Randomized trial of the anti-FGF23 antibody KRN23 in X-linked hypophosphatemia

PubMed Central

Carpenter, Thomas O.; Imel, Erik A.; Ruppe, Mary D.; Weber, Thomas J.; Klausner, Mark A.; Wooddell, Margaret M.; Kawakami, Tetsuyoshi; Ito, Takahiro; Zhang, Xiaoping; Humphrey, Jeffrey; Insogna, Karl L.; Peacock, Munro

2014-01-01

Background. X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is the most common heritable form of rickets and osteomalacia. XLH-associated mutations in phosphate-regulating endopeptidase (PHEX) result in elevated serum FGF23, decreased renal phosphate reabsorption, and low serum concentrations of phosphate (inorganic phosphorus, Pi) and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D]. KRN23 is a human anti-FGF23 antibody developed as a potential treatment for XLH. Here, we have assessed the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and immunogenicity of KRN23 following a single i.v. or s.c. dose of KRN23 in adults with XLH. Methods. Thirty-eight XLH patients were randomized to receive a single dose of KRN23 (0.003–0.3 mg/kg i.v. or 0.1–1 mg/kg s.c.) or placebo. PK, PD, immunogenicity, safety, and tolerability were assessed for up to 50 days. Results. KRN23 significantly increased the maximum renal tubular threshold for phosphate reabsorption (TmP/GFR), serum Pi, and 1,25(OH)2D compared with that of placebo (P < 0.01). The maximum serum Pi concentration occurred later following s.c. dosing (8–15 days) compared with that seen with i.v. dosing (0.5–4 days). The effect duration was dose related and persisted longer in patients who received s.c. administration. Changes from baseline in TmP/GFR, serum Pi, and serum 1,25(OH)2D correlated with serum KRN23 concentrations. The mean t1/2 of KRN23 was 8–12 days after i.v. administration and 13–19 days after s.c. administration. Patients did not exhibit increased nephrocalcinosis or develop hypercalciuria, hypercalcemia, anti-KRN23 antibodies, or elevated serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) or creatinine. Conclusion. KRN23 increased TmP/GFR, serum Pi, and serum 1,25(OH)2D. The positive effect of KR23 on serum Pi and its favorable safety profile suggest utility for KRN23 in XLH patients. Trial registration. Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00830674. Funding. Kyowa Hakko Kirin Pharma, Inc. PMID:24569459

Formation mechanism of human serum albumin monolayers on positively charged polymer microparticles.

PubMed

Nattich-Rak, Małgorzata; Sadowska, Marta; Adamczyk, Zbigniew; Cieśla, Michał; Kąkol, Małgorzata

2017-11-01

Human serum albumin (HSA) adsorption on positively and negatively charged polystyrene microparticles was studied at various pHs and NaCl concentrations. Thorough electrophoretic mobility measurements were carried out that enabled to monitor in situ the progress of protein adsorption. The maximum coverage of irreversibly adsorbed HSA on microparticles was determined by different concentration depletion methods, one of them involving AFM imaging of residual molecules. An anomalous adsorption of HSA on the positive microparticles was observed at pH 3.5 where the maximum coverage attained 1.0mgm -2 for NaCl concentrations of 0.05M despite that the molecules were on average positively charged. For comparison, the maximum coverage of HSA on negatively charged microparticles was equal to 1.3mgm -2 at this pH and NaCl concentration. At pH 7.4 the maximum coverage on positive microparticles was equal to 2.1mgm -2 for 0.05M NaCl concentration. On the other hand, for negative microparticles, negligible adsorption of HSA was observed at pH 7.4 and 9.7. These experimental data were adequately interpreted in terms of the random sequential adsorption approach exploiting the bead model of the HSA molecule. Different orientations of adsorbed molecules, inert alia, the edge-on orientation prevailing for positively charged microparticles at pH 7.4, were confirmed. This was explained in terms of a heterogeneous charge distribution over the HSA molecule prevailing for a wide range of pHs. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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.

Systemic inflammatory responses to maximal versus submaximal lengthening contractions of the elbow flexors.

PubMed

Peake, Jonathan M; Nosaka, Kazunori; Muthalib, Makii; Suzuki, Katsuhiko

2006-01-01

We compared changes in markers of muscle damage and systemic inflammation after submaximal and maximal lengthening muscle contractions of the elbow flexors. Using a cross-over design, 10 healthy young men not involved in resistance training completed a submaximal trial (10 sets of 60 lengthening contractions at 10% maximum isometric strength, 1 min rest between sets), followed by a maximal trial (10 sets of three lengthening contractions at 100% maximum isometric strength, 3 min rest between sets). Lengthening contractions were performed on an isokinetic dynamometer. Opposite arms were used for the submaximal and maximal trials, and the trials were separated by a minimum of two weeks. Blood was sampled before, immediately after, 1 h, 3 h, and 1-4 d after each trial. Total leukocyte and neutrophil numbers, and the serum concentration of soluble tumor necrosis factor-alpha receptor 1 were elevated after both trials (P < 0.01), but there were no differences between the trials. Serum IL-6 concentration was elevated 3 h after the submaximal contractions (P < 0.01). The concentrations of serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha, IL-1 receptor antagonist, IL-10, granulocyte-colony stimulating factor and plasma C-reactive protein remained unchanged following both trials. Maximum isometric strength and range of motion decreased significantly (P < 0.001) after both trials, and were lower from 1-4 days after the maximal contractions compared to the submaximal contractions. Plasma myoglobin concentration and creatine kinase activity, muscle soreness and upper arm circumference all increased after both trials (P < 0.01), but were not significantly different between the trials. Therefore, there were no differences in markers of systemic inflammation, despite evidence of greater muscle damage following maximal versus submaximal lengthening contractions of the elbow flexors.

Cow-level association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration and Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis antibody seropositivity: a pilot study.

PubMed

Sorge, U S; Molitor, T; Linn, J; Gallaher, D; Wells, S W

2013-02-01

Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with various human diseases. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the cow-level association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentration and Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis (MAP) seropositivity of dairy cows, adjusting for diet, breed, hair coat color, stage of lactation, reproductive status, and cow age. The sera of 80 MAP antibody ELISA-positive and 80 test-negative herd mates from 5 Minnesota dairy herds were analyzed for 25(OH)D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)(2)D]. The cows' age, production records, and hair coat color were recorded. Additionally, feed samples were obtained and analyzed for vitamin D(2) and vitamin D(3) content. A linear mixed model was used to identify potential predictors for serum 25(OH)D concentration, accounting for herd of origin. The majority of rations analyzed had over 22,000 IU of vitamin D/day (maximum: 52,000 I U/d) and the study cows' average serum 25(OH)D concentration was 62.5 ± 13.8 ng/mL. Serum ELISA-positive cows had, on average, 5.3 ng/mL lower 25(OH)D serum levels than test-negative herd mates. The reproductive status of cows was also associated with the 25(OH)D levels, with fresh cows having the lowest serum concentration. In this cross-sectional study, a temporal or causal association between MAP antibody ELISA status and serum 25(OH)D concentration could not be evaluated. In addition, the high levels of vitamin D in the rations of participating farms and the average 25(OH)D serum concentration suggest that additional supplementation with vitamin D in the ration is likely to be ineffective. Copyright © 2013 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Glyphosate and Paraquat in Maternal and Fetal Serums in Thai Women.

PubMed

Kongtip, Pornpimol; Nankongnab, Noppanun; Phupancharoensuk, Ratanavadee; Palarach, Chonlada; Sujirarat, Dusit; Sangprasert, Supha; Sermsuk, Malasod; Sawattrakool, Namthip; Woskie, Susan Renee

2017-01-01

This longitudinal study measured the glyphosate and paraquat concentrations found in maternal and umbilical cord serum in 82 pregnant women who gave birth in three provinces of Thailand. Through questionnaires and biological samples collected at childbirth, factors such as personal characteristics, family members occupation, agricultural activities, and herbicide use in agricultural work were evaluated as predictors of glyphosate and paraquat levels in the pregnant women. Statistical analysis used univariate and binary multiple logistic regression, where the outcome was the probability of exposure to paraquat or glyphosate above the limit of detection associated with occupation and household factors. The glyphosate concentrations in the pregnant women's serum at childbirth (median: 17.5, range: 0.2-189.1 ng/mL) were significantly higher (P < .007) than those in the umbilical cord serum (median: 0.2, range: 0.2-94.9 ng/mL). However, the paraquat concentrations in the serum of the pregnant women at childbirth (83% ≤limit of detection [LOD], with maximum of 58.3 ng/mL) were similar to those in the umbilical cord serum (80% LOD in serum at childbirth were 11.9 times more likely to report work as an agriculturist (P < .001), 3.7 times more likely to live near agricultural areas (P = .006), and 5.9 times more likely to have a family member who worked in agriculture (P < .001). The only factors affecting paraquat exposures in pregnant women at childbirth were reporting the agricultural activity of digging in farm soil and working in the agricultural fields in the third trimester of pregnancy. These results show that pregnant women who work in agriculture or live in families that work in agriculture have higher exposures to the herbicides glyphosate and paraquat. The potential for long-term health impacts of these prenatal exposures to children should be evaluated, and greater regulation of the sale and use of herbicides should be considered in Thailand.

Vascular Graft Impregnation with Antibiotics: The Influence of High Concentrations of Rifampin, Vancomycin, Daptomycin, and Bacteriophage Endolysin HY-133 on Viability of Vascular Cells.

PubMed

Herten, Monika; Idelevich, Evgeny A; Sielker, Sonja; Becker, Karsten; Scherzinger, Anna S; Osada, Nani; Torsello, Giovanni B; Bisdas, Theodosios

2017-06-27

BACKGROUND Rifampin-soaked synthetic prosthetic grafts have been widely used for prevention or treatment of vascular graft infections (VGIs). This in vitro study investigated the effect of the antibiotics daptomycin and vancomycin and the new recombinant bacteriophage endolysin HY-133 on vascular cells, as potential alternatives compared to rifampin. MATERIAL AND METHODS Primary human ECs, vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMC), and fibroblasts were cultivated in 96-well plates and incubated with rifampin, daptomycin, vancomycin, and endolysin HY-133 for 24 h. Subsequently, after washing, cell viability was determined by measuring mitochondrial ATP concentration. Antibiotics were used in their corresponding minimum and maximum serum concentrations, in decimal multiples and in maximum soaking concentration. The experiments were performed in triplicate. RESULTS The 10-fold max serum concentrations of rifampin, daptomycin, and vancomycin did not influence viability of EC and vSMC (100 µg/ml, p>0.170). Higher concentrations of rifampin (>1 mg/ml) significantly (p<0.001) reduced cell viability of all cell types. For the other antibiotics, high concentrations (close to maximum soaking concentration) were most cytotoxic for EC and vSMC and fibroblasts (p<0.001). Endolysin did not display any cytotoxicity towards vascular cells. CONCLUSIONS Results of this in vitro study show the high cytotoxicity of rifampin against vascular cells, and may re-initiate the discussion about the benefit of prophylactic pre-soaking in high concentrations of rifampin. Further studies are necessary to determine the influence of rifampin on the restoration of vessel functionality versus its prophylactic effect against VGIs. Future use of recombinant phage endolysins for alternative prophylactic strategies needs further investigations.

Recombinant albumin monolayers on latex particles.

PubMed

Sofińska, Kamila; Adamczyk, Zbigniew; Kujda, Marta; Nattich-Rak, Małgorzata

2014-01-14

The adsorption of recombinant human serum albumin (rHSA) on negatively charged polystyrene latex micro-particles was studied at pH 3.5 and the NaCl concentration range of 10(-3) to 0.15 M. The electrophoretic mobility of latex monotonically increased with the albumin concentration in the suspension. The coverage of adsorbed albumin was quantitatively determined using the depletion method, where the residual protein concentration was determined by electrokinetic measurements and AFM imaging. It was shown that albumin adsorption was irreversible. Its maximum coverage on latex varied between 0.7 mg m(-2) for 10(-3) M NaCl to 1.3 mg m(-2) for 0.15 M NaCl. The latter value matches the maximum coverage previously determined for human serum albumin on mica using the streaming potential method. The increase in the maximum coverage was interpreted in terms of reduced electrostatic repulsion among adsorbed molecules. These facts confirm that albumin adsorption at pH 3.5 is governed by electrostatic interactions and proceeds analogously to colloid particle deposition. The stability of albumin monolayers was measured in additional experiments where changes in the latex electrophoretic mobility and the concentration of free albumin in solutions were monitored over prolonged time periods. Based on these experimental data, a robust procedure of preparing albumin monolayers on latex particles of well-controlled coverage and molecule distribution was proposed.

Specific serum protein changes associated with primary and secondary Strongylus vulgaris infections in pony yearlings.

PubMed

Kent, J E

1987-03-01

The concentrations of haptoglobin, immunoglobin (Ig)G(T) and IgG were measured in the serum of four previously parasite-free pony yearlings following a single dose of 700 (Group H) or 200 (Group L) stage three Strongylus vulgaris larvae (L3) and following a reinfection with the same doses 34 weeks later. The results are compared with an uninfected control pony. The haptoglobin concentration increased during Weeks 1 to 6 and 14 to 17 after infection in the serum of the ponies receiving 200 L3, but in only one pony dosed with 700 L3 (during Weeks 1 to 16). The serum haptoglobin also increased during the first seven weeks after the second infection, in three of the four ponies following the second dose of larvae. The serum IgG(T) concentration started to increase from Week 6 or 9 in the ponies given 700 L3, reaching peaks of 44 and 32 g/litre respectively, eight to nine weeks later, compared with a peak of 16 g/litre 20 to 22 weeks after infection in ponies dosed with 200 L3. The IgG(T) concentration increased to a maximum of 25 g/litre in the serum of only one of the four ponies after the reinfection. The serum IgG concentration in all ponies increased nearly twofold during the first eight weeks after both the primary and secondary dose of larvae. It is concluded that the measurement of specific proteins is more reliable and quicker than the electrophoretic separation and quantitation of protein bands, in tracing changes in serum proteins following the artificial infection of ponies with S vulgaris larvae.

Changes of the serum antibiotic levels during open heart surgery (ceftazidim, ciprofloxacin, clindamycin).

PubMed

Lonský, V; Dominik, J; Mand'ák, J; Pozlerová, E; Hejzlar, M; Lonská, V; Marsíková, M; Kubícek, J; Snítilová, M

2000-01-01

Wound, mediastinal and intracardiac infections are still very serious complications of open-heart surgery. The incidence of it is still in the range of 0.4%-5%. The aims of our study were to assess the adequacy of regimen using ceftazidim (CTZ), ciprofloxacin (CPF) and clindamycin (CLIN) as prophylactic antibiotics and to verify whether cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) can modify the time of antibiotic serum concentrations. That is why the serum levels of them were measured during open heart procedures. The prospective study comprised 75 consequent coronary patients randomized in to three groups receiving 1 g of CTZ or 400 mg of CPF or 900 mg of CLIN i.v. with anesthesia induction. Routine coronary surgery with left internal mammary artery harvesting, moderate body hypothermic (30 degrees C) CPB with crystaloid cardioplegia was performed. Serum antibiotic levels were determined before application, with skin incision, prior CPB induction, after cardioplegia infusion, every 20 minutes of CPB, prior end of CPB, in time of chest closure. Conventional cylinder-plate microbiological assay was used for antibiotic level measurement. All serum antibiotic concentrations showed a sharp decrease immediately after starting CPB and lasted until CPB ended. After initiating of CPB after cardioplegia administration serum concentrations of CTZ (105 min after initial dose) decreased by, on average 55%, CPF (97 min) by 42% and CLIN (116 min) by 78%. CPB can modify the time course of antibiotic serum concentrations. The serum levels of CTZ at the end of the longest procedures were found to be below the MICs for some of the suspected pathogens. We recommend to use higher antibiotic doses for prophylaxis and to administer the second dose with protamin sulphate to obtain maximum concentration in newly formed blood clots.

Levofloxacin Pharmacokinetics in Adult Cystic Fibrosis

PubMed Central

Lee, Carlton K. K.; Boyle, Michael P.; Diener-West, Marie; Brass-Ernst, Lois; Noschese, Michelle; Zeitlin, Pamela L.

2007-01-01

Background Cystic fibrosis (CF) patients have enhanced renal clearance of aminoglycosides and several β-lactams and require higher dosages. Levofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone with extensive renal elimination and enhanced penetration into lungs and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) biofilms. We studied the preliminary pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) relationship of levofloxacin in CF. Methods Twelve patients at least 18 years old with a mild-to-moderate pulmonary exacerbation and fluoroquinolone-sensitive PA colonization received oral levofloxacin, 500 mg qd, for 14 days. Steady-state serum concentrations were collected after 3 to 7 days, and sputum samples for PA densities were collected before and after levofloxacin. PK/PD relationships for reducing PA sputum densities were evaluated. Results When compared to published data on non-CF patients, CF patients had similar area under the curve for 24 h (AUC24), total clearance, volume of distribution, maximum serum concentration (Cpmax), and elimination half-life: mean, 7.33 μg × h/mL/kg (SD, 1.70); 2.43 mL/min/kg (SD, 0.74); 1.33 L/kg (SD, 0.37); 7.06 μg/mL (SD, 2.35); and 6.44 h (SD, 1.1), respectively. Time to reach maximum serum concentration (Tmax) in CF was longer: mean, 2.20 h (SD, 0.99) vs 1.1 h (SD, 0.4) [p < 0.01]. Preliminary PK/PD analysis failed to demonstrate trends for decreasing PA sputum densities with increasing Cpmax/minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ratio and AUC24/MIC ratio. Conclusion CF levofloxacin pharmacokinetics corrected for body weight are similar to non-CF, except for Tmax. Standard levofloxacin dosing (especially monotherapy) is unlikely to produce maximum therapeutic effectiveness. Additional levofloxacin studies in CF are necessary to evaluate its sputum concentrations; the benefits of higher daily dosages (≥ 750 mg); and establish PK/PD targets for managing PA pulmonary infections. PMID:17356095

Cure of tuberculosis despite serum concentrations of antituberculosis drugs below published reference ranges.

PubMed

Meloni, Monica; Corti, Natascia; Müller, Daniel; Henning, Lars; Gutteck, Ursula; von Braun, Amrei; Weber, Rainer; Fehr, Jan

2015-01-01

Therapeutic target serum concentrations of first-line antituberculosis drugs have not been well defined in clinical studies in tuberculosis (TB) patients. We retrospectively investigated the estimated maximum serum concentrations (eC max) of antituberculosis drugs and clinical outcome of TB patients with therapeutic drug monitoring performed between 2010-2012 at our institution, and follow-up until March 2014. The eC max was defined as the highest serum concentration during a sampling period (2, 4 and 6 hours after drug ingestion). We compared the results with published eC max values, and categorised them as either "within reference range", "low eC max", or "very low eC max".Low/very low eC max-levels were defined as follows: isoniazid 2-3/<2 mg/l, rifampicin 4-8/<4 mg/l, rifabutin 0.2-0.3/<0.2 mg/l, ethambutol 1-2/<0.1 mg/l and pyrazinamide <20 mg/l. Concentrations of antituberculosis drugs in 175 serum samples of 17 patients with TB were analysed. In 12 (71%) patients, multiple therapeutic drug monitoring samples were collected over time, in 5 (29%) patients only one sample was available for therapeutic drug monitoring. Overall, 94% of all patients had at least one low antituberculosis drug concentration. Overall, 64% of all eC max levels were classified as "low" or "very low". The eC max was below the relevant reference range in 80% of isoniazid, 95% of rifampicin, 30% of pyrazinamide, and 30% of ethambutol measurements. All but one patient were cured of tuberculosis. Although many antituberculosis drug serum concentrations were below the widely used reference ranges, 16 of 17 patients were cured of tuberculosis. These results challenge the use of the published reference ranges for therapeutic drug monitoring.

24-hour human urine and serum profiles of bisphenol A: Evidence against sublingual absorption following ingestion in soup

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

Teeguarden, Justin G., E-mail: jt@pnl.gov; Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 93771; Twaddle, Nathan C., E-mail: nathan.twaddle@fda.hhs.gov

Extensive first-pass metabolism of ingested bisphenol A (BPA) in the gastro-intestinal tract and liver restricts blood concentrations of bioactive BPA to < 1% of total BPA in humans and non-human primates. Absorption of ingested BPA through non-metabolizing tissues of the oral cavity, recently demonstrated in dogs, could lead to the higher serum BPA concentrations reported in some human biomonitoring studies. We hypothesized that the extensive interaction with the oral mucosa by a liquid matrix, like soup, relative to solid food or capsules, might enhance absorption through non-metabolizing oral cavity tissues in humans, producing higher bioavailability and higher serum BPA concentrations.more » Concurrent serum and urine concentrations of d6-BPA, and its glucuronide and sulfate conjugates, were measured over a 24 hour period in 10 adult male volunteers following ingestion of 30 μg d6-BPA/kg body weight in soup. Absorption of d6-BPA was rapid (t{sub 1/2} = 0.45 h) and elimination of the administered dose was complete 24 h post-ingestion, evidence against any tissue depot for BPA. The maximum serum d6-BPA concentration was 0.43 nM at 1.6 h after administration and represented < 0.3% of total d6-BPA. Pharmacokinetic parameters, pharmacokinetic model simulations, and the significantly faster appearance half-life of d6-BPA-glucuronide compared to d6-BPA (0.29 h vs 0.45 h) were evidence against meaningful absorption of BPA in humans through any non-metabolizing tissue (< 1%). This study confirms that typical exposure to BPA in food produces picomolar to subpicomolar serum BPA concentrations in humans, not nM concentrations reported in some biomonitoring studies.« less

24-hour human urine and serum profiles of bisphenol A: Evidence against sublingual absorption following ingestion in soup.

PubMed

Teeguarden, Justin G; Twaddle, Nathan C; Churchwell, Mona I; Yang, Xiaoxia; Fisher, Jeffrey W; Seryak, Liesel M; Doerge, Daniel R

2015-10-15

Extensive first-pass metabolism of ingested bisphenol A (BPA) in the gastro-intestinal tract and liver restricts blood concentrations of bioactive BPA to <1% of total BPA in humans and non-human primates. Absorption of ingested BPA through non-metabolizing tissues of the oral cavity, recently demonstrated in dogs, could lead to the higher serum BPA concentrations reported in some human biomonitoring studies. We hypothesized that the extensive interaction with the oral mucosa by a liquid matrix, like soup, relative to solid food or capsules, might enhance absorption through non-metabolizing oral cavity tissues in humans, producing higher bioavailability and higher serum BPA concentrations. Concurrent serum and urine concentrations of d6-BPA, and its glucuronide and sulfate conjugates, were measured over a 24hour period in 10 adult male volunteers following ingestion of 30μg d6-BPA/kg body weight in soup. Absorption of d6-BPA was rapid (t1/2=0.45h) and elimination of the administered dose was complete 24h post-ingestion, evidence against any tissue depot for BPA. The maximum serum d6-BPA concentration was 0.43nM at 1.6h after administration and represented <0.3% of total d6-BPA. Pharmacokinetic parameters, pharmacokinetic model simulations, and the significantly faster appearance half-life of d6-BPA-glucuronide compared to d6-BPA (0.29h vs 0.45h) were evidence against meaningful absorption of BPA in humans through any non-metabolizing tissue (<1%). This study confirms that typical exposure to BPA in food produces picomolar to subpicomolar serum BPA concentrations in humans, not nM concentrations reported in some biomonitoring studies. Published by Elsevier Inc.

β-hCG resolution times during expectant management of tubal ectopic pregnancies.

PubMed

Mavrelos, D; Memtsa, M; Helmy, S; Derdelis, G; Jauniaux, E; Jurkovic, D

2015-05-21

A subset of women with a tubal ectopic pregnancy can be safely managed expectantly. Expectant management involves a degree of disruption with hospital visits to determine serum β-hCG (β-human chorionic gonadotrophin) concentration until the pregnancy test becomes negative and expectant management is considered complete. The length of time required for the pregnancy test to become negative and the parameters that influence this interval have not been described. Information on the likely length of follow up would be useful for women considering expectant management of their tubal ectopic pregnancy. This was a retrospective study at a tertiary referral center in an inner city London Hospital. We included women who were diagnosed with a tubal ectopic pregnancy by transvaginal ultrasound between March 2009 and March 2014. During the study period 474 women were diagnosed with a tubal ectopic pregnancy and 256 (54 %) of them fulfilled our management criteria for expectant management. A total of 158 (33 %) women had successful expectant management and in those cases we recorded the diameter of the ectopic pregnancy (mm), the maximum serum β-hCG (IU/L) and levels during follow up until resolution as well as the interval to resolution (days). The median interval from maximum serum β-hCG concentration to resolution was 18.0 days (IQR 11.0-28.0). The maximum serum β-hCG concentration and the rate of decline of β-hCG were independently associated with the length of follow up. Women's age and size of ectopic pregnancy did not have significant effects on the length of follow up. Women undergoing expectant management of ectopic pregnancy can be informed that the likely length of follow up is under 3 weeks and that it positively correlates with initial β-hCG level at the time of diagnosis.

Feeding a diet contaminated with ochratoxin A for chickens at the maximum level recommended by the EU for poultry feeds (0.1 mg/kg). 1. Effects on growth and slaughter performance, haematological and serum traits.

PubMed

Pozzo, L; Salamano, G; Mellia, E; Gennero, M S; Doglione, L; Cavallarin, L; Tarantola, M; Forneris, G; Schiavone, A

2013-05-01

The European Commission Recommendation 2006/576/EC, suggests that the maximum level of Ochratoxin A (OTA) in poultry feeds should be set at 0.1 mg OTA/kg. Thirty-six one-day-old male Hubburd broiler chickens were divided into two groups, a Control (basal diet) and an Ochratoxin A (basal diet + 0.1 mg OTA/kg) group. The growth and slaughter performance traits were recorded. The liver, spleen, bursa of Fabricius and thymus weights were measured. The erythrocyte and leukocyte numbers were assayed in blood samples, and the heterophils to lymphocytes (H/L) ratio was determined. Alpha-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP), lysozyme, the total protein and the electrophoretic pattern were evaluated in serum samples. Liver enzymes (alanino aminotransferase, ALT and aspartate aminotransferase, AST) and kidney function parameters (uric acid and creatinine) were quantified. The results revealed that feeding a 0.1 mg OTA/kg contaminated diet to chicks caused a decrease in the absolute thymus weight (p < 0.05) and a lower total protein (p < 0.01), albumin (p < 0.01), alpha (p < 0.05), beta (p = 0.001) and gamma (p = 0.001) globulins serum concentration in the Ochratoxin A group. Moreover, the albumin-to-globulin (A/G) ratio of the OTA-treated animals resulted to be higher (p < 0.05). Feeding broiler chickens, a diet contaminated with the maximum level admitted by the European Commission Recommendation (0.1 mg OTA/kg), did not affect the animal performance, slaughter traits, organ weights, haematological parameters, liver enzyme or renal function parameters concentrations but had an overall immunosuppressant effect, with reduction in the thymus weight and of the total serum protein, albumin, alpha, beta and gamma globulins concentration. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition © 2013 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

6'7'-Dihydroxybergamottin contributes to the grapefruit juice effect.

PubMed

Kakar, Shefali M; Paine, Mary F; Stewart, Paul W; Watkins, Paul B

2004-06-01

Our objective was to assess the contribution of 6',7'-dihydroxybergamottin (DHB) to the inhibitory effect of grapefruit juice toward intestinal cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4. An aqueous extract was prepared from grapefruit juice by centrifugation, filtration, and repeated washing of the particulate with water. The concentrations of various furanocoumarins in this grapefruit juice "serum" and in whole grapefruit juice were measured by HPLC and their identities confirmed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Five healthy volunteers were given a single tablet of felodipine (10 mg) with whole grapefruit juice, orange juice-containing serum, or plain orange juice (control). The pharmacokinetic outcomes of felodipine were evaluated by noncompartmental methods. The effects of serum and purified DHB (at the same concentrations as those measured in the orange juice-containing serum used in the clinical study) were compared, in vitro, with regard to (1) the reversible and mechanism-based inhibition of the catalytic activity of complementary deoxyribonucleic acid-expressed CYP3A4 and (2) the time-dependent loss of immunoreactive CYP3A4 protein in modified Caco-2 cells. The concentration of DHB in serum was comparable to that measured in whole grapefruit juice (38 micromol/L versus 43 micromol/L), and the concentrations of other known furanocoumarins were well below the lowest published concentration required to inhibit catalytic activity by 50%. Relative to plain orange juice, orange juice-containing serum significantly increased the median felodipine area under the plasma concentration-time curve by 1.9-fold (P =.04) and increased the maximum concentration by 1.7-fold (P =.01). In vitro, serum and purified DHB had similar inhibitory effects toward CYP3A4 activity with respect to both reversible inhibition (95% confidence interval, 85% +/- 5.7% and 75% +/- 4.5%, respectively) and mechanism-based inhibition after a 15-minute preincubation (95% confidence interval, 79% +/- 6.8% and 78% +/- 5.7%, respectively). In Caco-2 cells the time-averaged extents of CYP3A4 protein loss caused by serum and purified DHB were identical (43%). The interaction between grapefruit juice serum and felodipine can be attributed largely to DHB. This establishes DHB as an important contributor to the grapefruit juice effect.

[Acute physical exercise increases homocysteine concentrations in young trained male subjects].

PubMed

Maroto-Sánchez, Beatriz; Valtueña, Jara; Albers, Ulrike; Benito, Pedro J; González-Gross, Marcela

2013-01-01

High levels of homocysteine (Hcy) have been identified as a cardiovascular risk factor. Regarding physical exercise, the results are contradictory. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of maximal intensity exercise and submaximal constant exercise on total serum homocysteine concentrations (tHcy) and other related parameters. Ten physically active male subjects (mean age: 23.51 ± 1.84), performed two treadmill tests, a maximal test and a stable submaximal test at an intensity of 65% of maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max). Serum concentrations of tHcy, Folate, Vitamin B12 and creatinine were analysed before and after each test. Significant increase in serum tHcy concentrations after the maximal (p < 0.05) and submaximal (p < 0.01) tests were observed. Folate and vitamin B12 concentrations also increased significantly after both tests (p < 0.05). Creatinine levels increased only after the maximal test (p < 0.001). A statistically significant inverse relationship was found between folate and tHcy concentrations (p < 0.05) at all the measurement points. THcy levels increased significantly after acute exercise in both maximum and submaximal intensity exercises. Copyright © AULA MEDICA EDICIONES 2013. Published by AULA MEDICA. All rights reserved.

Spatial distribution of bisphenol S in surface water and human serum from Yangtze River watershed, China: Implications for exposure through drinking water.

PubMed

Wan, Yanjian; Xia, Wei; Yang, Shunyi; Pan, Xinyun; He, Zhenyu; Kannan, Kurunthachalam

2018-05-01

Bisphenol S (BPS) is an emerging environmental contaminant. The occurrence of this compound in humans and the environment is not well described. In this study, 120 surface water samples and 240 human serum samples were collected along the Yangtze River in 2015 for the determination of the occurrence of BPS. Surface water and human serum samples were extracted by solid phase extraction and liquid-liquid extraction, respectively, and analyzed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). BPS was detected in all river water samples at concentrations that ranged from 0.18 to 14.9 ng/L (median: 0.98 ng/L), with higher concentrations in spring than summer. The median estimated daily intake (EDI) of BPS through water ingestion by infants in spring and summer was 0.12 and 0.06 ng/kg body weight (bw)/day, respectively. BPS was detected in human serum with the highest concentrations in samples from Nanjing (median: 0.65 ng/mL, maximum: 169 ng/mL) among the four cities studied. No significant gender related difference in BPS concentrations was observed in human sera, while higher concentrations were found in younger individuals than elderly. The EDI of BPS calculated based on serum concentrations of adults in Nanjing was 22.8 ng/kg bw/day. Ingestion of water accounted for <1% of the total BPS intake by the Chinese population. This is the first report of the occurrence of BPS in water from the Yangtze River and human serum from several cities located along this river in China. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Differential solubility of curcuminoids in serum and albumin solutions: implications for analytical and therapeutic applications

PubMed Central

Quitschke, Wolfgang W

2008-01-01

Background Commercially available curcumin preparations contain a mixture of related polyphenols, collectively referred to as curcuminoids. These encompass the primary component curcumin along with its co-purified derivatives demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin. Curcuminoids have numerous biological activities, including inhibition of cancer related cell proliferation and reduction of amyloid plaque formation associated with Alzheimer disease. Unfortunately, the solubility of curcuminoids in aqueous solutions is exceedingly low. This restricts their systemic availability in orally administered formulations and limits their therapeutic potential. Results Methods are described that achieve high concentrations of soluble curcuminoids in serum. Solid curcuminoids were either mixed directly with serum, or they were predissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide and added as aliquots to serum. Both methods resulted in high levels of curcuminoid-solubility in mammalian sera from different species. However, adding aliquots of dimethyl sulfoxide-dissolved curcuminoids to serum proved to be more efficient, producing soluble curcuminoid concentrations of at least 3 mM in human serum. The methods also resulted in the differential solubility of individual curcuminoids in serum. The addition of dimethyl sulfoxide-dissolved curcuminoids to serum preferentially solubilized curcumin, whereas adding solid curcuminoids predominantly solubilized bisdemethoxycurcumin. Either method of solubilization was equally effective in inhibiting dose-dependent HeLa cell proliferation in culture. The maximum concentration of curcuminoids achieved in serum was at least 100-fold higher than that required for inhibiting cell proliferation in culture and 1000-fold higher than the concentration that has been reported to prevent amyloid plaque formation associated with Alzheimer disease. Curcuminoids were also highly soluble in solutions of purified albumin, a major component of serum. Conclusion These results suggest the possibility of alternative therapeutic approaches by injection or infusion of relatively small amounts of curcuminoid-enriched serum. They also provide tools to reproducibly solubilize curcuminoids for analysis in cell culture applications. The differential solubility of curcuminoids achieved by different methods of solubilization offers convenient alternatives to assess the diverse biological effects contributed by curcumin and its derivatives. PMID:18990234

Improved colorimetric determination of serum zinc.

PubMed

Johnson, D J; Djuh, Y Y; Bruton, J; Williams, H L

1977-07-01

We show how zinc may easily be quantified in serum by first using an optimum concentration of guanidine hydrochloride to cause release of zinc from proteins, followed by complexation of released metals with cyanide. The cyanide complex of zinc is preferentially demasked with chloral hydrate, followed by a colorimetric reaction between zinc and 4-(2-pyridylazo)resorcinol. This is a sensitive water-soluble ligand; its complex with zinc has an absorption maximum at 497 nm. Values found by this technique compare favorably with those obtained by atomic absorption spectroscopy.

Relation of gastric acid and pepsin secretion to serum gastrin levels in dogs given bombesin and gastrin-17.

PubMed

Hirschowitz, B I; Molina, E

1983-05-01

To quantitate bombesin stimulation of gastric acid and pepsin via release of gastrin, five gastric fistula dogs were given graded doses (60-1,250 pmol X kg-1 X h-1) of bombesin tetradecapeptide and 40-2,000 pmol X kg-1 X h-1 of synthetic gastrin-17 (G-17). Acid and pepsin output and serum gastrin were proportional to the dose of stimulant. The half-maximal dose of bombesin for gastrin release was 200 pmol X kg-1 X h-1. Bombesin-stimulated acid secretion related to serum gastrin concentrations was congruent with the G-17 curve, but with a maximum of only 62% of the G-17 maximum before declining by 27% despite higher serum gastrin levels. This suggested that bombesin stimulates acid secretion only via gastrin release and inhibits at higher doses by releasing another inhibitory peptide, most likely somatostatin, which is also released by bombesin. The same mechanism could apply to supramaximal inhibition of acid and pepsin seen with high doses of G-17. Because the pepsin curve related to serum gastrin was to the left of the G-17 curve, we concluded that another secretagogue released by bombesin acts synergistically with gastrin on pepsin secretion. Therefore, bombesin stimulates gastric secretion through gastrin release, but its effects are modified by peptides coreleased to a) increase pepsin output at low doses and b) limit the output of acid and pepsin to 50-60% of the G-17 maximum.

Pharmacokinetics of Hydroxymethylnitrofurazone, a Promising New Prodrug for Chagas' Disease Treatment

PubMed Central

Serafim, Eliana Ometto Pavan; Silva, Antonio Távora de Albuquerque e; Moreno, Andréia de Haro; Vizioli, Ednir de Oliveira; Ferreira, Elizabeth Igne; Ribeiro, Maria Lucia

2013-01-01

Hydroxymethylnitrofurazone (NFOH) is a trypanocidal prodrug of nitrofurazone (NF), devoid of mutagenic toxicity. The purpose of this work was to study the chemical conversion of NFOH into NF in sodium acetate buffer (pH 1.2 and 7.4) and in human plasma and to determine preclinical pharmacokinetic parameters in rats. At pH 1.2, the NFOH was totally transformed into NF, the parent drug, after 48 h, while at pH 7.4, after the same period, the hydrolysis rate was 20%. In human plasma, 50% of NFOH was hydrolyzed after 24 h. In the investigation of kinetic disposition, the concentration of drug in serum versus time curve was used to calculate the pharmacokinetic parameters after a single-dose regimen. NFOH showed a time to maximum concentration of drug in serum (Tmax) as 1 h, suggesting faster absorption than NF (4 h). The most important results observed were the volume of distribution (V) of NFOH through the tissues, which showed a rate that is 20-fold higher (337.5 liters/kg of body weight) than that of NF (17.64 liters/kg), and the concentration of NF obtained by in vivo metabolism of NFOH, which was about four times lower (maximum concentration of drug in serum [Cmax] = 0.83 μg/ml; area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 12 h [AUC0–12] = 5.683 μg/ml · h) than observed for administered NF (Cmax = 2.78 μg/ml; AUC0–12 = 54.49 μg/ml · h). These findings can explain the superior activity and lower toxicity of the prodrug NFOH in relation to its parent drug and confirm NFOH as a promising anti-Chagas' disease drug candidate. PMID:24080661

Changes in serum sex steroid levels throughout the reproductive cycle of Bufo arenarum females.

PubMed

Medina, Marcela F; Ramos, Inés; Crespo, Claudia A; González-Calvar, Silvia; Fernández, Silvia N

2004-04-01

The changes in the serum levels of the sexual steroids estradiol-17beta (E(2)), testosterone (T), dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and progesterone (P) in Bufo arenarum females were determined by radioimmunoassay (RIA) during 3 consecutive cycles (1999-2001). The serum concentrations of T and DHT, which showed a close parallelism during the annual reproductive cycle, exhibited the highest levels during the preovulatory period, when oogenesis is advanced, while lowest serum levels of these hormones were found during the ovulatory period. The data obtained for E(2) showed a pattern contrary to that determined for androgens. The maximum E(2) concentrations detected in the early postovulatory period might be associated with vitellogenesis and follicular growth. Lowest E(2) concentrations were reached during the period in which B. arenarum undergoes its final hibernation stage. Serum P showed a peak during the preovulatoy period, related to the induction of nuclear maturation in full grown oocytes. A strong decrease in the levels of the circulating hormones was observed after ovariectomy. Our results showed that, out of the four hormones examined, T and DHT were the best indicators of ovarian and oviductal stage, as shown by the strong positive correlation found between androgen levels and organ weight, while E(2) showed a weak negative correlation with ovarian and oviductal weight.

PHARMACOKINETICS OF A SINGLE DOSE OF METRONIDAZOLE AFTER RECTAL ADMINISTRATION IN CAPTIVE ASIAN ELEPHANTS (ELEPHAS MAXIMUS).

PubMed

Sander, Samantha J; Siegal-Willott, Jessica L; Ziegler, Jessie; Lee, Elizabeth; Tell, Lisa; Murray, Suzan

2016-03-01

Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole antibacterial and antiprotozoal drug with bacteriocidal activity against a broad range of anaerobic bacteria. It is a recognized treatment for elephants diagnosed with anaerobic bacterial infection or protozoal disease or exhibiting signs of colonic impaction, diarrhea, and colic. This study evaluated the pharmacokinetics of rectally administered metronidazole (15 mg/kg) in five adult female Asian elephants (Elephas maximus). Serum samples were collected from each animal for 96 hr after rectal administration of metronidazole. Serum concentrations of metronidazole and its primary metabolite, hydroxymetronidazole, were measured via ultraperformance liquid chromatography. Data were analyzed via a noncompartmental pharmacokinetic approach. Results indicated that serum levels of metronidazole were quantifiable at the 0.25 hr time point and absent in all elephants by the 96 hr time point. The serum peak concentration (mean ± SD, 13.15 ± 2.59 μg/ml) and area under the curve from time 0 to infinity (mean ± SD, 108.79 ± 24.77 hr × μg/ml) were higher than that reported in domestic horses after similar usage. Concurrently, the time of maximum serum concentration (mean ± SD, 1.2 ± 0.45 hr) and terminal elimination half-life (harmonic mean ± pseudo-SD, 7.85 ± 0.93 hr) were longer when compared to equine reports. Rectal administration of metronidazole was well tolerated and rapidly absorbed in all study elephants. Based on the findings in this study, metronidazole administered at a single dose of 15 mg/kg per rectum in the Asian elephant is likely to result in serum concentrations above 4 μg/ml for 8 hr and above 2 μg/ml for 24 hr after treatment is administered. Dosing recommendations should reflect the mean inhibitory concentration of metronidazole for each pathogen.

Calcium homeostasis during oral glucose load in healthy women.

PubMed

D'Erasmo, E; Pisani, D; Ragno, A; Raejntroph, N; Vecci, E; Acca, M

1999-04-01

It has been demonstrated that in healthy subjects during oral glucose tolerance test, serum calcium declines, while urinary calcium excretion increases, even if there is not a general agreement in this regard. The study was carried out in order to evaluate the effects of glucose oral load on calcium homeostasis in eight healthy adult women, also considering ionized calcium, plasma insulin and parathyroid hormone changes. The results showed a decline of total and ionized serum calcium (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively; maximum of the decrease at time 120'), in parallel with the increase of urinary calcium/ creatinine ratio (p < 0.05). Serum glucose and insulin increase (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.0005 respectively; maximum value at time 60'), while the parathyroid hormone level decreases (maximum decline at time 120', p < 0.01). No changes were observed in fasting control subjects for all parameters considered. The changes of these parameters with time suggest that the effects of glucose oral load on calcium metabolism in healthy adult women may be the consequence of parathyroid hormone suppression induced by acute hyperglycemia/hyperinsulinemia. The results confirm in vivo the PTH behaviour in vitro, on cultured bovine parathyroid cells, with high glucose concentration.

Increases in heart rate and serum cortisol concentrations in healthy dogs are positively correlated with an indoor waiting-room environment.

PubMed

Perego, Roberta; Proverbio, Daniela; Spada, Eva

2014-03-01

Few studies have investigated the effect of veterinary clinical procedures on the welfare of dogs, with specific emphasis on the veterinary practice environment. Clinicopathologic variables have also not been assessed in these potentially stressful situations. Similar to human clinical studies, the veterinary clinical waiting room could present a significant stress factor for dogs. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of waiting-room environment on serum cortisol and glucose alterations as well as heart rate in privately owned healthy dogs. The clinical trial included 24 healthy dogs that were divided into 2 groups: the clinical waiting-room group (A) and the control group (B) that waited outside in a garden. During the entire experiment, 18 dogs (9 dogs per group) were monitored with a human heart rate monitor fastened around the chest. After 20 minutes of waiting, blood samples were collected from all of the dogs (24 dogs) to determine serum cortisol concentration. Serum cortisol concentration and mean, maximum, and minimum heart rate were significantly higher in group A compared with group B, but there was no statistical difference in serum glucose concentrations between the 2 study groups. Results of this study suggest that the waiting room is a potentially stressful situation for dogs in clinical veterinary practice, when compared with a garden, based on the assessment of adrenal cortex function and heart rate evaluation. © 2014 American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology and European Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.

Pharmacokinetic Study of Intravenous Acetaminophen Administered to Critically Ill Multiple-Trauma Patients at the Usual Dosage and a New Proposal for Administration.

PubMed

Fuster-Lluch, Oscar; Zapater-Hernández, Pedro; Gerónimo-Pardo, Manuel

2017-10-01

The pharmacokinetic profile of intravenous acetaminophen administered to critically ill multiple-trauma patients was studied after 4 consecutive doses of 1 g every 6 hours. Eleven blood samples were taken (predose and 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, 180, 240, 300, and 360 minutes postdose), and urine was collected (during 6-hour intervals between doses) to determine serum and urine acetaminophen concentrations. These were used to calculate the following pharmacokinetic parameters: maximum and minimum concentrations, terminal half-life, area under serum concentration-time curve from 0 to 6 hours, mean residence time, volume of distribution, and serum and renal clearance of acetaminophen. Daily doses of acetaminophen required to obtain steady-state minimum (bolus dosing) and average plasma concentrations (continuous infusion) of 10 μg/mL were calculated (10 μg/mL is the presumed lower limit of the analgesic range). Data are expressed as median [interquartile range]. Twenty-two patients were studied, mostly young (age 44 [34-64] years) males (68%), not obese (weight 78 [70-84] kg). Acetaminophen concentrations and pharmacokinetic parameters were these: maximum concentration 33.6 [25.7-38.7] μg/mL and minimum concentration 0.5 [0.2-2.3] μg/mL, all values below 10 μg/mL and 8 below the detection limit; half-life 1.2 [1.0-1.9] hours; area under the curve for 6 hours 34.7 [29.7-52.7] μg·h/mL; mean residence time 1.8 [1.3-2.6] hours; steady-state volume of distribution 50.8 [42.5-66.5] L; and serum and renal clearance 28.8 [18.9-33.7] L/h and 15 [11-19] mL/min, respectively. Theoretically, daily doses for a steady-state minimum concentration of 10 μg/mL would be 12.2 [7.8-16.4] g/day (166 [112-202] mg/[kg·day]); for an average steady-state concentration of 10 μg/mL, they would be 6.9 [4.5-8.1] g/day (91 [59-111] mg/[kg·day]). In conclusion, administration of acetaminophen at the recommended dosage of 1 g per 6 hours to critically ill multiple-trauma patients yields serum concentrations below 10 μg/mL due to increased elimination. To reach the 10 μg/mL target, and from a strictly pharmacokinetic point of view, continuous infusion may be more feasible than bolus dosing. Such a change in dosing strategy requires appropriate, pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic and specific safety study. © 2017, The American College of Clinical Pharmacology.

Hybridization behavior of mixed DNA/alkylthiol monolayers on gold: characterization by surface plasmon resonance and 32P radiometric assay.

PubMed

Gong, Ping; Lee, Chi-Ying; Gamble, Lara J; Castner, David G; Grainger, David W

2006-05-15

Nucleic acid assay from a complex biological milieu is attractive but currently difficult and far from routine. In this study, DNA hybridization from serum dilutions into mixed DNA/mercaptoundecanol (MCU) adlayers on gold was monitored by surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Immobilized DNA probe and hybridized target densities on these surfaces were quantified using 32P-radiometric assays as a function of MCU diluent exposure. SPR surface capture results correlated with radiometric analysis for hybridization performance, demonstrating a maximum DNA hybridization on DNA/MCU mixed adlayers. The maximum target surface capture produced by MCU addition to the DNA probe layer correlates with structural and conformational data on identical mixed DNA/MCU adlayers on gold derived from XPS, NEXAFS, and fluorescence intensity measurements reported in a related study (Lee, C.-Y.; Gong, P.; Harbers, G. M.; Grainger, D. W.; Castner, D. G.; Gamble, L. J. Anal. Chem. 2006, 78, 3316-3325.). MCU addition into the DNA adlayer on gold also improved surface resistance to both nonspecific DNA and serum protein adsorption. Target DNA hybridization from serum dilutions was monitored with SPR on the optimally mixed DNA/MCU adlayers. Both hybridization kinetics and efficiency were strongly affected by nonspecific protein adsorption from a complex milieu even at a minimal serum concentration (e.g., 1%). No target hybridization was detected in SPR assays from serum concentrations above 30%, indicating nonspecific protein adsorption interference of DNA capture and hybridization from complex milieu. Removal of nonsignal proteins from nucleic acid targets prior to assay represents a significant issue for direct sample-to-assay nucleic acid diagnostics from food, blood, tissue, PCR mixtures, and many other biologically complex sample formats.

Low concentrations of folate, not hyperhomocysteinemia, are associated with carotid intima-media thickness.

PubMed

Durga, Jane; Bots, Michiel L; Schouten, Evert G; Kok, Frans J; Verhoef, Petra

2005-04-01

We examined whether total homocysteine, B vitamins and the 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) 677C-->T polymorphism are related to common carotid intima-media thickness, a marker of atherosclerosis, and carotid distension, a marker of arterial stiffness. We used cross-sectional data from 819 individuals aged 50-70 years. B-mode ultrasound of the distal common carotid arteries was performed to determine maximum carotid intima-media thickness, mean carotid intima-media thickness and distension. Carotid intima-media thickness and distension did not differ across homocysteine, serum folate, vitamin B(6) and vitamin B(12) quartiles or between MTHFR C677T genotype. Erythrocyte folate was independently associated with maximum carotid intima-media thickness (mean difference first versus third quartile, 0.03 mm, 95% CI 0.004-0.06 mm; first versus fourth quartile, 0.03 mm, 95% CI -0.002 to 0.06 mm). Further adjustment for homocysteine did not affect this association. Folate deficient subjects had greater maximum carotid intima-media thickness than those with high-normal folate concentrations (serum folate: mean difference 0.05 mm, 95% CI 0.01-0.08 mm; erythrocyte folate: mean difference 0.04 mm, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.11 mm). Low folate concentrations, independent of hyperhomocysteinemia, may promote atherogenesis. Our findings confirm the null association of homocysteine with carotid intima-media thickness observed in other population-based studies, suggesting that hyperhomocysteinemia does not perpetuate atherosclerosis or arterial stiffness.

Mucorales species activation of a serum leukotactic factor.

PubMed Central

Marx, R S; Forsyth, K R; Hentz, S K

1982-01-01

Previous studies have suggested that the focal accumulation of phagocytic leukocytes is an important feature of the host response in mucormycosis. To ascertain the basis for this influx of inflammatory cells, we evaluated the effect of members of the order Mucorales, including species from the genera Rhizopus, Absidia, and Mucor, on the chemotactic activity of normal human serum for neutrophils and monocytes. Both hyphae and spores produced concentration-dependent chemotaxigenesis in serum to a maximum level equivalent to that produced by zymosan activation of serum. Chemotactic activity was similar for live and heat-killed hyphae. No leukotactic activity was demonstrated in the absence of serum. The pretreatment of serum with anti-C3 antibody, heating at 56 degrees C, or 0.01 M EDTA abolished the activity. The pretreatment of serum with 0.01 M ethylene glycol-bis(beta-aminoethyl ether)-N,N-tetraacetic acid did not abolish the activity. These data provide evidence that the leukotactic activity of Mucorales species is generated through the alternative complement pathway. PMID:6759409

Serological evaluation of ovarian steroids of red-rumped agouti (Dasyprocta leporina) during the estrous cycle phases.

PubMed

Singh, Michele D; Morris, Michael J; Guimarães, Diva Anelie; Bourne, Gregory; Garcia, Gary W

2016-12-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate serum progesterone (P4) and 17β estradiol (E2) concentrations throughout the estrous cycle in the red-rumped agouti (Dasyprocta leporina). A total of eight multiparous, captive-bred females were bled throughout their estrous cycle via saphenous venipuncture, with E2 and P4 concentrations being measured via ELISA of the serum collected. Serum E 2 ranged from 1212 to 3500pg/ml with a peak value coinciding with observed estrus. However, two additional peak values for E 2 were also recorded, one each in metestrus and proestrus respectively. P4 concentrations reached a maximum of 4.23ng/ml, and increases in P4 immediately followed the second E2 peak in metestrus. The highest concentrations of P4 were recorded in mid diestrus; between days 23-25 of the 31-day cycle. This phase was the longest in the agouti, consisting of approximately 19days and accounted for 61% of the cycle. This study increased the basal scientific reproductive knowledge of this potentially valuable neo-tropical species. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Milk and serum concentration of ceftiofur following intramammary infusion in goats.

PubMed

Garrett, E F; Dirikolu, L; Grover, G S

2015-12-01

Five dairy goats were used to determine the milk and serum concentrations along with elimination characteristics of ceftiofur following intramammary administration. One udder half of each goat was infused twice with 125 mg ceftiofur with a 24-h interval between infusions. Milk samples were collected at 1, 2, 8, and 12 h after the last infusion and then every 12 h for a total of 7 days. Blood was collected from each animal at 3, 8, 12, and 24 h after infusion and then every 24 h for 6 days. Following a washout period of 1 week, the experiment was repeated using the opposite udder half. The elimination half-life of ceftiofur from the mammary gland was 4.7 h. The concentration of ceftiofur was greater than published MIC90 values for Staphylococcus spp. bacteria for 24 h. Ceftiofur was absorbed into systemic circulation from the mammary gland. The maximum concentration was 552 ng/mL at 3 h after infusion, and the serum elimination half-life was 10 h. Intramammary infusion of 125 mg ceftiofur every 24 h can be expected to maintain drug concentration in milk above published MIC90 for Staphylococcus spp. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Minor and potentially toxic trace elements in milk and blood serum of dairy donkeys.

PubMed

Fantuz, F; Ferraro, S; Todini, L; Piloni, R; Mariani, P; Malissiova, E; Salimei, E

2015-08-01

The aim of this trial was to study the concentration of Ti, V, As, Rb, Sr, Mo, Cd, Cs, and Pb in donkey milk and blood serum. One hundred twelve individual milk and blood serum samples were collected from 16 lactating donkeys (Martina-Franca-derived population; 6 to 12 yr old; 3 to 7 parities; average live weight 205.4kg; 32 to 58 d after foaling at the beginning of the trial) during a 3-mo-long experiment. The samples were analyzed for the aforementioned elements by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Feedstuff and drinking water were also analyzed for the investigated elements. Data were processed by ANOVA for repeated measures. Average milk concentrations (±SD) of Ti, Rb, Sr, Mo, Cs, and Pb were 77.3 (±7.7), 339.1 (±82.1), 881.7 (±270.4), 4.5 (±1.6), 0.49 (±0.09), and 3.2 (±2.7) μg/L, respectively. More than 80% of samples were below the limit of detection for V, As, and Cd in milk and for Cd, and Pb in blood serum. The lower bound calculated for milk V, As, and Cd was 0.03μg/L for the 3 elements, the upper bound was calculated at 0.23, 0.10, and 0.31μg/L and the maximum value was observed at 0.54, 0.15, and 0.51μg/L, respectively. The average milk concentrations of Ti, Rb, Sr, Mo, and Cs were 600, 458, 346, 16, and 294%, respectively, than those of blood serum. Yet, Cs concentrations were in the same order of magnitude in milk and serum. Moderate to strong positive and significant correlation coefficients were observed between milk and blood serum concentrations for Ti, Rb, Sr, and Cs. The effect of the stage of lactation was significant for all the investigated elements in milk and blood serum, but most of the elements showed only small changes or inconsistent trends, and only the concentrations of Rb and Sr showed decreasing trends both in milk and blood serum. The relationship between milk and blood serum element concentrations indicates that the mammary gland plays a role in determining the milk concentrations of Mo, Ti, Rb, Sr, Mo, and Cs. In the current experimental conditions, in agreement with the low levels in drinking water and feedstuff, donkey milk concentration of potentially toxic elements was very low and did not raise health concerns for human consumption. Copyright © 2015 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Quantification of the aggregation of magnetic nanoparticles with different polymeric coatings in cell culture medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eberbeck, D.; Kettering, M.; Bergemann, C.; Zirpel, P.; Hilger, I.; Trahms, L.

2010-10-01

The knowledge of the physico-chemical characteristics of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) is essential to enhance the efficacy of MNP-based therapeutic treatments (e.g. magnetic heating, magnetic drug targeting). According to the literature, the MNP uptake by cells may depend on the coating of MNPs, the surrounding medium as well as on the aggregation behaviour of the MNPs. Therefore, in this study, the aggregation behaviour of MNPs in various media was investigated. MNPs with different coatings were suspended in cell culture medium (CCM) containing fetal calf serum (FCS) and the distribution of the hydrodynamic sizes was measured by magnetorelaxometry (MRX). FCS as well as bovine serum albumin (BSA) buffer (phosphate buffered saline with 0.1% bovine serum albumin) may induce MNP aggregation. Its strength depends crucially on the type of coating. The degree of aggregation in CCM depends on its FCS content showing a clear, local maximum at FCS concentrations, where the IgG concentration (part of FCS) is of the order of the MNP number concentration. Thus, we attribute the observed aggregation behaviour to the mechanism of agglutination of MNPs by serum compartments as for example IgG. No aggregation was induced for MNPs coated with dextran, polyarabic acid or sodium phosphate, respectively, which were colloidally stable in CCM.

Metabolic and skeletal effects of low and high doses of calcium acetate in patients with preterminal chronic renal failure.

PubMed

Phelps, Kenneth R; Stern, Marc; Slingerland, Alice; Heravi, Mahin; Strogatz, David S; Haqqie, Syed S

2002-01-01

Secondary hyperparathyroidism commonly evolves, as the glomerular filtration rate falls. The metabolic and skeletal effects of a possible remedy, calcium acetate, have not been studied in patients with preterminal chronic renal failure. Men with a mean creatinine clearance of approximately 30 ml/min took calcium acetate for 24 weeks at doses which provided 507 or 1,521 mg calcium/day with meals. Metabolic determinations were made at intervals of 4-8 weeks, and the bone mineral density (BMD) was measured at the beginning and at the end of the trial. The low-dose regimen produced no metabolic or skeletal effect. In subjects prescribed the high-dose regimen, the 24-hour urine phosphorus excretion fell from 0.53 mg/mg creatinine to values ranging from 0.34 to 0.41 mg/mg creatinine. The theoretical phosphorus threshold concentration rose by a maximum of 38.6%, and the serum phosphorus concentration did not change. The mean serum calcium concentration rose by a maximum of 7.2%. The mean fractional changes in parathyroid hormone and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D concentrations ranged from -27.0 to -39.6% and from -5.0 to -20.3%, respectively. The BMD increased at L1, L3, and L4. Calcium acetate prescribed to deliver 1,521 mg calcium/day with meals reduced parathyroid hormone and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D concentrations and increased lumbar BMD in men with preterminal chronic renal failure. Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel

Release of serum S-100β protein and neuron-specific enolase after off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting with and without intracranial and cervical artery stenosis.

PubMed

Tamura, Atsushi; Imamaki, Mizuho; Shimura, Hitoshi; Niitsuma, Yuriko; Miyazaki, Masaru

2011-01-01

The aim of this study was to quantify the amount of brain damage suffered by patients who underwent off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) in which S-100β protein and neuron-specific enolase were used. Thirty-four patients undergoing scheduled OPCAB were enrolled in the study. The patients were divided into two groups according to the results of their magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and cervical ultrasonography: 13 patients had cervical or intracranial arterial stenosis (Group A), and 21 patients did not (Group B). Blood samples were collected from the arterial catheters immediately before surgery, upon arrival to the intensive care unit, and 6 and 24 hours after surgery. In blood samples collected from patients upon arrival to the intensive care unit, the maximum concentration of serum s-100β protein in Group A was significantly higher than that of Group B (p = 0.029). Though patients in Group A tended to have higher maximum neuron-specific enolase (NSE) concentrations, there were no significant differences in NSE concentrations at any point between the two groups. Our findings show a correlation between the stenosis detected by MRA or cervical ultrasonography and brain damage after OPCAB.

Analysis of the acute-phase protein response in pigs to clinical and subclinical infection with H3N2 swine influenza virus.

PubMed

Pomorska-Mól, Małgorzata; Kwit, Krzysztof; Pejsak, Zygmunt; Markowska-Daniel, Iwona

2014-03-01

Swine influenza (SI) is a contagious, important respiratory disease. Diagnosis of SI is based on the clinical signs, confirmed by the detection of viral RNA or specific antibodies. However, the infection is much more frequent than the disease. The aim of study was to investigate the kinetics of acute-phase protein (APP) response during subclinical and clinical influenza in pigs. The utility of APP measurements in identification of infected animals was also evaluated. Twenty-eight piglets were used. C-reactive protein (CRP), haptoglobin (Hp), serum amyloid A (SAA) and pig major acute-phase protein (Pig-MAP) concentrations in serum were measured using commercial ELISAs. No relevant clinical signs were observed in intranasally infected pigs. In contrast, coughing, nasal discharge, and fever were observed in pigs infected intratracheally. All infected pigs exhibited specific antibodies in the serum at 10 dpi, and viral shedding was confirmed. The concentrations of CRP, Hp and SAA were significantly increased after infection. The level of Pig-MAP remained constant during subclinical and clinical infection. The concentrations of CRP, Hp and SAA were higher in pigs with clinical disease. Although not specific, strategic APP measurements may reveal ongoing clinical and subclinical infection. A close relationship between the magnitude of serum APP response with the severity of disease, providing an objective tool for validation the severity of infection. The maximum concentration of SAA in serum was closely correlated with lung score and makes this APP potential indicator for disease progress or estimation of treatment strategy.

Analysis of the acute-phase protein response in pigs to clinical and subclinical infection with H3N2 swine influenza virus

PubMed Central

Pomorska-Mól, Małgorzata; Krzysztof, Kwit; Pejsak, Zygmunt; Markowska-Daniel, Iwona

2014-01-01

Background Swine influenza (SI) is a contagious, important respiratory disease. Diagnosis of SI is based on the clinical signs, confirmed by the detection of viral RNA or specific antibodies. However, the infection is much more frequent than the disease. Objectives The aim of study was to investigate the kinetics of acute-phase protein (APP) response during subclinical and clinical influenza in pigs. The utility of APP measurements in identification of infected animals was also evaluated. Methods Twenty-eight piglets were used. C-reactive protein (CRP), haptoglobin (Hp), serum amyloid A (SAA) and pig major acute-phase protein (Pig-MAP) concentrations in serum were measured using commercial ELISAs. Results and Conclusions No relevant clinical signs were observed in intranasally infected pigs. In contrast, coughing, nasal discharge, and fever were observed in pigs infected intratracheally. All infected pigs exhibited specific antibodies in the serum at 10 dpi, and viral shedding was confirmed. The concentrations of CRP, Hp and SAA were significantly increased after infection. The level of Pig-MAP remained constant during subclinical and clinical infection. The concentrations of CRP, Hp and SAA were higher in pigs with clinical disease. Although not specific, strategic APP measurements may reveal ongoing clinical and subclinical infection. A close relationship between the magnitude of serum APP response with the severity of disease, providing an objective tool for validation the severity of infection. The maximum concentration of SAA in serum was closely correlated with lung score and makes this APP potential indicator for disease progress or estimation of treatment strategy. PMID:24734294

Serum C-reactive protein concentrations in healthy Miniature Schnauzer dogs.

PubMed

Wong, Valerie M; Kidney, Beverly A; Snead, Elisabeth C R; Myers, Sherry L; Jackson, Marion L

2011-09-01

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a sensitive marker for inflammation in people and dogs. In people, an association between CRP concentration and atherosclerosis has been reported. Atherosclerosis is rare in dogs, but the Miniature Schnauzer breed may be at increased risk for developing this vascular disease. It is not known if CRP concentrations in Miniature Schnauzer dogs differ from those in other dog breeds. Our objectives were to validate an automated human CRP assay for measuring CRP in dogs and compare CRP concentrations in healthy Miniature Schnauzer dogs with those in non-Miniature Schnauzer breeds. Sera from 37 non-Miniature Schnauzer dogs with inflammatory disease were pooled and used to validate a human CRP immunoturbidimetric assay for measuring canine CRP. Blood was collected from 20 healthy Miniature Schnauzer dogs and 41 healthy dogs of other breeds. Median serum CRP concentration of healthy Miniature Schnauzer dogs was compared with that of healthy non-Miniature Schnauzer dogs. The human CRP assay measured CRP reliably with linearity between 0 and 20 mg/L. CRP concentration for healthy Miniature Schnauzer dogs (median 4.0 mg/L, minimum-maximum 0-18.2 mg/L) was significantly higher than for the healthy non-Miniature Schnauzer dogs (median 0.1 mg/L, minimum-maximum 0-10.7 mg/L); 17 of the 20 Miniature Schnauzer dogs had values that overlapped with those of the non-Miniature Schnauzer dogs. Median CRP concentration of Miniature Schnauzer dogs was slightly higher than that of other breeds of dogs. A relationship between higher CRP concentration in Miniature Schnauzer dogs and idiopathic hyperlipidemia, pancreatitis, and possible increased risk for atherosclerosis remains to be determined. ©2011 American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.

Fetal- and uterine-specific antigens in human amniotic fluid.

PubMed

Sutcliffe, R G; Brock, D J; Nicholson, L V; Dunn, E

1978-09-01

Removal of the major maternal serum proteins from second trimester amniotic fluid by antibody affinity chromatography revealed various soluble tissue antigens, of which two were fetal-specific skin proteins and another, of alpha2-mobility, was specific to the uterus, and was therefore designated alpha-uterine protein (AUP). These proteins could not be detected in maternal serum by antibody-antigen crossed electrophoresis. The concentration of AUP in amniotic fluid reached a maximum between 10 and 20 weeks of gestation, suggesting that there is an influx of uterine protein into the amniotic fluid at this stage of pregnancy.

Impaired pharmacokinetics of levothyroxine in severely obese volunteers.

PubMed

Michalaki, Marina A; Gkotsina, Margarita I; Mamali, Irene; Markantes, Georgios K; Faltaka, Amalia; Kalfarentzos, Fotios; Vagenakis, Apostolos G; Markou, Kostas B

2011-05-01

Suppressive or replacement doses of levothyroxine (LT4) are affected by the rate and extent of the active ingredient absorbed, as well as by the lean body mass. Obesity has reached epidemic proportions worldwide and is related with many comorbidities. The aim of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetic parameters of LT4 in severely obese individuals and compared them with similar data in lean control subjects. We studied 62 euthyroid subjects who had negative tests for anti-thyroid peroxidise antibodies (Ab-TPO). Thirty eight of these subjects were severely obese but otherwise healthy (severe obese subjects [SOS] group). Twenty-four were healthy control subjects (control group), with a body mass index of 23.3 ± 1.7 kg/m(2). Subjects received 600 μg oral sodium LT4 after an overnight fast. Serum triiodothyronine (T3), T4, and thyroid-stimulating hormone were measured at baseline. Serum T4 and T3 was measured 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, and 4 hours after LT4 administration. Baseline serum T4 and thyroid-stimulating hormone concentrations were higher in the SOS group than in the control group; serum T3 was similar in the two groups. The corrected area under the curve and the maximum T4 concentration after LT4 administration were lower, whereas the time to maximum concentration from the baseline was higher in SOS than in the control group. The estimated plasma volume was higher in the SOS than in the control group. Mean serum T3 levels increased gradually during the four hours after LT4 administration in the control group. In contrast, they decreased gradually in the SOS group. Severely obese individuals may need higher LT4 suppressive or replacement doses than normal-weight individuals due, among other factors, to impaired LT4 pharmacokinetic parameters. The latter could be attributed to their higher plasma volume and/or to delayed gastrointestinal LT4 absorption. T4 conversion to T3 might be defective in severe obesity.

Serum gonadotropins and gonadal steroids associated with ovulation and egg production in sea turtles.

PubMed

Wibbels, T; Owens, D W; Licht, P; Limpus, C; Reed, P C; Amoss, M S

1992-07-01

Changes in serum concentrations of gonadotropins and gonadal steroids during the periovulatory period were monitored in green, Chelonia mydas, and loggerhead, Caretta caretta, sea turtles. Turtles were from natural populations that nest on a coral island on the Great Barrier Reef. After nesting, each turtle was transferred to a holding tank and held for a maximum of 8 days. A time series of blood samples was obtained from each of five sea turtles (three C. mydas and two C. caretta) starting immediately after nesting and then at approximately 12-hr intervals until the time of release. Prior to release back into the ocean, each turtle was examined by laparoscopy to verify that ovulation had occurred. Serum concentrations of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), progesterone (PRO), and testosterone (T) in both species exhibited significant changes during this period. Surges of FSH, LH, and PRO were evident within approximately 20 to 50 hr after each turtle had nested. The significant change in FSH concentration during the periovulatory period is the first such report for a reptile. Coincident with maximal concentrations of FSH, LH, and PRO was a decline in T concentrations in both species. Estradiol-17 beta concentrations were near or below assay sensitivity in the C. mydas, whereas those in the C. caretta were detectable but exhibited no significant changes. The dynamic changes in FSH, LH, PRO, and T concentrations are consistent with the hypothesis that these hormones facilitate specific physiological events during ovulation and egg production.

Serum and tissue concentrations of gallium after oral administration of gallium nitrate and gallium maltolate to neonatal calves.

PubMed

Monk, Caroline S; Sweeney, Raymond W; Bernstein, Lawrence R; Fecteau, Marie-Eve

2016-02-01

To determine serum and tissue concentrations of gallium (Ga) after oral administration of gallium nitrate (GaN) and gallium maltolate (GaM) to neonatal calves. 8 healthy neonatal calves. Calves were assigned to 1 of 2 groups (4 calves/group). Gallium (50 mg/kg) was administered as GaN or GaM (equivalent to 13.15 mg of Ga/kg for GaN and 7.85 mg of Ga/kg for GaM) by oral gavage once daily for 5 days. Blood samples were collected 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours after Ga administration on day 1; 4 and 24 hours after Ga administration on days 2, 3, and 4; and 4, 12, and 24 hours after Ga administration on day 5. On day 6, calves were euthanized and tissue samples were obtained. Serum and tissue Ga concentrations were measured by use of mass spectrometry. Data were adjusted for total Ga dose, and comparisons were made between the 2 groups. Calves receiving GaM had a significantly higher dose-adjusted area under the curve and dose-adjusted maximum serum Ga concentration than did calves receiving GaN. Despite receiving less Ga per dose, calves receiving GaM had tissue Ga concentrations similar to those for calves receiving GaN. In this study, calves receiving GaM had significantly higher Ga absorption than did calves receiving GaN. These findings suggested that GaM might be useful as a prophylactic agent against Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis infection in neonatal calves.

Increased Serum and Urinary Oxytocin Concentrations after Nasal Administration in Beagle Dogs

PubMed Central

Temesi, Andrea; Thuróczy, Julianna; Balogh, Lajos; Miklósi, Ádám

2017-01-01

In recent years more and more studies have revealed the effect of extraneous oxytocin on the social behavior of dogs. The distribution of administered oxytocin in different physiologically relevant compartments is important because this knowledge forms the basis for the timing of behavior tests after the administration. Most behavioral studies rely on the non-invasive intranasal application of oxytocin. The aim of this study was to determine the time course of intranasal administered oxytocin secretion into blood and urine and also establish a connection between intranasal received oxytocin and urinary cortisol in dogs. In our experiment, four dogs received three puffs, 12 IU intranasal oxytocin treatment, two dogs received three puffs intranasal placebo treatment. Blood and urine samples were collected immediately prior to the administration then regularly during 4 h. After nasal oxytocin application, the serum oxytocin concentration increased, reached a maximum 15 min after the treatment and then rapidly returned to baseline levels 45 min later. The peak urinary oxytocin concentration occurred between 45 and 60 min after administration and returned to baseline levels slowly. We found considerable differences among individuals in the secretion of oxytocin in both the serum and the urinary oxytocin concentration measurements. Our results confirm that intranasally administered oxytocin passes into the blood stream. The time course of intranasally administered oxytocin secretion is similar to the time course of intravenously administered oxytocin secretion, and the peak values are also similar in both the serum and the urinary oxytocin concentration measurements, although there are large individual differences. PMID:28929104

Absorption of Transdermal Fluoxetine Compounded in a Lipoderm Base Compared to Oral Fluoxetine in Client-owned Cats.

PubMed

Eichstadt, Lauren R; Corriveau, Lorraine A; Moore, George E; Knipp, Gregory T; Cooper, Bruce R; Gwin, Wilson E

2017-01-01

The objective of this study was to compare serum concentrations of transdermal fluoxetine compounded in Lipoderm base versus commercially available oral fluoxetine tablets. Sixteen clinically healthy, client-owned cats that were at least one year of age were enrolled. Cats weighed between three and seven kilograms, had no comorbidities, and were behavior medication naïve. Cats were recruited from January 2016 through April 2016. Eight cats were assigned to each medication group based on owner preference. The cats received either oral (1 mg/kg) or transdermal (5 mg/kg; maximum 25 mg daily) fluoxetine compounded in a transdermal base (PCCA Lipoderm), administered daily for 60 days. Serum levels of fluoxetine and norfluoxetine were assessed as a surrogate for relative efficacy. Serum was collected and analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry at baseline and days 5, 10, 30, 45, and 60 post-drug start. Adverse effects were monitored during physical exams, speaking with owners, and laboratory analysis of liver function tests at baseline and days 5, 30, and 60 post-drug start. Serum fluoxetine concentrations significantly differed between the treatment groups at days 45 and 60 post-drug start. Norfluoxetine concentrations significantly differed at days 30, 45, and 60 post-drug start. Blood concentrations of fluoxetine and norfluoxetine significantly differed between oral and transdermal routes after 30 days of treatment. Oral fluoxetine concentrations were consistently higher. Transdermal fluoxetine appeared to be well-tolerated, but a lack of knowledge regarding effective blood levels makes it unclear if a clinical effective response would be obtained at the blood concentrations achieved. Copyright© by International Journal of Pharmaceutical Compounding, Inc.

Medicinal values of fruit peels from Citrus sinensis, Punica granatum, and Musa paradisiaca with respect to alterations in tissue lipid peroxidation and serum concentration of glucose, insulin, and thyroid hormones.

PubMed

Parmar, Hamendra Singh; Kar, Anand

2008-06-01

Peel extracts from Citrus sinensis, Punica granatum, and Musa paradisiaca were investigated for their effects on tissue lipid peroxidation (LPO) and on the concentration of thyroid hormones, insulin, and glucose in male rats. In vitro inhibition of H(2)O(2)-induced LPO in red blood cells of rats by 0.25, 0.50, 1.0, and 2.0 microg/mL C. sinensis, P. granatum, and M. paradisiaca peel extracts was observed in a dose-specific manner. Maximum inhibition was observed at 0.50 microg/mL C. sinensis, 2.0 microg/mL P. granatum, and 1.0 microg/mL M. paradisiaca. In the in vivo investigation, out of four different concentrations of each peel extract, 25, 200, and 100 mg/kg C. sinensis, P. granatum, and M. paradisiaca, respectively, were found to maximally inhibit hepatic LPO. The most effective doses were further evaluated for effects on serum triiodothyronine (T(3)), thyroxine (T(4)), insulin, and glucose concentrations. C. sinensis exhibited antithyroidal, hypoglycemic, and insulin stimulatory activities, in addition to inhibition of LPO, as it significantly decreased the serum T(4) (P < .05) and glucose (P < .001) concentrations with a concomitant increase in insulin levels (P < .05). P. granatum decreased LPO in hepatic, cardiac, and renal tissues (P < .01, P < .001, and P < .05, respectively) and serum glucose concentration (P < .01). M. paradisiaca strongly inhibited the serum level of thyroid hormones (P < .01 for both T(3) and T(4)) but increased the level of glucose (P < .05). These findings reveal the hitherto unknown potential of the tested peel extracts in the regulation of thyroid function and glucose metabolism. Besides antiperoxidative activity, C. sinensis extract has antithyroidal, hypoglycemic, and insulin stimulatory properties, which suggest its potential to ameliorate both hyperthyroidism and diabetes mellitus.

Pharmacokinetics and Safety of MP-376 (Levofloxacin Inhalation Solution) in Cystic Fibrosis Subjects▿

PubMed Central

Geller, David E.; Flume, Patrick A.; Griffith, David C.; Morgan, Elizabeth; White, Dan; Loutit, Jeffery S.; Dudley, Michael N.

2011-01-01

The pharmacokinetics and tolerability of nebulized MP-376 (levofloxacin inhalation solution [Aeroquin]) were determined in cystic fibrosis (CF) subjects. Ten CF subjects received single 180-mg doses of two formulations of MP-376, followed by a multiple-dose phase of 240 mg once daily for 7 days. Serum and expectorated-sputum samples were assayed for levofloxacin content. Safety was evaluated following the single- and multiple-dose study phases. Nebulized MP-376 produced high concentrations of levofloxacin in sputum. The mean maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) ranged between 2,563 and 2,932 mg/liter for 180-mg doses of the 50- and 100-mg/ml formulations, respectively. After 7 days of dosing, the mean Cmax for the 240-mg dose was 4,691 mg/liter. The mean serum levofloxacin Cmax ranged between 0.95 and 1.28 for the 180-mg doses and was 1.71 for the 240-mg dose. MP-376 was well tolerated. Nebulized MP-376 produces high sputum and low serum levofloxacin concentrations. The pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability were similar for the two formulations. MP-376 240 mg (100 mg/ml) is being advanced into late-stage clinical development. PMID:21444699

4-Hydroxyanisole: human pharmacokinetics.

PubMed

Belcher, H J; Barsted, C G; Dawson, C M

1990-12-01

The pharmacokinetic behaviour of 4-hydroxyanisole (4HA) has been studied in ten female patients with recurrent malignant melanoma confined to the lower limb. Ten grams of 4HA was infused twice each day via a catheter placed in the common femoral artery for a maximum of 4 days. Blood samples were collected after the first and fourth infusions in all patients and the serum 4HA concentration assayed. Following infusion, the serum 4HA concentration declined in two phases, the half-lives (t1/2) of the distribution and elimination phases being 6.3 and 70.9 min, respectively. The serum 4HA concentrations and area under the curve (AUC) declined significantly between the first and fourth infusions. There was a significant rise in the apparent volume of distribution (VD) of 4HA between these times but no change in the t1/2 of the elimination phase or the clearance rate. It is concluded that there is no evidence that enzyme induction influences the clearance of 4-hydroxyanisole from the bloodstream in the short-term. However, it may be appropriate to adjust dosage regimens to take account of the change in VD that occurs with time.

Effects of selection for blood serum IGF-I concentration on reproductive performance of female Angus beef cattle.

PubMed

Zhang, X; Davis, M E; Moeller, S J; Ottobre, J S

2013-09-01

Reproductive performance of animals affects lifetime productivity. However, improvement of reproductive traits via direct selection is generally slow due to low heritability. Therefore, identification of indicator traits for reproductive performance may enhance genetic response. Previous studies showed that serum IGF-I concentration is a candidate indicator for growth and reproductive traits. The objective of our study was to estimate the variances or covariances of IGF-I concentration with reproductive traits. Data were collected from a divergent selection experiment for serum IGF-I concentration at the Eastern Agricultural Research Station owned by The Ohio State University. The study included a total of 2,662 calves in the 1989 to 2005 calf crops. Variance or covariance components were estimated for direct and maternal genetic effects, maternal environment effects, environment effects, and phenotypic effects using an animal model in a multiple-trait, derivative-free, restricted maximum likelihood (MTDFREML, Boldman et al., 1995) computer program. Direct additive genetic correlations suggest that selection for greater IGF-I concentration (heritability = 0.50 ± 0.07) could lead to increased conception rate (heritability = 0.11 ± 0.06, r = 0.32, P < 0.001) and calving rate (heritability = 0.13 ± 0.06, r = 0.43, P < 0.001) and decreased age at first calving in heifers (heritability = 0.35 ± 0.20, r = -0.40, P < 0.001).

Retrospective study of salazosulfapyridine in eight patients with rheumatoid arthritis on hemodialysis.

PubMed

Akiyama, Yuji; Sakurai, Yusei; Kato, Yuji; Furuta, Eiichi; Mimura, Toshihide

2014-03-01

We examined the pharmacokinetics (PK) of salazosulfapyridine (SASP) and its metabolite, sulfapyridine (SP), as well as the influence of hemodialysis (HD), and investigated the utility of consecutive administration of SASP in rheumatoid arthritis patients undergoing HD. The PK of salazosulfapyridine and SP in serum samples from 8 patients was determined using high-performance liquid chromatography. When SASP 500 mg was administered, the area under curve for serum concentration of SASP was similar to that seen with normal subjects in the Phase I study. The maximum serum concentration of SP was significantly higher than that in normal subjects, but was far from the danger level. SASP was not dialyzed, whereas on average 62% of SP was dialyzed. Following 5 consecutive days of administration of SASP, serum levels of SASP and SP on day 5 were rather higher than those on day 1, although both remained within the safe range. SASP administration from four months to three years in seven subjects resulted in four American College of Rheumatology 20 improvement criteria (57.1%), with one developing a rash. If SASP is initiated at a low dosage (≤ 500 mg) and increased up to 1000 mg under careful monitoring, it is safe for HD patients.

Effects of high fructose corn syrup and sucrose on the pharmacokinetics of fructose and acute metabolic and hemodynamic responses in healthy subjects

PubMed Central

Le, MyPhuong T.; Frye, Reginald F.; Rivard, Christopher J.; Cheng, Jing; McFann, Kim K.; Segal, Mark S.; Johnson, Richard J.; Johnson, Julie A.

2011-01-01

Objective It is unclear whether high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), which contains a higher amount of fructose and provides an immediate source of free fructose, induces greater systemic concentrations of fructose as compared to sucrose. It is also unclear whether exposure to higher levels of fructose leads to increased fructose-induced adverse effects. The objective was to prospectively compare the effects of HFCS- versus sucrose-sweetened soft drinks on acute metabolic and hemodynamic effects. Materials/Methods Forty men and women consumed 24 oz of HFCS- or sucrose-sweetened beverages in a randomized crossover design study. Blood and urine samples were collected over 6 hr. Blood pressure, heart rate, fructose, and a variety of other metabolic biomarkers were measured. Results Fructose area under the curve and maximum concentration, dose normalized glucose area under the curve and maximum concentration, relative bioavailability of glucose, changes in postprandial concentrations of serum uric acid, and systolic blood pressure maximum levels were higher when HFCS-sweetened beverages were consumed as compared to sucrose-sweetened beverages. Conclusions Compared to sucrose, HFCS leads to greater fructose systemic exposure and significantly different acute metabolic effects. PMID:22152650

Effects of high-fructose corn syrup and sucrose on the pharmacokinetics of fructose and acute metabolic and hemodynamic responses in healthy subjects.

PubMed

Le, Myphuong T; Frye, Reginald F; Rivard, Christopher J; Cheng, Jing; McFann, Kim K; Segal, Mark S; Johnson, Richard J; Johnson, Julie A

2012-05-01

It is unclear whether high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), which contains a higher amount of fructose and provides an immediate source of free fructose, induces greater systemic concentrations of fructose as compared with sucrose. It is also unclear whether exposure to higher levels of fructose leads to increased fructose-induced adverse effects. The objective was to prospectively compare the effects of HFCS- vs sucrose-sweetened soft drinks on acute metabolic and hemodynamic effects. Forty men and women consumed 24 oz of HFCS- or sucrose-sweetened beverages in a randomized crossover design study. Blood and urine samples were collected over 6 hours. Blood pressure, heart rate, fructose, and a variety of other metabolic biomarkers were measured. Fructose area under the curve and maximum concentration, dose-normalized glucose area under the curve and maximum concentration, relative bioavailability of glucose, changes in postprandial concentrations of serum uric acid, and systolic blood pressure maximum levels were higher when HFCS-sweetened beverages were consumed as compared with sucrose-sweetened beverages. Compared with sucrose, HFCS leads to greater fructose systemic exposure and significantly different acute metabolic effects. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Nutritional and Safety Outcomes from an Open-Label Micronutrient Intervention for Pediatric Bipolar Spectrum Disorders

PubMed Central

Gracious, Barbara; Arnold, L. Eugene; Failla, Mark; Chitchumroonchokchai, Chureeporn; Habash, Diane; Fristad, Mary A.

2013-01-01

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to report the safety, tolerability, and serum micronutrient concentrations and their correlations with mood changes from an 8 week pilot feasibility study of a 36 ingredient multinutrient supplement, EMPowerplus (EMP+), for pediatric bipolar spectrum disorders (BPSD). Methods Ten children ages 6–12 received EMP+ escalating from one to four capsules t.i.d., with four children increased to the maximum suggested dose, five capsules t.i.d. Outcome measures were micronutrient concentrations in serum and red blood cells, vital signs, body mass index (BMI), dietary intake (Food Frequency Questionnaire and 24 hour dietary recall interview), and mood and global functioning ratings. Results Seven children (70%) completed the study. Three (30%) terminated early for tolerability and compliance issues. Adverse effects were mild and transient, and chiefly consisted of initial insomnia or gastrointestinal (GI) upset. No differences occurred in BMI (p=0.310) or waist–hip ratio (WHR; p=0.674) pre- to postsupplementation. Four of the tested serum vitamin concentrations increased from pre- to postsupplementation: vitamin A-retinol, vitamin B6, vitamin E-α-tocopherol; and folate (all p<0.05). The increase in serum 25-OH vitamin D approached significance (p=0.063). No differences were found in dietary intake pre- to postsupplementation, suggesting that blood nutrient level increases were caused by EMP+. Conclusions In this open prospective study, short-term use of EMP+ in children with BPSD appeared safe and well-tolerated, with a side effect profile preferable to first-line psychotropic drugs for pediatric bipolar spectrum disorders. A double-blind, randomized clinical trial is feasible, appears safe, and is warranted by open-label clinical outcomes and plausible mechanisms of action, combined with documentation of increased serum concentrations of specific micronutrients. PMID:24138009

Influence of oxytetracycline on carprofen pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics in calves.

PubMed

Brentnall, C; Cheng, Z; McKellar, Q A; Lees, P

2013-08-01

A tissue cage model of inflammation in calves was used to determine the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of individual carprofen enantiomers, following the administration of the racemate. RS(±) carprofen was administered subcutaneously both alone and in combination with intramuscularly administered oxytetracycline in a four-period crossover study. Oxytetracycline did not influence the pharmacokinetics of R(-) and S(+) carprofen enantiomers, except for a lower maximum concentration (Cmax ) of S(+) carprofen in serum after co-administration with oxytetracycline. S(+) enantiomer means for area under the serum concentration-time curve (AUC0-96 h were 136.9 and 128.3 μg·h/mL and means for the terminal half-life (T(1/2) k10 ) were = 12.9 and 17.3 h for carprofen alone and in combination with oxytetracycline, respectively. S(+) carprofen AUC0-96 h in both carprofen treatments and T(1/2) k10 for carprofen alone were lower (P < 0.05) than R(-) carprofen values, indicating a small degree of enantioselectivity in the disposition of the enantiomers. Carprofen inhibition of serum thromboxane B2 ex vivo was small and significant only at a few sampling times, whereas in vivo exudate prostaglandin (PG)E2 synthesis inhibition was greater and achieved overall significance between 36 and 72 h (P < 0.05). Inhibition of PGE2 correlated with mean time to achieve maximum concentrations in exudate of 54 and 42 h for both carprofen treatments for R(-) and S(+) enantiomers, respectively. Carprofen reduction of zymosan-induced intradermal swelling was not statistically significant. These data provide a basis for the rational use of carprofen with oxytetracycline in calves and indicate that no alteration to carprofen dosage is required when the drugs are co-administered. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Clinical Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Febuxostat.

PubMed

Kamel, Bishoy; Graham, Garry G; Williams, Kenneth M; Pile, Kevin D; Day, Richard O

2017-05-01

Febuxostat is a xanthine oxidoreductase inhibitor that has been developed to treat chronic gout. In healthy subjects, the pharmacokinetic parameters of febuxostat after multiple oral dose administration include an oral availability of about 85 %, an apparent oral clearance (CL/F) of 10.5 ± 3.4 L/h and an apparent volume of distribution at steady state (V ss /F) of 48 ± 23 L. The time course of plasma concentrations follows a two-compartment model. The initial half-life (t ½ ) is approximately 2 h and the terminal t ½ determined at daily doses of 40 mg or more is 9.4 ± 4.9 h. Febuxostat is administered once daily. The maximum (peak) plasma concentrations are approximately 100-fold greater than the trough concentrations. Consequently, there is no significant accumulation of the drug during multiple dose administration. There are few data on the pharmacokinetics of febuxostat in patients with gout. While the pharmacokinetic parameters are not affected by mild to moderate hepatic impairment, there is no consensus on whether renal impairment has any effect on the pharmacokinetics of febuxostat. Febuxostat is extensively metabolised by oxidation (approximately 35 %) and acyl glucuronidation (up to 40 %); febuxostat acyl glucuronides are cleared by the kidney. In healthy subjects treated with multiple doses of febuxostat 10-240 mg, the concentrations of serum urate are reduced by a maximum of about 80 %. The percentage reduction in the concentrations of serum urate is slightly less in gouty patients than in healthy subjects.

Influence of branched-chain amino acid composition of culture media on the synthesis of plasma proteins by serum-free cultured rat hepatocytes.

PubMed

Montoya, A; Gómez-Lechón, M J; Castell, J V

1989-04-01

Supplementation of Ham's F12 culture medium with essential amino acids (EAA) up to the rat plasma levels increased the rates of synthesis of albumin and transferrin by cultured rat hepatocytes by 1.3 and 1.7, respectively. Fifty percent of this increase could be attributed to three of the EAA: the branched-chain amino acids (BCAA: Leu Ile and Val). Non-branched-chain essential amino acids (non-BC-EAA) stimulated only 25% of the increase produced by the whole EAA mixture. When each EAA was tested individually, none of them caused an appreciable increase in albumin and transferrin in culture medium. When the concentrations of all EAA were raised to rat postprandial portal levels, albumin and transferrin synthesis rates reached a maximum, increasing by 3.2 and 3.5, respectively. Supplementation with BCAA at postprandial portal concentrations increased albumin and transferrin synthesis rates by 2.2 and 2.0, respectively, and had no noteworthy effect on the synthesis of cellular proteins. Non-BC-EAA at their postprandial portal concentrations increased albumin and transferrin synthesis rates by 1.7 and 1.9, respectively. Supplementation with alanine to reach a nitrogen content equal to that of the modified EAA-enriched medium had no stimulatory effect. Our results show that EAA have a specific effect on the synthesis of plasma proteins by cultured hepatocytes, and that BCAA at physiologic concentrations account for the major part of this stimulatory effect. Consequently, EAA and particularly BCAA concentration should be elevated in serum-free nutrient media to sustain maximum plasma protein synthesis.

Transcriptional regulation of ceruloplasmin gene expression during inflammation

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

Gitlin, J.D.

1988-05-05

Mixed sequence oligonucleotides were used to isolate a series of acute-phase human liver cDNA clones corresponding to the serum ..cap alpha../sub 2/-globulin ceruloplasmin. These clones were characterized, sequenced, and used to analyze changes in hepatic ceruloplasmin mRNA content during inflammation. In all species examined, hepatic ceruloplasmin mRNA content increased approximately 6-10-fold over control values within 24 h following the induction of inflammation. The mechanisms leading to this increase in hepatic ceruloplasmin mRNA content were studied following turpentine-induced inflammation in Syrian hamsters. Nuclear run-on assays demonstrated an increase in the relative rate of transcription of the ceruloplasmin gene within 3 hmore » following induction, reaching maximum values by 18 h. Hepatic ceruloplasmin mRNA content increased 2-fold within 12 h following induction, reached maximum values by 24 h, and returned to control within 72 h. In contrast, serum ceruloplasmin concentration did not increase until 36 h, reached maximal levels by 120 h, and remained elevated for the course of the study. These data indicate that inflammation leads to a rapid increase in hepatic ceruloplasmin mRNA content. This increase is largely the result of increased ceruloplasmin gene transcription, but comparison of the relative rate of transcription and mRNA accumulation suggests that changes in ceruloplasmin mRNA turnover are also involved. In addition, translational and/or post-translational mechanisms must account for the observed changes in serum ceruloplasmin concentration seen during inflammation.« less

The cytochrome P4503A4 inhibitor clarithromycin increases the plasma concentrations and effects of repaglinide.

PubMed

Niemi, M; Neuvonen, P J; Kivistö, K T

2001-07-01

Our objective was to study the effects of the macrolide antibiotic clarithromycin on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of repaglinide, a novel short-acting antidiabetic drug. In a randomized, double-blind, 2-phase crossover study, 9 healthy volunteers were treated for 4 days with 250 mg oral clarithromycin or placebo twice daily. On day 5 they received a single dose of 250 mg clarithromycin or placebo, and 1 hour later a single dose of 0.25 mg repaglinide was given orally. Plasma repaglinide, serum insulin, and blood glucose concentrations were measured up to 7 hours. Clarithromycin increased the mean total area under the concentration-time curve of repaglinide by 40% (P <.0001) and the peak plasma concentration by 67% (P <.005) compared with placebo. The mean elimination half-life of repaglinide was prolonged from 1.4 to 1.7 hours (P <.05) by clarithromycin. Clarithromycin increased the mean incremental area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 3 hours of serum insulin by 51% (P <.05) and the maximum increase in the serum insulin concentration by 61% (P <.01) compared with placebo. No statistically significant differences were found in the blood glucose concentrations between the placebo and clarithromycin phases. Even low doses of the cytochrome P4503A4 (CYP3A4) inhibitor clarithromycin increase the plasma concentrations and effects of repaglinide. Concomitant use of clarithromycin or other potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 with repaglinide may enhance its blood glucose-lowering effect and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

Long acting testosterone undecanoate therapy in men with hypogonadism: results of a pharmacokinetic clinical study.

PubMed

Morgentaler, Abraham; Dobs, Adrian S; Kaufman, Joel M; Miner, Martin M; Shabsigh, Ridwan; Swerdloff, Ronald S; Wang, Christina

2008-12-01

We determined the pharmacokinetics and safety of 750 mg long acting testosterone undecanoate given intramuscularly at 0, 4 and 14 weeks to men with hypogonadism. A 24-week, single arm, open label, multicenter trial in 130 hypogonadal men 18 years or older who were screened for serum total testosterone less than 300 ng/dl was performed at 31 research sites in the United States between March and November 2007. Testosterone undecanoate (750 mg) was administered at baseline, and at weeks 4 and 14. Serum testosterone samples were collected on days 4, 7, 11, 14, 21, 28, 42, 56 and 70 following injection 3. Safety was assessed, eg biochemical markers and adverse events, secondary to testosterone undecanoate treatment. Of the 130 patients 116 with a mean +/- SE age of 54.2 +/- 0.90 years completed the 24-week trial. Following the week 14 injection mean +/- SD average serum testosterone was 494.9 +/- 141.46 ng/dl during the 70-day dosing interval and mean +/- SD maximum serum testosterone was 890.6 +/- 345.11 ng/dl with a mean concentration within the young healthy adult male range (300 to 1,000 ng/dl) in 94% of patients and a mean maximum concentration of below 1,500 ng/dl in 92%. Mean +/- SE hematocrit and hemoglobin increased from baseline to week 24 (43.3% +/- 0.32% to 45.7% +/- 0.35% and 14.6 +/- 0.11 to 15.5 +/- 0.13 gm/dl, respectively). Mean +/- SE prostate specific antigen increased from baseline to 24 weeks (1.0 +/- 0.08 to 1.3 +/- 0.10 ng/ml). No prostate cancer or gynecomastia was observed during this 24-week study. This 24-week clinical study demonstrated that 750 mg testosterone undecanoate depot injection administered intramuscularly at 0, 4 and 14 weeks achieves serum testosterone levels in the normal range during a 10-week dosing interval.

Effects of ACTH, capture, and short term confinement on glucocorticoid concentrations in harlequin ducks (Histrionicus histrionicus)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Nilsson, P.B.; Hollmén, Tuula E.; Atkinson, S.; Mashburn, K.L.; Tuomi, P.A.; Esler, Daniel N.; Mulcahy, D.M.; Rizzolo, D.J.

2008-01-01

Little is known about baseline concentrations of adrenal hormones and hormonal responses to stress in sea ducks, although significant population declines documented in several species suggest that sea ducks are exposed to increased levels of environmental stress. Such declines have been observed in geographically distinct harlequin duck populations. We performed an adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) challenge to evaluate adrenal function and characterize corticosterone concentrations in captive harlequin ducks and investigated the effects of capture, surgery, and short term confinement on corticosterone concentrations in wild harlequin ducks. Harlequin ducks responded to the ACTH challenge with an average three-fold increase in serum corticosterone concentration approximately 90 min post injection, and a four- to five-fold increase in fecal glucocorticoid concentration 2 to 4 h post injection. Serum corticosterone concentrations in wild harlequin ducks increased within min of capture and elevated levels were found for several hours post capture, indicating that surgery and confinement maintain elevated corticosterone concentrations in this species. Mean corticosterone concentrations in wild harlequin ducks held in temporary captivity were similar to the maximum response levels during the ACTH challenge in captive birds. However, large variation among individuals was observed in responses of wild birds, and we found additional evidence suggesting that corticosterone responses varied between hatch year and after hatch year birds.

Pharmacokinetics of a new, nasal formulation of naloxone.

PubMed

Tylleskar, Ida; Skulberg, Arne Kristian; Nilsen, Turid; Skarra, Sissel; Jansook, Phatsawee; Dale, Ola

2017-05-01

Nasal naloxone is wanted for bystander administration in opioid overdose and as a needle-free alternative for emergency medical personnel. Epidemiologic studies have indicated a therapeutic effect of bystander administration of low-concentration/high-volume formulations. The objective for this study was to describe the nasal pharmacokinetics of a new high-concentration/low-volume nasal formulation of naloxone. This was an open, randomized triple crossover trial in healthy, human volunteers (n = 12) where two doses of nasal naloxone (0.8 and 1.6 mg) and one intravenous dose (1.0 mg) were compared. Fifteen serum samples were collected before and until 6 h after naloxone administration. Quantification of naloxone was performed by a validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method. Bioavailability was 0.54 (0.45-0.63) for the 0.8 mg and 0.52 (0.37-0.67) for the 1.6 mg nasal naloxone formulation. Maximum concentration levels (C max ) were 1.45 ng/ml (1.07-1.84) for 0.8 mg and 2.57 ng/ml (1.49-3.66) for the 1.6 mg. Time to maximum concentrations (T max ) were reached at 17.9 min (11.4-24.5) and 18.6 min (14.4-22.9) for the 0.8 mg and the 1.6 mg doses, respectively. This nasal naloxone formulation had a rapid, systemic uptake and higher bioavailability than naloxone formulations not designed for IN use. This indicates that an optimized high-concentration/low-volume nasal spray formulation may deliver a therapeutic dose. The 1.6 mg nasal dose provided serum concentrations that surpassed those of 1.0 mg IV after 15-20 min and stayed above for the rest of the study period.

Acarbose bioequivalence: exploration of new pharmacodynamic parameters.

PubMed

Zhang, Min; Yang, Jin; Tao, Lei; Li, Lingjun; Ma, Pengcheng; Fawcett, John Paul

2012-06-01

To investigate bioequivalence (BE) testing of an acarbose formulation in healthy Chinese volunteers through the use of recommended and innovative pharmacodynamic (PD) parameters. Following the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidance, a randomized, cross-over study of acarbose test (T) and reference (R) (Glucobay®) formulations was performed with a 1-week wash-out period. Preliminary pilot studies showed that the appropriate dose of acarbose was 2 × 50 mg, and the required number of subjects was 40. Serum glucose concentrations after sucrose administration (baseline) and co-administration of sucrose/acarbose on the following day were both determined. Three newly defined PD measures of glucose fluctuation (glucose excursion (GE), GE' (glucose excursion without the effect of the homeostatic glucose control), and fAUC (degree of fluctuation of serum glucose based on AUC)), the plateau glucose concentration (C(ss)), and time of maximum reduction in glucose concentration (T (max)) were tested in the evaluation. The adequacy of the two parameters recommended by the FDA, ΔC(SG,max) (maximum reduction in serum glucose concentration) and AUEC((0-4h)) (reduction in the AUC((0-4h)) of glucose between baseline and acarbose formulation) was also evaluated. The T (max) values were comparable, and the 90% confidence intervals of the geometric test/reference ratios (T/R) for ΔC(SG,max), C(ss), GE, and fAUC were all within 80-125%. The parameter GE' was slightly outside the limits, and the parameter AUEC((0-4h)) could not be computed due to the presence of negative values. In acarbose BE evaluation, while the recommended parameter ΔC(SG,max) is valuable, the combination of C(ss) and one of the newly defined glucose fluctuation parameters, GE, GE', and fAUC is preferable than AUEC((0-4h)). The acarbose test formulation can be initially considered to be bioequivalent to Glucobay®.

Effect of the consumption of a fruit and vegetable soup with high in vitro carotenoid bioaccessibility on serum carotenoid concentrations and markers of oxidative stress in young men.

PubMed

Martínez-Tomás, Rebeca; Larqué, Elvira; González-Silvera, Daniel; Sánchez-Campillo, María; Burgos, María Isabel; Wellner, Anna; Parra, Soledad; Bialek, Lucy; Alminger, Marie; Pérez-Llamas, Francisca

2012-03-01

To evaluate the effect of the daily intake of a fruit & vegetable soup with high in vitro bioaccessibility of carotenoids on β-carotene and lycopene serum concentrations. Fourteen healthy young men (24 ± 1 years) received 300 mL/day of a carrot, tomato, and broccoli soup, containing 3.9 mg β-carotene and 4 mg lycopene, for 4 weeks followed by a 4-week washout period. The serum carotenoid response and oxidative markers were analyzed after 3 and 4 weeks of soup consumption and after a 4-week washout. The in vitro bioaccessibility of β-carotene and lycopene was 55 and 43%, respectively, in the soup. Serum β-carotene concentrations were significantly higher than baseline (0.33 ± 0.05 μmol/L) after 3 weeks (0.69 ± 0.06 μmol/L) and 4 weeks (0.78 ± 0.10 μmol/L) of soup consumption (P < 0.001). Serum lycopene was also significantly higher compared with baseline levels (0.26 ± 0.08-0.56 ± 0.04 μmol/L and 0.60 ± 0.04 μmol/L, after 3 and 4 weeks, respectively) (P < 0.001). Although the highest concentration of both carotenoids was found after 4 weeks, the levels were not statistically different from the levels at 3 weeks. A 4-week washout significantly decreased serum carotenoid concentrations, although only β-carotene returned to baseline. Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) increased significantly after soup supplementation compared with baseline, while superoxide dismutase was significantly lower only after 3 weeks. Glutathione reductase, lipid, protein, and DNA oxidative markers remained unchanged. The soup contributed to increasing the concentration of each carotenoid by more than 100% after 3 and 4 weeks of consumption, the maximum increase being observed after 4 weeks. Oxidative markers did not show any variation except for GPx. Serum lycopene half-life was longer than that of β-carotene, which may be important for studies evaluating both carotenoids.

Pharmacokinetics of Intraperitoneal and Intravenous Fosfomycin in Automated Peritoneal Dialysis Patients without Peritonitis

PubMed Central

Tobudic, Selma; Matzneller, Peter; Stoiser, Brigitte; Wenisch, Judith Maria; Vychytil, Andreas; Jaeger, Walter; Boehmdorfer, Michaela; Reznicek, Gottfried; Burgmann, Heinz

2012-01-01

Blood and dialysate concentrations of fosfomycin were determined after intravenous and intraperitoneal application of 4 mg/liter in patients undergoing automated peritoneal dialysis. Maximum serum concentrations after intravenous (287.75 ± 86.34 mg/liter) and intraperitoneal (205.78 ± 66.78 mg/liter) administration were comparable. Ratios of intraperitoneal to systemic exposure were 1.12 (intraperitoneal administration) and 0.22 (intravenous administration), indicating good systemic exposure after intraperitoneal application but limited penetration of fosfomycin into the peritoneal fluid after the intravenous dose. PMID:22564843

Pharmacokinetics of intraperitoneal and intravenous fosfomycin in automated peritoneal dialysis patients without peritonitis.

PubMed

Tobudic, Selma; Matzneller, Peter; Stoiser, Brigitte; Wenisch, Judith Maria; Zeitlinger, Markus; Vychytil, Andreas; Jaeger, Walter; Boehmdorfer, Michaela; Reznicek, Gottfried; Burgmann, Heinz

2012-07-01

Blood and dialysate concentrations of fosfomycin were determined after intravenous and intraperitoneal application of 4 mg/liter in patients undergoing automated peritoneal dialysis. Maximum serum concentrations after intravenous (287.75 ± 86.34 mg/liter) and intraperitoneal (205.78 ± 66.78 mg/liter) administration were comparable. Ratios of intraperitoneal to systemic exposure were 1.12 (intraperitoneal administration) and 0.22 (intravenous administration), indicating good systemic exposure after intraperitoneal application but limited penetration of fosfomycin into the peritoneal fluid after the intravenous dose.

Pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of levofloxacin 750 mg once daily in young women with acute uncomplicated pyelonephritis.

PubMed

Nicolle, Lindsay; Duckworth, Heather; Sitar, Dan; Bryski, Lisa; Harding, Godfrey; Zhanel, George

2008-03-01

This pilot study was undertaken to characterise the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and potential clinical efficacy of levofloxacin 750 mg once daily for 5 days for treatment of women with acute uncomplicated pyelonephritis. Four women diagnosed with acute pyelonephritis were enrolled. Following pre-therapy specimen collection, an initial oral dose of 750 mg levofloxacin was administered. The mean pharmacokinetic parameters for the first dose were: maximum serum concentration (C(max)) 12.5+/-4.7 mg/L (range 5.6-16.0mg/L) (fC(max) 8.8+/-3.3, where f indicates the levofloxacin free or non-protein-bound fraction), area under the serum concentration-time curve (AUC) 85.4+/-14.1 mgh/L (range 66.2-96.8 mgh/L) (fAUC 59.8+/-9.9) and serum half-life (t(1/2)) 6.7+/-0.5h. Mean urine concentrations were 88.0+/-100mg/L at the 0-3 h collection, 307+/-143 mg/L at 3-6 h, 170+/-107 mg/L at 6-12 h and 85+/-8 mg/L at 12-24 h. Mean levofloxacin serum pharmacodynamics for infecting Escherichia coli were: C(max)/minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) 323+/-185(fC(max)/MIC 226+/-129); and AUC/MIC 2339+/-830(fAUC/MIC 1647+/-579). Mean urine levofloxacin concentration/MIC ratios were: 900+/-1389 for 0-3 h, 12100+/-4950 for 3-6 h, 5922+/-3912 for 6-12 h and 2233+/-1037 for 12-24 h. Levofloxacin eradicated E. coli from the urine by 3-6 h after the first dose. Levofloxacin 750 mg once daily for 5 days has pharmacodynamics that support further evaluation of this regimen for treatment of women with acute uncomplicated pyelonephritis.

A viscometric approach of pH effect on hydrodynamic properties of human serum albumin in the normal form.

PubMed

Monkos, Karol

2013-03-01

The paper presents the results of viscosity determinations on aqueous solutions of human serum albumin (HSA) at isoelectric point over a wide range of concentrations and at temperatures ranging from 5°C to 45°C. On the basis of a modified Arrhenius equation and Mooney's formula some hydrodynamic parameters were obtained. They are compared with those previously obtained for HSA in solutions at neutral pH. The activation energy and entropy of viscous flow and the intrinsic viscosity reach a maximum value, and the effective specific volume, the self-crowding factor and the Huggins coefficient a minimum value in solutions at isoelectric point. Using the dimensionless parameter [η]c, the existence of three ranges of concentrations: diluted, semi-diluted and concentrated, was shown. By applying Lefebvre's relation for the relative viscosity in the semi-dilute regime, the Mark-Houvink-Kuhn-Sakurada (MHKS) exponent was established. The analysis of the results obtained from the three ranges of concentrations showed that both conformation and stiffness of HSA molecules in solutions at isoelectric point and at neutral pH are the same.

Concentrations of gatifloxacin in plasma and urine and penetration into prostatic and seminal fluid, ejaculate, and sperm cells after single oral administrations of 400 milligrams to volunteers.

PubMed

Naber, C K; Steghafner, M; Kinzig-Schippers, M; Sauber, C; Sörgel, F; Stahlberg, H J; Naber, K G

2001-01-01

Gatifloxacin (GTX), a new fluoroquinolone with extended antibacterial activity, is an interesting candidate for the treatment of chronic bacterial prostatitis (CBP). Besides the antibacterial spectrum, the concentrations in the target tissues and fluids are crucial for the treatment of CBP. Thus, it was of interest to investigate its penetration into prostatic and seminal fluid. GTX concentrations in plasma, urine, ejaculate, prostatic and seminal fluid, and sperm cells were determined by a high-performance liquid chromatography method after oral intake of a single 400-mg dose in 10 male Caucasian volunteers in the fasting state. Simultaneous application of the renal contrast agent iohexol was used to estimate the maximal possible contamination of ejaculate and prostatic and seminal fluid by urine. GTX was well tolerated. The means (standard deviations) for the following parameters were as indicated: time to maximum concentration of drug in serum, 1.66 (0. 91) h; maximum concentration of drug in serum, 2.90 (0.39) microg/ml; area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 24 h, 25.65 microg. h/ml; and half life, 7.2 (0.90) h. Within 12 h about 50% of the drug was excreted unchanged into the urine. The mean renal clearance was 169 ml/min. The gatifloxacin concentrations in ejaculate, seminal fluid, and prostatic fluid were in the range of the corresponding plasma concentrations which were 1.92 (0.27) microg/ml at approximately the same time point (4 h after drug intake). The concentrations in sperm cells (0.195, 0.076, and 0.011 microg/ml) could be determined in three subjects. The good penetration into prostatic and seminal fluid, the good tolerance, and the previously reported broad antibacterial spectrum suggest that GTX may be a good alternative for the treatment of chronic bacterial prostatitis. Clinical studies should be performed to confirm this assumption.

Concentrations of Gatifloxacin in Plasma and Urine and Penetration into Prostatic and Seminal Fluid, Ejaculate, and Sperm Cells after Single Oral Administrations of 400 Milligrams to Volunteers

PubMed Central

Naber, Christoph K.; Steghafner, Michaela; Kinzig-Schippers, Martina; Sauber, Christian; Sörgel, Fritz; Stahlberg, Hans-Jürgen; Naber, Kurt G.

2001-01-01

Gatifloxacin (GTX), a new fluoroquinolone with extended antibacterial activity, is an interesting candidate for the treatment of chronic bacterial prostatitis (CBP). Besides the antibacterial spectrum, the concentrations in the target tissues and fluids are crucial for the treatment of CBP. Thus, it was of interest to investigate its penetration into prostatic and seminal fluid. GTX concentrations in plasma, urine, ejaculate, prostatic and seminal fluid, and sperm cells were determined by a high-performance liquid chromatography method after oral intake of a single 400-mg dose in 10 male Caucasian volunteers in the fasting state. Simultaneous application of the renal contrast agent iohexol was used to estimate the maximal possible contamination of ejaculate and prostatic and seminal fluid by urine. GTX was well tolerated. The means (standard deviations) for the following parameters were as indicated: time to maximum concentration of drug in serum, 1.66 (0.91) h; maximum concentration of drug in serum, 2.90 (0.39) μg/ml; area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 24 h, 25.65 μg · h/ml; and half life, 7.2 (0.90) h. Within 12 h about 50% of the drug was excreted unchanged into the urine. The mean renal clearance was 169 ml/min. The gatifloxacin concentrations in ejaculate, seminal fluid, and prostatic fluid were in the range of the corresponding plasma concentrations which were 1.92 (0.27) μg/ml at approximately the same time point (4 h after drug intake). The concentrations in sperm cells (0.195, 0.076, and 0.011 μg/ml) could be determined in three subjects. The good penetration into prostatic and seminal fluid, the good tolerance, and the previously reported broad antibacterial spectrum suggest that GTX may be a good alternative for the treatment of chronic bacterial prostatitis. Clinical studies should be performed to confirm this assumption. PMID:11120980

Pharmacokinetics of ABT-122, a TNF-α- and IL-17A-Targeted Dual-Variable Domain Immunoglobulin, in Healthy Subjects and Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Results from Three Phase I Trials.

PubMed

Khatri, Amit; Goss, Sandra; Jiang, Ping; Mansikka, Heikki; Othman, Ahmed A

2018-05-01

ABT-122 is a dual-variable domain immunoglobulin that neutralizes both tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-17A, with the goal of achieving greater clinical efficacy than can be achieved by blocking either cytokine alone. This work characterized the pharmacokinetics of ABT-122 in healthy subjects and in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. ABT-122 pharmacokinetics was evaluated in three phase I studies. In Study 1, single intravenous (0.1, 0.3, 1, 3, and 10 mg/kg) and subcutaneous (0.3, 1, and 3 mg/kg) doses were evaluated in healthy subjects. In Studies 2 and 3, multiple subcutaneous doses (1 mg/kg every other week or 0.5-3 mg/kg every week) were evaluated for 8 weeks in patients with rheumatoid arthritis on stable methotrexate therapy. Pharmacokinetic data were available from 48 healthy subjects and 31 patients with rheumatoid arthritis. ABT-122 showed multi-exponential disposition with more than dose-proportional exposures at the 0.1-1 mg/kg doses and approximately dose-proportional exposures at doses ≥1 mg/kg. ABT-122 absolute subcutaneous bioavailability was approximately 50% with maximum serum concentrations observed 3-4 days after dosing. Steady state was achieved by week 6 of subcutaneous dosing. ABT-122 maximum serum concentration-to-trough concentration ratio was 2.6 for every other week dosing and 1.3 for every week dosing, corresponding to an effective half-life of 10-18 days. ABT-122 median area under the serum concentration-time curve accumulation ratio was 3.8-4.8 with every week dosing. Measureable antidrug antibodies were observed in all 48 subjects in Study 1 by day 15 post-dose and 19 of 31 ABT-122-treated patients in Studies 2 and 3 [median time to appearance of antidrug antibodies of 64 days (range 15-92 days)]. No dose-limiting toxicities were observed in these studies and the maximum tolerated dose was not identified. Results from these three phase I studies supported testing ABT-122 every week and every other week regimens in phase II trials in subjects with rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis. Study 2 (EudraCT: 2012-003448-54); Study 3 (NCT01853033).

Comparing functional metabolic effects of marginal and sufficient selenium supply in sheep.

PubMed

Humann-Ziehank, Esther; Renko, Kostja; Mueller, Andreas S; Roehrig, Petra; Wolfsen, Jacqueline; Ganter, Martin

2013-10-01

This study was performed to characterise key data of long-term ovine Se metabolism and to work out the best biomarker of Se status. An upgrade from marginal (<0.05 mg Se/kg diet, 'Se-') to sufficient (0.2mg Se/kg diet, 'Se+') nutritional Se supply using sodium selenite was monitered biweekly by analysing Se concentration, glutathione peroxidase (Gpx) activity and routine biochemistry in blood/serum over 2 years. Se, Cu, Zn, cytosolic Gpx and thioredoxin reductase (TrxR) activity were measured in the liver (biopsies/post-mortem). Se, Gpx, TrxR, glutathione-S-transferase-alpha (aGST) and iodothyronine deiodinase (Dio1) were analysed in the kidney, heart muscle and thyroid. Relative mRNA expression of hepatic aGST1 and Gpx1 was determined. Improvement of Se supply strongly increased serum and liver Se concentration within 10 and 20 days, respectively followed by a plateau. Whereas the achievement of a maximum whole blood Gpx activity was reached after 3 months, serum Gpx3 activity increased with high variations. Hepatic Gpx activity reached a maximum during days 100-200, decreasing thereafter. Distinct group differences in Se and cytosolic Gpx activity were evident in all organs (except Se in kidney). TrxR and Dio1 activity was affected only in the liver. The Se- sheep showed an ongoing decrease in serum Se concentration within 2 years, whereas liver Se remained almost unaffected. High relative Gpx1 mRNA expression in the Se+ group was consensual to high hepatic Gpx activity. Relative mRNA expression of hepatic aGST1 was higher in the Se- sheep. Clinical signs and abnormalities in routine biochemistry were absent. In summary, the best biomarker of Se deprivation and nutritional Se upgrade, respectively was Se in serum. Moreover, hepatic Se concentrations reliably reflected the upgrade of Se supply within days. Whole blood Gpx reacts slowly depending on newly formed erythrocytes restricting its diagnostic use. Vital organs are affected by Se deficiency due to a decrease of cytosolic Gpx activity attenuating the antioxidative system. Cellular up-regulation of aGST1 mRNA expression in the Se- group is assumed to partially compensate for the decreased antioxidant defence due to a loss in Gpx activity. This sheep model appears advantageous for long-term studies on sub-clinical metabolic effects in experimental modifiable nutritional Se supply. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Steady-State Serum T3 Concentrations for 48 Hours Following the Oral Administration of a Single Dose of 3,5,3'-Triiodothyronine Sulfate (T3S).

PubMed

Santini, Ferruccio; Giannetti, Monica; Ricco, Ilaria; Querci, Giorgia; Saponati, Giorgio; Bokor, Daniela; Rivolta, Giovanni; Bussi, Simona; Braverman, Lewis E; Vitti, Paolo; Pinchera, Aldo

2014-07-01

Sulfate conjugation of thyroid hormones is an alternate metabolic pathway that facilitates the biliary and urinary excretion of iodothyronines and enhances their deiodination rate, leading to the generation of inactive metabolites. A desulfating pathway reverses this process, and thyromimetic effects have been observed following the parenteral administration of 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (T3) sulfate (T3S) in rats. The present study investigated whether T3S is absorbed after oral administration in humans and if it represents a source of T3. Twenty-eight hypothyroid patients (7 men and 21 women; mean age, 44 ± 11 years) who had a thyroidectomy for thyroid carcinoma were enrolled. Replacement thyroid hormone therapy was withdrawn (42 days for thyroxine, 14 days for T3) prior to 131I remnant ablation. A single oral dose of 20, 40, 80 (4 patients/group), or 160 μg (16 patients/group) of T3S was administered 3 days before the planned administration of 131I. Blood samples for serum T3S and total T3 (TT3) concentrations were obtained at various times up to 48 hours after T3S administration. At all T3S doses, serum T3S concentrations increased, reaching a peak at 2 to 4 hours and progressively returning to basal levels within 8 to 24 hours. The T3S maximum concentration (Cmax) and area under the 0- to 48-hour concentration-time curve (AUC0-48h) were directly and significantly related to the administered dose. An increase in serum TT3 concentration was observed (significant after 1 hour), and the concentration increased further at 2 and 4 hours and then remained steady up to 48 hours after T3S administration. There was a significant direct correlation between the TT3 AUC0-48h and the administered dose of T3S. No changes in serum free thyroxine (T4) concentrations during the entire study period were observed, whereas serum thyroid-stimulating hormone levels increased slightly at 48 hours, but this was not related to the dose of T3S. No adverse events were reported. (1) T3S is absorbed following oral administration in hypothyroid humans; (2) after a single oral dose, T3S is converted to T3 in a dose-dependent manner, resulting in steady-state serum T3 concentrations for 48 hours; (3) T3S may represent a new agent in combination with T4 in the therapy of hypothyroidism, if similar conversion of T3S to T3 can be demonstrated in euthyroid patients who are already taking T4.

Pharmacokinetic study of nobiletin and tangeretin in rat serum by high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Manthey, John A; Cesar, Thais B; Jackson, Erin; Mertens-Talcott, Susanne

2011-01-12

Nobiletin (NOB) and tangeretin (TAN), two of the main polymethoxylated flavones (PMFs) in citrus, influence a number of key biological pathways in mammalian cells. Although the impacts of NOB and TAN on glucose homeostasis and cholesterol regulation have been investigated in human clinical trials, much information is still lacking about the metabolism and oral bioavailability of these compounds in animals. In this study, NOB and TAN were administered to rats by gavage and intraperitoneal (ip) injection, and the blood serum concentrations of these compounds and their main metabolites were monitored by high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS). In addition to the administered compounds, two metabolites of TAN and eight metabolites of NOB were detected and measured over 24 h. With identical oral doses, nearly 10-fold higher absorption of NOB occurred compared to TAN. For both compounds, maximum levels of glucuronidated metabolites occurred in the blood serum at later time points (∼5-8 h) compared to the earlier T(max) values for NOB and TAN. In most cases the glucuronides occurred at substantially higher concentrations than the aglycone metabolites. Low levels of NOB and TAN and their metabolites were detectable in rat blood serum even at 24 h after treatment.

Protease production by fermentation of fish solubles from salmon canning processes.

PubMed

Wah-On, H C; Branion, R M; Strasdine, G A

1980-09-01

Production of protease by fermentation, using Sorangium 495, of a substrate based on condensed fish solubles is demonstrated. The effects of carbohydrate addition, pH, fish solubles concentration, scale-up, agitation, and air flow rate on protease yields are described. While the fish solubles medium alone could give rise to measurable yields of protease, these were, at worst, doubled when 1% glucose was added to the medium. pH 7 was optimal for protease yield. Although the concentration of fish solubles in the basic medium showed no significant effect on cell yield, maximum protease yield was observed at a protein concentration equivalent to 3.85 mg/mL of bovine serum albumin. Protease production rates decreased as medium protein fermentor showed no significant effect on maximum protease yields. The effects of agitator speed and air flow rate on protease yield suggested that the rate of O2 transfer from air to medium could limit the rate of protease production. It was also noted that protease production is not growth associated.

Folate and vitamin B-12 status in relation to anemia, macrocytosis, and cognitive impairment in older Americans in the age of folic acid fortification1234

PubMed Central

Morris, Martha Savaria; Jacques, Paul F; Rosenberg, Irwin H; Selhub, Jacob

2007-01-01

Background Historic reports on the treatment of pernicious anemia with folic acid suggest that high-level folic acid fortification delays the diagnosis of or exacerbates the effects of vitamin B-12 deficiency, which affects many seniors. This idea is controversial, however, because observational data are few and inconclusive. Furthermore, experimental investigation is unethical. Objective We examined the relations between serum folate and vitamin B-12 status relative to anemia, macrocytosis, and cognitive impairment (ie, Digit Symbol-Coding score <34) in senior participants in the 1999–2002 US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Design The subjects had normal serum creatinine concentrations and reported no history of stroke, alcoholism, recent anemia therapy, or diseases of the liver, thyroid, or coronary arteries (n = 1459). We defined low vitamin B-12 status as a serum vitamin B-12 concentration <148 pmol/L or a serum methylmalonic acid concentration >210 nmol/L—the maximum of the reference range for serum vitamin B-12–replete participants with normal creatinine. Results After control for demographic characteristics, cancer, smoking, alcohol intake, serum ferritin, and serum creatinine, low versus normal vitamin B-12 status was associated with anemia [odds ratio (OR): 2.7; 95% CI: 1.7, 4.2], macrocytosis (OR: 1.8; 95% CI: 1.01, 3.3), and cognitive impairment (OR: 2.5; 95% CI: 1.6, 3.8). In the group with a low vitamin B-12 status, serum folate ≤59 nmol/L (80th percentile), as opposed to ≤59 nmol/L, was associated with anemia (OR: 3.1; 95% CI: 1.5, 6.6) and cognitive impairment (OR: 2.6; 95% CI: 1.1, 6.1). In the normal vitamin B-12 group, ORs relating high versus normal serum folate to these outcomes were <1.0 (Pinteraction <0.05), but significantly <1.0 only for cognitive impairment (0.4; 95% CI: 0.2, 0.9). Conclusion In seniors with low vitamin B-12 status, high serum folate was associated with anemia and cognitive impairment. When vitamin B-12 status was normal, however, high serum folate was associated with protection against cognitive impairment. PMID:17209196

Acid-base and hormonal abnormalities in dogs with naturally occurring diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Durocher, Lawren L; Hinchcliff, Kenneth W; DiBartola, Stephen P; Johnson, Susan E

2008-05-01

To examine acid-base and hormonal abnormalities in dogs with diabetes mellitus. Cross-sectional study. 48 dogs with diabetes mellitus and 17 healthy dogs. Blood was collected and serum ketone, glucose, lactate, electrolytes, insulin, glucagon, cortisol, epinephrine, norepinephrine, nonesterified fatty acid, and triglyceride concentrations were measured. Indicators of acid-base status were calculated and compared between groups. Serum ketone and glucose concentrations were significantly higher in diabetic than in healthy dogs, but there was no difference in venous blood pH or base excess between groups. Anion gap and strong ion difference were significantly higher and strong ion gap and serum bicarbonate concentration were significantly lower in the diabetic dogs. There were significant linear relationships between measures of acid-base status and serum ketone concentration, but not between measures of acid-base status and serum lactate concentration. Serum insulin concentration did not differ significantly between groups, but diabetic dogs had a wider range of values. All diabetic dogs with a serum ketone concentration > 1,000 micromol/L had a serum insulin concentration < 5 microU/mL. There were strong relationships between serum ketone concentration and serum glucagon-insulin ratio, serum cortisol concentration, and plasma norepinephrine concentration. Serum beta-hydroxybutyrate concentration, expressed as a percentage of serum ketone concentration, decreased as serum ketone concentration increased. Results suggested that ketosis in diabetic dogs was related to the glucagon-insulin ratio with only low concentrations of insulin required to prevent ketosis. Acidosis in ketotic dogs was attributable largely to high serum ketone concentrations.

Sustained availability of trimethoprim in drinking water to achieve higher plasma sulphonamide-trimethoprim antibacterial activity in broilers.

PubMed

Sumano, H; Hernandez, L; Gutierrez, L; Bernad-Bernad, M J

2005-02-01

(1) In order to make trimethoprim (TMP) available to broilers throughout the day, a sustained release formulation (SRF) of the drug in the form of granules was added to the water tank that supplies drinking water. (2) Broilers were initially dosed with sulphachloropiridazine-TMP (SCP-TMP 5:1) and then further medicated throughout the day, achieving in the end a dose of 30 mg/kg each of SCP and TMP (group A). Group B received a preparation with the same dose of SCP and TMP (1:1) as group A, but administered as a single dose without the SRF of TMP. Group C received the customary SCP-TMP 5:1 preparation (30 and 6 mg/kg, respectively). Water tanks were completely consumed in 3 to 4 h. (3) Broilers were bled at different times and concentration of antibacterial activity in serum determined by correlating the composite antibacterial activity of SCP and TMP with actual concentrations of these drugs by means of a microbiological agar diffusion assay. (4) Time vs serum concentrations of activity were higher in group B; the increments in the maximum serum concentration for group B over groups A and C being 39 and 67%, respectively. (5) However, the sustained concentration of activity over time, measured as the area under the cu)rve, was highest in group A. Group B had higher values for area under the curve than group C. (6) An additional dose of TMP to achieve 30 mg/kg of both SCP and TMP improves the serum concentration of this combination over the customary 5:1 proportion. The best values for sustaining antibacterial activity were obtained using a 1:1 ratio as in group A. The use of a SRF as in group A may translate into better clinical results.

Organic and inorganic selenium: IV. passive transfer of immunoglobulin from ewe to lamb.

PubMed

Stewart, W C; Bobe, G; Vorachek, W R; Stang, B V; Pirelli, G J; Mosher, W D; Hall, J A

2013-04-01

Newborn lambs depend on their dams for passive transfer of immunoglobulins, primarily IgG, for protection from harmful pathogens until their own immunological defenses have developed. Previous studies have suggested that supplementation with Se results in a modest increase in IgG concentration in serum of newborn calves and lambs. To evaluate the effect of the Se source and supplementation rate in ewes during pregnancy on passive transfer of IgG to their lambs, 210 Polypay, Suffolk, or Suffolk × Polypay cross ewes were divided into 7 treatment groups (n = 30 each) and drenched weekly with no Se, at the maximum FDA-allowed concentration with inorganic Na-selenite or organic Se-yeast (4.9 mg Se/wk), or with inorganic Na-selenite and organic Se-yeast at supranutritional concentrations (14.7 and 24.5 mg Se/wk). Ewe serum IgG concentrations were measured within 30 d of parturition, ewe colostrum and lamb serum IgG concentrations were measured at parturition before suckling, and lamb serum IgG concentrations were measured again at 48 h postnatal. Ewes receiving 24.5 mg Se/wk tended to have or had, independent of Se source, greater colostral IgG concentrations than ewes receiving 4.9 mg Se/wk overall (81.3 vs. 66.2 mg/mL; P = 0.08) and for Polypay ewes only (90.1 vs. 60.7 mg/mL; P = 0.03). Polypay ewes receiving Se-yeast at 24.5 mg Se/wk transferred a greater calculated total IgG amount to their lambs than Polypay ewes receiving Se-yeast at 4.9 mg Se/wk (15.5 vs. 11.6 g; P = 0.02), whereas the converse was true (interaction between Se source and dose concentration; P = 0.03) for Polypay ewes receiving inorganic Na-selenite at 24.5 mg Se/wk vs. Na-selenite at 4.9 mg/wk (11.6 vs. 15.7 g; P = 0.08). Our results suggest that supranutritional Se supplementation of Polypay ewes during pregnancy increases colostral IgG concentrations but that the optimal supplementation rate for IgG transfer from ewe to lamb may differ for Na-selenite and Se-yeast.

Safety and Pharmacokinetics of Multiple 750-Milligram Doses of Intravenous Levofloxacin in Healthy Volunteers

PubMed Central

Chow, Andrew T.; Fowler, Cynthia; Williams, R. Rex; Morgan, Nancy; Kaminski, Susan; Natarajan, Jaya

2001-01-01

The safety and pharmacokinetics of a once-daily high intravenous dose of levofloxacin (750 mg) in 18 healthy volunteers were studied in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, single-center parallel group study. Levofloxacin was well tolerated, and higher maximum concentration of drug in serum and area under the concentration-time curve values were achieved. For difficult-to-treat infections, high daily doses of levofloxacin may be beneficial, and intravenous administration may be preferred in certain clinical settings, such as when treating patients in intensive care units, warranting further evaluation. PMID:11408234

Safety and pharmacokinetics of multiple 750-milligram doses of intravenous levofloxacin in healthy volunteers.

PubMed

Chow, A T; Fowler, C; Williams, R R; Morgan, N; Kaminski, S; Natarajan, J

2001-07-01

The safety and pharmacokinetics of a once-daily high intravenous dose of levofloxacin (750 mg) in 18 healthy volunteers were studied in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, single-center parallel group study. Levofloxacin was well tolerated, and higher maximum concentration of drug in serum and area under the concentration-time curve values were achieved. For difficult-to-treat infections, high daily doses of levofloxacin may be beneficial, and intravenous administration may be preferred in certain clinical settings, such as when treating patients in intensive care units, warranting further evaluation.

Similarity of Bisphenol A Pharmacokinetics in Rhesus Monkeys and Mice: Relevance for Human Exposure

PubMed Central

Taylor, Julia A.; vom Saal, Frederick S.; Welshons, Wade V.; Drury, Bertram; Rottinghaus, George; Hunt, Patricia A.; Toutain, Pierre-Louis; Laffont, Céline M.; VandeVoort, Catherine A.

2011-01-01

Objective Daily adult human exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) has been estimated at < 1 μg/kg, with virtually complete first-pass conjugation in the liver in primates but not in mice. We measured unconjugated and conjugated BPA levels in serum from adult female rhesus monkeys and adult female mice after oral administration of BPA and compared findings in mice and monkeys with prior published data in women. Methods Eleven adult female rhesus macaques were fed 400 μg/kg deuterated BPA (dBPA) daily for 7 days. Levels of serum dBPA were analyzed by isotope-dilution liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (0.2 ng/mL limit of quantitation) over 24 hr on day 1 and on day 7. The same dose of BPA was fed to adult female CD-1 mice; other female mice were administered 3H-BPA at doses ranging from 2 to 100,000 μg/kg. Results In monkeys, the maximum unconjugated serum dBPA concentration of 4 ng/mL was reached 1 hr after feeding and declined to low levels by 24 hr, with no significant bioaccumulation after seven daily doses. Mice and monkeys cleared unconjugated serum BPA at virtually identical rates. We observed a linear (proportional) relationship between administered dose and serum BPA in mice. Conclusions BPA pharmacokinetics in women, female monkeys, and mice is very similar. By comparison with approximately 2 ng/mL unconjugated serum BPA reported in multiple human studies, the average 24-hr unconjugated serum BPA concentration of 0.5 ng/mL in both monkeys and mice after a 400 μg/kg oral dose suggests that total daily human exposure is via multiple routes and is much higher than previously assumed. PMID:20855240

Population pharmacodynamic model of bicarbonate response to acetazolamide in mechanically ventilated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Introduction Acetazolamide is commonly given to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients with metabolic alkalosis. Little is known of the pharmacodynamics of acetazolamide in the critically ill. We undertook the pharmacodynamic modeling of bicarbonate response to acetazolamide in COPD patients under mechanical ventilation. Methods This observational, retrospective study included 68 invasively ventilated COPD patients who received one or multiple doses of 250 or 500 mg of acetazolamide during the weaning period. Among the 68 investigated patients, 207 time-serum bicarbonate observations were available for analysis. Population pharmacodynamics was modeled using a nonlinear mixedeffect model. The main covariates of interest were baseline demographic data, Simplified Acute Physiology Score II (SAPS II) at ICU admission, cause of respiratory failure, co-prescription of drugs interfering with the acid-base equilibrium, and serum concentrations of protein, creatinin, potassium and chloride. The effect of acetazolamide on serum bicarbonate levels at different doses and in different clinical conditions was subsequently simulated in silico. Results The main covariates interacting with acetazolamide pharmacodynamics were SAPS II at ICU admission (P = 0.01), serum chloride (P < 0.001) and concomitant administration of corticosteroids (P = 0.02). Co-administration of furosemide significantly decreased bicarbonate elimination. Acetazolamide induced a decrease in serum bicarbonate with a dose-response relationship. The amount of acetazolamide inducing 50% of the putative maximum effect was 117 ± 21 mg. According to our model, an acetazolamide dosage > 500 mg twice daily is required to reduce serum bicarbonate concentrations > 5 mmol/L in the presence of high serum chloride levels or coadministration of systemic corticosteroids or furosemide. Conclusions This study identified several covariates that influenced acetazolamide pharmacodynamics and could allow a better individualization of acetazolamide dosing when treating COPD patients with metabolic alkalosis. PMID:21917139

Short-term changes of serum potassium concentration induced by physical exercise in patient with arterial hypertension treated with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor alone or in combination with statin.

PubMed

Deska, P; Nowicki, M

2017-02-01

Intensive physical exercise may facilitate potassium release from skeletal muscles that may result in hyperkalemia. Commonly used drugs including angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) and statins increase a risk of hyperkalemia. It is not known whether the effect of these drugs on serum potassium during physical exercise is additive. The study compared the effect of physical exercise on the changes of serum potassium in hypertensive patients receiving ACEI alone or in combination with statin. Eighteen patients with arterial hypertension with normal renal function were included in a prospective placebo-controlled cross-over study. The patients underwent 3 exercise tests on a bicycle ergometer with 55 - 60% of maximum oxygen consumption each lasting 30 minutes, i.e. after being treated with ACEI alone for six months, and then in a random order after the administration of ACEI with statin or ACEI with placebo each time for eight weeks separated by 2-week wash-out. Serum potassium was measured with atomic emission flame spectrometry before and after 15 and 30 minutes exercise and after 30-minute recovery. During the exercise serum potassium concentration increased moderately but significantly during all exercise tests. Mean serum potassium during exercise remained within the normal range. There were no differences in the exercise-induced changes of serum potassium during the exercise tests performed after ACEI combined with statin or with placebo. Addition of statin to ACEI does not increase the risk of hyperkalemia in hypertensive patients with preserved renal function during physical exercise with intensity typical for routine daily activities.

Treatment with GLP1 receptor agonists reduce serum CRP concentrations in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

PubMed

Mazidi, Mohsen; Karimi, Ehsan; Rezaie, Peyman; Ferns, Gordon A

2017-07-01

To undertake a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of the effect of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RAs) therapy on serum C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations. PubMed-Medline, SCOPUS, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases were searched for the period up until March 16, 2016. Prospective studies evaluating the impact of GLP-1 RAs on serum CRP were identified. A random effects model (using the DerSimonian-Laird method) and generic inverse variance methods were used for quantitative data synthesis. Sensitivity analysis was conducted using the leave-one-out method. Heterogeneity was quantitatively assessed using the I 2 index. Random effects meta-regression was performed using unrestricted maximum likelihood method to evaluate the impact of potential moderator. International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) number CRD42016036868. Meta-analysis of the data from 7 treatment arms revealed a significant reduction in serum CRP concentrations following treatment with GLP-1 RAs (WMD -2.14 (mg/dL), 95% CI -3.51, -0.78, P=0.002; I 2 96.1%). Removal of one study in the meta-analysis did not change the result in the sensitivity analysis (WMD -2.14 (mg/dL), 95% CI -3.51, -0.78, P=0.002; I 2 96.1%), indicating that our results could not be solely attributed to the effect of a single study. Random effects meta-regression was performed to evaluate the impact of potential moderator on the estimated effect size. Changes in serum CRP concentration were associated with the duration of treatment (slope -0.097, 95% CI -0.158, -0.042, P<0.001). This meta-analysis suggests that GLP-1 RAs therapy causes a significant reduction in CRP. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Milk and blood pharmacokinetics of tylosin and tilmicosin following parenteral administrations to cows.

PubMed

Avci, Tulay; Elmas, Muammer

2014-01-01

The aim of this study is to determine the pharmacokinetics of tylosin and tilmicosin in serum and milk in healthy Holstein breed cows (n = 12) and reevaluate the amount of residue in milk. Following the intramuscular administration of tylosin, the maximum concentrations (C max) in serum and milk were found to be 1.30 ± 0.24 and 4.55 ± 0.23 µg/mL, the time required to reach the peak concentration (t max) was found to be 2nd and 4th h, and elimination half-lives (t 1/2β ) were found to be 20.46 ± 2.08 and 26.36 ± 5.55 h, respectively. Following the subcutaneous administration of tilmicosin, the C max in serum and milk were found to be 0.86 ± 0.20 and 20.16 ± 1.13 µg/mL, the t max was found to be 1st and 8th h, and the t 1/2β were found to be 29.94 ± 6.65 and 43.02 ± 5.18 h, respectively. AUCmilk/AUCserum and C max-milk/C max-serum rates, which are indicators for determining the rate of drugs that pass into milk, were, respectively, calculated as 5.01 ± 0.72 and 3.61 ± 0.69 for tylosin and 23.91 ± 6.38 and 20.16 ± 1.13 for tilmicosin. In conclusion, it may be stated that milk concentration of tylosin after parenteral administration is higher than expected like tilmicosin and needs more withdrawal period for milk than reported.

The relationship between serum anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations and fertility, and genome-wide associations for anti-Müllerian hormone in Holstein cows.

PubMed

Gobikrushanth, M; Purfield, D C; Colazo, M G; Butler, S T; Wang, Z; Ambrose, D J

2018-05-02

The objectives of this study were to (1) evaluate factors associated with variation in circulating anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentrations, (2) establish an optimum AMH threshold predictive of pregnancy to first artificial insemination (P/AI), (3) examine the relationship between AMH and fertility (P/AI, pregnancy loss between 30 and 60 d after artificial insemination, and pregnancy risk up to 250 d postpartum), and (4) identify quantitative trait loci associated with phenotypic variation of AMH concentrations in dairy cows. Serum AMH concentrations (pg/mL) were determined at 7 ± 2.4 d postpartum in 647 lactating Holstein cows (213 primiparous, 434 multiparous) from 1 research and 6 commercial dairy herds in Alberta, Canada. Of these, 589 cows were genotyped on the 26K Bovine BeadChip (Neogen Inc., Lincoln, NE) and subsequently imputed to the Illumina Bovine High Density BeadChip (Illumina, San Diego, CA) for genome-wide association analysis for variation in serum AMH concentrations. Factors associated with variation in serum AMH concentrations and the relationship between categories of AMH and aforementioned fertility outcomes were evaluated only in a subset of 460 cows that had a complete data set available. The overall mean (±standard error of the mean), median, minimum, and maximum AMH concentrations were 191.1 ± 6.3, 151.7, 13.9, and 1,879.0 pg/mL, respectively. The AMH concentrations were not associated with herd, precalving body condition score, postpartum week, and season of sampling; the lactation number, however, had a quadratic relationship with serum AMH concentrations (116.2, 204.9 204.5, and 157.9 pg/mL for first, second, third, and ≥fourth lactation, respectively). The optimum AMH threshold predictive of P/AI could not be established because the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis model was nonsignificant. Categories of AMH [low (<83.0 pg/mL; n = 92), intermediate (≥83.0 to ≤285.0 pg/mL; n = 276), and high (>285.0 pg/mL; n = 92) based on lowest 20%, intermediate 60%, and highest 20% serum AMH) had no associations with P/AI (34, 43, and 40%), pregnancy loss between 30 and 60 d after artificial insemination (20, 12, and 8%), or pregnancy risk up to 250 d postpartum. One candidate gene associated with AMH production [AMH gene on Bos taurus autosome (BTA) 7] and 4 candidate genes related to embryo development (SCAI and PPP6C genes on BTA11 and FGF18 and EEF2K genes on BTA20 and BTA25, respectively) were in linkage disequilibrium with single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with phenotypic variation in serum AMH in dairy cows. Copyright © 2018 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Use of dried blood spots for the determination of serum concentrations of tamoxifen and endoxifen.

PubMed

Jager, N G L; Rosing, H; Schellens, J H M; Beijnen, J H; Linn, S C

2014-07-01

The anti-estrogenic effect of tamoxifen is suggested to be mainly attributable to its metabolite (Z)-endoxifen, and a minimum therapeutic threshold for (Z)-endoxifen in serum has been proposed. The objective of this research was to establish the relationship between dried blood spot (DBS) and serum concentrations of tamoxifen and (Z)-endoxifen to allow the use of DBS sampling, a simple and patient-friendly alternative to venous sampling, in clinical practice. Paired DBS and serum samples were obtained from 50 patients using tamoxifen and analyzed using HPLC-MS/MS. Serum concentrations were calculated from DBS concentrations using the formula calculated serum concentration = DBS concentration/([1-haematocrit (Hct)] + blood cell-to-serum ratio × Hct). The blood cell-to-serum ratio was determined ex vivo by incubating a batch of whole blood spiked with both analytes. The average Hct for female adults was imputed as a fixed value. Calculated and analyzed serum concentrations were compared using weighted Deming regression. Weighted Deming regression analysis comparing 44 matching pairs of DBS and serum samples showed a proportional bias for both analytes. Serum concentrations were calculated using [Tamoxifen] serum, calculated  = [Tamoxifen] DBS /0.779 and [(Z)-Endoxifen] serum, calculated = [(Z)-Endoxifen] DBS /0.663. Calculated serum concentrations were within 20 % of analyzed serum concentrations in 84 and 100 % of patient samples for tamoxifen and (Z)-endoxifen, respectively. In conclusion, DBS concentrations of tamoxifen and (Z)-endoxifen were equal to serum concentrations after correction for Hct and blood cell-to-serum ratio. DBS sampling can be used in clinical practice.

Combined Training Reduces Subclinical Inflammation in Obese Middle-Age Men.

PubMed

Brunelli, Diego T; Chacon-Mikahil, Mara Patrícia T; Gáspari, Arthur F; Lopes, Wendell Arthur; Bonganha, Valéria; Bonfante, Ivan Luiz P; Bellotto, Maria Luisa; Libardi, Cleiton Augusto; Cavaglieri, Cláudia Regina

2015-10-01

We investigated the effects of 24 wk of combined training on proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers associated with obesity in obese middle-age men. Thirty obese men (48.73 ± 1.04 yr; body mass index, 31.00 ± 0.29 kg·m) underwent 24 wk of combined training [CT (N = 17), aerobic (50%-85% of V˙O2peak) and resistance (6-10 maximum repetition [RM]) training)] three times per week, 60 min per session, or a control group (N = 13). Anthropometric measures, maximal strength for leg press and bench press, peak oxygen uptake (V˙O2peak) and serum concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-10, IL-15, resistin, leptin, and adiponectin were determined before (M1) and after 8 (M2), 16 (M3), and 24 (M4) wk of the experimental design. Significant increases were observed in the maximal strength for bench press and leg press, V˙O2peak, and serum concentrations of adiponectin and IL-15 for CT. Concomitantly, significant decreases were observed in percentage body fat and serum concentrations of CRP, resistin, and leptin for CT after the experimental period. Twenty-four weeks of moderate- to high-intensity CT reduced markers of subclinical inflammation associated with obesity and improved insulin resistance and functional capabilities of obese middle-age men, regardless of dietary intervention and weight loss.

Hematology and serum clinical chemistry reference intervals for free-ranging Scandinavian gray wolves (Canis lupus).

PubMed

Thoresen, Stein I; Arnemo, Jon M; Liberg, Olof

2009-06-01

Scandinavian free-ranging wolves (Canis lupus) are endangered, such that laboratory data to assess their health status is increasingly important. Although wolves have been studied for decades, most biological information comes from captive animals. The objective of the present study was to establish reference intervals for 30 clinical chemical and 8 hematologic analytes in Scandinavian free-ranging wolves. All wolves were tracked and chemically immobilized from a helicopter before examination and blood sampling in the winter of 7 consecutive years (1998-2004). Seventy-nine blood samples were collected from 57 gray wolves, including 24 juveniles (24 samples), 17 adult females (25 samples), and 16 adult males (30 samples). Whole blood and serum samples were stored at refrigeration temperature for 1-3 days before hematologic analyses and for 1-5 days before serum biochemical analyses. Reference intervals were calculated as 95% confidence intervals except for juveniles where the minimum and maximum values were used. Significant differences were observed between adult and juvenile wolves for RBC parameters, alkaline phosphatase and amylase activities, and total protein, albumin, gamma-globulins, cholesterol, creatinine, calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphate, and sodium concentrations. Compared with published reference values for captive wolves, reference intervals for free-ranging wolves reflected exercise activity associated with capture (higher creatine kinase activity, higher glucose concentration), and differences in nutritional status (higher urea concentration).

Magnesium sulfate reduces formalin-induced orofacial pain in rats with normal magnesium serum levels.

PubMed

Srebro, Dragana P; Vučković, Sonja M; Dožić, Ivan S; Dožić, Branko S; Savić Vujović, Katarina R; Milovanović, Aleksandar P; Karadžić, Branislav V; Prostran, Milica Š

2018-02-01

In humans, orofacial pain has a high prevalence and is often difficult to treat. Magnesium is an essential element in biological a system which controls the activity of many ion channels, neurotransmitters and enzymes. Magnesium produces an antinociceptive effect in neuropathic pain, while in inflammatory pain results are not consistent. We examined the effects of magnesium sulfate using the rat orofacial formalin test, a model of trigeminal pain. Male Wistar rats were injected with 1.5% formalin into the perinasal area, and the total time spent in pain-related behavior (face rubbing) was quantified. We also spectrophotometrically determined the concentration of magnesium and creatine kinase activity in blood serum. Magnesium sulfate administered subcutaneously (0.005-45mg/kg) produced significant antinociception in the second phase of the orofacial formalin test in rats at physiological serum concentration of magnesium. The effect was not dose-dependent. The maximum antinociceptive effect of magnesium sulfate was about 50% and was achieved at doses of 15 and 45mg/kg. Magnesium did not affect increase the levels of serum creatine kinase activity. Preemptive systemic administration of magnesium sulfate as the only drug can be used to prevent inflammatory pain in the orofacial region. Its analgesic effect is not associated with magnesium deficiency. Copyright © 2017 Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A sensitive time-resolved fluoroimmunoassay for determination of median levels of pregnancy-associated plasma protein a in pregnant women in China.

PubMed

Yu, Ting; Gao, Shangxian; Yin, Aihua; Tang, Yongping; Wu, Yingsong; Li, Lili; Li, Ming

2013-01-01

Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) is an important serum marker for first trimester screening. Its weekly median value varies with ethnicity. A one-step time-resolved fluoroimmunoassay (TRFIA) using two monoclonal antibodies against PAPP-A with Eu(3+) chelates as labels has been developed. Using the assay described here, we evaluated 5,301 normal serum samples from Chinese women at 7-13 weeks of gestation. The detection limit using this assay was 1.2 mIU/L, and the maximum detection range was up to 10,000 mIU/L. The intra-assay and inter-assay coefficients of variation were <3.0% and <5.0%, respectively, and the mean recovery rate was 98.0%. PAPP-A concentrations measured in 516 maternal serum samples correlated well with those obtained by Dissociation-Enhanced Lanthanide Fluorescent Immunoassay (DELFIA) PAPP-A assay (r=0.988, P<0.001). The medians for 7-13 weeks of maternal serum PAPP-A were higher in the women from China compared to reports from other countries. The present assay possesses accuracy and high sensitivity and exhibits great potential for the clinical analysis of PAPP-A. Our investigation on the median concentrations of PAPP-A will help establish reference values that are specific for China and study the importance of ethnic factors in biochemical screening.

Direct determination of glucose, lactate and triglycerides in blood serum by a tunable quantum cascade laser-based mid-IR sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brandstetter, M.; Volgger, L.; Genner, A.; Jungbauer, C.; Lendl, B.

2013-02-01

This work reports on a compact sensor for fast and reagent-free point-of-care determination of glucose, lactate and triglycerides in blood serum based on a tunable (1030-1230 cm-1) external-cavity quantum cascade laser (EC-QCL). For simple and robust operation a single beam set-up was designed and only thermoelectric cooling was used for the employed laser and detector. Full computer control of analysis including liquid handling and data analysis facilitated routine measurements. A high optical pathlength (>100 μm) is a prerequisite for robust measurements in clinical practice. Hence, the optimum optical pathlength for transmission measurements in aqueous solution was considered in theory and experiment. The experimentally determined maximum signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was around 140 μm for the QCL blood sensor and around 50 μm for a standard FT-IR spectrometer employing a liquid nitrogen cooled mercury cadmium telluride (MCT) detector. A single absorption spectrum was used to calculate the analyte concentrations simultaneously by using a partial-least-squares (PLS) regression analysis. Glucose was determined in blood serum with a prediction error (RMSEP) of 6.9 mg/dl and triglycerides with an error of cross-validation (RMSECV) of 17.5 mg/dl in a set of 42 different patients. In spiked serum samples the lactate concentration could be determined with an RMSECV of 8.9 mg/dl.

Quantification of carbamylated albumin in serum based on capillary electrophoresis.

PubMed

Delanghe, Sigurd; Moerman, Alena; Pletinck, Anneleen; Schepers, Eva; Glorieux, Griet; Van Biesen, Wim; Delanghe, Joris R; Speeckaert, Marijn M

2017-09-01

Protein carbamylation, a nonenzymatic posttranslational modification promoted during uremia, is linked to a poor prognosis. In the present study, carbamylation of serum albumin was assayed using the symmetry factor on a capillary electrophoresis instrument (Helena V8). The symmetry factor has been defined as the distance from the center line of the peak to the back slope, divided by the distance from the center line of the peak to the front slope, with all measurements made at 10% of the maximum peak height. Serum albumin, creatinine, and urea concentrations were assayed using routine methods, whereas uremic toxins were determined using HPLC. In vitro carbamylation induced a marked albumin peak asymmetry. Reference values for the albumin symmetry factor were 0.69-0.92. In kidney patients, albumin peak asymmetry corresponded to the chronic kidney disease stage (p < 0.0001). The symmetry factor correlated well with serum urea (r = -0.5595, p < 0.0001) and creatinine (r = -0.5986, p < 0.0001) concentrations. Several protein-bound uremic toxins showed a significant negative correlation with the symmetry factor. Morphology of the albumin fraction was not affected by presence of glycated albumin and protein-bound antibiotics. In conclusion, the presented method provides a simple, practical way for monitoring protein carbamylation. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Spectrofluorimetric determination of cefixime using terbium-danofloxacin probe

PubMed Central

Manzoori, Jamshid L.; Amjadi, Mohammad; Soltani, Naser; Jouyban, Abolghasem

2014-01-01

Objective(s): Cefixime (Cfx), is a semi-synthetic third-generation oral cephalosporin antibiotic that is prescribed for the treatment of susceptible infections. There are some procedures for the determination of Cfx in pharmaceutical formulations and biological samples. Herein a spectrofluorimetric method was proposed for Cfx determination based on the fluorescence quenching of terbium-danofloxacin (Tb3+-Dano) in the presence of Cfx. Materials and Methods: Cfx was detected based on fluorescence quenching of terbium-danofloxacin (Tb3+-Dano) in the presence of Cfx with maximum excitation and emission wavelengths at 347 nm and 545 nm, respectively. The quenched fluorescence intensity of Tb3+- Dano system is proportional to the concentration of Cfx. The optimum conditions for the determination of Cfx were studied. Results: The maximum response was achieved under optimum conditions of [Tris buffer]= 0.008 mol/l (pH 6.5), [Tb3+]=1×10-4 mol/l and [Dano]=1×10-4 mol/l. The developed method was evaluated in terms of accuracy, precision and limit of detection. The linear concentration ranges for quantification of Cfx were 8.8×10-8-8.8×10-7 mol/l and 1.1×10-7-8.8×10-7 mol/l in standard and human serum samples with the detection limits (S/N=3) of 2.8×10-8 mol/l and 3.9×10-8 mol/l, respectively. The Cfx was determined in pharmaceutical tablets and spiked serum samples and the results were satisfactory. Conclusion: This method is simple, practical and relatively interference-free for determination of Cfx in pharmaceutical tablets and serum samples. PMID:24904718

Vedolizumab Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics, Safety, and Tolerability Following Administration of a Single, Ascending, Intravenous Dose to Healthy Volunteers.

PubMed

Rosario, Maria; Wyant, Timothy; Leach, Timothy; Sankoh, Serap; Scholz, Catherine; Parikh, Asit; Fox, Irving; Feagan, Brian G

2016-11-01

Vedolizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody against the α 4 β 7 integrin, is indicated for treatment of moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. In this placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized, single ascending-dose study, the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, safety, and tolerability of vedolizumab were evaluated in healthy volunteers. Forty-nine participants (in five cohorts) were randomly assigned in a 4:1 ratio to receive a single intravenous infusion of either vedolizumab (0.2, 0.5, 2.0, 6.0, or 10.0 mg/kg) or placebo. Blood samples were collected for measurement of vedolizumab serum concentrations and α 4 β 7 saturation on peripheral blood lymphocytes by vedolizumab. Pharmacokinetic parameters were computed using a non-compartmental approach. Adverse events were monitored. Vedolizumab maximum observed serum concentration (C max ) demonstrated dose proportionality over the dose range tested. Greater than dose-proportional increases in area under the serum concentration-time curve from time 0 to infinity (AUC 0-inf ) and shorter terminal elimination half-life (t 1/2 ) were observed from 0.2 to 2.0 mg/kg, suggestive of nonlinear pharmacokinetics at lower doses. At doses higher than 2.0 mg/kg, these parameters increased dose proportionally. Saturation of α 4 β 7 was at or near maximal levels (>90 %) at all doses and time points when vedolizumab was measurable in serum. A total of 21 of 39 (54 %) vedolizumab-treated participants were anti-drug antibody (ADA) positive, and 11 (28 %) were persistently ADA positive. Overall, no adverse event signals, including serious infections or malignancies, were apparent. Vedolizumab exhibited target-mediated disposition, characterized by a rapid, saturable, nonlinear elimination process at low concentrations and a slower linear elimination process at higher concentrations. Nearly complete α 4 β 7 saturation was observed at all doses. A single intravenous infusion of vedolizumab was well tolerated by healthy volunteers.

Sequential concentrations of placental growth factor and haptoglobin, and their relation to oestrone sulphate and progesterone in pregnant Spanish Purebred mare.

PubMed

Satué, K; Marcilla, M; Medica, P; Ferlazzo, A; Fazio, E

2018-04-27

The objectives of this study were to establish reference values for serum concentrations of placental growth factor (PlGF) and haptoglobin (Hp), and to analyze whether the levels of oestrone sulphate (E 1 S) and progesterone (P 4 ) are physiologically involved in the dynamic modifications of the above parameters in pregnant mares. A total of 30 healthy Spanish Purebred mares ranging in age 9.33 ± 3.31 years were studied during the 11 months of gestation. Serum concentrations of PlGF were detected by EIA, Hp using commercial Phase Haptoglobin assay and E 1 S and P 4 levels through RIA. The serum concentrations of PlGF ranged between 31.70 and 223.60 ng/mL, with a mean value of 57.64 ± 18.05 ng/mL. Serum PlGF levels increased significantly during the 1st and 2nd months, reaching the maximum value in the 3rd month and the minimum value in the 10th month. Hp concentrations increased progressively and significantly from the 5th until the 10th month of gestation (P < 0.05), decreasing in the 11th month of pregnancy. E 1 S increased significantly from the 3rd until the 7th month, decreasing progressively towards the end of gestation. P 4 increased significantly in the 3rd and 4th month and decreased significantly in the 6th and 7th (P < 0.05), with variable oscillations during last months of pregnancy. PlGF and Hp were significantly and negatively correlated (r = -0.27; P < 0.05). In the healthy mare, PlGF and Hp act asynchronously and independent of steroid E 1 S and P 4. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Relationship between cobalamin-dependent metabolites and both serum albumin and alpha1 -proteinase inhibitor concentrations in hypocobalaminemic dogs of 7 different breeds.

PubMed

Grützner, Niels; Suchodolski, Jan S; Steiner, Jörg M

2014-12-01

Increased serum concentrations of homocysteine (HCY) and methylmalonic acid (MMA), the 2 main cobalamin-dependent metabolites, as well as decreased serum albumin and canine alpha1 -proteinase inhibitor (cα1 -PI) concentrations have previously been described in hypocobalaminemic dogs with gastrointestinal disease. However, no studies have been conducted to evaluate potential relationships between these serum biomarkers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between HCY and MMA, 2 cobalamin-dependent metabolites, and both serum albumin and cα1 -PI concentrations in hypocobalaminemic dogs. Serum samples from 285 dogs including 7 different breeds (Beagle, Boxer, Cocker Spaniel, German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, Chinese Shar-Pei, and Yorkshire Terrier) with hypocobalaminemia were used. Serum HCY, MMA, albumin, and cα1 -PI concentrations were determined. There was a significant correlation between serum HCY and albumin concentrations, as well as serum HCY and cα1 -PI concentrations (ρ = 0.62 and ρ = 0.37, respectively; P < .0001). No correlations were observed between serum MMA and albumin concentrations, or cα1 -PI concentrations (ρ = 0.01 and ρ = 0.08, respectively; P > .05). In addition, significant breed-specific correlations were observed between serum MMA and albumin concentrations in German Shepherds, and serum HCY and MMA concentrations in Chinese Shar-Peis with hypocobalaminemia. This study shows a correlation between serum albumin and cα1 -PI and HCY concentrations, but not with serum MMA concentration in dogs with hypocobalaminemia. In addition, significant breed-specific correlations were observed between serum MMA and albumin concentrations in German Shepherds, as well as serum HCY and MMA concentrations in Chinese Shar-Peis, emphasizing the unique metabolic interactions in those dog breeds affected by hypocobalaminemia. © 2014 American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.

Proecdysial changes in serum ecdysone titers, gastrolith formation, and limb regeneration following molt induction by limb autotomy and/or eyestalk removal in the land crab, Gecarcinus lateralis

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

McCarthy, J.F.; Skinner, D.M.

1977-01-01

The changes in serum ecdysone titers, gastrolith deposition, and limb regeneration were monitored at each stage of the molt cycle in the land crab, Gecarcinus lateralis. Animals were induced to molt by multiple-limb autotomy or eyestalk removal. The presence of ..cap alpha..-ecdysone and b-ecdysone (20-hydroxyecdysone) in the animals' serum was demonstrated chromatographically. ..beta..-ecdysone was the major circulating ecdysone, while ..cap alpha..-ecdysone was present only at very low concentrations. Four other components reacting with the ecdysone antiserum were separated chromatographically; one of these, a nonpolar compound, became a major component of the serum ecdysones at the time of maximum hormone titers.more » Ecdysone titers in the serum remained at the level characteristic of intermolt (approximately 10 ng/ml) during basal regeneration and rose linearly during the premolt period, reaching a maximum when regeneration of limbs had ceased and exoskeleton was deposited. Ecdysone decreased during stages D/sub 3/ and D/sub 4/, approaching intermolt levels at the time of ecdysis, where they remained through postmolt stages A and B. The patterns of premolt changes in ecdysone titers, gastroliths, and regeneration were very similar in ''normal'' animals (stimulated to molt by the loss of eight pereiopods) and in animals without eyestalks; however, in crabs without eyestalks, the changes were completed in about half the time as in crabs with eyestalks. Basal regeneration is associated with low ecdysone levels even in crabs without eyestalks. The normal sequence of proecdysial events is not initiated until the completion of basal regeneration. It is suggested that there exists a yet-unidentified mechanism outside the eyestalk capable of preventing increases in ecdysone titers while limbs engage in basal regeneration.« less

Glycerophosphate is interchangeable with inorganic phosphate in terms of safety and serum pharmacokinetics.

PubMed

Topp, Heinrich; Hochfeld, Olena; Bark, Staffan; Grossmann, Matthias; Joukhadar, Christian; Westphal, Martin; Straatsma, Harald; Rothenburger, Markus

2011-01-01

The primary aim of the present investigation was to determine and compare the pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles of inorganic phosphate in serum and urine after intravenous administration of sodium glycerophosphate and inorganic sodium phosphate. Additionally, study product safety profiles were evaluated. In total, 27 healthy, white volunteers (17 male/10 female) were enrolled in this double-blinded, randomized, 2-sequence, crossover study and were assigned to receive an organic test drug (sodium glycerophosphate) and an inorganic reference preparation (sodium phosphate) on 2 occasions. Validated analytical methods were used, and concentrations of total inorganic phosphate in serum and urine were determined over 24 h following a single 4-hour continuous intravenous infusion of test and reference drugs at a dose of 80 mmol. Study days were separated by washout periods of 7 days. An analysis of variance, based on population means and 90% confidence intervals (CIs), was used for testing bioequivalence (BE; range 0.8-1.25) between investigational products. The geometric means of the ratio of the point estimates and corresponding 90% CIs for the area under the concentration-versus-time curve of inorganic serum phosphate from 0 to 24 h (AUC(0-24)), the phosphate's maximum concentration in serum (C(max)) and the total amount of inorganic phosphate excreted in urine over 24 h corrected for individual baseline values (Ae(0-24 bc)) were estimated. The test/reference ratios for inorganic phosphate were 1.04 (CI 1.00-1.07), 0.85 (CI 0.84-0.87) and 0.84 (CI 0.77-0.92) for AUC(0-24), C(max) in serum and Ae(0-24 bc) in urine, respectively. Hence, standard BE criteria were met for AUC(0-24) and C(max) in serum, while Ae(0-24 bc) marginally failed to demonstrate BE. After drug administration, a total of 15 subjects reported the occurrence of at least 1 treatment emergent adverse event (AE). All AEs were classified as mild to moderate in severity, and the two treatment groups were equally affected. No serious AEs occurred. The serum PK profiles of inorganic phosphate were almost superimposable following intravenous administration of equimolar doses of test and reference drugs. Thus, we conclude that the two study drugs are essentially similar in terms of serum PK profiles, safety and tolerability. Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.

The silicon supplement ‘Monomethylsilanetriol’ is safe and increases the body pool of silicon in healthy Pre-menopausal women

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Monomethylsilanetriol (MMST) has been used for decades as an oral silicon supplement for bone and connective tissue health, although there are no formal data on its in vivo utilisation or safety following sustained dosing. Methods To investigate whether MMST contributes to the body pool of silicon and, secondly, to establish its safety following 4 weeks’ supplementation in humans, twenty-two healthy pre-menopausal women (22–38 years) were recruited and supplemented with MMST at the maximum daily recommended dose (10.5 mg Si/day) for 4 weeks in a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, cross-over design (i.e. 8 weeks in total). Fasting serum and urine samples were collected at baseline and at the end of the 4-week supplementation/placebo periods for analysis of total silicon by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry, MMST by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and full serum biochemistry. Participants also reported on, by questionnaire, their health, well-being and quality of life at 0, 4 and 8 weeks. Results Overall, 4-weeks supplementation with MMST significantly increased total fasting Si concentrations in serum and urine (P ≤ 0.003; paired t-test). MMST was semi-quantifiable in serum and quantifiable in urine, but only accounted for ca. 50% and 10%, respectively, of the increased total-Si concentration. There were no reported adverse effects (i.e. changes to health and well-being) or serum biochemical changes with MMST versus placebo. Conclusions Our data indicate that oral MMST is safe, is absorbed and undergoes sufficient metabolism in vivo to raise fasting serum silicon levels, consistent with other well absorbed forms of dietary silicon (e.g. orthosilicic acid). It thus appears to be a suitable silicon supplement. PMID:23622499

Effects of a gel forming dietary fiber, guar gum, on the absorption of glibenclamide and metabolic control and serum lipids in patients with non-insulin-dependent (type 2) diabetes.

PubMed

Uusitupa, M; Södervik, H; Silvasti, M; Karttunen, P

1990-04-01

Nine patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes (NIDDM) treated with glibenclamide (3.5 mg b.i.d.) participated in this randomized double-blind placebo controlled crossover study to evaluate the effects of granulated guar gum (5 g t.i.d. with meals) on the absorption of glibenclamide and metabolic control and serum lipids. Each treatment period lasted for 4 weeks, and there was a wash-out period of one week between the treatments. The fasting blood glucose (10.5 +/- 3.4 mmol/l on guar gum vs 11.3 +/- 3.7 mmol/l on placebo, p less than 0.05) and serum total cholesterol (5.9 +/- 1.4 mmol/l on guar gum vs 6.6 +/- 1.6 mmol/l on placebo; p less than 0.05) levels were lower after the treatment with guar gum than placebo. No significant differences were observed in serum triglycerides or HDL cholesterol between guar gum and placebo treatments. The administration of guar gum together with glibenclamide did not change significantly the maximum concentration (223 +/- 196 ng/ml on guar gum vs 184 +/- 138 ng/ml on placebo; n = 7, NS) or area under the curve (AUC0-6) [729 +/- 813 (ng/ml) X h on guar gum vs 560 +/- 513 (ng/ml) X h on placebo; NS] of glibenclamide. The fasting serum glibenclamide concentrations were similar at the end of the 4-week treatment period with guar gum and placebo. In conclusion, guar gum improved the metabolic control and decreased serum lipids of patients with NIDDM. In addition, guar gum ingested with glibenclamide did not interfere with the absorption of glibenclamide.

Spectrophotometric determination of total protein in serum using a novel near-infrared cyanine dye, 5,5'-dicarboxy-1,1'-disulfobutyl-3,3,3',3'-tetramethylindotricarbocyanine.

PubMed

Wang, Hong; Li, Wei-Rong; Guo, Xiao-Feng; Zhang, Hua-Shan

2007-04-01

The application of near-infrared (NIR) dyes (lambda (em) > 750 nm) to the analysis of biological samples shows much promise, because the long emission wavelengths of such dyes allow interferences from biomolecule matrices to be minimized. In this paper, a novel NIR dye, 5,5'-dicarboxy-1,1'-disulfobutyl-3,3,3',3'-tetramethylindotricarbocyanine (DCDSTCY) has been developed for the spectrophotometric determination of total protein in serum. Under acidic conditions, the binding of DCDSTCY to proteins caused a new peak at 878 nm, the height of which was proportional to the concentration of protein. The linear range of the method was found to be 0.04-0.5 microg mL(-1) for bovine serum albumin (BSA) and human serum albumin (HSA), and detection limits of 5 ng mL(-1) were obtained for these substances. The maximum binding number of BSA with DCDSTCY was measured to be 133. The method proposed here has been applied to the quantitation of total protein in serum, and recoveries of 96.6-104% were achieved. Figure Near-infrared probe for protein determination.

Effect of Antacids and Ranitidine on the Single-Dose Pharmacokinetics of Fosamprenavir

PubMed Central

Ford, Susan L.; Wire, Mary B.; Lou, Yu; Baker, Katherine L.; Stein, Daniel S.

2005-01-01

Single doses of MAALOX TC and ranitidine were administered separately with 1,400 mg of fosamprenavir (FPV). MAALOX TC decreased the area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 24 h (AUC0-24) for plasma amprenavir (APV) by 18% and the maximum concentration of drug in serum (Cmax) by 35%; the plasma APV concentration at 12 h (C12) increased by 14%. Ranitidine at 300 mg decreased the AUC0-24 for plasma APV by 30% and Cmax by 51%; C12 was unchanged. FPV may be coadministered with antacids without concern and without separation in dosing; however, caution is recommended when FPV is coadministered with histamine2- receptor antagonists or proton pump inhibitors. PMID:15616339

Serum nitrate/nitrite concentration correlates with gastric juice nitrate/nitrite: a possible marker for mutagenesis of the proximal stomach.

PubMed

Kishikawa, Hiroshi; Nishida, Jiro; Ichikawa, Hitoshi; Kaida, Shogo; Matsukubo, Takashi; Miura, Soichiro; Morishita, Tetsuo; Hibi, Toshifumi

2011-01-01

In the normal acid-secreting stomach, luminally generated nitric oxide, which contributes to carcinogenesis in the proximal stomach, is associated with the concentration of nitrate plus nitrite (nitrate/nitrite) in gastric juice. We investigated whether the serum nitrate/nitrite concentration is associated with that of gastric juice and whether it can be used as a serum marker. Serum and gastric juice nitrate/nitrite concentration, Helicobacter pylori antibody, and gastric pH were measured in 176 patients undergoing upper endoscopy. Multiple regression analysis revealed that serum nitrate/nitrite concentration was the best independent predictor of gastric juice nitrate/nitrite concentration. On single regression analysis, serum and gastric juice nitrate/nitrite concentration were significantly correlated, according to the following equation: gastric juice nitrate/nitrite concentration (μmol/l) = 3.93 - 0.54 × serum nitrate/nitrite concentration (μmol/l; correlation coefficient = 0.429, p < 0.001). In analyses confined to subjects with gastric pH less than 2.0, and in those with serum markers suggesting normal acid secretion (pepsinogen-I >30 ng/ml and negative H. pylori antibody), the serum nitrate/nitrite concentration was an independent predictor of the gastric juice nitrate/nitrite concentration (p < 0.001). Measuring the serum nitrate/nitrite concentration has potential in estimating the gastric juice nitrate/nitrite concentration. The serum nitrate/nitrite concentration could be useful as a marker for mutagenesis in the proximal stomach. Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Thermally modulated biomolecule transport through nanoconfined channels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Lei; Zhu, Lizhong

2015-04-01

In this work, a nanofluidic device containing both a feed cell and a permeation cell linked by nanopore arrays has been fabricated, which is employed to investigate thermally controlled biomolecular transporting properties through confined nanochannels. The ionic currents modulated by the translocations of goat antibody to human immunoglobulin G (IgG) or bovine serum albumin (BSA) are recorded and analyzed. The results suggest that the modulation effect decreases with the electrolyte concentration increasing, while the effects generated by IgG translocation are more significant than that generated by BSA translocation. More importantly, there is a maximum decreasing value in each modulated current curve with biomolecule concentration increasing for thermally induced intermolecular collision. Furthermore, the turning point for the maximum shifts to lower biomolecule concentrations with the system temperature rising (from 4°C to 45°C), and it is mainly determined by the temperature in the feed cell if the temperature difference exists in the two separated cells. These findings are expected to be valuable for the future design of novel sensing device based on nanopore and/or nanopore arrays.

Bioavailability and tolerability of nebulised dexamethasone sodium phosphate in adult horses.

PubMed

Haspel, A D; Giguère, S; Hart, K A; Berghaus, L J; Davis, J L

2018-01-01

Nebulisation of the injectable dexamethasone sodium phosphate (DSP) would offer an inexpensive way of delivering a potent corticosteroid directly to the lungs of horses with asthma. However, this approach would be advantageous only if systemic absorption is minimal and if the preservatives present in the formulation do not induce airway inflammation. To investigate the bioavailability of nebulised DSP and determine whether it induces airway inflammation or hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression in healthy adult horses. Randomised crossover experiment. Dexamethasone sodium phosphate was administered to six healthy adult horses at a dose of 5 mg q. 24 h for 5 days via nebulised, or intravenous (i.v.) routes. Plasma dexamethasone concentrations were measured by UPLC/MS-MS to calculate bioavailability. Cytological examination of bronchoalveolar fluid was performed at baseline and after the last dose of DSP. A validated chemiluminescent immunoassay was used to measure basal serum cortisol concentrations. After nebulisation to adult horses, dexamethasone had a mean (±s.d.) maximum plasma concentration of 0.774 ± 0.215 ng/mL and systemic bioavailability of 4.3 ± 1.2%. Regardless of route of administration, there was a significant decrease in the percentage of neutrophils in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid over time. During i.v. administration, basal serum cortisol concentration decreased significantly from baseline to Day 3 and remained low on Day 5. In contrast, basal serum cortisol concentration did not change significantly during administration via nebulisation. Small sample size and short period of drug administration. Dexamethasone sodium phosphate administered via nebulisation had minimal systemic bioavailability and did not induce lower airway inflammation or HPA axis suppression in healthy horses. © 2017 EVJ Ltd.

Metabolism of Secoisolariciresinol-Diglycoside The Dietary Precursor to The Intestinally Derived Lignan Enterolactone in Humans

PubMed Central

Setchell, Kenneth D. R.; Brown, Nadine M.; Zimmer-Nechemias, Linda; Wolfe, Brian; Jha, Pinky; Heubi, James E.

2014-01-01

Secoisolariciresinol-diglycoside (SDG), a natural dietary lignan of flaxseeds now available in dietary supplements, is converted by intestinal bacteria to the mammalian lignans enterodiol and enterolactone. High levels of these lignans in blood and urine are associated with reduced risk of many chronic diseases. Our objective was to determine the bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of SDG in purified flaxseed extracts under dose-ranging and steady-state conditions, and to examine whether differences in secoisolariciresinol-diglycoside purity influence bioavailability. Pharmacokinetic studies were performed on healthy postmenopausal women after oral intake of 25, 50, 75, 86 and 172mg of secoisolariciresinol-diglycoside. Extracts differing in secoisolariciresinol-diglycoside purity were compared, and steady-state lignan concentrations measured after daily intake for one week. Blood and urine samples were collected at timed intervals and secoisolariciresinol, enterodiol and enterolactone concentrations measured by mass spectrometry. Secoisolariciresinol-diglycoside was efficiently hydrolyzed and converted to secoisolariciresinol. Serum concentrations increased rapidly after oral intake, peaking after 5-7h and disappearing with a plasma elimination half-life of 4.8h. Maximum serum concentrations of the biologically active metabolites, enterodiol and enterolactone were established after 12-24h and 24-36h, respectively, and the half-lives were 9.4h and 13.2h. Linear dose-responses were observed and secoisolariciresinol bioavailability correlated (r2=0.835) with cumulative lignan excretion. There were no significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of extracts differing in purity, and steady-state serum lignan concentrations were obtained after one-week of daily dosing. In conclusion, this study defines the pharmacokinetics of secoisolariciresinol-diglycoside and shows it is first hydrolyzed and then metabolized in a time-dependent sequence to secoisolariciresinol, enterodiol and ultimately enterolactone, and these metabolites are efficiently absorbed. PMID:24429845

Influence of high dose tumescent local anaesthesia with prilocaine on systemic interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8 and tumour necrosis factor-α.

PubMed

Schmittner, M D; Faulhaber, J; Kemler, B; Koenen, W; Thumfart, J O; Weiss, C; Neumaier, M; Beck, G C

2010-12-01

Tumescent local anaesthesia (TLA) with high prilocaine doses leads to formation of methemoglobin (MHb) which is known to be a potent activator of pro-inflammatory endothelial cell response in vitro. As TLA is widely used for large dermatological resections, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of high prilocaine doses on the systemic inflammatory response in vivo and its clinical relevance. This prospective study examines the influence of MHb on serum interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8 and tumour necrosis tumour necrosis (TNF)-α levels up to 72 h after application of TLA with prilocaine in doses higher than 600 mg. A total of 30 patients received prilocaine in a median dose of 1500 mg (range: 880-4160 mg) for large resections. Peak prilocaine serum concentration was reached 4 h (0.72 ± 0.07 μg/mL), the maximum concentration of MHb (7.43 ± 0.87%) and IL-6 (28.4 ± 4.1 U/L) 12 h after TLA application. TNF-α and IL-8 release were not found significantly increased. Three patients developed MHb concentrations >15%. This clinical study shows for the first time that a high prilocaine serum concentration leads in vivo to elevated systemic levels of IL-6 but not of IL-8 and TNF-α because of initial high MHb levels. Because of possible and unpredictable high MHb concentrations, TLA should only be performed with prilocaine in doses of 2.5 mg/kg. In general, new solutions of TLA are necessary to achieve adequate anaesthesia for large dermatological resections to decrease the risk of methemoglobinaemia. © 2010 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2010 European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.

Metabolism of secoisolariciresinol-diglycoside the dietary precursor to the intestinally derived lignan enterolactone in humans.

PubMed

Setchell, Kenneth D R; Brown, Nadine M; Zimmer-Nechemias, Linda; Wolfe, Brian; Jha, Pinky; Heubi, James E

2014-03-01

Secoisolariciresinol-diglycoside (SDG), a natural dietary lignan of flaxseeds now available in dietary supplements, is converted by intestinal bacteria to the mammalian lignans enterodiol and enterolactone. High levels of these lignans in blood and urine are associated with reduced risk of many chronic diseases. Our objective was to determine the bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of SDG in purified flaxseed extracts under dose-ranging and steady-state conditions, and to examine whether differences in secoisolariciresinol-diglycoside purity influence bioavailability. Pharmacokinetic studies were performed on healthy postmenopausal women after oral intake of 25, 50, 75, 86 and 172 mg of secoisolariciresinol-diglycoside. Extracts differing in secoisolariciresinol-diglycoside purity were compared, and steady-state lignan concentrations measured after daily intake for one week. Blood and urine samples were collected at timed intervals and secoisolariciresinol, enterodiol and enterolactone concentrations measured by mass spectrometry. Secoisolariciresinol-diglycoside was efficiently hydrolyzed and converted to secoisolariciresinol. Serum concentrations increased rapidly after oral intake, peaking after 5-7 h and disappearing with a plasma elimination half-life of 4.8 h. Maximum serum concentrations of the biologically active metabolites, enterodiol and enterolactone were attained after 12-24 h and 24-36 h, respectively, and the half-lives were 9.4 h and 13.2 h. Linear dose-responses were observed and secoisolariciresinol bioavailability correlated (r(2) = 0.835) with cumulative lignan excretion. There were no significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of extracts differing in purity, and steady-state serum lignan concentrations were obtained after one-week of daily dosing. In conclusion, this study defines the pharmacokinetics of secoisolariciresinol-diglycoside and shows it is first hydrolyzed and then metabolized in a time-dependent sequence to secoisolariciresinol, enterodiol and ultimately enterolactone, and these metabolites are efficiently absorbed.

Associations between plasma tenofovir concentration and renal function markers in HIV-infected women.

PubMed

Mulubwa, Mwila; Rheeders, Malie; Fourie, Carla; Viljoen, Michelle

2016-01-01

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) has been associated with kidney tubular dysfunction and reduced renal function. Limited studies were performed in Europe and Asia that related plasma tenofovir (TFV) concentration with renal function; no such studies to date have been performed on Africans. To investigate the correlation between plasma tenofovir (TFV) concentration and certain renal function markers in HIV-infected women on TDF antiretroviral therapy (ART). These markers were also compared to a HIV-uninfected control group. HIV-infected women ( n = 30) on TDF-based ART were matched with 30 controls for age and body mass index. Renal markers analysed were estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), creatinine clearance (CrCl), serum creatinine, albuminuria, glucosuria, serum urea, serum uric acid, urine sodium and maximum tubular reabsorption of phosphate. Baseline eGFR and CrCl data were obtained retrospectively for the HIV-infected women. Plasma TFV was assayed using a validated HPLC-MS/MS method. Stepwise regression, Mann-Whitney test, unpaired and paired t -tests were applied in the statistical analyses. TFV concentration was independently associated with albuminuria (adjusted r 2 = 0.339 ; p = 0.001) in HIV-infected women. In the adjusted (weight) analysis, eGFR ( p = 0.038), CrCl ( p = 0.032) and albuminuria ( p = 0.048) were significantly higher in HIV-infected compared to the uninfected women, but eGFR was abnormally high in HIV-infected women. Both eGFR ( p < 0.001) and CrCl ( p = 0.008) increased from baseline to follow-up in HIV-infected women. Plasma TFV concentration was associated with increased albuminuria in HIV-infected women in this sub-study. Both eGFR and CrCl were increased in HIV-infected women from baseline. These findings should be confirmed in larger studies, and hyperfiltration in HIV-infected women warrants further investigation.

Glycerophosphate does not interact with components of parenteral nutrition.

PubMed

Topp, Heinrich; Hochfeld, Olena; Bark, Staffan; Grossmann, Matthias; Joukhadar, Christian; Westphal, Martin; Straatsma, Harald; Rothenburger, Markus

2011-01-01

The primary objective of this study was to determine and compare the pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles of inorganic phosphate in the serum after continuous administration of pure glycerophosphate and glycerophosphate contained in total parenteral nutrition (TPN) emulsions. This approach was selected to identify potential PK interactions between TPN components and glycerophosphate. The serum PK profile of inorganic phosphate after continuous intravenous administration of a sodium glycerophosphate containing TPN emulsion was determined in 10 healthy, white (5 male/5 female) volunteers. A pure sodium glycerophosphate formulation served as reference. Standard criteria of bioequivalence were applied. Subjects were enrolled in the double-blinded study and were randomly allocated to receive the test and reference preparations on two occasions in a 2-sequence crossover study design. The volunteers received 1/3 of the maximum recommended body weight- (BW) adjusted intravenous daily dosage (13.3 ml/kg BW) of the test drug over a period of 8 h. The amount of total phosphate (0.101 mmol/kg) and duration of administration were identical for the test and reference drugs. Study days were separated by washout periods of at least 88 h. Serum concentrations of total inorganic phosphate were measured serially over a 36-hour period using a validated method. A statistical mixed ANOVA, based on population averages, was used for testing bioequivalence between these study preparations. The 90% confidence intervals (90% CIs) of inorganic phosphate in serum were calculated for the test/reference ratios of the area under the time-concentration curve from time 0 to 36 h (AUC₀₋₃₆), the maximum concentration (C(max)) and the concentration 5 min before the end of infusion (C(ss)) for a bioequivalence range from 0.80 to 1.25. The mean test/reference ratios fell completely within the 90% CIs with values of 1.016 (90% CI 1.005-1.028), 1.013 (90% CI 0.981-1.047) and 0.932 (90% CI 0.886-0.980) for AUC(0-36), C(max) and C(ss), respectively. In total, 3 mild adverse events in the reference group were detected after starting intravenous infusion, while no adverse events were observed in the test group after treatment. Primary PK parameters were within the defined bioequivalence range of 0.8-1.25. Thus, inorganic phosphate levels were essentially similar between the two investigational medicinal products tested in the present study. These findings confirm the concept that nutritional components of the test drug do not significantly interact with glycerophosphate. The two study preparations proved to be safe during the investigation. Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Urine creatinine in treatment-naïve HIV subjects in eastern Nigeria

PubMed Central

Anyabolu, Ernest Ndukaife

2016-01-01

Introduction Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a global healthcare problem. Some diseases and physiological states may be altered in HIV-infected individuals. Our objective was to evaluate urine creatinine and factors that influence urine creatinine in treatment-naïve HIV subjects in Nigeria. Methods This was a cross-sectional study involving treatment-naïve HIV subjects in a tertiary hospital in Nigeria. Creatinine in spot and 24-hour urine samples and other relevant investigations were performed. Low urine creatinine or dilute urine was defined as 24-hour urine creatinine (24HUCr) <300mg, normal urine creatinine as 24HUCr 300-3000mg and high urine creatinine or concentrated urine as 24HUCr>3000mg.Theassociation of low urine creatinine and high urine creatinine with potential risk factors was determined. Results The mean spot urine creatinine (SUCr) of the treatment-naïve HIV subjects was 137.21± 98.47(mg/dl), minimum value 13.3mg/dl, maximum value 533.3mg/dl and range of values 520.0mg/dl. The mean 24HUCr was 1507±781mg, minimum value 206mg, maximum value 4849mg and range of values 4643mg. Twenty four-hour urine creatinine<300mg was observed in 2(0.5%) subjects, normal 24HUCr 300-3000mgin 349(93.1%) subjects and 24HUCr>3000mg in 24(6.4%) subjects. There was significant association between 24HUCr and serum low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL),serum high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL). There was high correlation between 24HUCr>3000mg and 24-hour urine osmolality (24HUOsm) (r=0.95), body mass index (BMI) (r=0.74), CD4 cells count (r=-0.71), serum HDL (r=-0.73). Conclusion The prevalence of dilute urine and concentrated urine was low. Twenty-four hour urine osmolality. BMI, CD4 cells count and HDL were strong correlates of high urine creatinine. Lipid abnormalities were common in treatment-naïve HIV subjects with high urine creatinine. There is need for clinicians to routinely conduct urine creatinine and further search for abnormalities of serum lipids, weight changes, depressed immunity and anemia in HIV subjects with dilute or concentrated urine in the early stages of the infection. PMID:28292101

Urine creatinine in treatment-naïve HIV subjects in eastern Nigeria.

PubMed

Anyabolu, Ernest Ndukaife

2016-01-01

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a global healthcare problem. Some diseases and physiological states may be altered in HIV-infected individuals. Our objective was to evaluate urine creatinine and factors that influence urine creatinine in treatment-naïve HIV subjects in Nigeria. This was a cross-sectional study involving treatment-naïve HIV subjects in a tertiary hospital in Nigeria. Creatinine in spot and 24-hour urine samples and other relevant investigations were performed. Low urine creatinine or dilute urine was defined as 24-hour urine creatinine (24HUCr) <300mg, normal urine creatinine as 24HUCr 300-3000mg and high urine creatinine or concentrated urine as 24HUCr>3000mg.Theassociation of low urine creatinine and high urine creatinine with potential risk factors was determined. The mean spot urine creatinine (SUCr) of the treatment-naïve HIV subjects was 137.21± 98.47(mg/dl), minimum value 13.3mg/dl, maximum value 533.3mg/dl and range of values 520.0mg/dl. The mean 24HUCr was 1507±781mg, minimum value 206mg, maximum value 4849mg and range of values 4643mg. Twenty four-hour urine creatinine<300mg was observed in 2(0.5%) subjects, normal 24HUCr 300-3000mgin 349(93.1%) subjects and 24HUCr>3000mg in 24(6.4%) subjects. There was significant association between 24HUCr and serum low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL),serum high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL). There was high correlation between 24HUCr>3000mg and 24-hour urine osmolality (24HUOsm) (r=0.95), body mass index (BMI) (r=0.74), CD4 cells count (r=-0.71), serum HDL (r=-0.73). The prevalence of dilute urine and concentrated urine was low. Twenty-four hour urine osmolality. BMI, CD4 cells count and HDL were strong correlates of high urine creatinine. Lipid abnormalities were common in treatment-naïve HIV subjects with high urine creatinine. There is need for clinicians to routinely conduct urine creatinine and further search for abnormalities of serum lipids, weight changes, depressed immunity and anemia in HIV subjects with dilute or concentrated urine in the early stages of the infection.

The response of meat ducks from 15 to 35 d of age to gossypol from cottonseed meal

PubMed Central

Zeng, Q. F.; Bai, P.; Wang, J. P.; Ding, X. M.; Luo, Y. H.; Bai, S. P.; Xuan, Y.; Su, Z. W.; Lin, S. Q.; Zhao, L. J.; Zhang, K. Y.

2015-01-01

The objective of this study was to investigate the responses of meat ducks of 15 to 35 d of age to free gossypol (FG) from cottonseed meal (CSM) and to establish the maximum limits of dietary FG concentration based on growth performance, blood parameters, and tissue residues of gossypol. Nine hundred 15-d-old ducks were randomly allocated to 5 treatments with 10 cages/treatment and 18 ducks/cage on the basis of BW. Five isonitrogenous and isocaloric experimental diets were formulated on a digestible amino acid basis to produce diets in which 0% (without FG), 25% (36 mg FG/kg), 50% (75 mg FG/kg), 75% (111 mg FG/kg), and 100% (153 mg FG/kg) of protein from soybean meal were replaced by that from CSM. Increasing dietary FG content, BW, and ADG decreased (linearly, P < 0.05, except for ADG of days 29 to 35), and F/G linearly increased (P < 0.05). At 35 d, blood hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration linearly decreased (P < 0.05), while serum total protein, albumin, and globulin content linearly decreased (P < 0.05), and the residue of gossypol in liver, kidney, heart, breast, and leg muscle linearly increased (P < 0.001) with increases in dietary FG concentration. Ducks fed 36 mg FG/kg (5.83% CSM of diet) diet had a normal histological structure of liver, and muscle (breast and leg) had no residue of gossypol. The maximum limit of dietary FG concentration was estimated to range from a low of 36 mg/kg to maximize serum globulin concentration to a high of 124 mg/kg to minimize feed intake for 22 to 28d on the basis of a quadratic broken-line model. PMID:25834247

The response of meat ducks from 15 to 35 d of age to gossypol from cottonseed meal.

PubMed

Zeng, Q F; Bai, P; Wang, J P; Ding, X M; Luo, Y H; Bai, S P; Xuan, Y; Su, Z W; Lin, S Q; Zhao, L J; Zhang, K Y

2015-06-01

The objective of this study was to investigate the responses of meat ducks of 15 to 35 d of age to free gossypol (FG) from cottonseed meal (CSM) and to establish the maximum limits of dietary FG concentration based on growth performance, blood parameters, and tissue residues of gossypol. Nine hundred 15-d-old ducks were randomly allocated to 5 treatments with 10 cages/treatment and 18 ducks/cage on the basis of BW. Five isonitrogenous and isocaloric experimental diets were formulated on a digestible amino acid basis to produce diets in which 0% (without FG), 25% (36 mg FG/kg), 50% (75 mg FG/kg), 75% (111 mg FG/kg), and 100% (153 mg FG/kg) of protein from soybean meal were replaced by that from CSM. Increasing dietary FG content, BW, and ADG decreased (linearly, P<0.05, except for ADG of days 29 to 35), and F/G linearly increased (P<0.05). At 35 d, blood hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration linearly decreased (P<0.05), while serum total protein, albumin, and globulin content linearly decreased (P<0.05), and the residue of gossypol in liver, kidney, heart, breast, and leg muscle linearly increased (P<0.001) with increases in dietary FG concentration. Ducks fed 36 mg FG/kg (5.83% CSM of diet) diet had a normal histological structure of liver, and muscle (breast and leg) had no residue of gossypol. The maximum limit of dietary FG concentration was estimated to range from a low of 36 mg/kg to maximize serum globulin concentration to a high of 124 mg/kg to minimize feed intake for 22 to 28 d on the basis of a quadratic broken-line model. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Poultry Science Association.

Ultra-low-dose estriol and Lactobacillus acidophilus vaginal tablets (Gynoflor(®)) for vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal breast cancer patients on aromatase inhibitors: pharmacokinetic, safety, and efficacy phase I clinical study.

PubMed

Donders, Gilbert; Neven, Patrick; Moegele, Maximilian; Lintermans, Anneleen; Bellen, Gert; Prasauskas, Valdas; Grob, Philipp; Ortmann, Olaf; Buchholz, Stefan

2014-06-01

Phase I pharmacokinetic (PK) study assessed circulating estrogens in breast cancer (BC) patients on a non-steroidal aromatase inhibitor (NSAI) with vaginal atrophy using vaginal ultra-low-dose 0.03 mg estriol (E3) and Lactobacillus combination vaginal tablets (Gynoflor(®)). 16 women on NSAI with severe vaginal atrophy applied a daily vaginal tablet of Gynoflor(®) for 28 days followed by a maintenance therapy of 3 tablets weekly for 8 weeks. Primary outcomes were serum concentrations and PK of E3, estradiol (E2), and estrone (E1) using highly sensitive gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Secondary outcomes were clinical measures for efficacy and side effects; microscopic changes in vaginal epithelium and microflora; and changes in serum FSH, LH, and sex hormone-binding globulin. Compared with baseline, serum E1 and E2 did not increase in any of the women at any time following vaginal application. Serum E3 transiently increased after the first application in 15 of 16 women, with a maximum of 168 pg/ml 2-3 h post-insertion. After 4 weeks, serum E3 was slightly increased in 8 women with a maximum of 44 pg/ml. The vaginal atrophy resolved or improved in all women. The product was well tolerated, and discontinuation of therapy was not observed. The low-dose 0.03 mg E3 and Lactobacillus acidophilus vaginal tablets application in postmenopausal BC patients during AI treatment suffering from vaginal atrophy lead to small and transient increases in serum E3, but not E1 or E2, and therefore can be considered as safe and efficacious for treatment of atrophic vaginitis in BC patients taking NSAIs.

Circulating Angiopoietin-2 and Its Soluble Receptor Tie-2 Concentrations Are Related to Renal Function in Two Population-Based Cohorts

PubMed Central

Hennings, Anna; Hannemann, Anke; Rettig, Rainer; Dörr, Marcus; Nauck, Matthias; Völzke, Henry; Lerch, Markus M.; Lieb, Wolfgang; Friedrich, Nele

2016-01-01

Background An intact angiopoietin/Tie-2 ligand receptor system is indispensable for life. High circulating angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) concentrations are strongly associated with kidney disease involving the progressive loss of glomerular filtration. The aim of our study was to investigate the associations between renal function and serum Ang-2 or serum Tie-2 concentrations in the general population. Methods Data of 3081 and 4088 subjects from two population-based studies, the Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP-1) and SHIP-Trend, were used. Renal function was assessed by serum creatinine, cystatin C concentration, creatinine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR(crea)], cystatin C-based eGFR [eGFR(cys)] and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR). Analyses of variance and linear regression models were calculated. Results In both cohorts, strong positive associations between serum cystatin C concentrations and serum Ang-2 or Tie-2 concentrations as well as inverse associations between eGFR(cys) and serum Ang-2 or Tie-2 concentrations were found. These relations were also present in a subpopulation without hypertension or diabetes mellitus type 2. Furthermore, we detected weak U-shaped associations between serum creatinine concentrations or eGFR(crea) and serum Ang-2 concentrations. With respect to uACR a strong positive association with serum Ang-2 concentrations was revealed. Conclusion Serum Ang-2 concentrations are strongly associated with sensitive parameters of renal impairment like serum cystatin C, uACR and eGFR(cys). These findings persisted even after exclusion of subjects with hypertension or diabetes mellitus type 2, conditions that predispose to chronic renal disease and are associated with increased Ang-2 concentrations. Interestingly, we did not detect the same strong relations between serum creatinine and eGFR(crea) with serum Ang-2 concentration. Additionally, significant association of serum Tie-2 concentrations with cystatin C and eGFR(cys) were detected. PMID:27893762

Circulating Angiopoietin-2 and Its Soluble Receptor Tie-2 Concentrations Are Related to Renal Function in Two Population-Based Cohorts.

PubMed

Hennings, Anna; Hannemann, Anke; Rettig, Rainer; Dörr, Marcus; Nauck, Matthias; Völzke, Henry; Lerch, Markus M; Lieb, Wolfgang; Friedrich, Nele

2016-01-01

An intact angiopoietin/Tie-2 ligand receptor system is indispensable for life. High circulating angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) concentrations are strongly associated with kidney disease involving the progressive loss of glomerular filtration. The aim of our study was to investigate the associations between renal function and serum Ang-2 or serum Tie-2 concentrations in the general population. Data of 3081 and 4088 subjects from two population-based studies, the Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP-1) and SHIP-Trend, were used. Renal function was assessed by serum creatinine, cystatin C concentration, creatinine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR(crea)], cystatin C-based eGFR [eGFR(cys)] and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR). Analyses of variance and linear regression models were calculated. In both cohorts, strong positive associations between serum cystatin C concentrations and serum Ang-2 or Tie-2 concentrations as well as inverse associations between eGFR(cys) and serum Ang-2 or Tie-2 concentrations were found. These relations were also present in a subpopulation without hypertension or diabetes mellitus type 2. Furthermore, we detected weak U-shaped associations between serum creatinine concentrations or eGFR(crea) and serum Ang-2 concentrations. With respect to uACR a strong positive association with serum Ang-2 concentrations was revealed. Serum Ang-2 concentrations are strongly associated with sensitive parameters of renal impairment like serum cystatin C, uACR and eGFR(cys). These findings persisted even after exclusion of subjects with hypertension or diabetes mellitus type 2, conditions that predispose to chronic renal disease and are associated with increased Ang-2 concentrations. Interestingly, we did not detect the same strong relations between serum creatinine and eGFR(crea) with serum Ang-2 concentration. Additionally, significant association of serum Tie-2 concentrations with cystatin C and eGFR(cys) were detected.

Effect of sorbitol, single, and multidose activated charcoal administration on carprofen absorption following experimental overdose in dogs.

PubMed

Koenigshof, Amy M; Beal, Matthew W; Poppenga, Robert H; Jutkowitz, L Ari

2015-01-01

To compare the effectiveness of single dose activated charcoal, single dose activated charcoal with sorbitol, and multidose activated charcoal in reducing plasma carprofen concentrations following experimental overdose in dogs. Randomized, four period cross-over study. University research setting. Eight healthy Beagles. A 120 mg/kg of carprofen was administered orally to each dog followed by either (i) a single 2 g/kg activated charcoal administration 1 hour following carprofen ingestion (AC); (ii) 2 g/kg activated charcoal with 3.84 g/kg sorbitol 1 hour following carprofen ingestion (ACS); (iii) 2 g/kg activated charcoal 1 hour after carprofen ingestion and repeated every 6 hours for a total of 4 doses (MD); (iv) no treatment (control). Plasma carprofen concentrations were obtained over a 36-hour period following carprofen ingestion for each protocol. Pharmacokinetic modeling was performed and time versus concentration, area under the curve, maximum plasma concentration, time to maximum concentration, and elimination half-life were calculated and compared among the groups using ANOVA followed by Tukey's multiple comparisons test. Activated charcoal, activated charcoal with sorbitol (ACS), and multiple-dose activated charcoal (MD) significantly reduced the area under the curve compared to the control group. AC and MD significantly reduced the maximum concentration when compared to the control group. MD significantly reduced elimination half-life when compared to ACS and the control group. There were no other significant differences among the treatment groups. Activated charcoal and ACS are as effective as MD in reducing serum carprofen concentrations following experimental overdose in dogs. Prospective studies are warranted to evaluate the effectiveness of AC, ACS, and MD in the clinical setting. © Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society 2015.

Serum Concentrations of Trace Elements in Patients with Tuberculosis and Its Association with Treatment Outcome

PubMed Central

Choi, Rihwa; Kim, Hyoung-Tae; Lim, Yaeji; Kim, Min-Ji; Kwon, O Jung; Jeon, Kyeongman; Park, Hye Yun; Jeong, Byeong-Ho; Koh, Won-Jung; Lee, Soo-Youn

2015-01-01

Deficiencies in essential trace elements are associated with impaired immunity in tuberculosis infection. However, the trace element concentrations in the serum of Korean patients with tuberculosis have not yet been investigated. This study aimed to compare the serum trace element concentrations of Korean adult patients with tuberculosis with noninfected controls and to assess the impact of serum trace element concentration on clinical outcome after antituberculosis treatment. The serum concentrations of four trace elements in 141 consecutively recruited patients with tuberculosis and 79 controls were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Demographic characteristics were also analyzed. Serum cobalt and copper concentrations were significantly higher in patients with tuberculosis compared with controls, while zinc and selenium concentrations were significantly lower (p < 0.01). Moreover, serum selenium and zinc concentrations were positively correlated (ρ = 0.41, p < 0.05). A high serum copper concentration was associated with a worse clinical outcome, as assessed after one month of antituberculosis therapy. Specifically, culture-positive patients had higher serum copper concentrations than culture-negative patients (p < 0.05). Patients with tuberculosis had altered serum trace element concentrations. Further research is needed to elucidate the roles of individual trace elements and to determine their clinical impact on patients with tuberculosis. PMID:26197334

The acute phase response of C3, C5, ceruloplasmin, and C-reactive protein induced by turpentine pleurisy in the rabbit.

PubMed Central

Giclas, P. C.; Manthei, U.; Strunk, R. C.

1985-01-01

Concentrations of five serum proteins, C3, C5, ceruloplasmin, C-reactive protein, and albumin, have been measured during the acute phase response in rabbits with turpentine-induced pleurisy. C-reactive protein concentrations in the circulation rose abruptly between 12 and 36 hours to a level greater than 50 times the pretreatment concentration, then returned to undetectable amounts by 96 hours. C3 and ceruloplasmin both showed some increase in concentration by 12 hours and reached their maximum concentrations of two to three times the baseline levels 48-72 hours after the turpentine treatment. Concentrations were still elevated at 120 hours, after which time they gradually returned to normal. C5 and albumin concentrations in the turpentine-treated rabbits did not differ from the baseline concentrations. The same five proteins were measured in the inflammatory exudate. C-reactive protein was not detectable at any of the time points. C3, C5, ceruloplasmin, and albumin were present in normal pleural fluid at roughly half their serum concentrations. The activities of C3, C5, and ceruloplasmin were low in the early exudate, but C3 and C5 activity rose relative to their concentrations in the later samples of pleural fluid. The specific activities of C3 and C5 were higher in the pleural fluid at 72 hours than in plasma, while that of ceruloplasmin remained less in the pleural fluid than in plasma throughout the experiment. The involvement of these proteins and their relation to the inflammatory response are discussed. Images Figure 6 PMID:2409807

Milk and Blood Pharmacokinetics of Tylosin and Tilmicosin following Parenteral Administrations to Cows

PubMed Central

Avci, Tulay; Elmas, Muammer

2014-01-01

The aim of this study is to determine the pharmacokinetics of tylosin and tilmicosin in serum and milk in healthy Holstein breed cows (n = 12) and reevaluate the amount of residue in milk. Following the intramuscular administration of tylosin, the maximum concentrations (C max) in serum and milk were found to be 1.30 ± 0.24 and 4.55 ± 0.23 µg/mL, the time required to reach the peak concentration (t max) was found to be 2nd and 4th h, and elimination half-lives (t 1/2β) were found to be 20.46 ± 2.08 and 26.36 ± 5.55 h, respectively. Following the subcutaneous administration of tilmicosin, the C max in serum and milk were found to be 0.86 ± 0.20 and 20.16 ± 1.13 µg/mL, the t max was found to be 1st and 8th h, and the t 1/2β were found to be 29.94 ± 6.65 and 43.02 ± 5.18 h, respectively. AUCmilk/AUCserum and C max-milk/C max-serum rates, which are indicators for determining the rate of drugs that pass into milk, were, respectively, calculated as 5.01 ± 0.72 and 3.61 ± 0.69 for tylosin and 23.91 ± 6.38 and 20.16 ± 1.13 for tilmicosin. In conclusion, it may be stated that milk concentration of tylosin after parenteral administration is higher than expected like tilmicosin and needs more withdrawal period for milk than reported. PMID:25177733

Sex-related differences of bone properties of pelvic limb and bone metabolism indices in 14-month-old ostriches (Struthio camelus).

PubMed

Krupski, W; Tatara, M R; Charuta, A; Brodzki, A; Szpetnar, M; Jóźwik, A; Strzałkowska, N; Poławska, E; Łuszczewska-Sierakowska, I

2018-06-01

1. Sex-related differences of long pelvic limb bones and serum bone metabolism indices were evaluated in 14-month-old female (N = 7) and male (N = 7) ostriches of similar body weights. 2. Densitometric parameters of femur, tibia and tarsometatarsus were determined using quantitative computed tomography (volumetric bone mineral density, calcium hydroxyapatite density and mean volumetric bone mineral density) and dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (bone mineral density and bone mineral content) methods. Geometrical parameters such as cortical bone area, cross-sectional area, second moment of inertia, mean relative wall thickness and cortical index were determined in the midshaft of bones. Mechanical properties of bones (maximum elastic strength and ultimate strength) were evaluated using three-point bending test. Serum concentrations of free amino acids, osteocalcin, N-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen, C-terminal telopeptides of type II collagen and total antioxidative capacity were also determined. 3. Bone weight and relative bone weight of all bones were significantly higher in males than in females. Significantly lower values of trabecular bone mineral density and calcium hydroxyapatite density were found in the trabecular bone of tibia in males. The highest number of the sex-related differences was observed in the tarsometatarsus where bone length, bone mineral content, cortical bone area, cross-sectional area and ultimate strength were higher in males. Serum concentrations of taurine, hydroxyproline, valine and isoleucine were significantly higher in males. 4. Higher loading of the tarsometatarsus in comparison to femur and tibia may be an important factor interacting with sex hormones in regulation of bone formation and mineralisation processes. Sex-related differences of bone properties were associated with increased serum concentration of selected amino acids in males.

Association of serum chemerin concentrations with the presence of atrial fibrillation.

PubMed

Zhang, Guowei; Xiao, Mochao; Zhang, Lili; Zhao, Yue; Yang, Qinghui

2017-05-01

Objective Chemerin, a newly discovered adipokine, is correlated with hypertension, diabetes and coronary heart disease. The aim of this study is to investigate the association of serum chemerin concentrations with the presence of atrial fibrillation. Methods Serum chemerin concentrations were determined in 256 patients with atrial fibrillation and 146 healthy subjects. Atrial fibrillation patients were then divided into paroxysmal, persistent and permanent atrial fibrillation. Results Serum chemerin concentrations were significantly higher in atrial fibrillation patients compared with healthy controls. In subgroup studies, patients with permanent atrial fibrillation had higher serum chemerin concentrations than those with persistent and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Furthermore, significant higher serum chemerin concentrations were observed in persistent atrial fibrillation patients compared with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation subjects. Serum chemerin concentrations were associated with the presence of atrial fibrillation after logistic regression analysis. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a positive relation of serum chemerin concentrations with body mass index, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, C-reactive protein and left atrial diameter. Conclusion Serum chemerin concentrations are associated with the presence of atrial fibrillation and atrial remodelling.

Validation of a serum immunoassay to measure progesterone and diagnose pregnancy in the West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Tripp, K.M.; Verstegen, J.P.; Deutsch, C.J.; Bonde, R.K.; Rodriguez, M.; Morales, B.; Schmitt, D.L.; Harr, K.E.

2008-01-01

The objective was to validate a high-sensitivity chemiluminescent assay of serum progesterone concentrations for pregnancy diagnosis in manatees. Assay analytical sensitivity was 0.1 ng/mL, with mean intra- and inter-assay coefficients of variation of 9.7 and 9.2%, respectively, and accuracy had a mean adjusted R2 of 0.98. Methods comparison (relative to Siemen's Coat-A-Count RIA) demonstrated r = 0.98, Deming regression slope of 0.95, and an intercept of 0.01. Based on ROC analysis, a progesterone concentration ???0.4 ng/mL was indicative of pregnancy. Assay results were not significantly altered by two freeze-thaw cycles of samples. Characteristic progesterone concentrations during pregnancy were Months 1-4 (1.7-4.7 ng/mL), 5-8 (???1.0 ng/mL), and 10 and 11 (0.3-0.5 ng/mL), whereas two late-pregnant females with impending abortion had progesterone concentrations of 0.1 ng/mL. Among pregnant females, maximum progesterone concentrations occurred in autumn (3.9 ?? 1.8 ng/mL), and were greater during all seasons than concentrations in non-pregnant females (0.1-0.2 ng/mL). Progesterone concentrations were also significantly higher in pregnant females than in non-pregnant females and males. This highly sensitive, specific, and diagnostic assay will be valuable for monitoring pregnancy and abortion in manatees. ?? 2008 Elsevier Inc.

Validation of a serum immunoassay to measure progesterone and diagnose pregnancy in the West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus).

PubMed

Tripp, K M; Verstegen, J P; Deutsch, C J; Bonde, R K; Rodriguez, M; Morales, B; Schmitt, D L; Harr, K E

2008-10-15

The objective was to validate a high-sensitivity chemiluminescent assay of serum progesterone concentrations for pregnancy diagnosis in manatees. Assay analytical sensitivity was 0.1 ng/mL, with mean intra- and inter-assay coefficients of variation of 9.7 and 9.2%, respectively, and accuracy had a mean adjusted R(2) of 0.98. Methods comparison (relative to Siemen's Coat-A-Count RIA) demonstrated r=0.98, Deming regression slope of 0.95, and an intercept of 0.01. Based on ROC analysis, a progesterone concentration >or=0.4 ng/mL was indicative of pregnancy. Assay results were not significantly altered by two freeze-thaw cycles of samples. Characteristic progesterone concentrations during pregnancy were Months 1-4 (1.7-4.7 ng/mL), 5-8 ( approximately 1.0 ng/mL), and 10 and 11 (0.3-0.5 ng/mL), whereas two late-pregnant females with impending abortion had progesterone concentrations of 0.1 ng/mL. Among pregnant females, maximum progesterone concentrations occurred in autumn (3.9+/-1.8 ng/mL), and were greater during all seasons than concentrations in non-pregnant females (0.1-0.2 ng/mL). Progesterone concentrations were also significantly higher in pregnant females than in non-pregnant females and males. This highly sensitive, specific, and diagnostic assay will be valuable for monitoring pregnancy and abortion in manatees.

Correlation of in vitro time-kill curves and kinetics of bacterial killing in cerebrospinal fluid during ceftriaxone therapy of experimental Escherichia coli meningitis.

PubMed Central

Decazes, J M; Ernst, J D; Sande, M A

1983-01-01

Ceftriaxone was highly active in eliminating Escherichia coli from the cerebrospinal fluid of rabbits infected with experimental meningitis. However, concentrations equal to or greater than 10 times the minimal bactericidal concentration had to be achieved to ensure optimal efficacy (rate of kill, 1.5 log10 CFU/ml per h). In contrast to other beta-lactams studied in this model, ceftriaxone concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid progressively increased, whereas serum steady state was obtained by constant infusion. The percent penetration was 2.1% after 1 h of therapy, in contrast to 8.9% after 7 h (P less than 0.001). In vitro time-kill curves done in cerebrospinal fluid or broth more closely predicted the drug concentrations required for a maximum cidal effect in vivo than that predicted by determinations of minimal inhibitory or bactericidal concentrations. PMID:6316841

Determination of human serum albumin using an intramolecular charge transfer fluorescence probe: 4'-dimethylamino-2,5-dihydroxychalcone.

PubMed

Xu, Zhicheng; Yang, Weibing; Dong, Chuan

2005-09-15

A new intramolecular charge transfer fluorescence probe, namely, 4'-dimethylamino-2,5-dihydroxychalcone (DMADHC), exhibited dramatic enhancement of fluorescence intensity with an accompanying blue shift of the emission maximum when the concentration of human serum albumin (HSA) was increased. Binding to HSA also caused a progressive shift in the absorption spectrum of DMADHC, and a clear isosbestic point appeared. The binding site number and binding constant were calculated. Thermodynamic parameters were given and possible binding site was speculated. The optimum conditions for the determination of HSA were also investigated. A new, fast, and simple spectrofluorimetric method for the determination of HSA was developed. In the detection of HSA in samples of human plasma, this method gave values close to that of the Erythrosin B method.

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.

Process development for the mass production of Ehrlichia ruminantium.

PubMed

Marcelino, Isabel; Sousa, Marcos F Q; Veríssimo, Célia; Cunha, António E; Carrondo, Manuel J T; Alves, Paula M

2006-03-06

This work describes the optimization of a cost-effective process for the production of an inactivated bacterial vaccine against heartwater and the first attempt to produce the causative agent of this disease, the rickettsia Ehrlichia ruminantium (ER), using stirred tanks. In vitro, it is possible to produce ER using cultures of ruminant endothelial cells. Herein, mass production of these cells was optimized for stirring conditions. The effect of inoculum size, microcarrier type, concentration of serum at inoculation time and agitation rate upon maximum cell concentration were evaluated. Several strategies for the scale-up of cell inoculum were also tested. Afterwards, using the optimized parameters for cell growth, ER production in stirred tanks was validated for two ER strains (Gardel and Welgevonden). Critical parameters related with the infection strategy such as serum concentration at infection time, multiplicity and time of infection, and medium refeed strategy were analyzed. The results indicate that it is possible to produce ER in stirred tank bioreactors, under serum-free culture conditions, reaching a 6.5-fold increase in ER production yields. The suitability of this process was validated up to a 2-l scale and a preliminary cost estimation has shown that the stirred tanks are the least expensive culture method. Overall, these results are crucial to define a scaleable and fully controlled process for the production of a heartwater vaccine and open "new avenues" for the production of vaccines against other ehrlichial species, with emerging impact in human and animal health.

Identification of periparturient mare and foal associated predictors of post parturient immunoglobulin A concentrations in Thoroughbred foals.

PubMed

Jenvey, C; Caraguel, C; Howarth, G B; Riley, C B

2012-12-01

Prior to the start of endogenous production of immunoglobulins (Igs), absorption of maternal Igs is important to protect against pathogens in the early neonatal period. It is possible that mare- or foal-associated factors may influence neonatal IgA concentrations. The temporal relationships among serum and milk IgA concentrations in Thoroughbred mare-foal pairs were explored to determine if periparturient mare- and foal-associated factors contribute to the prediction of foal serum IgA concentrations. Blood and milk samples as well as complete veterinary records, were collected for 84 Thoroughbred mare-foal pairs from one month before to 2 months after parturition. Samples were tested using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for concentrations of IgA. Pairwise correlation coefficients were estimated (P < 0.01) and simple linear regression used to investigate unconditional associations between mare IgA levels, mare and foal risk factors and foal serum IgA concentration at 12 h. Backwards, stepwise elimination of nonsignificant factors was used to create a final model. There were significant temporal relationships among mare serum IgA and among colostrum and milk IgA concentrations within mares (P < 0.01). Mare serum IgA concentrations up to one month before parturition were associated with foal serum IgA concentrations at all time points and with colostrum and milk IgA concentrations. Mare serum IgA at -28 days and parity were associated with foal serum IgA concentration at 12 h (P < 0.001). Mare serum IgA concentrations up to 28 days before parturition, together with mare parity, are indicative of neonatal foal serum IgA concentrations. Mare serum and colostrum IgA concentrations may be useful peripartum predictors of neonatal mucosal immune status, enabling earlier intervention to prevent the consequences of mucosal infections.

Myostatin serum concentrations are correlated with the severity of knee osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Zhao, Chang; Shao, Yan; Lin, Chuangxin; Zeng, Chun; Fang, Hang; Pan, Jianying; Cai, Daozhang

2017-09-01

Myostatin, a member of the transforming growth factor-β family, contributes to joint deterioration in mice. Thus, we aimed to assess the correlation of myostatin concentrations with the presence and severity of knee osteoarthritis (OA). We determined serum and synovial fluid (SF) myostatin concentrations in a population of 184 patients with knee OA and 109 healthy controls. The knee OA group presented with higher serum myostatin concentrations than the controls. Knee OA patients with KL grade 4 showed higher serum and SF myostatin concentrations compared with those with KL grade 2 and 3. Knee OA patients with KL grade 3 had higher serum and SF myostatin concentrations compared with those with KL grade 2. Serum and SF myostatin concentrations were significantly correlated with KL grading. Serum and SF myostatin concentrations were correlated with the presence and severity of knee OA. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

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.

Changes in platelet function, hemostasis, and prostaglandin expression after treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with various cyclooxygenase selectivities in dogs.

PubMed

Brainard, Benjamin M; Meredith, Craig P; Callan, Mary Beth; Budsberg, Steven C; Shofer, Francis S; Driessen, Bernd; Otto, Cynthia M

2007-03-01

To determine the effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs of various cyclooxygenase selectivities on hemostasis and prostaglandin expression in dogs. 8 client-owned dogs with clinical signs of osteoarthritis. Dogs received aspirin (5 mg/kg, PO, q 12 h), carprofen (4 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h), deracoxib (2 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h), and meloxicam (0.1 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h) for 10 days each, with an interval of at least 14 days between treatments. On days 0 and 10, blood was collected for platelet aggregation assays, thrombelastography, and measurement of lipopolysaccharide-stimulated prostaglandin E(2), platelet thromboxane B(2) (TXB(2)), and free serum TXB(2) and 6-keto-prostaglandin F (PGF)-1alpha concentrations. Platelet aggregation decreased after treatment with aspirin and carprofen, whereas significant changes from baseline were not detected for the other drugs tested. Thrombelastograms obtained after treatment with carprofen revealed decreased maximum amplitude and alpha-angle, suggesting hypocoagulability. Maximum amplitude and coagulation index increased after treatment with deracoxib. Plasma concentrations of prostaglandin E(2) decreased after treatment with carprofen or deracoxib, and platelet TXB(2) production increased after treatment with aspirin. Serum concentrations of the prostacyclin metabolite 6-keto-PGF-1alpha did not change significantly after treatment with any of the drugs, although the ratio of free TXB(2) to 6-keto-PGF-1alpha decreased slightly after treatment with carprofen and increased slightly after treatment with deracoxib. At the dosages tested, treatment with meloxicam affected platelet function minimally in dogs with osteoarthritis. Treatment with carprofen decreased clot strength and platelet aggregation. Clot strength was increased after treatment with deracoxib.

Colic caused by Panicum maximum toxicosis in equidae in northern Brazil.

PubMed

Cerqueira, Valíria D; Riet-Correa, Gabriela; Barbosa, José D; Duarte, Marcos D; Oliveira, Carlos M C; de Oliveira, Carlos A; Tokarnia, Carlos; Lee, Stephen T; Riet-Correa, Franklin

2009-11-01

In the Amazon region of northern Brazil, Panicum maximum cultivars Mombaça, Tanzânia, and Massai cause severe colic and death in horses and mules. The disease occurs in the rainy season, when sprouting pastures are grazed by equidae. In the 8 separate disease outbreaks studied, a total of 52 out of 153 equidae were affected, including 19 that died (10 mules and 9 horses). Clinical signs were colic and abdominal dilatation, with a clinical manifestation period of 12 hr to 4 days. Serum activities of gamma-glutamyl transferase and aspartate aminotransferase were within reference intervals; however, serum urea nitrogen and creatinine concentrations were occasionally elevated. The primary gross and histologic lesions were observed in the digestive system. The stomach, small intestine, and large intestine had severe hemorrhages and occasional mucosal erosions and ulcerations. Ulceration and hemorrhage of the urinary bladder were rarely observed. Histologic examination revealed diffuse lymphoplasmacytic gastritis and enteritis with severe congestion, hemorrhage, and occasional epithelial necrosis and ulceration. Lymphocellular necrosis was occasionally observed within gut-associated lymphoid tissue. Tubular nephrosis occurred in some animals. Degeneration and occasional necrosis of bile duct epithelial cells and degeneration of hepatocytes were observed in the liver. Toxic pastures were negative for diosgenin- and yamogenin-based saponins, and oxalate concentrations were within reference intervals for the species. The toxin or toxins causing disease and the reason for the toxicity of the plant in the northern region are unknown.

Parathyroid hormone related protein concentration in human serum and CSF correlates with age.

PubMed

Kushnir, Mark M; Peterson, Lisa K; Strathmann, Frederick G

2018-02-01

Parathyroid Hormone-Related Protein (PTHrP) is involved in intracellular calcium (Ca) regulation, and has been demonstrated to participate in regulation of Ca in brain cells, activation of neurons, and modulation of pain. However, there are conflicting reports regarding the presence of PTHrP in CSF. PTHrP and Ca were quantified in paired CSF and serum samples using mass spectrometry-based methods. Associations between PTHrP and Ca concentrations with age, sex and concentrations of nine CSF diagnostic markers in a set of 140 paired serum and CSF patient samples were evaluated. The observed median PTHrP concentration in CSF was 51 times higher than in serum; the median concentration of Ca in CSF was 1.8 times lower than in serum. We observed positive correlation between concentrations of PTHrP in CSF and serum (p=0.013). Distribution of PTHrP concentrations in serum was associated with age (p=0.0068) and the concentrations were higher in women. In samples with serum calcium concentrations within the reference intervals (n=118), central 95% distribution of concentrations for Ca-CSF, PTHrP-serum and PTHrP-CSF were 5.4 (4.5-6.1) mg/dL, 1.2 (0.5-2.5) pmol/L, 62 (22-125) pmol/L, respectively. Our data demonstrate that PTHrP is a normal constituent of human CSF with median concentrations 51 fold higher than in serum. Elevated serum PTHrP concentrations were positively correlated with age and significantly higher in women. Our data suggest that CSF could be a significant source of circulating PTHrP. Copyright © 2017 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Serum fructosamine concentrations in dogs with hypothyroidism.

PubMed

Reusch, C E; Gerber, B; Boretti, F S

2002-10-01

Serum fructosamine concentrations were measured in 11 untreated hypothyroid dogs with normal serum glucose and serum protein concentrations. The fructosamine level ranged between 276 and 441 micromol/L (median 376 micromol/L; reference range 207-340 micromol/L). Nine of the 11 dogs had fructosamine levels above the reference range. The fructosamine levels decreased significantly during treatment with levothyroxine. It is suggested that serum fructosamine concentrations may be high in hypothyroid dogs because of decelerated protein turnover, independent of the blood glucose concentration.

Inositol and hepatic lipidosis. II. Effect of inositol supplementation and time from parturition on serum insulin, thyroxine and triiodothyronine and their relationship to serum and liver lipids in dairy cows.

PubMed

Gerloff, B J; Herdt, T H; Wells, W W; Nachreiner, R F; Emery, R S

1986-06-01

Percutaneous liver biopsies and blood samples were obtained from 80 dairy cows in nine Michigan herds over the peripartum period. Thirty-nine cows were fed 17 g of supplemental inositol and 41 were fed a placebo. Liver biopsies were assayed for total myoinositol and triglyceride (TG) concentrations. Blood samples were assayed for serum dextran precipitable cholesterol, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), insulin, thyroxine (T4), free (FT4), triiodothyronine (T3) and free T3 (FT3) concentrations. Serum concentrations of insulin and the thyroid hormones decreased near parturition, with lowest concentrations occurring in the immediate postpartum period. Concentrations of T3 correlated well with T4, and the concentrations of free thyroid hormones reflected concentrations of total thyroid hormones. The percentage of hormone in the free fraction remained constant over time. Serum insulin, T3 and T4 were negatively correlated with serum NEFA and liver TG concentrations. Thyroid hormone concentrations were positively correlated with serum dextran precipitable cholesterol concentrations. Inositol supplementation was associated with reduced circulating T3 and FT3 concentrations, but not T4 and FT4 concentrations. Changes in hormone concentrations at parturition and their relationship to liver TG and serum NEFA concentrations were consistent with a metabolic adaptation by the dairy cow to the negative energy balance of early lactation.

Changes of serum 3-methylhistidine concentration and energy-associated metabolites in dairy cows with ketosis.

PubMed

Akamatsu, Hirohisa; Saitoh, Yoshihide; Serizawa, Masahumi; Miyake, Koji; Ohba, Yoshikazu; Nakashima, Kazuki

2007-10-01

The present study examined the Serum 3-methylhistidine concentrations and energy-associated variables of 5 healthy Holstein cows and 5 Holstein cows with ketosis. The serum total cholesterol and apolipoprotein B-100 concentrations and lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) activity of the ketotic cows were lower than those of the healthy cows 14 days before parturition. The serum non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentration on the day of parturition and 3-methylhistidine concentration 14 days after parturition were higher in the ketotic cows. The serum 3-methylhistidine concentration 14 days after parturition was negatively correlated with the serum LCAT activity 14 days before parturition and was positively correlated with the serum NEFA concentration on the day of parturition. Insufficiency of cholesterol metabolism and acceleration of body fat degradation occur before parturition in cows with ketosis, and these characteristics are correlated with acceleration of protein degradation after parturition.

Refractometer assessment of colostral and serum IgG and milk total solids concentrations in dairy cattle

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Estimation of the quantity of colostral IgG or serum IgG absorbed following ingestion of colostrum by calves is essential for monitoring the effectiveness of colostrum feeding practices on dairy farms. Milk total solids concentrations determination is a critical part of quality assessment of nonsaleable whole milk prior to feeding to calves. To date, on-farm methods to assess colostral IgG, serum IgG or milk total solids concentrations have been performed separately with various instruments. The objective of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of a single electronic, hand-held refractometer for assessing colostral and serum IgG concentrations and milk total solids in dairy cattle. Colostral IgG, serum IgG and milk total solids concentrations were determined by the refractometer. Corresponding analysis of colostral and serum IgG concentrations were determined by radial immunodiffusion (RID) while milk total solids were determined by spectrophotometry. Sensitivity and specificity of the refractometer for colostrum and serum samples were calculated as determined by RID. Sensitivity and specificity of the refractometer for milk samples was calculated as determined by spectrophotometry. Results The sensitivity of the refractometer was 1 for colostral IgG, serum IgG and milk total solids determinations. Specificity of the refractometer was 0.66, 0.24 and 0 for colostral IgG, serum IgG and milk total solids determinations, respectively. The refractometer underestimated colostral IgG, serum IgG and milk total solids concentrations compared to the concentrations determined by RID or spectrophotometry. Conclusions The refractometer was an acceptable, rapid, convenient on-farm method for determining colostral IgG and milk total solids. The refractometer was not an acceptable method for determination of serum IgG concentrations as it severely underestimated the serum IgG concentrations. PMID:25125217

Value of point-of-care ketones in assessing dehydration and acidosis in children with gastroenteritis.

PubMed

Levy, Jason A; Waltzman, Mark; Monuteaux, Michael C; Bachur, Richard G

2013-11-01

Children with gastroenteritis often develop dehydration with metabolic acidosis. Serum ketones are frequently elevated in this population. The goal was to determine the relationship between initial serum ketone concentration and both the degree of dehydration and the magnitude of acidosis. This was a secondary analysis of a prospective trial of crystalloid administration for rapid rehydration. Children 6 months to 6 years of age with gastroenteritis and dehydration were enrolled. A point-of-care serum ketone (beta-hydroxybutyrate) concentration was obtained at the time of study enrollment. The relationship between initial serum ketone concentration and a prospectively assigned and previously validated clinical dehydration score, and serum bicarbonate concentration, was analyzed. A total of 188 patients were enrolled. The median serum ketone concentration was elevated at 3.1 mmol/L (interquartile range [IQR] = 1.2 to 4.6 mmol/L), and the median dehydration score was consistent with moderate dehydration. A significant positive relationship was found between serum ketone concentration and the clinical dehydration score (Spearman's rho = 0.22, p = 0.003). Patients with moderate dehydration had a higher median serum ketone concentration than those with mild dehydration (3.6 mmol/L vs. 1.4 mmol/L, p = 0.007). Additionally, the serum ketone concentration was inversely correlated with serum bicarbonate concentration (ρ = -0.26, p < 0.001). Children with gastroenteritis and dehydration have elevated serum ketone concentrations that correlate with both degree of dehydration and magnitude of metabolic acidosis. Point-of-care serum ketone measurement may be a useful tool to inform management decisions at the point of triage or in the initial evaluation of children with gastroenteritis and dehydration. © 2013 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine.

Determinants of serum zinc concentrations in a population of French middle-age subjects (SU.VI.MAX cohort).

PubMed

Arnaud, J; Touvier, M; Galan, P; Andriollo-Sanchez, M; Ruffieux, D; Roussel, A-M; Hercberg, S; Favier, A

2010-10-01

Few studies have been conducted on determinants of serum zinc concentration, especially in France. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between serum zinc concentrations, and age, education, living area and life style in a large sample cohort of French adults. Blood samples were collected after 12-h fasting in French adults (7448 women, 35-65 years old and 4926 men, 45-65 years old) participating to the SUpplementation in AntioXidant VItamins and Minerals cohort at enrolment. Serum zinc was determined by flame atomic absorption. Serum zinc concentration was lower in women (mean: 12.9 μmol/l, 95% confidence interval: 9.2-16.6 μmol/l) compared with men (mean: 13.4 μmol/l, 95% confidence interval: 9.7-17.1 μmol/l, P<0.0001). In total, 10% of the women showed serum zinc values <10.7 μmol/l and 10% of the men showed serum zinc values <11.3 μmol/l. Age was negatively associated with serum zinc only in men (P=0.001). In women, a positive association between smoking and serum zinc concentration (P=0.0003), and a negative relationship between highest education level and serum zinc concentration (P=0.01) were observed. With regard to geographical areas, the highest serum zinc concentrations were found in the Center, and the lowest in the Southwest of France for both men and women. The association between serum zinc concentrations and food categories or macronutrient intake disappeared after stratifying by gender. Age, gender and geographic area seem the main determinants of serum zinc concentrations in this study.

Sodium ferric gluconate (SFG) in complex with sucrose for IV infusion: bioequivalence of a new generic product with the branded product in healthy volunteers.

PubMed

Baribeault, David

2011-08-01

Parenteral sodium ferric gluconate in complex (Ferrlecit [branded SFG]) is used to treat patients with iron deficiency anemia undergoing chronic hemodialysis and receiving supplemental epoetin. This comparative pharmacokinetic study (GeneraMedix, Inc., Study 17909) evaluates whether the recently approved generic product Nulecit (generic SFG) and the branded product Ferrlecit (branded SFG) are bioequivalent. In this open-label study, 240 healthy volunteers in a fasting state were assigned randomly to a single 10-min intravenous (IV) infusion of 125 mg of generic or branded SFG. Total and transferrin-bound iron concentrations were determined for the 36-h period after infusion and corrected for pretreatment levels. Maximum concentration (Cmax) and area under the concentration-time curve of 0 to 36 h (AUC[0-36]) were compared between the two products. Demonstration of bioequivalence required that the 90% confidence intervals of each parameter evaluated for generic SFG were within 80% to 125% of the corresponding values for branded SFG. Uncorrected and baseline-corrected mean serum concentrations of total serum iron during the 36-h assessment period were similar for generic and branded SFG. For total serum iron, the geometric mean ratios of corrected Cmax and AUC[0-36] were 100%. For transferrin-bound iron, the geometric mean ratios were 87% for corrected Cmax and 92% for corrected AUC[0-36]. All associated 90% confidence intervals were within the range of 80% to 125%. A new generic SFG in complex for IV infusion is bioequivalent to the branded SFG in complex for IV infusion. The generic SFG is AB rated by the FDA and considered therapeutically equivalent to the branded product.

Serum levels of inhibin A and inhibin B in women with normal and abnormal luteal function.

PubMed

Yamoto, M; Imai, M; Otani, H; Nakano, R

1997-05-01

To determine whether serum inhibin A and inhibin B concentrations are lower in patients with luteal dysfunction than in women with normal luteal function. Serum samples were collected from seven healthy women with regular menstrual cycles. Serum samples on days +5 to +9 after the LH surge were collected from patients with luteal dysfunction. The diagnosis of luteal dysfunction was based on a luteal phase duration less than 11 days and a single midluteal progesterone level below 10 ng/mL. Serum levels of inhibin A, inhibin B, progesterone, estradiol (E2), FSH, and LH were measured. The serum inhibin A levels were increased toward the late follicular phase. The levels reached a maximum during the midluteal phase, followed by a fall during the late luteal phase. The serum inhibin B levels were high during the follicular phases and the early luteal phase. The levels decreased during the midluteal and late luteal phases. Serum levels (mean +/- standard error of the mean) of inhibin A in patients with luteal dysfunction were significantly lower than those in women during the midluteal phase (26.2 +/- 2.9 compared to 41.9 +/- 2.8 pg/mL; P < .01) in addition to the expected decrease in serum progesterone levels (6.3 +/- 0.7 compared to 14.7 +/- 1.2 ng/mL; P < .01). Serum inhibin B levels did not differ significantly between normal women and those with luteal dysfunction. There also were no significant differences in the E2, FSH, and LH levels. Levels of inhibin A, but not of inhibin B, may reflect the human luteal function.

A Common Variant in the SETD7 Gene Predicts Serum Lycopene Concentrations.

PubMed

D'Adamo, Christopher R; D'Urso, Antonietta; Ryan, Kathleen A; Yerges-Armstrong, Laura M; Semba, Richard D; Steinle, Nanette I; Mitchell, Braxton D; Shuldiner, Alan R; McArdle, Patrick F

2016-02-06

Dietary intake and higher serum concentrations of lycopene have been associated with lower incidence of prostate cancer and other chronic diseases. Identifying determinants of serum lycopene concentrations may thus have important public health implications. Prior studies have suggested that serum lycopene concentrations are under partial genetic control. The goal of this research was to identify genetic predictors of serum lycopene concentrations using the genome-wide association study (GWAS) approach among a sample of 441 Old Order Amish adults that consumed a controlled diet. Linear regression models were utilized to evaluate associations between genetic variants and serum concentrations of lycopene. Variant rs7680948 on chromosome 4, located in the intron region of the SETD7 gene, was significantly associated with serum lycopene concentrations (p = 3.41 × 10(-9)). Our findings also provided nominal support for the association previously noted between SCARB1 and serum lycopene concentrations, although with a different SNP (rs11057841) in the region. This study identified a novel locus associated with serum lycopene concentrations and our results raise a number of intriguing possibilities regarding the nature of the relationship between SETD7 and lycopene, both of which have been independently associated with prostate cancer. Further investigation into this relationship might help provide greater mechanistic understanding of these associations.

A Common Variant in the SETD7 Gene Predicts Serum Lycopene Concentrations

PubMed Central

D’Adamo, Christopher R.; D’Urso, Antonietta; Ryan, Kathleen A.; Yerges-Armstrong, Laura M.; Semba, Richard D.; Steinle, Nanette I.; Mitchell, Braxton D.; Shuldiner, Alan R.; McArdle, Patrick F.

2016-01-01

Dietary intake and higher serum concentrations of lycopene have been associated with lower incidence of prostate cancer and other chronic diseases. Identifying determinants of serum lycopene concentrations may thus have important public health implications. Prior studies have suggested that serum lycopene concentrations are under partial genetic control. The goal of this research was to identify genetic predictors of serum lycopene concentrations using the genome-wide association study (GWAS) approach among a sample of 441 Old Order Amish adults that consumed a controlled diet. Linear regression models were utilized to evaluate associations between genetic variants and serum concentrations of lycopene. Variant rs7680948 on chromosome 4, located in the intron region of the SETD7 gene, was significantly associated with serum lycopene concentrations (p = 3.41 × 10−9). Our findings also provided nominal support for the association previously noted between SCARB1 and serum lycopene concentrations, although with a different SNP (rs11057841) in the region. This study identified a novel locus associated with serum lycopene concentrations and our results raise a number of intriguing possibilities regarding the nature of the relationship between SETD7 and lycopene, both of which have been independently associated with prostate cancer. Further investigation into this relationship might help provide greater mechanistic understanding of these associations. PMID:26861389

Continuous bilateral thoracic paravertebral blockade for analgesia after cardiac surgery: a randomised, controlled trial.

PubMed

Lockwood, Geoff G; Cabreros, Leilani; Banach, Dorota; Punjabi, Prakash P

2017-10-01

Continuous bilateral thoracic paravertebral blockade has been used for analgesia after cardiac surgery, but its efficacy has never been formally tested. Fifty adult patients were enrolled in a double-blind, randomised, controlled study of continuous bilateral thoracic paravertebral infusion of 0.5% lidocaine (1 mg.kg -1 .hr -1 ) for analgesia after coronary surgery. Control patients received a subcutaneous infusion of lidocaine at the same rate through catheters inserted at the same locations as the study group. The primary outcome was morphine consumption at 48 hours using patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). Secondary outcomes included pain, respiratory function, nausea and vomiting. Serum lidocaine concentrations were measured on the first two post-operative days. There was no difference in morphine consumption or in any other outcome measure between the groups. Serum lidocaine concentrations increased during the study, with a maximum of 5.9 mg.l -1 . There were no adverse events as a consequence of the study. Bilateral paravertebral infusion of lidocaine confers no advantage over systemic lidocaine infusion after cardiac surgery. ISRCTN13424423 ( https://www.isrctn.com ).

Posaconazole in Human Serum: a Greater Pharmacodynamic Effect than Predicted by the Non-Protein-Bound Serum Concentration ▿

PubMed Central

Lignell, Anders; Löwdin, Elisabeth; Cars, Otto; Chryssanthou, Erja; Sjölin, Jan

2011-01-01

It is generally accepted that only the unbound fraction of a drug is pharmacologically active. Posaconazole is an antifungal agent with a protein binding of 98 to 99%. Taking into account the degree of protein binding, plasma levels in patients, and MIC levels of susceptible strains, it can be assumed that the free concentration of posaconazole sometimes will be too low to exert the expected antifungal effect. The aim was therefore to test the activity of posaconazole in serum in comparison with that of the calculated unbound concentrations in protein-free media. Significant differences (P < 0.05) from the serum control were found at serum concentrations of posaconazole of 1.0 and 0.10 mg/liter, with calculated free concentrations corresponding to 1× MIC and 0.1× MIC, respectively, against one Candida lusitaniae strain selected for proof of principle. In RPMI 1640, the corresponding calculated unbound concentration of 0.015 mg/liter resulted in a significant effect, whereas that of 0.0015 mg/liter did not. Also, against seven additional Candida strains tested, there was an effect of the low posaconazole concentration in serum, in contrast to the results in RPMI 1640. Fluconazole, a low-grade-protein-bound antifungal, was used for comparison at corresponding concentrations in serum and RPMI 1640. No effect was observed at the serum concentration, resulting in a calculated unbound concentration of 0.1× MIC. In summary, there was a substantially greater pharmacodynamic effect of posaconazole in human serum than could be predicted by the non-protein-bound serum concentration. A flux from serum protein-bound to fungal lanosterol 14α-demethylase-bound posaconazole is suggested. PMID:21502622

[Low-dose desmopressin (DDAVP) and blood levels of FSH, LH and testosterone in men].

PubMed

García-Pascual, I J; Rozán Flores, M A

1996-03-01

The effect of desmopressin (DDAVP) administration (2.5 micrograms/12 hours) on serum concentrations of FSH, LH and testosterone was studied in six men. No significant changes were observed in serum concentrations of FSH and LH after 9 days with DDAVP therapy. Nevertheless, serum concentrations of testosterone after 12 hours of DDAVP administration were significantly higher than basal concentrations. Three hours after the administration of DDAVP, serum testosterone concentrations decreased significantly. The conclusion reached was that low doses of desmopressin do not change serum concentrations of FSH and LH, but serum concentration of testosterone is decreased within three hours after the administration, although an increase is observed 12 hours later possibly due to a "rebound effect". Desmopressin would therefore directly act upon human testicle.

Serum serotonin concentration associated with bone mineral density in Chinese postmenopausal women.

PubMed

Wei, Qiu-Shi; Chen, Zhen-Qiu; Tan, Xin; Kang, Lu-Chen; Jiang, Xiao-Bing; Liang, Jiang; He, Wei; Deng, Wei-Min

2017-02-01

Recent studies have shown that circulating serotonin plays a potential role in bone metabolism. However, conflicting results have been reported for the relationship between serum serotonin concentrations and bone mineral density (BMD). We investigated whether the serum serotonin concentrations related to BMD in Chinese postmenopausal women. Serum serotonin and bone turnover concentrations of 117 premenopausal women and 262 asymptomatic postmenopausal women were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. BMD at the lumbar spine and femoral neck was measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. The relationship between serotonin and BMD was investigated. The postmenopausal women had lower mean serum serotonin concentrations compared to the premenopausal women. Serotonin concentrations were negatively associated with age, weight, BMI, fat mass, and β-CTX concentrations in postmenopausal women. No significant correlations were found between serotonin and these parameters in premenopausal women. In postmenopausal women, age- and BMI-adjusted serotonin concentrations were positively correlated with BMD of the lumbar spine and femoral neck. Multiple regression analyses showed serum serotonin and β-CTX were the predictors for lumbar spine BMD. Only serum serotonin was the determinant for femoral neck BMD. In conclusion, lower serum serotonin concentrations are linked to low lumbar spine and femoral neck BMD in postmenopausal women.

EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF A NEW TOPICAL TESTOSTERONE REPLACEMENT GEL THERAPY FOR THE TREATMENT OF MALE HYPOGONADISM.

PubMed

Cunningham, Glenn; Belkoff, Laurence; Brock, Gerald; Efros, Mitchell; Gittelman, Marc; Carrara, Dario; Neijber, Anders; Ando, Masakazu; Mitchel, Jules

2017-05-01

Testosterone replacement therapy is indicated for male hypogonadism. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of testosterone gel 2% (Tgel) over 90 days. This phase 3, open-label, noncomparator study was conducted in adult hypogonadal men (2 consecutive fasting serum testosterone values <300 ng/dL and >86% subjects with symptoms consistent with testosterone deficiency). Subjects applied Tgel 23 mg/day (single pump-actuation using a hands-free cap applicator). The dose was uptitrated to 46 mg/day after 2 weeks if the 4-hour serum total testosterone level was <500 ng/dL. The dose could be further up- or downtitrated to 23, 46, and 69 mg on Days 21, 42, and 63. The primary endpoint included the percentage of subjects with average testosterone concentration (C ave (0-24) ) between 300 and 1,050 ng/dL on Day 90. Safety endpoints were adverse events (AEs), laboratory parameters, and vital signs. Of the 159 who enrolled, 139 men completed the study. Approximately three-quarters (76.1%) of subjects met C ave criteria on Day 90. Most AEs were mild to moderate. There were 5 serious AEs, and 1 (myocardial infarction) was judged as possibly related to Tgel. Confirmed excessive increases in prostate-specific antigen or hematocrit levels were rare. Tgel had a favorable local skin tolerability profile. Overall, 76% of subjects achieved C ave between 300 and 1,050 ng/dL with Tgel. Symptoms of testosterone deficiency improved with few safety concerns. AE = adverse event C ave(0-24) = average testosterone concentration CI = confidence interval C max = maximum concentration IIEF = International Index of Erectile Function MAF = Multidimensional Assessment of Fatigue PK = pharmacokinetic PSA = prostate-specific antigen SAE = serious adverse event SF-12 = Short Form 12 Health Survey Tgel = testosterone gel 2% T max = time to achieve maximum concentration TRT = testosterone replacement therapy.

Polybrominated diphenyl ether serum concentrations in a Californian population of children, their parents, and older adults: an exposure assessment study.

PubMed

Wu, Xiangmei May; Bennett, Deborah H; Moran, Rebecca E; Sjödin, Andreas; Jones, Richard S; Tancredi, Daniel J; Tulve, Nicolle S; Clifton, Matthew Scott; Colón, Maribel; Weathers, Walter; Hertz-Picciotto, Irva

2015-03-14

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are used as flame retardants in many household items. Given concerns over their potential adverse health effects, we identified predictors and evaluated temporal changes of PBDE serum concentrations. PBDE serum concentrations were measured in young children (2-8 years old; N = 67), parents of young children (<55 years old; N = 90), and older adults (≥55 years old; N = 59) in California, with concurrent floor wipe samples collected in participants' homes in 2008-2009. We also measured serum concentrations one year later in a subset of children (N = 19) and parents (N = 42). PBDE serum concentrations in children were significantly higher than in adults. Floor wipe concentration is a significant predictor of serum BDE-47, 99, 100 and 154. Positive associations were observed between the intake frequency of canned meat and serum concentrations of BDE-47, 99 and 154, between canned meat entrees and BDE-154 and 209, as well as between tuna and white fish and BDE-153. The model with the floor wipe concentration and food intake frequencies explained up to 40% of the mean square prediction error of some congeners. Lower home values and renting (vs. owning) a home were associated with higher serum concentrations of BDE-47, 99 and 100. Serum concentrations measured one year apart were strongly correlated as expected (r = 0.70-0.97) with a slight decreasing trend. Floor wipe concentration, food intake frequency, and housing characteristics can explain 12-40% of the prediction error of PBDE serum concentrations. Decreasing temporal trends should be considered when characterizing long-term exposure.

Natural course of hypogonadism diagnosed during hospitalization in aged male patients.

PubMed

Iglesias, P; Prado, F; Muñoz, A; Guerrero, M T; Macías, M C; Ridruejo, E; Tajada, P; García-Arévalo, C; Díez, J J

2015-04-01

Our aim was to assess short-term natural course of hypogonadism diagnosed during hospitalization for acute disease in aged male patients after discharge. A group of 43 hypogonadal males, aged 86.7±5.7 year, was studied. Serum concentrations of testosterone (T) and gonadotropins (follicle-stimulating hormone, FSH, and luteinizing hormone, LH) were measured in every patient both at admission and one month after discharge. Mean serum T at entry was 115.4±48.0 ng/dl. Hypogonadism was hyper-, hypo-, and normogonadotropic in 20 (46.5%), 20 (46.5%), and 3 (7.0%) patients, respectively. One month after discharge serum T concentrations increased significantly (230.9±135.6 ng/dl, p<0.001). At this point, more than half of the patients (n=27, 62.8%) showed normal serum T concentrations. Both gonadotropins, FSH (p<0.001), and LH (p=0.04) also increased one month after discharge. Approximately, half of the patients (13, 48.1%) who normalized serum T concentrations also showed normal serum gonadotropin concentrations. Patients who normalized their serum T concentrations one month after discharge showed significantly higher baseline values of T (134.7±33.9 ng/dl) than those who persisted with hypogonadism (n=16, 32.7%; 82.8±51.6 ng/dl, p<0.001). Lastly, serum T was the only independent predictor for achieving eugonadal status (OR 1.030; CI 95%, 1.010-1.050; p<0.001). In conclusion, about 63% of aged patients hospitalized for acute illness with hypogonadism discovered during hospitalization spontaneously normalize their serum T concentrations one month after discharge. Serum gonadotropin concentrations also increased after discharge. Serum T levels at admission was an independent predictor for the normalization of serum T concentrations.

Elevated serum homocysteine level is not associated with serum C-reactive protein in patients with probable Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Lepara, Orhan; Alajbegovic, Azra; Zaciragic, Asija; Nakas-Icindic, Emina; Valjevac, Amina; Lepara, Dzenana; Hadzovic-Dzuvo, Almira; Fajkic, Almir; Kulo, Aida; Sofic, Emin

2009-12-01

Elevated plasma homocysteine (Hcy) levels have been associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and cognitive impairment. Studies have shown that Hcy may have direct and indirect neurotoxicity effects. The aim of the study was to investigate serum Hcy concentration in patients with probable AD with age-matched controls and to determine whether there was an association between serum Hcy and C-reactive protein concentration in patients with probable AD. We also aimed to determine whether there was an association between serum tHcy concentration and cognitive impairment in patients with probable AD. Serum concentration of total Hcy was determined by the fluorescence polarization immunoassay on the AxSYM system, and serum C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration was determined by means of particle-enhanced immunonephelometry with the use of BN II analyzer. Cognitive impairment was tested by the MMSE score. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated for each subject included in the study. Age, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and BMI did not differ significantly between the two groups. Mean serum tHcy concentration in the control group of subjects was 12.60 mumol/L, while in patients with probable AD the mean serum tHcy concentration was significantly higher than 16.15 mumol/L (p < 0.01). A significant negative association between serum tHcy concentration and cognitive impairment tested by the MMSE score in patients with probable AD was determined (r = -0.61634; p < 0.001). Positive, although not significant correlation between CRP and serum tHcy concentrations in patients with AD, was observed. Increased tHcy concentration in patients with probable AD, and the established negative correlation between serum tHcy concentration and cognitive damage tested by MMSE score in the same group of patients, suggests the possible independent role of Hcy in the pathogenesis of AD and cognitive impairment associated with this disease.

Atrial fibrillation in a pregnant mare: treatment with quinidine sulfate.

PubMed

Bertone, J J; Traub-Dargatz, J L; Wingfield, W E

1987-06-15

Atrial fibrillation in a pregnant, lactating, 15-year-old mare nursing a 70-day-old foal was converted to normal sinus rhythm, using quinidine sulfate. The maximum concentration of quinidine was 4.3 mg/L in the mare's milk and was 2.6 mg/L in the mare's serum. Treatment with quinidine did not interrupt the pregnancy. Six months after treatment, the mare developed acute volvulus of the large colon and died. At necropsy, the mare did not have macroscopic or microscopic cardiac lesions. The fetus was macroscopically and histologically normal.

Evaluation of serum cobalamin concentrations in dogs of 164 dog breeds (2006-2010).

PubMed

Grützner, Niels; Cranford, Shannon M; Norby, Bo; Suchodolski, Jan S; Steiner, Jörg M

2012-11-01

Altered serum cobalamin concentrations have been observed in dogs with gastrointestinal disorders such as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) or gastrointestinal inflammation. The aims of the current study were 1) to identify breeds with a higher proportion of dogs with a decreased serum cobalamin concentration, 2) to determine whether dogs with such decreased concentrations tend to have serum canine trypsin-like immunoreactivity (cTLI) concentrations diagnostic for EPI, and 3) to compare the number of submissions for serum cobalamin analysis by breed to the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed ranking list of 2009. In this retrospective study, results of 28,675 cobalamin tests were reviewed. Akitas, Chinese Shar-Peis, German Shepherd Dogs, Greyhounds, and Labrador Retrievers had increased proportions of serum cobalamin concentrations below the lower limit of the reference interval (<251 ng/l; all P < 0.0001). Akitas, Chinese Shar-Peis, German Shepherd Dogs, and Border Collies had increased proportions of serum cobalamin concentrations below the detection limit of the assay (<150 ng/l; all P < 0.0001). Akitas, Border Collies, and German Shepherd Dogs with serum cobalamin concentrations <150 ng/l were more likely to have a serum cTLI concentration considered diagnostic for EPI (≤2.5 µg/l; all P ≤ 0.001). The breed with the highest proportion of samples submitted for serum cobalamin analysis in comparison with the AKC ranking list was the Greyhound (odds ratio: 84.6; P < 0.0001). In Akitas and Border Collies, further investigations are warranted to clarify if a potentially breed-specific gastrointestinal disorder is responsible for the increased frequency of decreased serum cobalamin and cTLI concentrations.

Sodium bicarbonate use and the risk of hypernatremia in thoracic aortic surgical patients with metabolic acidosis following deep hypothermic circulatory arrest

PubMed Central

Ghadimi, Kamrouz; Gutsche, Jacob T.; Ramakrishna, Harish; Setegne, Samuel L.; Jackson, Kirk R.; Augoustides, John G.; Ochroch, E. Andrew; Weiss, Stuart J.; Bavaria, Joseph E.; Cheung, Albert T.

2016-01-01

Objective: Metabolic acidosis after deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) for thoracic aortic operations is commonly managed with sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3). The purpose of this study was to determine the relationships between total NaHCO3 dose and the severity of metabolic acidosis, duration of mechanical ventilation, duration of vasoactive infusions, and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) or hospital length of stay (LOS). Methods: In a single center, retrospective study, 87 consecutive elective thoracic aortic operations utilizing DHCA, were studied. Linear regression analysis was used to test for the relationships between the total NaHCO3 dose administered through postoperative day 2, clinical variables, arterial blood gas values, and short-term clinical outcomes. Results: Seventy-five patients (86%) received NaHCO3. Total NaHCO3 dose averaged 136 ± 112 mEq (range: 0.0–535 mEq) per patient. Total NaHCO3 dose correlated with minimum pH (r = 0.41, P < 0.0001), minimum serum bicarbonate (r = −0.40, P < 0.001), maximum serum lactate (r = 0.46, P = 0.007), duration of metabolic acidosis (r = 0.33, P = 0.002), and maximum serum sodium concentrations (r = 0.29, P = 0.007). Postoperative hypernatremia was present in 67% of patients and peaked at 12 h following DHCA. Eight percent of patients had a serum sodium ≥ 150 mEq/L. Total NaHCO3 dose did not correlate with anion gap, serum chloride, not the duration of mechanical ventilator support, vasoactive infusions, ICU or hospital LOS. Conclusion: Routine administration of NaHCO3 was common for the management of metabolic acidosis after DHCA. Total dose of NaHCO3 was a function of the severity and duration of metabolic acidosis. NaHCO3 administration contributed to postoperative hypernatremia that was often severe. The total NaHCO3 dose administered was unrelated to short-term clinical outcomes. PMID:27397449

Sustained high serum caspase-3 concentrations and mortality in septic patients.

PubMed

Lorente, L; Martín, M M; Pérez-Cejas, A; González-Rivero, A F; López, R O; Ferreres, J; Solé-Violán, J; Labarta, L; Díaz, C; Palmero, S; Jiménez, A

2018-02-01

Caspase-3 is the main executor of the apoptotic process. Higher serum caspase-3 concentrations in non-survivor compared to survivor septic patients have been found. The objectives of this work (with the increase of sample size to 308 patients, and the determination of serum caspase-3 concentrations also on days 4 and 8 of diagnosis of severe sepsis) were to know whether an association between serum caspase-3 concentrationss during the first week, degree of apoptosis, sepsis severity, and sepsis mortality exists. We collected serum samples of 308 patients with severe sepsis from eight intensive care units on days 1, 4 and 8 to measure concentrations of caspase-3 and caspase-cleaved cytokeratin (CCCK)-18 (to assess degree of apoptosis). End point was 30-day mortality. We found higher serum concentrations of caspase-3 and CCCK-18 in non-survivors compared to survivors on days 1 (p < 0.001), 4 (p < 0.001), and 8 (p < 0.001). We found an association between serum caspase-3 concentrations on days 1, 4 and 8 of severe sepsis diagnosis and serum CCCK-18 concentrations (p < 0.001), SOFA (p < 0.001), serum acid lactic concentrations (p < 0.001), and 30-day sepsis mortality (p < 0.001). The new findings of this work were that an association between serum caspase-3 concentrations during the first week, apoptosis degree, sepsis severity, and sepsis mortality exists.

Pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic studies of agmatine after spinal administration in the mouse.

PubMed

Roberts, John C; Grocholski, Brent M; Kitto, Kelley F; Fairbanks, Carolyn A

2005-09-01

Agmatine is an endogenous decarboxylation product of arginine that has been previously shown to antagonize the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor and inhibit nitric-oxide synthase. Many neuropharmacological studies have shown that exogenous administration of agmatine prevents or reverses biological phenomena dependent on central nervous system glutamatergic systems, including opioid-induced tolerance, opioid self-administration, and chronic pain. However, the central nervous system (CNS) pharmacokinetic profile of agmatine remains minimally defined. The present study determined the spinal cord pharmacokinetics and acute pharmacodynamics of intrathecally administered agmatine in mice. After a single bolus intrathecal injection, agmatine concentrations in spinal cord (cervical, thoracic, and lumbosacral) tissue and serum were quantified by an isocratic high-performance liquid chromatography fluorescence detection system. Agmatine persisted at near maximum concentrations in all levels of the spinal cord for several hours with a half-life of approximately 12 h. Initial agmatine concentrations in serum were 10% those in CNS. However, the serum half-life was less than 10 min after intrathecal injection of agmatine, consistent with previous preliminary pharmacokinetic reports of systemically administered agmatine. The pharmacodynamic response to agmatine in the NMDA-nociceptive behavior and thermal hyperalgesia tests was assessed. Whereas MK-801 (dizocilpine maleate) inhibits these two responses with equal potency, agmatine inhibits the thermal hyperalgesia with significantly increased potency compared with the nociceptive behavior, suggesting two sites of action. In contrast to the pharmacokinetic results, the agmatine inhibition of both behaviors had a duration of only 10 to 30 min. Collectively, these results suggest the existence of a currently undefined agmatinergic extracellular clearance process in spinal cord.

Meta-analysis of the effect of initial serum protein concentration and empirical prediction model for growth of neonatal Holstein calves through 8 weeks of age.

PubMed

Bateman, H G; Hill, T M; Aldrich, J M; Schlotterbeck, R L; Firkins, J L

2012-01-01

A data set was constructed from individual calf means gathered in the Nurture Research Center (Lewisburg, OH) and used in a meta-analysis to parameterize an empirical model predicting growth measures for neonatal calves. The data set contained 993 observations from 20 research trials conducted in all seasons of multiple years. Growth measures gathered included average daily gain (ADG) preweaning, postweaning, and through 8 wk of age. Independent variables gathered included age at weaning; total starter intake (SI); total milk replacer intake (MRI); milk replacer CP (MRCP) and fat (MRfat) contents; number of days with abnormal fecal scores (AFS); average environmental temperature preweaning, postweaning, and through 8 wk of age; minimum and maximum temperature during the entire 8 wk; body weight at d 0; and initial serum protein concentration. Additionally, the interactions of SI, MRI, and MRCP and MRfat were considered for the model. Backward elimination multiple regressions were conducted using a mixed model with a random effect of trial. The final model for total ADG indicated that increasing SI or MRI improves calf growth. Also, increasing MRCP or MRfat increased growth. Increased sickness (as measured by increased AFS) or increased body weight at d 0 decreased ADG. Growth of neonatal dairy calves appears to be more controlled by nutrient intake and their interactions than by surrogates for health status of the calves (AFS and initial serum protein concentration) or environmental temperature. Copyright © 2012 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of oxytocin and PGF2α on chlortetracycline absorption from the uterus of early postpartum camels (Camelus dromedarius).

PubMed

Ghoneim, I M; Abdelghany, A M; Waheed, M M; Elmoslemany, A M; Alhaider, A K; Al-Eknah, M M

2015-09-01

Fifteen parturient camels given chlortetracycline (CTC) as intrauterine pessaries (3 g/head) were divided into the control group (n = 5), which remained untreated, oxytocin-treated group (50 IU, intramuscular; n = 5), and cloprostenol-treated group (Estrumate, 500 μg, intramuscular; n = 5). Serum samples were collected at 0, 1, 2, 4, 8, 24, 48, and 72 hours after treatment and CTC was determined. The CTC appeared in blood within 1 hour. The maximum concentration of CTC was detected in blood after 72 (543.58 ± 117.85 μg/L), 8 (520.48 ± 13.65 μg/L), and 1 hour (831.98 ± 111.01 μg/L) of administration in control, oxytocin-, and PGF2α-treated camels, respectively. There was a high significant effect of time (P < 0.001) and treatment-by-time interaction (P < 0.001) on serum CTC concentration. In the control group, there was a significant (P < 0.05) increase in CTC concentrations at 72 hours compared to the other times. In the oxytocin group, there was a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in CTC concentrations at 24, 48, and 72 hours compared to its level after 1 or 8 hours. In PGF2α, there was a significant (P < 0.001) decrease in CTC concentrations at 2, 4, 8, 24, 48, and 72 hours compared to its level after 1 hour. Treatment contrast at different time points showed a significant (P < 0.001) increase in CTC concentration after 1 hour in the PGF2α-treated group compared to oxytocin and control groups. By 72 hours, CTC concentrations were significantly (P < 0.05) lower in PGF2α and oxytocin groups than in the control group. In conclusion, serum CTC concentration in dromedary camels increases within 1 hour after intrauterine administration and remains elevated for at least 72 hours in control, oxytocin-, and PGF2α-treated animals. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Serum concentrations of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins among ceramicists.

PubMed

Demond, Avery; Jiang, Xiaohui; Broadwater, Kendra; Meeker, John; Luksemburg, William; Maier, Martha; Garabrant, David; Franzblau, Alfred

2015-01-01

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) occur naturally in ball clay at elevated concentrations. Thus, persons who habitually work with clay may be at risk for exposure to PCDDs. An earlier case report provided some evidence of elevated PCDD levels in serum for long-term hobby ceramicists; however, no previous study has measured serum dioxin concentrations among ceramicists. This study measured PCDD serum levels for 27 individuals involved in ceramics making. The average residual, defined as the average of the [log measured serum lipid concentration – log background serum lipid concentration], was calculated and then tested to determine whether it was significantly different from zero. The p-values for the average residuals indicated that the serum lipid concentrations for several PCDD congeners were elevated relative to background. The number of significant residuals increased dramatically if the background concentrations were adjusted to account for the fact that they were not contemporaneous with the measurements for the ceramicists. The ratio of the 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDD concentration to the 1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDD concentration was greater than 1.0, unlike in ball clay, suggesting that although long-term working with ball clay elevates the PCDD levels in serum somewhat, it is not the predominant source of the PCDD body burden for ceramicists.

Treatment of pain in fibromyalgia patients with testosterone gel: Pharmacokinetics and clinical response.

PubMed

White, Hillary D; Brown, Lin A J; Gyurik, Robert J; Manganiello, Paul D; Robinson, Thomas D; Hallock, Linda S; Lewis, Lionel D; Yeo, Kiang-Teck J

2015-08-01

To test our hypothesis that testosterone deficiency plays an important role in chronic pain, a Phase I/II pilot study was initiated with 12 fibromyalgia patients to verify that a daily dose for 28days with transdermal testosterone gel would 1) significantly and safely increase mean serum testosterone concentrations from low baseline levels to mid/high-normal levels, and 2) effectively treat the pain and fatigue symptoms of fibromyalgia. Pharmacokinetic data confirmed that serum free testosterone concentrations were raised significantly above baseline levels, by assessment of maximum hormone concentration (Cmax) and area under the curve (AUC) parameters: free testosterone Cmax was significantly raised from a mean of 2.64pg/mL to 3.91pg/mL (p<0.05), and 24hour free testosterone AUC was significantly raised from a mean of 35.0pg-hr/mL to 53.89pg-hr/mL. Assessment of the typical symptoms of fibromyalgia by patient questionnaire and tender point exam demonstrated significant change in: decreased muscle pain, stiffness, and fatigue, and increased libido during study treatment. These results are consistent with the hypothesized ability of testosterone to relieve the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Symptoms not tightly related to fibromyalgia were not improved. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Measurement of serum C-reactive protein concentration for discriminating between suppurative arthritis and osteoarthritis in dogs.

PubMed

Hillström, Anna; Bylin, Jonas; Hagman, Ragnvi; Björhall, Karin; Tvedten, Harold; Königsson, Kristian; Fall, Tove; Kjelgaard-Hansen, Mads

2016-10-28

In a dog with joint pain, it is important to determine whether it has suppurative joint disease, characterized by exudation of neutrophils in the synovial fluid, or not, as this affects choice of diagnostic tests and treatments. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether measurement of serum C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration could be used to discriminate between dogs with suppurative arthritis and osteoarthritis (OA). Furthermore, the concentrations of serum and synovial fluid interleukin (IL) 6 concentrations were measured in dogs with joint disease and in healthy dogs, and were correlated to serum CRP concentrations. Dogs with joint pain were enrolled prospectively and were classified to have suppurative arthritis or OA based on synovial fluid analysis and radiographic/arthroscopic findings. Healthy Beagles were enrolled as a comparative group. CRP and IL-6 concentrations were measured with canine-specific immunoassays. The performance of CRP concentration in discriminating between dogs with suppurative arthritis and OA was evaluated using a previously established clinical decision limit for CRP (20 mg/l), and by receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve and logistic regression analysis. Comparisons of CRP and IL-6 concentrations between groups were performed using t-tests, and correlations by Spearman rank correlation coefficients. Samples were obtained from 31 dogs with suppurative arthritis, 34 dogs with OA, and 17 healthy dogs. Sixty-two out of 65 dogs with joint disease were correctly classified using the clinical decision limit for CRP. Evaluation of ROC curve and regression analysis indicated that serum CRP concentrations could discriminate between suppurative arthritis and OA. Dogs with suppurative arthritis had higher serum CRP and serum and synovial fluid IL-6 concentrations compared to dogs with OA (p < 0.001). Dogs with OA had higher synovial fluid IL-6 concentrations (p < 0.001), but not higher serum CRP (p = 0.29) or serum IL-6 (p = 0.07) concentrations, compared to healthy dogs. There was a positive correlation between synovial fluid IL-6 and serum CRP concentrations (r s  = 0.733, p < 0.001), and between serum IL-6 and serum CRP concentrations (r s  = 0.729, p < 0.001). CRP concentration was found to discriminate well between dogs with suppurative arthritis and OA.

Serum laminin in malaria.

PubMed Central

Wenisch, C; Graninger, W; Viravan, C; Looareesuwan, S; Parschalk, B; Wernsdorfer, W

1994-01-01

AIM--To determine serum laminin concentrations in patients with uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria. METHODS--An enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine serum laminin concentrations in 54 patients with acute uncomplicated P falciparum malaria during and after treatment, and in 17 control subjects in Bangkok, Thailand. RESULTS--Raised concentrations of soluble laminin were observed in patients (mean (SD) concentration 628 (225) ng/ml), compared with normal controls (490 (116) ng/ml), during the acute phase of the disease. During treatment, serum laminin concentrations decreased and returned to normal within three days. Serum laminin concentrations were correlated with parasite counts before treatment, and with the serum concentration of soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), soluble E-selectin, and soluble tumour necrosis factor receptor at 55 kilodaltons. CONCLUSIONS--These findings are compatible with an increased production or release of laminin in P falciparum malaria, which could indicate a role for the subendothelial basement membrane in the pathogenesis of the disease. PMID:7525659

Analysis of serum corticosteroid-induced alkaline phosphatase isoenzyme in dogs with hepatobiliary diseases.

PubMed

Kojima, K; Ohno, K; Kanemoto, H; Goto-Koshino, Y; Fukushima, K; Tsujimoto, H

2017-05-01

To reveal the relationship between canine corticosteroid-induced alkaline phosphatase isoenzyme activity and hepatobiliary diseases. Retrospective analysis of the relationship between serum corticosteroid-induced alkaline phosphatase activity and diagnosis, serum cortisol concentration and alanine transferase activity in dogs with hepatobiliary diseases. Dogs with a history of glucocorticoid administration were excluded. Seventy-two dogs with hepatobiliary diseases were analysed. The serum corticosteroid-induced alkaline phosphatase concentration was increased in dogs with hepatobiliary diseases. There was no correlation between serum cortisol concentration and serum corticosteroid-induced alkaline phosphatase percentage or activity. Dogs with hepatobiliary disease can exhibit high serum alkaline phosphatase activity even if the dogs have not been administrated glucocorticoids and the serum cortisol concentration is normal. © 2017 British Small Animal Veterinary Association.

The Effect of Different Carbapenem Antibiotics (Ertapenem, Imipenem/Cilastatin, and Meropenem) on Serum Valproic Acid Concentrations.

PubMed

Wu, Chien-Chih; Pai, Tsung-Yu; Hsiao, Fei-Yuan; Shen, Li-Jiuan; Wu, Fe-Lin Lin

2016-10-01

Carbapenem antibiotics (CBPMs) may significantly reduce the serum concentration of valproic acid (VPA), but the extent of this effect among various CBPMs is unknown. This study compared the extent and onset of the interactions among ertapenem, imipenem/cilastatin, and meropenem. A 5-year retrospective study was performed. Hospitalized patients over 18 years old who received VPA and a CBPM concurrently were enrolled via the pharmacy computer system. Patients who lacked VPA serum concentration measurements before or during CBPMs' use, had concurrent medication(s) that might interfere with VPA metabolism, or had a history of liver cirrhosis were excluded. Total VPA serum concentrations before and during CBPMs' use and after its discontinuation were recorded, and differences among various CBPMs were analyzed. Fifty-two patients were included in this analysis. Irrespective of the route of administration, VPA serum concentrations were subtherapeutic in 90% of the subjects during CBPMs' use. There was a significant decrease (P < 0.001) in VPA serum concentrations during the use of CBPMs: 72% ± 17%, 42% ± 22%, and 67% ± 19% in the ertapenem (N = 9), imipenem/cilastatin (N = 17), and meropenem (N = 26) groups, respectively. The effect of ertapenem and meropenem on VPA was significantly more expressed than that of imipenem/cilastatin (P < 0.005). The onset of this drug interaction occurred within 24 hours of CBPMs' administration, and VPA serum concentrations returned to 90% of baseline within 7 days of CBPMs' discontinuation along with a 20% increase in VPA dose. Increasing VPA dose during the use of ertapenem or meropenem did not result in elevating VPA serum concentrations to therapeutic levels during the combined therapy period. CBPMs reduced VPA serum concentration within 24 hours of administration by approximately 60%. Ertapenem and meropenem had a greater effect on VPA serum concentration than imipenem/cilastatin. Because of the dramatic reduction of VPA serum concentration during CBPMs' use, concomitant use of VPA and CBPMs should be avoided.

Serum cortisol and thyroxine concentrations as predictors of death in critically ill puppies with parvoviral diarrhea.

PubMed

Schoeman, Johan P; Goddard, Amelia; Herrtage, Michael E

2007-11-15

To evaluate the role of adrenal and thyroid hormones in the prediction of death in a population of critically ill puppies with parvoviral diarrhea by measuring serial daily serum concentrations of cortisol and thyroxine. Prospective case-control study. 57 critically ill puppies with parvoviral diarrhea admitted to the hospital and 17 clinically normal control puppies. Basal serum cortisol and thyroxine concentrations were measured for each dog with parvoviral diarrhea at admission (prior to treatment) and daily until death, euthanasia, or discharge. Median time between admission and death was 48 hours (ie, on day 3). Median serum cortisol concentration on day 1 (admission) in all dogs with parvoviral diarrhea (248 nmol/L) was significantly higher than in control dogs (77 nmol/L). No significant difference was found in the day 1 median serum cortisol concentration of 11 dogs that died (302 nmol/L) and 46 dogs that survived (238 nmol/L). A significantly higher median serum cortisol concentration was, however, found in nonsurvivor group dogs, compared with survivor group dogs, on days 2 and 3. Median serum thyroxine concentration on day 1 in dogs with parvoviral diarrhea was significantly lower than in control dogs (8.12 nmol/L vs 35 nmol/L, respectively). Median serum thyroxine concentration of nonsurvivor group dogs (4.4 nmol/L) was significantly lower than that of survivor group dogs (9.2 nmol/L) at admission and became even lower on days 2 and 3. High serum cortisol and low serum thyroxine concentrations at 24 and 48 hours after admission were associated with death in dogs with parvoviral diarrhea.

Continuous flow electrophoresis: The effect of sample concentration on throughput and resolution in an upward flowing system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jandebeur, T. S.

1980-01-01

The effect of sample concentration on throughput and resolution in a modified continuous particle electrophoresis (CPE) system with flow in an upward direction is investigated. Maximum resolution is achieved at concentrations ranging from 2 x 10 to the 8th power cells/ml to 8 x 10 to the 8th power cells/ml. The widest peak separation is at 2 x 10 to the 8th power cells/ml; however, the sharpest peaks and least overlap between cell populations is at 8 x 10 to the 8th power cells/ml. Apparently as a result of improved electrophoresis cell performance due to coasting the chamber with bovine serum albumin, changing the electrode membranes and rinse, and lowering buffer temperatures, sedimentation effects attending to higher concentrations are diminished. Throughput as measured by recovery of fixed cells is diminished at the concentrations judged most likely to yield satisfactory resolution. The tradeoff appears to be improved recovery/throughput at the expense of resolution.

Effective concentration-based serum pharmacodynamics for antifungal azoles in a murine model of disseminated Candida albicans infection.

PubMed

Maki, Katsuyuki; Kaneko, Shuji

2013-12-01

An assessment of the effective in vivo concentrations of antifungal drugs is important in determining their pharmacodynamics, and therefore, their optimal dosage regimen. Here we establish the effective in vivo concentration-based pharmacodynamics of three azole antifungal drugs (fluconazole, itraconazole, and ketoconazole) in a murine model of disseminated Candida albicans infection. A key feature of this study was the use of a measure of mycelial (m) growth rather than of yeast growth, and pooled mouse sera rather than synthetic media as a growth medium, for determining the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of azoles for C. albicans (denoted serum mMICs). The serum mMIC assay was then used to measure antifungal concentrations and effects as serum antifungal titers in the serum of treated mice. Both serum mMIC and sub-mMIC values reflected the effective in vivo serum concentrations. Supra-mMIC and mMIC effects exhibited equivalent efficacies and were concentration-independent, while the sub-mMIC effect was concentration-dependent. Following administration of the minimum drug dosage that inhibited an increase in mouse kidney fungal burden, the duration periods of these effects were similar for all drugs tested. The average duration of either the mMIC effect including the supra-mMIC effect, the sub-mMIC effect, or the post-antifungal effect (PAFE) were 6.9, 6.5 and 10.6 h, respectively. Our study suggests that the area under the curve for serum drug concentration versus time, between the serum mMIC and the sub-mMIC, and exposure time above the serum sub-mMIC after the mMIC effect, are major pharmacodynamic parameters. These findings have important implications for effective concentration-based pharmacodynamics of fungal infections treated with azoles.

Ionized hypercalcemia in dogs: a retrospective study of 109 cases (1998-2003).

PubMed

Messinger, J S; Windham, W R; Ward, C R

2009-01-01

Serum hypercalcemia in dogs has been reported in association with a variety of diseases. Serum-ionized calcium (iCa) concentration is a more accurate measure of hypercalcemia than total serum calcium or corrected serum calcium concentrations. The severity of hypercalcemia has been utilized to suggest the most likely differential diagnosis for the hypercalcemia. Diseases causing ionized hypercalcemia may be different than those that cause increases in total or corrected serum calcium concentrations. The severity of ionized hypercalcemia in specific diseases cannot be used to determine the most likely differential diagnosis for ionized hypercalcemia. One-hundred and nine client-owned dogs with a definitive cause for their ionized hypercalcemia evaluated between 1998 and 2003 were included in this study. Retrospective, medical records review. Neoplasia, specifically lymphosarcoma, followed by renal failure, hyperparathyroidism, and hypoadrenocorticism were the most common causes of ionized hypercalcemia. Dogs with lymphoma and anal sac adenocarcinoma have higher serum iCa concentrations than those with renal failure, hypoadrenocorticism, and other types of neoplasia. The magnitude of serum-ionized hypercalcemia did not predict specific disease states. Serum-ionized hypercalcemia was most commonly associated with neoplasia, specifically lymphosarcoma. Although dogs with lymphosarcoma and anal sac adenocarcinoma had higher serum iCa concentrations than dogs with other diseases, the magnitude of the serum iCa concentration could not be used to predict the cause of hypercalcemia. Total serum calcium and corrected calcium concentrations did not accurately reflect the calcium status of the dogs in this study.

Drug interaction between celecoxib and methotrexate in organic anion transporter 3-transfected renal cells and in rats in vivo.

PubMed

Maeda, Akimitsu; Tsuruoka, Shuichi; Ushijima, Kentarou; Kanai, Yoshikatsu; Endou, Hitoshi; Saito, Kazuyuki; Miyamoto, Etsuko; Fujimura, Akio

2010-08-25

Methotrexate has a clinically important pharmacokinetic interaction with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) mainly through its competition for tubular secretion via the renal organic anion transporter 3 (OAT3). We have previously reported the usefulness of OAT3-transfected renal tubular cells for screening of the drugs which interfere with the pharmacokinetics of methotrexate. Celecoxib, a cyclooxygenase (COX) 2 inhibitor, has not been reported to interact with methotrexate, but the mechanisms are unclear why the interaction did not occur. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of celecoxib on methotrexate tubular secretion using a renal cell line stably expressing human OAT3 (S2-hOAT3), and to evaluate the pharmacokinetic interaction of the two drugs in rats. [3H]methotrexate uptake into S2-hOAT3 cells was significantly inhibited by celecoxib in a concentration-dependent manner and the Ki value was 35.3 microM. However, methotrexate serum concentrations and urinary excretion of methotrexate over 24 h in rats were not affected by celecoxib (50, 200 mg/kg). Celecoxib serum concentrations were increased by the increase in celecoxib dosage and the maximum drug concentration (Cmax) was 20.6 microM (celecoxib 200 mg/kg), which did not reach the Ki value obtained in the in vitro study. These results indicated that celecoxib inhibited the secretion of methotrexate via hOAT3, which suggested that celecoxib was a substrate of hOAT3. However, co-administration of the two drugs at clinical dosage did not affect the pharmacokinetics of methotrexate, because the serum concentrations did not reach the Ki value. Although the accumulation study using S2-hOAT3 cells was useful to predict the interaction between the new drug and methotrexate in vivo, a comparison of the Ki value with the Cmax in clinical dosage was necessary to evaluate the degree of this interaction. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Blood mineral concentrations in manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris and Trichechus manatus manatus)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Siegal-Willott, J.; Harr, Kendal E.; Hall, Jeffery O.; Hayek, Lee-Ann C.; Auil-Gomez, Nicole; Powell, James A.; Bonde, Robert K.; Heard, Darryl

2013-01-01

Limited information is available regarding the role of minerals and heavy metals in the morbidity and mortality of manatees. Whole-blood and serum mineral concentrations were evaluated in apparently healthy, free-ranging Florida (Trichechus manatus latirostris, n = 31) and Belize (Trichechus manatus manatus, n = 14) manatees. Toxicologic statuses of the animals and of their environment had not been previously determined. Mean mineral whole-blood (WB) and serum values in Florida (FL) and Belize (BZ) manatees were determined, and evaluated for differences with respect to geographic location, relative age, and sex. Mean WB and serum silver, boron, cobalt, magnesium, molybdenum, and WB cadmium concentrations were significantly higher in BZ versus FL manatees (P ≤ 0.05). Mean WB aluminum, calcium, manganese, sodium, phosphorus, vanadium, and serum zinc concentrations were significantly lower in BZ versus FL manatees. Adult manatees had significant and higher mean WB aluminum, manganese, sodium, antimony, vanadium, and serum manganese and zinc concentrations compared to juvenile animals. Significant and lower mean WB and serum silver, boron, cobalt, and serum copper and strontium concentrations were present in adults compared to juveniles (P ≤ 0.05). Females had significant and higher mean WB nickel and serum barium compared to males (P ≤ 0.05). Mean WB arsenic and zinc, and mean serum iron, magnesium, and zinc concentrations fell within toxic ranges reported for domestic species. Results reveal manatee blood mineral concentrations differ with location, age, and sex. Influence from diet, sediment, water, and anthropogenic sources on manatee mineral concentration warrant further investigation.

Blood mineral concentrations in manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris and Trichechus manatus manatus).

PubMed

Siegal-Willott, Jessica L; Harr, Kendal E; Hall, Jeffery O; Hayek, Lee-Ann C; Auil-Gomez, Nicole; Powell, James A; Bonde, Robert K; Heard, Darryl

2013-06-01

Limited information is available regarding the role of minerals and heavy metals in the morbidity and mortality of manatees. Whole-blood and serum mineral concentrations were evaluated in apparently healthy, free-ranging Florida (Trichechus manatus latirostris, n = 31) and Belize (Trichechus manatus manatus, n = 14) manatees. Toxicologic statuses of the animals and of their environment had not been previously determined. Mean mineral whole-blood (WB) and serum values in Florida (FL) and Belize (BZ) manatees were determined, and evaluated for differences with respect to geographic location, relative age, and sex. Mean WB and serum silver, boron, cobalt, magnesium, molybdenum, and WB cadmium concentrations were significantly higher in BZ versus FL manatees (P < 0.05). Mean WB aluminum, calcium, manganese, sodium, phosphorus, vanadium, and serum zinc concentrations were significantly lower in BZ versus FL manatees. Adult manatees had significant and higher mean WB aluminum, manganese, sodium, antimony, vanadium, and serum manganese and zinc concentrations compared to juvenile animals. Significant and lower mean WB and serum silver, boron, cobalt, and serum copper and strontium concentrations were present in adults compared to juveniles (P < or = 0.05). Females had significant and higher mean WB nickel and serum barium compared to males (P < or = 0.05). Mean WB arsenic and zinc, and mean serum iron, magnesium, and zinc concentrations fell within toxic ranges reported for domestic species. Results reveal manatee blood mineral concentrations differ with location, age, and sex. Influence from diet, sediment, water, and anthropogenic sources on manatee mineral concentration warrant further investigation.

Acute phase protein response during subclinical infection of pigs with H1N1 swine influenza virus.

PubMed

Pomorska-Mól, Małgorzata; Markowska-Daniel, Iwona; Pejsak, Zygmunt

2012-10-12

In the present study acute phase proteins (APPs) responses in pigs after subclinical infection with H1N1 swine influenza virus (SwH1N1) were evaluated. Fourteen 5 weeks old, seronegative piglets, both sexes were used. Ten of them were infected intranasally with SwH1N1. C-reactive protein (CRP), haptoglobin (Hp), serum amyloid A (SAA) and pig major acute phase protein (Pig-MAP) concentrations in serum were measured using commercial ELISAs. No significant clinical signs were observed in any of the infected pigs, however, all infected animals developed specific antibodies against SwH1N1 and viral shedding was observed from 2 to 5 dpi. Only concentrations of Hp and SAA were significantly induced after infection, with mean maximum levels from days 1 to 2 post infection (dpi). The concentrations of CRP and Pig-MAP remained generally unchanged, however in half of infected pigs the concentration of CRP tended to increase at 1 dpi (but without statistical significance). The results of our study confirmed that monitoring of APPs may be useful for detection of subclinically infected pigs. The use of SAA or Hp and Pig-MAP may be a valuable in combination [i.e. Hp (increased concentration) and Pig-MAP (unchanged concentration)] to detect subclinically SIV infected pigs, or to identify pigs actually producing a large amount of virus. Additional studies need to be done in order to confirm these findings. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Feasibility study of feces for noninvasive biomonitoring of brominated flame retardants in toddlers.

PubMed

Sahlström, Leena M O; Sellström, Ulla; de Wit, Cynthia A; Lignell, Sanna; Darnerud, Per Ola

2015-01-06

This study investigated the feasibility of using feces as a noninvasive matrix to estimate serum concentrations of brominated flame retardants (BFRs) in toddlers for biomonitoring purposes. Tri- to decabrominated diphenyl ethers (tri-decaBDEs), isomer-specific hexabromocyclododecanes, and 16 emerging BFRs were determined in feces from 22 toddlers (11-15 months of age), and results were compared to previously analyzed matched serum samples. BDE-47, -153, -196, -197, -203, -206, -207, -208, and -209 were detected in the feces creating a matched data set (feces-serum, n = 21). Tetra-octaBDE concentrations were significantly higher (Student's paired comparisons t test, α = 0.05) in serum versus feces with BDE-153 having the highest mean difference between the sample matrices. BDE-209 was found in significantly higher concentrations in feces compared to serum. Significant correlations (Pearson's, α = 0.05) between congener-specific concentrations in feces and serum were found for all BDEs except BDE-197 and -203. The feces-serum associations found can be used to estimate serum concentrations of tetra-decaBDEs from feces concentrations and enable a noninvasive sampling method for biomonitoring BDEs in toddlers.

Gender-partitioned patient medians of serum albumin requested by general practitioners for the assessment of analytical stability.

PubMed

Hansen, Steen Ingemann; Petersen, Per Hyltoft; Lund, Flemming; Fraser, Callum G; Sölétormos, György

2018-04-25

Recently, the use of separate gender-partitioned patient medians of serum sodium has revealed potential for monitoring analytical stability within the optimum analytical performance specifications for laboratory medicine. The serum albumin concentration depends on whether a patient is sitting or recumbent during phlebotomy. We therefore investigated only examinations requested by general practitioners (GPs) to provide data from sitting patients. Weekly and monthly patient medians of serum albumin requested by GP for both male and female patients were calculated from the raw data obtained from three analysers in the hospital laboratory on examination of samples from those >18 years. The half-range of medians were applied as an estimate of the maximum bias. Further, the ratios between the two medians were calculated (females/males). The medians for male and female patients were closely related despite considerable variation due to the current analytical variation. This relationship was confirmed by the calculated half-range for the monthly ratio between the genders of 0.44%, which surpasses the optimum analytical performance specification for bias of serum albumin (0.72%). The weekly ratio had a half-range of 1.83%, which surpasses the minimum analytical performance specifications of 2.15%. Monthly gender-partitioned patient medians of serum albumin are useful for monitoring of long-term analytical stability, where the gender medians are two independent estimates of changes in (delta) bias: only results requested by GP are of value in this application to ensure that all patients are sitting during phlebotomy.

Differential uptake of salicylate in serum, cerebrospinal fluid, and perilymph.

PubMed

Jastreboff, P J; Hansen, R; Sasaki, P G; Sasaki, C T

1986-10-01

After intraperitoneal administration of salicylate in anesthetized rats and guinea pigs, we found that salicylate levels in perilymph (PL) are closely related to both drug levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and in serum, with higher levels systematically observed in PL than in CSF. Further analysis suggests that salicylate is not passively transported into PL across CSF but, rather, is transported from blood directly to PL. The time course of salicylate uptake in rats reveals maximum levels at 1 1/2 hours (serum) and two to four hours (CSF and PL). On the other hand, salicylate uptake into serum and CSF of guinea pigs exhibits a longer time course, with maximum levels reached at four hours (serum) and five hours (CSF). These data, not previously available, are basic to our understanding of salicylate-related auditory effects.

Proteasome 20S in multiple myeloma: comparison of concentration and chymotrypsin-like activity in plasma and serum.

PubMed

Romaniuk, Wioletta; Kalita, Joanna; Ostrowska, Halina; Kloczko, Janusz

2018-03-05

The ubiquitin-proteasome system is relevant in the pathobiology of many haematological malignancies, including multiple myeloma. The assessment of proteasome concentration and chymotrypsin-like (ChT-L) activity might constitute a new approach to diagnosis, prognosis and monitoring of anticancer treatment of patients with haematological malignancies and other diseases. The aim of our study was to determine which material, plasma or serum, is better for measuring chymotrypsin-like (ChT-L) activity and proteasome concentration. We analysed proteasome concentration and chymotrypsin-like (ChT-L) activity in 70 plasma and serum samples drawn from 28 patients at different treatment stages for multiple myeloma (MM) and 31 healthy volunteers. Proteasome ChT-L activity and concentration in multiple myeloma patients were significantly higher in plasma compared to serum. In this group we observed significant and positive correlations both between the plasma and serum proteasome ChT-L activity and plasma and serum proteasome concentration. The higher values of proteasome concentration and ChT-L activity in plasma than in serum and their better correlations with parameters of tumour load and prognosis suggest that plasma constitutes a better biological material for measuring ChT-L activity and proteasome concentration than serum in multiple myeloma patients.

Evaluation of pharmacokinetics and the stability of daptomycin in serum at various temperatures.

PubMed

Ogami, Chika; Tsuji, Yasuhiro; Kasai, Hidefumi; Hiraki, Yoichi; Yamamoto, Yoshihiro; Matsunaga, Kazuhisa; Karube, Yoshiharu; To, Hideto

2017-04-01

Daptomycin exhibits concentration-dependent antibacterial activity. By monitoring daptomycin serum concentrations, clinicians may be able to predict the effectiveness of treatments for infections more accurately. However, it has been reported that daptomycin concentrations in plasma samples stored at -20°C decrease approximately 25% after 4 weeks. The aim of this study was to evaluate the stability of daptomycin in serum at various temperatures. Daptomycin serum samples were prepared and stored at different temperatures. The stability of daptomycin under various conditions was evaluated by sequential measurements of concentration. Although the loss of concentration of daptomycin in serum samples stored in freezers (-80°C and -20°C) was less than 10% after 168days (6 months), the concentrations in samples stored in a refrigerator (4°C) decreased by more than 70% over the same period. Furthermore, daptomycin concentrations in serum samples stored at close to body temperature (35°C, 37°C, and 39°C) decreased by more than 50% after only 24h. The results of the present study demonstrate that the measurement of serum concentrations of daptomycin needs to be performed rapidly. Furthermore, the degradation of daptomycin in serum may be involved in its elimination from the living body. Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

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 BDNF concentrations.

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

Lopez, A.L.; Kohrs, M.B.; Horwitz, D.L.

To determine the effect of glucose loading on serum zinc concentrations, 34 elderly subjects aged 60-86 y were studied. Anthropometric data, medical and dietary histories were obtained. Serum zinc and glucose concentrations were obtained fasting and 1/2, 1, 1 1/2, 2 and 3 h after 75 g oral glucose load; glycohemoglobin and fasting serum lipids were also determined. For comparison, the subjects were categorized as: normal or low serum zinc concentrations; normal or high body mass index BMI; normal or high sum of skinfolds and normal or high serum cholesterol. Results showed that low serum zinc concentrations increased significantly overmore » baseline values after the glucose load and did not return to fasting levels. On the other hand, mean serum zinc concentrations significantly declined without recovery for those with normal zinc values. For the total group, no significant differences were noted between fasting values and subsequent time periods. No correlations were noted between fasting serum zinc and area under the curve for zinc except in the high BMI group (positive correlation observed). For the high BMI group, fasting serum zinc differed significantly from the succeeding measurements except for 30 min. For the group as a whole, mean serum zinc concentration was within normal limits (76.9 +/- 2.8 mcg/ml): mean zinc intake was less than 2/3rds the RDA. They conclude that glucose ingestion may alter serum zinc and should be considered in interpreting these levels.« less

Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers in Human Milk and Serum from the U.S. EPA MAMA Study: Modeled Predictions of Infant Exposure and Considerations for Risk Assessment

PubMed Central

Marchitti, Satori A.; Fenton, Suzanne E.; Mendola, Pauline; Kenneke, John F.; Hines, Erin P.

2016-01-01

Background: Serum concentrations of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in U.S. women are believed to be among the world’s highest; however, little information exists on the partitioning of PBDEs between serum and breast milk and how this may affect infant exposure. Objectives: Paired milk and serum samples were measured for PBDE concentrations in 34 women who participated in the U.S. EPA MAMA Study. Computational models for predicting milk PBDE concentrations from serum were evaluated. Methods: Samples were analyzed using gas chromatography isotope-dilution high-resolution mass spectrometry. Observed milk PBDE concentrations were compared with model predictions, and models were applied to NHANES serum data to predict milk PBDE concentrations and infant intakes for the U.S. population. Results: Serum and milk samples had detectable concentrations of most PBDEs. BDE-47 was found in the highest concentrations (median serum: 18.6; milk: 31.5 ng/g lipid) and BDE-28 had the highest milk:serum partitioning ratio (2.1 ± 0.2). No evidence of depuration was found. Models demonstrated high reliability and, as of 2007–2008, predicted U.S. milk concentrations of BDE-47, BDE-99, and BDE-100 appear to be declining but BDE-153 may be rising. Predicted infant intakes (ng/kg/day) were below threshold reference doses (RfDs) for BDE-99 and BDE-153 but above the suggested RfD for BDE-47. Conclusions: Concentrations and partitioning ratios of PBDEs in milk and serum from women in the U.S. EPA MAMA Study are presented for the first time; modeled predictions of milk PBDE concentrations using serum concentrations appear to be a valid method for estimating PBDE exposure in U.S. infants. Citation: Marchitti SA, Fenton SE, Mendola P, Kenneke JF, Hines EP. 2017. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers in human milk and serum from the U.S. EPA MAMA Study: modeled predictions of infant exposure and considerations for risk assessment. Environ Health Perspect 125:706–713; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/EHP332 PMID:27405099

Serum cardiac troponin I and cardiac troponin T concentrations in dogs with gastric dilatation-volvulus.

PubMed

Schober, Karsten E; Cornand, Corinna; Kirbach, Babett; Aupperle, Heike; Oechtering, Gerhard

2002-08-01

To determine whether serum concentrations of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and cardiac troponin T (cTnT) are increased in dogs with gastric dilatationvolvulus (GDV) and whether concentrations correlate with severity of ECG abnormalities or outcome. Prospective case series. 85 dogs with GDV. Serum cTnl and cTnT concentrations were measured 12 to 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours after surgery. Dogs were grouped on the basis of severity of ECG abnormalities and outcome. cTnl and cTnT were detected in serum from 74 (87%) and 43 (51%) dogs, respectively. Concentrations were significantly different among groups when dogs were grouped on the basis of severity of ECG abnormalities (none or mild vs moderate vs severe). Dogs that died (n = 16) had significantly higher serum cTnI (24.9 ng/ml) and cTnT (0.18 ng/ml) concentrations than did dogs that survived (2.05 and < 0.01 ng/ml, respectively). Myocardial cell injury was confirmed at necropsy in 4 dogs with high serum cardiac troponin concentrations. Results indicate that concentrations of cTnI and cTnT suggestive of myocardial cell injury can commonly be found in serum from dogs with GDV and that serum cardiac troponin concentrations are associated with severity of ECG abnormalities and outcome.

Osteosarcoma tissues and cell lines from patients with differing serum alkaline phosphatase concentrations display minimal differences in gene expression patterns

PubMed Central

de Sá Rodrigues, L. C.; Holmes, K. E.; Thompson, V.; Piskun, C. M.; Lana, S. E.; Newton, M. A.; Stein, T. J.

2016-01-01

Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) concentration is a prognostic factor for osteosarcoma in multiple studies, although its biological significance remains incompletely understood. To determine whether gene expression patterns differed in osteosarcoma from patients with differing serum ALP concentrations, microarray analysis was performed on 18 primary osteosarcoma samples and six osteosarcoma cell lines from dogs with normal and increased serum ALP concentration. No differences in gene expression patterns were noted between tumours or cell lines with differing serum ALP concentration using a gene-specific two-sample t-test. Using a more sensitive empirical Bayes procedure, defective in cullin neddylation 1 domain containing 1 (DCUN1D1) was increased in both the tissue and cell lines of the normal ALP group. Using quantitative PCR (qPCR), differences in DCUN1D1 expression between the two groups failed to reach significance. The homogeneity of gene expression patterns of osteosarcoma associated differing serum ALP concentrations are consistent with previous studies suggesting serum ALP concentration is not associated with intrinsic differences of osteosarcoma cells. PMID:25643733

Serum levels of brominated flame retardants (BFRs: PBDE, HBCD) and influence of dietary factors in a population-based study on Swedish adults.

PubMed

Bjermo, Helena; Aune, Marie; Cantillana, Tatiana; Glynn, Anders; Lind, P Monica; Ridefelt, Peter; Darnerud, Per Ola

2017-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate associations between serum concentrations of brominated flame retardants and personal characteristics, including diet, in adults participating in a population-based study in Sweden 2010-11. Moreover, observed concentrations were used in a health risk assessment, using published health-based reference values. Serum samples of 170 adult individuals of both sexes were analyzed for 10 PBDE congeners and HBCD by GC-MS. When including concentrations between LOD and LOQ, highest median serum concentration was observed for BDE-153 (1.2 ng/g serum lipid), followed by BDE-209 (0.95 ng/g lipid), BDE-47 (0.49 ng/g lipid) and BDE-100 (0.21 ng/g lipid). Median concentration of HBCD was 0.10 ng/g lipid. A few markedly elevated concentrations of BDE-209, HBCD (77-78 ng/g lipid) and BDE-47 (44 ng/g lipid) were observed. The only statistical significant findings were higher BDE-153 concentrations in men than in women, and positive associations between serum BDE-153 concentrations and consumption of fish (total), beef, mutton and poultry. PBDE concentrations were in accordance with concentrations reported in other European countries but generally lower than those found in North America. Median PBDE serum concentrations observed in adults from Sweden suggest sufficient health protection, when compared with published health-based reference values, although some outliers with high serum concentrations had lower safety margins. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Comparative Analysis of Mechanical Properties of PWV, NO and Ascending Aorta between WHY Rats and SHR Rats.

PubMed

Yu, Bo; Xu, De-Jun; Sun, Huan; Yang, Kun; Luo, Min

2015-09-01

The aim of this study was to compare and analyze the tensile mechanical properties of the ascending aorta (AA) in Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs), for the purpose of providing a biomechanical basis for hypertension prevention. Pulse wave velocities (PWV) and serum nitric oxide (NO) concentrations were determined in 6-month-old WKY rats and SHRs (n = 21, n = 21, respectively). Then, 20 AAs from each group were obtained for longitudinal tensile testing. The maximum stress, maximum strain, and strain at a tensile stress of 16 Kpa were greater in WKY rats than in SHRs (p < 0.05). The aortic elastic modulus and PWV value were greater in SHRs than in WKY rats (p < 0.05 for both), while NO concentrations were lower in the SHR group than in the WKY group (p < 0.05). The AA tensile mechanical properties differed between the WKY rats and SHRs, and the tensile mechanical properties of the SHR model had changed. Ascending aorta; Hypertension; Mechanical properties; Pulse wave velocity; SHR rats; WKY rats.

Single-dose pharmacokinetic study comparing the pharmacokinetics of recombinant human chorionic gonadotropin in healthy Japanese and Caucasian women and recombinant human chorionic gonadotropin and urinary human chorionic gonadotropin in healthy Japanese women.

PubMed

Bagchus, Wilhelmina; Wolna, Peter; Uhl, Wolfgang

2018-01-01

Recombinant hCG (r-hCG) was approved in Japan in 2016. As a prerequisite for a Phase III study in Japan related to this approval, the pharmacokinetic (PK) profile of r-hCG was investigated. An open-label, partly randomized, single-center, single-dose, group-comparison, Phase I PK-bridging study was done that compared a single 250 μg dose of r-hCG with a single 5000 IU dose of urinary hCG (u-hCG) in healthy Japanese women, as well as comparing a single 250 μg dose of r-hCG in Japanese and Caucasian women. The Japanese participants were randomized 1:1 to receive either r-hCG or u-hCG, while the Caucasian participants were weight-matched to the Japanese participants who were receiving r-hCG in a 1:1 fashion. The primary PK parameters were the area under the serum concentration-time curve from time 0 extrapolated to infinity (AUC 0-∞ ) and the maximum serum concentration (C max ). The mean serum hCG concentration-time profiles of r-hCG in the Japanese and Caucasian participants were a similar shape, but the level of overall exposure was ~20% lower in the Japanese participants. For the Japanese participants, r-hCG resulted in an 11% lower C max but a 19% higher AUC 0-∞ compared with u-hCG. No new safety signal was identified. This study cannot exclude a potential difference in the PK profile of r-hCG between Japanese and Caucasian participants. However, this study does not indicate that there are clinically relevant differences in the serum PK of r-hCG and u-hCG in the Japanese participants.

Pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic integration and modelling of oxytetracycline administered alone and in combination with carprofen in calves.

PubMed

Brentnall, C; Cheng, Z; McKellar, Q A; Lees, P

2013-06-01

The pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) profiles of oxytetracycline were investigated, when administered both alone and in the presence of carprofen, in healthy calves. The study comprised a four treatment, four sequences, and four period cross-over design and used a tissue cage model, which permitted the collection of serum, inflamed tissue cage fluid (exudate) and non-inflamed tissue cage fluid (transudate). There were no clinically relevant differences in the PK profile of oxytetracycline when administered alone and when administered with carprofen. PK-PD integration was undertaken for a pathogenic strain of Mannheimia haemolytic (A1 76/1), by correlating in vitro minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and time-kill data with in vivo PK data obtained in the cross-over study. Based on in vitro susceptibility in cation adjusted Mueller Hinton Broth (CAMHB) and in vivo determined PK variables, ratios of maximum concentration (Cmax) and area under curve (AUC) to MIC and time for which concentration exceeded MIC (T>MIC) were determined. The CAMHB MIC data satisfied integrated PK/PD relationships predicted to achieve efficacy for approximately 48 h after dosing; mean values for serum were 5.13 (Cmax/MIC), 49.3 h (T>MIC) and 126.6 h (AUC(96h)/MIC). Similar findings were obtained when oxytetracycline was administered in the presence of carprofen, with PK-PD indices based on MIC determined in CAMHB. However, PK-PD integration of data, based on oxytetracycline MICs determined in the biological fluids, serum, exudate and transudate, suggest that it possesses, at most, limited direct killing activity against the M. haemolytica strain A1 76/1; mean values for serum were 0.277 (Cmax/MIC), 0 h (T>MIC) and 6.84 h (AUC(96h)/MIC). The data suggest that the beneficial therapeutic effects of oxytetracycline may depend, at least in part, on actions other than direct inhibition of bacterial growth. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Melamine in prenatal and postnatal organs in rats.

PubMed

Chu, Ching Yan; Chu, Kai On; Ho, Chung Shun; Kwok, Sung Shing; Chan, Ho Ming; Fung, Kwok Pui; Wang, Chi Chiu

2013-01-01

Melamine can be transferred to fetus in utero through placenta and to infant ex utero by breast feeding. In this study, we characterized the pharmacokinetics of melamine in prenatal and postnatal organs in rats. Single bolus of melamine was administered to pregnant rats at different gestational stages and to infants at different postnatal stages. Distribution of melamine in maternal serum was about 30% higher in late pregnancy than that in early pregnancy; and it was 2 folds higher in postnatal serum in early infants in young adulthood. Distribution of melamine in all postnatal organs was higher than that in prenatal organs. Postnatal kidneys in early infants had the highest maximum concentration and the lowest clearance of melamine than the other postnatal organs. It may relate to the high vulnerability to the toxicity of melamine in this population. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Inter- and Intraindividual Variation of Methylphenidate Concentrations in Serum and Saliva of Patients with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.

PubMed

Preiskorn, Joshua; Studer, Sophie; Rauh, Reinhold; Lukačin, Richard; Geffert, Christoph; Fleischhaker, Christian; Clement, Hans-Willi; Schulz, Eberhard; Biscaldi, Monica

2018-05-03

BackgroundTherapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is becoming increasingly important in psychiatric therapy; especially in children. However, for several reasons, it cannot yet be implemented as a daily routine in clinical or outpatient settings. To evaluate new, non-invasive procedures; blood and saliva (oral fluid) samples were collected from patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) who were also being administered methylphenidate (MPH). The study's main purposes were to correlate MPH concentrations in serum and saliva between subjects; and to analyze intraindividual variation of serum concentration.MethodsThirty-six ADHD patients (27 children and 9 adults) on methylphenidate medication were included for drug analysis. MPH and its major metabolite ritalinic acid (RA) were quantified using LC-MS/MS measurements. The following correlations were investigated: 1) between drug concentrations in serum and saliva, and 2) between pH value and saliva to serum concentration ratio. Furthermore, the mean intraindividual MPH-concentration fluctuation in saliva under constant frame conditions was analyzed.ResultsAfter quantification, MPH concentrations were approximately 5 times higher in the saliva than in the serum, while the concentrations of RA were much lower in saliva. We found significant correlations between concentrations of MPH in serum and saliva (r=0.51, p<0.05). Saliva MPH measures, compared to serum, were pH-dependent(r=-0.56, p<0.01). Daily coefficient of variance of saliva concentration in children taking constant medication was 27.3% (11%-42 %), while the coefficient of variance for the ratio of saliva to serum was 122% (2%-2060%).ConclusionsOur data indicates that the interindividual variation in saliva to serum concentrations is rather high, while the intraindividual variation is fairly low, as already shown in the literature for repeated citalopram serum measurements. Saliva may well serve as an alternative matrix for TDM of MPH in ADHD patients, especially for follow-up examinations. Future research should focus on analyzing the relationship between drug levels in saliva and clinical effects; as well as on understanding the mechanisms that generate saliva drug concentrations. These are essential steps prior to potential clinical use.

Serum concentrations of salicylate and naproxen during concurrent therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Furst, D E; Sarkissian, E; Blocka, K; Cassell, S; Dromgoole, S; Harris, E R; Hirschberg, J M; Josephson, N; Paulus, H E

1987-10-01

The kinetic interaction between salicylate and naproxen was investigated in 25 rheumatoid arthritis patients. Kinetic interactions were tested in serum after patients had been on each drug regimen for 1 month. Salicylate decreased serum naproxen concentration from 89.5 mg/liter to 65.9 mg/liter (P less than 0.001) and increased serum naproxen clearance by 56%. Naproxen had minimal effect on serum salicylate concentrations.

Dietary fish oil alters the lysophospholipid metabolomic profile and decreases urinary 11-dehydro thromboxane B₂ concentration in healthy Beagles.

PubMed

Hall, Jean A; Brockman, Jeffrey A; Jewell, Dennis E

2011-12-15

Increased concentrations of dietary fish oil and antioxidants have been shown previously to change circulating concentrations of individual fatty acids (FAs) and vitamin E. The purpose of this study was to further investigate the effects of vitamins E and C, in combination with dietary fish oil, on selected blood and urinary biomarkers. Fifty adult Beagle dogs (mean age 5.3 years, range 1.4-14.2 years) were randomized into five dietary treatment groups for 90 days. All foods were complete and balanced and met the nutrient profiles of AAFCO for adult dogs. For 60 days before study initiation, dogs consumed a pretrial food that contained 74 IU/kg vitaminE and 0mg/kg vitaminC. The five experimental foods were confirmed by analytical methods to contain ≥ 640 IU/kg vitaminE and 130 mg/kg vitaminC (as fed). Experimental foods ranged from low levels of EPA and DHA (pretrial food and lowest experimental food had 0.01% EPA and no detectable DHA) to the highest experimental food with 0.25% EPA and 0.17% DHA. Serum was analyzed for FAs, vitamin E, and cholesterol concentrations; urine was analyzed for 11-dehydro thromboxane B(2) (TXB(2)). Serum was also used for metabolomic analysis. FA intake ranged from 0.02 g/day EPA and 0.02 g/day DHA to 0.58 g/day EPA and 0.39 g/day DHA. Increasing dietary concentrations of EPA and DHA resulted in increased serum concentrations of EPA and DHA in a dose-dependent fashion. Greater dietary vitamin E intake resulted in increased serum vitamin E concentrations (P<0.01). Higher serum cholesterol was also associated with higher serum vitamin E concentrations (P<0.01). In turn, changes in serum cholesterol concentration were associated with diet-induced changes in serum FA concentrations (all P<0.01). At the beginning of the dietary treatment period the most significant predictor of urine 11-dehydro TXB(2) concentration was age, followed by lean-body mass. After dietary treatment with different amounts of fish oil, age (increases 11-dehydro TXB(2)) was followed by EPA concentration as a significant negative predictor of urine 11-dehydro TXB(2) concentration (increasing serum concentrations of EPA decrease 11-dehydro TXB(2)), and then lean-body mass (decreases 11-dehydro TXB(2)). Serum docosahexaenoyl-glycerophosphocholine concentration was increased by feeding fish oil in a dose-response manner. In summary, serum vitamin E concentration is enhanced primarily by feeding vitamin E and secondarily by serum cholesterol concentration. When feeding diets enriched with fish oil, the major negative predictor of urinary 11-dehydro TXB(2) concentration is serum EPA concentration. Plasma lysophospholipids can be dynamically regulated by dietary fish oil supplementation. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Antioxidant Vitamin Status in the Serum and Amniotic Fluid of Women with Premature Rupture of the Fetal Membranes.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barrett, Bridget M.

The purpose of this study was to examine the status of antioxidant vitamins in women with premature rupture of the fetal membranes. Specimens of blood and amniotic fluid were obtained from 80 pregnant subjects included both smokers and non-smokers during the third trimester. The concentrations of ascorbic acid (ASA), beta -carotene, retinol and alpha -tocopherol in serum and amniotic fluid were determined. The experimental group consisted of those subjects with PROM while the control subjects were those with normal pregnancy. No statistical differences were found between the PROM and control groups in retinol and vitamin E concentrations in amniotic fluid and serum. Serum ASA concentrations of PROM subjects were not different from controls, but the PROM subjects had significantly lower amniotic fluid ASA concentrations. However, in a study with fewer subjects a lower serum ASA concentration in the PROM subjects was observed. The ratio of amniotic fluid ASA concentration to ASA serum concentration was significantly lower in PROM patients than in controls in both studies. This suggests that low levels of ASA in the amniotic fluid, but not in serum is better associated with PROM. A low amniotic fluid concentration of ASA may reflect an inefficient transfer and/or increased fetal utilization. Alterations in ASA concentration in the amniotic fluid may affect the integrity of the chorioamnion leading to PROM. beta -Carotene was not found in the amniotic fluid. Serum beta-carotene levels were significantly lower in the PROM group compared to the control group. Low concentrations of beta-carotene in maternal serum in smokers not only associated with poor maternal outcome (PROM) but also compromised the fetal outcome (decreased birth weight). Maintenance of adequate serum beta-carotene concentration and amniotic fluid ASA in smokers may result in better maternal and fetal outcome. This study demonstrated that nutrition is an important factor in the prevention of PROM.

Determination of water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins in tears and blood serum of infants and parents by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Khaksari, Maryam; Mazzoleni, Lynn R; Ruan, Chunhai; Kennedy, Robert T; Minerick, Adrienne R

2017-02-01

Tears serve as a viable diagnostic fluid with advantages including less invasive sample to collect and less complex to prepare for analysis. Several water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins were detected and quantified in human tears and compared with blood serum levels. Samples from 15 family pairs, each pair consisting of a four-month-old infant and one parent were analyzed; vitamin concentrations were compared between tears and blood serum for individual subjects, between infants and parents, and against self-reported dietary intakes. Water-soluble vitamins B 1 , B 2 , B 3 (nicotinamide), B 5 , B 9 and fat-soluble vitamin E (α-tocopherol) were routinely detected in tears and blood serum while fat-soluble vitamin A (retinol) was detected only in blood serum. Water-soluble vitamin concentrations measured in tears and blood serum of single subjects were comparable, while higher concentrations were measured in infants compared to their parents. Fat-soluble vitamin E concentrations were lower in tears than blood serum with no significant difference between infants and parents. Serum vitamin A concentrations were higher in parents than infants. Population trends were compiled and quantified using a cross correlation factor. Strong positive correlations were found between tear and blood serum concentrations of vitamin E from infants and parents and vitamin B 3 concentrations from parents, while slight positive correlations were detected for infants B 3 and parents B 1 and B 2 concentrations. Correlations between infants and parents were found for the concentrations of B 1 , B 2 , B 3 , and E in tears, and the concentrations of B 2, A, and E in blood serum. Stronger vitamin concentration correlations were found between infants and parents for the breast-fed infants, while no significant difference was observed between breast-fed and bottle-fed infants. This work is the first to demonstrate simultaneous vitamin A, B, and E detection and to quantify correlations between vitamin concentrations in tears and blood serum. Our results suggest that tears are a viable biofluid to monitor nutritional health because they sufficiently mirror blood serum data and may enhance the speed of deficiency diagnoses. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Serum concentrations of soluble (s)L- and (s)P-selectins in women with ovarian cancer.

PubMed

Majchrzak-Baczmańska, Dominika B; Głowacka, Ewa; Wilczyński, Miłosz; Malinowski, Andrzej

2018-03-01

The aim of the study was to compare serum concentration of soluble L- and P-selectins in women with ovarian cancer (OC) and healthy controls, and to investigate sL- and sP-selectin levels with regard to clinical and pathological parameters. Correlation analysis was used to measure the following: sL- and sP-selectin concentration and Ca125; sP-selectin and platelet concentrations; and sL-selectin and serum leukocyte levels in women with OC. The study included 29 patients with OC and 23 healthy controls. Serum concentrations of sL- and sP-selectins were measured in all subjects. Routine diagnostic tests: CBC and USG (both groups) and Ca125 (study group) were performed. Significantly higher serum concentrations of sL- and sP-selectins were found in the study group as compared to controls. Lower levels of serum sL-selectin were observed in women with poorly-differentiated OC (G3) and advanced stages of the disease (FIGO III, IV), but the results were statistically insignificant. No statistically significant relationship was detected between sP-selectin serum concentration in women with OC and tumour differentiation, histological type, and stage of the disease. No significant correlation was found between sL- and sP-selectins and Ca125 levels. A weak correlation was found between serum concentration of sP-selectin in women with OC and platelet count. No statistically significant correlation was observed between sL-selectin concentration and serum leukocyte levels in women with OC. The analysis of sL- and sP-selectin concentrations may be a useful tool in the diagnosis of OC. The levels of sL-selectin decrease with disease progression.

The influence of enalapril and spironolactone on electrolyte concentrations in Doberman pinschers with dilated cardiomyopathy.

PubMed

Thomason, J D; Rapoport, G; Fallaw, T; Calvert, C A

2014-12-01

The combination of an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) with an aldosterone receptor antagonist can increase serum potassium and magnesium and lower serum sodium concentrations. The objective of this study was to retrospectively determine whether an ACEI and spironolactone can be co-administered to Doberman pinschers with occult dilated cardiomyopathy without serious adverse influences on serum electrolyte concentrations. Between 2001 and 2007, 26 client-owned Doberman pinschers were given enalapril, spironolactone, and carvedilol and followed for at least 6 months. Most dogs had been prescribed mexiletine for ventricular tachyarrhythmia suppression. Dogs were treated with pimobendan when congestive heart failure was imminent. Baseline and follow-up (3-10 visits) color-flow Doppler echocardiograms, serum urea nitrogen (SUN), creatinine, sodium, potassium, and magnesium concentration data were tabulated. Compared to baseline data, there were no significant changes in serum sodium or serum creatinine concentrations. Serum magnesium (P = 0.003), serum potassium (P = 0.0001), and SUN (P = 0.0001) concentrations increased significantly with time. Although the combination of ACEI and spironolactone was associated with significant increases in magnesium, potassium, and SUN concentrations, these changes were of no apparent clinical relevance. At the dosages used in this study, this combination of drugs appears safe. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

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.

Comparison of digoxin concentration in plastic serum tubes with clot activator and heparinized plasma tubes.

PubMed

Dukić, Lora; Simundić, Ana-Maria; Malogorski, Davorin

2014-01-01

Sample type recommended by the manufacturer for the digoxin Abbott assay is either serum collected in glass tubes or plasma (sodium heparin, lithium heparin, citrate, EDTA or oxalate as anticoagulant) collected in plastic tubes. In our hospital samples are collected in plastic tubes. Our hypothesis was that the serum sample collected in plastic serum tube can be used interchangeably with plasma sample for measurement of digoxin concentration. Our aim was verification of plastic serum tubes for determination of digoxin concentration. Concentration of digoxin was determined simultaneously in 26 venous blood plasma (plastic Vacuette, LH Lithium heparin) and serum (plastic Vacuette, Z Serum Clot activator; both Greiner Bio-One GmbH, Kremsmünster, Austria) samples, on Abbott AxSYM analyzer using the original Abbott Digoxin III assay (Abbott, Wiesbaden, Germany). Tube comparability was assessed using the Passing Bablok regression and Bland-Altman plot. Serum and plasma digoxin concentrations are comparable. Passing Bablok intercept (0.08 [95% CI = -0.10 to 0.20]) and slope (0.99 [95% CI = 0.92 to 1.11]) showed there is no constant or proportional error. Blood samples drawn in plastic serum tubes and plastic plasma tubes can be interchangeably used for determination of digoxin concentration.

Comparison of digoxin concentration in plastic serum tubes with clot activator and heparinized plasma tubes

PubMed Central

Dukić, Lora; Šimundić, Ana-Maria; Malogorski, Davorin

2014-01-01

Introduction: Sample type recommended by the manufacturer for the digoxin Abbott assay is either serum collected in glass tubes or plasma (sodium heparin, lithium heparin, citrate, EDTA or oxalate as anticoagulant) collected in plastic tubes. In our hospital samples are collected in plastic tubes. Our hypothesis was that the serum sample collected in plastic serum tube can be used interchangeably with plasma sample for measurement of digoxin concentration. Our aim was verification of plastic serum tubes for determination of digoxin concentration. Materials and methods: Concentration of digoxin was determined simultaneously in 26 venous blood plasma (plastic Vacuette, LH Lithium heparin) and serum (plastic Vacuette, Z Serum Clot activator; both Greiner Bio-One GmbH, Kremsmünster, Austria) samples, on Abbott AxSYM analyzer using the original Abbott Digoxin III assay (Abbott, Wiesbaden, Germany). Tube comparability was assessed using the Passing Bablok regression and Bland-Altman plot. Results: Serum and plasma digoxin concentrations are comparable. Passing Bablok intercept (0.08 [95% CI = −0.10 to 0.20]) and slope (0.99 [95% CI = 0.92 to 1.11]) showed there is no constant or proportional error. Conclusion: Blood samples drawn in plastic serum tubes and plastic plasma tubes can be interchangeably used for determination of digoxin concentration. PMID:24627723

Serum thyroxine concentrations after radioactive iodine therapy in cats with hyperthyroidism

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

Meric, S.M.; Hawkins, E.C.; Washabau, R.J.

Thirty-one cats with hyperthyroidism were given one dose of radioactive iodine (131I) IV. Serum thyroxine (T4) concentrations were measured before treatment in all cats, at 12-hour intervals after treatment in 10 cats, and at 48-hour intervals after treatment in 21 cats. Serum T4 concentrations also were measured one month after /sup 131/I therapy in 29 cats. Activity of 131I administered was 1.5 to 6.13 mCi, resulting in a dose of 20,000 rads to the thyroid. Serum T4 concentrations before /sup 131/I administration were 5.3 to 51.0 micrograms/dl, with a median T4 concentration of 11.0 micrograms/dl. Serum T4 decreased most rapidlymore » during the first 3 to 6 days after treatment. Sixteen cats (55%) had normal serum thyroxine concentrations by day 4 after 131I administration, and 23 cats (74%) were euthyroxinemic by day 8 after treatment. One month after administration of 131I, the 29 cats evaluated were clinically improved, and 24 (83%) of the 29 cats evaluated had normal serum T4 concentrations, 3 cats (10%) remained hyperthyroxinemic, and 2 cats (7%) were hypothyroxinemic. Therefore, administration of 131I was a safe and effective method to quickly decrease serum T4 concentrations in hyperthyroid cats.« less

Fluid intake and changes in limb volumes in male ultra-marathoners: does fluid overload lead to peripheral oedema?

PubMed

Bracher, Alexia; Knechtle, Beat; Gnädinger, Markus; Bürge, Jolanda; Rüst, Christoph Alexander; Knechtle, Patrizia; Rosemann, Thomas

2012-03-01

An increase in body mass due to oedema has been previously described. The aim of this study was to investigate a potential association between both fluid and electrolyte intake and the formation of peripheral oedemas. Fluid and electrolyte intakes and the changes in limb volumes in 50 male 100-km ultra-marathoners were measured. Pre- and post-race serum sodium concentration ([Na(+)]), serum aldosterone concentration, serum copeptin concentration, serum and urine osmolality and body mass were determined. Fluid intake, renal function parameters and urinary output, as well as the changes of volume in the extremities, were measured. The changes of volume in the limbs were measured using plethysmography. Serum [Na(+)] increased by 1.6%; body mass decreased by 1.9 kg. Serum copeptin and aldosterone concentrations were increased. The change in serum copeptin concentration and the change in serum [Na(+)] correlated positively; the change in serum [Na(+)] and body mass correlated negatively. A mean fluid intake of 0.58 L/h was positively related to running speed and negatively to post-race serum [Na(+)]. Total fluid intake was positively related to the changes in both arm and lower leg volumes. Running speed was positively associated with the changes in arm and lower leg volumes; race time was related to the changes in serum copeptin or aldosterone concentrations. To conclude, fluid intake was related to the changes in limb volumes, where athletes with an increased fluid intake developed an increase in limb volumes.

Increase in serum albumin concentration is associated with prediabetes development and progression to overt diabetes independently of metabolic syndrome.

PubMed

Jun, Ji Eun; Lee, Seung-Eun; Lee, You-Bin; Jee, Jae Hwan; Bae, Ji Cheol; Jin, Sang-Man; Hur, Kyu Yeon; Lee, Moon-Kyu; Kim, Jae Hyeon

2017-01-01

Serum albumin concentration is associated with both type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome (MetS). We sought to investigate whether baseline serum albumin and change in serum albumin could be independent risk factors for prediabetes in subjects without MetS. We further examined the effect of serum albumin on progression to overt diabetes in subjects who developed prediabetes. Among 10,792 participants without diabetes and MetS who consecutively underwent yearly health check-ups over six years, 9,807 subjects without incident MetS were enrolled in this longitudinal retrospective study. The risk of developing prediabetes (impared fasting glucose or hemoglobin A1c) was analyzed according to baseline and percent change in serum albumin concentration using Cox regression analysis. Serial changes in serum albumin concentration were measured from baseline to one year before prediabetes diagnosis, and then from the time of prediabetes diagnosis to progression to overt diabetes or final follow-up. A total of 4,398 incident cases of prediabetes developed during 35,807 person-years (median 3.8 years). The hazard ratio for incident prediabetes decreased as percent change in serum albumin concentration (quartiles and per 1%) increased in a crude and fully adjusted model. However, baseline serum albumin concentration itself was not associated with prediabetic risk. Serum albumin levels kept increasing until the end of follow-up in prediabetic subjects who returned to normal glycemic status, whereas these measures did not change in prediabetic subjects who developed type 2 diabetes. Serum albumin concentration measured at the end of follow-up was the highest in the regression group, compared to the stationary (p = 0.014) or progression groups (p = 0.009). Increase in serum albumin concentration might protect against early glycemic deterioration and progression to type 2 diabetes even in subjects without MetS.

Increase in serum albumin concentration is associated with prediabetes development and progression to overt diabetes independently of metabolic syndrome

PubMed Central

Jun, Ji Eun; Lee, Seung-Eun; Lee, You-Bin; Jee, Jae Hwan; Bae, Ji Cheol; Jin, Sang-Man; Hur, Kyu Yeon; Lee, Moon-Kyu

2017-01-01

Aim Serum albumin concentration is associated with both type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome (MetS). We sought to investigate whether baseline serum albumin and change in serum albumin could be independent risk factors for prediabetes in subjects without MetS. We further examined the effect of serum albumin on progression to overt diabetes in subjects who developed prediabetes. Methods Among 10,792 participants without diabetes and MetS who consecutively underwent yearly health check-ups over six years, 9,807 subjects without incident MetS were enrolled in this longitudinal retrospective study. The risk of developing prediabetes (impared fasting glucose or hemoglobin A1c) was analyzed according to baseline and percent change in serum albumin concentration using Cox regression analysis. Serial changes in serum albumin concentration were measured from baseline to one year before prediabetes diagnosis, and then from the time of prediabetes diagnosis to progression to overt diabetes or final follow-up. Results A total of 4,398 incident cases of prediabetes developed during 35,807 person-years (median 3.8 years). The hazard ratio for incident prediabetes decreased as percent change in serum albumin concentration (quartiles and per 1%) increased in a crude and fully adjusted model. However, baseline serum albumin concentration itself was not associated with prediabetic risk. Serum albumin levels kept increasing until the end of follow-up in prediabetic subjects who returned to normal glycemic status, whereas these measures did not change in prediabetic subjects who developed type 2 diabetes. Serum albumin concentration measured at the end of follow-up was the highest in the regression group, compared to the stationary (p = 0.014) or progression groups (p = 0.009). Conclusions Increase in serum albumin concentration might protect against early glycemic deterioration and progression to type 2 diabetes even in subjects without MetS. PMID:28430803

Effect of dietary insoluble fiber on control of glycemia in dogs with naturally acquired diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Nelson, R W; Duesberg, C A; Ford, S L; Feldman, E C; Davenport, D J; Kiernan, C; Neal, L

1998-02-01

To evaluate the effect of a high insoluble-fiber (HF) diet containing 12% cellulose in dry matter and a low insoluble-fiber (LF) diet on control of glycemia in dogs with naturally acquired insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Prospective randomized crossover controlled trial. 11 dogs with naturally acquired diabetes mellitus. Dogs were fed HF and LF diets for 8 months each in 1 of 2 randomly assigned diet sequences. Caloric intake and insulin treatment were adjusted as needed to maintain stable body weight and control of glycemia, respectively. After a 2-month adaptation period, control of glycemia was evaluated every 6 weeks for 6 months. Variables assessed included serum glucose concentration measured during the preprandial state, blood glycosylated hemoglobin concentration, serum glucose concentration measured every 2 hours for 24 hours beginning at the time of the morning insulin injection, 24-hour mean serum glucose concentration, mean serum glucose concentration fluctuation from the 24-hour mean serum glucose concentration, and 24-hour urinary excretion of glucose. Significant differences in mean daily caloric intake, body weight, or daily insulin dosage among dogs fed HF and LF diets were not found. Mean preprandial serum glucose concentration, most postprandial serum glucose concentrations, 24-hour mean serum glucose concentration, and 24-hour urinary excretion of glucose were significantly lower in dogs fed the HF diet, compared with the LF diet. Results of this study support feeding of commercially available insoluble fiber diets to dogs with naturally acquired diabetes mellitus.

Goat serum as an alternative to establish cell culture from Indian major carp, Cirrhinus mrigala.

PubMed

Nanda, P K; Swain, P; Nayak, S K; Dash, S; Routray, P; Swain, S K; Patra, B C

2009-01-01

Serum from goat, calf, and chicken sources were evaluated in terms of attachment, growth, and proliferation of explants of Indian major carp, Cirrhinus mrigala. The attachment of explants viz. heart, liver, and kidney was directly proportional to the concentration of the serum. Among these sera, the highest percentage of attachment, growth, and proliferation was recorded for 10% goat serum and 15% newborn calf serum without affecting their cell morphology. On contrary to these sera, chicken serum at 15% concentration was found to be mildly toxic for all the explants. The cell count was significantly high for the kidney, liver, and heart at 10% goat serum among all the tested sera as well as concentration. Similarly, the liver, heart, and kidney explants were found to survive up to the tenth, seventh, and ninth passage, respectively. Therefore, the goat serum at 10% concentration can be used as effectively as newborn calf serum for routine culture of fish cells.

Biofortified yellow cassava and vitamin A status of Kenyan children: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Talsma, Elise F; Brouwer, Inge D; Verhoef, Hans; Mbera, Gloria N K; Mwangi, Alice M; Demir, Ayşe Y; Maziya-Dixon, Busie; Boy, Erick; Zimmermann, Michael B; Melse-Boonstra, Alida

2016-01-01

Whereas conventional white cassava roots are devoid of provitamin A, biofortified yellow varieties are naturally rich in β-carotene, the primary provitamin A carotenoid. We assessed the effect of consuming yellow cassava on serum retinol concentration in Kenyan schoolchildren with marginal vitamin A status. We randomly allocated 342 children aged 5-13 y to receive daily, 6 d/wk, for 18.5 wk 1) white cassava and placebo supplement (control group), 2) provitamin A-rich cassava (mean content: 1460 μg β-carotene/d) and placebo supplement (yellow cassava group), and 3) white cassava and β-carotene supplement (1053 μg/d; β-carotene supplement group). The primary outcome was serum retinol concentration; prespecified secondary outcomes were hemoglobin concentration and serum concentrations of β-carotene, retinol-binding protein, and prealbumin. Groups were compared by using ANCOVA, adjusting for inflammation, baseline serum concentrations of retinol and β-carotene, and stratified design. The baseline prevalence of serum retinol concentration <0.7 μmol/L and inflammation was 27% and 24%, respectively. For children in the control, yellow cassava, and β-carotene supplement groups, the mean daily intake of cassava was 378, 371, and 378 g, respectively, and the total daily supply of provitamin A and vitamin A from diet and supplements was equivalent to 22, 220, and 175 μg retinol, respectively. Both yellow cassava and β-carotene supplementation increased serum retinol concentration by 0.04 μmol/L (95% CI: 0.00, 0.07 μmol/L); correspondingly, serum β-carotene concentration increased by 524% (448%, 608%) and 166% (134%, 202%). We found no effect on hemoglobin concentration or serum concentrations of retinol-binding protein and prealbumin. In our study population, consumption of yellow cassava led to modest gains in serum retinol concentration and a large increase in β-carotene concentration. It can be an efficacious, new approach to improve vitamin A status. This study was registered with clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01614483. © 2016 American Society for Nutrition.

Effects of oral administration of levothyroxine sodium on serum concentrations of thyroid gland hormones and responses to injections of thyrotropin-releasing hormone in healthy adult mares.

PubMed

Sommardahl, Carla S; Frank, Nicholas; Elliott, Sarah B; Webb, Latisha L; Refsal, Kent R; Denhart, Joseph W; Thompson, Donald L

2005-06-01

To determine the effects of levothyroxine sodium (L-T4) on serum concentrations of thyroid gland hormones and responses to injections of thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) in euthyroid horses. 12 healthy adult mares. 8 horses received an incrementally increasing dosage of L-T4 (24, 48, 72, or 96 mg of L-T4/d) for weeks 1 to 8. Each dose was provided for 2 weeks. Four additional horses remained untreated. Serum concentrations of total triiodothyronine (tT3), total thyroxine (tT4), free T3 (fT3), free T4 (fT4), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) were measured in samples obtained at weeks 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8; 1.2 mg of TRH was then administered i.v., and serum concentrations of thyroid gland hormones were measured 2 and 4 hours after injection. Serum reverseT3 (rT3) concentration was also measured in the samples collected at weeks 0 and 8. Treated horses lost a significant amount of weight (median, 19 kg). Significant treatment-by-time effects were detected for serum tT3, tT4, fT3, fT4, and TSH concentrations, and serum tT4 concentrations were positively correlated (r, 0.95) with time (and therefore dosage) in treated horses. Mean +/- SD serum rT3 concentration significantly increased in treated horses (3.06 +/- 0.51 nmol/L for week 8 vs 0.74 +/- 0.22 nmol/L for week 0). Serum tT3, tT4, fT3, and TSH concentrations in response to TRH injections differed significantly between treated and untreated horses. Administration of levothyroxine sodium increased serum tT4 concentrations and blunted responses toTRH injection in healthy euthyroid horses.

Association of postprandial serum triglyceride concentration and serum canine pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity in overweight and obese dogs.

PubMed

Verkest, K R; Fleeman, L M; Morton, J M; Groen, S J; Suchodolski, J S; Steiner, J M; Rand, J S

2012-01-01

Hypertriglyceridemia has been proposed to contribute to the risk of developing pancreatitis in dogs. To determine associations between postprandial serum triglyceride concentrations and canine pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (cPLI) concentrations or pancreatic disease. Thirty-five client-owned overweight (n = 25) or obese (n = 10) dogs weighing >10 kg. Healthy dogs were prospectively recruited for a cross-sectional study. Serum triglyceride concentrations were measured before and hourly for 12 hours after a meal. Fasting cPLI and canine trypsin-like immunoreactivity (cTLI) concentrations were assayed. Cut-off values for hypertriglyceridemia were set a priori for fasting (≥ 88, ≥ 177, ≥ 354, ≥ 885 mg/dL) and peak postprandial (≥ 133, ≥ 442, ≥ 885 mg/dL) triglyceride concentrations. The association between hypertriglyceridemia and high cPLI concentrations was assessed by exact logistic regression. Follow-up was performed 4 years later to determine the incidence of pancreatic disease. Eight dogs had peak postprandial triglycerides >442 mg/dL and 3 dogs had fasting serum cPLI concentrations ≥ 400 μg/L. Odds of high cPLI concentrations were 16.7 times higher in dogs with peak postprandial triglyceride concentrations ≥ 442 mg/dL relative to other dogs (P < .001). Fasting triglyceride concentration was not significantly associated with cPLI concentrations. None of the dogs with high triglyceride concentrations and one of the dogs with low fasting and peak postprandial triglyceride concentrations developed clinically important pancreatic disease. Overweight and obese dogs with peak serum postprandial triglyceride concentrations ≥ 442 mg/dL after a standard meal are more likely to have serum cPLI concentrations ≥ 400 μg/L, but did not develop clinically important pancreatic disease. Copyright © 2011 by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

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.

Creatinine elevation associated with nitromethane exposure: a marker of potential methanol toxicity.

PubMed

Cook, Matthew D; Clark, Richard F

2007-10-01

Nitromethane, methanol, and oil are the common components of radio-controlled (R/C) vehicle fuels. Nitromethane can cause a false elevation of serum creatinine concentration as measured by the widely used Jaffe colorimetric method. We gathered data from our poison control system and from previously published case reports to see if a correlation exists between serum methanol concentrations and spuriously elevated serum creatinine concentrations after human exposures to R/C fuel. The California Poison Control System (CPCS) computerized database was queried for all cases of human exposure to R/C vehicle fuel reported between December 1, 2002 and December 1, 2004. Serum creatinine and methanol concentrations were recorded when available, as was the method used to determine serum creatinine. A MEDLINE search was used to obtain previously published cases of human nitromethane exposure associated with falsely elevated creatinine concentrations. During the 2-year period, serum creatinine concentrations were recorded in 7 of 26 R/C fuel exposures (all ingestions), and 6 of these were abnormal (range of 1.9-11.5 mg/dL). In this series, the higher the serum creatinine concentration measured by Jaffe method, the higher the serum methanol concentration. The MEDLINE search yielded data from six previously published case reports on this topic. The data from these case reports seem to follow the trend seen in our case series. These data suggest that a spuriously elevated serum creatinine (by Jaffe method) may have value as an early surrogate marker of methanol poisoning in those who ingest R/C fuel. Also, the degree to which the serum creatinine is elevated may indicate the severity of methanol poisoning.

Serum cystatin C concentration measured routinely is a prognostic marker for renal disease in dogs.

PubMed

Iwasa, Naoki; Takashima, Satoshi; Iwasa, Tatsuo; Iwasa, Kazuko; Suzuki, Tomomi; Kobatake, Yui; Kitagawa, Hitoshi; Nishii, Naohito

2018-06-14

This study examined the predictive value of serum cystatin C (Cys-C) concentration, measured during routine periodic health examinations, in the renal prognosis of dogs. A cohort of 140 dogs weighing <15 kg whose serum Cys-C concentrations were measured during periodic health examinations from December 2013 to March 2016 were prospectively studied, with renal disease-related death the predicted end point. Of the 140 dogs, nine died from renal diseases during the follow-up period (539 ± 249 days). Serum Cys-C concentrations were higher in the dogs that subsequently died of renal disease than in the censored group (0.8 ± 0.25 vs. 0.3 ± 0.1 mg/dl, respectively; P < .01). Dogs with high serum Cys-C concentrations (>0.55 mg/dl) had a shorter (P < .01) renal disease-specific survival period than those with low serum Cys-C concentrations (≤0.55 mg/dl). In conclusion, high serum Cys-C concentrations in periodic health examinations in dogs <15 kg predicted poorer prognosis for renal function. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Evaluation of serum biochemical marker concentrations and survival time in dogs with protein-losing enteropathy.

PubMed

Equilino, Mirjam; Théodoloz, Vincent; Gorgas, Daniela; Doherr, Marcus G; Heilmann, Romy M; Suchodolski, Jan S; Steiner, Jörg M; Burgener Dvm, Iwan A

2015-01-01

To evaluate serum concentrations of biochemical markers and survival time in dogs with protein-losing enteropathy (PLE). Prospective study. 29 dogs with PLE and 18 dogs with food-responsive diarrhea (FRD). Data regarding serum concentrations of various biochemical markers at the initial evaluation were available for 18 of the 29 dogs with PLE and compared with findings for dogs with FRD. Correlations between biochemical marker concentrations and survival time (interval between time of initial evaluation and death or euthanasia) for dogs with PLE were evaluated. Serum C-reactive protein concentration was high in 13 of 18 dogs with PLE and in 2 of 18 dogs with FRD. Serum concentration of canine pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity was high in 3 dogs with PLE but within the reference interval in all dogs with FRD. Serum α1-proteinase inhibitor concentration was less than the lower reference limit in 9 dogs with PLE and 1 dog with FRD. Compared with findings in dogs with FRD, values of those 3 variables in dogs with PLE were significantly different. Serum calprotectin (measured by radioimmunoassay and ELISA) and S100A12 concentrations were high but did not differ significantly between groups. Seventeen of the 29 dogs with PLE were euthanized owing to this disease; median survival time was 67 days (range, 2 to 2,551 days). Serum C-reactive protein, canine pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity, and α1-proteinase inhibitor concentrations differed significantly between dogs with PLE and FRD. Most initial biomarker concentrations were not predictive of survival time in dogs with PLE.

Production of intracellular selenium-enriched polysaccharides from thin stillage by Cordyceps sinensis and its bioactivities.

PubMed

Yang, Shengli; Zhang, Hui

2016-01-01

Thin stillage was used as the substrate to produce intracellular selenium-enriched polysaccharides (ISPS) from Cordyceps sinensis to increase the value of agricultural coproducts. Fermentation parameters were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) to improve the production of ISPS. Then, the effects of ISPS on the antioxidant activities in vitro, as well as the glycosylated serum protein concentration, malondialdehyde level, and total antioxidant capacity of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were studied. The optimized conditions were as follows: sodium selenite concentration, 33.78 µg/L; incubation time, 8.24 days; and incubation temperature, 26.69°C. A maximum yield of 197.35 mg/g ISPS was obtained from the validation experiments, which was quite close to the predicted maximum yield of 198.6839 mg/g. FT-IR spectra indicated that ISPS has been successfully selenylation modified with similar structure to polysaccharide of intracellular polysaccharides. The in vitro scavenging effects of 1.0 mg/mL ISPS on hydroxyl, superoxide, and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radicals were 74.62±4.05, 71.45±3.63, and 79.48±4.75%, respectively. The reducing power of ISPS was 0.45±0.01 (absorbance at 700 nm). Fasting blood glucose and glycosylated serum protein of group C (rats with diabetes that received drinking water with ISPS) were significantly lower than those of group B (rats with diabetes) (P<0.01) after treatment was administered for 2 and 4 weeks. Serum malonaldehyde content of group C was significantly lower than that of group B at 4 weeks (P<0.01). At 4 weeks, malonaldehyde contents in heart, liver, and kidney tissues of group C were significantly lower than those of group B; however, malonaldehyde content in pancreas tissue of group C was not significantly different. Total antioxidant capacities in liver, pancreas and kidney tissues of group C were significantly higher than those of group B, but total antioxidant capacity in heart tissue was not significantly different. Serum total antioxidant capacity was also increased compared with that of group B. The result of these experiments indicated that RSM is a promising method for the optimization of ISPS production, and the ISPS of C. sinensis can reduce blood glucose level and improve antioxidant capacity of rats with diabetes induced by streptozotocin.

Production of intracellular selenium-enriched polysaccharides from thin stillage by Cordyceps sinensis and its bioactivities

PubMed Central

Yang, Shengli; Zhang, Hui

2016-01-01

Background Thin stillage was used as the substrate to produce intracellular selenium-enriched polysaccharides (ISPS) from Cordyceps sinensis to increase the value of agricultural coproducts. Methods Fermentation parameters were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) to improve the production of ISPS. Then, the effects of ISPS on the antioxidant activities in vitro, as well as the glycosylated serum protein concentration, malondialdehyde level, and total antioxidant capacity of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were studied. Results The optimized conditions were as follows: sodium selenite concentration, 33.78 µg/L; incubation time, 8.24 days; and incubation temperature, 26.69°C. A maximum yield of 197.35 mg/g ISPS was obtained from the validation experiments, which was quite close to the predicted maximum yield of 198.6839 mg/g. FT-IR spectra indicated that ISPS has been successfully selenylation modified with similar structure to polysaccharide of intracellular polysaccharides. The in vitro scavenging effects of 1.0 mg/mL ISPS on hydroxyl, superoxide, and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radicals were 74.62±4.05, 71.45±3.63, and 79.48±4.75%, respectively. The reducing power of ISPS was 0.45±0.01 (absorbance at 700 nm). Fasting blood glucose and glycosylated serum protein of group C (rats with diabetes that received drinking water with ISPS) were significantly lower than those of group B (rats with diabetes) (P<0.01) after treatment was administered for 2 and 4 weeks. Serum malonaldehyde content of group C was significantly lower than that of group B at 4 weeks (P<0.01). At 4 weeks, malonaldehyde contents in heart, liver, and kidney tissues of group C were significantly lower than those of group B; however, malonaldehyde content in pancreas tissue of group C was not significantly different. Total antioxidant capacities in liver, pancreas and kidney tissues of group C were significantly higher than those of group B, but total antioxidant capacity in heart tissue was not significantly different. Serum total antioxidant capacity was also increased compared with that of group B. Conclusion The result of these experiments indicated that RSM is a promising method for the optimization of ISPS production, and the ISPS of C. sinensis can reduce blood glucose level and improve antioxidant capacity of rats with diabetes induced by streptozotocin. PMID:26837497

In vivo efficacy of SM-8668 (Sch 39304), a new oral triazole antifungal agent.

PubMed

Tanio, T; Ichise, K; Nakajima, T; Okuda, T

1990-06-01

SM-8668 (Sch 39304) is a new oral antifungal agent which we evaluated in comparison with fluconazole in various fungal infection models. The prophylactic effect of SM-8668 was excellent against systemic candidiasis, aspergillosis, and cryptococcosis in mice. The 50% effective dose for SM-8668 was assessed at 10 days after infection and was 0.18, 3.7, and 5.9 mg/kg (body weight), respectively, for the above-mentioned fungal diseases. Fluconazole was about four times less effective than SM-8668 against systemic candidiasis and was only slightly effective at doses of 80 and 25 mg/kg against systemic aspergilosis and cryptococcosis, respectively. SM-8668 was also about four to eight times more active than fluconazole against vaginal candidiasis in rats and against dermatophytic infection in guinea pigs. In addition, topical SM-8668 was as effective as topical miconazole or tioconazole against skin mycosis in guinea pigs. After oral administration, SM-8668 showed a maximum concentration in serum similar to that of fluconazole in both mice and rats, but the elimination half-life and area under the serum concentration-time curve for SM-8668 were twice those for fluconazole.

In vivo efficacy of SM-8668 (Sch 39304), a new oral triazole antifungal agent.

PubMed Central

Tanio, T; Ichise, K; Nakajima, T; Okuda, T

1990-01-01

SM-8668 (Sch 39304) is a new oral antifungal agent which we evaluated in comparison with fluconazole in various fungal infection models. The prophylactic effect of SM-8668 was excellent against systemic candidiasis, aspergillosis, and cryptococcosis in mice. The 50% effective dose for SM-8668 was assessed at 10 days after infection and was 0.18, 3.7, and 5.9 mg/kg (body weight), respectively, for the above-mentioned fungal diseases. Fluconazole was about four times less effective than SM-8668 against systemic candidiasis and was only slightly effective at doses of 80 and 25 mg/kg against systemic aspergilosis and cryptococcosis, respectively. SM-8668 was also about four to eight times more active than fluconazole against vaginal candidiasis in rats and against dermatophytic infection in guinea pigs. In addition, topical SM-8668 was as effective as topical miconazole or tioconazole against skin mycosis in guinea pigs. After oral administration, SM-8668 showed a maximum concentration in serum similar to that of fluconazole in both mice and rats, but the elimination half-life and area under the serum concentration-time curve for SM-8668 were twice those for fluconazole. PMID:2203310

Microanalysis and preliminary pharmacokinetic studies of a sulfated polysaccharide from Laminaria japonica

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Wenjing; Sun, Delin; Zhao, Xia; Jin, Weihua; Wang, Jing; Zhang, Quanbin

2016-01-01

A rapid, sensitive and reproducible high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method with post-column fluorescence derivatization has been developed to determine the amount of low-molecular-weight sulfated polysaccharide (GFS) in vivo. The metabolism of GFS has been shown to fit a two component model following its administration by intravenous injection, and its pharmacokinetic parameters were determined to be as follows: half-time of distribution phase ( t 1/2α)=11.24±2.93 min, half-time of elimination phase ( t 1/2β)=98.20±25.78 min, maximum concentration ( C max)=110.53 μg/mL and peak time ( T max)=5 min. The pharmacokinetic behavior of GFS was also investigated following intragastric administration. However, the concentration of GFS found in serum was too low for detection, and GFS could only be detected for up to 2 h after intragastric administration (200 mg/kg body weight). Thus, the bioavailability of GFS was low following intragastric administration because of the metabolism of GFS. In conclusion, HPLC with postcolumn derivatization could be used for quantitative microanalysis and pharmacokinetic studies to determine the presence of polysaccharides in the serum following intravenous injection.

Aluminum bioavailability from tea infusion.

PubMed

Yokel, Robert A; Florence, Rebecca L

2008-12-01

The objective was to estimate oral Al bioavailability from tea infusion in the rat, using the tracer (26)Al. (26)Al citrate was injected into tea leaves. An infusion was prepared from the dried leaves and given intra-gastrically to rats which received concurrent intravenous (27)Al infusion. Oral Al bioavailability (F) was calculated from the area under the (26)Al, compared to (27)Al, serum concentration x time curves. Bioavailability from tea averaged 0.37%; not significantly different from water (F=0.3%), or basic sodium aluminum phosphate (SALP) in cheese (F=0.1-0.3%), but greater than acidic SALP in a biscuit (F=0.1%). Time to maximum serum (26)Al concentration was 1.25, 1.5, 8 and 4.8h, respectively. These results of oral Al bioavailability x daily consumption by the human suggest tea can provide a significant amount of the Al that reaches systemic circulation. This can allow distribution to its target organs of toxicity, the central nervous, skeletal and hematopoietic systems. Further testing of the hypothesis that Al contributes to Alzheimer's disease may be more warranted with studies focusing on total average daily food intake, including tea and other foods containing appreciable Al, than drinking water.

Aluminum bioavailability from tea infusion

PubMed Central

Yokel, Robert A.; Florence, Rebecca L.

2008-01-01

The objective was to estimate oral Al bioavailability from tea infusion in the rat, using the tracer 26Al. 26Al citrate was injected into tea leaves. An infusion was prepared from the dried leaves and given intra-gastrically to rats which received concurrent intravenous 27Al infusion. Oral Al bioavailability (F) was calculated from the area under the 26Al, compared to 27Al, serum concentration × time curves. Bioavailability from tea averaged 0.37%; not significantly different from water (F = 0.3%), or basic sodium aluminum phosphate (SALP) in cheese (F = 0.1 to 0.3%), but greater than acidic SALP in a biscuit (F = 0.1%). Time to maximum serum 26Al concentration was 1.25, 1.5, 8 and 4.8 h, respectively. These results of oral Al bioavailability × daily consumption by the human suggest tea can provide a significant amount of the Al that reaches systemic circulation. This can allow distribution to its target organs of toxicity, the central nervous, skeletal and hematopoietic systems. Further testing of the hypothesis that Al contributes to Alzheimer's disease may be more warranted with studies focusing on total average daily food intake, including tea and other foods containing appreciable Al, than drinking water. PMID:18848597

[Serum pharmacochemistry of Qinbai Qingfei concentrated pellets based on UPLC-Q-TOF-MS].

PubMed

Liu, Ye; Wei, Wen-Feng; Huo, Jin-Hai; Wang, Wei-Ming

2017-02-01

To analyze the main components of Qinbai Qingfei concentrated pellets in rat serum with UPLC-Q-TOF-MS technology and serum pharmacochemistry theory. After gavage administration with Qinbai Qingfei concentrated pellets, blood was collected from hepatic portal vein. ACQUITY UPLC BEH C₁₈(2.1 mm×100 mm, 1.7 μm) was used, with 0.1% formic acid agueous solution(A)-0.1%formic acid and acetonitrile(B) as the mobile phase for gradient elution. The flow rate was 0.3 mL•min⁻¹, the column temperature was maintained at 35 ℃. Through the comparative analysis fingerprints of Qinbai Qingfei concentrated pellets, drug containing-serum and blank serum, and with the help Peakview and Metabolitepilot software, components in serum were defined. A total of 28 compounds were identified, including 18 prototypes and 10 metabolites. As a result, UPLC-Q-TOF-MS technology and serum pharmacochemistry theory were applied to comprehensively expound Qinbai Qingfei concentrated pellets'constituents migrating to rat serum, and provide scientific basis for further studies for in vivo metabolic process and effective material base. Copyright© by the Chinese Pharmaceutical Association.

Serum concentrations of perfluorinated compounds (PFC) among selected populations of children and adults in California.

PubMed

Wu, Xiangmei May; Bennett, Deborah H; Calafat, Antonia M; Kato, Kayoko; Strynar, Mark; Andersen, Erik; Moran, Rebecca E; Tancredi, Daniel J; Tulve, Nicolle S; Hertz-Picciotto, Irva

2015-01-01

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=90), and older adults (>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 concentrations, frequency of wearing waterproof clothes, frequency of having canned fish, hotdogs, chicken nuggets, French fries, and chips, and whether they ate microwave popcorn were significant positive predictors of individual PFC serum concentrations. In addition, the serum concentrations collected in a subset of young children (N=20) and the parents (N=42) one year later were strongly correlated (r=0.68-0.98, p<0.001) with the levels measured at the first visits, but showed a decreasing trend. Children had moderate correlation (r=0.43) between serum and dust concentrations of PFOS, indicating indoor sources contribute to exposure. In conclusion, besides food intake, occupational exposure, consumer product use, and exposure to residential dust contribute to PFC exposure. The downward temporal trend of serum concentrations reflects the reduction of PFCs use in recent years while the year-to-year correlation indicates that a single serum measurement could be an estimate of exposure relative to the population for a one-year period in epidemiology studies. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Serum concentrations of perfluorinated compounds (PFC) among selected populations of children and Adults in California

PubMed Central

Wu, Xiangmei (May); Bennett, Deborah H.; Calafat, Antonia M.; Kato, Kayoko; Strynar, Mark; Andersen, Erik; Moran, Rebecca E.; Tancredi, Daniel J.; Tulve, Nicolle S.; Hertz-Picciotto, Irva

2016-01-01

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=90), and older adults (>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 concentrations, frequency of wearing waterproof clothes, frequency of having canned fish, hotdogs, chicken nuggets, French fries, and chips, and whether they ate microwave popcorn were significant positive predictors of individual PFC serum concentrations. In addition, the serum concentrations collected in a subset of young children (N=20) and the parents (N=42) one year later were strongly correlated (r=0.68–0.98, p<0.001) with the levels measured at the first visits, but showed a decreasing trend. Children had moderate correlation (r=0.43) between serum and dust concentrations of PFOS, indicating indoor sources contribute to exposure. In conclusion, besides food intake, occupational exposure, consumer product use, and exposure to residential dust contribute to PFC exposure. The downward temporal trend of serum concentrations reflects the reduction of PFCs use in recent years while the year-to-year correlation indicates that a single serum measurement could be an estimate of exposure relative to the population for a one-year period in epidemiology studies. PMID:25460645

Impact of food intake on the pharmacokinetics of first-line antituberculosis drugs in Taiwanese tuberculosis patients.

PubMed

Lin, Hsien-Chun; Yu, Ming-Chih; Liu, Hsing-Jin; Bai, Kuan-Jen

2014-05-01

Under the directly observed treatment, short course (DOTS) program, antituberculosis (anti-TB) medications were possibly taken at random time, regardless of whether it was prior to or after meals. This study was to evaluate the impact of food intake on pharmacokinetic profiles of first-line TB drugs in Taiwanese TB patients, as well as the relationship between drug levels and pharmacogenetics. This open-label, randomized, cross-over study included newly diagnosed Taiwanese TB patients treated between January 2010 and February 2011 at Taipei Medical University-Wan Fang Hospital. Rifater [a fixed-dose combination formulation of isoniazid (INH), rifampicin (RIF), and pyrazinamide (PZA)] and ethambutol (EMB) were given according to national TB guidelines. Blood samples were collected prior to and 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 6 hours, and 10 hours after dosing under fasting or postprandial conditions. Pharmacokinetic parameters of the maximum serum concentration (Cmax), time to Cmax, and area under the serum concentration-time curve from the beginning to the 10(th) hour (AUC0-10) were calculated. Sixteen TB patients were included and received anti-TB treatment under the DOTS program after discharge. The overall effects showed that food intake reduced the mean Cmax (INH: 40.6%, RIF: 40.2%, EMB 34.4%, PZA: 24.4%) and AUC0-10 (INH: 21.3%, RIF: 26.4%, EMB: 12.2%, PZA: 12.0%). Meanwhile, food increased the time to Cmax (INH: 78.1%, RIF: 151.3%, EMB: 41.4%, PZA: 148.9%). Significantly lower serum drug concentrations were observed under postprandial conditions than fasting conditions for INH, RIF, and PZA. The impact of taking random anti-TB drugs under the DOTS program instead of taking drugs regularly prior to meals requires further study. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Increased serum concentrations of soluble ST2 predict mortality after burn injury.

PubMed

Hacker, Stefan; Dieplinger, Benjamin; Werba, Gregor; Nickl, Stefanie; Roth, Georg A; Krenn, Claus G; Mueller, Thomas; Ankersmit, Hendrik J; Haider, Thomas

2018-06-27

Large burn injuries induce a systemic response in affected patients. Soluble ST2 (sST2) acts as a decoy receptor for interleukin-33 (IL-33) and has immunosuppressive effects. sST2 has been described previously as a prognostic serum marker. Our aim was to evaluate serum concentrations of sST2 and IL-33 after thermal injury and elucidate whether sST2 is associated with mortality in these patients. We included 32 burn patients (total body surface area [TBSA] >10%) admitted to our burn intensive care unit and compared them to eight healthy probands. Serum concentrations of sST2 and IL-33 were measured serially using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. The mean TBSA was 32.5%±19.6%. Six patients (18.8%) died during the hospital stay. Serum analyses showed significantly increased concentrations of sST2 and reduced concentrations of IL-33 in burn patients compared to healthy controls. In our study cohort, higher serum concentrations of sST2 were a strong independent predictor of mortality. Burn injuries cause an increment of sST2 serum concentrations with a concomitant reduction of IL-33. Higher concentrations of sST2 are associated with increased in-hospital mortality in burn patients.

Characterization of erythrosine B binding to bovine serum albumin and bilirubin displacement.

PubMed

Mathavan, Vinodaran M K; Boh, Boon Kim; Tayyab, Saad

2009-08-01

The interaction of crythrosine B (ErB), a commonly used dye for coloring foods and drinks, with bovine scrum albumin (BSA) was investigated both in the absence and presence of bilirubin (BR) using absorption and absorption difference spectroscopy. ErB binding to BSA was reflected from a significant red shift of 11 nm in the absorption maximum of ErB (527 nm) with the change in absorbance at lamdamax. Analysis of absorption difference spectroscopic titration results of BSA with increasing concentrations of ErB3 using Benesi-Hildebrand equation gave the association constant, K as 6.9 x 10(4) M(-1). BR displacing action of ErB was revealed by a significant blue shift in the absorption maximum, accompanied by a decrease in absorbance difference at lamdamax in the difference spectrum of BR-BSA complex upon addition of increasing concentrations of ErB. This was further substantiated by fluorescence spectroscopy, as addition of increasing concentrations of ErB to BR-BSA complex caused a significant decrease in fluoresccnce at 510 nm. The results suggest that ErB binds to a site in the vicinity of BR binding site on BSA. Therefore, intake of ErB may increase the risk of hyperbilirubinemia in the healthy subjects.

The serum uric acid concentration is not causally linked to diabetic nephropathy in type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Ahola, Aila J; Sandholm, Niina; Forsblom, Carol; Harjutsalo, Valma; Dahlström, Emma; Groop, Per-Henrik

2017-05-01

Previous studies have shown a relationship between uric acid concentration and progression of renal disease. Here we studied causality between the serum uric acid concentration and progression of diabetic nephropathy in 3895 individuals with type 1 diabetes in the FinnDiane Study. The renal status was assessed with the urinary albumin excretion rate and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at baseline and at the end of the follow-up. Based on previous genomewide association studies on serum uric acid concentration, 23 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with good imputation quality were selected for the SNP score. This score was used to assess the causality between serum uric acid and renal complications using a Mendelian randomization approach. At baseline, the serum uric acid concentration was higher with worsening renal status. In multivariable Cox regression analyses, baseline serum uric acid concentration was not independently associated with progression of diabetic nephropathy over a mean follow-up of 7 years. However, over the same period, baseline serum uric acid was independently associated with the decline in eGFR. In the cross-sectional logistic regression analyses, the SNP score was associated with the serum uric acid concentration. Nevertheless, the Mendelian randomization showed no causality between uric acid and diabetic nephropathy, eGFR categories, or eGFR as a continuous variable. Thus, our results suggest that the serum uric acid concentration is not causally related to diabetic nephropathy but is a downstream marker of kidney damage. Copyright © 2016 International Society of Nephrology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Prevalence and prognostic importance of hypomagnesemia and hypocalcemia in horses that have colic surgery.

PubMed

Garcia-Lopez, J M; Provost, P J; Rush, J E; Zicker, S C; Burmaster, H; Freeman, L M

2001-01-01

To determine the prevalence of hypomagnesemia and hypocalcemia in horses with surgical colic. 35 horses with surgically managed colic. Serum concentrations of total magnesium (tMg2+) and calcium (tCa2+), as well as ionized magnesium (iMg2+) and calcium (iCa2+) were analyzed before surgery and 1, 3, 5, and 7 days following surgery. A lead-II ECG and pertinent clinical data were also obtained at each time. Preoperative serum tMg2+ and iMg2+ concentrations were below the reference range in 6 (17%) and 19 (54%) horses, respectively. Serum concentrations of tCa2+ and iCa2+ were less than the reference range in 20 (57%) and 30 (86%) horses before surgery. Horses with strangulating lesions of the gastrointestinal tract had significantly lower preoperative serum concentrations of iMg2+ and iCa2+, as well as a higher heart rate than horses with nonstrangulating lesions. Horses that developed postoperative ileus had significantly lower serum concentrations of iMg2+ after surgery. Serum concentrations of magnesium and calcium (total and ionized) correlated significantly with the PR, QRS, QT, and corrected QT (QTc) intervals. Horses that were euthanatized at the time of surgery (n = 7) had significantly lower preoperative serum concentrations of iMg2+, compared with horses that survived. Neither serum magnesium nor calcium concentrations were predictors of hospitalization time or survival. Hypomagnesemia and hypocalcemia were common during the perioperative period, particularly in horses with strangulating intestinal lesions and ileus. Serum concentrations of tMg2+ and tCa2+ were less sensitive than iMg2+ and iCa2+ in detecting horses with hypomagnesemia and hypocalcemia.

Evaluation of Serum 3-Bromotyrosine Concentrations in Dogs with Steroid-Responsive Diarrhea and Food-Responsive Diarrhea.

PubMed

Sattasathuchana, P; Allenspach, K; Lopes, R; Suchodolski, J S; Steiner, J M

2017-07-01

The clinical usefulness of serum 3-BrY concentrations for subclassifying dogs with food-responsive diarrhea (FRD) and steroid-responsive diarrhea (SRD) has not been studied. To compare serum 3-BrY concentrations in dogs with FRD, dogs with SRD, and healthy control dogs. 38 dogs with FRD, 14 dogs with SRD, and 46 healthy dogs. Prospective study. Measurement of 3-BrY concentration in serum samples was performed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. There was no association of peripheral eosinophilia in dogs with FRD, SRD, and healthy control dogs (P = 0.069). There was no significant correlation between peripheral eosinophil counts and serum 3-BrY concentrations (ρ = -0.15, P = 0.13). Serum 3-BrY concentrations in dogs with SRD (median [range] = 3.27, 0.9-26.23 μmol/L) were significantly higher than in dogs with FRD (median [range] = 0.99, 0.62-8.82 μmol/L; P = 0.007) or in healthy dogs (median [range] = 0.62, 0.62-1.79 μmol/L; P < 0.001). Also, serum 3-BrY concentrations in dogs with FRD were significantly higher than in healthy dogs (P = 0.025). There was no significant correlation between the canine chronic enteropathy clinical activity index and serum 3-BrY concentrations (ρ = 0.17, P = 0.23). Measurement of serum 3-BrY concentrations, but not the peripheral eosinophil count, is helpful for detecting dogs with SRD and FRD. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

Usefulness of serum cardiac troponin I concentration as a marker of survival of harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) pups during rehabilitation.

PubMed

Fonfara, Sonja; Sundermeyer, Janne; Casamian Sorrosal, Domingo; Weber, Corinna; Rosenberger, Tanja

2016-12-15

OBJECTIVE To measure serum cardiac troponin I (cTnI) concentrations in orphaned harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) pups at various points during rehabilitation in a seal rescue center and determine whether cTnI concentration was associated with survival during rehabilitation and duration of rehabilitation. DESIGN Serial cross-sectional study. ANIMALS Fifty-five 2- to 9-day-old harbor seal pups. PROCEDURES Blood samples for serum cTnI concentration measurement, CBC, and serum biochemical analysis were obtained from seal pups at admission into a seal rescue center, after 2 weeks of rehabilitation at the center, and prior to release. Serum cTnI concentrations were compared between seals that did or did not survive rehabilitation. RESULTS Median serum cTnI concentration was highest at admission (0.03 ng/mL). After 2 weeks, the median value was 0.01 ng/mL; prior to release, it was 0.01 ng/mL. Seal pups that were found to have died during or after rehabilitation (n = 7) had a significantly higher median serum cTnI concentration at admission (0.06 ng/mL) than did seal pups that survived rehabilitation (and for which the postrelease fate was unknown; 48; 0.03 ng/mL). No correlation was identified between serum cTnI concentration and duration of rehabilitation. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE The results of this study suggested some degree of myocardial injury was present in most of the orphaned seal pups admitted for rehabilitation. Measurement of serum cTnI concentration in seal pups at admission might provide prognostic information about their likelihood of survival during or after rehabilitation.

Irisin and exercise training in humans - results from a randomized controlled training trial.

PubMed

Hecksteden, Anne; Wegmann, Melissa; Steffen, Anke; Kraushaar, Jochen; Morsch, Arne; Ruppenthal, Sandra; Kaestner, Lars; Meyer, Tim

2013-11-05

The recent discovery of a new myokine (irisin) potentially involved in health-related training effects has gained great attention, but evidence for a training-induced increase in irisin remains preliminary. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine whether irisin concentration is increased after regular exercise training in humans. In a randomized controlled design, two guideline conforming training interventions were studied. Inclusion criteria were age 30 to 60 years, <1 hour/week regular activity, non-smoker, and absence of major diseases. 102 participants could be included in the analysis. Subjects in the training groups exercised 3 times per week for 26 weeks. The minimum compliance was defined at 70%. Aerobic endurance training (AET) consisted of 45 minutes of walking/running at 60% heart rate reserve. Strength endurance training (SET) consisted of 8 machine-based exercises (2 sets of 15 repetitions with 100% of the 20 repetition maximum). Serum irisin concentrations in frozen serum samples were determined in a single blinded measurement immediately after the end of the training study. Physical performance provided positive control for the overall efficacy of training. Differences between groups were tested for significance using analysis of variance. For post hoc comparisons with the control group, Dunnett's test was used. Maximum performance increased significantly in the training groups compared with controls (controls: ±0.0 ± 0.7 km/h; AET: 1.1 ± 0.6 km/h, P < 0.01; SET: +0.5 ± 0.7 km/h, P = 0.01). Changes in irisin did not differ between groups (controls: 101 ± 81 ng/ml; AET: 44 ± 93 ng/ml; SET: 60 ± 92 ng/ml; in both cases: P = 0.99 (one-tailed testing), 1-β error probability = 0.7). The general upward trend was mainly accounted for by a negative association of irisin concentration with the storage duration of frozen serum samples (P < 0.01, β = -0.33). After arithmetically eliminating this confounder, the differences between groups remained non-significant. A training-induced increase in circulating irisin could not be confirmed, calling into question its proposed involvement in health-related training effects. Because frozen samples are prone to irisin degradation over time, positive results from uncontrolled trials might exclusively reflect the longer storage of samples from initial tests.

Immunoassays for the measurement of IGF-II, IGFBP-2 and -3, and ICTP as indirect biomarkers of recombinant human growth hormone misuse in sport. Values in selected population of athletes.

PubMed

Abellan, Rosario; Ventura, Rosa; Palmi, Ilaria; di Carlo, Simonetta; Bacosi, Antonella; Bellver, Montse; Olive, Ramon; Pascual, Jose Antonio; Pacifici, Roberta; Segura, Jordi; Zuccaro, Piergiorgio; Pichini, Simona

2008-11-04

Insulin-like growth factor-II (IGF-II), insulin-like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs) -2 and -3 and C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (ICTP) have been proposed, among others, as indirect biomarkers of the recombinant human growth hormone misuse in sport. An extended intra- and inter-laboratory validation of commercially available immunoassays for biomarkers detection was performed. ELISA assays for total IGF-II, IGFBP-2 and IGFBP-3 (IGF-II/ELISA1: DSLabs, IGFBP-2/ELISA2: Biosource, and IGFBP-3/ELISA3: BioSource) and an EIA assay for ICTP (ICTP/EIA: Orion Diagnostica) were evaluated. The inter- and intra-laboratory precision values were acceptable for all evaluated assays (maximum imprecision of 30% and 66% were found only for the lowest quality control samples of IGF-II and IGFBP-3). Correct accuracy was obtained for all inter-laboratory immunoassays and for IGFBP-2 intra-laboratory immunoassay. The range of concentrations found in serum samples under investigation was always covered by the calibration curves of the studied immunoassays. However, 11% and 15% of the samples felt below the estimated LOQ for IGF-II and ICTP, respectively, in the zone where lower precision was obtained. Although the majority of evaluated assays showed an overall reliability not always suitable for antidoping control analysis, relatively high concordances between laboratory results were obtained for all assays. Evaluated immunoassays were used to measure serum concentrations of IGF-II, IGFBP-2 and -3 and ICTP in elite athletes of various sport disciplines at different moments of the training season; in recreational athletes at baseline conditions and finally in sedentary individuals. Serum IGF-II was statistically higher both in recreational and elite athletes compared to sedentary individuals. Elite athletes showed lower IGFBP-2 and higher IGFBP-3 concentration with respect to recreational athletes and sedentary people. Among elite athletes, serum IGFBP-3 (synchronized swimming), and ICTP (rhythmic gymnastics) concentrations were sport-dependent. Over the training season, within athlete variability was observed for IGFBP-2 in case of taekwondo and IGFBP-2 and -3 in case of weightlifting. Variations due to those aspects should be taken in careful consideration in the hypothesis of setting reference concentration ranges for doping detection.

Serum tryptase concentrations in beekeepers with and without Hymenoptera venom allergy.

PubMed

Carballada, F; Alonso, M; Vizcaino, L; Coutinho, V; Núñez, R; Vidal, C; Boquete, M; González-Quintela, A

2013-01-01

Increased tryptase concentrations are a risk marker for the severity of reactions to Hymenoptera stings or venom immunotherapy To investigate serum tryptase concentrations in beekeepers with and without Hymenoptera venom allergy (HVA). Serum tryptase concentrations were measured in adult patients with HVA (n = 91, 37 of whom were beekeepers), beekeepers without HVA (n = 152), and control individuals from the general adult population (n = 246). Multivariate analyses revealed that serum tryptase levels were positively associated with beekeeping activities (P < .001) and HVA (P < .001). Tryptase levels were also positively associated with age (P < .001) and male'sex (P = .02), and negatively associated with alcoho consumption (P = .002). Beekeeping and HVA are independently associated with increased concentrations of serum tryptase.

Daily rhythm of salivary and serum urea concentration in sheep

PubMed Central

Piccione, Giuseppe; Foà, Augusto; Bertolucci, Cristiano; Caola, Giovanni

2006-01-01

Background In domestic animals many biochemical and physiological processes exhibit daily rhythmicity. The aim of the present study was to investigate the rhythmic pattern of salivary and serum urea concentrations in sheep. Methods Six 3-year-old female sheep kept in the same environmental conditions were used. Sheep were sampled at 4 hour intervals for 48 consecutive hours starting at 08:00 of the first day and finishing at 04:00 of the second day. Blood samples were collected via intravenous cannulae inserted into the jugular vein; saliva samples were collected through a specific tube, the "Salivette". Salivary and serum urea concentrations were assayed by means of UV spectrophotometer. ANOVA was used to determine significant differences. The single Cosinor procedure was applied to the results showing significant differences over time. Results ANOVA showed a significant effect of time on salivary and serum urea concentrations. Serum and salivary urea peaked during the light phase. In the dark phase serum and salivary urea concentrations decreased, and the diurnal trough occurred at midnight. Cosinor analysis showed diurnal acrophases for salivary and serum urea concentrations. Daily mean levels were significantly higher in the serum than in the saliva. Conclusion In sheep both salivary and serum urea concentrations showed daily fluctuations. Urea is synthesized in the liver and its production is strongly influenced by food intake. Future investigation should clarify whether daily urea rhythms in sheep are endogenous or are simply the result of the temporal administration of food. PMID:17123442

Cavitary Penetration of Levofloxacin among Patients with Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis

PubMed Central

Barth, Aline B.; Vashakidze, Sergo; Nikolaishvili, Ketino; Sabulua, Irina; Tukvadze, Nestani; Bablishvili, Nino; Gogishvili, Shota; Singh, Ravi Shankar P.; Guarner, Jeannette; Derendorf, Hartmut; Peloquin, Charles A.; Blumberg, Henry M.

2015-01-01

A better understanding of second-line drug (SLD) pharmacokinetics, including cavitary penetration, may help optimize SLD dosing. Patients with pulmonary multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) undergoing adjunctive surgery were enrolled in Tbilisi, Georgia. Serum was obtained at 0, 1, 4, and 8 h and at the time of cavitary removal to measure levofloxacin concentrations. After surgery, microdialysis was performed using the ex vivo cavity, and levofloxacin concentrations in the collected dialysate fluid were measured. Noncompartmental analysis was performed, and a cavitary-to-serum levofloxacin concentration ratio was calculated. Twelve patients received levofloxacin for a median of 373 days before surgery (median dose, 11.8 mg/kg). The median levofloxacin concentration in serum (Cmax) was 6.5 μg/ml, and it was <2 μg/ml in 3 (25%) patients. Among 11 patients with complete data, the median cavitary concentration of levofloxacin was 4.36 μg/ml (range, 0.46 to 8.82). The median cavitary/serum levofloxacin ratio was 1.33 (range, 0.63 to 2.36), and 7 patients (64%) had a ratio of >1. There was a significant correlation between serum and cavitary concentrations (r = 0.71; P = 0.01). Levofloxacin had excellent penetration into chronic cavitary TB lesions, and there was a good correlation between serum and cavitary concentrations. Optimizing serum concentrations will help ensure optimal cavitary concentrations of levofloxacin, which may enhance treatment outcomes. PMID:25779583

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.

Canine osteosarcoma cell lines from patients with differing serum alkaline phosphatase concentrations display no behavioral differences in vitro

PubMed Central

Holmes, Katie E.; Thompson, Victoria; Piskun, Caroline M.; Kohnken, Rebecca A.; Huelsmeyer, Michael K.; Fan, Timothy M.; Stein, Timothy J.

2013-01-01

Osteosarcoma is an aggressive malignancy and represents the most frequent primary bone malignancy of dogs and humans. Prognostic factors reported for osteosarcoma include tumor size, presence of metastatic disease, and serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) concentration at the time of diagnosis. To date, there have been no studies to determine whether the behavior of osteosarcoma cells differ based on serum ALP concentration. Here we report on the generation of six canine osteosarcoma cell lines from osteosarcoma-bearing dogs with differences in serum ALP concentration. To determine whether in vitro behavior differs between primary osteosarcoma cell lines generated from patients with normal or increased serum ALP assays were performed to evaluate proliferation, migration, invasion, and chemosensitivity. There were no significant differences in cell proliferation, migration, invasion, or chemosensitivity between cell lines associated normal or increased serum ALP concentration. PMID:23489774

Canine osteosarcoma cell lines from patients with differing serum alkaline phosphatase concentrations display no behavioural differences in vitro.

PubMed

Holmes, K E; Thompson, V; Piskun, C M; Kohnken, R A; Huelsmeyer, M K; Fan, T M; Stein, T J

2015-09-01

Osteosarcoma is an aggressive malignancy and represents the most frequent primary bone malignancy of dogs and humans. Prognostic factors reported for osteosarcoma include tumour size, presence of metastatic disease and serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) concentration at the time of diagnosis. To date, there have been no studies to determine whether the behaviour of osteosarcoma cells differ based on serum ALP concentration. Here, we report on the generation of six canine osteosarcoma cell lines from osteosarcoma-bearing dogs with differences in serum ALP concentration. To determine whether in vitro behaviour differs between primary osteosarcoma cell lines generated from patients with normal or increased serum ALP, assays were performed to evaluate proliferation, migration, invasion and chemosensitivity. There were no significant differences in cell proliferation, migration, invasion or chemosensitivity between cell lines associated with normal or increased serum ALP concentration. © 2013 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Serum transthyretin concentration is decreased in dogs with nonthyroidal illness.

PubMed

Piechotta, Marion; Jens, Raila; Rick, Markus; Beyerbach, Martin; Hoppen, Hans-Otto

2012-03-01

Hypothyroidism in dogs is often difficult to diagnose owing to nonspecific clinical signs and laboratory test results that can be mimicked by nonthyroidal illness (NTI). Thyroxine (T4) circulates in blood mainly bound to T4-binding globulin and, to a lesser degree, transthyretin (TTR) and albumin. The concentration of total T4 depends on the concentrations of these binding proteins. We hypothesized that dogs with NTI and decreased serum total T4 concentrations would have decreased serum TTR concentrations. The objective of the study was to measure and compare serum TTR concentrations in healthy dogs, in dogs with NTI and low serum T4 concentrations, and in dogs with hypothyroidism. Assignment of dogs to 3 groups was based on physical examination and serum concentrations of T4 and TSH (mean ± SD): for healthy dogs (n = 13), T4 was 24.8 ± 3.6 nmol/L and TSH was 0.15 ± 0.08 μg/L; for dogs with NTI and low T4 (n = 20), T4 was 3.2 ± 3.0 nmol/L and TSH was 0.18 ± 0.13 μg/L; and for hypothyroid dogs (n = 19), T4 was 5.3 ± 4.3 nmol/L and TSH was 2.33 ± 1.90 μg/L). TTR concentrations in serum were determined semiquantitatively using western blot analysis. Serum TTR concentration (mean ± SD) was decreased in the dogs with NTI (24.8 ± 7.9 mg/L) compared with that of hypothyroid dogs (41.1 ± 21.4 mg/L, P = .0035). Differences were not found between TTR concentrations in clinically healthy dogs (33.3 ± 10.1 mg/L) and hypothyroid dogs or dogs with NTI. Serum TTR concentrations were significantly decreased in dogs with NTI and low T4 compared with concentrations in hypothyroid dogs. Additional studies should be done to determine if TTR concentrations can discriminate between dogs with NTI and low T4 and dogs with primary hypothyroidism. © 2012 American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.

Passive transfer of growth-inhibitory antibodies raised against yeast-expressed recombinant Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein-1(19).

PubMed

Gozalo, A; Lucas, C; Cachay, M; Wellde, B T; Hall, T; Bell, B; Wood, J; Watts, D; Wooster, M; Lyon, J A; Moch, J K; Haynes, J D; Williams, J S; Holland, C; Watson, E; Kester, K E; Kaslow, D C; Ballou, W R

1998-12-01

Purified rabbit immunoglobulin raised against yeast-expressed recombinant FVO or 3D7 Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP-1) 19k-D C terminal fragment (MSP-1(19)) was transfused into malaria-naive Aotus nancymai monkeys that were immediately challenged with FVO asexual stage malaria parasites. Control monkeys received rabbit immunoglobulin raised against the sexual stage antigen Pfs25 or Aotus hyperimmune serum obtained from monkeys immunized by P. falciparum infection and drug cure. Passive transfer of rabbit anti-MSP-1(19) failed to protect against homologous or heterologous challenge and, when compared with negative controls, there were no differences in prepatent periods or time to treatment. Interestingly, rabbit anti-MSP-1(19), but not anti-Pfs25, immunoglobulin, and immune monkey serum prevented the development of antibodies directed against MSP-1(19) fragment by infected monkeys, indicating that the antibodies were reactive with native MSP-1(19) antigen in vivo. The prepatent period and time to treatment was greatly delayed in the two monkeys that received Aotus immune serum, both of which developed a chronic intermittent low level infection. In vitro parasite growth inhibition assays (GIAs) confirmed the presence of inhibitory activity (40% maximum inhibition) in concentrated anti-MSP-1(19) immunoglobulin (4.8 mg/ml), but the peak concentrations we achieved in vivo (1 mg/ml) were not inhibitory in vitro. Subinhibitory levels of anti-MSP-1(19) antibodies achieved by passive transfer were not protective against P. falciparum challenge.

Evaluation of the change of serum copper and zinc concentrations of dairy cows with subclinical ketosis.

PubMed

Zhang, Zhigang; Liu, Guowen; Li, Xiaobing; Gao, Li; Guo, Changming; Wang, Hongbin; Wang, Zhe

2010-12-01

Ketosis in dairy cows can lead to poor reproductive success and decreased milk production. Since the serum concentrations of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) are closely associated with the health status of cows, we investigated whether serum concentrations of Cu and Zn differed in dairy cows with subclinical ketosis and healthy dairy cows. Blood samples of 19 healthy dairy cows and 15 subclinically ketotic dairy cows were collected from three farms, and the concentrations of β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), glucose, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), Cu, and Zn were determined. Subclinically ketotic dairy cows had significantly higher BHBA and NEFA levels (p < 0.01) and lower glucose (p < 0.01) than healthy dairy cows. Likewise, serum concentrations of Zn were significantly decreased (p < 0.05) in dairy cows with subclinical ketosis. There was no significant difference observed for serum Cu concentration between healthy and subclinically ketotic dairy cows. This study suggests that a decreased serum Zn concentration could be a cause of decreased reproductive performance in subclinically ketotic dairy cows.

Associations between Folate and Vitamin B12 Levels and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Pan, Yun; Liu, Ya; Guo, Haizhuo; Jabir, Majid Sakhi; Liu, Xuanchen; Cui, Weiwei; Li, Dong

2017-04-13

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients may be at risk of vitamin B12 and folate insufficiencies, as these micronutrients are absorbed in the small intestine, which is affected by IBD. However, a consensus has not been reached on the association between IBD and serum folate and vitamin B12 concentrations. In this study, a comprehensive search of multiple databases was performed to identify studies focused on the association between IBD and serum folate and vitamin B12 concentrations. Studies that compared serum folate and vitamin B12 concentrations between IBD and control patients were selected for inclusion in the meta-analysis. The main outcome was the mean difference in serum folate and vitamin B12 concentrations between IBD and control patients. Our findings indicated that the average serum folate concentration in IBD patients was significantly lower than that in control patients, whereas the mean serum vitamin B12 concentration did not differ between IBD patients and controls. In addition, the average serum folate concentration in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) but not Crohn's disease (CD) was significantly lower than that in controls. This meta-analysis identified a significant relationship between low serum folate concentration and IBD. Our findings suggest IBD may be linked with folate deficiency, although the results do not indicate causation. Thus, providing supplements of folate and vitamin B12 to IBD patients may improve their nutritional status and prevent other diseases.

Tocopherol isomer pattern in serum and stool of human following consumption of black currant seed press residue administered in whole grain bread.

PubMed

Helbig, Dorit; Wagner, Andreas; Schubert, Rainer; Jahreis, Gerhard

2009-12-01

Serum gamma-tocopherol is thought to be associated with human health. The dietary influence of tocopherol and fibre-rich black currant seed press residue on serum and stool tocopherol concentration was investigated in a controlled human intervention study. Thirty-six women consumed bread enriched with black currant press residue (4 weeks). The resultant faecal and serum tocopherol concentrations were compared with those after a period consuming control bread without press residue and a normal baseline diet. Fibre intake and excretion, antioxidant capacity (TEAC), and vitamin C concentrations in serum and urine were also determined. Samples were obtained with a 5-day standardised diet at the end of each period. The press residue bread lead to significantly increased beta-, gamma-, delta- and total tocopherol intake, serum alpha-, beta-, gamma- and total tocopherol concentration (with and without lipid adjustment), fibre intake and urinary vitamin C concentration compared to control bread (P<0.05). Faecal excretion of total tocopherols and fibre increased compared to baseline (P<0.05). Fibre intake and excretion influence total tocopherol concentration in lipid-adjusted serum and in stool. The outstandingly high increase of serum gamma-tocopherol concentration through seed press residue consumption could be due to a presumed interruption of the enzymatic tocopherol degradation mechanism by bread constituents.

Effect of dietary insoluble fiber on control of glycemia in cats with naturally acquired diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Nelson, R W; Scott-Moncrieff, J C; Feldman, E C; DeVries-Concannon, S E; Kass, P H; Davenport, D J; Kiernan, C T; Neal, L A

2000-04-01

To evaluate effects of dietary insoluble fiber on control of glycemia in cats with naturally acquired diabetes mellitus. Randomized controlled crossover trial. 16 cats with naturally acquired diabetes mellitus. Cats were fed a diet high in insoluble fiber (HF) containing 12% cellulose (dry-matter basis) or a diet low in insoluble fiber (LF) for 24 weeks; they were fed the other diet for the subsequent 24 weeks. Caloric intake and insulin treatment were adjusted to maintain stable body weight and control of glycemia, respectively. Cats were allowed an adaptation period of 6 weeks after initiation of a diet, after which control of glycemia was evaluated at 6-week intervals for 18 weeks. Variables assessed included serum glucose concentration measured during the preprandial state, blood glycated hemoglobin concentration, serum glucose concentration measured at 2-hour intervals for 12 hours beginning at the time of the morning insulin injection, 12-hour mean serum glucose concentration, and mean fluctuation in serum glucose concentration from the 12-hour mean serum glucose concentration. Mean daily caloric intake, body weight, or daily insulin dosage did not differ significantly between cats when fed HF and LF diets. Mean preprandial serum glucose concentration, most post-prandial serum glucose concentrations, and the 12-hour mean serum glucose concentration were significantly lower when cats consumed the HF diet, compared with values when cats consumed the LF diet. These results support feeding a commercially available diet containing approximately 12% insoluble fiber (dry-matter basis) to cats with naturally acquired diabetes mellitus.

Associations of socioeconomic status and processed food intake with serum phosphorus concentration in community-living adults: the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA).

PubMed

Gutiérrez, Orlando M; Katz, Ronit; Peralta, Carmen A; de Boer, Ian H; Siscovick, David; Wolf, Myles; Diez Roux, Ana; Kestenbaum, Bryan; Nettleton, Jennifer A; Ix, Joachim H

2012-09-01

Higher serum phosphorus concentrations are associated with cardiovascular disease events and mortality. Low socioeconomic status is linked with higher serum phosphorus concentration, but the reasons are unclear. Poor individuals disproportionately consume inexpensive processed foods commonly enriched with phosphorus-based food preservatives. Accordingly, we hypothesized that excess intake of these foods accounts for a relationship between lower socioeconomic status and higher serum phosphorus concentration. Cross-sectional analysis. We examined a random cohort of 2,664 participants with available phosphorus measurements in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis, a community-based sample of individuals free of clinically apparent cardiovascular disease from across the United States. Socioeconomic status, the intake of foods commonly enriched with phosphorus-based food additives (processed meats, sodas), and frequency of fast-food consumption. Fasting morning serum phosphorus concentrations. In unadjusted analyses, lower income and lower educational achievement categories were associated with modestly higher serum phosphorus concentration (by 0.02 to 0.10 mg/dL, P < .05 for all). These associations were attenuated in models adjusted for demographic and clinical factors, almost entirely due to adjustment for female gender. In multivariable-adjusted analyses, there were no statistically significant associations of processed meat intake or frequency of fast-food consumption with serum phosphorus. In contrast, each serving per day higher soda intake was associated with 0.02 mg/dL lower serum phosphorus concentration (95% confidence interval, -0.04, -0.01). Greater intake of foods commonly enriched with phosphorus additives was not associated with higher serum phosphorus concentration in a community-living sample with largely preserved kidney function. These results suggest that excess intake of processed and fast foods may not impact fasting serum phosphorus concentrations among individuals without kidney disease. Copyright © 2012 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. All rights reserved.

Isotretinoin kinetics after 80 to 320 mg oral doses.

PubMed

Colburn, W A; Gibson, D M

1985-04-01

Twelve healthy male subjects received 80, 160, 240, and 320 mg doses of oral isotretinoin as multiples of 40 mg capsules separated by 2-week washout periods in a randomized, crossover design. Blood samples were drawn at specific times over a 72-hour period after dosing. Blood concentrations of isotretinoin as well as its major metabolite, 4-oxo-isotretinoin, were determined by a specific HPLC method. In addition to the normal laboratory battery of tests, serum triglyceride levels were determined before the first dose and again 72 hours after each of the four doses. Mean (+/- SD) maximum concentrations after 80 to 320 mg doses were 366 +/- 159, 820 +/- 474, 1056 +/- 547, and 981 +/- 381 ng/ml, whereas the respective AUC0-infinity values were 3690 +/- 1280, 7030 +/- 4140, 9780 +/- 6080, and 9040 +/- 2900 ng X hr/ml. The observed apparent elimination t1/2 remained approximately the same (14.7 hours) for each dose. The maximum concentration and AUC values for isotretinoin appear to be dose proportional from 80 to 240 mg but plateau at the 320 mg dose level. Therefore, because isotretinoin blood concentrations may not increase with higher doses in the fasting state, single, oral doses in excess of 240 mg should be used with caution. The data also suggest that elevated triglyceride levels are not a simple function of isotretinoin blood concentrations across the entire study population and dose range studied, but that in subjects with triglyceride levels in excess of the normal range triglyceride levels were positively related to isotretinoin blood concentrations.

Effects of polymorphisms in endothelial nitric oxide synthase and folate metabolizing genes on the concentration of serum nitrate, folate, and plasma total homocysteine after folic acid supplementation: a double-blind crossover study.

PubMed

Cabo, Rona; Hernes, Sigrunn; Slettan, Audun; Haugen, Margaretha; Ye, Shu; Blomhoff, Rune; Mansoor, M Azam

2015-02-01

A number of studies have explored the effects of dietary nitrate on human health. Nitrate in the blood can be recycled to nitric oxide, which is an essential mediator involved in many important biochemical mechanisms. Nitric oxide is also formed in the body from l-arginine by nitric oxide synthase. The aim of this study was to investigate whether genetic polymorphisms in endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and genes involved in folate metabolism affect the concentration of serum nitrate, serum folate, and plasma total homocysteine in healthy individuals after folic acid supplementation. In a randomized double-blind, crossover study, participants were given either folic acid 800 μg/d (n = 52) or placebo (n = 51) for 2 wk. Wash-out period was 2 wk. Fasting blood samples were collected, DNA was extracted by salting-out method and the polymorphisms in eNOS synthase and folate genes were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction methods. Measurement of serum nitrate and plasma total homocysteine (p-tHcy) concentration was done by high-performance liquid chromatography. The concentration of serum nitrate did not change in individuals after folic acid supplements (trial 1); however, the concentration of serum nitrate increased in the same individuals after placebo (P = 0.01) (trial 2). The individuals with three polymorphisms in eNOS gene had increased concentration of serum folate and decreased concentration of p-tHcy after folic acid supplementation. Among the seven polymorphisms tested in folate metabolizing genes, serum nitrate concentration was significantly decreased only in DHFR del 19 gene variant. A significant difference in the concentration of serum nitrate was detected among individuals with MTHFR C > T677 polymorphisms. Polymorphisms in eNOS and folate genes affect the concentration of serum folate and p-tHcy but do not have any effect on the concentration of NO3 in healthy individuals after folic acid supplementation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Atomoxetine pharmacokinetics in healthy Chinese subjects and effect of the CYP2D6*10 allele.

PubMed

Cui, Yi M; Teng, Choo H; Pan, Alan X; Yuen, Eunice; Yeo, Kwee P; Zhou, Ying; Zhao, Xia; Long, Amanda J; Bangs, Mark E; Wise, Stephen D

2007-10-01

To characterize atomoxetine pharmacokinetics, explore the effect of the homozygous CYP2D6*10 genotype on atomoxetine pharmacokinetics and evaluate the tolerability of atomoxetine, in healthy Chinese subjects. Twenty-four subjects, all CYP2D6 extensive metabolizers (EM), were randomized to receive atomoxetine (40 mg qd for 3 days, then 80 mg qd for 7 days) or matching placebo (2 : 1 ratio) in a double-blind fashion. Atomoxetine serum concentrations were measured following single (40 mg) and multiple (80 mg) doses. Adverse events, clinical safety laboratory data and vital signs were assessed during the study. Atomoxetine was rapidly absorbed with median time to maximum serum concentrations of approximately 1.5 h after single and multiple doses. Atomoxetine concentrations appeared to decrease monoexponentially with a mean apparent terminal half-life (t(1/2)) of approximately 4 h. The apparent clearance, apparent volume of distribution and t(1/2) following single and multiple doses were similar, suggesting linear pharmacokinetics with respect to time. Homozygous CYP2D6*10 subjects had 50% lower clearances compared with other EM subjects, resulting in twofold higher mean exposures. No clinically significant changes or abnormalities were noted in laboratory data and vital signs. The pharmacokinetics of atomoxetine in healthy Chinese subjects appears comparable to other ethnic populations. Multiple dosing of 80 mg qd atomoxetine was well tolerated in this study.

Combined effect of Lactobacillus acidophilus and β-cyclodextrin on serum cholesterol in pigs.

PubMed

Alonso, L; Fontecha, J; Cuesta, P

2016-01-14

A total of twenty-four Yorkshire gilt pigs of 6-7 weeks of age were used in a 2×2 factorial experiment to determine the individual and combined effects of the inclusion of two dietary factors (cholesterol rich, 3% β-cyclodextrin (BCD) and Lactobacillus acidophilus cultures) on total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol levels in blood serum. Pigs were assigned randomly to treatment groups (n 6). Total serum cholesterol concentrations decreased after 3 weeks in all the experimental treatment groups, including diets with BCD, L. acidophilus or both. Similar trends were observed for serum LDL-cholesterol concentrations among the experimental treatments. No statistically significant differences from the control group were observed in either total serum cholesterol or LDL-cholesterol concentrations (P<0·05) for each of the individual treatment groups: BCD or L. acidophilus. However, significant differences in total serum cholesterol concentrations were observed when comparing the combined treatment group (BCD and L. acidophilus) with the control group, which consisted of a basal diet and sterile milk. The combined treatment group exhibited 17·9% lower total serum cholesterol concentration after 3 weeks. Similar significant differences were observed when comparing the combined effect experimental group with the control group after 3 weeks. The combined treatment group exhibited 27·9% lower serum LDL-cholesterol concentrations.

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 concentrations or serum lipid profiles. These results also suggest that concentrations of Cr in hair, serum, and urine are valid biological indices of industrial exposure to Cr III.

Serum paraquat concentration detected by spectrophotometry in patients with paraquat poisoning

PubMed Central

Li, Chang-bin; Li, Xin-hua; Wang, Zhen; Jiang, Cheng-hua; Peng, Ai

2011-01-01

BACKGROUND: Paraquat (PQ) is a world-wide used herbicide and also a type of common poison for suicide and accidental poisoning. Numerous studies have proved that the concentration of serum PQ plays an important role in prognosis. Spectrophotometry, including common spectrophotometry and second-derivative spectrophotometry, is commonly used for PQ detection in primary hospitals. So far, lack of systematic research on the reliability of the method and the correlation between clinical features of patients with PQ poisoning and the test results has restricted the clinical use of spectrophotometry. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and value of spectrophotometry in detecting the concentration of serum PQ. METHODS: The wavelengths for detecting the concentration of serum PQ by common and second-derivative spectrophotometry were determined. Second-derivative spectrophotometry was applied to detect the concentration of serum PQ. The linear range and precision for detection of PQ concentration by this method were confirmed. The concentration of serum PQ shown by second-derivative spectrophotometry and HPLC were compared in 8 patients with PQ poisoning. Altogether 21 patients with acute poisoning 4 hours after PQ ingestion treated in the period of October 2008 to September 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into higher and lower than 1.8 μg/mL groups based on their concentrations of serum PQ measured by second-derivative spectrophotometry on admission. The severity of clinical manifestations between the two groups were analyzed with Student's t test or Fisher's exact test. RESULTS: The absorption peak of 257 nm could not be found when common spectrophotometry was used to detect the PQ concentration in serum. The calibration curve in the 0.4–8.0 μg/mL range for PQ concentration shown by second-derivative spectrophotometry obeyed Beer's law with r=0.996. The average recovery rates of PQ were within a range of 95.0% to 99.5%, relative standard deviation (RSD) was within 1.35% to 5.41% (n=6), and the lower detection limit was 0.05 μg/mL. The PQ concentrations in serum of 8 patients with PQ poisoning shown by second-derivative spectrophotometry were consistent with the quantitative determinations by HPLC (r=0.995, P<0.0001). The survival rate was 22.2% in patients whose PQ concentration in serum was more than 1.8 μg/mL, and the incidences of acidosis, oliguria and pneumomediastinum in these patients were 55.6%, 55.6% and 77.8%, respectively. These clinical manifestations were different significantly from those of the patients whose PQ concentration in serum was less than 1.8 μg/mL (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: For common spectrophotometry, the wavelength at 257 nm was not suitable for detecting serum PQ as no absorbance was shown. Second-derivative spectrophotometry was reliable for detecting serum paraquat concentration. Serum PQ concentration detected by second-derivative spectrophotometry could be used to predict the severity of clinical manifestations of patients with PQ poisoning, and PQ content higher than 1.8 μg/mL 4 hours after ingestion could be an important predictive factor for poor prognosis. PMID:25215006

Pharmacokinetics of Rifampin in Peruvian Tuberculosis Patients with and without Comorbid Diabetes or HIV

PubMed Central

Davies, Geraint; Ardrey, Alison; Jave, Oswaldo; López-Romero, Sonia L.; Ward, Stephen A.; Moore, David A. J.

2012-01-01

For drug-compliant patients, poor responses to tuberculosis (TB) treatment might be attributable to subtherapeutic drug concentrations. An impaired absorption of rifampin was previously reported for patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) or HIV. The objectives of this study were to determine whether TB drug pharmacokinetics differed in Peruvian TB patients with DM or HIV. In this cross-sectional study, TB patients, recruited from health centers in Lima, Peru, had blood samples taken at 2 and 6 h after directly observed TB drug ingestion, to determine plasma concentrations of rifampin. Of 105 patients, 50 had TB without a comorbidity, 26 had coexistent DM, and 29 had coexistent HIV. Unexpectedly, the overall median 2- and 6-h levels of rifampin were 1.6 and 3.2 mg/liter, respectively, and the time to the peak concentration was 6 h (slow absorber) instead of 2 h (fast absorber) for 61 patients (62.2%). The geometric mean peak concentration of drug in serum (Cmax) was significantly higher in fast absorbers than in slow absorbers (5.0 versus 3.8 mg/liter; P = 0.05). The rifampin Cmax was significantly lower in male patients than in female patients (3.3 versus 6.3 mg/liter; P < 0.001). Neither slow nor fast absorbers with comorbidities (DM or HIV) had significantly different Cmax results compared to those of TB patients without comorbidities. An analysis of variance regression analysis showed that female gender (P < 0.001) and the time to maximum concentration of drug in serum (Tmax) at 2 h (P = 0.012) were independently correlated with increased exposure to rifampin. Most of this Peruvian study population exhibited rifampin pharmacokinetics different from those conventionally reported, with delayed absorption and low plasma concentrations, independent of the presence of an HIV or DM comorbidity. PMID:22330931

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.

Serum concentrations of symmetric dimethylarginine and creatinine in cats with kidney stones.

PubMed

Hall, Jean A; Yerramilli, Maha; Obare, Edward; Li, Jun; Yerramilli, Murthy; Jewell, Dennis E

2017-01-01

Serum concentrations of symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) correlate with renal function in cats and SDMA has been shown to be a more reliable and earlier marker for chronic kidney disease (CKD) compared with serum creatinine (Cr). Calcium oxalate uroliths tend to develop in mid-to-older aged cats and kidney stones may cause a reduction in renal function with increased SDMA, but normal serum Cr. The purpose of this retrospective study was to determine if cats with kidney stones had increased serum SDMA concentrations, and whether SDMA increased earlier than serum creatinine concentrations. Cats in the colony with kidney stones diagnosed between August 2010 and December 2015 (n = 43) were compared with healthy geriatric cats (n = 21) without kidney stones. Serum SDMA concentrations were determined by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and serum Cr concentrations were determined by enzymatic colorimetry. Cats with kidney stones were diagnosed antemortem by radiographic imaging (n = 12) or by postmortem necropsy (n = 31). Retrospectively, serum SDMA was found to be increased above the upper reference limit in 39 of 43 cats with kidney stones. Serum Cr was increased above the upper reference limit in 18 of 43 cats; 6 of these 18 cats had terminal azotemia only. The mean time that serum SDMA was increased before serum Cr was increased was 26.9 months (range 0 to 60 months). Kidney stones were composed of calcium oxalate in 30 of 34 cats. The lifespan for cats with kidney stones (mean, 12.5 years; range, 6.1 to 18.1 years) was shorter (P < 0.001) than for control cats (mean, 15.2 years; range, 13.0 to 17.2 years), suggesting that non-obstructive kidney stones have an effect on mortality rate or rate of CKD progression. In conclusion, if SDMA concentrations are elevated in mid-to-older aged cats, further imaging studies are warranted to check for the presence of kidney stones.

Serum concentrations of symmetric dimethylarginine and creatinine in cats with kidney stones

PubMed Central

Hall, Jean A.; Yerramilli, Maha; Obare, Edward; Li, Jun; Yerramilli, Murthy; Jewell, Dennis E.

2017-01-01

Serum concentrations of symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) correlate with renal function in cats and SDMA has been shown to be a more reliable and earlier marker for chronic kidney disease (CKD) compared with serum creatinine (Cr). Calcium oxalate uroliths tend to develop in mid-to-older aged cats and kidney stones may cause a reduction in renal function with increased SDMA, but normal serum Cr. The purpose of this retrospective study was to determine if cats with kidney stones had increased serum SDMA concentrations, and whether SDMA increased earlier than serum creatinine concentrations. Cats in the colony with kidney stones diagnosed between August 2010 and December 2015 (n = 43) were compared with healthy geriatric cats (n = 21) without kidney stones. Serum SDMA concentrations were determined by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and serum Cr concentrations were determined by enzymatic colorimetry. Cats with kidney stones were diagnosed antemortem by radiographic imaging (n = 12) or by postmortem necropsy (n = 31). Retrospectively, serum SDMA was found to be increased above the upper reference limit in 39 of 43 cats with kidney stones. Serum Cr was increased above the upper reference limit in 18 of 43 cats; 6 of these 18 cats had terminal azotemia only. The mean time that serum SDMA was increased before serum Cr was increased was 26.9 months (range 0 to 60 months). Kidney stones were composed of calcium oxalate in 30 of 34 cats. The lifespan for cats with kidney stones (mean, 12.5 years; range, 6.1 to 18.1 years) was shorter (P < 0.001) than for control cats (mean, 15.2 years; range, 13.0 to 17.2 years), suggesting that non-obstructive kidney stones have an effect on mortality rate or rate of CKD progression. In conclusion, if SDMA concentrations are elevated in mid-to-older aged cats, further imaging studies are warranted to check for the presence of kidney stones. PMID:28384169

Serum Concentrations of Leptin and Adiponectin in Dogs with Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease.

PubMed

Kim, H-S; Kang, J-H; Jeung, E-B; Yang, M-P

2016-09-01

The concentrations of circulating adipokines in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) have not been investigated in detail. To determine whether serum concentrations of adipokines differ between healthy dogs and dogs with MMVD and whether circulating concentrations depend on the severity of heart failure resulting from MMVD. In the preliminary study, 30 healthy dogs and 17 client-owned dogs with MMVD, and in the subsequent study, 30 healthy dogs and 46 client-owned dogs with MMVD. Prospective case-controlled observational study. In the preliminary study, serum concentrations of leptin, adiponectin, resistin, visfatin, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-18, and tumor necrosis factor-α were measured. In the subsequent study, MMVD dogs were divided into three groups according to the International Small Animal Cardiac Health Council (ISACHC) classification, and serum concentrations of leptin and adiponectin were measured. In the preliminary study, serum leptin and adiponectin concentrations differed significantly between dogs with MMVD and healthy dogs. Serum leptin (P = .0013) concentrations were significantly higher in dogs with MMVD than in healthy dogs, whereas adiponectin (P = .0009) concentrations were significantly lower in dogs with MMVD. However, we observed no significant differences in the other variables. In the subsequent study, dogs classified as ISACHC class 3 had higher serum concentrations of leptin (P = .0022) than healthy dogs but ISACHC class 1 or 2 dogs did not. Serum adiponectin concentrations were significantly lower in ISACHC class 1 (P < .0001) dogs than in healthy dogs, whereas adiponectin concentrations in ISACHC class 3 dogs were significantly higher than in ISACHC class 1 dogs (P = .0081). Circulating concentrations of leptin and adiponectin might be altered in dogs with MMVD. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

Effects of vitamin D and calcium supplementation on side effects profile in patients of breast cancer treated with letrozole.

PubMed

Arul Vijaya Vani, S; Ananthanarayanan, P H; Kadambari, D; Harichandrakumar, K T; Niranjjan, R; Nandeesha, H

2016-08-01

Vitamin D deficiency (<10ng/mL) and insufficiency (10-30ng/mL) may contribute to musculoskeletal symptoms observed in patients taking letrozole. This study was undertaken to assess the vitamin D status in breast cancer patients who received letrozole for >2months and to see the effects of vitamin D3 and calcium supplementation on them. Eighty-two breast cancer patients were included. Baseline serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D concentrations were assayed and standard questionnaire was completed. They were given vitamin D3 and calcium supplementation (2000IU/1000 mg and 4000IU/1000mg) based on their baseline serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D concentration for 12weeks. Baseline serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D concentrations showed that 13.4% of patients were deficient and 73.2% of patients were insufficient in 25-hydroxy vitamin D. There was an increase in the concentrations of calcium, phosphorus and decrease in the concentrations of parathyroid hormone, alkaline phosphatase as the concentration of serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D increases. Patients who received letrozole for a longer duration had a low concentration of serum 25 (OH) vitamin D. Vitamin D3 and calcium supplementation increased the concentrations of calcium, phosphorous and decreased the concentrations of parathyroid hormone and alkaline phosphatase. Patients who had low serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D concentrations had more musculoskeletal symptoms which was improved following supplementation (9.14 vs 8.10 p=0.000). Vitamin D3 supplementation significantly improved serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D concentrations and decreased letrozole-induced arthralgia. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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.

Polybrominated diphenyl ether serum concentrations in a Californian population of children, their parents, and older adults: an exposure assessment study

EPA Science Inventory

BackgroundPolybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are used as flame retardants in many household items. Given concerns over their potential adverse health effects, we identified predictors and evaluated temporal changes of PBDE serum concentrations.MethodsPBDE serum concentrations...

Enoxacin penetration into human prostatic tissue.

PubMed Central

Bergeron, M G; Roy, R; Lessard, C; Foucault, P

1988-01-01

Concurrent enoxacin concentrations in serum and prostatic tissue were determined in 14 patients. The mean ratios of enoxacin concentration in tissue over concentration in serum were 1.4 +/- 0.2 (standard error of the mean). The levels in serum and prostatic tissue were above the MICs for most urinary pathogens. PMID:3196004

Serum concentrations and effects of gabapentin and vigabatrin: observations from a dose titration study.

PubMed

Lindberger, Martin; Luhr, Owe; Johannessen, Svein I; Larsson, Sirkku; Tomson, Torbjörn

2003-08-01

To explore possible concentration-effect relationships, gabapentin (GBP) and vigabatrin (VGB) serum concentrations were obtained from patients participating in an add-on dose-titration trial comparing GBP and VGB in partial epilepsy. Patients randomized to GBP started on 1800 mg/d and could have their dosage increased stepwise to 2400 and 3600 mg/d if seizures persisted. Those randomised to VGB started on 1000 mg/d, and the dose could be increased to 2000 and 4000 mg/d. Blood samples were obtained at steady state, at a nonstandardized time, from 27 patients randomized to GBP and from 36 randomized to VGB. Serum samples were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography. The treatment effect was expressed as percentage reduction in number of seizures from baseline. In addition, patients were classified as responders (>50% reduction in number of seizures from baseline) or nonresponders. There was no significant correlation between serum concentrations of GBP and seizure reduction at the lowest dosage, 1800 mg/d (r = -0.02, P = 0.94, Spearman-rank), nor between VGB serum levels and seizure reduction at 1000 mg/d of VGB (r = -0.14, P = 0.44). The serum GBP concentrations among responders to GBP 1800 mg/d were 26 +/- 12 micro mol/L (mean +/- SD), which was not different from serum concentrations in nonresponders, 28+/-13 micro mol/L. Nor was there a difference between serum concentrations of responders and nonresponders to VGB 1000 mg/d (32 +/- 23 and 44 +/- 36 micro mol/L, respectively). Hence, with the present study design we were unable to identify specific target ranges of GBP and VGB serum concentrations.

Serum concentrations of cholesterol, apolipoprotein A-I, and apolipoprotein B in a total of 1 694 meat-eaters, fish-eaters, vegetarians, and vegans

PubMed Central

Bradbury, Kathryn E; Crowe, Francesca L; Appleby, Paul N; Schmidt, Julie A; Travis, Ruth C; Key, Timothy J

2013-01-01

BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to describe serum lipid concentrations, including apolipoproteins A-I and B, in different diet groups. METHODS A cross-sectional analysis of a sample of 424 meat-eaters, 425 fish-eaters, 423 vegetarians, and 422 vegans, matched on sex and age, from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC)-Oxford cohort. Serum concentrations of total, and HDL cholesterol, as well as apolipoproteins A-I and B were measured, and serum non-HDL cholesterol was calculated. RESULTS Vegans had the lowest BMI, and the highest and lowest intakes of polyunsaturated and saturated fat, respectively. After adjustment for age, alcohol and physical activity, compared to meat-eaters, fish-eaters and vegetarians, serum concentrations of total and non-HDL cholesterol, and apolipoprotein B were significantly lower in vegans. Serum apolipoprotein A-I concentrations did not differ between the diet groups. In males, the mean serum total cholesterol concentration was 0.87 nmol/L lower in vegans than in meat-eaters; after further adjustment for BMI this difference was 0.76 nmol/L. In females, the difference in total cholesterol between these two groups was 0.60 nmol/L, and after further adjustment for BMI was 0.55 nmol/L. CONCLUSIONS In this study, which included a large number of vegans, serum total cholesterol and apolipoprotein B concentrations were lower in vegans compared to meat-eaters, fish-eaters and vegetarians. A small proportion of the observed differences in serum lipid concentrations was explained by differences in BMI, but a large proportion is most likely due to diet. PMID:24346473

Serum concentrations of cholesterol, apolipoprotein A-I and apolipoprotein B in a total of 1694 meat-eaters, fish-eaters, vegetarians and vegans.

PubMed

Bradbury, K E; Crowe, F L; Appleby, P N; Schmidt, J A; Travis, R C; Key, T J

2014-02-01

The objective of this study was to describe serum lipid concentrations, including apolipoproteins A-I and B, in different diet groups. A cross-sectional analysis of a sample of 424 meat-eaters, 425 fish-eaters, 423 vegetarians and 422 vegans, matched on sex and age, from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition-Oxford cohort. Serum concentrations of total, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, as well as apolipoproteins A-I and B were measured, and serum non-HDL cholesterol was calculated. Vegans had the lowest body mass index (BMI) and the highest and lowest intakes of polyunsaturated and saturated fat, respectively. After adjustment for age, alcohol and physical activity, compared with meat-eaters, fish-eaters and vegetarians, serum concentrations of total and non-HDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B were significantly lower in vegans. Serum apolipoprotein A-I concentrations did not differ between the diet groups. In males, the mean serum total cholesterol concentration was 0.87 mmol/l lower in vegans than in meat-eaters; after further adjustment for BMI this difference was 0.76 mmol/l. In females, the difference in total cholesterol between these two groups was 0.6 mmol/l, and after further adjustment for BMI was 0.55 mmol/l. [corrected]. In this study, which included a large number of vegans, serum total cholesterol and apolipoprotein B concentrations were lower in vegans compared with meat-eaters, fish-eaters and vegetarians. A small proportion of the observed differences in serum lipid concentrations was explained by differences in BMI, but a large proportion is most likely due to diet.

Early Serum Gut Hormone Concentrations Associated with Time to Full Enteral Feedings in Preterm Infants.

PubMed

Shanahan, Kristen H; Yu, Xinting; Miller, Laura G; Freedman, Steven D; Martin, Camilia R

2018-04-03

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate early postnatal serum gut hormone concentrations in preterm infants as predictors of time to full enteral feedings. The secondary objective was to identify infant characteristics and nutritional factors that modulate serum gut hormone concentrations and time to full enteral feedings. Sixty-four preterm infants less than 30 weeks of gestation were included in this retrospective cohort study. Serum gut hormone concentrations at postnatal days 0 and 7 were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Linear regression and mediation analyses were performed. Median (IQR) serum concentrations of glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) and peptide YY (PYY) on postnatal day 7 were 31.3 pg/mL (18.2, 52.3) and 1181.7 pg/mL (859.0, 1650.2), respectively. GIP and PYY concentrations on day 7 were associated with days to full enteral feedings after adjustment for confounders (β = -1.1, p = 0.03; and β = -0.002, p = 0.02, respectively). Nutritional intake was correlated with serum concentrations of GIP and PYY on postnatal day 7 and time to full enteral feedings. Mediation analysis revealed that the effect of serum gut hormone concentrations on time to full enteral feedings was not fully explained by nutritional intake. Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), mechanical ventilation on postnatal day 7, and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) treated with indomethacin were associated with longer time to full enteral feedings. Serum concentrations of GIP and PYY on postnatal 7 are independently associated with time to full enteral feedings. The link between serum gut hormone concentrations and time to full enteral feedings is not fully mediated by nutritional factors, suggesting an independent mechanism underlying the influence of gut hormones on feeding tolerance and time to full enteral feedings.

Serum and peritoneal fluid concentrations of soluble human leukocyte antigen, tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin 10 in patients with selected ovarian pathologies.

PubMed

Sipak-Szmigiel, Olimpia; Włodarski, Piotr; Ronin-Walknowska, Elżbieta; Niedzielski, Andrzej; Karakiewicz, Beata; Słuczanowska-Głąbowska, Sylwia; Laszczyńska, Maria; Malinowski, Witold

2017-04-04

Although immune system plays a key role in the pathogenesis of both endometriosis and ovarian cancer, its function is different. Therefore, we hypothesized, that selected immune parameters can serve as diagnostic markers of these two conditions. The aim of this study was to compare serum and peritoneal fluid concentrations of sHLA-G, IL-10 and TNF-alpha in women with selected ovarian pathologies: benign serous cysts, endometrioma and malignant tumors. Clinical significance of using them for diagnostic purposes in women with serous ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and ovarian cancer, which in the future may improve the early diagnosis of ovarian diseases. The study included women treated surgically for benign serous ovarian cysts, ovarian endometrioma and serous ovarian adenocarcinomas. Peripheral blood and peritoneal fluid samples were obtained intraoperatively. Patients with benign serous cysts, endometrioma and ovarian malignancies did not differ significantly in terms of their serum and peritoneal fluid concentrations of sHLA-G. Ovarian cancer patients presented with significantly higher median serum concentrations of IL-10 and TNF-alpha than other study subjects. Median concentrations of IL-10 and TNF-alpha in peritoneal fluid turned out to be the highest in ovarian cancer patients, followed by women with endometrioma and subjects with benign serous cysts. All these intergroup differences were statistically significant. Irrespective of the group, median concentrations of sHLA-G, IL-10 and TNF-alpha in peritoneal fluid were higher than serum levels of these markers. Elevated serum and peritoneal fluid concentrations of IL-10 and TNF-alpha distinguish ovarian malignancies and endometriomas from benign serous ovarian cysts. In contrast to endometriosis, ovarian malignancies are characterized by elevated peritoneal fluid concentrations of IL-10 and TNF-alpha, elevated serum concentrations of IL-10 and low serum levels of TNF-alpha. Serum and peritoneal fluid concentrations of sHLA-G have no diagnostic value in differentiating between ovarian malignancies and endometriomas.

Hyperferritinemia in Dogs with Splenic Hemangiosarcoma

PubMed Central

CHIKAZAWA, Seishiro; HORI, Yasutomo; HOSHI, Fumio; KANAI, Kazutaka; ITO, Naoyuki; HIGUCHI, Seiichi

2013-01-01

ABSTRACT Serum ferritin concentration increases in dogs in association with various diseases. In this study, we measured serum ferritin levels in dogs with splenic masses, using a sandwich ELISA assay. Eleven dogs with hemangiosarcoma (HSA), six with hematoma, 1 with hemangioma and 3 with lymphoma were enrolled. All dogs with HSA had serum ferritin concentrations above the normal limit (1,357 ng/ml, mean + 2× standard deviation of normal). Increased serum ferritin concentrations have also been observed in few cases of hematoma, hemangioma and lymphoma. Therefore, hyperferritinemia is not specific for splenic HSA, but may have clinical usefulness as a sensitive test for the disease. Further evaluation of serum ferritin concentrations in dogs with splenic HSA is needed. PMID:23803459

Hyperferritinemia in dogs with splenic hemangiosarcoma.

PubMed

Chikazawa, Seishiro; Hori, Yasutomo; Hoshi, Fumio; Kanai, Kazutaka; Ito, Naoyuki; Higuchi, Seiichi

2013-11-01

Serum ferritin concentration increases in dogs in association with various diseases. In this study, we measured serum ferritin levels in dogs with splenic masses, using a sandwich ELISA assay. Eleven dogs with hemangiosarcoma (HSA), six with hematoma, 1 with hemangioma and 3 with lymphoma were enrolled. All dogs with HSA had serum ferritin concentrations above the normal limit (1,357 ng/ml, mean + 2× standard deviation of normal). Increased serum ferritin concentrations have also been observed in few cases of hematoma, hemangioma and lymphoma. Therefore, hyperferritinemia is not specific for splenic HSA, but may have clinical usefulness as a sensitive test for the disease. Further evaluation of serum ferritin concentrations in dogs with splenic HSA is needed.

Increased macrophage colony-stimulating factor levels in patients with Graves' disease.

PubMed

Morishita, Eriko; Sekiya, Akiko; Hayashi, Tomoe; Kadohira, Yasuko; Maekawa, Mio; Yamazaki, Masahide; Asakura, Hidesaku; Nakao, Shinji; Ohtake, Shigeki

2008-10-01

Previous studies have found markedly elevated serum concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines in patients with Graves' disease (GD). We investigated the role of macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) in GD. We assayed concentrations of M-CSF in sera from 32 patients with GD (25 untreated; 7 receiving thiamazole therapy). We also studied 32 age-matched healthy subjects as controls. Relationships between serum M-CSF and both thyroid state and serum lipids were examined. Moreover, to examine the effect of thyroid hormone alone on serum M-CSF, T3 was administered orally to normal subjects. Serum concentrations of M-CSF in GD patients who were hyperthyroid were significantly increased compared with GD patients who were euthyroid (P < 0.05) and control subjects (P < 0.0001). Serum M-CSF concentrations correlated closely with T3 levels in patients (r = 0.51, P < 0.005). Serial measurement of five individual patients revealed that serum concentrations of M-CSF were significantly decreased (P < 0.05), reaching normal control values upon attainment of euthyroidism. Furthermore, oral T3 administered to 15 volunteers for 7 days produced significant increases in serum levels of M-CSF (P < 0.05). The close correlation between serum M-CSF and serum thyroid hormone levels suggests that high circulating levels of thyroid hormones may directly or indirectly potentiate the production of M-CSF in patients with GD.

Chemerin serum levels in girls with anorexia nervosa.

PubMed

Oświecimska, Joanna M; Ziora, Katarzyna T; Suwała, Andrzej; Swietochowska, Elzbieta; Gorczyca, Piotr; Ziora-Jakutowicz, Karolina; Machura, Edyta; Szczepańska, Maria; Ostrowska, Zofia; Ziora, Dariusz; Szalecki, Mieczysław; Stojewska, Małgorzata; Matusik, Paweł; Małecka-Tendera, Ewa

2014-01-01

The regulatory function of chemerin (CHEM) in the process of adipogenesis and the metabolism of adipocytes has been confirmed. Data from several studies have shown higher serum CHEM in obesity. To date, there are no available studies on serum CHEM concentrations in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN), which is recognized as a good biological model of the chronic atrophy of adipose tissue and energy metabolism disorders in humans. The aim of the study was to assess serum CHEM concentrations in girls with AN in comparison to healthy and obese subjects and determine its relationship with body mass, BMI and insulin. CHEM serum concentrations were evaluated using commercially available ELISA kit in 65 Polish girls with restrictive AN, in 39 healthy controls (H) and 64 girls with simple obesity (OB). The mean serum CHEM concentration in the AN group was significantly lower than in the H and OB groups. After adjusting for BMI, CHEM concentrations in the AN group were significantly lower than in the H group, but statistically higher than in the OB group. Significant correlations between serum CHEM and body mass (r=0.77), BMI (r=0.82), Cole index (r=0.81) and serum insulin (r=0.78) were observed.

[Double-antigen sandwich ELISA for detecting Aspergillus fumigatus anti-Afmp1cr and Afmp2cr antibodies].

PubMed

Yang, Mei; Wang, Zhuoya; Hao, Wei; Wang, Yanfang; Huang, Li; Cai, Jianpiao; Jiang, Lingxiao; Che, Xiaoyan; Zhong, Xiaozhu; Yu, Nan

2014-05-01

To establish two double-antigen sandwich ELISA systems to detect anti-Afmp1cr and Afmp2cr antibodies of Aspergillus fumigatus. Recombinant Afmp1cr and Afmp2cr proteins of A.fumigatus expressed in Pichia pastoris were obtained. Double-antigen sandwich ELISA systems for detecting specific anti-Afmp1cr and anti-Afmp2cr antibodies were developed after chessboard titrating to determine the appropriate concentrations of the recombinant proteins and HRP-labeled proteins. The sensitivity of the assay was evaluated using serum samples of rabbits immunized with Afmp1cr and Afmp2cr. The specificity of the assay was evaluated by detecting serum samples from healthy donors and patients with other pathogenic fungal and baterial infections. The performance of the two ELISA kits was furthered evaluated using serum samples from patients with suspected Aspergillus infection. The established ELISA kits were capable of detecting anti-Afmp1cr and anti-Afmp2cr antibodies in immunized rabbit serum at the maximum dilutions of 800 and 3200, respectively. No cross-reactivity was observed in detecting serum from patients with other pathogenic fungal or bactetial infections. Both of the two kits yielded positive results in sera from two established Aspergillus-infected cases and a suspected case. Two antibody-capture ELISA kits were developed for the laboratory diagnosis of A.fumigatus infection and can be potentially useful in the clinical diagnosis of Aspergillosis infections.

Pharmacokinetics (PK), Pharmacodynamics (PD), and PK-PD Integration of Danofloxacin in Sheep Biological Fluids

PubMed Central

Aliabadi, F. Shojaee; Landoni, M. F.; Lees, P.

2003-01-01

The fluoroquinolone antimicrobial drug danofloxacin was administered to sheep intravenously (i.v.) and intramuscularly (i.m.) at a dose of 1.25 mg/kg of body weight in a two-period crossover study. The pharmacokinetic properties of danofloxacin in serum, inflamed tissue cage fluid (exudate), and noninflamed tissue cage fluid (transudate) were established by using a tissue cage model. The in vitro and ex vivo activities of danofloxacin in serum, exudate, and transudate against a pathogenic strain of Mannheimia haemolytica were established. Integration of in vivo pharmacokinetic data with the in vitro MIC provided mean values for the area under the curve (AUC)/MIC for serum, exudate, and transudate of 60.5, 85.6, and 45.7 h, respectively, after i.v. dosing and 55.9, 77.9, and 49.1 h, respectively, after i.m. dosing. After i.m. dosing, the maximum concentration/MIC ratios for serum, exudate, and transudate were 10.8, 3.0, and 1.6, respectively. The ex vivo growth inhibition data after i.m. dosing were fitted to the inhibitory sigmoid Emax equation to provide the values of AUC/MIC required to produce bacteriostasis, bactericidal activity, and elimination of bacteria. The respective values for serum were 17.8, 20.2, and 28.7 h, and slightly higher values were obtained for transudate and exudate. It is proposed that use of these data might provide a novel approach to the rational design of dosage schedules. PMID:12543670

Phase I safety, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic study of the thrombospondin-1-mimetic angiogenesis inhibitor ABT-510 in patients with advanced cancer.

PubMed

Hoekstra, Ronald; de Vos, Filip Y F L; Eskens, Ferry A L M; Gietema, Jourik A; van der Gaast, Ate; Groen, Harry J M; Knight, Raymond A; Carr, Robert A; Humerickhouse, Rod A; Verweij, Jaap; de Vries, Elisabeth G E

2005-08-01

ABT-510 is an angiogenesis inhibitor derived from thrombospondin-1, a naturally occurring inhibitor of angiogenesis. We investigated ABT-510, which was administered subcutaneously in patients with advanced solid malignancies, to assess safety, pharmacokinetics, and serum markers of angiogenesis. ABT-510 was administered subcutaneously as a continuous infusion (100 mg/24 h) and bolus injections (100, 200, and 260 mg once daily; 50 and 100 mg twice daily) in 28-day cycles. Thirty-nine patients received a total of 144 treatment cycles. Administration by continuous infusion was hampered by the onset of painful skin infiltrates at the injection site. In the bolus injection regimens, the most common toxicities observed were mild injection-site reactions and fatigue. Maximum-tolerated dose was not defined, but 260 mg was defined as the maximum clinically practical dose. ABT-510 pharmacokinetics were linear across the dosage ranges tested, and the potential therapeutic threshold (plasma concentrations > 100 ng/mL > 3 h/d) was achieved with all dose regimens. Median serum basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) levels decreased from 14.1 pg/mL (range, 0.5 to 77.7 pg/mL) at baseline to 3.2 pg/mL (range, 0.2 to 29.4 pg/mL) after 56 days of treatment (P = .003). No correlations with time on study or ABT-510 dose or exposure were observed for individual changes in bFGF. Stable disease lasting for six cycles or more was seen in six patients. ABT-510 demonstrated a favorable toxicity profile and linear and time-independent pharmacokinetics with biologically relevant plasma concentrations. The significant number of patients with prolonged stable disease and the convenient method of dosing merit further studies with this angiogenesis inhibitor.

Effects of Different Types of Exercise on Body Composition, Muscle Strength, and IGF-1 in the Elderly with Sarcopenic Obesity.

PubMed

Chen, Hung-Ting; Chung, Yu-Chun; Chen, Yu-Jen; Ho, Sung-Yen; Wu, Huey-June

2017-04-01

To investigate the influence of resistance training (RT), aerobic training (AT), or combination training (CT) interventions on the body composition, muscle strength performance, and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) of patients with sarcopenic obesity. Randomized controlled trial. Community center and research center. Sixty men and women aged 65-75 with sarcopenic obesity. Participants were randomly assigned to RT, AT, CT, and control (CON) groups. After training twice a week for 8 weeks, the participants in each group ceased training for 4 weeks before being examined for the retention effects of the training interventions. The body composition, grip strength, maximum back extensor strength, maximum knee extensor muscle strength, and blood IGF-1 concentration were measured. The skeletal muscle mass (SMM), body fat mass, appendicular SMM/weight %, and visceral fat area (VFA) of the RT, AT, and CT groups were significantly superior to those of the CON group at both week 8 and week 12. Regarding muscle strength performance, the RT group exhibited greater grip strength at weeks 8 and 12 as well as higher knee extensor performance at week 8 than that of the other groups. At week 8, the serum IGF-1 concentration of the RT group was higher than the CON group, whereas the CT group was superior to the AT and CON groups. Older adults with sarcopenic obesity who engaged in the RT, AT, and CT interventions demonstrated increased muscle mass and reduced total fat mass and VFA compared with those without training. The muscle strength performance and serum IGF-1 level in trained groups, especially in the RT group, were superior to the control group. © 2017, Copyright the Authors Journal compilation © 2017, The American Geriatrics Society.

Association of serum omentin-1 levels with coronary artery disease

PubMed Central

Zhong, Xia; Zhang, Hai-yang; Tan, Hui; Zhou, Yi; Liu, Fu-li; Chen, Fu-qin; Shang, De-ya

2011-01-01

Aim: Omentin-1, a novel adipokine expressed in visceral adipose tissue, is negatively correlated with insulin resistance and obesity. Decreased omentin-1 expression has been found in many chronic inflammatory diseases. However, the role of omentin-1 in coronary artery disease (CAD) has not been elucidated. The aim of the present study was to determine whether serum concentration of omentin-1 was independently associated with CAD. Methods: One hundred and fifty five patients with CAD were divided into two groups: acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and stable angina pectoris (SAP). A total of 52 healthy participants served as controls. Serum concentrations of omentin-1 and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured using ELISA. The association of omentin-1 with CAD and cardiovascular disease risk factors was evaluated. Results: Serum omentin-1 levels were lower in patients with ACS or SAP compared with controls (ACS, 113.08±61.43 ng/mL; SAP, 155.41±66.89 ng/mL; control, 254.00±72.9 ng/mL; P<0.01). Patients with ACS also had lower serum concentrations of omentin-1 compared with patients with SAP (P<0.01). Serum concentration of omentin-1 was negatively correlated with body mass index (r=−0.17, P<0.05) and serum IL-6 concentration (r=−0.19, P<0.05). Furthermore, multiple logistic regression analysis showed that serum omentin-1 concentrations were independently correlated with CAD. Conclusion: The findings suggest that serum concentrations of omentin-1 are related to CAD. PMID:21602837

Pharmacokinetic study to compare the absorption and tolerability of two doses of levonorgestrel following single vaginal administration of levonorgestrel in Carraguard gel: a new formulation for "dual protection" contraception.

PubMed

Sitruk-Ware, Regine; Brache, Vivian; Maguire, Robin; Croxatto, Horacio; Kumar, Narender; Kumar, Sushma; Montero, Juan Carlos; Salvatierra, Ana Maria; Phillips, David; Faundes, Anibal

2007-06-01

The study was conducted to assess levonorgestrel (LNG) serum levels achieved after a single administration of two different doses of Carraguard vaginal gel containing LNG (CARRA/LNG), designed for use as microbicide and contraceptive for potential dual protection. This was a randomized double-blind pharmacokinetic study conducted in 12 subjects enrolled at two centers. Each subject received a single vaginal administration of CARRA/LNG containing either 0.75 or 1.5 mg LNG per 4 mL of gel on Days 10-12 of the menstrual cycle. LNG serum levels were measured at 0, 1, 2, 4, 8 and 12 h after administration and for the following 7 days. LH and progesterone (for a preliminary evaluation of effect on the ovarian function) as well as SHBG were measured in the daily samples. Serum LNG maximum concentrations (Cmax) were 14.1+/-2.1 and 11.7+/-2.7 nmol/L and Tmax was 12.0 and 6.0 h for the low and high dose, respectively, with large intersubject variability within the first 48 h. Mean levels at 96 h were 10% of Cmax. Differences in AUC between both doses were not statistically significant. SHBG levels decreased approximately 25% by Day 4 after administration. Luteal activity was observed in 3/6 and 5/6 of the subjects in the low- and high-dose group, respectively. This study demonstrates that the CARRA/LNG gel can sustain elevated serum levels of the contraceptive steroid for up to 96 h after a single application. The serum levels attained with the 0.75-mg formulation are in the range expected to perturb the ovulatory process as observed in some subjects. The lack of correlation between the administered dose and serum concentrations of the steroid may be related to a rate-limiting absorption of LNG from the vaginal mucosa. The results reported here suggest that the CARRA/LNG formulation has good potential to become a dual-protection method, possibly preventing conception and sexually transmitted infections.

Pharmacokinetic study to compare the absorption and tolerability of two doses of levonorgestrel following single vaginal administration of levonorgestrel in Carraguard® gel: a new formulation for “dual protection” contraception

PubMed Central

Sitruk-Ware, R; Brache, V; Maguire, R; Croxatto, H; Kumar, N; Kumar, S; Montero, JC; Salvatierra, AM; Phillips, D; Faundes, A

2007-01-01

Objective: The study was conducted to assess levonorgestrel (LNG) serum levels achieved after a single administration of two different doses of Carraguard vaginal gel containing LNG (CARRA/LNG), designed for use as microbicide and contraceptive for potential dual-protection. Materials and methods: This was a randomized double-blind pharmacokinetic study conducted in 12 subjects enrolled at two centers. Each subject received a single vaginal administration of CARRA/LNG containing either 0.75 or 1.5 mg LNG per 4 mL of gel on day 10-12 of the menstrual cycle. LNG serum levels were measured at 0, 1, 2, 4, 8 and 12 h after administration and for the following seven days. LH and progesterone (for a preliminary evaluation of effect on the ovarian function) as well as SHBG were measured in the daily samples. Results: Serum LNG maximum concentrations (Cmax) were 14.1 ± 5.1 and 11.7 ± 6.5 nmol/L and Tmax was 12.0 and 6.0 h for the low and high dose, respectively, with large intersubject variability within the first 48 h. Mean levels at 96 h were 10% of Cmax. Differences in AUC between both doses were not statistically significant. SHBG levels decreased approximately 25% by day 4 after administration. Luteal activity was observed in 3/6 and 5/6 of the subjects in the low and high dose group, respectively. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the CARRA/LNG gel can sustain elevated serum levels of the contraceptive steroid for up to 96 h after a single application. The serum levels attained with the 0.75 mg formulation are in the range expected to perturb the ovulatory process as observed in some subjects. The lack of correlation between the administered dose and serum concentrations of the steroid may be related to a rate-limiting absorption of LNG from the vaginal mucosa. The results reported here suggest that the CARRA/LNG formulation has good potential to become a dual-protection method, possibly preventing conception and sexually transmitted infections. PMID:17519152

DIFFERENT CONCENTRATIONS OF SIJUNZI DECOCTION INHIBIT PROLIFERATION AND INDUCE APOPTOSIS OF HUMAN GASTRIC CANCER SGC-7901 SIDE POPULATION.

PubMed

Qian, Jun; Li, Jing; Jia, Jianguang; Jin, Xin; Yu, Dajun; Guo, Chenxu; Xie, Bo; Qian, Liyu

2016-01-01

Sijunzi Decoction (SD) is a traditional Chinese medicine which is composed of Ginseng, Atractylodes, Poria and Licorice. It is one of the commonly used Chinese traditional medicines that showed anti-gastric cancer activity in clinical studies. Previous evidence demonstrated SD parties (Ginseng, Atractylodes, Poria, Licorice) can inhibit proliferation and induced apoptosis for gastric cancer cell. In order to further investigate the anticancer effect of SD in gastric cancer, we observed the effects of different concentrations of SD on proliferation and apoptosis of Side Population Cells (SP) of human gastric cancer SGC-7901. SGC-7901 SP and Non- Side Population Cells (NSP) were sorted through flow cytometry; to detect the changes of proliferation of SP and NSP before and after the intervention of serum containing different concentrations of SD using cck-8 method; to detect the changes of cell cycle and apoptosis of SP and NSP before and after the intervention of serum containing different concentrations of SD through flow cytometry; to detect the effects of serum containing different concentrations of SD on apoptosis-related proteins Bax and Bcl-2 of SP and NSP before and after the intervention by western-blot. It was found that different concentrations of SD serum treatments inhibited cell proliferation in a time-dependent and concentration-dependent manner. Compared with the control group (normal saline serum treatment), there were increase in G1/G0 phase population of SP and NSP, and decrease in G2/M and S phase population ( P <0.05). Meanwhile, we found G1/G0 arrest induced by different concentrations of SD serum which was followed by apoptosis in a time-dependent and concentration-dependent manner. The apoptosis rate of SD serum treatment group was higher than the control group ( P <0.05), the apoptosis rate of 48 h treatment was higher than 24 h treatment ( P <0.05), and as the SD serum concentration increases, apoptosis rate is higher and higher ( P <0.05). The expression of Bax protein of SP and NSP was higher than the control group in a time-dependent and concentration dependent manner. The expression of Bcl-2 protein of SP and NSP was lower than the control group in a time-dependent and concentration- dependent manner. With the increase of SD serum concentrations, SD can gradually inhibits the proliferation of SP of SGC-7901 cell lines through G1/G0 phase arrest and followed by apoptosis which involves the up-regulation of Bax and the down-regulation of Bcl-2. List of Abbreviations: (SD) Sijunzi Decoction, (SP) side population, (NSP) non-side population, (Control) normal saline serum group, (L) low concentration SD serum group, (N) normal concentration SD serum group, (H) high concentration SD serum group, (ABCG-2) Adenosine triphosphate Binding Cassette super family G member-2 of transport protein, (Bcl-2) B-cell lymphoma 2, (BAX) Bcl-2 Associated X Protein, (FBS) Fetal bovine serum, (PBS) Phosphate buffer solution, (CCK-8) Cell Counting Kit-8 reagent, (AV) Annexin V-FITC, (PI) Propidium iodide, (EDTA) Ethylene Diamine Tetraacetic Acid, (PMSF) Phenylmethanesulfonyl fluoride, (RIPA) Radio Immunoprecipitation Assay, (PVDF) Poly (vinylidene fluoride), (TBST) Tris-buffered saline containing Tween-20.

Validation of an immunoassay for canine thyroid-stimulating hormone and changes in serum concentration following induction of hypothyroidism in dogs.

PubMed

Williams, D A; Scott-Moncrieff, C; Bruner, J; Sustarsic, D; Panosian-Sahakian, N; Unver, E; el Shami, A S

1996-11-15

To validate a new immunoradiometric assay for canine thyroid-stimulating hormone (cTSH) and to document changes in serum cTSH concentration during induction of hypothyroidism in dogs. Six healthy adult male Beagles. Sensitivity, specificity, precision, and accuracy of the cTSH assay were evaluated in vitro. Hypothyroidism was induced in dogs by i.v. administration of sodium iodide I 131 solution. Subsequently, L-thyroxine was administered orally to normalize serum thyroxine concentrations. The cTSH assay appeared to be specific and was sufficiently sensitive to detect cTSH in the serum of these dogs prior to induction of hypothyroidism. There was a 35-fold increase in mean serum cTSH concentration following induction of hypothyroidism, and 35 days after initiation of thyroid replacement therapy, mean serum cTSH concentration was not significantly greater than mean baseline value. Assay of serum cTSH is likely to prove helpful in the differential diagnosis of primary, secondary, and tertiary hypothyroidism in dogs, and in monitoring response to thyroid hormone replacement treatment.

Optimal serum selenium concentrations are associated with lower depressive symptoms and negative mood among young adults.

PubMed

Conner, Tamlin S; Richardson, Aimee C; Miller, Jody C

2015-01-01

There is evidence that low, and possibly high, selenium status is associated with depressed mood. More evidence is needed to determine whether this pattern occurs in young adults with a wide range of serum concentrations of selenium. The aim of this study was to determine if serum selenium concentration is associated with depressive symptoms and daily mood states in young adults. A total of 978 young adults (aged 17-25 y) completed the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression scale and reported their negative and positive mood daily for 13 d using an Internet diary. Serum selenium concentration was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. ANCOVA and regression models tested the linear and curvilinear associations between decile of serum selenium concentration and mood outcomes, controlling for age, gender, ethnicity, BMI, and weekly alcohol intake. Smoking and childhood socioeconomic status were further controlled in a subset of participants. The mean ± SD serum selenium concentration was 82 ± 18 μg/L and ranged from 49 to 450 μg/L. Participants with the lowest serum selenium concentration (62 ± 4 μg/L; decile 1) and, to a lesser extent, those with the highest serum selenium concentration (110 ± 38 μg/L; decile 10) had significantly greater adjusted depressive symptoms than did participants with midrange serum selenium concentrations (82 ± 1 to 85 ± 1 μg/L; deciles 6 and 7). Depressive symptomatology was lowest at a selenium concentration of ∼85 μg/L. Patterns for negative mood were similar but more U-shaped. Positive mood showed an inverse U-shaped association with selenium, but this pattern was less consistent than depressive symptoms or negative mood. In young adults, an optimal range of serum selenium between ∼82 and 85 μg/L was associated with reduced risk of depressive symptomatology. This range approximates the values at which glutathione peroxidase is maximal, suggesting that future research should investigate antioxidant pathways linking selenium to mood. This trial was registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry as ACTRN12613000773730. © 2015 American Society for Nutrition.

Serum alpha1 -proteinase inhibitor concentrations in dogs with systemic inflammatory response syndrome or sepsis.

PubMed

Heilmann, Romy M; Grützner, Niels; Thames, Brittany E; Steiner, Jörg M; Barr, James W

2017-11-01

To determine whether the concentration of serum canine alpha 1 -proteinase inhibitor (cα 1 -PI) has diagnostic or prognostic utility in dogs with sepsis or noninfectious systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). Prospective, observational study from May to December 2010. University teaching hospital ICU. Sixty-nine client-owned dogs: 19 dogs with SIRS or sepsis and 50 healthy control dogs. None. Serum and plasma samples were collected from dogs with SIRS or sepsis on the day of hospital admission and once on the following 2 days, and on a single day in healthy controls. Patients were assessed using the 10-parameter Acute Patient Physiologic and Laboratory Evaluation (APPLE full ) and 5-parameter (APPLE fast ) score. Serum cα 1 -PI concentrations were measured, compared among groups of dogs, and evaluated for a correlation with the concentration of serum C-reactive protein, plasma interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, the APPLE scores, and survival to discharge. Serum cα 1 -PI concentrations were significantly lower in dogs with SIRS/sepsis (P < 0.001) than in healthy controls. While day 1 serum cα 1 -PI concentrations did not differ between dogs with SIRS and those with sepsis (P = 0.592), septic dogs had significantly lower serum cα 1 -PI concentrations on days 2 (P = 0.017) and 3 (P = 0.036) than dogs with SIRS. Serum cα 1 -PI concentrations did not differ between survivors and nonsurvivors (P = 1.000), but were inversely correlated with the APPLE full score (ρ = -0.48; P = 0.040) and plasma interleukin-6 concentrations (ρ = -0.50; P = 0.037). These results suggest a role of cα 1 -PI as a negative acute phase protein in dogs. The concentration of serum cα 1 -PI at the time of hospital admission does not have utility to identify dogs with sepsis from those with noninfectious SIRS, but may be a useful surrogate marker for early stratification of illness severity. © Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society 2017.

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.

Correlation between serum homocysteine concentration and severity of mitral valve disease in dogs.

PubMed

Lee, Chang-Min; Jeong, Da-Min; Kang, Min-Hee; Kim, Seung-Gon; Han, Jae-Ik; Park, Hee-Myung

2017-04-01

OBJECTIVE To measure serum homocysteine concentrations in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) and identify any association between this variable and stage of MMVD. ANIMALS 53 client-owned dogs with MMVD and 10 healthy control Beagles. PROCEDURES Dogs with MMVD were allocated to 3 groups in accordance with the staging system for chronic valvular heart disease in dogs and cats of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine. Blood samples were collected from all dogs, and serum homocysteine and cardiac troponin 1 concentrations were measured by enzyme immunoassay and chemiluminescence immunoassay, respectively. Analyte values were tested for associations with each other and with stage of MMVD. RESULTS A significant correlation was identified between serum homocysteine concentration and stage of MMVD. Mean ± SD concentrations were 6.72 ± 1.65 μmol/L for control dogs, 13.37 ± 4.16 μmol/L for dogs with stage B MMVD, 18.86 ± 6.73 μmol/L for dogs with stage C disease, and 28.26 ± 4.48 μmol/L for dogs with stage D disease. In addition, serum homocysteine concentration was correlated with serum cardiac troponin 1 (r = 0.34) and creatinine (r = 0.46) concentrations, systolic blood pressure (r = 0.57), and left atrium-to-aortic root ratio (r = 0.28), all of which were positively correlated with stage of MMVD. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Serum homocysteine concentrations of dogs with MMVD were significantly higher than those of control dogs, and significant correlations were identified between these values and several risk factors for heart failure. Measurement of serum homocysteine concentration may be useful in the prediction of severity of disease in dogs with MMVD.

Predicting Maintenance Doses of Vancomycin for Hospitalized Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis.

PubMed

El Nekidy, Wasim S; El-Masri, Maher M; Umstead, Greg S; Dehoorne-Smith, Michelle

2016-01-01

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is a leading cause of death in patients undergoing hemodialysis. However, controversy exists about the optimal dose of vancomycin that will yield the recommended pre-hemodialysis serum concentration of 15-20 mg/L. To develop a data-driven model to optimize the accuracy of maintenance dosing of vancomycin for patients undergoing hemodialysis. A prospective observational cohort study was performed with 164 observations obtained from a convenience sample of 63 patients undergoing hemodialysis. All vancomycin doses were given on the floor after completion of a hemodialysis session. Multivariate linear generalized estimating equation analysis was used to examine independent predictors of pre-hemodialysis serum vancomycin concentration. Pre-hemodialysis serum vancomycin concentration was independently associated with maintenance dose ( B = 0.658, p < 0.001), baseline pre-hemodialysis serum concentration of the drug ( B = 0.492, p < 0.001), and interdialytic interval ( B = -2.133, p < 0.001). According to the best of 4 models that were developed, the maintenance dose of vancomycin required to achieve a pre-hemodialysis serum concentration of 15-20 mg/L, if the baseline serum concentration of the drug was also 15-20 mg/L, was 5.9 mg/kg with interdialytic interval of 48 h and 7.1 mg/kg with interdialytic interval of 72 h. However, if the baseline pre-hemodialysis serum concentration was 10-14.99 mg/L, the required dose increased to 9.2 mg/kg with an interdialytic interval of 48 h and 10.0 mg/kg with an interdialytic interval of 72 h. The maintenance dose of vancomycin varied according to baseline pre-hemodialysis serum concentration of the drug and interdialytic interval. The current practice of targeting a pre-hemodialysis concentration of 15-20 mg/L may be difficult to achieve for the majority of patients undergoing hemodialysis.

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

Childhood vitamin A status and the risk of otitis media.

PubMed

Durand, A M; Sabino, H; Masga, R; Sabino, M; Olopai, F; Abraham, I

1997-10-01

It has been suggested that vitamin A deficiency may predispose to otitis media. We conducted a prospective, observational study of 200 children, ages 3 to 5 years, on the island of Saipan in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Baseline measurements of serum retinol concentrations were obtained from the children, and incidence of otitis media was determined during the following year by review of medical records. The sera were also tested for concentration of other carotenoids (beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin, beta-cryptoxanthin, lycopene), and alpha-tocopherol and baseline concentrations of these compounds were also examined for relationship to incidence of otitis media. Serum retinol concentrations of the children ranged from 13 to 58 microg/dl. Episodes of otitis media occurred in 22% of children during the follow-up period. Children with low serum retinol concentrations did not have an excess of episodes of otitis media (chi square for trend, 0.438; P = 0.508 for children grouped by serum retinol concentration; mean serum retinol concentrations were 29.1 and 28.6 microg/dl, respectively, for children who had and did not have a subsequent episode of otitis media). Controlling for potential confounding variables (duration of breast feeding, smoking in the household, illness or live virus vaccination in the 2 weeks before serum collection, day-care attendance) did not substantially alter this finding. Baseline serum concentrations of the other carotenoids and alpha-tocopherol also demonstrated no relation to incidence of otitis media. In the range of serum vitamin concentrations found in this population, the status of vitamin A and related compounds in children appeared to have no effect on the incidence of otitis media.

Fractionation of canine serum magnesium.

PubMed

Schenck, Patricia A

2005-06-01

Serum total magnesium (tMg) consists of 3 fractions: ionized magnesium (iMg), protein-bound magnesium (pbMg), and complexed magnesium (cMg). Serum iMg may be measured by an ion-selective electrode, but determination of pbMg and cMg has not been attempted in dogs. The objectives of this study were to assess the validity of a micropartition system to fractionate serum tMg and to establish reference intervals for pbMg, cMg, and iMg in clinically normal dogs using this method. Serum samples from 10 clinically healthy dogs were fractionated using a micropartition system (Centrifree YM-30, Amicon Corp, Lexington, MA, USA). Serum tMg and iMg were measured in whole serum, and tMg was also measured in the ultrafiltrate. Concentration of cMg was obtained by the subtraction of iMg from tMg concentrations of the ultrafiltrate. Protein-bound Mg was calculated by subtracting the tMg concentration of the ultrafiltrate from the tMg concentration of whole serum. Results for pbMg and cMg using the micropartition system showed good reproducibility. Determination of tMg and iMg had acceptable inter- and intra-assay precision. Concentrations of iMg, cMg, and pbMg were 0.50 +/- 0.05 mmol/L, 0.05 +/- 0.04 mmol/L, and 0.24 +/- 0.04 mmol/L, representing 63%, 6%, and 31% of the tMg concentration, respectively. The micropartition system was a reproducible means to accurately assess cMg and pbMg concentrations in dogs.

Racial differences in levels of serum lipids and effects of exposure to persistent organic pollutants on lipid levels in residents of Anniston, Alabama.

PubMed

Aminov, Zafar; Haase, Richard; Olson, James R; Pavuk, Marian; Carpenter, David O

2014-12-01

Serum lipid levels are major risk factors for cardiovascular disease. In addition to diet, exercise, genetics, age and race, serum concentrations of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) influence concentrations of serum lipids. We investigated associations between fasting concentrations of 35 polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners and nine organochlorine pesticides in relation to total serum lipids, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and triglycerides in 525 Caucasian and African American residents of Anniston, Alabama, who were not on any lipid-lowering medication. In Model 1, data were adjusted for age, age quadratic, gender, BMI, alcohol consumption, smoking and exercise, while in Model 2, additional adjustment was done for other POPs. As compared to Caucasians, African Americans had lower levels of total lipids and triglycerides with higher concentrations of HDL cholesterol, but higher concentrations of PCBs and pesticides. Total pesticides were more strongly associated with elevations in serum lipids than were total PCBs, and the associations were stronger in African Americans. Total DDTs were not associated with serum lipids after adjustment for other POPs in either racial group, while the strongest positive associations were seen for hexachlorobenzene (HCB) in both racial groups. Racial differences in lipid profiles, concentrations of POPs and associations between POP concentrations and serum lipids are relevant to racial differences in rates of cardiovascular disease. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of mayonnaise on postprandial serum lutein/zeaxanthin and beta-carotene concentrations in humans.

PubMed

Takeda, Sayaka; Masuda, Yasunobu; Usuda, Mika; Marushima, Ranko; Ueji, Toshiyuki; Hasegawa, Mineo; Maruyama, Chizuko

2009-12-01

To clarify the effects of different physical forms of oil on postprandial serum lutein/zeaxanthin and beta-carotene concentrations, we performed a vegetable meal loading test. Eighteen healthy subjects participated in the test, which consisted of broccoli as a control (CON) meal, broccoli with oil (OIL), and broccoli with mayonnaise (MS), consumed in random order. After collection of fasting blood samples, subjects consumed one of the three test meals. Fasting and postprandial changes in serum carotenoids were assessed 2, 4, and 6 h after ingestion of each test meal. Serum lutein/zeaxanthin and beta-carotene concentrations were measured. Although no significant change was noted after the CON meal, the serum lutein/zeaxanthin concentration was higher at 4 h after consumption of the OIL meal, and at 2, 4 and 6 h after consumption of the MS meal, as compared with the fasting state. Serum beta-carotene concentrations did not change after ingestion of either the CON or the OIL meal but were elevated 2, 4, and 6 h after MS ingestion as compared with the fasting state. The incremental areas under the curves (IAUCs) of serum lutein/zeaxanthin and beta-carotene concentrations were higher after the MS meal than after the CON meal. IAUCs after the OIL meal exhibited no statistically significant differences from the CON and MS meals. We suggest that mayonnaise contributes to increase serum lutein/zeaxanthin and beta-carotene concentrations when consumed with vegetables rich in these carotenoids.

Online Serum PFOA Calculator for Adults

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Summary: Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a persistent environmental contaminant that has been detected in >100 public water systems in the United States alone. A variety of epidemiological investigations of PFOA have been published, mostly using measured or modeled serum PFOA concentrations as the exposure metric. Comparison of drinking water PFOA concentrations to those study findings or to typical serum concentrations requires pharmacokinetic modeling. This brief communication describes an online Javascript calculator that easily plots the expected serum PFOA concentration over time and at steady state for adults after starting or stopping consumption of PFOA-contaminated water. Two examples of usage are provided, including increasing serum PFOA after ongoing consumption of contaminated water at the federal limit, and decreasing serum PFOA after carbon filtration began in a contaminated water system. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP2820 PMID:29068316

The relationships between sixteen perfluorinated compound concentrations in blood serum and food, and other parameters, in the general population of South Korea with proportionate stratified sampling method.

PubMed

Kim, Hee-Young; Kim, Seung-Kyu; Kang, Dong-Mug; Hwang, Yong-Sik; Oh, Jeong-Eun

2014-02-01

Serum samples were collected from volunteers of various ages and both genders using a proportionate stratified sampling method, to assess the exposure of the general population in Busan, South Korea to perfluorinated compounds (PFCs). 16 PFCs were investigated in serum samples from 306 adults (124 males and 182 females) and one day composite diet samples (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) from 20 of the serum donors, to investigate the relationship between food and serum PFC concentrations. Perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid were the dominant PFCs in the serum samples, with mean concentrations of 8.4 and 13 ng/mL, respectively. Perfluorotridecanoic acid was the dominant PFC in the composite food samples, ranging from

Performance of serum-free broth media for growth of Renibacterium salmoninarum

USGS Publications Warehouse

Starliper, C.E.; Schill, W.B.; Mathias, J.

1998-01-01

Growth of Renibacterium salmoninarum was compared in 14 different broth media; 13 serum-free, and 1 that contained newborn calf serum, KDM2+M. Supplementation with 1% v/v R. salmoninarum MCO4M metabolite was evaluated for 6 of the media that do not utilize it as part of their ingredients. Viable cells were enumerated on Days 10, 20, and 30 post inoculation to evaluate performance. The experiment was repeated 3 times using high, low, and medium (trials 1 to 3, respectively) cell concentrations as inoculum. In general there was no optimal medium and all performed well. The choice of which to employ depends on the ease of preparation and presence of certain ingredients that might affect subsequent assays. In trials 2 and 3, the pH was estimated using test papers at the same time as cells were counted. Maximum pH increase occurred with KDM2+M and those media containing charcoal. For most media, a simple pH determination could be used as a means to check that growth has occurred in a culture, particularly if charcoal was added directly to the media and a visual inspection could not be made to detect growth.

The effect of aerobic training on CXL5, tumor necrosis factor α and insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) in sedentary obese women.

PubMed

Zehsaz, Farzad; Farhangi, Negin; Mirheidari, Lamia

2014-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of a 12-week training program on serum CXC ligand 5, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and insulin resistance index in obese sedentary women. To this end, twenty-four obese sedentary women were evaluated before and after a 12-week exercise program including a brief warm-up, followed by ~45 min per session of aerobic exercise at an intensity of 60-75% of age-predicted maximum heart rate (~300 kcal/day), followed by a brief cool down, five times per week. After the exercise program, body weight, waist circumference, waist to hip ratio, percentage body fat mass, fasting glucose and insulin of participants were decreased. Furthermore, serum CXCL5 levels were significantly decreased from 2693.2 ±375.8 to 2290.2 ±345.9 pg/ml (p < 0.001) after the training program, which was accompanied with significantly decreased HOMA-IR (p < 0.001) and TNF-α (p < 0.001). Exercise training induced weight loss resulted in a significant reduction in serum CXCL5 concentrations and caused an improvement in insulin resistance in obese sedentary women.

Serum homocysteine levels in patients with probable vascular dementia.

PubMed

Alajbegović, Salem; Lepara, Orhan; Hadžović-Džuvo, Almira; Mutevelić-Turković, Alma; Alajbegović, Lejla; Zaćiragić, Asija; Avdagić, Nesina; Valjevac, Amina; Babić, Nermina; Dervišević, Amela

2017-08-01

Aim To investigate total homocysteine (tHcy) serum concentration in patients with probable vascular dementia (VD) and in agematched controls, as well as to determine an association between tHcy serum concentration and cognitive impairment in patients with probable VD. Methods Serum concentration of tHcy was determined by the Fluorescence Polarization Immunoassay on the AxSYM System. Cognitive impairment was tested by the Mini Mental Status Examination (MMSE) score. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated for each subject included in the study. Results Age, systolic, diastolic blood pressure and BMI did not differ significantly between the two groups. Mean serum tHcy concentration in the control group of subjects was 13.35 µmol/L, while in patients with probable VD it was significantly higher, 19.45 µmol/L (p=0.002). A negative but insignificant association between serum tHcy concentration and cognitive impairment in patients with probable VD was found. Conclusion Increased tHcy concentration in patients with probable VD suggests the possible independent role of Hcy in the pathogenesis of VD. Copyright© by the Medical Assotiation of Zenica-Doboj Canton.

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

Young, R.A.; Rajatanavin, R.; Moring, A.F.

Five-month-old lean and obese Zucker rats were fasted for up to 7 days (lean rats) or 28 days (obese rats), and serum total and free T4 and T3 concentrations, percent free T4 and T3 by equilibrium dialysis, and the binding of (/sup 125/I) T4 to serum proteins by gel electrophoresis were measured. In the lean rats, a 4- or 7-day fast resulted in significant decreases in serum total and free T4 and T3 concentrations. There was a decrease in the percent free T3 after 7 days of starvation. In contrast, a 4- or 7-day fast did not alter any ofmore » these variables in the obese rats. However, after 14 or more days of starvation, serum total T4 and T3 concentrations increased, and the percent free T4 and T3 decreased, resulting in no change in the serum free T4 or T3 concentrations in the obese rats. The percent of (/sup 125/I)T4 bound to serum thyronine-binding globulin increased and the percent bound to thyronine-binding prealbumin decreased with the duration of the fast in both the lean and obese rats. The increase in serum thyronine-binding globulin binding of T4 can explain the increase in serum total T4 and T3 concentrations, the decrease in percent free T4 and T3, and the normal free hormone concentration in the long term fasted obese rats. The findings in the lean rats appear to be due to a combination of the known central hypothyroidism that occurs during 4-7 days of fasting and the fasting-induced changes in T4 binding in serum. Changes in T4 and T3 binding in serum during fasting in the rat must be considered when the effects of fasting on serum concentrations of the thyroid hormones, thyroid hormone kinetics, and the peripheral action of the thyroid hormones are evaluated.« less

Effects of dietary oat, barley, and guar gums on serum and liver lipid concentrations in diet-induced hypertriglyceridemic rats.

PubMed

Oda, T; Aoe, S; Imanishi, S; Kanazawa, Y; Sanada, H; Ayano, Y

1994-04-01

Effects of dietary oat, barley, and guar gums on serum and liver triglyceride or cholesterol concentrations were examined in diet-induced hypertriglyceridemic rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed a hypertriglyceridemic diet that contained 20% coconut oil, 17.5% fructose, 17.5% sucrose, and 5% cellulose at 4 weeks of age for 14 days. In the gum-supplemented diets, 2% cellulose was replaced by oat gum, barley gum, or guar gum. Hypertriglyceridemia was observed in the control group, whereas serum cholesterol concentration was not increased. All of the gums lowered serum and liver cholesterol concentrations except barley gum which had no significant effect on liver cholesterol. Both oat and barley gums suppressed the elevation of serum and liver triglyceride concentrations but guar gum had no effect.

Free choline and phospholipid-bound choline concentrations in serum and dialysate during peritoneal dialysis in children and adults.

PubMed

Ilcol, Yesim Ozarda; Dönmez, Osman; Yavuz, Mahmut; Dilek, Kamil; Yurtkuran, Mustafa; Ulus, Ismail H

2002-06-01

This study tested whether continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) changes free or phospholipid-bound choline concentrations in serum or peritoneal dialysis fluid of patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD). Serum and dialysate choline and phospholipid-bound choline were measured before, during and after 6 h CAPD. Serum choline concentrations were higher in patients with ESRD compared with age-matched controls. CAPD lowered serum choline concentrations significantly although it did not influence phospholipid-bound choline. Choline accumulated in the dialysate, reaching 28.4 +/- 2.7 microM in children and 18.2 +/- 1.4 microM in adults, during six hours CAPD; phospholipid-bound choline increased to 22.9 +/- 2.5 microM and 10.8 +/- 1.4 microM in children and adults, respectively. The total daily loss of choline into the dialysate was 181 +/- 20 micromoles in children and 260 +/- 18 micromoles in adults. CAPD causes a substantial loss of choline into peritoneal dialysates and reduces serum choline concentrations significantly.

The accuracy of serum interleukin-6 and tumour necrosis factor as markers for ovarian torsion.

PubMed

Cohen, S B; Wattiez, A; Stockheim, D; Seidman, D S; Lidor, A L; Mashiach, S; Goldenberg, M

2001-10-01

The aim of this study was to investigate a possible role for interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor (TNF-alpha) as pre-operative markers for the diagnosis of ovarian torsion. Twenty consecutive patients admitted to the gynaecological emergency room with suspected clinical diagnosis of ovarian torsion were prospectively assigned to the study. Blood samples were drawn pre-operatively and examined for serum concentrations of IL-6 and TNF-alpha. Surgeons were blinded to laboratory results prior to laparoscopy. The pre-operative diagnosis of ovarian torsion was confirmed during an urgent diagnostic laparoscopy in 8 (40%) patients. The surgical diagnosis among the remaining 12 patients was a large ovarian cyst not in torsion. In six out of eight (75.0%) patients with ovarian torsion serum IL-6 concentrations were elevated. None of the 12 patients without torsion had elevated serum IL-6 concentrations. This difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the proportion of women with elevated serum TNF-alpha concentrations, two of eight (25.0%) patients with torsion and four of 12 (33.3%) control cases. Elevated serum IL-6 concentrations, but not serum TNF-alpha concentrations, were significantly associated with the occurrence of ovarian torsion. In patients with vague clinical signs of ovarian torsion, serum IL-6 might help to distinguish which patients should undergo diagnostic laparoscopy.

Hypovitaminosis D is associated with negative outcome in dogs with protein losing enteropathy: a retrospective study of 43 cases.

PubMed

Allenspach, K; Rizzo, J; Jergens, A E; Chang, Y M

2017-04-08

Hypovitaminosis D has previously been shown to be prevalent amongst dogs with protein losing enteropathy (PLE). The hypothesis of this study was that Low 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH) D) serum concentrations could be a risk factor for negative outcome in dogs with PLE. Forty-three dogs diagnosed with PLE (2005-2014) and which serum Vitamin D serum concentrations were collected and archived at -80 Degrees C were analyzed. Post-diagnostic communication with referring veterinarians was made to determine outcome of PLE dogss: Dogs which died due to PLE within 4 months after diagnosis (negative outcome group, n = 22) and dogs alive or which died due to another disease at the end point of the study (1 year after diagnosis, good outcome group, n = 21). Serum samples taken at the time of diagnosis were analysed for ionized calcium (iCa) concentrations and serum 25(OH) D concentration. Clinical (CCECAI) scores, age at PLE diagnosis, and iCa concentrations were not significantly different between dog groups. A significantly greater (p < 0.001) number of PLE dogs treated with hydrolyzed or elimination diet alone showed good outcome as compared to the PLE negative outcome group. Median serum 25(OH) D concentration was significantly (p = 0.017) lower in dogs with negative outcome versus PLE dogs with good outcome. Using logistic regression analysis, 25(OH) D serum concentration was shown to be a statistically significant factor for outcome determination. Cox regression analysis yielded a hazard ratio of 0.974 (95% CI 0.949, 0.999) per each one nmol/l increase in serum 25(OH) D concentration. Low serum 25(OH) D concentration in PLE dogs was significantly associated with poor outcome. Further studies are required to investigate the clinical efficacy of Vitamin D (cholecalciferol) as a potential therapeutic agent for dogs with PLE.

Comparison of lacosamide concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid and serum in patients with epilepsy.

PubMed

May, Theodor W; Brandt, Christian; Helmer, Renate; Bien, Christian G; Cawello, Willi

2015-07-01

This study was carried out to estimate the exposure of the central nervous system (CNS) to the antiepileptic drug (AED) lacosamide, under steady state conditions, in patients with epilepsy who take oral lacosamide alongside up to three other AEDs. Twenty-seven serum and cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected from 21 patients receiving lacosamide for the treatment of epilepsy (50-600 mg/day over two or three doses). This included 23 time-matched pairs of serum and CSF samples from 19 patients. The concentration of lacosamide in each sample was determined using high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). Linear regression was used to characterize the relationship between the CSF-to-serum ratio of lacosamide concentration and the time since dosing, the daily lacosamide dose, or the daily dose normalized by volume of distribution (Vd , approximated to total body water), and between the drug concentrations in each compartment (CSF vs. serum). Concentrations of lacosamide in CSF (mean ± standard deviation [SD] 7.37 ± 3.73 μg/ml, range 1.24-14.95, n = 27) and serum (mean ± SD 8.16 ± 3.82 μg/ml, range 2.29-15.45, n = 27) samples showed a good correlation over the dose range investigated. The mean CSF-to-serum ratio of lacosamide concentrations was 0.897 ± 0.193 (range 0.492-1.254, n = 23 time-matched pairs) and was independent of lacosamide dose. Drug concentrations in the CSF are often used to indicate those in the brain interstitial fluid. In patients with epilepsy who follow a stable oral AED dosing regimen, lacosamide concentration in CSF is approximately 85% of that found in serum, suggesting that serum may be a valuable indicator of lacosamide concentration in the CNS. Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2015 International League Against Epilepsy.

Serum immunoglobulin A concentration in infancy, but not human milk immunoglobulin A, is associated with subsequent atopic manifestations in children and adolescents: a 20-year prospective follow-up study.

PubMed

Pesonen, M; Kallio, M J T; Siimes, M A; Savilahti, E; Ranki, A

2011-05-01

Serum and secretory IgA concentrations have been suggested to be inversely associated with allergic symptoms in children. Furthermore, low maternal milk IgA concentration has been suggested to be associated with the development of cow's milk allergy. Our aim was to explore whether the serum IgA concentrations in infancy and the IgA concentration of maternal milk predict atopic manifestations in childhood and up to age 20 years. A cohort of 200 unselected full-term newborns was prospectively followed up from birth to age 20 years with measurement of serum total IgA at ages 2 and 6 months. The mothers were encouraged to maintain exclusive breastfeeding for as long as possible. Total IgA concentration of maternal milk was measured at birth (colostrum, n=169) and at 2 (n=167) and 6 (n=119) months of lactation. The children were re-assessed at ages 5, 11 and 20 years for the occurrence of allergic symptoms, with skin prick testing and measurement of serum IgE. Children and adolescents with respiratory allergic symptoms and sensitization had a higher serum IgA concentration at age 2 months than the non-atopic subjects. Colostrum and breast milk IgA concentrations were not associated with the development of allergic symptoms in the recipient infant. However, maternal milk IgA concentration at 6 months of lactation was inversely associated with elevated serum total IgE and positive skin prick test to tree pollen in the offspring at age 20 years. Increased serum IgA concentration at age 2 months is associated with the development of subsequent allergic symptoms and sensitization in childhood and adolescence. Maternal milk IgA concentrations are not associated with subsequent allergic symptoms in the recipient infant. The present study provides novel information on the role of IgA in the development of respiratory allergy and sensitization. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Blood serum concentrations of kynurenic acid in patients diagnosed with recurrent depressive disorder, depression in bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder treated with electroconvulsive therapy.

PubMed

Olajossy, Marcin; Olajossy, Bartosz; Wnuk, Sebastian; Potembska, Emilia; Urbańska, Ewa

2017-06-18

The aim of the present study was to compare blood serum kynurenic acid (KYNA) concentrations measured before ECT and after 1, 6 and 12 electroconvulsive treatment (ECT) sessions in patients with diagnoses of recurrent depressive disorder (RDD), depression in bipolar disorder (DBD) and schizoaffective disorder (SAD). The study group comprised of 50 patients with ICD-10 diagnoses of RDD, DBD and SAD. Blood serum KYNA concentrations were determined and clinical assessment was performed using the MADRS and the GAF scale. Significant differences were found in blood serum KYNA levels between RDD, DBD and SAD patients treated with electroconvulsive therapy and healthy controls: 1) KYNA concentrations in DBD patients measured before ECT and after 12 ECT sessions were significantly lower than in the control group; 2) KYNA concentrations in the serum of RDD patients measured before ECT and after one and 12 ECT sessions were significantly lower than in the control group, while those measured after 6 ECT session did not differ significantly from KYNA concentrations in healthy controls; 3) higher pre-treatment blood serum concentrations of KYNA in DBD patients correlated with a higher number of illness phases and poorer general functioning before treatment; 4) significant relationships were found between higher blood serum concentrations of KYNA in RDD patients after 1 ECT session and male gender, and between higher KYNA concentrations after 6 ECT sessions and increased depression and poorer functioning before treatment in those patients. Results show that KYNA concentrations in all diagnostic groups were lower before ECT (not statistically significant for the SAD group) and that there were no significant changes in those concentrations (compared with the baseline) during ECT.

The effect of pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L) seeds and L-arginine supplementation on serum lipid concentrations in atherogenic rats.

PubMed

Abuelgassim, Abuelgassim O; Al-showayman, Showayman I A

2012-01-01

The present study aimed to examine the effect of pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) seeds supplementation on atherogenic diet-induced atherosclerosis. Rat were divided into two main groups , normal control and atherogenic control rats , each group composed of three subgroups one of them supplemented with 2% arginine in drinking water and the other supplemented with pumpkin seeds in diet at a concentration equivalent to 2% arginine. Supplementation continued for 37 days. Atherogenic rats supplemented with pumpkin seeds showed a significant decrease (p<0.001) in their serum concentrations of total cholesterol and LDL - C as they dropped from 4.89 mmol / L to 2.55 mmol /L and from 3.33 mmol / L to 0.70 mmol / L respectively. Serum concentrations of HDL-C were also significantly elevated in the same group. Although, atherogenic rats supplemented with 2% arginine showed significant increase in serum concentration of HDL-C, no significant changes were observed in their serum concentrations of total cholesterol and LDL-C. Our results showed that treatment of atherogenic rats with pumpkin seeds significantly decreased serum concentrations of TC and LDL-C. Our findings suggest that pumpkin seeds supplementation has a protective effect against atherogenic rats and this protective effect was not attributed to the high arginine concentrations in pumpkin seeds.

Serum copper, follicular stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, prolactin, spermatic count, viability, progression and seminal zinc correlations in a human (male) infertility study

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

Sella, G.E.; Cunnane, S.C.; McInnes, R.A.

1981-06-01

The role of copper and its correlations to other parameters has been investigated in a male-fertility pilot study at a University infertility clinic in Montreal. Serum and semen Cu concentrations were determined in 100 men (age 25 to 54 years) referred to the clinic for infertility evaluation. The results of the significant correlations between serum Cu concentrations and male fertility parameters such as (1) the serum concentrations of the hormones FSH, LH and prolactin; (2) spermatozoal count, viability and progression and (3) seminal zinc concentrations are reported.

The determination of ultrafiltrable calcium and magnesium in serum.

PubMed

Danielson, B G; Pallin, E; Sohtell, M

1982-01-01

Ultrafiltrate of human serum was investigated in order to evaluate the serum content of calcium and magnesium. The acid and base concentrations and pH of the serum was altered through titration with HCl- or NaOH-solutions. The Pco2 was varied in the titrated serum using different carbon dioxide tensions. This was performed when serum was filtered in a recycling system. It is shown that the analysis of calcium and magnesium have to be done under anaerobic conditions or at standardized pH and Pco2 situations, as the concentrations vary with both pH and Pco2. The concentration ratio between ultrafiltrate and serum for calcium and magnesium was found to be 0.56 and 0.74 respectively at pH=7.41 and Pco2=40 mmHg.

The effects of coffee consumption on serum lipids and lipoprotein in healthy individuals.

PubMed

Onuegbu, A J; Agbedana, E O

2001-01-01

The changes in total serum cholestrol, serum triglyceride, HDL-cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol after twenty eight (28) days of consumption of moderate quantity of a commercial coffee preparation (NESCAFE brand) were studied in 30 human subjects consisting of 20 male and 10 female healthy adults. Significant increases in the mean total serum cholesterol concentration (110.8-126.5 mg/100 mls) and LDL- cholesterol concentration (78.4-94.5 mg/100 ml) were observed in the subjects. No significant differences were obtained in the mean HDL cholesterol concentration and in the mean serum triglyceride levels. The differences observed in the mean total serum cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL- cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations in the individual male and female groups studied were not statistically significant. The results from this study suggest that short-term consumption of coffee may increase the total serum cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels. It is therefore possible that long-term consumption of coffee may lead to clinically significant alterations in serum lipid profile and could be important in the aetiology of atherosclerotic vascular diseases such as coronary heart disease.

[Related factor of serum carnitine deficiency and influence of its deficiency on the length of hospital stay in critical ill patients].

PubMed

Zhou, Zhaoxiong; Qiu, Chunfang; Chen, Chuanxi; Wang, Luhao; Chen, Juan; Chen, Minying; Guan, Xiangdong; Ouyang, Bin

2014-12-01

To investigate the related factors of serum carnitine deficiency in critical ill patients, and the influence of its deficiency on the length of hospital stay. A prospective study was conducted. Critical ill patients with acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHEII) score>12 admitted to Department of Critical Care Medicine of the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from March 2013 to September 2013 were enrolled. Serum carnitine concentration and indexes of organ function were determined, and the tolerance of enteral nutrition within 5 days, the length of hospital stay, the length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, and the hospital mortality were recorded. The relationship between serum carnitine and indexes mentioned above was analyzed. Thirty critically ill patients were enrolled. Serum carnitine concentration was very low in all critically ill patients, i.e. (8.92 ± 5.05) μmol/L (normal reference value at 43.5 μmol/L) at hospital admission. Serum carnitine concentration in patients with APACHEII score>23 (7 cases) was significantly lower than that in those with APACHEII score 12-23 (23 cases, μmol/L: 5.33 ± 1.72 vs. 10.02 ± 5.24, t=2.300, P=0.001). Serum carnitine concentration in patients with serum total bilirubin(TBil)>19 μmol/L (9 cases) was significantly lower than that in those with TBil≤19 μmol/L (21 cases, μmol/L: 5.54 ± 2.70 vs. 9.84 ± 5.08, t=2.750, P=0.014). Serum carnitine concentration was negatively correlated with the APACHEII score and the TBil (r=-0.387, P=0.035; r=-0.346, P=0.048). During the 5-day observation period, enteral feeding amount [(5 134 ± 1 173) mL] was positively correlated with serum carnitine concentration(r=0.430, P=0.022). In 30 critical patients, the incidence of abdominal distension was 40.0% (12/30), and the serum carnitine concentration of patients with abdominal distension was lower compared with that of patients without abdominal distension (μmol/L: 7.83 ± 4.98 vs. 9.12 ± 5.35, t=0.707, P=0.383). The incidence of diarrhea was 26.7% (8/30), and the serum carnitine concentration of diarrhea patients was lower compared with that of patients without diarrhea (μmol/L: 8.27 ± 5.78 vs. 9.73 ± 4.78, t=0.607, P=0.576). The mean length of hospital stay was (34.72 ± 16.66) days. The serum carnitine concentrations in patients with hospital stay ≥ 45 days (8 cases) were lower compared with those in those <45 days (22 cases, μmol/L: 5.71 ± 3.23 vs. 9.95 ± 5.26, t=1.627, P=0.020). No correlation was found between serum carnitine concentrations and the hospital stay (r=-0.165, P=0.385). The length of ICU stay was (18.60 ± 10.72) days. Serum carnitine concentration in patients with the length of ICU stay>7 days (27 cases) was slightly lower than that in those with the length of ICU stay ≤ 7 days (3 cases, μmol/L: 8.44 ± 5.00 vs. 13.24 ± 3.65, t=1.610, P=0.119). No correlation was found between serum carnitine concentrations and the length of ICU stay (r=-0.019, P= 0.293). In-hospital mortality was 26.67% (8/30). No significant difference in serum carnitine concentrations was found between the death group and the survival group (μmol/L: 12.24 ± 6.52 vs. 7.72 ± 3.91, t=-1.846, P=0.098). No correlation was found between serum carnitine concentrations and in-hospital mortality (r=0.340, P=0.066). Carnitine deficiency is significant in critically ill patients, and it is correlated with disease severity and serum TBil. The total amount of lenteral feeding was lower, and hospital stay was prolonged in critically ill patients with low serum carnitine level.

Proton-pump inhibitor use is associated with low serum magnesium concentrations

PubMed Central

Danziger, John; William, Jeffrey H.; Scott, Daniel J.; Lee, Joon; Lehman, Li-wei; Mark, Roger G.; Howell, Michael D.; Celi, Leo A.; Mukamal, Kenneth J.

2017-01-01

Although case reports link proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) use and hypomagnesemia, no large-scale studies have been conducted. Here we examined the serum magnesium concentration and the likelihood of hypomagnesemia (< 1.6 mg/dl) with a history of PPI or histamine-2 receptor antagonist used to reduce gastric acid, or use of neither among 11,490 consecutive adult admissions to an intensive care unit of a tertiary medical center. Of these, 2632 patients reported PPI use prior to admission, while 657 patients were using a histamine-2 receptor antagonist. PPI use was associated with 0.012 mg/dl lower adjusted serum magnesium concentration compared to users of no acid-suppressive medications, but this effect was restricted to those patients taking diuretics. Among the 3286 patients concurrently on diuretics, PPI use was associated with a significant increase of hypomagnesemia (odds ratio 1.54) and 0.028 mg/dl lower serum magnesium concentration. Among those not using diuretics, PPI use was not associated with serum magnesium levels. Histamine-2 receptor antagonist use was not significantly associated with magnesium concentration without or with diuretic use. The use of PPI was not associated with serum phosphate concentration regardless of diuretic use. Thus, we verify case reports of the association between PPI use and hypomagnesemia in those concurrently taking diuretics. Hence, serum magnesium concentrations should be followed in susceptible individuals on chronic PPI therapy. PMID:23325090

Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Concentrations and Indicators of Mental Health: An Analysis of the Canadian Health Measures Survey.

PubMed

Chu, Filmer; Ohinmaa, Arto; Klarenbach, Scott; Wong, Zing-Wae; Veugelers, Paul

2017-10-13

The main function of vitamin D is calcium homeostasis. However, emerging evidence has correlated adequate serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations with better mental health. The objective of this study is to investigate the association of serum 25(OH)D concentrations with indicators of mental health such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Associations of serum 25(OH)D concentrations with four indicators of mental health were examined using ordered logistic regression models with increasing specificity that account for demographics, socio-economic status, and health. Margin effects are used to determine the probability of the average adult Canadian being in the best mental health state by groupings of serum 25(OH)D concentrations. A robust association between serum 25(OH)D concentrations and the indicators of mental health were observed. In the fully adjusted ordered logistic model, an average Canadian appeared more likely to experience better mental health when serum 25(OH)D concentrations were higher. This study adds to the weight of the existence of an association between vitamin D status and mental health, but, as this study is cross sectional, it does not establish causality. Due to the low risk of harm from toxicity and the relative modest costs of vitamin D supplements, more research to establish the effectiveness and causality of this relationship is recommended.

Comparison of plasma and tissue disposition of enrofloxacin in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and common carp (Cyprinus carpio) after a single oral administration.

PubMed

Kyuchukova, Ralica; Milanova, Aneliya; Pavlov, Alexander; Lashev, Lubomir

2015-01-01

The aim of the study was to investigate the serum and tissue disposition of enrofloxacin and its active metabolite ciprofloxacin in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and common carp (Cyprinus carpio) after a single oral administration at a dose of 10 mg kg(-1). Concentrations of enrofloxacin in the serum of rainbow trout showed high variability with two peaks at the third and 24th hour after administration. The highest concentrations were found in the liver. The curves of liver levels showed similar changes to the respective serum samples. In the muscles, enrofloxacin concentrations were also higher compared with the respective serum samples. Ciprofloxacin concentrations were lower and showed smaller variations in all investigated tissues. The serum and tissue concentrations of enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin in common carp showed two peaks, with the first Cmax at the third hour after drug administration as in rainbow trout. Concentrations of both investigated substances were higher in the liver than in the serum. The differences in common carp were less pronounced in comparison with rainbow trout. Relatively high levels of both substances were found in the muscles. Seven days after treatment enrofloxacin concentrations in the serum and tissues were within the therapeutic levels for most of the sensitive microorganisms in trout. Lower concentrations of its metabolite ciprofloxacin were found in the investigated tissues at the last sampling point. Lower levels of both substances were found in carp.

SERUM THYROTROPIN CONCENTRATIONS ARE NOT PREDICTIVE OF AGGRESSIVE BREAST CANCER BIOLOGY IN EUTHYROID INDIVIDUALS

PubMed Central

Villa, Natalie M.; Li, Ning; Yeh, Michael W.; Hurvitz, Sara A.; Dawson, Nicole A.; Leung, Angela M.

2015-01-01

Objective The potential influence of hypothyroidism on breast cancer remains incompletely understood. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum thyrotropin [thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)] concentration and markers of aggressive breast cancer biology, as defined by receptor expression profile, tumor grade, and American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage characteristics. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study of patients from 2002–2014. All breast cancer patients who had complete receptor (estrogen receptor, ER; progesterone receptor, PR; and Her2/neu) and pre-diagnosis serum TSH data (n=437) were included. All patients had one of six receptor profiles: ER+ PR+ Her2/neu −, ER+ PR− Her2/neu−, ER+ PR+ Her2/neu+, ER+ PRHer2/ neu+, ER− PR− Her2/neu+, ER− PR− Her2/neu−. Log-transformed serum TSH concentrations were analyzed using multinomial and logistic regressions for a potential relationship with markers of breast cancer aggressiveness. Results Increasing serum TSH concentration was associated with a lower probability of having the receptor expression profile ER+ PR+ Her2/neu+ compared to patients with the ER+ PR+ Her2/neu− profile (OR=0.52, p=0.0045). No significant associations between other receptor expression profiles and serum TSH concentration were found. All time-weighted and unweighted median serum TSH concentrations were within normal limits. No significant associations between serum TSH concentration and tumor grade, overall AJCC stage, or tumor size (T), lymph node positivity (N), or presence of metastasis (M) were observed. Conclusions Serum TSH was not associated with markers of breast cancer aggressiveness in our cohort. PMID:26121443

Effects of routine prophylactic vaccination or administration of aluminum adjuvant alone on allergen-specific serum IgE and IgG responses in allergic dogs.

PubMed

Tater, Kathy C; Jackson, Hilary A; Paps, Judy; Hammerberg, Bruce

2005-09-01

To determine the acute corn-specific serum IgE and IgG, total serum IgE, and clinical responses to s.c. administration of prophylactic vaccines and aluminum adjuvant in corn-allergic dogs. 20 allergic and 8 nonallergic dogs. 17 corn-allergic dogs were vaccinated. Eight clinically normal dogs also were vaccinated as a control group. Serum corn-specific IgE, corn-specific IgG, and total IgE concentrations were measured in each dog before vaccination and 1 and 3 weeks after vaccination by use of an ELISA. The corn-allergic dogs also had serum immunoglobulin concentrations measured at 8 and 9 weeks after vaccination. Twenty allergic dogs received a s.c. injection of aluminum adjuvant, and serum immunoglobulin concentrations were measured in each dog 1, 2, 3, 4, and 8 weeks after injection. The allergic dogs were examined during the 8 weeks after aluminum administration for clinical signs of allergic disease. The allergic dogs had significant increases in serum corn-specific IgE and IgG concentrations 1 and 3 weeks after vaccination but not 8 or 9 weeks after vaccination. Control dogs did not have a significant change in serum immunoglobulin concentrations after vaccination. After injection of aluminum adjuvant, the allergic dogs did not have a significant change in serum immunoglobulin concentrations or clinical signs. Allergen-specific IgE and IgG concentrations increase after prophylactic vaccination in allergic dogs but not in clinically normal dogs. Prophylactic vaccination of dogs with food allergies may affect results of serologic allergen-specific immunoglobulin testing performed within 8 weeks after vaccination.

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.

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

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.

The elevated serum urea:creatinine ratio in canine babesiosis in South Africa is not of renal origin.

PubMed

de Scally, M P; Leisewitz, A L; Lobetti, R G; Thompson, P N

2006-12-01

Pigmented serum, usually due to free haemoglobin and/or bilirubin, is a common finding in dogs with babesiosis, resulting in interference with all biochemical tests that rely on photochemistry. This is particularly true of urea and creatinine determinations, complicating the diagnosis of acute renal failure, which is a serious complication of babesiosis. A disproportionately raised serum urea concentration of unknown origin occurs in severely anaemic canine babesiosis patients and gives rise to an increased serum urea:creatinine ratio. The assay for cystatin-C, an excellent measure of glomerular filtration rate, is unaffected by free serum haemoglobin, and due to its different intrinsic origins, is free of influence by the metabolic derangements and organ pathology, other than renal disease, encountered in canine babesiosis. Serum cystatin-C was used to compare the concentrations of serum urea and serum creatinine in dogs with the severely anaemic form of canine babesiosis as well as a canine babesiosis-free reference group. Mean serum urea and mean serum urea:creatinine ratio were significantly elevated in the babesia-infected group relative to the reference population in this study. Mean serum creatinine and mean serum cystatin-C were within the reference ranges. Therefore an elevated urea:creatinine ratio in canine babesiosis in the presence of a normal serum creatinine concentration is considered to be caused by an elevated serum urea concentration and is most likely of non-renal origin. Serum creatinine was therefore as specific a measure of renal function as serum cystatin-C in canine babesiosis in this study. The sensitivity of serum creatinine as a measure of renal function was not established by this study. Serum urea, however, proved to be of little use compared to serum cystatin-C and serum creatinine. Serum urea should therefore not be used to diagnose renal failure in canine babesiosis.

Meloxicam, 15 mg/day, spares platelet function in healthy volunteers.

PubMed

de Meijer, A; Vollaard, H; de Metz, M; Verbruggen, B; Thomas, C; Novakova, I

1999-10-01

To study the influence of meloxicam, a cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) preferential nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, on serum thromboxane and platelet function in healthy volunteers with use of the maximum recommended daily dosage of 15 mg/day. This study used an open, randomized crossover design. Indomethacin (INN, indometacin) was given as a positive control for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced inhibition of platelet function. The following variables were recorded: thromboxane B2 serum concentrations by radioimmunoassay, platelet aggregation by whole blood aggregometry in response to collagen 1.1 microg/L and to arachidonic acid 0.35 mmol/L, and closure time with use of the PFA-100. Serum thromboxane B2 at baseline was 535+/-233 nmol/L (mean +/- SD) and was reduced for 95% by indomethacin to 26+/-19 nmol/L (P < .001) and for 66% by meloxicam to 183+/-62 nmol/L (P < .001). Maximal platelet aggregation in response to collagen at baseline was 18.7+/-1.6 ohms (ohms). It was reduced by indomethacin to 7.3+/-4.5 ohms (P < .001), but not by meloxicam (19+/-2.5 ohms). Platelet aggregation in response to arachidonic acid at baseline was 12.2+/-2.0 ohms. It was reduced by indomethacin in all subjects to 0 ohms, but not by meloxicam (11+/-2.4 ohms). Closure time at baseline was 128+/-24 seconds and was prolonged by indomethacin to 286+/-38 seconds (P < .001). Meloxicam caused a minor prolongation of the closure time (141+/-32 seconds; P < .05). Meloxicam, 15 mg/day caused a major reduction of maximum thromboxane production but no reduction in collagen- or arachidonic acid-induced platelet aggregation and only minor increase of the closure time.

Effects of tibial and humerus intraosseous administration of epinephrine in a cardiac arrest swine model.

PubMed

Beaumont, Ltc Denise; Baragchizadeh, Asal; Johnson, Charles; Johnson, Don

2016-01-01

Compare maximum concentration (Cmax), time to maximum concentration (Tmax), mean serum concentration of epinephrine, return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), time to ROSC, and odds of survival relative to epinephrine administration by humerus intraosseous (HIO), tibial intraosseous (TIO), and intravenous (IV) routes in a swine cardiac arrest model. Prospective, between subjects, randomized experimental design. TriService Research Facility. Yorkshire-cross swine (n = 28). Swine were anesthetized and placed into cardiac arrest. After 2 minutes, cardiopulmonary resuscitation was initiated. After an additional 2 minutes, a dose of 1 mg of epinephrine was administered by HIO, TIO, or the IV routes. Blood samples were collected over 4 minutes and analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. ROSC, time to ROSC, Cmax, Tmax, mean concentrations over time, and odds ratio. There was no significant difference in rate of the ROSC among the TIO, HIO, and IV groups (p > 0.05). There were significant differences in Cmax: the HIO group was significantly higher than the TIO group (p = 0.007), but no significant difference between the IV and HIO (p = 0.33) or the IV and TIO group (p = 0.060). The Tmax was significantly shorter for both the IV and HIO versus the TIO group (p < 0.05), but no difference between IV and HIO (p = 0.328). The odds of survival were higher in the HIO group compared to all other groups. The TIO and HIO provide rapid and reliable access to administer life-saving medications during cardiac arrest.

Wnt/β-Catenin Expression Does Not Correlate with Serum Alkaline Phosphatase Concentration in Canine Osteosarcoma Patients

PubMed Central

Piskun, Caroline M.; Muthuswamy, Anantharaman; Huelsmeyer, Michael K.; Thompson, Victoria; Stein, Timothy J.

2011-01-01

Osteosarcoma is an aggressive malignancy of the bone and an increase in serum alkaline phosphatase concentration has clinical prognostic value in both humans and canines. Increased serum alkaline phosphatase concentration at the time of diagnosis has been associated with poorer outcomes for osteosarcoma patients. The biology underlying this negative prognostic factor is poorly understood. Given that activation of the Wnt signaling pathway has been associated with alkaline phosphatase expression in osteoblasts, we hypothesized that the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway would be differentially activated in osteosarcoma tissue based on serum ALP status. Archived canine osteosarcoma samples and primary canine osteosarcoma cell lines were used to evaluate the status of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway activity through immunohistochemical staining, western immunoblot analyses, quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, and a Wnt-responsive promoter activity assay. We found no significant difference in β-catenin expression or activation between OSA populations differing in serum ALP concentration. Pathway activity was mildly increased in the primary OSA cell line generated from a patient with increased serum ALP compared to the normal serum ALP OSA cell line. Further investigation into the mechanisms underlying differences in serum ALP concentration is necessary to improve our understanding of the biological implications of this negative prognostic indicator. PMID:22022527

Quantification of circulating cell-free DNA in the serum of patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome.

PubMed

Ye, Liang; Ma, Guan-Hua; Chen, Ling; Li, Min; Liu, Jia-Lin; Yang, Kun; Li, Qing-Yun; Li, Ning; Wan, Huan-Ying

2010-12-01

Serum cell-free DNA concentrations have been reported to increase in many acute diseases as well as in some chronic conditions such as cancer and autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study was to examine whether serum DNA concentrations were elevated in patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). The effects of nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) on serum DNA were also investigated. One hundred twenty-seven people diagnosed with OSAHS by polysomnography (PSG) were admitted into the OSAHS group, and 52 subjects without OSAHS were recruited for the control group. The OSAHS group was further divided into mild, moderate, and severe OSAHS subgroups based on their apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) during sleep. Ten patients with moderate and severe OSAHS were treated with nCPAP. Serum DNA, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and malonaldehyde (MDA) concentrations were measured and were found to be significantly higher in patients with moderate and severe OSAHS groups than those in the mild OSAHS and control groups (p < 0.05). Univariate analysis showed that serum DNA correlated positively with AHI, oxygen desaturation index (ODI), IL-6, and MDA, and negatively correlated with minimal oxygen saturation (miniSaO(2)) (all p < 0.05). In stepwise multiple regression analysis, only MDA and miniSaO(2) were suggested as significant independent predictors for the serum DNA concentrations. After 6 months of nCPAP therapy, serum concentrations of DNA, IL-6, and MDA were significantly decreased (p < 0.05). The increasing concentration of serum DNA in patients with OSAHS was positively correlated with disease severity. Serum DNA may become an important parameter for monitoring the severity of OSAHS and effectiveness of therapy.

Positive Impact of Nutritional Interventions on Serum Symmetric Dimethylarginine and Creatinine Concentrations in Client-Owned Geriatric Cats

PubMed Central

Hall, Jean A.; MacLeay, Jennifer; Yerramilli, Maha; Obare, Edward; Yerramilli, Murthy; Schiefelbein, Heidi; Paetau-Robinson, Inke; Jewell, Dennis E.

2016-01-01

A prospective study was conducted in client-owned geriatric cats to evaluate the short- term effects of a test food on serum symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) and creatinine (Cr) concentrations. Test food contained functional lipids (fish oil), antioxidants (vitamins C and E), L-carnitine, botanicals (vegetables), highly bioavailable protein, and amino acid supplements. Cats (n = 80) were fed either test food or owner’s-choice foods (non-nutritionally controlled cohort). Cats were included based on age (≥ 9 years), indoor only, neutered, and free of chronic disease. At baseline, all cats had serum Cr concentrations within the reference interval. Renal function biomarkers and urinalysis results at baseline and after consuming test food or owner’s-choice foods for 3 and 6 months were evaluated. Cats consuming test food showed significant decreases in serum Cr and BUN concentrations across time. Overall, cats consuming owner’s-choice foods showed significant increases in serum SDMA concentrations at 3 and 6 months compared with baseline (P ≤ 0.05), whereas in cats consuming test food serum SDMA concentrations did not change. At baseline or during the 6-month feeding trial, 23 (28.8%) cats had increased serum SDMA, but normal serum Cr consistent with IRIS Stage 1 chronic kidney disease. This included 6 cats fed test food and 17 cats fed owner’s-choice foods. In the 6 cats fed test food, serum SDMA decreased in 3 cats and remained stable in 1 cat, whereas in the 17 cats fed owner’s-choice foods, serum SDMA increased in 13 cats and decreased or remained stable in 4 cats. The increase in serum SDMA concentration was significant (P = 0.02) only for cats fed owner’s-choice foods. These results suggest that nonazotemic cats with elevated serum SDMA (early renal insufficiency) when fed a food designed to promote healthy aging are more likely to demonstrate stable renal function compared with cats fed owner’s-choice foods. Cats fed owner’s-choice foods were more likely to demonstrate progressive renal insufficiency. PMID:27078852

Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and activities of daily living in noninstitutionalized elderly Japanese requiring care.

PubMed

Nakamura, Kazutoshi; Nishiwaki, Tomoko; Ueno, Kimiko; Yamamoto, Masaharu

2005-01-01

To date, no study has investigated the nutritional status of vitamin D in frail elderly people living at home. The purposes of this study were to assess serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) levels and associated factors in noninstitutionalized elderly people who had various levels of physical disability, and to propose an adequate vitamin D nutritional status for the elderly by interpreting the serum 25(OH)D levels in relation to serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels in this population. Health examinations were conducted in the winter and summer of 2003. The subjects were 143 elderly people in the winter, and 120 elderly people in the summer, who all used the long-term care insurance system at home. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were determined with a chemiluminescence protein-binding assay, and serum intact PTH concentrations were determined with an immunoradiometric assay. The subjects' disease histories and lifestyle information were obtained through an interview. Activities of daily living (ADL) levels were evaluated using the Barthel index, and grip strength was measured with a digital hand dynamometer. Average serum 25(OH)D levels in the winter and summer were 54.2 nmol/l (SD 29.0) and 53.3 nmol/l (SD 32.3), respectively, and intact PTH concentrations in the winter and summer were 4.2 pmol/l (SD 1.8) and 4.3 pmol/l (SD 1.8), respectively. The proportion of people who had a low 25(OH)D (<30 nmol/l) and high intact PTH levels (>6.9 pmol/l) were 15%-20% and 8%, respectively. Significant predictors of low serum 25(OH)D concentrations were low ADL levels, female sex, and low fish consumption in both seasons. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations of less than 50 nmol/l were associated with elevated serum intact PTH concentrations. In conclusion, elderly people requiring care at home are at high risk of hypovitaminosis D, and their low serum 25(OH)D levels are mainly associated with low ADL levels. In addition, maintenance of serum 25(OH)D concentrations above 50 nmol/l may prevent hypovitaminosis D-induced hyperparathyroidism.

Serum 3,3'-L-diiodothyronine, a direct radioimmunoassay in human serum: method and clinical results. [/sup 125/I tracer technique

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

Burger, A.; Sakoloff, C.

1977-09-01

A specific radioimmunoassay for 3,3'-diiodothyronine (T/sub 2/) is described which is capable of detecting as little as 1.3 ng/dl. The antiserum recognizes mainly T/sub 2/; biliary conjugates of T/sub 2/ bind slightly to the antibody. The intraassay and interassay coefficients of variation were, respectively, 5.7% and 13.1%. T/sub 2/ was detected in the serum of hypothyroid patients treated with triiodothyronine (T/sub 3/) and in euthyroid subjects treated with reverse triiodothyronine (rT/sub 3/). These results suggest that both T/sub 3/ and rT/sub 3/ are deiodinated to T/sub 2/. Serum concentrations of T/sub 2/ in normal subjects decreased with age. Between 20more » and 40 years the mean concentration was 4.3 +- 2.0 ng/dl (2 SD), between 41 and 60 years it varied from 1.9 to 5.8 ng/dl (3.8 +- 0.3 ng/dl, SE) and in elderly subjects have 60 years concentrations varied from unmeasurable to 4 ng/dl (2.9 +- 0.4 ng/dl, SE). Low serum T/sub 2/ concentrations were found in anorexia nervosa (2.5 +- 0.3 ng/dl, SE). In hypothyroidism the serum concentrations were low or unmeasurable. As most of the hypothyroid subjects were elderly their serum T/sub 2/ concentrations overlapped with the low values found in the elderly euthyroid subjects. In classical hyperthyroidism serum T/sub 2/ concentrations were greatly increased (3.3 to 31 ng/dl (11.8 +- 2.7 ng/dl, SE) but in ''T/sub 3/ toxicosis'' the concentrations were only modestly increased (2.4 to 8.8 ng/dl, 5.2 +- 0.8 ng/dl, SE).« less

Iron metabolism in patients with anorexia nervosa: elevated serum hepcidin concentrations in the absence of inflammation.

PubMed

Papillard-Marechal, Solesne; Sznajder, Marc; Hurtado-Nedelec, Margarita; Alibay, Yasmin; Martin-Schmitt, Caroline; Dehoux, Monique; Westerman, Mark; Beaumont, Carole; Chevallier, Bertrand; Puy, Herve; Stheneur, Chantal

2012-03-01

Only a few studies based on small cohorts have been carried out on iron status in anorexia nervosa (AN) patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of hepcidin in hyperferritinemia in AN adolescents. Twenty-seven adolescents hospitalized for AN in the pediatric inpatient unit of Ambroise Paré Academic Hospital were enrolled in the study. The control group comprised 11 patients. Hematologic variables and markers of iron status, including serum hepcidin, were measured before and after nutritional rehabilitation. The mean age of patients was 14.4 y. Except for 2 AN patients and 1 control patient, all patients presented normal hemoglobin, vitamin B-12, and folate concentrations. Markers of inflammation and cytokines were normal throughout the study. None of the muscular lysis markers were elevated. Most AN patients had normal serum iron concentrations on admission. Serum ferritin concentrations were significantly higher in patients than in control subjects (198 compared with 49 μg/L, respectively; P < 0.001). The median hepcidin concentration was significantly higher in AN patients than in the control group (186.5 compared with 39.5 μg/L, respectively; P = 0.002). There was a highly significant correlation between ferritinemia and serum hepcidin concentrations (P < 0.0001). After nutritional rehabilitation, a significant reduction was observed (P = 0.004) in serum ferritin. Serum hepcidin analyzed in a smaller number of patients also returned to within the normal range. Hepcidin and ferritin concentrations were higher in the serum of AN patients, without any evidence of iron overload or inflammation. These concentrations returned to normal after nutritional rehabilitation. These results suggest that nutritional stress induced by malnourishment in the hepatocyte could be yet another mechanism that regulates hepcidin.

Changes of 25-OH-Vitamin D during Overwintering at the German Antarctic Stations Neumayer II and III.

PubMed

Steinach, Mathias; Kohlberg, Eberhard; Maggioni, Martina Anna; Mendt, Stefan; Opatz, Oliver; Stahn, Alexander; Tiedemann, Josefine; Gunga, Hanns-Christian

2015-01-01

Humans in Antarctica face different environmental challenges, such as low ultra-violet radiation, which is crucial for vitamin D production in humans. Therefore we assessed changes in 25-OH-vitamin D serum concentration during 13 months of overwintering at the German Stations Neumayer II and III (2007-2012). We hypothesized that (i) 25-OH-vitamin D serum concentration would significantly decrease, (ii) changes would be affected by age, gender, baseline (i.e. pre-overwintering) fat mass, baseline 25-OH-vitamin D serum concentration, and station residence, and (iii) our results would not differ from similar previous studies in comparable high latitudes. 25-OH-vitamin D serum concentrations were determined before, after, and monthly during the campaigns from venous blood samples of n = 43 participants (28 men, 15 women). Baseline fat mass was determined via bio impedance analysis and body plethysmography. Data were analyzed for change over time, dependency on independent parameters, and after categorization for sufficiency (>50nmol/l), insufficiency (25-50nmol/l), and deficiency (<25nmol/l). Results were compared with data from similar previous studies. We found a significant decrease of 25-OH-vitamin D with dependency on month. Age, gender, fat mass, and station residence had no influence. Only baseline 25-OH-vitamin D serum concentrations significantly affected subsequent 25-OH-vitamin D values. Overwinterings at the Antarctic German research stations Neumayer II and III are associated with a decrease in 25-OH-vitamin D serum concentrations, unaffected by age, gender, baseline fat mass, and station residence. Higher baseline vitamin D serum concentrations might protect from subsequent deficiencies. Residence at the Neumayer Stations may lead to lower vitamin D serum concentrations than found in other comparable high latitudes.

Changes of 25-OH-Vitamin D during Overwintering at the German Antarctic Stations Neumayer II and III

PubMed Central

Steinach, Mathias; Kohlberg, Eberhard; Maggioni, Martina Anna; Mendt, Stefan; Opatz, Oliver; Stahn, Alexander; Tiedemann, Josefine; Gunga, Hanns-Christian

2015-01-01

Purpose Humans in Antarctica face different environmental challenges, such as low ultra-violet radiation, which is crucial for vitamin D production in humans. Therefore we assessed changes in 25-OH-vitamin D serum concentration during 13 months of overwintering at the German Stations Neumayer II and III (2007–2012). We hypothesized that (i) 25-OH-vitamin D serum concentration would significantly decrease, (ii) changes would be affected by age, gender, baseline (i.e. pre-overwintering) fat mass, baseline 25-OH-vitamin D serum concentration, and station residence, and (iii) our results would not differ from similar previous studies in comparable high latitudes. Materials & Methods 25-OH-vitamin D serum concentrations were determined before, after, and monthly during the campaigns from venous blood samples of n = 43 participants (28 men, 15 women). Baseline fat mass was determined via bio impedance analysis and body plethysmography. Data were analyzed for change over time, dependency on independent parameters, and after categorization for sufficiency (>50nmol/l), insufficiency (25-50nmol/l), and deficiency (<25nmol/l). Results were compared with data from similar previous studies. Results We found a significant decrease of 25-OH-vitamin D with dependency on month. Age, gender, fat mass, and station residence had no influence. Only baseline 25-OH-vitamin D serum concentrations significantly affected subsequent 25-OH-vitamin D values. Conclusions Overwinterings at the Antarctic German research stations Neumayer II and III are associated with a decrease in 25-OH-vitamin D serum concentrations, unaffected by age, gender, baseline fat mass, and station residence. Higher baseline vitamin D serum concentrations might protect from subsequent deficiencies. Residence at the Neumayer Stations may lead to lower vitamin D serum concentrations than found in other comparable high latitudes. PMID:26641669

The relationship between serum adiponectin and postpartum luteal activity in high-producing dairy cows.

PubMed

Kafi, Mojtaba; Tamadon, Amin; Saeb, Mehdi

2015-05-01

The aims of the present study were to initially determine the pattern of serum adiponectin concentrations during a normal estrous cycle in high-producing postpartum dairy cows and then evaluate the relationship between the serum concentrations of adiponectin and insulin with the commencement of postpartum luteal activity and ovarian activities in clinically healthy high-producing Holstein dairy cows. During a normal estrous cycle of cows (n = 6), serum adiponectin concentrations gradually decreased (P < 0.05) after ovulation by Day-17 estrous cycle and then increased before the next ovulation. Cows with higher peak of milk yield had lower serum adiponectin concentrations by week 7 postpartum (P = 0.01). Serum adiponectin and insulin concentrations in cows with different postpartum luteal activity (based on the progesterone profile) were evaluated using the following class of cows: normal (≤45 days, n = 11) and delayed (>45 days, n = 11) commencement of luteal activity (C-LA) and four different profiles of normal luteal activity (NLA, n = 5), prolonged luteal phase (n = 6), delayed first ovulation (n = 6), and anovulation (AOV, n = 5). Serum adiponectin concentrations decreased gradually by week 3 postpartum in NLA and then increased; whereas in AOV and delayed first ovulation, they were decreased after week 3 postpartum (P < 0.05). Moreover, serum adiponectin concentrations in NLA were more than AOV at weeks 5 and 7 postpartum (P = 0.05). The increase in the milk yield from weeks 1 to 7 postpartum in prolonged luteal phase (P = 0.05) and AOV (P = 0.04) cows was more than that of NLA cows. Insulin concentrations were almost maintained at a stable level in NLA cows (P > 0.05), whereas they increased in the other groups (P < 0.05). Moreover, adiponectin concentrations in cows with C-LA greater than 45 days decreased more than those with C-LA 45 days or less after week 3 postpartum (P = 0.002). Serum adiponectin concentrations at week 7 postpartum were lower in delayed C-LA (P = 0.01). Milk yield in cows with C-LA greater than 45 days increased more than cows with C-LA 45 days or less postpartum (P = 0.002). Insulin concentrations increased relatively in parallel from weeks 1 to 7 postpartum in cows either with C-LA greater than 45 or with C-LA 45 days or less. We showed for the first time the profile of serum adiponectin concentrations in a normal estrous cycle of dairy cows, and furthermore, it was found that high-producing dairy cows with higher postpartum serum adiponectin concentrations had NLA and earlier C-LA. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of hyper- and hypothyroidism on the alpha-tocopherol concentration in serum and some organs of growing rats.

PubMed

Hrubá, F; Neradilová, M; Nováková, V; Blahosová, I

1976-01-01

The finding of a raised alpha-tocopherol concentration in the heart muscle, liver, skeletal muscle and serum during experimental hyperthyroidism, lasting 30 days, made the authors assume that this cumulation is a transient phenomenon which would disappear during a prolonged metabolic disorder as a result of energetic breakdown of the organism. The purpose of the paper was to verify this view. The investigation with experimental hyper- and hypothyroidism was made in 120 rats with a mean weight of 160 g. To 60 animals daily 100 mug thyroxin were administered by the i.p. route, 48 animals were given 2.5 Carbimazol daily by mouth to induce hypothyroidism and 12 animals served as controls. The animals were fed the same diet. The effect of the administered preparations was examined after 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 days. In hypothyroid animals the 50th day was omitted. The results revealed: 1. In hyperthyroid animals the body weight was almost constant to the end of the experiment. However these animals had a significantly raised weight of the heart muscle and liver, as compared with the remaining two groups. 2. In hyperthyroid animals the highest alpha-tocopherol concentration in the heart muscle and skeletal muscle was recorded after 20 days. During subsequent time intervals the alpha-tocopherol concentration in the heart muscle declined gradually. In the skeletal muscle a dramatic decline occurred after 40 days and proceeded to the end of the investigation when the recorded values were at the borderline of detectability. This finding confirmed the authors view that the alpha-tocopherol cumulation in muscle exposed to an increased work load is a transient phenomenon and disappears during prolonged hyperthyroidism before the breakdown of the organism. 3. In hyperthyroidism no correlation was found between the alpha-tocopherol concentration and the lipid content of organs and skeletal muscle. This correlation was found in hypothyroidism. 4. The alpha-tocopherol serum level in hyperthyroidism was significantly higher than in hypothyroidism. 5. In hyperthyroidism the alpha-tocopherol cumulation in liver increased gradually, and reached its maximum after 50 days. At a time when the alpha-tocopherol concentration in the heart muscle and skeletal muscle declined already, its liver concentration increased. This phenomenon may be associated with the increasing protein synthesis in the liver during hyperthyroidism, or with other phenomena which call for further investigation.

Assessment of pregnancy status of Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) by measurement of progestagen and glucocorticoid and their metabolite concentrations in serum and feces, using enzyme immunoassay (EIA).

PubMed

Kajaysri, Jatuporn; Nokkaew, Weerapun

2014-03-01

The study was to find patterns of progestagen (progesterone and its metabolite) and glucocorticoid and their metabolite concentrations in serum and feces of pregnant Asian elephants (Elephas maximus). The 5 female Asian domestic elephants were naturally mated until pregnancy. After that, blood and feces samples were collected monthly during pregnancy for progestagen, glucocorticoid and their metabolites analysis by enzyme immunoassay (EIA). The results showed the serum progestagen concentration during gestation was 2.11 ± 0.60 to 18.44 ± 2.28 ng/ml. Overall, serum progestagen concentration rose from the 1st month to reach peak in the 11th month, after which it declined to its lowest level in the 22nd month of pregnancy. Fecal progestagen concentration varied from 1.18 ± 0.54 to 3.35 ± 0.45 µg/g during pregnancy. In general, fecal progestagen concentration increased from the 1st month to its highest level in the 12th month. After this, it declined reaching its lowest point in the 22nd month of pregnancy. Glucocorticoid hormones and their metabolite concentrations both in serum and feces fluctuated from low to medium throughout almost the entire pregnancy period and then rapidly increased around the last week before calving. Our study suggests that this profile of progestagen and glucocorticoid hormones and their metabolite concentration levels in serum and feces can be used to assess the pregnancy status of Asian elephants. If serum and fecal progestagen concentrations were found in very low levels and glucocorticoid and their metabolite concentrations were found in very high levels, it was indicated that the cow elephant would calve within 7 days.

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 testosterone in Native American men. PMID:19750113

Thyroid function in 36 dogs with leishmaniosis due to Leishmania infantum before and during treatment with allopurinol with or without meglumine antimonate.

PubMed

Saridomichelakis, Manolis N; Xenoulis, Panagiotis G; Chatzis, Manolis K; Kasabalis, Dimitris; Steiner, Jörg M; Suchodolski, Jan S; Petanides, Theodoros

2013-10-18

Hypothyroidism may predispose to the development of canine leishmaniosis or it may appear during the course of the latter due to infiltration and destruction of the thyroid gland by infected macrophages. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate thyroid function through measurement of serum total thyroxin (tT₄), free thyroxin (fT₄), and canine thyroid stimulating hormone (cTSH) concentrations in 36 dogs with leishmaniosis, before and after 2 and 4 weeks of treatment with allopurinol with or without meglumine antimonate. Before treatment 27/36 (75%) dogs had serum tT₄ concentrations below the lower limit of the reference interval but only 2 of them had concurrently serum fT₄ concentrations below the lower limit of the reference interval and none had increased serum cTSH concentrations. During treatment there were no significant changes in serum tT₄ or fT₄ concentrations, whereas a significant increase in serum cTSH was observed. Two dogs had decreased serum tT₄ and fT₄ but normal cTSH concentrations before treatment and two other dogs had decreased serum tT₄ and increased cTSH, but normal fT₄ concentrations during the treatment period. Although hypothyroidism could not be definitively excluded in these dogs it is considered unlikely based on their overall hormonal profile, clinical presentation, and response to treatment. Therefore, hypothyroidism does not appear to be an important predisposing disease or a frequent complication of canine leishmaniosis. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. 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

Serum adipokine concentrations in dogs with diabetes mellitus: a pilot study

PubMed Central

Kim, Ah Young; Kim, Hye-Sun; Yang, Mhan-Pyo

2015-01-01

This study was conducted to determine whether serum adipokine concentrations differed between healthy dogs and dogs with diabetes mellitus (DM). To accomplish this, 19 dogs with newly diagnosed DM were compared to 20 otherwise healthy dogs. The serum concentrations of visfatin, leptin, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18, and TNF-α were significantly higher in diabetic dogs than in healthy dogs, whereas the serum adiponectin concentrations were lower in diabetic dogs. However, there were no significant differences in the IL-10 and resistin levels between groups. The serum leptin concentrations in diabetic dogs with and without concurrent disorders differed significantly. Treatment with insulin induced a significant decrease in IL-6 in diabetic dogs without concurrent disorders. These results show that the clinical diabetic state of dogs could modulate the circulating visfatin and adiponectin concentrations directly, while upregulation of leptin was probably a result of concurrent disorders rather than an effect of persistent hyperglycemia as a result of DM. PMID:25643799

Approach to the hemodialysis patient with an abnormal serum bicarbonate concentration.

PubMed

Lisawat, Panupong; Gennari, F John

2014-07-01

We present a patient receiving hemodialysis with a persistently high serum bicarbonate concentration to illustrate the evaluation and management issues for patients with both high (>25 mEq/L) and low (<20 mEq/L) pretreatment values. Patients with high serum bicarbonate concentrations typically are malnourished and have low rates of endogenous acid production. Evaluation should begin with assessment of whether an acute and potentially reversible cause of metabolic alkalosis is present. If not, management should be directed at treating malnutrition. By contrast, patients with low predialysis serum bicarbonate concentrations, in the absence of an acute and reversible cause, may benefit from increasing the level by an adjustment in dialysate bicarbonate concentration. However, the level at which one should intervene and to what extent serum bicarbonate concentration should be increased are unresolved issues. Whether such an intervention will reduce mortality risk has not been determined. Copyright © 2014 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The quantitative effect of serum albumin, serum urea, and valproic acid on unbound phenytoin concentrations in children.

PubMed

ter Heine, Rob; van Maarseveen, Erik M; van der Westerlaken, Monique M L; Braun, Kees P J; Koudijs, Suzanne M; Berg, Maarten J Ten; Malingré, Mirte M

2014-06-01

Dosing of phenytoin is difficult in children because of its variable pharmacokinetics and protein binding. Possible covariates for this protein binding have mostly been univariately investigated in small, and often adult, adult populations. We conducted a study to identify and quantify these covariates in children. We extracted data on serum phenytoin concentrations, albumin, triglycerides, urea, total bilirubin and creatinine concentrations and data on coadministration of valproic acid or carbamazepine in 186 children. Using nonlinear mixed effects modeling the effects of covariates on the unbound phenytoin fraction were investigated. Serum albumin, serum urea concentrations, and concomitant valproic acid use significantly influenced the unbound phenytoin fraction. For clinical practice, we recommend that unbound phenytoin concentrations are measured routinely. However, if this is impossible, we suggest to use our model to calculate the unbound concentration. In selected children, close treatment monitoring and dose reductions should be considered to prevent toxicity. © The Author(s) 2013.

Serum α1-proteinase inhibitor concentrations in dogs with exocrine pancreatic disease, chronic hepatitis or proteinuric chronic kidney disease.

PubMed

Heilmann, R M; Grützner, N; Hokamp, J A; Lidbury, J A; Xenoulis, P G; Suchodolski, J S; Nabity, M B; Cianciolo, R; Steiner, J M

2018-06-01

Serum canine α 1 -proteinase inhibitor (cα 1 -PI) concentrations were evaluated in dogs with pancreatitis (n=24), exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI; n=29), chronic hepatitis (CH; n=11) or proteinuric chronic kidney disease (CKD-P; n=61) to determine whether systemic proteinase/proteinase-inhibitor balance is altered in these conditions. Dogs with CKD-P had significantly lower cα 1 -PI concentrations than dogs with pancreatitis, EPI or CH; 16% of dogs with CKD-P had serum cα 1 -PI concentrations below the reference interval. Serum and urine cα 1 -PI concentrations were inversely correlated in dogs with CKD-P, but not in dogs with CH. This suggests that renal loss of cα 1 -PI contributes to decreased serum concentrations in dogs with CKD-P, while hepatic cα 1 -PI synthesis with CH either is not compromised or is counterbalanced by extrahepatic production. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Clinical and Biochemical Influence of Prostatic Stones.

PubMed

Soric, Tomislav; Selimovic, Mirnes; Bakovic, Lada; Šimurina, Tatjana; Selthofer, Robert; Dumic, Jerka

2017-01-01

The study aimed to explore clinical influence of prostatic stones on lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), seminal plasma cytokines, and serum biomarkers. A total of 70 men aged ≤50 years with LUTS divided into 2 groups: group with stones (GSt) and group without prostatic stones (GNoSt). All subjects completed the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) questionnaire and National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI) scoring questionnaire. Pre- and post-prostate massage test and uroflowmetry were performed. The serum concentration of total prostate specific antigen (PSA), free PSA, and free/total PSA (f/t PSA) ratio, seminal concentration of cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p70, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha were measured. GSt subjects had significantly more severe symptoms based on IPSS answers (p = 0.0289). All domains in NIH-CPSI scores were significantly higher in the GSt group: pain (p = 0.001), urinary symptoms (p = 0.023), quality of life (p = 0.008), and with overall (p = 0.003). GSt subjects also had significantly lower maximum urinary flow (Qmax; p = 0.011), lower f/t PSA ratio (p = 0.048), and higher concentration of IL-1β (p = 0.011) and IL-8 (p = 0.001). Prostatic stones may influence the severity of LUTS and the symptoms of chronic prostatitis. They might reduce Qmax rate and lead to reduction of the f/t PSA ratio and produce more severe inflammation causing increased seminal concentration of IL-1β and IL-8. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Osmotic diuresis-induced hypernatremia: better explained by solute-free water clearance or electrolyte-free water clearance?

PubMed

Popli, Subhash; Tzamaloukas, Antonios H; Ing, Todd S

2014-01-01

Hypernatremia may result from inadequate water intake, excessive water loss or a combination of the two. Osmotic diuresis leads to losses of both solute and water. The relationship between solute and water losses determines the resulting changes in serum osmolality and sodium concentration. Total solute loss is routinely higher than loss of water in osmotic diuresis. Theoretically, then, decreases in serum osmolality (and serum sodium concentration) should follow. In clinical situations of osmotic diuresis, however, reduction in osmolality can take place, but not reduction in serum sodium concentration. It is of note that serum sodium concentration changes are related to urinary losses of sodium and potassium but not to the loss of total solute. In osmotic diuresis, the combined loss of sodium and potassium per liter of urine is lower than the concurrent serum sodium level. Consequently, hypernatremia can ensue. A patient who presented with osmotic diuresis and hypernatremia is described here. In this patient, we have shown that electrolyte-free water clearance is a better index of the effect of osmotic diuresis on serum sodium concentration than the classic solute-free water clearance.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids in serum and homocysteine concentrations in Japanese men and women: a cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Kume, Ayami; Kurotani, Kayo; Sato, Masao; Ejima, Yuko; Pham, Ngoc Minh; Nanri, Akiko; Kuwahara, Keisuke; Mizoue, Tetsuya

2013-06-10

Supplementation studies have suggested a role of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in homocysteine metabolism, but the evidence is limited and inconsistent among studies that measured blood levels of n-3 and n-6 PUFAs. We examined the association between blood levels of PUFAs and homocysteine in Japanese men and women. The subjects were 496 employees (290 men and 206 women) of 2 municipal offices in Japan. Fatty acid composition in serum phospholipids and cholesterol ester (CE) was measured using gas-liquid chromatography. Multiple regression was used to calculate means of homocysteine concentrations according to PUFA tertile with adjustment for potential confounders. Serum homocysteine concentration decreased with increasing levels of total n-3 PUFA, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in serum phospholipids and CE with adjustment for age, sex and workplace. However, only DHA in serum phospholipids remained statistically significant after additional adjustment for other potential confounders including serum folate (P-trend = 0.04). N-6 PUFAs were not significantly associated with homocysteine concentrations. Higher proportion of DHA in serum phospholipids may be associated with lower homocysteine concentrations in Japanese men and women.

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.

Refractometric total protein concentrations in icteric serum from dogs.

PubMed

Gupta, Aradhana; Stockham, Steven L

2014-01-01

To determine whether high serum bilirubin concentrations interfere with the measurement of serum total protein concentration by refractometry and to assess potential biases among refractometer measurements. Evaluation study. Sera from 2 healthy Greyhounds. Bilirubin was dissolved in 0.1M NaOH, and the resulting solution was mixed with sera from 2 dogs from which food had been withheld to achieve various bilirubin concentrations up to 40 mg/dL. Refractometric total protein concentrations were estimated with 3 clinical refractometers. A biochemical analyzer was used to measure biuret assay-based total protein and bilirubin concentrations with spectrophotometric assays. No interference with refractometric measurement of total protein concentrations was detected with bilirubin concentrations up to 41.5 mg/dL. Biases in refractometric total protein concentrations were detected and were related to the conversion of refractive index values to total protein concentrations. Hyperbilirubinemia did not interfere with the refractometric estimation of serum total protein concentration. The agreement among total protein concentrations estimated by 3 refractometers was dependent on the method of conversion of refractive index to total protein concentration and was independent of hyperbilirubinemia.

A refractometry-based glucose analysis of body fluids.

PubMed

Zirk, Kai; Poetzschke, Harald

2007-05-01

In principle, refractometry appears to be a suitable method for the measurement of glucose concentrations in body fluids (such as blood and the intercellular fluid), even though the refractive index of the measured samples, as an additive property, is not specific. But, if certain conditions are fulfilled, the glucose content can be calculated using the refractive index in combination with values from a further measurement. This study describes the determination of the glucose content using refractometry in human blood serum derivates, which were selected - due to their ready availability - to be used as a model for interstitial fluid. Refractometry of body fluids requires the elimination of disturbing components from the measurement sample. First of all, a homogenous fluid (i.e. consisting of one phase) is required, so that all cells and components in suspension need to be separated out. Furthermore, certain dissolved macromolecular components which are known to disturb the measurement process must also be removed. In human serum samples which had been ultrafiltrated with a range of ultrafilters of different pore sizes, a comparative evaluation showed that only ultrafiltration through a filter with a separation limit of between 3 and 30kDa resulted in maximal reduction of the refractive index (compared to native serum), whereas ultrafilters with greater separation limits did not. The total content of osmotically active solutes (the tonicity) also exerts a clear influence. However, exemplary measurements in blood plasma fluid from one volunteer showed that the electrical conductivity is (without an additive component) directly proportional to the osmolality: physiological changes in the state of body hydration (hyperhydration and dehydration) do not lead to any considerable changes in the relation between ionised and uncharged solute particles, but instead result in a sufficiently clear dilution or concentration of the blood fluid's low molecular components. This finding allows the use of the--technically easy to measure--electrical conductivity as a measure for the tonicity of the measurement samples. Using measurements of these two parameters--refractive index and electrical conductivity--in blood serum obtained from a healthy volunteer, a two-dimensional calibration function (calibration matrix) for the assessment of the glucose content of ultrafiltrated human blood serum was constructed, and the measurement of blood glucose levels in non-diabetic (four females and four males) volunteers in comparison to a reference method was evaluated showing (as a proof of concept) a linear association. Assessment of the inaccuracy of these measurements made with the described measuring devices and methods showed a deviation from the reference values of less than 10%. An estimation of the maximum possible error showed relative deviations (maximum measurement uncertainties) of up to 20%.

Tamoxifen dose and serum concentrations of tamoxifen and six of its metabolites in routine clinical outpatient care.

PubMed

Jager, N G L; Rosing, H; Schellens, J H M; Linn, S C; Beijnen, J H

2014-02-01

A sensitive and selective HPLC-MS/MS assay was used to analyze steady-state serum concentrations of tamoxifen, N-desmethyltamoxifen (E)-endoxifen, (Z)-endoxifen, N-desmethyl-4'-hydroxytamoxifen, 4-hydroxytamoxifen, and 4'-hydroxytamoxifen to support therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in patients treated with tamoxifen according to standard of care. When the (Z)-endoxifen serum concentration was below the predefined therapeutic threshold concentration of 5.9 ng/mL, the clinician was advised to increase the tamoxifen dose and to collect another serum sample. Paired serum samples from patients at one dose level at different time points during the tamoxifen treatment were used to assess the intra-patient variability. A total of 251 serum samples were analyzed, obtained from 205 patients. Of these patients, 197 used 20 mg tamoxifen per day and 8 patients used 10 mg/day. There was wide variability in tamoxifen and metabolite concentrations within the dosing groups. The threshold concentration for (Z)-endoxifen was reached in one patient (12 %) in the 10 mg group, in 153 patients (78 %) in the 20 mg group, and in 26 (96 %) of the patients who received a dose increase to 30 or 40 mg/day. Dose increase from 20 to 30 or 40 mg per day resulted in a significant increase in the mean serum concentrations of all analytes (p < 0.001). The mean intra-patient variability was between 10 and 20 % for all analytes. These results support the suitability of TDM for optimizing the tamoxifen treatment. It is shown that tamoxifen dose is related to (Z)-endoxifen exposure and increasing this dose leads to a higher serum concentration of tamoxifen and its metabolites. The low intra-patient variability suggests that only one serum sample is needed for TDM, making this a relatively noninvasive way to optimize the patient's treatment.

Dialysate Potassium and Mortality in a Prospective Hemodialysis Cohort.

PubMed

Ferrey, Antoney; You, Amy S; Kovesdy, Csaba P; Nakata, Tracy; Veliz, Mary; Nguyen, Danh V; Kalantar-Zadeh, Kamyar; Rhee, Connie M

2018-06-07

Studies examining the association of dialysate potassium concentration and mortality in hemodialysis patients show conflicting findings. We hypothesized that low dialysate potassium concentrations are associated with higher mortality, particularly in patients with high pre-dialysis serum potassium concentrations. We evaluated 624 hemodialysis patients from the prospective Malnutrition, Diet, and Racial Disparities in Kidney Disease study recruited from 16 outpatient dialysis facilities over 2011-2015 who underwent protocolized collection of dialysis treatment characteristics every 6 months. We examined the association of dialysate potassium concentration, categorized as 1, 2, and 3 mEq/L, with all-cause mortality risk in the -overall cohort, and stratified by pre-dialysis serum potassium (< 5 vs. ≥5 mEq/L) using case-mix adjusted Cox models. In baseline analyses, dialysate potassium concentrations of 1 mEq/L were associated with higher mortality, whereas concentrations of 3 mEq/L were associated with similar mortality in the overall cohort (reference: 2 mEq/L): adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs; 95% CI) 1.70 (1.01-2.88) and 0.95 (0.64-1.39), respectively. In analyses stratified by serum potassium, baseline dialysate potassium concentrations of 1 mEq/L were associated with higher mortality in patients with serum potassium ≥5 mEq/L but not in those with serum potassium < 5 mEq/L: aHRs (95% CI) 2.87 (1.51-5.46) and 0.74 (0.27-2.07), respectively (p interaction = 0.04). These findings were robust with incremental adjustment for serum potassium, potassium-binding resins, and potassium-modifying medications. Low (1 mEq/L) dialysate potassium -concentrations were associated with higher mortality, particularly in hemodialysis patients with high pre-dialysis serum potassium. Further studies are needed to identify therapeutic strategies that mitigate inter-dialytic serum potassium accumulation and subsequent high dialysate serum potassium gradients in this population. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

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.

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.

Effect of zinc supplementation on serum zinc concentration and T cell proliferation in nursing home elderly:A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Background: Zinc is essential for the regulation of immune response. T cell function declines with age. Zinc supplementation has the potential to improve serum zinc concentrations and immunity of nursing home elderly with low serum zinc concentration. Objective: We aimed to determine the effect of ...

Do changes in S100beta protein correlate with serum magnesium concentrations in patients undergoing extracorporeal circulation?

PubMed

Dabrowski, Wojciech

2007-09-01

There are many biochemical markers demonstrating the central nervous system (CNS) damage following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The protein S100beta is one of them and its concentrations depend on the severity of CNS damage. On the other hand, it is well known that the brain injury results in a decrease in brain magnesium (Mg) concentration, which is strictly correlated with the serum Mg concentration. Therefore, analysis of the correlation between serum total Mg and S100beta concentrations may be important and interesting, particularly in patients undergoing surgical myocardial revascularization. Patients undergoing CABG with extracorporeal circulation under general anaesthesia were included in the study. Serum Mg and S100beta concentrations were measured at 5 measurement points: 1) just after the radial artery cannulation, 2) 10 min after completion of ECC, 3) just after surgery, 4) in the morning of the 1st postoperative day, 5) in the morning of the 2nd postoperative day. The Kruskall-Wallis ANOVA and Spearman correlation tests were used; p < 0.05 was considered as significant. Twenty male patients, aged 54-70 years (63.3 +/- 49.5) were examined. The mean blood concentration of S100beta was 0.13 microg/L +/- 0.08 and of Mg-0.99mmol/L +/- 0.13 at measurement point 1. S100beta increased from point 2 to 4. Mg decreased at points 2 and 3. Moreover, there were significant negative correlations between S100beta and Mg at point 3 and 4 (p < 0.001; R = -0.76; p < 0.05; R = -0.5, respectively) and between Mg at point 1 and S100beta at point 3 and 5 (p < 0.05, R = -0.498; p < 0.05, R = -0.488, respectively), Mg at point 2 and S100beta at point 4 (p < 0.05, R = -0.523) as well as Mg at point 4 and S100beta at point 5 (p < 0.01, R = -0.584). 1) S100beta increased while total Mg decreased during CABG, 2) The highest serum S100beta concentrations were noted just after surgery, 3) The changes in serum S100beta concentrations correlated with those in serum total Mg concentrations, 4) The decrease in serum magnesium concentrations resulted in an elevation in serum S100beta concentrations.

Corpus luteum function following single and double ovulation during estrous cycle in Sanjabi ewes.

PubMed

Shabankareh, H Karami; Habibizad, J; Torki, M

2009-09-01

This study compared the effect of double and single ovulation on serum progesterone concentrations and luteal characteristics in Sanjabi ewes at different days of the estrous cycle. The estrous cycles of 197 Sanjabi ewes were synchronized by a 12-day treatment with intravaginal sponges (Chronogest). Estrus was detected in 144 ewes 27-39 h after sponge removal. Daily blood samples were taken every morning and analyzed for serum progesterone (P4). Ewes were then transported to a local abattoir, where nine ewes were slaughtered on each experimental day (days 1-16 after estrus) for ovary collection. The ovarian follicles were measured and categorized by size (very small <2mm; small 2-3.5mm; medium 3.5-5mm; large >5mm). On each slaughter day, the number of corpora lutea per ewe was classified as single and double ovulation. The results show that the effect of dominant follicles was less during the mid-luteal phase. Ovulation rate of right, left and both ovaries were (54.9%), (23.6%) and (21.5%), respectively. The incidence of double ovulations was 40.2%. In the case of ewes exhibiting double ovulation, 46.6% occurred unilateral (ewes exhibited both ovulations on the right ovary); whereas 53.4% occurred bilateral (ewes exhibited ovulations on the right and left ovaries). Unilateral double ovulation was not observed in the left ovary. The right ovary appeared to play a significantly greater role in ewes showing single and double ovulations than the left ovary (P<0.05). Serum progesterone concentration showed minimum and maximum levels of 0.29+/-0.15 and 5.51+/-0.75 ng/ml on days 16 and 11 post-estrous, respectively (P<0.001). The mean volume of individual corpus lutea in ewes with single ovulations was significantly higher than in ewes with double ovulations (P<0.01). However, the total volume of corpus lutea in ewes with single ovulation was significantly lower than in ewes with double ovulations in some days of estrous cycle (P<0.01). The serum progesterone concentration was significantly higher in double than single ovulating animals on days 1-16 of the estrous cycle (P<0.001). These results indicated a relatively high incidence of double ovulation in ewes associated with increasing total luteal volume and high circulating concentrations of progesterone.

Influence of thyroid hormones and transforming growth factor-β1 on cystatin C concentrations.

PubMed

Kotajima, N; Yanagawa, Y; Aoki, T; Tsunekawa, K; Morimura, T; Ogiwara, T; Nara, M; Murakami, M

2010-01-01

Serum cystatin C concentrations are reported to increase in the hyperthyroid state. Serum concentrations of cystatin C and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) were measured in patients with thyroid dysfunction, and the effects of 3,5,3'-tri-iodothyronine (T(3)) and TGF-β1 on cystatin C production in human hepatoblastoma (Hep G2) cells were studied. Serum concentrations of cystatin C and TGF-β1 were significantly higher in patients with Graves' disease compared with control subjects. Significantly positive correlations were observed between thyroid hormones and cystatin C, thyroid hormones and TGF-β1, and TGF-β1 and cystatin C in patients with thyroid dysfunction. Serum concentrations of cystatin C and TGF-β1 decreased after treatment for hyperthyroidism. Cystatin C mRNA levels and cystatin C secretion were increased by T(3) and TGF-β1 in cultured Hep G2 cells. These results suggest that serum cystatin C concentrations increase in patients with hyperthyroidism. The mechanisms for this may involve elevation of serum TGF-β1 levels and the stimulatory effects of T(3) and TGF-β1 on cystatin C production.

Serum bile acid concentrations in dairy cattle with hepatic lipidosis.

PubMed

Garry, F B; Fettman, M J; Curtis, C R; Smith, J A

1994-01-01

This study was designed to evaluate serum bile acid measurements as indicatory, of liver function and/or hepatic fat infiltration in dairy cattle. Serum bile acid concentrations were measured in healthy dairy cattle at different stages of lactation after fasting or feeding. Bile acid concentrations were compared with liver fat content and sulfobromophthalein (BSP) half-life (T 1/2). Serum bile acid concentrations were higher in cows in early lactation and with higher daily milk production. Compared with prefasting values, bile acid concentrations were decreased at 8, 14, and 24 hours of fasting. Blood samples from fed cows at 1- to 2-hour intervals had wide and inconsistent variations in bile acid concentration. Because serum bile acids correlated well with BSP T 1/2, it is suggested that both measurements evaluate a similar aspect of liver function. Neither bile acids nor BSP T 1/2 correlated with differences in liver fat content among cows. Because of large variability in serum bile acid concentrations in fed cows and the lack of correlation of measured values with liver fat content, bile acid determinations do not appear useful for showing changes in hepatic function in fed cows with subclinical hepatic lipidosis nor serve as a screening test for this condition.

Reduction of serum triacylglycerol-rich lipoprotein concentrations in cows with hepatic lipidosis.

PubMed

Herdt, T H; Liesman, J S; Gerloff, B J; Emery, R S

1983-02-01

The hepatic and serum lipid concentrations in 49 dairy cows with displaced abomasum, 7 postpartum cows fasted for 6 days, and 14 healthy postpartum cows were studied. The cows with displaced abomasums were retrospectively allotted to 2 groups: those with greater than 15% liver fat (DAHF) and those with less than 15% liver fat (DALF). Liver total lipid concentrations were high in the DAHF group, exceeding these values in the fasted cows by 30% and in the healthy and DALF cows by 63% on the average. In contrast, the liver phospholipid concentrations were low in the DAHF group, intermediate in the fasted and DALF groups and high in the healthy group. On a group basis, an inverse relationship was observed between serum and liver lipid concentrations. The serum concentrations of both total and dextran-sulfate-precipitable (DSP) lipids were high in the fasted cows and were less in the DALF and healthy cows and in the DAHF cows (lowest). The between-group differences in serum total and serum DSP concentrations of triacylglycerol, cholesterol, and phospholipid followed the same quantitative pattern as the total lipids. However, the relative difference between groups was greater for each of the DSP lipid fractions. These results support the hypothesis that severe hepatic lipidosis in cattle occurs due to impaired hepatic lipoprotein synthesis and secretion.

Zonisamide serum concentrations during pregnancy.

PubMed

Reimers, Arne; Helde, Grethe; Becser Andersen, Noémi; Aurlien, Dag; Surlien Navjord, Elisabeth; Haggag, Kathrine; Christensen, Jakob; Lillestølen, Kari Mette; Nakken, Karl Otto; Brodtkorb, Eylert

2018-05-04

To investigate the change in zonisamide (ZNS) serum concentration and its consequences in pregnant women with epilepsy. Six hospitals in Norway and Denmark screened their records for women who had been using ZNS during pregnancy. Absolute serum concentrations as well as concentration/dose (CD)-ratios were compared to non-pregnant values. Descriptive data on seizure control and obstetrical data were also collected. 144 serum concentrations from 23 pregnancies in 15 individual women with epilepsy were included (six on monotherapy). The mean ZNS serum concentration fell to a minimum of 58.6 ± 15.1%, while the C/D-ratio fell to as low as 55.1 ± 15.3% of the non-pregnant-value. The lowest values were seen in gestational months six to nine, and the individual nadir varied considerably (range: 24-81% of the non-pregnant value). Four out of ten previously seizure-free patients experienced breakthrough seizures. Gestational age, weight at birth and head circumference of the newborns were within the reference ranges. ZNS serum concentrations may fall by over 40% during pregnancy, with large interindividual variability. In some patients, this may lead to worsened seizure control. These findings are in line with reports on other AEDs and suggest that regular therapeutic drug monitoring and dose adjustments may be useful. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison of the single dose pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety of two novel oral formulations of dimethandrolone undecanoate (DMAU): a potential oral, male contraceptive.

PubMed

Ayoub, R; Page, S T; Swerdloff, R S; Liu, P Y; Amory, J K; Leung, A; Hull, L; Blithe, D; Christy, A; Chao, J H; Bremner, W J; Wang, C

2017-03-01

Dimethandrolone (DMA, 7α,11β-dimethyl-19-nortestosterone) has both androgenic and progestational activities, ideal properties for a male hormonal contraceptive. In vivo, dimethandrolone undecanoate (DMAU) is hydrolyzed to DMA. We showed previously that single oral doses of DMAU powder in capsule taken with food are well tolerated and effective at suppressing both LH and testosterone (T), but absorption was low. We compared the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of two new formulations of DMAU, in castor oil and in self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS), with the previously tested powder formulation. DMAU was dosed orally in healthy adult male volunteers at two academic medical centers. For each formulation tested in this double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 10 men received single, escalating, oral doses of DMAU (100, 200, and 400 mg) and two subjects received placebo. All doses were evaluated for both fasting and with a high fat meal. All three formulations were well tolerated without clinically significant changes in vital signs, blood counts, or serum chemistries. For all formulations, DMA and DMAU showed higher maximum (p < 0.007) and average concentrations (p < 0.002) at the 400 mg dose, compared with the 200 mg dose. The powder formulation resulted in a lower conversion of DMAU to DMA (p = 0.027) compared with both castor oil and SEDDS formulations. DMAU in SEDDS given fasting resulted in higher serum DMA and DMAU concentrations compared to the other two formulations. Serum LH and sex hormone concentrations were suppressed by all formulations of 200 and 400 mg DMAU when administered with food, but only the SEDDS formulation was effectively suppressed serum T when given fasting. We conclude that while all three formulations of oral DMAU are effective and well tolerated when administered with food, DMAU in oil and SEDDS increased conversion to DMA, and SEDDS may have some effectiveness when given fasting. These properties might be advantageous for the application of DMAU as a male contraceptive. © 2016 American Society of Andrology and European Academy of Andrology.

Elevated Concentrations of Serum Immunoglobulin Free Light Chains in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients in Relation to Disease Activity, Inflammatory Status, B Cell Activity and Epstein-Barr Virus Antibodies

PubMed Central

Draborg, Anette H.; Lydolph, Magnus C.; Westergaard, Marie; Olesen Larsen, Severin; Nielsen, Christoffer T.; Duus, Karen; Jacobsen, Søren; Houen, Gunnar

2015-01-01

Objective In this study, we examined the concentration of serum immunoglobulin free light chains (FLCs) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and investigated its association with various disease parameters in order to evaluate the role of FLCs as a potential biomarker in SLE. Furthermore, FLCs’ association with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antibodies was examined. Methods Using a nephelometric assay, κFLC and λFLC concentrations were quantified in sera from 45 SLE patients and 40 healthy controls. SLE patients with renal insufficiency were excluded in order to preclude high concentrations of serum FLCs due to decreased clearance. Results Serum FLC concentrations were significantly elevated in SLE patients compared to healthy controls (p<0.0001) also after adjusting for Ig levels (p<0.0001). The concentration of serum FLCs correlated with a global disease activity (SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI)) score of the SLE patients (r = 0.399, p = 0.007). Furthermore, concentrations of FLCs correlated with titers of dsDNA antibodies (r = 0.383, p = 0.009), and FLC levels and SLEDAI scores correlated in the anti-dsDNA-positive SLE patients, but not in anti-dsDNA-negative SLE patients. Total immunoglobulin (IgG and IgA) concentrations correlated with FLC concentrations and elevated FLC levels were additionally shown to associate with the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein and also with complement consumption determined by low C4 in SLE patients. Collectively, results indicated that elevated serum FLCs reflects increased B cell activity in relation to inflammation. SLE patients had an increased seropositivity of EBV-directed antibodies that did not associate with elevated FLC concentrations. An explanation for this could be that serum FLC concentrations reflect the current EBV activity (reactivation) whereas EBV-directed antibodies reflect the extent of previous infection/reactivations. Conclusion SLE patients have elevated concentrations of serum FLCs that correlate with global disease activity scores and especially serologic markers for active disease. These findings are suggestive of circulating FLCs having potential as a new supplementary serologic biomarker in SLE. PMID:26402865

Systemic levels of the anti-inflammatory decoy receptor soluble RAGE (receptor for advanced glycation end products) are decreased in dogs with inflammatory bowel disease.

PubMed

Heilmann, Romy M; Otoni, Cristiane C; Jergens, Albert E; Grützner, Niels; Suchodolski, Jan S; Steiner, Jörg M

2014-10-15

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a common condition in dogs, and a dysregulated innate immunity is believed to play a major role in its pathogenesis. S100A12 is an endogenous damage-associated molecular pattern molecule, which is involved in phagocyte activation and is increased in serum/fecal samples from dogs with IBD. S100A12 binds to the receptor of advanced glycation end products (RAGE), a pattern-recognition receptor, and results of studies in human patients with IBD and other conditions suggest a role of RAGE in chronic inflammation. Soluble RAGE (sRAGE), a decoy receptor for inflammatory proteins (e.g., S100A12) that appears to function as an anti-inflammatory molecule, was shown to be decreased in human IBD patients. This study aimed to evaluate serum sRAGE and serum/fecal S100A12 concentrations in dogs with IBD. Serum and fecal samples were collected from 20 dogs with IBD before and after initiation of medical treatment and from 15 healthy control dogs. Serum sRAGE and serum and fecal S100A12 concentrations were measured by ELISA, and were compared between dogs with IBD and healthy controls, and between dogs with a positive outcome (i.e., clinical remission, n=13) and those that were euthanized (n=6). The relationship of serum sRAGE concentrations with clinical disease activity (using the CIBDAI scoring system), serum and fecal S100A12 concentrations, and histologic disease severity (using a 4-point semi-quantitative grading system) was tested. Serum sRAGE concentrations were significantly lower in dogs with IBD than in healthy controls (p=0.0003), but were not correlated with the severity of histologic lesions (p=0.4241), the CIBDAI score before (p=0.0967) or after treatment (p=0.1067), the serum S100A12 concentration before (p=0.9214) and after treatment (p=0.4411), or with the individual outcome (p=0.4066). Clinical remission and the change in serum sRAGE concentration after treatment were not significantly associated (p=0.5727); however, serum sRAGE concentrations increased only in IBD dogs with complete clinical remission. Also, dogs that were euthanized had significantly higher fecal S100A12 concentrations than dogs that were alive at the end of the study (p=0.0124). This study showed that serum sRAGE concentrations are decreased in dogs diagnosed with IBD compared to healthy dogs, suggesting that sRAGE/RAGE may be involved in the pathogenesis of canine IBD. Lack of correlation between sRAGE and S100A12 concentrations is consistent with sRAGE functioning as a non-specific decoy receptor. Further studies need to evaluate the gastrointestinal mucosal expression of RAGE in healthy and diseased dogs, and also the formation of S100A12-RAGE complexes. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Retinoic acid concentrations in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.

PubMed

Wahlberg, P; Fex, G

1996-02-01

The serum concentrations of all-trans (atRA) and 13-cis (13cRA) retinoic acid were determined by high performance liquid chromatography in 27 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck and in 80 healthy controls. This investigation seemed relevant as ethanol is an aetiological factor in these cancers and has been suggested to interfere with the synthesis of atRA. Neither the serum concentration of atRA nor that of 13cRA differed between patients and controls. The serum atRA concentration did not differ between fasting and non-fasting patients, but the serum 13cRA concentration was significantly higher in non-fasting than in fasting patients, probably due to the dietary retinoid content.

In vivo toxicity of the culturable marine cyanobacterium Geitlerinema pseudacutissimum CNP 1019 extract on male Swiss albino mice (Mus musculus).

PubMed

Maruthanayagam, Veerabadhran; Nagarajan, Manivel; Sundararaman, Muthuraman

2014-01-01

In this study, we investigated the in vivo toxicity of Geitlerinema pseudacutissimum CNP 1019 organic extract in a murine host. A single intraperitoneal injection of 1 g extract kg⁻¹ body weight (BW) did not exhibit mortality, whereas 3 g extract kg⁻¹ BW (approximate lethal dose) resulted in mortality within 5 days. To perform subchronic exposure toxicity analyses (i.e., daily exposure for a total of 14 days), a maximum concentration of ≤1 g extract kg⁻¹ BW was used. Subchronic toxicity studies in the treated mice, showed fluctuations of feed intake, loss of body weight, increase in specific activity of serum lactate dehydrogenase, alanine aminotransferase and decrease in whole serum protein concentration. LDH isoenzyme expression was found, and levels of the various isoforms were decreased as a result of the treatment. Histopathology studies in liver, kidney, and spleen isolated from the treated mice showed the presence of necrotic debris, hemorrhage, and micronuclei revealing the toxicity of the extract. The dose-dependent alterations in biochemical parameters in conjunction with the histological lesions noted in the animals treated with the prepared extract illustrate the likely potential toxicity to mammals from any encounters with the studied cyanobacterium.

[Contribution of leptin in the development of insulin resistance in pregnant women with obesity].

PubMed

Tarasenko, K

2014-03-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate contribution of leptin in the development of insulin resistance in obese pregnant women depending on the obesity class as well as its effect on the progression of pregnancy. 36 pregnant women of I and II obesity classes and 21 pregnant women with normal body mass participated in the study. Concentrations of insulin, leptin and C-reactive protein in blood serum were measured with immunoenzymatic assays. Insulin resistance (IR) was determined with the Caro index. Contribution of leptin to development of IR was assessed with the ratio "leptin/Caro index". An increase of leptin concentration in blood serum was found in pregnant women with obesity compared to healthy controls. Moreover, the ratio "leptin/Caro index" increased with IR progression and reached maximum in the group with obesity class II, where it was 5.8 times higher than in the control group. An increased frequency of gestoses and placentary dysfunction were manifestations of weakening of adaptive mechanisms of the organism associated with the IR progression and increased role of leptin in its development. Therefore, activation of adipocyte function through the increased leptin secretion and increased ratio "leptin/Caro index" reflects the important role of leptin in pathogenesis of IR in pregnant women with obesity.

Serotonin syndrome following overdose of a non-prescription slimming product containing sibutramine: a case report.

PubMed

Lam, Pui Kin; Leung, K S; Wong, T W; Lee, H H C; Tang, M H Y; Mak, T W L

2012-04-01

Non-prescription slimming products are popular and can be easily purchased from the Internet. However, adulteration of these products with undeclared substances including prescription drugs is not uncommon. We report a case of serotonin syndrome after an overdose of a non-prescription product containing sibutramine. A 21-year-old woman presented with somnolence, sinus tachycardia, generalised increase in tone, hyper-reflexia and clonus more prominent in the lower limbs after an intentional overdose of a non-prescription slimming product obtained from the Internet. The product was later found to contain sibutramine and other substances such as animal thyroid tissues, caffeine and phenolphthalein. Quantitative analysis of patient's serum on presentation revealed a sibutramine concentration of 112 ng/mL, which far exceeded the reported peak serum concentration after a single oral dose of 15 mg (the maximum daily recommended dose). No other culpable agent was identified. The overall clinical presentation was compatible with serotonin syndrome associated with sibutramine overdose. The patient made a full recovery after supportive management. This case highlighted the health threat posed by non-prescription slimming products sold over the Internet. Sibutramine overdose can result in serotonin syndrome, as in overdose of other serotonergic agents. Early recognition and timely supportive treatment are essential to ensure a good clinical outcome.

Population PK-PD analyses of CD25 occupancy, CD56bright NK cell expansion, and regulatory T cell reduction by daclizumab HYP in subjects with multiple sclerosis.

PubMed

Diao, Lei; Hang, Yaming; Othman, Ahmed A; Mehta, Devangi; Amaravadi, Lakshmi; Nestorov, Ivan; Tran, Jonathan Q

2016-11-01

Daclizumab high yield process (HYP) is a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody that binds to the α-subunit of the interleukin-2 receptor and is being developed for treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). This manuscript characterized the pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) relationships of daclizumab HYP in subjects with MS. Approximately 1400 subjects and 7000 PD measurements for each of three biomarkers [CD25 occupancy, CD56 bright natural killer (NK) cell count, regulatory T cell (Treg) count] from four clinical trials were analyzed using non-linear mixed effects modelling. Evaluated regimens included 150 or 300 mg subcutaneous (s.c.) every 4 weeks. CD25 occupancy was characterized using a sigmoidal maximum response (E max ) model. Upon daclizumab HYP treatment, CD25 saturation was rapid with complete saturation occurring after approximately 7 h and maintained when daclizumab HYP serum concentration was ≥5 mg l -1 . After the last 150 mg s.c. dose, unoccupied CD25 returned to baseline levels in approximately 24 weeks, with daclizumab HYP serum concentration approximately ≤1 mgl -1 1L. CD56 bright NK cell expansion was characterized using an indirect response model. Following daclizumab HYP 150 mg s.c. every 4 weeks, expansion plateaus approximately at week 36, at which the average maximum expansion ratio is 5.2. After the last dose, CD56 bright NK cells gradually declined to baseline levels within 24 weeks. Treg reduction was characterized by a sigmoidal E max model. Average maximum reduction of 60% occurred approximately 4 days post 150 mg s.c. dose. After the last dose, Tregs were projected to return to baseline levels in approximately 20 weeks. Robust PK-PD models of CD25 occupancy, CD56 bright NK cell expansion and Treg reduction by daclizumab HYP were developed to characterize its key pharmacodynamic effects in the target patient population. © 2016 The British Pharmacological Society.

A Copeptin-Based Classification of the Osmoregulatory Defects in the Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuresis

PubMed Central

Fenske, Wiebke Kristin; Christ-Crain, Mirjam; Hörning, Anna; Simet, Jessica; Szinnai, Gabor; Fassnacht, Martin; Rutishauser, Jonas; Bichet, Daniel G.; Störk, Stefan

2014-01-01

Hyponatremia, the most frequent electrolyte disorder, is caused predominantly by the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis (SIAD). A comprehensive characterization of SIAD subtypes, defined by type of osmotic dysregulation, is lacking, but may aid in predicting therapeutic success. Here, we analyzed serial measurements of serum osmolality and serum sodium, plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP), and plasma copeptin concentrations from 50 patients with hyponatremia who underwent hypertonic saline infusion. A close correlation between copeptin concentrations and serum osmolality existed in 68 healthy controls, with a mean osmotic threshold±SD of 282±4 mOsM/kg H2O. Furthermore, saline-induced changes in copeptin concentrations correlated with changes in AVP concentrations in controls and patients. With use of copeptin concentration as a surrogate measure of AVP concentration, patients with SIAD could be grouped according to osmoregulatory defect: Ten percent of patients had grossly elevated copeptin concentrations independent of serum osmolality (type A); 14% had copeptin concentrations that increased linearly with rising serum osmolality but had abnormally low osmotic thresholds (type B); 44% had normal copeptin concentrations independent of osmolality (type C), and 12% had suppressed copeptin concentrations independent of osmolality (type D). A novel SIAD subtype discovered in 20% of patients was characterized by a linear decrease in copeptin concentrations with increasing serum osmolality (type E or “barostat reset”). In conclusion, a partial or complete loss of AVP osmoregulation occurs in patients with SIAD. Although the mechanisms underlying osmoregulatory defects in individual patients are presumably diverse, we hypothesize that treatment responses and patient outcomes will vary according to SIAD subtype. PMID:24722436

Serum concentrations of IgG, IgA, and IgM in retired racing Greyhound dogs.

PubMed

Clemente, Mónica; Marín, Liliana; Iazbik, M Cristina; Couto, C Guillermo

2010-12-01

Greyhound dogs have significant physiologic, hematologic, and biochemical differences when compared with other breeds, including significantly lower serum globulin concentration owing to decreases in the α- and β-globulin fractions. The specific proteins that account for differences in globulin concentrations are not known, but IgA and IgM, both β-globulins, are potential candidates. The aims of this study were to measure serum IgG, IgA, and IgM in clinically healthy retired racing Greyhounds and compare the results with those of age- and sex-matched non-Greyhound dogs. Study animals included 25 Greyhound and 20 non-Greyhound dogs. Total protein, albumin, and total globulin concentrations were determined. IgG, IgA, and IgM concentrations were measured using a commercially available radial immunodiffusion kit. The Student t-test assuming equal variances was used to compare concentrations of immunoglobulins between groups. Serum concentrations of IgA and IgM in Greyhounds (IgA=49±20 mg/dL; IgM=132±47 mg/dL) were significantly lower than concentrations in non-Greyound dogs (IgA=70±39 mg/dL; Ig M=212±78 mg/dL). Concentrations of IgG did not differ between groups. Mean serum IgA and IgM concentrations in Greyhounds were lower than those in non-Greyhound dogs. This may contribute to low serum concentrations of β-globulins in Greyhounds. Specific reference intervals are recommended for Greyhounds to avoid possible misdiagnosis of IgA or IgM deficiency. ©2010 American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.

Comparisons among serum, egg albumin and yolk concentrations of corticosterone as biomarkers of basal and stimulated adrenocortical activity of laying hens.

PubMed

Cook, N J; Renema, R; Wilkinson, C; Schaefer, A L

2009-09-01

1. Serial blood samples from individual birds were analysed for corticosterone concentrations under basal and stimulated conditions, and matched to eggs from the same birds for comparison to albumin and yolk concentrations of corticosterone. 2. Serum corticosterone exhibited increases in response to stimulation by ACTH and Handling stress. There were no significant increases in egg albumin or yolk concentrations of corticosterone following stimulation. 3. Several significant correlations were observed between the mean and area under the curve (AUC) measurements of serum corticosterone concentrations with albumin and yolk corticosterone concentrations in eggs laid from 1 to 2 d later. 4. The results demonstrated a relationship between endogenous concentrations of serum corticosterone that reflected daily adrenocortical output with albumin and yolk corticosterone concentrations in eggs laid the following day. 5. The results do not support the concept of albumin and yolk concentrations of corticosterone as biomarkers of acute adrenocortical responses to stimulation.

Predicting age at menopause from serum antimüllerian hormone concentration.

PubMed

Tehrani, Fahimeh Ramezani; Shakeri, Nezhat; Solaymani-Dodaran, Masoud; Azizi, Fereidoun

2011-07-01

We aimed to estimate age at menopause using serum antimüllerian hormone (AMH) concentration. We randomly selected 266 study participants from a pool of 1,265 eligible women in the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study cohort. We measured AMH levels three times at about 3-year intervals. There were 63 occurrences of menopause in our participants over an average of 6-year follow-up. We built an accelerated failure time model using serum AMH level at the start of follow-up to estimate age at menopause. The goodness of fit for the model was tested using Cox-Snell residuals and the Bland-Altman plot. We estimated ages at menopause for different levels of serum AMH concentration among women aged 20 to 49 years. For those who reached menopause, serum AMH concentrations about 6 years before the event provided fairly accurate estimates of the age at menopause. The Bland-Altman plot showed an acceptable agreement between predicted and observed values. Serum AMH concentrations can reasonably forecast the age at menopause for individual women.

Comparison of Polyfluoroalkyl Compound Concentrations in Maternal Serum and Amniotic Fluid: A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Stein, Cheryl R.; Wolff, Mary S.; Calafat, Antonia M.; Kato, Kayoko; Engel, Stephanie M.

2012-01-01

The extent to which polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFCs) are detectable in amniotic fluid is unknown. Using paired samples from 28 women, we compared the concentration of 8 PFCs measured in serum, the standard matrix for assessing human exposure, amniotic fluid from routine amniocentesis, and urine. Perfluorooctanoate (PFOA), perfluorononanoate (PFNA), perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), and perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS) were detected in all maternal serum samples. The number of amniotic fluid samples with detectable concentrations differed by PFC (PFOA n=24; PFNA n=10; PFOS n=9; PFHxS n=4). The correlation coefficient between maternal serum and amniotic PFC levels varied considerably by PFC (PFOA ρ=0.64, p<0.001; PFNA ρ=0.05, p=0.9; PFOS ρ=0.76, p=0.01; PFHxS ρ=0.80, p=0.2). Using linear regression, PFOA appeared to be commonly detected in amniotic fluid if the serum concentration exceeded approximately 1.5 ng/mL whereas PFOS was rarely detected in amniotic fluid until the serum concentration was about 5.5 ng/mL. No PFCs were detected in urine. PMID:22613200

Analysis of Serum Concentrations of Tranexamic Acid Given by Alternate Routes in Swine (Sus scrofa) During Controlled Hemorrhage.

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-08-17

the peak serum concentration of TXA when comparing IV and IM administration, IM did reach a minimum concentration which in vitro has been shown to... research is needed to determine the efficacy of TXA given by this route. 200 ::J’ .€ 150 g> .§_ c: 0 1a ...... "E ~ 100 c: 0 u ~ c: ca...serum concentration of TXA when comparing IV and IM administration, IM did reach a minimum concentration which in vitro has been shown to inhibit

Serum feline-specific pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity concentrations and abdominal ultrasonographic findings in cats with trauma resulting from high-rise syndrome.

PubMed

Zimmermann, Elke; Hittmair, Katharina M; Suchodolski, Jan S; Steiner, Jörg M; Tichy, Alexander; Dupré, Gilles

2013-05-01

To evaluate serum feline-specific pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (fPLI) concentrations and abdominal ultrasonographic findings in cats with trauma resulting from high-rise syndrome. Prospective case series. Animals-34 client-owned cats. From cats evaluated because of high-rise syndrome between March and October 2009, a blood sample was obtained for measurement of serum fPLI concentration within 12 hours after the fall and at 24, 48, and 72 hours after the first blood collection. Pancreatitis was diagnosed in cats with an fPLI concentration > 5.4 μg/L. Each cat had abdominal ultrasonography performed twice 48 hours apart, and pancreatic trauma was assessed via detection of pancreatic enlargement, hypoechoic or heteroechoic pancreatic parenchyma, hyperechoic mesentery, and peritoneal effusion. Cats were assigned 1 point for each abnormality present, and a cumulative score ≥ 3 was considered suggestive of traumatic pancreatitis. Traumatic pancreatitis was diagnosed in 9 and 8 cats on the basis of serum fPLI concentration and ultrasonographic findings, respectively. For cats with pancreatitis, fPLI concentration was significantly higher at 12 and 24 hours after the fall than at 48 and 72 hours after the fall, and serum fPLI concentration decreased as time after the fall increased. Significant agreement existed between the use of serum fPLI concentration and abdominal ultrasonography for the diagnosis of traumatic pancreatitis. Cats with high-rise syndrome often had serum fPLI concentrations > 5.4 μg/L within 12 hours after the fall, and concurrent evaluation of those cats via abdominal ultrasonography twice, 48 hours apart, improved detection of traumatic pancreatitis.

Serum Bilirubin Concentration is Associated with Left Ventricular Remodeling in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cohort Study.

PubMed

Inoue, Tomoaki; Sonoda, Noriyuki; Hiramatsu, Shinsuke; Kimura, Shinichiro; Ogawa, Yoshihiro; Inoguchi, Toyoshi

2018-02-01

Previous studies have shown that serum bilirubin concentration is inversely associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease. The relationship between serum bilirubin concentration and left ventricular geometry, however, has not been investigated in patients with diabetes mellitus. In this cohort study, 158 asymptomatic patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus without overt heart disease were enrolled. Left ventricular structure and function were assessed using echocardiography. Serum bilirubin concentration, glycemic control, lipid profile, and other clinical characteristics were evaluated, and their association with left ventricular geometry was determined. Patients with New York Heart Association Functional Classification greater than I, left ventricular ejection fraction less than 50%, history of coronary artery disease, severe valvulopathy, chronic atrial fibrillation, or creatinine clearance less than 30 ml/min, and those receiving insulin treatment, were excluded. Univariate analyses showed that relative wall thickness (RWT) was significantly correlated with diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.003), HbA1c (P = 0.024), total cholesterol (P = 0.043), urinary albumin (P = 0.023), and serum bilirubin concentration (P = 0.009). There was no association between left ventricular mass index and serum bilirubin concentration. Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that log RWT was positively correlated with diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.010) and that log RWT was inversely correlated with log bilirubin (P = 0.003). In addition, the patients with bilirubin less than 0.8 mg/dl had a higher prevalence of concentric left ventricular remodeling compared with those with bilirubin 0.8 mg/dl or more. Our study shows that the serum bilirubin concentration may be associated with the progression of concentric left ventricular remodeling in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Correlation of serum IgG concentration in foals and refractometry index of the dam's pre- and post-parturient colostrums: an assessment for failure of passive transfer in foals.

PubMed

Korosue, Kenji; Murase, Harutaka; Sato, Fumio; Ishimaru, Mutsuki; Kotoyori, Yasumitsu; Nambo, Yasuo

2012-11-01

The object of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of measuring the differences in the values of the serum total protein (DVSTP) concentration of foals and the refractometry index (DVRI) of the milk of dams before and after nursing of the colostrum for assessing failure of passive transfer (FPT) in foals. Serum samples from 31 foals were collected before the first nursing and other 1 to 6 times between 4 and 24 hr after birth. Paired colostrum and milk samples were collected from 14 of their dams at the same time. Serum samples were analyzed for IgG concentration using a single radial immunodiffusion (SRID) test (98 samples) and total protein concentration using a temperature-compensating refractometer (98 samples). Colostrum and milk samples were analyzed for refractometry index (RI) using a Brix refractometer (71 samples). DVSTP concentration and DVRI were significantly correlated with serum IgG concentration. The negative predictive values (NPVs) of DVSTP concentration for detecting serum IgG concentrations<400 mg/dl and<800 mg/dl were 98.2% and 91.3% when the cutoff value is set to 0.4 mg/dl and 0.8 mg/dl, respectively. Furthermore, the NPVs of DVRI for detecting serum IgG concentrations<400 mg/dl and<800 mg/dl were 97.3% and 96.3% when the cutoff value is set to 6% and 10%, respectively. The results suggest that measurement of DVRI is useful in assessing FPT as an initial "stall-side" screening test, because it is easy, inexpensive to perform and allows for rapid interpretation.

Effects of tryptophan supplementation on cashmere fiber characteristics, serum tryptophan, and related hormone concentrations in cashmere goats.

PubMed

Ma, H; Zhang, W; Song, W H; Sun, P; Jia, Z H

2012-10-01

This study was designed to investigate the effects of tryptophan (Trp) supplementation on cashmere fiber characteristics and on serum Trp, melatonin (MEL), prolactin (PRL), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4) concentrations in cashmere goats during the cashmere fast-growth period. Thirty-six Liaoning cashmere wether goats were stratified on the basis of body weight (28±0.8 kg) and assigned randomly to 1 of the following 4 rumen-protected Trp treatments: 0, 2.0, 4.0, and 6.0 g per goat per day. The experimental period lasted 137 d. Blood samples were collected monthly during the daytime (8:00 AM) and at night (8:00 PM). Tryptophan supplementation improved cashmere growth rates, cashmere weight, and body weight (P=0.001) and increased serum Trp levels, nighttime MEL concentrations, IGF-1, and T3 and T4 concentrations (P<0.05). Across the treatments and sampling months, a highly positive correlation between cashmere growth rate and nighttime serum MEL concentrations was observed (r=0.879, P=0.001). A moderately negative correlation between cashmere growth rates and serum PRL concentrations during the day and at night (rday=-0.645, P=0.007; rnight=-0.583, P=0.018) was observed. A moderately positive correlation between the cashmere growth rate and the daytime serum IGF-1 concentration (r=0.536, P=0.032) was observed, and no correlation was found between the cashmere growth rate and the other serum hormone concentrations. These data indicate that changes in serum concentrations of MEL, IGF-1, and PRL are related to cashmere growth in Liaoning cashmere goats during the cashmere fast-growth period. Under the experimental conditions of the current trial, we suggest that Trp may promote cashmere growth by increasing daytime IGF-1 and nighttime MEL secretion. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Serum and urine concentrations of trypsinogen-activation peptide as markers for acute pancreatitis in cats

PubMed Central

Allen, Heidi S.; Steiner, Jörg; Broussard, John; Mansfield, Caroline; Williams, David A.; Jones, Boyd

2006-01-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical utility of the serum concentration of feline trypsin-like immunoreactivity (fTLI), the plasma and urine concentrations of trypsinogen-activation peptide (TAP), and the ratio of the urine TAP and creatinine concentrations (TAP:Cr) in the diagnosis of feline acute pancreatitis. We used 13 healthy cats and 10 cats with a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. The mean serum fTLI and plasma TAP concentrations were significantly higher in the cats with acute pancreatitis than in the healthy cats (P < 0.05); the mean urine TAP concentrations and the median urine TAP:Cr ratios were not significantly different. Among the cats examined in this study, there was no benefit of plasma TAP over serum fTLI in the evaluation of suspected acute pancreatitis. PMID:17042387

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

Development and validation of a rapid turboflow LC-MS/MS method for the quantification of LSD and 2-oxo-3-hydroxy LSD in serum and urine samples of emergency toxicological cases.

PubMed

Dolder, Patrick C; Liechti, Matthias E; Rentsch, Katharina M

2015-02-01

Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is a widely used recreational drug. The aim of the present study is to develop a quantitative turboflow LC-MS/MS method that can be used for rapid quantification of LSD and its main metabolite 2-oxo-3-hydroxy LSD (O-H-LSD) in serum and urine in emergency toxicological cases without time-consuming extraction steps. The method was developed on an ion-trap LC-MS/MS instrument coupled to a turbulent-flow extraction system. The validation data showed no significant matrix effects and no ion suppression has been observed in serum and urine. Mean intraday accuracy and precision for LSD were 101 and 6.84%, in urine samples and 97.40 and 5.89% in serum, respectively. For O-H-LSD, the respective values were 97.50 and 4.99% in urine and 107 and 4.70% in serum. Mean interday accuracy and precision for LSD were 100 and 8.26% in urine and 101 and 6.56% in serum, respectively. For O-H-LSD, the respective values were 101 and 8.11% in urine and 99.8 and 8.35% in serum, respectively. The lower limit of quantification for LSD was determined to be 0.1 ng/ml. LSD concentrations in serum were expected to be up to 8 ng/ml. 2-Oxo-3-hydroxy LSD concentrations in urine up to 250 ng/ml. The new method was accurate and precise in the range of expected serum and urine concentrations in patients with a suspected LSD intoxication. Until now, the method has been applied in five cases with suspected LSD intoxication where the intake of the drug has been verified four times with LSD concentrations in serum in the range of 1.80-14.70 ng/ml and once with a LSD concentration of 1.25 ng/ml in urine. In serum of two patients, the O-H-LSD concentration was determined to be 0.99 and 0.45 ng/ml. In the urine of a third patient, the O-H-LSD concentration was 9.70 ng/ml.

The role of the uncertainty of measurement of serum creatinine concentrations in the diagnosis of acute kidney injury.

PubMed

Kin Tekce, Buket; Tekce, Hikmet; Aktas, Gulali; Uyeturk, Ugur

2016-01-01

Uncertainty of measurement is the numeric expression of the errors associated with all measurements taken in clinical laboratories. Serum creatinine concentration is the most common diagnostic marker for acute kidney injury. The goal of this study was to determine the effect of the uncertainty of measurement of serum creatinine concentrations on the diagnosis of acute kidney injury. We calculated the uncertainty of measurement of serum creatinine according to the Nordtest Guide. Retrospectively, we identified 289 patients who were evaluated for acute kidney injury. Of the total patient pool, 233 were diagnosed with acute kidney injury using the AKIN classification scheme and then were compared using statistical analysis. We determined nine probabilities of the uncertainty of measurement of serum creatinine concentrations. There was a statistically significant difference in the number of patients diagnosed with acute kidney injury when uncertainty of measurement was taken into consideration (first probability compared to the fifth p = 0.023 and first probability compared to the ninth p = 0.012). We found that the uncertainty of measurement for serum creatinine concentrations was an important factor for correctly diagnosing acute kidney injury. In addition, based on the AKIN classification scheme, minimizing the total allowable error levels for serum creatinine concentrations is necessary for the accurate diagnosis of acute kidney injury by clinicians.

Midluteal immunoreactive alpha-inhibin serum concentrations as markers of luteal phase deficiency.

PubMed

Balasch, J; Creus, M; Fábregues, F; Casamitjana, R; Ordi, J; Vanrell, J A

1996-12-01

The present prospective clinical study was undertaken to determine the usefulness of midluteal phase serum immunoreactive alpha-inhibin concentrations as markers of luteal phase deficiency and whether they are better indicators of biopsy confirmed luteal phase defect than serum progesterone. Consecutive patients (n = 138) with regular menstrual cycles attending our Infertility Clinic (experimental group) and 15 fertile women who were requesting contraception and had regular menstrual patterns (control group) were included. In all women (patients and controls), basal body temperature, midluteal serum concentrations of oestradiol, prolactin, progesterone and immunoreactive alpha-inhibin, and premenstrual endometrial biopsy were used in the same cycle to assess luteal function. Out-of-phase secretory endometria were detected in 15 of the 138 patients. Thus, hormonal concentrations were compared between the following three groups of women: group 1 (n = 15), infertile patients with defective secretory endometria; group 2 (n = 123), infertile patients with normal secretory endometria; and controls (n = 15), fertile women with normal secretory endometria. Midluteal serum concentrations of progesterone, immunoreactive alpha-inhibin, oestradiol, and prolactin of the two groups studied were similar to those of the control group of fertile women. Our results indicate that midluteal serum inhibin determination does not accurately reflect histological maturation of the endometrium and it is not a better indicator of endometrial luteal phase deficiency than midluteal serum progesterone concentration.

Vitamin D was not associated with survival or cerebrospinal fluid cathelicidin levels in children with bacterial meningitis.

PubMed

Savonius, Okko; Pelkonen, Tuula; Roine, Irmeli; Viljakainen, Heli; Andersson, Sture; Fernandez, Josefina; Peltola, Heikki; Helve, Otto

2018-05-11

Vitamin D deficiency impairs the immunological system and has been associated with worse outcomes of infectious diseases, but its role in bacterial meningitis remains unknown. We investigated whether serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations related to disease outcomes and to cerebrospinal fluid cathelicidin concentrations in childhood bacterial meningitis. All consecutively enrolled patients in a clinical trial on childhood bacterial meningitis in Latin America in 1996-2003 were considered and 142 children, with a median age of seven months who had a confirmed bacterial aetiology and frozen serum available for further analyses, were included in the present study. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations were determined with a chemiluminescence immunoassay analyser, while cerebrospinal fluid cathelicidin was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The median serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration was 96 (range 19-251) nmol/L. No relationship was found with patient survival, but children with any neurological sequelae had lower serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels than children without sequelae. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D was unrelated to cathelicidin concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid. Although serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D in children with bacterial meningitis was not associated with survival or cerebrospinal fluid cathelicidin concentrations, its relationship with more detailed disease outcomes warrants further study. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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

There is evidence based studies which show that plasma level of visfatin and vaspin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus elevate in comparison with healthy people. But there is no consistency in plasma visfatin and vaspin concentration between studies done on obese people. For this reason, the aim of this study is to investigate the serum level concentrations of visfatin and vaspin in obese women compared to normal weight women. The participants of this study consist of 43 women aged 20-50, and 43 healthy women with normal weight as a control group. They were matched for age and physical activity. 24h food recall was used to collect dietary information from subjects. Moreover, blood sampling was taken to measure the blood levels of sugar, lipid profile, vaspin and visfatin. The mean serum level of visfatin was not statistically different between obese and normal weight women. But, the obese women had statistically higher mean serum level of vaspin than normal women (p=0.04). We found no relations between serum levels of vaspin with serum concentration of visfatin. Also, serum levels of these two adipokines were not related to the serum concentrations of fasting glucose, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyserides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Also, there was a significant positive relationship between carbohydrate intake and serum visfatin level in women participating to this study (p=0.018, r=0.257). The results of this study demonstrated that the level of serum vaspin was significantly higher in obese women. But there were no differences in serum levels of visfatin in comparison to normal weight women. Meanwhile this study demonstrated a positive relationship between serum levels of visfatin with dietary intake of carbohydrate, but no relationship between serum level of visfatin and vaspin in women participating in this study. Copyright © 2013 Diabetes India. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Beef consumption and fatty acids serum concentration: relationship with salivary gland tumors in Córdoba, Argentina.

PubMed

Cittadini, María C; Cornaglia, Paola M; Perovic, Nilda R; Joekes, Silvia; Heinze, Verónica M; Bernal, Claudio; Actis, Adriana B

2014-10-01

The objective of the present study was to analyze beef consumption, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and n-3 fatty acid (FA) serum concentration and their relation to salivary gland tumors (SGT). A questionnaire on non-nutritional risk factors and a validated food frequency questionnaire were applied in 20 SGT and 20 control (Co) patients. Food data were processed by the Interfood v.1.3 software. Serum CLA was analyzed by chromatography. Non-significant differences were found between SGT and Co regarding lean and fatty BC and serum CLA. Serum n-3 linolenic acid concentration was higher in Co than in SGT (p=0.004). No associations between BC and CLA serum concentration were found, but a strong-positive association between total energy intake and total fat intake and SGT were observed. A significant inverse association between oleic and linoleic FA intake and SGT was recorded. Serum oleic and linolenic FAs showed a significant negative association with SGT. Copyright© 2014 International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. John G. Delinassios), All rights reserved.

Polychlorinated biphenyl exposure and effects in transformer repair workers.

PubMed Central

Emmett, E A

1985-01-01

Fifty-five present and past transformer repair workers exposed to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and 56 unexposed comparison workers were evaluated in a clinical-epidemiologic study. The groups were similar in most demographic variables. Adipose tissue lipid and serum PCBs concentrations were higher in current exposed workers (geometric means adipose 2.1 ppm, serum 12.2 ppb). Concentrations in comparison (0.6 ppm and 4.6 ppb) and previously exposed (0.83 ppm and 5.9 ppb) workers were lower. Statistically significant differences in serum albumin and lactic dehydrogenase, but not in other liver function tests, were seen between the exposed and comparison groups; however, after adjustment for confounding variables, no correlations were observed between liver function tests and either adipose or serum PCBs concentrations. Statistically significant correlation both before and after adjustment for confounding variables were seen with adipose PCBs and 24-hr urinary 17-hydroxycorticosteroid excretion and with serum PCBs and serum gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase. Both associations could reflect microsomal enzyme induction among other possibilities. No differences were seen in fasting serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL, HDL or VLDL cholesterol between the two exposure groups. A statistically significant correlation between serum PCBs and serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, and VLDL cholesterol was removed by adjusting for confounding variables. No correlation was seen between adipose PCBs concentrations and any serum lipid component. Partition phenomena could account for these findings.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID:2863134

Efficacy and safety of testosterone replacement gel for treating hypogonadism in men: Phase III open-label studies.

PubMed

Belkoff, L; Brock, G; Carrara, D; Neijber, A; Ando, M; Mitchel, J

2018-02-01

Efficacy and safety of testosterone gel 2% (TG) were evaluated in two phase 3, open-labelled, single-arm, multicentre studies (000023 and extension study 000077). Hypogonadal men having serum testosterone levels <300 ng/dl at two consecutive measurements were included. Study duration was 9 months (000023: 3 months; 000077: 6 months). Starting dose of TG (46 mg) was applied on upper arm/shoulder. The primary endpoint (000023) was responder rate (subjects with average 24-hour serum testosterone concentration 300-1050 ng/dl on Day 90). Study 000077 evaluated the safety of TG in patients rolling over from study 000023 over a period of 6 months. Of 180 subjects in 000023, 172 completed and 145 rolled over to 000077, with 127 completers. The responder rate was 85.5%. Fewer subjects in 000077 (12.7%) versus 000023 (31.8%) had maximum testosterone concentration (C max ) >1500 ng/dl, with no significant safety concerns. Significant improvements in sexual function and quality of life were noted in both studies. Subjects experienced few skin reactions without notable increases in prostate-specific antigen and haematocrit levels. TG was efficacious with an acceptable safety profile. C max >1500 ng/dl did not exhibit distinct impact on safety parameters. However, further optimisation of titration schema to reduce C max is warranted while maintaining the average steady state total testosterone concentration. © 2017 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Pharmacometrics-based dose selection of levofloxacin as a treatment for postexposure inhalational anthrax in children.

PubMed

Li, Fang; Nandy, Partha; Chien, Shuchean; Noel, Gary J; Tornoe, Christoffer W

2010-01-01

Levofloxacin was recently (May 2008) approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a treatment for children following inhalational exposure to anthrax. Given that no clinical trials to assess the efficacy of a chosen dose was conducted, the basis for the dose recommendation was based upon pharmacometric analyses. The objective of this paper is to describe the basis of the chosen pediatric dose recommended for the label. Pharmacokinetic (PK) data from 90 pediatric patients receiving 7 mg/kg of body weight levofloxacin and two studies of 47 healthy adults receiving 500 and 750 mg/kg levofloxacin were used for the pharmacometric analyses. Body weight was found to be a significant covariate for levofloxacin clearance and the volume of distribution. Consistently with developmental physiology, clearance also was found to be reduced in pediatric patients under 2 years of age due to immature renal function. Different dosing regimens were simulated to match adult exposure (area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 24 h at steady state, maximum concentration of drug in serum at steady state, and minimum concentration of drug in serum at steady state) following the approved adult dose of 500 mg once a day. The recommended dose of 8 mg/kg twice a day was found to match the exposure of the dose approved for adults in a manner that permitted confidence that this dose in children would achieve efficacy comparable to that of adults.

Liver function in cats with hyperthyroidism before and after 131I therapy.

PubMed

Berent, Allyson C; Drobatz, Kenneth J; Ziemer, Lisa; Johnson, Victoria S; Ward, Cynthia R

2007-01-01

The clinical significance of high serum concentration or activity of markers of liver damage in cats with hyperthyroidism is unknown. To evaluate serum markers of liver function and damage, and ultrasonographic changes in cats with hyperthyroidism and with high liver enzymes, and to determine if abnormalities resolve after treatment with 131I. Nineteen cats with hyperthyroidism (15 with high serum activities of liver enzymes) and 4 age-matched healthy control cats. Serum bile acids, albumin, ammonia, cholesterol, and blood urea nitrogen concentrations, and activities of liver-derived enzymes, and blood glucose concentrations were measured before and after 131I therapy. These values were compared with those of cats that were euthyroid. In addition, gross liver parenchymal changes detected by abdominal ultrasonographic examination, before and after 131I therapy were evaluated. High serum liver enzyme activities were not associated with abnormalities in hepatic parenchyma and liver functional variables, regardless of the degree of increase. Serum liver enzyme activities return to normal after control of hyperthyroidism with 131I therapy. Cats with hyperthyroidism have a significantly higher serum fasting ammonia concentration than cats who were euthyroid (P = .019). Cats with hyperthyroidism also have significantly lower serum cholesterol (P = .005) and glucose (P = .002) concentrations before compared with after 131I therapy. Nine of 19 cats with hyperthyroidism had trace ketonuria. These results demonstrate that extensive examination for hepatobiliary disease in most cats with hyperthyroidism is unnecessary.

Blood Phosphorus and Magnesium Levels in 130 Elite Track and Field Athletes

PubMed Central

Malliaropoulos, Nikolaos; Tsitas, Kostas; Porfiriadou, Anthoula; Papalada, Agapi; R.Ames, Paul; Del Buono, Angelo; Lippi, Giuseppe; Maffulli, Nicola

2012-01-01

Purpose This study tested the clinical utility and relevance of serum phosphorus and magnesium as markers possibly useful to monitor training in athletes. Methods Phosphorus and magnesium serum concentrations of 130 elite track and field athletes (65 males and 65 females, age range 20-30 years) from the National Athletics Sports Medicine Center database in Thessaloniki, Greece were measured. Results Abnormal results were found in 61 (47%) athletes (32 men and 29 women). In male athletes, serum phosphate was higher than normal in 18% and decreased in 1.5%, whereas serum magnesium concentration was higher in 26%, and lower in 3%. Regarding female athletes, higher serum phosphate and magnesium levels were detected in 26% and 17% respectively, whereas decreased serum magnesium was found in 3%. The most common alterations were higher serum phosphate (29/61, 47%) and magnesium concentrations (28/61, 46%). Abnormalities of serum phosphorus and magnesium concentrations were detected in almost half of the athletes. Hyperphosphataemia and hypermagnesaemia were the most common abnormalities. Conclusion The reference intervals used for general population cannot be used for athletes. Given the lack of pathological manifestations, the physiopathological significance of these findings is uncertain. Further studies on the interpretation of reported ion concentrations in athletes should take in account the type of sport practiced and also the possible variations during the training and competition season. PMID:23785576

Serum anti-Helicobacter pylori immunoglobulin G titer correlates with grade of histological gastritis, mucosal bacterial density, and levels of serum biomarkers.

PubMed

Tu, Huakang; Sun, Liping; Dong, Xiao; Gong, Yuehua; Xu, Qian; Jing, Jingjing; Yuan, Yuan

2014-03-01

OBJECTIVE. Clinical implications of serum anti-Helicobacter pylori immunoglobulin G (IgG) titer were unclear. This study investigated the associations of serum anti-H. pylori IgG titer with grade of histological gastritis, mucosal bacterial density and levels of serum biomarkers, including pepsinogen (PG) I, PGII, PGI/II ratio and gastrin-17. MATERIAL AND METHODS. Study participants were from a screening program in northern China. Serum anti-H. pylori IgG measurements were available for 5922 patients with superficial gastritis. Serum anti-H. pylori IgG titer and serum biomarkers were measured using ELISA, and gastric biopsies were evaluated using standardized criteria. RESULTS. In patients with mild, moderate or severe superficial gastritis, the mean serum anti-H. pylori IgG titers were 17.3, 33.4 and 54.4 EIU (p for trend < 0.0001), respectively. As mucosal H. pylori density score increased from 0 to 3, the mean serum anti-H. pylori IgG titers also increased from 24.7 to 44.8 EIU (p for trend < 0.0001). Serum anti-H. pylori IgG titer was associated positively with serum PGI, PGII and gastrin-17 concentrations and negatively with PGI/II ratio, and the association was the strongest for PGII. The mean PGII concentration of the patients in the highest quartile of IgG titer was twice the mean concentration of the patients in the lowest quartile (17.2 vs. 8.6 EIU, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS. Our results suggest that serum anti-H. pylori IgG titer was associated positively with grade of histological gastritis, mucosal bacterial density and concentrations of serum PGI, PGII and gastrin-17, and negatively with PGI/II ratio.

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 © 2016 Southern Society for Clinical Investigation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Analysis of the effects of exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls and chlorinated pesticides on serum lipid levels in residents of Anniston, Alabama

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Anniston, Alabama, is the site of a former Monsanto plant where polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were manufactured from 1929 until 1971. Residents of Anniston are known to have elevated levels of PCBs. The objective of the study was to test the hypothesis that levels of the various lipid components (total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides) are differentially associated with concentrations of total PCBs and total pesticides, and further that different congeners, congener groups and different pesticides do not have identical associations in serum samples obtained from Anniston residents in a cross-sectional study. Methods Fasting serum samples were obtained from 575 residents of Anniston who were not on any lipid-lowering medication and were analyzed for 35 PCB congeners, nine chlorinated pesticides, total cholesterol, LDL and HDL cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations. Associations between toxicant concentrations and lipid levels were determined using multiple linear regression analysis. Results We observed that elevated serum concentrations of lipids were associated with elevated serum concentrations of ΣPCBs and summed pesticides in analyses adjusted for age, race, gender, BMI, alcohol consumption, smoking and exercising status. The strongest associations were seen for PCB congeners with three, four, or at least eight substituted chlorines. Mono-ortho substituted congeners 74 and 156, di-ortho congeners 172 and 194, and tri- and tetra-ortho congeners 199, 196–203, 206 and 209 each were significantly associated with total lipids, total cholesterol and triglycerides. Serum concentrations of HCB and chlordane also had strong associations with lipid components. Conclusions Increased concentrations of PCBs and organochlorine pesticides are associated with elevations in total serum lipids, total cholesterol and triglycerides, but the patterns are different for different groups of PCBs and different pesticides. These observations show selective effects of different organochlorines on serum concentrations of different groups of lipids. This elevation in concentrations of serum lipids may be the basis for the increased incidence of cardiovascular disease found in persons with elevated exposures to PCBs and chlorinated pesticides. PMID:24325314

Serum inorganic fluoride and renal function in dogs after methoxyflurane anesthesia, tetracycline treatment, and surgical manipulation.

PubMed

Fleming, J T; Pedersoli, W M

1980-12-01

Effects of 2 hours of methoxyflurane-induced anesthesia in 25 dogs were determined by serum inorganic fluoride, serum urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, water intake, urine excretion, and urine specific gravity measurements; arterial concentrations of the anesthetic were also determined. The dogs were allotted to 5 groups (PTM, CTM, PTML, CTML, ML) of 5 dogs in each group and were anesthetized (M, in group designations) for 2 hours. The dogs were injected with chemically pure tetracycline or commercial tetracycline (PT and CT, in group designations) before, on the day of, and after anesthesia. In 3 groups, laparotomy (L, in group designations) was done; group ML did not receive tetracycline but a laparotomy was performed. Serum inorganic fluoride increased (P less than 0.05) in all groups 24 hours after anesthesia when compared with the base-line values; the highest mean serum concentration was 81.1 +/- 7.91 mumol/L (group PTM) and the lowest was 32.7 +/- 4.53 mumol/L (group PTML). There was no difference (P greater than 0.05) seen in serum urea nitrogen concentrations between groups. Methoxyflurane and tetracycline treatment caused no difference (P greater than 0.05) on serum concentrations of inorganic fluoride and urea nitrogen. Serum creatinine concentrations differed (P less than 0.05) only for groups PTM, CTM, PTML, and CTML vs group ML. Water intake reached peak at 48 hours after anesthesia. Arterial concentrations of methoxyflurane determined at 60 and 120 minutes of anesthesia indicated no difference (P greater than 0.05) among groups. Neither clinical nor laboratory signs of severe kidney dysfunction were detected in any of the experimental dogs during a 5-day observation period after anesthesia.

[Determination of serum acetaminophen based on the diazo reaction and its application in the evaluation of gastric emptying].

PubMed

Li, Cai-na; Sun, Su-juan; Shen, Zhu-fang

2015-05-01

This study aims to establish a method to determine the serum acetaminophen concentration based on diazo reaction, and apply it in the gastric emptying evaluation. Theoretically, acetaminophen could take hydrolysis reaction in hydrochloric acid solution to produce p-aminophenol, which could then take diazo reaction resulting in a product with special absorption peak at 312 nm. Then the serum acetaminophen concentration and recovery rate were calculated according to the standard curve drawn with absorbance at 312 nm. ICR mice were given a dose of acetaminophen (500 mg x kg(-1)) by gavage and the serum acetaminophen was dynamically measured through the diazo reaction. Besides, ICR mice were subcutaneously injected with the long-acting GLP-1 analog GW002 before the gavage of acetaminophen, and serum acetaminophen concentration was measured as above to study how GW002 could influence the gastric emptying. The data showed acetaminophen ranging from 0 to 160 μg x mL(-1) could take diazo reaction with excellent linear relationship, and the regression equation was y = 0.0181 x +0.0104, R2 = 0.9997. The serum acetaminophen was also measured with good linear relationship (y = 0.0045 x + 0.0462, R = 0.9982) and the recovery rate was 97.4%-116.7%. The serum concentration of acetaminophen reached peak at about 0.5 h after gavage, and then gradually decreased. GW002 could significantly lower the serum acetaminophen concentration and make the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) decrease by 28.4%. In conclusion, a method for the determination of serum acetaminophen based on the diazo reaction was established with good accuracy and could be used in the evaluation of gastric emptying.

Alpha-tocopherol concentration in serum and colostrum of mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus

PubMed Central

Resende, Fernanda Barros S.; Clemente, Heleni Aires; Bezerra, Dalila Fernandes; Grilo, Evellyn Câmara; de Melo, Larisse Rayanne M.; Bellot, Paula Emília N. R.; Dantas, Raquel Costa S.; Dimenstein, Roberto

2014-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and compare the levels of α-tocopherol in colostrum and in the serum of healthy and diabetic mothers. METHODS: This cross-sectional study enrolled 51 volunteer mothers, 20 with the diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus and 31 without associated diseases. Serum and colostrum samples were collected in fasting in the immediate postpartum period and α-tocopherol was analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). In order to define the nutritional status of vitamin E, the cutoff point for the serum (697.7µg/dL) was adopted. Student's t-test for independent variables compared the average concentrations of α-tocopherol in the serum and in the colostrum between control and gestational diabetes mellitus groups. Pearson's correlation was used to assess the relationship between the concentration of α-tocopherol in serum and colostrum for both groups. Differences were considered significant when p<0.05. RESULTS: The α-tocopherol concentration in colostrum was 1,483.1±533.8µg/dL for Control Group and 1,368.8±681.8µg/dL for diabetic women, without differences between groups (p=0.50). However, α-tocopherol concentration in the serum was 1,059.5±372.7µg/dL in the Control Group and 1,391.4±531.5µg/dL in the diabetic one (p<0.01). No correlation was found between the concentration of α-tocopherol in the serum and in the colostrum for control and diabetic groups. CONCLUSIONS: The groups had adequate nutritional status of vitamin E. Gestational diabetes was not associated with changes in α-tocopherol concentration in colostrum. PMID:25119748

Association of a polymorphism of BTN2A1 with dyslipidemia in East Asian populations

PubMed Central

FUJIMAKI, TETSUO; KATO, KIMIHIKO; OGURI, MITSUTOSHI; YOHIDA, TETSURO; HORIBE, HIDEKI; YOKOI, KIYOSHI; WATANABE, SACHIRO; SATOH, KEI; AOYAGI, YUKITOSHI; TANAKA, MASASHI; YOSHIDA, HIROTO; SHINKAI, SHOJI; NOZAWA, YOSHINORI; SHIN, DONG-JIK; LEE, JONG HO; JANG, YANGSOO; YAMADA, YOSHIJI

2011-01-01

We previously identified rs6929846 of the butyrophilin, subfamily 2, member A1 gene (BTN2A1) as a susceptibility locus for myocardial infarction in Japanese individuals by a genome-wide association study. The aim of the present study was to examine the relation of the rs6929846 polymorphism of BTN2A1 to dyslipidemia in Japanese and Korean populations, given that dyslipidemia is an important risk factor for myocardial infarction. A total of 10,953 individuals from three independent subject panels were examined. The relations of the rs6929846 polymorphism of BTN2A1 to serum concentrations of triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol were examined in each subject panel. The C→T polymorphism (rs6929846) of BTN2A1 was significantly associated with serum concentrations of triglycerides in Japanese subject panels A (P=0.0004) and B (P=0.0010), and in the Korean population (P=0.0095), with the minor T allele being related to an increased serum concentration of triglycerides. The rs6929846 was associated with serum concentrations of HDL-cholesterol in Japanese subject panels A (P=0.0047) and B (P=0.0015), with the T allele being related to a decreased serum concentration of HDL-cholesterol, but not in the Korean population. This polymorphism was associated with the serum concentration of LDL-cholesterol only in Japanese subject panel B (P=0.0059), with the T allele being related to an increased serum concentration of LDL-cholesterol. The results suggest that BTN2A1 may be a susceptibility gene for hypertriglyceridemia in East Asian populations and for low serum HDL-cholesterol in the Japanese population. PMID:22977569

Plasma and erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase activity, serum selenium concentration, and plasma total antioxidant capacity in cats with IRIS stages I-IV chronic kidney disease.

PubMed

Krofič Žel, M; Tozon, N; Nemec Svete, A

2014-01-01

Serum selenium concentrations and the activity of plasma glutathione peroxidase (GPx) decrease with the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in human patients. Selenium is considered a limiting factor for plasma GPx synthesis. Plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) is decreased in CKD cats in comparison to healthy cats. Serum selenium concentrations and plasma and erythrocyte GPx activity in cats with CKD are lower than in healthy cats. Serum selenium concentrations, the activity of enzymes, and plasma TAC progressively decrease with the progression of kidney disease according to IRIS (International Renal Interest Society) classification. Twenty-six client-owned cats in IRIS stages I-IV of CKD were compared with 19 client-owned healthy cats. A CBC, serum biochemical profile, urinalysis, plasma and erythrocyte GPx activity, serum selenium concentration, and plasma TAC were measured in each cat. Cats in IRIS stage IV CKD had a significantly higher (P = .025) activity of plasma GPx (23.44 ± 6.28 U/mL) than cats in the control group (17.51 ± 3.75 U/mL). There were no significant differences in erythrocyte GPx, serum selenium concentration, and plasma TAC, either among IRIS stages I-IV CKD cats or between CKD cats and healthy cats. Erythrocyte GPx activity, serum selenium concentration, and plasma TAC do not change in CKD cats compared with healthy cats. Selenium is not a limiting factor in feline CKD. Increased plasma GPx activity in cats with stage IV CKD suggests induction of antioxidant defense mechanisms. Antioxidant defense systems might not be exhausted in CKD in cats. Copyright © 2013 by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

Higher levels of serum lycopene are associated with reduced mortality in individuals with metabolic syndrome.

PubMed

Han, Guang-Ming; Meza, Jane L; Soliman, Ghada A; Islam, K M Monirul; Watanabe-Galloway, Shinobu

2016-05-01

Metabolic syndrome increases the risk of mortality. Increased oxidative stress and inflammation may play an important role in the high mortality of individuals with metabolic syndrome. Previous studies have suggested that lycopene intake might be related to the reduced oxidative stress and decreased inflammation. Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, we examined the hypothesis that lycopene is associated with mortality among individuals with metabolic syndrome. A total of 2499 participants 20 years and older with metabolic syndrome were divided into 3 groups based on their serum concentration of lycopene using the tertile rank method. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from years 2001 to 2006 was linked to the mortality file for mortality follow-up data through December 31, 2011, to determine the mortality rate and hazard ratios (HR) for the 3 serum lycopene concentration groups. The mean survival time was significantly higher in the group with the highest serum lycopene concentration (120.6 months; 95% confidence interval [CI], 118.8-122.3) and the medium group (116.3 months; 95% CI, 115.2-117.4), compared with the group with lowest serum lycopene concentration (107.4 months; 95% CI, 106.5-108.3). After adjusting for possible confounding factors, participants in the highest (HR, 0.61; P = .0113) and in the second highest (HR, 0.67; P = .0497) serum lycopene concentration groups showed significantly lower HRs of mortality when compared with participants in the lower serum lycopene concentration. The data suggest that higher serum lycopene concentration has a significant association with the reduced risk of mortality among individuals with metabolic syndrome. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Dietary B Vitamins and Serum C-Reactive Protein in Persons With Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection: The Positive Living With HIV (POLH) Study.

PubMed

Poudel-Tandukar, Kalpana; Chandyo, Ram Krishna

2016-12-01

B vitamins may have beneficial roles in reducing inflammation; however, research on the role of B vitamins in inflammation among HIV-infected persons is lacking. This study assessed the association between B vitamins and serum C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations in HIV-infected persons. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 314 HIV-infected persons (180 men and 134 women) aged 18 to 60 years residing in the Kathmandu, Nepal. High-sensitive and regular serum CRP concentrations were measured by the latex agglutination nephelometry and latex agglutination turbidimetric method, respectively. Dietary intake was assessed using 2 nonconsecutive 24-hour dietary recalls. The relationships between B vitamins and serum CRP concentrations were assessed using multiple regression analysis. The multivariate-adjusted geometric mean of serum CRP concentrations was significantly decreased with an increasing B vitamins intake across quartiles of niacin (P for trend = .007), pyridoxine (P for trend = .042), and cobalamin (P for trend = .037) in men. In men, the mean serum CRP concentrations in the highest quartiles of niacin, pyridoxine, and cobalamin were 63%, 38%, and 58%, respectively, lower than that in the lowest quartile. In women, the mean serum CRP concentrations in the highest quartiles of riboflavin (P for trend = .084) and pyridoxine (P for trend = .093) were 37% and 47%, respectively, lower than that in the lowest quartile. High intake of niacin, pyridoxine, or cobalamin was independently associated with decreased serum CRP concentrations among HIV-infected men. Further prospective studies are warranted to confirm the role of B vitamins in inflammation among HIV-infected persons. © The Author(s) 2016.

Metabolomic analysis of amino acid and energy metabolism in rats supplemented with chlorogenic acid

PubMed Central

Ruan, Zheng; Yang, Yuhui; Zhou, Yan; Wen, Yanmei; Ding, Sheng; Liu, Gang; Wu, Xin; Deng, Zeyuan; Assaad, Houssein; Wu, Guoyao

2016-01-01

This study was conducted to investigate effects of chlorogenic acid (CGA) supplementation on serum and hepatic metabolomes in rats. Rats received daily intragastric administration of either CGA (60 mg/kg body weight) or distilled water (control) for 4 weeks. Growth performance, serum biochemical profiles, and hepatic morphology were measured. Additionally, serum and liver tissue extracts were analyzed for metabolomes by high-resolution 1H nuclear magnetic resonance-based metabolomics and multivariate statistics. CGA did not affect rat growth performance, serum biochemical profiles, or hepatic morphology. However, supplementation with CGA decreased serum concentrations of lactate, pyruvate, succinate, citrate, β-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate, while increasing serum concentrations of glycine and hepatic concentrations of glutathione. These results suggest that CGA supplementation results in perturbation of energy and amino acid metabolism in rats. We suggest that glycine and glutathione in serum may be useful biomarkers for biological properties of CGA on nitrogen metabolism in vivo. PMID:24927697

Effect of antacid and ascorbic acid on serum salicylate concentration.

PubMed

Hansten, P D; Hayton, W L

1980-01-01

To determine the effect of antacid or ascorbic acid administration on plateau serum salicylate concentrations, nine healthy subjects were given each of the following treatments by balanced block design: choline salicylate (equivalent to 3.76 or 5.62 Gm/day of aspirin); choline salicylate plus magnesium-aluminum hydroxide (120 ml/day); or choline salicylate plus ascorbic acid (3 Gm/day). In subjects developing a control serum salicylate level above 10 mg/dl, antacid administration produced a decrease in serum salicylate level (mean 19.8 mg/dl vs. 15.8 mg/dl) (P less than 0.01). Ascorbic acid administration was not associated with a significant change in serum salicylate. The reduction in serum salicylate following antacid appears to be due to antacid-induced alkalinization of the urine with resultant increase in renal salicylate clearance. Antacid administration should be considered a potential cause of altered serum salicylate concentration in patients receiving large doses of salicylate.

Effects of carprofen on renal function and results of serum biochemical and hematologic analyses in anesthetized dogs that had low blood pressure during anesthesia.

PubMed

Boström, Ingrid M; Nyman, Görel C; Lord, Peter E; Häggström, Jens; Jones, Bernt E V; Bohlin, Henrik P

2002-05-01

To investigate effects of IV administered carprofen on indices of renal function and results of serum biochemical and hematologic analyses in dogs anesthetized with acepromazine-thiopentone-isoflurane that had low blood pressure during anesthesia. 6 healthy Beagles. A randomized crossover study was conducted, using the following treatments: saline (0.9% NaCl solution)-saline, saline-carprofen, and carprofen-saline. Saline (0.08 ml/kg) and carprofen (4 mg/kg) were administered IV. The first treatment was administered 30 minutes before induction of anesthesia and immediately before administration of acepromazine (0.1 mg/kg, IM). Anesthesia was induced with thiopentone (25 mg/ml, IV) and maintained with inspired isoflurane (2% in oxygen). The second treatment was administered 30 minutes after onset of inhalation anesthesia. Blood gases, circulation, and ventilation were monitored. Renal function was assessed by glomerular filtration rate (GFR), using scintigraphy, serum biochemical analyses, and urinalysis. Hematologic analysis was performed. Statistical analysis was conducted, using ANOVA or Friedman ANOVA. Values did not differ significantly among the 3 treatments. For all treatments, sedation and anesthesia caused changes in results of serum biochemical and hematologic analyses, a decrease in mean arterial blood pressure to 65 mm Hg, an increase of 115 pmol/L in angiotensin II concentration, and an increase of 100 seconds in time required to reach maximum activity counts during scintigraphy. Carprofen administered IV before or during anesthesia did not cause detectable significant adverse effects on renal function or results of serum biochemical and hematologic analyses in healthy Beagles with low blood pressure during anesthesia.

The vitamin D status of prison inmates.

PubMed

Nwosu, Benjamin Udoka; Maranda, Louise; Berry, Rosalie; Colocino, Barbara; Flores, Carlos D; Folkman, Kerry; Groblewski, Thomas; Ruze, Patricia

2014-01-01

There is no comprehensive, systematic analysis of the vitamin D status of prisoners in the scientific literature. To investigate the vitamin D status and its determinants in US prison inmates. Given the uniformity of dietary intake amongst inmates, vitamin D status will be determined by non-dietary factors such as skin pigmentation, security level-, and the duration of incarceration. A retrospective study of 526 inmates (males, n=502, age 48.6 ± 12.5 years; females, n=24, age 44.1 ± 12.2) in Massachusetts prisons. Vitamin D sufficiency, insufficiency, and deficiency were respectively defined as a 25(OH)D concentration 75 nmol/L; 50 to 75 nmol/L; and <50 nmol/L. The Massachusetts Department of Correction Statement of Nutritional Adequacy stated that each inmate received the recommended daily allowance of vitamin D daily. Security level of incarceration was designated as minimum, medium, and maximum. Racial groups were categorized as Black, white, Asian, and Others. Serum 25(OH)D levels peaked in summer and autumn, and decreased in winter and spring. Vitamin D deficiency occurred in 50.5% of blacks, 29.3% of whites, and 14.3% of Asian inmates (p=0.007). Black inmates had significantly lower serum 25(OH)D level than white inmates at the maximum security level (p=0.015), medium security level (p=0.001), but not at the minimum security level (p=0.40). After adjusting for covariates black inmates at a maximum security level had a four-fold higher risk for vitamin D deficiency than white inmates at the same security level (OR 3.9 [95% CI 1.3-11.7]. The vitamin D status of prison inmates is determined by skin pigmentation, seasons, and the security level of incarceration.

Purification and properties of rennin-like enzyme from Aspergillus ochraceus.

PubMed

Ismail, A A; Foda, M S; Khorshid, M A

1978-01-01

An active milk-clotting enzyme was purified some 40-fold from culture supernatant of Aspergillus ochraceus. The purification steps included ammonium sulfate precipitation, G-100 Sephadex gel filtration, and ion exchange chromatography, using DEAE Cellulose column. The enzyme exhibited milk-clotting activity and proteolytic behaviour, an optimum at pH 6.0 and in the range of 7--8.5, respectively. The purified enzyme was actively proteolytic against casein, haemoglobin, and bovine serum albumin at pH 8. The milk-clotting activity was greatly enhanced by manganous ions and by increasing concentrations of calcium chloride. Copper, zinc, and ammonium ions were potent inhibitors of the milk-curdling activity of the purified enzyme. Significant inhibition was also noted with sodium chloride at concentrations of 3% or more. Under the specified reaction condition, maximum rate of proteolysis against casein was obtained at 0.4% substrate concentration, whereas the milk-clotting time was linear proportional to dry skim milk concentration in the range of 8 to 24%. The results are discussed in comparison with other microbial milk-clotting enzymes, and limitations of applicability are also presented.

Serum 25(OH)D seasonality in urologic patients from central Italy.

PubMed

Calgani, Alessia; Iarlori, Marco; Rizi, Vincenzo; Pace, Gianna; Bologna, Mauro; Vicentini, Carlo; Angelucci, Adriano

2016-09-01

Hypovitaminosis D is increasingly recognized as a cofactor in several diseases. In addition to bone homeostasis, vitamin D status influences immune system, muscle activity and cell differentiation in different tissues. Vitamin D is produced in the skin upon exposure to UVB rays, and sufficient levels of serum 25(OH)D are dependent mostly on adequate sun exposure, and then on specific physiologic variables, including skin type, age and Body Mass Index (BMI). In contrast with common belief, epidemiologic data are demonstrating that hypovitaminosis D must be a clinical concern not only in northern Countries. In our study, we investigated vitamin D status in a male population enrolled in a urology clinic of central Italy. In addition, we evaluated the correlation between vitamin D status and UVB irradiance measured in our region. The two principal pathologies in the 95 enrolled patients (mean age 66years) were benign prostate hypertrophy and prostate carcinoma. >50% of patients had serum 25(OH)D values in the deficient range (<20ng/mL), and only 16% of cases had serum vitamin D concentration higher than 30ng/mL (optimal range). The seasonal stratification of vitamin D concentrations revealed an evident trend with the minimum mean value recorded in April and a maximum mean value obtained in September. UVB irradiance measured by pyranometer in our region (Abruzzo, central Italy) revealed a large difference during the year, with winter months characterized by an UV irradiance about tenfold lower than summer months. Then we applied a mathematical model in order to evaluate the expected vitamin D production according to the standard erythemal dose measured in the different seasons. In winter months, the low available UVB radiation and the small exposed skin area resulted not sufficient to obtain the recommended serum doses of vitamin D. Although in summer months UVB irradiance was largely in excess to produce vitamin D in the skin, serum vitamin D resulted sufficient in September only in those patients who declared an outdoor time of at least 3h per day in the previous summer. In conclusion, hypovitaminosis D is largely represented in elderly persons in our region. Seasonal fluctuation in serum 25(OH)D was explained by a reduced availability of UVB in winter and by insufficient solar exposure in summer. The relatively high outdoor time that emerged to be correlated with sufficient serum 25(OH)D in autumn warrants further studies to individuate potential risk co-variables for hypovitaminosis D in elderly men. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Stability of pro-gastrin-releasing peptide in serum versus plasma.

PubMed

Yoshimura, Toru; Fujita, Kenju; Kawakami, Satoshi; Takeda, Katsumichi; Chan, Sabrina; Beligere, Gangamani; Dowell, Barry

2008-01-01

Although serum assays for pro-gastrin-releasing peptide (ProGRP) assays have been commercially available in Japan for several years, the stability of ProGRP in serum and plasma has not been well documented. We investigated the stability of ProGRP in serum and plasma with fresh and stored (frozen) specimens, as well as the cause of the observed instability in serum. ProGRP concentrations in fresh serum were decreased by 6-28% after room temperature storage for 2 h and by 8-32% after 2-8 degrees C storage for 24 h. The average change in ProGRP concentrations in fresh plasma was within +/-10% of baseline for more than 4 h at room temperature and for more than 24 h at 2-8 degrees C. The incubation of a serine protease, thrombin (activated blood coagulation factor II), in a buffer solution containing ProGRP caused decreases in ProGRP concentrations. Following the addition of phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride, a serine protease inhibitor, to serum, the serum stability for ProGRP was similar to that in plasma. ProGRP is significantly more stable in plasma than in serum. We speculate that thrombin in serum is one of the factors that inactivate ProGRP in serum by proteolysis of the ProGRP antigen. The use of plasma samples for ProGRP may improve the clinical reliability of this marker by minimizing preanalytical changes in ProGRP concentrations. (c) 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Variability and predictors of serum perfluoroalkyl substance concentrations during pregnancy and early childhood.

PubMed

Kingsley, Samantha L; Eliot, Melissa N; Kelsey, Karl T; Calafat, Antonia M; Ehrlich, Shelley; Lanphear, Bruce P; Chen, Aimin; Braun, Joseph M

2018-08-01

Exposure to poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), ubiquitous and persistent environmental contaminants, could be associated with adverse health outcomes, but there are limited longitudinal data assessing patterns and predictors of exposure during childhood. We quantified concentrations of eight different PFAS in sera collected from women during pregnancy and children at delivery and ages 3 and 8 years in 367 mother-child pairs enrolled in a prospective cohort from 2003 to 2006. In general, median childhood PFAS concentrations increased from birth to age 3 and then decreased by age 8. Maternal serum PFAS concentrations during pregnancy were strongly correlated with cord serum concentrations (0.76 < r < 0.94), but were weakly correlated with childhood concentrations (0.12 < r < 0.30). Several sociodemographic factors were associated with maternal PFAS concentrations, including income, race, and parity. In children, serum PFAS concentrations were associated with maternal age at delivery, race, parity, and child age. Breastfeeding duration was positively associated with childhood PFAS concentrations at ages 3 and 8 years. In addition, stain repellant use was associated with higher perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid concentrations at age 8 years. Serum PFAS concentrations are higher during early childhood, a potentially sensitive period of development, and were highest among breastfed children. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Low ratio of S-adenosylmethionine to S-adenosylhomocysteine is associated with vitamin deficiency in Brazilian pregnant women and newborns.

PubMed

Guerra-Shinohara, Elvira M; Morita, Olga E; Peres, Sabrina; Pagliusi, Regina A; Sampaio Neto, Luiz F; D'Almeida, Vânia; Irazusta, Silvia P; Allen, Robert H; Stabler, Sally P

2004-11-01

Pregnant women with low cobalamin concentrations are unable to provide the necessary amount of cobalamin to their fetuses. The effect of low maternal cobalamin concentrations on transmethylation metabolism in pregnant women and their newborns is unknown. We investigated the relation between maternal and neonatal cobalamin concentrations and changes in total homocysteine (tHcy), S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), and S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH). Hematologic data and concentrations of cobalamin, red blood cell folate, serum folate, tHcy, methylmalonic acid, SAM, SAH, and other metabolites were measured in 119 serum specimens from pregnant Brazilian women (gestational age: 37-42 wk) and their newborns' placental veins at the time of delivery. The tHcy concentrations were higher in placental vein serum from newborns whose mothers had low cobalamin. Serum SAH concentrations were elevated and serum SAM and methionine concentrations were decreased in pregnant women with lower cobalamin concentrations. SAM:SAH was significantly decreased in both cobalamin-deficient pregnant women and their newborns. Lower maternal cobalamin concentrations are associated with higher tHcy and lower SAM:SAH in newborns. Because SAM:SAH is closely linked with the activity of numerous enzymatic methylation reactions, these results suggest that methylation could be impaired in cobalamin-deficient pregnant women and their newborns.

Effects of furosemide on hemorheologic alterations induced by incremental treadmill exercise in thoroughbreds.

PubMed

Weiss, D J; Geor, R J; Burger, K

1996-06-01

To determine whether furosemide treatment altered the blood flow properties and serum and RBC electrolyte concentrations of Thoroughbreds during submaximal treadmill exercise. Thoroughbreds were subjected to submaximal treadmill exercise with and without treatment with furosemide (1 mg/kg of body weight, IV). 5 healthy Throughbreds that had raced within the past year and had no history of exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage. Venous blood samples were obtained before exercise, at treadmill speeds of 9 and 13 m/s, and 10 minutes after exercise, and hemorheologic and electrolyte test results were determined. Hemorheologic changes 60 minutes after furosemide administration included increased PCV, plasma total protein concentration, whole blood viscosity, mean RBC volume, and RBC potassium concentration, and decreased serum potassium concentration, serum chloride concentration, and RBC chloride concentration. Furosemide treatment attenuated the exercise-associated changes in RBC size, serum sodium concentration, serum potassium concentration, RBC potassium and chloride concentrations, and RBC density; exacerbated exercise-associated increases in whole blood viscosity; and had no effect on RBC filterability. The hemorheologic effects of furosemide probably occurred secondary to total body and transmembrane fluid and electrolyte fluxes and would not improve blood flow properties. The beneficial effects of furosemide treatment in reducing the severity of bleeding in horses with exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage cannot be explained by improved blood flow properties.

Serum uric acid concentrations in meat eaters, fish eaters, vegetarians and vegans: a cross-sectional analysis in the EPIC-Oxford cohort.

PubMed

Schmidt, Julie A; Crowe, Francesca L; Appleby, Paul N; Key, Timothy J; Travis, Ruth C

2013-01-01

Circulating concentrations of uric acid may be affected by dietary components such as meat, fish and dairy products, but only a few studies have compared uric acid concentrations among individuals who exclude some or all of these foods from their diet. The aim of this study was to investigate differences in serum uric acid concentrations between meat eaters, fish eaters, vegetarians and vegans. A sample of 670 men and 1,023 women (424 meat eaters, 425 fish eaters, 422 vegetarians and 422 vegans, matched on age and sex) from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition Oxford cohort were included in this cross-sectional analysis. Diet was assessed using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire and serum concentrations of uric acid were measured. Mean concentrations of uric acid by diet group were calculated after adjusting for age, body mass index, calcium and alcohol intake. In both men and women, serum uric acid concentrations differed significantly by diet group (p<0.0001 and p = 0.01, respectively). The differences between diet groups were most pronounced in men; vegans had the highest concentration (340, 95% confidence interval 329-351 µmol/l), followed by meat eaters (315, 306-324 µmol/l), fish eaters (309, 300-318 µmol/l) and vegetarians (303, 294-312 µmol/l). In women, serum uric acid concentrations were slightly higher in vegans (241, 234-247 µmol/l) than in meat eaters (237, 231-242 µmol/l) and lower in vegetarians (230, 224-236 µmol/l) and fish eaters (227, 221-233 µmol/l). Individuals consuming a vegan diet had the highest serum concentrations of uric acid compared to meat eaters, fish eaters and vegetarians, especially in men. Vegetarians and individuals who eat fish but not meat had the lowest concentrations of serum uric acid.

Serum Uric Acid Concentrations in Meat Eaters, Fish Eaters, Vegetarians and Vegans: A Cross-Sectional Analysis in the EPIC-Oxford Cohort

PubMed Central

Schmidt, Julie A.; Crowe, Francesca L.; Appleby, Paul N.; Key, Timothy J.; Travis, Ruth C.

2013-01-01

Introduction Circulating concentrations of uric acid may be affected by dietary components such as meat, fish and dairy products, but only a few studies have compared uric acid concentrations among individuals who exclude some or all of these foods from their diet. The aim of this study was to investigate differences in serum uric acid concentrations between meat eaters, fish eaters, vegetarians and vegans. Subjects and Methods A sample of 670 men and 1,023 women (424 meat eaters, 425 fish eaters, 422 vegetarians and 422 vegans, matched on age and sex) from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition Oxford cohort were included in this cross-sectional analysis. Diet was assessed using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire and serum concentrations of uric acid were measured. Mean concentrations of uric acid by diet group were calculated after adjusting for age, body mass index, calcium and alcohol intake. Results In both men and women, serum uric acid concentrations differed significantly by diet group (p<0.0001 and p = 0.01, respectively). The differences between diet groups were most pronounced in men; vegans had the highest concentration (340, 95% confidence interval 329–351 µmol/l), followed by meat eaters (315, 306–324 µmol/l), fish eaters (309, 300–318 µmol/l) and vegetarians (303, 294–312 µmol/l). In women, serum uric acid concentrations were slightly higher in vegans (241, 234–247 µmol/l) than in meat eaters (237, 231–242 µmol/l) and lower in vegetarians (230, 224–236 µmol/l) and fish eaters (227, 221–233 µmol/l). Conclusion Individuals consuming a vegan diet had the highest serum concentrations of uric acid compared to meat eaters, fish eaters and vegetarians, especially in men. Vegetarians and individuals who eat fish but not meat had the lowest concentrations of serum uric acid. PMID:23418557

Changes in bone structure and metabolism during simulated weightlessness: Endocrine and dietary factors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Halloran, B. P.; Wronski, T. J.

1985-01-01

The role of vitamin D, PTH and corticosterone in the skeletal alterations induced by simulated weightlessness was examined. The first objective was to determine if changes in the serum concentrations of Ca, P sub i, osteocalcin, 25-OH-D, 24,25(OH)2D or 1,25(OH)2D also occur following acute skeletal unloading. Animals were either suspended or pair fed for 2, 5, 7, 10, 12 and 15 days and the serum concentrations of Ca, P sub i, osteocalcin and the vitamin D metabolites measured. Bone histology was examined at day 5 after suspension. Acute skeletal unloading produced a transient hypercalcemia, a significant fall in serum osteocalcin and serum 1,25(OH)2D, a slight rise in serum 24,25(OH)2D, but did not affect the serum concentrations of P sub i or 25-OH-D. At the nadir in serum 1,25(OH)2D serum osteocalcin was reduced by 22%, osteoblast surface by 32% and longitudinal bone growth by 21%.

The effect of short duration transportation on serum cortisol response in alpacas (Llama pacos).

PubMed

Anderson, D E; Grubb, T; Silveira, F

1999-03-01

This research project evaluated the changes in serum cortisol in six male and six female alpacas in response to transportation of short duration. All alpacas were subjected to trailer transportation for 30 min. Serum samples were obtained prior to transportation, immediately after transportation, and after a 4-h recovery period. Heart rate was recorded at each time interval and observations of individual behavioural characteristics were recorded. Data were analysed using analysis of variance. Heart rate was not significantly changed by transportation stress. Serum cortisol concentration was significantly higher after transportation, but head returned to baseline concentration after the 4-h recovery period. Behavioural characteristics were not associated with changes in serum cortisol concentration.

Pretreatment serum xanthophyll concentrations as predictors of head and neck cancer recurrence and survival

PubMed Central

Arthur, Anna E.; Bellile, Emily L.; Rozek, Laura S.; Peterson, Karen E.; Ren, Jianwei; Harris, Ethan; Mueller, Christie; Jolly, Shruti; Peterson, Lisa A.; Wolf, Gregory T.; Djuric, Zora

2015-01-01

Background The purpose of this study was to examine associations of pretreatment serum carotenoids, tocopherols, and quercetin with prognosis in 154 newly diagnosed head and neck cancer (HNC) patients. Methods Pretreatment blood and health surveys were collected. Serum micronutrients were measured by HPLC. Data on recurrence and death were collected annually. Cox proportional hazards models measured associations of serum nutrient concentrations with recurrence and overall survival. Results During a median follow-up time of 37 months, there were 32 recurrences and 27 deaths. After controlling for covariates, subjects with high versus low serum xanthophyll and total carotenoid concentrations had significantly longer recurrence-free time (P = 0.002 and P = 0.02, respectively). Overall survival time was significantly longer in subjects with high versus low serum xanthophyll concentrations (P = 0.02). Conclusions Future research should evaluate the possible benefits of interventions to increase intakes of rich food sources of xanthophylls in this patient population. PMID:26614223

Direct comparison of the pharmacodynamics of four antifungal drugs in a mouse model of disseminated candidiasis using microbiological assays of serum drug concentrations.

PubMed

Maki, Katsuyuki; Holmes, Ann R; Watabe, Etsuko; Iguchi, Yumi; Matsumoto, Satoru; Ikeda, Fumiaki; Tawara, Shuichi; Mutoh, Seitaro

2007-01-01

The aim of this study was to compare the pharmacodynamics of the azole antifungal drugs fluconazole, itraconazole and ketoconazole, and the polyene antifungal amphotericin B, in a mouse model of disseminated Candida albicans infection. In order to directly compare effective serum concentrations of these antifungals, drug concentrations were assayed microbiologically by measuring inhibition of C. albicans mycelial growth (mMIC) in a mouse serum-based assay (serum antifungal titer). Efficacy in the mouse infection model was determined using an organ-based (kidney burden) endpoint. For all four drugs, the serum antifungal titers, 8 hr after administration of single doses of drugs at a range of drug concentrations, correlated closely with C. albicans kidney fungal burden in the mouse model. The results showed that determining serum antifungal titer may be used to accurately represent kidney fungal burden in a mouse model of disseminated candidiasis and allowed direct comparison of the pharmacodynamics of differing classes of antifungal drugs.

The concentration of iodine in horse serum and its relationship with thyroxin concentration by geological difference.

PubMed

Mochizuki, Mariko; Hayakawa, Noriyuki; Minowa, Fumiko; Saito, Akihiro; Ishioka, Katsumi; Ueda, Fukiko; Okubo, Kimihiro; Tazaki, Hiroyuki

2016-04-01

In this study, iodine and thyroxin (T4) concentrations in the serum of 69 horses were investigated. Higher iodine concentrations were obtained from the horses housed in Chiba Prefecture. In contrast, T4 concentrations of horses at Shizuoka Prefecture were higher than those of horses at Chiba Prefecture. There was a significant correlation (r = 0.643, P < 0.001) between the iodine and T4 concentrations of horses at Saitama and Shizuoka prefectures. Although a significant correlation (r = 0.794, P < 0.001) was also observed in the investigation of all horses at Chiba Prefecture, the distribution area of the data was separated from the data of horses housed in Saitama and Shizuoka prefectures. A higher iodine concentration in the environment is expected in the sampling area at Chiba Prefecture. Thus, it was suggested that the concentrations of iodine in the serum of horses are influenced by geological differences. It was thought that equine serum is a useful sample for monitoring.

Measurement of rivaroxaban and apixaban in serum samples of patients

PubMed Central

Harenberg, Job; Krämer, Sandra; Du, Shanshan; Zolfaghari, Shabnam; Schulze, Astrid; Krämer, Roland; Weiss, Christel; Wehling, Martin; Lip, Gregory Y H

2014-01-01

Background The determination of rivaroxaban and apixaban from serum samples of patients may be beneficial in specific clinical situations when additional blood sampling for plasma and thus the determination of factor Xa activity is not feasible or results are not plausible. Materials and methods The primary aim of this study was to compare the concentrations of rivaroxaban and apixaban in serum with those measured in plasma. Secondary aims were the performance of three different chromogenic methods and concentrations in patients on treatment with rivaroxaban 10 mg od (n = 124) or 20 mg od (n = 94) or apixaban 5 mg bid (n = 52) measured at different time. Results Concentrations of rivaroxaban and apixaban in serum were about 20–25% higher compared with plasma samples with a high correlation (r = 0·79775–0·94662) using all assays (all P < 0·0001). The intraclass correlation coefficients were about 0·90 for rivaroxaban and 0·55 for apixaban. Mean rivaroxaban concentrations were higher at 2 and 3 h compared with 1 and 12 h after administration measured from plasma and serum samples (all P-values < 0·05) and were not different between 1 vs. 12 h (plasma and serum). Conclusions The results indicate that rivaroxaban and apixaban concentrations can be determined specifically from serum samples. PMID:24931429

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.

Determining optimal therapy of dogs with chronic enteropathy by measurement of serum citrulline

PubMed Central

Gerou‐Ferriani, Magda; Allen, Rhiannon; Noble, Peter‐John M.; German, Alexander J.; Caldin, Marco

2018-01-01

Background Serum concentration of citrulline is a useful biomarker in human intestinal disease and indicates globally reduced enterocyte mass and absorptive function in various disease states. Objectives To determine whether serum citrulline concentration is a biomarker in chronic enteropathy (CE) in dogs, to provide useful information regarding optimal treatment or to predict outcome. Animals Seventy‐four dogs with CE and 83 breed‐ and age‐matched hospital controls with no clinical signs of intestinal disease. Methods Retrospective study. Outcome was determined and dogs were categorized by response to treatment as having food‐responsive enteropathy (FRE), antibiotic‐responsive diarrhea (ARD), or idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Disease severity was quantified by the CIBDAI scoring index. Results Serum citrulline concentration did not differ between dogs with CE (median, 8.4 µg/mL, 5th‐95th percentile 2.0‐19.6) and controls (median, 8.1 µg/mL, 5th‐95th percentile 2.2‐19.7, P = .91). Serum citrulline concentration was similar between dogs with FRE (median, 9.1 µg/mL, 5th‐95th percentile 2.0‐18.9), ARD (median, 13.0 µg/mL, 5th‐95th percentile 1.6‐19.2), IBD (median, 8.4 µg/mL, 5th‐95th percentile 2.1‐21.0; P = .91). Serum citrulline did not correlate to CIBDAI or to serum albumin concentration. Conclusions and Clinical Importance In our study, serum citrulline concentration was not associated with efficacy of treatment or outcome in dogs with CE. PMID:29663515

Serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor in preeclamptic and normotensive pregnancy.

PubMed

Hunter, A; Aitkenhead, M; Caldwell, C; McCracken, G; Wilson, D; McClure, N

2000-12-01

The purpose of these studies was first to determine if vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a vascular permeability agent, is increased in the serum of women with preclinical and clinical preclampsia (PE), and second to determine how these levels change after delivery. Twenty preeclamptic and 25 normotensive women at term consented to have blood taken pre- and post-delivery. Ten preeclamptic, 10 gestational hypertensive, and 28 normotensive women had blood collected respectively at 12, 20, and 30 weeks gestation and predelivery. Serum was extracted from all samples, and VEGF concentrations were determined by radioimmunoassay. Predelivery, the median serum VEGF concentration in the preeclamptic group was 51.7 ng/mL, and in the control group the concentration was 13.9 ng/mL (P<0.0001). Serum VEGF concentrations fell within 24 hours of delivery in both groups, which resulted in median values of 3.8 ng/mL and 3.2 ng/mL respectively (P<0.3). At 12 and 20 weeks, there was no significant difference between the serum VEGF concentrations in the 3 groups (P<0.3, 0.052 respectively). At 30 weeks, prior to the onset of clinical PE, the serum VEGF levels in the eventual preeclamptic group were elevated significantly compared with the gestational hypertensive and normotensive groups (P<0.001). Predelivery serum VEGF concentrations were significantly elevated in the preeclamptic group and were similar to those in the first study (P<0.0001). These findings suggest that VEGF may be important in the pathophysiology of PE and has the potential to act as a preclinical marker for the condition.

Serum human epididymis secretory protein 4 as a potential biomarker of renal fibrosis in kidney transplantation recipients.

PubMed

Luo, Jinmei; Wang, Fen; Wan, Jianxin; Ye, Zhuangjian; Huang, Chumei; Cai, Yuesu; Liu, Min; Wu, Ben-Quan; Li, Laisheng

2018-05-05

Renal fibrosis remains an important cause of kidney allograft failure. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of serum human epididymis secretory protein 4 (HE4) as a biomarker for renal fibrosis in kidney transplant recipients. A total of 103 kidney transplantation patients were enrolled in this study, and serum HE4 concentrations were detected using the chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. Renal biopsy was carried out, and histological findings were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Median serum HE4 concentrations were significantly increased in kidney transplant recipients (186.2 pmol/l, interquartile range [IQR] 125.6-300.2) compared with control subjects (34.3 pmol/l, IQR 30.4-42.3, p < 0.0001). Meanwhile, serum HE4 concentrations were significantly increased along with disease severity (p < 0.0001). In addition, we found serum HE4 concentrations to be strongly correlated with the severity of fibrosis (IF/TA 0, 1, 2, and 3: 114.3, 179.0, 197.8, and 467.8 pmol/l, respectively; p < 0.0001) and serum HE4 concentrations significantly correlated with HE4 tissue expression concentrations in renal biopsy. Serum HE4 was increased in kidney transplant recipients with decreased kidney function and renal fibrosis and was correlated with the severity of the disease, suggesting that HE4 has the potential to be used as a novel clinical biomarker for evaluating kidney function and predicting renal fibrosis in kidney transplant recipients. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Polyfluoroalkyl substance exposure in the Mid-Ohio River Valley, 1991-2012.

PubMed

Herrick, Robert L; Buckholz, Jeanette; Biro, Frank M; Calafat, Antonia M; Ye, Xiaoyun; Xie, Changchun; Pinney, Susan M

2017-09-01

Industrial discharges of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) to the Ohio River, contaminating water systems near Parkersburg, WV, were previously associated with nearby residents' serum PFOA concentrations above US general population medians. Ohio River PFOA concentrations downstream are elevated, suggesting Mid-Ohio River Valley residents are exposed through drinking water. Quantify PFOA and 10 other per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Mid-Ohio River Valley resident sera collected between 1991 and 2013 and determine whether the Ohio River and Ohio River Aquifer are exposure sources. We measured eleven PFAS in 1608 sera from 931 participants. Serum PFOA concentration and water source associations were assessed using linear mixed-effects models. We estimated between-sample serum PFOA using one-compartment pharmacokinetics for participants with multiple samples. In serum samples collected as early as 1991, PFOA (median = 7.6 ng/mL) was detected in 99.9% of sera; 47% had concentrations greater than US population 95th percentiles. Five other PFAS were detected in greater than 82% of samples; median other PFAS concentrations were similar to the US general population. Serum PFOA was significantly associated with water source, sampling year, age at sampling, tap water consumption, pregnancy, gravidity and breastfeeding. Serum PFOA was 40-60% lower with granular activated carbon (GAC) use. Repeated measurements and pharmacokinetics suggest serum PFOA peaked 2000-2006 for participants using water without GAC treatment; where GAC was used, serum PFOA concentrations decreased from 1991 to 2012. Mid-Ohio River Valley residents appear to have PFOA, but not other PFAS, serum concentrations above US population levels. Drinking water from the Ohio River and Ohio River Aquifer, primarily contaminated by industrial discharges 209-666 km upstream, is likely the primary exposure source. GAC treatment of drinking water mitigates, but does not eliminate, PFOA exposure. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Add-on lacosamide: a retrospective study on the relationship between serum concentration, dosage, and adverse events.

PubMed

Hillenbrand, Barbara; Wisniewski, Ilona; Jürges, Uta; Steinhoff, Bernhard J

2011-11-01

We performed a retrospective study in patients with poorly controlled epilepsy treated with add-on lacosamide (LCM) to investigate the relationship of LCM-related adverse events with LCM serum concentration and weight-dependent dosage. We collected serum concentrations, weight-related dosages, and occurrences of the seven most frequent adverse events according to the randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. Seventy of 131 patients could be sufficiently evaluated. LCM serum concentrations and weight-related dosages in patients with and without typical adverse events did not differ significantly. Closer analysis of the data suggested that dizziness as the leading adverse event occurred significantly more often if LCM was combined with classic sodium channel blockers. There was a significant correlation between LCM serum concentrations and co-medication, so there is still evidence for dependent variables that might have a relevant impact in individual cases. However, our data do not allow definition of a safety range for LCM. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Association between Serum Selenium Concentrations and Levels of Proinflammatory and Profibrotic Cytokines-Interleukin-6 and Growth Differentiation Factor-15, in Patients with Alcoholic Liver Cirrhosis.

PubMed

Prystupa, Andrzej; Kiciński, Paweł; Luchowska-Kocot, Dorota; Błażewicz, Anna; Niedziałek, Jarosław; Mizerski, Grzegorz; Jojczuk, Mariusz; Ochal, Andrzej; Sak, Jarosław J; Załuska, Wojciech

2017-04-21

According to some authors, serum selenium levels are strongly associated with the severity of liver diseases, including liver cirrhosis. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the concentration of selenium and pro-inflammatory and profibrotic cytokines-interleukin-6 (IL-6) and growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) in patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis. The parameters studied were determined in the serum of 99 patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis divided based on the severity of disease according to the Child-Turcotte-Pugh criteria. In patients with liver cirrhosis, the serum selenium concentration was statistically lower, whereas serum IL-6 and GDF-15 concentrations were higher than those in the control group. Moreover, the concentration of selenium negatively correlated with the levels of GDF-15 and IL-6. The above results may indicate a role of selenium deficiency in the pathogenesis and progression of alcoholic liver disease.

A copeptin-based classification of the osmoregulatory defects in the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis.

PubMed

Fenske, Wiebke Kristin; Christ-Crain, Mirjam; Hörning, Anna; Simet, Jessica; Szinnai, Gabor; Fassnacht, Martin; Rutishauser, Jonas; Bichet, Daniel G; Störk, Stefan; Allolio, Bruno

2014-10-01

Hyponatremia, the most frequent electrolyte disorder, is caused predominantly by the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis (SIAD). A comprehensive characterization of SIAD subtypes, defined by type of osmotic dysregulation, is lacking, but may aid in predicting therapeutic success. Here, we analyzed serial measurements of serum osmolality and serum sodium, plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP), and plasma copeptin concentrations from 50 patients with hyponatremia who underwent hypertonic saline infusion. A close correlation between copeptin concentrations and serum osmolality existed in 68 healthy controls, with a mean osmotic threshold±SD of 282±4 mOsM/kg H2O. Furthermore, saline-induced changes in copeptin concentrations correlated with changes in AVP concentrations in controls and patients. With use of copeptin concentration as a surrogate measure of AVP concentration, patients with SIAD could be grouped according to osmoregulatory defect: Ten percent of patients had grossly elevated copeptin concentrations independent of serum osmolality (type A); 14% had copeptin concentrations that increased linearly with rising serum osmolality but had abnormally low osmotic thresholds (type B); 44% had normal copeptin concentrations independent of osmolality (type C), and 12% had suppressed copeptin concentrations independent of osmolality (type D). A novel SIAD subtype discovered in 20% of patients was characterized by a linear decrease in copeptin concentrations with increasing serum osmolality (type E or "barostat reset"). In conclusion, a partial or complete loss of AVP osmoregulation occurs in patients with SIAD. Although the mechanisms underlying osmoregulatory defects in individual patients are presumably diverse, we hypothesize that treatment responses and patient outcomes will vary according to SIAD subtype. Copyright © 2014 by the American Society of Nephrology.

Altered serum levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-18 in depressive disorder patients.

PubMed

Fan, Ni; Luo, Yayan; Ou, Yufen; He, Hongbo

2017-07-01

Depressive disorder is associated with abnormal changes in cytokines levels. This study aimed to assess serum concentrations of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α, interleukin (IL) 6, and IL-18 in depressive patients. The correlations between these three cytokine concentrations and the patients' clinical characteristics were also assessed. Serum TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-18 concentrations were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay from 64 depressive patients and 80 healthy control subjects. Depressive symptoms of patients were assessed using Hamilton Depression Scale-17. Depressive patients had increased serum TNF-α and IL-6 concentrations but decreased IL-18 concentrations than controls. TNF-α and IL-6 concentrations were significantly positively associated with Hamilton Depression Scale-17 scores in depressive patients. These findings provided additional evidence that altered TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-18 activities may contribute to the pathophysiology of depressive disorder. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Evaluation of serum trace mineral, vitamin D, and sex steroid hormone concentration, and survey data in llamas and alpacas with metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal hyperextension.

PubMed

Semevolos, Stacy A; Reed, Shannon K; Schultz, Loren G

2013-01-01

To characterize serum trace mineral, sex steroid hormone, and vitamin D concentrations and identify factors associated with metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal hyperextension in llamas and alpacas. Serum samples from 79 llamas and 15 alpacas and owner survey data for 573 llamas and 399 alpacas. Serum samples were stored at -20°C until analysis and were evaluated for trace mineral, vitamin D, estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone concentrations. Information regarding age of onset, number of affected animals in herd, feed and supplements given, type of housing, and management practices was obtained in an owner survey. Higher serum zinc and iron concentrations were associated with metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal hyperextension in camelids, compared with controls. In summer and fall months, vitamin D concentrations were significantly higher in affected camelids than controls. Overall prevalence was 13.3% in llamas, compared with 0.7% in alpacas. No management factors were found to be predictive of this condition. No other factors examined were associated with metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal hyperextension. Despite similar supplementation practices and environmental conditions between affected and unaffected animals, an association of high serum zinc, iron, and vitamin D concentrations in affected camelids, compared with controls, may indicate differences of intake or absorption of dietary supplements.

Serum gastrin concentrations in dogs with liver disorders.

PubMed

Mazaki-Tovi, M; Segev, G; Yas-Natan, E; Lavy, E

2012-07-07

Dogs with liver disorders often display gastrointestinal signs that may be triggered by ulceration. The liver is important for inactivation of some forms of gastrin. Therefore, hypergastrinaemia has been implicated in the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal ulcerations related to liver dysfunction. The aim of this study was to determine serum gastrin concentrations in dogs with liver disease. Fasted blood samples were collected from 15 dogs with newly diagnosed liver disease and 18 healthy dogs. Gastrin concentrations were significantly lower in dogs with congenital portosystemic shunt compared with healthy dogs (P=0.003). No significant difference (P=0.6) in gastrin concentration was revealed between dogs with hepatocellular disease and healthy dogs. Serum gastrin concentrations were not significantly associated with the occurrence of vomiting, anorexia, diarrhoea, or melaena in dogs with liver disorders. These findings did not provide support for the role of hypergastrinaemia in the development of gastrointestinal signs associated with liver disease in dogs. Decreased serum concentrations of gastrin in a dog with liver disease may suggest the presence of portosystemic shunt. Further investigation is warranted to determine the importance of hyopogastrinaemia in congenital postosystemic shunts in dogs and to evaluate potential alterations in serum gastrin concentrations in specific hepatocellular diseases.

Theorethical principles of fluid managment according to physicochemical Stewart approach.

PubMed

Smuszkiewicz, Piotr; Szrama, Jakub

2013-01-01

Interpreting acid base disturbances according to the physicochemical Stewart approach allows the cause of such abnormalities to be discovered. This method is based on three independent variables: SID (strong ion difference), mainly sodium and chloride; weak acids concentration - Atot, mainly albumins and phosphate; and carbon dioxide tension - pCO₂. These three independent variables are responsible for the change of water dissociation and for the change in H+ concentration and, consequently, the change in serum pH value. The SID value of the fluids administered to a patient is responsible for the change of serum SID value and therefore causes a change in the patient's acid base status. During the infusion of a given fluid, the SID value of the serum becomes closer to the SID value of that fluid; on the other hand, the infusion causes a decrease in Atot concentration. In order to avoid acid base disturbances connected with fluid administration, the SID value of fluids being administered should be greater than 0 and lower then the serum SID. It has been suggested that fluids should be given of which the SID value is as close as possible to the actual serum HCO₃ concentration. Knowing the SID value of the fluid administered, and the serum HCO₃ concentration, one can expect a change of serum pH after a fluid infusion. Administering a fluid with a SID greater than the HCO₃ concentration causes a pH increase towards alkalosis. Likewise, administering a a fluid with a SID lower than the HCO₃ concentration causes a pH decrease towards acidosis. It seems that knowledge of the electrolyte concentration and the SID value of an administered fluid is an important factor regarding acid base disturbances.

Dynamic changes of immunoglobulin concentrations in pig colostrum and serum around parturition.

PubMed

Markowska-Daniel, I; Pomorska-Mól, M; Pejsak, Z

2010-01-01

The aim of the study was the determination of IgA, IgM and IgG concentrations in porcine serum and colostrum, in order to evaluate their variations in the perinatal period, as well as to clarify whether there is a correlation between colostrum intake, initial level of immunoglobulins (Ig) in piglet serum and development of their own immunity. The mean IgA, IgM and IgG concentrations in sow serum 10 days before parturition were 1.58, 6.12 and 39.56 mg/ml, respectively. Seven days later only the IgG level was insignificantly lower (34.94 mg/ml, p = 0.55), while concentrations of IgA and IgM increased to 2.25 and 7.25 mg/ml, respectively (p = 0.23 and 0.62, respectively). The mean initial IgG concentration in colostrum at farrowing was 118.5 mg/ml and differed between sows. The average value of IgA in colostrum at birth was 23.8 mg/ml and decreased to 7.85 mg/ml at 6 hours (h) and to 4.59 mg/ml at 24 h after the onset of farrowing. IgM concentration at birth was 12.1 mg/ml and decreased to 4.23 mg/ml at 24 h postpartum. Positive relationships were found between concentrations of IgM and IgA in serum of piglets at 14 and 56 days of life (r = 0.41 and 0.80, respectively, p < or = 0.05) as well as for IgG concentration in the piglets serum at 7 days and 56 days of age (r = 0.48, p < or = 0.05). The above observations suggest that there is a correlation between the level of Ig in piglet serum in the first days of life and improvement of their own immunity.

Serum adiponectin concentration in relation to macronutrient and food intake in young Japanese women.

PubMed

Murakami, Kentaro; Sasaki, Satoshi; Uenishi, Kazuhiro

2013-01-01

Little is known about the relation of modifiable dietary factors to circulating adiponectin concentrations, particularly in young adults and non-Western populations. The aim of this study was to determine the association between macronutrient and food intake and serum adiponectin concentration in a group of young Japanese women. This cross-sectional study included 1047 female Japanese dietetic students aged 18 to 22 y. Using a validated, self-administered, comprehensive diet history questionnaire, we assessed intake of nutrients (protein, total fat, saturated fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, carbohydrates, and dietary fiber) and foods (rice, bread, noodles, potatoes, confectioneries, fats and oils, pulses, fish and shellfish, meats, eggs, dairy products, vegetables, fruits, coffee, green and oolong tea, black tea, and soft drinks) and glycemic index and load. Fasting blood samples were collected and serum adiponectin concentrations were measured. Adjustment was made for survey year, region, municipality level, current smoking, current alcohol drinking, physical activity, body mass index, energy intake, and intakes of other nutrients or foods. After adjustment for potential confounding factors, none of the nutrients examined was a significant determinant of serum adiponectin concentration. There was no association for glycemic index or load. Coffee was the only food significantly and independently associated with serum adiponectin concentration. Mean (SE) values of serum adiponectin concentration for each quartile of coffee intake were 12.4 (0.2), 12.4 (0.5), 12.5 (0.3), and 13.2 (0.3) μg/mL, respectively (P for trend = 0.04). In a group of young Japanese women, higher coffee intake was independently associated with higher serum adiponectin concentration. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Correlations of circulating peptide YY and ghrelin with body weight, rate of weight gain, and time required to achieve the recommended daily intake in preterm infants.

PubMed

Chen, XiaFang; Du, XueLiang; Zhu, JianXing; Xie, LiJuan; Zhang, YongJun; He, ZhenJuan

2012-07-01

The objective was to elucidate the relationships between serum concentrations of the gut hormone peptide YY (PYY) and ghrelin and growth development in infants for potential application to the clinical observation index. Serum concentrations of PYY and ghrelin were measured using radioimmunoassay from samples collected at the clinic. For each patient, gestational age, birth weight, time required to return to birth weight, rate of weight gain, time required to achieve recommended daily intake (RDI) standards, time required for full-gastric feeding, duration of hospitalization, and time of administration of total parenteral nutrition were recorded. Serum PYY and ghrelin concentrations were significantly higher in the preterm group (N = 20) than in the full-term group (N = 20; P < 0.01). Within the preterm infant group, the serum concentrations of PYY and ghrelin on postnatal day (PND) 7 (ghrelin = 1485.38 ± 409.24; PYY = 812.37 ± 153.77 ng/L) were significantly higher than on PND 1 (ghrelin = 956.85 ± 223.09; PYY = 545.27 ± 204.51 ng/L) or PND 3 (ghrelin = 1108.44 ± 351.36; PYY = 628.96 ± 235.63 ng/L; P < 0.01). Both serum PYY and ghrelin concentrations were negatively correlated with body weight, and the degree of correlation varied with age. Serum ghrelin concentration correlated negatively with birth weight and positively with the time required to achieve RDI (P < 0.05). In conclusion, serum PYY and ghrelin concentrations reflect a negative energy balance, predict postnatal growth, and enable compensation. Further studies are required to elucidate the precise concentration and roles of PYY and ghrelin in newborns and to determine the usefulness of measuring these hormones in clinical practice.

Correlations of circulating peptide YY and ghrelin with body weight, rate of weight gain, and time required to achieve the recommended daily intake in preterm infants

PubMed Central

Chen, XiaFang; Du, Xueliang; Zhu, JianXing; Xie, LiJuan; Zhang, YongJun; He, ZhenJuan

2012-01-01

The objective was to elucidate the relationships between serum concentrations of the gut hormone peptide YY (PYY) and ghrelin and growth development in infants for potential application to the clinical observation index. Serum concentrations of PYY and ghrelin were measured using radioimmunoassay from samples collected at the clinic. For each patient, gestational age, birth weight, time required to return to birth weight, rate of weight gain, time required to achieve recommended daily intake (RDI) standards, time required for full-gastric feeding, duration of hospitalization, and time of administration of total parenteral nutrition were recorded. Serum PYY and ghrelin concentrations were significantly higher in the preterm group (N = 20) than in the full-term group (N = 20; P < 0.01). Within the preterm infant group, the serum concentrations of PYY and ghrelin on postnatal day (PND) 7 (ghrelin = 1485.38 ± 409.24; PYY = 812.37 ± 153.77 ng/L) were significantly higher than on PND 1 (ghrelin = 956.85 ± 223.09; PYY = 545.27 ± 204.51 ng/L) or PND 3 (ghrelin = 1108.44 ± 351.36; PYY = 628.96 ± 235.63 ng/L; P < 0.01). Both serum PYY and ghrelin concentrations were negatively correlated with body weight, and the degree of correlation varied with age. Serum ghrelin concentration correlated negatively with birth weight and positively with the time required to achieve RDI (P < 0.05). In conclusion, serum PYY and ghrelin concentrations reflect a negative energy balance, predict postnatal growth, and enable compensation. Further studies are required to elucidate the precise concentration and roles of PYY and ghrelin in newborns and to determine the usefulness of measuring these hormones in clinical practice. PMID:22527125

Machine-Learned Data Structures of Lipid Marker Serum Concentrations in Multiple Sclerosis Patients Differ from Those in Healthy Subjects.

PubMed

Lötsch, Jörn; Thrun, Michael; Lerch, Florian; Brunkhorst, Robert; Schiffmann, Susanne; Thomas, Dominique; Tegder, Irmgard; Geisslinger, Gerd; Ultsch, Alfred

2017-06-07

Lipid metabolism has been suggested to be a major pathophysiological mechanism of multiple sclerosis (MS). With the increasing knowledge about lipid signaling, acquired data become increasingly complex making bioinformatics necessary in lipid research. We used unsupervised machine-learning to analyze lipid marker serum concentrations, pursuing the hypothesis that for the most relevant markers the emerging data structures will coincide with the diagnosis of MS. Machine learning was implemented as emergent self-organizing feature maps (ESOM) combined with the U*-matrix visualization technique. The data space consisted of serum concentrations of three main classes of lipid markers comprising eicosanoids ( d = 11 markers), ceramides ( d = 10), and lyosophosphatidic acids ( d = 6). They were analyzed in cohorts of MS patients ( n = 102) and healthy subjects ( n = 301). Clear data structures in the high-dimensional data space were observed in eicosanoid and ceramides serum concentrations whereas no clear structure could be found in lysophosphatidic acid concentrations. With ceramide concentrations, the structures that had emerged from unsupervised machine-learning almost completely overlapped with the known grouping of MS patients versus healthy subjects. This was only partly provided by eicosanoid serum concentrations. Thus, unsupervised machine-learning identified distinct data structures of bioactive lipid serum concentrations. These structures could be superimposed with the known grouping of MS patients versus healthy subjects, which was almost completely possible with ceramides. Therefore, based on the present analysis, ceramides are first-line candidates for further exploration as drug-gable targets or biomarkers in MS.

The influence of sex, body composition, and nonesterified fatty acids on serum adipokine concentrations.

PubMed

Plaisance, Eric P; Grandjean, Peter W; Judd, Robert L; Jones, Kathy W; Taylor, J Kyle

2009-11-01

Serum adiponectin concentrations are higher in women than men. The sexual dimorphism for adiponectin has been attributed to the direct effects of testosterone on adipose tissue adiponectin secretion. However, serum testosterone and adiponectin concentrations are generally lower in obese men than lean men, suggesting that sex steroids may not be the only factor that contributes to sex differences in serum adiponectin. The primary objective of this study was to examine the influence of sex, body composition, and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs) on serum adiponectin concentrations. Women and men between the ages of 18 and 35 years were consecutively accrued into the study. Sixty-one participants were partitioned into normal-weight (15 female and 16 male) or obese (14 female and 16 male) groups. Blood samples were obtained after a 12-hour fast. Differences between groups were determined by analysis of variance with Tukey-Kramer post hoc testing. Serum adiponectin was 26% higher in women compared with men. Body mass index was associated with total serum adiponectin in men (r = -0.63, P < .05) but not women. Adiponectin was correlated with the homeostasis model assessment index in women (r = -0.56, P < .05) and men (r = -0.58, P < .05) and with NEFAs (r = -0.68, P < .05) in men only. After partitioning men and women into normal-weight and obese groups, serum adiponectin was lower and NEFAs were higher in obese men only. Homeostasis model assessment was similar between obese women and men despite higher NEFAs in the obese men. Leptin and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 were higher in obese participants but were not associated with serum NEFAs. These results suggest that serum NEFAs may reduce adiponectin concentrations independent of their effects on insulin sensitivity in obese young men.

Association of macrophage inhibitory cytokine-1 with nutritional status, body composition and bone mineral density in patients with anorexia nervosa: the influence of partial realimentation.

PubMed

Dostálová, Ivana; Kaválková, Petra; Papežová, Hana; Domluvilová, Daniela; Zikán, Vít; Haluzík, Martin

2010-04-23

Macrophage inhibitory cytokine-1 (MIC-1) is a key inducer of cancer-related anorexia and weight loss. However, its possible role in the etiopathogenesis of nutritional disorders of other etiology such as anorexia nervosa (AN) is currently unknown. We measured fasting serum concentrations of MIC-1 in patients with AN before and after 2-month nutritional treatment and explored its relationship with nutritional status, metabolic and biochemical parameters. Sixteen previously untreated women with AN and twenty-five normal-weight age-matched control women participated in the study. We measured serum concentrations of MIC-1 and leptin by ELISA, free fatty acids by enzymatic colorimetric assay, and biochemical parameters by standard laboratory methods; determined resting energy expenditure by indirect calorimetry; and assessed bone mineral density and body fat content by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. ANOVA, unpaired t-test or Mann-Whitney test were used for groups comparison as appropriate. The comparisons of serum MIC-1 levels and other studied parameters in patients with AN before and after partial realimentation were assessed by paired t-test or Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test as appropriate. At baseline, fasting serum MIC-1 concentrations were significantly higher in patients with AN relative to controls. Partial realimentation significantly reduced serum MIC-1 concentrations in patients with AN but it still remained significantly higher compared to control group. In AN group, serum MIC-1 was inversely related to Buzby nutritional risk index, serum insulin-like growth factor-1, serum glucose, serum total protein, serum albumin, and lumbar bone mineral density and it significantly positively correlated with the duration of AN and age. MIC-1 concentrations in AN patients are significantly higher relative to healthy women. Partial realimentation significantly decreased MIC-1 concentration in AN group. Clinical significance of these findings needs to be further clarified.

Effects of Concentric and Eccentric Muscle Actions on Serum Myostatin and Follistatin-Like Related Gene Levels

PubMed Central

Willoughby, Darryn S.; Taylor, Lemuel

2004-01-01

The present study determined the effects of concentric and eccentric muscle actions on the contents of serum myostatin and follistatin-like related gene (FLRG). Eight untrained males performed one exercise bout with each leg, separated by three weeks. One bout consisted of 7 sets of 10 repetitions of eccentric muscle actions of the knee extensors at 150% of the concentric 1-RM while the other bout consisted of 7 sets of 10 repetitions of concentric muscle actions at 75% 1-RM. The legs used and the bouts performed were randomized. Five days prior to each exercise bout, baseline measurements were taken for muscle strength. For both bouts, a venous blood sample was obtained immediately prior to exercise and again at 6, 24, and 48 hr post-exercise. Data were analyzed with 2 X 4 (bout x test) ANOVA (p < 0.05). Increases in serum myostatin and FLRG occurred with each exercise bout and, excluding 48 hr post-exercise, were significantly correlated to one another (p < 0.05). After eccentric exercise, peak increases of 68% and 50% (p < 0.05) were observed for myostatin and FLRG, respectively. Similar increases of 54% and 44% (p < 0.05) were observed after concentric muscle actions. There was no significant difference in expression of myostatin or FLRG as a function of muscle action type. Our results suggest that a single bout of exercise with either eccentric or concentric muscle actions appear to elicit a similar increase in serum myostatin and FLRG. Therefore, the type of muscle action may not be as much a mitigating factor for increasing serum myostatin and FLRG rather than the muscle action per se. Key Points Eccentric muscle actions do not preferentially increase serum myostatin. Increases in serum myostatin in response to eccentric muscle actions are associated with increase in serum FLRG. Increases in serum myostatin and FLRG in response to eccentric muscle actions are not correlated to serum cortisol. PMID:24624007

Effects of feeding and fasting on wolf blood and urine characteristics

USGS Publications Warehouse

DelGiudice, G.D.; Seal, U.S.; Mech, L.D.

1987-01-01

Feeding and fasting trials were conducted with 2 groups (A and B) of 4 gray wolves (Canis lupus) each during January 1980. The groups were fed for 9 days and fasted for 10 days in a cross-over design. Blood and urine samples and weight data were collected every 2-3 days during each trial. Hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations, red blood cell (RBC) counts, and hematocrits (HCT) were elevated in both groups during fasting. White blood cell (WBC) counts, serum urea nitrogen (SUN), triiodothyronine (T3), and insulin concentrations decreased during fasting in Groups A and B. Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), serum cholesterol, triglyceride, and iron (Fe) concentrations were diminished in fasted Group A wolves compared to fed Group B. Creatine phosphokinase (CPK) concentrations were elevated in fed Group A wolves. Serum creatinine (C) concentrations were reduced in both groups during feeding. Urinary urea: creatinine (U:C), potassium:creatine (K:C), and sodium:creatinine (Na:C, pooled Group A and B data) ratios decreased in fasted wolves. Differences were not found between fed and fasted wolves for mean corpuscular volume (MCV), serum cortisol, glucose, calcium (Ca), bilirubin, serum glutamate-oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), alkaline phosphatase, and luteinizing hormone (LH) concentrations, total iron binding capacity (TIBC), and urinary calcium: creatine (Ca:C) ratios. Analysis of multiple blood or urine samples collected from free-ranging wolves would be useful in enabling researches and managers to identify the nutritional status and general health of wolves over time.

Fatal presumed tiger snake (Notechis scutatus) envenomation in a cat with measurement of venom and antivenom concentration.

PubMed

Padula, Andrew M; Winkel, Kenneth D

2016-04-01

A fatal outcome of a presumed tiger snake (Notechis scutatus) envenomation in a cat is described. Detectable venom components and antivenom concentrations in serum from clotted and centrifuged whole blood and urine were measured using a sensitive and specific ELISA. The cat presented in a paralysed state with a markedly elevated serum CK but with normal clotting times. The cat was treated with intravenous fluids and received two vials of equine whole IgG bivalent (tiger and brown snake) antivenom. Despite treatment the cat's condition did not improve and it died 36 h post-presentation. Serum concentration of detectable tiger snake venom components at initial presentation was 311 ng/mL and urine 832 ng/mL, this declined to non-detectable levels in serum 15-min after intravenous antivenom. Urine concentration of detectable tiger snake venom components declined to 22 ng/mL at post-mortem. Measurement of equine anti-tiger snake venom specific antibody demonstrated a concentration of 7.2 Units/mL in serum at post-mortem which had declined from an initial high of 13 Units/mL at 15-min post-antivenom. The ELISA data demonstrated the complete clearance of detectable venom components from serum with no recurrence in the post-mortem samples. Antivenom concentrations in serum at initial presentation were at least 100-fold higher than theoretically required to neutralise the circulating concentrations of venom. Despite the fatal outcome in this case it was concluded that this was unlikely that is was due to insufficient antivenom. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of fecal elastase and serum cholecystokinin in dogs with a false positive fecal elastase test.

PubMed

Steiner, J M; Rehfeld, J F; Pantchev, N

2010-01-01

An assay for the measurement of pancreatic elastase in dog feces has been introduced. The goal of this study was to evaluate the rate of false-positive fecal-elastase test results in dogs with suspected exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) and to assess serum cholecystokinin (CCK) concentrations in dogs with a false positive fecal elastase test result. Twenty-six fecal and serum samples from dogs suspected of EPI, for which samples had been submitted to a commercial laboratory (Vet Med Labor) for analysis. Prospective study. Serum trypsin-like immunoreactivity (TLI) was measured in 26 dogs with a decreased fecal elastase concentration of <10 microg/g feces. Serum CCK concentrations were measured in 21 of these dogs. Of 26 dogs with a decreased fecal elastase concentration, 6 (23%) had serum TLI concentrations within or above the reference range. Serum CCK concentrations were significantly higher in dogs with a true positive fecal elastase test result (median: 1.1 pmol/L; range: 0.1-3.3 pmol/L) than in those with a false positive fecal elastase test result (median: 0.1 pmol/L; range: 0.1-0.9 pmol/L; P value = .0163). The rate of false positive fecal elastase test results was high in this group of dogs, suggesting that diagnosis of EPI must be confirmed by other means. The decreased CCK concentration in dogs with a false positive fecal elastase test result could suggest that false positive results are because of decreased stimulation of exocrine pancreatic function caused by other conditions.

Standardized Treatment of Neonatal Status Epilepticus Improves Outcome.

PubMed

Harris, Mandy L; Malloy, Katherine M; Lawson, Sheena N; Rose, Rebecca S; Buss, William F; Mietzsch, Ulrike

2016-12-01

We aimed to decrease practice variation in treatment of neonatal status epilepticus by implementing a standardized protocol. Our primary goal was to achieve 80% adherence to the algorithm within 12 months. Secondary outcome measures included serum phenobarbital concentrations, number of patients progressing from seizures to status epilepticus, and length of hospital stay. Data collection occurred for 6 months prior and 12 months following protocol implementation. Adherence of 80% within 12 months was partially achieved in patients diagnosed in our hospital; in pretreated patients, adherence was not achieved. Maximum phenobarbital concentrations were decreased (56.8 vs 41.0 µg/mL), fewer patients progressed from seizures to status epilepticus (46% vs 36%), and hospital length of stay decreased by 9.7 days in survivors. In conclusion, standardized, protocol-driven treatment of neonatal status epilepticus improves consistency and short-term outcome. © The Author(s) 2016.

[Clinical value of serum presepsin (SCD14-ST) concentration measurement in patients with pesticide poisoning].

PubMed

Gao, X; Zhu, B Y; Wang, W Z; He, J Q; Han, D L; Liu, Y J; Meng, H; Xiao, Q M; Liu, X T; Han, Y Y

2016-05-20

To investigate the value of serum presepsin concentration measurement in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of patients with pesticide poisoning patients. A total of 160 patients with pesticide poisoning were enrolled as study subjects and divided into moderate organophosphate pesticide poisoning group (40 patients) , severe organophosphate pesticide poisoning group (40 patients) , abamectin pesticide poisoning group (40 patients) , and paraquat poisoning group (40 patients). A total of 20 healthy volunteers were enrolled as the control group. All the patients with poisoning received conventional treatment of pesticide poisoning immediately after admission, and serum presepsin concentration was measured on days 1 (within 24 hours after poisoning) , 3, and 7 of admission, and biochemical and radiological parameters related to the patient's condition were also examined. The patients with a Presepsin concentration of >800 pg/ml on day 1 of admission were randomly divided into conventional treatment group and ulinastatin treatment group, and the treatment outcome was compared between the two groups. Compared with the healthy control group, the groups with pesticide poisoning showed significant increases in serum Presepsin concentrations, with the highest degree of increase on day 1 (P <0.05). The serum Presepsin concentration was positively correlated with alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, creatine kinase, creatine kinase MB, lactate dehydrogenase, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, interleukin-18, and white blood cell count, but negatively correlated with cholinesterase. In the conventional treatment group and ulinastatin treatment group, the overall response rate was 68% and 78.8%, respectively, with a significant difference between the two groups (P<0.05). In 40 patients with paraquat poisoning, 32 experienced an increase in serum presepsin concentration, and among these 32 patients, 27 (83%) experienced exudation on lung CT. Serum Presepsin concentration measurement can assist early diagnosis, evaluation of disease severity, and guidance for clinical medication in patients with pesticide poisoning, especially in those with severe pesticide poisoning and a tendency to multiple organ failure.

Intraperitoneal Vancomycin Concentrations During Peritoneal Dialysis–Associated Peritonitis: Correlation with Serum Levels

PubMed Central

Fish, Richard; Nipah, Robert; Jones, Chris; Finney, Hazel; Fan, Stanley L.S.

2012-01-01

♦ Background: For the treatment of peritoneal dialysis–associated peritonitis (PDP), it has been suggested that serum concentrations of vancomycin be kept above 12 mg/L – 15 mg/L. However, studies correlating vancomycin concentrations in serum and peritoneal dialysate effluent (PDE) during active infection are sparse. We undertook the present study to investigate this issue and to determine whether achieving the recommended serum level of vancomycin results in therapeutic levels intraperitoneally. ♦ Methods: We studied patients treated with intraperitoneal (IP) vancomycin for non-gram-negative PDP. We gave a single dose (approximately 30 mg/kg) at presentation, and we subsequently measured vancomycin levels in PDE on day 5; we wanted to determine if efflux of vancomycin from serum to PDE during a 4-hour dwell was consistent and resulted in therapeutic levels. ♦ Results: Of the 48 episodes of PDP studied, serum vancomycin concentrations exceeding 12 mg/L were achieved in 98% of patients, but in 11 patients (23%), a PDE vancomycin level below 4 mg/L—the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of many gram-positive organisms—was observed at the end of a 4-hour dwell on day 5. The correlation between the concentrations of vancomycin in serum and PDE (from efflux of antibiotic over 4 hours) was statistically significant, but poor (R2 = 0.18). ♦ Conclusions: Our data support the International Society for Peritoneal Dialysis statement that adequate serum vancomycin concentrations can be achieved with intermittent dosing (single dose every 5 days), but cannot guarantee therapeutic PDE levels in the treatment of PDP. Intermittent dosing of vancomycin may not consistently result in PDE concentrations markedly greater than MIC of many important pathogens. Although the clinical significance of this finding remains to be determined, it may be preferable to give smaller but more frequent doses of PDE vancomycin (continuous dosing) for adults with PDP (as is currently recommended for children). PMID:22045102

Reference values for rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) in clinically healthy cats.

PubMed

Marly-Voquer, Charlotte; Riond, Barbara; Jud Schefer, Rahel; Kutter, Annette P N

2017-03-01

To establish reference intervals for rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) using feline blood. Prospective study. University teaching hospital. Twenty-three clinically healthy cats between 1 and 15 years. For each cat, whole blood was collected via jugular or medial saphenous venipuncture, and blood was placed into a serum tube, a tube containing potassium-EDTA, and tubes containing 3.2% sodium citrate. The tubes were maintained at 37°C for a maximum of 30 minutes before coagulation testing. ROTEM tests included the EXTEM, INTEM, FIBTEM, and APTEM assays. In addition, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, thrombin time, and fibrinogen concentration (Clauss method) were analyzed for each cat. Reference intervals for ROTEM were calculated using the 2.5-97.5 th percentile for each parameter, and correlation with the standard coagulation profile was performed. Compared to people, clinically healthy cats had similar values for the EXTEM and INTEM assays, but had lower plasma fibrinogen concentrations (0.9-2.2 g/L), resulting in weaker maximum clot firmness (MCF, 3-10 mm) in the FIBTEM test. In 18 cats, maximum lysis (ML) values in the APTEM test were higher than in the EXTEM test, which seems unlikely to have occurred in the presence of aprotinin. It is possible that the observed high maximum lysis values were due to clot retraction rather than true clot lysis. Further studies will be required to test this hypothesis. Cats have a weaker clot in the FIBTEM test, but have a similar clot strength to human blood in the other ROTEM assays, which may be due to a stronger contribution of platelets compared to that found in people. In cats, careful interpretation of the results to diagnose hyperfibrinolysis is advised, especially with the APTEM test, until further data are available. © Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society 2017.

Hepatic lipidosis in anorectic, lactating holstein cattle: a retrospective study of serum biochemical abnormalities.

PubMed

Cebra, C K; Garry, F B; Getzy, D M; Fettman, M J

1997-01-01

The association between hepatic lipidosis (HL) and disease in 59 anorectic, ketotic, lactating Holstein heifers and cows was investigated. Severe HL, as determined by histologic evaluation of liver tissue, was present in 46 animals; only half of these animals required intensive treatment for ketosis, and only half had serum biochemical evidence of liver disease, as determined by the presence of a last value of 2-fold or greater than the upper limit of the reference ranges for at least 2 of the 4 serum tests: gamma-glutamyl transferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and sorbitol dehydrogenase activities and bile acid concentrations. Most cattle with biochemical evidence of liver disease and severe HL had been lactating for 14 or more days. Cows that required intensive treatment inconsistently had serum biochemical evidence of liver disease. Although cattle with severe HL had significantly higher serum bilirubin concentrations and aspartate aminotransferase and sorbitol dehydrogenase activities than cattle with less severe lipidosis, the specificity of abnormally high serum sorbitol dehydrogenase activity or bilirubin concentration for severe lipidosis was only 8%. Abnormally high serum aspartate aminotransferase activity was 83% sensitive and 62% specific for severe lipidosis. Serum glucose and total carbon dioxide concentrations were significantly lower in cattle with severe lipidosis than in those with mild or moderate lipidosis, and low serum glucose or total carbon dioxide concentrations were rare in cattle without severe lipidosis. From these data, we conclude that the use of a single biochemical or histopathologic criterion to define severity of disease or degree of liver compromise in anorectic, ketotic cows results in the misidentification of many animals.

Additional consumption of one egg per day increases serum lutein plus zeaxanthin concentration and lowers oxidized low-density lipoprotein in moderately hypercholesterolemic males.

PubMed

Kishimoto, Yoshimi; Taguchi, Chie; Saita, Emi; Suzuki-Sugihara, Norie; Nishiyama, Hiroshi; Wang, Wei; Masuda, Yasunobu; Kondo, Kazuo

2017-09-01

The egg is a nutrient-dense food and contains antioxidative carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, but its impact on serum cholesterol levels has been a matter of concern, especially for individuals who have high serum cholesterol levels. We conducted this study to determine whether and how the daily additional consumption of one egg affects serum lipid profiles and parameters of LDL oxidation in moderately hypercholesterolemic males. Nineteen male Japanese adults (total cholesterol [TC]>5.2mmol/L) participated, consuming one soft boiled egg per day for 4weeks in addition to their habitual diet. Despite the significant increase in their intake of dietary cholesterol during the intervention period, the subjects' serum concentrations of TC and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) did not increase. Their serum malondialdehyde modified low-density lipoprotein (MDA-LDL) concentrations were significantly decreased and their LDL oxidation lag times, reflecting the resistance of free-radical-induced LDL lipid peroxidation (ex vivo), was prolonged after 2 and 4weeks. At weeks 2 and 4, the subjects' serum lutein+zeaxanthin concentrations were significantly higher than their baseline values and showed both an inverse relation with MDA-LDL and a positive relationship with the LDL oxidation lag time. These data showed that in moderately hypercholesterolemic males, the additional consumption of one egg per day for 4weeks did not have adverse effects on serum TC or LDL-C, and it might reduce the susceptibility of LDL to oxidation through an increase in the serum lutein and zeaxanthin concentrations. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of Serum Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone Concentration as a Diagnostic Test for Hyperthyroidism in Cats.

PubMed

Peterson, M E; Guterl, J N; Nichols, R; Rishniw, M

2015-01-01

In humans, measurement of serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) concentration is commonly used as a first-line discriminatory test of thyroid function. Recent reports indicate that canine TSH (cTSH) assays can be used to measure feline TSH and results can help diagnose or exclude hyperthyroidism. To investigate the usefulness of cTSH measurements as a diagnostic test for cats with hyperthyroidism. Nine hundred and seventeen cats with untreated hyperthyroidism, 32 euthyroid cats suspected of having hyperthyroidism, and 131 clinically normal cats. Prospective study. Cats referred to the Animal Endocrine Clinic for suspected hyperthyroidism were evaluated with serum T4, T3, free T4 (fT4), and TSH concentrations. Thyroid scintigraphy was used as the gold standard to confirm or exclude hyperthyroidism. Median serum TSH concentration in the hyperthyroid cats (<0.03 ng/mL) was significantly (P < .001) lower than concentrations in clinically normal cats (0.05 ng/mL) or euthyroid cats with suspected thyroid disease (0.06 ng/mL). Only 18 (2.0%) hyperthyroid cats had measurable TSH concentrations (≥0.03 ng/mL), whereas 114 (69.9%) of the 163 euthyroid cats had detectable concentrations. Combining serum TSH with T4 or fT4 concentrations lowered the test sensitivity of TSH from 98.0 to 97.0%, but markedly increased overall test specificity (from 69.9 to 98.8%). Serum TSH concentrations are suppressed in 98% of hyperthyroid cats, but concentrations are measurable in a few cats with mild-to-moderate hyperthyroidism. Measurement of serum TSH represents a highly sensitive but poorly specific test for diagnosis of hyperthyroidism and is best measured in combination with T4 and fT4. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

Vitamin D status and antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin (LL-37) concentrations in patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis.

PubMed

Yamshchikov, Alexandra V; Kurbatova, Ekaterina V; Kumari, Meena; Blumberg, Henry M; Ziegler, Thomas R; Ray, Susan M; Tangpricha, Vin

2010-09-01

Vitamin D insufficiency is common in industrialized and developing nations. Recent studies have shown that vitamin D insufficiency is associated with a higher risk of active tuberculosis. Laboratory studies provided a mechanism for this link on the basis of findings that vitamin D metabolites regulate the expression of cathelicidin (LL-37), which is an endogenous antimicrobial peptide with activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Little information is available on the clinical relation between vitamin D, LL-37 concentrations, and disease severity in patients with tuberculosis. The primary objective of the study was to evaluate the relation between vitamin D nutriture, serum LL-37 concentrations, and tuberculosis by using samples stored in the Tuberculosis Trials Consortium serum repository. We measured 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and LL-37 concentrations in 95 serum specimens from patients with culture-confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis and correlated these concentrations to clinical and demographic variables. The prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency [serum 25(OH)D concentration lt 30 ng/mL] in patients with active tuberculosis was 86% (n = 95) with a mean baseline serum 25(OH)D concentration of 20.4 ng/mL. Factors associated with vitamin D insufficiency were black race and indoor lifestyle. The mean ( plusmn SD) baseline LL-37 concentration was 49.5 plusmn 23.8 ng/mL. Higher LL-37 concentrations correlated with acid fast bacilli sputum smear positivity and weight gt 10% below ideal body weight. Serum vitamin D status of the study subjects did not correlate with serum LL-37 concentrations. More prospectively designed studies are needed to evaluate the clinical implications of vitamin D insufficiency in patients with tuberculosis and the utility of circulating LL-37 as a potential biomarker in patients with active tuberculosis disease. The parent trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00023335.

Estimation of Somatomedin-C Levels in Normals and Patients with Pituitary Disease by Radioimmunoassay

PubMed Central

Furlanetto, Richard W.; Underwood, Louis E.; Van Wyk, Judson J.; D'Ercole, A. Joseph

1977-01-01

The development of a radioimmunoassay for somatomedin-C has for the first time made it possible to discriminate between serum concentrations of a single peptide or closely related group of peptides and the net somatomedin activity measured by less specific bioassay and radioreceptor techniques. Antibodies to human somatomedin-C were raised in rabbits using a somatomedin-C ovalbumin complex as the antigen. A variety of peptide hormones at concentrations up to 1 μM are not recognized by the antibody. Insulin at concentrations >0.1 μM cross reacts in a non-parallel fashion; purified somatomedin-A is only 3% as active as somatomedin-C; and radiolabeled cloned rat liver multiplication stimulating activity does not bind to the antibody. Immunoreactive somatomedin-C can also be quantitated in the sera of a variety of subhuman species. Unusual assay kinetics, which are manifest when reactants are incubated under classic “equilibrium” assay conditions, appear to result from the failure of 125I-somatomedin-C to readily equilibrate with the somatomedin-C serum binding protein complex. It is, therefore, necessary to use nonequilibrium assay conditions to quantitate somatomedin-C in serum. With this assay it is possible to detect somatomedin-C in normal subjects using as little as 0.25 μl of unextracted serum. Serum somatomedin-C concentrations in normal subjects were lowest in cord blood and rose rapidly during the first 4 yr of life to near adult levels. In 23 normal adult volunteers, the mean serum somatomedin-C concentration was 1.50±0.10 U/ml (SEM) when compared to a pooled adult serum standard. 19 children with hypopituitary dwarfism had concentrations below 0.20 U/ml. 17 of these were below 0.1 U/ml, the lower limit of sensitivity of the assay. The mean concentration in 14 adults with active acromegaly was 6.28±0.37 U/ml (SEM), five times greater than the normal volunteers. Significant increases in serum somatomedin-C concentrations were observed in 8 of 10 hypopituitary children within 72 h after the parenteral administration of human growth hormone. Three patients with Cushing's disease had elevated serum somatomedin-C concentrations (2.61±0.14 U/ml [SEM]). Three patients with hyperprolactinemia had normal concentrations (1.74±0.11 U/ml [SEM]). The important new discovery brought to light by quantitation of immunoassayable somatomedin in patient sera is that all previously used assays detect, in addition to somatomedin-C, serum substances that are not under as stringent growth hormone control. PMID:893668

Systemic antibiotic prophylaxis prior to gastrointestinal surgery - is oral administration of doxycycline and metronidazole adequate?

PubMed

Giske, Anneli; Nymo, Linn Såve; Fuskevåg, Ole-Martin; Amundsen, Siri; Simonsen, Gunnar Skov; Lassen, Kristoffer

Antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended prior to a wide range of gastrointestinal operations to reduce the rate of surgical site infections (SSIs). Traditional intravenous (IV) drugs are costly and their preparation strains nursing resources at the wards. While oral administration may attenuate these limitations, its use remains limited. We aimed to assess whether a dual oral antibiotic prophylaxis regimen provides adequate serum concentrations throughout the surgical procedure. We measured serum concentrations of doxycycline and metronidazole following single oral doses of 400 mg doxycycline and 1200 mg metronidazole at first incision and repeated at wound closure in a cohort of patients undergoing elective gastrointestinal surgery. Both drugs were dispensed at least two hours before skin incision. Serum concentrations were compared to minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and epidemiological cut-off values (ECOFFs) for relevant pathogens. Mean serum concentrations of doxycycline at first incision and at wound closure were 5.75 mg/L and 4.66 mg/L and of metronidazole 18.88 mg/L and 15.56 mg/L, respectively. Metronidazole concentrations were above ECOFF (2 mg/L) for relevant anaerobic species in 103/104 of patients in both samples. Doxycycline serum concentrations were above the ECOFF for common Enterobacteriaceae species (4 mg/L) in both samples in 58/104 patients (55.8%). A single dose of orally administered metronidazole provides adequate concentrations throughout surgery in a heterogeneous cohort of patients. Uncertainty persists regarding the adequacy of doxycycline concentrations, as the optimal serum level of doxycycline in a prophylactic setting has not been established.

A case of methimazole-induced hypothyroidism in a patient with endemic goiter: effects of endogenous TSH hyperstimulation after discontinuation of the drug.

PubMed

Messina, M; Manieri, C; Spagnuolo, F; Sardi, E; Allegramente, L; Monaco, A; Ciccarelli, E

1989-04-01

Serum thyroid hormone and TSH concentrations were monitored in a patient with multinodular endemic goiter and severe methimazole (MMI) induced hypothyrodism up to 190 days after drug withdrawal. Serum concentrations of TT3, TT4 and TSH returned to normal values at the 6th., the 140th, and the 120th. day respectively. Within the first 20 days after MMI withdrawal the increase of serum T3 levels was correlated with the observed decrease of serum TSH concentrations. Successively T3 values decreased and T4 levels progressively increased. Six months after MMI withdrawal basal serum TSH concentration was normal while an exaggerated response to TRH was observed. We think that this peculiar hormone pattern is due to iodine depletion. In this case TSH hyperstimulation increases predominantly T3 secretion demonstrating the reduced thyroidal ability to produce T4 when hyperstimulated.

In vitro pharmacodynamics of gamithromycin against Mycoplasma mycoides subspecies mycoides Small Colony.

PubMed

Mitchell, John D; Goh, Shan; McKellar, Quintin A; McKeever, Declan J

2013-09-01

Mycoplasma mycoides mycoides Small Colony (MmmSC) is the causative agent of contagious bovine pleuropneumonia (CBPP), which is responsible for major economic losses in sub-Saharan Africa. Current control relies on live attenuated vaccines, which are of limited efficacy, and antimicrobials are now being assessed as an alternative or adjunct to vaccination. The objective of this study was to determine the in vitro effector kinetics of the macrolide antimicrobial, gamithromycin, against MmmSC in artificial medium and adult bovine serum. Furthermore, it was determined if any differences in gamithromycin activity between these two matrices were mirrored by the older macrolides, tylosin and tilmicosin. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for gamithromycin, tylosin and tilmicosin against MmmSC strains B237 and Tan8 were determined in artificial medium and serum. Time-kill curves were constructed at concentrations corresponding to multiples of the MIC for all three macrolides in artificial medium and for gamithromycin in serum. Data were fitted to sigmoid Emax models. Post-antibiotic effects (PAE) were established by exposing strain B237 to antimicrobials at 10× MIC for 1h and monitoring mycoplasma growth thereafter. MICs for gamithromycin, tylosin and tilmicosin were 64-, 8- and 64-fold lower, respectively, in serum than in artificial medium at an inoculum size of 10(6)cfu/mL B237. A similar pattern emerged for Tan8. All three antimicrobials were mycoplasmastatic with maximum effects of -0.44, -0.32 and -0.49log10(cfu/mL) units for gamithromycin, tylosin and tilmicosin, respectively, against B237 in artificial medium. Tylosin and tilmicosin elicited longer PAEs than gamithromycin. In conclusion, gamithromycin, tylosin and tilmicosin all demonstrated in vitro efficacy against MmmSC and represent potential candidates for clinical studies to assess their therapeutic effect against CBPP. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Serum ferritin concentration in sickle cell crisis.

PubMed Central

Brownell, A; Lowson, S; Brozović, M

1986-01-01

Serum ferritin, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase and hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase (HBD) were studied during 21 vaso-occlusive crises in 12 adults with sickle cell disease (11 SS, 1 S beta degrees). The patients comprised three groups: those who had been untransfused (4), those who had received occasional exchange transfusion in crisis (3), and those who had been multiply transfused (5). Serum ferritin concentrations in crisis were compared with those of the steady state value. Rises in serum ferritin concentrations occurred in all crises in all groups. Although AST, alkaline phosphatase, and HBD rose, there was no correlation between these and log ferritin concentrations. The clinical impression was that the degree of rise in ferritin related to the severity of the particular crisis, and the above results showed that haemolysis and liver damage were not causally related to this rise. An estimate of serum ferritin cannot be used to assess the state of iron balance in sickle cell disease unless the patient is in the steady state. The considerable rise in serum ferritin concentration found in crisis, however, may be a useful marker of the extent of vaso-occlusion and tissue damage. PMID:3958215

Recurrent suicide attempt and female hormones

PubMed Central

Mousavi, Seyed Ghafur; Bateni, Shima; Maracy, Mohammad Reza; Mardanian, Farahnaz; Mousavi, Seyedeh Hakimeh

2014-01-01

Background: Because of more frequency of suicidal attempts in females, we need to study about its relationship with the female hormones. The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum estrogen and progesterone concentration and their relationship with suicidal attempt ranking in the attempted females. Materials and Methods: The studied cases chose from patients who had referred to clinical toxicology emergency of Noor Hospital (Isfahan, Iran), during 2012, because of suicidal attempt. The estrogen and progesterone serum level of the 111 females were measured during 24 hours after suicidal attempt. The rank of their suicide, the demographic properties, and the menstrual cycle phase of them were also registered, as the patient's statement. The results were analyzed by ANCOVA and Kruscal-Wallis under SPSS16. Results: Mean serum concentration of the estrogen was 76.8 pg/mL, and the mean serum concentration of progesterone was 2.99 ng/mL. Of them, 62.2% were in the luteal phase, and 37.8% were in the follicular phase, as they said. The serum progesterone concentration of the patients with more than two times suicidal attempts was significantly higher than the others. Conclusion: The suicidal attempt ranks significantly related to the serum progesterone concentration and the luteal phase. PMID:25337531

Serum, tissue and body fluid concentrations of tigecycline after a single 100 mg dose.

PubMed

Rodvold, Keith A; Gotfried, Mark H; Cwik, Michael; Korth-Bradley, Joan M; Dukart, Gary; Ellis-Grosse, Evelyn J

2006-12-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the tissue and corresponding serum concentration of tigecycline at selected time points in gall bladder, bile, colon, bone, synovial fluid (SF), lung and CSF in subjects undergoing surgical or medical procedures. One hundred and four adult subjects (aged 24-83 years; 64 women, 40 men) received a single intravenous (i.v.) dose of tigecycline (100 mg infused over 30 min). Subjects were randomly assigned to one of four collection times at 4, 8, 12 and 24 h after the start of the infusion. For CSF, samples were collected at approximately 1.5 and 24 h after the start of the infusion. All subjects had serum samples collected before the administration of tigecycline, at the end of the infusion and at the time corresponding to tissue or body fluid collection. Drug concentrations in serum, tissues and body fluids were determined by LC/MS/MS. The area under the mean concentration-time curve from 0 to 24 h (AUC(0-24)) was determined for the comparison of systemic exposure between tissue or body fluid to serum. The mean serum concentrations of tigecycline were similar to those previously published. Tissue penetration, expressed as the ratio of AUC(0-24) in tissue or body fluid to serum, was 537 for bile, 23 for gall bladder, 2.6 for colon, 2.0 for lung, 0.41 for bone, 0.31 for SF and 0.11 for CSF. A single 100 mg dose of intravenous tigecycline produced considerably higher tissue/fluid concentrations in bile, gall bladder, colon and lung compared with simultaneous serum concentrations. On average, the systemic exposure of tigecycline in bone, SF and CSF ranged from 11% to 41% of serum concentrations. The results in bone are inconsistent with previous radiolabelled studies in animals and it is unclear if tight binding to bone (versus low bone uptake) or poor extraction of tigecycline for LC/MS/MS detection or both may have contributed to the differences we observed in humans.

Effect of trace mineral supplementation on selected minerals, energy metabolites, oxidative stress, and immune parameters and its association with uterine diseases in dairy cattle.

PubMed

Bicalho, M L S; Lima, F S; Ganda, E K; Foditsch, C; Meira, E B S; Machado, V S; Teixeira, A G V; Oikonomou, G; Gilbert, R O; Bicalho, R C

2014-07-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between selected minerals' serum levels, energy metabolites, oxidative stress indicators, IL-8 and haptoglobin levels, and the potential for uterine diseases. Additionally, we investigated the effect of injectable trace mineral supplementation (ITMS) on metabolism, immune function, and animal health under field conditions involving a dairy herd with high milk production. The study was conducted in 1 dairy farm located near Ithaca, New York, with 270 multiparous cows were enrolled from October 3, 2012 until January 10, 2013. Cows were randomly allocated into 1 of 2 treatments groups: ITMS or control. Cows randomly assigned to the ITMS group received 2 injections of trace minerals at 230 and 260 d of gestation; each injection contained 300 mg of Zn, 50mg of Mn, 25mg of Se, and 75 mg of Cu. Retained placenta (RP) and metritis were diagnosed and treated by trained farm personnel. Clinical endometritis evaluation was performed by the investigators. Blood mineral levels, plasma nonesterified fatty acids and serum β-hydroxybutyrate concentrations, plasma IL-8 concentrations, serum haptoglobin concentration, and serum superoxidase dismutase and plasma glutathione peroxidase activities were measured at various time points before and after calving. Four groups of mixed general linear models were fitted to the data using MIXED procedure of SAS. Injectable trace mineral-supplemented cows had increased serum concentration of Cu, Se, and Zn. Conversely, ITMS did not affect energy metabolites or immune and oxidative stress parameters. Serum concentration of Ca, Cu, K, Mg, Mo, Ps, Pt, Se, and Zn varied according to days relative to parturition. Cows with RP had reduced serum concentrations of Ca, Mg, Mo, and Zn when compared with cows without RP. Cows affected with metritis had significantly lower serum concentrations of Ca, Mo, soluble P, total P, Se, and Zn than nonaffected cows. Serum concentration of Ca, Cu, Mo, and Zn were reduced in cows diagnosed with endometritis in comparison to nonaffected ones. Copyright © 2014 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Serum Carotenoid Concentrations in Postmenopausal Women from the United States with and without Osteoporosis

PubMed Central

Yang, Zhifang; Zhang, Zhumin; Penniston, Kristina L.; Binkley, Neil; Tanumihardjo, Sherry A.

2009-01-01

Antioxidant defenses may be compromised in osteoporotic women. Little is known about fruit and vegetable or carotenoid consumption among postmenopausal women. The primary carotenoids in human serum are α- and β-carotene, lycopene, β-cryptoxanthin, lutein, and zeaxanthin. This study investigated the interrelationships among serum carotenoid concentrations, fruit and vegetable intake, and osteoporosis in postmenopausal women (n = 59, 62.7 ± 8.8 y). Bone density was assessed by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry and osteoporosis diagnosis was based upon T-scores. Serum samples (n = 53) and 3-day diet records (n = 49) were analyzed. Logistic regression analyzed differences between carotenoids after adjusting for serum retinol; supplement usage; milk, yogurt, fruit, and vegetable intake; and BMI. Pearson statistics correlated carotenoids with specific fruit or vegetable intake. Serum lycopene concentrations were lower in the osteoporosis group than controls (p = 0.03). β-Cryptoxanthin intake was higher in the osteoporosis group (p = 0.0046). Total fruit and vegetable intakes were correlated with serum lycopene and β-cryptoxanthin (p = 0.03, 0.006, respectively). Serum α-carotene concentration was associated with carrot intake, and zeaxanthin and β-cryptoxanthin with lettuce intake. Carotenoids that may have beneficial skeletal effects are lower in women with osteoporosis. Research is needed to identify potential protective mechanisms or utilization of carotenoids during osteoporosis. PMID:19003732

Effects of endurance training only versus same-session combined endurance and strength training on physical performance and serum hormone concentrations in recreational endurance runners.

PubMed

Schumann, Moritz; Mykkänen, Olli-Pekka; Doma, Kenji; Mazzolari, Raffaele; Nyman, Kai; Häkkinen, Keijo

2015-01-01

This study investigated the effects of endurance training only (E, n = 14) and same-session combined training, when strength training is repeatedly preceded by endurance loading (endurance and strength training (E+S), n = 13) on endurance (1000-m running time during incremental field test) and strength performance (1-repetition maximum (1RM) in dynamic leg press), basal serum hormone concentrations, and endurance loading-induced force and hormone responses in recreationally endurance-trained men. E was identical in the 2 groups and consisted of steady-state and interval running, 4-6 times per week for 24 weeks. E+S performed additional mixed-maximal and explosive-strength training (2 times per week) immediately following an incremental running session (35-45 min, 65%-85% maximal heart rate). E and E+S decreased running time at week 12 (-8% ± 5%, p = 0.001 and -7% ± 3%, p < 0.001) and 24 (-13% ± 5%, p < 0.001 and -9% ± 5%, p = 0.001). Strength performance decreased in E at week 24 (-5% ± 5%, p = 0.014) but was maintained in E+S (between-groups at week 12 and 24, p = 0.014 and 0.011, respectively). Basal serum testosterone and cortisol concentrations remained unaltered in E and E+S but testosterone/sex hormone binding globulin ratio decreased in E+S at week 12 (-19% ± 26%, p = 0.006). At week 0 and 24, endurance loading-induced acute force (-5% to -9%, p = 0.032 to 0.001) and testosterone and cortisol responses (18%-47%, p = 0.013 to p < 0.001) were similar between E and E+S. This study showed no endurance performance benefits when strength training was performed repeatedly after endurance training compared with endurance training only. This was supported by similar acute responses in force and hormonal measures immediately post-endurance loading after the training with sustained 1RM strength in E+S.

[The replacement therapy of rPTH(1-84) in established rat model of hypothyroidism].

PubMed

Ding, Zhiwei; Li, Tiancheng; Liu, Yuhe; Xiao, Shuifang

2015-12-01

To investigate the replacement therapy of rPTH(1-84) (recombinant human parathyroid hormone (1-84)) to hypothyroidism in established rat model. Rat model of hypothyroidism was established by resecting parathyroids. A total of 30 rats with removal of parathyroids were divided into 6 groups randomly, 5 in each group, and applied respectively with saline injection (negative control group), calcitriol treatment (positive control group) and quadripartite PTH administration with dose of 20, 40, 80 and 160 µg/kg (experimental groups). Saline and rPTH(1-84) were injected subcutaneously daily. Calcitriol was gavaged once a day. Sham-operation was conducted in 5 rats of negative control group. To verify the authenticity of the rat model with hypothyroidism, the serum was insolated centrifugally from rat blood that was obtained from angular vein at specific time to measure calcium and phosphorus concentration. Urine in 12 hours was collected by metabolic cages and the calcium concentration was measured. After 10-week drug treatment, the experiment was terminated and bilateral femoral bone and L2-5 lumbar vertebra were removed from rats. Bone mineral density (BMD)of bilateral femoral bone and lumbar vertebra was analyzed by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The concentration of bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP) in serum was determined by radioimmunoassay. The rat model with hypothyroidism was obtained by excising parathyroid gland and was verified by monitoring calcium and phosphorus concentration subsequently. Administration of rPTH(1-84) in the dose of 80 or 160 µg/kg made serum calcium and phosphorus back to normal levels, with no significant difference between the doses (P>0.05). The BMD in each group of rats with rPTH(1-84) administration was increased significantly (P<0.05). The levels of urinary calcium and serum BALP in rats of maximum rPTH(1-84) injection group (160 µg/kg) were higher than those of normal control group (P<0.05). The rats treated with calcitriol had normal calcium levels and showed the increase of BMD and phosphorus concentration compared with normal control group (P<0.05). The amount of urinary calcium also exceeded the other groups (P<0.05), but no with significant difference in BMD of bilateral femoral bone and lumbar vertebra between negative control group and normal control group (P>0.05). Calcium and phosphorus return to normal level by administration of rPTH(1-84) in the dose of 80 µg/kg or 160 µg/kg, with increase in BMD. Calcitriol can return the level of calcium to normal and increase BMD, but can not correspondingly decrease the phosphorus concentration and increase the excretion of calcium in urine.

Increased serum concentrations of adiponectin in canine hypothyroidism.

PubMed

Mazaki-Tovi, Michal; Abood, Sarah K; Kol, Amir; Farkas, Amnon; Schenck, Patricia A

2015-02-01

Serum concentrations of adiponectin were compared between sex-matched hypothyroid (n = 18) and euthyroid (n = 18) client-owned dogs with comparable ages and body condition scores (BCS). Concentrations of adiponectin (mean; 95% confidence interval) were significantly (P < 0.01) higher in hypothyroid (17.2 µg/mL; 12.1-20.5 µg/mL) than healthy (8.0 µg/mL; 5.6-11.4 µg/mL) dogs following adjustment for potential confounders (BCS, age and sex). Serum concentrations of adiponectin were significantly negatively associated with concentrations of total thyroxine (P <0.05) and positively correlated with concentrations of cholesterol (r = 0.6, P <0.01) in hypothyroid dogs. In conclusion, this study demonstrated increased serum concentrations of adiponectin in dogs with hypothyroidism. Suggestive of the presence of resistance to adiponectin that could have contributed to development of hyperlipidemia and insulin resistance in these dogs or alternatively, could be a consequence of these metabolic alterations. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[The possibility of acute inflammatory reaction affects the development of pressure ulcers in bedridden elderly patients].

PubMed

Matsuyama, N; Takano, K; Mashiko, T; Jimbo, S; Shimetani, N; Ohtani, H

1999-11-01

To test the hypothesis that acute inflammatory reaction associates with the development of pressure ulcers in bedridden elderly patients, 40 hospitalized elderly patients suffering from bacterial pneumonia, cerebrovascular disease, and femoral bone fracture were enrolled in this study. All of them were divided into two groups with pressure ulcers (group P; 17 patients) and without one (group N; 23 patients). The blood samples were taken from them within 5 days after the patients being bedridden. Although no significant difference exist in pressure ulcer risk factors (age, gender, Braden scale, underlying diseases, blood pressure, and heart rate) between the two groups, white blood cell, plasma C-reactive protein and fibrinogen in group P increased significantly as compared with those in group N. Besides number of platelets and maximum platelet aggregation rate were significantly higher in group P than in group N. Serum albumin and hemoglobin of both groups decreased after being bedridden, especially hemoglobin in group P was significantly lower than that in group N. While the concentration of serum IL-6 did not indicate a significant difference between both the groups, serum IL-1 beta increased significantly in group P. In conclusion, we suggested that acute inflammatory reaction releasing proinflammatory cytokines affected the development of pressure ulcer in bedridden elderly patients.

Effects of egg white protein supplementation on muscle strength and serum free amino acid concentrations.

PubMed

Hida, Azumi; Hasegawa, Yuko; Mekata, Yuko; Usuda, Mika; Masuda, Yasunobu; Kawano, Hitoshi; Kawano, Yukari

2012-10-19

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of egg white protein compared to carbohydrate intake prior to exercise on fat free mass (FFM), one repetition maximum (1RM) muscle strength and blood biochemistry in female athletes. Thirty healthy female collegiate athletes were recruited for this study and matched by sport type, body fat percentage and 1RM leg curl muscle strength. Participants were randomly divided into two groups: protein group (15.0 g egg white protein; 75 kcal) and carbohydrate group (17.5 g maltodextrin, 78 kcal). Supplements were administered daily at the same time in a double-blind manner prior to training during an 8-week period. Measurements were performed before and after the 8-week regimen. The mean dietary energy intake did not change throughout the study period. FFM and 1RM assessments (i.e., leg curl, leg extension, squat, and bench press) increased in both groups. Furthermore, serum urea and serum citrulline levels after the 8-week regimen increased significantly only in the protein group. Our findings indicated that compared to the carbohydrate supplement, the protein supplement was associated with some changes in protein metabolites but not with changes in body composition or muscle strength.

Seasonal patterns of weight, hematology, and serum characteristics of free-ranging female white-tailed deer in Minnesota

USGS Publications Warehouse

DelGiudice, G.D.; Mech, L.D.; Kunkel, K.E.; Gese, E.M.; Seal, U.S.

1992-01-01

Weights, hematology, and serum profIles of white-tailed does in the central Superior National Forest of northeastern Minnesota were examined year-around to determine seasonal patterns of nutritional condition and metabolism. Deer were initially captured by Clover trap or rocket net. Between 15 February 1989 and 23 January 1990, we recaptured 12 adult (> 1.5 years) female deer 1-9 times each (a total of 59 recaptures) using a radio-controlled capture collar. Monthly weights of deer exhibited a cyclic seasonal pattern. Mean weight declined 22 % from February to an annual minimum during May, then steadily increased 45 % to a maximum in October. Seasonal patterns were most evident for hemoglobin concentration, red blood cells, packed cell volume, serum total protein, urea nitrogen, creatinine, the urea N to creatinine ratio, triiodothyronine, cortisol, and potassium. Wide seasonal variations of these characteristics were indicative of shifts in the deer's metabolic physiology. Although seasonal metabolic shifts are partially attributable to an endogenous rhythm, the intensity of, their expression was most likely affected by nutritional changes and concomitant alterations of body condition. Annual changes in seasonal trends of blood characteristics may be useful in investigating nutritional effects of specific environmental and demographic factors. We compare our findings with those reported for deer on ranges farther south.

Effects of Egg White Protein Supplementation on Muscle Strength and Serum Free Amino Acid Concentrations

PubMed Central

Hida, Azumi; Hasegawa, Yuko; Mekata, Yuko; Usuda, Mika; Masuda, Yasunobu; Kawano, Hitoshi; Kawano, Yukari

2012-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of egg white protein compared to carbohydrate intake prior to exercise on fat free mass (FFM), one repetition maximum (1RM) muscle strength and blood biochemistry in female athletes. Thirty healthy female collegiate athletes were recruited for this study and matched by sport type, body fat percentage and 1RM leg curl muscle strength. Participants were randomly divided into two groups: protein group (15.0 g egg white protein; 75 kcal) and carbohydrate group (17.5 g maltodextrin, 78 kcal). Supplements were administered daily at the same time in a double-blind manner prior to training during an 8-week period. Measurements were performed before and after the 8-week regimen. The mean dietary energy intake did not change throughout the study period. FFM and 1RM assessments (i.e., leg curl, leg extension, squat, and bench press) increased in both groups. Furthermore, serum urea and serum citrulline levels after the 8-week regimen increased significantly only in the protein group. Our findings indicated that compared to the carbohydrate supplement, the protein supplement was associated with some changes in protein metabolites but not with changes in body composition or muscle strength. PMID:23201768

Steady-state serum salicylate levels in hospitalized patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Comparison of two dosage schedules of choline magnesium trisalicylate.

PubMed

Cassell, S; Furst, D; Dromgoole, S; Paulus, H

1979-04-01

When the total daily drug dose was individualized to produce a steady-state serum salicylate concentration between 20 and 35 mg/dl, clinically acceptable fluctuations of serum concentrations occurred during both twice daily and three times daily administration. In 6 rheumatoid arthritis patients receiving choline magnesium trisalicylate, mean steady-state serum levels were the same, and the ranges of hourly mean concentrations during 8 and 12 hour dosage intervals were 19 to 27 mg/dl and 17 to 30 mg/dl, respectively. Changing the dosing interval from 8 to 12 hours required a 50% increase in the fractional doses, but resulted in an increase of only 3 mg/dl in mean peak concentration and a ddecrease of 1 mg/dl in mean minimum concentration.

Radioimmunoassay of Serum Concentrations of Melatonin in Sheep Exposed to Different Lighting Regimens

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

ROLLAG, M. D.; NISWENDER, G. D.

1976-02-01

A specific and sensitive double-antibody radioimmunoassay for melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) was developed. The least detectable concentration of melatonin standard was 10 pmolar (2.3 pg/tube) with 50 percent inhibition resulting when the concentration was 100 pmolar (23 pg/tube). Inhibition curves obtained with increasing quantities of melatonin or increasing quantities of chloroform extracts of ovine sera were parallel. Concentrations of melatonin could be accurately determined when 31 to 1000 pg were added to 1 ml ovine serum. Serum samples with melatonin concentrations of 1000 pg/ml, 500 pg/ml and 75 pg/ml had intra-assay coefficients of variation of 9.1 percent, 8.6 percent, and 17.4 percent,more » respectively. The respective inter-assay coefficients of variation were 22.7 percent, 18.1 percent, and 37.1 percent. Ewes exposed to a 12 h light:12 h dark lighting regimen demonstrated a circadian rhythm in serum concentrations of melatonin. Concentrations ranged from 10 to 30 pg/ml during periods of light to 100 to 300 pg/ml during periods of dark. During exposure to continuous light, the circadian rhythm was abolished and concentrations of melatonin were maintained at 10 to 50 pg/ml. When exposed to conditions of continuous dark the circadian rhythm persisted. A precipitous drop in serum concentrations of melatonin resulted when ewes experiencing peak melatonin concentrations were exposed to light. Concentrations returned to peak levels when the lights were turned off 3.5 h later. (auth)« less

A comparison of serum and plasma cytokine values using a multiplexed assay in cats.

PubMed

Gruen, Margaret E; Messenger, Kristen M; Thomson, Andrea E; Griffith, Emily H; Paradise, Hayley; Vaden, Shelly; Lascelles, B D X

2016-12-01

Degenerative joint disease (DJD) is highly prevalent in cats, and pain contributes to morbidity. In humans, alterations of cytokine concentrations have been associated with joint deterioration and pain. Similar changes have not been investigated in cats. Cytokine concentrations can be measured using multiplex technology with small samples of serum or plasma, however, serum and plasma are not interchangeable for most bioassays. Correlations for cytokine concentrations between serum and plasma have not been evaluated in cats. To evaluate the levels of detection and agreement between serum and plasma samples in cats. Paired serum and plasma samples obtained from 38 cats. Blood was collected into anti-coagulant free and EDTA Vacutainer ® tubes, serum or plasma extracted, and samples frozen at -80°C until testing. Duplicate samples were tested using a 19-plex feline cytokine/chemokine magnetic bead panel. Agreement between serum and plasma for many analytes was high, however correlation coefficients ranged from -0.01 to 0.97. Results from >50% of samples were below the lower limit of quantification for both serum and plasma for nine analytes, and for an additional three analytes for plasma only. While serum and plasma agreement was generally good, detection was improved using serum samples. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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.

Effects of tibial and humerus intraosseous and intravenous vasopressin in porcine cardiac arrest model.

PubMed

Adams, Timothy S; Blouin, Dawn; Johnson, Don

2016-01-01

Compare maximum concentration (Cmax), time to maximum concentration (Tmax), mean serum concentration of vasopressin, return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), time to ROSC, and odds of survival relative to vasopressin administration by tibial intraosseous (TIO), humerus intraosseous (HIO), and intravenous (IV) routes in a hypovolemic cardiac arrest model. Prospective, between subjects, randomized experimental design. TriService Research Facility. Yorkshire-cross swine (n = 40). Swine were anesthetized, exsanguinated to a Class III hemorrhage, and placed into cardiac arrest. After 2 minutes, cardiopulmonary resuscitation was initiated. After an additional 2 minutes, a dose of 40 units of vasopressin was administered by TIO, HIO, or the IV routes. Blood samples were collected over 4 minutes and analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. ROSC, time to ROSC, Cmax, Tmax, mean concentrations over time, and odds ratio. There was no significant difference in rate of ROSC or time to ROSC between the TIO, HIO, and IV groups (p > 0.05). The Cmax was significantly higher in the IV group compared to the TIO group (p = 0.015), but no significant difference between the TIO versus HIO or HIO versus IV groups (p > 0.05). The Tmax was significantly shorter for the HIO compared to the TIO group (p = 0.034), but no significant differences between the IV group compared to the TIO or HIO groups (p > 0.05). The odds of survival were higher in the HIO group compared to all other groups. The TIO and HIO provide rapid and reliable access to administer life-saving medications during cardiac arrest.

Survey of Slaughtered Pigs for Occurrence of Ochratoxin A and Porcine Nephropathy in Serbia

PubMed Central

Milićević, Dragan; Jurić, Verica; Stefanović, Srđan; Jovanović, Milijan; Janković, Saša

2008-01-01

Samples of blood, kidney and liver were randomly selected from slaughtered pigs (n=90) and analyzed for ochratoxin A by HPLC. In addition, in order to obtain information on the occurrence of nephropathy, histological examinations were carried out. Of the 90 liver samples, 26.6% contained OTA in the range of 0.22–14.5 ng/g. The incidence of OTA in serum and kidney were very similar (31%, 33.3%), with a maximum concentration of 220.8 ng/mL, and 52.5 ng/g, respectively. Histopathological examination of kidneys confirmed tubulopathies with edema and cell vacuolization. In addition, hemorrhages and necrosis of proximal kidney tubules’ cells were found. PMID:19330066

A comparison of methods for adjusting biomarkers of iron, zinc, and selenium status for the effect of inflammation in an older population: a case for interleukin 6.

PubMed

MacDonell, Sue O; Miller, Jody C; Harper, Michelle J; Reid, Malcolm R; Haszard, Jillian J; Gibson, Rosalind S; Houghton, Lisa A

2018-05-14

Older people are at risk of micronutrient deficiencies, which can be under- or overestimated in the presence of inflammation. Several methods have been proposed to adjust for the effect of inflammation; however, to our knowledge, none have been investigated in older adults in whom chronic inflammation is common. We investigated the influence of various inflammation-adjustment methods on micronutrient biomarkers associated with anemia in older people living in aged-care facilities in New Zealand. Blood samples were collected from 289 New Zealand aged-care residents aged >65 y. Serum ferritin, soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR), total body iron (TBI), plasma zinc, and selenium as well as the inflammatory markers high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP), α1-acid glycoprotein (AGP), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) were measured. Four adjustment methods were applied to micronutrient concentrations: 1) internal correction factors based on stages of inflammation defined by CRP and AGP, 2) external correction factors derived from the literature, 3) a regression correction model in which reference CRP and AGP were set to the maximum of the lowest decile, and 4) a regression correction model in which reference IL-6 was set to the maximum of the lowest decile. Forty percent of participants had elevated concentrations of CRP, AGP, or both, and 37% of participants had higher than normal concentrations of IL-6. Adjusted geometric mean values for serum ferritin, sTfR, and TBI were significantly lower (P < 0.001), and plasma zinc and selenium were significantly higher (P < 0.001), than the unadjusted values regardless of the method applied. The greatest inflammation adjustment was observed with the regression correction that used IL-6. Subsequently, the prevalence of zinc and selenium deficiency decreased (-13% and -14%, respectively; P < 0.001), whereas iron deficiency remained unaffected. Adjustment for inflammation should be considered when evaluating micronutrient status in this aging population group; however, the approaches used require further investigation, particularly the influence of adjustment for IL-6.

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.

Differences in serum zinc levels in acutely ill and remitted adolescents and young adults with bulimia nervosa in comparison with healthy controls - a cross-sectional pilot study.

PubMed

Zepf, Florian D; Rao, Pradeep; Runions, Kevin; Stewart, Richard M; Moore, Julia K; Wong, Janice Wy; Linden, Maike; Sungurtekin, Idil; Glass, Franziska; Gut, Linda; Peetz, Dirk; Hintereder, Gudrun; Schaab, Michael; Poustka, Fritz; Wöckel, Lars

2017-01-01

Research has implicated that changes in zinc (Zn) metabolism may be associated with the biological underpinnings of eating disorders, in particular anorexia nervosa. However, to date research on the role of Zn in patients with bulimia nervosa (BN) is scarce. We aimed to explore serum Zn concentrations in young patients with BN, with a focus on the stage of the disorder, comparing acutely ill and recovered patients with BN with healthy controls. Serum Zn concentrations were obtained from healthy controls and from acutely ill and remitted young patients with BN. Mean duration of remission was 4.0±3.5 years. Remitted patients showed elevated serum Zn concentrations when compared to controls (Cohen's d=2.022), but concentrations were still in the normal range. Acutely ill patients also had higher serum Zn levels when compared to controls (all values still being within the reference range, Cohen's d=0.882). There was no difference between acutely ill and remitted patients with BN in serum Zn concentrations. Of note, remitted patients had a significantly higher body weight when compared to the other two groups. Overall, there were no significant differences in dietary preferences with regard to Zn containing foods between the groups. The present study provides preliminary evidence that the underlying factors for changes in Zn serum concentrations in young patients with BN do not vary with regard to the stage of illness (acute versus remitted BN). Further prospective research is needed in order to disentangle the possible interplay between serum Zn status and bulimic eating behaviors.

Differences in serum zinc levels in acutely ill and remitted adolescents and young adults with bulimia nervosa in comparison with healthy controls – a cross-sectional pilot study

PubMed Central

Zepf, Florian D; Rao, Pradeep; Runions, Kevin; Stewart, Richard M; Moore, Julia K; Wong, Janice WY; Linden, Maike; Sungurtekin, Idil; Glass, Franziska; Gut, Linda; Peetz, Dirk; Hintereder, Gudrun; Schaab, Michael; Poustka, Fritz; Wöckel, Lars

2017-01-01

Background Research has implicated that changes in zinc (Zn) metabolism may be associated with the biological underpinnings of eating disorders, in particular anorexia nervosa. However, to date research on the role of Zn in patients with bulimia nervosa (BN) is scarce. Objective We aimed to explore serum Zn concentrations in young patients with BN, with a focus on the stage of the disorder, comparing acutely ill and recovered patients with BN with healthy controls. Methods Serum Zn concentrations were obtained from healthy controls and from acutely ill and remitted young patients with BN. Mean duration of remission was 4.0±3.5 years. Results Remitted patients showed elevated serum Zn concentrations when compared to controls (Cohen’s d=2.022), but concentrations were still in the normal range. Acutely ill patients also had higher serum Zn levels when compared to controls (all values still being within the reference range, Cohen’s d=0.882). There was no difference between acutely ill and remitted patients with BN in serum Zn concentrations. Of note, remitted patients had a significantly higher body weight when compared to the other two groups. Overall, there were no significant differences in dietary preferences with regard to Zn containing foods between the groups. Conclusion The present study provides preliminary evidence that the underlying factors for changes in Zn serum concentrations in young patients with BN do not vary with regard to the stage of illness (acute versus remitted BN). Further prospective research is needed in order to disentangle the possible interplay between serum Zn status and bulimic eating behaviors. PMID:29089768

Effect of hypotensive therapy combined with modified diet or zinc supplementation on biochemical parameters and mineral status in hypertensive patients.

PubMed

Suliburska, Joanna; Skrypnik, Katarzyna; Szulińska, Monika; Kupsz, Justyna; Bogdański, Paweł

2018-05-01

Hypotensive therapy leads to a number of trace elements metabolism disturbances. Zinc balance is frequently affected by antihypertensive treatment. To evaluate the effect of a hypotensive treatment, modified diet and zinc supplementation on mineral status and selected biochemical parameters in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients on monotherapy. In the first stage, arterial hypertension in ninety-eight human subjects was diagnosed. In the second stage, antihypertensive monopharmacotherapy was implemented. In the third stage, patients were randomized into three groups and continued antihypertensive monotherapy: group D received an optimal-mineral-content diet, group S received zinc supplementation, and group C had no changes in diet or zinc supplementation. Iron, zinc, and copper concentrations in serum, erythrocytes, urine, and hair were determined. Lipids, glucose, ceruloplasmin, ferritin, albumin, C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), nitric oxide (NO), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were assayed in serum. Antihypertensive monotherapy decreased zinc concentration in serum and erythrocytes and increased the level of zinc in urine, decreased CAT and SOD activity, TNF-α concentration in serum, and increased the level of NO in the serum. Zinc supply led to an increase in zinc concentration in serum, erythrocytes, and hair (in group S only). In the groups with higher zinc intake, decreased glucose concentration in the serum was observed. Significant correlation was seen between the zinc and glucose serum concentrations. Hypotensive drugs disturb zinc status in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients. Antihypertensive monotherapy combined with increased zinc supply in the diet or supplementation favorably modify zinc homeostasis and regulate glucose status without blood pressure affecting in patients with hypertension. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Genetic, pathological and physiological determinants of transdermal fentanyl pharmacokinetics in 620 cancer patients of the EPOS study.

PubMed

Barratt, Daniel T; Bandak, Benedikte; Klepstad, Pål; Dale, Ola; Kaasa, Stein; Christrup, Lona L; Tuke, Jonathan; Somogyi, Andrew A

2014-04-01

This study aimed to investigate whether CYP3A4/5 genetic variants, together with clinical and patient factors, influence serum fentanyl and norfentanyl concentrations and their ratio in cancer pain patients receiving transdermal fentanyl. CYP3A4*22 and CYP3A5*3 polymorphisms were analysed in 620 cancer pain patients receiving transdermal fentanyl (12.5-700 μg/h) from the European Pharmacogenetic Opioid Study. Using stepwise linear regression, CYP3A4/5 genetic variability was examined in combination with patient factors relating to organ drug elimination function and ABCB1 genetics for their association with serum fentanyl and norfentanyl concentrations and metabolic ratio (MR) (norfentanyl : fentanyl). Delivery rate-adjusted serum fentanyl concentrations (0.0012-1.1 nmol/l/μg.h) and MRs (0.08-499) varied widely. Only 43% of variability in serum fentanyl concentrations was accounted for by delivery rate and less than 50% by CYP3A4/5 genotypes and clinical variables (delivery rate, sex, comedications, kidney disease, BMI, serum albumin). CYP3A4*22 and CYP3A5*3 variants, CYP3A inhibitors and variables relating to liver and kidney function (serum albumin, glomerular filtration rate, kidney disease, BMI) were associated with MR, but accounted for only 14% of variability. Serum fentanyl concentrations and MR vary considerably between cancer pain patients on transdermal fentanyl patches. CYP3A4*22 and CYP3A5*3 genotypes, and multiple clinical factors, combine to influence transdermal fentanyl pharmacokinetics, but accounted for only a small proportion of variability in this study. Identification of the remaining factors determining serum fentanyl concentrations, and their relationship to efficacy and adverse effects may aid in improving the safety and effectiveness of transdermal fentanyl.

Elevated serum MDA and depleted non-enzymatic antioxidants, macro-minerals and trace elements are associated with bipolar disorder.

PubMed

Chowdhury, Manjurul Islam; Hasan, Maimuna; Islam, Mohammad Safiqul; Sarwar, Md Shahid; Amin, Mohammad Nurul; Uddin, S M Naim; Rahaman, Md Zahedur; Banik, Sujan; Hussain, Md Saddam; Yokota, Kazushige; Hasnat, Abul

2017-01-01

Genetic and neurobiological factors are considered to be the major causes of mood and mental disorders. However, over the past few years, increased levels of serum malondialdehyde and altered levels of various non-enzymatic antioxidants and essential minerals involved in abnormal functional activity have been identified as major contributing factors to the pathogenesis of several neurological disorders. The aim of this study was to determine the levels of the serum lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde (MDA), antioxidants (vitamin A, E and C), macro-minerals (calcium, potassium and sodium) and trace elements (zinc, iron and selenium) in patients with bipolar disorder and to explore their role in disease progression. This is a prospective case-control study that evaluated 55 patients with bipolar disorder and 55 healthy volunteers matched by age and sex. Serum MDA levels were determined by UV spectrophotometry as a marker of lipid peroxidation. RP-HPLC was employed to investigate the serum vitamin A and E concentrations, whereas UV spectrophotometry was used to quantify levels of vitamin C. Serum macro-minerals and trace elements were analyzed by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Statistical analysis was performed with independent sample t-tests and Pearson's correlation test. We found significantly higher concentrations of MDA (p<0.05) and significantly lower concentrations of antioxidants (vitamin A, E and C) (p<0.05) in the patient group compared with control group. Regarding trace elements and macro-minerals, lower concentrations of zinc, calcium, iron, selenium, sodium and potassium were found in the patient group compared with control subjects (p<0.05). Our study suggests that high serum MDA concentrations and low serum concentrations of antioxidants, macro-minerals and trace elements are strongly associated with bipolar disorder. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Serum and cerebrospinal fluid cytokine concentrations in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis.

PubMed

Aydin, Omer Faruk; Ichiyama, Takashi; Anlar, Banu

2010-06-01

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a neurodegenerative disease due to persistent measles virus infection. Its immunopathogenesis is unknown. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, IL-10 and IL-4 concentrations were measured in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum samples from 30 SSPE patients and 19 control subjects by cytometric bead array. CSF and serum IFN-gamma, IL-12 and IL-18 levels were measured in 18 SSPE patients by ELISA. Serum IL-4 and IL-10 (p<0.001), CSF IL-4 (p<0.001) and IL-6 (p=0.049) concentrations were lower, and serum IL-2 concentrations, higher (p=0.001) in SSPE patients. Serum TNF-alpha and IL-6, CSF TNF-alpha, IL-10, and IL-2 concentrations were not different between SSPE and control groups. Serum IFN-gamma levels were higher in stage I and II than stage III patients (p<0.05), whereas there was no difference between stages in terms of other cytokines. The levels of Th2-type cytokines: IL-4, IL-6 and IL-10 were suppressed in our SSPE cases. This finding, along with relatively elevated IFN-gamma and IL-2 levels, may suggest more active effector T cells compared to regulatory T cells (Treg), especially induced Treg, in early disease. High serum IL-2 concentrations might indicate peripheral Th1 activation. Discrepancies between various reports in the literature should be examined in view of the ages, stage and treatments of the patients studied. The interplay of various cytokines or cellular systems which may vary over time and between patients. Studies of treatment measures favoring the preservation of the early inflammatory response may be of interest in SSPE. Copyright (c) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Maternal vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy prevents vitamin D deficiency in the newborn: an open-label randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Rodda, C P; Benson, J E; Vincent, A J; Whitehead, C L; Polykov, A; Vollenhoven, B

2015-09-01

To determine whether maternal vitamin D supplementation, in the vitamin D deficient mother, prevents neonatal vitamin D deficiency. Open-label randomized controlled trial. Metropolitan Melbourne, Australia, tertiary hospital routine antenatal outpatient clinic. Seventy-eight women with singleton pregnancies with vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency (serum 25-OH Vit D < 75 nmol/l) at their first antenatal appointment at 12-16-week gestation were recruited. Participants were randomized to vitamin D supplementation (2000-4000 IU cholecalciferol) orally daily until delivery or no supplementation. The primary outcome was neonatal serum 25-OH vit D concentration at delivery. The secondary outcome was maternal serum 25-OH vit D concentration at delivery. Baseline mean maternal serum 25-OH vit D concentrations were similar (P = 0·9) between treatment (32 nmol/l, 95% confidence interval 26-39 nmol/l) and control groups (33 nmol/l, 95% CI 26-39 nmol/l). Umbilical cord serum 25-OH vit D concentrations at delivery were higher (P < 0·0001) in neonates of treatment group mothers (81 nmol/l, 95% CI; 70-91 nmol/l) compared with neonates of control group mothers (42 nmol/l, 95% CI; 34-50 nmol/l) with a strongly positive correlation between maternal serum 25-OH Vit D and umbilical cord serum 25-OH vit D concentrations at delivery (Spearman rank correlation coefficient 0·88; P < 0·0001). Mean maternal serum 25-OH Vit D concentrations at delivery were higher (P < 0·0001) in the treatment group (71 nmol/l, 95% CI; 62-81 nmol/l) compared with the control group (36 nmol/l, 95% CI; 29-42 nmol/l). Vitamin D supplementation of vitamin D deficient pregnant women prevents neonatal vitamin D deficiency. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Inappropriate phosphate excretion in idiopathic hypercalciuria: the key to a common cause and future treatment?

PubMed Central

Williams, C P; Child, D F; Hudson, P R; Soysa, L D; Davies, G K; Davies, M G; De Bolla, A R

1996-01-01

AIMS: To present experimental evidence in support of a proposed common cause for absorptive hypercalciuria, renal hypercalciuria, renal phosphate leak and enhancement of 1,25-(OH)2-vitamin D concentrations in patients presenting with renal stone disease; and to suggest further investigation with a view to new management. METHODS: An oral calcium loading test was administered to 15 patients with renal stones and 10 normal controls in the fasting state: urine and blood were collected hourly. After the second urine sample, 400 mg calcium dissolved in water was administered orally. Serum calcium, albumin, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and phosphate were measured together with urine calcium clearance and urinary phosphate from which the TmPO4/glomerular filtration rate (GFR) ratio was calculated. Serum 1,25-(OH)2-vitamin D was measured in the first serum sample. In addition, 24 hour urine calcium results were collected retrospectively from the patients' case notes over the previous 18 months. RESULTS: In the basal state, renal stone patients had an overall greater phosphaturia (lower TmPO4/GFR: median 1.72 compared with 2.10 in controls) and increased calcium clearance. Serum corrected calcium and PTH concentrations did not differ between the groups. After calcium loading, serum calcium and urine calcium clearance rose in both groups, with patients with renal stones experiencing a greater percentage fall in phosphaturia. In both groups TmPO4/GFR fell (greater phosphaturia) with increased serum corrected calcium, with the patients showing notably greater phosphaturia for any given calcium concentration. Patients also had notably greater phosphaturia compared with the serum calcium concentration for any given PTH value. Serum 1,25-(OH)2-vitamin D was higher in patients than controls and for any 1,25-(OH)2-vitamin D concentration phosphaturia measured against serum calcium was greater in patients than controls. 1,25-(OH)2-vitamin D did not correlate with phosphaturia relative to serum calcium concentrations within the patient and control groups. CONCLUSIONS: It is proposed that patients with idiopathic hypercalciuria have an "inappropriately' high phosphate excretion for any given serum calcium concentration. Loss of phosphate may induce increased activation of 1,25-(OH)2-vitamin D. Some of the commonly described causes of stone formation may be manifestations of a single mechanism. PMID:8944605

Wearing Compression Tights on the Thigh during Prolonged Running Attenuated Exercise-Induced Increase in Muscle Damage Marker in Blood

PubMed Central

Mizuno, Sahiro; Arai, Mari; Todoko, Fumihiko; Yamada, Eri; Goto, Kazushige

2017-01-01

Purpose: To examine the effects of wearing a lower-body compression garment with different body coverage areas during prolonged running on exercise performance and muscle damage. Methods: Thirty male subjects were randomly assigned to one of three groups: (1) wearing a compression tights with 15 mmHg to thigh [n = 10, CT group], (2) wearing a compression socks with 15 mmHg to calf [n = 10, CS group], and (3) wearing a lower-body garment with < 5 mmHg to thigh and calf [n = 10, CON group]. The exercise consisted of 120 min of uphill running at 55% of V˙O2max. Heart rate (HR), rate of perceived exertion (RPE), and running economy (evaluated by VO2) were monitored during exercise every 10 min. Changes in maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) of knee extension and plantar flexion, height of counter movement jump (CMJ) and drop jump (DJ), and scores of subjective feelings of muscle soreness and fatigue were evaluated before exercise, and 60 and 180 min after exercise. Blood samples were collected to determine blood glucose, lactate, serum free fatty acid, myoglobin (Mb), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and plasma interleukin-6 concentrations before exercise (after 20 min of rest), at 60 min of exercise, immediately after exercise, and 60 and 180 min after exercise. Results: Changes in HR, RPE, and running economy during exercise did not differ significantly among the three groups. MVC of knee extension and plantar flexion, and DJ decreased significantly following exercise, with no difference among groups. The serum Mb concentration increased significantly with exercise in all groups, whereas the area under the curve for Mb concentration during 180 min post-exercise was significantly lower in the CT group (13,833 ± 1,397 pg/mL 180 min) than in the CON group (24,343 ± 3,370 pg/mL 180 min, P = 0.03). Conclusion: Wearing compression garment on the thigh significantly attenuated the increase in serum Mb concentration after exercise, suggesting that exercise-induced muscle damage was attenuated. PMID:29123488

Low serum vitamin D concentrations in patients with schizophrenia.

PubMed

Itzhaky, Dganit; Amital, Daniela; Gorden, Katya; Bogomolni, Alisa; Arnson, Yoav; Amital, Howard

2012-02-01

Vitamin D is increasingly associated with the pathology of cognition and mental illness. Vitamin D receptors have been detected on neurons that regulate behavior. To assess vitamin D serum concentrations in patients with major depression and schizophrenia as compared to healthy controls and to determine if a correlation exists between serum levels of vitamin D and disease activity. We recruited 50 patients with schizophrenia and compared them to 33 patients with major depression and 50 controls with no major psychopathology. The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) for schizophrenia and the Hamilton Depression scale for depression were administered on the same day the blood samples were drawn. We used LIAISON 25-OH vitamin D (DiaSorin) immunoassay to measure serum concentrations of 25-OH vitamin D. Lower serum vitamin D concentrations were detected among patients with schizophrenia (15.0 +/- 7.3 ng/ml) compared to patients with depression (19.6 +/- 8.3 ng/ml) and to controls (20.2 +/- 7.8 ng/ml, P < 0.05). We found no correlation between disease activity, measured by the PANSS score, and vitamin D levels. Serum vitamin D levels were lower in patients with schizophrenia as compared to patients with depression and to healthy controls. No correlation was found between serum concentration and disease activity. Additional studies are needed to elucidate the role of vitamin D in the autoimmune mechanism and in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia.

Biomonitoring of selenoprotein P in human serum by fast affinity chromatography coupled to ICP-MS.

PubMed

Heitland, Peter; Köster, Helmut D

2018-04-01

Most of the Se in human serum is bound to selenoprotein P (SEPP1) in which Se is present in form of selenocysteine. The SEPP1 is a new possible biomarker for the Se status and for this reason we developed a fast, simple and reliable method for the quantitative determination of SEPP1 in serum by affinity chromatography coupled to ICP-MS. It is possible to separate SEPP1 from other selenoproteins in serum in only 5 min, which allows high sample throughput in clinical laboratories. Measured and certified concentrations of total Se and Se(SEPP1) are in good agreement for the reference material SRM 1950. The SEPP1 concentration was stable in serum samples of 3 persons for a minimum of 2 weeks. Further results of method validation were described including internal and external quality assurance. The analytical method was applied for a biomonitoring study of the SEPP1 and total Se concentration in human serum of 50 occupationally non-exposed persons living in northern Germany. Concentration ranges and mean concentrations for Se(SEPP1) are 31.1-59.7 and 46.2 μg/L, respectively. The corresponding values for total Se are 62-120 and 83.5 μg/L. The mean percentage of total Se in serum present as SEPP1 is 58%. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Effects of lead shot ingestion on delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase activity, hemoglobin concentration, and serum chemistry in bald eagles

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hoffman, D.J.; Pattee, O.H.; Wiemeyer, Stanley N.; Mulhern, B.

1981-01-01

Lead shot ingestion by bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is considered to be widespread and has been implicated in the death of eagles in nature. It was recently demonstrated under experimental conditions that ingestion of as few as 10 lead shot resulted in death within 12 to 20 days. In the present study hematological responses to lead toxicity including red blood cell ALAD activity, hemoglobin concentration and 23 different blood serum chemistries were examined in five captive bald eagles that were unsuitable for rehabilitation and release. Eagles were dosed by force-feeding with 10 lead shot; they were redosed if regurgitation occurred. Red blood cell ALAD activity was inhibited by nearly 80% within 24 hours when mean blood lead concentration had increased to 0.8 parts per million (ppm). By the end of 1 week there was a significant decrease (20-25%) in hematocrit and hemoglobin, and the mean blood lead concentration was over 3 ppm. Within as little as 1-2 weeks after dosing, significant elevations in serum creatinine and serum alanine aminotransferase occurred, as well as a significant decrease in the ratio of serum aspartic aminotransferase to serum alanine aminotransferase. The mean blood lead concentration was over 5 ppm by the end of 2 weeks. These changes in serum chemistry may be indicative of kidney and liver alterations.