenzamide labeling and cleanup was automated using a Hamilton Microlab STARlet Liquid Handling robot. Samples were analysed using a hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography/ethylene bridged hybrid(BEH) column on an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography instrument. Data were analysed quantitatively by pairwise correlation and hierarchical clustering using the area under each chromatogram peak. Qualitatively, a blinded assessor attempted to match chromatograms to each individual. There was small intra-individual variation in serum N-glycan profiles from samples collected using different sample processing methods. Intra-individual correlation coefficients were between 0.99 and 1. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering and principal coordinate analyses accurately matched samples from the same individual. Qualitative analysis demonstrated good chromatogram overlay and a blinded assessor was able to accurately match individuals based on chromatogram profile, regardless of disease status. The three different serum sample tubes processed using the described methods cause minimal inter-individual variation in serum whole N

Brominated flame retardants in the hair and serum samples from an e-waste recycling area in southeastern China: the possibility of using hair for biomonitoring.

PubMed

Liang, Si; Xu, Feng; Tang, Weibiao; Zhang, Zheng; Zhang, Wei; Liu, Lili; Wang, Junxia; Lin, Kuangfei

2016-08-01

Hair samples and paired serum samples were collected from e-waste and urban areas in Wenling of Zhejiang Province, China. The PBDE and DBDPE concentrations in hair and serum samples from e-waste workers were significantly higher than those of non-occupational residents and urban residents. BDE209 was the dominating BFRs in hair and serum samples from the e-waste area, while DBDPE was the major BFRs from the urban area. Statistically significant correlations were observed between hair level and serum level for some substances (BDE209, DBDPE, BDE99, BDE47, BDE28, and BDE17), although the PBDE congener profiles in hair were different from those in the serum. A statistically significant positive correlation between the PBDE concentrations and the working age, as well as gender difference, was observed in e-waste workers. Different sources of PBDEs and DBDPE in three groups were identified by principal component analysis and spearman correlation coefficient. Hair is suggested to be a useful matrix for biomonitoring the PBDE exposure in humans.

Serum Trans Fatty Acids Are Not Associated with Weight Gain or Linear Growth in School-Age Children123

PubMed Central

Baylin, Ana; Perng, Wei; Mora-Plazas, Mercedes; Marin, Constanza; Villamor, Eduardo

2015-01-01

Background: Animal and human adult studies indicate that long-term intake of trans fatty acids (TFAs) may be associated with weight gain. High intake of fast foods and snacks, which are rich in TFAs, is linked to overweight status among school-age children. However, the specific effects of TFAs in this population are unknown. Objective: We examined whether serum TFAs, used as biomarkers of intake, are associated with faster weight gain and linear growth during school years. Methods: We quantified TFAs by GLC in serum samples of 668 children aged 5–12 y at the time of recruitment into an ongoing cohort study performed in Bogota (Colombia) since 2006. Serum proportions of trans palmitoleic acid (16:1t), trans oleic acid (18:1t), trans linoleic acid (18:2t), and total TFAs were used as biomarkers of intake. Anthropometric characteristics were measured periodically for a median of 30 mo. Body mass index-for-age z scores (BAZs) and height-for-age z scores (HAZs) were calculated with the use of the WHO reference. We estimated mean changes in BAZs and HAZs over follow-up according to quartiles of each TFA at baseline by using mixed-effects regression models with restricted cubic splines. Results: Proportions of trans palmitoleic acid, trans oleic acid, trans linoleic acid, and total TFAs (mean ± SD, % of total serum FAs), were 0.22 ± 0.06, 0.91 ± 0.37, 0.96 ± 0.27, and 2.10 ± 0.59, respectively. Serum TFAs were not associated with changes in BAZs and HAZs after adjusting for sex, baseline age, and socioeconomic status. In a subgroup analysis by sex, serum trans palmitoleic acid was positively associated with the estimated change in HAZs from ages 6 to 14 y in boys (with use of the first quartile as the reference, differences in HAZs for trans palmitoleic acid quartiles were 0.73, 0.53, and 0.70, P-trend = 0.03). Conclusions: Proportions of serum TFAs, used as biomarkers of TFA intake, were not associated with weight gain in children aged 6–14 y in low- and middle

Serum levels of perfluoroalkyl compounds in human maternal and umbilical cord blood samples

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Monroy, Rocio; Morrison, Katherine; Teo, Koon

2008-09-15

Perfluoroalkyl compounds (PFCs) are end-stage metabolic products from industrial flourochemicals used in the manufacture of plastics, textiles, and electronics that are widely distributed in the environment. The objective of the present study was to quantify exposure to perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoate (PFOA), perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDeA), perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS), perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA), and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) in serum samples collected from pregnant women and the umbilical cord at delivery. Pregnant women (n=101) presenting for second trimester ultrasound were recruited and PFC residue levels were quantified in maternal serum at 24-28 weeks of pregnancy, at delivery, and in umbilical cord blood (UCB;more » n=105) by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Paired t-test and multiple regression analysis were performed to determine the relationship between the concentrations of each analyte at different sample collection time points. PFOA and PFOS were detectable in all serum samples analyzed including the UCB. PFOS serum levels (mean{+-}S.D.) were significantly higher (p<0.001) in second trimester maternal serum (18.1{+-}10.9 ng/mL) than maternal serum levels at delivery (16.2{+-}10.4 ng/mL), which were higher than the levels found in UCB (7.3{+-}5.8 ng/mL; p<0.001). PFHxS was quantifiable in 46/101 (45.5%) maternal and 21/105 (20%) UCB samples with a mean concentration of 4.05{+-}12.3 and 5.05{+-}12.9 ng/mL, respectively. There was no association between serum PFCs at any time point studied and birth weight. Taken together our data demonstrate that although there is widespread exposure to PFCs during development, these exposures do not affect birth weight.« less

Comparing identified and statistically significant lipids and polar metabolites in 15-year old serum and dried blood spot samples for longitudinal studies: Comparing lipids and metabolites in serum and DBS samples

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kyle, Jennifer E.; Casey, Cameron P.; Stratton, Kelly G.

The use of dried blood spots (DBS) has many advantages over traditional plasma and serum samples such as smaller blood volume required, storage at room temperature, and ability for sampling in remote locations. However, understanding the robustness of different analytes in DBS samples is essential, especially in older samples collected for longitudinal studies. Here we analyzed DBS samples collected in 2000-2001 and stored at room temperature and compared them to matched serum samples stored at -80°C to determine if they could be effectively used as specific time points in a longitudinal study following metabolic disease. Four hundred small molecules weremore » identified in both the serum and DBS samples using gas chromatograph-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), liquid chromatography-MS (LC-MS) and LC-ion mobility spectrometry-MS (LC-IMS-MS). The identified polar metabolites overlapped well between the sample types, though only one statistically significant polar metabolite in a case-control study was conserved, indicating degradation occurs in the DBS samples affecting quantitation. Differences in the lipid identifications indicated that some oxidation occurs in the DBS samples. However, thirty-six statistically significant lipids correlated in both sample types indicating that lipid quantitation was more stable across the sample types.« less

Individualized correction of insulin measurement in hemolyzed serum samples.

PubMed

Wu, Zhi-Qi; Lu, Ju; Chen, Huanhuan; Chen, Wensen; Xu, Hua-Guo

2017-06-01

Insulin measurement plays a key role in the investigation of patients with hypoglycemia, subtype classification of diabetes mellitus, insulin resistance, and impaired beta cell function. However, even slight hemolysis can negatively affect insulin measurement due to RBC insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE). Here, we derived and validated an individualized correction equation in an attempt to eliminate the effects of hemolysis on insulin measurement. The effects of hemolysis on insulin measurement were studied by adding lysed self-RBCs to serum. A correction equation was derived, accounting for both percentage and exposure time of hemolysis. The performance of this individualized correction was evaluated in intentionally hemolyzed samples. Insulin concentration decreased with increasing percentage and exposure time of hemolysis. Based on the effects of hemolysis on insulin measurement of 17 donors (baseline insulin concentrations ranged from 156 to 2119 pmol/L), the individualized hemolysis correction equation was derived: INS corr  = INS meas /(0.705lgHb plasma /Hb serum  - 0.001Time - 0.612). This equation can revert insulin concentrations of the intentionally hemolyzed samples to values that were statistically not different from the corresponding insulin baseline concentrations (p = 0.1564). Hemolysis could lead to a negative interference on insulin measurement; by individualized hemolysis correction equation for insulin measurement, we can correct and report reliable serum insulin results for a wide range of degrees of sample hemolysis. This correction would increase diagnostic accuracy, reduce inappropriate therapeutic decisions, and improve patient satisfaction with care.

Epidermal Dysfunction Leads to an Age-Associated Increase in Levels of Serum Inflammatory Cytokines.

PubMed

Hu, Lizhi; Mauro, Theodora M; Dang, Erle; Man, George; Zhang, Jing; Lee, Dale; Wang, Gang; Feingold, Kenneth R; Elias, Peter M; Man, Mao-Qiang

2017-06-01

Even though elderly populations lack visible or other clinical signs of inflammation, their serum cytokine and C-reactive protein levels typically are elevated. However, the origin of age-associated systemic inflammation is unknown. Our previous studies showed that abnormalities in epidermal function provoke cutaneous inflammation, and because intrinsically aged skin displays compromised permeability barrier homeostasis and reduced stratum corneum hydration, we hypothesized here that epidermal dysfunction could contribute to the elevations in serum cytokines in the elderly. Our results show first that acute disruption of the epidermal permeability barrier in young mice leads not only to a rapid increase in cutaneous cytokine mRNA expression but also an increase in serum cytokine levels. Second, cytokine levels in both the skin and serum increase in otherwise normal, aged mice (>12 months). Third, expression of tumor necrosis factor-α and amyloid A mRNA levels increased in the epidermis, but not in the liver, in parallel with a significant elevation in serum levels of cytokines. Fourth, disruption of the permeability barrier induced similar elevations in epidermal and serum cytokine levels in normal and athymic mice, suggesting that T cells play a negligible role in the elevations in cutaneous and serum inflammatory cytokines induced by epidermal dysfunction. Fifth, correction of epidermal function significantly reduced cytokine levels not only in the skin but also in the serum of aged mice. Together, these results indicate that the sustained abnormalities in epidermal function in chronologically aged skin contribute to the elevated serum levels of inflammatory cytokines, potentially predisposing the elderly to the subsequent development or exacerbation of chronic inflammatory disorders. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

First trimester maternal lipid levels and serum markers of small- and large-for-gestational age infants.

PubMed

Parlakgumus, Huriye Ayse; Aytac, Pinar Caglar; Kalaycı, Hakan; Tarim, Ebru

2014-01-01

To investigate if first trimester lipids, sonographic parameters and serum markers are related to small- and large-for-gestational age (SGA, LGA) infants. This study was conducted at Baskent University Adana Research Center between December 2009 and July 2011 and enrolled 433 women. Blood samples were drawn to measure fasting blood glucose, serum triglycerides, cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, fβ-hCG and pregnancy associated protein-A (PAPP-A) at the first trimester. Crown rump length and nuchal translucency were measured as suggested by the fetal medicine foundation. LGA group was significantly taller (p = 0.016) and SGA group had significantly greater BMI (0.025). SGA fetuses were born at a significantly earlier gestational age (p = 0.001). Univariate analysis revealed that LGA group had significantly lower cholesterol (p = 0.038) and LDL levels (p = 0.041). PAPP-A was significantly lower in SGA Group compared with LGA Group (0.027). After controlling for age, parity, height, pre-pregnant BMI, weight gain during pregnancy and fasting blood sugar, none of the lipids, serum markers or sonographic parameters was related to LGA. PAPP-A was the only parameter significantly associated with SGA after multivariate analysis (p = 0.008). PAPP-A was significantly associated with SGA after controlling for confounders.

Serum factors and clinical characteristics associated with serum E-Screen activity

PubMed Central

Wang, Jue; Trentham-Dietz, Amy; Hemming, Jocelyn D. C.; Hedman, Curtis J.; Sprague, Brian L.

2013-01-01

Background The E-Screen bioassay can measure the mitogenicity of human serum and thus may be useful as a biomarker in epidemiologic studies of breast cancer. While the assay’s MCF-7 cells are known to proliferate in response to estrogen, the specific determinants of variation in E-Screen activity in human serum samples are poorly understood. We sought to identify serum molecules and patient characteristics associated with serum E-Screen activity among postmenopausal women. Methods Postmenopausal women (N=219) aged 55–70 with no history of postmenopausal hormone use or breast cancer completed a questionnaire and provided a blood sample. Serum was analyzed for E-Screen activity and a variety of molecules including sex hormones, growth factors, and environmental chemicals. Stepwise selection procedures were used to identify correlates of E-Screen activity. Results Serum samples from all women had detectable E-Screen activity, with a median estradiol equivalents value of 0.027 ng/mL and interquartile range of 0.018–0.036 ng/mL. In the final multivariable-adjusted model, serum E-Screen activity was positively associated with serum estradiol, estrone, IGFBP-3, and testosterone levels (p<0.05), as well as body mass index (p=0.03). Serum E-Screen activity was lower among women with higher SHBG (p<0.0001) and progesterone levels (p=0.03). Conclusion Serum E-Screen activity varies according to levels of endogenous estrogens and other serum molecules. Obesity appears to confer additional serum mitogenicity beyond its impact on the measured hormones and growth factors. Impact By capturing mitogenicity due to a variety of patient and serum factors, the E-Screen may provide advantages for use as a biomarker in breast cancer studies. PMID:23588007

Serum Tocopherol Levels and Vitamin E Intake are Associated with Lung Function in the Normative Aging Study

PubMed Central

Hanson, Corrine; Lyden, Elizabeth; Furtado, Jeremy; Campos, Hannia; Sparrow, David; Vokonas, Pantel; Litonjua, Augusto A.

2015-01-01

Background and Aims The results of studies assessing relationships between vitamin E intake and status and lung function are conflicting. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of vitamin E intake and serum levels of tocopherol isoforms on lung function in a cross-sectional sample of 580 men from the Normative Aging Study, a longitudinal aging study. Methods Regression models were used to look at associations of serum tocopherol isoform levels and vitamin E intake with lung function parameters after adjustment for confounders. Vitamin E intake was measured using a food frequency questionnaire and serum levels of γ, α, and δ-tocopherol levels were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography. Results After adjustment for potential confounders, serum γ-tocopherol had a significant inverse association with forced vital capacity (β=-0.10, p=0.05). Alpha and δ-tocopherol were not associated with any lung function parameter. After classifying COPD status according to Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) stage criteria, serum levels of δ-tocopherol were lower in participants with more severe COPD (p=0.01). Serum levels of δ-tocopherol were also lower in participants with greater levels of smoking (p=0.02). Both vitamin E intake (β=0.03, p=0.02; β=0.03, p=0.01) and use of vitamin E supplements (β=0.05, p=0.03; β=0.06. p=0.02) were positively associated with FEV1 and FVC, after adjusting for confounders. Subjects who took vitamin E supplements had significantly higher α-tocopherol levels (p<0.0001) and lower γ-tocopherol levels (p<0.0001) than non-users. Conclusion In this study, there is a positive association between dietary vitamin E intake and lung function, and evidence of an inverse relationship between serum levels of γ-tocopherol and lung function. PMID:25715694

Detection of autoantibodies against thyroid peroxidase in serum samples of hypothyroid dogs.

PubMed

Skopek, Evelyn; Patzl, Martina; Nachreiner, Raymond F

2006-05-01

To establish a sensitive test for the detection of autoantibodies against thyroid peroxidase (TPO) in canine serum samples. 365 serum samples from dogs with hypothyroidism as determined on the basis of serum concentrations of total and free triiodothyronine (T3), total and free thyroxine (T4), and thyroid-stimulating hormone, of which 195 (53%) had positive results for at least 1 of 3 thyroid autoantibodies (against thyroglobulin [Tg], T4, or T3) and serum samples from 28 healthy dogs (control samples). TPO was purified from canine thyroid glands by extraction with detergents, ultracentrifugation, and precipitation with ammonium sulfate. Screening for anti-TPO autoantibodies in canine sera was performed by use of an immunoblot assay. Thyroid extract containing TPO was separated electrophoretically, blotted, and probed with canine sera. Alkaline phosphatase-conjugated rabbit anti-dog IgG was used for detection of bound antibodies. TPO bands were observed at 110, 100, and 40 kd. Anti-TPO autoantibodies against the 40-kd fragment were detected in 33 (17%) sera of dogs with positive results for anti-Tg, anti-T4, or anti-T3 autoantibodies but not in sera of hypothyroid dogs without these autoantibodies or in sera of healthy dogs. The immunoblot assay was a sensitive and specific method for the detection of autoantibodies because it also provided information about the antigen. Anti-TPO autoantibodies were clearly detected in a fraction of hypothyroid dogs. The value of anti-TPO autoantibodies for use in early diagnosis of animals with thyroid gland diseases should be evaluated in additional studies.

In vitro production of GHB in blood and serum samples under various storage conditions.

PubMed

Zörntlein, S W; Kopp, A; Becker, J; Kaufmann, T J; Röhrich, J; Urban, R

2012-01-10

The in vitro production of GHB was observed in freshly collected, untreated whole blood samples using glass BD-Vacutainers and polypropylene S-monovettes. GHB concentrations were determined daily over a period of one week and after 3, 6 and 9 weeks again. Furthermore, the GHB concentration in 40 untreated random whole blood samples stored at 4°C for a longer period of time (10 samples 12 month, 10 samples 24 month and 20 samples 36 month) was also determined. For comparison, the in vitro production of GHB in freshly collected and prepared serum samples was observed. GHB serum concentrations were determined three times over a period of one week and once again after six weeks. Sample preparation was performed by means of methanolic extraction following the precipitation of whole blood and serum samples. A methanolic standard calibration was done in a low range of 0.005-0.1 μg/mL (LOD: 0.004, LLOQ: 0.013). For quantification a spiked blood bank serum with a determined GHB concentration of 0.09 μg/mL was used. Corrected calibrations in the range of 0.09-5.09 μg/mL were used (LOD: 0.08 μg/mL, LLOQ: 0.30 μg/mL), recovery: 91.3% (high level: 4.09 μg/mL) 50.5% (low level: 0.19 μg/mL). Relevant elevation of GHB was observed in all whole blood samples stored in liquid form (4°C or room temperature). In two of the 40 whole blood samples stored over a longer period of time at 4°C, GHB concentrations in the range of 13 μg/mL were even determined. These findings constitute grounds for caution. Even a GHB cut-off level of 5 μg/mL cannot be considered as "absolutely positive" proof of a case of exogenous administration, at least in untreated liquid blood samples in long time storage. However, no significant elevations of GHB were otherwise observed in any of the serum samples independently of storage temperature nor in the whole blood samples that were frozen for storage. The results suggest that the cut-off for exogenous GHB of 5 μg/mL could be lowered significantly

Specific IgA and IgG antibodies in paired serum and breast milk samples in human strongyloidiasis.

PubMed

Mota-Ferreira, Daniela M L; Gonçalves-Pires, Maria do Rosário F; Júnior, Alvaro Ferreira; Sopelete, Mônica C; Abdallah, Vânia O S; Costa-Cruz, Julia M

2009-02-01

Strongyloidiasis, caused by the nematode Strongyloides stercoralis, is one of the major worldwide parasitic infections in humans. Breastfeeding may offer a potential protection against this infection. Feces, serum and milk samples were obtained from 90 lactating women from Clinical Hospital of Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Brazil. The fecal samples were collected for parasitological diagnosis and the serum and milk samples were examined for specific S. stercoralis IgA and IgG antibodies using the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Fecal examination showed that the rate of prevalence of S. stercoralis infection in the lactating women was 4.4%. IFAT manifested a 16.7% positivity rate for specific IgA antibody in serum and a 28.9% rate in milk samples; specific IgG was 41.1% in serum and 25.5% in milk samples. According to ELISA the positivity rate for specific IgA antibody was 21.1% in serum and 42.2% in milk samples; specific IgG was 40% in serum and 18.9% in milk samples. In serum samples, these immunological tests showed a concurrence of 91.1% and 94.4%, respectively, in detecting specific IgA and IgG antibodies. In milk samples, they showed a concurrence of 70% and 78.9%, respectively, in detecting specific IgA and IgG antibodies. There was a statistically significant difference between concordant and discordant results of immunological tests (P<0.0001). IFAT and ELISA highly concurred in their detection of specific S. stercoralis IgA and IgG antibodies in serum and in milk samples reconfirming prior studies that the serological method is a complement to the direct diagnosis of the parasite, and suggesting that immunological methods using milk samples can also be helpful. Furthermore, in endemic areas, infants may acquire antibodies to S. stercoralis from breast milk, possibly, contributing to the enhancement of specific mucosal immunity against this parasite.

EDRN Breast and Ovary Cancer CVC, Study 4: Phase 3 Validation of Ovarian Cancer Serum Markers in Preclinical WHI Samples — EDRN Public Portal

Cancer.gov

The WHI offers an opportunity to evaluate ovarian cancer markers and screening decision rules developed and validated in EDRN CVC Studies 2 and 3 in women who were not being screened. It is particularly well suited to validation of risk markers, since many serum samples were drawn well before clinical diagnosis of cancer in the WHI cohorts. A strategy is needed to identify from among the general population of women over the age of 50 those at high-risk for a diagnosis of ovarian/fallopian tube cancer so that they can be referred for appropriate surveillance, imaging or surgical consult. Tools to identify high-risk women will be investigated including serum markers CA125, HE4, MSLN, and MMP7 and epidemiologic risk factors. We will optimize decision rules using stored serum samples from the WHI OS and conduct a simulated prospective validation using stored serum samples from the WHI CT. Decision rules to select women for ovarian cancer screening will be investigated as well as decision rules for use in ovarian cancer screening.

Age specific serum anti-Müllerian hormone levels in 1,298 Korean women with regular menstruation

PubMed Central

Yoo, Ji Hee; Cha, Sun Wha; Park, Chan Woo; Yang, Kwang Moon; Song, In Ok; Koong, Mi Kyoung; Kang, Inn Soo

2011-01-01

Objective To determine the age specific serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) reference values in Korean women with regular menstruation. Methods Between May, 2010 and January, 2011, the serum AMH levels were evaluated in a total of 1,298 women who have regular menstrual cycles aged between 20 and 50 years. Women were classified into 6 categories by age: 20-31 years, 32-34 years, 35-37 years, 38-40 years, 41-43 years, above 43 years. Measurement of serum AMH was measured by commercial enzyme-linked immunoassay. Results The serum AMH levels correlated negatively with age. The median AMH level of each age group was 4.20 ng/mL, 3.70 ng/mL, 2.60 ng/mL, 1.50 ng/mL, 1.30 ng/mL, and 0.60 ng/mL, respectively. The AMH values in the lower 5th percentile of each age group were 1.19 ng/mL, 0.60 ng/mL, 0.42 ng/mL, 0.27 ng/mL, 0.14 ng/mL, and 0.10 ng/mL, respectively. Conclusion This study determined reference values of serum AMH in Korean women with regular menstruation. These values can be applied to clinical evaluation and treatment of infertile women. PMID:22384425

Serum calcium, phosphorus and magnesium responses to massive dosing of cholecalciferol (CC) and 25-OH-CC in young and aged ewes.

PubMed

Thomas, B B; Boling, J A; Muir, W M

1981-01-01

Twenty-four ewes were divided into two age groups (one-year-old and nine-year-old) and used to determine the influence of cholecalciferol (CC) and 25-OH-CC on serum concentrations of Ca, P, and Mg with time post-injection. The ewes were maintained in slatted-floor pens and fed 800 g per head daily of a diet which analyzed 0.38% calcium, 0.31% phosphorus, and 0.14% magnesium. This diet was fed throughout the 21-day trial. The ewes were injected on days 0 and 7 as follows: (control) 5 ml ethanol; (CC) 50 mg CC in 5 ml ethanol; and (25-OH-CC) 25 mg 25-OH-CC in ethanol. Blood samples were pre-injection (day 0) and on days 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 17 and 21 of the trial. Serum Ca averaged 10.81, 11.06 and 11.25 mg/100 ml for the one-year-old ewes and 10.51, 11.06 and 11.54 mg/100 ml for the nine-year-olds across sampling times in groups A to C, respectively. Serum P across sampling times averaged 6.58, 7.80 and 9.51 mg/100 ml in one-year-old ewes and were different (P less than .05) from each other. Serum P averaged 7.06, 8.56 and 8.59 mg/100 ml for the nine-year-old ewes. Serum Mg values were 2.51, 2.32 and 2.19 mg/100 ml for the one-year-old and 2.38, 2.14 and 2.00 mg/100 ml for the nine-year-old ewes across all sampling times for control, CC and 25-OH-CC groups, respectively. Serum Mg in one-year-old ewes was lower (P less than .05) in both CC and 25-OH-CC injected ewes than controls, and was lowest (P less than .05) for 25-OH-CC when compared with the control in nine-year-old ewes. External symptoms of hypervitaminosis (reduced feed intake and leg abnormalities) were apparent after the second injection with 25-OH-CC, and were most pronounced in the aged ewes.

Gender and age influence the relationship between serum GH and IGF-I in patients with acromegaly.

PubMed

Parkinson, C; Renehan, A G; Ryder, W D J; O'Dwyer, S T; Shalet, S M; Trainer, P J

2002-07-01

In patients with acromegaly serum IGF-I is increasingly used as a marker of disease activity. As a result, the relationship between serum GH and IGF-I is of profound interest. Healthy females secrete three times more GH than males but have broadly similar serum IGF-I levels, and women with GH deficiency require 30-50% more exogenous GH to maintain the same serum IGF-I as GH-deficient men. In a selected cohort of patients with active acromegaly, studied off medical therapy using a single fasting serum GH and IGF-I measurement, we have reported previously that, for a given GH level, women have significantly lower circulating IGF-I. To evaluate the influence of age and gender on the relationship between serum GH and IGF-I in an unselected cohort of patients with acromegaly independent of disease control and medical therapy. Sixty (34 male) unselected patients with acromegaly (median age 51 years (range 24-81 years) attending a colonoscopy screening programme were studied. Forty-five had previously received pituitary radiotherapy. Patients had varying degrees of disease control and received medical therapy where appropriate. Mean serum GH was calculated from an eight-point day profile (n = 45) and values obtained during a 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (n = 15). Serum IGF-I, IGFBP-3 and acid-labile subunit were measured and the dependency of these factors on covariates such as log10 mean serum GH, sex, age and prior radiotherapy was assessed using regression techniques. The median calculated GH value was 4.7 mU/l (range 1-104). A significant linear association was observed between serum IGF-I and log10 mean serum GH for the cohort (R = 0.5, P < 0.0001). After simultaneous adjustment of the above covariates a significant difference in the relationship between mean serum GH and IGF-I was observed for males and females. On average, women had serum IGF-I levels 11.44 nmol/l lower than men with the same mean serum GH (P = 0.03, 95% CI 1.33-21.4 nmol/l). Age significantly

Use of Paired Serum Samples for Serodiagnosis of Typhoid Fever

PubMed Central

House, Deborah; Chinh, Nguyen T.; Diep, To S.; Parry, Christopher M.; Wain, John; Dougan, Gordon; White, Nicholas J.; Hien, Tran Tinh; Farrar, Jeremy J.

2005-01-01

Using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay we demonstrate that, in adult patients with typhoid fever, the sensitivity of a serological test based on the detection of anti-lipopolysaccharide immunoglobulin G is increased when used with paired serum samples taken 1 week apart. PMID:16145168

Feeding Healthy Beagles Medium-Chain Triglycerides, Fish Oil, and Carnitine Offsets Age-Related Changes in Serum Fatty Acids and Carnitine Metabolites

PubMed Central

Hall, Jean A.; Jewell, Dennis E.

2012-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine if feeding dogs medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), fish oil, and L-carnitine enriched foods offsets age-associated changes in serum fatty acids (FA) and carnitine metabolites. Forty-one healthy Beagles, mean age 9.9 years (range 3.1 to 14.8), were fed control or one of two treatment foods for 6 months. All foods were complete and balanced and met the nutrient requirements for adult dogs, and had similar concentrations of moisture, protein, and fat (approx. 7.4%, 14.0%, and 18.1%, respectively). The treatment diets both contained added L-carnitine (300 mg/kg) and 0.6% (treatment food 1) or 1.5% (treatment food 2) added fish oil. Treatment food 2 also had increased MCT from coconut oil, added corn oil, and reduced animal fat. Composition of serum FA was determined by gas chromatography of FA methyl esters. Metabolomic profiles of serum samples were determined from extracted supernatants that were split and run on GC/MS and LC/MS/MS platforms, for identification and relative quantification of small metabolites. Body composition was determined by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. Among dog groups, there was no change in total-lean-body weight, or in serum total protein and serum albumin concentrations, based on time or dietary treatment. Serum concentrations of carnitine metabolites were decreased in geriatric (>7 years) vs. mature adult (≤7 years) dogs, and supplementation with L-carnitine attenuated the effects of aging. The ratio of PUFA to SFA was significantly greater in mature dogs at baseline (P≤0.05). Serum concentrations of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic FA increased in a dose-dependent manner. Dogs consuming treatment food 2 also had increased serum concentrations of lauric and myristic FA, and decreased concentrations of SFA, MUFA, and arachidonate (all P≤0.05) and their PUFA to SFA ratio increased. In summary, dietary MCT, fish oil, and L-carnitine counterbalanced the effects of aging on circulating

Feeding healthy beagles medium-chain triglycerides, fish oil, and carnitine offsets age-related changes in serum fatty acids and carnitine metabolites.

PubMed

Hall, Jean A; Jewell, Dennis E

2012-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine if feeding dogs medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), fish oil, and L-carnitine enriched foods offsets age-associated changes in serum fatty acids (FA) and carnitine metabolites. Forty-one healthy Beagles, mean age 9.9 years (range 3.1 to 14.8), were fed control or one of two treatment foods for 6 months. All foods were complete and balanced and met the nutrient requirements for adult dogs, and had similar concentrations of moisture, protein, and fat (approx. 7.4%, 14.0%, and 18.1%, respectively). The treatment diets both contained added L-carnitine (300 mg/kg) and 0.6% (treatment food 1) or 1.5% (treatment food 2) added fish oil. Treatment food 2 also had increased MCT from coconut oil, added corn oil, and reduced animal fat. Composition of serum FA was determined by gas chromatography of FA methyl esters. Metabolomic profiles of serum samples were determined from extracted supernatants that were split and run on GC/MS and LC/MS/MS platforms, for identification and relative quantification of small metabolites. Body composition was determined by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. Among dog groups, there was no change in total-lean-body weight, or in serum total protein and serum albumin concentrations, based on time or dietary treatment. Serum concentrations of carnitine metabolites were decreased in geriatric (>7 years) vs. mature adult (≤ 7 years) dogs, and supplementation with L-carnitine attenuated the effects of aging. The ratio of PUFA to SFA was significantly greater in mature dogs at baseline (P ≤ 0.05). Serum concentrations of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic FA increased in a dose-dependent manner. Dogs consuming treatment food 2 also had increased serum concentrations of lauric and myristic FA, and decreased concentrations of SFA, MUFA, and arachidonate (all P ≤ 0.05) and their PUFA to SFA ratio increased. In summary, dietary MCT, fish oil, and L-carnitine counterbalanced the effects of aging on circulating

Stability of Chronic Hepatitis-Related Parameters in Serum Samples After Long-Term Storage.

PubMed

Yu, Rentao; Dan, Yunjie; Xiang, Xiaomei; Zhou, Yi; Kuang, Xuemei; Yang, Ge; Tang, Yulan; Liu, Mingdong; Kong, Weilong; Tan, Wenting; Deng, Guohong

2017-06-01

Serum samples are widely used in clinical research, but a comprehensive research of the stability of parameters relevant to chronic hepatitis and the effect of a relatively long-term (up to 10 years) storage on the stability have rarely been studied. To investigate the stability of chronic hepatitis-related parameters in serum samples after long-term storage. The storage stability of common clinical parameters such as total bile acid (TBA), total bilirubin (TBIL), potassium, cholesterol, and protein parameters such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatine kinase (CK), γ-glutamyltransferase (GGT), albumin, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and also hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA, hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 10 (CXCL10) were tested in serum samples after storing at -20°C or -70°C for 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, and 10 years. Levels of TBA, TBIL, and protein parameters such as ALT, CK, GGT, HDL, and HBsAg decreased significantly, but levels of potassium and cholesterol increased significantly after long-term storage, whereas blood glucose and triglycerides were stable during storage. HBV DNA remained stable at -70°C but changed at -20°C, whereas HCV RNA was stable after 1-, 2-, and 3-year storage. CXCL10 was still detectable after 8-year storage. Low temperatures (-70°C/80°C) are necessary for storage of serum samples in chronic hepatitis B research after long-term storage.

Selenium speciation in paired serum and cerebrospinal fluid samples of sheep.

PubMed

Humann-Ziehank, Esther; Ganter, Martin; Michalke, Bernhard

2016-01-01

This study was performed to characterise selenium (Se) and Se species in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of sheep and its relation to the respective Se concentrations in serum. Paired samples from 10 adult sheep were used for the study. Five sheep were fed a diet with a marginal Se concentration of <0.05mg Se/kg diet dry weight (dw, Se(-)), and five animals were fed the same diet supplemented with sodium selenite revealing a concentration of 0.2mg Se/kg diet dw (Se(+)). The feeding strategy was conducted for two years; The results on metabolic effects were published previously. At the end of the feeding period, paired samples of serum and CSF were collected and analysed using ion exchange chromatography inductively coupled plasma-dynamic reaction cell-mass spectrometry (IEC-ICP-DRC-MS) technique for total Se concentration and concentrations of Se species. Albumin concentrations were analysed additionally. The feeding strategy caused significant differences (p<0.01) in serum Se concentrations with 33.1±5.11μg Se/l in the Se(-) group and 96.5±18.3μg Se/l in the Se(+) group, respectively. The corresponding total Se concentrations in CSF were 4.38±1.02μg Se/l and 6.13±1.64μg Se/l in the Se(-) and the Se(+) group, respectively, missing statistical significance (p=0.077). IEC-ICP-DRC-MS technique was able to differentiate the Se species selenoprotein P-bound Se (SePP), selenomethionine, glutathione peroxidase-bound Se (Se-GPx), selenocystine, thioredoxin reductase-bound Se, ovine serum albumin-bound Se (Se-OSA), SeIV and SeVI in ovine serum and CSF. Quantitatively, SePP is the main selenoprotein in ovine serum followed by Se-GPx. The CSF/blood ratio of albumin (QAlbumin) reflected a physiological function of the blood-CSF barrier in all sheep. QSe-species were higher than QAlbumin both feeding groups, supporting the hypothesis of local production of Se species in the brain. Significant positive regression lines for CSF vs. serum were found for albumin and Se-OSA only

Serum BDNF correlates with connectivity in the (pre)motor hub in the aging human brain--a resting-state fMRI pilot study.

PubMed

Mueller, Karsten; Arelin, Katrin; Möller, Harald E; Sacher, Julia; Kratzsch, Jürgen; Luck, Tobias; Riedel-Heller, Steffi; Villringer, Arno; Schroeter, Matthias L

2016-02-01

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been discussed to be involved in plasticity processes in the human brain, in particular during aging. Recently, aging and its (neurodegenerative) diseases have increasingly been conceptualized as disconnection syndromes. Here, connectivity changes in neural networks (the connectome) are suggested to be the most relevant and characteristic features for such processes or diseases. To further elucidate the impact of aging on neural networks, we investigated the interaction between plasticity processes, brain connectivity, and healthy aging by measuring levels of serum BDNF and resting-state fMRI data in 25 young (mean age 24.8 ± 2.7 (SD) years) and 23 old healthy participants (mean age, 68.6 ± 4.1 years). To identify neural hubs most essentially related to serum BDNF, we applied graph theory approaches, namely the new data-driven and parameter-free approach eigenvector centrality (EC) mapping. The analysis revealed a positive correlation between serum BDNF and EC in the premotor and motor cortex in older participants in contrast to young volunteers, where we did not detect any association. This positive relationship between serum BDNF and EC appears to be specific for older adults. Our results might indicate that the amount of physical activity and learning capacities, leading to higher BDNF levels, increases brain connectivity in (pre)motor areas in healthy aging in agreement with rodent animal studies. Pilot results have to be replicated in a larger sample including behavioral data to disentangle the cause for the relationship between BDNF levels and connectivity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Improvement in the stability of serum samples stored in an automated refrigerated module.

PubMed

Parra-Robert, Marina; Rico-Santana, Naira; Alcaraz-Quiles, José; Sandalinas, Silvia; Fernández, Esther; Falcón, Isabel; Pérez-Riedweg, Margarita; Bedini, Josep Lluís

2016-12-01

In clinical laboratories it is necessary to know for how long the analytes are stable in the samples with specific storage conditions. Our laboratory has implemented the new Aptio Automation System (AAS) (Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics) where the analyzed samples are stored in a refrigerated storage module (RSM) after being sealed. The aim of the study was to evaluate the stability of serum samples with the AAS and comparing the results with a previous study using a conventional refrigerated system. Serum samples from a total of 50 patients were collected and for each of them 27 biochemical analytes were analyzed. The samples were divided in 5 sets of 10 samples. Each set was re-analyzed at one of the following times: 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120h. Stability was evaluated according to the Total Limit of Change (TLC) criteria, which combine both analytical and biologic variation. A total of 26 out of 27 analytes were stable at the end of the study according to TLC criteria. Lactate dehydrogenase was not stable at 48h observing a decrease in its concentration until the end of the study. In the previous study (conventional storage system) 9 biochemical analytes were not stable with an increase of their levels due to the evaporation process. The RSM connected to the AAS improves the stability of serum samples. This system avoids the evaporation process due to the sealing of samples and allows better control of the samples during their storage. Copyright © 2016 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Determination of Zn/Cu ratio and oligoelements in serum samples by total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry for cancer diagnosis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marcó P., L. M.; Jiménez, E.; Hernández C., E. A.; Rojas, A.; Greaves, E. D.

2001-11-01

The method of quantification using the Compton peak as an internal standard, developed in a previous work, was applied to the routine determination of Fe, Cu, Zn and Se in serum samples from normal individuals and cancer patients by total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. Samples were classified according to age and sex of the donor, in order to determine reference values for normal individuals. Results indicate that the Zn/Cu ratio and the Cu concentration could prove to be useful tools for cancer diagnosis. Significant differences in these parameters between the normal and cancer group were found for all age ranges. The multielemental character of the technique, coupled with the small amounts of sample required and the short analysis time make it a valuable tool in clinical analysis.

Serum and erythrocyte folate status of New Zealand women of childbearing age following a countrywide voluntary programme by the baking industry to fortify bread with folic acid.

PubMed

Bradbury, Kathryn E; Williams, Sheila M; Mann, Jim I; Oey, Indrawati; Aitchison, Cindy; Parnell, Winsome; Fleming, Liz; Brown, Rachel C; Skeaff, C Murray

2016-11-01

To estimate the folate status of New Zealand women of childbearing age following the introduction, in 2010, of a new voluntary folic acid fortification of bread programme. The 2011 Folate and Women's Health Survey was a cross-sectional survey of women aged 18-44 years carried out in 2011. The survey used a stratified random sampling technique with the Electoral Roll as the sampling frame. Women were asked about consumption of folic-acid-fortified breads and breakfast cereals in a telephone interview. During a clinic visit, blood was collected for serum and erythrocyte folate measurement by microbiological assay. A North Island (Wellington) and South Island (Dunedin) city centre in New Zealand. Two hundred and eighty-eight women, of whom 278 completed a clinic visit. Geometric mean serum and erythrocyte folate concentrations were 30 nmol/l and 996 nmol/l, respectively. Folate status was 30-40 % higher compared with women of childbearing age sampled as part of a national survey in 2008/09, prior to the introduction of the voluntary folic acid bread fortification programme. In the 2011 Folate and Women's Health Survey, reported consumption of fortified bread and fortified breakfast cereal in the past week was associated with 25 % (P=0·01) and 15 % (P=0·04) higher serum folate concentrations, respectively. Serum and erythrocyte folate concentrations have increased in New Zealand women of childbearing age since the number of folic-acid-fortified breads was increased voluntarily in 2010. Consumption of fortified breads and breakfast cereals was associated with a higher folate status.

Prostate cancer risk: the significance of differences in age related changes in serum conjugated and unconjugated steroid hormone concentrations between Arab and Caucasian men.

PubMed

Kehinde, E O; Akanji, A O; Memon, A; Bashir, A A; Daar, A S; Al-Awadi, K A; Fatinikun, T

2006-01-01

Factors responsible for the low incidence of clinical prostate cancer (3-8/100,000 men/year) in the Arab population remain unclear, but may be related to changes in steroid hormone metabolism. We compared the levels of serum conjugated and unconjugated steroids between Arab and Caucasian populations, to determine if these can provide a rational explanation for differences in incidence of prostate cancer between the two populations. Venous blood samples were obtained from 329 unselected apparently healthy indigenous Arab men (Kuwaitis and Omanis) aged 15-80 years. Samples were also obtained from similar Arab men with newly diagnosed prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The samples were taken between 8:00 am and 12:00 noon. Serum levels of total testosterone, (TT), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), free androgen index (FAI); adrenal C19-steroids, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) and androstenedione (ADT) were determined using Immulite kits (Diagnostic Systems Laboratories Inc, Webster Texas, USA). The results obtained in Arab men were compared with those reported for similarly aged Chinese, German and White USA men. In all four ethnic groups, median TT and FAI declined with age, while SHBG increased with age. However, the mean TT and SHBG was significantly lower (p < 0.01) and the FAI significantly higher in Arab men (p < 0.01) compared to German men only in 21-30 years age group. In the other age groups the levels of TT and SHBG were higher in the Germans but the differences were not statistically significant. In all the racial groups serum levels of DHEAS and ADT reached a peak by about 20 years of life, and then declined progressively. The mean DHEAS in American Caucasians aged 20-29 years was 11.4 micromol/l compared to 6.22 micromol/l in the Arabs (p < 0.001). The mean DHEAS in USA Caucasians aged 70-79 years was 2.5 micromol/l compared to 1.8 micromol/l (p < 0.03) in the Arabs. There was no significant difference in mean serum levels

Serum transglutaminase 3 antibodies correlate with age at celiac disease diagnosis.

PubMed

Salmi, Teea T; Kurppa, Kalle; Hervonen, Kaisa; Laurila, Kaija; Collin, Pekka; Huhtala, Heini; Saavalainen, Päivi; Sievänen, Harri; Reunala, Timo; Kaukinen, Katri

2016-06-01

Transglutaminase (TG)2 is the autoantigen in celiac disease, but also TG3 antibodies have been detected in the serum of celiac disease patients. To investigate the correlations between serum TG3 antibodies and clinical and histological manifestations of celiac disease and to assess gluten-dependency of TG3 antibodies. Correlations between serum TG3 antibody levels measured from 119 adults and children with untreated coeliac disease and the demographic data, clinical symptoms, celiac antibodies, histological data and results of laboratory tests and bone mineral densities were tested. TG3 antibodies were reinvestigated in 97 celiac disease patients after 12 months on a gluten-free diet (GFD). TG3 antibody titers were shown to correlate with the age at celiac disease diagnosis. Further, negative correlation with TG3 antibodies and intestinal γδ+ cells at diagnosis and on GFD was detected. Correlations were not detected with the clinical manifestation of celiac disease, TG2 or endomysial autoantibodies, laboratory values, severity of mucosal villous atrophy, associated diseases or complications. TG3 antibody titers decreased on GFD in 56% of the TG3 antibody positive patients. Serum TG3 antibody positivity in celiac disease increases as the diagnostic age rises. TG3 antibodies did not show similar gluten-dependency as TG2 antibodies. Copyright © 2016 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Association of gene polymorphism with serum levels of inflammatory and angiogenic factors in Pakistani patients with age-related macular degeneration.

PubMed

Ambreen, Fareeha; Ismail, Muhammad; Qureshi, Irfan Zia

2015-01-01

To study the association of serum levels of inflammatory mediators and angiogenic factors with genetic polymorphism in Pakistani age-related macular degeneration (AMD) patients. This was a cross-sectional and case-control study that included 90 AMD patients diagnosed through slit-lamp examination, fundoscopy, and ocular coherence tomography. For reference and comparison purposes, 100 healthy age-matched subjects (controls) were also recruited. IL-6, IL-8, VEGF, and CRP levels were estimated in the serum samples of patients and control subjects. Using restriction fragment length polymorphism, single nucleotide polymorphisms were studied in IL-6 (rs1800795, rs1800796, rs1800797), IL-8 (rs4073, rs2227306, rs2227543), VEGF (rs3025039, rs699947), and CRP genes (rs1205, rs1130864). Since the data were obtained from a sample population, the Box-Cox transformation algorithm was applied to reduce heterogeneity of error. Multivariate analyses of variance (M-ANOVA) were applied on the transformed data to investigate the association of serum levels of IL-6, IL-8, VEGF, and CRP with AMD. Genotype and allele frequencies were compared through χ(2) tests applying Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The serum concentrations of IL-6 and IL-8, VEGF, and CRP between homozygotes and heterozygotes were compared through one-way ANOVA. Significance level was p<0.05. Compared to control subjects, serum IL-6 (p<0.0001), IL-8 (p<0.0001), VEGF (p<0.0001), and CRP (p<0.0001) levels were significantly elevated in the AMD patients. For rs1800795, patients with the GG genotype showed significantly raised levels of IL-6 compared to those with GC and CC genotypes (p<0.0001). Serum IL-8 levels were significantly higher in patients with the GG genotype compared to the GC and CC genotypes for the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs2227543 (p<0.002). Similarly, significantly higher VEGF levels were detected for genotype TT for rs3025039 SNP (p<0.038). However, no significant alteration in serum CRP levels

Chemistry Testing on Plasma Versus Serum Samples in Dialysis Patients: Clinical and Quality Improvement Implications.

PubMed

Carey, Roger Neill; Jani, Chinu; Johnson, Curtis; Pearce, Jim; Hui-Ng, Patricia; Lacson, Eduardo

2016-09-07

Plasma samples collected in tubes containing separator gels have replaced serum samples for most chemistry tests in many hospital and commercial laboratories. Use of plasma samples for blood tests in the dialysis population eliminates delays in sample processing while waiting for clotting to complete, laboratory technical issues associated with fibrin formation, repeat sample collection, and patient care issues caused by delay of results because of incompletely clotted specimens. Additionally, a larger volume of plasma is produced than serum for the same amount of blood collected. Plasma samples are also acceptable for most chemical tests involved in the care of patients with ESRD. This information becomes very important when United States regulatory requirements for ESRD inadvertently limit the type of sample that can be used for government reporting, quality assessment, and value-based payment initiatives. In this narrative, we summarize the renal community experience and how the subsequent resolution of the acceptability of phosphorus levels measured from serum and plasma samples may have significant implications in the country's continued development of a value-based Medicare ESRD Quality Incentive Program. Copyright © 2016 by the American Society of Nephrology.

Serum tocopherol levels and vitamin E intake are associated with lung function in the normative aging study.

PubMed

Hanson, Corrine; Lyden, Elizabeth; Furtado, Jeremy; Campos, Hannia; Sparrow, David; Vokonas, Pantel; Litonjua, Augusto A

2016-02-01

The results of studies assessing relationships between vitamin E intake and status and lung function are conflicting. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of vitamin E intake and serum levels of tocopherol isoforms on lung function in a cross-sectional sample of 580 men from the Normative Aging Study, a longitudinal aging study. Regression models were used to look at associations of serum tocopherol isoform levels and vitamin E intake with lung function parameters after adjustment for confounders. Vitamin E intake was measured using a food frequency questionnaire and serum levels of γ, α, and δ-tocopherol levels were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography. After adjustment for potential confounders, serum γ-tocopherol had a significant inverse association with forced vital capacity (β = -0.10, p = 0.05). Alpha and δ-tocopherol were not associated with any lung function parameter. After classifying COPD status according to Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) stage criteria, serum levels of δ-tocopherol were lower in participants with more severe COPD (p = 0.01). Serum levels of δ-tocopherol were also lower in participants with greater levels of smoking (p = 0.02). Both vitamin E intake (β = 0.03, p = 0.02; β = 0.03, p = 0.01) and use of vitamin E supplements (β = 0.05, p = 0.03; β = 0.06. p = 0.02) were positively associated with FEV1 and FVC, after adjusting for confounders. Subjects who took vitamin E supplements had significantly higher α-tocopherol levels (p < 0.0001) and lower γ-tocopherol levels (p < 0.0001) than non-users. In this study, there is a positive association between dietary vitamin E intake and lung function, and evidence of an inverse relationship between serum levels of γ-tocopherol and lung function. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. All rights reserved.

Ratio of serum levels of AGEs to soluble form of RAGE is a predictor of endothelial function.

PubMed

Kajikawa, Masato; Nakashima, Ayumu; Fujimura, Noritaka; Maruhashi, Tatsuya; Iwamoto, Yumiko; Iwamoto, Akimichi; Matsumoto, Takeshi; Oda, Nozomu; Hidaka, Takayuki; Kihara, Yasuki; Chayama, Kazuaki; Goto, Chikara; Aibara, Yoshiki; Noma, Kensuke; Takeuchi, Masayoshi; Matsui, Takanori; Yamagishi, Sho-Ichi; Higashi, Yukihito

2015-01-01

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and their specific receptor, the receptor for AGEs (RAGE), play an important role in atherosclerosis. Recently, a soluble form of RAGE (sRAGE) has been identified in human serum. However, the role of sRAGE in cardiovascular disease is still controversial. There is no information on the association between simultaneous measurements of AGEs and sRAGE and vascular function. In this study, we evaluated the associations between serum levels of AGEs and sRAGE, ratio of AGEs to sRAGE, and vascular function. We measured serum levels of AGEs and sRAGE and assessed vascular function by measurement of flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) and nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation in 110 subjects who underwent health examinations. Multivariate regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with vascular function. Univariate regression analysis revealed that FMD correlated with age, BMI, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, glucose, smoking pack-years, nitroglycerine-induced vasodilation, serum levels of AGEs and sRAGE, and ratio of AGEs to sRAGE. Multivariate analysis revealed that the ratio of AGEs to sRAGE remained an independent predictor of FMD, while serum level of AGEs alone or sRAGE alone was not associated with FMD. These findings suggest that sRAGE may have a counterregulatory mechanism that is activated to counteract the vasotoxic effect of the AGE-RAGE axis. The ratio of AGEs to sRAGE may be a new chemical biomarker of endothelial function. © 2015 by the American Diabetes Association. Readers may use this article as long as the work is properly cited, the use is educational and not for profit, and the work is not altered.

Advanced gestational age increases serum carbohydrate-deficient transferrin levels in abstinent pregnant women.

PubMed

Bakhireva, Ludmila N; Cano, Sandra; Rayburn, William F; Savich, Renate D; Leeman, Lawrence; Anton, Raymond F; Savage, Daniel D

2012-01-01

Carbohydrate-deficient transferrin (%CDT) is a well-established and highly specific biomarker for sustained heavy consumption of alcohol. However, in pregnant women, the specificity of this biomarker might be affected by advanced gestational age, even after accounting for increased transferrin concentrations in pregnancy. The goal of this prospective study was to assess the variability in %CDT during pregnancy among alcohol-abstaining patients. Patients were recruited during one of the first prenatal care visits and followed-up to term. Abstinence was confirmed by maternal self-report and by alcohol biomarkers. Biomarkers assessed in the mother included serum gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase, urine ethyl glucuronide and ethyl sulfate, and whole blood phosphatidylethanol (PEth). In addition, PEth was measured in a dry blood spot card obtained from a newborn. For %CDT analysis, serum samples were collected at baseline and at term and analyzed by an internationally validated high-performance liquid chromatography and spectrophotometric detection method. At recruitment (mean gestational age 22.6 ± 7.3 weeks), the mean %CDT concentration was 1.49 ± 0.30%, while at term, it increased to 1.67 ± 0.28% (P = 0.001). Using a conventional cutoff concentration %CDT >1.7%, 22.9 and 45.7% of the sample would be classified as 'positive' for this biomarker at recruitment and at term, respectively (P = 0.011 ). These results suggest that a conventional cutoff of 1.7% might be too low for pregnant women and would generate false-positive results. We propose that %CDT >2.0% be used as a cutoff concentration indicative of alcohol exposure in pregnant women. The sensitivity of %CDT at this cutoff for heavy drinking during pregnancy needs to be assessed further.

Sampling and analysis techniques for monitoring serum for trace elements.

PubMed

Ericson, S P; McHalsky, M L; Rabinow, B E; Kronholm, K G; Arceo, C S; Weltzer, J A; Ayd, S W

1986-07-01

We describe techniques for controlling contamination in the sampling and analysis of human serum for trace metals. The relatively simple procedures do not require clean-room conditions. The atomic absorption and atomic emission methods used have been applied in studying zinc, copper, chromium, manganese, molybdenum, selenium, and aluminum concentrations. Values obtained for a group of 16 normal subjects agree with the most reliable values reported in the literature, obtained by much more elaborate techniques. All of these metals can be measured in 3 to 4 mL of serum. The methods may prove especially useful in monitoring concentrations of essential trace elements in blood of patients being maintained on total parenteral nutrition.

Chemometric techniques on the analysis of Raman spectra of serum blood samples of breast cancer patients

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rocha-Osornio, L. N.; Pichardo-Molina, J. L.; Barbosa-Garcia, O.; Frausto-Reyes, C.; Araujo-Andrade, C.; Huerta-Franco, R.; Gutiérrez-Juárez, G.

2008-02-01

Raman spectroscopy and Multivariate methods were used to study serum blood samples of control and breast cancer patients. Blood samples were obtained from 11 patients and 12 controls from the central region of Mexico. Our results show that principal component analysis is able to discriminate serum sample of breast cancer patients from those of control group, also the loading vectors of PCA plotted as a function of Raman shift shown which bands permitted to make the maximum discrimination between both groups of samples.

Detection of EBV-DNA in serum samples of an immunosuppressed child during a three years follow-up: association of clinical and PCR data with active infection.

PubMed

Okay, Thelma Suely; Del Negro, Gilda Maria Barbaro; Yamamoto, Lídia; Raiz Júnior, Roberto

2005-01-01

Twenty-four whole blood and serum samples were drawn from an eight year-old heart transplant child during a 36 months follow-up. EBV serology was positive for VCA-IgM and IgG, and negative for EBNA-IgG at the age of five years old when the child presented with signs and symptoms suggestive of acute infectious mononucleosis. After 14 months, serological parameters were: positive VCA-IgG, EBNA-IgG and negative VCA-IgM. This serological pattern has been maintained since then even during episodes suggestive of EBV reactivation. PCR amplified a specific DNA fragment from the EBV gp220 (detection limit of 100 viral copies). All twenty-four whole blood samples yielded positive results by PCR, while 12 out of 24 serum samples were positive. We aimed at analyzing whether detection of EBV-DNA in serum samples by PCR was associated with overt disease as stated by the need of antiviral treatment and hospitalization. Statistical analysis showed agreement between the two parameters evidenced by the Kappa test (value 0.750; p < 0.001). We concluded that detection of EBV-DNA in serum samples of immunosuppressed patients might be used as a laboratory marker of active EBV disease when a Real-Time PCR or another quantitative method is not available.

Serial Sampling of Serum Protein Biomarkers for Monitoring Human Traumatic Brain Injury Dynamics: A Systematic Review.

PubMed

Thelin, Eric Peter; Zeiler, Frederick Adam; Ercole, Ari; Mondello, Stefania; Büki, András; Bellander, Bo-Michael; Helmy, Adel; Menon, David K; Nelson, David W

2017-01-01

The proteins S100B, neuron-specific enolase (NSE), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1), and neurofilament light (NF-L) have been serially sampled in serum of patients suffering from traumatic brain injury (TBI) in order to assess injury severity and tissue fate. We review the current literature of serum level dynamics of these proteins following TBI and used the term "effective half-life" ( t 1/2 ) in order to describe the "fall" rate in serum. Through searches on EMBASE, Medline, and Scopus, we looked for articles where these proteins had been serially sampled in serum in human TBI. We excluded animal studies, studies with only one presented sample and studies without neuroradiological examinations. Following screening (10,389 papers), n  = 122 papers were included. The proteins S100B ( n  = 66) and NSE ( n  = 27) were the two most frequent biomarkers that were serially sampled. For S100B in severe TBI, a majority of studies indicate a t 1/2 of about 24 h, even if very early sampling in these patients reveals rapid decreases (1-2 h) though possibly of non-cerebral origin. In contrast, the t 1/2 for NSE is comparably longer, ranging from 48 to 72 h in severe TBI cases. The protein GFAP ( n  = 18) appears to have t 1/2 of about 24-48 h in severe TBI. The protein UCH-L1 ( n  = 9) presents a t 1/2 around 7 h in mild TBI and about 10 h in severe. Frequent sampling of these proteins revealed different trajectories with persisting high serum levels, or secondary peaks, in patients with unfavorable outcome or in patients developing secondary detrimental events. Finally, NF-L ( n  = 2) only increased in the few studies available, suggesting a serum availability of >10 days. To date, automated assays are available for S100B and NSE making them faster and more practical to use. Serial sampling of brain-specific proteins in serum reveals different temporal trajectories that should be

The association between etanercept serum concentration and psoriasis severity is highly age-dependent.

PubMed

Detrez, Iris; Van Steen, Kristel; Segaert, Siegfried; Gils, Ann

2017-06-01

The association between etanercept serum concentration and psoriasis disease severity is poorly investigated, and currently etanercept serum concentration monitoring that is aiming to optimize the psoriasis treatment lacks evidence. In this prospective study, we investigated the relation between etanercept exposure and disease severity via measuring etanercept concentrations at five consecutive time points in 56 psoriasis patients. Disease severity assessments included the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), body surface area (BSA) and Physician Global Assessment (PGA), and etanercept and anti-etanercept antibody concentrations were determined every 3 months for a period of 1 year. The present study demonstrated that the association between etanercept concentration and psoriasis severity is age-dependent: when patients were stratified into three groups, patients in the youngest age group (-50 years) showed a lower PASI at a higher etanercept concentration (β = -0.26), whereas patients in the oldest age group (+59 years) showed the opposite trend (β =0.22). Similar age effects were observed in the relation of etanercept concentration with BSA ( P =0.02) and PGA ( P =0.02). The influence of age and length of time in therapy on the etanercept concentration-disease severity relation was unaffected by body mass index (BMI) or any other possible confounder. Incidence of anti-etanercept antibodies was low (2%). The age-dependent relation between etanercept serum concentrations is both unexpected and intriguing and needs further investigation. © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Portland Press Limited on behalf of the Biochemical Society.

Comparative analysis of EV isolation procedures for miRNAs detection in serum samples.

PubMed

Andreu, Zoraida; Rivas, Eva; Sanguino-Pascual, Aitana; Lamana, Amalia; Marazuela, Mónica; González-Alvaro, Isidoro; Sánchez-Madrid, Francisco; de la Fuente, Hortensia; Yáñez-Mó, María

2016-01-01

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging as potent non-invasive biomarkers. However, current methodologies are time consuming and difficult to translate to clinical practice. To analyse EV-encapsulated circulating miRNA, we searched for a quick, easy and economic method to enrich frozen human serum samples for EV. We compared the efficiency of several protocols and commercial kits to isolate EVs. Different methods based on precipitation, columns or filter systems were tested and compared with ultracentrifugation, which is the most classical protocol to isolate EVs. EV samples were assessed for purity and quantity by nanoparticle tracking analysis and western blot or cytometry against major EV protein markers. For biomarker validation, levels of a set of miRNAs were determined in EV fractions and compared with their levels in total serum. EVs isolated with precipitation-based methods were enriched for a subgroup of miRNAs that corresponded to miRNAs described to be encapsulated into EVs (miR-126, miR-30c and miR-143), while the detection of miR-21, miR-16-5p and miR-19a was very low compared with total serum. Our results point to precipitation using polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a suitable method for an easy and cheap enrichment of serum EVs for miRNA analyses. The overall performance of PEG was very similar, or better than other commercial precipitating reagents, in both protein and miRNA yield, but in comparison to them PEG is much cheaper. Other methods presented poorer results, mostly when assessing miRNA by qPCR analyses. Using PEG precipitation in a longitudinal study with human samples, we demonstrated that miRNA could be assessed in frozen samples up to 8 years of storage. We report a method based on a cut-off value of mean of fold EV detection versus serum that provides an estimate of the degree of encapsulation of a given miRNA.

Age-Specific Normal Reference Range for Serum Anti-Müllerian Hormone in Healthy Chinese Han Women: A nationwide Population-Based Study.

PubMed

Du, Xiaofang; Ding, Ting; Zhang, Hanwang; Zhang, Cuilian; Ma, Wenmin; Zhong, Ying; Qu, Wenyu; Zheng, Jie; Liu, Yi; Li, Zhiying; Huang, Kecheng; Deng, Song; Ma, Lanfang; Yang, Jun; Jiang, Jingjing; Yang, Shuhong; Huang, Jia; Wu, Meng; Fang, Li; Lu, Yunping; Luo, Aiyue; Wang, Shixuan

2016-08-01

correlated with BMI and FSH levels and were not significantly correlated with E2 levels. The relationship between AMH and other variables remain unchanged except for PRL, which was not significantly correlated with AMH levels after controlling for both age and BMI. This study determined the normal reference ranges for serum AMH levels in a large population-based sample of healthy Chinese women. © The Author(s) 2016.

Identification of osteosarcoma-related specific proteins in serum samples using surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Gu, Jianli; Li, Jitian; Huang, Manyu; Zhang, Zhiyong; Li, Dongsheng; Song, Guoying; Ding, Xingpo; Li, Wuyin

2014-01-01

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common malignant bone tumor. To identify OS-related specific proteins for early diagnosis of OS, a novel approach, surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (SELDI-TOF-MS) to serum samples from 25 OS patients, 16 osteochondroma, and 26 age-matched normal human volunteers as controls, was performed. Two proteins showed a significantly different expression in OS serum samples from control groups. Proteomic profiles and external leave-one-out cross-validation analysis showed that the correct rate of allocation, the sensitivity, and the specificity of diagnosis were 100%. These two proteins were further identified by searching the EPO-KB database, and one of the proteins identified as Serine rich region profile is involved in various cellular signaling cascades and tumor genesis. The presence of these two proteins in OS patients but absence from premalignant and normal human controls implied that they can be potential biomarkers for early diagnosis of OS.

Determination of carbamazepine in serum and saliva samples by high performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection.

PubMed

Dordević, Snezana; Kilibarda, Vesna; Stojanović, Tomislav

2009-05-01

Carbamazepine is antiepileptic drug widely used for the treatment of epilepsy. Due to low therapeutic index of carbamazepine there is a need for routine measuring its concentrations in biological fluids. The aim of the study was to describe a method for concomitant determination of carbamazepine in the serum and saliva. Separation of the drug from matrix is achieved by reversed-phase chromatography on a C18 column, with a mobile phase of methanol-water-acetic acid (65:34:1) at a flow-rate of 1.0 ml/min. Detection was effected by ultra-violet absorption at 285 nm. The total run time was 5 min. Samples were prepared by alkaline extraction (pH 10) using chlorophorm. Calibration curves were in the range 0.1-5 microg/mL for serum and saliva samples. Mean recoveries of spiked serum and saliva were 97.59 and 92.30%, respectively. Limits of detection (LOD) of carbamazepine in serum and saliva were 0.166 and 0.178 microg/mL, respectively. Limits of quantification (LOQ) in the serum and saliva were 0.237 and 0.226 microg/mL, respectively. The method precision was carried out with coefficient of variation of 2.10% and 4.03% for the serum and saliva, respectively. The obtained data showed that there was a strong correlation between saliva and serum concentrations (r = 0.9481, p < 0.001). The method described here is rapid, precise, accurate and simple, and can be used for quantitative determination of carbamazepine in human serum and saliva after therapy applying. Saliva samples could be used as an alternative matrix for therapeutic drug monitoring of this antiepileptic drug.

Serum from aged F344 rats conditions the activation of young macrophages.

PubMed

Gómez, Christian R; Acuña-Castillo, Claudio; Nishimura, Sumiyo; Pérez, Viviana; Escobar, Alejandro; Salazar-Onfray, Flavio; Sabaj, Valeria; Torres, Claudio; Walter, Robin; Sierra, Felipe

2006-03-01

There is considerable controversy about the molecular mechanisms responsible for the variations in innate immunity associated with age. While in vivo, aged animals and humans react to an inflammatory signal with an excessive production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, studies in vitro generally show that this response is attenuated in macrophages from old individuals. In an effort to examine possible extrinsic factors that might affect the response of macrophages to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), we have challenged peritoneal macrophages obtained from young rats with sera obtained from rats of different ages. Our results indicate that the serum from aged rats significantly impairs the capacity of young macrophages to induce tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) production, while at the same time it increases the basal levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6). The effect of serum from aged donors on TNF-alpha secretion requires pre-incubation and is sensitive to heat inactivation. In contrast, the stimulating effect on IL-6 is resistant to heat, and thus should not be due to a protein factor. Therefore, our results indicate that the age-related changes in macrophage activity are not only the consequence of intrinsic changes, but there also appears to be a modulatory effect imparted by the external milieu.

Age-associated and deslorelin-induced declines in serum anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations in female cheetahs, Acinonyx jubatus.

PubMed

Place, Ned J; Crosier, Adrienne E; Comizzoli, Pierre; Nagashima, Jennifer B; Haefele, Holly; Schmidt-Küntzel, Anne; Marker, Laurie L

2017-09-01

Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is widely used in human medicine to non-invasively estimate the size of the ovarian follicle reserve and to predict the ovarian response to gonadotropin stimulation in the context of assisted reproductive technologies (e.g., IVF). These applications of AMH testing have recently expanded to non-human mammals, with production animals, such as cows, goats and sheep being the primary focus of AMH research. However, few investigations have involved exotic species, and in particular carnivores. In this study, we measured AMH concentrations (0.078-3.078ng/mL) in archived serum samples that had been collected from 36 adult female cheetahs across their reproductive lifespan (2-15years of age). Similar to other mammals, AMH concentration in cheetahs declined with age, and its variability among females of the same age was considerable. The rates at which AMH declined over time in individual cheetahs were also highly variable. Five cheetahs had been contracepted with the long-acting GnRH agonist deslorelin for 6-18months prior to sample collection, and their AMH concentrations were relatively low compared to untreated females. In this first study of AMH in an exotic carnivore, the findings demonstrate that the age-associated decline in AMH is highly variable and that deslorelin appears to suppress AMH concentration in serum. Owing to the increased use of assisted reproductive technologies in ex situ populations of threatened and endangered species, such as cheetahs, the present study's findings will need to be taken into consideration if AMH is to be used successfully to optimize breeding management decisions in exotic species. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Unmetabolized Folic Acid Is Detected in Nearly All Serum Samples from US Children, Adolescents, and Adults1234

PubMed Central

Pfeiffer, Christine M; Sternberg, Maya R; Fazili, Zia; Yetley, Elizabeth A; Lacher, David A; Bailey, Regan L; Johnson, Clifford L

2015-01-01

Background: Serum total folate consists mainly of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-methylTHF). Unmetabolized folic acid (UMFA) may occur in persons consuming folic acid–fortified foods or supplements. Objectives: We describe serum 5-methylTHF and UMFA concentrations in the US population ≥1 y of age by demographic variables and fasting time, stratified by folic acid–containing dietary supplement use. We also evaluate factors associated with UMFA concentrations >1 nmol/L. Methods: Serum samples from the cross-sectional NHANES 2007–2008 were measured for 5-methylTHF (n = 2734) and UMFA (n = 2707) by HPLC–tandem mass spectrometry. Results: In supplement users compared with nonusers, we found significantly higher geometric mean concentrations of 5-methylTHF (48.4 and 30.7 nmol/L, respectively) and UMFA (1.54 and 0.794 nmol/L, respectively). UMFA concentrations were detectable (>0.3 nmol/L) in >95% of supplement users and nonusers, regardless of demographic or fasting characteristics; concentrations differed significantly by age and fasting time, but not by sex and race-ethnicity, both in supplement users and nonusers. The prevalence of UMFA concentrations >1 nmol/L was 33.2% overall and 21.0% in fasting (≥8 h) adults (≥20 y of age). Using multiple logistic regression analysis, UMFA concentrations >1 nmol/L were associated with being older, non-Hispanic black, nonfasting (<8 h), having smaller body surface area, higher total folic acid intake (diet and supplements), and higher red blood cell folate concentrations. In fasting adults, a decrease in the mean daily alcohol consumption was also associated with increased odds of UMFA concentrations >1 nmol/L. Conclusions: UMFA detection was nearly ubiquitous, and concentrations >1 nmol/L were largely but not entirely explained by fasting status and by total folic acid intake from diet and supplements. These new UMFA data in US persons ≥1 y of age provide much-needed information on this vitamer in a fortified

SIRT1 Polymorphisms and Serum-Induced SIRT1 Protein Expression in Aging and Frailty: The CHAMP Study.

PubMed

Razi, Shajjia; Cogger, Victoria C; Kennerson, Marina; Benson, Vicky L; McMahon, Aisling C; Blyth, Fiona M; Handelsman, David J; Seibel, Markus J; Hirani, Vasant; Naganathan, Vasikaran; Waite, Louise; de Cabo, Rafael; Cumming, Robert G; Le Couteur, David G

2017-07-01

The nutrient sensing protein, SIRT1 influences aging and nutritional interventions such as caloric restriction in animals, however, the role of SIRT1 in human aging remains unclear. Here, the role of SIRT1 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and serum-induced SIRT1 protein expression (a novel assay that detects circulating factors that influence SIRT1 expression in vitro) were studied in the Concord Health and Ageing in Men Project (CHAMP), a prospective cohort of community dwelling men aged 70 years and older. Serum-induced SIRT1 expression was not associated with age or mortality, however participants within the lowest quintile were less likely to be frail (odds ratio (OR) 0.34, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.17-0.69, N = 1,309). Serum-induced SIRT1 expression was associated with some markers of body composition and nutrition (height, weight, body fat and lean % mass, albumin, and cholesterol) but not disease. SIRT1 SNPs rs2273773, rs3740051, and rs3758391 showed no association with age, frailty, or mortality but were associated with weight, height, body fat and lean, and albumin levels. There were some weak associations between SIRT1 SNPs and arthritis, heart attack, deafness, and cognitive impairment. There was no association between SIRT1 SNPs and the serum-induced SIRT1 assay. SIRT1 SNPs and serum-induced SIRT1 expression in older men may be more closely associated with nutrition and body composition than aging and age-related conditions. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Gerontological Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Characterizing concentrations of diethylene glycol and suspected metabolites in human serum, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid samples from the Panama DEG mass poisoning.

PubMed

Schier, J G; Hunt, D R; Perala, A; McMartin, K E; Bartels, M J; Lewis, L S; McGeehin, M A; Flanders, W D

2013-12-01

Diethylene glycol (DEG) mass poisoning is a persistent public health problem. Unfortunately, there are no human biological data on DEG and its suspected metabolites in poisoning. If present and associated with poisoning, the evidence for use of traditional therapies such as fomepizole and/or hemodialysis would be much stronger. To characterize DEG and its metabolites in stored serum, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens obtained from human DEG poisoning victims enrolled in a 2006 case-control study. In the 2006 study, biological samples from persons enrolled in a case-control study (42 cases with new-onset, unexplained AKI and 140 age-, sex-, and admission date-matched controls without AKI) were collected and shipped to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta for various analyses and were then frozen in storage. For this study, when sufficient volume of the original specimen remained, the following analytes were quantitatively measured in serum, urine, and CSF: DEG, 2-hydroxyethoxyacetic acid (HEAA), diglycolic acid, ethylene glycol, glycolic acid, and oxalic acid. Analytes were measured using low resolution GC/MS, descriptive statistics calculated and case results compared with controls when appropriate. Specimens were de-identified so previously collected demographic, exposure, and health data were not available. The Wilcoxon Rank Sum test (with exact p-values) and bivariable exact logistic regression were used in SAS v9.2 for data analysis. The following samples were analyzed: serum, 20 case, and 20 controls; urine, 11 case and 22 controls; and CSF, 11 samples from 10 cases and no controls. Diglycolic acid was detected in all case serum samples (median, 40.7 mcg/mL; range, 22.6-75.2) and no controls, and in all case urine samples (median, 28.7 mcg/mL; range, 14-118.4) and only five (23%) controls (median, < Lower Limit of Quantitation (LLQ); range, < LLQ-43.3 mcg/mL). Significant differences and associations were identified

Comparison of biochemical values in serum and plasma, fresh and frozen plasma, and hemolyzed samples from orange-winged Amazon parrots (Amazona amazonica).

PubMed

Hawkins, Michelle G; Kass, Philip H; Zinkl, Joseph G; Tell, Lisa A

2006-06-01

To the authors' knowledge, on the basis of sample type, storage condition, or hemolysis, differences in serum and plasma biochemical values have not been evaluated in orange-winged Amazon parrots (Amazona amazonica). The purpose of this study was to compare values for biochemical analytes in serum vs plasma, fresh vs frozen plasma, and nonhemolyzed vs hemolyzed samples in orange-winged Amazon parrots. We also compared differences in serum and plasma yield from whole-blood aliquots. Fifteen biochemical analytes were evaluated in paired serum and plasma, fresh and frozen plasma, nonhemolyzed and hemolyzed serum and plasma samples from orange-winged Amazon parrots (n = 10) using a wet reagent analyzer. Hemolysis was assessed qualitatively (visually) and quantitatively (hemoglobin [Hgb] measured spectrophotometrically). Serum and plasma yields from 500-microl whole-blood aliquots were determined from centrifuged samples. Analyte values significantly differed among sample groups, but were still within published reference intervals, with the exception of increases in potassium concentration in markedly hemolyzed serum and plasma samples. Clinically important changes in hemolyzed serum and plasma samples included increases in potassium, phosphorus, and albumin concentrations and lactate dehydrogenase activity. The degree of hemolysis assigned qualitatively did not correlate with quantitative Hgb concentration. A significantly greater yield of plasma (288 +/- 13 microL) than serum (241 +/- 44 microL) was obtained. Significant differences may occur in different sample types, however, only changes in potassium, phosphorus, albumin, and lactate dehydrogenase values in hemolyzed samples were considered clinically relevant. Lack of agreement between qualitative and quantitative Hgb concentration indicates the unreliability of visual estimation. Based on higher sample yield, and lack of clinically relevant differences from serum, plasma is a better sample choice for clinical

Serum long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated Fatty acids and future blood pressure in an ageing population.

PubMed

Nyantika, A N; Tuomainen, T-P; Kauhanen, J; Voutilainen, S; Virtanen, J K

2015-05-01

To investigate the associations of serum long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and hair mercury with future blood pressure in an ageing population. Prospective study with baseline measurements in 1998-2001 and follow-up measurements in 2005-2008. The linear relationships (β) of baseline serum fatty acids and hair mercury with future systolic and diastolic blood pressure and pulse pressure were analyzed with multiple linear regression models, using log-transformed values. 181 men and 200 women aged 53-73 y from the Kuopio Ischemic Heart Disease Risk Factor Study (KIHD) population in Eastern Finland, who were free of cardiovascular disease, diabetes or hypertension at baseline. Total serum esterified and nonesterified fatty acids and pubic hair mercury were used as markers for exposure. Anthropometric and other lifestyle and health-related data were collected. The mean serum concentrations were 1.67% (SD 0.92) for eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), 0.79% (SD 0.16) for docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) and 2.78 (SD 0.92) for docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), of all serum fatty acids. The mean hair mercury concentration was 1.5 µg/g (SD 1.6). We did not find statistically significant associations between the baseline serum long-chain omega-3 PUFA concentrations or hair mercury content and future blood pressure. Hair mercury did not modify the associations with the long-chain omega-3 PUFAs, either. Higher serum long-chain omega-3 PUFA concentration, a biomarker of fish or fish oil consumption, may not have an impact on future blood pressure in an ageing population.

Pyridoxal 5'-phosphate, pyridoxal, and 4-pyridoxic acid in the paired serum and cerebrospinal fluid of children.

PubMed

Akiyama, Tomoyuki; Hayashi, Yumiko; Hanaoka, Yoshiyuki; Shibata, Takashi; Akiyama, Mari; Tsuchiya, Hiroki; Yamaguchi, Tokito; Kobayashi, Katsuhiro

2017-09-01

We quantified pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP), pyridoxal (PL), and 4-pyridoxic acid (PA) in paired serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from children and investigated the effect of age on the concentrations and CSF-to-serum ratios of these vitamers. Serum and CSF samples prospectively collected from 49 pediatric patients were analyzed. PLP, PL, and PA were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection, using pre-column derivatization by semicarbazide. Effects of age on these vitamers, the PLP-to-PL ratio, CSF-to-serum PLP ratio, and CSF-to-serum PL ratio were evaluated using correlation analysis. The PLP, PL, and PA concentrations in the serum and CSF were higher at younger ages, except for CSF PA concentrations that were mostly below the limit of detection (<1.2nmol/l). The PLP-to-PL ratios in the serum and CSF correlated positively with age. The CSF-to-serum PLP ratio and CSF-to-serum PL ratio were independent of age. Age-related changes in PLP, PL, and PA in serum and in CSF from pediatric patients and CSF-to-serum ratios of PLP and PL demonstrated in this study will provide valuable information for evaluating PLP supply to the central nervous system from the peripheral blood. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Preparation of serum and plasma samples for determination of tricyclic antidepressants: effects of blood collection tubes and storage.

PubMed

Nyberg, G; Mårtensson, E

1986-01-01

The effects were tested of eight common types of blood collection tubes and two types of "plasma separators" on the stability of the tricyclic antidepressants amitriptyline, imipramine, clomipramine, and their monodemethylated metabolites in venous blood samples. Although EDTA-containing Venoject lavender and Vacutainer lavender tubes seemed to give the most stable plasma samples, and Venoject red the most stable serum samples, the differences were too small to have practical consequences. Vacutainer royal blue collection tubes gave significant losses of greater than 20% of some of the substances. The tubes with serum separator gel or filter proved unsuitable, since they were responsible for losses of greater than 40%. The losses were not caused by redistribution between blood cells and plasma but occurred mainly as a result of contact between the contents and the caps of the tubes. Experiments with freezing, thawing, and storage of samples showed that freshly sampled blood could be stored at room temperature for 24 h in Venoject green tubes without significant losses. Serum samples could be stored at refrigerator temperature for 4 weeks without important losses. Freezing, thawing, and storage at -20 degrees C did not influence the serum or plasma concentrations.

Association of Serum Ferritin and Kidney Function with Age-Related Macular Degeneration in the General Population

PubMed Central

Oh, Il Hwan; Choi, Eun Young; Park, Joon-Sung; Lee, Chang Hwa

2016-01-01

Ferritin is considered to be a marker of the body’s iron stores and has a potential relationship with the systemic manifestations of inflammatory reactions. Data on the association between increased levels of serum ferritin and ocular problems are limited, particularly in relation to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Serum ferritin levels, as a possible clinical parameter for predicting AMD, were analyzed in anthropometric, biochemical, and ophthalmologic data from a nation-wide, population-based, case-control study (KNHNES IV and V). All native Koreans aged ≥ 20 years and who had no medical illness were eligible to participate. Among them, 2.9% had AMD, and its prevalence was found to increase in the higher ferritin quintile groups (Ptrend < 0.0001). In multiple linear regression analysis, serum ferritin level was closely related to conventional risk factors for AMD. Comparison of early AMD with a control group showed that serum ferritin levels were closely associated with AMD (OR = 1.004, 95% CI = 1.002–1.006), and further adjustment for age, gender, serum iron, and kidney function did not reduce this association (OR = 1.003, 95% CI = 1.001–1.006). Furthermore, the relationship between ferritin quintile and early AMD was dose-dependent. Thus, an increased level of serum ferritin in a healthy person may be a useful indicator of neurodegenerative change in the macula. A large population-based prospective clinical study is needed to confirm these findings. PMID:27096155

Proteomic Profiling of Serial Prediagnostic Serum Samples for Early Detection of Colon Cancer in the U.S. Military.

PubMed

Shao, Stephanie; Neely, Benjamin A; Kao, Tzu-Cheg; Eckhaus, Janet; Bourgeois, Jolie; Brooks, Jasmin; Jones, Elizabeth E; Drake, Richard R; Zhu, Kangmin

2017-05-01

Background: Serum proteomic biomarkers offer a promising approach for early detection of cancer. In this study, we aimed to identify proteomic profiles that could distinguish colon cancer cases from controls using serial prediagnostic serum samples. Methods: This was a nested case-control study of active duty military members. Cases consisted of 264 patients diagnosed with colon cancer between 2001 and 2009. Controls were matched to cases on age, gender, race, serum sample count, and collection date. We identified peaks that discriminated cases from controls using random forest data analysis with a 2/3 training and 1/3 validation dataset. We then included epidemiologic data to see whether further improvement of model performance was obtainable. Proteins that corresponded to discriminatory peaks were identified. Results: Peaks with m/z values of 3,119.32, 2,886.67, 2,939.23, and 5,078.81 were found to discriminate cases from controls with a sensitivity of 69% and a specificity of 67% in the year before diagnosis. When smoking status was included, sensitivity increased to 76% while histories of other cancer and tonsillectomy raised specificity to 76%. Peaks at 2,886.67 and 3,119.32 m/z were identified as histone acetyltransferases while 2,939.24 m/z was a transporting ATPase subunit. Conclusions: Proteomic profiles in the year before cancer diagnosis have the potential to discriminate colon cancer patients from controls, and the addition of epidemiologic information may increase the sensitivity and specificity of discrimination. Impact: Our findings indicate the potential value of using serum prediagnostic proteomic biomarkers in combination with epidemiologic data for early detection of colon cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(5); 711-8. ©2016 AACR . ©2016 American Association for Cancer Research.

Performance of polymerase chain reaction for the diagnosis of cystic echinococcosis using serum, urine, and cyst fluid samples

PubMed Central

Chaya, DR; Parija, Subhash Chandra

2014-01-01

Introduction: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a chronic zoonosis which presents with variable clinical manifestations. Currently the diagnosis of this disease is based on radiological findings and serological tests which lack specificity. Although antigen detection from the cyst fluid is the most specific, it is seldom done due to the complications involved. Detecting the presence of Echinococcus granulosus specific deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) could provide a definitive diagnosis of CE. Materials and Methods: An in-house PCR assay was devised to detect E. granulosus specific DNA in serum, urine and hydatid cyst fluid. The ability of the PCR to detect E. granulosus in the above mentioned samples were observed in comparison with other antigen and antibody detection tests. Results: Serum samples from surgically confirmed patients of CE with ruptured cysts contained the corresponding DNA while the in the majority of cases who had an intact cyst had no DNA of E. granulosus in their serum. DNA of E. granulosus was not found to be excreted in urine. PCR performed equal to antigen detection ELISA while testing hydatid cyst fluid samples. Conclusions: Serum and urine might not serve as useful samples for the molecular diagnosis of cystic echinococcosis. However, PCR can be useful on serum samples to detect ruptured hydatid cysts and on hydatid cyst fluid to confirm the parasitic diagnosis. PMID:24754027

Performance of polymerase chain reaction for the diagnosis of cystic echinococcosis using serum, urine, and cyst fluid samples.

PubMed

Chaya, Dr; Parija, Subhash Chandra

2014-01-01

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a chronic zoonosis which presents with variable clinical manifestations. Currently the diagnosis of this disease is based on radiological findings and serological tests which lack specificity. Although antigen detection from the cyst fluid is the most specific, it is seldom done due to the complications involved. Detecting the presence of Echinococcus granulosus specific deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) could provide a definitive diagnosis of CE. An in-house PCR assay was devised to detect E. granulosus specific DNA in serum, urine and hydatid cyst fluid. The ability of the PCR to detect E. granulosus in the above mentioned samples were observed in comparison with other antigen and antibody detection tests. Serum samples from surgically confirmed patients of CE with ruptured cysts contained the corresponding DNA while the in the majority of cases who had an intact cyst had no DNA of E. granulosus in their serum. DNA of E. granulosus was not found to be excreted in urine. PCR performed equal to antigen detection ELISA while testing hydatid cyst fluid samples. Serum and urine might not serve as useful samples for the molecular diagnosis of cystic echinococcosis. However, PCR can be useful on serum samples to detect ruptured hydatid cysts and on hydatid cyst fluid to confirm the parasitic diagnosis.

Comparison of effects of age and sex on serum protein electrophoretic pattern in one-humped camels (Camelus dromedarius) in Semnan, Iran

PubMed Central

Ahmadi-hamedani, M.; Ghazvinian, K.; Kokhaei, P.; Barati, M.; Mahdavi, A.

2014-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of age and sex on the concentration of total serum protein measured by the biuret method and protein fractions determined using cellulose acetate electrophoresis in apparently healthy camels (Camelus dromedarius). Blood samples were collected from 21 camels (12 males and 9 females). The camels were further divided into two groups: 12 young camels at the age of 3 months to 2 years and 9 adult camels at the age of 3-15 years. Cellulose acetate electrophoresis of serum proteins identified five protein fractions in adult camels as young camels, these five protein fractions include albumin, α1 and α2, β and γ-globulins. In adult camels, serum levels (g/l) of total protein, albumin, α1-globulins, α2-globulins, β-globulins and γ-globulins were 80.9±3.10, 42.9±3.10, 1.3±0.22, 2.2±0.30, 11.8±0.30 and 22.6±0.20, respectively. However, in young camels, these levels (g/l) were 66.8±2.90, 40.2±2.40, 1.0±0.14, 2.6±0.30, 10.6±0.80 and 12.3±1.20, respectively. The albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio was 2.08±0.28 in adult camels and 3.77±0.53 in young ones. The mean serum concentrations of total protein and γ-globulins were significantly (P<0.05) higher and the A/G ratio was significantly lower in adult camels compared to young camels. The mean concentrations of γ-globulins were significantly higher and the A/G ratio was significantly (P<0.05) lower in females compared to male camels. The results of the present study indicate a significant effect of age and sex on the concentrations of some of the serum protein fractions in dromedary camels. PMID:26623331

Comparison of effects of age and sex on serum protein electrophoretic pattern in one-humped camels (Camelus dromedarius) in Semnan, Iran.

PubMed

Ahmadi-Hamedani, M; Ghazvinian, K; Kokhaei, P; Barati, M; Mahdavi, A

2014-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of age and sex on the concentration of total serum protein measured by the biuret method and protein fractions determined using cellulose acetate electrophoresis in apparently healthy camels (Camelus dromedarius). Blood samples were collected from 21 camels (12 males and 9 females). The camels were further divided into two groups: 12 young camels at the age of 3 months to 2 years and 9 adult camels at the age of 3-15 years. Cellulose acetate electrophoresis of serum proteins identified five protein fractions in adult camels as young camels, these five protein fractions include albumin, α1 and α2, β and γ-globulins. In adult camels, serum levels (g/l) of total protein, albumin, α1-globulins, α2-globulins, β-globulins and γ-globulins were 80.9±3.10, 42.9±3.10, 1.3±0.22, 2.2±0.30, 11.8±0.30 and 22.6±0.20, respectively. However, in young camels, these levels (g/l) were 66.8±2.90, 40.2±2.40, 1.0±0.14, 2.6±0.30, 10.6±0.80 and 12.3±1.20, respectively. The albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio was 2.08±0.28 in adult camels and 3.77±0.53 in young ones. The mean serum concentrations of total protein and γ-globulins were significantly (P<0.05) higher and the A/G ratio was significantly lower in adult camels compared to young camels. The mean concentrations of γ-globulins were significantly higher and the A/G ratio was significantly (P<0.05) lower in females compared to male camels. The results of the present study indicate a significant effect of age and sex on the concentrations of some of the serum protein fractions in dromedary camels.

The relationship of age, anxiety, and serum immunoglobulins with crystallized and fluid intelligence.

PubMed

Cohen, D; Eisdorfer, C; Vitaliano, P P; Bloom, V

1980-10-01

Serum immunoglobulin concentrations (IgG, IgA, and IgM), cognitive performance (crystallized and fluid intelligence), and self-reports of anxiety were evaluated in 24 men and women 60-75 years, and 50 men and women, 30-45 years. Trait anxiety was an important factor relating to performance differences between the young and old on crystallized and fluid subtests. IgM was inversely related to performance in the older age groups. Anxiety was not related to serum immunoglobulin levels.

Aging enhances serum cytokine response but not task-induced grip strength declines in a rat model of work-related musculoskeletal disorders

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background We previously reported early tissue injury, increased serum and tissue inflammatory cytokines and decreased grip in young rats performing a moderate demand repetitive task. The tissue cytokine response was transient, the serum response and decreased grip were still evident by 8 weeks. Thus, here, we examined their levels at 12 weeks in young rats. Since aging is known to enhance serum cytokine levels, we also examined aged rats. Methods Aged and young rats, 14 mo and 2.5 mo of age at onset, respectfully, were trained 15 min/day for 4 weeks, and then performed a high repetition, low force (HRLF) reaching and grasping task for 2 hours/day, for 12 weeks. Serum was assayed for 6 cytokines: IL-1alpha, IL-6, IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, MIP2, IL-10. Grip strength was assayed, since we have previously shown an inverse correlation between grip strength and serum inflammatory cytokines. Results were compared to naïve (grip), and normal, food-restricted and trained-only controls. Results Serum cytokines were higher overall in aged than young rats, with increases in IL-1alpha, IFN-gamma and IL-6 in aged Trained and 12-week HRLF rats, compared to young Trained and HRLF rats (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, respectively, each). IL-6 was also increased in aged 12-week HRLF versus aged normal controls (p < 0.05). Serum IFN-gamma and MIP2 levels were also increased in young 6-week HRLF rats, but no cytokines were above baseline levels in young 12-week HRLF rats. Grip strength declined in both young and aged 12-week HRLF rats, compared to naïve and normal controls (p < 0.05 each), but these declines correlated only with IL-6 levels in aged rats (r = -0.39). Conclusion Aging enhanced a serum cytokine response in general, a response that was even greater with repetitive task performance. Grip strength was adversely affected by task performance in both age groups, but was apparently influenced by factors other than serum cytokine levels in young rats. PMID:21447183

Different dietary lifestyles and serum zinc and copper in women of reproductive age

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Breskin, M.W.; Worthington-Roberts, B.S.; Monsen, E.R.

1986-03-01

Nutrient intakes and biochemical measures of zinc and copper were compared in non-pregnant young women representing different dietary lifestyles, viz, those who habitually ate red meat (RM), fish or poultry (FP), or lacto-ovo-vegetarian (LV) sources of protein. All were in good health and concerned about their diets; none was using supplements or oral contraceptives. Three-day food records were analyzed for nutrient content. Serum and drinking water samples were assayed for zinc and copper (AAS), and serum, for ceruloplasmin (RID). Sign. diff. in dietary Zn or Cu content were not reflected by serum(Zn) or (Cu), but the incidence of serum(Zn) serum (Zn).« less

Clinical evaluation of a Mucorales-specific real-time PCR assay in tissue and serum samples.

PubMed

Springer, Jan; Lackner, Michaela; Ensinger, Christian; Risslegger, Brigitte; Morton, Charles Oliver; Nachbaur, David; Lass-Flörl, Cornelia; Einsele, Hermann; Heinz, Werner J; Loeffler, Juergen

2016-12-01

Molecular diagnostic assays can accelerate the diagnosis of fungal infections and subsequently improve patient outcomes. In particular, the detection of infections due to Mucorales is still challenging for laboratories and physicians. The aim of this study was to evaluate a probe-based Mucorales-specific real-time PCR assay (Muc18S) using tissue and serum samples from patients suffering from invasive mucormycosis (IMM). This assay can detect a broad range of clinically relevant Mucorales species and can be used to complement existing diagnostic tests or to screen high-risk patients. An advantage of the Muc18S assay is that it exclusively detects Mucorales species allowing the diagnosis of Mucorales DNA without sequencing within a few hours. In paraffin-embedded tissue samples this PCR-based method allowed rapid identification of Mucorales in comparison with standard methods and showed 91 % sensitivity in the IMM tissue samples. We also evaluated serum samples, an easily accessible material, from patients at risk from IMM. Mucorales DNA was detected in all patients with probable/proven IMM (100 %) and in 29 % of the possible cases. Detection of IMM in serum could enable an earlier diagnosis (up to 21 days) than current methods including tissue samples, which were gained mainly post-mortem. A screening strategy for high-risk patients, which would enable targeted treatment to improve patient outcomes, is therefore possible.

Altered serum glyceraldehyde-derived advanced glycation end product (AGE) and soluble AGE receptor levels indicate carbonyl stress in patients with schizophrenia.

PubMed

Takeda, Mayu; Ohnuma, Tohru; Takeuchi, Masayoshi; Katsuta, Narimasa; Maeshima, Hitoshi; Takebayashi, Yuto; Higa, Motoyuki; Nakamura, Toru; Nishimon, Shohei; Sannohe, Takahiro; Hotta, Yuri; Hanzawa, Ryo; Higashiyama, Ryoko; Shibata, Nobuto; Gohda, Tomohito; Suzuki, Yusuke; Yamagishi, Sho-ichi; Tomino, Yasuhiko; Arai, Heii

2015-04-23

Recent cross-sectional and longitudinal studies indicate that measurements of peripheral blood carbonyl stress markers such as the advanced glycation end product (AGE) pentosidine and the reactive carbonyl-detoxifying B6 vitamin pyridoxal could be used as therapeutic biological markers in subpopulations of schizophrenia patients. Glyceraldehyde-derived AGEs (Glycer-AGE) have strong neurotoxicity, and soluble receptors for AGEs (sRAGE) may ameliorate the effects of AGEs. In the present study, we measured Glycer-AGEs and sRAGE levels to determine their potential as diagnostic, therapeutic, or clinical biological markers in patients with schizophrenia. After enrollment of 61 admitted Japanese patients with acute schizophrenia and 39 healthy volunteers, 54 patients were followed up from the acute stage to remission. Serum biomarkers were measured in blood samples taken before breakfast using competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, and Glycer-AGEs were significantly higher and sRAGE levels were significantly lower in patients with acute schizophrenia than in healthy controls. Glycer-AGEs/sRAGE ratios were also higher in schizophrenia patients and were stable during the clinical course. Furthermore, discriminant analyses confirmed that Glycer-AGEs and Glycer-AGEs/sRAGE ratios are significant diagnostic markers for schizophrenia, and distinguished between patients and healthy controls in 70.0% of cases. However, these markers of carbonyl stress were not correlated with clinical features, including disease severity, or with daily chlorpromazine doses. These data indicate the potential of Glycer-AGEs, RAGEs, and their relative ratios as diagnostic markers for patients with schizophrenia. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Chemometrics enhanced HPLC-DAD performance for rapid quantification of carbamazepine and phenobarbital in human serum samples.

PubMed

Vosough, Maryam; Ghafghazi, Shiva; Sabetkasaei, Masoumeh

2014-02-01

This paper describes development and validation of a simple and efficient bioanalytical procedure for simultaneous determination of phenobarbital and carbamazepine in human serum samples using high performance liquid chromatography with photodiode-array detection (HPLC-DAD) regarding a fast elution methodology in less than 5 min. Briefly, this method consisted of a simple deproteinization step of serum samples followed by HPLC analysis on a Bonus-RP column using an isocratic mode of elution with acetonitrile/K2HPO4 (pH=7.5) buffer solution (45:55). Due to the presence of serum endogenous components as non-calibrated components in the sample, second-order calibration based on multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares (MCR-ALS), has been applied on a set of absorbance matrices collected as a function of retention time and wavelengths. Acceptable resolution and quantification results were achieved in the presence of matrix interferences and the second-order advantage was fully exploited. The average recoveries for carbamazepine and phenobarbital were 89.7% and 86.1% and relative standard deviation values were lower than 9%. Additionally, computed elliptical joint confidence region (EJCR) confirmed the accuracy of the proposed method and indicated the absence of both constant and proportional errors in the predicted concentrations. The developed method enabled the determination of the analytes in different serum samples in the presence of overlapped profiles, while keeping experimental time and extraction steps at minimum. Finally, the serum concentration levels of carbamazepine in three time intervals were reported for morphine-dependents who had received carbamazepine for treating their neuropathic pain. © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of status of calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium levels in biological samples in children of different age groups with normal vision and night blindness.

PubMed

Afridi, Hassan Imran; Kazi, Tasneem Gul; Kazi, Naveed; Kandhro, Ghulam Abbas; Baig, Jameel Ahmed; Shah, Abdul Qadir; Khan, Sumaira; Kolachi, Nida Fatima; Wadhwa, Sham Kumar; Shah, Faheem

2011-01-01

The most common cause of blindness in developing countries is vitamin A deficiency. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates 13.8 million children have some degree of visual loss related to vitamin A deficiency. The causes of night blindness in children are multifactorial and particular consideration has been given to childhood nutritional deficiency, which is the most common problem found in underdeveloped countries. Such deficiency can result in physiological and pathological processes that in turn influence biological sample composition. Vitamin and mineral deficiency prevents more than two billion people from achieving their full intellectual and physical potential. This study was designed to compare the levels of magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), potassium (K), and sodium (Na) in scalp hair, serum, blood, and urine of night blindness children in two age groups, (1-5) and (6-10) years, of both genders comparing them to sex- and age-matched controls. A microwave assisted wet acid digestion procedure was developed as a sample pretreatment for the determination of Mg, Ca, K, and Na in biological samples of children with night blindness. The proposed method was validated by using conventional wet digestion and certified reference samples of hair, serum, blood, and urine. The digests of all biological samples were analysed for Mg, Ca, K, and Na by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) using an air/acetylene flame. The results indicated significantly lower levels of Mg, Ca, and K in the biological samples (blood, serum, and scalp hair) of male and female children with night blindness and higher values of Na compared with control subjects of both genders. These data present guidance to clinicians and other professionals investigating deficiency of essential mineral elements in biological samples (scalp hair, serum, and blood) of children with night blindness.

In serum veritas—in serum sanitas? Cell non-autonomous aging compromises differentiation and survival of mesenchymal stromal cells via the oxidative stress pathway

PubMed Central

Geißler, S; Textor, M; Schmidt-Bleek, K; Klein, O; Thiele, M; Ellinghaus, A; Jacobi, D; Ode, A; Perka, C; Dienelt, A; Klose, J; Kasper, G; Duda, G N; Strube, P

2013-01-01

Even tissues capable of complete regeneration, such as bone, show an age-related reduction in their healing capacity. Here, we hypothesized that this decline is primarily due to cell non-autonomous (extrinsic) aging mediated by the systemic environment. We demonstrate that culture of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) in serum from aged Sprague–Dawley rats negatively affects their survival and differentiation ability. Proteome analysis and further cellular investigations strongly suggest that serum from aged animals not only changes expression of proteins related to mitochondria, unfolded protein binding or involved in stress responses, it also significantly enhances intracellular reactive oxygen species production and leads to the accumulation of oxidatively damaged proteins. Conversely, reduction of oxidative stress levels in vitro markedly improved MSC function. These results were validated in an in vivo model of compromised bone healing, which demonstrated significant increase regeneration in aged animals following oral antioxidant administration. These observations indicate the high impact of extrinsic aging on cellular functions and the process of endogenous (bone) regeneration. Thus, addressing the cell environment by, for example, systemic antioxidant treatment is a promising approach to enhance tissue regeneration and to regain cellular function especially in elderly patients. PMID:24357801

A sup 125 I-radioimmunoassay for measuring androstenedione in serum and in blood-spot samples from neonates

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Thomson, S.; Wallace, A.M.; Cook, B.

1989-08-01

We developed a radioimmunoassay with a gamma-emitting radioligand to measure androstenedione in human serum and in dried blood-spot samples from newborns. Antisera were raised in rabbits against androstenedione linked to bovine serum albumin at positions 3, 6, or 11 on the steroid nucleus. Radioligands were prepared by linking ({sup 125}I)iodohistamine at positions 3, 6, or 11. Linkages were through either carboxymethyloxime or hemisuccinate bridges. All label and antibody combinations were examined, and the most sensitive and specific combination (antiserum raised against androstenedione-3-carboxymethyloxime-bovine serum albumin with an androstenedione-carboxymethyloxime-({sup 125}I)iodohistamine label) was selected for full evaluation. We report the performance of thesemore » selected reagents in an immunoassay for androstenedione in both serum and dried blood-spot samples from neonates. We measured concentrations of androstenedione in serum under normal and pathological conditions such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia and polycystic ovarian disease. Diurnal variation in normal men was observed. Androstenedione was measured in blood spots from neonates born at term or prematurely, with respiratory distress syndrome, or with congenital adrenal hyperplasia.« less

[Polychlorinated biphenyl serum levels in two Italian population groups: sex pattern and correlation with age].

PubMed

Turci, Roberta; Marinaccio, Alessandro; Balducci, Claudio; Catenacci, Giovanni; Finozzi, Enrico; Minoia, Claudio

2006-01-01

To examine the congener-specific concentrations and patterns of polychlorinated biphenyls in the Italian general population. Two population groups were selected and monitored for the determination of up to 60 congeners in human serum. A very detailed questionnaire was administered to each participant to collect information concerning demographic, lifestyle, and medical factors. Statistical analyses were performed to examine the relationships between PCB serum levels and age. Northern and Central Italy. 162 subjects from Novafeltria, Central Italy and 164 subjects from Pavia, Northern Italy. Serum concentrations of both coplanar and non-coplanar PCB congeners. Relationship between PCB levels and age. The mean concentration of total PCBs was found to be 2.48 and 3.93 microg/l for Novafeltria and Pavia, respectively. As waited, the most abundant congeners were CB-153, CB-138, CB-180, and CB-170. Age resulted to be the most significant determinant of PCB levels. Slight differences in the congener profile were observed in the two population groups. As expected, a strong correlation between age and PCB levels has been observed. It is remarkable that the correlation increased with increasing chlorination in both the population groups. Associations with other variables, such as gender, food and alcohol consumption, and cigarette smoking, appeared to be inconsistent.

Serum Fetuin-A Levels and Thyroid Function inMiddle-aged and Elderly Chinese.

PubMed

Deng, Xin Ru; Ding, Lin; Wang, Tian Ge; Xu, Min; Lu, Jie Li; Li, Mian; Zhao, Zhi Yun; Chen, Yu Hong; Bi, Yu Fang; Xu, Yi Ping; Xu, Yu

2017-06-01

Serum fetuin-A levels are reportedly elevated in hyperthyroidism. However, there are few relevant epidemiologic studies. We conducted a cross-sectional study in Songnan community, China in 2009 to investigate the association between serum fetuin-A concentrations and thyroid function. A total of 2,984 participants aged 40 years and older were analyzed. Multivariable linear regression analysis revealed that serum fetuin-A concentra- tions were positively associated with log (free triiodothyronine) and were inversely associated with log (thyroid peroxidase antibody) after adjustment (both P < 0.05). Compared with the participants in the lowest tertile of free triiodo-thyronine and free thyroxine level, those in the highest tertile had higher fetuin-A concentrations. Additionally, high serum fetuin-A concentrations were related to high thyroid function (odds ratio 1.27, 95% confidence interval 1.01-1.61), after adjustment for conventional risk factors. Copyright © 2017 The Editorial Board of Biomedical and Environmental Sciences. Published by China CDC. All rights reserved.

Specific Antibodies Reacting with SV40 Large T Antigen Mimotopes in Serum Samples of Healthy Subjects

PubMed Central

Tognon, Mauro; Corallini, Alfredo; Manfrini, Marco; Taronna, Angelo; Butel, Janet S.; Pietrobon, Silvia; Trevisiol, Lorenzo; Bononi, Ilaria; Vaccher, Emanuela; Barbanti-Brodano, Giuseppe; Martini, Fernanda; Mazzoni, Elisa

2016-01-01

Simian Virus 40, experimentally assayed in vitro in different animal and human cells and in vivo in rodents, was classified as a small DNA tumor virus. In previous studies, many groups identified Simian Virus 40 sequences in healthy individuals and cancer patients using PCR techniques, whereas others failed to detect the viral sequences in human specimens. These conflicting results prompted us to develop a novel indirect ELISA with synthetic peptides, mimicking Simian Virus 40 capsid viral protein antigens, named mimotopes. This immunologic assay allowed us to investigate the presence of serum antibodies against Simian Virus 40 and to verify whether Simian Virus 40 is circulating in humans. In this investigation two mimotopes from Simian Virus 40 large T antigen, the viral replication protein and oncoprotein, were employed to analyze for specific reactions to human sera antibodies. This indirect ELISA with synthetic peptides from Simian Virus 40 large T antigen was used to assay a new collection of serum samples from healthy subjects. This novel assay revealed that serum antibodies against Simian Virus 40 large T antigen mimotopes are detectable, at low titer, in healthy subjects aged from 18–65 years old. The overall prevalence of reactivity with the two Simian Virus 40 large T antigen peptides was 20%. This new ELISA with two mimotopes of the early viral regions is able to detect in a specific manner Simian Virus 40 large T antigen-antibody responses. PMID:26731525

Rapamycin Normalizes Serum Leptin by Alleviating Obesity and Reducing Leptin Synthesis in Aged Rats

PubMed Central

Matheny, Michael; Strehler, Kevin Y.E.; Toklu, Hale Zerrin; Kirichenko, Nataliya; Carter, Christy S.; Morgan, Drake; Tümer, Nihal

2016-01-01

This investigation examines whether a low intermittent dose of rapamycin will avoid the hyperlipidemia and diabetes-like syndrome associated with rapamycin while still decreasing body weight and adiposity in aged obese rats. Furthermore, we examined if the rapamycin-mediated decrease in serum leptin was a reflection of decreased adiposity, diminished leptin synthesis, or both. To these ends, rapamycin (1mg/kg) was administered three times a week to 3 and 24-month old rats. Body weight, food intake, body composition, mTORC1 signaling, markers of metabolism, as well as serum leptin levels and leptin synthesis in adipose tissue were examined and compared to that following a central infusion of rapamycin. Our data suggest that the dosing schedule of rapamycin acts on peripheral targets to inhibit mTORC1 signaling, preferentially reducing adiposity and sparing lean mass in an aged model of obesity resulting in favorable outcomes on blood triglycerides, increasing lean/fat ratio, and normalizing elevated serum leptin with age. The initial mechanism underlying the rapamycin responses appears to have a peripheral action and not central. The peripheral rapamycin responses may communicate an excessive nutrients signal to the hypothalamus that triggers an anorexic response to reduce food consumption. This coupled with potential peripheral mechanism serves to decrease adiposity and synthesis of leptin. PMID:25617379

Reference values of coplanar and non-coplanar PCBs in serum samples from two Italian population groups.

PubMed

Turci, Roberta; Finozzi, Enrico; Catenacci, Giovanni; Marinaccio, Alessandro; Balducci, Claudio; Minoia, Claudio

2006-04-10

The main goal of this study is to establish the reference values of individual Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners in non-occupationally exposed subjects. Since the PCB pattern in human serum is related to the living area, two different population groups from North and Central Italy, were compared. Serum concentrations of both coplanar and non-coplanar PCB congeners were measured by using gas chromatography coupled with low-resolution mass spectrometry (HRGC-LRMS). A fast and reliable method for the determination of 60 congeners had been previously validated. Its reliability was further verified by using high-resolution mass spectrometry. Thirty-one congeners out of 60 were found at detectable concentrations in at least one sample. The mean value for total PCBs was found to be 2.48 and 3.93 microg/L for the two population groups. Eight dioxin-like PCBs were detected. In accordance with the findings from the literature, the most abundant congeners were found to be 153, 138, 180, and 170. Both univariate and multivariate analysis showed that age is a significant determinant of PCB concentrations. The correlation increased with increasing chlorination. Slight differences in the PCB pattern were observed in the two population groups.

Serum profiling of healthy aging identifies phospho- and sphingolipid species as markers of human longevity.

PubMed

Montoliu, Ivan; Scherer, Max; Beguelin, Fiona; DaSilva, Laeticia; Mari, Daniela; Salvioli, Stefano; Martin, Francois-Pierre J; Capri, Miriam; Bucci, Laura; Ostan, Rita; Garagnani, Paolo; Monti, Daniela; Biagi, Elena; Brigidi, Patrizia; Kussmann, Martin; Rezzi, Serge; Franceschi, Claudio; Collino, Sebastiano

2014-01-01

As centenarians well represent the model of healthy aging, there are many important implications in revealing the underlying molecular mechanisms behind such successful aging. By combining NMR metabonomics and shot-gun lipidomics in serum we analyzed metabolome and lipidome composition of a group of centenarians with respect to elderly individuals. Specifically, NMR metabonomics profiling of serum revealed that centenarians are characterized by a metabolic phenotype distinct from that of elderly subjects, in particular regarding amino acids and lipid species. Shot- gun lipidomics approach displays unique changes in lipids biosynthesis in centenarians, with 41 differently abundant lipid species with respect to elderly subjects. These findings reveal phospho/sphingolipids as putative markers and biological modulators of healthy aging, in humans. Considering the particular actions of these metabolites, these data are suggestive of a better counteractive antioxidant capacity and a well-developed membrane lipid remodelling process in the healthy aging phenotype.

Serum folate, vitamin B-12 and cognitive function in middle and older age: The HAPIEE study.

PubMed

Horvat, Pia; Gardiner, Julian; Kubinova, Ruzena; Pajak, Andrzej; Tamosiunas, Abdonas; Schöttker, Ben; Pikhart, Hynek; Peasey, Anne; Jansen, Eugene; Bobak, Martin

2016-04-01

Nutrient status of B vitamins, particularly folate and vitamin B-12, may be related to cognitive ageing but epidemiological evidence remains inconclusive. The aim of this study was to estimate the association of serum folate and vitamin B-12 concentrations with cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults from three Central and Eastern European populations. Men and women aged 45-69 at baseline participating in the Health, Alcohol and Psychosocial factors in Eastern Europe (HAPIEE) study were recruited in Krakow (Poland), Kaunas (Lithuania) and six urban centres in the Czech Republic. Tests of immediate and delayed recall, verbal fluency and letter search were administered at baseline and repeated in 2006-2008. Serum concentrations of biomarkers at baseline were measured in a sub-sample of participants. Associations of vitamin quartiles with baseline (n=4166) and follow-up (n=2739) cognitive domain-specific z-scores were estimated using multiple linear regression. After adjusting for confounders, folate was positively associated with letter search and vitamin B-12 with word recall in cross-sectional analyses. In prospective analyses, participants in the highest quartile of folate had higher verbal fluency (p<0.01) and immediate recall (p<0.05) scores compared to those in the bottom quartile. In addition, participants in the highest quartile of vitamin B-12 had significantly higher verbal fluency scores (β=0.12; 95% CI=0.02, 0.21). Folate and vitamin B-12 were positively associated with performance in some but not all cognitive domains in older Central and Eastern Europeans. These findings do not lend unequivocal support to potential importance of folate and vitamin B-12 status for cognitive function in older age. Long-term longitudinal studies and randomised trials are required before drawing conclusions on the role of these vitamins in cognitive decline. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Polychlorinated biphenyl concentrations in pooled serum from people in different age groups from five Chinese cities.

PubMed

Wang, Qinghua; Yuan, Haodong; Jin, Jun; Li, Peng; Ma, Yulong; Wang, Ying

2018-05-01

Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) concentrations in human serum samples pooled by donor age and sex (≥60, 50-59, 40-49, 30-39, and 20-29 years old) were determined. The pooled samples were supplied by hospitals in five Chinese cities, which were Yitong (Jilin Province), Weifang (Shandong Province), Ganzi (Sichuan Province), Huaihua (Hunan Province), and Lingshui (Hainan Province). The total PCB concentrations were relatively low compared with concentrations that have been found in other parts of the world. Pentachlorobiphenyls were the dominant PCBs. The total PCB concentrations and the concentrations of most of the pentachlorobiphenyl congeners were slightly higher in the samples from younger donors than in the samples from older donors. The results indicated there is a new source of PCBs in China. Heptachlorobiphenyls in Lingshui may have been transported from Vietnam. Statistical analysis showed that young and old people had been exposed to different sources of PCBs. PCB 126 contributed more than the other dioxin-like PCBs to the total toxic equivalents when the samples were examined as a whole or by city, and the total toxic equivalents were higher in younger people than in older people for the whole sample set and for the Yitong samples. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Differentiating the Influences of Aging and Adiposity on Brain Weights, Levels of Serum and Brain Cytokines, Gastrointestinal Hormones, and Amyloid Precursor Protein.

PubMed

Banks, William A; Abrass, Christine K; Hansen, Kim M

2016-01-01

Aging and obesity exert important effects on disease. Differentiating these effects is difficult, however, because weight gain often accompanies aging. Here, we used a nested design of aged, calorically restricted, and refed rats to measure changes in brain and blood levels of cytokines and gastrointestinal hormones, brain amyloid precursor protein levels, and brain and body weights. By comparing groups and using path analysis, we found divergent influences of chronological aging versus body weight, our main findings being (i) changes in whole brain weight and serum macrophage colony-stimulating factor levels correlated better with body weight than with chronological aging, (ii) a decrease in brain cytokines and brain plasminogen activator inhibitor levels correlated better with chronological aging than with body weight, (iii) serum erythropoietin levels were influenced by both body weight and aging, (iv) serum plasminogen activator inhibitor, serum cytokines, and brain tumor necrosis factor were not influenced by aging or body weight, and (v) brain amyloid precursor protein more closely related to body weight and serum levels of gastrointestinal hormones than to brain weight, chronological aging, or cytokines. These findings show that although aging and body weight interact, their influences are distinct not only among various cytokines and hormones but also between the central nervous system and the peripheral tissue compartments. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Gerontological Society of America 2014.

Stability of BDNF in Human Samples Stored Up to 6 Months and Correlations of Serum and EDTA-Plasma Concentrations.

PubMed

Polyakova, Maryna; Schlögl, Haiko; Sacher, Julia; Schmidt-Kassow, Maren; Kaiser, Jochen; Stumvoll, Michael; Kratzsch, Jürgen; Schroeter, Matthias L

2017-06-03

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), an important neural growth factor, has gained growing interest in neuroscience, but many influencing physiological and analytical aspects still remain unclear. In this study we assessed the impact of storage time at room temperature, repeated freeze/thaw cycles, and storage at -80 °C up to 6 months on serum and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)-plasma BDNF. Furthermore, we assessed correlations of serum and plasma BDNF concentrations in two independent sets of samples. Coefficients of variations (CVs) for serum BDNF concentrations were significantly lower than CVs of plasma concentrations ( n = 245, p = 0.006). Mean serum and plasma concentrations at all analyzed time points remained within the acceptable change limit of the inter-assay precision as declared by the manufacturer. Serum and plasma BDNF concentrations correlated positively in both sets of samples and at all analyzed time points of the stability assessment ( r = 0.455 to r s = 0.596; p < 0.004). In summary, when considering the acceptable change limit, BDNF was stable in serum and in EDTA-plasma up to 6 months. Due to a higher reliability, we suggest favoring serum over EDTA-plasma for future experiments assessing peripheral BDNF concentrations.

Exploring the concurrent presence of hepatitis A virus genome in serum, stool, saliva, and urine samples of hepatitis A patients.

PubMed

Joshi, Madhuri S; Bhalla, Shilpa; Kalrao, Vijay R; Dhongade, Ramchandra K; Chitambar, Shobha D

2014-04-01

The use of saliva and urine as an alternative to serum samples for detection of anti-hepatitis A virus (HAV) IgM antibodies has been documented. However, these samples remain underreported or unexplored for shedding of HAV. To address this issue, paired serum, stool, saliva, and urine samples collected from hepatitis A patients were screened by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction for detection of HAV RNA. HAV RNA was detected in 67.6% (44/65), 52.3% (34/65), 8.7% (5/57), and 12.3% (8/65) of the serum, stool, saliva, and urine samples, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis of nucleotide sequences obtained for partial RNA polymerase region grouped HAV strains from all of the clinical samples of the study in subgenotype IIIA. Low frequency of HAV nucleic acid in saliva and urine samples indicates limited utility of these samples in genomic studies on HAV but suggests its potential for transmission and infection of hepatitis A. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Serum total bilirubin levels are negatively correlated with metabolic syndrome in aged Chinese women: a community-based study.

PubMed

Zhong, P; Sun, D M; Wu, D H; Li, T M; Liu, X Y; Liu, H Y

2017-01-26

We evaluated serum total bilirubin levels as a predictor for metabolic syndrome (MetS) and investigated the relationship between serum total bilirubin levels and MetS prevalence. This cross-sectional study included 1728 participants over 65 years of age from Eastern China. Anthropometric data, lifestyle information, and previous medical history were collected. We then measured serum levels of fasting blood-glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and total bilirubin, as well as alanine aminotransferase activity. The prevalence of MetS and each of its individual component were calculated per quartile of total bilirubin level. Logistic regression was used to assess the correlation between serum total bilirubin levels and MetS. Total bilirubin level in the women who did not have MetS was significantly higher than in those who had MetS (P<0.001). Serum total bilirubin quartiles were linearly and negatively correlated with MetS prevalence and hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) in females (P<0.005). Logistic regression showed that serum total bilirubin was an independent predictor of MetS for females (OR: 0.910, 95%CI: 0.863-0.960; P=0.001). The present study suggests that physiological levels of serum total bilirubin might be an independent risk factor for aged Chinese women, and the prevalence of MetS and HTG are negatively correlated to serum total bilirubin levels.

Evaluation of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays performed on milk and serum samples for detection of neosporosis and leukosis in lactating dairy cows

PubMed Central

Walsh, Robert B.; Kelton, David F.; Hietala, Sharon K.; Duffield, Todd F.

2013-01-01

Serum and milk samples from 1229 cows on 22 Ontario dairy farms were individually tested for antibodies specific for bovine leukosis virus (BLV) and Neospora caninum by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Antibodies against BLV were present in 361 serum samples (29.4%) and 369 milk samples (30.0%). Comparing the 2 tests, agreement was almost perfect (k = 0.86; 95% CI = 0.83 to 0.90) and the proportions of samples positive were not significantly different (P = 0.56). Both tests identified the same 3 herds free of bovine leukosis virus. Antibodies against N. caninum were detected in 138 serum samples (11.2%), and 111 milk samples (9.0%). Agreement between the 2 tests was moderate (k = 0.52; 95% CI = 0.43 to 0.59). Four herds were free of neosporosis by the serum test, while 10 herds were negative by the milk test. The ELISA on milk samples facilitates sample collection to classify herds free of BLV; the milk N. caninum ELISA was less reliable in predicting herd-level infection. PMID:24082160

A Schistosoma haematobium-specific real-time PCR for diagnosis of urogenital schistosomiasis in serum samples of international travelers and migrants.

PubMed

Cnops, Lieselotte; Soentjens, Patrick; Clerinx, Jan; Van Esbroeck, Marjan

2013-01-01

Diagnosis of urogenital schistosomiasis by microscopy and serological tests may be elusive in travelers due to low egg load and the absence of seroconversion upon arrival. There is need for a more sensitive diagnostic test. Therefore, we developed a real-time PCR targeting the Schistosoma haematobium-specific Dra1 sequence. The PCR was evaluated on urine (n = 111), stool (n = 84) and serum samples (n = 135), and one biopsy from travelers and migrants with confirmed or suspected schistosomiasis. PCR revealed a positive result in 7/7 urine samples, 11/11 stool samples and 1/1 biopsy containing S. haematobium eggs as demonstrated by microscopy and in 22/23 serum samples from patients with a parasitological confirmed S. haematobium infection. S. haematobium DNA was additionally detected by PCR in 7 urine, 3 stool and 5 serum samples of patients suspected of having schistosomiasis without egg excretion in urine and feces. None of these suspected patients demonstrated other parasitic infections except one with Blastocystis hominis and Entamoeba cyst in a fecal sample. The PCR was negative in all stool samples containing S. mansoni eggs (n = 21) and in all serum samples of patients with a microscopically confirmed S. mansoni (n = 22), Ascaris lumbricoides (n = 1), Ancylostomidae (n = 1), Strongyloides stercoralis (n = 1) or Trichuris trichuria infection (n = 1). The PCR demonstrated a high specificity, reproducibility and analytical sensitivity (0.5 eggs per gram of feces). The real-time PCR targeting the Dra1 sequence for S. haematobium-specific detection in urine, feces, and particularly serum, is a promising tool to confirm the diagnosis, also during the acute phase of urogenital schistosomiasis.

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin and dibenzofuran concentrations in serum samples of workers at intermittently burning municipal waste incinerators in Japan

PubMed Central

Kumagai, S; Koda, S; Miyakita, T; Ueno, M

2002-01-01

deposited dust, multiple regression analysis showed that the concentrations of HxCDF, HpCDF, and TEQ of PCDFs in serum samples increased with the occupational exposure index. The multiple regression analysis also suggested that significant factors affecting the concentrations in serum samples were area for HxCDD, age for TCDD, PeCDD, PeCDF, TEQ of PCDDs, TEQ of PCDFs, and TEQ of summed PCDDs and PCDFs, and BMI for HxCDD, HpCDD, and OCDD. Conclusion: This study showed that incinerator workers employed at intermittently burning incineration plants were not necessarily exposed to high concentrations of PCDDs and PCDFs. However, the increases in the concentrations in serum of HxCDF, HpCDF and TEQ of PCDFs with the occupational exposure index suggest that the incinerator workers had inhaled dust containing PCDDs and PCDFs during their work. PMID:12040109

HEMATOLOGY, SERUM BIOCHEMISTRY, AND URINALYSIS VALUES IN THE ADULT GIANT PANDA ( AILUROPODA MELANOLEUCA).

PubMed

Burrell, Caitlin; Zhang, Hemin; Li, Desheng; Wang, Chengdong; Li, Caiwu; Aitken-Palmer, Copper

2017-12-01

The giant panda ( Ailuropoda melanoleuca) is a high-profile threatened species with individuals in captivity worldwide. As a result of advances in captive animal management and veterinary medicine, the ex situ giant panda population is aging, and improved understanding of age-related changes is necessary. Urine and blood samples were collected in April and July 2015 and analyzed for complete blood count, serum biochemistry, and biochemical and microscopic urine analysis for all individuals sampled ( n = 7, 7-16 yr of age) from giant panda housed at the China Research and Conservation Centre for the Giant Panda in Bifengxia, Sichuan Province, China. Hematology and serum biochemistry values were similar to those previously reported for giant panda aged 2-20 yr and to Species360 (formerly International Species Information System) values. Urine was overall dilute (urine specific gravity range: 1.001-1.021), acellular, and acidic (pH range: 6-7). This is the first report of hematologic and serum biochemistry, with associated urinalysis values, in the giant panda aged 7-16 yr.

Evaluation of maternal serum alpha-foetoprotein assay using dry blood spot samples.

PubMed

González, C; Guerrero, J M; Elorza, F L; Molinero, P; Goberna, R

1988-02-01

The quantification of alpha-foetoprotein in dry blood spots from pregnant women was evaluated, using a conventional radioimmunoassay (RIA) with a monospecific antibody. The stability of alpha-foetoprotein in dry blood spots on filter paper was evaluated with respect to mailing, distances travelled, and the existence of high summer temperatures in our region. The results obtained show that the blood alpha-foetoprotein is stable on dry filter spots sent by mail and is stable for up to four weeks at 4, 25 and 37 degrees C. The analytical method used has a minimal detectable concentration of 10 +/- 1.9 international kilo-units/l. Both inter- and intra-assay variabilities are smaller than 10% and this method can provide results comparable with those of conventional serum assays. Results from dry blood spots and serum samples (the latter analysed by both RIA and two-site enzyme immunoassay) exhibited a good correlation (r = 0.98 and r = 0.97, p less than 0.001). The design of the assay and the nature of the samples make this method suitable for a screening programmes for the antenatal detection of open neural tube defects.

Molecular detection of Rift Valley fever virus in serum samples from selected areas of Tanzania.

PubMed

Chengula, Augustino Alfred; Kasanga, Christopher Jacob; Mdegela, Robinson Hammerthon; Sallu, Raphael; Yongolo, Mmeta

2014-04-01

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is an acute mosquito-borne viral zoonotic disease affecting domestic animals and humans caused by the Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV). The virus belongs to the genus Phlebovirus of the family Bunyaviridae. The main aim of this study was to detect the presence of antibodies to RVFV as well as the virus in the serum samples that were collected from livestock during the 2006/2007 RVF outbreaks in different locations in Tanzania. Analysis of selected samples was done using a RVF-specific inhibition enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (I-ELISA) and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Genomic viral RNA was extracted directly from serum samples using a QIAamp Viral RNA Mini Kit (QIAGEN), and a one-step RT-PCR protocol was used to amplify the S segment of RVFV. Positive results were obtained in 39.5% (n = 200) samples using the RVF I-ELISA, and 17.6% (n = 108) of samples were positive by RT-PCR. I-ELISA detected 41 (38.7%), 32 (39.0%), and 6 (50.0%) positive results in cattle, goats, and sheep sera, respectively, whereas the RT-PCR detected 11 (0.2%), 7 (0.2%), and 1 (0.1%) positive results in cattle, goats, and sheep sera, respectively. These findings have demonstrated the presence of RVFV in Tanzania during the 2006/2007 RVF outbreaks. To our knowledge, this is the first report to detect RVFV in serum samples from domestic animals in Tanzania using PCR technique. Therefore, a detailed molecular study to characterize the virus from different geographical locations in order to establish the profile of strains circulating in the country and develop more effective and efficient control strategies should be done.

[Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis cases diagnosed by increased CSF/serum measles antibody indices].

PubMed

Samlıoğlu, Pınar; Unalp, Aycan; Gökçay, Ahmet; Altuğlu, Imre; Oztürk, Aysel; Zeytinoğlu, Ayşın

2012-10-01

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) caused by persistent defective measles virus strains, is a progressive neurological disorder of children and adolescents. The aim of this letter was to share the data from SSPE-suspected cases who were definitely diagnosed by the detection of increased antibody index in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples. A total of 11 patients (mean age: 14.3 years) with suspected SSPE between February 2006 to August 2008, were included in the study. Simultaneously obtained serum and CSF samples from patients were analyzed in terms of albumin, total IgG and measles-specific IgG levels (Measles Virus IgG ELISA for CSF Diagnostics, Euroimmun, Germany). The value of CSQrel (relative CSF/serum quotient) ≥ 1.5 was accepted indicative for intrathecal measles antibody synthesis. Seven (63.6%) of the 11 patients' diagnosis were confirmed with the demonstration of elevated CSF/serum indices (CSQrel range: 2.3-36.9; mean: 12.9). Mean age of those seven cases was 12.3 years (age range: 7-21) and four of them were male. The history of patients with high antibody indices indicated that three of four patients who had measles infection had not been vaccinated against measles. These three unvaccinated patients had measles infection at 3rd, 8th and 30th months of age, respectively, and the period of SSPE development were 15, 6 and 4.5 years, respectively. With this letter we would like to emphasize once more that effective measles vaccination is the only way for the prevention of measles and SSPE and the demonstration of increased measles antibody index in simultaneously obtained serum and CSF samples is crucial for the diagnosis of SSPE.

Serum antinuclear antibody in adult Thais.

PubMed

Prapinjumrune, Chanwit; Prucktrakul, Chalakorn; Sooktonglarng, Trakarn; Thongprasom, Kobkan

2017-03-01

This study investigated the presence of antinuclear antibody (ANA) in older Thais compared with middle-age and younger participants. Antinuclear antibody represents the first step in the diagnostic testing for lupus erythematosus (LE) and other autoimmune diseases. Due to the lack of reference ANA levels in older, middle-age and younger Thais healthy participants, this study will be useful for determining the proper diagnostic and treatment criteria. There were 28 older (60-76 years), 17 middle-age (41-59 years) and 13 younger (24-40 years) participants in this study. Immunofluorescence was performed to analyse the ANA staining pattern and titre levels in the participants' blood samples. The presence of serum ANA was found in 18 of 28 cases (64.3%), four of 17 (23.5%) and one of 13 cases (7.7%) of the older, middle-age and younger participants, respectively. The difference in the number of serum ANA-positive participants between the older, middle-age and younger groups was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Interestingly, the ANA positive in older participants presented more than one staining pattern. The speckled pattern was the most commonly detected ANA staining pattern in the older group, being found in 12 cases followed by cytoplasmic pattern (10 cases), homogeneous pattern (nine cases) and nucleolar pattern (five cases). In the middle-age group, the speckled pattern was found in four cases, whereas one younger participant presented a nucleolar pattern. Serum ANA positive was significantly higher in the older group compared with the middle-age and younger groups. There were variations of the serum ANA staining patterns in the older group. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S and The Gerodontology Association. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Bio-logic analysis of injury biomarker patterns in human serum samples.

PubMed

Zhou, Jian; Halámek, Jan; Bocharova, Vera; Wang, Joseph; Katz, Evgeny

2011-01-15

Digital biosensor systems analyzing biomarkers characteristic of liver injury (LI), soft tissue injury (STI) and abdominal trauma (ABT) were developed and optimized for their performance in serum solutions spiked with injury biomarkers in order to mimic real medical samples. The systems produced 'Alert'-type optical output signals in the form of "YES-NO" separated by a threshold value. The new approach aims at the reliable detection of injury biomarkers for making autonomous decisions towards timely therapeutic interventions, particularly in conditions when a hospital treatment is not possible. The enzyme-catalyzed reactions performing Boolean AND/NAND logic operations in the presence of different combinations of the injury biomarkers allowed high-fidelity biosensing. Robustness of the systems was confirmed by their operation in serum solutions, representing the first example of chemically performed logic analysis of biological fluids and a step closer towards practical biomedical applications of enzyme-logic bioassays. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons and Polychlorinated Dibenzo-p-Dioxins/Dibenzofurans in Microliter Samples of Human Serum as Exposure Indicators

PubMed Central

Xia, Xiaoyan; Carroll-Haddad, Alesia; Brown, Nicole; Utell, Mark J.; Mallon, Timothy; Hopke, Philip K.

2016-01-01

Objective The objectives were: 1) measure polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and dibenzofurans (PCDFs) in 100 μL of human serum and 2) assess PAH and PCDD/PCDF as markers of burn pit exposures during military deployments. Methods PAHs and PCDDs/PCDFs were analyzed in 100μL serum samples collected pre- and post-deployment from 200 persons deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan (CASE); 200 persons not deployed (CONTROL) with GC/MS. Results Naphthalene was found in ~83% of the samples and was statistically different between post-deployment CASE personnel and pre-deployment. 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-Heptachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, Octachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, 1,2,3,7,8,9-Hexachlorodibenzofuran, and 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-Heptachlorodibenzofuran were found in ~38% of samples. Concentrations were significantly different between CASE and CONTROL and between pre- and post-deployment samples. Conclusions PAH and PCDD/PCDF in serum can serve as exposure markers and measurements in small volumes is feasible for quantifying exposure to burn pits. PMID:27501107

Serum and urine chromium as indices of chromium status in tannery workers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Randall, J.A.; Gibson, R.S.

Serum and urinary Cr levels of a selected group of men exposed to CrIII in four Southern Ontario tanneries were compared with those of men not exposed to Cr. Fasted blood samples were obtained from 72 tannery workers (TW; mean age +/- SD = 36 +/- 12 years) and from 52 controls (CS; mean age +/- SD = 41 +/- 13 years). Serum Cr levels as determined by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry were significantly higher (P = 0.0001) for TW (median 0.49 ng/ml, range 0.37-0.81) than for CS (median 0.15 ng/ml, range 0.12-0.20). Urine samples were collected from 49more » TW and 43 CS on a Friday pm and from 42 TW on a Monday am. Urinary creatine (Cre) was determined by the Jaffe reaction. For Friday samples, the median urinary Cr/Cre ratio was significantly higher (P = 0.0001) for TW (median 0.83 ng/mg, range 0.48-1.82) than for CS (median 0.18 ng/mg, range 0.13-0.26). For TW, Cr/Cre was correlated with serum Cr (r = 0.72, P = 0.0001). Neither urinary Cr/Cre nor serum Cr was correlated with length of employment in the tanning industry. There were significant differences in serum Cr levels and urinary Cr/Cre ratios among TW employed in different areas of the tanneries. For TW, the median urinary Cr/Cre ratio for Monday morning samples was significantly lower than for Friday afternoon samples (P = 0.03). These data indicate that CrIII is absorbed and that serum and urine Cr in tannery workers may be indices of Cr exposure and status.« less

Serum and urine chromium as indices of chromium status in tannery workers.

PubMed

Randall, J A; Gibson, R S

1987-05-01

Serum and urinary Cr levels of a selected group of men exposed to CrIII in four Southern Ontario tanneries were compared with those of men not exposed to Cr. Fasted blood samples were obtained from 72 tannery workers (TW; mean age +/- SD = 36 +/- 12 years) and from 52 controls (CS; mean age +/- SD = 41 +/- 13 years). Serum Cr levels as determined by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry were significantly higher (P = 0.0001) for TW (median 0.49 ng/ml, range 0.37-0.81) than for CS (median 0.15 ng/ml, range 0.12-0.20). Urine samples were collected from 49 TW and 43 CS on a Friday pm and from 42 TW on a Monday am. Urinary creatine (Cre) was determined by the Jaffe reaction. For Friday samples, the median urinary Cr/Cre ratio was significantly higher (P = 0.0001) for TW (median 0.83 ng/mg, range 0.48-1.82) than for CS (median 0.18 ng/mg, range 0.13-0.26). For TW, Cr/Cre was correlated with serum Cr (r = 0.72, P = 0.0001). Neither urinary Cr/Cre nor serum Cr was correlated with length of employment in the tanning industry. There were significant differences in serum Cr levels and urinary Cr/Cre ratios among TW employed in different areas of the tanneries. For TW, the median urinary Cr/Cre ratio for Monday morning samples was significantly lower than for Friday afternoon samples (P = 0.03). These data indicate that CrIII is absorbed and that serum and urine Cr in tannery workers may be indices of Cr exposure and status.

Determination of antifungal activities in serum samples from mice treated with different antifungal drugs allows detection of an active metabolite of itraconazole.

PubMed

Maki, Katsuyuki; Watabe, Etsuko; Iguchi, Yumi; Nakamura, Hideko; Tomishima, Masaki; Ohki, Hidenori; Yamada, Akira; Matsumoto, Satoru; Ikeda, Fumiaki; Tawara, Shuichi; Mutoh, Seitaro

2006-01-01

To establish an in vitro method of predicting in vivo efficacy of antifungal drugs against Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus, the antifungal activities of fluconazole, itraconazole, and amphotericin B were determined in mouse serum. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of each drug was measured using mouse serum as a diluent. For C. albicans, the assay endpoint of azoles was defined as inhibition of mycelial extension (mMIC) and for A. fumigatus, as no growth (MIC). The MICs of amphotericin B for both pathogens were defined as the MIC at which no mycelial growth occurred. Serum MIC or mMIC determinations were then used to estimate the concentration of the drugs in serum of mice treated with antifungal drugs by multiplying the antifungal titer of the serum samples by the serum (m)MIC. The serum drug concentrations were also determined by HPLC. The serum concentrations estimated microbiologically showed good agreement with those determined by HPLC, except for itraconazole. Analysis of the serum samples from itraconazole-treated mice by a sensitive bioautography revealed the presence of additional spots, not seen in control samples of itraconazole. The bioautography assay demonstrated that the additional material detected in serum from mice treated with itraconazole was an active metabolite of itraconazole. The data showed that the apparent reduction in the itraconazole serum concentration as determined by HPLC was the result of the formation of an active metabolite, and that the use of a microbiological method to measure serum concentrations of drugs can provide a method for prediction of in vivo efficacy of antifungal drugs.

Rapamycin Normalizes Serum Leptin by Alleviating Obesity and Reducing Leptin Synthesis in Aged Rats.

PubMed

Scarpace, Philip J; Matheny, Michael; Strehler, Kevin Y E; Toklu, Hale Zerrin; Kirichenko, Nataliya; Carter, Christy S; Morgan, Drake; Tümer, Nihal

2016-07-01

This investigation examines whether a low intermittent dose of rapamycin will avoid the hyperlipidemia and diabetes-like syndrome associated with rapamycin while still decreasing body weight and adiposity in aged obese rats. Furthermore, we examined if the rapamycin-mediated decrease in serum leptin was a reflection of decreased adiposity, diminished leptin synthesis, or both. To these ends, rapamycin (1mg/kg) was administered three times a week to 3 and 24-month old rats. Body weight, food intake, body composition, mTORC1 signaling, markers of metabolism, as well as serum leptin levels and leptin synthesis in adipose tissue were examined and compared to that following a central infusion of rapamycin. Our data suggest that the dosing schedule of rapamycin acts on peripheral targets to inhibit mTORC1 signaling, preferentially reducing adiposity and sparing lean mass in an aged model of obesity resulting in favorable outcomes on blood triglycerides, increasing lean/fat ratio, and normalizing elevated serum leptin with age. The initial mechanism underlying the rapamycin responses appears to have a peripheral action and not central. The peripheral rapamycin responses may communicate an excessive nutrients signal to the hypothalamus that triggers an anorexic response to reduce food consumption. This coupled with potential peripheral mechanism serves to decrease adiposity and synthesis of leptin. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The Gerontological Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Evaluation of reactive oxygen metabolites in frozen serum samples. Effect of storage and repeated thawing.

PubMed

Cavalleri, A; Colombo, C; Venturelli, E; Miceli, R; Mariani, L; Cornelli, U; Pala, V; Berrino, F; Secreto, G

2004-01-01

Measuring the free radical activity in serum samples from prospective studies is the best way to investigate the association between oxidative stress and human diseases. Prospective studies require the analysis of serum samples that have often been stored for a long time. Our study was designed to determine the effect of storage at -30 degrees C and -80 degrees C for two years on free radical activity. We analyzed the free radical activity by measuring circulating hydroperoxides in a pool of sera at baseline and after one day, one week, one month and 25 months of storage, using a photometric method (d-ROMs test). Measurements were performed in aliquots thawed only once at each time point and in aliquots frozen and thawed repeatedly over the study period. After two years we observed a small but statistically significant 4% decrease in the hydroperoxide concentration, which was substantially unaffected by storage temperatures and repeated freeze-thaw cycles. We also carried out the d-ROMs test in sera from ten apparently healthy volunteers at 2, 8, 24, and 48 hours after collection and storage at 4 degrees C and did not observe any significant variation. In conclusion, the d-ROMs test is a simple method suitable to evaluate the free radical activity in frozen serum samples after long-term storage.

HIGHER SERUM TOTAL CHOLESTEROL LEVELS IN LATE MIDDLE AGE ARE ASSOCIATED WITH GLUCOSE HYPOMETABOLISM IN BRAIN REGIONS AFFECTED BY ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AND NORMAL AGING

PubMed Central

Reiman, Eric M.; Chen, Kewei; Langbaum, Jessica B.S.; Lee, Wendy; Reschke, Cole; Bandy, Daniel; Alexander, Gene E.; Caselli, Richard J.

2010-01-01

Epidemiological studies suggest that higher midlife serum total cholesterol levels are associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Using fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET) in the study of cognitively normal late-middle-aged people, we demonstrated an association between apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 gene dose, the major genetic risk factor for late-onset AD, and lower measurements of the cerebral metabolic rate for glucose (CMRgl) in AD-affected brain regions, we proposed using PET as a presymptomatic endophenotype to evaluate other putative AD risk modifiers, and we then used it to support an aggregate cholesterol-related genetic risk score in the risk of AD. In the present study, we used PET to investigate the association between serum total cholesterol levels and cerebral metabolic rate for glucose metabolism (CMRgl) in 117 cognitively normal late middle-aged APOE ε4 homozygotes, heterozygotes and noncarriers. Higher serum total cholesterol levels were associated with lower CMRgl bilaterally in precuneus, parietotemporal and prefrontal regions previously found to be preferentially affected by AD, and in additional frontal regions previously found to be preferentially affected by normal aging. The associations were greater in APOE ε4 carriers than non-carriers in some of the AD-affected brain regions. We postulate the higher midlife serum total cholesterol levels accelerate brain processes associated with normal aging and conspire with other risk factors in the predisposition to AD. We propose using PET in proof-of-concept randomized controlled trials to rapidly evaluate the effects of midlife cholesterol-lowering treatments on the brain changes associated with normal aging and AD. PMID:19631758

[Development of a SPA-ELISA method for detecting anti-coronavirus IgG antibodies in serum samples from fulvous fruit bats].

PubMed

Zhou, Jie; Liao, Yu-xue; Chen, Zhong; Li, Yu-chun; Gao, Lu-Lu; Chen, Yi-xiong; Cai, Lian-gong; Chen, Qing; Yu, Shou-yi

2008-05-01

To develop an simple and sensitive method for detecting anti-coronavirus IgG antibodies in bat sera based on enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A commercial ELISA kit for detecting SARS-CoV antibody was modified for detecting coronavirus antibodies in bat serum samples. The second antibody in the kit was replaced with horseradish peroxidase-conjugated protein-A (HRP-SPA) based on the characteristics of binding between Staphylococcus aureus protein A (SPA) and mammal IgG Fc fragment. The sera of 55 fulvous fruit bats (Rousettus dasymallus) were tested using the SPA-ELISA. The test results of the positive and negative controls in the kit and the serum samples from convalescent ;patient were consistent with expectation. Coronavirus antibody was detected in 2 out of the 55 bat serum samples. Serum neutralization test confirmed the validity of the SPA-ELISA method. This SPA-ELISA method is applicable for detecting coronavirus antibody in bat sera.

Detection of noncarboxymethyllysine and carboxymethyllysine advanced glycation end products (AGE) in serum of diabetic patients.

PubMed Central

Takeuchi, M.; Makita, Z.; Yanagisawa, K.; Kameda, Y.; Koike, T.

1999-01-01

BACKGROUND: The advanced stage of the Maillard reaction, which leads to the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGE), plays an important role in the pathogenesis of angiopathy in diabetic patients and in the aging process. N(epsilon)-(carboxymethyl)lysine (CML) is thought to be an important epitope for many of currently available AGE antibodies. However, recent findings have indicated that a major source of CML may be by pathways other than glycation. A distinction between CML and non-CML AGE may increase our understanding of AGE formation in vivo. In the present study, we prepared antibodies directed against CML and non-CML AGE. MATERIALS AND METHODS: AGE-rabbit serum albumin prepared by 4, 8, and 12 weeks of incubation with glucose was used to immunize rabbits, and a high-titer AGE-specific antiserum was obtained without affinity for the carrier protein. To separate CML and non-CML AGE antibodies, the anti-AGE antiserum was subjected to affinity chromatography on a column coupled with AGE-BSA and CML-BSA. Two different antibodies were obtained, one reacting specifically with CML and the other reacting with non-CML AGE. Circulating levels of CML and non-CML AGE were measured in 66 type 2 diabetic patients without uremia by means of the competitive ELISA. Size distribution and clearance by hemodialysis detected by non-CML AGE and CML were assessed in serum from diabetic patients on hemodialysis. RESULTS: The serum non-CML AGE level in type 2 diabetic patients was significantly correlated with the mean fasting blood glucose level over the previous 2 months (r = 0.498, p < 0.0001) or the previous 1 month (r = 0.446, p = 0. 0002) and with HbA(1c) (r = 0.375, p = 0.0019), but the CML AGE level was not correlated with these clinical parameters. The CML and non-CML AGE were detected as four peaks with apparent molecular weights of 200, 65, 1.15, and 0.85 kD. The hemodialysis treatment did not affect the high-molecular-weight protein fractions. Although the low

Large-scale serum protein biomarker discovery in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

PubMed

Hathout, Yetrib; Brody, Edward; Clemens, Paula R; Cripe, Linda; DeLisle, Robert Kirk; Furlong, Pat; Gordish-Dressman, Heather; Hache, Lauren; Henricson, Erik; Hoffman, Eric P; Kobayashi, Yvonne Monique; Lorts, Angela; Mah, Jean K; McDonald, Craig; Mehler, Bob; Nelson, Sally; Nikrad, Malti; Singer, Britta; Steele, Fintan; Sterling, David; Sweeney, H Lee; Williams, Steve; Gold, Larry

2015-06-09

Serum biomarkers in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) may provide deeper insights into disease pathogenesis, suggest new therapeutic approaches, serve as acute read-outs of drug effects, and be useful as surrogate outcome measures to predict later clinical benefit. In this study a large-scale biomarker discovery was performed on serum samples from patients with DMD and age-matched healthy volunteers using a modified aptamer-based proteomics technology. Levels of 1,125 proteins were quantified in serum samples from two independent DMD cohorts: cohort 1 (The Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy-Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center), 42 patients with DMD and 28 age-matched normal volunteers; and cohort 2 (The Cooperative International Neuromuscular Research Group, Duchenne Natural History Study), 51 patients with DMD and 17 age-matched normal volunteers. Forty-four proteins showed significant differences that were consistent in both cohorts when comparing DMD patients and healthy volunteers at a 1% false-discovery rate, a large number of significant protein changes for such a small study. These biomarkers can be classified by known cellular processes and by age-dependent changes in protein concentration. Our findings demonstrate both the utility of this unbiased biomarker discovery approach and suggest potential new diagnostic and therapeutic avenues for ameliorating the burden of DMD and, we hope, other rare and devastating diseases.

Glycosylation Profiling of Therapeutic Antibodies in Serum Samples Using a Microfluidic CD Platform and MALDI-MS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thuy, Tran Thi; Thorsén, Gunnar

2013-07-01

The serum clearance rate of therapeutic antibodies is important as it affects the clinical efficacy, required dose, and dose frequency. The glycosylation of antibodies has in some studies been shown to have an impact on the elimination rates in vivo. Monitoring changes to the glycan profiles in pharmacokinetics studies can reveal whether the clearance rates of the therapeutic antibodies depend on the different glycoforms, thereby providing useful information for improvement of the drugs. In this paper, a novel method for glycosylation analysis of therapeutic antibodies in serum samples is presented. A microfluidic compact-disc (CD) platform in combination with MALDI-MS was used to monitor changes to the glycosylation profiles of samples incubated in vitro. Antibodies were selectively purified from serum using immunoaffinity capture on immobilized target antigens. The glycans were enzymatically released, purified, and finally analyzed by MALDI-TOF-MS. To simulate changes to glycan profiles after administration in vivo, a therapeutic antibody was incubated in serum with the enzyme α1-2,3 mannosidase to artificially reduce the amount of the high mannose glycoforms. Glycan profiles were monitored at specific intervals during the incubation. The relative abundance of the high mannose 5 glycoform was clearly found to decrease and, simultaneously, that of high mannose 4 increased over the incubation period. The method can be performed in a rapid, parallel, and automated fashion for glycosylation profiling consuming low amounts of samples and reagents. This can contribute to less labor work and reduced cost of the studies of therapeutic antibodies glycosylation in vitro and in vivo.

Evaluation of ammonia as diluent for serum sample preparation and determination of selenium by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry*1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hernández-Caraballo, Edwin A.; Burguera, Marcela; Burguera, José L.

2002-12-01

A method for the determination of total selenium in serum samples by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry was evaluated. The method involved direct introduction of 1:5 diluted serum samples (1% v/v NH 4OH+0.05% w/v Triton X-100 ®) into transversely heated graphite tubes, and the use of 10 μg Pd+3 μg Mg(NO 3) 2 as chemical modifier. Optimization of the modifier mass and the atomization temperature was conducted by simultaneously varying such parameters and evaluating both the integrated absorbance and the peak height/peak area ratio. The latter allowed the selection of compromise conditions rendering good sensitivity and adequate analyte peak profiles. A characteristic mass of 49 pg and a detection limit (3s) of 6 μg 1 -1 Se, corresponding to 30 μg l -1 Se in the serum sample, were obtained. The analyte addition technique was used for calibration. The accuracy was assessed by the determination of total selenium in Seronorm™ Trace Elements Serum Batch 116 (Nycomed Pharma AS). The method was applied for the determination of total selenium in ten serum samples taken from individuals with no known physical affection. The selenium concentration ranged between 79 and 147 μg l -1, with a mean value of 114±22 μg l -1.

Diagnosis of paratuberculosis by fecal culture and ELISA on milk and serum samples in two types of Chilean dairy goat herds.

PubMed

Salgado, Miguel; Kruze, Juan; Collins, Michael T

2007-01-01

Fecal culture has been the primary method used to diagnose paratuberculosis in goats. It is laborious, slow, and expensive. Validation of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) on milk samples could make paratuberculosis testing more widely available for goat farmers. The aim of this study was to determine the accuracy of serum and milk ELISAs for paratuberculosis, relative to fecal culture, in Chilean dairy goats. Eight dairy goat herds were selected. Feces, blood, and milk samples were collected from all female goats >2 years old. Fecal samples were cultured using Herrold egg yolk medium with mycobactin J and antibiotics. Serum and milk samples were tested using a commercial ELISA kit for Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis antibody detection. A total of 383 goats were tested by ELISA and fecal culture. The sensitivity of ELISA on serum and milk relative to fecal culture was 74.3% (95% CI: 59.8-88.8) and 60% (95% CI: 43.8-76.2), respectively. The corresponding values for ELISA specificity based on the percentage of non- M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis-infected goats testing ELISA-negative were 98.6% (95% CI: 96.6-100) and 99.3% (95% CI: 97.9-100) on serum and milk, respectively. Proportions of positive results for serum and fecal samples were significantly different, whereas the proportions of positive results for milk and fecal samples were not significantly different. The milk ELISA had a moderate level of agreement with fecal culture results (Kappa = 0.57). The paratuberculosis ELISA on goat milk samples may be a cost-effective, accurate alternative to fecal culture.

Greater cognitive decline with aging among elders with high serum concentrations of organochlorine pesticides.

PubMed

Kim, Se-A; Lee, Yu-Mi; Lee, Ho-Won; Jacobs, David R; Lee, Duk-Hee

2015-01-01

Although cognitive decline is very common in elders, age-related cognitive decline substantially differs among elders and the determinants of the differences in age-related cognitive decline are unclear. We investigated our hypothesis that the association between age and cognition was stronger in those with higher serum concentrations of organochlorine (OC) pesticides, common persistent and strongly lipophilic neurotoxic chemicals. Participants were 644 elders aged 60-85, participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2002. Six OC pesticides (p,p'-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), p,p'-dichlorodipenyldichloroethylene (DDE), β-hexachlorocyclohexane, trans-nonachlor, oxychlordane, and heptachlor epoxide) were evaluated. "Lower cognitive function" was defined as having a low Digit-Symbol Substitution Test (DSST) score (<25th percentile of DSST score, cutpoint 28 symbols substituted). Higher levels of β-hexachlorocyclohexane, trans-nonachlor, oxychlordane, and heptachlor epoxide modified the associations between age and lower cognitive function (Pinteraction<0.01, 0.03, <0.01, and 0.02, respectively). Elders in the 3rd tertile of these chemicals demonstrated a greater risk of lower cognitive function with aging, compared to those in the combined 1st and 2nd tertiles. Among those with highest OC pesticides (3rd tertile), the odds ratio for the risk of lower cognitive function was about 6 to 11 for the highest quintile of age (80-85 years) vs. the first quintile of age (60-63 years), while the association between age and lower cognitive function became flatter in those with lower OC pesticides (combined 1st and 2nd tertiles). Both DDT and DDE showed no interaction, with lower DSST scores for higher age irrespective of serum concentrations of DDT or DDE. Even though DSST score measures only one aspect of cognition, several OC pesticides modified aging-related prevalence of low cognitive score, a finding which should be evaluated in

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in human serum and urine samples from a residentially exposed community.

PubMed

Worley, Rachel Rogers; Moore, Susan McAfee; Tierney, Bruce C; Ye, Xiaoyun; Calafat, Antonia M; Campbell, Sean; Woudneh, Million B; Fisher, Jeffrey

2017-09-01

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are considered chemicals of emerging concern, in part due to their environmental and biological persistence and the potential for widespread human exposure. In 2007, a PFAS manufacturer near Decatur, Alabama notified the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) it had discharged PFAS into a wastewater treatment plant, resulting in environmental contamination and potential exposures to the local community. To characterize PFAS exposure over time, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) collected blood and urine samples from local residents. Eight PFAS were measured in serum in 2010 (n=153). Eleven PFAS were measured in serum, and five PFAS were measured in urine (n=45) from some of the same residents in 2016. Serum concentrations were compared to nationally representative data and change in serum concentration over time was evaluated. Biological half-lives were estimated for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS) using a one-compartment pharmacokinetic model. In 2010 and 2016, geometric mean PFOA and PFOS serum concentrations were elevated in participants compared to the general U.S. In 2016, the geometric mean PFHxS serum concentration was elevated compared to the general U.S. Geometric mean serum concentrations of PFOA, PFOS, and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) were significantly (p≤0.0001) lower (49%, 53%, and 58%, respectively) in 2016 compared to 2010. Half-lives for PFOA, PFOS, and PFHxS were estimated to be 3.9, 3.3, and 15.5years, respectively. Concentrations of PFOA in serum and urine were highly correlated (r=0.75) in males. Serum concentrations of some PFAS are decreasing in this residentially exposed community, but remain elevated compared to the U.S. general population. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Serum Levels of Toxic AGEs (TAGE) May Be a Promising Novel Biomarker for the Onset/Progression of Lifestyle-Related Diseases.

PubMed

Takeuchi, Masayoshi

2016-06-07

Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) generated with aging or in the presence of diabetes mellitus, particularly AGEs derived from the glucose/fructose metabolism intermediate glyceraldehyde (Glycer-AGEs; termed toxic AGEs (TAGE)), were recently shown to be closely involved in the onset/progression of diabetic vascular complications via the receptor for AGEs (RAGE). TAGE also contribute to various diseases, such as cardiovascular disease; nonalcoholic steatohepatitis; cancer; Alzheimer's disease, and; infertility. This suggests the necessity of minimizing the influence of the TAGE-RAGE axis in order to prevent the onset/progression of lifestyle-related diseases (LSRD) and establish therapeutic strategies. Changes in serum TAGE levels are closely associated with LSRD related to overeating, a lack of exercise, or excessive ingestion of sugars/dietary AGEs. We also showed that serum TAGE levels, but not those of hemoglobin A1c, glucose-derived AGEs, or Nε-(carboxymethyl)lysine, have potential as a biomarker for predicting the progression of atherosclerosis and future cardiovascular events. We herein introduce the usefulness of serum TAGE levels as a biomarker for the prevention/early diagnosis of LSRD and the evaluation of the efficacy of treatments; we discuss whether dietary AGE/sugar intake restrictions reduce the generation/accumulation of TAGE, thereby preventing the onset/progression of LSRD.

Serum Levels of Toxic AGEs (TAGE) May Be a Promising Novel Biomarker for the Onset/Progression of Lifestyle-Related Diseases

PubMed Central

Takeuchi, Masayoshi

2016-01-01

Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) generated with aging or in the presence of diabetes mellitus, particularly AGEs derived from the glucose/fructose metabolism intermediate glyceraldehyde (Glycer-AGEs; termed toxic AGEs (TAGE)), were recently shown to be closely involved in the onset/progression of diabetic vascular complications via the receptor for AGEs (RAGE). TAGE also contribute to various diseases, such as cardiovascular disease; nonalcoholic steatohepatitis; cancer; Alzheimer’s disease, and; infertility. This suggests the necessity of minimizing the influence of the TAGE-RAGE axis in order to prevent the onset/progression of lifestyle-related diseases (LSRD) and establish therapeutic strategies. Changes in serum TAGE levels are closely associated with LSRD related to overeating, a lack of exercise, or excessive ingestion of sugars/dietary AGEs. We also showed that serum TAGE levels, but not those of hemoglobin A1c, glucose-derived AGEs, or Nε-(carboxymethyl)lysine, have potential as a biomarker for predicting the progression of atherosclerosis and future cardiovascular events. We herein introduce the usefulness of serum TAGE levels as a biomarker for the prevention/early diagnosis of LSRD and the evaluation of the efficacy of treatments; we discuss whether dietary AGE/sugar intake restrictions reduce the generation/accumulation of TAGE, thereby preventing the onset/progression of LSRD. PMID:27338481

Comparison of Serum Protein Electrophoresis Values in Wild and Captive Whooping Cranes ( Grus americana ).

PubMed

Hausmann, Jennifer C; Cray, Carolyn; Hartup, Barry K

2015-09-01

Protein electrophoresis of serum samples from endangered, wild whooping cranes ( Grus americana ) was performed to help assess the health of the only self-sustaining, migratory population in North America. Serum samples from wild adult cranes (n = 22) were taken at Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, Texas, USA during winter. Wild juvenile cranes (n = 26) were sampled at Wood Buffalo National Park, Northwest Territories, Canada, in midsummer. All captive crane samples were acquired from the International Crane Foundation, Baraboo, WI, USA. Captive adult cranes (n = 30) were sampled during annual examinations, and archived serum samples from captive juvenile cranes (n = 19) were selected to match the estimated age of wild juveniles. Wild juveniles had significantly lower concentrations of all protein fractions than wild adults, except for prealbumin and γ globulins. All protein fraction concentrations for wild juveniles were significantly lower compared with captive juveniles, except for prealbumin and γ globulins, which were higher. Wild adults had significantly greater γ globulin concentrations than captive adults. Captive juveniles had significantly lower prealbumin and albumin concentrations and albumin : globulin ratios than captive adults. The higher γ globulin concentrations in wild versus captive cranes are likely because of increased antigenic exposure and immune stimulation. Protein fraction concentrations vary significantly with age and natural history in this species. Reference intervals for serum protein electrophoresis results from captive adult whooping cranes are provided in this study.

Aerobic exercise training-induced changes in serum adropin level are associated with reduced arterial stiffness in middle-aged and older adults.

PubMed

Fujie, Shumpei; Hasegawa, Natsuki; Sato, Koji; Fujita, Satoshi; Sanada, Kiyoshi; Hamaoka, Takafumi; Iemitsu, Motoyuki

2015-11-15

Aging-induced arterial stiffening is reduced by aerobic exercise training, and elevated production of nitric oxide (NO) participates in this effect. Adropin is a regulator of endothelial NO synthase and NO release, and circulating adropin level decreases with age. However, the effect of habitual aerobic exercise on circulating adropin levels in healthy middle-aged and older adults remains unclear. We sought to determine whether serum adropin level is associated with exercise training-induced changes in arterial stiffness. First, in a cross-sectional study, we investigated the association between serum adropin level and both arterial stiffness and cardiorespiratory fitness in 80 healthy middle-aged and older subjects (65.6 ± 0.9 yr). Second, in an intervention study, we examined the effects of 8-wk aerobic exercise training on serum adropin level and arterial stiffness in 40 healthy middle-aged and older subjects (67.3 ± 1.0 yr) divided into two groups: aerobic exercise training and sedentary controls. In the cross-sectional study, serum adropin level was negatively correlated with carotid β-stiffness (r = -0.437, P < 0.001) and positively correlated with plasma NOx level (r = 0.493, P < 0.001) and cardiorespiratory fitness (r = 0.457, P < 0.001). Serum adropin levels were elevated after the 8-wk aerobic exercise training intervention, and training-induced changes in serum adropin level were correlated with training-induced changes in carotid β-stiffness (r = -0.399, P < 0.05) and plasma NOx level (r = 0.623, P < 0.001). Thus the increase in adropin may participate in the exercise-induced reduction of arterial stiffness. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

Distribution of copper, iron, and zinc in biological samples (scalp hair, serum, blood, and urine) of Pakistani viral hepatitis (A-E) patients and controls.

PubMed

Kolachi, Nida Fatima; Kazi, Tasneem Gul; Afridi, Hassan Imran; Kazi, Naveed; Kandhro, Ghulam Abbas; Shah, Abdul Qadir; Baig, Jameel Ahmed; Wadhwa, Sham Kumar; Khan, Sumaira; Shah, Faheem; Jamali, Mohammad Khan; Arain, Mohammad Balal

2011-10-01

The aim of the present study was to compare the level of copper (Cu), iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) in biological samples (serum, blood, urine, and scalp hair) of patients suffering from different viral hepatitis (A, B, C, D, and E; n = 521) of both gender age ranged 31-45 years. For comparative study, 255 age-matched control subjects, of both genders residing in the same city were selected as referents. The elements in the biological samples were analyzed by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry, prior to microwave-assisted acid digestion. The validity and accuracy of the methodology was checked by using certified reference materials (CRMs) and with those values obtained by conventional wet acid digestion method on same CRMs. The results of this study showed that the mean values of Cu and Fe were higher in blood, sera, and scalp hair samples of hepatitis patients, while Zn level was found to be lower than age-matched control subjects. The urinary levels of these elements were found to be higher in the hepatitis patients than in the age-matched healthy controls (p < 0.05). These results are consistent with literature-reported data, confirming that the deficiency of zinc and hepatic iron and copper overload can directly cause lipid peroxidation and eventually hepatic damage.

Hematologic and serum biochemical profile of the northern elephant seal (Mirounga angustirostris): variation with age, sex, and season.

PubMed

Yochem, Pamela K; Stewart, Brent S; Mazet, Jonna A K; Boyce, Walter M

2008-10-01

The foraging success, and thus the survival and reproductive success, of deep-diving pinnipeds such as the northern elephant seal, Mirounga angustirostris, depends on the ability to withstand repetitive breath-hold dives. Health parameters can be incorporated as potential explanatory variables for differences observed in diving and migratory performance of individual seals. Furthermore, biomedical samples from apparently healthy individuals can provide valuable baseline data for evaluating effects of natural or anthropogenic threats to individuals and populations. We evaluated 42 blood parameters in 134 northern elephant seals during the breeding and molting seasons (1992-1999) to test for age, sex, and seasonal differences and to develop reference ranges. Adult males sampled during the breeding season differed from all other adult groups for a suite of parameters often associated with inflammation, infection, or other stressors: lower hematocrit, higher white blood cell count, higher band neutrophils, higher neutrophil count, lower albumin, and lower serum iron. Adult females during the breeding season differed from all other adult categories for two parameters (lower platelet counts, lower alanine aminotransferase activity). Molting males had higher blood urea nitrogen than all other classes; creatinine did not differ between breeding and molting adult males, but was higher in males than in females in both seasons. We found significant differences among age classes for 24 of 42 parameters measured, including higher levels of triglycerides, total protein, calcium, and iron in pups than we found in juveniles or adults. Unlike other mammals which undergo substantial decreases in energy expenditure during prolonged fasting (e.g., hibernation), northern elephant seals defend territories, give birth and suckle large offspring, mate, and molt during their bi-annual fasts. Nonetheless, many studies have described physiologic homeostasis during fasting in elephant seals

Serum levels of bioactive IGF1 and physiological markers of ageing in healthy adults.

PubMed

Vestergaard, Poul Frølund; Hansen, Mette; Frystyk, Jan; Espelund, Ulrick; Christiansen, Jens S; Jørgensen, Jens Otto Lunde; Fisker, Sanne

2014-02-01

Senescent changes in body composition and muscle strength are accompanied by reduced production of GH and IGF1, but the causal relationship remains elusive. We speculate that serum bioactive IGF1, measured by the IGF1 kinase receptor activation assay, is closer related to human physiological ageing than total IGF1 measured by immunoassay. We conducted a cross-sectional study in 150 adult males and females, between 20 and 70 years. After an overnight fasting, serum levels of bioactive IGF1, total IGF1 and IGF-binding protein 1 (IGFBP1) and IGFBP3 were assessed. Furthermore, body composition and muscle strength was measured. Total IGF1 levels were higher in females (P=0.048). Bioactive IGF1 were identical in males and females (P=0.31), decreasing with age. Total IGF1 tended to decrease more with age compared with bioactive IGF1 (-1.48 vs -0.89 percent/year, P=0.052). Total body fat (TBF) was lower and BMI was higher in males (P<0.001 and P=0.005), and both increased with age. Knee extension and elbow flexion force were higher in males (P=0.001 and P=0.001), but decreased with age in both genders.  Total but not bioactive IGF1 was positively correlated to TBF, knee extension and muscle function in males. In multiple linear regression, only age predicted total IGF1, whereas age and IGFBP1 predicted bioactive IGF1. Bioactive IGF1 tends to decrease to a lesser extent than total IGF1 with age and was not correlated with measures of body composition or muscle strength. Therefore, levels of circulating bioactive IGF1 does not appear to be a better biomarker of physiological ageing than total IGF1.

Influence of age, strain and season on circadian periodicity of pituitary, gonadal and adrenal hormones in the serum of male laboratory rats.

PubMed

Wong, C C; Döhler, K D; Geerlings, H; von zur Mühlen, A

1983-01-01

The influence of age, strain and season on the circadian pattern of serum levels of LH, FSH, prolactin androgens and corticosterone was studied in five groups of male laboratory rats. Significant 24-hour periodicity was observed for serum levels of corticosterone in all five groups, for androgen levels in four, for prolactin levels in three, for LH levels in two and for FSH levels in one group of rats. There were significant influences of age, strain and season on the temporal patterns and/or on 24-hour mean serum hormone levels. The results indicate that some of the disagreements on existence or nonexistence of circadian rhythms and on rhythm patterns in serum hormone levels may be explained by the fact that animals of different ages or strains had been used or that experiments were performed at different times of the year.

Organochlorine pesticide residue levels in blood serum of inhabitants from Veracruz, Mexico.

PubMed

Waliszewski, Stefan M; Caba, M; Herrero-Mercado, M; Saldariaga-Noreña, H; Meza, E; Zepeda, R; Martínez-Valenzuela, C; Gómez Arroyo, S; Villalobos Pietrini, R

2012-09-01

The objective of the present study was to monitor the levels of organochlorine pesticides HCB; α-, β-, γ-HCH; pp'DDE; op'DDT; and pp'DDT in blood serum of Veracruz, Mexico inhabitants. Organochlorine pesticides were analyzed in 150 blood serum samples that constituted that which remained after clinical analyses, using gas chromatography-electron-capture detection (GC-ECD). The results were expressed as milligrams per kilogram on fat basis and micrograms per liter on wet weight. Only the following pesticides were detected: p,p'-DDE was the major organochlorine component, detected in 100% of samples at mean 15.8 mg/kg and 8.4 μg/L; p,p'-DDT was presented in 41.3.% of monitored samples at mean 3.1 mg/kg and 1.4 μg/L; β-HCH was found in 48.6% of the samples at mean 4.9 mg/kg and 2.7 μg/L; op'DDT was determined to be in only 3.3% of monitored samples at mean 2.7 mg/kg and 1.4 μg/L. The pooled samples divided according to sex showed significant differences of β-HCH and pp'DDE concentrations in females. The samples grouped according to age presented the third tertile as more contaminated in both sexes, indicating age as a positively associated factor with serum organochlorine pesticide levels in Veracruz inhabitants.

Restricted access carbon nanotubes for direct extraction of cadmium from human serum samples followed by atomic absorption spectrometry analysis.

PubMed

Barbosa, Adriano F; Barbosa, Valéria M P; Bettini, Jefferson; Luccas, Pedro O; Figueiredo, Eduardo C

2015-01-01

In this paper, we propose a new sorbent that is able to extract metal ions directly from untreated biological fluids, simultaneously excluding all proteins from these samples. The sorbent was obtained through the modification of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with an external bovine serum albumin (BSA) layer, resulting in restricted access carbon nanotubes (RACNTs). The BSA layer was fixed through the interconnection between the amine groups of the BSA using glutaraldehyde as cross-linker. When a protein sample is percolated through a cartridge containing RACNTs and the sample pH is higher than the isoelectric point of the proteins, both proteins from the sample and the BSA layer are negatively ionized. Thus, an electrostatic repulsion prevents the interaction between the proteins from the sample on the RACNTs surface. At the same time, metal ions are adsorbed in the CNTs (core) after their passage through the chains of proteins. The Cd(2+) ion was selected for a proof-of-principle case to test the suitability of the RACNTs due to its toxicological relevance. RACNTs were able to extract Cd(2+) and exclude almost 100% of the proteins from the human serum samples in an online solid-phase extraction system coupled with thermospray flame furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. The limits of detection and quantification were 0.24 and 0.80 μg L(-1), respectively. The sampling frequency was 8.6h(-1), and the intra- and inter-day precisions at the 0.80, 15.0, and 30.0 μg L(-1) Cd(2+) levels were all lower than 10.1% (RSD). The recoveries obtained for human blood serum samples fortified with Cd(2+) ranged from 85.0% to 112.0%. The method was successfully applied to analyze Cd(2+) directly from six human blood serum samples without any pretreatment, and the observed concentrations ranged from

Comparison of different mass spectrometric approaches coupled to gas chromatography for the analysis of organochlorine pesticides in serum samples.

PubMed

Fang, Jing; Wu, Qian; Zhao, Yun; Zhao, Hongzhi; Xu, Shunqing; Cai, Zongwei

2017-01-01

Gas chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (GC-QqQMS) was applied for the determination of eight organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in human serum. OCPs were extracted from the serum sample by solid phase extraction (SPE) and analyzed by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). Electron ionization (EI) and negative chemical ionization (NCI) under two data acquisition modes, namely selected ion monitoring (SIM) and multiple reaction monitoring (MRM), were compared. The use of MRM generally provided higher selectivity and sensitivity because less interference from the sample matrix existed. The EI mode is more suitable for less electronegative compounds such as dichlorodiphenyldichloroethanes (DDDs) with detection limits ranging from 0.0060 to 0.060ng/mL. In the NCI mode, MRM analysis provided good and lower detection limits (0.0011-0.0030ng/mL) for pesticides containing more chlorines. The methods were validated by analyzing the pesticides in spiked serum at different levels with recoveries ranged from 83% to 116% and relative standard deviations of less than 10%. The developed method was applied for the determination of the OCPs in real human serum samples. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Detection of Wuchereria bancrofti DNA in paired serum and urine samples using polymerase chain reaction-based systems.

PubMed

Ximenes, Camila; Brandão, Eduardo; Oliveira, Paula; Rocha, Abraham; Rego, Tamisa; Medeiros, Rafael; Aguiar-Santos, Ana; Ferraz, João; Reis, Christian; Araujo, Paulo; Carvalho, Luiz; Melo, Fabio L

2014-12-01

The Global Program for the Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) aims to eliminate this disease by the year 2020. However, the development of more specific and sensitive tests is important for the success of the GPELF. The present study aimed to standardise polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based systems for the diagnosis of filariasis in serum and urine. Twenty paired biological urine and serum samples from individuals already known to be positive for Wuchereria bancrofti were collected during the day. Conventional PCR and semi-nested PCR assays were optimised. The detection limit of the technique for purified W. bancrofti DNA extracted from adult worms was 10 fg for the internal systems (WbF/Wb2) and 0.1 fg by using semi-nested PCR. The specificity of the primers was confirmed experimentally by amplification of 1 ng of purified genomic DNA from other species of parasites. Evaluation of the paired urine and serum samples by the semi-nested PCR technique indicated only two of the 20 tested individuals were positive, whereas the simple internal PCR system (WbF/Wb2), which has highly promising performance, revealed that all the patients were positive using both samples. This study successfully demonstrated the possibility of using the PCR technique on urine for the diagnosis of W. bancrofti infection.

Comparison of serum testosterone and estradiol measurements in 3174 European men using platform immunoassay and mass spectrometry; relevance for the diagnostics in aging men.

PubMed

Huhtaniemi, Ilpo T; Tajar, Abdelouahid; Lee, David M; O'Neill, Terence W; Finn, Joseph D; Bartfai, György; Boonen, Steven; Casanueva, Felipe F; Giwercman, Aleksander; Han, Thang S; Kula, Krzysztof; Labrie, Fernand; Lean, Michael E J; Pendleton, Neil; Punab, Margus; Silman, Alan J; Vanderschueren, Dirk; Forti, Gianni; Wu, Frederick C W

2012-06-01

The limitations of serum testosterone and estradiol (E(2)) measurements using non-extraction platform immunoassays (IAs) are widely recognized. Switching to more specific mass spectrometry (MS)-based methods has been advocated, but directly comparative data on the two methods are scarce. We compared serum testosterone and E(2) measurements in a large sample of middle-aged/elderly men using a common platform IA and a gas chromatography (GC)-MS method, in order to assess their limitations and advantages, and to diagnose male hypogonadism. Of subjects from the European Male Aging Study (n=3174; age 40-79 years), peripheral serum testosterone and E(2) were analyzed using established commercial platform IAs (Roche Diagnostics E170) and in-house GC-MS methods. Over a broad concentration range, serum testosterone concentration measured by IA and MS showed high correlation (R=0.93, P<0.001), which was less robust in the hypogonadal range (<11 nmol/l; R=0.72, P<0.001). The IA/MS correlation was weaker in E(2) measurements (R=0.32, P<0.001, at E(2) <40.8 pmol/l, and R=0.74, P<0.001, at E(2) >40.8 pmol/l). Using MS as the comparator method, IA ascertained low testosterone compatible with hypogonadism (<11 nmol/l), with 75% sensitivity and 96.3% specificity. The same parameters with IA for the detection of low E(2) (<40.7 pmol/l) were 13.3 and 99.3%, and for high E(2) (>120 pmol/l) 88.4 and 88.6%. A validated platform IA is sufficient to detect subnormal testosterone concentrations in the diagnosis of male hypogonadism. The IA used for E(2) measurements showed poor correlation with MS and may only be suitable for the detection of high E(2) in men.

Variations in the detection of anti-PEDV antibodies in serum samples using three diagnostic tests - short communication.

PubMed

Plut, Jan; Toplak, Ivan; Štukelj, Marina

2018-06-01

Over the last few years several porcine epidemic diarrhoea (PED) outbreaks have been discovered in Europe including the first PED case in Slovenia in January 2015. The aim of this study was to determine when PED virus (PEDV) infection started in Slovenia. Serum samples collected between 2012 and 2016 were tested. Three hundred and seventy-five serum samples were collected from 132 Slovenian small, one-site pig farms. Samples were tested for PEDV antibodies utilising three different serological methods: commercially-available indirect ELISA, in-house blocking ELISA test and Immunoperoxidase Monolayer Assay (IPMA) test. One hundred and seventy (45.33%) tested samples were found positive by the commercially-available ELISA test kit, and 10 (5.68%) of these 170 samples found positive were positive by the in-house blocking ELISA. Only these 10 samples were collected from a farm where clinical signs of PED infection had been observed and PEDV was confirmed by RT-PCR methodology; the other 160 samples were collected randomly. Thirty-two samples with the highest S/P value obtained with the commercial ELISA were all negative with IPMA. Reasons for the high variance in the results obtained remain unclear; more research is required to ensure higher sensitivity and specificity in terms of PEDV antibody tests and other PED diagnostic methods.

Comparison of Bovine coronavirus-specific and Bovine respiratory syncytial virus-specific antibodies in serum versus milk samples detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

PubMed

Ohlson, Anna; Blanco-Penedo, Isabel; Fall, Nils

2014-01-01

Bovine coronavirus (BCV; Betacoronavirus 1) and Bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) are significant causes of enteric and respiratory disease in beef and dairy cattle throughout the world. Indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays are widely used to detect serum antibodies for herd monitoring and prevalence studies. In dairy herds, milk is more readily collected than serum. Hence, in order to investigate the test agreement between serum and milk, both serum and milk samples from 105 cows in 27 dairy herds were analyzed in parallel for presence of immunoglobulin G antibodies to BCV and BRSV. The Bland-Altman analyses of data demonstrated good agreement between serum and milk antibody titers for both viruses. The results indicate milk samples are sufficient for surveillance of antibodies to BCV and BRSV.

Relationship between serum ferritin levels and sarcopenia in Korean females aged 60 years and older using the fourth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES IV-2, 3), 2008-2009.

PubMed

Kim, Tae Ho; Hwang, Hee-Jin; Kim, Sang-Hwan

2014-01-01

It has been suggested that elevated serum ferritin is associated with several metabolic disorders. However, there is no reported study assessing any association between serum ferritin and sarcopenia despite the close relationship between sarcopenia and metabolic disorders. We investigated whether serum ferritin was associated with sarcopenia in older Koreans. We conducted a cross-sectional study based on data acquired in the second and third years (2008-9) of the fourth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. In total, 952 men (mean age 69.0 years) and 1,380 women (mean age 69.3 years) aged 60 years and older completed a body composition study using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Serum ferritin levels were measured. Sarcopenia was defined as an appendicular skeletal mass as a percentage of body weight that was less than two standard deviations below the gender-specific mean for young adults. Serum ferritin levels were lower in women than in men. Women with sarcopenia showed a higher level of serum ferritin than women without sarcopenia (men: without sarcopenia 115.7 ng/mL and with sarcopenia 134.4 ng/mL vs. women: without sarcopenia 70.7 ng/mL and with sarcopenia 85.4 ng/mL). The prevalence of sarcopenia increased as the tertile of serum ferritin increased. However, statistical significance was only seen in elderly women (1(st) tertile 6.3%, 2(nd) tertile 8.0%, 3(rd) tertile 12.0%; p = 0.008). Without adjustment, compared with those in the lowest tertile of serum ferritin level, participants in the highest tertile had an odds ratio of 2.02 (95% confidence interval = 1.26-3.23) for sarcopenia in women. After adjusting for known risk factors, the OR for sarcopenia was 1.74 (95% CI = 1.02-2.97) in women. There was no statistically significant association between sarcopenia and serum ferritin tertiles in men. Elevated serum ferritin levels were associated with an increased prevalence of sarcopenia in women but not in men from a representative sample

Serum testosterone, dihydrotestosterone and estradiol concentrations in older men self-reporting very good health: the healthy man study.

PubMed

Sartorius, Gideon; Spasevska, Sasa; Idan, Amanda; Turner, Leo; Forbes, Elise; Zamojska, Anna; Allan, Carolyn A; Ly, Lam P; Conway, Ann J; McLachlan, Robert I; Handelsman, David J

2012-11-01

To determine serum concentrations, intra-individual variability and impact of age-related co-morbidities on serum testosterone (T), dihydrotestosterone (DHT), estradiol (E(2)) and estrone (E(1)) in older men. Observational, repeated measures study. Men (n = 325) with 40 years and older self-reporting very good or excellent health. Standardized history, physical examination and collection of nine blood samples at fixed time intervals were measured over 3 months (three at 20 min intervals on days 1 (fasting) and 2 (non-fasting), one at days 7, 30 and 90). Serum T, DHT, E(2) and E(1) (n = 2900, > 99% of scheduled samples) measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS) were analysed by linear mixed model analysis with fasting, age and obesity as covariables. Mean serum T did not vary with age (P = 0·76) but obesity (-0·35 nM per body mass index (BMI) unit, P < 0·0001) and ex-smoker status (-1·6 nM, P < 0·001) had significant effects. Serum DHT was increased with age (+0·011 nM per year, P = 0·001) but decreased with obesity (-0·05 nM per BMI unit, P < 0·0001). Serum E(2) did not vary with age (P = 0·31) or obesity (P = 0·12). Overnight fasting increased (by 9-16%, all P < 0·001) and reduced variability in morning serum T, DHT, E(2) and E(1). Non-fasting serum T and DHT were stable over time (day, week, month or 3 months; P > 0·28). Serum T, DHT and E(2) displayed no decrease associated with age among men over 40 years of age who self-report very good or excellent health although obesity and ex-smoking status were associated with decreased serum androgens (T and DHT) but not E(2). These findings support the interpretation that the age-related decline in blood T accompanying non-specific symptoms in older men may be due to accumulating age-related co-morbidities rather than a symptomatic androgen deficiency state. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Normal reference intervals and the effects of time and feeding on serum bile acid concentrations in llamas.

PubMed

Andreasen, C B; Pearson, E G; Smith, B B; Gerros, T C; Lassen, E D

1998-04-01

Fifty clinically healthy llamas, 0.5-13 years of age (22 intact males, 10 neutered males, 18 females), with no biochemical evidence of liver disease or hematologic abnormalities, were selected to establish serum bile acid reference intervals. Serum samples submitted to the clinical pathology laboratory were analyzed using a colorimetric enzymatic assay to establish bile acid reference intervals. A nonparametric distribution of llama bile acid concentrations was 1-23 micromol/liter for llamas >1 year of age and 10-44 micromol/liter for llamas < or = 1 year of age. A significant difference was found between these 2 age groups. No correlation was detected between gender and bile acid concentrations. The reference intervals were 1.1-22.9 micromol/liter for llamas >1 year of age and 1.8-49.8 micromol/liter for llamas < or = 1 year of age. Additionally, a separate group of 10 healthy adult llamas (5 males, 5 females, 5-11 years of age) without biochemical or hematologic abnormalities was selected to assess the effects of feeding and time intervals on serum bile acid concentrations. These 10 llamas were provided fresh water and hay ad libitum, and serum samples were obtained via an indwelling jugular catheter hourly for 11 hours. Llamas were then kept from food overnight (12 hours), and subsequent samples were taken prior to feeding (fasting baseline time, 23 hours after trial initiation) and postprandially at 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 8 hours. In feeding trials, there was no consistent interaction between bile acid concentrations and time, feeding, or 12-hour fasting. Prior feeding or time of day did not result in serum bile acid concentrations outside the reference interval, but concentrations from individual llamas varied within this interval over time.

Correlation of serum androgens and pituitary hormone levels with serum PSA less than 2.5 ng/ml.

PubMed

Sofikerim, Mustafa; Oruç, Ozgür; Eskicorapci, Sadettin; Guliyev, Fuat; Ozen, Haluk

2007-07-27

The aim of this clinical study was to determine whether there is a relationship between total serum testosterone, free testosterone, FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone), LH (Luteinizing Hormone) and serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels. We postulated that such a correlation existed then the use of hormone specific reference ranges might enhance the usefullness of PSA concentrations <2.5 ng/mL as a marker for prostate cancer. Prior to digital rectal examination, serum was obtained from all patients between 8.30-10:00 AM for hormone and PSA concentrations. The study was performed on 210 male patients >40 years of age visiting our urology outpatient clinics. PSA was correlated to age (r = 0.23, p = 0.019), but there none between serum testosterone and age. No significant correlation was noted between testosterone or free testosterone and serum PSA levels, and none between serum FSH or LH and PSA. In age specific reference groups (41-49; 50-59; 60-69 years), we found no significant correlation between PSA and hormone concentrations. In this population of eugonadal men with serum PSA values less than 2.5 ng/ml, serum androgens and pituitary hormones do not appear to correlate with serum PSA.

Effect of Lactobacillus johnsonii La1 on immune function and serum albumin in aged and malnourished aged mice.

PubMed

Kaburagi, Tomoko; Yamano, Toshihiko; Fukushima, Yoichi; Yoshino, Haruka; Mito, Natsuko; Sato, Kazuto

2007-04-01

Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is a serious nutritional problem that causes immune dysfunction in elderly people. Probiotic lactic acid bacteria may potentially modify immunity; however, there is little evidence to elucidate the influence of these bacteria on PEM in the elderly. The immune modulation effects of lactic acid bacterium Lactobacillus johnsonii La1 (La1) were examined in aged mice and aged mice with PEM. Twenty-month-old male 57BL6/n mice (n = 28) were divided into four groups and received the following diet for 14 d: a complete diet (20% protein) without Lal (control) or with Lal or a low-protein diet (5% protein) to induce PEM, with or without La1. All mice were immunized with diphtheria toxin (DT) with alfacalciferol at 7 d and sacrificed 14 d after starting the experimental diets. Serum albumin concentrations and body weight, both of which were reduced by the low-protein diet, were ameliorated by La1 intake and were the same as in mice receiving the control diet. Anti-DT immunoglobulin (Ig) A in fecal extract was increased by La1 intake in mice receiving the complete and low-protein diets. Serum anti-DT IgA, IgG, splenocyte proliferation, and CD8(+) T cells were reduced by the low-protein diet and restored by La1 intake. La1 enhances intestinal IgA production and helps recover nutritional status and systemic immune responses in aged mice with PEM. It is possible that La1 may contribute to immune system recovery in immunocompromised hosts such as elderly humans with PEM.

Trend of Changes in Serum Albumin and Its Relation with Sex, Age, and BMI Following Laparoscopic Mini-gastric Bypass Surgery in Morbid Obese Cases.

PubMed

Karimi, Mehrdad; Kabir, Ali; Nejatifar, Masoumeh; Pazouki, Abdolreza

2018-03-01

The aim of this study is to investigate the pattern of changes in serum albumin level after mini-gastric bypass (MGB) and its association with gender, age, and body mass index (BMI) of the patients. This cohort study was conducted on 196 morbidly obese patients undergoing MGB followed for 1 year. The data on BMI, serum albumin level, demographic, anthropometric, biochemical variables and comorbidities were gathered before and after (3, 6, and 12 months) surgery. The trend of changes in BMI and serum albumin of the patients was investigated by repeated measures tests using general linear model (GLM) and generalized estimating equations (GEE) approaches. The mean age, baseline median BMI, and albumin of the patients were 41.34 ± 11.03 years, 44.54 kg/m 2 , and 4.00 g/dl, respectively. There was a chronologically significant trend of decline in BMI (P < 0.001). GEE demonstrated no chronologically significant trend in serum albumin (P = 0.278). The trend of changes in albumin was significantly associated only with age grouping and baseline serum albumin level (P = 0.017 and 0.001, respectively). This trend had fluctuations in patients older than 40 years with baseline serum albumin level of 3.50-3.90 g/dl. For patients with any age and baseline serum albumin level of 4.00-4.90 g/dl, this trend was stable in all periods of follow-up. MGB is an effective technique to lose weight. The trend of changes in serum albumin level was affected by its baseline levels and age.

Determination of element levels in human serum: Total reflection X-ray fluorescence applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Majewska, U.; Łyżwa, P.; Łyżwa, K.; Banaś, D.; Kubala-Kukuś, A.; Wudarczyk-Moćko, J.; Stabrawa, I.; Braziewicz, J.; Pajek, M.; Antczak, G.; Borkowska, B.; Góźdź, S.

2016-08-01

Deficiency or excess of elements could disrupt proper functioning of the human body and could lead to several disorders. Determination of their concentrations in different biological human fluids and tissues should become a routine practice in medical treatment. Therefore the knowledge about appropriate element concentrations in human organism is required. The purpose of this study was to determine the concentration of several elements (P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Cr, Fe, Cu, Zn, Se, Br, Rb, Pb) in human serum and to define the reference values of element concentration. Samples of serum were obtained from 105 normal presumably healthy volunteers (66 women aged between 15 and 78 years old; 39 men aged between 15 and 77 years old). Analysis has been done for the whole studied population and for subgroups by sex and age. It is probably first so a wide study of elemental composition of serum performed in the case of Świętokrzyskie region. Total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) method was used to perform the elemental analysis. Spectrometer S2 Picofox (Bruker AXS Microanalysis GmbH) was used to identify and measure elemental composition of serum samples. Finally, 1st and 3rd quartiles were accepted as minimum and maximum values of concentration reference range.

Detection of Serum microRNAs From Department of Defense Serum Repository

PubMed Central

Woeller, Collynn F.; Thatcher, Thomas H.; Van Twisk, Daniel; Pollock, Stephen J.; Croasdell, Amanda; Kim, Nina; Hopke, Philip K.; Xia, Xiaoyan; Thakar, Juilee; Mallon, COL Timothy M.; Utell, Mark J.; Phipps, Richard P.

2017-01-01

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate whether serum samples from the Department of Defense Serum Repository (DoDSR) are of sufficient quality to detect microRNAs (miRNAs), cytokines, immunoglobulin E (IgE), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Methods MiRNAs were isolated and quantified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array. Cytokines and chemokines related to inflammation were measured using multiplex immunoassays. Cotinine and IgE were detected by enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) and PAHs were detected by Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectroscopy. Results We detected miRNAs, cytokines, IgE, and PAHs with high sensitivity. Eleven of 30 samples tested positive for cotinine suggesting tobacco exposure. Significant associations between serum cotinine, cytokine, IgE, PAHs, and miRNA were discovered. Conclusion We successfully quantified over 200 potential biomarkers of occupational exposure from DoDSR samples. The stored serum samples were not affected by hemolysis and represent a powerful tool for biomarker discovery and analysis in retrospective studies. PMID:27501106

Stability of selected serum proteins after long-term storage in the Janus Serum Bank.

PubMed

Gislefoss, Randi E; Grimsrud, Tom K; Mørkrid, Lars

2009-01-01

Human serum from biobanks is frequently used in prospective epidemiological studies. Long-term storage may modify its composition. A better understanding of the stability of the serum components may improve the interpretation of future studies. The concentrations of selected proteins; immunoglobulins, carrier proteins and enzymes in samples stored at -25 degrees C for 25 years and 2 years were compared with 1-month-old samples. For each length of storage time, 130 specimens were randomly selected from apparently healthy male blood donors aged 40-49 years. We examined the distribution of values, compared dispersion and localization of central tendency, and established reference intervals for each component. The study demonstrated non-significant or numerically small group differences in the concentrations of albumin, aspartate amino transferase, cystatin C, immunoglobulin E, immunoglobulin G, and sex hormone binding globulin. Mean values between fresh and 25-year-old samples suggested larger differences during storage for alanine amino transferase (-73.4%), creatinine kinase (-96.1%), insulin C-peptide (-98.7%), ferritin (-18.5%) and transferrin (+8.2%). The findings showed that long-term storage can introduce a considerable bias for vulnerable components.

Ar-40/Ar-39 ages and cosmic ray exposure ages of Apollo 14 samples.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Turner, G.; Huneke, J. C.; Podosek, F. A.; Wasserburg, G. J.

1971-01-01

We have used the Ar-40/Ar-39 dating technique on eight samples of Apollo 14 rocks (14053, 14310), breccia fragments (14321), and soil fragments (14001, 14167). The large basalt fragments give reasonable Ar-40/Ar-39 release patterns and yield well defined crystallization ages of 3.89-3.95 aeons. Correlation of the Ar-40/Ar-39 release patterns with Ar-39/Ar-37 patterns showed that the low temperature fractions with high radiogenic argon loss came from K-rich phases. A highly shocked sample and fragments included in the breccia yield complex release patterns with a low temperature peak. The total argon age of these fragments is 3.95 aeons. Cosmic ray exposure ages on these samples are obtained from the ratio of spallogenic Ar-38 to reactor induced Ar-37 and show a distinct grouping of low exposure ages of 26 m.y. correlated with Cone crater. Other samples have exposure ages of more than 260 m.y. and identify material with a more complex integrated cosmic age exposure history.

Serum fibroblast growth factor 23 concentrations in dogs with chronic kidney disease.

PubMed

Dittmer, Keren E; Perera, Kalyani C; Elder, Peter A

2017-10-01

The aim of this study was to determine if serum fibroblast growth factor (FGF23) concentrations were increased in dogs with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Serum samples submitted to a commercial laboratory were collected over a 15-month period, 14 samples were from dogs with a history of polyuria/polydipsia, azotaemia and low urine specific gravity, 20 samples were from non-azotaemic dogs. Serum FGF23, parathyroid hormone, total calcium and phosphorus, urea and creatinine were measured. Mann-Whitney test was used to determine differences between non-azotaemic and CKD groups; a one-way ANOVA with Tukey pairwise comparisons was used to determine any differences between International Renal Interest Society stages; and regression models were used to determine predictors of International Renal Interest Society stage, serum phosphorus and FGF23 concentrations. The median serum FGF23 concentration of dogs with CKD was 5194.6pg/mL, which was significantly greater (P<0.001) than the median serum FGF23 concentration of non-azotaemic dogs (259.2pg/mL). Log serum FGF23 and age were significantly associated with IRIS stage (P=0.027 and P=0.032 respectively), while log serum phosphorus concentration (P<0.001) was significantly associated with log serum FGF23 concentration. In summary, serum FGF23 concentration is increased in dogs with CKD, and is associated with serum phosphorus concentration. This phosphatonin pathway may be a useful target for the development of future treatments to control plasma phosphorus concentrations in chronic kidney disease. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Age related patterns of immunoglobulin serum levels in the Quechua Indians of Andean Mountains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Memeo, S. A.; Piantanelli, L.; Mazzufferi, G.; Guerra, L.; Nikolitz, M.; Fabris, N.

1982-03-01

Age-dependent changes of IgA, IgG, IgM, and IgD serum levels in a population of Quechua Indians of Peruvian Andes at 4 300 m were investigated. A first increase and a subsequent decrease in IgA and IgM levels were observed with advancing age. IgG and IgD only display an increase during development. More or less pronounced sex-related changes were also found in all Ig classes, the sex dependent pattern of IgA being the more evident one. It has been suggested that sexual, genetic and environmental influences strongly superimpose to high altitude related changes in Ig profile during ageing.

Uric acid and serum antioxidant capacity: a reaction to atherosclerosis?

PubMed

Nieto, F J; Iribarren, C; Gross, M D; Comstock, G W; Cutler, R G

2000-01-01

the evidence of a potential beneficial role of antioxidants in preventing atherosclerotic disease is not entirely consistent. to assess the longitudinal association of serum total antioxidant capacity and serum antioxidants with the presence of subclinical carotid atherosclerosis. Prospective case-control study nested within an historical cohort. Cases were 150 individuals with elevated carotid intimal-medial thickness measured by B-mode ultrasound at the first two examinations of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study (1987-92). Controls were 150 age-gender-matched individuals with low carotid intimal-medial thickness. Serum antioxidant vitamins, uric acid, and serum total antioxidant capacity were measured in frozen serum samples collected from the same individuals in 1974 (13-15 years prior to the determination of case-control status). Compared to controls, atherosclerosis cases had significantly higher levels of serum total antioxidant capacity in 1974 than controls. This difference was almost entirely explained by increased serum concentration of uric acid in cases. In contrast with cross-sectional results, uric acid serum concentration in 1974, was significantly higher in cases than in controls, even after adjusting for the main cardiovascular risk factors. Cases had significantly lower levels of alpha-carotene in the 1974 sera than controls, but no other differences in serum antioxidant vitamin concentrations were observed. The higher serum uric acid concentration seemed associated with elevated total serum antioxidant capacity among individuals with atherosclerosis. This finding is consistent with experimental evidence suggesting that hyperuricemia may be a compensatory mechanism to counteract oxidative damage related to atherosclerosis and aging in humans.

Association between Serum Testosterone and PSA Levels in Middle-Aged Healthy Men from the General Population.

PubMed

Elzanaty, Saad; Rezanezhad, Babak; Dohle, Gert

2017-04-01

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the association between serum testosterone and PSA levels in middle-aged healthy men from the general population. Based on 119 healthy men from the general population, total testosterone and PSA levels were measured. Demographic data regarding BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, smoking, and alcohol consumption were also collected. Men were classified into two groups according to testosterone levels; hypogonadal (testosterone ≤ 12 nmol/l), and eugonadal (testosterone > 12 nmol/l). The mean age of the subjects was 55 years (range 46-60 years). No significant correlation between serum testosterone and PSA levels was found (p = 0.60). PSA levels were similar when compared between hypogonadal and eugonadal men (1.4 µg/l vs. 1.4 µg/l, p = 0.90). When using a multivariate analysis model adjusted for the age of the subjects, BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, smoking, and alcohol consumption, a positive significant association between testosterone and PSA levels was found (β = 0.03, 95 % CI = 0.003-0.062, p = 0.03). Only after adjusted multivariate analysis, our results indicated that testosterone was associated with PSA levels in middle-aged healthy men.

Serum concentrations of perfluorinated compounds (PFC) ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) have been widely used in industrial applications and consumer products. Their persistent nature and potential health impacts are of concern. Given the high cost of collecting serum samples, this study is to understand whether we can quantify PFC serum concentrations using factors extracted from questionnaire responses and indirect measurements, and whether a single serum measurement can be used to classify an individual′s exposure over a one-year period. The study population included three demographic groups: young children (2–8 years old) (N=67), parents of young children (55 years old) (N=59). PFC serum concentrations, house dust concentrations, and questionnaires were collected. The geometric mean of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) was highest for the older adults. In contrast, the geometric mean of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) was highest for children. Serum concentrations of the parent and the child from the same family were moderately correlated (Spearman correlation (r)=0.26–0.79, p<0.05), indicating common sources within a family. For adults, age, having occupational exposure or having used fire extinguisher, frequencies of consuming butter/margarine, pork, canned meat entrées, tuna and white fish, freshwater fish, and whether they ate microwave popcorn were significantly positively associated with serum concentrations of individual PFCs. For children, residential dust

Seasonal variation of serum vitamin D levels in Romania.

PubMed

Niculescu, Dan Alexandru; Capatina, Cristina Ana Maria; Dusceac, Roxana; Caragheorgheopol, Andra; Ghemigian, Adina; Poiana, Catalina

2017-12-11

We measured serum vitamin D in 8024 Romanian subjects and found a marked seasonal variation with highest levels in September and lowest levels in March. The seasonal variation (early autumn vs. early spring) persisted in all age and sex groups. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was very high. Romania is located in Eastern Europe, roughly between 44°N and 48°N latitude. Seasonal variation of serum vitamin D in Romanian subjects is unknown. We assessed the seasonal variation of 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D] in Romanian population. We retrieved from our endocrinology center database all 25(OH)D measurements between 2012 and 2016. We also evaluated age, sex, diagnosis, and date of blood sampling. The 25(OH)D was measured by two different chemiluminescence or electrochemiluminescence assays. There were 8024 subjects (median age 50 (37, 62); 1429 men (17.8%)) without a diagnosis of low bone mass (osteopenia or osteoporosis). The median serum 25(OH)D was 18.6 (12.7, 25.4) ng/mL. Of the subjects, 0.73, 14.4, 55.6, and 86.1% had a serum 25(OH)D level below 4, 10, 20, and 30 ng/mL, respectively. Serum 25(OH)D showed a marked seasonal variation with highest levels in September (24.1 [18.3, 30.3] ng/mL) and lowest levels in March (13.5 [9.4, 19.6] ng/mL) (p < 0.001). The seasonal variation (early autumn vs. early spring) persisted in all age and sex groups and was maximal for 21-40 years of age (26.5 (20.8, 33.1) vs. 12.9 (9.7, 17.9) ng/mL) and minimal for >65 years of age (18.6 (13.0, 27.2) vs. 12.7 (7.8, 19.7) ng/mL). Men and women showed similar amplitude of serum 25(OH)D variation. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is high, particularly in the elderly. The data show a strong seasonal variation of serum 25(OH)D in all subgroups of our Romanian population with highest levels in September and lowest levels in March.

Effect of Ramadan fasting on serum heat shock protein 70 and serum lipid profile.

PubMed

Zare, A; Hajhashemi, M; Hassan, Z M; Zarrin, S; Pourpak, Z; Moin, M; Salarilak, S; Masudi, S; Shahabi, S

2011-07-01

Ramadan, the holy month for the Islamic world, is a period every year when food and fluid intake is restricted to the pre-sunrise and post-sunset hours. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Ramadan fasting on the serum concentration of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and serum lipid profile in healthy men. A total of 32 male volunteers with a mean age of 28.5 (range 23-37) years were selected for the study. Blood samples were obtained one day prior to Ramadan and on the 3rd and 25th days of fasting. Serum HSP70, triglyceride (TG), cholesterol (Chol), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), LDL/HDL and Chol/HDL ratios were investigated. It was observed that the mean concentrations of serum HSP70 and HDL on the 25th day of Ramadan were significantly higher than those recorded one day before Ramadan and on the 3rd day of Ramadan, and the levels on the 3rd day of Ramadan was significantly higher than those recorded one day before Ramadan. Mean concentrations of serum TG, Chol, LDL, and LDL/HDL and Chol/HDL ratios on the 25th day of Ramadan were significantly lower than those recorded one day before Ramadan and on the 3rd day of Ramadan, and the levels found on the 3rd day of Ramadan were also significantly lower than those recorded one day before Ramadan. Ramadan fasting increases serum HSP70 and improves serum lipid profile.

Impact of sample extraction on the accurate measurement of progesterone in human serum by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Ke, Yuyong; Gonthier, Renaud; Labrie, Fernand

2017-05-01

In the present study, the impact of the extraction solvent on the accuracy of endogenous progesterone assay in human serum has been investigated using two selective reaction monitoring (SRM) transitions (315>97 & 315>109). Higher levels of noise and more interference were observed when more polar solvents were used for extraction, thus resulting in serious bias of the measured values of progesterone in serum. This is confirmed by monitoring the ion ratio of 315>97-315>109. This issue could not be easily resolved by changes in MS/MS transitions or chromatography conditions. More bias was observed with the SRM transition 315>109 for the polar solvent extraction. Hexane and 1-chlorobutane (polarity index of 0 and 1, respectively) did provide the cleanest samples with a lower noise level in the chromatograms. Moreover, the measured values of progesterone were not changed with different SRM transitions or longer retention time in search of an improved separation. Recovery tests of progesterone have been performed with 1-chlorobutane in matrices with phosphate buffered saline (PBS) 1x, PBS 1×3% bovine serum albumin (BSA), stripped serum/H 2 O (1:1) and unstripped serum. The recovery (70%∼80%) consistency is observed not only at different levels but also in different matrices. The equivalent recovery between PBS 1x, PBS 1×3% BSA and unstripped serum shows that the impact of progesterone binding to serum proteins on the measurement accuracy can be avoided with this sample preparation procedure. No significant matrix effect on the determination of progesterone was observed with 1-chlorobutane. Within the range of 12.5-2000pg/mL, a good linearity is observed with R>0.99 and weighting factor 1/X. Bias and covariance efficiency of QCs are within 10%. With 1-chlorobutane as the extraction solvent, the concentration of progesterone was measured where the range for postmenopausal serum is 5.74∼91.7pg/mL, which is well below the reported concentrations of 314 pg/mL∼942pg

Associations between apolipoprotein E genotypes and serum levels of glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides in a cognitively normal aging Han Chinese population.

PubMed

Tao, Qing-Qing; Chen, Yan; Liu, Zhi-Jun; Sun, Yi-Min; Yang, Ping; Lu, Shen-Ji; Xu, Miao; Dong, Qin-Yun; Yang, Jia-Jun; Wu, Zhi-Ying

2014-01-01

To determine the associations between apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotypes and serum levels of glucose, total cholesterol, and triglycerides in a cognitively normal aging Han Chinese population. There were 1,003 cognitively normal aging subjects included in this study. APOE genotypes were analyzed and biochemical parameters were tested. All the subjects were divided into three groups according to APOE genotypes: (1) E2/2 or E2/3 (APOE E2); (2) E3/3 (APOE E3); and (3) E2/4, E3/4, or E4/4 (APOE E4). Correlations of serum levels of glucose, total cholesterol, and triglycerides with APOE genotypes were assessed. E2, E3, and E4 allele frequencies were found to be 6.2%, 82.1%, and 11.7%, respectively. Serum levels of total cholesterol were higher in the APOE E4 group (P<0.05). A higher level of total cholesterol was associated with the E4 allele (adjusted odds ratio 1.689, 95% confidence interval 1.223-2.334, P<0.01). However, no association was found between APOE status and serum levels of glucose (adjusted odds ratio 0.981, 95% confidence interval 0.720-1.336, P=0.903) or total triglycerides (adjusted odds ratio 1.042, 95% confidence interval 0.759-1.429, P=0.800). A higher serum level of total cholesterol was significantly correlated with APOE E4 status in a cognitively normal, nondiabetic aging population. However, there was no correlation between APOE genotypes and serum levels of glucose or total triglycerides.

Association between serum uric acid levels and obesity among university students (China).

PubMed

Duan, Ying; Liang, Wei; Zhu, Lijun; Zhang, Ting; Wang, Linghong; Nie, Zhognhua; Chen, Yan; He, Lianping; Jin, Yuelong; Yao, Yingshui

2015-06-01

To evaluate the association between serum uric acid and obesity among university students who participated in routine health screening in 2013. In this cross-sectional study, 3529 subjects were analyzed. Obesity categories were classified by BMI levels references in China. And serum uric acid levels were classified by serum uric acid quartiles. Two-sample T-test and Wilcoxon Rank sum test were used to compare age, biochemical and anthropometric parameters of subjects of two genders. Rank correlation used to analyze relationship between serum uric acid and obesity. There were 1285 males (mean age, 19.8 ± 1.3 years) and 2244 females (mean age, 19.9 ± 1.3 years) in this study. Association between 2nd serum uric acid quartile and normal in male are significant and coefficient was 0.519. The 3rd serum uric acid quartile and normal in female was associated significantly (r = 0.173, p = 0.010). And associations between overweight and 3rd and 4th serum uric acid quartiles in female were significant (r = 0.128, p = 0.038 in 1st quartile and r = 0.282, p = 0.004 in 4th quartile). The 4th serum uric acid quartile and Obesity in two gender groups were significantly associated (r = 0.291, p = 0.000 in male and r = 0.484, p = 0.001 in female). High serum uric acid was positively associated with obesity in overweight and obesity group. However, the association was weak between two variables because serum uric acid influenced obesity with other related factors together. Copyright AULA MEDICA EDICIONES 2014. Published by AULA MEDICA. All rights reserved.

Biorevitalizing effect of a novel facial serum containing apple stem cell extract, pro-collagen lipopeptide, creatine, and urea on skin aging signs.

PubMed

Sanz, Maria Teresa; Campos, Celia; Milani, Massimo; Foyaca, Monica; Lamy, Amandine; Kurdian, Karine; Trullas, Carles

2016-03-01

Epithelial regeneration in skin is achieved by the constant turnover and differentiation of keratinocytes. Epidermal and dermal stem cells compartments are fundamental for the continuous renewal of the skin. Adult stem cells are the unique source for skin tissue renewal. Plants have stem cells and plant derived stem cell extracts are now used in topical products for their potential anti-ageing and anti-wrinkle effects. A new dermocosmetic product containing apple stem cell extract, urea, creatine and palmitoyl tripeptide-38 (Ureadin Fusion Serum Lift Antiarrugas, ISDIN S.A), has been recently developed to target different aspects involved in skin aging. To assess in vitro the effects of this new serum on the metabolic functions of human senescent fibroblasts and in vivo the anti-aging effects by clinical and instrumental evaluation. We evaluated the effects of the serum on the mitochondrial ROS (reactive oxygen species) production in human senescent cultured fibroblasts measured at 0.1% and 1% using the Mitoread AntiOx mtROS method. In addition we evaluated the anti-ageing in vivo effect of this new serum applied on the face twice daily for 28 consecutive days and assessed by clinical and instrumental evaluation in 32 women with sensitive skin bearing wrinkles on crow's feet. The tested serum both at 0.1% and 1% induces a significant increase in 02 consumption, cellular ATP level and a reduction in extra-cellular lactate concentration. The product reduces also significantly the mitochondrial ROS production. The clinical study shows a relevant anti-wrinkle effect in 71% of the treated women with visible effects in 68% of the subjects as soon as 7 days of treatment. A significant increase in dermal density and skin elasticity was also observed. The use of this novel anti-aging serum demonstrated a significant improvement of aging skin signs with first visible results achieved after one week of use. The product seemed to optimize the metabolic functions in human

Correlates of early pregnancy serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor in a Peruvian population.

PubMed

Yang, Na; Levey, Elizabeth; Gelaye, Bizu; Zhong, Qiu-Yue; Rondon, Marta B; Sanchez, Sixto E; Williams, Michelle A

2017-12-01

Knowledge about factors that influence serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentrations during early pregnancy is lacking. The aim of the study is to examine the correlates of early pregnancy serum BDNF concentrations. A total of 982 women attending prenatal care clinics in Lima, Peru, were recruited in early pregnancy. Pearson's correlation coefficient was calculated to evaluate the relation between BDNF concentrations and continuous covariates. Analysis of variance and generalized linear models were used to compare the unadjusted and adjusted BDNF concentrations according to categorical variables. Multivariable linear regression models were applied to determine the factors that influence early pregnancy serum BDNF concentrations. In bivariate analysis, early pregnancy serum BDNF concentrations were positively associated with maternal age (r = 0.16, P < 0.001) and early pregnancy body mass index (BMI) (r = 0.17, P < 0.001), but inversely correlated with gestational age at sample collection (r = -0.21, P < 0.001) and C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations (r = -0.07, P < 0.05). In the multivariable linear regression model, maternal age (β = 0.11, P = 0.001), early pregnancy BMI (β = 1.58, P < 0.001), gestational age at blood collection (β = -0.33, P < 0.001), and serum CRP concentrations (β = -0.57, P = 0.002) were significantly associated with early pregnancy serum BDNF concentrations. Participants with moderate antepartum depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) score ≥ 10) had lower serum BDNF concentrations compared with participants with no/mild antepartum depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 score < 10). Maternal age, early pregnancy BMI, gestational age, and the presence of moderate antepartum depressive symptoms were statistically significantly associated with early pregnancy serum BDNF concentrations in low-income Peruvian women. Biological changes of CRP during pregnancy may affect serum

The prevalence of low serum zinc and copper levels and dietary habits associated with serum zinc and copper in 12- to 36-month-old children from low-income families at risk for iron deficiency.

PubMed

Schneider, Julie M; Fujii, Mary L; Lamp, Catherine L; Lönnerdal, Bo; Zidenberg-Cherr, Sheri

2007-11-01

Iron and zinc share common food sources, and children at risk of iron deficiency may also develop zinc deficiency. We determined the prevalence of zinc and copper deficiency and examined factors associated with serum zinc and copper in young children from low-income families at risk of iron deficiency. A cross-sectional study design was used to assess serum zinc and copper, along with an interview-assisted survey to assess factors associated with serum zinc and copper in a convenience sample. Participants were 435 children aged 12 to 36 months recruited from select clinics of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children in Contra Costa and Tulare Counties, California. Frequencies were used to report prevalence. Multiple linear regressions were conducted to examine factors associated with serum zinc and copper, controlling for age, sex, and ethnicity. The prevalence of low serum zinc level (<70 microg/dL [<10.7 micromol/L]) was 42.8%, and low serum copper level (<90 microg/dL [<14.2 micromol/L]) was <1%. Mean+/-standard deviation of serum copper was 150+/-22 microg/dL (23.6+/-3.5 micromol/L) and 140+/-24 microg/dL (22.1+/-3.8 micromol/L) for anemic and non-anemic children, respectively (t test, P=0.026). In multiple linear regression consumption of sweetened beverages was negatively associated with serum zinc level, and consumption of >15 g/day meat was positively associated with serum zinc level, whereas current consumption of breast milk and >15 g/day beans were positively associated with serum copper level. The prevalence of low serum zinc concentration in the sample was high, and warrants further investigation amongst vulnerable populations.

The effect of a rise or fall of serum estradiol the day before oocyte retrieval in women aged 40-42 with diminished egg reserve.

PubMed

Check, J H; Amui, J; Choe, J K; Cohen, R

2015-01-01

To determine the effect of a drop in serum estradiol the day after injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) cycles in women aged 40-42 with diminished oocyte reserve. Retrospective study with further requirement that the female partner had a day 3 serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) of ≥ 12 miU/mL and ≥ five antral follicles. A drop in serum estradiol the day after hCG injection is not associated with a lower chance of pregnancy compared to those women whose serum estradiol increases. However, their chances of releasing the oocyte before retrieval is significantly higher. A drop in serum estradiol in women of advanced reproductive age with diminished oocyte reserve should not signal the need to cancel the retrieval.

Prepubertal Serum Concentrations of Organochlorine Pesticides and Age at Sexual Maturity in Russian Boys.

PubMed

Lam, Thuy; Williams, Paige L; Lee, Mary M; Korrick, Susan A; Birnbaum, Linda S; Burns, Jane S; Sergeyev, Oleg; Revich, Boris; Altshul, Larisa M; Patterson, Donald G; Hauser, Russ

2015-11-01

Few human studies have evaluated the impact of childhood exposure to organochlorine pesticides (OCP) on pubertal development. We evaluated associations of serum OCP concentrations [hexachlorobenzene (HCB), β-hexachlorocyclohexane (βHCH), and p,p-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p´-DDE)] with age at attainment of sexual maturity among boys. From 2003 through 2005, 350 8- to 9-year-old boys from Chapaevsk, Russia, with measured OCPs were enrolled and followed annually for 8 years. We used multivariable interval-censored models to evaluate associations of OCPs (quartiles) with three physician-assessed measures of sexual maturity: Tanner stage 5 for genitalia growth, Tanner stage 5 for pubic hair growth, or testicular volume (TV) ≥ 20 mL in either testis. In adjusted models, boys with higher HCB concentrations achieved sexual maturity reflected by TV ≥ 20 mL a mean of 3.1 months (95% CI: -1.7, 7.8), 5.3 months (95% CI: 0.6, 10.1), and 5.0 months (95% CI: 0.2, 9.8) later for quartiles Q2, Q3, and Q4, respectively, compared with Q1 (p trend = 0.04). Tanner stage 5 for genitalia growth was attained a mean of 2.2 months (95% CI: -3.1, 7.5), 5.7 months (95% CI: 0.4, 11.0), and 3.7 months (95% CI: -1.7, 9.1) later for quartiles Q2, Q3, and Q4, respectively, of βHCH compared with Q1 (p trend = 0.09). Tanner stage 5 for pubic hair growth occurred 6-9 months later on average for boys in the highest versus lowest quartile for HCB (p trend < 0.001), βHCH (trend p = 0.01), and p,p´-DDE (p trend = 0.04). No associations were observed between p,p´-DDE and Tanner stage 5 for genitalia growth or TV ≥ 20 mL. Higher prepubertal serum HCB and βHCH concentrations were associated with a later age at attainment of sexual maturity. Only the highest quartile of serum p,p´-DDE was associated with later pubic hair maturation. Lam T, Williams PL, Lee MM, Korrick SA, Birnbaum LS, Burns JS, Sergeyev O, Revich B, Altshul LM, Patterson DG Jr, Hauser R. 2015. Prepubertal serum

Serum uric acid as prognostic marker of coronary heart disease (CHD).

PubMed

Purnima, Samudrala; El-Aal, Bahiga Galal Abd

A substantial body of epidemiological and experimental evidence suggests the significance of serum uric acid as an important and independent risk factor of cardio vascular and renal diseases especially in patients with diabetes mellitus, hypertension. Hyperuricemia is a risk factor of coronary heart disease. Several studies showed positive association between hyperuricemia and CHD risk factors. To analyze the serum uric acid levels in patients with diabetes and hypertension, which helps in understanding its role as prognostic marker of coronary heart disease. The study was conducted in population of Wadi-Al Dawasir (K.S.A.) aged 20-80 years through random sampling from October 2012 to June 2013. It included 250 samples and the cases were categorized into diabetic and hypertensive. In the cases, purely hypertensive were 52, diabetic were 57 and mixed group included both diabetic and hypertensive patients 65. Fasting blood was collected to analyze lipid profile which included (total cholesterol, triglycerides, high density lipoprotein, low density lipoprotein) and serum uric acid in association with age and heredity was also studied. Patient demographics were recorded. The study revealed significant association of serum uric acid (p<0.014*) and total cholesterol (p<0.007**) triglycerides (p<0.009**) low density lipoprotein (p<0.044*) in hypertensive group. Serum uric acid levels in the mixed group patients with diabetes and hypertension reported serum uric acid (p<0.0037), total cholesterol (p<0.089+) proved to have increased risk of coronary heart disease. When compared to controls (non-diabetic p<0.529) and (non-hypertensive p<0.021*) with respect to serum uric acid levels show the magnitude of risk to coronary heart disease. With progressing age the association of lipid profile and serum uric acid reported (p<0.001**) in diabetics. Significant correlations were found between serum uric acid and risk factors for CHD. This is first study of its kind in this region

Reduced serum vitamin D concentrations in healthy early-lactation dairy cattle.

PubMed

Holcombe, S J; Wisnieski, L; Gandy, J; Norby, B; Sordillo, L M

2018-02-01

Cattle obtain vitamin D by ingestion or cutaneous exposure to UV light. Dairy cattle diets are frequently supplemented with vitamin D to compensate for limited sun exposure or during times of increased metabolic demands, such as the periparturient period, to maintain calcium homeostasis. Whether housing and supplemental vitamin D practices supply adequate amounts of vitamin D to optimally support the transition from gestation to lactation in dairy cattle is unknown. Our objective was to determine how serum vitamin D concentrations of dairy cows change with season, age, parity, and stage of lactation. Clinically healthy cows (n = 183) from 5 commercial dairies were enrolled in the study. Serum samples were collected at dry off, within 7 d of entering the close-up group, and within 7 d after calving (calving+7). Vitamin D status was determined by measuring serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] by radioimmunoassay. We performed repeated-measures mixed-effects linear regression to determine the effects of season, age, parity, and lactation stage (dry off, close-up, and calving+7) on 25(OH)D concentrations in serum. Bivariable analysis indicated that parity, age, and season were not associated with serum 25(OH)D concentrations. Sample period affected 25(OH)D concentrations, with the highest 25(OH)D levels at dry off (99.7 ± 1.9 ng/mL) followed by close up (93.8 ± 2.1 ng/mL), with the lowest levels at calving+7 (82.6 ± 1.7 ng/mL). These data showed a large depletion of 25(OH)D in dairy cattle postpartum compared with late prepartum, although the biological significance of this change in these healthy cattle is unclear. Consumption of serum 25(OH)D by immune system functions and calcium homeostasis in early lactation likely caused the reduction in serum 25(OH)D concentrations after calving. These results suggest that determining whether serum 25(OH)D concentrations are associated with the incidence of transition period disease is an appropriate next step. Assessing the

Serum aminotransferase changes with significant weight loss: sex and age effects.

PubMed

Suzuki, Ayako; Binks, Martin; Sha, Ronald; Wachholtz, Amy; Eisenson, Howard; Diehl, Anna Mae

2010-02-01

In obese subjects, the liver may be differentially affected by significant weight loss depending on as yet unknown factors. We explored clinical factors associated with serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) changes during significant weight loss in a residential weight loss program. Clinical data from 362 adults who received a comprehensive weight loss intervention (ie, diets, physical fitness, and behavioral modification) in the program were analyzed. Serum ALT was used as a surrogate marker of liver injury. The ALT changes during the program were calculated to create study outcome categories (improvement, no change, or deterioration of ALT during significant weight loss). Variables of demography, lifestyle, and comorbidities at baseline, and total/rate of weight change during the program were explored for associations with the ALT change categories using multiple logistic regression models. Variation by sex was apparent among predictors of ALT deterioration; men with rapid weight loss and women with higher initial body mass index were more likely to experience ALT deterioration, whereas men with prior alcohol consumption were less likely to experience ALT deterioration even after adjusting for baseline ALT (Ps < .03). Variation by age was apparent among predictors of ALT improvement; younger patients with current smoking and older patients with rapid weight loss, diabetes or impaired fasting glucose, or sleep apnea or who followed a reduced-carbohydrate diet were less likely to experience ALT improvement (Ps < .05). A number of clinical factors influence ALT changes during weight loss in sex- and age-specific manners. The patterns that we detected may have pathophysiologic significance beyond the practical implications of our findings in clinical practice related to underlying changes in fat metabolism. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Age- and sex-specific reference values for fasting serum insulin levels and insulin resistance/sensitivity indices in healthy Iranian adults: Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study.

PubMed

Tohidi, Maryam; Ghasemi, Asghar; Hadaegh, Farzad; Derakhshan, Arash; Chary, Abdolreza; Azizi, Fereidoun

2014-04-01

Increased insulin concentration is a surrogate for insulin resistance and early assessment of fasting insulin may help in identifying those who are potentially at high risk of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to determine age- and sex-related reference values for serum insulin and insulin resistance/sensitivity indices in Iranian subjects. Serum insulin levels were measured by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay in 5786 participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study. After application of exclusion criteria, 309 non-obese healthy subjects (124 men and 185 women), aged 24-83 y, were included. The International Federation of Clinical Chemistry guidelines (non-parametric method) and the robust method were used for determining reference values. Overall 95% reference values for fasting insulin were 1.61-11.37, 2.34-11.98, and 2.11-12.49 μU/mL in men, women, and total population respectively. Mean fasting insulin concentration showed a decreasing trend with age in both genders (p for trend ≤0.001). Age, waist circumference, and systolic blood pressures were biological determinants of fasting insulin in both genders; in addition, insulin was modulated by triglycerides in men and fasting glucose in women. Reference intervals for HOMA1-IR, HOMA2-IR, and QUICKI were 0.63-2.68, 0.40-1.80, and 0.33-0.42, respectively. This study presents the first set of reference values for fasting serum insulin to be 2-12 μU/mL for both genders in a healthy sample of Iranian adults along with the reference values for insulin resistance/sensitivity indices. These values could be used for identifying subjects with insulin resistance in epidemiological and clinical research. Copyright © 2014 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of delayed serum separation and storage temperature on serum glucose concentration in horse, dog, alpaca, and sturgeon.

PubMed

Collicutt, Nancy B; Garner, Bridget; Berghaus, Roy D; Camus, Melinda S; Hart, Kelsey

2015-03-01

Although delays between blood sample collection and analysis are common in veterinary medicine, the effect of prolonged serum-clot contact time on serum glucose concentration is not well established and species differences have not been elucidated. The objective was to investigate the effect of storage time and temperature on serum glucose concentration in stored whole blood samples from horse, dog, alpaca, and sturgeon. Whole blood specimens were divided into 7 no-additive tubes and serum was separated from one sample within one hour, serving as the reference sample. The remaining samples were stored at 4°C and 25°C, then centrifuged and serum glucose measured by automated analysis at 2, 4, and 8 hours postcollection. Glucose concentrations were compared using linear mixed models. The decline in serum glucose concentration for all samples stored at 4°C was not statistically significant, except for the 8-hour samples from sturgeon and dog. At 25°C, serum glucose concentration was comparable to reference values at 2 hours in sturgeon and alpaca, but significantly lower at 4 and 8 hours in those species, and at all time points in equine and canine specimens, being most prominent after 8 hours of storage in canine specimens. Storage at 4°C limits serum glucose decline for at least 4 hours in all species tested and up to 8 hours in specimens of horse and alpaca. At 25°C, serum-clot contact time should not exceed 1 hour in equine and canine samples, and 2 hours in specimens from alpaca and sturgeon. © 2014 American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.

A serum miRNA profile of human longevity: findings from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA).

PubMed

Smith-Vikos, Thalyana; Liu, Zuyun; Parsons, Christine; Gorospe, Myriam; Ferrucci, Luigi; Gill, Thomas M; Slack, Frank J

2016-11-07

In C. elegans , miRNAs are genetic biomarkers of aging. Similarly, multiple miRNAs are differentially expressed between younger and older persons, suggesting that miRNA-regulated biological mechanisms affecting aging are evolutionarily conserved. Previous human studies have not considered participants' lifespans, a key factor in identifying biomarkers of aging. Using PCR arrays, we measured miRNA levels from serum samples obtained longitudinally at ages 50, 55, and 60 from 16 non-Hispanic males who had documented lifespans from 58 to 92. Numerous miRNAs showed significant changes in expression levels. At age 50, 24 miRNAs were significantly upregulated, and 73 were significantly downregulated in the long-lived subgroup (76-92 years) as compared with the short-lived subgroup (58-75 years). In long-lived participants, the most upregulated was miR-373-5p, while the most downregulated was miR-15b-5p. Longitudinally, significant Pearson correlations were observed between lifespan and expression of nine miRNAs (p value<0.05). Six of these nine miRNAs (miR-211-5p, 374a-5p, 340-3p, 376c-3p, 5095, 1225-3p) were also significantly up- or downregulated when comparing long-lived and short-lived participants. Twenty-four validated targets of these miRNAs encoded aging-associated proteins, including PARP1, IGF1R, and IGF2R. We propose that the expression profiles of the six miRNAs (miR-211-5p, 374a-5p, 340-3p, 376c-3p, 5095, and 1225-3p) may be useful biomarkers of aging.

A serum miRNA profile of human longevity: findings from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA)

PubMed Central

Parsons, Christine; Gorospe, Myriam; Ferrucci, Luigi; Gill, Thomas M.; Slack, Frank J.

2016-01-01

In C. elegans, miRNAs are genetic biomarkers of aging. Similarly, multiple miRNAs are differentially expressed between younger and older persons, suggesting that miRNA-regulated biological mechanisms affecting aging are evolutionarily conserved. Previous human studies have not considered participants' lifespans, a key factor in identifying biomarkers of aging. Using PCR arrays, we measured miRNA levels from serum samples obtained longitudinally at ages 50, 55, and 60 from 16 non-Hispanic males who had documented lifespans from 58 to 92. Numerous miRNAs showed significant changes in expression levels. At age 50, 24 miRNAs were significantly upregulated, and 73 were significantly downregulated in the long-lived subgroup (76-92 years) as compared with the short-lived subgroup (58-75 years). In long-lived participants, the most upregulated was miR-373-5p, while the most downregulated was miR-15b-5p. Longitudinally, significant Pearson correlations were observed between lifespan and expression of nine miRNAs (p value<0.05). Six of these nine miRNAs (miR-211-5p, 374a-5p, 340-3p, 376c-3p, 5095, 1225-3p) were also significantly up- or downregulated when comparing long-lived and short-lived participants. Twenty-four validated targets of these miRNAs encoded aging-associated proteins, including PARP1, IGF1R, and IGF2R. We propose that the expression profiles of the six miRNAs (miR-211-5p, 374a-5p, 340-3p, 376c-3p, 5095, and 1225-3p) may be useful biomarkers of aging. PMID:27824314

Serum and saliva magnesium in postmenopausal women with xerostomia.

PubMed

Agha-Hosseini, F; Mirzaii-Dizgah, I

2012-10-01

The aim of this study was to investigate serum, stimulated and unstimulated salivary magnesium in postmenopausal women with xerostomia. A case-control study was carried out on 60 selected postmenopausal women aged 41-77 years with or without xerostomia (30 as cases with xerostomia and 30 as controls without xerostomia), conducted at the Clinic of Oral Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Unstimulated and paraffin-stimulated saliva samples were obtained by expectoration. Magnesium concentration was determined by the spectrophotometer method. Statistical analysis was carried out using Student's t-test. The mean serum concentration, but not stimulated and unstimulated whole saliva magnesium concentrations, was significantly higher in the cases than in the controls. Serum magnesium level appears to be associated with xerostomia in menopause.

Relationship between Serum Ferritin Levels and Sarcopenia in Korean Females Aged 60 Years and Older Using the Fourth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES IV-2, 3), 2008–2009

PubMed Central

Kim, Tae Ho; Hwang, Hee-Jin; Kim, Sang-Hwan

2014-01-01

Context It has been suggested that elevated serum ferritin is associated with several metabolic disorders. However, there is no reported study assessing any association between serum ferritin and sarcopenia despite the close relationship between sarcopenia and metabolic disorders. Objective We investigated whether serum ferritin was associated with sarcopenia in older Koreans. Design and Setting We conducted a cross-sectional study based on data acquired in the second and third years (2008–9) of the fourth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Participants In total, 952 men (mean age 69.0 years) and 1,380 women (mean age 69.3 years) aged 60 years and older completed a body composition study using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Measurements Serum ferritin levels were measured. Sarcopenia was defined as an appendicular skeletal mass as a percentage of body weight that was less than two standard deviations below the gender-specific mean for young adults. Results Serum ferritin levels were lower in women than in men. Women with sarcopenia showed a higher level of serum ferritin than women without sarcopenia (men: without sarcopenia 115.7 ng/mL and with sarcopenia 134.4 ng/mL vs. women: without sarcopenia 70.7 ng/mL and with sarcopenia 85.4 ng/mL). The prevalence of sarcopenia increased as the tertile of serum ferritin increased. However, statistical significance was only seen in elderly women (1st tertile 6.3%, 2nd tertile 8.0%, 3rd tertile 12.0%; p = 0.008). Without adjustment, compared with those in the lowest tertile of serum ferritin level, participants in the highest tertile had an odds ratio of 2.02 (95% confidence interval = 1.26–3.23) for sarcopenia in women. After adjusting for known risk factors, the OR for sarcopenia was 1.74 (95% CI = 1.02–2.97) in women. There was no statistically significant association between sarcopenia and serum ferritin tertiles in men. Conclusions Elevated serum ferritin levels were associated

Lipid peroxidative damage in the erythrocytes and elevation of serum LDL-cholesterol, apolipoprotein-B, ferritin and uric acid with age and in coronary heart disease patients.

PubMed

El-Gebali, H H; Tahir, S A; Haider, S S; El-Fakhri, M M

2000-02-01

To determine the normal serum levels of LDL-cholesterol, apolipoprotein-B, ferritin, uric acid, and the extent of erythrocytes lipid peroxidation in healthy control group subjects and to compare them with coronary heart disease patients. Secondly, to study the effects of age and sex on these parameters. The blood samples from 150 healthy Libyan control group subjects (110 men and 40 women) were classified into 3 groups according to their age. Group I consisted of 76 subjects with an age range from 20 to 35 years. Group II consisted of 45 subjects with an age range from 36 to 50 years. Group III consisted of 29 subjects with an age range from 51 to 74 years. The blood samples from these groups were analyzed for LDL-cholesterol, apolipoprotein-B, ferritin and uric acid levels. Lipid peroxidation was compared in the erythrocytes of 56 selected healthy control group subjects (31 men and 11 women) of the aforementioned age groups. These parameters have shown age-dependent elevation in their levels. Meanwhile, LDL-cholesterol and Apolipoprotein-B levels in female subjects were higher than those of males. However, lipid peroxidation in the erythrocytes has revealed a statistically significant increase with increasing age. The comparison between 93 selected, sex and age matched, healthy control group subjects with 87 selected coronary heart disease patients (55 men and 45 women) with an age range from 30 to 74 years (49.6+13.25) has demonstrated significantly higher concentration of LDL-cholesterol, Apolipoprotein-B, ferritin and uric acid in coronary heart disease patients than those of healthy control group subjects. Meanwhile, lipid peroxidation was also significantly enhanced in coronary heart disease patients compared with healthy control group subjects. Our study has revealed that an increase in the lipid peroxidation in erythrocytes with age and during coronary heart disease, makes red cell membranes more vulnerable to free radical damage via formation of reactive

Pharmacokinetic evaluation of three different intramuscular doses of nandrolone decanoate: analysis of serum and urine samples in healthy men.

PubMed

Bagchus, Wilma M; Smeets, Jean M W; Verheul, Herman A M; De Jager-Van Der Veen, Suzanne M; Port, Andreas; Geurts, T B Paul

2005-05-01

The pharmacokinetics of nandrolone in serum and urine were investigated in healthy young men after a single im injection of 50 mg (n = 20), 100 mg (n = 17), or 150 mg (n = 17) nandrolone decanoate. Blood samples were collected before treatment and for up to 32 d after dosing. In addition, in the 50- and 150-mg groups, 24-h urine samples were collected before treatment and on d 1, 7, and 33 after treatment; in the 150-mg group, additional samples were collected after 3 and 6 months. Serum concentrations and the area under the curve of nandrolone increased proportionally with the dose administered. The peak serum concentration ranged from 2.14 ng/ml in the 50-mg group to 4.26 ng/ml in the 100-mg group and 5.16 ng/ml in the 150-mg group. The peak serum concentration was reached after 30 h (50 and 100 mg) and 72 h (150 mg), whereas the terminal half-life was 7-12 d. In urine, pretreatment concentrations of 19-norandrosterone (19-NA) and/or 19-noretiocholanolone (19-NE) were detected in five of 37 subjects (14%). In the 50-mg group, 19-NA and/or 19-NE could be detected at least until 33 d after injection in 16 of 17 subjects (94%). In the 150-mg group, who were presumed to have not previously used nandrolone, nandrolone metabolites could be detected for up to 6 months in eight of 12 subjects (67%) for 19-NE and in 10 of 12 subjects (83%) for 19-NA.

Comparing dried and liquid blood serum samples of depressed patients: An analysis by Raman and infrared spectroscopy methods.

PubMed

Depciuch, J; Parlinska-Wojtan, M

2018-02-20

Depression is a serious mental illness. To study the mechanism of depression and search for new, more effective therapies, animal models are often used. Unfortunately, none of the available models reflects all the symptoms of depression. Therefore researchers are looking for new tools to diagnose depression. Unfortunately, the nowadays-available depression diagnosis methods are only psychological tests. However, it is known, that the amount of phospholipids, proteins and lipids decreases during depression. Raman and FTIR (Fourier Transform Infra Red) spectroscopies provide information on the chemical compounds in the measured sample e.g. blood serum. These spectroscopic techniques may thus become reliable and accurate tools for evaluating changes in the amount of phospholipids and proteins in depression disease. In this study differences between dried and liquid blood serum samples of healthy and depressed individuals measured by Raman (range 0-3000cm -1 ) and FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared) (range 900-3000cm -1 ) spectroscopy were evaluated. The resulting spectra and accurate analysis led to the conclusion that an appropriate measurement of the background and the elimination of peaks from water had the greatest impact on the reliability of the results. Furthermore, after detailed studies of FTIR and Raman spectra of dried and liquid blood serum samples, including a complete analysis of peaks after Kramers-Kröning (KK) transformation, it was found that the sample preparation did not affect the results obtained by Raman spectroscopy. In FTIR measurements only a minimal effect on peak intensity was observed. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Vitamin A intake and serum retinol levels in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis.

PubMed

Woestenenk, Janna W; Broos, Nancy; Stellato, Rebecca K; Arets, Hubertus G M; van der Ent, Cornelis K; Houwen, Roderick H J

2016-06-01

Pancreatic insufficient cystic fibrosis (CF) patients receive vitamin A supplementation according to CF-specific recommendations to prevent deficiencies. Whether current recommendations are optimal for preventing both deficiency and toxicity is a subject of debate. We assessed the longitudinal relation between serum retinol levels and appropriate variables. We studied vitamin A intake, and the long-term effects of vitamin A intake, coefficient of fat absorption (CFA) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) on serum retinol levels in 221 paediatrics CF patients during a seven-year follow up period. Total vitamin A intake, derived from 862 dietary assessments, exceeded the tolerable upper intake level in 30% of the assessments, mainly up to age six. Although CF patients failed to meet the CF-specific recommendations, serum retinol deficiency was found in only 17/862 (2%) of the measurements. Longitudinally, we observed no association to serum retinol levels for total vitamin A intake, CFA, gender or age but serum retinol levels were associated with serum IgG levels. Each g/L increase in serum IgG level would result in a 2.49% (95% CI -3.60 to -1.36%) reduction in serum retinol levels. In this large sample of children and adolescents with CF, serum retinol deficiency was rare despite lower than the CF-specific recommendations. However, the TUL was commonly exceeded. A reduction in CF-specific vitamin A supplementation recommendations should therefore be considered. Moreover, serum retinol levels were not associated with vitamin A intake, CFA, gender or age, although a decreased serum retinol was associated with an increased serum IgG. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. All rights reserved.

Optimal Fasting Time before Measurement of Serum Triglyceride Levels in Healthy Volunteers.

PubMed

Pongsuthana, Surapun; Tivatunsakul, Naris

2016-02-01

Coronary heart disease is a major public health problem. Elevated triglyceride levels are a risk factor for atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. Food intake interferes with the measurement of serum triglyceride levels, and in previous studies, fasting for 12 hours was recommended before blood sampling. In real-world practice, long fasting times cause patient discomfort and poor compliance, and the present study was, therefore, designed to determine the appropriate fasting time prior to measuring serum triglyceride levels. To determine the appropriate fasting time before measuring serum triglyceride levels. This was a pilot study performed using healthy volunteers aged between 20 and 30 years old from November 2013 to December 2013 at Rajavithi Hospital. The first blood sample was measured in the morning after fasting over 12 hours. The subjects then took their regular breakfast, after which they fasted for 8 hours. Blood samples were taken 6 and 8 hours later and sent to the laboratory for measurement of serum triglyceride levels. 40 volunteers, of whom 25 were female, were enrolled. Their mean age was 25.9 ± 2.81 years old, and their mean weight, height, and body mass index were 61.5 ± 12.5 kg, 167.2 ± 8.3 cm and 21.84 ± 3.1 kg/m2, respectively. Mean fasting serum triglyceride level at 12 hours was 80.23 ± 36.33 mg/dl, at 6 hours it was 110.65 ± 73.45 mg/dl, and at 8 hours it was 75.62 ± 46.81 mg/dl. The group fasting for 12 hours had significantly lower serum triglyceride levels than the group fasting for 6 hours (p-value = 0.003), but no significant difference was found between the group fasting for 12 hours and the one fasting for 8 hours (p-value = 0.493). The present study showed no significant difference in triglyceride levels in patients who had fasted or 8 hours and those who had done so for 12 hours. Fasting for only 8 hours before measurement of serum triglyceride may be sufficient.

SELDI-TOF MS of quadruplicate urine and serum samples to evaluate changes related to storage conditions.

PubMed

Traum, Avram Z; Wells, Meghan P; Aivado, Manuel; Libermann, Towia A; Ramoni, Marco F; Schachter, Asher D

2006-03-01

Proteomic profiling with SELDI-TOF MS has facilitated the discovery of disease-specific protein profiles. However, multicenter studies are often hindered by the logistics required for prompt deep-freezing of samples in liquid nitrogen or dry ice within the clinic setting prior to shipping. We report high concordance between MS profiles within sets of quadruplicate split urine and serum samples deep-frozen at 0, 2, 6, and 24 h after sample collection. Gage R&R results confirm that deep-freezing times are not a statistically significant source of SELDI-TOF MS variability for either blood or urine.

The serum concentrations of perfluoroalkyl compounds were inversely associated with growth parameters in 2-year old children.

PubMed

Lee, Young Ah; Kim, Jin Hee; Jung, Hae Woon; Lim, Youn-Hee; Bae, Sanghyuk; Kho, Younglim; Hong, Yun-Chul; Shin, Choong Ho; Yang, Sei Won

2018-07-01

The relationship between the serum concentrations of perfluoroalkyl compounds (PFCs) and growth parameters was investigated in 2-year-old Korean children. The study included 361 children aged 2years (192 boys and 169 girls; 22-27months), born at term appropriate-for-gestational-age, who visited between 2012 and 2013. Growth parameters of height and weight, and serum samples were collected from 2-year-old children. Four PFCs (perfluorohexane sulfonic acid [PFHxS], perfluorooctane sulfonic acid [PFOS], perfluorooctanoic acid [PFOA], and perfluorononanoic acid [PFNA]), perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA), perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUnDA), and perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA) were detected in >99, 93.4, 89.8, and 74.2% of the serum samples, respectively. The duration of breastfeeding was positively associated with the serum concentrations of ln-transformed PFHxS, PFOS, PFHpA, PFOA, PFNA, PFDA, and PFUnDA (all P<0.001). Height at 2years of age was inversely related to PFHxS, PFOS, PFOA, PFNA, and PFDA concentrations (adjusted β per ln unit [95% confidence interval, CI]: -0.84 [-1.26, -0.42], -0.77 [-1.27, -0.15], -0.91 [-1.36, -0.47], -0.48 [-1.40, -0.51], and -0.44 [-0.77, -0.10] cm, respectively), after adjusting for age, sex, and midparental height. Weight at 2years of age was inversely associated with PFNA (adjusted β per ln unit [95% CI]: -0.32 [-0.48, -0.15] kg), after adjusting for age, sex, and parental BMI. In conclusion, the serum concentrations of PFCs were inversely associated with growth parameters in 2-year-old children. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Serum cation profile of broilers at various stages of exposure to deoxynivalenol.

PubMed

Yunus, Agha Waqar; Böhm, Josef

2013-05-01

The present experiment was carried out to investigate if levels of serum cations in broilers are modulated differently at various stages of exposure to deoxynivalenol (DON). Male broiler chicks at 7 days of age were fed a basal diet (0.27 mg of DON; 0.01 mg of zearalenone/kg), or either a low DON diet (1.68 mg of DON; 0.15 mg of zearalenone/kg) or a high DON diet (12.21 mg of DON; 1.09 mg of zearalenone/kg) produced using extracts from Fusarium graminearum cultures. Blood samples from the birds were collected during weeks 2, 4, and 5 of exposure. The high DON diet resulted in lower serum calcium levels compared to the basal diet at all the 3 sampling stages, while the low DON diet resulted in lower serum calcium levels only during weeks 2 and 5. Serum potassium levels were reduced under both the DON diets during weeks 2 and 5, while no diet-associated changes were found for serum levels of magnesium, sodium, and zinc. Under the present experimental conditions, the serum levels of calcium were consistently modulated in the broilers exposed to the DON-contaminated diets. The modulation of serum levels of potassium was, however, dependent upon the stage of exposure to DON.

Serum adipokines and HIV viral replication in patients undergoing antiretroviral therapy

PubMed Central

Aramă, Victoria; Tilişcan, Cătălin; Ion, Daniela Adriana; Mihăilescu, Raluca; Munteanu, Daniela; Streinu-Cercel, Anca; Tudor, Ana Maria; Hristea, Adriana; Leoveanu, Viorica; Olaru, Ioana; Aramă, Ştefan Sorin

2012-01-01

Introduction Several studies have reported that cytokines secreted by adipose tissue (adipokines) may be linked to HIV replication. The aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between HIV replication and serum levels of adipokines, in a Caucasian HIV-infected population of men and women undergoing complex antiretroviral therapy. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in an unselected sample of 77 HIV-1-positive patients. Serum adipokines levels were measured including circulating adiponectin, leptin, resistin, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 - with undetectable viral load and Group 2 - with persistent HIV viral replication. Differences between groups ? were tested using independent-sample t-test for Gaussian variables and Mann–Whitney–Wilcoxon test for non-parametric variables. Pearson's chi-squared test was used for correlation analysis. Results A total of 77 patients (age range: 17-65, mean: 32.5 years) including 44 men (57.1% men, age range: 17–63 years, mean: 34.1 years) and 33 women (42.9% women age range: 19–65 years, mean: 30.3 years) were included in the study. TNF-alpha had significantly higher serum levels in patients with detectable viral load (16.89 vs. 9.35 pg/mL), (p=0.043), but correlation analysis lacked statistical significance. Adiponectin had median serum levels of 9.22 ìg/mL in Group 1 vs. 16.50 ìg/mL in Group 2 but the results lacked statistical significance (p=0.059). Higher leptin, IL-6 and resistin serum levels were noted in patients with undetectable HIV viral load, without statistical significance. Conclusions The present study reported higher TNF-alpha serum levels in patients with persistent HIV viral load. We found no statistically significant correlations between adiponectin, leptin, resistin and IL-6 and HIV viral load in our Caucasian HIV-positive study population, undergoing antiretroviral therapy. PMID:24432258

Polyfluorinated Compounds in Serum Linked to Indoor Air in Office Environments

PubMed Central

Fraser, Alicia J; Webster, Thomas F; Watkins, Deborah J; Nelson, Jessica W; Stapleton, Heather M; Calafat, Antonia M; Kato, Kayoko; Shoeib, Mahiba; Vieira, Verónica M; McClean, Michael D

2011-01-01

We aimed to investigate the role of indoor office air on exposure to polyfluorinated compounds (PFCs) among office workers. Week-long, active air sampling was conducted during the winter of 2009 in 31 offices in Boston, MA. Air samples were analyzed for fluorotelomer alcohols (FTOHs), sulfonamides (FOSAs), and sulfonamidoethanols (FOSEs). Serum was collected from each participant (n=31) and analyzed for twelve PFCs including PFOA and PFOS. In air, FTOHs were present in the highest concentrations, particularly 8:2-FTOH (GM=9,920 pg/m3). FTOHs varied significantly by building with the highest levels observed in a newly constructed building. PFOA in serum was significantly correlated with air levels of 6:2-FTOH (r=0.43), 8:2-FTOH (r=0.60), and 10:2-FTOH (r=0.62). Collectively, FTOHs in air significantly predicted PFOA in serum (p < 0.001) and explained approximately 36% of the variation in serum PFOA concentrations. PFOS in serum was not associated with air levels of FOSAs/FOSEs. In conclusion, FTOH concentrations in office air significantly predict serum PFOA concentrations in office workers. Variation in PFC air concentrations by building is likely due to differences in the number, type, and age of potential sources such as carpeting, furniture and/or paint. PMID:22148395

Polyfluorinated compounds in serum linked to indoor air in office environments.

PubMed

Fraser, Alicia J; Webster, Thomas F; Watkins, Deborah J; Nelson, Jessica W; Stapleton, Heather M; Calafat, Antonia M; Kato, Kayoko; Shoeib, Mahiba; Vieira, Verónica M; McClean, Michael D

2012-01-17

We aimed to investigate the role of indoor office air on exposure to polyfluorinated compounds (PFCs) among office workers. Week-long, active air sampling was conducted during the winter of 2009 in 31 offices in Boston, MA. Air samples were analyzed for fluorotelomer alcohols (FTOHs), sulfonamides (FOSAs), and sulfonamidoethanols (FOSEs). Serum was collected from each participant (n = 31) and analyzed for 12 PFCs including PFOA and PFOS. In air, FTOHs were present in the highest concentrations, particularly 8:2-FTOH (GM = 9920 pg/m(3)). FTOHs varied significantly by building with the highest levels observed in a newly constructed building. PFOA in serum was significantly correlated with air levels of 6:2-FTOH (r = 0.43), 8:2-FTOH (r = 0.60), and 10:2-FTOH (r = 0.62). Collectively, FTOHs in air significantly predicted PFOA in serum (p < 0.001) and explained approximately 36% of the variation in serum PFOA concentrations. PFOS in serum was not associated with air levels of FOSAs/FOSEs. In conclusion, FTOH concentrations in office air significantly predict serum PFOA concentrations in office workers. Variation in PFC air concentrations by building is likely due to differences in the number, type, and age of potential sources such as carpeting, furniture, and/or paint.

Do neighbourhoods matter? Neighbourhood disorder and long-term trends in serum cortisol levels.

PubMed

Dulin-Keita, Akilah; Casazza, Krista; Fernandez, Jose R; Goran, Michael I; Gower, Barbara

2012-01-01

Characteristics associated with low socioeconomic status neighbourhoods may put children at risk for unique chronic stressors that affect cortisol levels. This research sought to explore whether neighbourhood stressor exposure affected serum cortisol levels among children. A total of 148 African and European-American children with an average age of 8.28 years participated in a longitudinal study evaluating ethnic differences in body composition and disease risk. Five waves of data were included in analyses. Mixed modelling was used to explore neighbourhood stressors, which was a composite index of five items for zip code level poverty and physical disorder, and serum cortisol outcomes for the full sample, by race/ethnicity and gender. Adjustments were made for individual level correlates age, pubertal status, gender and total fat mass. Neighborhood disorder was predictive of lower serum cortisol levels among African-American children (p<0.05), such that higher neighbourhood stressor exposure resulted in lower serum cortisol over time compared with individuals in socially ordered neighbourhoods. Neighbourhood disorder was marginally significant and predictive of higher serum cortisol among European-American children (p<0.10). Transition to a higher pubertal status, nested in age was also predictive of lower serum cortisol levels (p<0.01) among European-American children. Children who are exposed to negative socioenvironmental climates over time are more likely to have altered serum cortisol levels. This may be an adaptive mechanism to cope with stress; however, disrupted cortisol levels may have negative effects on general physical and mental health.

Serum Folate Shows an Inverse Association with Blood Pressure in a Cohort of Chinese Women of Childbearing Age: A Cross-Sectional Study

PubMed Central

Shen, Minxue; Tan, Hongzhuan; Zhou, Shujin; Retnakaran, Ravi; Smith, Graeme N.; Davidge, Sandra T.; Trasler, Jacquetta; Walker, Mark C.; Wen, Shi Wu

2016-01-01

Background It has been reported that higher folate intake from food and supplementation is associated with decreased blood pressure (BP). The association between serum folate concentration and BP has been examined in few studies. We aim to examine the association between serum folate and BP levels in a cohort of young Chinese women. Methods We used the baseline data from a pre-conception cohort of women of childbearing age in Liuyang, China, for this study. Demographic data were collected by structured interview. Serum folate concentration was measured by immunoassay, and homocysteine, blood glucose, triglyceride and total cholesterol were measured through standardized clinical procedures. Multiple linear regression and principal component regression model were applied in the analysis. Results A total of 1,532 healthy normotensive non-pregnant women were included in the final analysis. The mean concentration of serum folate was 7.5 ± 5.4 nmol/L and 55% of the women presented with folate deficiency (< 6.8 nmol/L). Multiple linear regression and principal component regression showed that serum folate levels were inversely associated with systolic and diastolic BP, after adjusting for demographic, anthropometric, and biochemical factors. Conclusions Serum folate is inversely associated with BP in non-pregnant women of childbearing age with high prevalence of folate deficiency. PMID:27182603

Comparative evaluation of serum, FTA filter-dried blood and oral fluid as sample material for PRRSV diagnostics by RT-qPCR in a small-scale experimental study.

PubMed

Steinrigl, Adolf; Revilla-Fernández, Sandra; Wodak, Eveline; Schmoll, Friedrich; Sattler, Tatjana

2014-01-01

Recently, research into alternative sample materials, such as oral fluid or filter-dried blood has been intensified, in order to facilitate cost-effective and animal-friendly sampling of individuals or groups of pigs for diagnostic purposes. The objective of this study was to compare the sensitivity of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV)-RNA detection by reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) in serum, FTA filter-dried blood and oral fluid sampled from individual pigs. Ten PRRSV negative pigs were injected with an EU-type PRRSV live vaccine. Blood and oral fluid samples were taken from each pig before, and 4, 7, 14 and 21 days after vaccination. All samples were then analyzed by PRRSV RT-qPCR. In serum, eight often pigs tested RT-qPCR positive at different time points post infection. Absolute quantification showed low serum PRRSV-RNA loads in most samples. In comparison to serum, sensitivity of PRRSV-RNA detection was strongly reduced in matched FTA filter-dried blood and in oral fluid from the same pigs. These results indicate that with low PRRSV-RNA loads the diagnostic sensitivity of PRRSV-RNA detection by RT-qPCR achieved with serum is currently unmatched by either FTA filter-dried blood or oral fluid.

Age-specific serum anti-Müllerian hormone values for 17,120 women presenting to fertility centers within the United States.

PubMed

Seifer, David B; Baker, Valerie L; Leader, Benjamin

2011-02-01

To determine age-specific serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) values for women presenting to U.S. fertility clinics. Retrospective study. Single clinical reference laboratory. A total of 17,120 women of reproductive age ranging from 24 to 50 years old. None. Determination of single-year median and mean AMH values with SDs. Single-year-specific median, mean, and SD values are summarized in Table 1. Both median and mean AMH values decreased steadily in a manner highly correlated with advancing age. The average yearly decrease in the median serum AMH value was 0.2 ng/mL/year through age 35 and then diminished to 0.1 ng/mL/year after age 35. The rate of decline in mean AMH values was 0.2 ng/mL/year through age 40 and then diminished to 0.1 ng/mL/year thereafter. Median and mean AMH levels decreased steadily with increasing age from 24 to 50 years of age. Such data may be of value to physicians and their patients who are considering reproductive options. Copyright © 2011 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Increased serum levels of eotaxin/CCL11 in late-stage patients with bipolar disorder: An accelerated aging biomarker?

PubMed

Panizzutti, B; Gubert, C; Schuh, A L; Ferrari, P; Bristot, G; Fries, G R; Massuda, R; Walz, J; Rocha, N P; Berk, M; Teixeira, A L; Gama, C S

2015-08-15

Bipolar disorder (BD) is commonly comorbid with many medical disorders including atopy, and appears characterized by progressive social, neurobiological, and functional impairment associated with increasing number of episodes and illness duration. Early and late stages of BD may present different biological features and may therefore require different treatment strategies. Consequently, the aim of this study was to evaluate serum levels of eotaxin/CCL11, eotaxin-2/CCL24, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, TNF-α, IFNγ, BDNF, TBARS, carbonyl, and GPx in a sample of euthymic patients with BD at early and late stages compared to controls. Early-stage BD patients, 12 late-stage patients, and 25 controls matched for sex and age were selected. 10mL of peripheral blood was drawn from all subjects by venipuncture. Serum levels of BDNF, TBARS, carbonyl content, glutathione-peroxidase activity (GPx), cytokines (IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, TNF-α and IFNγ), and chemokines (eotaxin/CCL11 and eotaxin-2/CCL24) were measured. There were no demographic differences between patients and controls. No significant differences were found for any of the biomarkers, except chemokine eotaxin/CCL11, whose serum levels were higher in late-stage patients with BD when compared to controls (p=0.022; Mann-Whitney U test). Small number of subjects and use of medication may have influenced in our results. The present study suggests a link between biomarkers of atopy and eosinophil function and bipolar disorder. These findings are also in line with progressive biological changes partially mediated by inflammatory imbalance, a process referred to as neuroprogression. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Effect of light regimens on the age dynamics of estrous function and serum prolactin level in rats].

PubMed

Vinogradova, I A; Chernova, I V

2006-01-01

The effect of different light regimens (standard 12 h. light : 12 h. darkness LD; 24-hour constant light LL, light deprivation DD, natural light regimen of the North-West of Russia NL) on the age dynamics of estrous function and on the serum prolactin in female LIO rats has been studied for two years. The rats were maintained at the one of above-mentioned regimes from the age of 25 days. The cytological monitoring of the estrous cycle was conducted every three months. The level of prolactin was studied at the age of 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. It has been found out that the regimen of constant light (LL) and the spring-summer period lead to earlier maturation, premature age-related changes of the rats' estrous cycle and to the increase of the level of serum prolactin in comparison with those in rats kept at the LD regimen. Light deprivation (DD) leads to the opposite changes. It has been noted that the exposure to constant light during the whole year is accompanied by more expressed and earlier developed age-related changes of estrous cycle in comparison with the natural light of the North-West of Russia with its peculiar year photoperiodicity (short day in autumn-winter period and white nights in spring-summer period).

Serum antioxidant status in patients with systemic sclerosis.

PubMed

Hassan, Iffat; Sajad, Peerzada; Majid, Sabiya; Hassan, Tehseen

2013-05-01

Vascular endothelial dysfunction is a central event in pathogenesis of a variety of human diseases. Systemic sclerosis is one of such diseases. The oxidative stress and depletion of antioxidants in the serum is believed to be one of the factors in causing this dysfunction. The aim of this case control study was to compare the levels of antioxidants in the serum of patients with systemic sclerosis and the normal age and sex matched controls. Our study consisted of 16 successively admitted patients with systemic sclerosis and 16 healthy, age and sex matched controls. The age group of patient's ranged between 25 and 55 years. The duration of the disease in patients ranged from 1 to 8 years. The serum of patients and controls were assayed for the levels of antioxidants (GSH, NO, MDA, SOD and GPX) by spectrophotometry. The statistical method of analysis used was the one sample t-test. THE MEDIAN LEVELS OF ANTIOXIDANTS IN THE CONTROL PATIENTS WERE: SOD-4.14 units/ml; GSH-4.76 units/ml; NO-5.58 nmol/l; MDA-0.53 nmol/l and GPX-49 μmol/l. The levels of NO, GSH and SOD were decreased in these patients with a significant P value (<0.001) whereas the levels of GPX and MDA were normal to increased with a significant P value. The depletion of antioxidants and oxidative stress in serum might be responsible for the vascular dysfunction and other hallmark manifestations of systemic sclerosis. Therefore micronutrient antioxidant supplements may be of therapeutic value.

Serum Antioxidant Status in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis

PubMed Central

Hassan, Iffat; Sajad, Peerzada; Majid, Sabiya; Hassan, Tehseen

2013-01-01

Background: Vascular endothelial dysfunction is a central event in pathogenesis of a variety of human diseases. Systemic sclerosis is one of such diseases. The oxidative stress and depletion of antioxidants in the serum is believed to be one of the factors in causing this dysfunction. Aims: The aim of this case control study was to compare the levels of antioxidants in the serum of patients with systemic sclerosis and the normal age and sex matched controls. Materials and Methods: Our study consisted of 16 successively admitted patients with systemic sclerosis and 16 healthy, age and sex matched controls. The age group of patient's ranged between 25 and 55 years. The duration of the disease in patients ranged from 1 to 8 years. The serum of patients and controls were assayed for the levels of antioxidants (GSH, NO, MDA, SOD and GPX) by spectrophotometry. The statistical method of analysis used was the one sample t-test. Results: The median levels of antioxidants in the control patients were: SOD-4.14 units/ml; GSH-4.76 units/ml; NO-5.58 nmol/l; MDA-0.53 nmol/l and GPX-49 μmol/l. The levels of NO, GSH and SOD were decreased in these patients with a significant P value (<0.001) whereas the levels of GPX and MDA were normal to increased with a significant P value. Conclusion: The depletion of antioxidants and oxidative stress in serum might be responsible for the vascular dysfunction and other hallmark manifestations of systemic sclerosis. Therefore micronutrient antioxidant supplements may be of therapeutic value. PMID:23723482

Validation of 2 commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays for adiponectin determination in canine serum samples.

PubMed

Tvarijonaviciute, Asta; Martínez-Subiela, Silvia; Ceron, José J

2010-10-01

The aim of this study was to validate 2 commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for adiponectin in dogs, 1 canine-specific and 1 originally designed for measurements in humans. Intra-assay and interassay precision was evaluated by multiple measurements in canine serum samples, and assay accuracy was indirectly determined by linearity under dilution. Interference caused by hemolysis and lipemia was also studied. Both assays were subsequently used for measuring adiponectin concentrations in clinically healthy dogs and those with different grades of obesity. The intra-assay and inter-assay precision was less than 7.5% and 13.5% in serum samples with low and high adiponectin concentrations, respectively. Lipemia and hemolysis did not affect the results of any of the assays. Both assays were able to differentiate lean dogs from those that were overweight or obese on the basis of the measured adiponectin concentrations. From these results it can be concluded that canine adiponectin concentrations can be measured reliably by means of the 2 ELISAs evaluated in this study.

Validation of 2 commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays for adiponectin determination in canine serum samples

PubMed Central

Tvarijonaviciute, Asta; Martínez-Subiela, Silvia; Ceron, José J.

2010-01-01

The aim of this study was to validate 2 commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for adiponectin in dogs, 1 canine-specific and 1 originally designed for measurements in humans. Intra-assay and interassay precision was evaluated by multiple measurements in canine serum samples, and assay accuracy was indirectly determined by linearity under dilution. Interference caused by hemolysis and lipemia was also studied. Both assays were subsequently used for measuring adiponectin concentrations in clinically healthy dogs and those with different grades of obesity. The intra-assay and inter-assay precision was less than 7.5% and 13.5% in serum samples with low and high adiponectin concentrations, respectively. Lipemia and hemolysis did not affect the results of any of the assays. Both assays were able to differentiate lean dogs from those that were overweight or obese on the basis of the measured adiponectin concentrations. From these results it can be concluded that canine adiponectin concentrations can be measured reliably by means of the 2 ELISAs evaluated in this study. PMID:21197228

Development of combination tapered fiber-optic biosensor dip probe for quantitative estimation of interleukin-6 in serum samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Chun Wei; Manne, Upender; Reddy, Vishnu B.; Oelschlager, Denise K.; Katkoori, Venkat R.; Grizzle, William E.; Kapoor, Rakesh

2010-11-01

A combination tapered fiber-optic biosensor (CTFOB) dip probe for rapid and cost-effective quantification of proteins in serum samples has been developed. This device relies on diode laser excitation and a charged-coupled device spectrometer and functions on a technique of sandwich immunoassay. As a proof of principle, this technique was applied in a quantitative estimation of interleukin IL-6. The probes detected IL-6 at picomolar levels in serum samples obtained from a patient with lupus, an autoimmune disease, and a patient with lymphoma. The estimated concentration of IL-6 in the lupus sample was 5.9 +/- 0.6 pM, and in the lymphoma sample, it was below the detection limit. These concentrations were verified by a procedure involving bead-based xMAP technology. A similar trend in the concentrations was observed. The specificity of the CTFOB dip probes was assessed by analysis with receiver operating characteristics. This analysis suggests that the dip probes can detect 5-pM or higher concentration of IL-6 in these samples with specificities of 100%. The results provide information for guiding further studies in the utilization of these probes to quantify other analytes in body fluids with high specificity and sensitivity.

Prepubertal Serum Concentrations of Organochlorine Pesticides and Age at Sexual Maturity in Russian Boys

PubMed Central

Lam, Thuy; Williams, Paige L.; Lee, Mary M.; Korrick, Susan A.; Birnbaum, Linda S.; Burns, Jane S.; Sergeyev, Oleg; Revich, Boris; Altshul, Larisa M.; Patterson, Donald G.

2015-01-01

Background Few human studies have evaluated the impact of childhood exposure to organochlorine pesticides (OCP) on pubertal development. Objective We evaluated associations of serum OCP concentrations [hexachlorobenzene (HCB), β-hexachlorocyclohexane (βHCH), and p,p-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p´-DDE)] with age at attainment of sexual maturity among boys. Methods From 2003 through 2005, 350 8- to 9-year-old boys from Chapaevsk, Russia, with measured OCPs were enrolled and followed annually for 8 years. We used multivariable interval-censored models to evaluate associations of OCPs (quartiles) with three physician-assessed measures of sexual maturity: Tanner stage 5 for genitalia growth, Tanner stage 5 for pubic hair growth, or testicular volume (TV) ≥ 20 mL in either testis. Results In adjusted models, boys with higher HCB concentrations achieved sexual maturity reflected by TV ≥ 20 mL a mean of 3.1 months (95% CI: –1.7, 7.8), 5.3 months (95% CI: 0.6, 10.1), and 5.0 months (95% CI: 0.2, 9.8) later for quartiles Q2, Q3, and Q4, respectively, compared with Q1 (p trend = 0.04). Tanner stage 5 for genitalia growth was attained a mean of 2.2 months (95% CI: –3.1, 7.5), 5.7 months (95% CI: 0.4, 11.0), and 3.7 months (95% CI: –1.7, 9.1) later for quartiles Q2, Q3, and Q4, respectively, of βHCH compared with Q1 (p trend = 0.09). Tanner stage 5 for pubic hair growth occurred 6–9 months later on average for boys in the highest versus lowest quartile for HCB (p trend < 0.001), βHCH (trend p = 0.01), and p,p´-DDE (p trend = 0.04). No associations were observed between p,p´-DDE and Tanner stage 5 for genitalia growth or TV ≥ 20 mL. Conclusions and relevance Higher prepubertal serum HCB and βHCH concentrations were associated with a later age at attainment of sexual maturity. Only the highest quartile of serum p,p´-DDE was associated with later pubic hair maturation. Citation Lam T, Williams PL, Lee MM, Korrick SA, Birnbaum LS, Burns JS, Sergeyev O

Serum starvation of ARPE-19 changes the cellular distribution of cholesterol and Fibulin3 in patterns reminiscent of age-related macular degeneration.

PubMed

Rajapakse, Dinusha; Peterson, Katherine; Mishra, Sanghamitra; Wistow, Graeme

2017-12-15

Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) has been implicated as key source of cholesterol-rich deposits at Bruch's membrane (BrM) and in drusen in aging human eye. We have shown that serum-deprivation of confluent RPE cells is associated with upregulation of cholesterol synthesis and accumulation of unesterified cholesterol (UC). Here we investigate the cellular processes involved in this response. We compared the distribution and localization of UC and esterified cholesterol (EC); the age-related macular degeneration (AMD) associated EFEMP1/Fibulin3 (Fib3); and levels of acyl-coenzyme A (CoA): cholesterol acyltransferases (ACAT) ACAT1, ACAT2 and Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) in ARPE-19 cells cultured in serum-supplemented and serum-free media. The results were compared with distributions of these lipids and proteins in human donor eyes with AMD. Serum deprivation of ARPE-19 was associated with increased formation of FM dye-positive membrane vesicles, many of which co-labeled for UC. Additionally, UC colocalized with Fib3 in distinct granules. By day 5, serum-deprived cells grown on transwells secreted Fib3 basally into the matrix. While mRNA and protein levels of ACTA1 were constant over several days of serum-deprivation, ACAT2 levels increased significantly after serum-deprivation, suggesting increased formation of EC. The lower levels of intracellular EC observed under serum-deprivation were associated with increased formation and secretion of ApoB. The responses to serum-deprivation in RPE-derived cells: accumulation and secretion of lipids, lipoproteins, and Fib3 are very similar to patterns seen in human donor eyes with AMD and suggest that this model mimics processes relevant to disease progression. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Distribution of serum total homocysteine and its association with diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors of the insulin resistance syndrome in Mexican American men: the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

PubMed

Gillum, Richard

2003-08-05

Few data have been published on the association of variables of the insulin resistance syndrome and serum total homocysteine (tHcy), a putative risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity, in representative samples of total populations or in Hispanic Americans. To describe the distributions of serum tHcy concentration and variables associated with insulin resistance in Mexican American men and to assess their association, data from a cross-sectional survey of a large national sample, the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analyzed. Analyses were restricted to Mexican American men aged 40-74 years with data on glycated hemoglobin (%), body mass index (BMI), body fat distribution, HDL cholesterol, fasting serum insulin, serum triglycerides and serum tHcy concentrations. Cumulative distributions of serum tHcy shifted to the right with increasing age. Log serum tHcy was not associated with prevalence of diagnosed diabetes mellitus or glycated hemoglobin percent or other risk factors other than age. Log serum tHcy concentration showed borderline significant (p = 0.049) positive association with fasting serum insulin concentration independent of age and BMI, only in men aged 60-74. No consistent association of tHcy with diabetes prevalence or variables of the insulin resistance syndrome were found in Mexican American men aged 40-74 years. Further research is needed on the associations of serum tHcy concentration with insulin resistance and other components of the insulin resistance syndrome in persons of varying ethnicity.

Brazilian female crack users show elevated serum aluminum levels.

PubMed

Pechansky, Flavio; Kessler, Felix Henrique Paim; Diemen, Lisia von; Bumaguin, Daniela Benzano; Surratt, Hilary L; Inciardi, James A

2007-03-01

There is no information in the literature on the impact of crack smoking using crushed aluminum cans as makeshift pipes, a common form of crack use in Brazil. Since aluminum intake is associated with neurological damage, we measured serum aluminum levels in crack smokers. The objective of this study was to ascertain the levels of aluminum in crack users who smoke on makeshift aluminum pipes. 71 female crack smokers, their mean age being 28.0 (+/- 7.7), provided information about their drug use, and had blood samples tested for serum aluminum level. 56 (79%) subjects smoked crack from crushed can pipes, while 15 (21%) smoked from other containers. Fifty-two (73.2%) out of the 71 subjects presented a serum aluminum level of 2 microg/l and 13 (18.3%) had a serum aluminum level of 6 microg/l cut-off point, which is above the reference value. When compared to non-drug users matched by their mean age and gender, they had similar median values and interquartile ranges for serum aluminum level [3 (2-4.6) for crack smokers; 2.9 (1.6-4.1) for controls], but with different means and standard deviations (4.7 +/- 4.9 and 2.9 +/- 1.7, respectively). Crack smokers have high serum aluminum level, but we are unsure of its complete association with aluminum cans. Further studies are needed. If such association is proven true in future research, further issues will be raised in dealing with this important disorder, including proper planning and evaluation of public health policies in this area.

Sex, age, pubertal development and use of oral contraceptives in relation to serum concentrations of DHEA, DHEAS, 17α-hydroxyprogesterone, Δ4-androstenedione, testosterone and their ratios in children, adolescents and young adults.

PubMed

Søeborg, Tue; Frederiksen, Hanne; Mouritsen, Annette; Johannsen, Trine Holm; Main, Katharina Maria; Jørgensen, Niels; Petersen, Jørgen Holm; Andersson, Anna-Maria; Juul, Anders

2014-11-01

The influence of sex, age, pubertal development and oral contraceptives on dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA sulfate (DHEAS), 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), Δ4-androstenedione (Adione), testosterone (T), calculated free testosterone (fT), free androgen index (FAI) and selected ratios in 1798 serum samples from healthy children, adolescents and young adults was evaluated. Samples were analyzed by Turboflow-LC-MS/MS. Sex hormone-binding globulin was analyzed by immunoassay. All steroid metabolite concentrations were positively associated with age and pubertal development in both sexes and generally higher in males than in females except for Adione. The pubertal rise in T in males was more pronounced compared to females, reflecting contribution from the testes. Ratios between steroid metabolites varied and depended on sex and age. All ratios were lower during infancy compared to later in life. Use of oral contraceptives significantly lowered serum concentrations of all steroid metabolites, fT, FAI, the 17-OHP/Adione, the Adione/T and the DHEA/Adione ratios, but not the DHEA/DHEAS ratio. We provide reference ranges for DHEA, DHEAS, 17-OHP, Adione, T, fT, FAI and selected ratios in relation to sex, age and pubertal development. Use of oral contraceptives strongly influences adrenal steroidogenesis and should be considered when diagnosing and monitoring treatment of patients with disorders of sex development. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Determination of novel brominated flame retardants and polybrominated diphenyl ethers in serum using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry with two simplified sample preparation procedures.

PubMed

Gao, Le; Li, Jian; Wu, Yandan; Yu, Miaohao; Chen, Tian; Shi, Zhixiong; Zhou, Xianqing; Sun, Zhiwei

2016-11-01

Two simple and efficient pretreatment procedures have been developed for the simultaneous extraction and cleanup of six novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) and eight common polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in human serum. The first sample pretreatment procedure was a quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe (QuEChERS)-based approach. An acetone/hexane mixture was employed to isolate the lipid and analytes from the serum with a combination of MgSO 4 and NaCl, followed by a dispersive solid-phase extraction (d-SPE) step using C18 particles as a sorbent. The second sample pretreatment procedure was based on solid-phase extraction. The sample extraction and cleanup were conducted directly on an Oasis HLB SPE column using 5 % aqueous isopropanol, concentrated sulfuric acid, and 10 % aqueous methanol, followed by elution with dichloromethane. The NBFRs and PBDEs were then detected using gas chromatography-negative chemical ionization mass spectrometry (GC-NCI MS). The methods were assessed for repeatability, accuracy, selectivity, limits of detection (LODs), and linearity. The results of spike recovery experiments in fetal bovine serum showed that average recoveries ranged from 77.9 % to 128.8 % with relative standard deviations (RSDs) from 0.73 % to 12.37 % for most of the analytes. The LODs for the analytes in fetal bovine serum ranged from 0.3 to 50.8 pg/mL except for decabromodiphenyl ethane. The proposed method was successfully applied to the determination of the 14 brominated flame retardants in human serum. The two pretreatment procedures described here are simple, accurate, and precise, and are suitable for the routine analysis of human serum. Graphical Abstract Workflow of a QuEChERS-based approach (top) and an SPE-based approach (bottom) for the detection of PBDEs and NBFRs in serum.

Identification of N(omega)-carboxymethylarginine, a new advanced glycation endproduct in serum proteins of diabetic patients: possibility of a new marker of aging and diabetes.

PubMed

Odani, H; Iijima, K; Nakata, M; Miyata, S; Kusunoki, H; Yasuda, Y; Hiki, Y; Irie, S; Maeda, K; Fujimoto, D

2001-08-03

A new advanced glycation end product (AGE), N(omega)-carboxymethyl-arginine (CMA), was found in acid-soluble skin collagen of a newborn bovine prepared by in vitro glycation with 1 M glucose incubation at 37 degrees C for about 30 days [ 1 ]. CMA production was increased with incubation time in parallel, and after 30 days incubation the yield was 100 times higher than that of pentosidine [ 1 ]. This result suggested the importance of CMA as a major AGE in collagen. We have detected and measured the CMA level in human serum proteins by electrospray ionization/liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (ESI/LC/MS), using CMA standard concentration curve. In this report, we first show the existence of CMA in vivo, and its serum level is significantly elevated in diabetic serum proteins, compared to age-matched control serum proteins. These results provide strong evidence that CMA is a new diagnostic marker of glycation in diabetes. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.

Serum uric acid values in Tanzanian rural communities.

PubMed

Nhonoli, A M; Kihama, F

1974-09-01

Serum uric acid levels have been determined in random samples of 9-10% of a population of 3000 each in three rural areas of Tanzania. The levels in females are lower than in males. As far as age is concerned the levels in both sexes rise with age but the rate is slower in females resulting in a widening difference with increasing age. Above uric acid levels of 6 mg% the frequency occurrence of 'hyperuricaemia' is equal. The normal distribution of levels was 2.5-5.5 mg% in males and 2.0-4.5 mg% in females. Compared with results among different racial groups elsewhere these levels are lower.

Serum and saliva cortisol relations in adolescents during pregnancy and the early postpartum period.

PubMed

Dorn, L D; Susman, E J

1993-08-15

The purpose of this investigation was to examine: (1) relations between serum and saliva cortisol in adolescents in pregnancy and early postpartum and (2) short-term consistency of serum and saliva cortisol across three samples, 20 minutes apart, as well as the long-term consistency from pregnancy to early postpartum. Pregnant adolescents (n = 40), ages 14 to 19 years, were enrolled in this study. Subjects were seen at 20 weeks gestation or earlier (T1), 34-36 weeks gestation (T2), and 2-3 weeks postpartum (T3). Blood samples were drawn at T1 and T3, at 0, 20, and 40 minutes. Saliva samples were collected across the same 40-minute period at T1, T2, and T3. Spearman rho (rs) correlation coefficients between serum and saliva ranged from 0.72 to 0.77 (T1), and 0.42 to 0.60 (T3) (p < or = 0.05). Short-term consistency between serum cortisol samples was 0.86-0.97 at T1 and 0.60-0.82 at T3. Short-term consistency for saliva cortisol samples was 0.70-0.96 at T1, 0.91-0.95 at T2, and 0.64-0.89 at T3. Long-term consistency (T1 to T3) for serum and saliva cortisol was low. Individual differences as well as dramatic changes in the endocrine environment in pregnancy and the early postpartum period may explain the more moderate serum-saliva correlations in the postpartum period.

Antigen-Bound and Free β-Amyloid Autoantibodies in Serum of Healthy Adults

PubMed Central

Leirer, Vera Maria; von Arnim, Christine A. F.; Elbert, Thomas; Przybylski, Michael; Kolassa, Iris-Tatjana; Manea, Marilena

2012-01-01

Physiological β-amyloid autoantibodies (Aβ-autoantibodies) are currently investigated as potential diagnostic and therapeutic tools for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In previous studies, their determination in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) using indirect ELISA has provided controversial results, which may be due to the presence of preformed Aβ antigen-antibody immune complexes. Based on the epitope specificity of the Aβ-autoantibodies, recently elucidated in our laboratory, we developed (a) a sandwich ELISA for the determination of circulating Aβ-IgG immune complexes and (b) an indirect ELISA for the determination of free Aβ-autoantibodies. This methodology was applied to the analysis of serum samples from healthy individuals within the age range of 18 to 89 years. Neuropsychological examination of the participants in this study indicated non-pathological, age-related cognitive decline, revealed especially by tests of visual memory and executive function, as well as speed-related tasks. The ELISA serum determinations showed significantly higher levels of Aβ-IgG immune complexes compared to free Aβ-autoantibodies, while no correlation with age or cognitive performance of the participants was found. PMID:22973459

Serum 25-hyroxyvitamin D levels and tic severity in Chinese children with tic disorders.

PubMed

Li, Hong-Hua; Shan, Ling; Wang, Bing; Du, Lin; Xu, Zhi-Da; Jia, Fei-Yong

2018-05-31

The aim of this study is to evaluate serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D[25(OH)D] levels in children with tic disorders and to explore the relationship between serum 25(OH)D level and tic severity. Children (n = 179, 31 females, 148 males, mean age at diagnosis: 8.0 ± 2.7 years old, age ranged from 3 to 14.5 years old) who were diagnosed with a tic disorder were enrolled as case group, 189 healthy children were recruited as control group. Serum level of 25(OH)D of each child was measured by high performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) was used to assess tic severity. Mean serum level of 25(OH)D in the case group was significantly lower than that of the control group. The serum 25(OH)D level was significantly associated with tic severity after adjusting for age and body mass index (BMI). This study identified a high prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency in children with tic disorders, and there was a negative correlation between the serum 25(OH)D level and tic severity. In the future, large sample size studies are urgently needed to further clarify this correlation. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Stir-bar supported micro-solid-phase extraction for the determination of polychlorinated biphenyl congeners in serum samples.

PubMed

Sajid, Muhammad; Basheer, Chanbasha

2016-07-15

In present work, a new configuration of micro-solid phase extraction was introduced and termed as stir-bar supported micro-solid-phase extraction (SB-μ-SPE). A tiny stir-bar was packed inside the porous polypropylene membrane along with sorbent material and the edges of membrane sheet were heat sealed to secure the contents. The packing of stir-bar inside the μ-SPE device does not allow the device to stick with the wall or any corner of the sample vial during extraction, which is, however, a frequent observation in routine μ-SPE. Moreover, it enhances effective surface area of the sorbent exposed to sample solution through continuous agitation (motion and rotation). It also completely immerses the SB-μ-SPE device in the sample solution even for non-polar sorbents. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were selected as model compounds and the method performance was evaluated in human serum samples. After extraction, samples were analyzed by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The factors that affect extraction efficiency of SB-μ-SPE were optimized. Under optimum conditions, a good linearity (0.1-100ngmL(-1)) with coefficients of determinations ranging from 0.9868 to 0.9992 was obtained. Limits of detections were ranged between 0.003 and 0.047ngmL(-1). Acceptable values for inter-day (3.2-9.1%) and intra-day (3.1-7.2%) relative standard deviations were obtained. The optimized method was successfully applied to determine the concentration of PCB congeners in human serum samples. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Measurements of C-reactive protein (CRP) and nerve-growth-factor (NGF) concentrations in serum and urine samples of dogs with neurologic disorders.

PubMed

Kordass, Ulrike; Carlson, Regina; Stein, Veronika Maria; Tipold, Andrea

2016-01-08

The purpose of this study was to prove the hypothesis that C-reactive protein (CRP) and nerve growth factor (NGF) may be potential biomarkers for lower urinary tract disorders and may be able to distinguish between micturition dysfunctions of different origin in dogs with spinal cord diseases. NGF- and CRP- concentrations were measured in serum and urine samples using specific ELISA-Kits. Results in urine were standardized by urine-creatinine levels. CRP in serum was detectable in 32/76 and in urine samples in 40/76 patients. NGF could be measured in all serum and in 70/76 urine samples. Urinary CRP concentrations were significantly higher in dogs with micturition dysfunction (p = 0.0009) and in dogs with different neurological diseases (p = 0.0020) compared to the control group. However, comparing dogs with spinal cord disorders with and without associated micturition dysfunction no significant difference could be detected for NGF and CRP values in urine or serum samples. Additionally, levels did not decrease significantly, when measured at the time when the dogs regained the ability to urinate properly (urinary NGF p = 0.7962; urinary CRP p = 0.078). Urine samples with bacteria and/or leukocytes had no significant increase in urinary NGF (p = 0.1112) or CRP (p = 0.0534) concentrations, but higher CRP-levels in urine from dogs with cystitis were found compared to dogs without signs of cystitis. From these data we conclude that neither CRP nor NGF in urine or serum can be considered as reliable biomarkers for micturition disorders in dogs with spinal cord disorders in a clinical setting, but their production might be part of the pathogenesis of such disorders. Significantly higher levels of CRP could be found in the urine of dogs with micturition dysfunctions compared to control dogs. This phenomenon could potentially be explained by unspecific extrahepatic CRP production by smooth muscle cells in the dilated bladder.

The reduced serum free triiodothyronine and increased dorsal hippocampal SNAP-25 and Munc18-1 had existed in middle-aged CD-1 mice with mild spatial cognitive impairment.

PubMed

Cao, Lei; Jiang, Wei; Wang, Fang; Yang, Qi-Gang; Wang, Chao; Chen, Yong-Ping; Chen, Gui-Hai

2013-12-02

Changes of synaptic proteins in highlighted brain regions and decreased serum thyroid hormones (THs) have been implied in age-related learning and memory decline. Previously, we showed significant pairwise correlations among markedly impaired spatial learning and memory ability, decreased serum free triiodothyronine (FT3) and increased hippocampal SNAP-25 and Munc18-1 in old Kunming mice. However, whether these changes and the correlations occur in middle-age mice remains unclear. Since this age is one of the best stages to study age-related cognitive decline, we explored the spatial learning and memory ability, serum THs, cerebral SNAP-25 and Munc18-1 levels and their relationships of middle-aged mice in this study. The learning and memory abilities of 35 CD-1 mice (19 mice aged 6 months and 16 mice aged 12 months) were measured with a radial six-arm water maze (RAWM). The SNAP-25 and Munc18-1 levels were semi-quantified by Western blotting and the serum THs were detected by radioimmunoassay. The results showed the middle-aged mice had decreased serum FT3, increased dorsal hippocampal (DH) SNAP-25 and Munc18-1, and many or long number of errors and latency in both learning and memory phases of the RAWM. The Pearson's correlation test showed that the DH SANP-25 and Munc18-1 levels were positively correlated with the number of errors and latency in learning phases of the RAWM. Meanwhile, the DH SANP-25 and Munc18-1 levels negatively correlated with the serum FT3 level. These results suggested that reduced FT3 with increased DH SNAP-25 and Munc18-1 levels might be involved in the spatial learning ability decline in the middle-aged mice. © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Modified locally weighted--partial least squares regression improving clinical predictions from infrared spectra of human serum samples.

PubMed

Perez-Guaita, David; Kuligowski, Julia; Quintás, Guillermo; Garrigues, Salvador; Guardia, Miguel de la

2013-03-30

Locally weighted partial least squares regression (LW-PLSR) has been applied to the determination of four clinical parameters in human serum samples (total protein, triglyceride, glucose and urea contents) by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Classical LW-PLSR models were constructed using different spectral regions. For the selection of parameters by LW-PLSR modeling, a multi-parametric study was carried out employing the minimum root-mean square error of cross validation (RMSCV) as objective function. In order to overcome the effect of strong matrix interferences on the predictive accuracy of LW-PLSR models, this work focuses on sample selection. Accordingly, a novel strategy for the development of local models is proposed. It was based on the use of: (i) principal component analysis (PCA) performed on an analyte specific spectral region for identifying most similar sample spectra and (ii) partial least squares regression (PLSR) constructed using the whole spectrum. Results found by using this strategy were compared to those provided by PLSR using the same spectral intervals as for LW-PLSR. Prediction errors found by both, classical and modified LW-PLSR improved those obtained by PLSR. Hence, both proposed approaches were useful for the determination of analytes present in a complex matrix as in the case of human serum samples. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Microcontroller-based system for estimate of calcium in serum samples.

PubMed

Neelamegam, Periyaswmy; Jamaludeen, Abdul Sheriff; Ragendran, Annamalai; Murugrananthan, Krishanamoorthy

2010-01-01

In this study, a microcontroller-based control unit was designed and constructed for the estimation of serum calcium in blood samples. The proposed optoelectronic instrument used a red light emitting diode (LED) as a light source and photodiode as a sensor. The performance of the system was compared with that of a commercial instrument in measuring calcium ion. The quantitative analysis of calcium in a catalyst using arsenazo III as colorimetric reagent was used to test the device. The calibration curve for calcium binding with arsenazo III was drawn to check the range of linearity, which was between 0.1 to 4.5 mM L⁻¹. The limit of detection (LOD) is 0.05 mM L⁻¹. Absorbance changes over the pH range of 2-12 were determined to optimize the assay, with maximum absorption at pH 9.0. Interferences in absorbance from monovalent (K+ and Na+) and divalent (Mg²+) cations were also studied. The results show that the system works successfully.

Influence of population versus convenience sampling on sample characteristics in studies of cognitive aging.

PubMed

Brodaty, Henry; Mothakunnel, Annu; de Vel-Palumbo, Melissa; Ames, David; Ellis, Kathryn A; Reppermund, Simone; Kochan, Nicole A; Savage, Greg; Trollor, Julian N; Crawford, John; Sachdev, Perminder S

2014-01-01

We examined whether differences in findings of studies examining mild cognitive impairment (MCI) were associated with recruitment methods by comparing sample characteristics in two contemporaneous Australian studies, using population-based and convenience sampling. The Sydney Memory and Aging Study invited participants randomly from the electoral roll in defined geographic areas in Sydney. The Australian Imaging, Biomarkers and Lifestyle Study of Ageing recruited cognitively normal (CN) individuals via media appeals and MCI participants via referrals from clinicians in Melbourne and Perth. Demographic and cognitive variables were harmonized, and similar diagnostic criteria were applied to both samples retrospectively. CN participants recruited via convenience sampling were younger, better educated, more likely to be married and have a family history of dementia, and performed better cognitively than those recruited via population-based sampling. MCI participants recruited via population-based sampling had better memory performance and were less likely to carry the apolipoprotein E ε4 allele than clinically referred participants but did not differ on other demographic variables. A convenience sample of normal controls is likely to be younger and better functioning and that of an MCI group likely to perform worse than a purportedly random sample. Sampling bias should be considered when interpreting findings. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Milk and serum standard reference materials for monitoring organic contaminants in human samples.

PubMed

Schantz, Michele M; Eppe, Gauthier; Focant, Jean-François; Hamilton, Coreen; Heckert, N Alan; Heltsley, Rebecca M; Hoover, Dale; Keller, Jennifer M; Leigh, Stefan D; Patterson, Donald G; Pintar, Adam L; Sharpless, Katherine E; Sjödin, Andreas; Turner, Wayman E; Vander Pol, Stacy S; Wise, Stephen A

2013-02-01

Four new Standard Reference Materials (SRMs) have been developed to assist in the quality assurance of chemical contaminant measurements required for human biomonitoring studies, SRM 1953 Organic Contaminants in Non-Fortified Human Milk, SRM 1954 Organic Contaminants in Fortified Human Milk, SRM 1957 Organic Contaminants in Non-Fortified Human Serum, and SRM 1958 Organic Contaminants in Fortified Human Serum. These materials were developed as part of a collaboration between the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) with both agencies contributing data used in the certification of mass fraction values for a wide range of organic contaminants including polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners, chlorinated pesticides, polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) congeners, and polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin (PCDD) and dibenzofuran (PCDF) congeners. The certified mass fractions of the organic contaminants in unfortified samples, SRM 1953 and SRM 1957, ranged from 12 ng/kg to 2200 ng/kg with the exception of 4,4'-DDE in SRM 1953 at 7400 ng/kg with expanded uncertainties generally <14 %. This agreement suggests that there were no significant biases existing among the multiple methods used for analysis.

Milk and serum standard reference materials for monitoring organic contaminants in human samples

PubMed Central

Eppe, Gauthier; Focant, Jean-François; Hamilton, Coreen; Heckert, N. Alan; Heltsley, Rebecca M.; Hoover, Dale; Keller, Jennifer M.; Leigh, Stefan D.; Patterson, Donald G.; Pintar, Adam L.; Sharpless, Katherine E.; Sjödin, Andreas; Turner, Wayman E.; Vander Pol, Stacy S.; Wise, Stephen A.

2016-01-01

Four new Standard Reference Materials (SRMs) have been developed to assist in the quality assurance of chemical contaminant measurements required for human biomonitoring studies, SRM 1953 Organic Contaminants in Non-Fortified Human Milk, SRM 1954 Organic Contaminants in Fortified Human Milk, SRM 1957 Organic Contaminants in Non-Fortified Human Serum, and SRM 1958 Organic Contaminants in Fortified Human Serum. These materials were developed as part of a collaboration between the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) with both agencies contributing data used in the certification of mass fraction values for a wide range of organic contaminants including polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners, chlorinated pesticides, polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) congeners, and polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin (PCDD) and dibenzofuran (PCDF) congeners. The certified mass fractions of the organic contaminants in unfortified samples, SRM 1953 and SRM 1957, ranged from 12 ng/kg to 2200 ng/kg with the exception of 4,4′-DDE in SRM 1953 at 7400 ng/kg with expanded uncertainties generally <14 %. This agreement suggests that there were no significant biases existing among the multiple methods used for analysis. PMID:23132544

Accuracy and sampling error of two age estimation techniques using rib histomorphometry on a modern sample.

PubMed

García-Donas, Julieta G; Dyke, Jeffrey; Paine, Robert R; Nathena, Despoina; Kranioti, Elena F

2016-02-01

Most age estimation methods are proven problematic when applied in highly fragmented skeletal remains. Rib histomorphometry is advantageous in such cases; yet it is vital to test and revise existing techniques particularly when used in legal settings (Crowder and Rosella, 2007). This study tested Stout & Paine (1992) and Stout et al. (1994) histological age estimation methods on a Modern Greek sample using different sampling sites. Six left 4th ribs of known age and sex were selected from a modern skeletal collection. Each rib was cut into three equal segments. Two thin sections were acquired from each segment. A total of 36 thin sections were prepared and analysed. Four variables (cortical area, intact and fragmented osteon density and osteon population density) were calculated for each section and age was estimated according to Stout & Paine (1992) and Stout et al. (1994). The results showed that both methods produced a systemic underestimation of the individuals (to a maximum of 43 years) although a general improvement in accuracy levels was observed when applying the Stout et al. (1994) formula. There is an increase of error rates with increasing age with the oldest individual showing extreme differences between real age and estimated age. Comparison of the different sampling sites showed small differences between the estimated ages suggesting that any fragment of the rib could be used without introducing significant error. Yet, a larger sample should be used to confirm these results. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd and Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine. All rights reserved.

Lower serum testosterone associated with elevated polychlorinated biphenyl concentrations in Native American men.

PubMed

Goncharov, Alexey; Rej, Robert; Negoita, Serban; Schymura, Maria; Santiago-Rivera, Azara; Morse, Gayle; Carpenter, David O

2009-09-01

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and chlorinated pesticides are endocrine disruptors, altering both thyroid and estrogen hormonal systems. Less is known of action on androgenic systems. We studied the relationship between serum concentrations of testosterone in relation to levels of PCBs and three chlorinated pesticides in an adult Native American (Mohawk) population. We collected fasting serum samples from 703 adult Mohawks (257 men and 436 women) and analyzed samples for 101 PCB congeners, hexachlorobenzene (HCB), dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), and mirex, as well as testosterone, cholesterol, and triglycerides. The associations between testosterone and tertiles of serum organochlorine levels (both wet weight and lipid adjusted) were assessed using a logistic regression model while controlling for age, body mass index (BMI), and other analytes, with the lowest tertile being considered the referent. Males and females were considered separately. Testosterone concentrations in males were inversely correlated with total PCB concentration, whether using wet-weight or lipid-adjusted values. The odds ratio (OR) of having a testosterone concentration above the median was 0.17 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.05-0.69] for total wet-weight PCBs (highest vs. lowest tertile) after adjustment for age, BMI, total serum lipids, and three pesticides. The OR for lipid-adjusted total PCB concentration was 0.23 (95% CI, 0.06-0.78) after adjustment for other analytes. Testosterone levels were significantly and inversely related to concentrations of PCBs 74, 99, 153, and 206, but not PCBs 52, 105, 118, 138, 170, 180, 201, or 203. Testosterone concentrations in females are much lower than in males, and not significantly related to serum PCBs. HCB, DDE, and mirex were not associated with testosterone concentration in either men or women. Elevation in serum PCB levels is associated with a lower concentration of serum testosterone in Native American men.

Lower Serum Testosterone Associated with Elevated Polychlorinated Biphenyl Concentrations in Native American Men

PubMed Central

Goncharov, Alexey; Rej, Robert; Negoita, Serban; Schymura, Maria; Santiago-Rivera, Azara; Morse, Gayle; Carpenter, David O.

2009-01-01

Background Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and chlorinated pesticides are endocrine disruptors, altering both thyroid and estrogen hormonal systems. Less is known of action on androgenic systems. Objective We studied the relationship between serum concentrations of testosterone in relation to levels of PCBs and three chlorinated pesticides in an adult Native American (Mohawk) population. Methods We collected fasting serum samples from 703 adult Mohawks (257 men and 436 women) and analyzed samples for 101 PCB congeners, hexachlorobenzene (HCB), dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), and mirex, as well as testosterone, cholesterol, and triglycerides. The associations between testosterone and tertiles of serum organochlorine levels (both wet weight and lipid adjusted) were assessed using a logistic regression model while controlling for age, body mass index (BMI), and other analytes, with the lowest tertile being considered the referent. Males and females were considered separately. Results Testosterone concentrations in males were inversely correlated with total PCB concentration, whether using wet-weight or lipid-adjusted values. The odds ratio (OR) of having a testosterone concentration above the median was 0.17 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.05–0.69] for total wet-weight PCBs (highest vs. lowest tertile) after adjustment for age, BMI, total serum lipids, and three pesticides. The OR for lipid-adjusted total PCB concentration was 0.23 (95% CI, 0.06–0.78) after adjustment for other analytes. Testosterone levels were significantly and inversely related to concentrations of PCBs 74, 99, 153, and 206, but not PCBs 52, 105, 118, 138, 170, 180, 201, or 203. Testosterone concentrations in females are much lower than in males, and not significantly related to serum PCBs. HCB, DDE, and mirex were not associated with testosterone concentration in either men or women. Conclusions Elevation in serum PCB levels is associated with a lower concentration of serum

Age modifies the association between serum obestatin, appetite and nutritional status in maintenance hemodialysis patients.

PubMed

Katkov, Anna; Sinuani, Inna; Azar, Ada; Shapiro, Gregory; Efrati, Shai; Beberashvili, Ilia

2018-01-23

Increased age is strongly associated with anorexia and protein-energy wasting (PEW) in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) population. We hypothesized that the association of obestatin, a recently discovered anorexigenic gut hormone, with appetite and nutritional status differs by age groups. We performed a cross-sectional study on 261MHD patients. Obestatin, acyl-ghrelin, markers of inflammation (CRP, IL-6, TNF-α) and nutrition (self-reported appetite, dietary intake, biochemical nutritional parameters, and body composition) were measured. Obestatin was associated with appetite in multivariate analyses even after controlling for such confounders as lean body mass (LBM), IL-6 and acyl-ghrelin in patients younger than 71 years. For each ng/ml increase in obestatin levels, the odds for diminished appetite was 0.75 (95% CI: 0.59-0.96). However, these associations were not observed in patients 71 years and older. Multivariable logistic regression models (including appetite) also showed increasing odds for PEW (defined by ESPEN consensus-based criteria for the diagnosis of malnutrition) across increasing serum obestatin levels (OR: 1.51, 95% CI: 1.05-2.18) in patients 71 years and older. However, after lean body mass (LBM) was added to this model, the association between obestatin and malnutrition was abolished (OR: 1.26, 95% CI: 0.83-1.91). The association between serum obestatin, appetite and PEW differs depending on age in MHD patients. A positive link with appetite exists in patients younger than 71 years, whereas this relationship disappears by the age of 71. In older MHD patients, obestatin is associated with PEW through mechanisms related to LBM, but not to appetite.

[A survey of correlation between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and dyslipidemia rlsk among middle-aged individuals in Beijing].

PubMed

Zhang, L L; Lu, Y H; Cheng, X L; Liu, M Y; Sun, B R; Li, C L

2016-08-01

To evaluate vitamin D status in middle-aged subjects in Beijing and explore the correlation between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D[25(OH)D] levels and dyslipidemia. A total of 448 individuals over 40 years old were enrolled in the cross-sectional survey. The general information, blood biochemical and lipid profiles and serum 25(OH)D levels were collected. The subjects were either divided into two groups (the dyslipidemia group and the non-dyslipidemia group) based on the lipid levels, or four groups according to quartiles of 25(OH)D levels. The association between 25(OH)D levels and dyslipidemia risk was analyzed by a logistic regression analysis. A total of 234 cases were in dyslipidemia group, which accounted for 52.23% of the subjects. The serum 25(OH)D levels were significantly lower in the dyslipidemia group than in the non-dyslipidemia group both in men and in women (all P<0.05). The median serum 25(OH)D level in the total subjects was 15.7 (12.2, 20.1)μg/L with 91.1% subjects of serum 25(OH)D level<30 μg/L. The proportion of subjects with dyslipidemia (high TC, high TG, high LDL-C, or low HDL-C) increased with the decrease of 25(OH)D level quartiles (P<0.05). After adjustment of confounding factors, the logistic regression analysis showed that subjects in the lowest 25(OH) D quartile group had 143% higher risks for dyslipidemia than those in the highest quartile group. These findings indicate that 25(OH)D insufficiency is highly prevalent among middle-aged individuals and it may be associated with the risk of dyslipidemia.

Sensitivity and Specificity of an Operon Immunochromatographic Test in Serum and Whole-Blood Samples for the Diagnosis of Trypanosoma cruzi Infection in Spain, an Area of Nonendemicity

PubMed Central

Flores-Chavez, María; Cruz, Israel; Nieto, Javier; Gárate, Teresa; Navarro, Miriam; Pérez-Ayala, Ana; López-Vélez, Rogelio

2012-01-01

Trypanosoma cruzi infection is an imported parasitic disease in Spain, and the majority of infected individuals are in the chronic phase of the disease. This study evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of the Operon immunochromatographic test (ICT-Operon; Simple Stick Chagas and Simple Chagas WB [whole blood]; Operon S.A., Spain) for different biological samples. Well-characterized serum samples were obtained from chagasic patients (n = 63), nonchagasic individuals (n = 95), visceral leishmaniasis patients (n = 38), and malaria patients (n = 55). Noncharacterized specimens were obtained from Latin American immigrants and individuals at risk with a clinical and/or epidemiological background: these specimens were recovered serum or plasma samples (n = 450), whole peripheral blood (n = 94), and capillary blood (n = 282). The concordance of the results by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and indirect immunofluorescence test was considered to be the “gold standard” for diagnosis. Serum and plasma samples were analyzed by Stick Chagas, and whole blood was analyzed by Simple Chagas WB. The sensitivity and specificity of the ICT-Operon in well-characterized samples were 100% and 97.9%, respectively. No cross-reactivity was found with samples obtained from visceral leishmaniasis patients. In contrast, a false-positive result was obtained in 27.3% of samples from malaria patients. The sensitivities of the rapid test in noncharacterized serum or plasma, peripheral blood, and capillary blood samples were 100%, 92.1%, and 86.4%, respectively, while the specificities were 91.6%, 93.6%, and 95% in each case. ICT-Operon showed variable sensitivity, depending on the kind of sample, performing better when serum or plasma samples were used. It could therefore be used for serological screening combined with any other conventional test. PMID:22761296

Serum proteomics reveals systemic dysregulation of innate immunity in type 1 diabetes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang, Qibin; Fillmore, Thomas L.; Schepmoes, Athena A.

Using global liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based proteomics analyses, we identified 24 serum proteins significantly variant between those with type 1 diabetes and healthy controls. Functionally, these proteins represent innate immune responses, the activation cascade of complement, inflammatory responses and blood coagulation. Targeted verification analyses were performed on 52 surrogate peptides representing these proteins with serum samples from an antibody standardization program cohort of 100 healthy control and 50 type 1 diabetic subjects, and 16 peptides were verified having very good discriminating power, with areas under the receiver operator characteristic curve ≥ 0.8. Further validation with blinded serum samples from anmore » independent cohort (10 healthy control and 10 type 1 diabetic) demonstrated that peptides from platelet basic protein and C1 inhibitor achieved both 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity for classification of samples. The disease specificity of these proteins was assessed using serum from 50 age matched type 2 diabetic individuals, and a subset of proteins, particularly C1 inhibitor were exceptionally good discriminators between these two forms of diabetes. The panel of biomarkers distinguishing those with type 1 diabetes from healthy control and type 2 diabetes suggests dysregulated innate immune responses may be associated with the development of this disorder.« less

Obese women less likely to have low serum ferritin, Nicaragua

PubMed Central

Wendt, Amanda S; Jefferds, Maria E; Perrine, Cria G; Halleslevens, Patricia; Sullivan, Kevin M

2015-01-01

Objective To examine the association between overweight and obesity and serum ferritin among women of reproductive age (15–49 years) in Nicaragua, considering the effect of α1-acid glycoprotein (AGP), a marker of inflammation. Design We analysed data from the 2004–05 Nicaraguan Integrated Surveillance System for Nutrition Interventions. Three logistic regression models were analysed with low serum ferritin (<15 μg/l) as the dependent variable: (i) overweight or obese status and covariates; (ii) model 1 plus AGP; and (iii) model 1 restricted to only women with normal AGP levels (≤1·0 g/l). Setting Nicaragua. Subjects Included in this analysis were 832 non-pregnant mother/caregivers (15–49 years) surveyed in 2004–2005. Results In the sample, prevalence of overweight and obesity was 31·8 % and 19·2 %, respectively, and 27·6 % had low serum ferritin. In model 1, the adjusted OR of low serum ferritin was 0·74 (95 % CI 0·52, 1·05) for overweight women and 0·42 (95 % CI 0·26, 0·65) for obese women. In model 2, AGP was significantly independently associated with low serum ferritin (adjusted OR=0·56, 95 % CI 0·34, 0·92) while the adjusted OR for overweight and obesity were largely unchanged. Excluding women with elevated AGP did not appreciably affect the relationship between overweight or obesity and low serum ferritin (model 3). Conclusions Overall, in this population of reproductive-age women, obese women were less likely to have low serum ferritin levels, and this was independent of inflammation as measured by AGP. PMID:24848519

Association between serum zinc and later development of metabolic syndrome in middle aged and older men: The Kuopio Ischaemic Heart Disease Risk Factor Study.

PubMed

Yary, Teymoor; Virtanen, Jyrki K; Ruusunen, Anu; Tuomainen, Tomi-Pekka; Voutilainen, Sari

2017-05-01

The aim of this study was to investigate associations of serum zinc with incident metabolic syndrome and its components in middle-aged and older Finnish men. An 11-y prospective follow-up study conducted among 683 men from the Kuopio Ischaemic Heart Disease Risk Factor Study who were 42 to 60 y old at baseline in 1984 to 1989. The main outcome was incident metabolic syndrome, defined by the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) criteria. Other outcomes were the individual components of the NCEP metabolic syndrome: Fasting blood glucose, serum triacylglycerols, serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, hypertension, and waist circumference. During the average follow-up of 11 y, 139 men (20.4%) developed metabolic syndrome. Those in the highest tertile of serum zinc had 84% higher risk (95% confidence interval 12 to 201%, P trend across tertiles = 0.015) to develop metabolic syndrome compared with those in the lowest tertile, after adjustment for several potential confounders. The association between serum zinc and incident metabolic syndrome was attenuated by adjustment for waist circumference, serum HDL cholesterol, or hypertension. Serum zinc was also directly associated with higher waist circumference and hypertension and inversely associated with HDL cholesterol at the 11 y examinations. We found a direct association between serum zinc and incidence of metabolic syndrome in middle-aged and older eastern Finnish men. Further studies are warranted to explore the mechanisms. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Serum Vitamin A Levels in Patients with Chalazion.

PubMed

Malekahmadi, Mohammad; Farrahi, Fereydoun; Tajdini, Afshin

2017-01-01

Chalazion is a chronic, localized lipogranulomatous inflammation of the sebaceous glands of the lids. Chalazion occurs often secondary to blockage of the sebaceous gland ducts. Some studies have reported vitamin A deficiency as a risk factor for chalazion. In this study, we determined the serum levels of vitamin A in patients with chalazion. The study involved a total of 107 subjects (52 patients with chalazion and 55 control healthy subjects). The study was conducted at the Ophthalmology Clinics of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Ahwaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahwaz, Iran between September 2014 and February 2015. The subjects were divided into three groups according to age: 7-12 years old, 13-19 years old, and more than 19 years old. Patients were further divided into four subgroups based on the type of chalazion: single, multiple, primary, and recurrent. Blood samples were collected and the serum was tested for levels of vitamin A using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The average serum vitamin A levels in patients with chalazion in the age groups of 7-12 and 13-19 years were significantly lower than in their control counterparts. Serum vitamin A levels in patients with recurrent, multiple chalazia were significantly lower than in patients with primary, multiple chalazia (P = 0.026) and patients with a recurrent, single chalazion (P = 0.029). In conclusion, chalazion could be one of the ocular presentations of vitamin A deficiency.

Serum Vitamin A Levels in Patients with Chalazion

PubMed Central

MALEKAHMADI, Mohammad; FARRAHI, Fereydoun; TAJDINI, Afshin

2017-01-01

Chalazion is a chronic, localized lipogranulomatous inflammation of the sebaceous glands of the lids. Chalazion occurs often secondary to blockage of the sebaceous gland ducts. Some studies have reported vitamin A deficiency as a risk factor for chalazion. In this study, we determined the serum levels of vitamin A in patients with chalazion. The study involved a total of 107 subjects (52 patients with chalazion and 55 control healthy subjects). The study was conducted at the Ophthalmology Clinics of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Ahwaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahwaz, Iran between September 2014 and February 2015. The subjects were divided into three groups according to age: 7–12 years old, 13–19 years old, and more than 19 years old. Patients were further divided into four subgroups based on the type of chalazion: single, multiple, primary, and recurrent. Blood samples were collected and the serum was tested for levels of vitamin A using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The average serum vitamin A levels in patients with chalazion in the age groups of 7–12 and 13–19 years were significantly lower than in their control counterparts. Serum vitamin A levels in patients with recurrent, multiple chalazia were significantly lower than in patients with primary, multiple chalazia (P = 0.026) and patients with a recurrent, single chalazion (P = 0.029). In conclusion, chalazion could be one of the ocular presentations of vitamin A deficiency. PMID:29392144

Evaluation of Serum, Urine, and Hair Chromium Levels as Indices of Chromium Exposure and the Relationship of these Indices to Serum Lipid and Insulin Levels.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Randall, Janis Avril

Concentrations of chromium (Cr) in hair, serum, and urine, and serum concentrations of insulin and lipids of a selected group of men exposed to trivalent Cr (Cr III) were compared with those of men not exposed to Cr. Seventy -three tannery workers (TW) (mean age 37 +/- 12 years) from four Southern Ontario tanneries and fifty-two control subjects (CS) (mean age 41 +/- 13 years), matched for age, race, and socioeconomic status, from the Guelph and Toronto areas participated. The median hair and serum Cr concentrations for the TW were significantly higher (p < 0.01) than for the CS (hair Cr 453 vs 124 ng/g; serum Cr 0.49 vs 0.15 ng/ml). Median urinary Cr/creatinine ratios (Cr/Cre) for the TW on Monday morning (0.83 ng/mg) and Friday afternoon (0.68 ng/mg) were also significantly higher (p < 0.01, p < 0.01, respectively) than the median urinary Cr/Cre ratio for the urine samples collected on a Friday afternoon from the CS (0.18 ng/mg). For the TW, the median Friday urinary Cr/Cre ratio was significantly higher (p = 0.03) than the corresponding Monday Cr/Cre ratio. For the TW, urinary Cr/Cre ratios (Monday and Friday) were correlated significantly and positively with both Cr concentrations in serum (r = 0.45, p < 0.01; r = 0.71, p < 0.01, respectively) and in hair (r = 0.43, p < 0.01; r = 0.64, p < 0.01, respectively). Concentrations of Cr in hair and in serum were also significantly correlated (r = 0.52, p < 0.01). There were no significant differences between the TW and CS in serum concentrations of total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), or triglycerides, or in calculated values for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, %HDL-C, and TC/HDL-C. Likewise, no significant differences in serum insulin concentrations were noted between the two groups. Results of this study indicate that Cr III, from compounds used in the leather tanning industry, is absorbed and retained. Absorption of Cr III had no significant effect on serum insulin

Serum pentosidine as an indicator of Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Meli, M; Perier, C; Ferron, C; Parssegny, F; Denis, C; Gonthier, R; Laurent, B; Reynaud, E; Frey, J; Chamson, A

2002-04-01

Pentosidine, an advanced glycation end product (AGE), was assayed by HPLC in serum proteins from patients with Alzheimer type dementia (AD), patients with diabetes mellitus (D), and healthy (C) age-matched old subjects (mean age from each group = 84 years). Serum pentosidine was significantly different between the three groups despite similar renal function (serum creatinine < 160 micromol/L). In all groups of patients, pentosidine was independent of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) and the early glycation marker fructosamine and appeared to be an independent marker, mainly bound to serum albumin. Pentosidine could be an important factor useful for the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.

Association between serum soluble CD30 and serum creatinine before and after renal transplantation.

PubMed

López-Hoyos, M; San Segundo, D; Benito, M J; Fernández-Fresnedo, G; Ruiz, J C; Rodrigo, E; Gómez-Alamillo, C; Benito, A; Arias, M

2008-11-01

There is increasing evidence that circulating levels of soluble CD30 (sCD30) may represent a biomarker for outcome in kidney transplantation. The aim of this study was to measure the pre- and posttransplantation serum levels of sCD30 in cadaveric kidney transplant recipients and correlate them with serum creatinine. Serum sCD30 was measured by a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) from prospective samples of 38 kidney allograft recipients serially transplanted at our center. Samples were collected at day 0 pretransplantation and at months 6, 12, 18, and 24 posttransplantation. We also studied sera from 29 patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) at different stages of the K/DOQI guidelines, as a control group. Serum levels of sCD30 decreased significantly in samples posttransplantation compared with pretransplantation. The significant decrease after transplantation may be related to the improvement in renal function since we observed a significant correlation between serum levels of sCD30 and creatinine (sCr) at all times of the study. In addition, the patients with chronic renal failure showed a significant association between serum sCD30 and sCr (r = .454; P = .013). Our results did not suggest that the measurement of sCD30 may be used as a valuable biomarker in renal transplantation. Increased levels may be related to a decrease in its renal elimination.

Serum Albumin Domain Structures in Human Blood Serum by Mass Spectrometry and Computational Biology.

PubMed

Belsom, Adam; Schneider, Michael; Fischer, Lutz; Brock, Oliver; Rappsilber, Juri

2016-03-01

Chemical cross-linking combined with mass spectrometry has proven useful for studying protein-protein interactions and protein structure, however the low density of cross-link data has so far precluded its use in determining structures de novo. Cross-linking density has been typically limited by the chemical selectivity of the standard cross-linking reagents that are commonly used for protein cross-linking. We have implemented the use of a heterobifunctional cross-linking reagent, sulfosuccinimidyl 4,4'-azipentanoate (sulfo-SDA), combining a traditional sulfo-N-hydroxysuccinimide (sulfo-NHS) ester and a UV photoactivatable diazirine group. This diazirine yields a highly reactive and promiscuous carbene species, the net result being a greatly increased number of cross-links compared with homobifunctional, NHS-based cross-linkers. We present a novel methodology that combines the use of this high density photo-cross-linking data with conformational space search to investigate the structure of human serum albumin domains, from purified samples, and in its native environment, human blood serum. Our approach is able to determine human serum albumin domain structures with good accuracy: root-mean-square deviation to crystal structure are 2.8/5.6/2.9 Å (purified samples) and 4.5/5.9/4.8Å (serum samples) for domains A/B/C for the first selected structure; 2.5/4.9/2.9 Å (purified samples) and 3.5/5.2/3.8 Å (serum samples) for the best out of top five selected structures. Our proof-of-concept study on human serum albumin demonstrates initial potential of our approach for determining the structures of more proteins in the complex biological contexts in which they function and which they may require for correct folding. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD001692. © 2016 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Variability of alpha-tocopherol values associated with procurement, storage, and freezing of equine serum and plasma samples.

PubMed

Craig, A M; Blythe, L L; Rowe, K E; Lassen, E D; Barrington, R; Walker, K C

1992-12-01

Recent evidence concerning the pathogenesis of equine degenerative myeloencephalopathy indicated that low blood alpha-tocopherol values are a factor in the disease process. Variables that could be introduced by a veterinarian procuring, transporting, or storing samples were evaluated for effects on alpha-tocopherol concentration in equine blood. These variables included temperature; light; exposure to the rubber stopper of the evacuated blood collection tube; hemolysis; duration of freezing time, with and without nitrogen blanketing; and repeated freeze/thaw cycles. It was found that hemolysis caused the greatest change in high-performance liquid chromatography-measured serum alpha-tocopherol values, with mean decrease of 33% (P < 0.001). Lesser, but significant (P < 0.01) changes in serum alpha-tocopherol values were an approximate 10% decrease when refrigerated blood was left in contact with the red rubber stopper of the blood collection tube for 72 hours and an approximate 5% increase when blood was stored at 20 to 25 C (room temperature) for 72 hours. Repeated freeze/thaw cycles resulted in a significant (P < 0.05) 3% decrease in alpha-tocopherol values in heparinized plasma by the third thawing cycle. Freezer storage for a 3-month period without nitrogen blanketing resulted in slight (2%) decrease in mean serum alpha-tocopherol values, whereas values in serum stored for an identical period under nitrogen blanketing did not change. A significant (P < 0.001) mean decrease (10.3%) in alpha-tocopherol values was associated with freezer (-16 C) storage of nitrogen blanketed serum for 6 months.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Serial serum alkaline phosphatase as an early biomarker for osteopenia of prematurity.

PubMed

Abdallah, Enas A A; Said, Reem N; Mosallam, Dalia S; Moawad, Eman M I; Kamal, Naglaa M; Fathallah, Mohammed G E-D

2016-09-01

Metabolic bone disease of prematurity is a condition characterized by reduction in bone mineral content (osteopenia). It is a problem faced by very low birth weight (VLBW) infants because of lack of fetal mineralization during the last trimester. Our aim was to assess serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) level as an early biomarker for osteopenia in premature infants and to estimate an optimal cutoff value of serum ALP at which osteopenia is detected radiologically in premature newborns.This prospective study was conducted on a cohort of 120 newborn infants of both sex of ≤34 weeks' gestational age and <1500 g birth weight. Two blood samples, from each infant on at least 2 consecutive weeks, were reported for calcium, phosphorus, and ALP. Evidence of osteopenia was evaluated radiologically by performing wrist/knee x-ray.Sixteen infants (13.3%) had evidence of osteopenia in x-ray, whereas 104 infants (86.7%) were nonosteopenic and all the osteopenic infants were <1000-g birth weight. Birth weight and gestational age were significantly inversely related to serum ALP levels. Both samples showed statistically significantly higher mean ALP level in osteopenic than nonosteopenics (P < 0.001, and P < 0.001 respectively). There was no constant value of serum ALP related to radiologic evidence of osteopenia. However, the optimal cutoff value of serum ALP at which osteopenia is detected is 500 IU/L with 100% sensitivity and 80.77% specificity.High levels of ALP can be considered a reliable biomarker to predict the status of bone mineralization and the need for radiological evaluation in premature infants particularly those <1000-g birth weight and <32 weeks' gestation.

Assays for endogenous components of human milk: comparison of fresh and frozen samples and corresponding analytes in serum.

PubMed

Hines, Erin P; Rayner, Jennifer L; Barbee, Randy; Moreland, Rae Ann; Valcour, Andre; Schmid, Judith E; Fenton, Suzanne E

2007-05-01

Breast milk is a primary source of nutrition that contains many endogenous compounds that may affect infant development. The goals of this study were to develop reliable assays for selected endogenous breast milk components and to compare levels of those in milk and serum collected from the same mother twice during lactation (2-7 weeks and 3-4 months). Reliable assays were developed for glucose, secretory IgA, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-a, triglycerides, prolactin, and estradiol from participants in a US EPA study called Methods Advancement in Milk Analysis (MAMA). Fresh and frozen (-20 degrees C) milk samples were assayed to determine effects of storage on endogenous analytes. The source effect (serum vs milk) seen in all 7 analytes indicates that serum should not be used as a surrogate for milk in children's health studies. The authors propose to use these assays in studies to examine relationships between the levels of milk components and children's health.

Determination of serum IgG antibodies to Bacillus anthracis protective antigen in environmental sampling workers using a fluorescent covalent microsphere immunoassay.

PubMed

Biagini, R E; Sammons, D L; Smith, J P; Page, E H; Snawder, J E; Striley, C A F; MacKenzie, B A

2004-08-01

To evaluate potential exposure to Bacillis anthracis (Ba) spores in sampling/decontamination workers in the aftermath of an anthrax terror attack. Fifty six serum samples were obtained from workers involved in environmental sampling for Ba spores at the American Media, Inc. (AMI) building in Boca Raton, FL after the anthrax attack there in October 2001. Nineteen sera were drawn from individuals both pre-entry and several weeks after entrance into the building. Nine sera each were drawn from unique individuals at the pre-entry and follow up blood draws. Thirteen donor control sera were also evaluated. Individuals were surveyed for Ba exposure by measurement of serum Ba anti-protective antigen (PA) specific IgG antibodies using a newly developed fluorescent covalent microsphere immunoassay (FCMIA). Four sera gave positive anti-PA IgG results (defined as anti-PA IgG concentrations > or = the mean microg/ml anti-PA IgG from donor control sera (n = 13 plus 2 SD which were also inhibited > or = 85% when the serum was pre-adsorbed with PA). The positive sera were the pre-entry and follow up samples of two workers who had received their last dose of anthrax vaccine in 2000. It appears that the sampling/decontamination workers of the present study either had insufficient exposure to Ba spores to cause the production of anti-PA IgG antibodies or they were exposed to anthrax spores without producing antibody. The FCMIA appears to be a fast, sensitive, accurate, and precise method for the measurement of anti-PA IgG antibodies.

Serum Adipocytokine Levels as Surrogate Markers for Disease Activity of Crohn's Disease.

PubMed

Kim, Su Hwan; Jang, Seung Hyeon; Kim, Ji Won; Kim, Byeong Gwan; Lee, Kook Lae; Kim, You Sun; Han, Dong Soo; Kim, Joo Sung

2017-05-01

Determining inflammatory activity is crucial for assessing disease activity and for tailoring therapy in patients with Crohn׳s disease (CD). This study aimed to evaluate adipocytokine levels in patients with CD and to determine whether they can serve as surrogate markers for disease activity. Serum samples and information regarding the clinical features of patients in the CD Network Project registry were collected from March 2009 to February 2012. Patients with CD and disease duration of at least 2 years were enrolled in this study. Fasting serum leptin, adiponectin, obestatin and ghrelin levels were measured, and their correlation with clinical features of the patients was analyzed. Serum adipocytokine levels were evaluated according to disease activity as determined by CD activity index score. A total of 153 patients with CD were included. Serum ghrelin levels negatively correlated with patient age (P = 0.041) and age at diagnosis (P = 0.017), and positively correlated with C-reactive protein (CRP) levels (P = 0.017). Multiple regression analysis showed that serum ghrelin levels were related only to CRP levels (P = 0.032). Like ghrelin, serum leptin levels were also related to CRP levels (P < 0.001). Obestatin and adiponectin levels were not related to CRP levels. Serum adipocytokine levels did not significantly differ across different disease locations or behaviors. Serum ghrelin levels were significantly lower in patients with CD with a history of surgery than in those without (P = 0.007). Serum ghrelin and leptin levels may be useful as surrogate markers for disease activity in patients with CD. Copyright © 2017 Southern Society for Clinical Investigation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Aging and sarcopenia associate with specific interactions between gut microbes, serum biomarkers and host physiology in rats

PubMed Central

Karaz, Sonia; Morin-Rivron, Delphine; Masoodi, Mojgan; Feige, Jerome N.; Parkinson, Scott James

2017-01-01

The microbiome has been demonstrated to play an integral role in the maintenance of many aspects of health that are also associated with aging. In order to identify areas of potential exploration and intervention, we simultaneously characterized age-related alterations in gut microbiome, muscle physiology and serum proteomic and lipidomic profiles in aged rats to define an integrated signature of the aging phenotype. We demonstrate that aging skews the composition of the gut microbiome, in particular by altering the Sutterella to Barneseilla ratio, and alters the metabolic potential of intestinal bacteria. Age-related changes of the gut microbiome were associated with the physiological decline of musculoskeletal function, and with molecular markers of nutrient processing/availability, and inflammatory/immune status in aged versus adult rats. Altogether, our study highlights that aging leads to a complex interplay between the microbiome and host physiology, and provides candidate microbial species to target physical and metabolic decline during aging by modulating gut microbial ecology. PMID:28783713

Aging and sarcopenia associate with specific interactions between gut microbes, serum biomarkers and host physiology in rats.

PubMed

Siddharth, Jay; Chakrabarti, Anirikh; Pannérec, Alice; Karaz, Sonia; Morin-Rivron, Delphine; Masoodi, Mojgan; Feige, Jerome N; Parkinson, Scott James

2017-07-17

The microbiome has been demonstrated to play an integral role in the maintenance of many aspects of health that are also associated with aging. In order to identify areas of potential exploration and intervention, we simultaneously characterized age-related alterations in gut microbiome, muscle physiology and serum proteomic and lipidomic profiles in aged rats to define an integrated signature of the aging phenotype. We demonstrate that aging skews the composition of the gut microbiome, in particular by altering the Sutterella to Barneseilla ratio, and alters the metabolic potential of intestinal bacteria. Age-related changes of the gut microbiome were associated with the physiological decline of musculoskeletal function, and with molecular markers of nutrient processing/availability, and inflammatory/immune status in aged versus adult rats. Altogether, our study highlights that aging leads to a complex interplay between the microbiome and host physiology, and provides candidate microbial species to target physical and metabolic decline during aging by modulating gut microbial ecology.

Association between Serum Uric Acid Level and Carotid Atherosclerosis in Chinese Individuals Aged 75 Years or Older: A Hospital-Based Case-Control Study.

PubMed

Feng, L; Hua, C; Sun, H; Qin, L-Y; Niu, P-P; Guo, Z-N; Yang, Y

2018-01-01

To investigate the association between serum uric acid level and the presence and progression of carotid atherosclerosis in Chinese individuals aged 75 years or older. Case-control study. In a teaching hospital. Five hundred and sixty-four elderlies (75 years or above) who underwent general health screening in our hospital were enrolled. The detailed carotid ultrasound results, physical examination information, medical history, and laboratory test results including serum uric acid level were recorded, these data were used to analyze the relationship between serum uric acid level and carotid atherosclerosis. Then, subjects who underwent the second carotid ultrasound 1.5-2 years later were further identified to analyzed the relationship between serum uric acid and the progression of carotid atherosclerosis. A total of 564 subjects were included, carotid plaque was found in 482 (85.5%) individuals. Logistic regression showed that subjects with elevated serum uric acid (expressed per 1 standard deviation change) had significantly higher incidence of carotid plaque (odds ratio, 1.37; 95% confidence interval, 1.07-1.75; P= 0.012) after controlling for other factors. A total of 236 subjects underwent the follow-up carotid ultrasound. Linear regression showed that serum uric acid level (expressed per 1 standard deviation change; 1 standard deviation = 95.5 μmol/L) was significantly associated with percentage of change of plaque score (P = 0.008). Multivariable linear regression showed that 1 standard deviation increase in serum uric acid levels was expected to increase 0.448% of plaque score (P = 0.023). The elevated serum uric acid level may be independently and significantly associated with the presence and progression of carotid atherosclerosis in Chinese individuals aged 75 years or older.

Cancer biomarker detection in serum samples using surface plasmon resonance and quartz crystal microbalance sensors with nanoparticle signal amplification.

PubMed

Uludag, Yildiz; Tothill, Ibtisam E

2012-07-17

Early detection of cancer is vital for the successful treatment of the disease. Hence, a rapid and sensitive diagnosis is essential before the cancer is spread out to the other body organs. Here we describe the development of a point-of-care immunosensor for the detection of the cancer biomarker (total prostate-specific antigen, tPSA) using surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor platforms in human serum samples. K(D) of the antibody used toward PSA was calculated as 9.46 × 10(-10) M, indicating high affinity of the antibody used in developing the assay. By performing a sandwich assay using antibody-modified nanoparticles concentrations of 2.3 ng mL(-1) (Au, 20 nm) and 0.29 ng mL(-1) (8.5 pM) (Au, 40 nm) tPSA in 75% human serum were detected using the developed assay on an SPR sensor chip. The SPR sensor results were found to be comparable to that achieved using a QCM sensor platform, indicating that both systems can be applied for disease biomarkers screening. The clinical applicability of the developed immunoassay can therefore be successfully applied to patient's serum samples. This demonstrates the high potential of the developed sensor devices as platforms for clinical prostate cancer diagnosis and prognosis.

Study on polychlorobiphenyl serum levels in French consumers of freshwater fish.

PubMed

Desvignes, Virginie; Volatier, Jean-Luc; de Bels, Frédéric; Zeghnoun, Abdelkrim; Favrot, Marie-Christine; Marchand, Philippe; Le Bizec, Bruno; Rivière, Gilles; Leblanc, Jean-Charles; Merlo, Mathilde

2015-02-01

Polychlorobiphenyls (PCBs) are persistent pollutants that are widespread in the environment and in foodstuffs, particularly in freshwater fish, which frequently exceed the maximum levels set by European regulations. First, we describe the consumption of freshwater fish and serum PCB levels in French anglers, a population expected to have the highest level of dietary PCB exposure. Second, we investigated whether there is a statistical relationship between serum PCB levels and the angler consumption of freshwater fish with high PCB bioaccumulation potential (PCB-BP(+) freshwater fish) in order to make recommendations with regard to safe consumption of freshwater fish. We conducted a survey of anglers from six sites with contrasting PCB contamination levels. The survey included a food consumption frequency questionnaire and blood samples were taken to assess serum PCB levels. We used a regression model to determine the main factors contributing to serum PCB levels. Consumption of PCB-BP(+) freshwater fish was relatively infrequent. Serum PCB levels of the study population and of women of childbearing age were in the same range as those observed in the French population and in neighbouring European countries, but higher than in the North American population. The two factors with the highest positive association with serum PCB levels were age (R(2)=61%) and the consumption of PCB-BP(+) freshwater fish (R(2)=2%). Using the regression model, we calculated, for several scenarios depending on the age and gender of the population, the maximum annual frequencies for PCB-BP(+) freshwater fish consumption that do not exceed the critical body burden threshold. Following the results of this study, the French agency for food, environmental and occupational health and safety (ANSES) issued an opinion and recommended some specific maximum freshwater fish consumption frequencies to protect the French general population. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Serum of myeloproliferative neoplasms stimulates hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells.

PubMed

Lubberich, Richard K; Walenda, Thomas; Goecke, Tamme W; Strathmann, Klaus; Isfort, Susanne; Brümmendorf, Tim H; Koschmieder, Steffen; Wagner, Wolfgang

2018-01-01

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN)-such as polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and myelofibrosis (MF)-are typically diseases of the elderly caused by acquired somatic mutations. However, it is largely unknown how the malignant clone interferes with normal hematopoiesis. In this study, we analyzed if serum of MPN patients comprises soluble factors that impact on hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HPCs). CD34+ HPCs were cultured in medium supplemented with serum samples of PV, ET, or MF patients, or healthy controls. The impact on proliferation, maintenance of immature hematopoietic surface markers, and colony forming unit (CFU) potential was systematically analyzed. In addition, we compared serum of healthy young (<25 years) and elderly donors (>50 years) to determine how normal aging impacts on the hematopoiesis-supportive function of serum. Serum from MF, PV and ET patients significantly increased proliferation as compared to controls. In addition, serum from MF and ET patients attenuated the loss of a primitive immunophenotype during in vitro culture. The CFU counts were significantly higher if HPCs were cultured with serum of MPN patients as compared to controls. Furthermore, serum of healthy young versus old donors did not evoke significant differences in proliferation or immunophenotype of HPCs, whereas the CFU frequency was significantly increased by serum from elderly patients. Our results indicate that serum derived from patients with MPN comprises activating feedback signals that stimulate the HPCs-and this stimulatory signal may result in a viscous circle that further accelerates development of the disease.

Second trimester serum cortisol and preterm birth: an analysis by timing and subtype.

PubMed

Bandoli, Gretchen; Jelliffe-Pawlowski, Laura L; Feuer, Sky K; Liang, Liang; Oltman, Scott P; Paynter, Randi; Ross, Kharah M; Schetter, Christine Dunkel; Ryckman, Kelli K; Chambers, Christina D

2018-05-24

We hypothesized second trimester serum cortisol would be higher in spontaneous preterm births compared to provider-initiated (previously termed 'medically indicated') preterm births. We used a nested case-control design with a sample of 993 women with live births. Cortisol was measured from serum samples collected as part of routine prenatal screening. We tested whether mean-adjusted cortisol fold-change differed by gestational age at delivery or preterm birth subtype using multivariable linear regression. An inverse association between cortisol and gestational age category (trend p = 0.09) was observed. Among deliveries prior to 37 weeks, the mean-adjusted cortisol fold-change values were highest for preterm premature rupture of the membranes (1.10), followed by premature labor (1.03) and provider-initiated preterm birth (1.01), although they did not differ statistically. Cortisol continues to be of interest as a marker of future preterm birth. Augmentation with additional biomarkers should be explored.

Oral Zinc Supplementation Decreases the Serum Iron Concentration in Healthy Schoolchildren: A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

de Brito, Naira Josele Neves; de Medeiros Rocha, Érika Dantas; de Araújo Silva, Alfredo; Costa, João Batista Sousa; França, Mardone Cavalcante; das Graças Almeida, Maria; Brandão-Neto, José

2014-01-01

The recognized antagonistic actions between zinc and iron prompted us to study this subject in children. A convenience sample was used. Thirty healthy children between 8 and 9 years of age were studied with the aim of establishing the effect of a 3-mo oral zinc supplementation on iron status. Fifteen individuals were given a placebo (control group), and 15 were given 10 mg Zn/day (experimental group). Blood samples were collected at 0, 60, 120, 180 and 210 min after a 12-h overnight fast, before and after placebo or zinc supplementation. This supplementation was associated with significant improvements in energy, protein, fat, carbohydrate, fiber, calcium, iron, and zinc intake in accordance with the recommendations for age and sex. The basal serum zinc concentration significantly increased after oral zinc supplementation (p < 0.001). However, basal serum iron concentrations and area under the iron curves significantly decreased in the experimental group (p < 0.0001) and remained at the same level throughout the 210-min study. The values obtained for hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, ferritin, transferrin, transferrin saturation, ceruloplasmin and total protein were within normal reference ranges. In conclusion, the decrease in serum iron was likely due to the effects of chronic zinc administration, and the decrease in serum iron was not sufficient to cause anemia. PMID:25192026

Cdx-2 polymorphism in Vitamin D Receptor gene was associated with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, bone mineral density and fracture in middle-aged and elderly Chinese women.

PubMed

Ling, Yan; Lin, Huandong; Aleteng, Qiqige; Ma, Hui; Pan, Baishen; Gao, Jian; Gao, Xin

2016-05-15

The aim of the current study was to examine the relationship between Cdx-2 polymorphism in the promoter region of the VDR gene and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels, bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture in Chinese population. This was a cross-sectional study, which included 738 individuals (428 women and 310 men) aged 45 years or older. In women, the association of Cdx-2 polymorphism with serum 25(OH)D levels was significant adjusting for age, BMI, estimated glomerular filtration rate, menopausal status and season of blood collection (P = 0.002). Cdx-2 polymorphism was associated with lumbar spine BMD adjusted for age, BMI, menopausal status and serum 25(OH)D in women (P = 0.005). But it was not associated with femoral neck BMD or total hip BMD in women. In women, Cdx-2 polymorphism was also associated with fracture adjusted for age, BMI, menopausal status, serum 25(OH)D and total hip BMD (P = 0.03). Carriers of AA and AG genotypes was associated with a higher odds of fracture compared with the carriers of GG genotype (OR = 2.14, 95% CI 1.04-4.42 and OR = 1.90, 95% CI 1.03-3.51). In men, Cdx-2 polymorphism was not associated with serum 25(OH)D levels, BMD or fracture. Our results indicate that the association of Cdx-2 polymorphism in the VDR gene with serum 25(OH)D levels, BMD and fracture may have sex differences. Cdx-2 polymorphism in the VDR gene may affect the serum 25(OH)D concentrations and the risk of osteoporosis and fracture in middle-aged and elderly Chinese women. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Stability of selected serum hormones and lipids after long-term storage in the Janus Serum Bank.

PubMed

Gislefoss, Randi E; Grimsrud, Tom K; Mørkrid, Lars

2015-04-01

The potential value of a biobank depends on the quality of the samples, i.e. how well they reflect the biological or biochemical state of the donors at the time of sampling. Documentation of sample quality has become a particularly important issue for researchers and users of biobank studies. The aim of this study was to investigate the long-term stability of selected components: cholesterol, high density cholesterol (HDLC), low density cholesterol (LDLC), apolipoprotein A1 (apo-A1), apolipoprotein B (apo B), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin (PRL), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxin (FT4). Samples, stored at -25°C, from 520 men aged 40-49 years at blood sampling distributed in equally sized groups (n=130) according to length of storage, 0, 4, 17 and 29 years, respectively, were used in a cross sectional design. The freshly collected serum samples were used as a reference group to calculate storage related changes. The differences between fresh samples and samples stored for 29 years were substantial for apo-A1 (+12%), apo-B (+22.3%), HDLC (-69.2%), LDLC (+31.3%), and PRL (-33.5%), while total cholesterol, FSH, LH, TSH and FT4 did not show any significant difference. The study showed large differences in serum level of the selected components. The lipids and apolipoproteins were all changed except for total cholesterol. Most hormones investigated (FSH, LH, TSH and FT4) proved to be stable after 29 years of storage while PRL showed sign of degradation. The observed differences are probably due to long-term storage effects and/or external factors (i.e. diet and smoking). Copyright © 2014 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Low zinc serum levels and high blood lead levels among school-age children in coastal area

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pramono, Adriyan; Panunggal, Binar; Rahfiludin, M. Zen; Swastawati, Fronthea

2017-02-01

The coverage of environmental lead toxicant was quiet wide. Lead exposure recently has been expected to be associated with zinc deficiency and blood indices disturbance. Emphasizing on children, which could absorb more than 50 % of lead that enters the body. Lead became the issue on the coastal area due to it has polluted the environment and waters as the source of fisheries products. This was a cross sectional study to determined nutritional status, blood lead levels, zinc serum levels, blood indices levels, fish intake among school children in coastal region of Semarang. This study was carried out on the school children aged between 8 and 12 years old in coastal region of Semarang. Nutritional status was figured out using anthropometry measurement. Blood lead and zinc serum levels were analyzed using the Atomic Absorbent Spectrophotometry (AAS) at a wavelength of 213.9 nm for zinc serum and 283.3 nm for blood lead. Blood indices was measured using auto blood hematology analyzer. Fish intake was assessed using 3-non consecutive days 24-hours food recall. The children had high lead levels (median 34.86 μg/dl, range 11.46 - 58.86 μg/dl) compared to WHO cut off. Zinc serum levels was low (median 18.10 μg/dl, range 10.25 - 41.39 μg/dl) compared to the Joint WHO/UNICEF/IAEA/IZiNCG cut off. Approximately 26.4% of children were anemic. This study concluded that all school children had high blood lead levels, low zinc serum, and presented microcytic hypochromic anemia. This phenomenon should be considered as public health concern.

POSTNATAL SERUM INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH FACTOR I AND RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY.

PubMed

Jensen, Anne K; Ying, Gui-Shuang; Huang, Jiayan; Quinn, Graham E; Binenbaum, Gil

2017-05-01

Low serum IGF-1 has been associated with development of severe ROP, but no U.S. studies have been reported. We sought to determine the relationship between postnatal serum IGF-1 levels and severe ROP in a racially diverse U.S. cohort. Prospective cohort study of 74 infants with birth weight <1,251 g and a known ROP outcome at 3 Philadelphia hospitals. Weekly postnatal filter paper blood spot IGF-1 assays were measured through 42 weeks postmenstrual age. The cohort included 20 white, 45 black, 2 Asian, and 9 other infants; median gestational age was 27.6 weeks (range 23-33 weeks), and median birth weight was 975 g (range 490-1,250 g). During postmenstrual age Weeks 28 to 33, mean IGF-1 was 20.0 ng/mL (standard error 0.52) for no ROP (n = 46), 18.0 (0.49) for Stage 1 or 2 (n = 23), and 17.0 (0.70) for Stage 3 (n = 5, 2 lasered) (P = 0.003). Adjustment for birth weight and gestational age showed similar results. The presence and timing of an association between low postnatal serum IGF and ROP in a racially diverse U.S. sample were found to be consistent with those of European cohorts. This association provides the pathophysiological basis for growth-based predictive models, which could improve efficiency of ROP screening.

Screening for chromosomal anomalies in the first trimester: does repeat maternal serum screening improve detection rates?

PubMed

Spencer, Kevin; Cuckle, Howard S

2002-10-01

To assess the within person biological variability of first trimester maternal serum biochemical markers of trisomy 21 across the 10-14 week gestational period. To evaluate whether repeat sampling and testing of free beta-hCG and PAPP-A during this period would result in an improved detection rate. Women presenting at the first trimester OSCAR clinic have blood collected prior to ultrasound dating and nuchal translucency measurement. All samples are analysed for free beta-hCG and PAPP-A before an accurate estimate of gestation is available. In 10% of cases the gestation is prior to the minimum time for NT measurement (11 weeks) and these women are rebooked for a repeat visit to the clinic at the appropriate time. Our fetal database was interrogated to obtain cases in which two maternal blood samples had been collected and analysed in the 10-14 week period. Using data from the marker correlations and statistical modelling, the impact of repeat testing on detection rate for trisomy 21 at a fixed 5% false positive rate, was assessed. 261 pairs of data were available for analysis collected over a 3 year period. The correlation between free beta-hCG in sample 1 and sample 2 was 0.890 and that for PAPP-A was 0.827. The average within person biological variation for free beta-hCG was 21% and 32% for PAPP-A. The increase in detection rate when using both sets of marker data was 3.5% when using serum biochemistry and maternal age, and 1.3% when using nuchal translucency, serum biochemistry and maternal age. Repeat sampling and testing of maternal serum biochemical markers is unlikely to substantially improve first trimester screening performance. Copyright 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Proposition of decision limits for serum lipids in Brazilian children aged one to 13 years.

PubMed

Slhessarenko, Natasha; Fontes, Cor J F; Slhessarenko, Maria Eduarda; Azevedo, Raymundo S; Andriolo, Adagmar

2018-03-09

To determine decision limits for total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides in healthy children and adolescents from Cuiabá, Brazil. This was a cross-sectional study of 1866 healthy children and adolescents randomly selected from daycare centers and public schools in Cuiabá. The desirable levels of serum lipids were defined using the classic criteria, i.e., total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides levels below the P75 percentile, and HDL-c above the P10 percentile. For CT, P75 was: 160mg/dL for the age range of 1 to <3 years, 170mg/dL for ≥3 to <9 years, and 176mg/dL for ≥9 to <13 years. For non-HDL cholesterol, it was 122mg/dL for the age range of 1 to <13 years. For LDL-c, it was 104mg/dL at the age range of 1 to <9 years and 106mg/dL from ≥9 to <13 years. For TG, it was 127mg/dL from 1 to <2 years; 98mg/dL from ≥2 to <6 years; and 92mg/dL from ≥6 to <13 years. As for HDL-cholesterol, P10 was 24mg/dL, 28mg/dL, 32mg/dL, and 36mg/dL, for the age ranges of 1 to <2 years, ≥2 to <3 years, ≥3 to <4 years, and ≥4 to <13 years, respectively. The decision limits for the serum lipid levels defined in this study differed from those observed in the current Brazilian and North-American guidelines, especially because it differentiates between the age ranges. Using these decision limits in clinical practice will certainly contribute to improve the diagnostic accuracy for dyslipidemia in this population group. Copyright © 2018 Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

Serum selenium concentration in a representative sample of the Canarian population.

PubMed

Diaz Romero, C; López Blanco, F; Henríquez Sánchez, P; Rodríguez, E; Serra Majem, L

2001-03-26

The concentration of serum selenium in 395 individuals (187 males + 218 females) living in the Canary Islands, Spain was determined by hydride generation atomic absorption spectrometry. The mean selenium concentration was 74.7 +/- 25.2 microg/l ranging between 7.86 and 182.3 microg/l. Twenty-two adults (7.2% of the total) had serum selenium concentrations under 45 microg/l. It is widely accepted that below this selenium serum concentration (45 microg/l) there is an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Our results fall within data recently published in other Spanish and European regions and are much lower than data observed in USA or seleniferous regions. The estimated Se intakes of our population were lower than the Recommended Dietary Allowances for American people. Individuals from Lanzarote had a mean Se concentration significantly higher than individuals from the other islands. This could be attributed to differences in Se content of soil and/or differences in dietary habits of the populations. Serum selenium concentration did not vary with the sex of the subjects. Individuals younger than 14 years old had a serum selenium concentration significantly lower than the rest of the individuals. No relationship with socio-economic status, educational level, smoking habits, physical exercise or beer consumption was found. However, individuals who consume wine more than three times a week showed higher selenium concentrations than individuals with lower consumption. Also, individuals with consumption above seven units of spirit drinks a week had the highest mean selenium concentration.

The Association Between Serum Activin A Levels and Hypertension in the Elderly: A Cross-Sectional Analysis From I-Lan Longitudinal Aging Study.

PubMed

Tsai, Yi-Lin; Chang, Chun-Chin; Liu, Li-Kuo; Huang, Po-Hsun; Chen, Liang-Kung; Lin, Shing-Jong

2018-02-09

Hypertension is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor-β cytokine family, has been shown to regulate blood pressure through the renin-angiotensin system. However, the relationship between activin A and blood pressure remains uncertain. The objective of this study was to determine whether serum activin A levels are associated with blood pressure. A total of 470 participants of I-Lan longitudinal Aging Study (ILAS) were eligible for this study. Serum levels of activin A were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cross-sectional analyses were performed, including comparisons of demographic characteristics, hypertensive status, and activin A levels. Among the study participants (50% men, mean age, 69 years), 236 (50.2%) were hypertensive and 234 (49.8%) were normotensive. Hypertensive patients had significantly higher serum activin A levels than normotensives (normotensive vs. hypertensive: 507 ± 169 vs. 554 ± 176 pg/ml, mean ± SD, P < 0.001). All subjects were divided into 3 tertiles on the basis of serum activin A levels. Increasing tertiles of activin A were associated with higher systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure and pulse pressure (PP) (all P < 0.001). After adjusting for all the potential confounding factors, serum activin A concentration was still significantly associated with SBP (P = 0.02) and PP (P = 0.03). Serum activin A level was associated with SBP and PP. Further studies are required to assess their causal relationship and the clinical relevance. © American Journal of Hypertension, Ltd 2017. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com

Prostate cancer prediction using the random forest algorithm that takes into account transrectal ultrasound findings, age, and serum levels of prostate-specific antigen.

PubMed

Xiao, Li-Hong; Chen, Pei-Ran; Gou, Zhong-Ping; Li, Yong-Zhong; Li, Mei; Xiang, Liang-Cheng; Feng, Ping

2017-01-01

The aim of this study is to evaluate the ability of the random forest algorithm that combines data on transrectal ultrasound findings, age, and serum levels of prostate-specific antigen to predict prostate carcinoma. Clinico-demographic data were analyzed for 941 patients with prostate diseases treated at our hospital, including age, serum prostate-specific antigen levels, transrectal ultrasound findings, and pathology diagnosis based on ultrasound-guided needle biopsy of the prostate. These data were compared between patients with and without prostate cancer using the Chi-square test, and then entered into the random forest model to predict diagnosis. Patients with and without prostate cancer differed significantly in age and serum prostate-specific antigen levels (P < 0.001), as well as in all transrectal ultrasound characteristics (P < 0.05) except uneven echo (P = 0.609). The random forest model based on age, prostate-specific antigen and ultrasound predicted prostate cancer with an accuracy of 83.10%, sensitivity of 65.64%, and specificity of 93.83%. Positive predictive value was 86.72%, and negative predictive value was 81.64%. By integrating age, prostate-specific antigen levels and transrectal ultrasound findings, the random forest algorithm shows better diagnostic performance for prostate cancer than either diagnostic indicator on its own. This algorithm may help improve diagnosis of the disease by identifying patients at high risk for biopsy.

Bulk- and surface-modified combinable PDMS capillary sensor array as an easy-to-use sensing device with enhanced sensitivity to elevated concentrations of multiple serum sample components.

PubMed

Fujii, Yuji; Henares, Terence G; Kawamura, Kunio; Endo, Tatsuro; Hisamoto, Hideaki

2012-04-21

To enhance sensitivity and facilitate easy sample introduction into a combinable poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) capillary (CPC) sensor array, PDMS was modified in bulk and on its surface to prepare "black" PDMS coated with a silver layer and self-assembled monolayer (SAM). India ink, a traditional Japanese black ink, was added to the PDMS pre-polymer for bulk modification. The surface was modified by a silver mirror reaction followed by SAM formation using cysteine. These modifications enhanced the fluorescence signals by reflecting them from the surface and reducing background interference. A decrease in the water contact angle led to enhanced sensitivity and easy sample introduction. Furthermore, a CPC sensor array for multiplex detection of serum sample components was prepared that could quantify the analytes glucose, potassium, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). When serum samples were introduced by capillary action, the CPC sensor array showed fluorescence responses for each analyte and successfully identified the components with elevated concentrations in the serum samples.

[Correlation of age, IGF-1 serum levels, muscular mass index and their influence as determinants of isokinetic variables in patients with osteoporosis].

PubMed

Coronado-Zarco, Roberto; Diez-García, María del Pilar; Chávez-Arias, Daniel; León-Hernández, Saúl Renán; Cruz-Medina, Eva; Arellano-Hernández, Aurelia

2005-01-01

Bone and skeletal muscle mass loss is related to age. Mechanisms by which they interact have not been well established. To establish a relationship of age with serum levels of IGF-1, skeletal muscle and appendicular muscle mass index, and their influence in isokinetic parameters in osteoporotic female patients. Pearson correlation coefficient and linear regression analyses were used. There were 38 patients with a mean age of 65.16 years (range: 50-84 years), mean appendicular skeletal mass index (ASMI) of 6.3 kg/m2 (range: 4.3-8.3) and mean skeletal mass index (SMI) of 12.4 kg/m2 (range: 9.6-15.7), mean serum IGF-1 levels of 82.97 ng/ml (range: 22-177). Linear regression predicted hip mineral bone density by SMI (p = 0.19) and age (p = 0.017, r = 0.50). Some isokinetic parameters had a positive correlation for work with age. Knee acceleration time had a positive correlation with age. Osteoporosis and sarcopenia may have related pathophysiologic mechanisms. Growth factor study must include the influence of sex hormones. Some isokinetic parameters are determined by the predominant muscle fiber, skeletal mass index and age.

Circulating Vitamin D Correlates with Serum Anti-Mullerian Hormone Levels in Late Reproductive-Aged Women: Women’s Interagency HIV Study

PubMed Central

Merhi, Zaher O.; Seifer, David B.; Weedon, Jeremy; Adeyemi, Oluwatoyin; Holman, Susan; Anastos, Kathryn; Golub, Elizabeth T.; Young, Mary; Karim, Roksana; Greenblatt, Ruth; Minkoff, Howard

2012-01-01

Objective To study the correlation between circulating 25 hydroxy-vitamin D (25OH-D) levels and serum AMH in women enrolled in the Women’s Interagency HIV Study (WIHS). Design A cross-sectional study. Setting WIHS, a multicenter prospective study. Patient(s) All premenopausal women (n=388) with regular menstrual cycles were included and subdivided into three groups: group 1 with age <35 (N=128), group 2 with age 35 to 39 (N=119), and group 3 with age ≥ 40 (N=141). Intervention(s) Serum for 25OH-D, AMH, fasting glucose and insulin, and creatinine levels. Main Outcome Measure(s) Correlation between 25OH-D and AMH before and after adjusting for HIV status, BMI, race, smoking, illicit drug use, glucose and insulin levels, estimated glomerular filtration rate and geographic site of participation. Result(s) After adjusting for all covariates, the regression slope in all participants for total 25OH-D predicting log10AMH for 25-year-olds (youngest participant) was −0.001 (SE=0.008, p=0.847); and for 45-year-olds (oldest participant), the corresponding slope was +0.011 (SE=0.005, p=0.021). Fasting insulin level was negatively correlated with serum AMH (p=0.016). The regression slope for the correlation between 25OH-D and AMH in group 1 was +0.002 (SE=0.006, p=0.764); in group 2 was +0.006 (SE=0.005, p=0.269); and in group 3 was +0.011 (SE=0.005, p=0.022). There was no association between HIV and AMH. Conclusion(s) A novel relationship is reported between circulating 25OH-D and AMH in women aged = 40 suggesting that 25OH-D deficiency might be associated with lower ovarian reserve in late reproductive-aged women. PMID:22494925

Circulating vitamin D correlates with serum antimüllerian hormone levels in late-reproductive-aged women: Women's Interagency HIV Study.

PubMed

Merhi, Zaher O; Seifer, David B; Weedon, Jeremy; Adeyemi, Oluwatoyin; Holman, Susan; Anastos, Kathryn; Golub, Elizabeth T; Young, Mary; Karim, Roksana; Greenblatt, Ruth; Minkoff, Howard

2012-07-01

To study the correlation between circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OH-D) levels and serum antimüllerian hormone (AMH) in women enrolled in the Women's Interagency HIV Study. Cross-sectional study. None. All premenopausal women (n = 388) with regular menstrual cycles were included and subdivided into three groups: group 1 with age <35 years (n = 128), group 2 with age 35-39 years (n = 119), and group 3 with age ≥40 years (n = 141). Serum for 25OH-D, AMH, fasting glucose and insulin, and creatinine levels. Correlation between 25OH-D and AMH before and after adjusting for HIV status, body mass index, race, smoking, illicit drug use, glucose and insulin levels, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and geographic site of participation. After adjusting for all covariates, the regression slope in all participants for total 25OH-D predicting log(10)AMH for 25-year-olds (youngest participant) was -0.001 (SE = 0.008); and for 45-year-olds (oldest participant) the corresponding slope was +0.011 (SE = 0.005). Fasting insulin level was negatively correlated with serum AMH. The regression slope for the correlation between 25OH-D and AMH in group 1 was +0.002 (SE = 0.006); in group 2 was +0.006 (SE = 0.005); and in group 3 was +0.011 (SE = 0.005). There was no association between HIV and AMH. A novel relationship is reported between circulating 25OH-D and AMH in women aged ≥40 years, suggesting that 25OH-D deficiency might be associated with lower ovarian reserve in late-reproductive-aged women. Copyright © 2012 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Serological diagnosis of Leptospirosis in bovine serum samples using a microsphere immunoassay.

PubMed

Wynwood, S J; Burns, M A; Graham, G C; Weier, S L; McKay, D B; Craig, S B

2016-01-01

Leptospirosis causes significant economic loss within the cattle industry worldwide. Current diagnostic methods are generally inadequate for dealing with large numbers of samples, are outdated, and provide little useful diagnostic and epidemiological information. This aim of this study was to apply a microsphere immunoassay (MIA), utilising Luminex xMap technology, to 200 bovine serum samples to determine this method's usefulness in leptospirosis diagnosis in comparison with the current gold standard, the microscopic agglutination test (MAT). Although MAT is the most widely used laboratory test for the diagnosis of leptospirosis, its reliance on live cultures, subjective interpretation of results and an inability to differentiate between antibody classes, suggest MAT is no longer the best method for the diagnosis of leptospirosis. The results presented in this paper show that MIA was able to determine reactive from non-reactive samples when compared with MAT, and was able to differentiate IgG and IgM classes of antibody. The results suggest increased sensitivity in MIA and the ability to multiplex up to 500 antigens at one time allows for significant improvements in cost-effectiveness as well as a reduced dependency on live cultures. The relatively low cost, high throughput platform and differentiation of antibody class, as shown in previous research, make this assay worthy of consideration for the diagnosis of leptospirosis in small-scale or large-scale bovine populations.

Serological diagnosis of Leptospirosis in bovine serum samples using a microsphere immunoassay

PubMed Central

Wynwood, S. J.; Burns, M. A.; Graham, G. C.; Weier, S. L.; McKay, D. B.; Craig, S. B.

2016-01-01

Leptospirosis causes significant economic loss within the cattle industry worldwide. Current diagnostic methods are generally inadequate for dealing with large numbers of samples, are outdated, and provide little useful diagnostic and epidemiological information. This aim of this study was to apply a microsphere immunoassay (MIA), utilising Luminex xMap technology, to 200 bovine serum samples to determine this method's usefulness in leptospirosis diagnosis in comparison with the current gold standard, the microscopic agglutination test (MAT). Although MAT is the most widely used laboratory test for the diagnosis of leptospirosis, its reliance on live cultures, subjective interpretation of results and an inability to differentiate between antibody classes, suggest MAT is no longer the best method for the diagnosis of leptospirosis. The results presented in this paper show that MIA was able to determine reactive from non-reactive samples when compared with MAT, and was able to differentiate IgG and IgM classes of antibody. The results suggest increased sensitivity in MIA and the ability to multiplex up to 500 antigens at one time allows for significant improvements in cost-effectiveness as well as a reduced dependency on live cultures. The relatively low cost, high throughput platform and differentiation of antibody class, as shown in previous research, make this assay worthy of consideration for the diagnosis of leptospirosis in small-scale or large-scale bovine populations. PMID:26835139

Identification of Reliable Reference Genes for Quantification of MicroRNAs in Serum Samples of Sulfur Mustard-Exposed Veterans.

PubMed

Gharbi, Sedigheh; Shamsara, Mehdi; Khateri, Shahriar; Soroush, Mohammad Reza; Ghorbanmehr, Nassim; Tavallaei, Mahmood; Nourani, Mohammad Reza; Mowla, Seyed Javad

2015-01-01

In spite of accumulating information about pathological aspects of sulfur mustard (SM), the precise mechanism responsible for its effects is not well understood. Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) are promising biomarkers for disease diagnosis and prognosis. Accurate normalization using appropriate reference genes, is a critical step in miRNA expression studies. In this study, we aimed to identify appropriate reference gene for microRNA quantification in serum samples of SM victims. In this case and control experimental study, using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), we evaluated the suitability of a panel of small RNAs including SNORD38B, SNORD49A, U6, 5S rRNA, miR-423-3p, miR-191, miR-16 and miR-103 in sera of 28 SM-exposed veterans of Iran-Iraq war (1980-1988) and 15 matched control volunteers. Different statistical algorithms including geNorm, Normfinder, best-keeper and comparative delta-quantification cycle (Cq) method were employed to find the least variable reference gene. miR-423-3p was identified as the most stably expressed reference gene, and miR- 103 and miR-16 ranked after that. We demonstrate that non-miRNA reference genes have the least stabil- ity in serum samples and that some house-keeping miRNAs may be used as more reliable reference genes for miRNAs in serum. In addition, using the geometric mean of two reference genes could increase the reliability of the normalizers.

Cross-Sectional Analysis of Time-Dependent Data: Mean-Induced Association in Age-Heterogeneous Samples and an Alternative Method Based on Sequential Narrow Age-Cohort Samples

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hofer, Scott M.; Flaherty, Brian P.; Hoffman, Lesa

2006-01-01

The effect of time-related mean differences on estimates of association in cross-sectional studies has not been widely recognized in developmental and aging research. Cross-sectional studies of samples varying in age have found moderate to high levels of shared age-related variance among diverse age-related measures. These findings may be…

Serum biotin in Japanese children: Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay measurement.

PubMed

Wakabayashi, Kenji; Kodama, Hiroko; Ogawa, Eishin; Sato, Yasuhiro; Motoyama, Kahoko; Suzuki, Mitsuyoshi

2016-09-01

Biotin deficiency has been reported in Japanese infants fed special formulas for medical reasons, including those with milk allergy and congenital metabolic diseases, because these formulas contain little biotin. Serum biotin measurement is useful for diagnosing biotin deficiency. We applied a simple and rapid method to analyze serum biotin, and established normal ranges for children and adults. Serum biotin in 188 healthy Japanese children aged 0-4 years and in 25 healthy adults was analyzed using a Biotin ELISA Kit (immundiagnostik). The effects of various conditions on the measurement of serum biotin were also examined. Median biotin in children aged 0-4 years was 10.4 ng/dL (IQR, 7.9-13.4 ng/dL), and that in adults was 12.9 ng/dL (IQR, 10.8-15.8 ng/dL). Normal range was 4.7-22.0 ng/dL in children and 8.4-20.5 ng/dL in adults (calculated using two-sided 95%CI). Measurements obtained with this method were not affected by frozen storage, freeze-thaw, or hemolysis, indicating that serum biotin can be analyzed accurately under these conditions, with a possible application to plasma samples. Serum biotin was significantly lower in children than in adults, with the normal range being 4.7-22.0 ng/dL in children and 8.4-20.5 ng/dL in adults. This simple and accurate enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method is useful for diagnosing biotin deficiency. © 2016 The Authors. Pediatrics International published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Japan Pediatric Society.

A highly selective and sensitive Tb3+-acetylacetone photo probe for the assessment of acetazolamide in pharmaceutical and serum samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Youssef, A. O.

2018-04-01

A novel, simple, sensitive and selective spectrofluorimetric method was developed for the determination of Acetazolamide in pharmaceutical tablets and serum samples using photo probe Tb3+-ACAC. The Acetazolamide can remarkably quench the luminescence intensity of Tb3+-ACAC complex in DMSO at pH 6.8 and λex = 350 nm. The quenching of luminescence intensity of Tb3+-ACAC complex especially the electrical band at λem = 545 nm is used for the assessment of Acetazolamide in the pharmaceutical tablet and serum samples. The dynamic range found for the determination of Acetazolamide concentration is 4.49 × 10-9-1.28 × 10-7 mol L-1, and the limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) are (4.0 × 10-9 and 1.21 × 10-8) mol L-1, respectively.

Hematologic and serum biochemistry reference values in wild-caught white-footed tamarins (Saguinus leucopus) housed in captivity.

PubMed

Fox, Maureen; Brieva, Claudia; Moreno, Carlos; MacWilliams, Peter; Thomas, Chet

2008-12-01

The white-footed tamarin (Saguinus leucopus) is an endangered primate that lives in a small forest corridor in northern Colombia, South America. Hematologic and serum biochemistry reference values are important tools in evaluating the health of the white-footed tamarin and serve to promote the survival of this species. The purpose of this study was to establish diagnostically important hematologic and serum biochemistry reference values for healthy white-footed tamarins and to determine whether there was significant variation with respect to age class (juveniles, adults), gender, and housing facility. Blood samples were collected for hematologic and serum biochemistry measurements from 29 wild-caught captive tamarins during February and April 2005, housed at three different facilities in central Colombia. Hematology and serum biochemistry values were similar in adults and juveniles. Female white-footed tamarins had absolute reticulocyte counts that were lower than those of male tamarins and males had lower serum chloride concentrations than female tamarins. Mean values for hemoglobin, mean cell hemoglobin, serum total protein, albumin, glucose, and alkaline phosphatase varied among the three housing facilities. Twenty-two of the 29 tamarins sampled were microfilaria-positive and had significantly higher mean serum alkaline phosphatase concentrations. Among the 29 tamarins sampled in this study, serum values for mean alkaline phosphatase and creatine kinase concentrations were higher than reported values for other mammals. The reference intervals determined in this study were comparable to normal ranges reported for other members of the family Callitrichidae.

Serum PCB levels and congener profiles among teachers in PCB-containing schools: a pilot study

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background PCB contamination in the built environment may result from the release of PCBs from building materials. The significance of this contamination as a pathway of human exposure is not well-characterized, however. This research compared the serum PCB concentrations, and congener profiles between 18 teachers in PCB-containing schools and referent populations. Methods Blood samples from 18 teachers in PCB-containing schools were analyzed for 57 PCB congeners. Serum PCB concentrations and congener patterns were compared between the teachers, to the 2003-4 NHANES (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) data, and to data from 358 Greater Boston area men. Results Teachers at one school had higher levels of lighter (PCB 6-74) congeners compared to teachers from other schools. PCB congener 47 contributed substantially to these elevated levels. Older teachers (ages 50-64) from all schools had higher total (sum of 33 congeners) serum PCB concentrations than age-comparable NHANES reference values. Comparing the teachers to the referent population of men from the Greater Boston area (all under age 51), no difference in total serum PCB levels was observed between the referents and teachers up to 50 years age. However, the teachers had significantly elevated serum concentrations of lighter congeners (PCB 6-74). This difference was confirmed by comparing the congener-specific ratios between groups, and principal component analysis showed that the relative contribution of lighter congeners differed between the teachers and the referents. Conclusions These findings suggest that the teachers in the PCB-containing buildings had higher serum levels of lighter PCB congeners (PCB 6-74) than the referent populations. Examination of the patterns, as well as concentrations of individual PCB congeners in serum is essential to investigating the contributions from potential environmental sources of PCB exposure. PMID:21668970

[Serum folate levels in adolescent population in Madrid, Spain].

PubMed

Gil, Ruth; Esteban, Jesús; Hernández, Valentín; Cano, Beatriz; de Oya, Manuel; Gil, Angel

2008-10-25

Serum folate concentrations in children are essential to establish values which allow to compare different regions or countries, and raise the possibility of fortifying diet with group B vitamins and folic acid as a secondary prevention against cardiovascular diseases. A cross-sectional epidemiological study was performed to assess serum folate levels in school children, aged 13-15 years, in Madrid. Folate and vitamin B12 determinations were determined in blood samples of fasting children. Genotype C677T of methylentetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) enzyme was determined by polymerase chain reaction. Average folate levels obtained in our study were 7.83 nmol/l (95% confidence interval, 7.42 to 8.23 nmol/l). Median was 6.89 nmol/l (interquartilic range: 5.30 to -9.30 nmol/l). No statistically significant differences were found by gender, age or presence of menstruation. Serum folate concentration decreased significantly with the mutation of the C677T genotype for MTHFR. Prevalence of deficits of folate (< 5.3 nmol/l) was 23.8% and raised significantly with the mutation of the C677T genotype for MTHFR: 18.8% for CC, 20.4% for CT, and 46.7% for TT. This effect was mainly observed in girls after menstruation. Homozygosis mutation in C677T genotype of the enzyme MTHFR induces lower folate levels, mainly in girls after menstruation. 5.3 nmol/l is proposed as a threshold to define deficient serum folate levels in the Spanish adolescent population.

Maternal Serum Resistin Is Reduced in First Trimester Preeclampsia Pregnancies and Is a Marker of Clinical Severity.

PubMed

Christiansen, Michael; Hedley, Paula L; Placing, Sophie; Wøjdemann, Karen R; Carlsen, Anting L; Jørgensen, Jennifer M; Gjerris, Anne-Cathrine; Shalmi, Anne-Cathrine; Rode, Line; Sundberg, Karin; Tabor, Ann

2015-11-01

To examine whether resistin levels in first trimester maternal serum are associated with insulin resistance or preeclampsia (PE). A case-control study of maternal serum resistin concentration conducted using 285 normal pregnancies and 123 PE pregnancies matched for gestational age, parity and maternal age. Samples were taken in gestational weeks 10 +0 -13 +6 . There was a negative correlation between resistin and clinical severity of PE, but no correlation with IS, TNF-α, body mass index, birth weight and pregnancy length. Resistin is reduced in first trimester of PE pregnancies, particularly in severe PE. Inflammation and IS cannot explain this phenomenon.

Soluble immune receptor serum levels are associated with age, but not with clinical phenotype or disease severity in childhood atopic dermatitis.

PubMed

Ott, H; Wilke, J; Baron, J M; Höger, P H; Fölster-Holst, R

2010-04-01

Soluble immune receptors (SIRs) have been proposed as biomarkers in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD). However, their clinical applicability in affected children has rarely been studied. To assess the diagnostic usefulness of serum SIRs in childhood AD by correlating the obtained receptor profiles with serological parameters and clinical features such as age, AD phenotype and disease severity. We investigated 100 children with AD. The sCD14, sCD23, sCD25, sCD30, total IgE (tIgE) and eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP) were determined using sera of all children. The clinical phenotype was classified as extrinsic AD (ADe) or intrinsic AD (ADi) by the presence of allergen-specific IgE antibodies. A total of 55 male and 45 female children were recruited. The sCD23, sCD25 and sCD30 serum levels revealed significant age-dependency. At a mean SCORAD of 40 (range 8-98), none of the evaluated SIRs was correlated to disease severity. In all, 73% of patients suffered from ADe while 27% showed the ADi phenotype. None of the analysed SIRs differed significantly between ADe and ADi patients, while tIgE and ECP levels were elevated in the ADe subgroup. The current study provides evidence that sCD23, sCD25 and sCD30 serum levels are highly age-dependent. Serum concentrations of all investigated SIRs did not significantly correlate with disease severity in children with AD and were not differentially expressed in patients of different AD phenotypes. Therefore, we believe that the studied SIRs cannot be regarded as clinically useful biomarkers for the assessment of childhood AD.

Association of lifestyle with serum lipid levels: a study of middle-aged Japanese men.

PubMed

Nakanishi, N; Tatara, K; Nakamura, K; Suzuki, K

2000-07-01

Cross-sectional associations between lifestyle and serum lipid levels were examined in 1591 Japanese male office workers aged 35 to 59 years in Osaka, Japan. From multiple linear regression analyses, significant correlates with low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and Log triglyceride levels and the ratio of LDL cholesterol to HDL cholesterol were, in the order of relative importance: BMI, alcohol intake (negative) and age for LDL cholesterol level; BMI (negative), cigarette smoking (negative), alcohol intake, consideration for nutritional balance, hours of brisk walking, hours of walking at an ordinary pace and physical exercise for HDL cholesterol level; BMI, cigarette smoking, consideration for nutritional balance (negative), hours of work (negative), alcohol intake and coffee drinking (negative) for Log triglyceride level; and BMI, alcohol intake (negative), cigarette smoking, consideration for nutritional balance (negative), age, hours of brisk walking (negative) and the frequency of snack intake between meals for the ratio of LDL cholesterol to HDL cholesterol. Our data suggest that obesity, cigarette smoking and snack intake between meals are atherogenic whereas alcohol consumption, consideration for nutritional balance and walking long hours, especially at a brisk pace, are anti-atherogenic in middle-aged Japanese men.

Serum Concentrations of Polyfluoroalkyl Compounds in Faroese Whale Meat Consumers

PubMed Central

Weihe, Pal; Kato, Kayoko; Calafat, Antonia M.; Nielsen, Flemming; Wanigatunga, Amal A.; Needham, Larry L.; Grandjean, Philippe

2008-01-01

To learn the extent of human exposure to polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFCs) in a remote fishing population, we measured, in Faroese children and pregnant women, the serum concentrations of nine PFCs, including perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoate (PFOA), and perfluorononanoate (PFNA), by using on-line solid-phase extraction coupled to isotope dilution high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The serum samples analyzed had been collected between 1993 and 2005 from 103 children 7 years of age, 79 of these children at 14 years of age, and from 12 pregnant women and their children 5 years later. PFOS was detected in all samples analyzed, and both PFOA and PFNA in all but one of the samples. The concentrations found are comparable to those reported elsewhere. Correlations between paired concentrations were poor. However, PFOS and PFNA concentrations correlated well with the frequency of pilot whale dinners and with concentrations of mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls. One whale meal every two weeks increased the PFOS concentration in 14-year olds by about 25% and PFNA by 50%. The high frequency of detection of most PFCs suggests widespread exposure in the Faroe Islands already by the early 1990s, with whale meat being an important source. Synopsis: Pilot whale meat may have been an important source of dietary exposure to PFOS and PFNA among Faroe Islands residents since the 1990s PMID:18767701

p16 promoter hypermethylation: A useful serum marker for early detection of gastric cancer

PubMed Central

Abbaszadegan, Mohammad Reza; Moaven, Omeed; Sima, Hamid Reza; Ghafarzadegan, Kamran; A'rabi, Azadeh; Forghani, Mohammad Naser; Raziee, Hamid Reza; Mashhadinejad, Ali; Jafarzadeh, Mostafa; Esmaili-Shandiz, Ehsan; Dadkhah, Ezzat

2008-01-01

AIM: To determine p16 promoter hypermethylation in gastric tumoral tissue and serum samples, its impact on p16-protein expression, and correlation with clinical and histological features. METHODS: Samples were obtained from 52 histologically confirmed cases of gastric adenocarcinoma. Gastric tissue and serum of 50 age- and sex-matched individuals with normal gastroscopy and biopsy were obtained as control samples. Methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP) was used to evaluate methylation status of p16 promoter. p16-protein expression was analyzed by immunohistochemical staining on paraffin-embedded sections. RESULTS: Methylation was detected in 44.2% (23/52) of tumoral tissues. 60.9% of them were also methylated in serum, i.e., 26.9% of all patients (14/52). Methylation was not detected in tissue and sera of control samples. p16-protein expression was decreased in 61.5% of cases (32/52), and was significantly associated with promoter hypermethylation (P < 0.001). Methylation was significantly more frequent in higher pathological grades (P < 0.05). Methylation was not associated with other clinicopathological features and environmental factors including H pylori infection and smoking. CONCLUSION: p16 promoter hypermethylation is an important event in gastric carcinogenesis. It is the principle mechanism of p16 gene silencing. It is related to malignant tumor behavior. Detection of DNA methylation in serum may be a biomarker for early detection of gastric cancer. PMID:18395906

Predictors of Serum Dioxin, Furan and PCB Concentrations among Women from Chapaevsk, Russia

PubMed Central

Humblet, Olivier; Williams, Paige L.; Korrick, Susan A.; Sergeyev, Oleg; Emond, Claude; Birnbaum, Linda S.; Burns, Jane S.; Altshul, Larisa; Patterson, Donald G.; Turner, Wayman E.; Lee, Mary M.; Revich, Boris; Hauser, Russ

2011-01-01

INTRODUCTION Dioxins, furans and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are persistent and bioaccumulative toxic chemicals that are ubiquitous in the environment. We assessed predictors of their serum concentrations among women living in a Russian town contaminated by past industrial activity. METHODS Blood samples from 446 mothers aged 23–52 years were collected between 2003–2005 as part of the Russian Children’s Study. Serum dioxin, furan and PCB concentrations were quantified using high-resolution gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Potential determinants of exposure were collected through interviews. Multivariate linear regression models were used to identify predictors of serum concentrations and toxic equivalencies (TEQs). RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The median total PCB concentrations and total TEQs were 260 ng/g lipid and 25 pg TEQ/g lipid, respectively. In multivariate analyses, both total PCB concentrations and total TEQs increased significantly with age, residential proximity to a local chemical plant, duration of local farming, and consumption of local beef. Both decreased with longer breastfeeding, recent increases in body mass index, and later blood draw date. These demographic and lifestyle predictors showed generally similar associations with the various measures of serum dioxins, furans, and PCBs. PMID:20578718

Age-related changes in the craniofacial region in a modern Greek population sample of known age and sex.

PubMed

Chovalopoulou, Maria-Eleni; Bertsatos, Andreas; Papageorgopoulou, Christina

2017-07-01

The aim of this paper is to investigate ageing changes in craniofacial region in both sexes and evaluate whether these shape changes are substantial to achieve age discrimination of samples used in anthropological analyses. The study sample consisted of 157 crania of known sex and age (81 males and 76 females) belonging to individuals who lived in Greece during the twentieth century. The sample was divided in three age groups: young adults (YA, 18-39 years old), middle adults (MA, 40-59 years old) and old adults (OA, >60 years old). The three-dimensional coordinates of 31 ecto-cranial landmarks were digitized using a Microscribe 3DX contact digitizer, and landmark configurations were analyzed using the generalized least-squares Procrustes method. The results indicate that both males and females show significant difference among the age groups; however, shape differences can not be used for age group discrimination due to a large range on the accuracy of age group classification. The morphometric changes related to age were different between sexes.

Serum α-fetoprotein concentration in extremely low-birthweight infants.

PubMed

Maruyama, Kenichi

2017-02-01

Extremely low-birthweight infants (ELBWI) are at greater risk of developing hepatoblastoma than are normal-weight infants. Serum α-fetoprotein (AFP) plays an important role as a tumor marker in the diagnosis of hepatoblastoma, therefore the aim of this study was to determine the changes in serum AFP concentration after birth in ELBWI. Data were obtained for infants born between January 2005 and March 2008 with birthweight <1000 g who were followed up at Gunma Children's Medical Center with clinical examinations, including monitoring of the development of hepatoblastoma. The relationship between serum AFP concentration and age was analyzed up to 730 days after birth. Overall, 95 serum AFP measurements were obtained from 23 infants 30-730 days of age, with gestational age 24-32 weeks, and birthweight 498-982 g. Log 10 (AFP [ng/mL]) was significantly correlated with log 10 (age [days]) (r = -0.961, P = 0.000, n = 95), with the following regression formula: log 10 (AFP [ng/mL]) = 11.063 - 3.752 log 10 (age [days]) (adjusted R 2  = 0.923, n = 95). The standard error of the estimate, mean log 10 (age [days]), and the sum of squares for log 10 (age [days]) were 0.363, 2.503, and 10.579, respectively. A correlation was found between serum AFP concentration and age in ELBWI, and the 95%CI of serum AFP concentration was determined for ELBWI up to 2 years after birth. © 2016 Japan Pediatric Society.

The interaction of serum testosterone levels and androgen receptor CAG repeat polymorphism on the risk of erectile dysfunction in aging Taiwanese men.

PubMed

Liu, C C; Lee, Y C; Tsai, V F S; Cheng, K H; Wu, W J; Bao, B Y; Huang, C N; Yeh, H C; Tsai, C C; Wang, C J; Huang, S P

2015-09-01

Testosterone has been found to play important roles in men's sexual function. However, the effects of testosterone can be modulated by androgen receptor (AR) CAG repeat polymorphism. It could also contribute to the risk of erectile dysfunction (ED). The aim of this study is to evaluate the interaction of serum testosterone levels and AR CAG repeat polymorphism on the risk of ED in aging Taiwanese men. This cross-sectional data of Taiwanese men older than 40 years were collected from a free health screening held between August 2010 and August 2011 in Kaohsiung city, Taiwan. All participants completed a health questionnaires included five-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and the International Prostate Symptoms Score, received a detailed physical examination and provided 20 cm3 whole blood samples for biochemical and genetic evaluation. The IIEF-5 was used to evaluate ED. Serum albumin, total testosterone (TT), and sex hormone-binding globulin levels were measured. Free testosterone level was calculated. AR gene CAG repeat polymorphism was determined by direct sequencing. Finally, 478 men with the mean age of 55.7 ± 4.8 years were included. When TT levels were above 330 ng/dL, the effect of testosterone level on erectile function seemed to reach a plateau and a significantly negative correlation between AR CAG repeat length and the score of IIEF-5 was found (r = -0.119, p = 0.034). After adjusting for other covariates, the longer AR CAG repeat length was still an independent risk factor for ED in subjects with TT above 330 ng/dL (p = 0.006), but not in TT of 330 ng/dL or below. In conclusion, both serum testosterone levels and AR CAG repeat polymorphism can influence erectile function concomitantly. In subjects with normal TT concentration, those with longer AR CAG repeat lengths have a higher risk of developing ED. © 2015 American Society of Andrology and European Academy of Andrology.

Increased Serum Al Levels in Hemodialysis Patients Kept Enhanced during a 2-Year Prospective Study.

PubMed

Reina de la Torre, Maria L; Lopez García de la Serrana, Herminia; Martí Del Moral, Loreto; Palomares Bayo, Magdalena; Navarro-Alarcón, Miguel

2017-07-01

The regulation of mineral homeostasis is altered in hemodialysis patients with renal insufficiency, producing increased risk for secondary diseases like cardiovascular ones. We hypothesized that risen serum aluminum (Al) concentration in hemodialysis patients kept enhanced during a 2-year longitudinal study is associated with enhanced cardiovascular risk and influenced by medical treatments. This study reports the prospective monitoring of serum Al levels in six-monthly samplings over 2 years in 116 hemodialysis patients and a control group of 50 healthy adults. The influence of other factors like sex, age, kidney transplant, disease etiology, and drug consumption was also considered. At each sampling, serum Al levels were significantly higher in the patients than in the healthy controls (P < 0.05). Levels in the patient group were statistically significantly lower at the third and fourth versus first and second samplings, which may be related to Al accumulation in tissues. Increased Al levels in patients were positively and significantly related to serum calcium (Ca) and uric acid levels. Serum Al concentrations were significantly lower in patients receiving vasodilators and diuretics. Higher serum Al levels in hemodialyzed patients administered with phosphate binders or anti-hyperkalemics are attributable to their usual Al salt content. The consumption of antianemic drugs increases Al absorption by forming more bioavailable complexes with the compounds in these drugs. In conclusion, this is the first study to indicate that cardiovascular problems associated with elevated serum Al levels in hemodialysis patients may be in part mitigated by administrating vasodilators and diuretics, which reduce these levels.

Serum metal levels after minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum.

PubMed

Cundy, Thomas P; Kirby, Christopher P

2012-08-01

Metal implants may wear and corrode, resulting in systemic dissemination of metallic debris that is measurable in serum. Concern exists regarding adverse health effects related to implant-derived debris. Minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum (MIRPE) is a popular technique in which a stainless steel substernal bar is implanted to achieve deformity correction. Serum metal levels have not previously been investigated after MIRPE. Serum chromium, molybdenum, and nickel levels were measured in this cross-sectional study of 11 children implanted with pectus bars after MIRPE. Samples were analyzed using high-resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Median serum chromium and nickel values were elevated 3.3-fold (P = .0003) and 2.3-fold (P = .25), respectively, compared with age-matched controls. Serum chromium and nickel levels were abnormally elevated in 6 (55%) of 11 and 5 (45%) of 11, respectively. In patients whom postexplantation metal levels were measured, previously elevated levels were lowered. Serum chromium levels in children after MIRPE are comparable with adult cohorts with hip arthroplasty implants measured 1-year postoperatively. No acute metal toxicity was observed. Abnormally elevated levels of serum metal levels are measurable in children implanted with pectus bars. These findings warrant further investigation to assess the biocompatibility of this surgical implant in children. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Association between Nitrogen Stable Isotope Ratios in Human Hair and Serum Levels of Leptin.

PubMed

Ahn, Song Vogue; Koh, Sang-Baek; Lee, Kwang-Sik; Bong, Yeon-Sik; Park, Jong-Ku

2017-10-01

Stable isotope ratios have been reported to be potential biomarkers of dietary intake and nutritional status. High serum levels of leptin, a hormone which regulates energy metabolism and food intake, are associated with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. However, little is known about the association between stable isotope ratios and the metabolic risk in humans. We investigated whether the carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios in hair are associated with serum leptin levels. Hair samples were collected from 399 healthy adults (233 men and 166 women) aged 40 to 70 years of a community-based cohort in Korea and the bulk stable isotope ratios of carbon (δ 13 C) and nitrogen (δ 15 N) were measured for all hair samples. Serum leptin levels were analyzed by radioimmunoassay. δ 15 N showed positive correlations with serum leptin levels. In multivariate models, increasing δ 15 N were associated with elevated serum leptin levels (defined as ≥ the median values), whereas δ 13 C were not significantly associated with serum leptin levels. The odds ratio (95% confidence interval) per 1‰ increase in δ 15 N for an elevated serum leptin level was 1.58 (1.11-2.26). In participants with high body mass index, δ 15 N showed positive associations with serum leptin levels, whereas these associations were not seen in participants with low body mass index. The nitrogen stable isotopic ratio in hair is positively associated with serum leptin levels. The hair δ 15 N could be used as a clinical marker to estimate metabolic risk.

Serum high-density lipoprotein is associated with better cognitive function in a cross-sectional study of aging women.

PubMed

Bates, Kristyn A; Sohrabi, Hamid R; Rainey-Smith, Stephanie R; Weinborn, Michael; Bucks, Romola S; Rodrigues, Mark; Beilby, John; Howard, Matthew; Taddei, Kevin; Martins, Georgia; Paton, Athena; Shah, Tejal; Dhaliwal, Satvinder S; Foster, Jonathan K; Martins, Ian J; Lautenschlager, Nicola T; Mastaglia, Frank L; Gandy, Samuel E; Martins, Ralph N

2017-03-01

Purpose/Aim of the study: Poor cardiovascular health, including obesity and altered lipid profiles at mid-life, are linked to increased risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The biological mechanisms linking cardiovascular health and cognitive function are unclear though are likely to be multifactorial. This study examined the association between various lipoproteins and cognitive functioning in ageing women. We investigated the relationship between readily available biomarkers (i.e. serum lipoprotein) and cognitive decline in domains associated with increased risk of AD (e.g. episodic verbal memory performance and subjective memory complaint). We report cross-sectional data investigating the relationship between serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein with verbal memory and learning ability in 130 women with and without memory complaints (n = 71 and 59, respectively) drawn from a study investigating cognitively healthy Western Australians (average age 62.5 years old). After statistical modelling that controlled for the effects of age, depression and apolipoprotein E genotype, HDL-C was significantly associated with better verbal learning and memory performance, specifically short and long delay-free recalls (F = 3.062; p < .05 and F = 3.2670; p < .05, respectively). Our cross-sectional findings suggest that the positive effect of HDL-C on verbal memory may be present much earlier than previously reported and provide further support for the role of HDL-C in healthy brain ageing. Further exploration of the protective effect of HDL-C on cognitive function in ageing is warranted through follow-up, longitudinal studies.

Serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha concentrations are negatively correlated with serum 25(OH)D concentrations in healthy women

PubMed Central

Peterson, Catherine A; Heffernan, Mary E

2008-01-01

Background Circulating 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25 (OH)D), an accurate measure of vitamin D status, is markedly greater in individuals with increased exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) light via sunlight or the use of artificial UV light. Aside from the known relationship between vitamin D and bone, vitamin D has also been implicated in immune function and inflammation. Furthermore, a mass of evidence is accumulating that vitamin D deficiency could lead to immune malfunction. Our overall objective was to study the relationship between vitamin D status (as determined by serum 25(OH) D concentrations) and inflammatory markers in healthy women. Methods This observational study included 69 healthy women, age 25–82 years. Women with high UVB exposure and women with minimal UVB exposure were specifically recruited to obtain a wide-range of serum 25(OH)D concentrations. Health, sun exposure and habitual dietary intake information were obtained from all subjects. Body composition was determined by dual-energy-x-ray absorptiometry. A fasting blood sample was collected in the morning and analyzed for serum 25(OH)D, parathyroid hormone (iPTH), estradiol (E2), cortisol, and inflammatory markers [tumor necrosis factor -alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 and -10 (IL-6, IL-10), and C-reactive protein (CRP)]. Results Women with regular UVB exposure (Hi-D) had serum 25(OH)D concentrations that were significantly higher (p < 0.0001) and iPTH concentrations that were significantly lower (p < 0.0001) than women without regular UVB exposure (Lo-D). Although IL-6, IL-10, and CRP did not have a statistically significant relationship with 25(OH)D concentrations, linear regression models revealed a significant inverse relationship between serum 25(OH)D and TNF-α concentrations. This relationship remained significant after controlling for potential covariates such as body fat mass, menopausal status, age, or hormonal contraceptive use. Conclusion Serum 25(OH)D status is inversely related to TNF

Can urine dipstick predict an elevated serum creatinine?

PubMed

Shah, Kaushal; Kilian, Barbara; Hsieh, Wei-Jen; Kyrillou, Emily; Hedge, Vishal; Newman, David H

2010-06-01

Chart review studies have suggested that point-of-care urine dipstick testing may accurately predict an elevation in serum creatinine (Cr). We aimed to prospectively evaluate the test characteristics of proteinuria/hematuria in predicting elevated serum Cr. A prospective, observational study was conducted between March 2007 and June 2008 at 2 affiliated, urban hospitals with an annual emergency department census of 150,000. Patients undergoing laboratory urinalysis, point-of-care urine dipstick, and a serum chemistry panel were enrolled. Trained research assistants collected data on consecutive patients 18 hours per day using preformatted data forms and entry into an anonymized Access (Microsoft, Seattle, Wash) database. Demographic baseline variables including age, sex, chief complaint, vital signs, and source of sample (catheter vs "clean catch") were also collected. An elevated Cr level was defined as greater than 1.3 based on the laboratory reference range. Standard statistical methods were used to calculate diagnostic test operating characteristics of proteinuria or hematuria as a predictor of elevated serum Cr. Five thousand four hundred sixteen subjects were enrolled with 28.3% male and a mean age of 50.2 years. Elevated serum Cr greater than 1.3 mg/dL was found in 13.9% (755/5416) of subjects. The sensitivity of either proteinuria or hematuria for elevated Cr was 82.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 80%-85%) and specificity was 34.4% (95% CI, 33%-36%). Positive predictive value was 16.9% (95% CI, 16%-18%) and negative predictive value was 92.4% (95% CI, 91-94%). The likelihood ratio for a positive test was 1.3 (95% CI, 1.1-1.5), and the likelihood ratio for a negative test was 0.5 (95% CI, 0.3-0.8). Although negative predictive value was high, the presence of proteinuria/hematuria was only moderately predictive of elevated serum Cr level. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Serum protein electrophoretic pattern in one-humped camels (Camelus dromedarius) in Tripoli, Libya.

PubMed

Abdoslam, Omran; Bayt-Almal, Mahmoud; Almghrbe, Abdullah; Algriany, Omran

2018-01-01

The aim of this study was to characterize serum protein capillary electrophoretic pattern in apparently healthy adult male (age: 3-7 years) dromedary camels and also evaluate total protein and albumin levels using automated analyzer. Blood samples were taken from 20 camels. 5ml of blood was collected from the jugular vein and serum was separated from samples by centrifugation. Capillary electrophoresis of serum proteins identified six protein fractions in adult camels, including albumin, alpha1, alpha2, beta1, beta2 and gamma globulins, serum levels of these parameters were 3.9±0.04 g/dl, 0.16±0.01 g/dl, 0.39±0.03 g/dl, 0.515±0.03 g/dl, 0.205±0.01 g/dl and 0.61±0.04 g/dl, and 65.42±0.62 g/l, respectively. The total protein concentration was 65.42±0.62 g/L, while, the albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio was 2.4±0.14. The present study indicates six peaks with minicapillary electrophoresis and the results obtained were compared and interpreted in the light of finding reported by other investigators in camels.

Higher serum cholesterol is associated with intensified age-related neural network decoupling and cognitive decline in early- to mid-life.

PubMed

Spielberg, Jeffrey M; Sadeh, Naomi; Leritz, Elizabeth C; McGlinchey, Regina E; Milberg, William P; Hayes, Jasmeet P; Salat, David H

2017-06-01

Mounting evidence indicates that serum cholesterol and other risk factors for cardiovascular disease intensify normative trajectories of age-related cognitive decline. However, the neural mechanisms by which this occurs remain largely unknown. To understand the impact of cholesterol on brain networks, we applied graph theory to resting-state fMRI in a large sample of early- to mid-life Veterans (N = 206, Mean age  = 32). A network emerged (centered on the banks of the superior temporal sulcus) that evidenced age-related decoupling (i.e., decreased network connectivity with age), but only in participants with clinically-elevated total cholesterol (≥180 mg/dL). Crucially, decoupling in this network corresponded to greater day-to-day disability and mediated age-related declines in psychomotor speed. Finally, examination of network organization revealed a pattern of age-related dedifferentiation for the banks of the superior temporal sulcus, again present only with higher cholesterol. More specifically, age was related to decreasing within-module communication (indexed by Within-Module Degree Z-Score) and increasing between-module communication (indexed by Participation Coefficient), but only in participants with clinically-elevated cholesterol. Follow-up analyses indicated that all findings were driven by low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, rather than high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or triglycerides, which is interesting as LDL levels have been linked to increased risk for cardiovascular disease, whereas HDL levels appear inversely related to such disease. These findings provide novel insight into the deleterious effects of cholesterol on brain health and suggest that cholesterol accelerates the impact of age on neural trajectories by disrupting connectivity in circuits implicated in integrative processes and behavioral control. Hum Brain Mapp 38:3249-3261, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Perfluoroalkyl Acids (PFAAs) in Serum from 2-4-Month-Old Infants: Influence of Maternal Serum Concentration, Gestational Age, Breast-Feeding, and Contaminated Drinking Water.

PubMed

Gyllenhammar, Irina; Benskin, Jonathan P; Sandblom, Oskar; Berger, Urs; Ahrens, Lutz; Lignell, Sanna; Wiberg, Karin; Glynn, Anders

2018-06-19

Little is known about factors influencing infant perfluorinated alkyl acid (PFAA) concentrations. Associations between serum PFAA concentrations in 2-4-month-old infants ( n = 101) and determinants were investigated by multiple linear regression and general linear model analysis. In exclusively breast-fed infants, maternal serum PFAA concentrations 3 weeks after delivery explained 13% (perfluoroundecanoic acid, PFUnDA) to 73% (perfluorohexanesulfonate, PFHxS) of infant PFAA concentration variation. Median infant/maternal ratios decreased with increasing PFAA carbon chain length from 2.8 for perfluoroheptanoic acid and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) to 0.53 for PFUnDA and from 1.2 to 0.69 for PFHxS and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS). Infant PFOA, perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), and PFOS levels increased 0.7-1.2% per day of gestational age. Bottle-fed infants had mean concentrations of PFAAs 2 times lower than and a mean percentage of branched (%br) PFOS isomers 1.3 times higher than those of exclusively breast-fed infants. PFOA, PFNA, and PFHxS levels increased 8-11% per week of exclusive breast-feeding. Infants living in an area receiving PFAA-contaminated drinking water had 3-fold higher mean perfluorobutanesulfonate (PFBS) and PFHxS concentrations and higher mean %br PFHxS. Prenatal PFAA exposure and postnatal PFAA exposure significantly contribute to infant PFAA serum concentrations, depending on PFAA carbon chain length. Moderately PFBS- and PFHxS-contaminated drinking water is an important indirect exposure source.

Effects of allergic diseases and age on the composition of serum IgG glycome in children

PubMed Central

Pezer, Marija; Stambuk, Jerko; Perica, Marija; Razdorov, Genadij; Banic, Ivana; Vuckovic, Frano; Gospic, Adrijana Miletic; Ugrina, Ivo; Vecenaj, Ana; Bakovic, Maja Pucic; Lokas, Sandra Bulat; Zivkovic, Jelena; Plavec, Davor; Devereux, Graham; Turkalj, Mirjana; Lauc, Gordan

2016-01-01

It is speculated that immunoglobulin G (IgG) plays a regulatory role in allergic reactions. The glycans on the Fc region are known to affect IgG effector functions, thereby possibly having a role in IgG modulation of allergic response. This is the first study investigating patients’ IgG glycosylation profile in allergic diseases. Subclass specific IgG glycosylation profile was analyzed in two cohorts of allergen sensitized and non-sensitized 3- to 11-year-old children (conducted at University of Aberdeen, UK and Children’s Hospital Srebrnjak, Zagreb, Croatia) with 893 subjects in total. IgG was isolated from serum/plasma by affinity chromatography on Protein G. IgG tryptic glycopeptides were analyzed by liquid chromatography electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. In the Zagreb cohort IgG glycome composition changed with age across all IgG subclasses. In both cohorts, IgG glycome composition did not differ in allergen sensitized subjects, nor children sensitized to individual allergens, single allergen mean wheal diameter or positive wheal sum values. In the Zagreb study the results were also replicated for high total serum IgE and in children with self-reported manifest allergic disease. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate no association between serum IgG glycome composition and allergic diseases in children. PMID:27616597

Serum bicarbonate concentrations and kidney disease progression in community-living elders: the Health, Aging, and Body Composition (Health ABC) Study.

PubMed

Goldenstein, Leonard; Driver, Todd H; Fried, Linda F; Rifkin, Dena E; Patel, Kushang V; Yenchek, Robert H; Harris, Tamara B; Kritchevsky, Stephen B; Newman, Anne B; Sarnak, Mark J; Shlipak, Michael G; Ix, Joachim H

2014-10-01

In populations with prevalent chronic kidney disease (CKD), lower serum bicarbonate levels are associated with more rapid CKD progression, but whether lower bicarbonate levels also are associated with risk of incident estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73 m(2) and CKD progression among community-living persons with predominantly preserved kidney function is unknown. Longitudinal observational cohort study. Well-functioning community-living elders aged 70-79 years at inception. Serum bicarbonate level measured at the time of collection by arterialized venous blood sample using an arterial blood gas analyzer. Change in eGFR over 7 years, and new eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m(2) with a rate of loss of at least 1 mL/min/1.73 m(2) per year. Linear and logistic regressions were used to evaluate associations of baseline serum bicarbonate level with change in eGFR and incident eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m(2). At baseline, mean eGFR was 84 ± 16 (SD)mL/min/1.73 m(2), and serum bicarbonate level was 25.2 ± 1.9 mmol/L. Compared with participants with higher bicarbonate concentrations (23.0-28.0 mmol/L), those with bicarbonate concentrations < 23 mmol/L (n = 85 [8%]) lost eGFR0.55 (95% CI, 0.13-0.97) mL/min/1.73 m(2) per year faster in models adjusted for demographics, CKD risk factors, baseline eGFR, and urine albumin-creatinine ratio. Among the 989 (92%) participants with baseline eGFRs > 60 mL/min/1.73 m(2), 252 (25%) developed incident eGFRs < 60 mL/min/1.73 m(2) at follow-up. Adjusting for the same covariates, participants with bicarbonate concentrations < 23 mmol/L had nearly 2-fold greater odds of incident eGFRs < 60 mL/min/1.73 m(2) (OR, 1.72; 95% CI, 0.97-3.07) compared with those with higher bicarbonate concentrations. Only 2 measurements of kidney function separated by 7 years and loss to follow-up due to intervening mortality in this elderly population. Lower serum bicarbonate concentrations are associated independently with decline in eGFR and

Serum Bicarbonate Concentrations and Kidney Disease Progression in Community-Living Elders: The Health, Aging, and Body Composition (Health ABC) Study

PubMed Central

Goldenstein, Leonard; Driver, Todd H.; Fried, Linda; Rifkin, Dena E.; Patel, Kushang V.; Yenchek, Robert H.; Harris, Tamara B.; Kritchevsky, Stephen B.; Newman, Anne B.; Sarnak, Mark J.; Shlipak, Michael G.; Ix, Joachim H.

2014-01-01

Background In populations with prevalent chronic kidney disease (CKD), lower serum bicarbonate is associated with more rapid CKD progression, but whether lower bicarbonate is also associated with risk of incident estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73m2 and progression among community-living persons with predominantly preserved kidney function is unknown. Study Design Longitudinal observational cohort study. Setting & Participants Well functioning community living elders aged 70–79 years at inception. Predictor Serum bicarbonate measured at the time of collection by arterialized venous blood sample using an arterial blood gas analyzer. Outcomes Change in eGFR, and new eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73m2 and loss of ≥1 ml/min/1.73m2 per year at follow-up. Measurements Linear and logistic regressions were used to evaluate associations of baseline serum bicarbonate with change in eGFR and incident eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73m2. Results At baseline, mean eGFR was 84±16 (SD) mL/min/1.73m2, and serum bicarbonate was 25.2±1.9 mmol/L. Compared to participants with higher bicarbonate concentrations (23.0–28.0 mmol/L), those with bicarbonate concentrations < 23 mmol/L (n=85 [8%]) lost eGFR 0.55 (95%CI, 0.13–0.97) mL/min/1.73m2 per year faster in models adjusted for demographics, CKD risk factors, baseline eGFR, and urine albumin-creatinine ratio. Among the 989 (92%) participants with baseline eGFR>60 mL/min/1.73m2, 252 (25%) developed incident eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73m2 at follow-up. Adjusting for the same covariates, participants with bicarbonate concentrations < 23 mmol/L had nearly 2-fold greater odds of incident eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73m2 (OR, 1.72; 95% CI, 0.97–3.07) compared to those with higher bicarbonate concentrations. Limitations Only two measurements of kidney function separated by seven years and loss to follow up due to intervening mortality in this elderly population. Conclusions Lower serum bicarbonate concentrations are independently associated with

Serum fibroblast growth factor 23, serum iron and bone mineral density in premenopausal women

PubMed Central

Imel, Erik A.; Liu, Ziyue; McQueen, Amie K.; Acton, Dena; Acton, Anthony; Padgett, Leah R.; Peacock, Munro; Econs, Michael J.

2016-01-01

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) circulates as active protein and inactive fragments. Low iron status increases FGF23 gene expression, and iron deficiency is common. We hypothesized that in healthy premenopausal women, serum iron influences C-terminal and intact FGF23 concentrations, and that iron and FGF23 associate with bone mineral density (BMD). Serum iron, iron binding capacity, percent iron saturation, phosphorus, and other biochemistries were measured in stored fasting samples from healthy premenopausal white (n=1898) and black women (n= 994), age 20–55 years. Serum C-terminal and intact FGF23 were measured in a subset (1631 white and 296 black women). BMD was measured at the lumbar spine and femur neck. Serum phosphorus, calcium, alkaline phosphatase and creatinine were lower in white women than black women (p<0.001). Serum iron (p<0.0001) and intact FGF23 (p< 0.01) were higher in white women. C-terminal FGF23 did not differ between races. Phosphorus correlated with intact FGF23 (white women, r=0.120, p<0.0001; black women r=0.163, p<0.01). However, phosphorus correlated with C-terminal FGF23 only in black women (r=0.157, p<0.01). Intact FGF23 did not correlate with iron. C-terminal FGF23 correlated inversely with iron (white women r=−0.134, p<0.0001; black women r=−0.188, p<0.01), having a steeper slope at iron <50 mcg/dl than >50 mcg/dl. Longitudinal changes in iron predicted changes in C-terminal FGF23. Spine BMD correlated with iron negatively (r=−0.076, p<0.01) in white women; femur neck BMD correlated with iron negatively (r=−0.119, p<0.0001) in black women. Both relationships were eliminated in weight-adjusted models. BMD did not correlate with FGF23. Serum iron did not relate to intact FGF23, but was inversely related to C-terminal FGF23. Intact FGF23 correlated with serum phosphorus. In weight-adjusted models, BMD was not related to intact FGF23, C-terminal FGF23 or iron. The influence of iron on FGF23 gene expression is not important

A novel colorimetric method based on copper nanoclusters with intrinsic peroxidase-like for detecting xanthine in serum samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Zhengyu; Niu, Qianqian; Mou, Mingyao; Wu, Yi; Liu, Xiaoxuan; Liao, Shenghua

2017-07-01

A facile strategy for detecting xanthine in serum samples by copper nanocluster (CuNCs) with high intrinsic peroxidase-like activity was reported. Firstly, a simple, mild and time-saving method for preparing CuNCs was developed, in which dithiothreitol (DTT) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) were used as reductant and stabilizer, respectively. The as-prepared CuNCs exhibited a fluorescence emission at 590 nm with a quantum yield (QY) of approximately 5.29%, the fluorescence intensity of the as-prepared CuNCs exhibited no considerable change when stored under ambient condition with the lifetime is 1.75 μs. Moreover, the as-prepared CuNCs exhibited high intrinsic peroxidase-like activity with lower K m ( K m = 8.90 × 10-6 mol L-1) for H2O2, which indicated that CuNCs have a higher affinity for H2O2. Compared with natural enzyme, the as-synthesized CuNCs are more catalytic stable over a wide range of pH (4.0 13.0) and temperature (4 80 °C). Finally, an indirect method for sensing xanthine was established because xanthine oxidase can catalyse the oxidation of xanthine to produce H2O2. Xanthine could be detected as low as 3.8 × 10-7 mol L-1 with a linear range from 5.0 × 10-7 to 1.0 × 10-4 mol L-1. These results proved that the proposed method is sensitive and accurate and could be successfully applied to the determination of xanthine in the serum sample with satisfaction.

Effects of Ramadan fasting on serum immunoglobulin G and M, and salivary immunoglobulin A concentrations.

PubMed

Develioglu, Omer Necati; Kucur, Mine; Ipek, Havva Duru; Celebi, Saban; Can, Gunay; Kulekci, Mehmet

2013-04-01

To investigate the effects of Ramadan fasting on serum concentrations of immunoglobulin (Ig)G and IgM, and salivary IgA concentrations. Blood and saliva samples were collected one week before and during the last week of Ramadan from healthy male volunteers. Albumin, total lymphocyte count, electrolytes, and IgG and IgM concentrations were determined in serum; salivary IgA concentrations were measured. Anthropometric measurements were also recorded. Samples were collected from 35 subjects (mean age 35.86 years, range 20-59 years). Weight, body mass index, albumin levels and the nutritional risk index decreased significantly during Ramadan fasting compared with before fasting. In addition, Na(+) and Cl(-) electrolyte levels were significantly decreased during Ramadan. Serum IgG concentrations decreased significantly during Ramadan compared with before fasting, but were still within the normal range. Salivary IgA concentrations also decreased significantly, whereas serum IgM levels did not change. Lymphocyte numbers increased significantly, but there was no correlation between Ig levels and lymphocyte count. Ramadan fasting did not result in severe immunological disturbances.

Serum Fetuin-A Levels in Patients with Bilateral Basal Ganglia Calcification.

PubMed

Demiryurek, Bekir Enes; Gundogdu, Asli Aksoy

2018-02-14

The idiopathic basal ganglia calcification (Fahr syndrome) may occur due to senility. Fetuin-A is a negative acute phase reactant which inhibits calcium-phosphorus precipitation and vascular calcification. In this study, we aimed to evaluate whether serum fetuin-A levels correlate with bilateral basal ganglia calcification. Forty-five patients who had bilateral basal ganglia calcification on brain CT were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and 45 age and gender-matched subjects without basal ganglia calcification were included for the control group. Serum fetuin-A levels were measured from venous blood samples. All participants were divided into two groups; with and without basal ganglia calcification. These groups were divided into subgroups regarding age (18-32 and 33-45 years of age) and gender (male, female). We detected lower levels of serum fetuin-A in patients with basal ganglia calcification compared with the subjects without basal ganglia calcification. In all subgroups (female, male, 18-32 years and 33-45 years), mean fetuin-A levels were significantly lower in patients with basal ganglia calcification (p = 0.017, p = 0.014, p = 0.024, p = 0.026, p = 0.01 respectively). And statistically significantly lower levels of fetuin-A was found to be correlated with the increasing densities of calcification in the calcified basal ganglia group (p-value: <0.001). Considering the role of fetuin-A in tissue calcification and inflammation, higher serum fetuin-A levels should be measured in patients with basal ganglia calcification. We believe that the measurement of serum fetuin-A may play a role in the prediction of basal ganglia calcification as a biomarker. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Expression and Clinical Significance of Serum Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

PubMed

Chang, Xiao-Yue; Yang, Yong; Jia, Xiao-Qing; Wang, Yuan; Peng, Li-Na; Ai, Xiao-Hong; Jiang, Cui-Ying; Guo, Jian-Hua; Wu, Ting-Ting

2016-03-01

The purpose of this study is to explore the correlation between serum dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPPIV) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) at its various disease states, analyze its applications in the prediction and diagnosis of COPD and test the possibility of DPPIV as the serologic marker for COPD screening. Samples from 74 patients (42 cases with acute exacerbation of COPD or acute exacerbation COPD (AECOPD) and 32 cases with stable COPD) and 29 control subjects were collected in this study. Those patients with AECOPD were classified as COPD remission group if their clinical symptoms relieved after nonintravenous or oral hormone therapy for 7 ± 3 days. DPPIV concentration was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the difference in serum concentration of DPPIV was compared among different groups. The correlation between DPPIV concentration and age, sex or smoking history was analyzed, and the diagnostic value of DPPIV was evaluated by receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Serum DPPIV concentration was significantly lower in all COPD groups as compared with that in healthy control group (P < 0.001). Serum DPPIV concentration in AECOPD group was increased after treatment (P < 0.001). There was no significant correlation between DPPIV concentration and age, sex or smoking history (P > 0.05). ROC analysis indicated that serum DPPIV concentration in all groups showed a good diagnostic accuracy, especially in stable COPD and AECOPD groups. The area under the ROC curve values were 0.901 and 0.906, respectively, with a high specificity of 0.931 for both groups and a high sensitivity of 0.75 for stable COPD and 0.875 for AECOPD. Serum DPPIV concentration in patients with COPD is decreased significantly, and there is no correlation between serum DPPIV concentration and sex or age. Serum DPPIV not only is an independent predictive factor, but also of high value as a good serologic marker for the diagnosis of COPD. Copyright �

Alteration of serum adropin level in preeclampsia.

PubMed

Wang, Huihua; Gao, Bo; Wu, Zaigui; Wang, Hanzhi; Dong, Minyue

2017-04-01

To clarify the alterations in serum adropin and preptin concentrations in preeclampsia, we determined serum adropin and preptin levels in 29 women with normal pregnancy and 32 women with preeclampsia. We found that maternal age, body mass index and fetal gender were not significantly different between two groups; however, blood pressure, gestational age and neonatal birth weight were significantly different. Serum adropin levels were significantly increased in women with preeclampsia compared with those with normal pregnancy but there were no significant differences in preptin levels. An increase in maternal serum adropin level was found in preeclampsia, and this may be a compensation for pregnancy complicated with preeclampsia. Copyright © 2017 International Society for the Study of Hypertension in Pregnancy. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Basic tree-ring sample preparation techniques for aging aspen

Treesearch

Lance A. Asherin; Stephen A. Mata

2001-01-01

Aspen is notoriously difficult to age because of its light-colored wood and faint annual growth rings. Careful preparation and processing of aspen ring samples can overcome these problems, yield accurate age and growth estimates, and concisely date disturbance events present in the tree-ring record. Proper collection of aspen wood is essential in obtaining usable ring...

[Study on the dynamic variations and influencing factors of serum lipid levels during pregnancy and postpartum].

PubMed

Xu, D; Liang, C; Chen, L; Wu, X D; He, J

2018-04-25

Objective: To study the variations and influencing factors of serum triglycerides and cholesterol levels during pregnancy and postpartum. Methods: A retrospective study was performed among 5 020 healthy singleton (95.10%, 4 774/5 020) and twin (4.90%, 246/5 020) women who had delivery in Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine from January 2011 to December 2016. Serum triglycerides and cholesterol levels during pregnancy and postpartum of all the cases were collected. Both singleton and twin pregnant women were divided into advanced age and appropriate age groups, and then data of serum sample were assigned to 3 groups according to the gestation weeks, which were second trimester pregnancy (24-28 gestation weeks) , third trimester pregnancy (32-41 gestation weeks) and postpartum (within 72 hours after delivery) . The serum triglycerides and cholesterol levels in each groups were compared. Results: (1) Serum triglycerides and cholesterol levels during the second trimester pregnancy, third trimester pregnancy and postpartum were higher than levels of non-pregnancy in both singleton and twin groups (all P< 0.05) . (2) Serum triglycerides and cholesterol levels in the third trimester pregnancy group were higher than those of second trimester pregnancy group in both advanced age and appropriate aged women regardless singleton or twin pregnancy (all P< 0.05) . The 95% CI of serum lipid levels in each group during second and third trimester pregnancy were as follows: in appropriate aged singleton group, the triglycerides levels were 1.07-4.13 and 1.52-7.21 mmol/L, and the cholesterol levels were 2.77-12.11 and 4.44-9.36 mmol/L. In advanced aged singleton group, the triglycerides levels were 1.28-4.61 and 1.70-7.80 mmol/L, and the cholesterol levels were 4.35-8.40 and 4.46-9.35 mmol/L; in appropriate aged twin group, the triglycerides levels were 1.39-7.16 and 1.90-9.29 mmol/L, and the cholesterol levels were 4.99-12.16 and 4.52-10.07 mmol/L; in advanced

Correlation of serum KL-6 and CC16 levels with neurodevelopmental outcome in premature infants at 12 months corrected age

PubMed Central

Zhang, Zhiqun; Lu, Hui; Zhu, Yunxia; Xiang, Junhua; Huang, Xianmei

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate KL-6 and CC16 levels and their correlation with neurodevelopmental outcome among very low birth weight pre-term infants at 12 months corrected age. This prospective cohort study was performed from 2011 to 2013 by enrolling pre-term neonates of gestational age ≤ 32 weeks and birth weight ≤ 1500 g. Serum KL-6 and CC16 levels were determined 7 days after birth and their correlation with neurodevelopment was evaluated using Gesell Mental Developmental Scales. Of the 86 eligible pre-term infants, 63 completed follow-up, of which 15 had bronchopulmonary dysplasia. At 12 months corrected age, 49 infants had favorable outcomes and 14 infants had poor neurodevelopmental outcome. KL-6 levels were higher and CC16 levels were lower in infants with poor neurodevelopmental outcome compared with those infants who had favourable neurodevelopmental outcome. Serum KL-6 levels less than 90.0 ng/ml and CC16 levels greater than 320.0 pg/ml at 7 days of life were found to be predictive of a favourable outcome at 12 months corrected age. These biological markers could predict neurodevelopmental outcome at 12 months corrected age in very low birth weight premature infants, and help the clinician plan early therapeutic interventions to minimize or avoid poor neurodevelopmental outcome. PMID:25631862

A community-based epidemiological study of elevated serum alanine aminotransferase levels in Kinmen, Taiwan

PubMed Central

Liu, Chi-Ming; Tung, Tao-Hsin; Liu, Jorn-Hon; Chen, Victor Tze-Kai; Lin, Ching-Heng; Hsu, Chung-Te; Chou, Pesus

2005-01-01

AIM: To explore any gender-related differences in prevalence of and condition-associated factors related to an elevated serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level amongst residents of Kinmen, Taiwan. METHODS: A total of 11 898 of a potential 20 112 regional residents aged 30 years or more completed a related questionnaire that was carried out by the Yang-Ming Crusade between 1991 and 1994 inclusively, with blood samples being collected by public nurses. The overall questionnaire response rate was 59.3% (52.4% for males and 66.0% for females). RESULTS: The prevalence of an elevated serum ALT level for this sub-population was found to be 7.2%, the prevalence revealing a statistically significant decrease with increasing population age (P<0.0001). Males exhibited a greater prevalence of elevated serum ALT level than did females (9.4% vs 5.3%, P<0.0001). Using multiple logistic regression analysis, in addition to male gender, a younger age, greater waist circumference, presence of type-2 diabetes and hyperuricemia were the significant factors associated with an elevated serum ALT level for both males and females. Gender-related differences as regards associated factors were also revealed. For males, obesity was significantly related to an elevated serum ALT level (OR = 1.28, 95%CI: 1.00-1.66) but this was not so for females (OR = 1.09, 95%CI: 0.84-1.42). Hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 1.80, 95%CI: 1.36-2.39) and hyperuricemia (OR = 1.61, 95%CI: 1.03-2.52) were significantly related to elevated serum ALT levels only for females. CONCLUSION: Several gender-related differences were noted pertaining to the prevalence of and relationship between obesity, hypertriglyceridemia and hyperuricemia and elevated serum ALT level in the present study. PMID:15786537

Age Differences in Personality: Evidence from a Nationally Representative Australian Sample

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lucas, Richard E.; Donnellan, M. Brent

2009-01-01

Cross-sectional age differences in the Big Five personality traits were examined in a nationally representative sample of Australians (N = 12,618; age range = 15-84). Extraversion, Neuroticism, and Openness were negatively associated with age, whereas Agreeableness and Conscientiousness were positively associated with age. Effect sizes comparing…

Detection of serum antibodies against measles, mumps and rubella after primary measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination in children.

PubMed

Rafiei Tabatabaei, Sedigheh; Esteghamati, Abdoul-Reza; Shiva, Farideh; Fallah, Fatemeh; Radmanesh, Raheleh; Abdinia, Babak; Shamshiri, Ahmad Reza; Khairkhah, Masoumeh; Shekari Ebrahimabad, Hamideh; Karimi, Abdollah

2013-01-01

In Iran, the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) is administered in a two-dose protocol where the first dose is scheduled at 12 months of age. This study aims to determine the efficacy of the MMR vaccine by testing IgM and IgG antibody levels 4 - 7 weeks after primary vaccination. A single group cohort study was performed on healthy children, 12 - 15 months of age, who were vaccinated at health centers affiliated with Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in Tehran, from January to April 2009. Children with negative vaccination and/or clinical history for measles, mumps or rubella were administered the first dose of the MMR live attenuated vaccine. IgG and IgM antibodies were checked by enzyme linked immunoassay (ELISA) in serum samples 4 - 7 weeks after vaccination. A child was considered seropositive if antibody levels were higher than the assay cut-off level set by the ELISA kit. Samples from 240 children were checked for antibodies against measles and rubella. Measles serum IgM level was positive in 71.7% of samples and IgG in 75.8%. The rubella serum IgM level was positive in 71.7% of children and IgG in 73.8%. From 190 blood samples that were checked for mumps antibodies, serum IgM was positive in 68.9% and IgG in 95.3%. No significant relationship was found between seropositivity and age or gender. IgG and IgM antibody levels were below the assay cut-off levels against measles and rubella in approximately one-fourth of the children following primary MMR vaccination. A second dose was necessary to raise the level of protection against measles and rubella.

Serum irisin levels in patients with psoriasis.

PubMed

Baran, Anna; Myśliwiec, Hanna; Kiluk, Paulina; Świderska, Magdalena; Flisiak, Iwona

2017-06-01

Irisin has been proposed to regulate metabolic diseases such as obesity, diabetes or metabolic syndrome which are common comorbidities in psoriasis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum irisin level in psoriasis and elucidate possible associations with disease activity, inflammatory or metabolic parameters and topical treatment. Thirty-seven individuals with active plaque-type psoriasis and 15 healthy controls were enrolled. Blood samples were collected before and after two weeks of therapy. Serum irisin concentrations were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results were correlated with psoriasis area and severity index (PASI), body mass index (BMI), inflammatory and biochemical markers, lipid profile and effectiveness of topical treatment. Irisin serum levels were insignificantly increased in psoriatic patients in comparison to the controls (p = 0.38). No significant correlations between investigated adipokine and several indicators of metabolic disorders, nor BMI (p = 0.37) or PASI (p = 0.5) were found. Significant positive correlations with C-reactive protein (CRP) (0.009), lipocalin-2 (p = 0.02), age (p = 0.02) and disease duration (p = 0.008) were noted. After topical treatment, serum irisin level did not significantly change (p = 0.31), despite clinical improvement. Irisin might be a marker of inflammation in psoriatic patients, but may not be a reliable indicator of metabolic conditions, severity of psoriasis nor efficacy of antipsoriatic treatment.

Diagnostic potential for gold nanoparticle-based surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy to provide colorectal cancer screening using blood serum sample

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Duo; Feng, Shangyuan; Pan, Jianji; Chen, Yanping; Lin, Juqiang; Sun, Liqing; Chen, Rong

2011-11-01

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a vibrational spectroscopic technique that is capable of probing the biomolecular changes associated with diseased transformation. The objective of our study was to explore gold nanoparticle based SERS to obtain blood serum biochemical information for non-invasive colorectal cancer detection. SERS measurements were performed on two groups of blood serum samples: one group from patients (n = 38) with pathologically confirmed colorectal cancer and the other group from healthy volunteers (control subjects, n = 45). Tentative assignments of the Raman bands in the measured SERS spectra suggested interesting cancer specific biomolecular changes, including an increase in the relative amounts of nucleic acid, a decrease in the percentage of saccharide and proteins contents in the blood serum of colorectal cancer patients as compared to that of healthy subjects. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the measured SERS spectra separated the spectral features of the two groups into two distinct clusters with little overlaps. Linear discriminate analysis (LDA) based on the PCA generated features differentiated the nasopharyngeal cancer SERS spectra from normal SERS spectra with high sensitivity (97.4%) and specificity (100%). The results from this exploratory study demonstrated that gold nanoparticle based SERS serum analysis combined with PCA-LDA has tremendous potential for the non-invasive detection of colorectal cancers.

Diagnostic potential for gold nanoparticle-based surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy to provide colorectal cancer screening using blood serum sample

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Duo; Feng, Shangyuan; Pan, Jianji; Chen, Yanping; Lin, Juqiang; Sun, Liqing; Chen, Rong

2012-03-01

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a vibrational spectroscopic technique that is capable of probing the biomolecular changes associated with diseased transformation. The objective of our study was to explore gold nanoparticle based SERS to obtain blood serum biochemical information for non-invasive colorectal cancer detection. SERS measurements were performed on two groups of blood serum samples: one group from patients (n = 38) with pathologically confirmed colorectal cancer and the other group from healthy volunteers (control subjects, n = 45). Tentative assignments of the Raman bands in the measured SERS spectra suggested interesting cancer specific biomolecular changes, including an increase in the relative amounts of nucleic acid, a decrease in the percentage of saccharide and proteins contents in the blood serum of colorectal cancer patients as compared to that of healthy subjects. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the measured SERS spectra separated the spectral features of the two groups into two distinct clusters with little overlaps. Linear discriminate analysis (LDA) based on the PCA generated features differentiated the nasopharyngeal cancer SERS spectra from normal SERS spectra with high sensitivity (97.4%) and specificity (100%). The results from this exploratory study demonstrated that gold nanoparticle based SERS serum analysis combined with PCA-LDA has tremendous potential for the non-invasive detection of colorectal cancers.

Reference intervals for selected serum biochemistry analytes in cheetahs Acinonyx jubatus.

PubMed

Hudson-Lamb, Gavin C; Schoeman, Johan P; Hooijberg, Emma H; Heinrich, Sonja K; Tordiffe, Adrian S W

2016-02-26

Published haematologic and serum biochemistry reference intervals are very scarce for captive cheetahs and even more for free-ranging cheetahs. The current study was performed to establish reference intervals for selected serum biochemistry analytes in cheetahs. Baseline serum biochemistry analytes were analysed from 66 healthy Namibian cheetahs. Samples were collected from 30 captive cheetahs at the AfriCat Foundation and 36 free-ranging cheetahs from central Namibia. The effects of captivity-status, age, sex and haemolysis score on the tested serum analytes were investigated. The biochemistry analytes that were measured were sodium, potassium, magnesium, chloride, urea and creatinine. The 90% confidence interval of the reference limits was obtained using the non-parametric bootstrap method. Reference intervals were preferentially determined by the non-parametric method and were as follows: sodium (128 mmol/L - 166 mmol/L), potassium (3.9 mmol/L - 5.2 mmol/L), magnesium (0.8 mmol/L - 1.2 mmol/L), chloride (97 mmol/L - 130 mmol/L), urea (8.2 mmol/L - 25.1 mmol/L) and creatinine (88 µmol/L - 288 µmol/L). Reference intervals from the current study were compared with International Species Information System values for cheetahs and found to be narrower. Moreover, age, sex and haemolysis score had no significant effect on the serum analytes in this study. Separate reference intervals for captive and free-ranging cheetahs were also determined. Captive cheetahs had higher urea values, most likely due to dietary factors. This study is the first to establish reference intervals for serum biochemistry analytes in cheetahs according to international guidelines. These results can be used for future health and disease assessments in both captive and free-ranging cheetahs.

REFERENCE RANGES AND AGE-RELATED AND DIVING EXERCISE EFFECTS ON HEMATOLOGY AND SERUM CHEMISTRY OF FEMALE STELLER SEA LIONS ( EUMETOPIAS JUBATUS).

PubMed

Gerlinsky, Carling D; Haulena, Martin; Trites, Andrew W; Rosen, David A S

2018-03-01

Decreased health may have lowered the birth and survival rates of Steller sea lions ( Eumetopias jubatus) in the Gulf of Alaska and Aleutian Islands over the past 30 yr. Reference ranges for clinical hematology and serum chemistry parameters needed to assess the health of wild sea lion populations are limited. Here, blood parameters were serially measured in 12 captive female Steller sea lions ranging in age from 3 wk to 16 yr to establish baseline values and investigate age-related changes. Whether diving activity affects hematology parameters in animals swimming in the ocean compared with animals in a traditional aquarium setting was also examined. Almost all blood parameters measured exhibited significant changes with age. Many of the age-related changes reflected developmental life history changes, including a change in diet during weaning, an improvement of diving capacity, and the maturity of the immune system. Mean corpuscular hemoglobin and mean corpuscular volume were also higher in the ocean diving group compared with the aquarium group, likely reflecting responses to increased exercise regimes. These data provide ranges of hematology and serum chemistry values needed to evaluate and compare the health and nutritional status of captive and wild Steller sea lions.

Saliva, Serum Levels of Interleukin-21, -33 and Prostaglandin E2 in Patients with Generalised Aggressive or Chronic Periodontitis.

PubMed

Gümüş, Pınar; Nizam, Nejat; Nalbantsoy, Ayşe; Özçaka, Özgün; Buduneli, Nurcan

This cross-sectional study aims to evaluate saliva, serum levels of interleukin-21 (IL-21), IL-33, and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in patients with generalised chronic periodontitis or aggressive periodontitis. Before initiation of any periodontal treatment, saliva and serum samples were collected and clinical periodontal measurements were recorded from 94 participants (25 aggressive periodontitis patients, 25 chronic periodontitis patients, 44 periodontally healthy individuals). IL-21, IL-33 and PGE2 levels in serum and saliva samples were determined by ELISA. Data were tested statistically using Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U-, and Spearman-rho rank tests. Saliva IL-33 levels were statistically significantly higher in the chronic than the aggressive group (p < 0.05). Serum IL-33, saliva and serum IL-21 and PGE2 levels were similar in the two periodontitis groups. Saliva IL-33 levels correlated with age in the chronic periodontitis group (p < 0.05). Statistically significant positive correlations were found between serum, saliva PGE2 levels and plaque index (p < 0.05). IL-33 and IL-21 levels in serum samples positively correlated in the periodontitis groups (p < 0.05). IL-21 and PGE2 analysis did not exhibit discriminating data between generalised chronic and aggressive periodontitis, but the present findings support the role of these cytokines in periodontitis. Statistically significantly higher saliva IL-33 levels in the chronic periodontitis group warrant further research.

Serum progranulin as an indicator of neutrophilic airway inflammation and asthma severity.

PubMed

Park, So Young; Hong, Gyong Hwa; Park, Sunjoo; Shin, Bomi; Yoon, Sun-Young; Kwon, Hyouk-Soo; Kim, Tae-Bum; Moon, Hee-Bom; Cho, You Sook

2016-12-01

Progranulin, a protein secreted from the airway epithelium, is known to attenuate the downstream cascade of neutrophilic inflammation in particular. We hypothesized that progranulin may have a role in inflammatory regulation in asthma. To investigate the association between serum progranulin levels and various clinical features in patients with asthma. Serum samples and clinical data of 475 patients with asthma and 35 healthy controls at a tertiary referral hospital and its affiliated health promotion center were collected. Serum progranulin levels were compared between patients with asthma and healthy controls and then were compared within the patients with asthma in terms of pulmonary function and measures of inflammatory status. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify factors associated with severity of asthma. Serum progranulin levels were significantly lower in the asthma group than in healthy group and were positively correlated with prebronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 second predicted within patients with asthma. We found a negative correlation between serum progranulin levels and blood neutrophil counts. Multivariate analysis revealed that higher serum progranulin levels were associated with a lower risk of severe asthma (odds ratio, 0.888; 95% confidence interval, 0.846-0.932; P < .001) after adjustment for other variables, such as age, sex, smoking status, blood neutrophil count, and current use of systemic corticosteroids. Although the exact mechanism of the anti-inflammatory action of progranulin remains unknown, we suggest that serum progranulin may be an indicator of severe asthma with airflow limitation. Future studies with comprehensive airway sampling strategies are warranted to clarify its role, particularly in neutrophilic asthma. Copyright © 2016 American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Serum betaine is inversely associated with low lean mass mainly in men in a Chinese middle-aged and elderly community-dwelling population.

PubMed

Huang, Bi-Xia; Zhu, Ying-Ying; Tan, Xu-Ying; Lan, Qiu-Ye; Li, Chun-Lei; Chen, Yu-Ming; Zhu, Hui-Lian

2016-06-01

Previous studies have demonstrated that betaine supplements increase lean body mass in livestock and improve muscle performance in human beings, but evidence for its effect on human lean mass is limited. Our study assessed the association of circulating betaine with lean mass and its composition in Chinese adults. A community-based study was conducted on 1996 Guangzhou residents (weight/mass: 1381/615) aged 50-75 years between 2008 and 2010. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect general baseline information. Fasting serum betaine was assessed using HPLC-MS. A total of 1590 participants completed the body composition analysis performed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry during a mean of 3·2 years of follow-up. After adjustment for age, regression analyses demonstrated a positive association of serum betaine with percentage of lean mass (LM%) of the entire body, trunk and limbs in men (all P<0·05) and LM% of the trunk in women (P=0·016). Each sd increase in serum betaine was associated with increases in LM% of 0·609 (whole body), 0·811 (trunk), 0·422 (limbs), 0·632 (arms) and 0·346 (legs) in men and 0·350 (trunk) in women. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the prevalence of lower LM% decreased by 17 % (whole body) and 14 % (trunk) in women and 23 % (whole body), 28 % (trunk), 22 % (arms) and 26 % (percentage skeletal muscle index) in men with each sd increment in serum betaine. Elevated circulating betaine was associated with a higher LM% and lower prevalence of lower LM% in middle-aged and elderly Chinese adults, particularly men.

Serum anti-tetanus and measles antibody titres in Ugandan children aged 4 months to 6 years: implications for vaccine programme.

PubMed

Warrener, Lenesha; Bwogi, Josephine; Andrews, Nick; Samuel, Dhanraj; Kabaliisa, Theopista; Bukenya, Henry; Brown, Kevin; Roper, Martha H; Featherstone, David A; Brown, David

2018-05-09

To study the antibody response to tetanus toxoid and measles by age following vaccination in children aged 4 months to 6 years in Entebbe, Uganda. Serum samples were obtained from 113 children aged 4-15 months, at the Mother-Child Health Clinic (MCHC), Entebbe Hospital and from 203 of the 206 children aged between 12 and 75 months recruited through the Outpatients Department (OPD). Antibodies to measles were quantified by plaque reduction neutralisation test (PRNT) and with Siemens IgG EIA. VaccZyme IgG EIA was used to quantify anti-tetanus antibodies. Sera from 96 of 113 (85.0%) children attending the MCHC contained Measles PRNT titres below the protective level (120 mIU/ml). Sera from 24 of 203 (11.8%) children attending the OPD contained PRNT titres 0.15 IU/ml by EIA, a level considered protective. The overall concentration of anti-tetanus antibody was sixfold higher in children under 12 months compared with the older children, with geometric mean concentrations of 3.15 IU/ml and 0.49 IU/ml, respectively. For each doubling in age between 4 and 64 months, the anti-tetanus antibody concentration declined by 50%. As time since the administration of the third DTP vaccination doubled, anti-tetanus antibody concentration declined by 39%. The low measles antibody prevalence in the children presenting at the MCHC is consistent with the current measles epidemiology in Uganda, where a significant number of measles cases occur in children under 1 year of age and earlier vaccination may be indicated. The consistent fall in anti-tetanus antibody titre over time following vaccination supports the need for further vaccine boosters at age 4-5 years as recommended by the WHO.

Polysialylated N-Glycans Identified in Human Serum Through Combined Developments in Sample Preparation, Separations and Electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kronewitter, Scott R.; Marginean, Ioan; Cox, Jonathan T.

The N-glycan diversity of human serum glycoproteins, i.e. the human blood serum N-glycome, is complex due to the range of glycan structures potentially synthesizable by human glycosylation enzymes. The reported glycome, however, is limited by methods of sample preparation, available analytical platforms, e.g., based upon electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (ESI-MS), and software tools for data analysis. In this report, several improvements have been implemented in sample preparation and analysis to extend ESI-MS glycan characterization and to provide an improved view of glycan diversity. Sample preparation improvements include acidified, microwave-accelerated, PNGase F N-glycan release, and sodium borohydride reduction were optimized to improvemore » quantitative yields and conserve the number of glycoforms detected. Two-stage desalting (during solid phase extraction and on the analytical column) increased the sensitivity by reducing analyte signal division between multiple reducing-end-forms or cation adducts. On-line separations were improved by using extended length graphitized carbon columns and adding TFA as an acid modifier to a formic acid/reversed phase gradient which provides additional resolving power and significantly improved desorption of both large and heavily sialylated glycans. To improve MS sensitivity and provide gentler ionization conditions at the source-MS interface, subambient pressure ionization with nanoelectrospray (SPIN) has been utilized. When method improvements are combined together with the Glycomics Quintavariate Informed Quantification (GlyQ-IQ) recently described1 these technologies demonstrate the ability to significantly extend glycan detection sensitivity and provide expanded glycan coverage. We demonstrate application of these advances in the context of the human serum glycome, and for which our initial observations include detection of a new class of heavily sialylated N-glycans, including polysialylated N-glycans.« less

Concentrations of Phthalate Metabolites in Milk, Urine, Saliva, and Serum of Lactating North Carolina Women

PubMed Central

Hines, Erin P.; Calafat, Antonia M.; Silva, Manori J.; Mendola, Pauline; Fenton, Suzanne E.

2009-01-01

Background Phthalates are ubiquitous in the environment, but concentrations in multiple media from breast-feeding U.S. women have not been evaluated. Objectives The objective of this study was to accurately measure and compare the concentrations of oxidative monoester phthalate metabolites in milk and surrogate fluids (serum, saliva, and urine) of 33 lactating North Carolina women. Methods We analyzed serum, saliva, urine, and milk for the oxidative phthalate metabolites mono(3-carboxypropyl) phthalate, mono(2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate (MECPP), mono(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate, and mono(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate using isotope-dilution high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectroscopy. Because only urine lacks esterases, we analyzed it for the hydrolytic phthalate monoesters. Results We detected phthalate metabolites in few milk (< 10%) and saliva samples. MECPP was detected in > 80% of serum samples, but other metabolites were less common (3–22%). Seven of the 10 urinary metabolites were detectable in ≥ 85% of samples. Monoethyl phthalate had the highest mean concentration in urine. Metabolite concentrations differed by body fluid (urine > serum > milk and saliva). Questionnaire data suggest that frequent nail polish use, immunoglobulin A, and fasting serum glucose and triglyceride levels were increased among women with higher concentrations of urinary and/or serum phthalate metabolites; motor vehicle age was inversely correlated with certain urinary phthalate concentrations. Conclusions Our data suggest that phthalate metabolites are most frequently detected in urine of lactating women and are less often detected in serum, milk, or saliva. Urinary phthalate concentrations reflect maternal exposure and do not represent the concentrations of oxidative metabolites in other body fluids, especially milk. PMID:19165392

Measurement of total antioxidant capacity in gingival crevicular fluid and serum in dogs with periodontal disease.

PubMed

Pavlica, Zlatko; Petelin, Milan; Nemec, Alenka; Erzen, Damjan; Skaleric, Uros

2004-11-01

To determine whether gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and serum total antioxidant capacities (TACs) correlate with the degree of severity of periodontal disease in dogs. 41 Toy and Miniature Poodles. After assessment of the degree of severity of naturally occurring periodontitis, GCF samples from both maxillary fourth premolars and a blood sample were collected from each dog. The condition of the periodontium of the entire dentition and at each site of GCF collection was recorded. Clinical parameters assessed included plaque index, gingival index, and probing depth. Radiographic analysis of alveolar bone level was also performed. Total antioxidant capacity was measured in GCF and serum samples by use of a commercial kit. Dogs with gingivitis and minimal periodontitis had significantly higher TAC in GCF than dogs with advanced periodontitis. Bivariate regression analysis revealed significant negative correlations between TAC in GCF and clinical parameters and age. The TAC in serum was significantly negatively correlated with the degree of gingival inflammation but was not significantly correlated with age. TAC in GCF is related to the degree of severity of periodontal disease in dogs. This is likely the result of release of reactive oxygen species by activated phagocytes and fibroblasts in the inflamed periodontal tissues. The results of our study suggest that the local delivery of antioxidants may be a useful adjunctive treatment for periodontitis in dogs.

Application of Lamendin's adult dental aging technique to a diverse skeletal sample.

PubMed

Prince, Debra A; Ubelaker, Douglas H

2002-01-01

Lamendin et al. (1) proposed a technique to estimate age at death for adults by analyzing single-rooted teeth. They expressed age as a function of two factors: translucency of the tooth root and periodontosis (gingival regression). In their study, they analyzed 306 singled rooted teeth that were extracted at autopsy from 208 individuals of known age at death, all of whom were considered as having a French ancestry. Their sample consisted of 135 males, 73 females, 198 whites, and 10 blacks. The sample ranged in age from 22 to 90 years of age. By using a simple formulae (A = 0.18 x P + 0.42 x T + 25.53, where A = Age in years, P = Periodontosis height x 100/root height, and T = Transparency height x 100/root height), Lamendin et al. were able to estimate age at death with a mean error of +/- 10 years on their working sample and +/- 8.4 years on a forensic control sample. Lamendin found this technique to work well with a French population, but did not test it outside of that sample area. This study tests the accuracy of this adult aging technique on a more diverse skeletal population, the Terry Collection housed at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History. Our sample consists of 400 teeth from 94 black females, 72 white females, 98 black males, and 95 white males, ranging from 25 to 99 years. Lamendin's technique was applied to this sample to test its applicability to a population not of French origin. Providing results from a diverse skeletal population will aid in establishing the validity of this method to be used in forensic cases, its ideal purpose. Our results suggest that Lamendin's method estimates age fairly accurately outside of the French sample yielding a mean error of 8.2 years, standard deviation 6.9 years, and standard error of the mean 0.34 years. In addition, when ancestry and sex are accounted for, the mean errors are reduced for each group (black females, white females, black males, and white males). Lamendin et al. reported an inter

Drug residues in serum of dogs receiving anticancer chemotherapy.

PubMed

Knobloch, A; Mohring, S A I; Eberle, N; Nolte, I; Hamscher, G; Simon, D

2010-01-01

The presence of drug residues in blood samples can represent an occupational hazard. However, studies on cytotoxic drug residues in serum of dogs are lacking in veterinary oncology. To evaluate possible occupational hazards associated with handling of blood samples from dogs receiving oncolytic drugs 7 days after treatment. Twenty-seven client-owned dogs treated for lymphoma or mast cell tumors with vincristine, vinblastine, cyclophosphamide, or doxorubicin. Prospective, observational study. Serum samples were either taken 7 days after administration of vincristine, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin (lymphoma), and vinblastine (mast cell tumor), or 1-2 days after the last concurrent oral administration of cyclophosphamide (mast cell tumor). Additionally, serum was collected within 5 minutes of treatment. Measurement of drug residues in serum was performed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). In 33 samples collected within 5 minute of treatment, the median serum concentrations were vincristine: 37 microg/L (range: 11-87 microg/L), vinblastine: 13 microg/L (range: 13-35 microg/L), cyclophosphamide: 2,484 microg/L (range: 1,209-2,778 microg/L), doxorubicin: 404 microg/L (range: 234-528 microg/L). In 81 serum samples collected 7 days after treatment vinblastine (7 microg/L) was detected in 1 sample, and cyclophosphamide (7 and 9 microg/L) in 2 samples collected 1-2 days after oral administration of cyclophosphamide. Medications were not detected in any of the other samples. Handling of blood samples from dogs receiving oncolytic chemotherapy 7 days after treatment with vincristine, vinblastine, cyclophosphamide, and doxorubicin should not present a health hazard.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms at the ADIPOQ gene locus interact with age and dietary intake of fat to determine serum adiponectin in subjects at risk of the metabolic syndrome1234

PubMed Central

AlSaleh, Aseel; O'Dell, Sandra D; Frost, Gary S; Griffin, Bruce A; Lovegrove, Julie A; Jebb, Susan A; Sanders, Thomas AB

2011-01-01

Background: Adiponectin gene expression is modulated by peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor γ, which is a transcription factor activated by unsaturated fatty acids. Objective: We investigated the effect of the interaction between variants at the ADIPOQ gene locus, age, sex, body mass index (BMI), ethnicity, and the replacement of dietary saturated fatty acids (SFAs) with monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) or carbohydrates on serum adiponectin concentrations. Design: The RISCK (Reading, Imperial, Surrey, Cambridge, and Kings) study is a parallel-design, randomized controlled trial. Serum adiponectin concentrations were measured after a 4-wk high-SFA (HS) diet and a 24-wk intervention with reference (HS), high-MUFA (HM), and low-fat (LF) diets. Single nucleotide polymorphisms at the ADIPOQ locus −11391 G/A (rs17300539), −10066 G/A (rs182052), −7734 A/C (rs16861209), and +276 G/T (rs1501299) were genotyped in 448 participants. Results: In white Europeans, +276 T was associated with higher serum adiponectin concentrations (n = 340; P = 0.006) and −10066 A was associated with lower serum adiponectin concentrations (n = 360; P = 0.03), after adjustment for age, BMI, and sex. After the HM diet, −10066 G/G subjects showed a 3.8% increase (95% CI: −0.1%, 7.7%) and G/A+A/A subjects a 2.6% decrease (95% CI: −5.6%, 0.4%) in serum adiponectin (P = 0.006 for difference after adjustment for the change in BMI, age, and sex). In −10066 G/G homozygotes, serum adiponectin increased with age after the HM diet and decreased after the LF diet. Conclusion: In white −10066 G/G homozygotes, an HM diet may help to increase adiponectin concentrations with advancing age. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as ISRCTN29111298. PMID:21562092

Analysis of MALDI-TOF Serum Profiles for Biomarker Selection and Sample Classification

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-01-01

these five m/z windows as its inputs yielded 92% sensitivity and 90% specificity in distinguishing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients from...Cubizolles, I. Laurendeau, and P. Bedossa, "Identification of a new marker of hepatocellular carcinoma by serum protein profiling of patients with chronic...Goldman, "Enrichment of low molecular weight fraction of serum for mass spectrometric analysis of peptides associated with hepatocellular carcinoma ," Submitted

Higher serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations are related to a reduced risk of depression.

PubMed

Jääskeläinen, Tuija; Knekt, Paul; Suvisaari, Jaana; Männistö, Satu; Partonen, Timo; Sääksjärvi, Katri; Kaartinen, Niina E; Kanerva, Noora; Lindfors, Olavi

2015-05-14

Vitamin D has been suggested to protect against depression, but epidemiological evidence is scarce. The present study investigated the relationship of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) with the prevalence of depressive and anxiety disorders. The study population consisted of a representative sample of Finnish men and women aged 30-79 years from the Health 2000 Survey. The sample included 5371 individuals, of which 354 were diagnosed with depressive disorder and 222 with anxiety disorder. Serum 25(OH)D concentration was determined from frozen samples. In a cross-sectional study, a total of four indicators of depression and one indicator of anxiety were used as dependent variables. Serum 25(OH)D was the risk factor of interest, and logistic models used further included sociodemographic and lifestyle variables as well as indicators of metabolic health as confounding and/or effect-modifying factors. The population attributable fraction (PAF) was estimated. Individuals with higher serum 25(OH)D concentrations showed a reduced risk of depression. The relative odds between the highest and lowest quartiles was 0.65 (95% CI 0.46, 0.93; P for trend = 0.006) after adjustment for sociodemographic, lifestyle and metabolic factors. Higher serum 25(OH)D concentrations were associated with a lower prevalence of depressive disorder especially among men, younger, divorced and those who had an unhealthy lifestyle or suffered from the metabolic syndrome. The PAF was estimated to be 19% for depression when serum 25(OH)D concentration was at least 50 nmol/l. These results support the hypothesis that higher serum 25(OH)D concentrations protect against depression even after adjustment for a large number of sociodemographic, lifestyle and metabolic factors. Large-scale prospective studies are needed to confirm this finding.

Serum fibroblastic growth factor 23 in acute Sarcoidosis and normal kidney function.

PubMed

Sexton, Donal J; O'Reilly, M W; Geoghegan, P; Kinsella, S M; Moran, P J; O'Regan, A W

2016-08-01

Serum fibroblastic growth factor (FGF) 23 has recently been established as a major physiological regulator of phosphate homeostasis and may have a causal role in adverse cardiovascular and bone outcomes. However its role in states of disordered phosphate homeostasis and normal kidney function is as yet under characterised. To investigate whether this biomarker of vascular calcification and adverse bone outcomes is detectable in patients with sarcoidosis. We conducted a cross sectional study on a convenience sample of patients presenting with acute sarcoidosis to a respiratory tertiary referral unit. We set out to systematically examine the characteristics and determinants of serum FGF-23 in patients presenting with acute sarcoidosis. We studied 39 patients, 26 were male. Mean (SD) age was 33 (9.6) years. 15.4% of patients had a serum level of FGF-23 ≥ 9.9 pg/mL. The remaining 84.6% of patients had a serum FGF-23 < 9.9 pg/mL. Those with a detectable serum FGF-23 had a significantly higher serum calcium (P = 0.007), and lower serum iPTH (P<0.001). Serum phosphate and 25-hydroxyvitamin D were not statistically significantly different between groups (P=0.25 and P=0.83). The proportion of patients with stage II disease on CXR was higher in those with a detectable FGF-23 (P<0.001). Serum FGF-23 was below the level of detection in the majority of this cohort of patients presenting with acute sarcoidosis. A detectable serum FGF-23 was associated with a higher serum calcium and lower serum iPTH.

Human serum cholinesterase from liver pathological samples exhibit highly elevated aryl acylamidase activity.

PubMed

Boopathy, Rathanam; Rajesh, Ramanna Valmiki; Darvesh, Sultan; Layer, Paul G

2007-05-01

Although aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma-glutamyltransferase (gamma GT) enzymes are widely used as markers for liver disorders, the ubiquitous enzyme butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), synthesized in liver is also used as marker in the assessment of liver pathophysiology. This BChE enzyme in addition to its esterase activity has yet another enzymatic function designated as aryl acylamidase (AAA) activity. It is determined in in vitro based on the hydrolysis of the synthetic substrate o-nitroacetanilide. In the present study, human serum cholinesterase (BChE) activity was studied with respect to its AAA activity on the BChE protein (AAA(BChE)) in patients with liver disorders. AST and gamma GT values were taken into account in this study as known markers for liver disorders. Blood samples were grouped into 3 based on esterase activity associated with BChE protein. They are normal, low, and very low BChE activity but with markedly increased AST and gamma GT levels. These samples were tested for their respective AAA function. Association of AAA with BChE from samples was proved using BChE monoclonal antibody precipitation experiment. The absolute levels of AAA were increased as BChE activity decreased while deviating from normal samples and such deviation was directly proportional to the severity of the liver disorder. Differences between these groups became prominent after determining the ratios of AAA(BChE) to BChE activities. Samples showing very high AAA(BChE) to BChE ratio were also showing high to very high gamma GT values. These findings establish AAA(BChE) as an independently regulated enzymatic activity on BChE especially in liver disorders. Moreover, since neither the low esterase activity of BChE by itself nor increased levels of AST/gamma GT are sufficient pathological indicators, this pilot study merits replication with large sample numbers.

IL8 and IL16 levels indicate serum and plasma quality.

PubMed

Kofanova, Olga; Henry, Estelle; Quesada, Rocio Aguilar; Bulla, Alexandre; Linares, Hector Navarro; Lescuyer, Pierre; Shea, Kathi; Stone, Mars; Tybring, Gunnel; Bellora, Camille; Betsou, Fay

2018-02-09

Longer pre-centrifugation times alter the quality of serum and plasma samples. Markers for such delays in sample processing and hence for the sample quality, have been identified. Twenty cytokines in serum, EDTA plasma and citrate plasma samples were screened for changes in concentration induced by extended blood pre-centrifugation delays at room temperature. The two cytokines that showed the largest changes were further validated for their "diagnostic performance" in identifying serum or plasma samples with extended pre-centrifugation times. In this study, using R&D Systems ELISA kits, EDTA plasma samples and serum samples with a pre-centrifugation delay longer than 24 h had an IL16 concentration higher than 313 pg/mL, and an IL8 concentration higher than 125 pg/mL, respectively. EDTA plasma samples with a pre-centrifugation delay longer than 48 h had an IL16 concentration higher than 897 pg/mL, citrate plasma samples had an IL8 concentration higher than 21.5 pg/mL and serum samples had an IL8 concentration higher than 528 pg/mL. These robust and accurate tools, based on simple and commercially available ELISA assays can greatly facilitate qualification of serum and plasma legacy collections with undocumented pre-analytics.

Bone mineral density, serum albumin and serum magnesium.

PubMed

Saito, Noboru; Tabata, Naoto; Saito, Saburou; Andou, Yoshihisa; Onaga, Yukiko; Iwamitsu, Akihiro; Sakamoto, Morihide; Hori, Tuyoshi; Sayama, Harumi; Kawakita, Toshiko

2004-12-01

This study explores clinical and laboratory abnormalities that contribute to the prevalence of bone fractures in frail and control elderly patients, to ascertain factors that relate to bone strength and fragility. Patients were selected as free from renal failure and not taking supplements or medications that affect their magnesium status, and categorized according to their underlying diseases, sex and age, and evaluated by tests of bone strength. Findings, differentiating elderly patients on the basis of their magnesium, calcium, serum albumin, body mass, bone mineral density and their fracture occurrence were tabulated. Evidence is presented of low magnesium and albumin serum levels, especially in women with low bone density, as well as of low calcium and trace minerals.

Performance of a commercial serum ELISA for the detection of antibodies to Neospora caninum in whole and skim milk samples.

PubMed

Byrem, T M; Bartlett, P C; Donohue, H; Voisinet, B D; Houseman, J T

2012-11-23

Control of Neospora caninum infection in cattle depends on specific, ante-mortem detection of infected animals and limiting their use as breeding stock or by culling. The objective of the present study was to determine appropriate cut-off values and diagnostic performance of a milk ELISA test using whole and skim milk in a commercial serum ELISA test (IDEXX Neospora Ab). Serum and milk samples were obtained from a total of 475 lactating cows from two herds with and two herds without a previous history of N. caninum-associated abortion. Overall seroprevalence determined by the ELISA was 18.3%. Compared to serum ELISA values, correlation and overall performance assessed by receiver operating characteristic analysis was higher when either whole or skim milk samples were diluted 1:2 compared to undiluted or 1:5 diluted samples. Diagnostic performance for analysis of whole and skim milk was compared at cut-off values that achieved a desired operating characteristic of at least 95% specificity. For whole milk diluted 1:2 and a cut-off of 0.14 (S/P ratio), sensitivity and kappa values were 74.7% (95% CI 64.3-83.4) and 0.70 (95% CI 0.61-0.78), respectively. For skim milk diluted 1:2 and a cut-off of 0.30, sensitivity and kappa values were 77.0% (95% CI 66.8-85.4) and 0.72 (95% CI 0.64-0.80), respectively. Using the selected cut-offs, the IDEXX Neospora Ab Test is equally suited for the analysis of whole and skim milk as a screening tool in neosporosis control programs. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Growth curves and age-related changes in carcass characteristics, organs, serum parameters, and intestinal transporter gene expression in domestic pigeon (Columba livia).

PubMed

Gao, C Q; Yang, J X; Chen, M X; Yan, H C; Wang, X Q

2016-04-01

Two experiments were conducted to fit growth curves, and determine age-related changes in carcass characteristics, organs, serum biochemical parameters, and gene expression of intestinal nutrient transporters in domestic pigeon (Columba livia). In experiment 1, body weight (BW) of 30 pigeons was respectively determined at 1, 3, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days old to fit growth curves and to describe the growth of pigeons. In experiment 2, eighty-four 1-day-old squabs were grouped by weight into 7 groups. On d 1, 3, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35, twelve birds from each group were randomly selected for slaughter and post-slaughter analysis. The results showed that BW of pigeons increased rapidly from d 1 to d 28 (a 25.7-fold increase), and then had little change until d 35. The Logistic, Gompertz, and Von Bertalanffy functions can all be well fitted with the growth curve of domestic pigeons (R2>0.90) and the Gompertz model showed the highest R2value among the models (R2=0.9997). The equation of Gompertz model was Y=507.72×e-(3.76exp(-0.17t))(Y=BW of pigeon (g); t=time (day)). In addition, breast meat yield (%) increased with age throughout the experiment, whereas the leg meat yield (%) reached to the peak on d 14. Serum total protein, albumin, globulin, and glucose concentration were increased with age, whereas serum uric acid concentration was decreased (P<0.05). Furthermore, the gene expressions of nutrient transporters (y+LAT2, LAT1, B0AT1, PepT1, and NHE2) in jejunum of pigeon were increased with age. The results of correlation analysis showed the gene expressions of B0AT1, PepT1, and NHE2 had positive correlations with BW (0.73age for meat type pigeon. And the various physiological and functional properties of organs, serum profiles, and gene expression of nutrient transporters in small intestine might cause the differences in their development patterns. © 2016 Poultry

Metabolic Footprinting of Fermented Milk Consumption in Serum of Healthy Men

PubMed Central

Pimentel, Grégory; Burton, Kathryn J; von Ah, Ueli; Bütikofer, Ueli; Pralong, François P; Vionnet, Nathalie; Portmann, Reto; Vergères, Guy

2018-01-01

Abstract Background Fermentation is a widely used method of natural food preservation that has consequences on the nutritional value of the transformed food. Fermented dairy products are increasingly investigated in view of their ability to exert health benefits beyond their nutritional qualities. Objective To explore the mechanisms underpinning the health benefits of fermented dairy intake, the present study followed the effects of milk fermentation, from changes in the product metabolome to consequences on the human serum metabolome after its ingestion. Methods A randomized crossover study design was conducted in 14 healthy men [mean age: 24.6 y; mean body mass index (in kg/m2): 21.8]. At the beginning of each test phase, serum samples were taken 6 h postprandially after the ingestion of 800 g of a nonfermented milk or a probiotic yogurt. During the 2-wk test phases, subjects consumed 400 g of the assigned test product daily (200 g, 2 times/d). Serum samples were taken from fasting participants at the end of each test phase. The serum metabolome was assessed through the use of LC-MS–based untargeted metabolomics. Results Postprandial serum metabolomes after milk or yogurt intake could be differentiated [orthogonal projections to latent structures discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) Q2 = 0.74]. Yogurt intake was characterized by higher concentrations of 7 free amino acids (including proline, P = 0.03), reduced concentrations of 5 bile acids (including glycocholic acid, P = 0.04), and modulation of 4 indole derivative compounds (including indole lactic acid, P = 0.01). Fasting serum samples after 2 wk of daily intake of milk or yogurt could also be differentiated based on their metabolic profiles (OPLS-DA Q2 = 0.56) and were discussed in light of the postprandial results. Conclusion Metabolic pathways related to amino acids, indole derivatives, and bile acids were modulated in healthy men by the intake of yogurt. Further investigation to explore novel

Virus detection and cytokine profile in relation to age among acute exacerbations of childhood asthma.

PubMed

Kato, Masahiko; Suzuki, Kazuo; Yamada, Yoshiyuki; Maruyama, Kenichi; Hayashi, Yasuhide; Mochizuki, Hiroyuki

2015-09-01

Little information is available regarding eosinophil activation and cytokine profiles in relation to age in virus-induced bronchial asthma. We therefore explored the association between age, respiratory viruses, serum eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), and cytokines/chemokines in acute exacerbations of childhood asthma. We investigated viruses in nasal secretions from 88 patients with acute exacerbation of childhood asthma by using antigen detection kits and/or RT-PCR, followed by direct DNA sequencing analysis. We also measured peripheral eosinophil counts, and the serum levels of ECP and 27 types of cytokines/chemokines in 71 virus-induced acute asthma cases and 13 controls. Viruses were detected in 71(80.7%) of the 88 samples. The three major viruses detected were rhinoviruses, RS viruses, and enteroviruses; enteroviruses were found to be dominant in patients aged ≥3 years. There was no change in the levels of rhinoviruses and RS viruses between the two age groups, defined as children aged <3 years and children aged ≥3 years. Serum concentrations of ECP, IL-5, and IP-10 were significantly elevated in virus-induced acute asthma cases compared with controls. Serum ECP values were significantly higher in patients with virus-induced asthma at age ≥3 years compared with those aged <3 years. Among the 27 cytokines/chemokines, serum IP-10 was significantly higher in virus-induced asthma in patients <3 years than in those ≥3 years. Serum ECP and IL-5 production correlated significantly with age, whereas serum IP-10 showed an inverse correlation with age. Age-related differences in cytokine profiles and eosinophil activation may be related to virus-induced acute exacerbations of childhood asthma. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison of serum serotonin and serum 5-HIAA LC-MS/MS assays in the diagnosis of serotonin producing neuroendocrine neoplasms: A pilot study.

PubMed

Lindström, Mikael; Tohmola, Niina; Renkonen, Risto; Hämäläinen, Esa; Schalin-Jäntti, Camilla; Itkonen, Outi

2018-07-01

Serotonin (5-hydroxytyramine) is a mediator of gastrointestinal smooth muscle contraction, and is secreted by neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs). We developed a liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) assay for serum serotonin to be used in NEN diagnostics and follow-up. We used serum samples from healthy volunteers (n = 31) and patients suspected or monitored for NEN (n = 98). Serotonin-D 4 internal standard was added to samples before solid phase extraction (SPE) and quantification by LC-MS/MS. The effects of sample handling and preparation on serotonin stability were studied. Finally, we established a provisional reference range for serum serotonin and compared our assay with serum 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) for detection of NENs. Our assay is sensitive and has a wide linear range (10-10,000 nmol/l). Serum serotonin is stable for 7 days at room temperature and for 3 months at -20 °C. Sampling temperature is not critical. Normal range for serum serotonin was 270-1490 nmol/l. We found that serum serotonin and 5-HIAA performed equally well as diagnostic tests for NENs. Our LC-MS/MS assay for serum serotonin is well suited for clinical research and patient diagnostics. Our results confirm that it can complement 5-HIAA in diagnosis of NENs. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

On-line sample cleanup and enrichment chromatographic technique for the determination of ambroxol in human serum.

PubMed

Emara, Samy; Kamal, Maha; Abdel Kawi, Mohamed

2012-02-01

A sensitive and efficient on-line clean up and pre-concentration method has been developed using column-switching technique and protein-coated µ-Bondapak CN silica pre-column for quantification of ambroxol (AM) in human serum. The method is performed by direct injection of serum sample onto a protein-coated µ-Bondapak CN silica pre-column, where AM is pre-concentrated and retained, while proteins and very polar constituents are washed to waste using a phosphate buffer saline (pH 7.4). The retained analyte on the pre-column is directed onto a C(18) analytical column for separation, with a mobile phase consisting of a mixture of methanol and distilled deionized water (containing 1% triethylamine adjusted to pH 3.5 with ortho-phosphoric acid) in the ratio of 50:50 (v/v). Detection is performed at 254 nm. The calibration curve is linear over the concentration range of 12-120 ng/mL (r(2) = 0.9995). The recovery, selectivity, linearity, precision, and accuracy of the method are convenient for pharmacokinetic studies or routine assays.

Sex-specific nonlinear associations between serum lipids and different domains of cognitive function in middle to older age individuals.

PubMed

Lu, Yanhui; An, Yu; Yu, Huanling; Che, Fengyuan; Zhang, Xiaona; Rong, Hongguo; Xi, Yuandi; Xiao, Rong

2017-08-01

To examine how serum lipids relates to specific cognitive ability domains between the men and women in Chinese middle to older age individuals. A complete lipid panel was obtained from 1444 individuals, ages 50-65, who also underwent a selection of cognitive tests. Participants were 584 men and 860 women from Linyi city, Shandong province. Multiple linear regression analyses examined serum lipids level as quadratic predictors of sex-specific measure of performance in different cognitive domains, which were adjusted for sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics. In men, a significant quadratic effect of total cholesterol (TC) was identified for Digit Symbol (B = -0.081, P = 0.044) and also quadratic effect of low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) was identified for Trail Making Test B (B = -0.082, P = 0.045). Differently in women, there were significant quadratic associations between high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) and multiple neuropsychological tests. The nonlinear lipid-cognition associations differed between men and women and were specific to certain cognitive domains and might be of potential relevance for prevention and therapy of cognitive decline.

Serum uric acid level as a cardio-cerebrovascular event risk factor in middle-aged and non-obese Chinese men.

PubMed

Li, Zhi-Jun; Yi, Chen-Ju; Li, Jing; Tang, Na

2017-04-11

The role of uric acid as a risk factor for cardio-cerebrovascular diseases is controversial. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between serum uric acid level and the risk of cardio-cerebrovascular events in middle-aged and non-obese Chinese men. We included 3152 participants from the health examination center of Tongji Hospital from June 2007 to June 2010. Clinical examination and medical records were collected at the annual health examination. The hazard ratios (HRs) of uric acid for cardio-cerebrovascular events were calculated by Cox proportional hazards models. Generalized additive model and threshold effect analysis were used to explore the non-linear relationship between serum uric acid level and the incidence of cardio-cerebrovascular event. The mean follow-up time was 52 months. When the participants were classified into four groups by the serum acid quarter (Q1-Q4), the HRs (95% CI) of Q2-Q4 for cardio-cerebrovascular events were 1.26 (0.83, 1.92), 1.97 (1.33, 2.91) and 2.05 (1.40, 3.01), respectively, compared with the reference (Q1). The actual incidence and conditional incidence of cardio-cerebrovascular events in the high serum acid group were higher than those in the low serum acid group, which were stratified by the turning point (sUA = 372 μmol/L). We also showed a strong prognostic accuracy of the multiple variable-based score in 3 years and 5 years, with area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.790 (0.756-0.823) and 0.777 (0.749-0.804), respectively. Serum uric acid level is a strong risk factor for cardio-cerebrovascular events.

A SIMPLE AND RAPID METHOD FOR THE SIMULTANEOUS DETERMINATION OF CALCIUM AND MAGNESIUM FROM THE SAME SAMPLE OF BLOOD SERUM

PubMed Central

Kovács, G. S.; Tárnoky, K. E.

1960-01-01

A simple and rapid procedure has been developed for the complexometric titration of serum calcium and magnesium using “plasmocorinth B” as indicator. Both determinations can be carried out from the same 0.5 ml. sample. The method is in good agreement with the established calcium and magnesium methods. PMID:14411396

Oxidative Stress is Increased in Serum from Mexican Patients with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis

PubMed Central

Ortiz, Genaro Gabriel; Macías-Islas, Miguel Ángel; Pacheco-Moisés, Fermín P.; Cruz-Ramos, José A.; Sustersik, Silvia; Barba, Elías Alejandro; Aguayo, Adriana

2009-01-01

Objective: To determine the oxidative stress markers in serum from patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Methods: Blood samples from healthy controls and 22 patients 15 women (7 aged from 20 to 30 and 8 were > 40 years old) and 7 men (5 aged from 20 to 30 and 2 were > 40 years old) fulfilling the McDonald Criteria and classified as having Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis accordingly with Lublin were collected for oxidative stress markers quantification. Results: Nitric oxide metabolites (nitrates/nitrites), lipid peroxidation products (malondialdehyde plus 4-hidroxialkenals), and glutathione peroxidase activity were significantly increased in serum of subjects with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis in comparison with that of healthy controls. These data support the hypothesis that multiple sclerosis is a component closely linked to oxidative stress. PMID:19242067

Genetics, Diet, and Season Are Associated with Serum 25-Hydroxycholecalciferol Concentration in a Yup'ik Study Population from Southwestern Alaska.

PubMed

Fohner, Alison E; Wang, Zhican; Yracheta, Joseph; O'Brien, Diane M; Hopkins, Scarlett E; Black, Jynene; Philip, Jacques; Wiener, Howard W; Tiwari, Hemant K; Stapleton, Patricia L; Tsai, Jesse M; Thornton, Timothy A; Boyer, Bert B; Thummel, Kenneth E

2016-02-01

Low blood vitamin D concentration is a concern for people living in circumpolar regions, where sunlight is insufficient for vitamin D synthesis in winter months and the consumption of traditional dietary sources of vitamin D is decreasing. The objective was to characterize the effects of diet, genetic variation, and season on serum 25-hydroxycholecalciferol [25(OH)D3] concentrations in Yup'ik Alaska Native people living in rural southwest Alaska. This study was a cross-sectional design that assessed the associations of traditional diet (via a biomarker, the RBC δ(15)N value), age, gender, body mass index (BMI), community location, and genotype of select single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in cytochrome P450 family 2, subfamily R, peptide 1 (CYP2R1), 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase (DHCR7), and vitamin D binding protein (GC) with serum 25(OH)D3 concentrations in 743 Yup'ik male and female participants, aged 14-93 y, recruited between September 2009 and December 2013. Yup'ik participants, on average, had adequate concentrations of serum 25(OH)D3 (31.1 ± 1.0 ng/mL). Variations in diet, BMI, age, gender, season of sample collection, and inland or coastal community geography were all significantly associated with serum 25(OH)D3 concentration. In models not adjusting for other covariates, age, diet, and seasonal effects explained 33.7%, 20.7%, and 9.8%, respectively, of variability in serum 25(OH)D3 concentrations. Of the 8 SNPs interrogated in CYP2R1 and DHCR7, only rs11023374 in CYP2R1 was significantly associated with serum 25(OH)D3, explaining 1.5% of variability. The GC haplotype explained an additional 2.8% of variability. Together, age, diet, gender, season of sample collection, BMI, geography of the community, and genotype at rs11023374 explained 52.5% of the variability in serum 25(OH)D3 concentrations. Lower consumption of the traditional diet was associated with lower serum concentrations of 25(OH)D3. Younger adults and youth in this community may be at

A Comprehensive Software and Database Management System for Glomerular Filtration Rate Estimation by Radionuclide Plasma Sampling and Serum Creatinine Methods.

PubMed

Jha, Ashish Kumar

2015-01-01

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) estimation by plasma sampling method is considered as the gold standard. However, this method is not widely used because the complex technique and cumbersome calculations coupled with the lack of availability of user-friendly software. The routinely used Serum Creatinine method (SrCrM) of GFR estimation also requires the use of online calculators which cannot be used without internet access. We have developed user-friendly software "GFR estimation software" which gives the options to estimate GFR by plasma sampling method as well as SrCrM. We have used Microsoft Windows(®) as operating system and Visual Basic 6.0 as the front end and Microsoft Access(®) as database tool to develop this software. We have used Russell's formula for GFR calculation by plasma sampling method. GFR calculations using serum creatinine have been done using MIRD, Cockcroft-Gault method, Schwartz method, and Counahan-Barratt methods. The developed software is performing mathematical calculations correctly and is user-friendly. This software also enables storage and easy retrieval of the raw data, patient's information and calculated GFR for further processing and comparison. This is user-friendly software to calculate the GFR by various plasma sampling method and blood parameter. This software is also a good system for storing the raw and processed data for future analysis.

Serum nesfatin-1 levels in overt and subclinical hyperthyroidism.

PubMed

Gungunes, A; Ozbek, M; Ginis, Z; Sahin, M; Demirci, T; Cakir Ozkaya, E; Karbek, B; Sayki Arslan, M; Ozturk Unsal, I; Tutal Akkaya, E; Ucan, B; Gultuna Ozguclu, S; Cakal, E; Topaloglu, O; Delibasi, T

2014-09-01

Nesfatin-1 was recently discovered anorexigenic peptide in the brain which is derived from nucleobindin-2. Central and peripheral administration of nesfatin-1, inhibits food intake, dose-dependently. Hyperthyroid patients have increased appetite and food intake with a craving for carbohydrate-rich food, at the beginning of disease, but the physiological mechanisms underlying this behavior is not known exactly. In this study, we investigated whether nesfatin-1 is involved in the regulation of appetite and body weight in hyperthyroidism, or not. A total of 70 patients with subclinical (35) and overt hyperthyroidism (35) compared with 35 control patients. Serum nesfatin-1 level was measured from all samples by commercial ELISA kit. Serum nesfatin-1 levels were similar between three groups (P=0.293). After adjusting for age and body mass index, nesfatin-1 levels in control group was not different from subclinical and overt hyperthyroid group, respectively (P=0.567 and P=0.519). These data showed that serum nesfatin-1 levels do not significant change in overt and subclinical hyperthyroidism.

Increased serum butyrylcholinesterase activity in type IIb hyperlipidaemic patients.

PubMed

Kálmán, János; Juhász, Anna; Rakonczay, Zoltán; Abrahám, György; Zana, Marianna; Boda, Krisztina; Farkas, Tibor; Penke, Botond; Janka, Zoltán

2004-07-23

The inheritance of the apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4) allele has been shown to increase the plasma cholesterol level, but little information is as concerns the association of the APOE genotype and hyperlipidaemia and the activities of two serum enzymes, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). Blood samples from 55 type IIb hyperlipidaemic, non-demented patients and 55 age- and sex-matched controls were therefore examined in this pilot study. A significantly increased BChE activity was found in the serum of type IIb hyperlipidaemic patients, but the AChE activity did not differ significantly as compared with that in the control group. The APOE4 allele was significantly overrepresented among the hyperlipidaemic probands, but neither serum cholinesterase activity was affected by the dosage of the APOE4 gene. Our results point to a possible association between an abnormal lipid metabolism and the BChE activity and might have implications as regards the pathomechanism of both Alzheimer's and vascular dementias and the cholinesterase inhibitor therapy of dementing disorders.

The comparison of serum vaspin and visfatin concentrations in obese and normal weight women.

PubMed

Saboori, S; Hosseinzadeh-Attar, M J; Yousefi Rad, E; Hosseini, M; Mirzaei, K; Ahmadivand, Z

2015-01-01