Repair of an incompetent urethral sphincter in a mare.

PubMed

Schumacher, Jim; Brink, Palle

2011-01-01

To describe successful surgical treatment of urinary incontinence caused by a ruptured and/or transected urethral sphincter in a mare. Clinical report. A 7-year-old, Swedish Warmblood mare with urinary incontinence. The urethral sphincter, which had been damaged during removal of a cystic urolith, was repaired by apposing the ends of the disrupted urethralis muscle and tunica muscularis. The mare was no longer incontinent after repair of the defect by apposition of the ends of the urethralis muscle and tunica muscularis. Transection and/or rupture of the urethral sphincter of a mare may result in urinary incontinence. Apposition of the ends of the ruptured or transected urethralis muscle and tunica muscularis can correct urinary incontinence caused by this defect. © Copyright 2010 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Clinical and biochemical findings in Mexican patients with distal renal tubular acidosis.

PubMed

Guerra-Hernández, Norma; Matos-Martínez, Mario; Ordaz-López, Karen Verónica; Camargo-Muñiz, María Dolores; Medeiros, Mara; Escobar-Pérez, Laura

2014-01-01

Renal tubular acidosis (RTA) is a rare disease characterized by a normal serum anion gap, sustained metabolic acidosis, low concentration of plasma bicarbonate, variable hyperchloremia and hypokalemia and conserved glomerular filtration rate. RTA is developed during the first year of life and produces failure to thrive and anorexia. Primary distal RTA (type 1) is a renal syndrome with a reduced ability to excrete the acid load through the collecting ducts and impairment to concentrate the urine causing polyuria and dehydration. Evaluate the current health status and describe the clinical findings and progress of Mexican patients with distal RTA. Demonstrate the distal urinary acidification defect by measuring the urinary pCO2 tension in alkaline urines. We looked for infants in tertiary care hospitals with a clinical history of normal serum anion gap, metabolic acidosis, hypokalemia, hyperchloremia, nephrocalcinosis, sensorineural hearing loss and inability for urine acidification under systemic metabolic acidosis. Biochemical analysis were performed periodically. Alkali medication was not suspended in one patient to assess urinary acidification with oral administration of sodium bicarbonate (2 mEq/Kg) and acetazolamide (500 mg/1.73 m2 body surface). Urinary pCO2 levels were determined at 60 and 90 min. Three children, one adolescent and one adult with distal RTA were found. They had an infant history of dehydration, failure to thrive, anorexia, vomiting, muscle paralysis, hypercalciuria, urinary infections, polyuria, polydipsia and polyhidramnios during pregnancy. Severe nephrocalcinosis was detected in all patients whereas sensorineural hearing loss was developed in four cases. Under the alkali medication all cases but one were normocalciuric. A patient developed kidney failure. The urinary acidification test confirmed the innability to eliminate the acid load. Early diagnosis in infancy and continuos alkali medication were of great benefit for most of the patients. Urinary pCO2 levels in alkaline urine provided an index for collecting duct hydrogen-ion secretion. To our knowledge this is the first report of mexican patients with distal RTA.

Genetic Drivers of Kidney Defects in the DiGeorge Syndrome.

PubMed

Lopez-Rivera, Esther; Liu, Yangfan P; Verbitsky, Miguel; Anderson, Blair R; Capone, Valentina P; Otto, Edgar A; Yan, Zhonghai; Mitrotti, Adele; Martino, Jeremiah; Steers, Nicholas J; Fasel, David A; Vukojevic, Katarina; Deng, Rong; Racedo, Silvia E; Liu, Qingxue; Werth, Max; Westland, Rik; Vivante, Asaf; Makar, Gabriel S; Bodria, Monica; Sampson, Matthew G; Gillies, Christopher E; Vega-Warner, Virginia; Maiorana, Mariarosa; Petrey, Donald S; Honig, Barry; Lozanovski, Vladimir J; Salomon, Rémi; Heidet, Laurence; Carpentier, Wassila; Gaillard, Dominique; Carrea, Alba; Gesualdo, Loreto; Cusi, Daniele; Izzi, Claudia; Scolari, Francesco; van Wijk, Joanna A E; Arapovic, Adela; Saraga-Babic, Mirna; Saraga, Marijan; Kunac, Nenad; Samii, Ali; McDonald-McGinn, Donna M; Crowley, Terrence B; Zackai, Elaine H; Drozdz, Dorota; Miklaszewska, Monika; Tkaczyk, Marcin; Sikora, Przemyslaw; Szczepanska, Maria; Mizerska-Wasiak, Malgorzata; Krzemien, Grazyna; Szmigielska, Agnieszka; Zaniew, Marcin; Darlow, John M; Puri, Prem; Barton, David; Casolari, Emilio; Furth, Susan L; Warady, Bradley A; Gucev, Zoran; Hakonarson, Hakon; Flogelova, Hana; Tasic, Velibor; Latos-Bielenska, Anna; Materna-Kiryluk, Anna; Allegri, Landino; Wong, Craig S; Drummond, Iain A; D'Agati, Vivette; Imamoto, Akira; Barasch, Jonathan M; Hildebrandt, Friedhelm; Kiryluk, Krzysztof; Lifton, Richard P; Morrow, Bernice E; Jeanpierre, Cecile; Papaioannou, Virginia E; Ghiggeri, Gian Marco; Gharavi, Ali G; Katsanis, Nicholas; Sanna-Cherchi, Simone

2017-02-23

The DiGeorge syndrome, the most common of the microdeletion syndromes, affects multiple organs, including the heart, the nervous system, and the kidney. It is caused by deletions on chromosome 22q11.2; the genetic driver of the kidney defects is unknown. We conducted a genomewide search for structural variants in two cohorts: 2080 patients with congenital kidney and urinary tract anomalies and 22,094 controls. We performed exome and targeted resequencing in samples obtained from 586 additional patients with congenital kidney anomalies. We also carried out functional studies using zebrafish and mice. We identified heterozygous deletions of 22q11.2 in 1.1% of the patients with congenital kidney anomalies and in 0.01% of population controls (odds ratio, 81.5; P=4.5×10 -14 ). We localized the main drivers of renal disease in the DiGeorge syndrome to a 370-kb region containing nine genes. In zebrafish embryos, an induced loss of function in snap29, aifm3, and crkl resulted in renal defects; the loss of crkl alone was sufficient to induce defects. Five of 586 patients with congenital urinary anomalies had newly identified, heterozygous protein-altering variants, including a premature termination codon, in CRKL. The inactivation of Crkl in the mouse model induced developmental defects similar to those observed in patients with congenital urinary anomalies. We identified a recurrent 370-kb deletion at the 22q11.2 locus as a driver of kidney defects in the DiGeorge syndrome and in sporadic congenital kidney and urinary tract anomalies. Of the nine genes at this locus, SNAP29, AIFM3, and CRKL appear to be critical to the phenotype, with haploinsufficiency of CRKL emerging as the main genetic driver. (Funded by the National Institutes of Health and others.).

Outcomes in dogs with uroabdomen: 43 cases (2006-2015).

PubMed

Grimes, Janet A; Fletcher, Jon M; Schmiedt, Chad W

2018-01-01

OBJECTIVE To determine the rate of and factors associated with survival to hospital discharge in dogs with uroabdomen. DESIGN Retrospective case series. ANIMALS 43 dogs with uroabdomen confirmed at 2 veterinary teaching hospitals from 2006 through 2015. PROCEDURES Medical records were reviewed and data extracted regarding cause and location of urinary tract rupture, serum creatinine concentration and other variables at hospital admission, and outcomes. Variables were tested for associations with survival to hospital discharge. RESULTS Urinary tract rupture occurred in the urinary bladder (n = 24 [56%]), urethra (11 [26%]), kidney (2 [5%]), ureter (1 [2%]), both the urinary bladder and kidney (1 [2%]), and undetermined sites (4 [9%]). Rupture causes included traumatic (20 [47%]), obstructive (9 [21%]), and iatrogenic (7 [16%]) or were unknown (7 [16%]). Surgery was performed for 37 (86%) dogs; the defect was identified and surgically corrected in 34 (92%) of these dogs. Hypotension was the most common intraoperative complication. Nineteen dogs had information recorded on postoperative complications, of which 10 (53%) had complications that most often included death (n = 3) and regurgitation (3). Thirty-four (79%) dogs survived to hospital discharge. Dogs with intraoperative or postoperative complications were significantly less likely to survive than dogs without complications. Serum creatinine concentration at admission was not associated with survival to discharge. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE A high proportion of dogs with uroabdomen survived to hospital discharge. No preoperative risk factors for nonsurvival were identified. Treatment should be recommended to owners of dogs with uroabdomen.

[Feasibility of using connective tissue prosthesis for autoplastic repair of urinary bladder wall defects (an experimental study)].

PubMed

Tyumentseva, N V; Yushkov, B G; Medvedeva, S Y; Kovalenko, R Y; Uzbekov, O K; Zhuravlev, V N

2016-12-01

Experiments on laboratory rats have shown the feasibility of autoplastic repair of urinary bladder wall defects using a connective-tissue capsule formed as the result of an inflammatory response to the presence of a foreign body. The formation of connective tissue prosthesis is characterized by developing fibrous connective tissue, ordering of collagen fibers, reducing the number of cells per unit area with a predominance of more mature cells - fibroblasts. With increasing time of observation, connective tissue prostheses were found to acquire a morphological structure similar to that of the urinary bladder wall. By month 12, the mucosa, the longitudinal and circular muscle layers were formed. The proposed method of partial autoplastic repair of urinary bladder wall is promising, has good long-term results, but requires further experimental studies.

Complementary role of magnetic resonance imaging in the study of the fetal urinary system.

PubMed

Gómez Huertas, M; Culiañez Casas, M; Molina García, F S; Carrillo Badillo, M P; Pastor Pons, E

2016-01-01

Urinary system birth defects represent the abnormality most often detected in prenatal studies, accounting for 30% to 50% of all structural anomalies present at birth. The most common disorders are urinary tract dilation, developmental variants, cystic kidney diseases, kidney tumors, and bladder defects. These anomalies can present in isolation or in association with various syndromes. They are normally evaluated with sonography, and the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered only in inconclusive cases. In this article, we show the potential of fetal MRI as a technique to complement sonography in the study of fetal urinary system anomalies. We show the additional information that MRI can provide in each entity, especially in the evaluation of kidney function through diffusion-weighted sequences. Copyright © 2016 SERAM. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Different values of urinary fractionated metanephrines after unilateral adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma according to time intervals after surgery.

PubMed

Cho, Yoon Y; Kim, Young N; Kim, Jung-Han; Jeong, Byong C; Lee, Soo-Youn; Kim, Jae H

2017-01-01

Background After adrenalectomy, urinary fractionated metanephrine concentrations are expected to be reduced. However, there are few studies suggesting cut-offs for adrenalectomy patients. Methods Urinary metanephrine and normetanephrine concentrations in adrenalectomy patients and two controls were compared and hormonal concentrations were evaluated via time intervals after surgery. Results The median urinary metanephrine level after unilateral adrenalectomy was lower than that of the non-pheochromocytoma controls but comparable to healthy controls. Urinary normetanephrine concentrations did not differ between adrenalectomy patients and non-pheochromocytoma controls, although both group had levels higher than those of healthy controls. The median urinary normetanephrine level in the immediate postoperative period was higher than in the later period. Conclusions Urinary metanephrine concentrations were lower after adrenalectomy, but urinary normetanephrine concentrations were not changed compared with the non-pheochromocytoma controls. However, urinary normetanephrine concentrations in the patient group were higher than levels in the heathy controls.

What Are the Treatments for Neural Tube Defects?

MedlinePlus

... get around, including braces, crutches, walkers, and wheelchairs. Urinary tract infections; lack of bladder and bowel control. People with ... from completely emptying, a condition that can cause urinary tract infections and kidney damage. Health care providers may address ...

Dissociation between urinary pyrraline and pentosidine concentrations in diabetic patients with advanced nephropathy.

PubMed

Aso, Yoshimasa; Takanashi, Keishi; Sekine, Kyouichi; Yoshida, Noboru; Takebayashi, Kohzo; Yoshihara, Kazuhiro; Inukai, Toshihiko

2004-08-01

It has been reported that the concentrations of both pyrraline and pentosidine, well-characterized advanced glycation end products, are increased in the urine of diabetic patients. To determine factors that influence the urinary excretion of pyrraline or pentosidine, we compared pyrraline or pentosidine concentrations with glycemic-control indexes, urinary albumin excretion, and urinary beta2-microglobulin in patients with type 2 diabetes. The study was conducted in 39 age-matched healthy control subjects and 50 diabetic patients, including 22 patients with normoalbuminuria, 15 with microalbuminuria, and 13 with macroalbuminuria. Both urinary pyrraline and pentosidine were measured in early-morning urine specimens with the use of high-pressure liquid chromatography. The urinary pentosidine concentration was significantly higher in diabetic patients than in control subjects (P <.01). In contrast, the urinary pyrraline concentration was significantly lower in diabetic patients than in control subjects (P <.001). Urinary pentosidine concentrations were greater in diabetic patients with macroalbuminuria and microalbuminuria than in those with normoalbuminuria. However, urinary pyrraline concentrations were significantly lower in diabetic patients with advanced nephropathy. Both the hemoglobin A(1c) (HbA(1c)) and the preceding year's mean HbA(1c) were lower in patients with macroalbuminuria than in those with normoalbuminuria or microalbuminuria. Urinary pyrraline, but not pentosidine, showed a significantly positive correlation with the preceding year's mean HbA(1c) (P<0.01). Multivariate analysis disclosed that urinary beta-2-microglobulin was independently correlated with the urinary concentrations of pentosidine and pyrraline (P <.05 for both). We conclude that the urinary concentration of pentosidine is greater in diabetic patients with overt nephropathy, whereas the urinary pyrraline concentration is significantly lower in diabetic patients with overt nephropathy. Because urinary pyrraline is more directly influenced by glycemia than by pentosidine, the difference in glycemic control among diabetic patients with various grades of nephropathy may be responsible for a dissociation between urinary pyrraline and pentosidine concentrations in patients with overt diabetic nephropathy.

Pseudohypoparathyroidism: defective excretion of 3′,5′-AMP in response to parathyroid hormone

PubMed Central

Chase, Lewis R.; Melson, G. Leland; Aurbach, G. D.

1969-01-01

Urinary excretion of cyclic adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (3′,5′-AMP) was tested in normal subjects and patients with pseudohypoparathyroidism, idiopathic hypoparathyroidism, surgical hypoparathyroidism, and pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism under basal conditions and after a 15 min infusion of purified parathyroid hormone. Basal excretion of the nucleotide was less than normal in the patients with hypocalcemic disorders and greater than normal in pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism. Parathyroid hormone caused a marked increase in excretion of 3′,5′-AMP in all subjects except those with pseudohypoparathyroidism; nine patients with this disorder did not respond to the hormone and four showed a markedly deficient response. Radioimmunoassay showed that parathyroid hormone circulated in increased amounts in plasma from patients with pseudohypoparathyroidism and became undetectable when serum calcium was increased above 12 mg/100 ml. Suppression of parathyroid hormone secretion by induction of hypercalcemia did not alter the deficient response to exogenous hormone. The results indicate that: (a) parathyroid hormone circulates in abnormally high concentrations in pseudohypoparathyroidism and secretion of the hormone responds normally to physiological control by calcium; (b) testing urinary excretion of 3′,5′-AMP in response to infusion of purified parathyroid hormone appears to be an accurate and sensitive index for establishing the diagnosis of pseudohypoparathyroidism; and (c) the metabolic defect of the disorder can be accounted for by a lack of or defective form of parathyroid hormone-sensitive adenyl cyclase in bone and kidney. PMID:4309802

Genetic Drivers of Kidney Defects in the DiGeorge Syndrome

PubMed Central

Lopez-Rivera, E.; Liu, Y.P.; Verbitsky, M.; Anderson, B.R.; Capone, V.P.; Otto, E.A.; Yan, Z.; Mitrotti, A.; Martino, J.; Steers, N.J.; Fasel, D.A.; Vukojevic, K.; Deng, R.; Racedo, S.E.; Liu, Q.; Werth, M.; Westland, R.; Vivante, A.; Makar, G.S.; Bodria, M.; Sampson, M.G.; Gillies, C.E.; Vega-Warner, V.; Maiorana, M.; Petrey, D.S.; Honig, B.; Lozanovski, V.J.; Salomon, R.; Heidet, L.; Carpentier, W.; Gaillard, D.; Carrea, A.; Gesualdo, L.; Cusi, D.; Izzi, C.; Scolari, F.; van Wijk, J.A.E.; Arapovic, A.; Saraga-Babic, M.; Saraga, M.; Kunac, N.; Samii, A.; McDonald-McGinn, D.M.; Crowley, T.B.; Zackai, E.H.; Drozdz, D.; Miklaszewska, M.; Tkaczyk, M.; Sikora, P.; Szczepanska, M.; Mizerska-Wasiak, M.; Krzemien, G.; Szmigielska, A.; Zaniew, M.; Darlow, J.M.; Puri, P.; Barton, D.; Casolari, E.; Furth, S.L.; Warady, B.A.; Gucev, Z.; Hakonarson, H.; Flogelova, H.; Tasic, V.; Latos-Bielenska, A.; Materna-Kiryluk, A.; Allegri, L.; Wong, C.S.; Drummond, I.A.; D’Agati, V.; Imamoto, A.; Barasch, J.M.; Hildebrandt, F.; Kiryluk, K.; Lifton, R.P.; Morrow, B.E.; Jeanpierre, C.; Papaioannou, V.E.; Ghiggeri, G.M.; Gharavi, A.G.; Katsanis, N.; Sanna-Cherchi, S.

2017-01-01

BACKGROUND The DiGeorge syndrome, the most common of the microdeletion syndromes, affects multiple organs, including the heart, the nervous system, and the kidney. It is caused by deletions on chromosome 22q11.2; the genetic driver of the kidney defects is unknown. METHODS We conducted a genomewide search for structural variants in two cohorts: 2080 patients with congenital kidney and urinary tract anomalies and 22,094 controls. We performed exome and targeted resequencing in samples obtained from 586 additional patients with congenital kidney anomalies. We also carried out functional studies using zebrafish and mice. RESULTS We identified heterozygous deletions of 22q11.2 in 1.1% of the patients with congenital kidney anomalies and in 0.01% of population controls (odds ratio, 81.5; P=4.5×10−14). We localized the main drivers of renal disease in the DiGeorge syndrome to a 370-kb region containing nine genes. In zebrafish embryos, an induced loss of function in snap29, aifm3, and crkl resulted in renal defects; the loss of crkl alone was sufficient to induce defects. Five of 586 patients with congenital urinary anomalies had newly identified, heterozygous protein-altering variants, including a premature termination codon, in CRKL. The inactivation of Crkl in the mouse model induced developmental defects similar to those observed in patients with congenital urinary anomalies. CONCLUSIONS We identified a recurrent 370-kb deletion at the 22q11.2 locus as a driver of kidney defects in the DiGeorge syndrome and in sporadic congenital kidney and urinary tract anomalies. Of the nine genes at this locus, SNAP29, AIFM3, and CRKL appear to be critical to the phenotype, with haploinsufficiency of CRKL emerging as the main genetic driver. (Funded by the National Institutes of Health and others.) PMID:28121514

Chromium (VI) induced oxidative damage to DNA: increase of urinary 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine concentrations (8-OHdG) among electroplating workers

PubMed Central

Kuo, H; Chang, S; Wu, K; Wu, F

2003-01-01

Aims: To investigate the concentration of urinary 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) among electroplating workers in Taiwan. Methods: Fifty workers were selected from five chromium (Cr) electroplating plants in central Taiwan. The 20 control subjects were office workers with no previous exposure to Cr. Urinary 8-OHdG concentrations were determined using high performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection. Results: Urinary 8-OHdG concentrations among Cr workers (1149.5 pmol/kg/day) were higher than those in the control group (730.2 pmol/kg/day). There was a positive correlation between urinary 8-OHdG concentrations and urinary Cr concentration (r = 0.447, p < 0.01), and urinary 8-OHdG correlated positively with airborne Cr concentration (r = 0.285). Using multiple regression analysis, the factors that affected urinary 8-OHdG concentrations were alcohol, the common cold, and high urinary Cr concentration. There was a high correlation of urinary 8-OHdG with both smoking and drinking, but multiple regression analysis showed that smoking was not a significant factor. Age and gender were also non-significant factors. Conclusion: 8-OHdG, which is an indicator of oxidative DNA damage, was a sensitive biomarker for Cr exposure. PMID:12883020

Primary hyperparathyroidism and proximal renal tubular acidosis: Report of two cases

PubMed Central

Siddiqui, Abdullah A.; Wilson, Douglas R.

1972-01-01

Two cases of primary hyperparathyroidism due to single parathyroid adenomas presented with the additional feature of hyperchloremic acidosis. The defect in urinary acidification responsible was not of the distal or gradient-limited type since both patients could lower urine pH adequately. However, there was a defect of bicarbonate reabsorption, an abnormality referred to as the proximal or rate-limited type of renal tubular acidosis. It is suggested that this defect represents an exaggeration of the physiological effect of parathormone on bicarbonate reabsorption and may be responsible for the frequent finding of hyperchloremia in association with primary hyperparathyroidism as well as for the urinary bicarbonate-wasting associated with a variety of causes of secondary hyperparathyroidism. PMID:5012229

Organophosphorous pesticide exposure increases the frequency of sperm sex null aneuploidy.

PubMed Central

Recio, R; Robbins, W A; Borja-Aburto, V; Morán-Martínez, J; Froines, J R; Hernández, R M; Cebrián, M E

2001-01-01

It has been estimated that 4 of 1,000 live births and 35% of spontaneous abortions are aneuploid and that an important proportion of embryo and newborn aneuploidy is of paternal origin. Exposure to organophosphorous pesticides (OP) has been associated with sperm hyperploidy/polyploidy. Therefore, we aimed to assess the frequency of sperm aneuploidy (X, Y, and 18) and its relationship with urinary OP metabolites in agricultural workers. We performed multicolor fluorescence in situ hybridization on samples from nine men obtained before and during the pesticide spraying season to assess sperm aneuploidy. We measured urinary OP metabolite levels by gas-liquid chromatography. Aneuploidies were found in 0.67% of total sperm nuclei. The most frequent aneuploidy was the lack of a sexual chromosome or sex null (0.19%), followed by XY18 (0.15%) and XY18-18 (0.06%). OP metabolites detected at higher concentrations were dimethylthiophosphate, dimethyldithiophosphate, and diethylphosphate (DEP). There were no differences in average aneuploidy frequency or urinary metabolite levels between samples collected before and after exposure. However, Poisson regression analysis adjusted for age, alcohol intake, and sperm concentration showed significant associations between OP metabolite concentrations and increased frequency of sperm aneuploidies. The association was more evident between DEP and sex null, and the risk increased further during the spraying season. Thus, OP exposure could interfere with sperm chromosome segregation and increase the risk for genetic syndromes, such as Turner's. Further studies are required to assess the prevalence of spontaneous abortions, birth defects, and genetic syndromes in agricultural communities. PMID:11748030

Urinary Mineral Concentrations in European Pre-Adolescent Children and Their Association with Calcaneal Bone Quantitative Ultrasound Measurements †

PubMed Central

Van den Bussche, Karen; Herrmann, Diana; De Henauw, Stefaan; Kourides, Yiannis A.; Lauria, Fabio; Marild, Staffan; Molnár, Dénes; Moreno, Luis A.; Veidebaum, Toomas; Ahrens, Wolfgang; Sioen, Isabelle

2016-01-01

This study investigates differences and associations between urinary mineral concentrations and calcaneal bone measures assessed by quantitative ultrasonography (QUS) in 4322 children (3.1–11.9 years, 50.6% boys) from seven European countries. Urinary mineral concentrations and calcaneal QUS parameters differed significantly across countries. Clustering revealed a lower stiffness index (SI) in children with low and medium urinary mineral concentrations, and a higher SI in children with high urinary mineral concentrations. Urinary sodium (uNa) was positively correlated with urinary calcium (uCa), and was positively associated with broadband ultrasound attenuation and SI after adjustment for age, sex and fat-free mass. Urinary potassium (uK) was negatively correlated with uCa but positively associated with speed of sound after adjustment. No association was found between uCa and QUS parameters after adjustment, but when additionally adjusting for uNa, uCa was negatively associated with SI. Our findings suggest that urinary mineral concentrations are associated with calcaneal QUS parameters and may therefore implicate bone properties. These findings should be confirmed in longitudinal studies that include the food intake and repeated measurement of urinary mineral concentrations to better estimate usual intake and minimize bias. PMID:27164120

Role of water balance in the enhanced potassium excretion and hypokalaemia of rats with diabetes insipidus.

PubMed Central

Fernández-Repollet, E; Martínez-Maldonado, M; Opava-Stitzer, S

1980-01-01

1. The role of water balance in the hypokalaemia of rats with diabetes insipidus (DI rats) was studied. 2. After a 3-day balance study DI rats had a lower muscle potassium content, and plasma [K+], and the urinary excretion of potassium in response to oral KCl loading was reduced when compared to normal rats. The hypokalaemia was found to be associated with elevated concentrations of potassium in renal medulla and papilla when compared to values in normal Long-Evans rats. 3. During a 9-day balance study urinary potassium excretion was higher than that of normal rats on days 1-3, but not different on days 4-9; this transient elevation was observed in DI rats on normal, high and low potassium diets. On a low potassium diet the urinary potassium excretion of DI rats fell to minimal levels, making unlikely the existence of a renal defect in potassium handling. 4. Muscle potassium content and plasma [K+] were normal after 9 days in metabolism cages. This spontaneous reversal of the hypokalaemia of DI rats was associated with increased water content of renal medulla and papilla, and decreased potassium concentration in these zones. 5. The effect of acute mild dehydration on potassium handling of DI rats was evaluated. Water deprivation for 1-8 hr was sufficient to raise the urinary potassium excretion of DI rats above that of DI rats drinking ad lib. Renal tissue [K+] was significantly increased after 8 hr of dehydration. Water deprivation also enhanced the response of DI rats to an oral KCl load. Two days of chronic dehydration in the form of water rationing also significantly enhanced the urinary potassium excretion of DI rats. 6. These data suggest that chronic mild dehydration may be responsible for the modest potassium deficiency observed in DI rats via alterations in renal tissue [K+] and consequently in urinary potassium excretion. Correction of dehydration during prolonged periods in metabolism cages may account for the spontaneous reversal of the hypokelaemic condition. PMID:7441565

Urinary Concentrations of Triclosan, Benzophenone-3, and Bisphenol A in Taiwanese Children and Adolescents

PubMed Central

Chang, Fu-Kuei; Shiea, Jentaie; Tsai, Hsin-Jen

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the levels of urinary triclosan (TCS), benzophenone-3 (BP-3), and bisphenol A (BPA) in 52 children and 71 adolescents. The effects of age and sex on the levels of urinary TCS, BP-3, and BPA were explored, respectively. Results demonstrated the overall detection rates of urinary TCS, BP-3, and BPA were 18.7%, 8.1%, and 49.6%, respectively. The females had higher TCS concentrations than males (p = 0.051). The detection rate of urinary BP-3 in females (12.3%) was higher than that in males (0%) (p = 0.015). Moreover, the detection rate of urinary BP-3 in adolescents (14.1%) was higher than that in children (0%) (p = 0.005). For children, no urinary BP-3 was found. There were no differences in detection rates and concentrations of urinary TCS, BP-3, and BPA between males and females, respectively. For adolescents, urinary BP-3 was only found in the females. Urinary TCS levels in females were higher than those in males (p = 0.047). The present study showed that urinary TCS concentrations in females were significantly higher than those in males, respectively. In addition, BP-3 was only detected in urine samples of female adolescents. Sex and age were the important factors influencing urinary TCS and BP-3 concentrations. PMID:29232866

Binational arsenic exposure survey: methodology and estimated arsenic intake from drinking water and urinary arsenic concentrations.

PubMed

Roberge, Jason; O'Rourke, Mary Kay; Meza-Montenegro, Maria Mercedes; Gutiérrez-Millán, Luis Enrique; Burgess, Jefferey L; Harris, Robin B

2012-04-01

The Binational Arsenic Exposure Survey (BAsES) was designed to evaluate probable arsenic exposures in selected areas of southern Arizona and northern Mexico, two regions with known elevated levels of arsenic in groundwater reserves. This paper describes the methodology of BAsES and the relationship between estimated arsenic intake from beverages and arsenic output in urine. Households from eight communities were selected for their varying groundwater arsenic concentrations in Arizona, USA and Sonora, Mexico. Adults responded to questionnaires and provided dietary information. A first morning urine void and water from all household drinking sources were collected. Associations between urinary arsenic concentration (total, organic, inorganic) and estimated level of arsenic consumed from water and other beverages were evaluated through crude associations and by random effects models. Median estimated total arsenic intake from beverages among participants from Arizona communities ranged from 1.7 to 14.1 µg/day compared to 0.6 to 3.4 µg/day among those from Mexico communities. In contrast, median urinary inorganic arsenic concentrations were greatest among participants from Hermosillo, Mexico (6.2 µg/L) whereas a high of 2.0 µg/L was found among participants from Ajo, Arizona. Estimated arsenic intake from drinking water was associated with urinary total arsenic concentration (p < 0.001), urinary inorganic arsenic concentration (p < 0.001), and urinary sum of species (p < 0.001). Urinary arsenic concentrations increased between 7% and 12% for each one percent increase in arsenic consumed from drinking water. Variability in arsenic intake from beverages and urinary arsenic output yielded counter intuitive results. Estimated intake of arsenic from all beverages was greatest among Arizonans yet participants in Mexico had higher urinary total and inorganic arsenic concentrations. Other contributors to urinary arsenic concentrations should be evaluated.

Binational Arsenic Exposure Survey: Methodology and Estimated Arsenic Intake from Drinking Water and Urinary Arsenic Concentrations

PubMed Central

Roberge, Jason; O’Rourke, Mary Kay; Meza-Montenegro, Maria Mercedes; Gutiérrez-Millán, Luis Enrique; Burgess, Jefferey L.; Harris, Robin B.

2012-01-01

The Binational Arsenic Exposure Survey (BAsES) was designed to evaluate probable arsenic exposures in selected areas of southern Arizona and northern Mexico, two regions with known elevated levels of arsenic in groundwater reserves. This paper describes the methodology of BAsES and the relationship between estimated arsenic intake from beverages and arsenic output in urine. Households from eight communities were selected for their varying groundwater arsenic concentrations in Arizona, USA and Sonora, Mexico. Adults responded to questionnaires and provided dietary information. A first morning urine void and water from all household drinking sources were collected. Associations between urinary arsenic concentration (total, organic, inorganic) and estimated level of arsenic consumed from water and other beverages were evaluated through crude associations and by random effects models. Median estimated total arsenic intake from beverages among participants from Arizona communities ranged from 1.7 to 14.1 µg/day compared to 0.6 to 3.4 µg/day among those from Mexico communities. In contrast, median urinary inorganic arsenic concentrations were greatest among participants from Hermosillo, Mexico (6.2 µg/L) whereas a high of 2.0 µg/L was found among participants from Ajo, Arizona. Estimated arsenic intake from drinking water was associated with urinary total arsenic concentration (p < 0.001), urinary inorganic arsenic concentration (p < 0.001), and urinary sum of species (p < 0.001). Urinary arsenic concentrations increased between 7% and 12% for each one percent increase in arsenic consumed from drinking water. Variability in arsenic intake from beverages and urinary arsenic output yielded counter intuitive results. Estimated intake of arsenic from all beverages was greatest among Arizonans yet participants in Mexico had higher urinary total and inorganic arsenic concentrations. Other contributors to urinary arsenic concentrations should be evaluated. PMID:22690182

Aliskiren increases aquaporin-2 expression and attenuates lithium-induced nephrogenic diabetes insipidus.

PubMed

Lin, Yu; Zhang, Tiezheng; Feng, Pinning; Qiu, Miaojuan; Liu, Qiaojuan; Li, Suchun; Zheng, Peili; Kong, Yonglun; Levi, Moshe; Li, Chunling; Wang, Weidong

2017-10-01

The direct renin inhibitor aliskiren has been shown to be retained and persist in medullary collecting ducts even after treatment is discontinued, suggesting a new mechanism of action for this drug. The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether aliskiren regulates renal aquaporin expression in the collecting ducts and improves urinary concentrating defect induced by lithium in mice. The mice were fed with either normal chow or LiCl diet (40 mmol·kg dry food -1 ·day -1 for 4 days and 20 mmol·kg dry food -1 ·day -1 for the last 3 days) for 7 days. Some mice were intraperitoneally injected with aliskiren (50 mg·kg body wt -1 ·day -1 in saline). Aliskiren significantly increased protein abundance of aquaporin-2 (AQP2) in the kidney inner medulla in mice. In inner medulla collecting duct cell suspension, aliskiren markedly increased AQP2 and phosphorylated AQP2 at serine 256 (pS256-AQP2) protein abundance, which was significantly inhibited both by adenylyl cyclase inhibitor MDL-12330A and by PKA inhibitor H89, indicating an involvement of the cAMP-PKA signaling pathway in aliskiren-induced increased AQP2 expression. Aliskiren treatment improved urinary concentrating defect in lithium-treated mice and partially prevented the decrease of AQP2 and pS256-AQP2 protein abundance in the inner medulla of the kidney. In conclusion, the direct renin inhibitor aliskiren upregulates AQP2 protein expression in inner medullary collecting duct principal cells and prevents lithium-induced nephrogenic diabetes insipidus likely via cAMP-PKA pathways. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

Sonography of tumors and tumor-like lesions that mimic carcinoma of the urinary bladder

PubMed Central

Szopiński, Tomasz; Gołąbek, Tomasz; Ostasz, Oksana; Bojko, Stefania

2014-01-01

One of the basic abdominal organs that is assessed during transabdominal ultrasound examination for urological reasons is the urinary bladder. The bladder must be filled with urine. This is a prerequisite for a reliable assessment and, at the same time, an acoustic window in examining adjacent structures and organs, for instance the prostate gland. In some cases, doubts occur with respect to the nature of lesions detected. The paper presents anatomic lesions, defects and pathologies which might be erroneously interpreted as tumors of the urinary bladder, i.e. transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder. The following lesions are discussed: 1) anatomic defects (including urachus remnants, ligaments that stabilize the bladder or cyst in the opening of the ureter into the bladder – ureterocele); 2) tumor- like lesions in the lumen of the urinary bladder (such as blood clots, fungus balls, stones or foreign bodies); 3) bladder wall pathologies (i.e. cystitis or endometriosis), focal decidual transformation of stromal cells or inflammatory pseudotumor; 4) lesions impressing on the bladder from the outside (the mesentery of the sigmoid colon, the bowel, pathological lesions in organs adjacent to the urinary bladder, inflammatory infiltration, vasogenic compression of the bladder, pelvic lipomatosis, pathological lesions of the pubic symphysis); 5) postoperative lesions. All these lesions may mimic carcinoma of the urinary bladder in sonography. Bearing this fact in mind is significant in establishing a diagnosis. Due to the malignant character of carcinoma of the urinary bladder and the need for aggressive surgical treatment, a correct diagnosis of this disease is essential for patients, particularly because the lack of adequate treatment and delayed treatment considerably affect prognosis. PMID:26672732

A simple screening method using ion chromatography for the diagnosis of cerebral creatine deficiency syndromes.

PubMed

Wada, Takahito; Shimbo, Hiroko; Osaka, Hitoshi

2012-08-01

Cerebral creatine deficiency syndromes (CCDS) are caused by genetic defects in L-arginine:glycine amidinotransferase, guanidinoacetate methyltransferase or creatine transporter 1. CCDS are characterized by abnormal concentrations of urinary creatine (CR), guanidinoacetic acid (GA), or creatinine (CN). In this study, we describe a simple HPLC method to determine the concentrations of CR, GA, and CN using a weak-acid ion chromatography column with a UV detector without any derivatization. CR, GA, and CN were separated clearly with the retention times (mean ± SD, n = 3) of 5.54 ± 0.0035 min for CR, 6.41 ± 0.0079 min for GA, and 13.53 ± 0.046 min for CN. This new method should provide a simple screening test for the diagnosis of CCDS.

Determining median urinary iodine concentration that indicates adequate iodine intake at population level.

PubMed Central

Delange, François; de Benoist, Bruno; Burgi, Hans

2002-01-01

OBJECTIVE: Urinary iodine concentration is the prime indicator of nutritional iodine status and is used to evaluate population-based iodine supplementation. In 1994, WHO, UNICEF and ICCIDD recommended median urinary iodine concentrations for populations of 100- 200 micro g/l, assuming the 100 micro g/l threshold would limit concentrations <50 micro g/l to 100 micro g/l. The total population was 55 892, including 35 661 (64%) schoolchildren. Median urinary iodine concentrations were 111-540 (median 201) micro g/l for all populations, 100-199 micro g/l in 23 (48%) populations and >/=200 micro g/l in 25 (52%). The frequencies of values <50 micro g/l were 0-20.8 (mean 4.8%) overall and 7.2% and 2.5% in populations with medians of 100-199 micro g/l and >200 micro g/l, respectively. The frequency reached 20% only in two places where iodine had been supplemented for <2 years. CONCLUSION: The frequency of urinary iodine concentrations <50 micro g/l in populations with median urinary iodine concentrations >/=100 micro g/l has been overestimated. The threshold of 100 micro g/l does not need to be increased. In populations, median urinary iodine concentrations of 100-200 micro g/l indicate adequate iodine intake and optimal iodine nutrition. PMID:12219154

Polycarbonate Bottle Use and Urinary Bisphenol A Concentrations

PubMed Central

Carwile, Jenny L.; Luu, Henry T.; Bassett, Laura S.; Driscoll, Daniel A.; Yuan, Caterina; Chang, Jennifer Y.; Ye, Xiaoyun; Calafat, Antonia M.; Michels, Karin B.

2009-01-01

Background Bisphenol A (BPA) is a high-production-volume chemical commonly used in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastic. Low-level concentrations of BPA in animals and possibly in humans may cause endocrine disruption. Whether ingestion of food or beverages from polycarbonate containers increases BPA concentrations in humans has not been studied. Objectives We examined the association between use of polycarbonate beverage containers and urinary BPA concentrations in humans. Methods We conducted a nonrandomized intervention of 77 Harvard College students to compare urinary BPA concentrations collected after a washout phase of 1 week to those taken after an intervention week during which most cold beverages were consumed from polycarbonate drinking bottles. Paired t-tests were used to assess the difference in urinary BPA concentrations before and after polycarbonate bottle use. Results The geometric mean urinary BPA concentration at the end of the washout phase was 1.2 μg/g creatinine, increasing to 2.0 μg/g creatinine after 1 week of polycarbonate bottle use. Urinary BPA concentrations increased by 69% after use of polycarbonate bottles (p < 0.0001). The association was stronger among participants who reported ≥ 90% compliance (77% increase; p < 0.0001) than among those reporting < 90% compliance (55% increase; p = 0.03), but this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.54). Conclusions One week of polycarbonate bottle use increased urinary BPA concentrations by two-thirds. Regular consumption of cold beverages from polycarbonate bottles is associated with a substantial increase in urinary BPA concentrations irrespective of exposure to BPA from other sources. PMID:19750099

Urinary leukotriene E4 concentrations as a potential marker of inflammation in dogs with inflammatory bowel disease.

PubMed

Im Hof, M; Schnyder, M; Hartnack, S; Stanke-Labesque, F; Luckschander, N; Burgener, I A

2012-01-01

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and food-responsive diarrhea (FRD) are chronic enteropathies of dogs (CCE) that currently can only be differentiated by their response to treatment after exclusion of other diseases. In humans, increased urinary concentrations of leukotriene E4 (LTE4) have been associated with active IBD. To evaluate urinary LTE4 concentrations in dogs with IBD, FRD, and healthy controls, and to assess correlation of urinary LTE4 concentrations with the canine IBD activity index (CIBDAI) scores. Eighteen dogs with IBD, 19 dogs with FRD, and 23 healthy control dogs. In this prospective study, urine was collected and CIBDAI scores were calculated in client-owned dogs with IBD and those with FRD. Quantification of LTE4 in urine was performed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and corrected to creatinine. Urinary LTE4 concentrations were highest in dogs with IBD (median 85.2 pg/mg creatinine [10th-90th percentiles 10.9-372.6]) followed by those with FRD (median 31.2 pg/mg creatinine [10th-90th percentiles 6.2-114.5]) and control dogs (median 21.1 pg/mg creatinine [10th-90th percentiles 9.1-86.5]). Urinary LTE4 concentrations were higher in dogs with IBD than in control dogs (P = .011), but no significant difference between IBD and FRD was found. No correlation was found between urinary LTE4 concentrations and CIBDAI. The higher urinary LTE4 concentrations in dogs with IBD suggest that cysteinyl leukotriene pathway activation might be a component of the inflammatory process in canine IBD. Furthermore, urinary LTE4 concentrations are of potential use as a marker of inflammation in dogs with CCE. Copyright © 2012 by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

The consumption of canned food and beverages and urinary Bisphenol A concentrations in NHANES 2003-2008.

PubMed

Hartle, Jennifer C; Navas-Acien, Ana; Lawrence, Robert S

2016-10-01

Exposure to Bisphenol A (BPA) is ubiquitous and includes dietary and environmental pathways. BPA is rapidly glucuronidated in the body, and both BPA and its conjugates can be readily measured in urine. To investigate the contribution of canned food and beverages, known sources of BPA contamination, to BPA biomarkers of exposure using dietary and urinary BPA concentration information in a representative sample of the U.S. We evaluated 7669 NHANES 2003-2008 participants 6 years and older with 24-h dietary recall information and urinary BPA concentrations available. Using linear regression models, we evaluated the associations between recent canned food and beverage consumption and urinary BPA concentrations, adjusting for potential confounders. We found 9% of our participants consumed one canned food in the past 24h and 2% consumed two or more canned foods. The consumption of one canned food vs. none was associated with 24% (95% CI 1.11, 1.38) higher urinary BPA concentrations. The consumption of two or more canned foods vs. none was associated with 54% (95% CI 1.27, 1.88) higher urinary BPA concentrations. The consumption of one or more of some specific types of canned foods vs. none were associated with higher urinary BPA concentrations: 41% (95% CI 1.23, 1.63) higher BPA for vegetable and fruit, 70% (95% CI 1.18, 2.44) higher for canned pasta, and 229% (95% CI 1.22, 4.30) higher for canned soup. Canned beverages were not associated with urinary BPA concentrations. Canned food, including some specific types such as canned vegetable and fruit, canned pasta, and canned soup were associated with higher levels of urinary BPA concentrations. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The consumption of canned food and beverages and urinary Bisphenol A concentrations in NHANES 2003–2008

PubMed Central

Hartle, Jennifer C.; Navas-Acien; Lawrence, Robert S.

2016-01-01

Background Exposure to Bisphenol A (BPA) is ubiquitous and includes dietary and environmental pathways. BPA is rapidly glucuronidated in the body, and both BPA and its conjugates can be readily measured in urine. Objectives To investigate the contribution of canned food and beverages, known sources of BPA contamination, to BPA biomarkers of exposure using dietary and urinary BPA concentration information in a representative sample of the U.S. population. Methods We evaluated 7,669 NHANES 2003–2008 participants 6 years and older with 24-hour dietary recall information and urinary BPA concentrations available. Using linear regression models, we evaluated the associations between recent canned food and beverage consumption and urinary BPA concentrations, adjusting for potential confounders. Results We found 9% of our participants consumed one canned food in the past 24 hours and 2% consumed two or more canned foods. The consumption of one canned food vs. none was associated with 24% (95% CI 1.11, 1.38) higher urinary BPA concentrations. The consumption of two or more canned foods vs. none was associated with 54% (95% CI 1.27, 1.88) higher urinary BPA concentrations. The consumption of one or more of some specific types of canned foods vs. none were associated with higher urinary BPA concentrations: 41% (95% CI 1.23, 1.63) higher BPA for vegetable and fruit, 70% (95% CI 1.18, 2.44) higher for canned pasta, and 229% (95% CI 1.22, 4.30) higher for canned soup. Canned beverages were not associated with urinary BPA concentrations. Conclusions Canned food, including some specific types such as canned vegetable and fruit, canned pasta, and canned soup were associated with higher levels of urinary BPA concentrations. PMID:27362993

Effect of feeding sweet-potato condensed distillers solubles on intake and urinary excretion of minerals in Japanese Black steers.

PubMed

Kamiya, Yuko; Kamiya, Misturu; Hattori, Ikuo; Hayashi, Yoshiro; Funaba, Masayuki; Matsui, Tohru

2017-01-01

Four Japanese Black steers (16 months of age) were assigned to a 4 × 4 Latin square design to investigate the effect of graded levels of sweet-potato condensed distillers solubles (SCDS) in their diets on intake and urinary excretion of minerals. The four diets consisted of 0%, 10%, 20% and 30% (dry matter (DM) basis) SCDS, with SCDS replacing commercial concentrate (CC). Intake of K, Cl, S, P and Mg increased linearly with increasing SCDS content. Urinary pH increased linearly with increasing dietary SCDS content. SCDS feeding increased urinary K concentrations (linear and quadratic effects). Urinary concentrations of Cl increased linearly with increasing SCDS content. In contrast, urinary concentrations of Mg decreased with increasing SCDS content. Feeding of SCDS did not apparently affect urinary NH 3 ,P, Na or Ca concentrations. These results suggest that high SCDS feeding is not a risk for crystallization of minerals leading to the formation of magnesium-phosphate type calculi: although SCDS contains large amounts of P and Mg, high SCDS feeding decreased the Mg concentration and did not affect the P concentration in urine. Additionally, high SCDS feeding had no apparent effects on plasma concentrations of Na, K, Cl, Ca or inorganic P. © 2016 Japanese Society of Animal Science.

Orotic aciduria and uridine monophosphate synthase: a reappraisal.

PubMed

Bailey, C J

2009-12-01

Three subtypes of hereditary orotic aciduria are described in the literature, all related to deficiencies in uridine monophosphate synthase, the multifunctional enzyme that contains both orotate: pyrophosphoryl transferase and orotidine monophosphate decarboxylase activities. The type of enzyme defect present in the subtypes has been re-examined by steady-state modelling of the relative outputs of the three enzymic products, uridine monophosphate, urinary orotic acid and urinary orotidine. It is shown that the ratio of urinary outputs of orotidine to orotate provides a means of testing for particular forms of enzyme defect. It is confirmed that the type I defect is caused by loss of uridine monophosphate synthase activity. Cells and tissue of type I cases have a residual amount of activity that is qualitatively unchanged: the relative rates of the transferase and decarboxylase do not differ from those of wild-type enzyme. The single claimed case of type II, thought to be due to specific inactivation of orotidine monophosphate decarboxylase, is shown to have a product spectrum inconsistent with that claim. It is proposed that this type II form does not differ sufficiently to be accepted as separate from type I. The third subtype, hereditary orotic aciduria without megaloblastic anaemia, occurs in two cases. It has the product spectrum expected of a defect in orotidine monophosphate decarboxylase. This form is the only one that appears to have a qualitatively different uridine monophosphate synthase. The possibility that orotidine monophosphate may control flux through the pyrimidine biosynthesis pathway in hereditary orotic aciduria is discussed.

Impact of pH on Urine Chemistry Assayed on Roche Analyzers.

PubMed

Cohen, R; Alkouri, R; Tostivint, I; Djiavoudine, S; Mestari, F; Dever, S; Atlan, G; Devilliers, C; Imbert-Bismut, F; Bonnefont-Rousselot, D; Monneret, D

2017-10-01

The pH may impact the concentration of certain urinary parameters, making urine pre-treatment questionable. 1) Determining the impact of pH in vitro on the urinary concentration of chemistry parameters assayed on Roche Modular analyzers. 2) Evaluating whether concentrations depended on pH in non-pretreated urines from patients. 1) The optimal urinary pH values for each measurement were: 6.3 ± 0.8 (amylase), < 5.5 (calcium and magnesium), < 6.5 (phosphorus), > 6.5 (uric acid). Urinary creatinine, sodium and urea concentrations were not pH-dependent. 2) In urines from patients, the pH was negatively associated with the concentration of some urinary parameters. However, concentrations of all the parameters were strongly and positively correlated with urinary creatinine, and relationships with pH were no longer evidenced after creatinine-normalization. The need for urine pH adjustment does not seem necessary when considering renal function. However, from an analytical and accreditation standpoint, the relationship between urine pH and several parameters justifies its measurement.

Urinary nicotine concentrations in cigarette and pipe smokers.

PubMed Central

Wald, N J; Idle, M; Boreham, J; Bailey, A; Van Vunakis, H

1984-01-01

Urinary concentrations of nicotine were studied in men who did not smoke (27) and in men who smoked cigarettes only (145) or pipes only (48). The median urinary nicotine concentrations were less than 50 ng/ml (the detection limit of the assay for urine tests) in the non-smokers, 1393 ng/ml in the cigarette smokers, and 1048 ng/ml in the pipe smokers. These values were standardised for urinary pH and creatinine concentration to allow for the fact that nicotine excretion is influenced by the acidity of the urine and by urinary flow rate. The high urinary nicotine concentrations in the pipe and cigarette smokers indicated that both types of smoker have relatively high systemic nicotine concentrations. This observation, together with the fact that large prospective studies have shown that pipe smokers have no material excess risk of coronary heart disease whereas cigarette smokers do, provides evidence that nicotine is unlikely to be the major cause of the excess deaths from coronary heart disease in cigarette smokers. This conclusion is consistent with earlier observations based on serum cotinine concentrations in smokers and non-smokers. PMID:6740539

Oxidative DNA damage and repair in children exposed to low levels of arsenic in utero and during early childhood: application of salivary and urinary biomarkers.

PubMed

Hinhumpatch, Pantip; Navasumrit, Panida; Chaisatra, Krittinee; Promvijit, Jeerawan; Mahidol, Chulabhorn; Ruchirawat, Mathuros

2013-12-15

The present study aimed to assess arsenic exposure and its effect on oxidative DNA damage and repair in young children exposed in utero and continued to live in arsenic-contaminated areas. To address the need for biological specimens that can be acquired with minimal discomfort to children, we used non-invasive urinary and salivary-based assays for assessing arsenic exposure and early biological effects that have potentially serious health implications. Levels of arsenic in nails showed the greatest magnitude of difference between exposed and control groups, followed by arsenic concentrations in saliva and urine. Arsenic levels in saliva showed significant positive correlations with other biomarkers of arsenic exposure, including arsenic accumulation in nails (r=0.56, P<0.001) and arsenic concentration in urine (r=0.50, P<0.05). Exposed children had a significant reduction in arsenic methylation capacity indicated by decreased primary methylation index and secondary methylation index in both urine and saliva samples. Levels of salivary 8-OHdG in exposed children were significantly higher (~4-fold, P<0.01), whereas levels of urinary 8-OHdG excretion and salivary hOGG1 expression were significantly lower in exposed children (~3-fold, P<0.05), suggesting a defect in hOGG1 that resulted in ineffective cleavage of 8-OHdG. Multiple regression analysis results showed that levels of inorganic arsenic (iAs) in saliva and urine had a significant positive association with salivary 8-OHdG and a significant negative association with salivary hOGG1 expression. © 2013.

Evolution of urinary iodine excretion over eleven years in an adult population.

PubMed

Gutiérrez-Repiso, Carolina; Colomo, Natalia; Rojo-Martinez, Gemma; Valdés, Sergio; Tapia, Maria J; Esteva, Isabel; Ruiz de Adana, Maria S; Rubio-Martin, Elehazara; Lago-Sampedro, Ana; Santiago, Piedad; Velasco, Ines; Garcia-Fuentes, Eduardo; Moreno, Jose C; Soriguer, Federico

2015-08-01

Few prospective cohort studies have evaluated dietary iodine intake and urinary iodine concentrations in the general adult population. We assess the evolution of urinary iodine excretion and factors that may influence it in an adult population followed for 11 years. A population-based cohort study was undertaken in Pizarra (Spain). In the three study phases (baseline (n = 886), and 6 (n = 788) and 11 years later (n = 501)), participants underwent an interview and a standardized clinical examination that included a food questionnaire, and thyroid hormone and urinary iodine determinations. Subjects with thyroid dysfunction, palpable goiter or urinary iodine excretion >400 μg/L were excluded. Urinary iodine increased over the years (100.6 ± 70.0 μg/L at baseline vs. 125.4 ± 95.2 μg/L at 6 years and 141.6 ± 81.4 μg/L at 11 years; p < 0.0001). Urinary iodine was significantly higher in subjects who reported iodized salt consumption and in subjects with a higher intake of dairy products (p < 0.05). Consumption of iodized salt (Risk ratio (RR) = 1.23, 95% CI [1.01-2.05]) and dairy products (RR = 2.07, 95% CI [1.01-4.23]), and a baseline urinary iodine concentration ≥100 μg/L (RR = 1.26, 95% CI [1.04-1.53]) were significantly associated with urinary iodine concentrations ≥100 μg/L at 11 years. There is no correlation between thyroid function (TSH, free triiodothyronine or free thyroxine levels) and urinary iodine concentrations in conditions of iodine sufficiency. The increase in urinary iodine concentrations over eleven years is associated with an increase in iodized salt intake and with the dairy products intake, and possibly with a higher iodine content of dairy products. However, individual variability in urinary iodine excretion was not fully explained by dietary iodine intake alone; previous urinary iodine concentrations were also important. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. All rights reserved.

Urea and urine concentrating ability in mice lacking AQP1 and AQP3.

PubMed

Zhao, Dan; Bankir, Lise; Qian, Liman; Yang, Dayu; Yang, Baoxue

2006-08-01

Aquaporin-1 (AQP1) and aquaporin-3 (AQP3) water channels expressed in the kidney play a critical role in the urine concentrating mechanism. Mice with AQP1 or AQP3 deletion have a urinary concentrating defect. To better characterize this defect, we studied the influence of an acute urea load (300 mumol ip) in conscious AQP1-null, AQP3-null, and wild-type mice. Urine was collected and assayed every 2 h, from 2 h before (baseline) to 8 h after the urea load. Mice of all genotypes excreted the urea load in approximately 4 h with the same time course. Interestingly, despite their low baseline, the AQP3-null mice raised their urine osmolality and urea concentration progressively after the urea load to values almost equal to those in wild-type mice at 8 h. In contrast, urine non-urea solute concentration did not change. Urine volume fell in the last 4 h to about one-fourth of basal values. AQP1-null mice increased their urine flow rate much more than AQP3-null mice and showed no change in urine osmolality and urea concentration. The urea load strongly upregulated urea transporter UT-A3 expression in all three genotypes. These observations show that the lack of AQP3 does not interfere with the ability of the kidney to concentrate urea but impairs its ability to concentrate other solutes. This solute-selective response could result from the capacity of AQP3 to transport not only water but also urea. The results suggest a novel role for AQP3 in non-urea solute concentration in the urine.

Urinary paraben concentrations and in vitro fertilization outcomes among women from a fertility clinic.

PubMed

Mínguez-Alarcón, Lidia; Chiu, Yu-Han; Messerlian, Carmen; Williams, Paige L; Sabatini, Mary E; Toth, Thomas L; Ford, Jennifer B; Calafat, Antonia M; Hauser, Russ

2016-03-01

To explore the relationship between urinary paraben concentrations and IVF outcomes among women attending an academic fertility center. Prospective cohort study. Fertility clinic in a hospital setting. A total of 245 women contributing 356 IVF cycles. None. Quantification of urinary concentrations of parabens by isotope-dilution tandem mass spectrometry, and assessment of clinical endpoints of IVF treatments abstracted from electronic medical records at the academic fertility center. Total and mature oocyte counts, proportion of high-quality embryos, fertilization rates, and rates of implantation, clinical pregnancy, and live births. The geometric means of the urinary concentrations of methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben in our study population were 133, 24, and 1.5 μg/L, respectively. In models adjusted for age, body mass index, race/ethnicity, smoking status, and primary infertility diagnosis, urinary methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben concentrations were not associated with IVF outcomes, specifically total and mature oocyte counts, proportion of high embryo quality, and fertilization rates. Moreover, no significant associations were found between urinary paraben concentrations and rates of implantation, clinical pregnancy, and live births. Urinary paraben concentrations were not associated with IVF outcomes among women undergoing infertility treatments. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Genetics Home Reference: 21-hydroxylase deficiency

MedlinePlus

... Urinary Tract Defects Orphanet: Congenital adrenal hyperplasia Screening, Technology, and Research in Genetics (PDF) Vanderbilt Childrens Hospital: Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (PDF) Virginia Department of ...

Dissecting the roles of aquaporins in renal pathophysiology using transgenic mice

PubMed Central

Verkman, A. S.

2008-01-01

Transgenic mice lacking renal aquaporins (AQPs), or containing mutated AQPs, have been useful in confirming anticipated AQP functions in renal physiology and in discovering new functions. Mice lacking AQPs 1–4 manifest defects in urinary concentrating ability to different extents. Mechanistic studies have confirmed the involvement of AQP1 in near-isosmolar fluid absorption in proximal tubule, and in countercurrent multiplication and exchange mechanisms that produce medullary hypertonicity in the antidiuretic kidney. Deletion of AQPs 2–4 impairs urinary concentrating ability by reduction of transcellular water permeability in collecting duct. Recently created transgenic mouse models of nephrogenic diabetes insipidus produced by AQP2 gene mutation offer exciting possibilities to test new drug therapies. Several unanticipated AQP functions in kidney have been discovered recently that are unrelated to their role in transcellular water transport. There is evidence for involvement of AQP1 in kidney cell migration following renal injury, of AQP7 in renal glycerol clearance, of AQP11 in prevention of renal cystic disease, and possibly of AQP3 in regulation of collecting duct cell proliferation. Future work in renal AQPs will focus on mechanisms responsible for these non-fluid-transporting functions, and on the development of small-molecule AQP inhibitors for use as aquaretic-type diuretics. PMID:18519083

Urinary concentrations of cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylic acid monohydroxy isononyl ester, a metabolite of the non-phthalate plasticizer di(isononyl)cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylate (DINCH), and markers of ovarian response among women attending a fertility center

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

Mínguez-Alarcón, Lidia, E-mail: lminguez@hsph.harv

Di(isononyl)cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylate (DINCH), a non-phthalate plasticizer, was introduced commercially in 2002 as an alternative to ortho-phthalate esters because of its favorable toxicological profile. However, the potential health effects from DINCH exposure remain largely unknown. We explored the associations between urinary concentrations of metabolites of DINCH on markers of ovarian response among women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments. Between 2011 and 2015, 113 women enrolled a prospective cohort study at the Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center and provided up to two urine samples prior to oocyte retrieval. The urinary concentrations of two DINCH metabolites, cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylic acid monohydroxy isononyl ester (MHiNCH) andmore » cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylic acid monocarboxyisooctyl ester (MCOCH), were quantified by isotope dilution tandem mass spectrometry. We used generalized linear mixed models to evaluate the association between urinary metabolite concentrations and markers of ovarian response, accounting for multiple IVF cycles per woman via random intercepts. On average, women with detectable urinary MHiNCH concentrations, as compared to those below LOD, had a lower estradiol levels (−325 pmol/l, p=0.09) and number of retrieved oocytes (−1.8, p=0.08), with a stronger association among older women. However, urinary MHiNCH concentrations were unrelated to mature oocyte yield and endometrial wall thickness. In conclusion, we found suggestive negative associations between urinary MHiNCH concentrations and peak estradiol levels and number of total oocyte yields. This is the first study evaluating the effect of DINCH exposure on human reproductive health and raises the need for further experimental and epidemiological studies to better understand the potential effects of this chemical on health. - Highlights: • Women with detectable urinary MHiNCH concentrations had a lower estradiol levels and number of retrieved oocytes. • The negative association between urinary MHiNCH concentrations and total oocyte yield was stronger in older women. • Urinary MHiNCH concentrations were unrelated to mature oocyte yield and endometrial wall thickness.« less

Short communication: Relationship between urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin and noninfectious pyuria in dogs.

PubMed

Proverbio, D; Spada, E; Baggiani, L; Bagnagatti De Giorgi, G; Ferro, E; Martino, P A; Perego, R

2015-01-01

Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is a neutrophil-derived protein whose concentration increases in plasma and urine with ongoing renal damage. Urinary leucocytes can be a potential source of urinary NGAL. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of urinary neutrophil count and other urinary parameters on urinary NGAL values in urine with negative culture. Urinalysis, urine culture, and determination of urinary NGAL were performed on 33 clinically healthy nonproteinuric dogs with negative urinoculture. The median uNGAL concentration in dogs in this study population was 9.74 ng/mL (IQR 1.93-25.43 ng/mL). In samples with WBCs > 5 hpf (mean 15.9, 6-50 leucocytes/hpf), median uNGAL value was significantly higher than that in samples with WBCs < 5 hpf (mean 0.9, 0-3 leucocytes/hpf), (4.96 pg/mL (0.29-11.34) and 23.65 pg/mL (20.04-29.80), resp.; P = 0.0053). The severity of urinary pyuria and the UPC value were correlated with uNGAL concentration. The results of our study show that urinary NGAL concentration is correlated with WBCs number in urinary sediment of dogs with negative urinoculture. The present study suggests that noninfectious pyuria is significantly correlated with urinary NGAL values and might influence uNGAL values.

Evaluation of novel urinary renal biomarkers with a cisplatin model of kidney injury: effects of collection period.

PubMed

Pinches, Mark D; Betts, Catherine J; Bickerton, Susan J; Beattie, Laura; Burdett, Lisa D; Thomas, Helen T; Derbyshire, Nicola A; Moores, Michele

2012-04-01

A number of novel urinary biomarkers have been identified and partially qualified for use as markers for renal injury in rats. To date, all evaluation studies have been made using 18 to 24 hour collection periods. However, shorter, more welfare friendly, urine collection periods are also used in industry. In this article, we quantify urinary biomarker concentration in serial paired sequential short and long urine collections from male rats administered varying concentrations of cisplatin. We calculate the rate of biomarker excretion in normal animals for both collection periods and the bias and correlation in urinary biomarker concentration between collection periods in dosed and control animals, and we estimate the level of agreement in biomarker concentration between both collection periods. We conclude that although there are minor differences in the concentration of some urinary biomarkers that are dependent upon the time and duration of collection, shorter collection protocols do not influence subsequent interpretation of normalized urinary biomarker data for most biomarkers.

Ethion exposure and biological monitoring in vegetable farmers.

PubMed

Kongtip, Pornpimol; Changfuang, Sirinnapa; Yoosook, Witaya; Chantanakul, Suttinun; Sujirarat, Dusit

2011-03-01

To modify the method of analysis of urinary diethyl phosphate (DEP) in order to determine the relationship between atmospheric ethion concentration and urinary DEP concentration. A cross-sectional study was conducted by collecting atmospheric ethion in the breathing zone of 28 farmers following the NIOSH 5600 method. Urine samples were also collected to analyze urinary DEP concentrations by a modified method using a Gas Chromatography-Flame Photometric Detector (FPD). The average atmospheric ethion concentration in the breathing zone of farmers was 0.036 +/- 0.018 mg/m3. The average urinary DEP in pre-shift and post-shift was 0.030 +/- 0.06 and 0.851 +/- 1.80 mg/g of creatinine respectively. The average DEP during work shifts was 0.53 +/- 0.27, and ranged from 0.12 to 1.16 mg/g of creatinine. A high correlation coefficient (r = 0.645) was found between atmospheric ethion concentrations and urinary DEP concentrations at p < 0.001. The modified method provided a reliable result and the urinary DEP during work shifts was found to be a reliable biomarker of ethion exposure.

Sodium-bicarbonated mineral water decreases aldosterone levels without affecting urinary excretion of bone minerals.

PubMed

Schoppen, Stefanie; Pérez-Granados, Ana M; Carbajal, Angeles; Sarriá, Beatriz; Navas-Carretero, Santiago; Pilar Vaquero, M

2008-06-01

AIM To assess in healthy postmenopausal women the influence of consuming sodium-bicarbonated mineral water on postprandial evolution of serum aldosterone and urinary electrolyte excretion. Eighteen postmenopausal women consumed 500 ml of two sodium-bicarbonated mineral waters (sodium-bicarbonated mineral water 1 and sodium-bicarbonated mineral water 2) and a low-mineral water with a standard meal. Postprandial blood samples were taken at 60, 120, 240, 360 and 420 min and aldosterone concentrations were measured. Postprandial urinary minerals were determined. Urinary and total mineral excretion and urinary mineral concentrations did not differ except for sodium concentration, which was significantly higher with sodium-bicarbonated mineral water 1 than with low-mineral water (P = 0.005). There was a time effect (P = 0.003) on the aldosterone concentration. At 120 min, aldosterone concentrations were lower with sodium-bicarbonated mineral water 1 (P = 0.021) and sodium-bicarbonated mineral water 2 (P = 0.030) compared with low-mineral water. Drinking a sodium-rich bicarbonated mineral water with a meal increases urinary sodium concentration excretion without changes in the excretion of potassium and bone minerals.

Nutrition and lower urinary tract disease in cats.

PubMed

Bartges, Joseph W; Kirk, Claudia A

2006-11-01

Lower urinary tract disease occurs commonly in cats and is often associated with crystal-related disease. Dietary modification is beneficial in managing some of these diseases, including idiopathic cystitis, urolithiasis, and urethral matrix-crystalline plugs. Altering dietary formulation may result in decreasing urinary concentrations of crystallogenic compounds, increasing urinary concentrations fo crystallogenic inhibitors, and diluting urine composition.

The Hedgehog Signal Induced Modulation of Bone Morphogenetic Protein Signaling: An Essential Signaling Relay for Urinary Tract Morphogenesis

PubMed Central

Nakagata, Naomi; Miyagawa, Shinichi; Suzuki, Kentaro; Kitazawa, Sohei; Yamada, Gen

2012-01-01

Background Congenital diseases of the urinary tract are frequently observed in infants. Such diseases present a number of developmental anomalies such as hydroureter and hydronephrosis. Although some genetically-modified mouse models of growth factor signaling genes reproduce urinary phenotypes, the pathogenic mechanisms remain obscure. Previous studies suggest that a portion of the cells in the external genitalia and bladder are derived from peri-cloacal mesenchymal cells that receive Hedgehog (Hh) signaling in the early developmental stages. We hypothesized that defects in such progenitor cells, which give rise to urinary tract tissues, may be a cause of such diseases. Methodology/Principal Findings To elucidate the pathogenic mechanisms of upper urinary tract malformations, we analyzed a series of Sonic hedgehog (Shh) deficient mice. Shh−/− displayed hydroureter and hydronephrosis phenotypes and reduced expression of several developmental markers. In addition, we suggested that Shh modulation at an early embryonic stage is responsible for such phenotypes by analyzing the Shh conditional mutants. Tissue contribution assays of Hh-responsive cells revealed that peri-cloacal mesenchymal cells, which received Hh signal secreted from cloacal epithelium, could contribute to the ureteral mesenchyme. Gain- and loss-of-functional mutants for Hh signaling revealed a correlation between Hh signaling and Bone morphogenetic protein (Bmp) signaling. Finally, a conditional ablation of Bmp receptor type IA (BmprIA) gene was examined in Hh-responsive cell lineages. This system thus made it possible to analyze the primary functions of the growth factor signaling relay. The defective Hh-to-Bmp signaling relay resulted in severe urinary tract phenotypes with a decrease in the number of Hh-responsive cells. Conclusions/Significance This study identified the essential embryonic stages for the pathogenesis of urinary tract phenotypes. These results suggested that Hh-responsive mesenchymal Bmp signaling maintains the population of peri-cloacal mesenchyme cells, which is essential for the development of the ureter and the upper urinary tract. PMID:22860096

Uropathogenic E. coli Promote a Paracellular Urothelial Barrier Defect Characterized by Altered Tight Junction Integrity, Epithelial Cell Sloughing and Cytokine Release

PubMed Central

Wood, M. W.; Breitschwerdt, E. B.; Nordone, S. K.; Linder, K. E.; Gookin, J. L.

2013-01-01

Summary The urinary bladder is a common site of bacterial infection with a majority of cases attributed to uropathogenic Escherichia coli. Sequels of urinary tract infections (UTIs) include the loss of urothelial barrier function and subsequent clinical morbidity secondary to the permeation of urine potassium, urea and ammonia into the subepithelium. To date there has been limited research describing the mechanism by which this urothelial permeability defect develops. The present study models acute uropathogenic E. coli infection in vitro using intact canine bladder mucosa mounted in Ussing chambers to determine whether infection induces primarily a transcellular or paracellular permeability defect. The Ussing chamber sustains tissue viability while physically separating submucosal and lumen influences, so this model is ideal for quantitative measurement of transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) to assess alterations of urothelial barrier function. Using this model, changes in both tissue ultrastructure and TER indicated that uropathogenic E. coli infection promotes a paracellular permeability defect associated with the failure of umbrella cell tight junction formation and umbrella cell sloughing. In addition, bacterial interaction with the urothelium promoted secretion of cytokines from the urinary bladder with bioactivity capable of modulating epithelial barrier function including tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-15. IL-15 secretion by the infected bladder mucosa is a novel finding and, because IL-15 plays key roles in reconstitution of tight junction function in damaged intestine, this study points to a potential role for IL-15 in UTI-induced urothelial injury. PMID:22014415

Endocrine and reproductive dysfunction in men associated with occupational inorganic lead intoxication

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

Cullen, M.R.; Kayne, R.D.; Robins, J.M.

In an attempt to define a postulated effect of lead on male endocrine function, seven men with symptomatic occupational lead intoxication (maximum whole blood lead levels 66-139 ..mu..g/dl) underwent in-patient endocrine evaluation at the time of diagnosis. Defects in thyroid function probably of central origin, were present in three patients. Six patients had subnormal glucocorticoid production measured by 24-hr urinary 17-hydroxy-corticosteroids and plasma cortisol responses to vasopressin- and/or insulin-induced hypoglycemia. Although serum testosterone concentration was normal in six patients, five had defects in spermatogenesis, including two with ologospermia and two with azoospermia. Repeat examinations after chelation therapy showed only partialmore » improvement. It is concluded that heavy occupational exposure to lead, sufficient to cause clinical poisoning, may be associated with diffuse disturbances of endocrine and reproductive functions in men which are not rapidly reversible with standard treatment. Since men without overt poisoning have not been studied, these results cannot yet be included as sequelae of low-dose exposures.« less

The relevance of the urinary concentration of ephedrines in anti-doping analysis: determination of pseudoephedrine, cathine, and ephedrine after administration of over-the-counter medicaments.

PubMed

Strano-Rossi, Sabina; Leone, Daniele; de la Torre, Xavier; Botrè, Francesco

2009-08-01

This article describes a method for the detection and quantitation of cathine, pseudoephedrine, ephedrine, and methylephedrine in urine, using their deuterated analogues as internal standards and derivatization to form the corresponding trimethylsilyl derivatives after a simple liquid-liquid extraction. The study was designed to evaluate whether the urinary cutoff values set by the World Anti-Doping Agency for the banned ephedrines (cathine >5 microg/mL, ephedrine and methylephedrine >10 microg/mL) can be exceeded after the normal self-administration of common over-the-counter medicaments containing nonbanned ephedrines. The present method, after validation, has been applied on real urine samples obtained from 9 healthy volunteers taking different doses of over-the-counter preparations containing ephedrines. Results obtained from excretion studies show high interindividual differences in the urinary concentrations of both pseudoephedrine and cathine, not dependent on body weight or sex nor, in some instances, on the administered dose. The same typical therapeutic dose of pseudoephedrine (60 mg) produced a urinary concentration of more than 5 microg/mL for cathine and of more than 100 microg/mL for pseudoephedrine in 2 of 9 subjects only. When a dose of 120 mg was administered, cathine concentration exceeded 5 microg/mL in 4 of 7 subject, and also concentrations of pseudoephedrine above 100 microg/mL. After administration of 5 x 120 mg of pseudoephedrine (120 mg administered every 7 days for 5 weeks) to one of the subjects exceeding the urinary threshold values, the urinary concentration of cathine and pseudoephedrine exceeded 5 microg/mL (peak concentration 14.8 microg/mL) and 100 microg/mL (peak concentration 275 microg/mL), respectively. When the same subject took 180 mg of pseudoephedrine, the urinary concentration values were below 5 microg/mL for ephedrine and 100 microg/mL for pseudoephedrine. In the case of ephedrine administration in a sustained-release formulation containing 12 mg of ephedrine, 2 of 3 subjects exceeded the urinary cutoff value of 10 microg/mL. The high interindividual variability is still significant even if the urinary concentration values are adjusted by specific gravity and/or creatinine. These results confirm a high interindividual variability in the urinary concentration of ephedrines after the administration of the same therapeutic dose of a preparation.

Characterization of Proteinuria in Dogue de Bordeaux Dogs, a Breed Predisposed to a Familial Glomerulonephropathy: A Retrospective Study.

PubMed

Lavoué, Rachel; Trumel, Catherine; Smets, Pascale M Y; Braun, Jean-Pierre; Aresu, Luca; Daminet, Sylvie; Concordet, Didier; Palanché, Florence; Peeters, Dominique

2015-01-01

Dogue de Bordeaux dog has been reported to be predisposed to a familial glomerulonephropathy that displays some morphological modifications reported in focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis. Prevalence of quantitatively abnormal renal proteinuria was recently reported to be 33% in this breed. The nature of the proteinuria was assessed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-agarose gel electrophoresis and determinations of urinary markers (urinary retinol-binding protein, urinary N-acetyl-β-glucosaminidase, urinary albumin and urinary immunoglobulin G) on stored specimens. Diagnostic performances of sodium dodecyl sulfate-agarose gel electrophoresis to identify dogs with elevated urinary biomarkers were assessed. Samples from 102 adult Dogue de Bordeaux dogs (47 non-proteinuric [urine protein-to-creatinine ratio ≤ 0.2], 20 borderline-proteinuric [0.2< urine protein-to-creatinine ratio ≤ 0.5] and 35 proteinuric dogs [urine protein-to-creatinine ratio >0.5]) were used, of which 2 were suffering from familial glomerulonephropathy. The electrophoretic protein patterns, for all but one proteinuric dog, were indicative of a glomerular origin and, in all dogs, the urinary albumin concentration related to creatinine concentration and the urinary immunoglobulin G concentration related to creatinine concentration were above the upper limit of the reference interval established for the breed. Sensitivity and specificity of sodium dodecyl sulfate-agarose gel electrophoresis identifying dogs with elevated urinary albumin concentration were 94% and 92%, respectively, while diagnostic performance of sodium dodecyl sulfate-agarose gel electrophoresis in detecting dogs with elevated urinary immunoglobulin G concentration yielded sensitivity and specificity of 90% and 74%, respectively. These results suggest that all proteinuric and some borderline-proteinuric Dogue de Bordeaux dogs likely have underlying glomerular lesions and that sodium dodecyl sulfate-agarose gel electrophoresis and urinary markers might be useful to screen dogs with borderline-proteinuria. Additional investigations are warranted to assess if these findings are related to the familial glomerulonephropathy.

Peripheral markers of serotonergic and noradrenergic function in post-pubertal, caucasian males with autistic disorder.

PubMed

Croonenberghs, J; Delmeire, L; Verkerk, R; Lin, A H; Meskal, A; Neels, H; Van der Planken, M; Scharpe, S; Deboutte, D; Pison, G; Maes, M

2000-03-01

Some studies have suggested that disorders in the peripheral and central metabolism of serotonin (5-HT) and noradrenaline may play a role in the pathophysiology of autistic disorder. This study examines serotonergic and noradrenergic markers in a study group of 13 male, post-pubertal, caucasian autistic patients (age 12-18 y; I.Q. > 55) and 13 matched volunteers. [3H]-paroxetine binding Kd values were significantly higher in patients with autism than in healthy volunteers. Plasma concentrations of tryptophan, the precursor of 5-HT, were significantly lower in autistic patients than in healthy volunteers. There were no significant differences between autistic and normal children in the serum concentrations of 5-HT, or the 24-hr urinary excretion of 5-hydroxy-indoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), adrenaline, noradrenaline, and dopamine. There were no significant differences in [3H]-rauwolscine binding Bmax or Kd values, or in the serum concentrations of tyrosine, the precursor of noradrenaline, between both study groups. There were highly significant positive correlations between age and 24-hr urinary excretion of 5-HIAA and serum tryptophan. The results suggest that: 1) serotonergic disturbances, such as defects in the 5-HT transporter system and lowered plasma tryptophan, may play a role in the pathophysiology of autism; 2) autism is not associated with alterations in the noradrenergic system; and 3) the metabolism of serotonin in humans undergoes significant changes between the ages of 12 and 18 years.

Nature of the Renal Concentrating Defect in Sickle Cell Disease*

PubMed Central

Hatch, Fred E.; Culbertson, James W.; Diggs, Lemuel W.

1967-01-01

Free water reabsorption (TcH2O) measured during 10% mannitol diuresis and subsequently during 3% saline diuresis was compared in patients with sickle cell anemia and in normal subjects. During mannitol infusion, TcH2O progressively rose with increasing osmolar clearance (Cosm) and reached a maximal level in both groups studied. During hypertonic saline diuresis, TcH2O progressively rose in the normal subjects and exceeded the maximal levels attained during mannitol diuresis, with no evidence of a maximal TcH2O level appearing. In contrast, none of the saline curves significantly exceeded the mannitol curves in the sickle cell patients but tended to parallel the mannitol curves at comparable rates of solute clearance. Since TcH2O is an index of both solute (sodium) transport from the loop of Henle and solute accumulation in the hypertonic medullary interstitium, tubular sodium handling was examined in both sickle cell patients and control subjects alike. No difference in the tubular transport of sodium could be demonstrated either under conditions of sodium loading or under conditions in which the tubular sodium load was low (water diuresis). These data support the conclusion that the defect in urinary concentration in sickle cell patients is caused by a limitation in maintaining a high concentration of solute in the medullary interstitium, thus limiting the rate of TcH2O from the collecting duct. PMID:6023770

Cardiometabolic risk factors are associated with high urinary enterolactone concentration, independent of urinary enterodiol concentration and dietary fiber intake in adults.

PubMed

Frankenfeld, Cara L

2014-09-01

The study objective was to evaluate independent and interactive associations of dietary fiber intake and high urinary enterolignans with cardiometabolic risk factors. The analysis included 2260 adults (≥20 y of age) from the 2003-2010 NHANES. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate obesity and clinically defined cardiometabolic risk factors in relation to dietary fiber intake and urinary enterolignan concentrations. Three sets of models were created: 1) independent associations, 2) mutually adjusted associations, and 3) interactions. Models were adjusted for age, gender, race/ethnicity, education, smoking status, and energy intake. High concentrations were considered to be above the 90th percentile of urinary enterolignan concentrations. Increasing dietary fiber intake was associated with high blood pressure (P = 0.02) and low serum HDL cholesterol (P-trend = 0.03). High urinary enterodiol concentration was not associated with obesity or cardiometabolic risk factors. High urinary enterolactone concentration was inversely associated with obesity (OR: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.29, 0.66), abdominal obesity (OR: 0.58; 95% CI: 0.39, 0.87), high serum C-reactive protein (CRP; OR: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.37, 0.74), high serum triglycerides (OR: 0.39; 95% CI: 0.23, 0.61), low serum HDL cholesterol (OR: 0.37; 95% CI: 0.23, 0.61), and metabolic syndrome (OR: 0.47; 95% CI: 0.30, 0.74). In mutually adjusted models, enterolactone associations observed in independent models remained similar, but associations for dietary fiber intake were attenuated, with the exception of blood pressure. In interaction models, there were 2 significant interactions: between high urinary enterodiol concentration and dietary fiber intake for high serum CRP (P = 0.04) and high plasma glucose (P = 0.04). Overall, being in the highest 10% of urinary enterolactone concentration was associated with cardiometabolic risk factors, independent of dietary fiber intake and enterodiol concentration. Future studies are warranted to evaluate physiologic actions of enterolactone or aspects of the gut microbial profile responsible for lignan metabolism to enterolactone. © 2014 American Society for Nutrition.

Relation of dietary inorganic arsenic exposure and urinary inorganic arsenic metabolites excretion in Japanese subjects.

PubMed

Oguri, Tomoko; Yoshinaga, Jun; Suzuki, Yayoi; Tao, Hiroaki; Nakazato, Tetsuya

2017-06-03

Inorganic arsenic (InAs) is a ubiquitous metalloid that has been shown to exert multiple adverse health outcomes. Urinary InAs and its metabolite concentration has been used as a biomarker of arsenic (As) exposure in some epidemiological studies, however, quantitative relationship between daily InAs exposure and urinary InAs metabolites concentration has not been well characterized. We collected a set of 24-h duplicated diet and spot urine sample of the next morning of diet sampling from 20 male and 19 female subjects in Japan from August 2011 to October 2012. Concentrations of As species in duplicated diet and urine samples were determined by using liquid chromatography-ICP mass spectrometry with a hydride generation system. Sum of the concentrations of urinary InAs and methylarsonic acid (MMA) was used as a measure of InAs exposure. Daily dietary InAs exposure was estimated to be 0.087 µg kg -1 day -1 (Geometric mean, GM), and GM of urinary InAs+MMA concentrations was 3.5 ng mL -1 . Analysis of covariance did not find gender-difference in regression coefficients as significant (P > 0.05). Regression equation Log 10 [urinary InAs+MMA concentration] = 0.570× Log 10 [dietary InAs exposure level per body weight] + 1.15 was obtained for whole data set. This equation would be valuable in converting urinary InAs concentration to daily InAs exposure, which will be important information in risk assessment.

Fecal and urinary N-methylhistamine concentrations in dogs with chronic gastrointestinal disease.

PubMed

Berghoff, Nora; Hill, Steve; Parnell, Nolie K; Mansell, Joanne; Suchodolski, Jan S; Steiner, Jörg M

2014-09-01

Due to their ability to release inflammatory mediators, such as histamine, mast cells are potentially important in gastrointestinal disease. The purpose of this study was to measure N-methylhistamine (NMH), a histamine metabolite, in fecal and urine samples from dogs with chronic gastrointestinal disease. Fecal and urinary NMH concentrations were compared between dogs with chronic gastrointestinal disease and control dogs, and/or to control ranges. Correlation between fecal and urinary NMH concentrations, serum C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration, the clinical disease activity index (CCECAI), and gastrointestinal mucosal mast cell numbers (where available) in dogs with gastrointestinal disease was evaluated. Seven of 16 dogs with gastrointestinal disease had increased urinary or fecal NMH concentrations, but there was no correlation between NMH concentrations and the CCECAI or mucosal mast cells numbers. Urinary NMH concentrations were positively associated with histological grading and serum CRP concentrations. The lack of correlation between NMH concentrations and the CCECAI suggests that NMH may not be a good marker for clinical disease activity in dogs as determined by the CCECAI. Based on their association with severity of intestinal mucosal inflammation, urinary NMH concentrations may potentially have clinical utility as a marker of intestinal inflammation in certain groups of dogs with chronic gastrointestinal disease, but future studies in a larger number of dogs are necessary to further characterize the role of mast cell-mediated inflammation in dogs with chronic gastrointestinal disease. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Urinary levoglucosan as a biomarker for woodsmoke exposure in wildland firefighters.

PubMed

Naeher, Luke P; Barr, Dana Boyd; Adetona, Olorunfemi; Simpson, Christopher D

2013-01-01

Levoglucosan, a sugar anhydride and a combustion breakdown product of cellulose is a dominant organic constituent of particles in woodsmoke. After exposure, levoglucosan is excreted unmetabolized in urine. Urinary levoglucosan was assessed as a biomarker of occupational woodsmoke exposure among wildland firefighters. Urine samples were collected from wildland firefighters before and after their work-shifts on days when they worked at prescribed burns. A total of 97 pairs of pre- and post-shift urine samples were collected from 19 firefighters over 10 prescribed burn shifts. The urine samples were analyzed to determine whether there was an increase in the concentration of levoglucosan from pre- to post-shift after the firefighters had worked at the prescribed burns. Overall, there was an increase in both the urinary volume-based and creatinine corrected levoglucosan concentrations from pre- to post-shift (P < 0.05). However, the direction of change in the concentrations was not consistent. There were increases in urinary levoglucosan concentration from pre- to post-shift in 63% of the person-day samples, and in only 58% of the person-day samples for the creatinine corrected concentrations. Although there was an overall increase in urinary concentrations of levoglucosan, results suggest that other sources apart from woodsmoke affected the urinary levels of this biomarker in wildland firefighters. Therefore, urinary levoglucosan may not be effective as a biomarker of woodsmoke exposure in this setting.

Relevance of dietary protein concentration and quality as risk factors for the formation of calcium oxalate stones in cats.

PubMed

Paßlack, Nadine; Burmeier, Hannes; Brenten, Thomas; Neumann, Konrad; Zentek, Jürgen

2014-01-01

The role of dietary protein for the development of feline calcium oxalate (CaOx) uroliths has not been conclusively clarified. The present study evaluated the effects of a varying dietary protein concentration and quality on critical indices for the formation of CaOx uroliths. Three diets with a high protein quality (10-11 % greaves meal/diet) and a varying crude protein (CP) concentration (35, 44 and 57 % in DM) were compared. Additionally, the 57 % CP diet was compared with a fourth diet that had a similar CP concentration (55 % in DM), but a lower protein quality (34 % greaves meal/diet). The Ca and oxalate (Ox) concentrations were similar in all diets. A group of eight cats received the same diet at the same time. Each feeding period was divided into a 21 d adaptation period and a 7 d sampling period to collect urine. There were increases in urinary volume, urinary Ca concentrations, renal Ca and Ox excretion and urinary relative supersaturation (RSS) with CaOx with increasing dietary protein concentrations. Urinary pH ranged between 6·34 and 6·66 among all groups, with no unidirectional effect of dietary protein. Lower renal Ca excretion was observed when feeding the diet with the lower protein quality, however, the underlying mechanism needs further evaluation. In conclusion, although the observed higher urinary volume is beneficial, the increase in urinary Ca concentrations, renal Ca and Ox excretion and urinary RSS CaOx associated with a high-protein diet may be critical for the development of CaOx uroliths in cats.

Urinary 3-hydroxypropyl mercapturic acid (3-HPMA) concentrations in dogs with acute spinal cord injury due to intervertebral disc herniation.

PubMed

Sangster, A M; Zheng, L; Bentley, R T; Shi, R; Packer, R A

2017-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate urinary 3-hydroxypropyl mercapturic acid (3-HPMA), a metabolite of acrolein, as a novel biomarker in acute spinal cord injury (ASCI) due to intervertebral disc herniation in dogs. Urine from 10 client-owned dogs with ASCI collected at presentation and 10 control dogs was analyzed for 3-HPMA. The median urinary 3-HPMA concentration in ASCI dogs was significantly higher than in control dogs, but was not correlated with the severity of ASCI. The median urinary 3-HPMA concentration in intact dogs was higher than in neutered dogs. Higher urinary 3-HPMA concentrations in dogs after ASCI support a role for acrolein, a cytotoxic by-product of lipid peroxidation, in canine ASCI. Urinary 3-HPMA could be used as a biomarker in future clinical trials to measure the effect of therapeutic intervention of reducing acrolein after ASCI. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Occupational tellurium exposure and garlic odour.

PubMed

Berriault, C J; Lightfoot, N E

2011-03-01

Few studies have considered garlic odour as a socially important outcome of occupational tellurium (Te) exposure or concurrent exposures, and most known guidelines focus on other signs and symptoms (e.g. weight loss and somnolence). This study considers workers exposed to tellurium and selenium (Se) at an Ontario, Canada silver refinery. To establish the relation of urinary tellurium concentrations to reporting garlic odour, while considering other work-related factors such as concurrent urinary selenium concentrations. Historical surveillance records of urinary analyses for tellurium and selenium concentrations (μmol Te or Se/mol creatinine in urine) and symptom self-reports were used. Records were available from December 1986 to June 2002. Logistic regression models were fitted using age at sampling, tellurium and selenium urine concentration and duration of employment. Individual main effects were age adjusted and the final model was fitted for tellurium and selenium urine concentration and duration of employment. Urinary tellurium concentration was significantly associated with garlic odour reporting (odds ratio = 1.74, 95% confidence interval 1.01-2.97, P < 0.05). Furthermore, the likelihood of reporting garlic odour rose as workers reached urinary tellurium concentrations >1 μmol/mol creatinine. Tellurium urinary concentrations of <1 μmol/mol creatinine appear to limit, but not eliminate, the likelihood of reporting garlic odour. Future studies should consider the effect of concurrent selenium exposure as well as other workplace factors and hygiene.

Male hypogonadism.

PubMed

Basaria, Shehzad

2014-04-05

Male hypogonadism is a clinical syndrome that results from failure to produce physiological concentrations of testosterone, normal amounts of sperm, or both. Hypogonadism may arise from testicular disease (primary hypogonadism) or dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary unit (secondary hypogonadism). Clinical presentations vary dependent on the time of onset of androgen deficiency, whether the defect is in testosterone production or spermatogenesis, associated genetic factors, or history of androgen therapy. The clinical diagnosis of hypogonadism is made on the basis of signs and symptoms consistent with androgen deficiency and low morning testosterone concentrations in serum on multiple occasions. Several testosterone-replacement therapies are approved for treatment and should be selected according to the patient's preference, cost, availability, and formulation-specific properties. Contraindications to testosterone-replacement therapy include prostate and breast cancers, uncontrolled congestive heart failure, severe lower-urinary-tract symptoms, and erythrocytosis. Treatment should be monitored for benefits and adverse effects. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Urinary orotic acid-to-creatinine ratios in cats with hepatic lipidosis.

PubMed

VanSteenhouse, J L; Dimski, D S; Swenson, D H; Taboada, J

1999-06-01

To determine urinary orotic acid (OA) concentration and evaluate the urinary OA-to-creatinine ratio (OACR) in cats with hepatic lipidosis (HL). 20 cats with HL and 20 clinically normal cats. Hepatic lipidosis was diagnosed on the basis of clinical signs, results of serum biochemical analyses, exclusion of other concurrent illness, and cytologic or histologic evaluation of liver biopsy specimens. Urine samples were collected from each cat and frozen at -20 C until assayed. Urine creatinine concentrations were determined, using an alkaline picrate method followed by spectrophotometric assay. Urine OA concentration was determined, using high-performance liquid chromatography. Minimum amount of detectable OA in feline urine was 1 microg/ml. Because of small interfering peaks near the base of the OA peak, the minimum quantifiable concentration of OA was determined to be 5 microg/ml. Urinary OACR was compared in both groups of cats. Differences in urinary OACR were not detected between clinically normal cats and cats with HL. Peaks were not detected for urinary OA in any of the 20 clinically normal cats. Of the 20 HL cats, 14 did not have detectable peaks for urinary OA. Of the 6 HL cats that had detectable urinary OA peaks, 3 had values of <5 microg/ml. Apparently, OACR does not increase significantly in cats with HL. Urinary OACR is not a useful diagnostic test for HL in cats.

Recommended oral sodium bicarbonate administration for urine alkalinization did not affect the concentration of mitomycin-C in non-muscle invasive bladder cancer patients.

PubMed

Seo, Ho Kyung; Kim, Sung Han; Ahn, Kyung-Ohk; Lee, Sang-Jin; Park, Weon Seo; Kim, Sohee; Hwang, Sang-Hyun; Lee, Do Hoon; Joung, Jae Young; Chung, Jinsoo; Joo, Jungnam; Jeong, Kyung-Chae

2017-11-10

Sodium bicarbonate has been reported to maximize the efficacy of intravesical instillation of mitomycin-C (IVI-MMC) therapy by urine alkalinization in non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). This study aimed to analyze the changes in MMC concentration according to urinary pH and evaluate the efficacy of sodium bicarbonate to maintain the concentration of active form of MMC during IVI-MMC. We prospectively enrolled 26 patients with NMIBC after transurethral resection of bladder tumor. Patients with very high-risk and low-risk NMIBC were excluded. Urinary creatinine, volume, pH, and concentrations of MMC and its degraded form were measured immediately before and after IVI-MMC. The patients were administered 1.5 g of oral sodium bicarbonate during the preceding evening, in the morning, and immediately before the fourth cycle of the six-cycle IVI-MMC. The correlation between MMC concentration and urinary pH changes was explored with or without oral bicarbonate therapy. Recurrence without progression to muscle-invasive disease was noted in 4 of 26 patients in a 23.7-month follow-up. The mean urinary pH before and after the therapy increased from 6.03 to 6.50, and 6.46 to 7.24, without or with oral SB therapy, respectively. Despite this increase, the concentration of active form of MMC did not change significantly. No correlation was found between urinary pH and MMC concentration. Urine alkalinization by SB administration did not maintain the high concentration of urinary MMC. Urine alkalinization by sodium bicarbonate administration for IVI-MMC did not maintain the high concentration of active urinary MMC in NMIBC.

Association between antibiotic use among pregnant women with urinary tract infections in the first trimester and birth defects, National Birth Defects Prevention Study 1997 to 2011.

PubMed

Ailes, Elizabeth C; Gilboa, Suzanne M; Gill, Simerpal K; Broussard, Cheryl S; Crider, Krista S; Berry, Robert J; Carter, Tonia C; Hobbs, Charlotte A; Interrante, Julia D; Reefhuis, Jennita

2016-11-01

Previous studies noted associations between birth defects and some antibiotics (e.g., nitrofurantoin, sulfonamides) but not others (e.g., penicillins). It is unclear if previous findings were due to antibiotic use, infections, or chance. To control for potential confounding by indication, we examined associations between antibiotic use and birth defects, among women reporting urinary tract infections (UTIs). The National Birth Defects Prevention Study is a multi-site, population-based case-control study. Case infants/fetuses have any of over 30 major birth defects and controls are live-born infants without major birth defects. We analyzed pregnancies from 1997 to 2011 to estimate the association between maternally reported periconceptional (month before conception through the third month of pregnancy) use of nitrofurantoin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, or cephalosporins and specific birth defects, among women with periconceptional UTIs. Women with periconceptional UTIs who reported penicillin use served as the comparator. Periconceptional UTIs were reported by 7.8% (2029/26,068) of case and 6.7% (686/10,198) of control mothers. Most (68.2% of case, 66.6% of control mothers) also reported antibiotic use. Among 608 case and 231 control mothers reporting at least one periconceptional UTI and certain antibiotic use, compared with penicillin, nitrofurantoin use was associated with oral clefts in the offspring (adjusted odds ratio, 1.97 [95% confidence interval, 1.10-3.53]), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole use with esophageal atresia (5.31 [1.39-20.24]) and diaphragmatic hernia (5.09 [1.20-21.69]), and cephalosporin use with anorectal atresia/stenosis (5.01 [1.34-18.76]). Periconceptional exposure to some antibiotics might increase the risk for certain birth defects. However, because individual birth defects are rare, absolute risks should drive treatment decisions.Birth Defects Research (Part A) 106:940-949, 2016.© 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Urinary excretion of glycosaminoglycans in the various forms of gargoylism

PubMed Central

Manley, G.; Williams, U.

1969-01-01

The urinary excretion of glycosaminoglycans in 28 cases of gargoylism, embracing the Hurler, Hunter, Sanfilippo, Morquio, and Scheie syndromes (McKusick, 1966), has been examined using the cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) turbidity test, the uronic acid/creatinine ratio, and the electrophoretic pattern of urine concentrates, as routine procedures. Ion-exchange column chromatographic techniques were also employed for the fractionation of glycosaminoglycans and aminosugars. Molecular weights were investigated by gel filtration and ultracentrifugation. The CPC turbidity test was positive in every case. The uronic acid/creatinine ratio provided a sensitive index of increased glycosaminoglycan excretion. Cases of the Hurler syndrome showed the highest, and cases of the Morquio and Scheie syndromes the lowest, ratios. A correlation was observed between the uronic acid/creatinine ratio and the clinical severity of the disease. Cellulose acetate electrophoresis differentiated clearly between the two major forms of gargoylism, the Hurler and Sanfilippo syndromes, but differentiation between the Hurler, Hunter, and Scheie syndromes was more difficult on electrophoretic data alone. Results obtained with cases diagnosed as the Morquio syndrome were disappointing. The existence of formes frustes of the Sanfilippo syndrome among the mentally subnormal is predicted. Errors caused by bacterial contamination of urine samples are emphasized. The atypical behaviour of urinary glycosaminoglycans in analytical procedures is discussed. Molecular weight studies suggested heterogeneity. The nature of the basic defect in gargoylism is discussed. Images PMID:4239429

The significance of the open bladder neck associated with pelvic fracture urethral distraction defects.

PubMed

Iselin, C E; Webster, G D

1999-08-01

As a result of pelvic fracture urethral distraction defects, urinary continence relies predominantly on intact bladder neck function. Hence, when cystoscopy and/or cystography reveals an open bladder neck before urethroplasty, the probability of postoperative urinary incontinence may be significant. Unresolved issues are the necessity, the timing and the type of bladder neck repair. We report the outcome of various therapeutic options in patients with pelvic fracture urethral distraction defects and open bladder neck. We also attempt to identify prognostic factors of incontinence before urethroplasty. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 15 patients with a mean age of 30 years in whom an open bladder neck was identified before posterior urethroplasty between January 1981 and October 1997. Of the 15 patients 6 were continent and 8 were incontinent postoperatively. One patient underwent artificial urethral sphincter implantation simultaneously with pelvic fracture urethral distraction defect repair and was dry postoperatively without sphincter activation. Average bladder neck and prostatic urethral opening on the cystourethrogram before urethroplasty was significantly longer in incontinent (1.68 cm.) than in continent (0.9 cm.) patients. Of the 8 patients who were incontinent 6 underwent bladder neck reconstruction, 1 artificial urinary sphincter and 1 periurethral collagen implant. Five patients with bladder neck reconstruction are totally continent and 1 requires 1 pad daily. The patient who underwent collagen implant requires 2 pads daily and the patient who received an artificial urethral sphincter has minor urge leakage. Open bladder neck before urethroplasty may herald postoperative incontinence which may be predicted by radiographic and cystoscopic features. Evaluation of the risk of postoperative incontinence may be valuable, and eventually guide the necessity and timing of anti-incontinence surgery, although our preference remains to manage the pelvic fracture urethral distraction defects and bladder neck problem sequentially. Bladder neck reconstruction provides good postoperative continence rates and is our technique of choice.

Biological monitoring of smoke exposure among wildland firefighters: A pilot study comparing urinary methoxyphenols with personal exposures to carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and levoglucosan.

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

Neitzel, R.; Naeher, L., P.; Paulsen, M.

2009-04-01

Urinary methoxyphenols (MPs) have been proposed as biomarkers of woodsmoke exposure. However, few field studies have been undertaken to evaluate the relationship between woodsmoke exposure and urinary MP concentrations. We conducted a pilot study at the US Forest ServiceFSavannah River Site, in which carbon monoxide (CO), levoglucosan (LG), and particulate matter (PM2.5) exposures were measured in wildland firefighters on prescribedburn days. Pre- and post-shift urine samples were collected from each subject, and cross-shift changes in creatinine-corrected urinary MP concentrations were calculated. Correlations between exposure measures and creatine-adjusted urinary MP concentrations were explored, and regression models were developed relating changes inmore » urinary MP concentrations to measured exposure levels. Full-shift measurements were made on 13 firefighters over 20 work shifts in winter 2004 at the US Forest Service Savannah River site, a National Environmental Research Park. The average workshift length across the 20 measured shifts was 701±95 min. LG and CO exposures were significantly correlated for samples where the filter measurement captured at least 60% of the work shift (16 samples), as well as for the smaller set of full-shift exposure samples (n¼9). PM2.5 and CO exposures were not significantly correlated, and LG and PM2.5 exposures were only significantly correlated for samples representing at least 60% of the work shift. Creatinine-corrected urinary concentrations for 20 of the 22 MPs showed cross-shift increases, with 14 of these changes showing statistical significance. Individual and summed creatinine-adjusted guaiacol urinary MPs were highly associated with CO (and, to a lesser degree, LG) exposure levels, and random-effects regression models including CO and LG exposure levels explained up to 80% of the variance in cross-shift changes in summed creatinine-adjusted guaiacol urinary MP concentrations. Although limited by the small sample size, this pilot study demonstrates that urinary MP concentrations may be effective biomarkers of occupational exposure to wood smoke among wildland firefighters.« less

Biological monitoring of smoke exposure among wildland firefighters: Apilot study comparing urinary methoxyphenols with personal exposures to carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and levoglucosan.

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

Neitzel, R.; Naeher, L., P.; Paulsen, M.

2009-04-01

Urinary methoxyphenols (MPs) have been proposed as biomarkers of woodsmoke exposure. However, few field studies have been undertaken to evaluate the relationship between woodsmoke exposure and urinary MP concentrations. We conducted a pilot study at the US Forest Service Savannah River Site, in which carbon monoxide (CO), levoglucosan (LG), and particulate matter (PM2.5) exposures were measured in wildland firefighters on prescribed burn days. Pre- and post-shift urine samples were collected from each subject, and cross-shift changes in creatinine-corrected urinary MP concentrations were calculated. Correlations between exposure measures and creatine-adjusted urinary MP concentrations were explored, and regression models were developed relatingmore » changes in urinary MP concentrations to measured exposure levels. Full-shift measurements were made on 13 firefighters over 20 work shifts in winter 2004 at the US Forest Service Savannah River site, a National Environmental Research Park. The average workshift length across the 20 measured shifts was 701±95 min. LG and CO exposures were significantly correlated for samples where the filter measurement captured at least 60% of the work shift (16 samples), as well as for the smaller set of full-shift exposure samples (n¼9). PM2.5 and CO exposures were not significantly correlated, and LG and PM2.5 exposures were only significantly correlated for samples representing at least 60% of the work shift. Creatinine-corrected urinary concentrations for 20 of the 22 MPs showed cross-shift increases, with 14 of these changes showing statistical significance. Individual and summed creatinine-adjusted guaiacol urinary MPs were highly associated with CO (and, to a lesser degree, LG) exposure levels, and random-effects regression models including CO and LG exposure levels explained up to 80% of the variance in cross-shift changes in summed creatinine-adjusted guaiacol urinary MP concentrations. Although limited by the small sample size, this pilot study demonstrates that urinary MP concentrations may be effective biomarkers of occupational exposure to wood smoke among wildland firefighters.« less

Biological monitoring of smoke exposure among wildland firefighters: A pilot study comparing urinary methoxyphenols with personal exposures to carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and levoglucosan.

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

Neitzel, R.; Naeher, L., P.; Paulsen, M.

2009-04-01

Urinary methoxyphenols (MPs) have been proposed as biomarkers of woodsmoke exposure. However, few field studies have been undertaken to evaluate the relationship between woodsmoke exposure and urinary MP concentrations. We conducted a pilot study at the US Forest Service Savannah River Site, in which carbon monoxide (CO), levoglucosan (LG), and particulate matter (PM2.5) exposures were measured in wildland firefighters on prescribed burn days. Pre- and post-shift urine samples were collected from each subject, and cross-shift changes in creatinine-corrected urinary MP concentrations were calculated. Correlations between exposure measures and creatine-adjusted urinary MP concentrations were explored, and regression models were developed relatingmore » changes in urinary MP concentrations to measured exposure levels. Full-shift measurements were made on 13 firefighters over 20 work shifts in winter 2004 at the US Forest Service Savannah River site, a National Environmental Research Park. The average workshift length across the 20 measured shifts was 701±95 min. LG and CO exposures were significantly correlated for samples where the filter measurement captured at least 60% of the work shift (16 samples), as well as for the smaller set of full-shift exposure samples (n¼9). PM2.5 and CO exposures were not significantly correlated, and LG and PM2.5 exposures were only significantly correlated for samples representing at least 60% of the work shift. Creatinine-corrected urinary concentrations for 20 of the 22 MPs showed cross-shift increases, with 14 of these changes showing statistical significance. Individual and summed creatinine-adjusted guaiacol urinary MPs were highly associated with CO (and, to a lesser degree, LG) exposure levels, and random-effects regression models including CO and LG exposure levels explained up to 80% of the variance in cross-shift changes in summed creatinine-adjusted guaiacol urinary MP concentrations. Although limited by the small sample size, this pilot study demonstrates that urinary MP concentrations may be effective biomarkers of occupational exposure to wood smoke among wildland firefighters.« less

Biological monitoring of smoke exposure among wildland firefighters: Apilot study comparing urinary methoxyphenols with personal exposures to carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and levoglucosan.

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

Neitzel, R.; Naeher, L., P.; Paulsen, M.

2009-04-01

Urinary methoxyphenols (MPs) have been proposed as biomarkers of woodsmoke exposure. However, few field studies have been undertaken to evaluate the relationship between woodsmoke exposure and urinary MP concentrations. We conducted a pilot study at the US Forest ServiceFSavannah River Site, in which carbon monoxide (CO), levoglucosan (LG), and particulate matter (PM2.5) exposures were measured in wildland firefighters on prescribed burn days. Pre- and post-shift urine samples were collected from each subject, and cross-shift changes in creatinine-corrected urinary MP concentrations were calculated. Correlations between exposure measures and creatine-adjusted urinary MP concentrations were explored, and regression models were developed relating changesmore » in urinary MP concentrations to measured exposure levels. Full-shift measurements were made on 13 firefighters over 20 work shifts in winter 2004 at the US Forest Service Savannah River site, a National Environmental Research Park. The average workshift length across the 20 measured shifts was 701±95 min. LG and CO exposures were significantly correlated for samples where the filter measurement captured at least 60% of the work shift (16 samples), as well as for the smaller set of full-shift exposure samples (n¼9). PM2.5 and CO exposures were not significantly correlated, and LG and PM2.5 exposures were only significantly correlated for samples representing at least 60% of the work shift. Creatinine-corrected urinary concentrations for 20 of the 22 MPs showed cross-shift increases, with 14 of these changes showing statistical significance. Individual and summed creatinine-adjusted guaiacol urinary MPs were highly associated with CO (and, to a lesser degree, LG) exposure levels, and random-effects regression models including CO and LG exposure levels explained up to 80% of the variance in cross-shift changes in summed creatinine-adjusted guaiacol urinary MP concentrations. Although limited by the small sample size, this pilot study demonstrates that urinary MP concentrations may be effective biomarkers of occupational exposure to wood smoke among wildland firefighters.« less

Biological monitoring of smoke exposure among wildland firefighters: Apilot study comparing urinary methoxyphenols with personal exposures to carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and levoglucosan.

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

Neitzel, R.; Naeher, L., P.; Paulsen, M.

2008-04-01

Urinary methoxyphenols (MPs) have been proposed as biomarkers of woodsmoke exposure. However, few field studies have been undertaken to evaluate the relationship between woodsmoke exposure and urinary MP concentrations. We conducted a pilot study at the US Forest Service Savannah River Site, in which carbon monoxide (CO), levoglucosan (LG), and particulate matter (PM2.5) exposures were measured in wildland firefighters on prescribed burn days. Pre- and post-shift urine samples were collected from each subject, and cross-shift changes in creatinine-corrected urinary MP concentrations were calculated. Correlations between exposure measures and creatine-adjusted urinary MP concentrations were explored, and regression models were developed relatingmore » changes in urinary MP concentrations to measured exposure levels. Full-shift measurements were made on 13 firefighters over 20 work shifts in winter 2004 at the US Forest Service Savannah River site, a National Environmental Research Park. The average workshift length across the 20 measured shifts was 701±95 min. LG and CO exposures were significantly correlated for samples where the filter measurement captured at least 60% of the work shift (16 samples), as well as for the smaller set of full-shift exposure samples (n¼9). PM2.5 and CO exposures were not significantly correlated, and LG and PM2.5 exposures were only significantly correlated for samples representing at least 60% of the work shift. Creatinine-corrected urinary concentrations for 20 of the 22 MPs showed cross-shift increases, with 14 of these changes showing statistical significance. Individual and summed creatinine-adjusted guaiacol urinary MPs were highly associated with CO (and, to a lesser degree, LG) exposure levels, and random-effects regression models including CO and LG exposure levels explained up to 80% of the variance in cross-shift changes in summed creatinine-adjusted guaiacol urinary MP concentrations. Although limited by the small sample size, this pilot study demonstrates that urinary MP concentrations may be effective biomarkers of occupational exposure to wood smoke among wildland firefighters.« less

GSTO and AS3MT genetic polymorphisms and differences in urinary arsenic concentrations among residents in Bangladesh.

PubMed

Rodrigues, Ema G; Kile, Molly; Hoffman, Elaine; Quamruzzaman, Quazi; Rahman, Mahmuder; Mahiuddin, Golam; Hsueh, Yumei; Christiani, David C

2012-05-01

We determined whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the glutathione S-transferase omega (GSTO) and arsenic(III)methyltransferase (AS3MT) genes were associated with concentrations of urinary arsenic metabolites among 900 individuals without skin lesions in Bangladesh. Four SNPs were assessed in these genes. A pathway analysis evaluated the association between urinary arsenic metabolites and SNPs. GSTO1 rs4925 homozygous wild type was significantly associated with higher monomethylarsonic acid (MMA) and dimethylarsinic acid urinary concentrations, whereas wild-type AS3MT rs11191439 had significantly lower levels of As(III) and MMA. Genetic polymorphisms GSTO and As3MT modify arsenic metabolism as evidenced by altered urinary arsenic excretion.

Association between Secondhand Smoke in Hospitality Venues and Urinary 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol Concentrations in Non-Smoking Staff.

PubMed

Kim, Jeonghoon; Lee, Kiyoung; Kwon, Ho-Jang; Lee, Do Hoon; Kim, KyooSang

2016-11-08

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between urinary cotinine and total 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol (NNAL) concentrations in non-smoking staff and the indoor levels of fine particles (PM 2.5 ) in hospitality venues that allow smoking, with respect to demographic and indoor environmental factors. We evaluated 62 hospitality venues that allowed smoking in Seoul, Korea. A real-time aerosol monitor was used to measure indoor PM 2.5 concentrations. Field technicians recorded indoor environmental characteristics. One non-smoking staff member in each hospitality venue was tested for urinary cotinine and total NNAL concentrations. Demographic characteristics were obtained from self-reported staff questionnaires. Natural-log (ln)-transformed PM 2.5 concentrations were significantly correlated with the ln-transformed cotinine ( r = 0.31) and the total NNAL concentrations ( r = 0.32). In multivariable regression analysis, the urinary cotinine concentrations of the staff members were significantly correlated with indoor PM 2.5 concentrations; those with the highest concentrations were more likely to be women or staff members that worked in venues with a volume <375 m³. Total NNAL concentrations were significantly correlated only with indoor PM 2.5 concentrations. Indoor PM 2.5 may be used as an indicator for urinary cotinine and total NNAL concentrations in non-smoking staff members in hospitality venues that allow smoking.

Association between Secondhand Smoke in Hospitality Venues and Urinary 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol Concentrations in Non-Smoking Staff

PubMed Central

Kim, Jeonghoon; Lee, Kiyoung; Kwon, Ho-Jang; Lee, Do Hoon; Kim, KyooSang

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between urinary cotinine and total 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol (NNAL) concentrations in non-smoking staff and the indoor levels of fine particles (PM2.5) in hospitality venues that allow smoking, with respect to demographic and indoor environmental factors. We evaluated 62 hospitality venues that allowed smoking in Seoul, Korea. A real-time aerosol monitor was used to measure indoor PM2.5 concentrations. Field technicians recorded indoor environmental characteristics. One non-smoking staff member in each hospitality venue was tested for urinary cotinine and total NNAL concentrations. Demographic characteristics were obtained from self-reported staff questionnaires. Natural-log (ln)-transformed PM2.5 concentrations were significantly correlated with the ln-transformed cotinine (r = 0.31) and the total NNAL concentrations (r = 0.32). In multivariable regression analysis, the urinary cotinine concentrations of the staff members were significantly correlated with indoor PM2.5 concentrations; those with the highest concentrations were more likely to be women or staff members that worked in venues with a volume <375 m3. Total NNAL concentrations were significantly correlated only with indoor PM2.5 concentrations. Indoor PM2.5 may be used as an indicator for urinary cotinine and total NNAL concentrations in non-smoking staff members in hospitality venues that allow smoking. PMID:27834821

Comparison of the Health Implications on the Use of As and Cd Contaminated Water Supply between Urban and Rural Communities

PubMed Central

Zailina, H.; Najibah, H.; Nadia Aiezzati, A.; Praveena, S. M.; Patimah, I.

2014-01-01

A cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the arsenic (As) and cadmium (Cd) concentrations in blood, urine, and drinking water as well as the health implications on 100 residents in an urban and a rural community. Results showed the blood As, urinary Cd, DNA damage, and water As and Cs were significantly (P < 0.001) higher in the rural community. Findings showed significant (P < 0.005) correlations between blood As and DNA damage with household income, years of residence, and total glasses of daily water consumption among the rural residents. The urinary NAG concentrations, years of residence, milk powder intake (glass/week), and seafood intake (per week) were significantly correlated (P < 0.005) with urinary Cd concentrations among respondents. In addition, urinary Cd level significantly influenced the urinary NAG concentrations (P < 0.001). The rural respondents experienced significantly higher lymphocyte DNA damage and blood As influenced by their years of residence and water consumption. The Cd in drinking water also resulted in the rural respondents having significantly higher urinary NAG which had a significant relationship with urinary Cd. PMID:25530970

Acidosis and Urinary Calcium Excretion: Insights from Genetic Disorders

PubMed Central

Cordat, Emmanuelle; Chambrey, Régine; Dimke, Henrik; Eladari, Dominique

2016-01-01

Metabolic acidosis is associated with increased urinary calcium excretion and related sequelae, including nephrocalcinosis and nephrolithiasis. The increased urinary calcium excretion induced by metabolic acidosis predominantly results from increased mobilization of calcium out of bone and inhibition of calcium transport processes within the renal tubule. The mechanisms whereby acid alters the integrity and stability of bone have been examined extensively in the published literature. Here, after briefly reviewing this literature, we consider the effects of acid on calcium transport in the renal tubule and then discuss why not all gene defects that cause renal tubular acidosis are associated with hypercalciuria and nephrocalcinosis. PMID:27468975

Arsenic speciation analysis of urine samples from individuals living in an arsenic-contaminated area in Bangladesh.

PubMed

Hata, Akihisa; Yamanaka, Kenzo; Habib, Mohamed Ahsan; Endo, Yoko; Fujitani, Noboru; Endo, Ginji

2012-05-01

Chronic inorganic arsenic (iAs) exposure currently affects tens of millions of people worldwide. To accurately determine the proportion of urinary arsenic metabolites in residents continuously exposed to iAs, we performed arsenic speciation analysis of the urine of these individuals and determined whether a correlation exists between the concentration of iAs in drinking water and the urinary arsenic species content. The subjects were 165 married couples who had lived in the Pabna District in Bangladesh for more than 5 years. Arsenic species were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The median iAs concentration in drinking water was 55 μgAs/L (range <0.5-332 μgAs/L). Speciation analysis revealed the presence of arsenite, arsenate, monomethylarsonic acid (MMA), and dimethylarsinic acid in urine samples with medians (range) of 16.8 (7.7-32.3), 1.8 (<0.5-3.3), 13.7 (5.6-25.0), and 88.6 μgAs/L (47.9-153.4 μgAs/L), respectively. No arsenobetaine or arsenocholine was detected. The concentrations of the 4 urinary arsenic species were significantly and linearly related to each other. The urinary concentrations of total arsenic and each species were significantly correlated with the iAs concentration of drinking water. All urinary arsenic species are well correlated with each other and with iAs in drinking water. The most significant linear relationship existed between the iAs concentration in drinking water and urinary iAs + MMA concentration. From these results, combined with the effects of seafood ingestion, the best biomarker of iAs exposure is urinary iAs + MMA concentration.

Urinary bisphenol A concentrations in girls from rural and urban Egypt: a pilot study

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Exposure to endocrine active compounds, including bisphenol A (BPA), remains poorly characterized in developing countries despite the fact that behavioral practices related to westernization have the potential to influence exposure. BPA is a high production volume chemical that has been associated with metabolic dysfunction as well as behavioral and developmental effects in people, including children. In this pilot study, we evaluate BPA exposure and assess likely pathways of exposure among girls from urban and rural Egypt. Methods We measured urinary concentrations of total (free plus conjugated) species of BPA in spot samples in urban (N = 30) and rural (N = 30) Egyptian girls, and compared these concentrations to preexisting data from age-matched American girls (N = 47) from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). We also collected anthropometric and questionnaire data regarding food storage behaviors to assess potential routes of exposure. Results Urban and rural Egyptian girls exhibited similar concentrations of urinary total BPA, with median unadjusted values of 1.00 and 0.60 ng/mL, respectively. Concentrations of urinary BPA in this group of Egyptian girls (median unadjusted: 0.70 ng/mL) were significantly lower compared to age-matched American girls (median unadjusted: 2.60 ng/mL) according to NHANES 2009-2010 data. Reported storage of food in plastic containers was a significant predictor of increasing concentrations of urinary BPA. Conclusions Despite the relatively low urinary BPA concentrations within this Egyptian cohort, the significant association between food storage behaviors and increasing urinary BPA concentration highlights the need to understand food and consumer product patterns that may be closing the gap between urban and rural lifestyles. PMID:22472083

Russell-Silver syndrome

MedlinePlus

... to improve muscle tone Special education, to address learning disabilities and attention deficit problems the child may have ... be normal, although the person may have a learning disability. Birth defects of the urinary tract may be ...

Predictors and Variability of Urinary Paraben Concentrations in Men and Women, Including before and during Pregnancy

PubMed Central

Smith, Kristen W.; Braun, Joe M.; Williams, Paige L.; Ehrlich, Shelley; Correia, Katharine F.; Calafat, Antonia M.; Ye, Xiaoyun; Ford, Jennifer; Keller, Myra; Meeker, John D.

2012-01-01

Background: Parabens are suspected endocrine disruptors and ubiquitous preservatives used in personal care products, pharmaceuticals, and foods. No studies have assessed the variability of parabens in women, including during pregnancy. Objective: We evaluated predictors and variability of urinary paraben concentrations. Methods: We measured urinary concentrations of methyl (MP), propyl (PP), and butyl paraben (BP) among couples from a fertility center. Mixed-effects regression models were fit to examine demographic predictors of paraben concentrations and to calculate intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Results: Between 2005 and 2010, we collected 2,721 spot urine samples from 245 men and 408 women. The median concentrations were 112 µg/L (MP), 24.2 µg/L (PP), and 0.70 µg/L (BP). Urinary MP and PP concentrations were 4.6 and 7.8 times higher in women than men, respectively, and concentrations of both MP and PP were 3.8 times higher in African Americans than Caucasians. MP and PP concentrations we CI re slightly more variable in women (ICC = 0.42, 0.43) than men (ICC = 0.54, 0.51), and were weakly correlated between partners (r = 0.27–0.32). Among 129 pregnant women, urinary paraben concentrations were 25–45% lower during pregnancy than before pregnancy, and MP and PP concentrations were more variable (ICCs of 0.38 and 0.36 compared with 0.46 and 0.44, respectively). Conclusions: Urinary paraben concentrations were more variable in women compared with men, and during pregnancy compared with before pregnancy. However, results for this study population suggest that a single urine sample may reasonably represent an individual’s exposure over several months, and that a single sample collected during pregnancy may reasonably classify gestational exposure. PMID:22721761

Predictors and variability of urinary paraben concentrations in men and women, including before and during pregnancy.

PubMed

Smith, Kristen W; Braun, Joe M; Williams, Paige L; Ehrlich, Shelley; Correia, Katharine F; Calafat, Antonia M; Ye, Xiaoyun; Ford, Jennifer; Keller, Myra; Meeker, John D; Hauser, Russ

2012-11-01

Parabens are suspected endocrine disruptors and ubiquitous preservatives used in personal care products, pharmaceuticals, and foods. No studies have assessed the variability of parabens in women, including during pregnancy. We evaluated predictors and variability of urinary paraben concentrations. We measured urinary concentrations of methyl (MP), propyl (PP), and butyl paraben (BP) among couples from a fertility center. Mixed-effects regression models were fit to examine demographic predictors of paraben concentrations and to calculate intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Between 2005 and 2010, we collected 2,721 spot urine samples from 245 men and 408 women. The median concentrations were 112 µg/L (MP), 24.2 µg/L (PP), and 0.70 µg/L (BP). Urinary MP and PP concentrations were 4.6 and 7.8 times higher in women than men, respectively, and concentrations of both MP and PP were 3.8 times higher in African Americans than Caucasians. MP and PP concentrations were slightly more variable in women (ICC = 0.42, 0.43) than men (ICC = 0.54, 0.51), and were weakly correlated between partners (r = 0.27-0.32). Among 129 pregnant women, urinary paraben concentrations were 25-45% lower during pregnancy than before pregnancy, and MP and PP concentrations were more variable (ICCs of 0.38 and 0.36 compared with 0.46 and 0.44, respectively). Urinary paraben concentrations were more variable in women compared with men, and during pregnancy compared with before pregnancy. However, results for this study population suggest that a single urine sample may reasonably represent an individual's exposure over several months, and that a single sample collected during pregnancy may reasonably classify gestational exposure.

Association of urinary bisphenol A concentration with medical disorders and laboratory abnormalities in adults.

PubMed

Lang, Iain A; Galloway, Tamara S; Scarlett, Alan; Henley, William E; Depledge, Michael; Wallace, Robert B; Melzer, David

2008-09-17

Bisphenol A (BPA) is widely used in epoxy resins lining food and beverage containers. Evidence of effects in animals has generated concern over low-level chronic exposures in humans. To examine associations between urinary BPA concentrations and adult health status. Cross-sectional analysis of BPA concentrations and health status in the general adult population of the United States, using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003-2004. Participants were 1455 adults aged 18 through 74 years with measured urinary BPA and urine creatinine concentrations. Regression models were adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, income, smoking, body mass index, waist circumference, and urinary creatinine concentration. The sample provided 80% power to detect unadjusted odds ratios (ORs) of 1.4 for diagnoses of 5% prevalence per 1-SD change in BPA concentration, or standardized regression coefficients of 0.075 for liver enzyme concentrations, at a significance level of P < .05. Chronic disease diagnoses plus blood markers of liver function, glucose homeostasis, inflammation, and lipid changes. Higher urinary BPA concentrations were associated with cardiovascular diagnoses in age-, sex-, and fully adjusted models (OR per 1-SD increase in BPA concentration, 1.39; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.18-1.63; P = .001 with full adjustment). Higher BPA concentrations were also associated with diabetes (OR per 1-SD increase in BPA concentration, 1.39; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.21-1.60; P < .001) but not with other studied common diseases. In addition, higher BPA concentrations were associated with clinically abnormal concentrations of the liver enzymes gamma-glutamyltransferase (OR per 1-SD increase in BPA concentration, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.14-1.46; P < .001) and alkaline phosphatase (OR per 1-SD increase in BPA concentration, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.18-1.85; P = .002). Higher BPA exposure, reflected in higher urinary concentrations of BPA, may be associated with avoidable morbidity in the community-dwelling adult population.

The protective effect of clavulanic acid in a combined formulation on the concentration of amoxycillin in the urine of patients with urinary tract infections.

PubMed

Lindeque, K P

1982-07-28

Three paraplegic patients with urinary tract infections caused by a beta-lactamase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae were treated with a combination of amoxycillin and clavulanic acid (A-CA) (Augmentin; Beecham), after initial and unsuccessful therapy with amoxycillin alone. The administration of A-CA resulted in a rapid decrease in the urinary bacterial cell count, coupled with a dramatic increase in urinary amoxycillin concentrations.

Nephric duct insertion is a crucial step in urinary tract maturation that is regulated by a Gata3-Raldh2-Ret molecular network in mice.

PubMed

Chia, Ian; Grote, David; Marcotte, Michael; Batourina, Ekaterina; Mendelsohn, Cathy; Bouchard, Maxime

2011-05-01

Urinary tract development depends on a complex series of events in which the ureter moves from its initial branch point on the nephric duct (ND) to its final insertion site in the cloaca (the primitive bladder and urethra). Defects in this maturation process can result in malpositioned ureters and hydronephrosis, a common cause of renal disease in children. Here, we report that insertion of the ND into the cloaca is an unrecognized but crucial step that is required for proper positioning of the ureter and that depends on Ret signaling. Analysis of Ret mutant mice at birth reveals hydronephrosis and defective ureter maturation, abnormalities that our results suggest are caused, at least in part, by delayed insertion of the ND. We find a similar set of malformations in mutants lacking either Gata3 or Raldh2. We show that these factors act in parallel to regulate ND insertion via Ret. Morphological analysis of ND extension in wild-type embryos reveals elaborate cellular protrusions at ND tips that are not detected in Ret, Gata3 or Raldh2 mutant embryos, suggesting that these protrusions may normally be important for fusion with the cloaca. Together, our studies reveal a novel Ret-dependent event, ND insertion, that, when abnormal, can cause obstruction and hydronephrosis at birth; whether ND defects underlie similar types of urinary tract abnormalities in humans is an interesting possibility.

Urinary and faecal N-methylhistamine concentrations do not serve as markers for mast cell activation or clinical disease activity in dogs with chronic enteropathies.

PubMed

Anfinsen, Kristin P; Berghoff, Nora; Priestnall, Simon L; Suchodolski, Jan S; Steiner, Jörg M; Allenspach, Karin

2014-12-21

This study sought to correlate faecal and urinary N-methylhistamine (NMH) concentrations with resting versus degranulated duodenal mast cell numbers in dogs with chronic enteropathies (CE), and investigate correlations between intestinal mast cell activation and clinical severity of disease as assessed by canine chronic enteropathy clinical activity index (CCECAI), and between urinary and faecal NMH concentrations, mast cell numbers, and histopathological scores. Twenty-eight dogs with CE were included. Duodenal biopsies were stained with haematoxylin and eosin (H&E), toluidine blue, and by immunohistochemical labelling for tryptase. Duodenal biopsies were assigned a histopathological severity score, and duodenal mast cell numbers were counted in five high-power fields after metachromatic and immunohistochemical staining. Faecal and urinary NMH concentrations were measured by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. There was no correlation between the CCECAI and faecal or urinary NMH concentrations, mast cell numbers, or histopathological score - or between faecal or urinary NMH concentration and mast cell numbers. Post hoc analysis revealed a statistically significant difference in toluidine blue positive mast cells between two treatment groups (exclusion diet with/without metronidazole versus immunosuppression (IS)), with higher numbers among dogs not requiring IS. Faecal and urinary NMH concentrations and duodenal mast cell numbers were not useful indicators of severity of disease as assessed by the CCECAI or histological evaluation. The number of duodenal mast cells was higher in dogs that did not need IS, i.e. in dogs responding to an exclusion diet (with/without metronidazole), than in dogs requiring IS. Further studies comparing the role of mast cells in dogs with different forms of CE are needed.

Giant pseudomeningocele causing urinary obstruction in a patient with Marfan syndrome.

PubMed

Stone, Jeremy G; Bergmann, Liisa L; Takamori, Ryan; Donovan, Daniel J

2015-07-01

Defective collagen biosynthesis in Marfan syndrome predisposes to dural defects such as dural ectasia, meningocele, and pseudomeningocele; thus, an increased index of suspicion for these conditions should be present in the clinical setting of Marfan syndrome. The authors describe a young woman with Marfan syndrome who was being treated with anticoagulants for a prosthetic heart valve and who presented with a spontaneous retroperitoneal hemorrhage requiring surgical evacuation. No CSF leak was encountered at surgery, but she developed progressively more severe positional headaches over the following year. She then experienced the sudden onset of acute urinary obstruction, at which time CT revealed a 17 × 15 × 13-cm presacral pseudomeningocele communicating with the thecal sac through a sacral bone defect. An anterior surgical approach was used for drainage of the pseudomeningocele as well as for primary closure of the dural defect with a bovine pericardial patch and autologous subcutaneous fat graft. After a short period of lumbar subarachnoid drainage of the CSF, the patient was able to resume normal activity without recurrent symptoms. To the authors' knowledge, such a pseudomeningocele in a patient with Marfan syndrome has been reported only twice, and this case features the largest pseudomeningocele to date. They also review the pertinent literature regarding presentation, diagnosis, and management of these lesions.

Vinyl flooring in the home is associated with children’s airborne butylbenzyl phthalate and urinary metabolite concentrations

PubMed Central

Just, Allan C.; Miller, Rachel L.; Perzanowski, Matthew S.; Rundle, Andrew G.; Chen, Qixuan; Jung, Kyung Hwa; Hoepner, Lori; Camann, David E.; Calafat, Antonia M.; Perera, Frederica P.; Whyatt, Robin M.

2015-01-01

Prior studies have shown that vinyl flooring, as well as the vinyl-softening plasticizers butylbenzyl phthalate (BBzP) and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), are associated with asthma and airway inflammation. While DEHP exposure is primarily dietary, whether home vinyl flooring contributes to indoor air and urinary metabolite concentrations for these two phthalates is unclear. Exposures to BBzP and DEHP were examined in a prospective birth cohort of New York City children (n=239) using: (1) visual observation of potential phthalate containing flooring, (2) a two-week home indoor air sample, and (3) concurrent urinary metabolites in a subset (n=193). The category “vinyl or linoleum” flooring was observed in 135 (56%) of monitored rooms; these rooms had statistically significantly higher indoor air geometric mean concentrations of BBzP (23.9 ng/m3) than rooms with wood or carpet flooring (10.6 ng/m3). Children from homes with “vinyl or linoleum” flooring also had significantly higher urinary BBzP metabolite concentrations than other children. Indoor air BBzP and urinary metabolite concentrations were correlated positively (Spearman’s rho 0.40). By contrast, indoor air DEHP was not associated with flooring type nor with its urinary metabolite concentrations. Vinyl flooring in the home may be an important source of children’s exposure to BBzP via indoor air. PMID:25690585

Vinyl flooring in the home is associated with children's airborne butylbenzyl phthalate and urinary metabolite concentrations.

PubMed

Just, Allan C; Miller, Rachel L; Perzanowski, Matthew S; Rundle, Andrew G; Chen, Qixuan; Jung, Kyung Hwa; Hoepner, Lori; Camann, David E; Calafat, Antonia M; Perera, Frederica P; Whyatt, Robin M

2015-01-01

Prior studies have shown that vinyl flooring as well as the vinyl-softening plasticizers butylbenzyl phthalate (BBzP) and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) are associated with asthma and airway inflammation. Although DEHP exposure is primarily dietary, whether home vinyl flooring contributes to indoor air and urinary metabolite concentrations for these two phthalates is unclear. Exposures to BBzP and DEHP were examined in a prospective birth cohort of New York City children (n=239) using: (i) visual observation of potential phthalate containing flooring, (ii) a 2-week home indoor air sample, and (iii) concurrent urinary metabolites in a subset (n=193). The category "vinyl or linoleum" flooring was observed in 135 (56%) of monitored rooms; these rooms had statistically significantly higher indoor air geometric mean concentrations of BBzP (23.9 ng/m(3)) than rooms with wood or carpet flooring (10.6 ng/m(3)). Children from homes with "vinyl or linoleum" flooring also had significantly higher urinary BBzP metabolite concentrations than other children. Indoor air BBzP and urinary metabolite concentrations were correlated positively (Spearman's rho 0.40). By contrast, indoor air DEHP was not associated with flooring type nor with its urinary metabolite concentrations. Vinyl flooring in the home may be an important source of children's exposure to BBzP via indoor air.

Assessment of 1H NMR-based metabolomics analysis for normalization of urinary metals against creatinine.

PubMed

Cassiède, Marc; Nair, Sindhu; Dueck, Meghan; Mino, James; McKay, Ryan; Mercier, Pascal; Quémerais, Bernadette; Lacy, Paige

2017-01-01

Proton nuclear magnetic resonance ( 1 H NMR, or NMR) spectroscopy and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) are commonly used for metabolomics and metal analysis in urine samples. However, creatinine quantification by NMR for the purpose of normalization of urinary metals has not been validated. We assessed the validity of using NMR analysis for creatinine quantification in human urine samples in order to allow normalization of urinary metal concentrations. NMR and ICP-MS techniques were used to measure metabolite and metal concentrations in urine samples from 10 healthy subjects. For metabolite analysis, two magnetic field strengths (600 and 700MHz) were utilized. In addition, creatinine concentrations were determined by using the Jaffe method. Creatinine levels were strongly correlated (R 2 =0.99) between NMR and Jaffe methods. The NMR spectra were deconvoluted with a target database containing 151 metabolites that are present in urine. A total of 50 metabolites showed good correlation (R 2 =0.7-1.0) at 600 and 700MHz. Metal concentrations determined after NMR-measured creatinine normalization were comparable to previous reports. NMR analysis provided robust urinary creatinine quantification, and was sufficient for normalization of urinary metal concentrations. We found that NMR-measured creatinine-normalized urinary metal concentrations in our control subjects were similar to general population levels in Canada and the United Kingdom. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Sodium interference in the determination of urinary aldosterone.

PubMed

Aldea, Marta Lucía; Barallat, Jaume; Martín, María Amparo; Rosas, Irene; Pastor, María Cruz; Granada, María Luisa

2016-02-01

Primary hyperaldosteronism (PHA) is one of the most common endocrine forms of secondary hypertension. Among the most used confirmatory tests for PHA is urinary aldosterone determination after oral sodium loading test. The primary aim of our study was to investigate if sodium concentrations interfere with urinary aldosterone in an automated competitive immunoassay (Liaison®) as well as to verify the manufacturer's specifications. 24-hr urine samples were collected and stored frozen until assayed. Two pools at low and high aldosterone concentrations were prepared. Verification of performance for precision was tested according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) document EP15-A2 and interference with increasing concentrations of NaCl according to CLSI EP7-A2. The assay met the quality specifications according to optimal biological variation. Our results show that sodium concentrations up to 200mmol/L do not interfere on urinary aldosterone quantification, but sodium concentrations above 486mmol/L negatively interfere with the test. The Liaison® automated method is useful for aldosterone determination in the PHA confirmatory test, but interferences with NaCl may occur. It is therefore recommended to determine urinary NaCl before measuring urinary aldosterone to avoid falsely low results. Copyright © 2015 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparison of questionnaire-based estimation of pesticide residue intake from fruits and vegetables with urinary concentrations of pesticide biomarkers.

PubMed

Chiu, Yu-Han; Williams, Paige L; Mínguez-Alarcón, Lidia; Gillman, Matthew; Sun, Qi; Ospina, Maria; Calafat, Antonia M; Hauser, Russ; Chavarro, Jorge E

2018-01-01

We developed a pesticide residue burden score (PRBS) based on a food frequency questionnaire and surveillance data on food pesticide residues to characterize dietary exposure over the past year. In the present study, we evaluated the association of the PRBS with urinary concentrations of pesticide biomarkers. Fruit and vegetable (FV) intake was classified as having high (PRBS≥4) or low (PRBS<4) pesticide residues for 90 men from the EARTH study. Two urine samples per man were analyzed for seven biomarkers of organophosphate and pyrethroid insecticides, and the herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid. We used generalized estimating equations to analyze the association of the PRBS with urinary concentrations of pesticide biomarkers. Urinary concentrations of pesticide biomarkers were positively related to high pesticide FV intake but inversely related to low pesticide FV intake. The molar sum of urinary concentrations of pesticide biomarkers was 21% (95% confidence interval (CI): 2%, 44%) higher for each one serving/day increase in high pesticide FV intake, and 10% (95% CI: 1%, 18%) lower for each one serving/day increase in low pesticide FV intake. Furthermore, intake of high pesticide FVs positively related to most individual urinary biomarkers. Our findings support the usefulness of the PRBS approach to characterize dietary exposure to select pesticides.

Monti's procedure as an alternative technique in complex urethral distraction defect.

PubMed

Hosseini, Jalil; Kaviani, Ali; Mazloomfard, Mohammad M; Golshan, Ali R

2010-01-01

Pelvic fracture urethral distraction defect is usually managed by the end to end anastomotic urethroplasty. Surgical repair of those patients with post-traumatic complex posterior urethral defects, who have undergone failed previous surgical treatments, remains one of the most challenging problems in urology. Appendix urinary diversion could be used in such cases. However, the appendix tissue is not always usable. We report our experience on management of patients with long urethral defect with history of one or more failed urethroplasties by Monti channel urinary diversion. From 2001 to 2007, we evaluated data from 8 male patients aged 28 to 76 years (mean age 42.5) in whom the Monti technique was performed. All cases had history of posterior urethral defect with one or more failed procedures for urethral reconstruction including urethroplasty. A 2 to 2.5 cm segment of ileum, which had a suitable blood supply, was cut. After the re-anastomosis of the ileum, we closed the opened ileum transversely surrounding a 14-16 Fr urethral catheter using running Vicryl sutures. The newly built tube was used as an appendix during diversion. All patients performed catheterization through the conduit without difficulty and stomal stenosis. Mild stomal incontinence occurred in one patient in the supine position who became continent after adjustment of the catheterization intervals. There was no dehiscence, necrosis or perforation of the tube. Based on our data, Monti's procedure seems to be a valuable technique in patients with very long complicated urethral defect who cannot be managed with routine urethroplastic techniques.

Meta-analysis for deriving age- and gender-specific dose-response relationships between urinary cadmium concentration and {beta} {sub 2}-microglobulinuria under environmental exposure

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

Gamo, Masashi; Ono, Kyoko; Nakanishi, Junko

2006-05-15

A meta-analysis was conducted to derive age- and gender-specific dose-response relationships between urinary cadmium (Cd) concentration and {beta} {sub 2}-microglobulinuria ({beta}2MG-uria) under environmental exposure. {beta}2MG-uria was defined by a cutoff point of 1000 {mu}g {beta} {sub 2}-microglobulin/g creatinine. We proposed a model for describing the relationships among the interindividual variabilities in urinary Cd concentration, the ratio of Cd concentrations in the target organ and in urine, and the threshold Cd concentration in the target organ. The parameters in the model were determined so that good agreement might be achieved between the prevalence rates of {beta}2MG-uria reported in the literature andmore » those estimated by the model. In this analysis, only the data from the literature on populations environmentally exposed to Cd were used. Using the model and estimated parameters, the prevalence rate of {beta}2MG-uria can be estimated for an age- and gender-specific subpopulation for which the distribution of urinary Cd concentrations is known. The maximum permissible level of urinary Cd concentration was defined as the maximum geometric mean of the urinary Cd concentration in an age- and gender-specific subpopulation that would not result in a statistically significant increase in the prevalence rate of {beta}2MG-uria. This was estimated to be approximately 3 {mu}g/g creatinine for a population in a small geographical area and approximately 2 {mu}g/g creatinine for a nationwide population.« less

Urinary pH as a Risk Factor for Stone Type

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakhaee, Khashayar

2007-04-01

A high urinary pH is main risk factor for the calcium phosphate stone formation; however, its pathophysiologic mechanism has not been fully understood. The introduction of Topiramate in the treatment of various neurological disorders has been complicated by metabolic acidosis, significant hypocitraturia, elevated urinary pH, and calcium phosphate stone formation. This model provides a probe to investigate the pathophysiologic mechanism of calcium phosphate stone formation and perhaps to develop appropriate countermeasures in the future. On the other hand an unduly acidic urine predisposes one to uric acid nephrolithiasis. Our recent investigation linking low urinary pH, and defective renal ammoniagenesis to insulin resistance provides new knowledge to unfold the pathophysiology of uric acid nephrolithiasis. The metabolic profile leading to uric acid stone may emerge as one of the components of metabolic syndrome.

Oxidative DNA damage and repair in children exposed to low levels of arsenic in utero and during early childhood: Application of salivary and urinary biomarkers

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

Hinhumpatch, Pantip; Navasumrit, Panida; Chulabhorn Graduate Institute, Laksi, Bangkok

The present study aimed to assess arsenic exposure and its effect on oxidative DNA damage and repair in young children exposed in utero and continued to live in arsenic-contaminated areas. To address the need for biological specimens that can be acquired with minimal discomfort to children, we used non-invasive urinary and salivary-based assays for assessing arsenic exposure and early biological effects that have potentially serious health implications. Levels of arsenic in nails showed the greatest magnitude of difference between exposed and control groups, followed by arsenic concentrations in saliva and urine. Arsenic levels in saliva showed significant positive correlations withmore » other biomarkers of arsenic exposure, including arsenic accumulation in nails (r = 0.56, P < 0.001) and arsenic concentration in urine (r = 0.50, P < 0.05). Exposed children had a significant reduction in arsenic methylation capacity indicated by decreased primary methylation index and secondary methylation index in both urine and saliva samples. Levels of salivary 8-OHdG in exposed children were significantly higher (∼ 4-fold, P < 0.01), whereas levels of urinary 8-OHdG excretion and salivary hOGG1 expression were significantly lower in exposed children (∼ 3-fold, P < 0.05), suggesting a defect in hOGG1 that resulted in ineffective cleavage of 8-OHdG. Multiple regression analysis results showed that levels of inorganic arsenic (iAs) in saliva and urine had a significant positive association with salivary 8-OHdG and a significant negative association with salivary hOGG1 expression. - Highlights: • The effects of arsenic exposure in utero and through early childhood were studied. • Arsenic-exposed children had a reduction in arsenic methylation capacity. • Exposed children had more DNA damage, observed as elevated salivary 8-OHdG. • Lower salivary hOGG1 in exposed children indicated impairment of 8-OHdG repair. • Salivary and urinary 8-OHdG levels were discordant.« less

Should asymptomatic anterior pelvic organ prolapse be corrected to treat irritative urinary symptoms?

PubMed

Sutherland, Suzette E

2010-09-01

In clinical practice, women seen with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) often present with a variety of pelvic floor symptoms: urinary incontinence, irritative or overactive bladder symptoms, fecal urgency or incontinence, obstructive voiding, sexual disorders, pelvic and perineal pain, and vaginal bulging. Among these, the only symptom reliably associated with clinically relevant POP that will resolve following vaginal reconstructive surgery is the visualization and/or sensation of a vaginal bulge. Most other symptoms often attributed to POP at best have only weak correlations with worsening pelvic anatomical support. Specifically, with respect to the anterior and/or apical vaginal compartment, there does not appear to be a correlation between irritative overactive bladder symptoms and the presence or degree of anterior vaginal wall prolapse. Furthermore, no other symptoms, urinary or otherwise, are reliably influenced by correction of anatomical defects of pelvic support, especially in the otherwise asymptomatic patient with POP without vaginal bulge. A review of the recent literature underscores the realization that the relationship between pelvic floor symptoms and anatomy is incompletely and poorly understood. With this in mind, there does not seem to be any absolute justification for the surgical correction of otherwise asymptomatic pelvic support defects.

An integral theory of female urinary incontinence. Experimental and clinical considerations.

PubMed

Petros, P E; Ulmsten, U I

1990-01-01

In this Theory paper, the complex interplay of the specific structures involved in female urinary continence are analyzed. In addition the effects of age, hormones, and iatrogenically induced scar tissue on these structures, are discussed specifically with regard to understanding the proper basis for treatment of urinary incontinence. According to the Theory stress and urge symptoms may both derive, for different reasons from the same anatomical defect, a lax vagina. This laxity may be caused by defects within the vaginal wall itself, or its supporting structures i.e. ligaments, muscles, and their connective tissue insertions. The vagina has a dual function. It mediates (transmits) the various muscle movements involved in bladder neck opening and closure through three separate closure mechanisms. It also has a structural function, and prevents urgency by supporting the hypothesized stretch receptors at the proximal urethra and bladder neck. Altered collagen/elastin in the vaginal connective tissue and/or its ligamentous supports may cause laxity. This dissipates the muscle contraction, causing stress incontinence, and/or activation of an inappropriate micturition reflex, ("bladder instability") by stimulation of bladder base stretch receptors. The latter is manifested by symptoms of frequency, urgency, nocturia with or without urine loss.

Uric acid nephrolithiasis: An update.

PubMed

Cicerello, Elisa

2018-04-01

Uric acid nephrolithiasis appears to increase in prevalence. While a relationship between uric acid stones and low urinary pH has been for long known, additional association with various metabolic conditions and pathophysiological basis has recently been elucidated. Some conditions such as diabetes and metabolic syndrome disease, excessive dietary intake, and increased endogenous uric acid production and/or defect in ammoniagenesis are associated with low urinary pH. In addition, the phenomenon of global warming could result in an increase in areas with greater climate risk for uric acid stone formation. There are three therapeutic steps to be taken for management of uric acid stones: identification of urinary pH profiles, assessment of urinary volume status, and identification of disorders leading to excessive uric acid production. However, the most important factor for uric acid stone formation is acid urinary pH, which is a prerequisite for uric acid precipitation. This article reviews recent insights into the pathophysiology of uric acid stones and their management.

Urinary corticosterone metabolite responses to capture and captivity in the cane toad (Rhinella marina).

PubMed

Narayan, Edward J; Cockrem, John F; Hero, Jean-Marc

2011-09-01

Urinary corticosterone metabolite responses to capture have recently been shown for the first time in amphibians, and in the present study urinary corticosterone metabolite responses to capture and to confinement in captivity were measured in adult cane toads (Rhinella marina) in Queensland, Australia. An adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) challenge was used to provide a biological validation for urinary corticosterone metabolite concentrations measured by radioimmunoassay (RIA). Urinary corticosterone metabolite increased 1-2 days after ACTH but not saline injection and then returned to initial values, indicating that the RIA could detect changes in corticosterone secretion in toads. Urinary corticosterone metabolite responses to short-term capture and restraint in plastic bags were first apparent 2h after capture of wild toads. Toads held communally in captivity for 5 days had elevated urinary corticosterone metabolite concentrations. Mean corticosterone concentrations declined significantly after a further 7 days in individual housing chambers. There was no sex difference in urinary corticosterone metabolite responses of toads to ACTH challenge, short-term capture or captivity. The relative amount of variation in the mean corticosterone responses was quantified by calculating coefficients of variation (CV) for each mean corticosterone response. Mean corticosterone at 0 min was more variable for captive toads than wild toads. Furthermore, initial corticosterone concentrations (0 min) were more variable than concentrations during the ACTH challenge, short-term capture and captivity. There was little change in the amount of variation of mean corticosterone levels between male and female toads with increasing time in captivity (12-29 days). This study has shown individual corticosterone responses of amphibians for the first-time, and has provided a novel method for quantifying the relative amount of variation in amphibian corticosterone responses. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Urinary paracetamol and time-to-pregnancy

PubMed Central

Smarr, Melissa M.; Grantz, Katherine L.; Sundaram, Rajeshwari; Maisog, José M.; Honda, Masato; Kannan, Kurunthachalam; Buck Louis, Germaine M.

2016-01-01

STUDY QUESTION Is preconception urinary paracetamol (acetaminophen) associated with time-to-pregnancy (TTP)? SUMMARY ANSWER Higher urinary paracetamol concentrations among male partners were associated with a longer TTP. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Paracetamol is a commonly used analgesic among women and men of all ages. As metabolites of select chemicals used in the manufacturing of polyurethane foam, dyes and various industrial products, as well as a common medicinal product, paracetamol and its primary metabolite p-aminophenol, are ubiquitous in the environment. Studies investigating the relationship between adult urinary concentrations of paracetamol and TTP are lacking. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This prospective cohort included 501 couples discontinuing contraception for the purposes of attempting conception during the years 2005–2009 and residing in Michigan or Texas, USA. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Total urinary paracetamol, its metabolite para-aminophenol (p-aminophenol), and a summary measure of both urinary biomarkers were quantified by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with an electrospray triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS/MS). Female partners used the Clearblue® digital home test to confirm pregnancy. Cox's proportional odds models for discrete survival time were used to estimate fecundability odds ratios (FORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), adjusting for age, body mass index (BMI), urinary creatinine, preconception smoking status, race/ethnicity and household income. Models were further adjusted for hypothyroidism and hypertension as an attempt to account for possible indications of paracetamol medication use. FOR estimates <1.0 denote a longer TTP (diminished fecundity). Models were performed to examine urinary concentrations of paracetamol as a continuous and variable or categorized into quartiles. In light of TTP being a couple-dependent outcome, models were first performed for females and males, modeled separately, and then modeled for couples with each partner's concentrations being adjusted for the other. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Among the 501 enrolled couples, 347 (69%) had an human chorionic gonadotrophin confirmed pregnancy. Urinary concentrations of paracetamol were lowest among females and males who achieved pregnancy and p-aminophenol concentrations were lowest among those not achieving pregnancy. Urinary paracetamol concentrations were higher among female than male partners (Median = 26.6 and 13.2 ng/ml, respectively; P < 0.0001). After adjustment for age, BMI, urinary creatinine, preconception smoking status, race/ethnicity and household income, the highest quartile of male urinary paracetamol was associated with a longer TTP [FOR = 0.67; 95% CI = (0.47, 0.95)]. This association remained after adjustment for chronic health conditions, hypothyroidism and hypertension and female partner's urinary paracetamol concentration [FOR = 0.65; 95% CI = (0.45, 0.94)]. No associations were observed between female or male partners' urinary concentrations of paracetamol or of its metabolite p-aminophenol when urinary concentrations were modeled continuously. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Only a single spot urine was available for analysis despite the short-lived nature of paracetamol. Additionally, participants were not asked to provide information on indication of use for paracetamol medications; any underlying conditions for the paracetamol use would have been potential confounders. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS If corroborated with more robust studies, findings from our exploratory analysis may have both clinical and public health relevance among reproductive aged individuals, including those trying for pregnancy, given the prevalent use of paracetamol/acetaminophen medications and the ubiquitous nature of paracetamol in the environment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was supported by the National Institutes of Health, Intramural Research Program, and Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (contracts N01-HD-3-3355; N01-HD-3-3356; NOH-HD-3-3358; HHSN27500001/HHSN27500001). None of the authors have any conflicts to declare. PMID:27412248

Urinary paracetamol and time-to-pregnancy.

PubMed

Smarr, Melissa M; Grantz, Katherine L; Sundaram, Rajeshwari; Maisog, José M; Honda, Masato; Kannan, Kurunthachalam; Buck Louis, Germaine M

2016-09-01

Is preconception urinary paracetamol (acetaminophen) associated with time-to-pregnancy (TTP)? Higher urinary paracetamol concentrations among male partners were associated with a longer TTP. Paracetamol is a commonly used analgesic among women and men of all ages. As metabolites of select chemicals used in the manufacturing of polyurethane foam, dyes and various industrial products, as well as a common medicinal product, paracetamol and its primary metabolite p-aminophenol, are ubiquitous in the environment. Studies investigating the relationship between adult urinary concentrations of paracetamol and TTP are lacking. This prospective cohort included 501 couples discontinuing contraception for the purposes of attempting conception during the years 2005-2009 and residing in Michigan or Texas, USA. Total urinary paracetamol, its metabolite para-aminophenol (p-aminophenol), and a summary measure of both urinary biomarkers were quantified by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with an electrospray triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS/MS). Female partners used the Clearblue® digital home test to confirm pregnancy. Cox's proportional odds models for discrete survival time were used to estimate fecundability odds ratios (FORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), adjusting for age, body mass index (BMI), urinary creatinine, preconception smoking status, race/ethnicity and household income. Models were further adjusted for hypothyroidism and hypertension as an attempt to account for possible indications of paracetamol medication use. FOR estimates <1.0 denote a longer TTP (diminished fecundity). Models were performed to examine urinary concentrations of paracetamol as a continuous and variable or categorized into quartiles. In light of TTP being a couple-dependent outcome, models were first performed for females and males, modeled separately, and then modeled for couples with each partner's concentrations being adjusted for the other. Among the 501 enrolled couples, 347 (69%) had an human chorionic gonadotrophin confirmed pregnancy. Urinary concentrations of paracetamol were lowest among females and males who achieved pregnancy and p-aminophenol concentrations were lowest among those not achieving pregnancy. Urinary paracetamol concentrations were higher among female than male partners (Median = 26.6 and 13.2 ng/ml, respectively; P < 0.0001). After adjustment for age, BMI, urinary creatinine, preconception smoking status, race/ethnicity and household income, the highest quartile of male urinary paracetamol was associated with a longer TTP [FOR = 0.67; 95% CI = (0.47, 0.95)]. This association remained after adjustment for chronic health conditions, hypothyroidism and hypertension and female partner's urinary paracetamol concentration [FOR = 0.65; 95% CI = (0.45, 0.94)]. No associations were observed between female or male partners' urinary concentrations of paracetamol or of its metabolite p-aminophenol when urinary concentrations were modeled continuously. Only a single spot urine was available for analysis despite the short-lived nature of paracetamol. Additionally, participants were not asked to provide information on indication of use for paracetamol medications; any underlying conditions for the paracetamol use would have been potential confounders. If corroborated with more robust studies, findings from our exploratory analysis may have both clinical and public health relevance among reproductive aged individuals, including those trying for pregnancy, given the prevalent use of paracetamol/acetaminophen medications and the ubiquitous nature of paracetamol in the environment. This research was supported by the National Institutes of Health, Intramural Research Program, and Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (contracts N01-HD-3-3355; N01-HD-3-3356; NOH-HD-3-3358; HHSN27500001/HHSN27500001). None of the authors have any conflicts to declare. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology 2016. This work is written by (a) US Government employee(s) and is in the public domain in the US.

Paternal urinary concentrations of organophosphate flame retardant metabolites, fertility measures, and pregnancy outcomes among couples undergoing in vitro fertilization.

PubMed

Carignan, Courtney C; Mínguez-Alarcón, Lidia; Williams, Paige L; Meeker, John D; Stapleton, Heather M; Butt, Craig M; Toth, Thomas L; Ford, Jennifer B; Hauser, Russ

2018-02-01

Use of organophosphate flame retardants (PFRs) has increased over the past decade following the phase out of some brominated flame retardants, leading to increased human exposure. We recently reported that increasing maternal PFR exposure is associated with poorer pregnancy outcomes among women from a fertility clinic. Because a small epidemiologic study previously reported an inverse association between male PFR exposures and sperm motility, we sought to examine associations of paternal urinary concentrations of PFR metabolites and their partner's pregnancy outcomes. This analysis included 201 couples enrolled in the Environment and Reproductive Health (EARTH) prospective cohort study (2005-2015) who provided one or two urine samples per IVF cycle. In both the male and female partner, we measured five urinary PFR metabolites [bis(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (BDCIPP), diphenyl phosphate (DPHP), isopropylphenyl phenyl phosphate (ip-PPP), tert-butylphenyl phenyl phosphate (tb-PPP) and bis(1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate (BCIPP)] using negative electrospray ionization liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The sum of the molar concentrations of the urinary PFR metabolites was calculated. We used multivariable generalized linear mixed models to evaluate the association of urinary concentrations of paternal PFR metabolites with IVF outcomes, accounting for multiple in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles per couple. Models were adjusted for year of IVF treatment cycle, primary infertility diagnosis, and maternal urinary PFR metabolites as well as paternal and maternal age, body mass index, and race/ethnicity. Detection rates were high for paternal urinary concentrations of BDCIPP (84%), DPHP (87%) and ip-PPP (76%) but low for tb-PPP (12%) and zero for BCIPP (0%). We observed a significant 12% decline in the proportion of fertilized oocytes from the first to second quartile of male urinary ΣPFR and a 47% decline in the number of best quality embryos from the first to third quartile of male urinary BDCIPP in our adjusted models. An 8% decline in fertilization was observed for the highest compared to lowest quartile of urinary BDCIPP concentrations (95% CI: 0.01, 0.12, p-trend=0.06). Using IVF as a model to investigate human reproduction and pregnancy outcomes, we found that paternal urinary concentrations of BDCIPP were associated with reduced fertilization. In contrast to previously reported findings for the female partners, the paternal urinary PFR metabolites were not associated with the proportion of cycles resulting in successful implantation, clinical pregnancy, and live birth. These results indicate that paternal preconception exposure to TDCIPP may adversely impact successful oocyte fertilization, whereas female preconception exposure to ΣPFRs may be more relevant to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Urinary concentrations of environmental phenols in pregnant women in a pilot study of the National Children's Study

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

Mortensen, Mary E., E-mail: MMortensen@cdc.gov; Calafat, Antonia M.; Ye, Xiaoyun

Environmental phenols are a group of chemicals with widespread uses in consumer and personal care products, food and beverage processing, and in pesticides. We assessed exposure to benzophenone-3, bisphenol A (BPA), triclosan, methyl- and propyl parabens, and 2,4- and 2,5-dichlorophenol or their precursors in 506 pregnant women enrolled in the National Children's Study (NCS) Vanguard Study. We measured the urinary concentrations of the target phenols by using online solid-phase extraction–isotope dilution high performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. NCS women results were compared to those of 524 similar-aged women in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009–2010, and tomore » 174 pregnant women in NHANES 2005–2010. In the NCS women, we found significant racial/ethnic differences (p<0.05) in regression adjusted mean concentrations of benzophenone-3, triclosan, 2,4- and 2,5-dichlorophenol, but not of BPA. Urinary 2,4- and 2,5-dichlorophenol concentrations were highly correlated (r=0.66, p<0.0001). Except for BPA and triclosan, adjusted mean concentrations were significantly different across the 7 study sites. Education was marginally significant for benzophenone-3, triclosan, propyl paraben, and 2,5-dichlorophenol. Urinary concentrations of target phenols in NCS pregnant women and U.S. women and pregnant women were similar. In NCS pregnant women, race/ethnicity and geographic location determined urinary concentrations of most phenols (except BPA), suggesting differential exposures. NCS Main Study protocols should collect urine biospecimens and information about exposures to environmental phenols. - Highlights: • Limited biomonitoring data are available in pregnant women. • Seven urinary phenols were measured in 506 third trimester women enrolled in the NCS. • Urine benzophenone-3, triclosan, 2,4- and 2,5-dichlorophenol differed by race/ethnicity. • Urinary concentrations of 2,4- and 2,5-dichlorophenol were highly correlated. • Exposure information can expand the utility of biospecimens in the NCS Main Study.« less

Use of urinary 13,14, dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2α (PGFM) concentrations to diagnose pregnancy and predict parturition in the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanolecua).

PubMed

Roberts, Beth M; Brown, Janine L; Kersey, David C; Snyder, Rebecca J; Durrant, Barbara S; Kouba, Andrew J

2018-01-01

Pregnancy determination is difficult in the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanolecua), representing a challenge for ex situ conservation efforts. Research in other species experiencing pseudopregnancy indicates that urinary/fecal concentrations of 13,14, dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2α (PGFM) can accurately determine pregnancy status. Our objective was to determine if urinary PGFM concentrations are associated with pregnancy status in the giant panda. Urinary PGFM concentrations were measured in female giant pandas (n = 4) throughout gestation (n = 6) and pseudopregnancy (n = 4) using a commercial enzyme immunoassay. Regardless of pregnancy status, PGFM excretion followed a predictable pattern: 1) baseline concentrations for 11-19 weeks following ovulation; 2) a modest, initial peak 14-36 days after the start of the secondary urinary progestagen rise; 3) a subsequent period of relatively low concentrations; and 4) a large, terminal peak at the end of the luteal phase. Pregnant profiles were distinguished by an earlier initial peak (P = 0.024), higher inter-peak concentrations (P < 0.001), and a larger terminal peak (P = 0.003) compared to pseudopregnancy profiles. Parturition occurred 23 to 25 days from the initial PGFM surge and within 24 hours of the start of the terminal increase. These pattern differences indicate that urinary PGFM monitoring can be used to predict pregnancy status and time parturition in the giant panda. Furthermore, this is the only species known to exhibit a significant PGFM increase during pseudopregnancy, suggesting a unique physiological mechanism for regulating the end of the luteal phase in the giant panda.

Serum Paraoxonase-1 Concentration as a Potential Predictor of Urinary Bladder Cancer Recurrence. A Five Year Follow-Up Study.

PubMed

Iftimie, Simona; García-Heredia, Anabel; Pujol-Bosch, Francesc; Pont-Salvadó, Antoni; López-Azcona, Ana Felisa; Hernández-Aguilera, Anna; Cabré, Noemí; Luciano-Mateo, Fedra; Fort-Gallifa, Isabel; Castro, Antoni; Camps, Jordi; Joven, Jorge

2018-04-23

This study provides preliminary information on the usefulness of measuring serum paraoxonase-1 (PON1) concentration and activity (and other inflammatory markers) to predict tumor recurrence in patients with urinary bladder cancer. We studied a total of 39 hospitalized patients in whom the diagnosis of urinary bladder cancer was confirmed by transurethral resection. After five years of follow-up, 29 patients presented with tumor recurrence. As control subjects, we also studied 61 healthy subjects and a further 132 hospitalized patients who had a urinary catheter-related infection due to causes other than cancer. Results showed that urinary bladder patients had lower serum PON1 concentration and activity, and higher chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2, C-reactive protein, and procalcitonin concentrations than the control individuals. Patients with tumor recurrence had significantly lower serum PON1 concentration than patients without tumor recurrence. The mean area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristics plot for serum PON1 concentration in discriminating patients with and those without tumor recurrence was 0.755 and the best combination of sensitivity and specificity was obtained at PON1 = 100 mg/L (0.72 and 0.80, respectively). Establishing this value as a cut-off, positive predictive value was = 0.91, and negative predictive value was = 0.50. These results suggest that the measurement of serum PON1 concentration may be a high-sensitivity marker of tumor recurrence in urinary bladder cancer patients. Copyright © 2018 IMSS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Relationship between depression anxiety stress scale (DASS) and urinary hydroxyproline and proline concentrations in hospital workers.

PubMed

Lee, Keou Won; Kim, Soo Jeong; Park, Jae Beom; Lee, Kyung Jong

2011-01-01

Although increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) is caused by stress accelerates collagen degradation, there was no data on the relationship between stress and urinary hydroxyproline (Hyp) and proline (Pro), a good marker of collagen degradation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between depression, anxiety, and stress (DAS) and concentrations of urinary Hyp and Pro. 97 hospital employees aged 20 to 58 were asked to fill out comprehensive self-administrated questionnaires containing information about their medical history, lifestyle, length of the work year, shift-work and DAS. depression anxiety stress scale (DASS) was applied to evaluate chronic mental disorders. Urine samples were analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with double derivatization for the assay of hydroxyproline and proline. The mean value of Hyp and Pro concentration in all subjects was 194.1 ± 113.4 μmol/g and 568.2 ± 310.7 μmol/g. DASS values and urinary Pro concentrations were differentiated by sex (female > male, p < 0.05) and type of job (nurse > others, p < 0.05). In the stepwise multiple linear regressions, urinary Hyp and Pro concentrations were influenced by stress (Adjusted r2 = 0.051) and anxiety and job (Adjusted r2 = 0.199), respectively. We found that stress and anxiety were correlated with urinary Hyp and Pro concentrations. To identifying a definite correlation, further study in large populations will be needed.

Effect of sauna bathing and beer ingestion on plasma concentrations of purine bases.

PubMed

Yamamoto, Tetsuya; Moriwaki, Yuji; Ka, Tuneyoshi; Takahashi, Sumio; Tsutsumi, Zenta; Cheng, Jidong; Inokuchi, Taku; Yamamoto, Asako; Hada, Toshikazu

2004-06-01

To determine whether sauna bathing alone or in combination with beer ingestion increases the plasma concentration of uric acid, 5 healthy subjects were tested. Urine and plasma measurements were performed before and after each took a sauna bath, ingested beer, and ingested beer just after taking a sauna bath, with a 2-week interval between each activity. Sauna bathing alone increased the plasma concentrations of uric acid and oxypurines (hypoxanthine and xanthine), and decreased the urinary and fractional excretion of uric acid, while beer ingestion alone increased the plasma concentrations and urinary excretion of uric acid and oxypurines. A combination of both increased the plasma concentration of uric acid and oxypurines, and decreased the urinary and fractional excretion of uric acid, with an increase in the urinary excretion of oxypurines. The increase in plasma concentration of uric acid with the combination protocol was not synergistic as compared to the sum of the increases by each alone. Body weight, urine volume, and the urinary excretion of sodium and chloride via dehydration were decreased following sauna bathing alone. These results suggest that sauna bathing had a relationship with enhanced purine degradation and a decrease in the urinary excretion of uric acid, leading to an increase in the plasma concentration of uric acid. Further, we concluded that extracellular volume loss may affect the common renal transport pathway of uric acid and xanthine. Therefore, it is recommended that patients with gout refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages, including beer, after taking a sauna bath, since the increase in plasma concentration of uric acid following the combination of sauna bathing and beer ingestion was additive.

Paternal Urinary Concentrations of Parabens and Other Phenols in Relation to Reproductive Outcomes among Couples from a Fertility Clinic

PubMed Central

Dodge, Laura E.; Williams, Paige L.; Williams, Michelle A.; Missmer, Stacey A.; Toth, Thomas L.; Calafat, Antonia M.

2015-01-01

Background Human exposure to phenols, including bisphenol A and parabens, is widespread. Evidence suggests that paternal exposure to environmental chemicals may adversely affect reproductive outcomes. Objectives We evaluated associations of paternal phenol urinary concentrations with fertilization rate, embryo quality, implantation, and live birth. Methods Male–female couples who underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF) and/or intrauterine insemination (IUI) cycles in a prospective study of environmental determinants of fertility and pregnancy outcomes were included. The geometric mean of males’ specific gravity–adjusted urinary phenol concentrations measured before females’ cycle was quantified. Associations between male urinary phenol concentrations and fertilization rate, embryo quality, implantation, and live birth were investigated using generalized linear mixed models to account for multiple cycles per couple. Results Couples (n = 218) underwent 195 IUI and 211 IVF cycles. Paternal phenol concentrations were not associated with fertilization or live birth following IVF. In adjusted models, compared with the lowest quartile of methyl paraben, paternal concentrations in the second quartile were associated with decreased odds of live birth following IUI (adjusted odds ratio = 0.19; 95% CI: 0.04, 0.82). Conclusions To our knowledge, these are some of the first data on the association of paternal urinary phenol concentrations with reproduction and pregnancy outcomes. Although these results do not preclude possible adverse effects of paternal paraben exposures on such outcomes, given the modest sample size, further understanding could result from confirmation using a larger and more diverse population. Citation Dodge LE, Williams PL, Williams MA, Missmer SA, Toth TL, Calafat AM, Hauser R. 2015. Paternal urinary concentrations of parabens and other phenols in relation to reproductive outcomes among couples from a fertility clinic. Environ Health Perspect 123:665–671; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1408605 PMID:25767892

Farmworker and nonfarmworker Latino immigrant men in North Carolina have high levels of specific pesticide urinary metabolites.

PubMed

Arcury, Thomas A; Chen, Haiying; Laurienti, Paul J; Howard, Timothy D; Barr, Dana Boyd; Mora, Dana C; Quandt, Sara A

2017-06-16

This article compares detections and concentrations of specific organophosphate (OP), bis-dithiocarbamate, and pyrethroid pesticide urinary metabolites among Latino male farmworkers and nonfarmworkers in North Carolina. Data are from interviews and urine samples collected in 2012 and 2013. Farmworkers and nonfarmworkers frequently had detections for OP and pyrethroid pesticide urinary metabolites. Detection of bis-dithiocarbamate urinary metabolites was less frequent, but substantial among the nonfarmworkers. The concentrations of organophosphate, bis-dithiocarbamate, and pyrethroid pesticide urinary metabolites were high for farmworkers and nonfarmworkers compared to National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey results. Pesticide urinary metabolite detection was not associated with occupation in nonfarmworkers. Research for reducing pesticide exposure among farmworkers remains important; research is also needed to determine pesticide exposure pathways among Latino nonfarmworkers.

Urinary 1-hydroxypyrene concentrations in Chinese coke oven workers relative to job category, respirator usage, and cigarette smoking

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

Bo Chen; Yunping Hu; Lixing Zheng

1-Hydroxypyrene (1-OHP) is a biomarker of recent exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). We investigated whether urinary 1-OHP concentrations in Chinese coke oven workers (COWs) are modulated by job category, respirator usage, and cigarette smoking. The present cross-sectional study measured urinary 1-OHP concentrations in 197 COWs from Coking plant I and 250 COWs from Coking plant II, as well as 220 unexposed referents from Control plant I and 56 referents from Control plant II. Urinary 1-OHP concentrations (geometric mean, {mu}mol/mol creatinine) were 5.18 and 4.21 in workers from Coking plants I and II, respectively. The highest 1-OHP levels in urinemore » were found among topside workers including lidmen, tar chasers, and whistlers. Benchmen had higher 1-OHP levels than other workers at the sideoven. Above 75% of the COWs exceeded the recommended occupational exposure limit of 2.3 {mu}mol/mol creatinine. Respirator usage and increased body mass index (BMI) slightly reduced 1-OHP levels in COWs. Cigarette smoking significantly increased urinary 1-OHP levels in unexposed referents but had no effect in COWs. Chinese COWs, especially topside workers and benchmen, are exposed to high levels of PAHs. Urinary 1-OHP concentrations appear to be modulated by respirator usage and BMI in COWs, as well as by smoking in unexposed referents.« less

Ribonuclease 7, an antimicrobial peptide upregulated during infection, contributes to microbial defense of the human urinary tract.

PubMed

Spencer, John David; Schwaderer, Andrew L; Wang, Huanyu; Bartz, Julianne; Kline, Jennifer; Eichler, Tad; DeSouza, Kristin R; Sims-Lucas, Sunder; Baker, Peter; Hains, David S

2013-04-01

The mechanisms that maintain sterility in the urinary tract are incompletely understood; however, recent studies stress the importance of antimicrobial peptides in protecting the urinary tract from infection. Ribonuclease 7 (RNase 7), a potent antimicrobial peptide contributing to urinary tract sterility, is expressed by intercalated cells in the renal collecting tubules and is present in the urine at levels sufficient to kill bacteria at baseline. Here, we characterize the expression and function of RNase 7 in the human urinary tract during infection. Both quantitative real-time PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbant assays demonstrated increases in RNASE7 expression in the kidney along with kidney and urinary RNase 7 peptide concentrations with infection. While immunostaining localized RNase 7 production to the intercalated cells of the collecting tubule during sterility, its expression during pyelonephritis was found to increase throughout the nephron but not in glomeruli or the interstitium. Recombinant RNase 7 exhibited antimicrobial activity against uropathogens at low micromolar concentrations by disrupting the microbial membrane as determined by atomic force microscopy. Thus, RNase 7 expression is increased in the urinary tract with infection and has antibacterial activity against uropathogens at micromolar concentrations.

Ribonuclease 7, an antimicrobial peptide up-regulated during infection, contributes to microbial defense of the human urinary tract

PubMed Central

Spencer, John David; Schwaderer, Andrew L.; Wang, Huanyu; Bartz, Julianne; Kline, Jennifer; Eichler, Tad; DeSouza, Kristin R.; Sims-Lucas, Sunder; Baker, Peter; Hains, David S.

2012-01-01

The mechanisms that maintain sterility in the urinary tract are incompletely understood; however, recent studies stress the importance of antimicrobial peptides in protecting the urinary tract from infection. Ribonuclease 7 (RNase 7), a potent antimicrobial peptide contributing to urinary tract sterility, is expressed by intercalated cells in the renal collecting tubules and is present in the urine at levels sufficient to kill bacteria at baseline. Here, we characterize the expression and function of RNase 7 in the human urinary tract during infection. Both quantitative real-time PCR and ELISA assays demonstrated increases in RNASE7 expression in the kidney along with kidney and urinary RNase 7 peptide concentrations with infection. While immunostaining localized RNase 7 production to the intercalated cells of the collecting tubule during sterility, its expression during pyelonephritis was found to increase throughout the nephron but not in glomeruli or the interstitium. Recombinant RNase 7 exhibited antimicrobial activity against uropathogens at low micromolar concentrations by disrupting the microbial membrane as determined by atomic force microscopy. Thus, RNase 7 expression is increased in the urinary tract with infection, and has antibacterial activity against uropathogens at micromolar concentrations. PMID:23302724

Urinary bisphenol A concentrations and early reproductive health outcomes among women undergoing IVF.

PubMed

Ehrlich, Shelley; Williams, Paige L; Missmer, Stacey A; Flaws, Jodi A; Ye, Xiaoyun; Calafat, Antonia M; Petrozza, John C; Wright, Diane; Hauser, Russ

2012-12-01

In women undergoing IVF, are urinary bisphenol A (BPA) concentrations associated with ovarian response and early reproductive outcomes, including oocyte maturation and fertilization, Day 3 embryo quality and blastocyst formation? Higher urinary BPA concentrations were found to be associated with decreased ovarian response, number of fertilized oocytes and decreased blastocyst formation. Experimental animal and in vitro studies have reported associations between BPA exposure and adverse reproductive outcomes. We previously reported an association between urinary BPA and decreased ovarian response [peak serum estradiol (E(2)) and oocyte count at the time of retrieval] in women undergoing IVF; however, there are limited human data on reproductive health outcomes, such as fertilization and embryo development. Prospective preconception cohort study. One hundred and seventy-four women aged 18-45 years and undergoing 237 IVF cycles were recruited at the Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Boston, MA, USA, between November 2004 and August 2010. These women were followed until they either had a live birth or discontinued treatment. Cryothaw and donor egg cycles were not included in the analysis. Urinary BPA concentrations were measured by online solid-phase extraction-high-performance liquid chromatography-isotope dilution-tandem mass spectrometry. Mixed effect models, poisson regression and multivariate logistic regression models were used wherever appropriate to evaluate the association between cycle-specific urinary BPA concentrations and measures of ovarian response, oocyte maturation (metaphase II), fertilization, embryo quality and cleavage rate. We accounted for correlation among multiple IVF cycles in the same woman using generalized estimating equations. The geometric mean (SD) for urinary BPA concentrations was 1.50 (2.22) µg/l. After adjustment for age and other potential confounders (Day 3 serum FSH, smoking, BMI), there was a significant linear dose-response association between increased urinary BPA concentrations and decreased number of oocytes (overall and mature), decreased number of normally fertilized oocytes and decreased E(2) levels (mean decreases of 40, 253 and 471 pg/ml for urinary BPA quartiles 2, 3 and 4, when compared with the lowest quartile, respectively; P-value for trend = 0.001). The mean number of oocytes and normally fertilized oocytes decreased by 24 and 27%, respectively, for the highest versus the lowest quartile of urinary BPA (trend test P < 0.001 and 0.002, respectively). Women with urinary BPA above the lowest quartile had decreased blastocyst formation (trend test P-value = 0.08). Potential limitations include exposure misclassification due to the very short half-life of BPA and its high variability over time; uncertainty about the generalizability of the results to the general population of women conceiving naturally and limited sample. The results from this extended study, using IVF as a model to study early reproductive health outcomes in humans, indicate a negative dose-response association between urinary BPA concentrations and serum peak E(2) and oocyte yield, confirming our previous findings. In addition, we found significantly decreased metaphase II oocyte count and number of normally fertilizing oocytes and a suggestive association between BPA urinary concentrations and decreased blastocyst formation, thus indicating that BPA may alter reproductive function in susceptible women undergoing IVF. This work was supported by grants ES009718 and ES000002 from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and grant OH008578 from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. None of the authors has actual or potential competing financial interests. The findings and conclusions in this report are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Review of Pesticide Urinary Biomarker Measurements from Selected US EPA Children’s Observational Exposure Studies

PubMed Central

Egeghy, Peter P.; Cohen Hubal, Elaine A.; Tulve, Nicolle S.; Melnyk, Lisa J.; Morgan, Marsha K.; Fortmann, Roy C.; Sheldon, Linda S.

2011-01-01

Children are exposed to a wide variety of pesticides originating from both outdoor and indoor sources. Several studies were conducted or funded by the EPA over the past decade to investigate children’s exposure to organophosphate and pyrethroid pesticides and the factors that impact their exposures. Urinary metabolite concentration measurements from these studies are consolidated here to identify trends, spatial and temporal patterns, and areas where further research is required. Namely, concentrations of the metabolites of chlorpyrifos (3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol or TCPy), diazinon (2-isopropyl-6-methyl-4-pyrimidinol or IMP), and permethrin (3-phenoxybenzoic acid or 3-PBA) are presented. Information on the kinetic parameters describing absorption and elimination in humans is also presented to aid in interpretation. Metabolite concentrations varied more dramatically across studies for 3-PBA and IMP than for TCPy, with TCPy concentrations about an order of magnitude higher than the 3-PBA concentrations. Temporal variability was high for all metabolites with urinary 3-PBA concentrations slightly more consistent over time than the TCPy concentrations. Urinary biomarker levels provided only limited evidence of applications. The observed relationships between urinary metabolite levels and estimates of pesticide intake may be affected by differences in the contribution of each exposure route to total intake, which may vary with exposure intensity and across individuals. PMID:21655147

Urinary bisphenol A concentrations and association with in vitro fertilization outcomes among women from a fertility clinic.

PubMed

Mínguez-Alarcón, Lidia; Gaskins, Audrey J; Chiu, Yu-Han; Williams, Paige L; Ehrlich, Shelley; Chavarro, Jorge E; Petrozza, John C; Ford, Jennifer B; Calafat, Antonia M; Hauser, Russ

2015-09-01

Are urinary BPA concentrations associated with in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes among women attending an academic fertility center? Urinary BPA concentrations were not associated with adverse reproductive and pregnancy outcomes among women from a fertility clinic. Bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine disruptor, is detected in the urine of most Americans. Although animal studies have demonstrated that BPA reduces female fertility through effects on the ovarian follicle and uterus, data from human populations are scarce and equivocal. This prospective cohort study between 2004 and 2012 at the Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center included 256 women (n = 375 IVF cycles) who provided up to two urine samples prior to oocyte retrieval (total N = 673). Study participants were women enrolled in the Environment and Reproductive Health (EARTH) Study. Intermediate and clinical end-points of IVF treatments were abstracted from electronic medical records. We used generalized linear mixed models with random intercepts to evaluate the association between urinary BPA concentrations and IVF outcomes adjusted by age, race, body mass index, smoking status and infertility diagnosis. The specific gravity-adjusted geometric mean of BPA was 1.87 µg/l, which is comparable to that for female participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2011-2012. Urinary BPA concentrations were not associated with endometrial wall thickness, peak estradiol levels, proportion of high quality embryos or fertilization rates. Furthermore, there were no associations between urinary BPA concentrations and implantation, clinical pregnancy or live birth rates per initiated cycle or per embryo transfer. Although we did not find any associations between urinary BPA concentrations and IVF outcomes, the relation between BPA and endometrial wall thickness was modified by age. Younger women (<37 years old) had thicker endometrial thickness across increasing quartiles of urinary BPA concentrations, while older women (≥37 years old) had thinner endometrial thickness across increasing quartiles of urinary BPA concentrations. Limitations to this study include a possible misclassification of BPA exposure and difficulties in extrapolating the findings to the general population. Data on the relation between urinary BPA concentrations and reproductive outcomes remain scarce and additional research is needed to clarify its role in human reproduction. This work was supported by NIH grants R01ES022955, R01ES009718 and R01ES000002 from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) and grant T32DK00770316 from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD). None of the authors has any conflicts of interest to declare. The findings and conclusions in this report are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Chlorination Disinfection By-Products and Risk of Congenital Anomalies in England and Wales

PubMed Central

Nieuwenhuijsen, Mark J.; Toledano, Mireille B.; Bennett, James; Best, Nicky; Hambly, Peter; de Hoogh, Cornelis; Wellesley, Diana; Boyd, Patricia A.; Abramsky, Lenore; Dattani, Nirupa; Fawell, John; Briggs, David; Jarup, Lars; Elliott, Paul

2008-01-01

Background Increased risk of various congenital anomalies has been reported to be associated with trihalomethane (THM) exposure in the water supply. Objectives We conducted a registry-based study to determine the relationship between THM concentrations and the risk of congenital anomalies in England and Wales. Methods We obtained congenital anomaly data from the National Congenital Anomalies System, regional registries, and the national terminations registry; THM data were obtained from water companies. Total THM (< 30, 30 to < 60, ≥60 μg/L), total brominated exposure (< 10, 10 to < 20, ≥20 μg/L), and bromoform exposure (< 2, 2 to < 4, ≥4 μg/L) were modeled at the place of residence for the first trimester of pregnancy. We included 2,605,226 live births, stillbirths, and terminations with 22,828 cases of congenital anomalies. Analyses using fixed- and random-effects models were performed for broadly defined groups of anomalies (cleft palate/lip, abdominal wall, major cardiac, neural tube, urinary and respiratory defects), a more restricted set of anomalies with better ascertainment, and for isolated and multiple anomalies. Data were adjusted for sex, maternal age, and socioeconomic status. Results We found no statistically significant trends across exposure categories for either the broadly defined or more restricted sets of anomalies. For the restricted set of anomalies with isolated defects, there were significant (p < 0.05) excess risks in the high-exposure categories of total THMs for ventricular septal defects [odds ratio (OR) = 1.43; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.00–2.04] and of bromoform for major cardiovascular defects and gastroschisis (OR = 1.18; 95% CI, 1.00–1.39; and OR = 1.38; 95% CI, 1.00–1.92, respectively). Conclusion In this large national study we found little evidence for a relationship between THM concentrations in drinking water and risk of congenital anomalies. PMID:18288321

Short term effects of increasing dietary salt concentrations on urine composition in healthy cats.

PubMed

Paßlack, N; Burmeier, H; Brenten, T; Neumann, K; Zentek, J

2014-09-01

High dietary salt (NaCl) concentrations are assumed to be beneficial in preventing the formation of calcium oxalate (CaOx) uroliths in cats, since increased water intake and urine volume have been observed subsequent to intake. In human beings, dietary NaCl restriction is recommended for the prevention of CaOx urolith formation, since high NaCl intake is associated with increased urinary Ca excretion. The aim of the present study was to clarify the role of dietary NaCl in the formation of CaOx uroliths in cats. Eight cats received four diets that differed in Na and Cl concentrations (0.38-1.43% Na and 0.56-2.52% Cl dry matter, DM). Each feeding period consisted of a 21 day adaptation period, followed by a 7 day sampling period for urine collection. Higher dietary NaCl concentrations were associated with increased urine volume and renal Na excretion. Urinary Ca concentration was constant, but renal Ca excretion increased from 0.62 to 1.05 mg/kg bodyweight (BW)/day with higher dietary NaCl concentrations (P ≤ 0.05). Urinary oxalate (Ox), citrate, P and K concentrations decreased when NaCl intake was high (P ≤ 0.05), and urinary pH was low in all groups (6.33-6.45; P > 0.05). Relative supersaturation of CaOx in the urine was unaffected by dietary NaCl concentrations. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated several beneficial effects of high dietary NaCl intake over a relatively short time period. In particular, urinary Ca concentration remained unchanged because of increased urine volume. Decreased urinary Ox concentrations might help to prevent the formation of CaOx uroliths, but this should be verified in future studies in diseased or predisposed cats. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Iodine deficiency in Saudi Arabia.

PubMed

Al-Nuaim, A R; Al-Mazrou, Y; Kamel, M; Al-Attas, O; Al-Daghari, N; Sulimani, R

1997-05-01

Data on the status of iodine deficiency in the Arabian peninsula is scarce. We have conducted a cross-sectional national epidemiological survey in Saudi Arabia to study the iodine status of Saudi schoolchildren, between eight and ten years, who were randomly selected, after taking into consideration the gender, provincial population and area distribution. Casual urine samples were collected and sent to the central laboratory for analysis. Clinical assessment for the presence of goiter was conducted in four areas with different geographical natures. The survey included 4638 subjects, and their median and mean (SD) of urinary iodine concentration was 18 and 17 m g/dL, respectively. We found provincial differences with respect to urinary iodine concentration and the percentage of subjects with urinary iodine concentration <10 m g/dL. The Southern province had the lowest median (11 m g/dL) and the highest percentage (45%) of subjects with urinary iodine concentration <10 m g/dL. On the other hand, subjects of the Western province had the highest median (24 m g/dL) and the lowest percentage (8%) of subjects with urinary iodine concentration <10 m g/dL. The clinical assessment revealed that the highest prevalence and more advanced grade of goiter (22%, 95% CI 19-25, grade 1; 8%, 95% CI 6-10, grade 2) was found in the Asir region, a high-altitude area in the Southern province. The lowest prevalence of goiter (4%, 95% CI 0.8-7.2, grade 1) was found in Gizan, an urban coastal community. There was a significant relationship between the prevalence of goiter and the urinary iodine concentration. The survey for iodine deficiency disorder (IDD) in Saudi Arabia has shown a mild degree of iodine deficiency in the Southern province. Odds ratio (OR) was used to study the statistical relationship between the prevalence of goiter and the urinary iodine concentration. There is a need to launch a control program to ensure the exclusive availability of iodized salt in Saudi Arabia, especially in the Southern province.

Amelogenesis Imperfecta with Distal Renal Tubular Acidosis: A Novel Syndrome?

PubMed

Misgar, R A; Hassan, Z; Wani, A I; Bashir, M I

2017-01-01

Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) is a heterogeneous group of inherited dental enamel defects. It has rarely been reported in association with multiorgan syndromes and metabolic disorders. The metabolic disorders that have been reported in association with AI include hypocalciuria, impaired urinary concentrating ability, and Bartter-like syndrome. In literature, only three cases of AI and distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA) have been described: two cases in adults and a solitary case in the pediatric age group. Here, we report a child with AI presenting with dRTA; to the best of our knowledge, our reported case is the only second such case in pediatric age group. Our case highlights the importance of recognizing the possibility of renal abnormalities in patients with AI as it will affect the long-term prognosis.

Changes in cat urinary glycosaminoglycans with age and in feline urologic syndrome.

PubMed

Pereira, Daionety A; Aguiar, Jair A K; Hagiwara, Mitika K; Michelacci, Yara M

2004-04-07

The aim of the present study was to characterize the urinary excretion of glycosaminoglycans in kittens and adult healthy cats, as well as in cats with a low urinary tract disease, the feline urologic syndrome (FUS). The main urinary glycosaminoglycan in cats was found to be chondroitin sulfate, with smaller amounts of dermatan sulfate and heparan sulfate. There was no difference in the urinary glycosaminoglycan concentration with sex, but a marked decrease occurred with age, due to chondroitin sulfate. Trace amounts of keratan sulfate were also detected in the urine of kittens, but not of healthy adult cats. Dermatan sulfate and heparan sulfate were the only glycosaminoglycans found in the urinary tract and kidney, and chondroitin sulfate was the only glycosaminoglycan found in the plasma. These data suggest that the main urinary glycosaminoglycan chondroitin sulfate is of systemic origin and filtered in the kidney, while the minor components dermatan sulfate and heparan sulfate may come from the urinary tract. The urinary glycosaminoglycan concentration was greatly decreased in animals with FUS, as compared to normal adults. We hypothesize that these low glycosaminoglycan levels reflect a damage to the bladder surface, resulting in absorption and/or degradation of the endogenous urinary glycosaminoglycans.

Use of urinary 13,14, dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2α (PGFM) concentrations to diagnose pregnancy and predict parturition in the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanolecua)

PubMed Central

Brown, Janine L.; Kersey, David C.; Snyder, Rebecca J.; Durrant, Barbara S.; Kouba, Andrew J.

2018-01-01

Pregnancy determination is difficult in the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanolecua), representing a challenge for ex situ conservation efforts. Research in other species experiencing pseudopregnancy indicates that urinary/fecal concentrations of 13,14, dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2α (PGFM) can accurately determine pregnancy status. Our objective was to determine if urinary PGFM concentrations are associated with pregnancy status in the giant panda. Urinary PGFM concentrations were measured in female giant pandas (n = 4) throughout gestation (n = 6) and pseudopregnancy (n = 4) using a commercial enzyme immunoassay. Regardless of pregnancy status, PGFM excretion followed a predictable pattern: 1) baseline concentrations for 11–19 weeks following ovulation; 2) a modest, initial peak 14–36 days after the start of the secondary urinary progestagen rise; 3) a subsequent period of relatively low concentrations; and 4) a large, terminal peak at the end of the luteal phase. Pregnant profiles were distinguished by an earlier initial peak (P = 0.024), higher inter-peak concentrations (P < 0.001), and a larger terminal peak (P = 0.003) compared to pseudopregnancy profiles. Parturition occurred 23 to 25 days from the initial PGFM surge and within 24 hours of the start of the terminal increase. These pattern differences indicate that urinary PGFM monitoring can be used to predict pregnancy status and time parturition in the giant panda. Furthermore, this is the only species known to exhibit a significant PGFM increase during pseudopregnancy, suggesting a unique physiological mechanism for regulating the end of the luteal phase in the giant panda. PMID:29718929

Phthalates and risk of endometriosis

PubMed Central

Upson, Kristen; Sathyanarayana, Sheela; De Roos, Anneclaire J.; Thompson, Mary Lou; Scholes, Delia; Dills, Russell; Holt, Victoria L.

2013-01-01

Background Phthalates are ubiquitous environmental chemicals with endocrine disruptive properties. The impact of these chemicals on endocrine-related disease in reproductive-age women is not well understood. Objective To investigate the relationship between urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and the risk of a hormonally-driven disease, endometriosis, in reproductive-age women. Methods We used data from a population-based case-control study of endometriosis, conducted among female enrollees of a large healthcare system in the U.S. Pacific Northwest. We measured urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations on incident, surgically-confirmed cases (n=92) diagnosed between 1996 and 2001 and population-based controls (n=195). Odds ratios (OR), and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using unconditional logistic regression, adjusting for urinary creatinine concentrations, age, and reference year. Results The majority of women in our study had detectable concentrations of phthalate metabolites. We observed a strong inverse association between urinary mono-(2-ethyl-5-hexyl) phthalate (MEHP) concentration and endometriosis risk, particularly when comparing the fourth and first MEHP quartiles (aOR 0.3, 95% CI: 0.1–0.7). Our data suggested an inverse association between endometriosis and urinary concentrations of other di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) metabolites (mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEHHP), mono-(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (MEOHP)) and ΣDEHP, however, the confidence intervals include the null. Our data also suggested increased endometriosis risk with greater urinary concentrations of mono-benzyl phthalate (MBzP) and mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP), although the associations were not statistically significant. Conclusions Exposure to select phthalates is ubiquitous among female enrollees of a large healthcare system in the U.S. Pacific Northwest. The findings from our study suggest that phthalates may alter the risk of a hormonally-mediated disease among reproductive-age women. PMID:23890968

Significance of urinary hippuric acid determination as an index of toluene exposure

PubMed Central

Ikeda, Masayuki; Ohtsuji, Hatsue

1969-01-01

Ikeda, Masayuki, and Ohtsuji, Hatsue (1969).Brit. J. industr. Med.,26, 244-246. Significance of urinary hippuric acid determination as an index of toluene exposure. Urine samples from 118 male workers in photogravure printing factories were analysed for hippuric acid. The urinary levels of hippuric acid were proportional to the environmental concentrations of toluene, although within wide variations. The urinary concentration of hippuric acid corresponding to 200 p.p.m. of toluene was 3·5 g./litre (specific gravity 1·016) or 4·3 g./g. creatinine. PMID:5794951

High urinary bisphenol A concentrations in workers and possible laboratory abnormalities.

PubMed

Wang, Feng; Hua, Jing; Chen, Minjian; Xia, Yankai; Zhang, Qi; Zhao, Renzheng; Zhou, Weixin; Zhang, Zhengdong; Wang, Bingling

2012-09-01

Bisphenol A (BPA) is widely used in epoxy resins in China. There are few reports on the adverse health effects of occupational exposure to BPA. This study examined associations between urinary BPA concentrations in workers and laboratory parameters for health status. Spot urine checks at the end shift on Friday were used for cross-sectional analysis of BPA concentrations, and blood or urinary markers of liver function, glucose homeostasis, thyroid function and cardiovascular diseases were measured. The 28 participants were workers in two semiautomatic epoxy resin factories. The average urinary BPA concentration was 55.73±5.48 ng/ml (geometric mean ± geometric SD) (range 5.56-1934.85 ng/ml). After adjusting for urine creatinine (Cr), it was 31.96±4.42 μg/g Cr (geometric mean ± geometric SD) (range 4.61-1253.69 μg/g Cr). BPA feeding operators showed the highest concentrations, over 10 times those of the crushing and packing and office workers. Higher BPA concentrations were associated with clinically abnormal concentrations of FT3, FT4, TT3, TT4, thyroid-stimulating hormone, glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase and γ-glutamyl transferase. Workers with higher BPA concentrations showed higher FT3 concentrations (linear trend: p<0.001). Bivariate correlation tests for laboratory analytes within normal limits showed FT3 to be positively associated with logged BPA concentrations, r=0.57, p=0.002. FT4 was positively associated with lactate dehydrogenase, r=0.45, p=0.020, and insulin was positively associated with thyroid-stimulating hormone with r=0.57, p=0.009. Higher occupational BPA exposure, reflected in urinary concentrations of BPA, may be associated with thyroid hormone disruption.

The correlation between urinary 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid and sperm quality in infertile men and rotating shift workers.

PubMed

Ortiz, Águeda; Espino, Javier; Bejarano, Ignacio; Lozano, Graciela M; Monllor, Fabián; García, Juan F; Pariente, José A; Rodríguez, Ana B

2010-11-08

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that modulates a wide range of neuroendocrine functions. However, excessive circulating serotonin levels may induce harmful effects in the male reproductive system. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the levels of urinary 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIIA), a major serotonin metabolite, correlate with different classical seminal parameters. Human ejaculates were obtained from 40 men attending infertility counselling and rotating shift workers by masturbation after 4-5 days of abstinence. Urinary 5- HIIA concentration was quantified by using a commercial ELISA kit. Forward motility was assessed by a computer-aided semen analysis (CASA) system. Sperm concentration was determined using the haemocytometer method. Sperm morphology was evaluated after Diff-Quik staining, while sperm vitality was estimated after Eosin-Nigrosin vital staining. Our results show that urinary 5-HIIA levels obtained from a set of 20 volunteers negatively correlated with sperm concentration, forward motility, morphology normal range and sperm vitality. On the other hand, we checked the relationship between male infertility and urinary 5-HIIA levels in 20 night shift workers. Thus, urinary 5-HIIA levels obtained from 10 recently-proven fathers were significantly lower than those found in 10 infertile males. Additionally, samples from recent fathers exhibited higher sperm concentration, as well as better forward motility and normal morphology rate. In the light of our findings, we concluded that high serotonin levels, indirectly measured as urinary 5-HIIA levels, appear to play a role as an infertility determinant in male subjects.

Cystine calculi: challenging group of stones.

PubMed

Ahmed, Kamran; Dasgupta, Prokar; Khan, Mohammad Shamim

2006-12-01

Cystinuria is an autosomal recessive disorder in renal tubular and intestinal transport of dibasic amino acids, which results in increased urinary excretion of cystine, ornithine, lysine and arginine. It affects 1 in 20 000 people and is caused by a defect in the rBAT gene on chromosome 2. Development of urinary tract cystine calculi is the only clinical manifestation of this disease. Owing to recurrent episodes of stone formation, these patients require a multi-modal approach to management. The role of medical management and minimally invasive surgery was reviewed for the treatment of cystinuria.

Clinical utility of urinary soluble Fas in screening for bladder cancer.

PubMed

Srivastava, Anupam Kumar; Singh, Pankaj Kumar; Singh, Dhramveer; Dalela, Divakar; Rath, Srikanta Kumar; Bhatt, Madan Lal Brahma

2016-06-01

Early diagnosis of carcinoma of urinary bladder remains a challenge. Urine cytology, as an adjunct to cystoscopy, is less sensitive for low-grade tumors. Soluble Fas (sFas), a cell-surface receptor and member of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily, is frequently expressed in urinary bladder carcinoma. The objective of this study was to investigate the urinary sFas for diagnosis of transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of urinary bladder. We examined urinary sFas concentration in 74 controls and 117 cases of TCC, both primary and recurrent disease, by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and compared it with urinary cytology. Urinary sFas concentration was found to be significantly higher in the patient as compared to control group (P < 0.05). An optimal cutoff value of 174.0 pg/mL was proposed. The urinary sFas level was found to have an approximate sensitivity and specificity of 88.03% and 89.19% (P < 0.001), whereas urine cytology had sensitivity of 66.67% and specificity of 95.95%. sFas had better sensitivity in higher grade and both primary and recurrent cases of urinary bladder cancer in comparison with cytology. Out of 15 node positive bladder cancer cases, 13 had high urinary sFas levels, whereas 12 were urinary cytology positive for malignancy. Urinary sFas can be used as a non-invasive diagnostic biomarker for TCC of urinary bladder, both for primary and recurrent disease. © 2014 Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

Requirement for specific gravity and creatinine adjustments for urinary steroids and luteinizing hormone concentrations in adolescents.

PubMed

Singh, Gurmeet K S; Balzer, Ben W R; Desai, Reena; Jimenez, Mark; Steinbeck, Katharine S; Handelsman, David J

2015-11-01

Urinary hormone concentrations are often adjusted to correct for hydration status. We aimed to determine whether first morning void urine hormones in growing adolescents require adjustments and, if so, whether urinary creatinine or specific gravity are better adjustments. The study population was adolescents aged 10.1 to 14.3 years initially who provided fasting morning blood samples at 0 and 12 months (n = 343) and first morning urine every three months (n = 644). Unadjusted, creatinine and specific gravity-adjusted hormonal concentrations were compared by Deming regression and Bland-Altman analysis and grouped according to self-rated Tanner stage or chronological age. F-ratios for self-rated Tanner stages and age groups were used to compare unadjusted and adjusted hormonal changes in growing young adolescents. Correlations of paired serum and urinary hormonal concentration of unadjusted and creatinine and specific gravity-adjusted were also compared. Fasting first morning void hormone concentrations correlated well and were unbiased between unadjusted or adjusted by either creatinine or specific gravity. Urine creatinine concentration increases with Tanner stages, age and male gender whereas urine specific gravity was not influenced by Tanner stage, age or gender. Adjustment by creatinine or specific gravity of urinary luteinizing hormone, estradiol, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone concentrations did not improve correlation with paired serum concentrations. Urine steroid and luteinizing hormone concentrations in first morning void samples of adolescents are not significantly influenced by hydration status and may not require adjustments; however, if desired, both creatinine and specific gravity adjustments are equally suitable. © The Author(s) 2015.

Fibroblast growth factor receptor signaling in kidney and lower urinary tract development

PubMed Central

Walker, Kenneth A; Sims-Lucas, Sunder; Bates, Carlton M.

2015-01-01

Fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) and FGF ligands are highly expressed in the developing kidney and lower urinary tract. Several classic studies showed many effects of exogenous FGF ligands on embryonic renal tissues in vitro and in vivo. Another older landmark publication showed that mice with a dominant negative Fgfr fragment had severe renal dysplasia. Together these studies revealed the importance of FGFR signaling in kidney and lower urinary tract development. With the advent of modern gene targeting techniques, including conditional knockout approaches, several publications have revealed critical roles for FGFR signaling in many lineages of the kidney and lower urinary tract at different stages of development. FGFR signaling has been shown to be critical for early metanephric mesenchymal patterning, Wolffian duct patterning including induction of the ureteric bud, ureteric bud branching morphogenesis, nephron progenitor survival and nephrogenesis, and bladder mesenchyme patterning. FGFRs pattern these tissues by interacting with many other growth factor signaling pathways. Moreover, the many genetic Fgfr and Fgf animal models have structural defects mimicking numerous congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract seen in humans. Finally, many studies have shown how FGFR signaling is critical for kidney and lower urinary tract patterning in humans. PMID:26293980

Fibroblast growth factor receptor signaling in kidney and lower urinary tract development.

PubMed

Walker, Kenneth A; Sims-Lucas, Sunder; Bates, Carlton M

2016-06-01

Fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) and FGF ligands are highly expressed in the developing kidney and lower urinary tract. Several classic studies showed many effects of exogenous FGF ligands on embryonic renal tissues in vitro and in vivo. Another older landmark publication showed that mice with a dominant negative Fgfr fragment had severe renal dysplasia. Together, these studies revealed the importance of FGFR signaling in kidney and lower urinary tract development. With the advent of modern gene targeting techniques, including conditional knockout approaches, several publications have revealed critical roles for FGFR signaling in many lineages of the kidney and lower urinary tract at different stages of development. FGFR signaling has been shown to be critical for early metanephric mesenchymal patterning, Wolffian duct patterning including induction of the ureteric bud, ureteric bud branching morphogenesis, nephron progenitor survival and nephrogenesis, and bladder mesenchyme patterning. FGFRs pattern these tissues by interacting with many other growth factor signaling pathways. Moreover, the many genetic Fgfr and Fgf animal models have structural defects mimicking numerous congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract seen in humans. Finally, many studies have shown how FGFR signaling is critical for kidney and lower urinary tract patterning in humans.

[The child from families with type 1 diabetes].

PubMed

Wasikowa, Renata; Suchańska, Dorota; Suchańska, Danuta; Basiak, Aleksander; Noczyńska, Anna; Stasińska, Teresa

2005-01-01

Diabetes type 1 is observed in individuals with a genetic predisposition to the disease. Observed is a 3-5 fold risk for congenital defects, therefore diabetes type 1 is one of the highest known teratogenic risk factor. The main factor responsible for the development of congenital defects is hyperglycemia. Observed are congenital defects of the central nervous system, the bones, urinary and digestive tract. Characteristic is macrosomia. Observed are hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, polycythemia, hyperbilirubinemia, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, respiratory disturbances. Children from families with diabetes type 1 are at high risk for the development of the disease in the newborn period, additional diseases. They must be in permanent medical control.

Association of atmospheric concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with their urinary metabolites in children and adolescents.

PubMed

Poursafa, Parinaz; Amin, Mohammad Mehdi; Hajizadeh, Yaghoub; Mansourian, Marjan; Pourzamani, Hamidreza; Ebrahim, Karim; Sadeghian, Babak; Kelishadi, Roya

2017-07-01

This study aims to determine the atmospheric concentrations of particulate matter 2.5 (PM 2.5 )-bounded polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their association with their urinary metabolites in children and adolescents. This study was conducted from October 2014 to March 2016 in Isfahan, Iran. We measured 16 species of PAHs bounded to PM 2.5 by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC/MS) from 7 parts of the city. Moreover, PAH urinary metabolites were measured in 186 children and adolescents, randomly selected from households. Urinary metabolites consisted of 1-hydroxy naphthalene (1-naphthol), 2-hydroxy naphthalene (2-naphthol), 9-hydroxy phenanthrene (9-phenanthrol), and 1-hydroxy pyrene using GC/MS. Considering the short half-lives of PAHs, we measured the metabolites twice with 4 to 6 months of time interval. We found that the ambient concentrations of PAHs were significantly associated with their urinary metabolites. 1-hydroxy naphthalene and 2-hydroxy naphthalene concentrations showed an increase of 1.049 (95% CI: 1.030, 1.069) and 1.047 (95% CI: 1.025, 1.066) for each unit increase (1 ng/m 3 ) in ambient naphthalene. Similarly, 1-hydroxy pyrene showed an increase of 1.009 (95% CI: 1.006-1.011) for each unit increase (1 ng/m 3 ) in ambient pyrene concentration after adjustment for body mass index, physical activity level, urinary creatinine, age, and sex. The association of urinary 9-hydroxyphenanthrene and ambient phenantherene was significant in the crude model; however after adjustment for the abovementioned covariates, it was no more significant. We found significant correlations between exposure to ambient PM 2.5 -bounded PAHs and their urinary excretion. Considering the adverse health effects of PAHs in the pediatric age group, biomonitoring of PAHs should be underscored; preventive measures need to be intensified.

Separation methods applicable to urinary creatine and creatinine.

PubMed

Smith-Palmer, Truis

2002-12-05

Urinary creatinine has been analyzed for many years as an indicator of glomerular filtration rate. More recently, interest in studying the uptake of creatine as a result of creatine supplementation, a practice increasingly common among bodybuilders and athletes, has lead to a need to measure urinary creatine concentrations. Creatine levels are of the same order of magnitude as creatinine levels when subjects have recently ingested creatine, while somewhat elevated urinary creatine concentrations in non-supplementing subjects can be an indication of a degenerative disease of the muscle. Urinary creatine and creatinine can be analyzed by HPLC using a variety of columns. Detection methods include absorption, fluorescence after post-column derivatization, and mass spectrometry, and some methods have been automated. Capillary zone electrophoresis and micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography have also been used to analyze urinary creatine and creatinine. Creatine and creatinine have also been analyzed in serum and tissue using HPLC and CE, and many of these separations could also be applicable to urinary analysis.

Effects of biological and behavioral factors on urinary arsenic ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Abstract In older men and women who were long-term residents of Churchill County, Nevada, we examined the relation between arsenic exposure from home tap water and urinary levels of inorganic arsenic and its methylated metabolites. Over a wide exposure range (up to 1850 ug of arsenic per liter), urinary concentrations of inorganic, monomethylated, and dimethylated arsenicals strongly correlated with home tap water arsenic concentrations. However, percentages of summed urinary concentrations of inorganic, monomethylated, and dimethylated arsenicals accounted for by each arsenical species were unaffected by arsenic concentration in home tap water, suggesting thc1t capacity for formation and excretion of methylated metabolites was not exceeded. Biological factors (gender, age, body mass index, and genotype) and a behavioral factor (smoking) influenced absolute and relative levels of arsenicals in urine. A multivariate regression model showed that both biological and behavioral factors were significant predictors of absolute and relative concentrations of inorganic arsenic and its methylated metabolites in urine. These findings suggest that analyses of dose-response relations in arsenic-exposed populations should account for these biological and behavioral factors. Furthermore, evidence of significant effects of these factors on arsenic metabolism may support mode of action studies in appropriate experimental models. Running title- Methylated arsenicals as urinary b

BPA exposure is associated with non-monotonic alteration in ESR1 promoter methylation in peripheral blood of men and shorter relative telomere length in peripheral blood of women.

PubMed

Awada, Z; Sleiman, F; Mailhac, A; Mouneimne, Y; Tamim, H; Zgheib, N K

2018-04-12

The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential association of urinary Bisphenol A (BPA) levels with estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1) promoter % methylation and relative telomere length in a sample of 482 participants. Urinary BPA concentration was measured using organic phase extraction followed by high performance liquid chromatography mass spectroscopy. Peripheral blood ESR1 promoter % methylation and relative telomere length were measured using direct bisulfite sequencing and real-time polymerase chain reaction, respectively. The mean ± SD urinary BPA concentration adjusted for urinary creatinine was 2.90 ± 4.81 (μg/g creatinine) with a median of 1.86 μg/g creatinine (min-max:

Urinary Concentrations and Antibacterial Activities of Nitroxoline at 250 Milligrams versus Trimethoprim at 200 Milligrams against Uropathogens in Healthy Volunteers

PubMed Central

Münch, Fabian; Pilatz, Adrian; Bärmann, Birte; Weidner, Wolfgang; Wagenlehner, Christine M.; Straubinger, Marion; Blenk, Holger; Pfister, Wolfgang; Kresken, Michael; Naber, Kurt G.

2014-01-01

Because of the increasing bacterial resistance of uropathogens against standard antibiotics, such as trimethoprim (TMP), older antimicrobial drugs, such as nitroxoline (NTX), should be reevaluated. This randomized crossover study investigated the urinary concentrations of parent drugs and their metabolites and their antibacterial activities (urinary inhibitory titers [UITs] and urinary bactericidal titers [UBTs]) against uropathogens at three different urinary pH values within 24 h in six healthy volunteers after a single oral dose of NTX at 250 mg versus TMP at 200 mg. In three additional volunteers, urinary bactericidal kinetics (UBK) were studied after oral administration of NTX at 250 mg three times a day. The mean urinary concentrations of NTX and NTX sulfate in 24 h were 0.012 to 0.507 mg/liter and 0.28 to 27.83 mg/liter, respectively. The mean urinary concentrations of TMP were 18.79 to 41.59 mg/liter. The antibacterial activity of NTX was higher in acidic urine than in alkaline urine, and that of TMP was higher in alkaline urine than in acidic urine. The UITs and UBTs of NTX were generally lower than those of TMP except for a TMP-resistant Escherichia coli strain, for which NTX showed higher UITs/UBTs than did TMP. UBK showed mainly bacteriostatic activity of NTX in urine. NTX exhibits mainly bacteriostatic activity and TMP also shows bactericidal activity in urine against susceptible strains. NTX is a more active antibacterial in acidic urine, and TMP is more active in alkaline urine. The cumulative effects of multiple doses or inhibition of bacterial adherence could not be evaluated. (This study has been registered at EudraCT under registration no. 2009-015631-32.) PMID:24217699

The relationship between 63days of 24-h urinary free cortisol and hair cortisol levels in 10 healthy individuals.

PubMed

van Ockenburg, S L; Schenk, H M; van der Veen, A; van Rossum, E F C; Kema, I P; Rosmalen, J G M

2016-11-01

Interest in measuring cortisol in scalp hair is increasing because of its assumed ability to provide a historical timeline of previous systemic levels of cortisol. Yet, it remains uncertain how well hair cortisol represents the total systemic secretion of cortisol over time. Ten healthy individuals collected 24-h urine samples for 63 consecutive days and provided a hair sample at the end of the study period. 24-h urinary creatinine levels in every urine sample were determined to assess completeness of the samples. Cortisol levels in 24-h urine samples and in hair were measured with liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. The correlations between urinary cortisol and hair cortisol were calculated using Kendall's tau. We found a nonsignificant moderate correlation between average urinary cortisol secretion and average hair cortisol concentration r т =0.422, p=0.089. Hair cortisol concentration correlates low to moderately with 24-h urinary cortisol concentration over a period of 63days. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Urinary heavy metals in Hispanics 40–85 years old in Doña Ana County, New Mexico

PubMed Central

Adams, Scott V.; Barrick, Brian; Freney, Emily P.; Shafer, Martin M.; Song, Xiaoling; Vilchis, Hugo; Newcomb, Polly A.; Ulery, April

2017-01-01

As, Cd, Pb, and U exposure among older Hispanic adults residing in underserved communities in southern New Mexico was investigated. Personal information was obtained by standardized interview from 188 adults age 40–85y. Urinary metal concentrations were measured and compared to results from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES). Urinary As and U in study participants significantly (P<0.05) exceeded NHANES reference values. Elevated urinary As concentration was significantly associated with older age, Latin American birthplace, clinic site, private well drinking water, higher self-rated health, and diabetes. Higher urinary Cd was significantly associated with older age, clinic site, female sex, agricultural work, and current cigarette smoking. No personal characteristics were significantly associated with urinary Pb or U. Our results suggest elevated levels of As and U in this population. PMID:26666397

Occupational exposure of cashiers to Bisphenol A via thermal paper: urinary biomonitoring study.

PubMed

Ndaw, Sophie; Remy, Aurélie; Jargot, Danièle; Robert, Alain

2016-08-01

As an essential component of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, Bisphenol A (BPA) is found in numerous industrial and consumer products. BPA may cause adverse health effects because of its endocrine activity. General population exposure to this compound mainly through diet is well documented. Thermal paper was also identified as a source of BPA through dermal intake. In this study, we investigated whether frequent contact with thermal paper is associated with an increase in urinary BPA excretion. We evaluated the exposure to BPA in cashiers and in non-occupationally exposed workers from several workplaces. Urinary BPA was quantified in free (unconjugated) and total (unconjugated plus conjugated) forms in 24-h and spot urine samples using LC-MS/MS. BPA concentration in thermal paper was also measured from each workplace. In addition, participants provided information on job, food and drink, tobacco consumption and hands wash during the sampling period through a questionnaire. Urine samples were collected from 90 cashiers and 44 controls. Free and total BPA were detected in all samples. The median urinary total BPA concentration was 3.54 µg/L (2.89 µg/g creatinine) for controls and 8.92 µg/L (6.76 µg/g creatinine) for cashiers. For the free BPA, the median urinary concentration was 0.20 µg/L (0.21 µg/g creatinine) for controls and 0.28 µg/L (0.22 µg/g creatinine) for cashiers. Any correlation was found between the urinary concentration levels and the number of thermal receipts handled. Hand washes frequency, age, job length of service and tobacco consumption had also no effect on the BPA excretions. A significant increase in urinary total BPA concentration was observed for cashiers handling daily thermal paper receipts. However, no significant increase was observed in urinary free BPA concentration. These findings are particularly interesting for risk assessment since all available data on occupational exposure to BPA through thermal paper were obtained from models or from simulated experiments.

Urinary chromium concentrations in humans following ingestion of safe doses of hexavalent and trivalent chromium: Implications for biomonitoring

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

Finley, B.L.; Scott, P.K.; Norton, R.L.

1996-08-09

This study evaluates the significance of increased urinary chromium concentrations as a marker of chromium exposure and potential health risk. Six human volunteers ingested trivalent chromium [Cr(III)] and hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] at doses that are known to be safe but higher than typical levels. The following dosing regimen was used: d 1-7, 200 {mu}g/d chromium picolinate; d 8-10, Cr(VI) ingestion at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reference dose (RfD) of 0.005 mg/kg/d; d 11-13, no dose; d 14-16, Cr(III) ingestion at the U.S. EPA RfD of 1.0 mg/kg/d; and 17-18, postdose. Findings are as follows: (1) ingestion of 200more » {mu}g/d of chromium picolinate yielded significantly elevated urine concentrations such that each participant routinely exceeded background, (2) ingestion of the Cr(VI) RfD (0.005 mg/kg/d) yielded individual mean urinary chromium levels (1.2-2.3 {mu}g/L) and a pooled mean urinary chromium level (2.4 {mu}g/L) that significantly exceeded background, and (3) ingestion of the Cr(III) RfD yielded no significantly exceeded background, and (3) ingestion of the Cr(III) RfD yielded no significant increase in urinary chromium concentrations, indicating that little, if any, absorption occurred. Our work identified three critical issues that need to be accounted for in any future studies that will use urinary chromium as a marker of exposure. First, a minimum urinary chromium concentration of approximately 2 {mu}g/L should be used as a screening level to critically identify individuals who may have experienced elevated exposures to chromium. Second, if Cr(III) levels in soils are known to be less than 80,000 ppm and the Cr(III) is insoluble, urinary chromium concentrations are not an appropriate marker of exposure. Third, newer forms of chromium supplements that contain organic forms of Cr(III) must be considered potential confounders and their contribution to residential chromium uptake must be carefully evaluated. 19 refs., 7 figs., 3 tabs.« less

Effect of a protein-rich meal on urinary and salivary free amino acid concentrations in human subjects.

PubMed

Brand, H S; Jörning, G G; Chamuleau, R A; Abraham-Inpijn, L

1997-08-08

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether in healthy volunteers acute changes in plasma free amino acid composition after a protein-rich test meal are reflected in the urinary and salivary concentrations of the corresponding amino acids. The ingestion of a protein-rich meal elicited a significant increase of plasma and urine amino acid concentrations. The postprandial salivary amino acid excretion showed only minor changes. For several amino acids (alanine, arginine, asparagine, glycine, threonine and valine) significant relations were observed between the increase in concentration of these amino acids in venous plasma and urine. In whole saliva, only threonine and valine showed a significant relationship with the corresponding plasma concentration. Our data suggest that the urinary amino acid excretion of several amino acids has the potential for estimating short-term changes in plasma concentrations. Determination of salivary amino acid concentrations seems less appropriate for this purpose.

Urinary Calcium and Oxalate Excretion in Healthy Adult Cats Are Not Affected by Increasing Dietary Levels of Bone Meal in a Canned Diet

PubMed Central

Passlack, Nadine; Zentek, Jürgen

2013-01-01

This study aimed to investigate the impact of dietary calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P), derived from bone meal, on the feline urine composition and the urinary pH, allowing a risk assessment for the formation of calcium oxalate (CaOx) uroliths in cats. Eight healthy adult cats received 3 canned diets, containing 12.2 (A), 18.5 (B) and 27.0 g Ca/kg dry matter (C) and 16.1 (A), 17.6 (B) and 21.1 g P/kg dry matter (C). Each diet was fed over 17 days. After a 7 dayś adaptation period, urine and faeces were collected over 2×4 days (with a two-day rest between), and blood samples were taken. Urinary and faecal minerals, urinary oxalate (Ox), the urinary pH and the concentrations of serum Ca, phosphate and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were analyzed. Moreover, the urine was microscopically examined for CaOx uroliths. The results demonstrated that increasing levels of dietary Ca led to decreased serum PTH and Ca and increased faecal Ca and P concentrations, but did not affect the urinary Ca or Ox concentrations or the urinary fasting pH. The urinary postprandial pH slightly increased when the diet C was compared to the diet B. No CaOx crystals were detected in the urine of the cats. In conclusion, urinary Ca excretion in cats seems to be widely independent of the dietary Ca levels when Ca is added as bone meal to a typical canned diet, implicating that raw materials with higher contents of bones are of subordinate importance as risk factors for the formation of urinary CaOx crystals. PMID:23940588

Population Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic Model of Oral Fludrocortisone and Intravenous Hydrocortisone in Healthy Volunteers.

PubMed

Hamitouche, Noureddine; Comets, Emmanuelle; Ribot, Mégane; Alvarez, Jean-Claude; Bellissant, Eric; Laviolle, Bruno

2017-05-01

This study aimed at describing the pharmacokinetics and the concentration-effect relationships of fludrocortisone and hydrocortisone on urinary sodium/potassium excretion in healthy volunteers. This was a placebo-controlled, randomized, double blind, crossover study, of oral fludrocortisone and intravenous hydrocortisone, given alone or in combination, in 12 healthy male volunteers. Nonlinear mixed-effects modeling was used to describe the pharmacokinetics and pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic relationships on urinary sodium/potassium ratio for each drug. A one-compartment model was used to describe fludrocortisone and hydrocortisone pharmacokinetics. Mean plasma half-life was 1.40 h (95%CI [0.80;2.10]) for fludrocortisone and 2.10 h (95%CI [1.78;2.40]) for hydrocortisone. Clearance was 40.8 L/h (95%CI [33.6;48]) for fludrocortisone and 30 L/h (95%CI [25.3;34.7]) for hydrocortisone. An indirect response model was used to describe effects on urinary sodium/potassium ratio. Fludrocortisone plasma concentrations showed a wider inter-individual dispersion than hydrocortisone plasma concentrations. Urinary sodium/potassium ratio variability was also higher with fludrocortisone as compared to hydrocortisone. The plasma concentration of drug producing 50% of maximal inhibition of urinary sodium/potassium (IC 50 ) was about 200 times lower for fludrocortisone (0.08 μg/L, 95%CI [0.035;0.125]) than for hydrocortisone (16.7 μg/L, 95%CI [10.5;22.9]). Simulations showed that a 4-time per day administration regimen allow to achieve steady fludrocortisone plasma concentrations with stable decrease in urinary sodium/potassium ratio after the second administration of fludrocortisone. Fludrocortisone and hydrocortisone have short and similar plasma elimination half-lives in healthy subjects. Fludrocortisone plasma concentrations and effect on urinary sodium/potassium ratio had a higher inter-individual variability as compared to hydrocortisone. The administration regimen of fludrocortisone should be reconsidered.

Urinary thiocyanate concentrations are associated with adult cancer and lung problems: US NHANES, 2009-2012.

PubMed

Shiue, Ivy

2015-04-01

Links between environmental chemicals and human health have emerged but the effects from perchlorate, nitrate and thiocyanate were unclear. Therefore, it was aimed to study the relationships of urinary perchlorate, nitrate and thiocyanate concentrations and adult health conditions in a national and population-based study. Data was retrieved from US National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, 2009-2012, including demographics, blood pressure readings, self-reported health conditions and urinary perchlorate, nitrate and thiocyanate concentrations. Analyses included chi-square test, t test survey-weighted logistic regression models and population attributable risk estimation. There were no clear associations between urinary perchlorate concentrations and adult health conditions, although people with hearing loss and diabetes could be at the borderline risk. Urinary thiocyanate concentrations were significantly associated with emphysema (odds ratio (OR) 2.70 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.91-3.82, P < 0.001), cancer (OR 1.21 95%CI 1.06-1.39, P = 0.008), chronic bronchitis (OR 1.23 95%CI 1.10-1.52, P = 0.003), wheezing (OR 1.24 95%CI 1.05-1.46, P = 0.011), coughing (OR 1.19 95%CI 1.03-1.37, P = 0.018) and sleep complaints (OR 1.14 95%CI 1.02-1.26, P = 0.019). The population attributable risks accounted for 3.3% (1.8-5.3%), 1.9% (0.6-3.5%), 1.2% (0.5-2.6%), 2.2% (0.5-4.1%), 1.8% (0.3-6.2%) and 1.3% (0.2-2.4%) for emphysema, cancer, chronic bronchitis, wheezing, coughing and sleep complaints, respectively. In addition, there was an inverse association observed between urinary nitrate level and heart failure. This is for the first time observing significant risk effects of urinary thiocyanate concentrations on adult cancer and lung problems, although the causality cannot be established. Elimination of such environmental chemical in humans should be included in future health policy and intervention programs.

Degradation and silicon excretion of the calcium silicate bioactive ceramics during bone regeneration using rabbit femur defect model.

PubMed

Lin, Kaili; Liu, Yong; Huang, Hai; Chen, Lei; Wang, Zhen; Chang, Jiang

2015-06-01

The investigation of the bone regeneration ability, degradation and excretion of the grafts is critical for development and application of the newly developed biomaterials. Herein, the in vivo bone-regeneration, biodegradation and silicon (Si) excretion of the new type calcium silicate (CaSiO3, CS) bioactive ceramics were investigated using rabbit femur defect model, and the results were compared with the traditional β-tricalcium phosphate [β-Ca3(PO4)2, β-TCP] bioceramics. After implantation of the scaffolds in rabbit femur defects for 4, 8 and 12 weeks, the bone regenerative capacity and degradation were evaluated by histomorphometric analysis. While urine and some organs such as kidney, liver, lung and spleen were resected for chemical analysis to determine the excretion of the ionic products from CS implants. The histomorphometric analysis showed that the bioresorption rate of CS was similar to that of β-TCP in femur defect model, while the CS grafts could significantly stimulate bone formation capacity as compared with β-TCP bioceramics (P < 0.05). The chemical analysis results showed that Si concentration in urinary of the CS group was apparently higher than that in control group of β-TCP. However, no significant increase of the Si excretion was found in the organs including kidney, which suggests that the resorbed Si element is harmlessly excreted in soluble form via the urine. The present studies show that the CS ceramics can be used as safe, bioactive and biodegradable materials for hard tissue repair and tissue engineering applications.

Biomarkers of oxidative stress in electroplating workers exposed to hexavalent chromium.

PubMed

Pan, Chih-Hong; Jeng, Hueiwang Anna; Lai, Ching-Huang

2018-01-01

This study evaluates levels of biomarkers of oxidative DNA damage and lipid peroxidation in 105 male workers at 16 electroplating companies who had been exposed to hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)). The study participants were 230 non-smoking male workers, comprising 105 electroplating workers who had been exposed to chromium and 125 control subjects who performed office tasks. Personal air samples, spot urine samples, hair samples, fingernail samples and questionnaires were used to quantify exposure to Cr(VI), oxidative DNA damage, lipid peroxidation, and environmental pollutants. Both the geometric mean personal concentrations of Cr(VI) of the Cr-exposed workers and the total Cr concentrations in the air to which they were exposed significantly exceeded those for the control subjects. The geometric mean concentrations of Cr in urine, hair and fingernails, and the urinary 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the Cr(VI) exposed workers exceeded those in the control subjects. Daily cumulative Cr(VI) exposure and urinary Cr were significantly correlated with urinary 8-OHdG levels following adjustments for covariates. A ten-fold increase in urinary Cr level was associated with a 1.73-fold increase in urinary 8-OHdG level. Daily cumulative Cr(VI) exposure and urinary Cr level were significantly correlated with urinary MDA level following adjustments for covariates. A ten-fold increase in urinary Cr was associated with a 1.45-fold increase in urinary MDA. Exposure to Cr(VI) increased oxidative DNA injury and the oxidative deterioration of lipids in electroplating workers.

Behavior of heavy metals in human urine and blood following calcium disodium ethylenediamine tetraacetate injection: observations in metal workers.

PubMed

Sata, F; Araki, S; Murata, K; Aono, H

1998-06-12

To evaluate the effects of calcium disodium ethylenediamine tetraacetate (CaEDTA) on the behavior of 8 heavy metals in human urine and blood, CaEDTA was administered for 1 h by intravenous injection to 18 male metal foundry workers, whose blood lead concentrations (PbB) were between 16 and 59 (mean 34) microg/dl. Significant increases were found in urinary excretion of manganese, chromium, lead, zinc, and copper after the start of CaEDTA injection. Urinary chromium excretion reached a maximal level within 1 h after the start of injection, while urinary manganese, lead, and zinc excretion reached their highest concentrations between 1 and 2 h. Urinary copper excretion reached the highest level between 2 and 4 h. The rapid increases in urinary excretion of five metals were different from the "circadian rhythms," which are the normal, daily variations in renal glomerular filtration, reabsorption, and excretory mechanisms. Plasma lead concentrations were highest 1.5 h after the start of the 1-h injection, while plasma zinc concentration became lowest 5 h after the start of CaEDTA injection. Data suggest that manganese and chromium absorbed in human tissues might be mobilized by CaEDTA.

Urinary Concentrations of Parabens and Other Antimicrobial Chemicals and Their Association with Couples’ Fecundity

PubMed Central

Smarr, Melissa M.; Sundaram, Rajeshwari; Honda, Masato; Kannan, Kurunthachalam; Louis, Germaine M. Buck

2016-01-01

Background: Human exposure to parabens and other antimicrobial chemicals is continual and pervasive. The hormone-disrupting properties of these environmental chemicals may adversely affect human reproduction. Objective: We aimed to prospectively assess couples’ urinary concentrations of antimicrobial chemicals in the context of fecundity, measured as time to pregnancy (TTP). Methods: In a prospective cohort of 501 couples, we examined preconception urinary chemical concentrations of parabens, triclosan and triclorcarban in relation to TTP; chemical concentrations were modeled both continuously and in quartiles. Cox’s proportional odds models for discrete survival time were used to estimate fecundability odds ratios (FORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) adjusting for a priori–defined confounders. In light of TTP being a couple-dependent outcome, both partner and couple-based exposure models were analyzed. In all models, FOR estimates < 1.0 denote diminished fecundity (longer TTP). Results: Overall, 347 (69%) couples became pregnant. The highest quartile of female urinary methyl paraben (MP) concentrations relative to the lowest reflected a 34% reduction in fecundity (aFOR = 0.66; 95% CI: 0.45, 0.97) and remained so when accounting for couples’ concentrations (aFOR = 0.63; 95% CI: 0.41, 0.96). Similar associations were observed between ethyl paraben (EP) and couple fecundity for both partner and couple-based models (p-trend = 0.02 and p-trend = 0.05, respectively). No associations were observed with couple fecundity when chemicals were modeled continuously. Conclusions: Higher quartiles of preconception urinary concentrations of MP and EP among female partners were associated with reduced couple fecundity in partner-specific and couple-based exposure models. Citation: Smarr MM, Sundaram R, Honda M, Kannan K, Buck Louis GM. 2016. Urinary concentrations of parabens and other antimicrobial chemicals and their association with couples’ fecundity. Environ Health Perspect 124:730–736; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/EHP189 PMID:27286252

Measurement of urinary 11-dehydro-thromboxane B2 excretion in dogs with gastric dilatation-volvulus.

PubMed

Baltzer, Wendy I; McMichael, Maureen A; Ruaux, Craig G; Noaker, Laura; Steiner, Jörg M; Williams, David A

2006-01-01

To measure 11-dehydro-thromboxane B2 (11-dTXB2) in urine of healthy control dogs, dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy, and dogs with gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) and assess the relationship between urinary 11-dTXB2 concentrations in dogs with GDV and postoperative outcomes. Urine samples from 15 nonsurgical control dogs, 12 surgical control dogs, and 32 dogs with GVD. Urine samples were obtained from healthy pet dogs (ie, nonsurgical control dogs), dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy at anesthetic induction and 1 hour following surgery (ie, surgical control dogs), and dogs with GDV at hospital admission and 1 hour following surgical derotation of the stomach (ie, GDV dogs). Urinary 11-dTXB2 concentrations were determined with an ELISA and normalized to urinary creatinine (Cr) concentrations by calculation of the 11-dTXB2 -to-Cr ratio. Differences in median 11-dTXB2 -to-Cr ratios among dogs and before and after surgery were analyzed. Urinary 11-dTXB2-to-Cr ratios did not differ between nonsurgical control dogs and surgical control dogs before or after surgery. Urinary 11-dTXB2-to-Cr ratios were significantly higher in GDV dogs at the time of hospital admission and 1 hour after surgery, compared with those of nonsurgical control dogs. Postoperative urine samples from GDV dogs had significantly higher 11-dTXB2-to-Cr ratios than postoperative urine samples from surgical control dogs. Median urinary 11-dTXB2-to-Cr ratios increased significantly in GDV dogs that developed postoperative complications. Urinary 11-dTXB2 concentration is increased in GDV dogs at the time of hospital admission and after surgical derotation of the stomach, compared with that of healthy dogs. An increased urinary 11-dTXB2-to-Cr ratio following surgery is associated with an increased incidence of postoperative complications in dogs with GDV.

Efficacy of BRL 25000 against Serratia marcescens, Enterobacter cloacae, and Citrobacter freundii in urinary tract infections.

PubMed Central

Nakazawa, H; Hashimoto, T; Nishiura, T; Mitsuhashi, S

1983-01-01

Synergism between amoxicillin and clavulanic acid was not expected against cephalosporinase-producing bacterial strains because clavulanic acid has little inhibitory action on cephalosporinases. However, in a clinical trial of BRL 25000 (amoxicillin-clavulanic acid), excellent results were obtained in complicated urinary tract infections caused by Serratia marcescens, Enterobacter cloacae, and Citrobacter freundii strains which produced cephalosporinase and were highly resistant to amoxicillin alone. The good clinical efficacy of BRL 25000 in such urinary tract infections was probably due to the fact that the urinary concentration of clavulanic acid was higher than its minimal inhibitory concentrations for these strains. PMID:6357078

Urinary concentrations of benzophenone-type ultra violet light filters and reproductive parameters in young men.

PubMed

Adoamnei, Evdochia; Mendiola, Jaime; Moñino-García, Miriam; Vela-Soria, Fernando; Iribarne-Durán, Luz M; Fernández, Mariana F; Olea, Nicolás; Jørgensen, Niels; Swan, Shanna H; Torres-Cantero, Alberto M

2018-04-01

Benzophenone (BP)-type ultraviolet (UV) light filters are chemicals frequently added to personal care products, insect repellents, sunscreens, and beverage and food packaging to diminish the harmful effects of UV sunlight on human skin or foodstuffs. BP-type UV filters have shown negative effects on male reproduction function in in vitro and animal models, but human epidemiologic studies are limited. The goal of this study was to examine associations between urinary concentrations of BP-type UV filters and semen quality and reproductive hormone levels. This is a cross-sectional study with 215 young university students (18-23 years old) recruited between 2010 and 2011 in Southern Spain (Murcia Region). All men provided a urine, blood and semen sample on a single day. Urinary concentrations of 2,4-dihydroxybenzophenone (BP-1); 2,2',4,4'-tetrahydroxybenzophenone (BP-2); 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone (BP-3); 2,2'-dihydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone (BP-8) and 4-hydroxybenzophenone (4OH-BP) were measured by dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction and ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry detection. Semen quality was evaluated by measuring volume, sperm counts, motility and morphology. Serum samples were analyzed for reproductive hormones, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (T), inhibin B and estradiol (E2). Associations between urinary concentrations of BP-type UV filters and semen quality parameters and reproductive hormone levels were examined using linear regression, adjusting for potential confounders. Ninety-seven percent of the men had detectable urinary concentrations of at least one of the five BP-type UV filters quantified. After adjustment for important covariates (body mass index, smoking status and time of blood sample collection), there was a significant positive association between urinary BP-1 and BP-3 concentrations and serum FSH levels (β = 0.08, 95%CI: 0.009; 0.15 and β = 0.04, 95%CI: 0.0002; 0.08, respectively). Urinary BP-1 concentration was also significantly positively associated with T/E2 (β = 0.04, 95%CI: 0.002; 0.07) and negatively with inhibin b/FSH (β = -0.11, 95%CI: -0.21; -0.006) ratio. No significant associations were found between other urinary BP-type UV filters and other reproductive hormone levels or between any semen parameters and any of the urinary BP-type UV filters quantified. Our results suggest that, in young men, urinary BP-type UV filters may be associated with a modest alteration of some reproductive hormones, but the effects we report on reproductive function are likely to be small, and of unclear clinical significance. Further research is needed to replicate these findings in other male populations. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Activation of the Endogenous Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System or Aldosterone Administration Increases Urinary Exosomal Sodium Channel Excretion.

PubMed

Qi, Ying; Wang, Xiaojing; Rose, Kristie L; MacDonald, W Hayes; Zhang, Bing; Schey, Kevin L; Luther, James M

2016-02-01

Urinary exosomes secreted by multiple cell types in the kidney may participate in intercellular signaling and provide an enriched source of kidney-specific proteins for biomarker discovery. Factors that alter the exosomal protein content remain unknown. To determine whether endogenous and exogenous hormones modify urinary exosomal protein content, we analyzed samples from 14 mildly hypertensive patients in a crossover study during a high-sodium (HS, 160 mmol/d) diet and low-sodium (LS, 20 mmol/d) diet to activate the endogenous renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. We further analyzed selected exosomal protein content in a separate cohort of healthy persons receiving intravenous aldosterone (0.7 μg/kg per hour for 10 hours) versus vehicle infusion. The LS diet increased plasma renin activity and aldosterone concentration, whereas aldosterone infusion increased only aldosterone concentration. Protein analysis of paired urine exosome samples by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry-based multidimensional protein identification technology detected 2775 unique proteins, of which 316 exhibited significantly altered abundance during LS diet. Sodium chloride cotransporter (NCC) and α- and γ-epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) subunits from the discovery set were verified using targeted multiple reaction monitoring mass spectrometry quantified with isotope-labeled peptide standards. Dietary sodium restriction or acute aldosterone infusion similarly increased urine exosomal γENaC[112-122] peptide concentrations nearly 20-fold, which correlated with plasma aldosterone concentration and urinary Na/K ratio. Urine exosomal NCC and αENaC concentrations were relatively unchanged during these interventions. We conclude that urinary exosome content is altered by renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system activation. Urinary measurement of exosomal γENaC[112-122] concentration may provide a useful biomarker of ENaC activation in future clinical studies. Copyright © 2016 by the American Society of Nephrology.

Activation of the Endogenous Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System or Aldosterone Administration Increases Urinary Exosomal Sodium Channel Excretion

PubMed Central

Qi, Ying; Wang, Xiaojing; Rose, Kristie L.; MacDonald, W. Hayes; Zhang, Bing; Schey, Kevin L.

2016-01-01

Urinary exosomes secreted by multiple cell types in the kidney may participate in intercellular signaling and provide an enriched source of kidney-specific proteins for biomarker discovery. Factors that alter the exosomal protein content remain unknown. To determine whether endogenous and exogenous hormones modify urinary exosomal protein content, we analyzed samples from 14 mildly hypertensive patients in a crossover study during a high-sodium (HS, 160 mmol/d) diet and low-sodium (LS, 20 mmol/d) diet to activate the endogenous renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. We further analyzed selected exosomal protein content in a separate cohort of healthy persons receiving intravenous aldosterone (0.7 μg/kg per hour for 10 hours) versus vehicle infusion. The LS diet increased plasma renin activity and aldosterone concentration, whereas aldosterone infusion increased only aldosterone concentration. Protein analysis of paired urine exosome samples by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry–based multidimensional protein identification technology detected 2775 unique proteins, of which 316 exhibited significantly altered abundance during LS diet. Sodium chloride cotransporter (NCC) and α- and γ-epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) subunits from the discovery set were verified using targeted multiple reaction monitoring mass spectrometry quantified with isotope-labeled peptide standards. Dietary sodium restriction or acute aldosterone infusion similarly increased urine exosomal γENaC[112–122] peptide concentrations nearly 20-fold, which correlated with plasma aldosterone concentration and urinary Na/K ratio. Urine exosomal NCC and αENaC concentrations were relatively unchanged during these interventions. We conclude that urinary exosome content is altered by renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system activation. Urinary measurement of exosomal γENaC[112–122] concentration may provide a useful biomarker of ENaC activation in future clinical studies. PMID:26113616

Urinary Concentrations of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Metabolites in Maté Drinkers in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

PubMed Central

Lopes, Antonio Barros; Metzdorf, Marcela; Metzdorf, Luiza; Ramalho, Marcos Paulo; Kavalco, Caroline; Etemadi, Arash; Pritchett, Natalie R.; Murphy, Gwen; Calafat, Antonia M.; Abnet, Christian C.; Dawsey, Sanford M.; Fagundes, Renato Borges

2017-01-01

Background Consumption of maté, an infusion of the herb Ilex paraguariensis (yerba maté), is associated with increased risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), but the carcinogenic mechanism is unclear. Commercial brands of yerba maté contain high levels of carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are acquired during the traditional drying process. The purpose of this study was to characterize exposure to PAHs in maté drinkers over a wide range of maté consumption. Methods We recruited 244 adults who answered a questionnaire and collected a fasting spot urine specimen. We quantified urinary concentrations of seven PAH metabolites, and assessed associations between self-reported recent maté consumption and urinary PAH metabolites by multivariate regression. Results Recent maté consumption showed a significant dose-response association with 6 of 7 PAH metabolites in unadjusted models (p-for-trend <0.05). After adjustment for creatinine and potential confounders, concentrations of 2-naphthol, 1-hydroxyphenanthrene, and the sum of 2- and 3-hydroxyphenanthrene remained significantly associated with recent maté intake. The sum of the urinary concentrations of the phenanthrene metabolites was similar or higher among maté drinkers who did not smoke than among smokers who did not drink maté. Conclusions Urinary concentrations of PAH metabolites were significantly associated with self-reported amount of recent maté intake, and drinking maté increased urinary concentrations of some PAH metabolites as much as smoking cigarettes. Impact Drinking maté is a source of exposure to potentially carcinogenic PAHs, consistent with the hypothesis that the PAH content of maté may contribute to the increased risk of ESCC in maté drinkers. PMID:29263183

Urinary Concentrations of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Metabolites in Maté Drinkers in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

PubMed

Lopes, Antonio Barros; Metzdorf, Marcela; Metzdorf, Luiza; Sousa, Marcos Paulo Ramalho; Kavalco, Caroline; Etemadi, Arash; Pritchett, Natalie R; Murphy, Gwen; Calafat, Antonia M; Abnet, Christian C; Dawsey, Sanford M; Fagundes, Renato Borges

2018-03-01

Background: Consumption of maté , an infusion of the herb Ilex paraguariensis (yerba maté) , is associated with increased risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), but the carcinogenic mechanism is unclear. Commercial brands of yerba maté contain high levels of carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are acquired during the traditional drying process. The purpose of this study was to characterize exposure to PAHs in maté drinkers over a wide range of maté consumption. Methods: We recruited 244 adults who answered a questionnaire and collected a fasting spot urine specimen. We quantified urinary concentrations of seven PAH metabolites and assessed associations between self-reported recent maté consumption and urinary PAH metabolites by multivariate regression. Results: Recent maté consumption showed a significant dose-response association with 6 of 7 PAH metabolites in unadjusted models ( P trend < 0.05). After adjustment for creatinine and potential confounders, concentrations of 2-naphthol, 1-hydroxyphenanthrene, and the sum of 2- and 3-hydroxyphenanthrene remained significantly associated with recent maté intake. The sum of the urinary concentrations of the phenanthrene metabolites was similar or higher among maté drinkers who did not smoke than among smokers who did not drink maté Conclusions: Urinary concentrations of PAH metabolites were significantly associated with self-reported amounts of recent maté intake, and drinking maté increased urinary concentrations of some PAH metabolites as much as smoking cigarettes. Impact: Drinking maté is a source of exposure to potentially carcinogenic PAHs, consistent with the hypothesis that the PAH content of maté may contribute to the increased risk of ESCC in maté drinkers. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 27(3); 331-7. ©2017 AACR . ©2017 American Association for Cancer Research.

Urinary bisphenol A concentration and risk of future coronary artery disease in apparently healthy men and women.

PubMed

Melzer, David; Osborne, Nicholas J; Henley, William E; Cipelli, Riccardo; Young, Anita; Money, Cathryn; McCormack, Paul; Luben, Robert; Khaw, Kay-Tee; Wareham, Nicholas J; Galloway, Tamara S

2012-03-27

The endocrine-disrupting chemical bisphenol A (BPA) is widely used in food and beverage packaging. Higher urinary BPA concentrations were cross-sectionally associated with heart disease in National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003-2004 and NHANES 2005-2006, independent of traditional risk factors. We included 758 incident coronary artery disease (CAD) cases and 861 controls followed for 10.8 years from the European Prospective Investigation of Cancer-Norfolk UK. Respondents aged 40 to 74 years and free of CAD, stroke, or diabetes mellitus provided baseline spot urine samples. Urinary BPA concentrations (median value, 1.3 ng/mL) were low. Per-SD (4.56 ng/mL) increases in urinary BPA concentration were associated with incident CAD in age-, sex-, and urinary creatinine-adjusted models (n=1919; odds ratio=1.13; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-1.24; P=0.017). With CAD risk factor adjustment (including education, occupational social class, body mass index category, systolic blood pressure, lipid concentrations, and exercise), the estimate was similar but narrowly missed 2-sided significance (n=1744; odds ratio=1.11; 95% confidence interval, 1.00-1.23; P=0.058). Sensitivity analyses with the fully adjusted model, excluding those with early CAD (<3-year follow-up), body mass index >30, or abnormal renal function or with additional adjustment for vitamin C, C-reactive protein, or alcohol consumption, all produced similar estimates, and all showed associations at P≤0.05. Associations between higher BPA exposure (reflected in higher urinary concentrations) and incident CAD during >10 years of follow-up showed trends similar to previously reported cross-sectional findings in the more highly exposed NHANES respondents. Further work is needed to accurately estimate the prospective exposure-response curve and to establish the underlying mechanisms.

Aerial Application of Mancozeb and Urinary Ethylene Thiourea (ETU) Concentrations among Pregnant Women in Costa Rica: The Infants’ Environmental Health Study (ISA)

PubMed Central

Mora, Ana María; Córdoba, Leonel; Cano, Juan Camilo; Quesada, Rosario; Faniband, Moosa; Wesseling, Catharina; Ruepert, Clemens; Öberg, Mattias; Eskenazi, Brenda; Mergler, Donna; Lindh, Christian H.

2014-01-01

Background: Mancozeb and its main metabolite ethylene thiourea (ETU) may alter thyroid function; thyroid hormones are essential for fetal brain development. In Costa Rica, mancozeb is aerially sprayed at large-scale banana plantations on a weekly basis. Objectives: Our goals were to evaluate urinary ETU concentrations in pregnant women living near large-scale banana plantations, compare their estimated daily intake (EDI) with established reference doses (RfDs), and identify factors that predict their urinary ETU concentrations. Methods: We enrolled 451 pregnant women from Matina County, Costa Rica, which has large-scale banana production. We visited 445 women up to three times during pregnancy to obtain urine samples (n = 872) and information on factors that possibly influence exposure. We determined urinary ETU concentrations using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Results: Pregnant women’s median urinary ETU concentrations were more than five times higher than those reported for other general populations. Seventy-two percent of the women had EDIs above the RfD. Women who lived closest (1st quartile, < 48 m) to banana plantations on average had a 45% (95% CI: 23, 72%) higher urinary ETU compared with women who lived farthest away (4th quartile, ≥ 565 m). Compared with the other women, ETU was also higher in women who washed agricultural work clothes on the day before sampling (11%; 95% CI: 4.9, 17%), women who worked in agriculture during pregnancy (19%; 95% CI: 9.3, 29%), and immigrant women (6.2%; 95% CI: 1.0, 13%). Conclusions: The pregnant women’s urinary ETU concentrations are of concern, and the principal source of exposure is likely to be aerial spraying of mancozeb. The factors predicting ETU provide insight into possibilities for exposure reduction. Citation: van Wendel de Joode B, Mora AM, Córdoba L, Cano JC, Quesada R, Faniband M, Wesseling C, Ruepert C, Öberg M, Eskenazi B, Mergler D, Lindh CH. 2014. Aerial application of mancozeb and urinary ethylene thiourea (ETU) concentrations among pregnant women in Costa Rica: The Infants’ Environmental Health Study (ISA). Environ Health Perspect 122:1321–1328; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1307679 PMID:25198283

Aldosterone-Signaling Defect Exacerbates Sodium Wasting in Very Preterm Neonates: The Premaldo Study.

PubMed

Martinerie, Laetitia; Pussard, Eric; Yousef, Nadya; Cosson, Claudine; Lema, Ingrid; Husseini, Khaled; Mur, Sébastien; Lombès, Marc; Boileau, Pascal

2015-11-01

The neonatal period, notably in preterm infants, is characterized by high sodium wasting, implying that aldosterone, the main hormone regulating sodium reabsorption, is unable to maintain sodium homeostasis. This study sought to assess aldosterone secretion and action in neonates according to gestational age (GA). This was a multicenter prospective study (NCT01176162) conducted between 2011 and 2014 at five neonatology departments in France. Infants were followed during their first 3 months. The 155 newborns included were classified into three groups: Group 1 (n = 46 patients), <33 gestational weeks (GW); Group 2 (n = 67 patients), 33-36 GW; and Group 3 (n = 42 patients), ≥37 GW. Plasma aldosterone was measured in umbilical cord blood. Urinary aldosterone (UAldo) was assessed at day 0, day 3, month 1, and month 3 postnatal. The correlation between UAldo and the urinary Na/K ratio was determined as an index of renal aldosterone sensitivity. UAldo significantly increased with GA: from 8.8 ± 7.5 μg/mmol of creatinine (Group 1) to 21.1 ± 21.0 (Group 3) in correlation with plasma aldosterone levels in all groups (P < .001), demonstrating its reliability. The aldosterone/renin ratio significantly increased with GA, suggesting an aldosterone secretion defect in preterm infants. UAldo and urinary Na/K were correlated in very preterm but not in term neonates, consistent with very preterm neonates being renal-aldosterone sensitive and term neonates being aldosterone resistant. Very preterm infants have a previously unrecognized defective aldosterone secretion but conserved renal aldosterone sensitivity in the neonatal period, which modifies the current view of sodium balance in these infants and suggests alternative management approaches.

Urinary metabolite levels and symptoms in Filipino workers using organic solvents.

PubMed

Cucueco, M T; Espinosa, N C; Villanueva, M B; Castro, F T; Sison, S Y; Ortega, V S; Hisanaga, N

1993-01-01

To compare symptoms with urinary metabolite levels, 900 workers from 7 organic solvent-using industries were studied. Urinary metabolites were determined using a high performance liquid chromatograph. Urinary hippuric acid concentrations exceeding the reference value (2.5 g/g creatinine) were found in 78 (8.7%) workers. However, only 3 (0.3%) and 1 (0.1%) of the participants exceeded the reference value for mandelic (0.8 g/g creatinine) and total methylhippuric acid (1.5 g/g creatinine), respectively. The sum of the values of the ratio of measured urinary metabolite concentration to the corresponding ACGIH's biological exposure indices (BEI) [(HA/BEI of HA + MHA/BEI of MHA + MA/BEI of MA)] exceeded 1.0 in 166 (18.4%) workers. Majority of them were from the footwear manufacturing industry (63/129 or 49.2%). Questionnaire interviews were also administered to determine the prevalence of symptoms while at work (acute symptoms) or within the past 6 months (chronic symptoms). Urinary metabolite levels of individual and mixed solvents were compared with the symptoms of all workers. Analysis using Spearman's rank correlation showed in workers whose urinary hippuric acid exceeded 3.75 g/g creatine (1.5 x BEI), significant correlation between their hippuric acid levels and subjective complaints. Workers whose sum of the values of the ratio of measured urinary metabolite concentration to corresponding BEI exceeded 1.5 were selected and comparing this level with their symptoms, significant correlation was also noted in some complaints.

The correlation between urinary 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid and sperm quality in infertile men and rotating shift workers

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that modulates a wide range of neuroendocrine functions. However, excessive circulating serotonin levels may induce harmful effects in the male reproductive system. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the levels of urinary 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIIA), a major serotonin metabolite, correlate with different classical seminal parameters. Methods Human ejaculates were obtained from 40 men attending infertility counselling and rotating shift workers by masturbation after 4-5 days of abstinence. Urinary 5- HIIA concentration was quantified by using a commercial ELISA kit. Forward motility was assessed by a computer-aided semen analysis (CASA) system. Sperm concentration was determined using the haemocytometer method. Sperm morphology was evaluated after Diff-Quik staining, while sperm vitality was estimated after Eosin-Nigrosin vital staining. Results Our results show that urinary 5-HIIA levels obtained from a set of 20 volunteers negatively correlated with sperm concentration, forward motility, morphology normal range and sperm vitality. On the other hand, we checked the relationship between male infertility and urinary 5-HIIA levels in 20 night shift workers. Thus, urinary 5-HIIA levels obtained from 10 recently-proven fathers were significantly lower than those found in 10 infertile males. Additionally, samples from recent fathers exhibited higher sperm concentration, as well as better forward motility and normal morphology rate. Conclusions In the light of our findings, we concluded that high serotonin levels, indirectly measured as urinary 5-HIIA levels, appear to play a role as an infertility determinant in male subjects. PMID:21059225

IN VITRO ACTIVITY OF VACCINIUM MACROCARPON (CRANBERRY) ON URINARY TRACT PATHOGENS IN UNCOMPLICATED URINARY TRACT INFECTION.

PubMed

Bukhari, Saima; Chiragh, Sadia; Tariq, Sumbal; Alam, Muhammad Adeel; Wazir, Muhammad Salim; Suleman, Muhammad

2015-01-01

Urinary tract infection is the most common bacterial infection in the community, mainly caused by Escherichia coli (E coli). Due to its high incidence and recurrence, problems are faced in the treatment with antibiotics. Cranberry being herbal remedy have long been the focus of interest for their beneficial effects in preventing urinary tract infections. This study was conducted to analyse in vitro activity of cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) on uropathogenic E coli in uncomplicated urinary tract infections. In this laboratory based single group experimental study, anti-bacterial activity of Vaccinium macrocarpon concentrate on urinary tract E coli was investigated, in vitro. Ninety-six culture positive cases of different uropathogens were identified. Vaccinium macrocarpon concentrate at different concentrations was prepared in distilled water and put in wells punched in nutrient agar. E coli isolates were inoculated on the plates and incubated at 37 °C for 24 hours. A citric acid solution of the same pH as that of Vaccinium macrocarpon was used and put in a well on the same plate to exclude the effect of pH. A total of 35 isolates of E coli were identified out of 96 culture positive specimens of urine and found sensitive to Vaccinium macrocarpon (p<0.000). Results revealed that Vaccinium macrocarpon has antibacterial effect against E coli. Furthermore the antibacterial activity of Vaccinium macrocarpon has dose response relationship. Acidic nature of Vaccinium macrocarpon due to its pH is not contributory towards its antibacterial effect. Vaccinium macrocarpon concentrate may be used in urinary tract infection caused by E coli.

Passive smoking induces leukotriene production in children: influence of asthma.

PubMed

Hernández-Alvídrez, Elizabeth; Alba-Reyes, Georgina; Muñoz-Cedillo, Bernardo C; Arreola-Ramírez, José Luis; Furuya, María Elena Yuriko; Becerril-Ángeles, Martín; Vargas, Mario H

2013-05-01

Passive smoking is associated with poor asthma control in children, but the mechanism is unknown. Leukotrienes are involved in the asthma pathogenesis and their synthesis is increased in adult subjects who actively smoke. To evaluate whether passive smoking, as assessed by urinary cotinine levels, increases leukotriene production in children with or without asthma. This was a prospective, cross-sectional study in which children with stable intermittent asthma (without exacerbation) and healthy control children were studied through spirometry and urinary concentrations of cotinine and leukotriene E(4) (LTE(4)). Both groups were balanced to include children with and without passive smoking. Ninety children (49 with asthma and 41 controls, 54.4% females) aged 9 years (range, 5-13 years) were studied. Urinary LTE(4) concentrations were progressively higher as cotinine levels increased (r(S) = 0.23, p = .03). LTE(4) also correlated with body mass index (BMI) (r(S) = 0.30, p = .004), and multiple regression analysis revealed that BMI was even more influential than cotinine for determining LTE(4) levels. LTE(4) concentrations were unrelated with gender, age, or spirometry. In turn, cotinine inversely correlated with forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV(1)) (r(S) = -0.22, p = .04) and forced vital capacity (FVC) (r(S) = -0.25, p = .02), but when analyzed by groups, these relationships were statistically significant only in children with asthma. Exposure to environmental tobacco smoke, as assessed by urinary cotinine levels, was associated with an increased urinary concentration of LTE(4), although BMI exerted more influence in determining its concentration. Urinary cotinine was associated with decreased lung function, mainly in children with asthma.

Genital and Urinary Tract Defects

MedlinePlus

... wrong place. The clitoris is a female external sex organ. For boys and girls, bladder control problems Some babies need ... to sit down to urinate. And in some boys, the testicles don’t fully drop down ... problems with sex or urinating later in life. Hypospadias usually is ...

Personal care product use and urinary phthalate metabolite and paraben concentrations during pregnancy among women from a fertility clinic

PubMed Central

Braun, Joe M.; Just, Allan C.; Williams, Paige L.; Smith, Kristen W.; Calafat, Antonia M.; Hauser, Russ

2014-01-01

Parabens and phthalates are potential endocrine disruptors frequently used in personal care/beauty products, and the developing fetus may be sensitive to these chemicals. We measured urinary butyl-paraben (BP), methyl-paraben (MP), propyl-paraben (PP), mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP), and monoethyl phthalate (MEP) concentrations up to three times in 177 pregnant women from a fertility clinic in Boston MA. Using linear mixed models, we examined the relationship between self-reported personal care product use in the previous 24 hours and urinary paraben and phthalate metabolite concentrations. Lotion, cosmetic, and cologne/perfume use were associated with the greatest increases in the molar sum of phthalate metabolite and paraben concentrations, although the magnitude of individual biomarker increases varied by product used. For example, women who used lotion had BP concentrations 111% higher (95% confidence interval [CI]:41%, 216%) than non-users, while their MBP concentrations were only 28% higher (CI:2%, 62%). Women using/cologne/perfume had MEP concentrations 167% (CI:98%, 261%) higher than non-users, but BP concentrations were similar. We observed a monotonic dose-response relationship between the total number of products used and urinary paraben and phthalate metabolite concentrations. These results suggest that questionnaire data may be useful for assessing exposure to a mixture of chemicals from personal care products during pregnancy. PMID:24149971

Association of expired nitric oxide with urinary metal concentrations in boilermakers exposed to residual oil fly ash.

PubMed

Kim, Jee Young; Hauser, Russ; Wand, Matthew P; Herrick, Robert F; Houk, R S; Aeschliman, David B; Woodin, Mark A; Christiani, David C

2003-11-01

Exposure to metal-containing particulate matter has been associated with adverse pulmonary responses. Metals in particulate matter are soluble, hence are readily recovered in urine of exposed individuals. This study investigated the association between urinary metal concentrations and the fractional concentration of expired nitric oxide (F(E)NO) in boilermakers (N = 32) exposed to residual oil fly ash (ROFA). Subjects were monitored at a boiler overhaul site located in the New England area, USA. F(E)NO and urine samples were collected pre- and post-workshift for 5 consecutive workdays. Metals investigated included vanadium (V), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb). The median F(E)NO was 7.5 ppb (95% CI: 7.4-8.0), and the median creatinine-adjusted urinary metal concentrations (mug/g creatinine) were: vanadium, 1.37; chromium, 0.48; manganese, 0.30; nickel, 1.52; copper, 3.70; and lead, 2.32. Linear mixed-effects models indicated significant inverse exposure-response relationships between log F(E)NO and the log-transformed urinary concentrations of vanadium, manganese, nickel, copper, and lead at several lag times, after adjusting for smoking status. Urine samples may be utilized as a biomarker of occupational metal exposure. The inverse association between F(E)NO and urinary metal concentrations suggests that exposure to metals in particulate matter may have an adverse effect on respiratory health. Copyright 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Concentrations of cysteinyl leukotrienes in urine and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of cats with experimentally induced asthma.

PubMed

Norris, Carol R; Decile, Kendra C; Berghaus, Londa J; Berghaus, Roy D; Walby, William F; Schelegle, Edward S; Hyde, Dallas M; Gershwin, Laurel J

2003-11-01

To evaluate changes in cysteinyl leukotriene (LT) concentrations in urine and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) in cats with experimentally induced asthma. 19 cats with experimentally induced asthma and 5 control cats. Cats were sensitized to Bermuda grass or house dust mite allergen, and phenotypic features of asthma were confirmed with intradermal skin testing, evaluation of BALF eosinophil percentages, and pulmonary function testing. A competitive ELISA kit for LTC4, LTD4, and LTE4 was used for quantitative analysis of LTs. Urinary creatinine concentrations and BALF total protein (TP) concentrations were measured, and urinary LT-to-creatinine ratios and BALF LT-to-TP ratios were calculated. Mean urinary LT-to-creatinine ratios did not differ significantly between control cats and allergen-sensitized cats before or after sensitization and challenge exposure with saline (0.9% NaCl) solution or allergen, respectively. In BALF the mean LT-to-TP ratio of control cats did not differ significantly before or after sensitization and challenge exposure with saline. Asthmatic cats had BALF LT-to-TP ratios that were significantly lower than control cats at all time points, whereas ratios for asthmatic cats did not differ significantly among the various time points. Although LTs were readily detectable in urine, no significant increases in urinary LT concentrations were detected after challenge in allergen-sensitized cats. Spot testing of urinary LT concentrations appears to have no clinical benefit for use in monitoring the inflammatory asthmatic state in cats. The possibility that cysteinyl LTs bind effectively to their target receptors in BALF and, thus, decrease free LT concentrations deserves further study.

Dietary determinants of cadmium exposure in the Strong Heart Family Study

PubMed Central

Olmedo, Pablo; Grau-Perez, Maria; Fretts, Amanda; Tellez-Plaza, Maria; Gil, Fernando; Yeh, Fawn; Umans, Jason G.; Francesconi, Kevin A.; Goessler, Walter; Franceschini, Nora; Lee, Elisa T.; Best, Lyle G.; Cole, Shelley A.; Howard, Barbara V.; Navas-Acien, Ana

2017-01-01

Urinary cadmium (Cd) concentrations in the Strong Heart Family Study (SHFS) participants are higher than in the general US population. This difference is unlikely to be related to tobacco smoking. We evaluated the association of consumption of processed meats and other dietary products with urinary Cd concentrations in the SHFS, a family-based study conducted in American Indian communities. We included 1725 participants with urine Cd concentrations (standardized to urine creatinine) and food frequency questionnaire data grouped in 24 categories, including processed meat. Median (IQR) urinary Cd concentrations were 0.44 (0.20–0.85) μg/g creatinine. The age, sex, smoking, education, center, body mass index, and total kcal adjusted geometric mean ratio (GMR) (95%CI) of urinary cadmium concentrations per IQR increase in each dietary category was 1.16 (1.04–1.29) for processed meat, 1.10 (1.00–1.21) for fries and chips, 0.87 (0.80–0.95) for dairy products, and 0.89 (0.82–0.97) for fruit juices. The results remained similar after further adjustment for the dietary categories associated with urinary Cd in the previous model except for fries and chips, which was no longer statistically significant. These findings revealed the potential importance of processed meat products as a dietary source of cadmium. PMID:28012896

Cystine calculi: challenging group of stones

PubMed Central

Ahmed, Kamran; Dasgupta, Prokar; Khan, Mohammad Shamim

2006-01-01

Cystinuria is an autosomal recessive disorder in renal tubular and intestinal transport of dibasic amino acids, which results in increased urinary excretion of cystine, ornithine, lysine and arginine. It affects 1 in 20 000 people and is caused by a defect in the rBAT gene on chromosome 2. Development of urinary tract cystine calculi is the only clinical manifestation of this disease. Owing to recurrent episodes of stone formation, these patients require a multi‐modal approach to management. The role of medical management and minimally invasive surgery was reviewed for the treatment of cystinuria. PMID:17148700

Urinary 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine and urothelial carcinoma risk in low arsenic exposure area

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

Chung, C.-J.; Huang, C.-J.; Pu, Y.-S.

2008-01-01

Arsenic is a well-documented human carcinogen and is known to cause oxidative stress in cultured cells and animals. A hospital-based case-control study was conducted to evaluate the relationship among the levels of urinary 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), the arsenic profile, and urothelial carcinoma (UC). Urinary 8-OHdG was measured by using high-sensitivity enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. The urinary species of inorganic arsenic and their metabolites were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and hydride generator-atomic absorption spectrometry (HG-AAS). This study showed that the mean urinary concentration of total arsenics was significantly higher, at 37.67 {+-} 2.98 {mu}g/g creatinine, for UC patients thanmore » for healthy controls of 21.10 {+-} 0.79 {mu}g/g creatinine (p < 0.01). Urinary 8-OHdG levels correlated with urinary total arsenic concentrations (r = 0.19, p < 0.01). There were significantly higher 8-OHdG levels, of 7.48 {+-} 0.97 ng/mg creatinine in UC patients, compared to healthy controls of 5.95 {+-} 0.21 ng/mg creatinine. Furthermore, female UC patients had higher 8-OHdG levels of 9.22 {+-} 0.75 than those of males at 5.76 {+-} 0.25 ng/mg creatinine (p < 0.01). Multiple linear regression analyses revealed that high urinary 8-OHdG levels were associated with increased total arsenic concentrations, inorganic arsenite, monomethylarsonic acid (MMA), and dimethylarsenate (DMA) as well as the primary methylation index (PMI) even after adjusting for age, gender, and UC status. The results suggest that oxidative DNA damage was associated with arsenic exposure, even at low urinary level of arsenic.« less

Use of urinary biomarkers to characterize occupational exposure to BTEX in healthcare waste autoclave operators.

PubMed

Rafiee, Ata; Delgado-Saborit, Juana Maria; Gordi, Elham; Quémerais, Bernadette; Kazemi Moghadam, Vahid; Lu, Wenjing; Hashemi, Fallah; Hoseini, Mohammad

2018-08-01

Urinary benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX) can be used as a reliable biomarker of exposure to these pollutants. This study was aimed to investigate the urinary BTEX concentration in operators of healthcare waste (HCW) autoclaves. This cross-sectional study was conducted in selected hospitals in Tehran, Iran between April and June 2017. Twenty operators (as the case group) and twenty control subjects were enrolled in the study. Personal urine samples were collected at the beginning and end of the work shift. Urinary BTEX were measured by a headspace gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). A detailed questionnaire was used to gather information from subjects. Results showed that the median of urinary benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, m-p xylene, and o-xylene levels in the exposed group were 3.26, 3.36, 0.84, 3.94 and 4.48 μg/L, respectively. With the exception of ethylbenzene, subjects in the exposed group had significantly higher urinary BTEX levels than control group (p < 0.05). Urinary BTEX concentrations in the exposed case group were 2.5-fold higher than in the control group. There was a significant relationship between the amount of generated waste per day and the urinary BTEX in the exposed group. Smoking status and type of autoclave used were also identified as predictors of urinary BTEX concentrations. The healthcare waste treatment autoclaves can be considered as a significant BTEX exposure source for operators working with these treatment facilities. The appropriate personal protection equipment and control measures capable in reducing BTEX exposure should be provided to HCW workers to reduce their exposures to BTEX. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Concave Urinary Crystallines: Direct Evidence of Calcium Oxalate Crystals Dissolution by Citrate In Vivo

PubMed Central

Shang, Yun-Feng; Xu, Meng; Zhang, Guang-Na; Ouyang, Jian-Ming

2013-01-01

The changes in urinary crystal properties in patients with calcium oxalate (CaOx) calculi after oral administration of potassium citrate (K3cit) were investigated via atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffractometry (XRD), and zeta potential analyzer. The AFM and SEM results showed that the surface of urinary crystals became concave, the edges and corners of crystals became blunt, the average size of urinary crystallines decreased significantly, and aggregation of urinary crystals was reduced. These changes were attributed to the significant increase in concentration of excreted citrate to 492 ± 118 mg/L after K3cit intake from 289 ± 83 mg/L before K3cit intake. After the amount of urinary citrate was increased, it complexed with Ca2+ ions on urinary crystals, which dissolved these crystals. Thus, the appearance of concave urinary crystals was a direct evidence of CaOx dissolution by citrate in vivo. The XRD results showed that the quantities and species of urinary crystals decreased after K3cit intake. The mechanism of inhibition of formation of CaOx stones by K3cit was possibly due to the complexation of Ca2+ with citrate, increase in urine pH, concentration of urinary inhibitor glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and the absolute value of zeta potential after K3cit intake. PMID:24363634

An alternative treatment modality in closing bladder exstrophy: use of rectus abdominus muscle flap--preliminary results in a rat model.

PubMed

Büyükünal, S N; Kaner, G; Celayir, S

1989-06-01

The aim of this study was to find a new alternate method for bladder exstrophies with small capacity and inelasticity, and to resolve complications of other bladder augmentation techniques. In 50 Wistar albino rats, a large bladder defect was created excising at least one half of their original bladder, keeping the peritrigonal zone intact. In each rat, a 2.5 x 1-cm inferiorly based rectus abdominus muscle flap was prepared from the lower abdominal quadrant. This flap was then rotated to cover the bladder defect. The inner layer formed by the peritoneum was sutured to the edges of the bladder defect by 6-0 separate sutures. The post-operative radiologic and scintigraphic examination of the urinary system done at different intervals showed no difference from that of normal rats. The only observed disadvantage of this technique was the formation of calculi in the bladder in 8/50 rats in the late post-operative period. Post-mortem histopathologic investigations performed at different intervals showed the inner layer of the flap to be completely covered by the transitional urinary epithelium of the bladder. We think this technique is easy to perform, non-time-consuming, and has a low complication rate. It may be useful in infants with small, noncompliant, inelastic bladder exstrophies.

Postpartum pelvic floor muscle training and urinary incontinence: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Hilde, Gunvor; Stær-Jensen, Jette; Siafarikas, Franziska; Ellström Engh, Marie; Bø, Kari

2013-12-01

To evaluate whether postpartum pelvic floor muscle training decrease prevalence of any urinary incontinence (UI) in primiparous women with and without UI at inclusion (mixed population) and further to perform stratified analyses on women with and without major levator ani muscle defects. A two-armed assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial including primiparous women 6 weeks after vaginal delivery was conducted. Participants were stratified on major levator ani muscle defects, verified by transperineal ultrasonography, and thereafter randomly allocated to training or control. All participants were taught to contract the pelvic floor muscles. The control participants received no further intervention, whereas training participants attended a weekly supervised pelvic floor muscle training class and performed daily home exercise for 16 weeks. Primary outcome was self-reported UI analyzed by relative risk. We included 175 women, 55 with major levator ani muscle defects and 120 without. Prevalence of UI at baseline was 39.1% in the training group (n=87) and 50% among those in the control group (n=88). Fifteen women (8.6%) were lost to follow-up. At 6 months after delivery (postintervention), 34.5% and 38.6% reported UI in the training and control groups, respectively. Relative risk analysis of UI gave a nonsignificant effect size of 0.89 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.60-1.32). Results were similar for the stratum with and without major levator ani muscle defects, 0.89 (95% CI 0.51-1.56) and 0.90 (95% CI 0.53-1.52), respectively. Postpartum pelvic floor training did not decrease UI prevalence 6 months after delivery in primiparous women. Stratified analysis on women with and without major levator ani muscle defects showed similar nonsignificant results. ClinicalTrials.gov, www.clinicaltrials.gov, NCT01069484. : I.

Magnesium-to-calcium ratio in tap water, and its relationship to geological features and the incidence of calcium-containing urinary stones.

PubMed

Kohri, K; Kodama, M; Ishikawa, Y; Katayama, Y; Takada, M; Katoh, Y; Kataoka, K; Iguchi, M; Kurita, T

1989-11-01

We examined the relationship among magnesium and calcium content in tap water, the geological features and urinary stone incidence in Japan. The magnesium-to-calcium ratio in tap water correlated negatively with the incidence of urolithiasis. There was no correlation between calcium and magnesium concentration in tap water and urinary stone incidence. Geological features in Japan were classified into 5 groups. The magnesium-to-calcium ratio in the basalt areas was higher than in the other areas, while ratio in the granite areas was low. In the sedimentary rock areas calcium and magnesium concentrations were high; the magnesium-to-calcium ratio in these areas was between those of the basalt and granite areas. The limestone areas had a much higher calcium concentration. The incidence of urinary stones in the sedimentary rock and basalt areas was lower than that of the granite areas, while that in the limestone areas was the highest. Thus, the incidence of urinary stone is related to the magnesium-to-calcium ratio in tap water and the geological area.

Determinants of Brushite Stone Formation: A Case-Control Study

PubMed Central

Siener, Roswitha; Netzer, Linda; Hesse, Albrecht

2013-01-01

Purpose The occurrence of brushite stones has increased during recent years. However, the pathogenic factors driving the development of brushite stones remain unclear. Methods Twenty-eight brushite stone formers and 28 age-, sex- and BMI-matched healthy individuals were enrolled in this case-control study. Anthropometric, clinical, 24 h urinary parameters and dietary intake from 7-day weighed food records were assessed. Results Pure brushite stones were present in 46% of patients, while calcium oxalate was the major secondary stone component. Urinary pH and oxalate excretion were significantly higher, whereas urinary citrate was lower in patients as compared to healthy controls. Despite lower dietary intake, urinary calcium excretion was significantly higher in brushite stone patients. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed pH>6.50 (OR 7.296; p = 0.035), calcium>6.40 mmol/24 h (OR 25.213; p = 0.001) and citrate excretion <2.600 mmol/24 h (OR 15.352; p = 0.005) as urinary risk factors for brushite stone formation. A total of 56% of patients exhibited distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA). Urinary pH, calcium and citrate excretion did not significantly differ between patients with or without dRTA. Conclusions Hypercalciuria, a diminished citrate excretion and an elevated pH turned out to be the major urinary determinants of brushite stone formation. Interestingly, urinary phosphate was not associated with urolithiasis. The increased urinary oxalate excretion, possibly due to decreased calcium intake, promotes the risk of mixed stone formation with calcium oxalate. Neither dietary factors nor dRTA can account as cause for hypercalciuria, higher urinary pH and diminished citrate excretion. Further research is needed to define the role of dRTA in brushite stone formation and to evaluate the hypothesis of an acquired acidification defect. PMID:24265740

Genetics Home Reference: Ochoa syndrome

MedlinePlus

... Other researchers believe that a defective heparanase 2 protein may lead to problems with the development of the urinary tract or with muscle ... Peng W, Xu J, Li J, Owens KM, Bloom D, Innis JW. Exome capture and massively parallel sequencing identifies a novel HPSE2 mutation in a Saudi ...

Validation of high-throughput methods for measuring blood urea nitrogen and urinary albumin concentrations in mice.

PubMed

Grindle, Susan; Garganta, Cheryl; Sheehan, Susan; Gile, Joe; Lapierre, Andree; Whitmore, Harry; Paigen, Beverly; DiPetrillo, Keith

2006-12-01

Chronic kidney disease is a substantial medical and economic burden. Animal models, including mice, are a crucial component of kidney disease research; however, recent studies disprove the ability of autoanalyzer methods to accurately quantify plasma creatinine levels, an established marker of kidney disease, in mice. Therefore, we validated autoanalyzer methods for measuring blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and urinary albumin concentrations, 2 common markers of kidney disease, in samples from mice. We used high-performance liquid chromatography to validate BUN concentrations measured using an autoanalyzer, and we utilized mouse albumin standards to determine the accuracy of the autoanalyzer over a wide range of albumin concentrations. We observed a significant, linear correlation between BUN concentrations measured by autoanalyzer and high-performance liquid chromatography. We also found a linear relationship between known and measured albumin concentrations, although the autoanalyzer method underestimated the known amount of albumin by 3.5- to 4-fold. We confirmed that plasma and urine constituents do not interfere with the autoanalyzer methods for measuring BUN and urinary albumin concentrations. In addition, we verified BUN and albuminuria as useful markers to detect kidney disease in aged mice and mice with 5/6-nephrectomy. We conclude that autoanalyzer methods are suitable for high-throughput analysis of BUN and albumin concentrations in mice. The autoanalyzer accurately quantifies BUN concentrations in mouse plasma samples and is useful for measuring urinary albumin concentrations when used with mouse albumin standards.

Urinary 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine as a biomarker of oxidative DNA damage in employees of subway system.

PubMed

Mehrdad, Ramin; Aghdaei, Sara; Pouryaghoub, Gholamreza

2015-01-01

Exposure to air pollutants, steel dust or other occupational and environmental hazards as oxidative stress have adverse effects on subway workers' health. Oxidative stress generates an excessive amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Oxygen Free Radicals during their work time in the tunnels. Once DNA is repaired, Urinary 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) is excreted in the urine. Therefore, urinary level of 8-OHdG can reflect the extent of oxidative DNA damage. The aim of this study was to document the oxidative stress caused by exposure to these hazards by measuring 8-OHdG in workers urine. We collected urine samples of 81 male subway workers after their working shift. The concentration of urinary 8-OHdG was measured by ELISA method. We used linear regression analysis to compare the level of urinary 8-OHdG as a biomarker of oxidative stress between workers in tunnels and other staff. The mean concentration of urinary 8-OHdG for workers in the tunnel was 58.05 (SD=28.83) ng/mg creatinine and for another staff was 54.16 (SD =26.98) ng/mg creatinine.  After adjustment for age, smoking, driving and a second job in a linear regression model, the concentration of 8-OHdG for the exposed group was significantly higher than unexposed group (P=0.038). These findings confirm that the concentration of urinary 8-OHdG for workers who work in tunnels was significantly higher than the other staff. Additional investigations should be performed to understand that which ones of occupational exposures are more important to cause oxidative stress.

Nickel exposure is associated with the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in Chinese adults.

PubMed

Liu, Gang; Sun, Liang; Pan, An; Zhu, Mingjiang; Li, Zi; ZhenzhenWang, Zhenzhen; Liu, Xin; Ye, Xingwang; Li, Huaixing; Zheng, He; Ong, Choon Nam; Yin, Huiyong; Lin, Xu; Chen, Yan

2015-02-01

Nickel exposure can induce hyperglycaemia in rodents, but little is known about its association with abnormal glucose metabolism in humans. We aimed to investigate the association of nickel exposure with the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in Chinese adults. A total of 2115 non-institutionalized men and women aged 55 to 76 years from Beijing and Shanghai were included, and urinary nickel concentration was assessed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes was compared across urinary nickel quartiles. Fasting plasma glucose, insulin, lipids, C-reactive protein and glycated haemoglobin A1c, as well as urinary albumin and creatinine were measured. The median concentration of urinary nickel was 3.63 mg/l (interquartile range: 2.29–5.89 mg/l), and the prevalence of diabetes was 35.3% (747 cases/2115 persons). Elevated levels of urinary nickel were associated with higher fasting glucose, glycated haemoglobin A1c, insulin and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (all P<0.01). The odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for diabetes across the increasing urinary nickel quartiles were 1.27 (0.97–1.67), 1.78 (1.36–2.32) and 1.68 (1.29–2.20), respectively (referencing to 1.00), after multivariate adjustment including lifestyle factors, body mass index and family history of diabetes (P for trend <0.001). The association remained unchanged after further controlling for urinary creatinine and C-reactive protein (P for trend <0.001). Increased urinary nickel concentration is associated with elevated prevalence of type 2 diabetes in humans.

Nicotine Dependence and Urinary Nicotine, Cotinine and Hydroxycotinine Levels in Daily Smokers.

PubMed

Van Overmeire, Ilse P I; De Smedt, Tom; Dendale, Paul; Nackaerts, Kristiaan; Vanacker, Hilde; Vanoeteren, Jan F A; Van Laethem, Danny M G; Van Loco, Joris; De Cremer, Koen A J

2016-09-01

Nicotine dependence and smoking frequency are critical factors for smoking cessation. The aims of this study are (1) to determine if nicotine dependence Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND) scores are associated with urinary levels of nicotine metabolites, (2) to assess the relationship of hydroxycotinine/cotinine ratio with FTND score and cigarettes smoked per day (CPD), and (3) to identify significant predictors of cigarettes per day among biomarker concentrations and individual FTND items. Urine samples and questionnaire data of 239 daily smokers were obtained. Nicotine, cotinine and hydroxycotinine urinary levels were determined by UPLC MS/MS.Multiple linear regression models were developed to explore the relationship between nicotine, cotinine, hydroxycotinine levels and separate FTND scores (for all six items). We found significant correlations between the different urinary biomarker concentrations, and the FTND score. The time before the first cigarette after waking (TTFC) was significantly associated with the nicotine, cotinine and hydroxycotinine concentrations. No association was found between the ratio of hydroxycotinine to cotinine and either the FTND or the CPD. A model including four FTND questions, sex, age, and the cotinine concentration, accounted for 45% of the variance of CPD. There are significant relationships between urinary levels of nicotine, cotinine, and hydroxycotinine and the FTND score. Especially the FTND question about TTFC is relevant for explaining the biomarker concentrations. CPD (below 15) was significantly explained by four FTND dependence items and urinary cotinine levels in a regression model. We investigated associations between urinary levels of nicotine, cotinine, and hydroxycotinine in daily smokers and the FTND scores for nicotine dependence. We did not find association between the hydroxycotinine/cotinine ratio and CPD. We developed a model that explains the cigarettes smoked daily (CPD) in a group of light smokers by combining FTND items, urinary cotinine levels, sex, and age. Our results might be of importance for clinical use or future studies on larger smoking populations. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Association of urinary bisphenol a concentration with type-2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Ahmadkhaniha, Reza; Mansouri, Masoumeh; Yunesian, Masud; Omidfar, Kobra; Jeddi, Maryam Zare; Larijani, Bagher; Mesdaghinia, Alireza; Rastkari, Noushin

2014-03-13

Bisphenol A as an endocrine-disrupting chemical is widely used chemical in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resin and has become ubiquitous environmental contaminants. Human exposure to Bisphenol A is widespread and recent studies have been shown to be associated with a higher risk for self-reported adverse health outcomes that may lead to insulin resistance and the development of type-2 diabetes mellitus. In this context, we sought to confirm the association between Bisphenol A and diabetes in a community-based analysis of Bisphenol A urinary concentrations investigation in adult population of Iran. Regression models were adjusted for age, sex, Body Mass Index, serum triglyceride level and serum cholesterol level and serum creatinine concentration. Main outcomes were reported diagnoses of diabetes that defined according the latest American Diabetes Association guidelines. The median age of the 239 participants was 51.65 years and 119 people had type-2 diabetes mellitus. Urinary Bisphenol A was categorized into two groups based on the median for Bisphenol A (≤0. 85 to >0.85 μg/L). The results of statistical analysis revealed a clear association between hypertension, and type 2 diabetes (P < 0.05). The multi variable-adjusted odds ratio for type-2 diabetes mellitus associated with the group 1 (referent), of urinary Bisphenol A was 57.6 (95% confidence interval: 21.10-157.05; P-value < 0.001). A positive correlation between HbA1c and urinary BPA concentration was observed (r = 0.63, P = 0.001). Urinary Bisphenol A levels are found to be associated with diabetes independent of traditional diabetes risk factors. Higher Bisphenol A exposure, reflected in higher urinary concentrations of Bisphenol A, is consistently associated with diabetes in the general adult population of the Iran. Studies to clarify the mechanisms of these associations are urgently needed.

Urinary concentrations of dichlorophenol pesticides and obesity among adult participants in the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005-2008.

PubMed

Wei, Yudan; Zhu, Jianmin; Nguyen, An

2014-03-01

Accumulating evidence from recent studies has suggested a possible link between exposure to environmental pesticides and obesity. In this study, we assessed the potential associations between exposure to dichlorophenol pesticides and obesity in adults. Study participants aged 20-85 years were selected from the 2005 to 2006 and 2007 to 2008 U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, and were categorized as obese and non-obese based on body mass index. Creatinine-corrected urinary concentrations of dichlorophenols were determined to assess level of exposure to environmental pesticides. Multivariate logistic regression was performed using SAS 9.3 to assess the association between 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) and 2,5-dichlorophenol (2,5-DCP) levels in urine and obesity with adjustment for potential confounders. Significantly higher geometric means of urinary concentrations of both 2,5-DCP (p<0.0001) and 2,4-DCP (p=0.0170) were seen in obese adults, compared to that in non-obese adults. A dose-dependent increase in the prevalence of obesity was observed in the study participants across increasing levels of urinary 2,5-DCP (p-trend<0.0001). Urinary concentrations of 2,5-DCP were significantly associated with obesity among the second (AOR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.12, 1.93), third (AOR: 1.41, 95% CI: 1.07, 1.87), and fourth (AOR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.21, 2.17) inter-quartiles after adjustment for age, gender, race, education, total fat intake, and physical activity. A statistically significant association was not seen between urinary 2,4-DCP and obesity. Our findings suggest a potential relationship between exposure to the fumigant insecticide paradichlorobenzene, measured as urinary concentrations of 2,5-DCP, and obesity in adults. Because we cannot rule out the possibility of reverse causality in our study, prospective studies measuring exposure during etiologically relevant periods are warranted. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Validation of a noninvasive diagnostic tool to verify neuter status in dogs: The urinary FSH to creatinine ratio.

PubMed

Albers-Wolthers, C H J; de Gier, J; Oei, C H Y; Schaefers-Okkens, A C; Kooistra, H S

2016-09-15

Determining the presence of functional gonadal tissue in dogs can be challenging, especially in bitches during anestrus or not known to have been ovariectomized, or in male dogs with nonscrotal testes. Furthermore, in male dogs treated with deslorelin, a slow-release GnRH agonist implant for reversible chemical castration, the verification of complete downregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis can be difficult, especially if pretreatment parameters such as the size of the testes or prostate gland are not available. The aims of this study were to validate an immunoradiometric assay for measurement of FSH in canine urine, to determine if the urinary FSH to creatinine ratio can be used to verify the neuter status in bitches and male dogs, as an alternative to the plasma FSH concentration, and to determine if downregulation of the HPG axis is achieved in male dogs during deslorelin treatment. Recovery of added canine FSH and serial dilutions of urine reported that the immunoradiometric assay measures urinary FSH concentration accurately and with high precision. Plasma FSH concentrations (the mean of two samples, taken 40 minutes apart) and the urinary FSH to creatinine ratio were determined before gonadectomy and 140 days (median, range 121-225 days) and 206 days (median, range 158-294 days) after gonadectomy of 13 bitches and five male dogs, respectively, and in 13 male dogs before and 132 days (median, range 117-174 days) after administration of a deslorelin implant. In both bitches and male dogs, the plasma FSH concentration and the urinary FSH to creatinine ratio were significantly higher after gonadectomy, with no overlapping of their ranges. Receiver operating characteristic analysis of the urinary FSH to creatinine ratio revealed a cut-off value of 2.9 in bitches and 6.5 in males to verify the presence or absence of functional gonadal tissue. In male dogs treated with deslorelin, the plasma FSH concentrations and urinary FSH to creatinine ratios were significantly lower after administration of the implant, but their ranges overlapped. We conclude that the urinary FSH to creatinine ratio can be used to verify the neuter status of bitches and male dogs. However, it cannot be used for the assessment of complete downregulation of the HPG axis after administration of a deslorelin implant. The urinary FSH to creatinine ratio is preferable over the plasma FSH concentration because it involves only one sample that can be collected relatively easy and noninvasively. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Elemental analysis of urinary calculi by laser induced plasma spectroscopy.

PubMed

Fang, Xiao; Ahmad, S Rafi; Mayo, Mike; Iqbal, Syed

2005-12-01

Laser induced plasma spectroscopy (LIPS) has been applied to analyse and identify elemental constituents of urinary calculi. Measurements on seven different urinary stone samples were conducted and the concentrations of some key elemental species were estimated. The elements detected with the present system were: Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Samarium, Potassium and Lead. Absolute concentrations of the species were derived from pre-calibration of the system for each element. Their concentrations were found to be widely different in different samples. It was observed that the samples containing a significant amount of lead have large proportion of calcium. It has been established that LIPS would allow real time clinic measurements of elemental contents and the concentrations in the biomaterials without sample preparation. The technique has the potential for routine clinic applications in urological disorder diagnosis.

A new reconstructive technique for posterior vaginal wall defects, a case report.

PubMed

Zetlitz, Elisabeth; Manook, Miriam; MacLeod, Alison; Hamilton, Stuart

2013-10-01

Post-partum vaginal laxity is a problem encountered by many women. More uncommon is a resulting vaginal defect. In most cases of laxity, a period of extensive physiotherapy can strengthen the pelvic muscles enough for symptoms to be minimized. However, this is not the case once there is a tissue defect. To present a new reconstructive method for patients with posterior vaginal wall defects. We present a case of a 38-year-old female who, 12 years prior to presentation, had a vaginal delivery. Due to complications during the delivery, she sustained pelvic trauma and developed a posterior vaginal wall defect. She had a sizable soft tissue defect, causing sexual, urinary, and confidence problems. Fat was harvested from the patient's abdomen and injected into the defect after more conservative treatment options were exhausted. The defect was corrected successfully using the minimally invasive Coleman fat grafting technique. This is to our knowledge the first case in the literature where a posterior vaginal defect has been corrected using Coleman fat grafting, and we believe that this treatment method may be of benefit to more patients. © 2013 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

Increase in urinary purines and pyrimidines in patients with methylmalonic aciduria combined with homocystinuria.

PubMed

Porcu, Simona; Corda, Marcella; Lilliu, Franco; Contini, Liliana; Era, Benedetta; Traldi, Pietro; Fais, Antonella

2010-06-03

Methylmalonic aciduria combined with homocystinuria (MMA-HC) is the biochemical trait of a metabolic disorder resulting from impaired conversion of dietary cobalamin (cbl, or vitamin B12) to its two metabolically active forms. Effects on urinary purine and pyrimidine levels have not been described for this condition. Urine samples were collected from three patients with methylmalonic aciduria combined with homocystinuria and from 70 healthy subjects. Urinary purine and pyrimidine levels were quantitated by the use of LC/UV-Vis and LC/ESI/MS. Higher urine levels of pyrimidines were detected with both methods in patients compared to controls. Methylmalonic aciduria with homocystinuria is due to deficiency of the enzyme, cobalamin reductase. The enzyme defect leads to altered hepatic metabolism, which appears to modify circulating pyrimidine levels. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of topiroxostat and febuxostat on urinary albumin excretion and plasma xanthine oxidoreductase activity in db/db mice.

PubMed

Nakamura, Takashi; Murase, Takayo; Nampei, Mai; Morimoto, Nobutaka; Ashizawa, Naoki; Iwanaga, Takashi; Sakamoto, Ryusuke

2016-06-05

Topiroxostat, a xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) inhibitor, has been shown to decrease the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio compared with placebo in hyperuricemic patients with stage 3 chronic kidney disease. Thus, we aimed to ascertain the albuminuria-lowering effect of topiroxostat in diabetic mouse. Db/db mice were fed standard diets with or without topiroxostat (0.1, 0.3, 1, and 3mg/kg/day) and febuxostat (0.1, 0.3, and 1mg/kg/day) for four weeks. Urinary albumin and purine bodies levels, XOR activities, and drug concentrations in the liver, kidney, and plasma were measured. Moreover, the XOR inhibitory activity of each XOR inhibitor was evaluated with or without an exogenous protein in vitro. Topiroxostat decreased dose-dependently the urinary albumin excretion, but febuxostat did not show such a tendency. Treatment with topiroxostat inhibited plasma XOR activity with dose-dependent increase in plasma purine levels, which was not observed by febuxostat. Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic analysis revealed that topiroxostat and febuxostat concentration in each tissue showed a good correlation with both the hypouricemic effect and plasma drug concentration, whereas the change in albuminuria correlated neither with the change in uric acid nor with drug concentration in plasma. However, the change in urinary albumin and plasma XOR activity showed good correlation in topiroxostat group. The 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50 value) of febuxostat against plasma XOR in vitro was 12-fold higher than that of topiroxostat, and increased by approximately 13-fold by interfering with an exogenous protein. Topiroxostat caused reduced urinary albumin excretion, in which potent inhibition of the plasma XOR activity might be involved. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Elevated plasma and urinary concentrations of green tea catechins associated with improved plasma lipid profile in healthy Japanese women.

PubMed

Takechi, Ryusuke; Alfonso, Helman; Hiramatsu, Naoko; Ishisaka, Akari; Tanaka, Akira; Tan, La'Belle; Lee, Andy H

2016-03-01

This study investigated green tea catechins in plasma and urine and chronic disease biomarkers. We hypothesized that plasma and urinary concentration of green tea catechins are associated with cardiovascular disease and diabetes biomarkers. First void urine and fasting plasma samples were collected from 57 generally healthy females aged 38 to 73 years (mean, 52 ± 8 years) recruited in Himeji, Japan. The concentrations of plasma and urinary green tea catechins were determined by liquid chromatography coupled with mass tandem spectrometer. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, triglyceride, glucose, insulin, glycated hemoglobin, and C-reactive protein in plasma/serum samples were analyzed by a commercial diagnostic laboratory. Statistical associations were assessed using Spearman correlation coefficients. The results showed weak associations between plasma total catechin and triglyceride (r = -0.30) and LDL cholesterol (r = -0.28), whereas plasma (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate, (-)-epigallocatechin, (-)-epicatechin-3-gallate, and (-)-epicatechin exhibited weak to moderate associations with triglyceride or LDL cholesterol, but little associations with HDL cholesterol, body fat, and body mass index were evident. Urinary total catechin was weakly associated with triglyceride (r = -0.19) and LDL cholesterol (r = -0.15), whereas urinary (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (r = -0.33), (-)-epigallocatechin (r = -0.23), and (-)-epicatechin-3-gallate (r = -0.33) had weak to moderate correlations with triglyceride and similarly with body fat and body mass index. Both plasma (r = -0.24) and urinary (r = -0.24) total catechin, as well as individual catechins, were weakly associated with glycated hemoglobin. Plasma total and individual catechins were weakly to moderately associated with C-reactive protein, but not the case for urinary catechins. In conclusion, we found weak to moderate associations between plasma and urinary green tea catechin concentrations and plasma biomarkers of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Assessment of occupational exposure to inorganic arsenic based on urinary concentrations and speciation of arsenic.

PubMed Central

Farmer, J G; Johnson, L R

1990-01-01

An analytical speciation method, capable of separating inorganic arsenic (As (V), As (III] and its methylated metabolites (MMAA, DMAA) from common, inert, dietary organoarsenicals, was applied to the determination of arsenic in urine from a variety of workers occupationally exposed to inorganic arsenic compounds. Mean urinary arsenic (As (V) + As (III) + MMAA + DMAA) concentrations ranged from 4.4 micrograms/g creatinine for controls to less than 10 micrograms/g for those in the electronics industry, 47.9 micrograms/g for timber treatment workers applying arsenical wood preservatives, 79.4 micrograms/g for a group of glassworkers using arsenic trioxide, and 245 micrograms/g for chemical workers engaged in manufacturing and handling inorganic arsenicals. The maximum recorded concentration was 956 micrograms/g. For the most exposed groups, the ranges in the average urinary arsenic speciation pattern were 1-6% As (V), 11-14% As (III), 14-18% MMAA, and 63-70% DMAA. The highly raised urinary arsenic concentrations for the chemical workers, in particular, and some glassworkers are shown to correspond to possible atmospheric concentrations in the workplace and intakes in excess of, or close to, recommended and statutory limits and those associated with inorganic arsenic related diseases. PMID:2357455

Immobile defects in ferroelastic walls: Wall nucleation at defect sites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, X.; Salje, E. K. H.; Ding, X.; Sun, J.

2018-02-01

Randomly distributed, static defects are enriched in ferroelastic domain walls. The relative concentration of defects in walls, Nd, follows a power law distribution as a function of the total defect concentration C: N d ˜ C α with α = 0.4 . The enrichment Nd/C ranges from ˜50 times when C = 10 ppm to ˜3 times when C = 1000 ppm. The resulting enrichment is due to nucleation at defect sites as observed in large scale MD simulations. The dynamics of domain nucleation and switching is dependent on the defect concentration. Their energy distribution follows the power law with exponents during yield between ɛ ˜ 1.82 and 2.0 when the defect concentration increases. The power law exponent is ɛ ≈ 2.7 in the plastic regime, independent of the defect concentration.

Mobilisation of heavy metals into the urine by CaEDTA: relation to erythrocyte and plasma concentrations and exposure indicators.

PubMed

Araki, S; Aono, H; Murata, K

1986-09-01

To investigate the effects of calcium disodium ethylenediamine tetra-acetate (CaEDTA) on the urinary excretion, erythrocyte, and plasma concentrations and exposure indicators of seven heavy metals, CaEDTA was administered by intravenous infusion to 20 workers exposed to lead, zinc, and copper. The workers' blood lead concentrations ranged from 22 to 59 micrograms/dl (mean 38 micrograms/dl (1.8 mumol/l]. The 24 hour urinary excretion of metals after CaEDTA administration (mobilisation yield) was on average 13 times the background excretion for lead, 11 times for zinc, 3.8 times for manganese, 3.4 times for cadmium, 1.3 times for copper, and 1.1 times for chromium; no significant increase was found for mercury. The mobilisation yield of lead (MPb) was significantly correlated with whole blood and erythrocyte concentrations and the urinary excretion of lead but not with its plasma concentration; similarly, the mobilisation yield of cadmium was significantly correlated with its erythrocyte concentration. In addition, MPb was significantly correlated with intra-erythrocytic enzyme delta-aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase activity and urinary coproporphyrin excretion. The relation between the mobilisation yield of heavy metals and their body burden (and toxic signs) is discussed in the light of these findings.

Mobilisation of heavy metals into the urine by CaEDTA: relation to erythrocyte and plasma concentrations and exposure indicators.

PubMed Central

Araki, S; Aono, H; Murata, K

1986-01-01

To investigate the effects of calcium disodium ethylenediamine tetra-acetate (CaEDTA) on the urinary excretion, erythrocyte, and plasma concentrations and exposure indicators of seven heavy metals, CaEDTA was administered by intravenous infusion to 20 workers exposed to lead, zinc, and copper. The workers' blood lead concentrations ranged from 22 to 59 micrograms/dl (mean 38 micrograms/dl (1.8 mumol/l]. The 24 hour urinary excretion of metals after CaEDTA administration (mobilisation yield) was on average 13 times the background excretion for lead, 11 times for zinc, 3.8 times for manganese, 3.4 times for cadmium, 1.3 times for copper, and 1.1 times for chromium; no significant increase was found for mercury. The mobilisation yield of lead (MPb) was significantly correlated with whole blood and erythrocyte concentrations and the urinary excretion of lead but not with its plasma concentration; similarly, the mobilisation yield of cadmium was significantly correlated with its erythrocyte concentration. In addition, MPb was significantly correlated with intra-erythrocytic enzyme delta-aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase activity and urinary coproporphyrin excretion. The relation between the mobilisation yield of heavy metals and their body burden (and toxic signs) is discussed in the light of these findings. PMID:3092853

Exposure to Bisphenol A and Other Phenols in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Premature Infants

PubMed Central

Calafat, Antonia M.; Weuve, Jennifer; Ye, Xiaoyun; Jia, Lily T.; Hu, Howard; Ringer, Steven; Huttner, Ken; Hauser, Russ

2009-01-01

Objective We previously demonstrated that exposure to polyvinyl chloride plastic medical devices containing di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) was associated with higher urinary concentrations of several DEHP metabolites in 54 premature infants in two neonatal intensive care units than in the general population. For 42 of these infants, we evaluated urinary concentrations of several phenols, including bisphenol A (BPA), in association with the use of the same medical devices. Measurements We measured the urinary concentrations of free and total (free plus conjugated) species of BPA, triclosan, benzophenone-3, methyl paraben, and propyl paraben. Results The percentage of BPA present as its conjugated species was > 90% in more than three-quarters of the premature infants. Intensity of use of products containing DEHP was strongly associated with BPA total concentrations but not with any other phenol. Adjusting for institution and sex, BPA total concentrations among infants in the group of high use of DEHP-containing products were 8.75 times as high as among infants in the low use group (p < 0.0001). Similarly, after adjusting for sex and DEHP-containing product use category, BPA total concentrations among infants in Institution A were 16.6 times as high as those among infants in Institution B (p < 0.0001). Conclusion BPA geometric mean urinary concentration (30.3 μg/L) among premature infants undergoing intensive therapeutic medical interventions was one order of magnitude higher than that among the general population. Conjugated species were the primary urinary metabolites of BPA, suggesting that premature infants have some capacity to metabolize BPA. The differences in exposure to BPA by intensity of use of DEHP-containing medical products highlight the need for further studies to determine the specific source(s) of exposure to BPA. PMID:19440505

Personal Care Product Use in Men and Urinary Concentrations of Select Phthalate Metabolites and Parabens: Results from the Environment And Reproductive Health (EARTH) Study.

PubMed

Nassan, Feiby L; Coull, Brent A; Gaskins, Audrey J; Williams, Michelle A; Skakkebaek, Niels E; Ford, Jennifer B; Ye, Xiaoyun; Calafat, Antonia M; Braun, Joseph M; Hauser, Russ

2017-08-18

Personal care products (PCPs) are exposure sources to phthalates and parabens; however, their contribution to men's exposure is understudied. We examined the association between PCP use and urinary concentrations of phthalate metabolites and parabens in men. In a prospective cohort, at multiple study visits, men self-reported their use of 14 PCPs and provided a urine sample (2004-2015, Boston, MA). We measured urinary concentrations of 9 phthalate metabolites and methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. We estimated the covariate-adjusted percent change in urinary concentrations associated with PCP use using linear mixed and Tobit mixed regressions. We also estimated weights for each PCP in a weighted binary score regression and modeled the resulting composite weighted PCP use. Four hundred men contributed 1,037 urine samples (mean of 3/man). The largest percent increase in monoethyl phthalate (MEP) was associated with use of cologne/perfume (83%, p -value<0.01) and deodorant (74%, p -value<0.01). In contrast, the largest percent increase for parabens was associated with the use of suntan/sunblock lotion (66-156%) and hand/body lotion (79-147%). Increases in MEP and parabens were generally greater with PCP use within 6 h of urine collection. A subset of 10 PCPs that were used within 6 h of urine collection contributed to at least 70% of the weighted score and predicted a 254-1,333% increase in MEP and parabens concentrations. Associations between PCP use and concentrations of the other phthalate metabolites were not statistically significant. We identified 10 PCPs of relevance and demonstrated that their use within 6 h of urine collection strongly predicted MEP and paraben urinary concentrations. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP1374.

THE URINARY BLADDER EXHIBITS A U-SHAPED GENOMIC DOSE-RESPONSE FOLLOWING SHORT- AND LONG-TERM EXPOSURE OF MICE TO ARSENATE IN DRINKING WATER

EPA Science Inventory

A number of studies have demonstrated increased urinary bladder tumor incidence in populations exposed to inorganic arsenic in drinking water at concentrations on the order of several hundred micrograms per liter, but experimental animal studies at much higher concentrations have...

Prenatal Exposure to Environmental Phenols: Concentrations in Amniotic Fluid and Variability in Urinary Concentrations during Pregnancy

PubMed Central

Wolff, Mary S.; Calafat, Antonia M.; Ye, Xiaoyun; Bausell, Rebecca; Meadows, Molly; Stone, Joanne; Slama, Rémy; Engel, Stephanie M.

2013-01-01

Background: Maternal urinary biomarkers are often used to assess fetal exposure to phenols and their precursors. Their effectiveness as a measure of exposure in epidemiological studies depends on their variability during pregnancy and their ability to accurately predict fetal exposure. Objectives: We assessed the relationship between urinary and amniotic fluid concentrations of nine environmental phenols, and the reproducibility of urinary concentrations, among pregnant women. Methods: Seventy-one women referred for amniocentesis were included. Maternal urine was collected at the time of the amniocentesis appointment and on two subsequent occasions. Urine and amniotic fluid were analyzed for 2,4- and 2,5-dichlorophenols, bisphenol A, benzophenone-3, triclosan, and methyl-, ethyl-, propyl-, and butylparabens using online solid phase extraction–high performance liquid chromatography–isotope dilution tandem mass spectrometry. Results: Only benzophenone-3 and propylparaben were detectable in more than half of the amniotic fluid samples; for these phenols, concentrations in amniotic fluid and maternal urine collected on the same day were positively correlated (ρ = 0.53 and 0.32, respectively). Other phenols were detected infrequently in amniotic fluid (e.g., bisphenol A was detected in only two samples). The intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) of urinary concentrations in samples from individual women ranged from 0.48 and 0.62 for all phenols except bisphenol A (ICC = 0.11). Conclusion: Amniotic fluid detection frequencies for most phenols were low. The reproducibility of urine measures was poor for bisphenol A, but good for the other phenols. Although a single sample may provide a reasonable estimate of exposure for some phenols, collecting multiple urine samples during pregnancy is an option to reduce exposure measurement error in studies regarding the effects of phenol prenatal exposure on health. Citation: Philippat C, Wolff MS, Calafat AM, Ye X, Bausell R, Meadows M, Stone J, Slama R, Engel SM. 2013. Prenatal exposure to environmental phenols: concentrations in amniotic fluid and variability in urinary concentrations during pregnancy. Environ Health Perspect 121:1225–1231; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1206335 PMID:23942273

Measurement of vitamin D3 metabolites in smelter workers exposed to lead and cadmium

PubMed Central

Chalkley, S. R.; Richmond, J.; Barltrop, D.

1998-01-01

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of lead and cadmium on the metabolic pathway of vitamin D3. METHODS: Blood and urinary cadmium and urinary total proteins were measured in 59 smelter workers occupationally exposed to lead and cadmium. In 19 of these workers, the plasma vitamin D3 metabolites, (25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25 OHD3), 24R, 25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (24R,25(OH)2D3) and 1 alpha,25- dihydroxycholecalciferol (1 alpha, 25(OH)2D3)) were measured together with blood lead. Vitamin D3 metabolites were measured by radioimmunoassay, (RIA), lead and cadmium by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and total proteins with a test kit. RESULTS: Ranges for plasma 25(OH)D3, 24R,25(OH)2D3 and 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 were 1.0-51.9 ng/ml, 0.6-5.8 ng/ml, and 0.1-75.7 pg/ml, respectively. Ranges for blood lead were 1-3.7 mumol/l, (21-76 micrograms/dl), blood cadmium 6- 145 nmol/l, and urinary cadmium 3-161 nmol/l. Total proteins in random urine samples were 2.1-32.6 mg/dl. Concentrations of lead and cadmium in blood showed no correlation (correlation coefficient -0.265) but there was a highly significant correlation between blood and urinary cadmium. Concentrations for 24R,25(OH)2D3 were depressed below the normal range as blood and urinary cadmium increased, irrespective of lead concentrations. High cadmium concentrations were associated with decreased plasma 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 when lead concentrations were < 1.9 mumol/l and with above normal plasma 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 when lead concentrations were > 1.9 mumol/l, Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance (K-W ANOVA) chi 2 = 10.3, p = 0.006. Plasma 25(OH)D3 was negatively correlated with both urinary total proteins and urinary cadmium, but showed no correlation with plasma 24R,25(OH)2D3, 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3, blood lead, or blood cadmium. CONCLUSION: Continuous long term exposure to cadmium may result in a state of equilibrium between blood and urinary cadmium. Cadmium concentrations in blood could be predicted from the cadmium concentration of the urine, (regression coefficient +0.35 SE 0.077). Exposure to cadmium alone decreased the concentrations of 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3 and 24R,25(OH)2D3, whereas exposure to both cadmium and lead increased the concentrations of 1 alpha,25(OH)2D3. It has been suggested that cadmium and lead interact with renal mitochondrial hydroxylases of the vitamin D3 endocrine complex. Perturbation of the vitamin D metabolic pathway by cadmium may result in health effect, such as osteoporosis or osteomalacia, risks which are possibly increased in the presence of lead.   PMID:9816377

Influence of body mass index status on urinary creatinine and specific gravity for epidemiological study of children.

PubMed

Wang, Bin; Tang, Chuanxi; Wang, Hexing; Zhou, Wei; Chen, Yue; Zhou, Ying; Jiang, Qingwu

2015-11-01

In epidemiological studies, urinary biomonitoring is a valid approach to assess the association between environmental chemical exposure and children's health. Many clinical biomarkers (e.g., endogenous metabolites) are also based on analysis of urine. Considering the variability in urinary output, urinary concentrations of chemicals are commonly adjusted by creatinine and specific gravity (SG). However, there is a lack of systematic evaluation of their appropriateness for children. Furthermore, urinary SG and creatinine excretion could be influenced by body mass index (BMI), but the effect of BMI status on the two correction factors is unknown. We measured SG and creatinine concentrations of repeated first morning urine samples collected from 243 primary school children (8-11 years) over 5 consecutive weekdays. Urinary SG presented a higher temporal consistency compared with creatinine. Urinary SG was associated with sex (p < 0.001), whereas sex (p =0.034) and BMI (p = 00.008) were associated with urinary creatinine levels. Inter-day collection time was not associated with SG or creatinine after excluding the effect of Monday as a confounder. When stratified by BMI status, none of the factors were associated with creatinine among the overweight and obese children. Generally, SG is preferable for correcting the variability in urinary output for children although creatinine correction may also perform well in overweight and obese children. SG correction is recommended for epidemiological exposure analysis in children based on urinary levels of exogenous or endogenous metabolites.

Urinary trichloroacetic acid levels and semen quality: A hospital-based cross-sectional study in Wuhan, China

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

Xie, Shao-Hua; The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan; Li, Yu-Feng

Toxicological studies indicate an association between exposure to disinfection by-products (DBPs) and impaired male reproductive health in animals. However, epidemiological evidence in humans is still limited. We conducted a hospital-based cross-sectional study to investigate the effect of exposure to DBPs on semen quality in humans. Between May 2008 and July 2008, we recruited 418 male partners in sub-fertile couples seeking infertility medical instruction or assisted reproduction services from the Tongji Hospital in Wuhan, China. Major semen parameters analyzed included sperm concentration, motility, and morphology. Exposure to DBPs was estimated by their urinary creatinine-adjusted trichloroacetic (TCAA) concentrations that were measured withmore » the gas chromatography/electron capture detection method. We used linear regression to assess the relationship between exposure to DBPs and semen quality. According to the World Health Organization criteria (<20 million/mL for sperm concentration and <50% motile for sperm motility) and threshold value recommended by Guzick (<9% for sperm morphology), there were 265 men with all parameters at or above the reference values, 33 men below the reference sperm concentration, 151 men below the reference sperm motility, and 6 men below the reference sperm morphology. The mean (median) urinary creatinine-adjusted TCAA concentration was 9.2 (5.1) {mu}g/g creatinine. Linear regression analyses indicated no significant association of sperm concentration, sperm count, and sperm morphology with urinary TCAA levels. Compared with those in the lowest quartile of creatinine-adjusted urinary TCAA concentrations, subjects in the second and third quartiles had a decrease of 5.1% (95% CI: 0.6%, 9.7%) and 4.7% (95% CI: 0.2%, 9.2%) in percent motility, respectively. However, these associations were not significant after adjustment for age, abstinence time, and smoking status. The present study provides suggestive but inconclusive evidence of the relationship between decreased sperm motility and increased urinary TCAA levels. The effect of exposure to DBPs on human male reproductive health in Chinese populations still warrants further investigations. - Research highlights: {yields} No association between DBPs exposure and semen quality was found. {yields} Effects of DBPs exposure on male reproductive health need further investigations. {yields} Intra-individual variability of urinary TCAA should be considered in the future.« less

Organophosphate Urinary Metabolite Levels during Pregnancy, Delivery and Postpartum in Women Living in Agricultural Areas in Thailand

PubMed Central

Kongtip, Pornpimol; Nankongnab, Noppanun; Woskie, Susan; Phamonphon, Akkarat; Tharnpoophasiam, Prapin; Wilaiwan, Kitsiluck; Srasom, Punnee

2018-01-01

Organophosphate Urinary Metabolite Levels during Pregnancy, Delivery and Postpartum in Women Living in Agricultural Areas in Thailand: Pornpimol Kongtip, et al. Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Thailand Objective Prenatal exposure to organophosphate pesticides can lead to developmental neurotoxicity. A longitudinal birth cohort was established to investigate pesticide exposures from different agricultural activities. Maternal urinary organophosphate metabolites were measured at 28 weeks of pregnancy (n=86), delivery (n=67) and 2 months postpartum (n=51). Method Subjects were interviewed with questionnaires about work, home and behavioral factors potentially associated with pesticide exposures, and spot urine samples were also collected. The urine samples were analyzed for dimethyl phosphate (DMP), diethyl phosphate (DEP), diethyl thiophosphate (DETP) and diethyl dithiophosphate (DEDTP), using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results The urinary DMP and dialkyl phosphate (DAP) concentrations at 28 weeks of pregnancy and delivery were not significantly different, but the DMP and DAP concentrations at 28 weeks of pregnancy and DAP concentrations at delivery were significantly different (p<0.05) from those at 2 months postpartum. The factors influencing the urinary DAP concentrations at 28 weeks of pregnancy included insecticide used in the home, living close to agricultural farmland, frequency of agricultural field visits during the first and second trimesters of pregnancies, occupation of subjects, pesticide used and other agricultural activities. Conclusions The urinary organophosphate metabolites, DMP, DEP, DETP, DEDTP, total DEP and DAPs, at 28 weeks of pregnancy, delivery and 2 months postpartum fluctuated depending on their pesticide exposures both at home and in agricultural fields. PMID:23892639

Urinary cadmium and mortality among inhabitants of a cadmium-polluted area in Japan

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

Nakagawa, Hideaki; Nishijo, Muneko; Morikawa, Yuko

The influence of cadmium (Cd) body burden on mortality remains controversial. Excess mortality and the dose-response relationship between mortality and urinary cadmium excretion were investigated in this study among environmentally exposed subjects. A 15-year follow-up study was carried out on 3119 inhabitants (1403 men and 1716 women) of the Cd-polluted Kakehashi River basin, whose urinary Cd concentration was examined in a 1981-1982 health impact survey. The mortality risk of high urinary Cd ({>=}10 {mu}g/g Cr) subjects after adjustment for age using Cox's proportional hazard model was higher than that of moderate urinary Cd (<10 {mu}g/g Cr) subjects in both sexes.more » When the subjects were divided into five groups according to the amount of urinary Cd (<3, 3-5, 5-10, 10-20, {>=}20 {mu}g/g Cr), the mortality risk was significantly increased among the subjects with urinary Cd{>=}3 {mu}g/g Cr in proportion to the increases in the amount of urinary Cd concentration after adjustment for age, especially in women. Furthermore, special causes of death among high and moderate urinary Cd were investigated, and mortality risk ratio for heart failure, which is a cause of death often diagnosed in cases with a gradual deterioration culminating in death, was significantly increased in both sexes, compared with the moderate urinary Cd subjects. Also, in women the mortality risk for renal diseases in the high urinary Cd subjects was significantly higher than that in the moderate urinary Cd subjects. These results suggest that a causal association between Cd body burden and mortality exists among inhabitants environmentally exposed to Cd but that no special disease may be induced except renal diseases.« less

Associations of urinary 5-methyl-2'-deoxycytidine and 5-hydroxymethyl-2'-deoxycytidine with phthalate exposure and semen quality in 562 Chinese adult men.

PubMed

Pan, Yitao; Jing, Jun; Yeung, Leo W Y; Sheng, Nan; Zhang, Hongxia; Yao, Bing; Dai, Jiayin

2016-09-01

5-methyl-2'-deoxycytidine (5mdC) and 5-hydroxymethyl-2'-deoxycytidine (5hmdC), products of DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation processes, have been detected previously in human urine, but their associations with environmental chemicals or healthy outcomes are unclear. The present investigation explored the associations between urinary 5mdC and 5hmdC with phthalate exposure and semen quality. We assessed semen parameters including sperm concentration, motility, and morphology, before measuring urinary 5mdC, 5hmdC and 13 phthalate metabolites among 562 subfertile men from Nanjing, China. Urinary 5mdC and 5hmdC were positively associated with the levels of low molecular weight phthalate metabolites (Low-MWP), high molecular weight phthalate metabolites (High-MWP), and the sum of all phthalate metabolites (ΣPAEs), respectively. Urinary 5mdC was associated with below-reference sperm concentration (odds ratios for increasing quartiles=1.0, 2.2, 3.0, 2.0; p for trend =0.02), sperm motility (1.0, 1.1, 1.9, 1.3; p for trend =0.05), and sperm morphology (1.0, 1.4, 2.3, 1.5; p for trend =0.05). Sperm concentration was associated with the highest quartile of urinary 5hmdC [odds ratio=1.9 (95% CI: 1.1, 3.6)]. Our findings showed significant associations between urinary 5mdC and 5hmdC with phthalate metabolites and semen parameters, which suggested urinary 5mdC and 5hmdC may be promising biomarkers in future epidemiological studies. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cardiac phenotyping in ex vivo murine embryos using microMRI.

PubMed

Cleary, Jon O; Price, Anthony N; Thomas, David L; Scambler, Peter J; Kyriakopoulou, Vanessa; McCue, Karen; Schneider, Jürgen E; Ordidge, Roger J; Lythgoe, Mark F

2009-10-01

Microscopic MRI (microMRI) is an emerging technique for high-throughput phenotyping of transgenic mouse embryos, and is capable of visualising abnormalities in cardiac development. To identify cardiac defects in embryos, we have optimised embryo preparation and MR acquisition parameters to maximise image quality and assess the phenotypic changes in chromodomain helicase DNA-binding protein 7 (Chd7) transgenic mice. microMRI methods rely on tissue penetration with a gadolinium chelate contrast agent to reduce tissue T(1), thus improving signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in rapid gradient echo sequences. We investigated 15.5 days post coitum (dpc) wild-type CD-1 embryos fixed in gadolinium-diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-DTPA) solutions for either 3 days (2 and 4 mM) or 2 weeks (2, 4, 8 and 16 mM). To assess penetration of the contrast agent into heart tissue and enable image contrast simulations, T(1) and T(*) (2) were measured in heart and background agarose. Compared to 3-day, 2-week fixation showed reduced mean T(1) in the heart at both 2 and 4 mM concentrations (p < 0.0001), resulting in calculated signal gains of 23% (2 mM) and 29% (4 mM). Using T(1) and T(*) (2) values from 2-week concentrations, computer simulation of heart and background signal, and ex vivo 3D gradient echo imaging, we demonstrated that 2-week fixed embryos in 8 mM Gd-DTPA in combination with optimised parameters (TE/TR/alpha/number of averages: 9 ms/20 ms/60 degrees /7) produced the largest SNR in the heart (23.2 +/- 1.0) and heart chamber contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) (27.1 +/- 1.6). These optimised parameters were then applied to an MRI screen of embryos heterozygous for the gene Chd7, implicated in coloboma of the eye, heart defects, atresia of the choanae, retardation of growth, genital/urinary abnormalities, ear abnormalities and deafness (CHARGE) syndrome (a condition partly characterised by cardiovascular birth defects in humans). A ventricular septal defect was readily identified in the screen, consistent with the human phenotype. (c) 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Sildenafil reduces polyuria in rats with lithium-induced NDI.

PubMed

Sanches, Talita Rojas; Volpini, Rildo Aparecido; Massola Shimizu, Maria H; Bragança, Ana Carolina de; Oshiro-Monreal, Fabíola; Seguro, Antonio Carlos; Andrade, Lúcia

2012-01-01

Lithium (Li)-treated patients often develop urinary concentrating defect and polyuria, a condition known as nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI). In a rat model of Li-induced NDI, we studied the effect that sildenafil (Sil), a phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, has on renal expression of aquaporin-2 (AQP2), urea transporter UT-A1, Na(+)/H(+) exchanger 3 (NHE3), Na(+)-K(+)-2Cl(-) cotransporter (NKCC2), epithelial Na channel (ENaC; α-, β-, and γ-subunits), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), and inducible nitric oxide synthase. We also evaluated cGMP levels in medullary collecting duct cells in suspension. For 4 wk, Wistar rats received Li (40 mmol/kg food) or no treatment (control), some receiving, in weeks 2-4, Sil (200 mg/kg food) or Li and Sil (Li+Sil). In Li+Sil rats, urine output and free water clearance were markedly lower, whereas urinary osmolality was higher, than in Li rats. The cGMP levels in the suspensions of medullary collecting duct cells were markedly higher in the Li+Sil and Sil groups than in the control and Li groups. Semiquantitative immunoblotting revealed the following: in Li+Sil rats, AQP2 expression was partially normalized, whereas that of UT-A1, γ-ENaC, and eNOS was completely normalized; and expression of NKCC2 and NHE3 was significantly higher in Li rats than in controls. Inulin clearance was normal in all groups. Mean arterial pressure and plasma arginine vasopressin did not differ among the groups. Sil completely reversed the Li-induced increase in renal vascular resistance. We conclude that, in experimental Li-induced NDI, Sil reduces polyuria, increases urinary osmolality, and decreases free water clearance via upregulation of renal AQP2 and UT-A1.

Urinary biomarkers of oxidative damage in Maple syrup urine disease: the L-carnitine role.

PubMed

Guerreiro, Gilian; Mescka, Caroline Paula; Sitta, Angela; Donida, Bruna; Marchetti, Desirèe; Hammerschmidt, Tatiane; Faverzani, Jessica; Coelho, Daniella de Moura; Wajner, Moacir; Dutra-Filho, Carlos Severo; Vargas, Carmen Regla

2015-05-01

Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) is a disorder of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA). The defect in the branched-chain α-keto acid dehydrogenase complex activity leads to an accumulation of these compounds and their corresponding α-keto-acids and α-hydroxy-acids. Studies have shown that oxidative stress may be involved in neuropathology of MSUD. L-carnitine (L-car), which has demonstrated an important role as antioxidant by reducing and scavenging free radicals formation and by enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes, have been used in the treatment of some metabolic rare disorders. This study evaluated the oxidative stress parameters, di-tyrosine, isoprostanes and antioxidant capacity, in urine of MSUD patients under protein-restricted diet supplemented or not with L-car capsules at a dose of 50 mg kg(-1) day(-1). It was also determined urinary α-keto isocaproic acid levels as well as blood free L-car concentrations in blood. It was found a deficiency of carnitine in patients before the L-car supplementation. Significant increases of di-tyrosine and isoprostanes, as well as reduced antioxidant capacity, were observed before the treatment with L-car. The L-car supplementation induced beneficial effects on these parameters reducing the di-tyrosine and isoprostanes levels and increasing the antioxidant capacity. It was also showed a significant increase in urinary of α-ketoisocaproic acid after 2 months of L-car treatment, compared to control group. In conclusion, our results suggest that L-car may have beneficial effects in the treatment of MSUD by preventing oxidative damage to the cells and that urine can be used to monitorize oxidative damage in patients affected by this disease. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of vitamin A supplementation on the urinary retinol excretion in very low birth weight infants.

PubMed

Schmiedchen, Bettina; Longardt, Ann Carolin; Loui, Andrea; Bührer, Christoph; Raila, Jens; Schweigert, Florian J

2016-03-01

Despite high-dose vitamin A supplementation of very low birth weight infants (VLBW, <1500 g), their vitamin A status does not improve substantially. Unknown is the impact of urinary retinol excretion on the serum retinol concentration in these infants. Therefore, the effect of high-dose vitamin A supplementation on the urinary vitamin A excretion in VLBW infants was investigated. Sixty-three VLBW infants were treated with vitamin A (5000 IU intramuscular, 3 times/week for 4 weeks); 38 untreated infants were classified as control group. On days 3 and 28 of life, retinol, retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4), glomerular filtration rate, proteinuria, and Tamm-Horsfall protein were quantified in urine. On day 3 of life, substantial retinol and RBP4 losses were found in both groups, which significantly decreased until day 28. Notwithstanding, the retinol excretion was higher (P < 0.01) under vitamin A supplementation as compared to infants of the control group. On day 28 of life, the urinary retinol concentrations were predictive for serum retinol concentrations in the vitamin A treated (P < 0.01), but not in the control group (P = 0.570). High urinary retinol excretion may limit the vitamin A supplementation efficacy in VLBW infants. Advanced age and thus postnatal kidney maturation seems to be an important contributor in the prevention of urinary retinol losses.

Urinary D-lactate excretion in infants receiving Lactobacillus johnsonii with formula.

PubMed

Haschke-Becher, Elisabeth; Brunser, Oscar; Cruchet, Sylvia; Gotteland, Martin; Haschke, Ferdinand; Bachmann, Claude

2008-01-01

Supplementation with certain probiotics can improve gut microbial flora and immune function but should not have adverse effects. This study aimed to assess the risk of D-lactate accumulation and subsequent metabolic acidosis in infants fed on formula containing Lactobacillus johnsonii (La1). In the framework of a double-blind, randomized controlled trial enrolling 71 infants aged 4-5 months, morning urine samples were collected before and 4 weeks after being fed formulas with or without La1 (1 x 10(8)/g powder) or being breastfed. Urinary D- and L-lactate concentrations were assayed by enzymatic, fluorimetric methods and excretion was normalized per mol creatinine. At baseline, no significant differences in urinary D-/L-lactate excretion among the formula-fed and breastfed groups were found. After 4 weeks, D-lactate excretion did not differ between the two formula groups, but was higher in both formula groups than in breastfed infants. In all infants receiving La1, urinary D-lactate concentrations remained within the concentration ranges of age-matched healthy infants which had been determined in an earlier study using the same analytical method. Urinary L-lactate also did not vary over time or among groups. Supplementation of La1 to formula did not affect urinary lactate excretion and there is no evidence of an increased risk of lactic acidosis. Copyright 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Bartter Syndrome Type 1 Presenting as Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus

PubMed Central

Fabbri, Elena; Pedini, Annalisa; Tedeschi, Silvana; Borsa, Niccolò

2018-01-01

Bartter syndrome (BS) type 1 (OMIM #601678) is a hereditary salt-losing renal tubular disorder characterized by hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis, hypercalciuria, nephrocalcinosis, polyuria, recurrent vomiting, and growth retardation. It is caused by loss-of-function mutations of the SLC12A1 gene, encoding the furosemide-sensitive Na-K-Cl cotransporter. Recently, a phenotypic variability has been observed in patients with genetically determined BS, including absence of nephrocalcinosis, hypokalemia, and/or metabolic alkalosis in the first year of life as well as persistent metabolic acidosis mimicking distal renal tubular acidosis. We report the case of a child with a genetically determined diagnosis of Bartter syndrome type 1 who presented with a phenotype of nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, with severe hypernatremia and urinary concentrating defect. In these atypical cases, molecular analysis is mandatory to define the diagnosis, in order to establish the correct clinical and therapeutic management. PMID:29527380

Bartter Syndrome Type 1 Presenting as Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus.

PubMed

Vergine, Gianluca; Fabbri, Elena; Pedini, Annalisa; Tedeschi, Silvana; Borsa, Niccolò

2018-01-01

Bartter syndrome (BS) type 1 (OMIM #601678) is a hereditary salt-losing renal tubular disorder characterized by hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis, hypercalciuria, nephrocalcinosis, polyuria, recurrent vomiting, and growth retardation. It is caused by loss-of-function mutations of the SLC12A1 gene, encoding the furosemide-sensitive Na-K-Cl cotransporter. Recently, a phenotypic variability has been observed in patients with genetically determined BS, including absence of nephrocalcinosis, hypokalemia, and/or metabolic alkalosis in the first year of life as well as persistent metabolic acidosis mimicking distal renal tubular acidosis. We report the case of a child with a genetically determined diagnosis of Bartter syndrome type 1 who presented with a phenotype of nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, with severe hypernatremia and urinary concentrating defect. In these atypical cases, molecular analysis is mandatory to define the diagnosis, in order to establish the correct clinical and therapeutic management.

Dietary predictors of young children’s exposures to chlorpyrifos, permethrin, and 2,4-D using urinary biomonitoring

EPA Science Inventory

Few data exist on the association between dietary habits and urinary biomarker concentrations of pesticides in children. The objective was to examined the association between the weekly intake frequency of 65 food items and urinary biomarkers of exposure to chlorpyrifos (3,5,6-tr...

Phytate levels and bone parameters: a retrospective pilot clinical trial.

PubMed

Lopez-Gonzalez, Angel A; Grases, Felix; Perello, Joan; Tur, Fernando; Costa-Bauza, Antonia; Monroy, Nieves; Mari, Bartolome; Vicente-Herrero, Teofila

2010-06-01

This study evaluated the relationship between phytate urinary levels and bone characteristics in a large population of postmenopausal women. The study population consisted of 180 postmenopausal women who participated in a descriptive cross-sectional study. A urine sample was collected from each subject to determine phytate levels and the volunteers were divided into two groups according to phytate urinary concentration (i.e., low and high levels). Bone mineral density was determined in the lumbar spine and femoral neck of groups with low and high phytate urinary levels. Urinary levels of phytate were linked to dietary phytate consumption. Hence, bone mineral density values were significantly higher in the lumbar spines and femoral necks of women who consumed high levels of phytate than in women with low urinary phytate concentrations. Higher urinary levels of phytate correlated with higher bone mineral density in the lumbar spine and femoral necks of postmenopausal women. This finding demonstrates the potential use of phytate in the treatment of bone related diseases, as it uses a mechanism of action similar to some bisphosphonates.

Clinically mild encephalitis/encephalopathy with a reversible splenial lesion associated with febrile urinary tract infection.

PubMed

Okamoto, Takayuki; Sato, Yasuyuki; Yamazaki, Takeshi; Hayashi, Asako

2014-04-01

Common pathogens of clinically mild encephalitis/encephalopathy with a reversible splenial lesion (MERS) are viruses, such as influenza virus. However, bacteria are rare pathogens for MERS. We report the first patient with MERS associated with febrile urinary tract infection. A 16-year-old lupus patient was admitted to our hospital. She had fever, headache, vomiting, and right back pain. Urinary analysis showed leukocyturia, and urinary culture identified Klebsiella pneumoniae. Cerebrospinal fluid examination and brain single-photon emission computed tomography showed no abnormalities. Therefore, she was diagnosed with febrile urinary tract infection. For further examinations, 99mTc-dimercaptosuccinic acid renal scintigraphy showed right cortical defects, and a voiding cystourethrogram demonstrated right vesicoureteral reflux (grade II). Therefore, she was diagnosed with right pyelonephritis. Although treatment with antibiotics administered intravenously improved the fever, laboratory findings, and right back pain, she had prolonged headaches, nausea, and vomiting. T2-weighted, diffusion-weighted, and fluid attenuated inversion recovery images in brain magnetic resonance imaging showed high intensity lesions in the splenium of the corpus callosum, which completely disappeared 1 week later. These results were compatible with MERS. To the best of our knowledge, our patient is the first patient who showed clinical features of MERS associated with febrile urinary tract infection. In patients with pyelonephritis and an atypical clinical course, such as prolonged headache, nausea, vomiting, and neurological disorders, the possibility of MERS should be considered.

Is aberrant mammary tissue a marker for chronic alcoholism or kidney-urinary tract malformations?

PubMed

Camacho, F M; Moreno-Giménez, J C; García-Hernández, M J

1998-01-01

Numerous publications describe the relationship between aberrant mammary tissue (AMT) and kidney-urinary tract malformations, individual/ familial alcoholism and sense organ disorders. We investigated these possible associations and reviewed 72 cases observed in our Department during the past 3 years: 30 men and 42 women, 17 of them with bilateral AMT (7 men and 10 women) and 25 patients from 9 families. Diagnosis was made according to Kajawa's classification. A detailed family history was performed asking for individual or familial alcoholism, especially in the mother, in addition to blood tests and ultrasonographic examination of the abdomen and the kidneys. We only found 1 family history of alcoholism in 3 families, but in the father, never in the mother or the affected subject. No congenital/ hereditary nephrourinary defects or sense organ disorders were found. We believe that in our population AMT is not a marker for alcoholism, kidney-urinary malformations nor sense organ disorders.

1-Hydroxypyrene concentrations in first morning voids and 24-h composite urine: intra- and inter-individual comparisons.

PubMed

Han, In-Kyu; Duan, Xiaoli; Zhang, Lin; Yang, Hongbiao; Rhoads, George G; Wei, Fusheng; Zhang, Junfeng

2008-09-01

Urinary 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP) has been suggested as an exposure biomarker for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). However, it remains unknown whether a first morning urine sample can be used to reflect average exposure. In this paper, we examine intra-individual differences and inter-individual associations between first morning voids and 24-h composite urine samples. The analysis was performed using data collected from 100 adults who had a wide range of PAH exposure due to differences in their occupation, e.g., coke oven workers vs. non-coke oven workers. For each subject, all the urine voids within each of two 24-h measurement periods were collected. Results showed a significant (40% to 62%) intra-individual difference between first morning voids and 24-h urinary 1-OHP concentrations (in ng/ml urine). Creatinine adjustments of 1-OHP concentrations (in micromol/mol urinary creatinine) reduced the intra-individual difference by approximately 10%. Across all the subjects, a high overall correlation (r=0.76) was observed between first morning and 24-h average 1-OHP concentrations. Work environment and sampling season were found to significantly affect the relationship between first morning and 24-h 1-OHP concentrations. An increase of 1 ng/ml of first morning urinary 1-OHP predicted an increase of 0.5 and 0.25 ng/ml of 24-h urinary 1-OHP for coke oven workers and non-coke oven workers, respectively. Data collected in a winter season showed a higher correlation between first morning and 24-h concentrations than data collected in a fall season. Creatinine adjustments did not significantly improve overall correlations between first morning void and 24-h measurements, but increased total variances for 24-h urines explained by first morning urines in coke workers.

Blood plasma response and urinary excretion of nitrite and nitrate in milk-fed calves after oral nitrite and nitrate administration.

PubMed

Hüsler, B R.; Blum, J W.

2001-05-01

There is marked endogenous production of nitrate in young calves. Here we have studied the contribution of exogenous nitrate and nitrite to plasma concentrations and urinary excretion of nitrite and nitrate in milk-fed calves. In experiment 1, calves were fed 0 or 200 &mgr;mol nitrate or nitrite/kg(0.75) or 100 &mgr;mol nitrite plus 100 &mgr;mol nitrate/kg(0.75) with milk for 3 d. In experiment 2, calves were fed 400 &mgr;mol nitrate or nitrite/kg(0.75) with milk for 1 d. Plasma nitrate rapidly and comparably increased after feeding nitrite, nitrate or nitrite plus nitrate. The rise of plasma nitrate was greater if 400 than 200 &mgr;mol nitrate or nitrite/kg(0.75) were fed. Plasma nitrate decreased slowly after the 3-d administration of 200 &mgr;mol nitrate or nitrite/kg(0.75) and reached pre-experimental concentrations 4 d later. Urinary nitrate excretions nearly identically increased if nitrate, nitrite or nitrite plus nitrate were administered and excreted amounts were greater if 400 than 200 &mgr;mol nitrate or nitrite/kg(0.75) were fed. After nitrite ingestion plasma nitrite only transiently increased after 2 and 4 h and urinary excretion rates remained unchanged. Plasma nitrate concentration remained unchanged if milk was not supplemented with nitrite or nitrate. Nitrate concentrations were stable for 24 h after addition of nitrite to full blood in vitro, whereas nitrite concentrations decreased within 2 h. In conclusion, plasma nitrate concentrations and urinary nitrate excretions are enhanced dose-dependently by feeding low amounts of nitrate and nitrite, whereas after ingested nitrite only a transient and small rise of plasma nitrite is observed because of rapid conversion to nitrate.

Exposure assessment using human biomonitoring for glyphosate and fluroxypyr users in amenity horticulture.

PubMed

Connolly, Alison; Jones, Kate; Galea, Karen S; Basinas, Ioannis; Kenny, Laura; McGowan, Padraic; Coggins, Marie

2017-08-01

Pesticides and their potential adverse health effects are of great concern and there is a dearth of knowledge regarding occupational exposure to pesticides among amenity horticulturalists. This study aims to measure occupational exposures to amenity horticuturalists using pesticides containing the active ingredients, glyphosate and fluroxypyr by urinary biomonitoring. A total of 40 work tasks involving glyphosate and fluroxypyr were surveyed over the period of June - October 2015. Workers used a variety of pesticide application methods; manual knapsack sprayers, controlled droplet applicators, pressurised lance applicators and boom sprayers. Pesticide concentrations were measured in urine samples collected pre and post work tasks using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Differences in pesticide urinary concentrations pre and post work task, and across applications methods were analysed using paired t-tests and linear regression. Pesticide urinary concentrations were higher than those reported for environmental exposures and comparable to those reported in some agricultural studies. Log-transformed pesticide concentrations were statistically significantly higher in post-work samples compared to those in pre-work samples (paired t-test, p<0.001; for both μgL -1 and μmol/mol creatinine). Urinary pesticide concentrations in post-work samples had a geometric mean (geometric standard deviation) of 0.66 (1.11) μgL -1 for glyphosate and 0.29 (1.69) μgL -1 for fluroxypyr. Linear regression revealed a statistically significant positive association to exist between the time-interval between samples and the log-transformed adjusted (i.e. post- minus pre-task) pesticide urinary concentrations (β=0.0039; p<0.0001). Amenity horticulturists can be exposed to pesticides during tasks involving these products. Further research is required to evaluate routes of exposure among this occupational group. Crown Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Urinary sex steroid hormone and placental leucine aminopeptidase concentration differences between live births and stillbirth of Bornean orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus).

PubMed

Kinoshita, Kodzue; Sano, Yusuke; Takai, Akira; Shimizu, Mika; Kobayashi, Toshio; Ouchi, Akihiro; Kuze, Noko; Inoue-Murayama, Miho; Idani, Gen'ichi; Okamoto, Munehiro; Ozaki, Yasuhiko

2017-02-01

Under the environment of pregnancy, the placenta assumes an important steroidogenic role in the maintenance of pregnancy. Urinary placental leucine aminopeptidase (PLAP), estrone-3-glucuronide (E 1 G), and pregnanediol-3-glucuronide (PdG) concentrations were compared among five pregnancies (four live births and one stillbirth) in four orangutans. The gestation period of the stillbirth (223 days) was shorter than that of the live births (239-254 days). In females who gave a live birth, average PLAP and E 1 G concentrations increased until the delivery. Conversely, in the female who gave a stillbirth, PLAP concentration failed to increase, and E 1 G concentration was significantly low in late pregnancy period. Regarding PdG concentrations, there was no significant difference among all pregnancies. This is the first study reporting a change in urinary PLAP, E 1 G, and PdG concentrations during orangutan stillbirth and live birth pregnancies. The findings will assist in developing pregnancy screening tests. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Lipoxygenase products in the urine correlate with renal function and body temperature but not with acute transplant rejection.

PubMed

Reinhold, Stephan W; Scherl, Thomas; Stölcker, Benjamin; Bergler, Tobias; Hoffmann, Ute; Weingart, Christian; Banas, Miriam C; Kollins, Dmitrij; Kammerl, Martin C; Krüger, Bernd; Kaess, Bernhard; Krämer, Bernhard K; Banas, Bernhard

2013-02-01

Acute transplant rejection is the leading cause of graft loss in the first months after kidney transplantation. Lipoxygenase products mediate pro- and anti-inflammatory actions and thus we aimed to correlate the histological reports of renal transplant biopsies with urinary lipoxygenase products concentrations to evaluate their role as a diagnostic marker. This study included a total of 34 kidney transplant recipients: 17 with an acute transplant rejection and 17 controls. LTE4, LTB4, 12-HETE and 15-HETE concentrations were measured by enzyme immunoassay. Urinary lipoxygenase product concentrations were not significantly changed during an acute allograft rejection. Nevertheless, LTB4 concentrations correlated significantly with the body temperature (P ≤ 0.05) 3 months after transplantation, and 12- and 15-HETE concentrations correlated significantly with renal function (P ≤ 0.05) 2 weeks after transplantation. In conclusion, our data show a correlation for LTB4 with the body temperature 3 months after transplantation and urinary 12- and 15-HETE concentrations correlate positively with elevated serum creatinine concentrations but do not predict acute allograft rejection.

Alpha C-telopeptide of type I collagen is associated with subchondral bone turnover and predicts progression of joint space narrowing and osteophytes in osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Huebner, Janet L; Bay-Jensen, Anne C; Huffman, Kim M; He, Yi; Leeming, Diana J; McDaniel, Gary E; Karsdal, Morten A; Kraus, Virginia B

2014-09-01

To evaluate joint tissue remodeling using the urinary collagen biomarkers urinary α-C-telopeptide of type I collagen (α-CTX) and urinary C-telopeptide of type II collagen (CTX-II) and to determine the association of these biomarkers with osteoarthritis (OA) severity, progression, and localized knee bone turnover. Participants (n = 149) with symptomatic and radiographic knee OA underwent fixed-flexion knee radiography at baseline and 3 years, and late-phase bone scintigraphy of both knees at baseline, which were scored semiquantitatively for osteophyte and joint space narrowing (JSN) severity and uptake intensity, with scores summed across knees. Urinary concentrations of α-CTX and CTX-II were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Immunohistochemical analysis of human OA knees was performed to localize the joint tissue origin of the biomarker epitopes. Urinary α-CTX concentrations correlated strongly with the intensity of bone scintigraphic uptake and with JSN progression (risk ratio 13.2) and osteophyte progression (risk ratio 3). Urinary CTX-II concentrations were strongly associated with intensity of bone scintigraphic uptake, with JSN and osteophyte severity, and with OA progression based on osteophyte score. Urinary α-CTX localized primarily to high bone turnover areas in subchondral bone. CTX-II localized to the bone-cartilage interface, the tidemark, and damaged articular cartilage. Baseline urinary α-CTX, which was localized to high turnover areas of subchondral bone, was associated with dynamic bone turnover of knees, as signified by scintigraphy, and progression of both osteophytes and JSN. Urinary CTX-II correlated with JSN and osteophyte severity and progression of osteophytes. To our knowledge, this represents the first report of serologic markers reflecting subchondral bone turnover. These collagen markers may be useful for noninvasive detection and quantification of active subchondral bone turnover and joint remodeling in knee OA. Copyright © 2014 by the American College of Rheumatology.

Women’s exposure to phthalates in relation to use of personal care products

PubMed Central

Parlett, Lauren E.; Calafat, Antonia M.; Swan, Shanna H.

2014-01-01

Background Several phthalates, particularly diethyl phthalate (DEP) and di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP), can be used in personal care products (PCPs) to fix fragrance and hold color. We investigated associations between women’s reported use of personal care products within the 24 hours prior to urine collection and concentrations of several urinary phthalate metabolites. Methods Between 2002–2005, 337 women provided spot urine samples and answered questions regarding their use of thirteen PCPs at a follow-up visit 3–36 months after pregnancy. We examined associations between urinary concentrations of several phthalate metabolites and use of PCPs using linear regression. Results Use of individual PCPs ranged from 7% (nail polish) to 91% (deodorant). After adjusting for age, education, and urinary creatinine, women reporting use of perfume had 2.92 times higher (95% CI: 2.20–3.89) concentration of monoethyl phthalate (MEP, the primary metabolite of diethyl phthalate) than other women. Other PCPs that were significantly associated with MEP included: hair spray, nail polish, and deodorant. MEP concentrations increased with the number of PCPs used. Conclusion PCP use was widespread in this group of recently pregnant women. Women’s use of PCPs, particularly of perfumes and fragranced products, was positively associated with urinary concentration of multiple phthalate metabolites. PMID:23168567

Free and total urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations among pregnant women from the Healthy Baby Cohort (HBC), China.

PubMed

Zhu, Yingshuang; Wan, Yanjian; Li, Yuanyuan; Zhang, Bin; Zhou, Aifen; Cai, Zongwei; Qian, Zhengmin; Zhang, Chuncao; Huo, Wenqian; Huang, Kai; Hu, Jie; Cheng, Lu; Chang, Huailong; Huang, Zheng; Xu, Bing; Xia, Wei; Xu, Shunqing

2016-03-01

Total urinary phthalate metabolites (the free plus glucuronidated forms) have been frequently measured in the general population. However, data are limited on the free forms which may be more bioactive, especially for sensitive population such as pregnant women. Here the data gap was addressed by measuring concentrations of free and total forms of six phthalate metabolites in 293 urine samples from pregnant women at delivery, who were randomly selected from the prospective Healthy Baby Cohort (HBC), China. We observed detectable concentrations of the total amount of phthalate metabolites in all urine samples. The geometric mean (GM) urinary concentrations of free and total mono-butyl phthalate (MBP) (5.20, 54.49ng/mL) were the highest, followed by mono-(2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate (MECPP) (4.52, 7.27ng/mL). For most of phthalate metabolites, urinary concentrations were significantly higher in women who were nulliparous. Significantly higher concentrations of mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP) and mono-(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (MEOHP) were found in women who had higher educational level. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report the free and total forms of phthalate metabolites among pregnant women in China. The results suggest that exposure characteristics may be related to parity and education. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Characterization and modelling of the boron-oxygen defect activation in compensated n-type silicon

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

Schön, J.; Niewelt, T.; Broisch, J.

2015-12-28

A study of the activation of the light-induced degradation in compensated n-type Czochralski grown silicon is presented. A kinetic model is established that verifies the existence of both the fast and the slow components known from p-type and proves the quadratic dependence of the defect generation rates of both defects on the hole concentration. The model allows for the description of lifetime degradation kinetics in compensated n-type silicon under various intensities and is in accordance with the findings for p-type silicon. We found that the final concentrations of the slow defect component in compensated n-type silicon only depend on themore » interstitial oxygen concentration and on neither the boron concentration nor the equilibrium electron concentration n{sub 0}. The final concentrations of the fast defect component slightly increase with increasing boron concentration. The results on n-type silicon give new insight to the origin of the BO defect and question the existing models for the defect composition.« less

Urinary Paraben Concentrations and Ovarian Aging among Women from a Fertility Center

PubMed Central

Smith, Kristen W.; Souter, Irene; Dimitriadis, Irene; Ehrlich, Shelley; Williams, Paige L.; Calafat, Antonia M.

2013-01-01

Background: Parabens are preservatives commonly used in personal care products, pharmaceuticals, and foods. There is documented widespread human exposure to parabens, and some experimental data suggest that they act as estrogenic endocrine disruptors. As far as we are aware, no epidemiologic studies have assessed female reproductive health effects in relation to paraben exposure. Objective: We examined the association of urinary paraben concentrations with markers of ovarian reserve in a prospective cohort study of women seeking fertility treatment at Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts. Methods: Measures of ovarian reserve were day-3 follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), antral follicle count (AFC), and ovarian volume. Paraben concentrations [methylparaben (MP), propylparaben (PP), and butylparaben (BP)] were measured in spot urine samples collected prior to the assessment of outcome measures. We used linear and Poisson regression models to estimate associations of urinary paraben concentrations (in tertiles) with ovarian reserve measures. Results: Of the women enrolled in 2004–2010, 192 had at least one ovarian reserve outcome measured (mean age ± SD, 36.1 ± 4.5 years; range, 21.0–46.7 years). MP and PP were detected in > 99% of urine samples and BP in > 75%. We found a suggestive trend of lower AFC with increasing urinary PP tertiles [mean percent change (95% CI) for tertiles 2 and 3 compared with tertile 1, respectively, were –5.0% (–23.7, 18.4) and –16.3% (–30.8, 1.3); trend p-value (ptrend) = 0.07] as well as higher day-3 FSH with higher urinary PP tertiles [mean change (95% CI) for tertiles 2 and 3 compared with tertile 1 were 1.16 IU/L (–0.26, 2.57) and 1.02 IU/L (–0.40, 2.43); ptrend = 0.16]. We found no consistent evidence of associations between urinary MP or BP and day-3 FSH or AFC, or between urinary MP, PP, or BP and ovarian volume. Conclusions: PP may be associated with diminished ovarian reserve. However, our results require confirmation in further studies. Citation: Smith KW, Souter I, Dimitriadis I, Ehrlich S, Williams PL, Calafat AM, Hauser R. 2013. Urinary paraben concentrations and ovarian aging among women from a fertility center. Environ Health Perspect 121:1299–1305; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1205350 PMID:23912598

Urinary ET-1 excretion after exposure to radio-contrast media in diabetic patients and patients with preexisting mild impaired renal function.

PubMed

Heunisch, Fabian; von Einem, Gina; Alter, Markus; Weist, Andreas; Dschietzig, Thomas; Kretschmer, Axel; Hocher, Berthold

2014-11-24

Contrast media-induced nephropathy (CIN) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The renal endothelin system has been associated with disease progression of various acute and chronic renal diseases. However, robust data coming from adequately powered prospective clinical studies analyzing the short and long-term impacts of the renal ET system in patients with CIN are missing so far. We thus performed a prospective study addressing this topic. We included 327 patients with diabetes or renal impairment undergoing coronary angiography. Blood and spot urine were collected before and 24 h after contrast media (CM) application. Patients were followed for 90 days for major clinical events like need for dialysis, unplanned rehospitalization or death. The concentration of ET-1 and the urinary ET-1/creatinine ratio decreased in spot urine after CM application (ET-1 concentration: 0.91±1.23 pg/ml versus 0.63±1.03 pg/ml, p<0.001; ET-1/creatinine ratio: 0.14±0.23 versus 0.09±0.19, p<0.001). The urinary ET-1 concentrations in patients with CIN decreased significantly more than in patients without CIN (-0.26±1.42 pg/ml vs. -0.79±1.69 pg/ml, p=0.041), whereas the decrease of the urinary ET-1/creatinine ratio was not significantly different (non-CIN patients: -0.05±0.30; CIN patients: -0.11±0.21, p=0.223). Urinary ET-1 concentrations as well as the urinary ET-1/creatinine ratio were not associated with clinical events (need for dialysis, rehospitalization or death) during the 90 day follow-up after contrast media exposure. However, the urinary ET-1 concentration and the urinary ET-1/creatinine ratio after CM application were higher in those patients who had a decrease of GFR of at least 25% after 90 days of follow-up. In general the ET-1 system in the kidney seems to be down-regulated after contrast media application in patients with moderate CIN risk. Major long-term complications of CIN (need for dialysis, rehospitalization or death) are not associated with the renal ET system. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Congenital heart defects and extracardiac malformations.

PubMed

Rosa, Rosana Cardoso M; Rosa, Rafael Fabiano M; Zen, Paulo Ricardo G; Paskulin, Giorgio Adriano

2013-06-01

To review the association between congenital heart defects and extracardiac malformations. Scientific articles were searched in the Medline, Lilacs, and SciELO databases, using the descriptors "congenital heart disease," "congenital heart defects," "congenital cardiac malformations," "extracardiac defects," and "extracardiac malformations." All case series that specifically explored the association between congenital heart defects and extracardiac malformations were included. Congenital heart diseases are responsible for about 40% of birth defects, being one of the most common and severe malformations. Extracardiac malformations are observed in 7 to 50% of the patients with congenital heart disease, bringing a greater risk of comorbidity and mortality and increasing the risks related to heart surgery. Different studies have attempted to assess the presence of extracardiac abnormalities in patients with congenital heart disease. Among the changes described, those of the urinary tract are more often reported. However, no study has evaluated all patients in the same way. Extracardiac abnormalities are frequent among patients with congenital heart disease, and patients with these alterations may present an increased risk of morbimortality. Therefore, some authors have been discussing the importance and cost-effectiveness of screening these children for other malformations by complementary exams.

Urinary and plasma oxalate during ingestion of pure ascorbic acid: a re-evaluation.

PubMed

Fituri, N; Allawi, N; Bentley, M; Costello, J

1983-01-01

Daily ingestion of 8 g of pure ascorbic acid by 8 normal subjects for 7 days did not, in contrast to previous reports in the literature, significantly alter urinary or plasma oxalate during or after ingestion. When urine with raised ascorbate values was heated at 100 degrees C for 30 min, a significant increase in urinary oxalate concentration was observed. Plasma ascorbate reached a mean value during ingestion of 3.3 mg/100 ml. Urinary citrate excretion significantly decreased during the first 4 days of ascorbic acid ingestion; however, the urinary inhibitory activity of calcium oxalate crystal growth was not significantly altered. Urinary and serum urate as well as urinary calcium and magnesium were unaltered by ingestion of the vitamin supplement.

Maternal arsenic exposure, arsenic methylation efficiency, and birth outcomes in the Biomarkers of Exposure to ARsenic (BEAR) pregnancy cohort in Mexico.

PubMed

Laine, Jessica E; Bailey, Kathryn A; Rubio-Andrade, Marisela; Olshan, Andrew F; Smeester, Lisa; Drobná, Zuzana; Herring, Amy H; Stýblo, Miroslav; García-Vargas, Gonzalo G; Fry, Rebecca C

2015-02-01

Exposure to inorganic arsenic (iAs) from drinking water is a global public health problem, yet much remains unknown about the extent of exposure in susceptible populations. We aimed to establish the Biomarkers of Exposure to ARsenic (BEAR) prospective pregnancy cohort in Gómez Palacio, Mexico, to better understand the effects of iAs exposure on pregnant women and their children. Two hundred pregnant women were recruited for this study. Concentrations of iAs in drinking water (DW-iAs) and maternal urinary concentrations of iAs and its monomethylated and dimethylated metabolites (MMAs and DMAs, respectively) were determined. Birth outcomes were analyzed for their relationship to DW-iAs and to the concentrations and proportions of maternal urinary arsenicals. DW-iAs for the study subjects ranged from < 0.5 to 236 μg As/L. More than half of the women (53%) had DW-iAs that exceeded the World Health Organization's recommended guideline of 10 μg As/L. DW-iAs was significantly associated with the sum of the urinary arsenicals (U-tAs). Maternal urinary concentrations of MMAs were negatively associated with newborn birth weight and gestational age. Maternal urinary concentrations of iAs were associated with lower mean gestational age and newborn length. Biomonitoring results demonstrate that pregnant women in Gómez Palacio are exposed to potentially harmful levels of DW-iAs. The data support a relationship between iAs metabolism in pregnant women and adverse birth outcomes. The results underscore the risks associated with iAs exposure in vulnerable populations.

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

Urinary 1-hydroxypyrene concentrations in coke oven workers

PubMed Central

Wu, M. T.; Mao, I. F.; Ho, C. K.; Wypij, D.; Lu, P. L.; Smith, T. J.; Chen, M. L.; Christiani, D. C.

1998-01-01

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the relation of individual occupational exposure to total particulates benzene soluble fraction (BSF) of ambient air with urinary 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP) concentrations among coke oven workers in Taiwan. METHODS: 80 coke oven workers and 50 referents were monitored individually for the BSF of breathing zone air over three consecutive days. Exposures were categorised as high, medium, or low among coke oven workers based on exposure situations. The high exposure group (n = 18) worked over the oven. The medium and low exposure groups (n = 41 and n = 21) worked at the side of the oven for > 4 hours and < 4 hours a day, respectively. Urine was collected before the shift on the morning of day 1 and after the shift on the afternoon of day 3 to find the change of 1-OHP concentrations across the shift. RESULTS: The median (range) changes of urinary 1-OHP concentrations across the shift for various exposure situations (microgram/g creatinine) were as follows: high 182 (7 to 3168); medium 9 (-8 to 511); low 7 (-6 to 28); and referents 0.2 (-2 to 72). This change of urinary 1-OHP was highly associated with individual occupational exposure to the BSF in air (r = 0.74 and 0.64, p < 0.001). The regression model showed significant effects of individual exposures to the BSF and alcohol consumption on urinary postshift 1-OHP after adjusting for preshift 1-OHP in the total population (n = 130). More exposure to the BSF led to higher postshift 1-OHP (p < 0.001); current drinkers of > 120 g/week had lower urinary postshift 1-OHP than never and former drinkers (p = 0.01). A 10-fold increase in the average BSF in air resulted in about a 2.5-fold increase in postshift 1-OHP among the 80 coke oven workers. CONCLUSION: Urinary 1-OHP concentrations can be used as a good biomarker to assess individual exposure to the BSF in air. Alcohol drinking may modify the toxicokinetic pathway of the BSF; the effects of alcohol should be investigated further in occupational studies.   PMID:9816379

The Importance of Urine Concentration on the Diagnostic Performance of the Urinalysis for Pediatric Urinary Tract Infection.

PubMed

Chaudhari, Pradip P; Monuteaux, Michael C; Shah, Pinkey; Bachur, Richard G

2017-07-01

The presence of leukocyte esterase by urine dipstick and microscopic pyuria are both indicators of possible urinary tract infection. The effect of urine concentration on the diagnostic performance of the urinalysis for pediatric urinary tract infection has not been studied. Our objective is to determine whether the urinalysis performance for detecting urinary tract infection varies by urine concentration as measured by specific gravity. This was a retrospective cross-sectional study of the urine laboratory results of children younger than 13 years who presented to the emergency department during 68 months and had a paired urinalysis and urine culture obtained. Urinary tract infection was defined as pure growth of a uropathogen at standard culture thresholds. Test characteristics were calculated across 4 specific gravity groups (1.000 to 1.010, 1.011 to 1.020, 1.021 to 1.030, and >1.030). In total, 14,971 cases were studied. Median age was 1.5 years (interquartile range 0.4 to 5.5 years) and 60% were female patients. Prevalence of urinary tract infection was 7.7%. For the presence of leukocyte esterase and a range of pyuria cut points, the positive likelihood ratios decreased with increasing specific gravity. From most dilute to most concentrated urine, the positive likelihood ratio decreased from 12.1 (95% confidence interval [CI] 10.7 to 13.7) to 4.2 (95% CI 3.0 to 5.8) and 9.5 (95% CI 8.6 to 10.6) to 5.5 (95% CI 3.3 to 9.1) at a threshold of greater than or equal to 5 WBCs per high-power field and presence of leukocyte esterase, respectively. The negative likelihood ratios increased with increasing specific gravity for leukocyte esterase and microscopic pyuria. For the detection of pediatric urinary tract infection, the diagnostic performance of both dipstick leukocyte esterase and microscopic pyuria varies by urine concentration, and therefore the specific gravity should be considered when the urinalysis is interpreted. Copyright © 2016 American College of Emergency Physicians. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Persistent konzo and cyanogen toxicity from cassava in northern Mozambique.

PubMed

Ernesto, Mario; Cardoso, A Paula; Nicala, Domingos; Mirione, Estevão; Massaza, Fernando; Cliff, Julie; Haque, M Rezaul; Bradbury, J Howard

2002-06-01

We aimed to detect new cases of konzo and monitor cyanogen exposure from cassava flour in communities previously affected by konzo epidemics in Nampula Province, northern Mozambique. Other objectives were to detect subclinical upper motor neuron damage in schoolchildren and test a new kit to measure urinary thiocyanate concentration. In 1999 and 2000, we carried out active and passive case detection for konzo in Memba and Mogincual Districts. In July and October, 1999, we collected cassava flour from 30 houses in three communities and measured cyanogen concentrations with a picrate kit. In October 1999, we examined all schoolchildren in three communities for ankle clonus and measured urinary thiocyanate concentration in thirty schoolchildren in each of five communities with a picrate kit. We found 27 new cases of konzo in Mogincual District. Mean total cyanogen concentrations in cassava flour varied between both seasons and years, but were always high, ranging from 26 to 186 ppm. Very high mean levels at three sites in November 1998 and July 1999 were probably due to low rainfall in the 1997-1998 season. The proportion of schoolchildren with ankle clonus varied from 8 to 17%. The new picrate kit for urinary thiocyanate worked well; mean concentrations in schoolchildren ranged from 225 to 384 micromol x l(-1). Konzo and sub-clinical upper motor neuron damage persist in poor rural communities in northern Mozambique, associated with high cyanogen concentrations in cassava flour and high urinary thiocyanate concentrations in schoolchildren.

Predictors of exposure to organophosphate pesticides in schoolchildren in the Province of Talca, Chile.

PubMed

Muñoz-Quezada, María Teresa; Iglesias, Verónica; Lucero, Boris; Steenland, Kyle; Barr, Dana Boyd; Levy, Karen; Ryan, P Barry; Alvarado, Sergio; Concha, Carlos

2012-10-15

Few data exist in Latin America concerning the association between organophosphate (OP) urinary metabolites and the consumption of fruits and vegetables and other exposure risk variables in schoolchildren. We collected samples of urine from 190 Chilean children aged 6-12 years, fruits and vegetables, water and soil from schools and homes, and sociodemographic data through a questionnaire. We measured urinary dialkylphosphate (DAP) OP metabolites and OP pesticide residues in food consumed by these 190 children during two seasons: December 2010 (summer) and May 2011 (fall). We analyzed the relationship between urinary DAP concentrations and pesticide residues in food, home pesticide use, and residential location. Diethylalkylphosphates (DEAP) and dimethylalkylphosphates (DMAP) were detected in urine in 76% and 27% of the samples, respectively. Factors associated with urinary DEAP included chlorpyrifos in consumed fruits (p<0.0001), urinary creatinine (p<0.0001), rural residence (p=0.02) and age less than 9 years (p=0.004). Factors associated with urinary DMAP included the presence of phosmet residues in fruits (p<0.0001), close proximity to a farm (p=0.002), home fenitrothion use (p=0.009), and season (p<0.0001). Urinary DAP levels in Chilean school children were high compared to previously reported studies. The presence of chlorpyrifos and phosmet residues in fruits was the major factor predicting urinary DAP metabolite concentrations in children. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Risk assessment based on urinary bisphenol A levels in the general Korean population

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

Park, Jae-Hong; Hwang, Myung-Sil, E-mail: hwang196

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a high-volume industrial chemical used in the global production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, which are used in food and drink containers, such as tableware (plates and mugs). Due to its broad applications, BPA has been detected in human blood, urine and breast milk as well as environmental substances, including water, indoor and outdoor air, and dust. Indeed, exposure to high concentrations of BPA can result in a variety of harmful effects, including reproductive toxicity, through a mechanism of endocrine disruption. Our comparison of reported BPA urinary concentrations among different countries revealed that exposures inmore » Korea may be higher than those in other Asian countries and North America, but lower than or similar to those in European countries. The current study included a total of 2044 eligible subjects of all ages. The subjects were evenly divided between males and females (48.58% and 51.42%, respectively). The geometric mean (GM) of pre-adjusted (adjusted) urinary BPA concentrations was 1.83 μg/L (2.01 μg/g creatinine) for subjects of all ages, and there was no statistically difference in BPA concentrations between males (1.90 μg/L, 1.87 μg/g creatinine) and females (1.76 μg/L, 2.16 μg/g creatinine). Multiple regression analysis revealed only one positive association between creatinine pre-adjusted urinary BPA concentration and age (β=−0.0868, p<0.001). The 95th percentile levels of 24-hour recall (HR), food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) and estimated daily intake (EDI) through urinary BPA concentrations were 0.14, 0.13, and 0.22 μg/kg bw/day, respectively. According to the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS), a tolerable daily intake (tDI) of 20 μg/kg bw/day was established for BPA from the available toxicological data. Recently, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) established a temporary TDI of 4 μg/kg bw/day based on current toxicological data. By comparing these TDIs with subjects' exposure, we conclude that there are no health concerns for any age group as a result of current levels of dietary exposure to BPA. - Highlights: • We compared urinary bisphenol A (BPA) levels among different countries. • We evaluated the urinary BPA levels of the general Korean population. • We found that the overall GM of urinary BPA concentration was 1.83 μg/L. • We derived a TDI of 20 μg/kg bw/day for BPA. • There is no health concern for any age group from current levels of exposure to BPA.« less

Determination of urinary 2,5-hexanedione concentration by an improved analytical method as an index of exposure to n-hexane.

PubMed Central

Saito, I; Shibata, E; Huang, J; Hisanaga, N; Ono, Y; Takeuchi, Y

1991-01-01

2,5-Hexanedione is a main metabolite of n-hexane and is considered as the cause of n-hexane polyneuropathy. Therefore, it is useful to measure 2,5-hexanedione for biological monitoring of exposure to n-hexane. The analytical methods existing for n-hexane metabolites, however, were controversial and not established enough. Hence, a simple and precise method for determination of urinary 2,5-hexanedione has been developed. Five ml of urine was acidified to pH 0.5 with concentrated hydrochloric acid and heated for 30 minutes at 90-100 degrees C. After cooling in water, sodium chloride and dichloromethane containing internal standard were added. The sample was shaken and centrifuged. 2,5-Hexanedione concentration in an aliquot of dichloromethane extract was quantified by gas chromatography using a widebore column (DB-1701). Urinary concentration of 2,5-hexanedione showed a good correlation with exposure to n-hexane (n = 50, r = 0.973, p less than 0.001). This method is simple and precise for analysis of urinary 2,5-hexanedione as an index of exposure to n-hexane. PMID:1878315

Hydration status affects urea transport across rat urothelia.

PubMed

Spector, David A; Deng, Jie; Stewart, Kerry J

2011-12-01

Although mammalian urinary tract epithelium (urothelium) is generally considered impermeable to water and solutes, recent data suggest that urine constituents may be reabsorbed during urinary tract transit and storage. To study water and solute transport across the urothelium in an in vivo rat model, we instilled urine (obtained during various rat hydration conditions) into isolated in situ rat bladders and, after a 1-h dwell, retrieved the urine and measured the differences in urine volume and concentration and total quantity of urine urea nitrogen and creatinine between instilled and retrieved urine in rat groups differing by hydration status. Although urine volume did not change >1.9% in any group, concentration (and quantity) of urine urea nitrogen in retrieved urine fell significantly (indicating reabsorption of urea across bladder urothelia), by a mean of 18% (489 mg/dl, from an instilled 2,658 mg/dl) in rats receiving ad libitum water and by a mean of 39% (2,544 mg/dl, from an instilled 6,204 mg/dl) in water-deprived rats, but did not change (an increase of 15 mg/dl, P = not significant, from an instilled 300 mg/dl) in a water-loaded rat group. Two separate factors affected urea nitrogen reabsorption rates, a urinary factor related to hydration status, likely the concentration of urea nitrogen in the instilled urine, and a bladder factor(s), also dependent on the animal's state of hydration. Urine creatinine was also absorbed during the bladder dwell, and hydration group effects on the concentration and quantity of creatinine reabsorbed were qualitatively similar to the hydration group effect on urea transport. These findings support the notion(s) that urinary constituents may undergo transport across urinary tract epithelia, that such transport may be physiologically regulated, and that urine is modified during transit and storage through the urinary tract.

YKL-40 Associates with Renal Recovery in Deceased Donor Kidney Transplantation

PubMed Central

Puthumana, Jeremy; Hall, Isaac E.; Reese, Peter P.; Schröppel, Bernd; Weng, Francis L.; Thiessen-Philbrook, Heather; Doshi, Mona D.; Rao, Veena; Lee, Chun Geun; Elias, Jack A.; Cantley, Lloyd G.

2017-01-01

Deceased donor kidneys with AKI are often discarded for fear of poor transplant outcomes. Donor biomarkers that predict post-transplant renal recovery could improve organ selection and reduce discard. We tested whether higher levels of donor urinary YKL-40, a repair phase protein, associate with improved recipient outcomes in a prospective cohort study involving deceased kidney donors from five organ procurement organizations. We measured urinary YKL-40 concentration in 1301 donors (111 had AKI, defined as doubling of serum creatinine) and ascertained outcomes in the corresponding 2435 recipients, 756 of whom experienced delayed graft function (DGF). Donors with AKI had higher urinary YKL-40 concentration (P<0.001) and acute tubular necrosis on procurement biopsies (P=0.05). In fully adjusted analyses, elevated donor urinary YKL-40 concentration associated with reduced risk of DGF in both recipients of AKI donor kidneys (adjusted relative risk, 0.51 [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.32 to 0.80] for highest versus lowest YKL-40 tertile) and recipients of non-AKI donor kidneys (adjusted relative risk, 0.79 [95% CI, 0.65 to 0.97]). Furthermore, in the event of DGF, elevated donor urinary YKL-40 concentration associated with higher 6-month eGFR (6.75 [95% CI, 1.49 to 12.02] ml/min per 1.73 m2) and lower risk of graft failure (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.50 [95% CI, 0.27 to 0.94]). These findings suggest that YKL-40 is produced in response to tubular injury and is independently associated with recovery from AKI and DGF. If ultimately validated as a prognostic biomarker, urinary YKL-40 should be considered in determining the suitability of donor kidneys for transplant. PMID:27451287

Crowdsourcing Disease Biomarker Discovery Research: The IP4IC Study.

PubMed

Chancellor, Michael B; Bartolone, Sarah N; Veerecke, Andrew; Lamb, Laura E

2018-05-01

Biomarker discovery is limited by readily assessable, cost efficient human samples available in large numbers that represent the entire heterogeneity of the disease. We developed a novel, active participation crowdsourcing method to determine BP-RS (Bladder Permeability Defect Risk Score). It is based on noninvasive urinary cytokines to discriminate patients with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome who had Hunner lesions from controls and patients with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome but without Hunner lesions. We performed a national crowdsourcing study in cooperation with the Interstitial Cystitis Association. Patients answered demographic, symptom severity and urinary frequency questionnaires on a HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) compliant website. Urine samples were collected at home, stabilized with a preservative and sent to Beaumont Hospital for analysis. The expression of 3 urinary cytokines was used in a machine learning algorithm to develop BP-RS. The IP4IC study collected a total of 448 urine samples, representing 153 patients (147 females and 6 males) with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome, of whom 54 (50 females and 4 males) had Hunner lesions. A total of 159 female and 136 male controls also participated, who were age matched. A defined BP-RS was calculated to predict interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome with Hunner lesions or a bladder permeability defect etiology with 89% validity. In this novel participation crowdsourcing study we obtained a large number of urine samples from 46 states, which were collected at home, shipped and stored at room temperature. Using a machine learning algorithm we developed BP-RS to quantify the risk of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome with Hunner lesions, which is indicative of a bladder permeability defect etiology. To our knowledge BP-RS is the first validated urine biomarker assay for interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome and one of the first biomarker assays to be developed using crowdsourcing. Copyright © 2018 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Urinary trace element concentrations in environmental settings: is there a value for systematic creatinine adjustment or do we introduce a bias?

PubMed

Hoet, Perrine; Deumer, Gladys; Bernard, Alfred; Lison, Dominique; Haufroid, Vincent

2016-01-01

Systematic creatinine adjustment of urinary concentrations of biomarkers has been a challenge over the past years because the assumption of a constant creatinine excretion rate appears erroneous and the issue of overadjustment has recently emerged. This study aimed at determining whether systematic creatinine adjustment is to be recommended for urinary concentrations of trace elements (TEs) in environmental settings. Paired 24-h collection and random spot urine samples (spotU) were obtained from 39 volunteers not occupationally exposed to TEs. Four models to express TEs concentration in spotU were tested to predict the 24-h excretion rate of these TEs (TEμg/24h) considered as the gold standard reference: absolute concentration (TEμg/l); ratio to creatinine (TEμg/gcr); TEμg/gcr adjusted to creatinine (TEμg/gcr-adj); and concentration adjusted to specific gravity (TEμg/l-SG). As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Li, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sn, Sb, Se, Te, V and Zn were analyzed by inductively coupled argon plasma mass spectrometry. There was no single pattern of relationship between urinary TEs concentrations in spotU and TEμg/24h. TEμg/l predicted TEμg/24h with an explained variance ranging from 0 to 60%. Creatinine adjustment improved the explained variance by an additional 5 to ~60% for many TEs, but with a risk of overadjustment for the most of them. This issue could be addressed by adjusting TE concentrations on the basis of the regression coefficient of the relationship between TEμg/gcr and creatinine concentration. SG adjustment was as suitable as creatinine adjustment to predict TEμg/24h with no SG-overadjustment (except V). Regarding Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni and Te, none of the models were found to reflect TEμg/24h. In the context of environmental exposure, systematic creatinine adjustment is not recommended for urinary concentrations of TEs. SG adjustment appears to be a more reliable alternative. For some TEs, however, neither methods appear suitable.

A urinary metabolite of phenanthrene as a biomarker of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon metabolic activation in workers exposed to residual oil fly ash.

PubMed

Kim, Jee Young; Hecht, Stephen S; Mukherjee, Sutapa; Carmella, Steven G; Rodrigues, Ema G; Christiani, David C

2005-03-01

Residual oil fly ash is a chemically complex combustion product containing a significant component of potentially carcinogenic transition metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH). Various biomarkers of PAH exposure have been investigated previously, most notably 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP), in urine. In this study, we assessed the utility of r-1,t-2,3,c-4-tetrahydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrophenanthrene (trans, anti-PheT), a metabolite of phenanthrene, to detect occupational PAH exposure. Urine samples collected across the workweek were analyzed for 1-OHP and trans, anti-PheT in boilermakers (n = 20) exposed to residual oil fly ash. Median baseline urinary trans, anti-PheT concentrations were 0.50 microg/g creatinine in current tobacco smokers and 0.39 microg/g creatinine in nonsmokers. Median baseline urinary 1-OHP concentrations in smokers and nonsmokers were 0.31 and 0.13 microg/g creatinine, respectively. To study further the effect of smoking exposure on the urinary PAH markers, urinary cotinine was used. Although urinary trans, anti-PheT and 1-OHP concentrations were correlated (Spearman r = 0.63; P < 0.001) for all subjects, the regression coefficient between log-transformed trans, anti-PheT and log 1-OHP was statistically significant only for subjects with low levels of urinary cotinine or for nonsmokers. Each 1-unit increase in log 1-OHP was associated with a 0.77-unit increase (95% confidence interval, 0.45-1.09) in log trans, anti-PheT in subjects with low levels of urinary cotinine (P < 0.001). In these subjects, dichotomized occupational exposure status was a significant predictor of log trans, anti-PheT (P = 0.02) but not of log 1-OHP (P = 0.2). In conclusion, we found that urinary trans, anti-PheT was detected in levels comparable with 1-OHP in occupationally exposed workers, particularly nonsmokers. This study shows that urinary trans, anti-PheT may be an effective biomarker of uptake and metabolic activation of PAHs.

[Diagnosis and treatment of urinary tract infections in children on the basis of various recommendations].

PubMed

Załęska-Ponganis, Joanna; Jackowska, Teresa

2014-01-01

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common bacterial diseases of childhood. Early diagnosis infection is extremely important because it is often the first clinical manifestation of a serious pathology of the urinary tract. In the case of coexistence of urinary tract defects it can lead to end-stage renal failure and the need for implementation of renal replacement therapy. In children with a history of traveling at least one episode of UTI is the most common drawback of vesicoureteral reflux. Until recently, the predominant view that chronic pharmacological used antimicrobial prophylaxis and early treatment will allow the implementation of the inhibition of progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). This was based on the assumption that there is a causal relationship between vesicoureteral reflux, especially a high grade (III-V), and recurrent UTIs, which was regarded as the immediate cause of kidney damage and the development of the so-called reflux nephropathy. In the last decade we observe a significant change of views on the root causes damage to the renal parenchyma, and the consequences of previous UTI pathogenesis vesicoureteral reflux. For this reason, in many countries modified existing recommendations for diagnostic and therapeutic agent in children with urinary tract infections.

Human urinary bladder regeneration through tissue engineering - an analysis of 131 clinical cases.

PubMed

Pokrywczynska, Marta; Adamowicz, Jan; Sharma, Arun K; Drewa, Tomasz

2014-03-01

Replacement of urinary bladder tissue with functional equivalents remains one of the most challenging problems of reconstructive urology over the last several decades. The gold standard treatment for urinary diversion after radical cystectomy is the ileal conduit or neobladder; however, this technique is associated with numerous complications including electrolyte imbalances, mucus production, and the potential for malignant transformation. Tissue engineering techniques provide the impetus to construct functional bladder substitutes de novo. Within this review, we have thoroughly perused the literature utilizing PubMed in order to identify clinical studies involving bladder reconstruction utilizing tissue engineering methodologies. The idea of urinary bladder regeneration through tissue engineering dates back to the 1950s. Many natural and synthetic biomaterials such as plastic mold, gelatin sponge, Japanese paper, preserved dog bladder, lyophilized human dura, bovine pericardium, small intestinal submucosa, bladder acellular matrix, or composite of collagen and polyglycolic acid were used for urinary bladder regeneration with a wide range of outcomes. Recent progress in the tissue engineering field suggest that in vitro engineered bladder wall substitutes may have expanded clinical applicability in near future but preclinical investigations on large animal models with defective bladders are necessary to optimize the methods of bladder reconstruction by tissue engineering in humans.

Levels of plasma selenium and urinary total arsenic interact to affect the risk for prostate cancer.

PubMed

Hsueh, Yu-Mei; Su, Chien-Tien; Shiue, Horng-Sheng; Chen, Wei-Jen; Pu, Yeong-Shiau; Lin, Ying-Chin; Tsai, Cheng-Shiuan; Huang, Chao-Yuan

2017-09-01

This study investigated whether plasma selenium levels modified the risk for prostate cancer (PC) related to arsenic exposure. We conducted a case-control study that included 318 PC patients and 318 age-matched, healthy control subjects. Urinary arsenic profiles were examined using HPLC-HG-AAS and plasma selenium levels were measured by ICP-MS. We found that plasma selenium levels displayed a significant dose-dependent inverse association with PC. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for PC was 0.07 (0.04-0.13) among participants with a plasma selenium level >28.06 μg/dL vs. ≤19.13 μg/dL. A multivariate analysis showed that participants with a urinary total arsenic concentration >29.28 μg/L had a significantly higher OR (1.75, 1.06-2.89) for PC than participants with ≤29.89 μg/L. The combined presence of a low plasma selenium level and a high urinary total arsenic concentration exponentially increased the OR for PC, and additively interacted with PSA at levels ≥20 ng/mL. This is the first epidemiological study to examine the combined effects of plasma selenium and urinary total arsenic levels on the OR for PC. Our data suggest a low plasma selenium level coupled with a high urinary total arsenic concentration creates a significant risk for aggressive PC. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Preoperative urinary tract obstruction in scoliosis patients.

PubMed

Suzuki, Shigeru; Kotani, Toshiaki; Mori, Kazuetsu; Kawamura, Ken; Ohtake, Akira

2017-01-01

While the association between scoliosis and cardiac and respiratory function impairments has been well characterized in clinical practice and research, the potential effect of scoliosis on urinary tract structure and renal function has received little attention. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the preoperative clinical characteristics of urinary tract structure and renal function in pediatric patients with idiopathic scoliosis, using a combination of blood tests, urinalysis, and imaging. Preoperative measures of urinary tract structure and renal function were obtained for 16 patients, 13-17 years old, scheduled for corrective surgery for idiopathic scoliosis. Preoperative assessment included blood test and urinalysis, combined with structural imaging on ultrasound (US), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), magnetic resonance urography (MRU), and radioisotope tracing (RI), using technetium-99 m mercaptoacetyltriglycine ( 99m Tc-MAG3). Differences in blood and urine tests between patients with and without urinary tract obstruction (UTO) were evaluated for significance using Mann-Whitney U test. For all 16 patients, blood tests and MRU were within normal limits. Dilatation of the renal pelvis was identified on US in eight patients (50.0%). UTO was identified on RI in six patients (37.5%). UTO was associated with elevated β2-microglobulin concentration. Urinary β2-microglobulin concentration >0.7 μg/mg Cr differentiated patients with UTO from those without UTO, with a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 70%. β2-Microglobulin concentration may be a useful marker to screen for asymptomatic UTO in patients with idiopathic scoliosis. © 2016 Japan Pediatric Society.

Using NMR-Based Metabolomics to Evaluate Postprandial Urinary Responses Following Consumption of Minimally Processed Wheat Bran or Wheat Aleurone by Men and Women.

PubMed

Garg, Ramandeep; Brennan, Lorraine; Price, Ruth K; Wallace, Julie M W; Strain, J J; Gibney, Mike J; Shewry, Peter R; Ward, Jane L; Garg, Lalit; Welch, Robert W

2016-02-17

Wheat bran, and especially wheat aleurone fraction, are concentrated sources of a wide range of components which may contribute to the health benefits associated with higher consumption of whole-grain foods. This study used NMR metabolomics to evaluate urine samples from baseline at one and two hours postprandially, following the consumption of minimally processed bran, aleurone or control by 14 participants (7 Females; 7 Males) in a randomized crossover trial. The methodology discriminated between the urinary responses of control, and bran and aleurone, but not between the two fractions. Compared to control, consumption of aleurone or bran led to significantly and substantially higher urinary concentrations of lactate, alanine, N-acetylaspartate acid and N-acetylaspartylglutamate and significantly and substantially lower urinary betaine concentrations at one and two hours postprandially. There were sex related differences in urinary metabolite profiles with generally higher hippurate and citrate and lower betaine in females compared to males. Overall, this postprandial study suggests that acute consumption of bran or aleurone is associated with a number of physiological effects that may impact on energy metabolism and which are consistent with longer term human and animal metabolomic studies that used whole-grain wheat diets or wheat fractions.

Using NMR-Based Metabolomics to Evaluate Postprandial Urinary Responses Following Consumption of Minimally Processed Wheat Bran or Wheat Aleurone by Men and Women

PubMed Central

Garg, Ramandeep; Brennan, Lorraine; Price, Ruth K.; Wallace, Julie M. W.; Strain, J. J.; Gibney, Mike J.; Shewry, Peter R.; Ward, Jane L.; Garg, Lalit; Welch, Robert W.

2016-01-01

Wheat bran, and especially wheat aleurone fraction, are concentrated sources of a wide range of components which may contribute to the health benefits associated with higher consumption of whole-grain foods. This study used NMR metabolomics to evaluate urine samples from baseline at one and two hours postprandially, following the consumption of minimally processed bran, aleurone or control by 14 participants (7 Females; 7 Males) in a randomized crossover trial. The methodology discriminated between the urinary responses of control, and bran and aleurone, but not between the two fractions. Compared to control, consumption of aleurone or bran led to significantly and substantially higher urinary concentrations of lactate, alanine, N-acetylaspartate acid and N-acetylaspartylglutamate and significantly and substantially lower urinary betaine concentrations at one and two hours postprandially. There were sex related differences in urinary metabolite profiles with generally higher hippurate and citrate and lower betaine in females compared to males. Overall, this postprandial study suggests that acute consumption of bran or aleurone is associated with a number of physiological effects that may impact on energy metabolism and which are consistent with longer term human and animal metabolomic studies that used whole-grain wheat diets or wheat fractions. PMID:26901221

Personal Care Product Use in Men and Urinary Concentrations of Select Phthalate Metabolites and Parabens: Results from the Environment And Reproductive Health (EARTH) Study

PubMed Central

Coull, Brent A.; Gaskins, Audrey J.; Williams, Michelle A.; Skakkebaek, Niels E.; Ford, Jennifer B.; Ye, Xiaoyun; Calafat, Antonia M.; Braun, Joseph M.; Hauser, Russ

2017-01-01

Background: Personal care products (PCPs) are exposure sources to phthalates and parabens; however, their contribution to men’s exposure is understudied. Objectives: We examined the association between PCP use and urinary concentrations of phthalate metabolites and parabens in men. Methods: In a prospective cohort, at multiple study visits, men self-reported their use of 14 PCPs and provided a urine sample (2004–2015, Boston, MA). We measured urinary concentrations of 9 phthalate metabolites and methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. We estimated the covariate-adjusted percent change in urinary concentrations associated with PCP use using linear mixed and Tobit mixed regressions. We also estimated weights for each PCP in a weighted binary score regression and modeled the resulting composite weighted PCP use. Results: Four hundred men contributed 1,037 urine samples (mean of 3/man). The largest percent increase in monoethyl phthalate (MEP) was associated with use of cologne/perfume (83%, p-value<0.01) and deodorant (74%, p-value<0.01). In contrast, the largest percent increase for parabens was associated with the use of suntan/sunblock lotion (66–156%) and hand/body lotion (79–147%). Increases in MEP and parabens were generally greater with PCP use within 6 h of urine collection. A subset of 10 PCPs that were used within 6 h of urine collection contributed to at least 70% of the weighted score and predicted a 254–1,333% increase in MEP and parabens concentrations. Associations between PCP use and concentrations of the other phthalate metabolites were not statistically significant. Conclusions: We identified 10 PCPs of relevance and demonstrated that their use within 6 h of urine collection strongly predicted MEP and paraben urinary concentrations. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP1374 PMID:28886595

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

Bradykinin-forming components in Kuwaiti patients with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Sharma, J N; Al-Shoumer, K A S; Matar, K M; Al-Gharee, H Y; Madathil, N V

2013-01-01

Diabetes is the most common risk factor in inducing hypertension, nephropathy and retinopathy. The bradykinin (BK)-forming system has been proposed to protect cardiovascular and renal functions. We therefore evaluated urinary active and proactive kallikrein, total kininogen, plasma tissue kallikrein, plasma creatinine, plasma glucose and plasma HbA1c in newly diagnosed untreated type 2 diabetic patients and healthy subjects. In diabetic patients, urinary and plasma tissue kallikrein concentrations were significantly increased. In addition, plasma prekallikrein levels were also significantly higher. However, urinary kininogen values were significantly reduced in diabetic patients when compared with healthy subjects. This is the first investigation among Kuwaiti Arab patients with type 2 diabetes showing abnormal activities in the BK-forming system. High levels of plasma prekallikrein may be a risk factor for developing high blood pressure as well as nephropathy. The urinary and plasma tissue kallikrein concentrations were higher in diabetic patients, which could indicate the hyperactivities of these components, and may result in increased levels of plasma glucose to induce diabetes. Furthermore, the urinary kininogen levels were reduced in diabetic patients. These alterations might reflect the utilization of urinary kininogen to form BK, a potent inflammatory agent. However, this hypothesis needs further investigation.

Generation and phenotypic analysis of mice lacking all urea transporters.

PubMed

Jiang, Tao; Li, Yingjie; Layton, Anita T; Wang, Weiling; Sun, Yi; Li, Min; Zhou, Hong; Yang, Baoxue

2017-02-01

Urea transporters (UT) are a family of transmembrane urea-selective channel proteins expressed in multiple tissues and play an important role in the urine concentrating mechanism of the mammalian kidney. UT inhibitors have diuretic activity and could be developed as novel diuretics. To determine if functional deficiency of all UTs in all tissues causes physiological abnormality, we established a novel mouse model in which all UTs were knocked out by deleting an 87 kb of DNA fragment containing most parts of Slc14a1 and Slc14a2 genes. Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence confirmed that there is no expression of urea transporter in these all-UT-knockout mice. Daily urine output was nearly 3.5-fold higher, with significantly lower urine osmolality in all-UT-knockout mice than that in wild-type mice. All-UT-knockout mice were not able to increase urinary urea concentration and osmolality after water deprivation, acute urea loading, or high protein intake. A computational model that simulated UT-knockout mouse models identified the individual contribution of each UT in urine concentrating mechanism. Knocking out all UTs also decreased the blood pressure and promoted the maturation of the male reproductive system. Thus, functional deficiency of all UTs caused a urea-selective urine-concentrating defect with little physiological abnormality in extrarenal organs. Copyright © 2016 International Society of Nephrology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Generation and phenotypic analysis of mice lacking all urea transporters

PubMed Central

Jiang, Tao; Li, Yingjie; Layton, Anita T.; Wang, Weiling; Sun, Yi; Li, Min; Zhou, Hong; Yang, Baoxue

2017-01-01

Urea transporters (UT) are a family of transmembrane urea-selective channel proteins expressed in multiple tissues and play an important role in the urine concentrating mechanism of the mammalian kidney. UT inhibitors have been identified to have diuretic activity and might be developed as novel diuretics. To determine if functional deficiency of all UTs in all tissues causes physiological abnormality, we established a novel mouse model in which all UTs were knocked out by deleting an 87 kb of DNA fragment containing most parts of Slc14a1 and Slc14a2 genes. Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence confirmed that there is no expression of urea transporter in all-UT-knockout mice. Daily urine output was nearly 3.5-fold higher, with significantly lower urine osmolality, in all-UT-knockout-mice than that in wild-type mice, and urine osmolality was significantly lower. All-UT-knockout mice were not able to increase urinary urea concentration and osmolality after water deprivation, acute urea loading or high protein intake. A computational model that simulated UT knockout mouse models identified the individual contribution of each UT in urine concentrating mechanism. Knocking out all UTs also decreased the blood pressure and promoted the maturation of the male reproductive system. These results revealed that functional deficiency of all UTs caused urea selective urine concentrating defect with little physiological abnormality in extrarenal organs. PMID:27914708

Performance of Serum Creatinine and Kidney Injury Biomarkers for Diagnosing Histologic Acute Tubular Injury.

PubMed

Moledina, Dennis G; Hall, Isaac E; Thiessen-Philbrook, Heather; Reese, Peter P; Weng, Francis L; Schröppel, Bernd; Doshi, Mona D; Wilson, F Perry; Coca, Steven G; Parikh, Chirag R

2017-12-01

The diagnosis of acute kidney injury (AKI), which is currently defined as an increase in serum creatinine (Scr) concentration, provides little information on the condition's actual cause. To improve phenotyping of AKI, many urinary biomarkers of tubular injury are being investigated. Because AKI cases are not frequently biopsied, the diagnostic accuracy of concentrations of Scr and urinary biomarkers for histologic acute tubular injury is unknown. Cross-sectional analysis from multicenter prospective cohort. Hospitalized deceased kidney donors on whom kidney biopsies were performed at the time of organ procurement for histologic evaluation. (1) AKI diagnosed by change in Scr concentration during donor hospitalization and (2) concentrations of urinary biomarkers (neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin [NGAL], liver-type fatty acid-binding protein [L-FABP], interleukin 18 [IL-18], and kidney injury molecule 1 [KIM-1]) measured at organ procurement. Histologic acute tubular injury. Of 581 donors, 98 (17%) had mild acute tubular injury and 57 (10%) had severe acute tubular injury. Overall, Scr-based AKI had poor diagnostic performance for identifying histologic acute tubular injury and 49% of donors with severe acute tubular injury did not have AKI. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of change in Scr concentration for diagnosing severe acute tubular injury was 0.58 (95% CI, 0.49-0.67) and for any acute tubular injury was 0.52 (95% CI, 0.45-0.58). Compared with Scr concentration, NGAL concentration demonstrated higher AUROC for diagnosing both severe acute tubular injury (0.67; 95% CI, 0.60-0.74; P=0.03) and any acute tubular injury (0.60; 95% CI, 0.55-0.66; P=0.005). In donors who did not have Scr-based AKI, NGAL concentrations were higher with increasing severities of acute tubular injury (subclinical AKI). However, compared with Scr concentration, AUROCs for acute tubular injury diagnosis were not significantly higher for urinary L-FABP, IL-18, or KIM-1. The spectrum of AKI cause in deceased donors may be different from that of a general hospitalized population. Concentrations of Scr and kidney injury biomarkers (L-FABP, IL-18, and KIM-1) lack accuracy for diagnosing acute tubular injury in hospitalized deceased donors. Although urinary NGAL concentration had slightly higher discrimination for acute tubular injury than did Scr concentration, its overall AUROC was still modest. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Effect of fasting on the urinary excretion of water-soluble vitamins in humans and rats.

PubMed

Fukuwatari, Tsutomu; Yoshida, Erina; Takahashi, Kei; Shibata, Katsumi

2010-01-01

Recent studies showed that the urinary excretion of the water-soluble vitamins can be useful as a nutritional index. To determine how fasting affects urinary excretion of water-soluble vitamins, a human study and an animal experiment were conducted. In the human study, the 24-h urinary excretion of water-soluble vitamins in 12 healthy Japanese adults fasting for a day was measured. One-day fasting drastically decreased urinary thiamin content to 30%, and increased urinary riboflavin content by 3-fold. Other water-soluble vitamin contents did not show significant change by fasting. To further investigate the alterations of water-soluble vitamin status by starvation, rats were starved for 3 d, and water-soluble vitamin contents in the liver, blood and urine were measured during starvation. Urinary excretion of thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B(6) metabolite 4-pyridoxic acid, nicotinamide metabolites and folate decreased during starvation, but that of vitamin B(12), pantothenic acid and biotin did not. As for blood vitamin levels, only blood vitamin B(1), plasma PLP and plasma folate levels decreased with starvation. All water-soluble vitamin contents in the liver decreased during starvation, whereas vitamin concentrations in the liver did not decrease. Starvation decreased only concentrations of vitamin B(12) and folate in the skeletal muscle. These results suggest that water-soluble vitamins were released from the liver, and supplied to the peripheral tissues to maintain vitamin nutrition. Our human study also suggested that the effect of fasting should be taken into consideration for subjects showing low urinary thiamin and high urinary riboflavin.

Exposure of children to BPA through dust and the association of urinary BPA and triclosan with oxidative stress in Guangzhou, China.

PubMed

Lv, Yanshan; Rui, Caiyan; Dai, Yanyan; Pang, Qihua; Li, Yanru; Fan, Ruifang; Lu, Shaoyou

2016-12-08

Both bisphenol A (BPA) and triclosan (TCS) are phenolic compounds widely used in a variety of household applications. These compounds could be released into the environment, enter the human body and cause a series of potential health hazards. Children are sensitive and susceptible to these contaminants. To investigate the potential oxidative DNA damage from exposure to BPA and TCS, ninety six urine samples of children (aged 3-6) and 57 dust samples were collected from a kindergarten in Guangzhou, China. The concentrations of urinary BPA, TCS and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG, a biomarker of oxidative DNA damage) in urine were determined using a liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometer. The geometric mean concentrations of urinary BPA, TCS and 8-OHdG were 1.08 μg L -1 , 1.34 μg L -1 and 1.90 μg L -1 , respectively. The results showed that both BPA and TCS exposures were associated with oxidative damage. Significant dose-effects existed between the urinary BPA, TCS levels and the 8-OHdG concentrations. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that one percent increase in BPA and in TCS could generate 0.15% and 0.081% increase in 8-OHdG in urine for children in Guangzhou. We also determined the concentrations of BPA in dust using high performance liquid chromatography. The mean concentration of BPA was 2.86 μg g -1 in indoor dust and 3.23 μg g -1 in outdoor dust. The dust contributes approximately 9.23% to the urinary BPA exposure for the children. In conclusion, BPA and TCS exposure correlates with oxidative DNA damage.

Contractile activity of ATP and diadenosine tetraphosphate on urinary bladder in the rats: role of superoxide anion and urothelium.

PubMed

Khattab, M M; Al-Hrasen, M N

2006-04-01

Both ATP and diadenosine tetraphosphate (AP(4)A) produced a dose-dependent contraction of rat isolated urinary bladder rings. The AP(4)A dose-response curve was to the left of that of ATP, and the maximum response was greater than that produced by ATP. Mechanical removal of the urothelium increased the contractile response to ATP by between 53% and 71%, and that to AP(4)A by 42% (at highest AP(4)A concentration) to 68% at lower concentration. Inhibition of Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase with diethylthiocarbamate (DETCA, 5 mm) significantly reduced the ATP-evoked contraction by 31% (at high ATP concentration) to 40% at low ATP concentration. Similarly, the AP(4)A-induced contractions were significantly decreased by 27% at low AP(4)A level to 38% at higher concentrations. Induction of exogenous superoxide anion stress by the use of the superoxide anion generator, pyrogallol (0.5 mm), significantly decreased both ATP- and AP(4)A-induced contractions of the rat urinary bladder over the whole dose range. Contractile responses to ATP decreased by 36-40%, and those to AP(4)A by 44-49%. In conclusion, the urinary bladder urothelium exerts an inhibitory control over the purinergic contractility produced by adenine mononucleotides and dinucleotides. Superoxide anion stress, whether endogenous or exogenous, attenuates the ATP-induced as well as AP(4)A-induced contractility.

Urinary phthalate metabolites and their biotransformation products: predictors and temporal variability among men and women

PubMed Central

Meeker, John D.; Calafat, Antonia M.; Hauser, Russ

2012-01-01

Most epidemiology studies investigating potential adverse health effects in relation to phthalates measure the urinary concentration of the free plus glucuronidated species of phthalate metabolites (i.e., total concentration) to estimate exposure. However, the free species may represent the biologically relevant dose. In this study, we collected 943 urine samples from 112 men and 157 women and assessed the between- and within-person variability and predictors of a) the free and total urinary concentrations of phthalate metabolites, and b) the percentage of free phthalate metabolites (a potential phenotypic indicator of individual susceptibility). We also explored the proportion of urinary di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) metabolites contributed to by the bioactive mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP), considered a possible indicator of susceptibility to phthalate exposure. The percentage of phthalate metabolites present in the free form were less stable over time than the total metabolite concentration, and, therefore, it is not likely a useful indicator of metabolic susceptibility. Thus, the added costs and effort involved in the measurement of free in addition to total metabolite concentrations in large-scale studies may not be justified. Conversely, the proportion of DEHP metabolites contributed to by MEHP was more stable within individuals over time and may be a promising indicator of susceptibility if time of day of sample collection is carefully considered. PMID:22354176

Anterior Urethral Valve: A Rare But an Important Cause of Infravesical Urinary Tract Obstruction.

PubMed

Parmar, Jitendra P; Mohan, Chander; Vora, Maulik P

2016-01-01

Urethral valves are infravesical congenital anomalies, with the posterior urethral valve (PUV) being the most prevalent one. Anterior urethral valve (AUV) is a rare but a well-known congenital anomaly. AUV and diverticula can cause severe obstruction, whose repercussions on the proximal urinary system can be important. Few cases have been described; both separately and in association with urethral diverticulum. The presentation of such a rare but important case led us to a report with highlighting its classic imaging features. We present a case report of AUV with lower urinary tract symptoms in a 6-year-old boy with complaints of a poor stream of urine and strain to void. Unique findings were seen on Retrograde Urethrography (RGU) and Voiding Cysto-Urethrography (VCUG), i.e. linear incomplete filling defect in the penile urethra and associated mild dilatation of the anterior urethra ending in a smooth bulge. On cysto-urethroscopy the anterior urethral valve was confirmed and fulguration was done. Congenital anterior urethral valve is an uncommon but important cause of infravesical lower urinary tract obstruction that is more common in male urethra. It can occur as an isolated AUV or in association with diverticulum and VATER anomalies. Early diagnosis and management of this rare condition is very important to prevent further damage, infection and vesicoureteral reflux. AUV may be associated with other congenital anomalies of the urinary system; therefore a full evaluation of the urinary system is essential.

Errors in the ultrasound diagnosis of the kidneys, ureters and urinary bladder

PubMed Central

Wieczorek, Andrzej Paweł; Tyloch, Janusz F.

2013-01-01

The article presents the most frequent errors made in the ultrasound diagnosis of the urinary system. They usually result from improper technique of ultrasound examination or its erroneous interpretation. Such errors are frequent effects of insufficient experience of the ultrasonographer, inadequate class of the scanner, insufficient knowledge of its operation as well as of wrong preparation of patients, their constitution, severe condition and the lack of cooperation during the examination. The reasons for misinterpretations of ultrasound images of the urinary system may lie in a large polymorphism of the kidney (defects and developmental variants) and may result from improper access to the organ as well as from the presence of artefacts. Errors may also result from the lack of knowledge concerning clinical and laboratory data. Moreover, mistakes in ultrasound diagnosis of the urinary system are frequently related to the lack of knowledge of the management algorithms and diagnostic possibilities of other imaging modalities. The paper lists errors in ultrasound diagnosis of the urinary system divided into: errors resulting from improper technique of examination, artefacts caused by incorrect preparation of patients for the examination or their constitution and errors resulting from misinterpretation of ultrasound images of the kidneys (such as their number, size, fluid spaces, pathological lesions and others), ureters and urinary bladder. Each physician performing kidney or bladder ultrasound examination should possess the knowledge of the most frequent errors and their causes which might help to avoid them. PMID:26674139

Exposure estimates to disinfection by-products of chlorinated drinking water.

PubMed

Weisel, C P; Kim, H; Haltmeier, P; Klotz, J B

1999-02-01

Exposure to disinfection by-products (DBPs) of drinking water is multiroute and occurs in households serviced by municipal water treatment facilities that disinfect the water as a necessary step to halt the spread of waterborne infectious diseases. Biomarkers of the two most abundant groups of DBPs of chlorination, exhaled breath levels of trihalomethanes (THMs) and urinary levels of two haloacetic acids, were compared to exposure estimates calculated from in-home tap water concentrations and responses to a questionnaire related to water usage. Background THM breath concentrations were uniformly low. Strong relationships were identified between the THM breath concentrations collected after a shower and both the THM water concentration and the THM exposure from a shower, after adjusting for the postshower delay time in collecting the breath sample. Urinary haloacetic acid excretion rates were not correlated to water concentrations. Urinary trichloroacetic acid excretion rates were correlated with ingestion exposure, and that correlation was stronger in a subset of individuals who consumed beverages primarily within their home where the concentration measurements were made. No correlation was observed between an average 48-hr exposure estimate and the urinary dichloroacetic acid excretion rate, presumably because of its short biological half-life. Valid biomarkers were identified for DBP exposures, but the time between the exposure and sample collection should be considered to account for different metabolic rates among the DBPs. Further, using water concentration as an exposure estimate can introduce misclassification of exposure for DBPs whose primary route is ingestion due to the great variability in the amount of water ingested across a population.

A first principles calculation and statistical mechanics modeling of defects in Al-H system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ji, Min; Wang, Cai-Zhuang; Ho, Kai-Ming

2007-03-01

The behavior of defects and hydrogen in Al was investigated by first principles calculations and statistical mechanics modeling. The formation energy of different defects in Al+H system such as Al vacancy, H in institution and multiple H in Al vacancy were calculated by first principles method. Defect concentration in thermodynamical equilibrium was studied by total free energy calculation including configuration entropy and defect-defect interaction from low concentration limit to hydride limit. In our grand canonical ensemble model, hydrogen chemical potential under different environment plays an important role in determing the defect concentration and properties in Al-H system.

Effects of divalent cations and La3+ on contractility and ecto-ATPase activity in the guinea-pig urinary bladder.

PubMed Central

Ziganshin, A U; Ziganshina, L E; Hoyle, C H; Burnstock, G

1995-01-01

1. Several cations (Ba2+, Cd2+, Co2+, Cu2+, Mn2+, Ni2+, Zn2+ and La3+, all as chloride salts, 1-1000 microM) were tested in the guinea-pig urinary bladder for their ability to: (i) modify contractile responses to electrical field stimulation (EFS), ATP, alpha,beta-methylene ATP (alpha,beta-meATP), carbachol (CCh), and KCl; (ii) affect ecto-ATPase activity. 2. Ba2+ (10-1000 microM) concentration-dependently potentiated contractile responses evoked by EFS (4-16 Hz), ATP (100 microM), alpha,beta-meATP (1 microM), CCh (0.5 microM), and KCl (30 mM). Ni2+ at concentrations of 1-100 microM also potentiated contractility of the urinary bladder, but at concentrations tested its effect was not concentration-dependent. Cu2+ at a concentration of 10 microM and Cd2+ at a concentration of 1 microM potentiated responses to all stimuli, except KCl. Ni2+ at a concentration of 1000 microM and Cd2+ at a concentration of 100 microM inhibited contractions evoked by all stimuli, and at a concentration of 1000 microM Cd2+ abolished any contractions. Responses to ATP and alpha,beta-meATP were selectively inhibited by Cu2+, Zn2+ or La3+, each at a concentration of 1 mM. 3. Cu2+, Ni2+, Zn2+ and La3+ (100-1000 microM) concentration-dependently inhibited ecto-ATPase activity in the urinary bladder smooth muscle preparations, while Ba2+ and Mn2+ were without effect, and Cd2+ and Co2+ caused significant inhibition only at a concentration of 1000 microM. 4. There was no correlation between the extent of ecto-ATPase inhibition and the effect on contractile activity of any of the cations.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID:7735690

Preconception and prenatal urinary concentrations of phenols and birth size of singleton infants born to mothers and fathers from the Environment and Reproductive Health (EARTH) study.

PubMed

Messerlian, Carmen; Mustieles, Vicente; Minguez-Alarcon, Lidia; Ford, Jennifer B; Calafat, Antonia M; Souter, Irene; Williams, Paige L; Hauser, Russ

2018-05-01

Although pregnancy concentrations of some phenols have been associated with infant size at birth, there is limited data on the effect of preconception exposure. We aimed to examine paternal and maternal preconception and maternal prenatal urinary phenol concentrations in relation to birth weight and head circumference. We evaluated 346 singletons born to 346 mothers and 184 fathers (184 couples) from a prospective preconception cohort of subfertile couples from the Environment and Reproductive Health (EARTH) Study in Boston, USA. We used multiple urine samples collected before the index pregnancy in both men and women to estimate mean preconception urinary benzophenone-3, triclosan, butylparaben, propylparaben, methylparaben, or ethylparaben concentrations. We also estimated mean maternal prenatal urinary phenol concentrations by averaging trimester-specific urine samples. Birth weight and head circumference were abstracted from delivery records. We estimated the association of natural log-phenol concentrations with birth outcomes using multivariable linear regression models, adjusting for known confounders. In adjusted models, each log-unit increase in paternal preconception benzophenone-3 concentration was associated with a 137 g increase in birth weight (95% CI: 60, 214). Additional adjustment for prenatal benzophenone-3 concentration strengthened this association. None of the maternal preconception phenol concentrations were associated with birth weight. However, maternal prenatal triclosan concentrations were associated with a 38 g decrease in birth weight (95% CI: -76, 0). Few associations were observed between phenols and head circumference except for a decrease of 0.27 cm (95% CI: -54, 0) in relation to maternal preconception methylparaben concentration. Although our findings should be interpreted in light of inherent study limitations, these results suggest potential evidence of associations between some paternal or maternal phenol concentrations and birth size. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Concentration-and time-dependent genomic changes in the mouse urinary bladder following exposure to arsenate in drinking water for up to twelve weeks

EPA Science Inventory

Inorganic arsenic (AsD is a known human bladder carcinogen. The objective of this study was to examine the concentration dependence of the genomic response to ASi in the urinary bladders of mice. C57BL/6J mice were exposed for 1 or 12 weeks to arsenate in drinking water at concen...

PBPK and population modelling to interpret urine cadmium concentrations of the French population

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

Béchaux, Camille, E-mail: Camille.bechaux@anses.fr; Bodin, Laurent; Clémençon, Stéphan

As cadmium accumulates mainly in kidney, urinary concentrations are considered as relevant data to assess the risk related to cadmium. The French Nutrition and Health Survey (ENNS) recorded the concentration of cadmium in the urine of the French population. However, as with all biomonitoring data, it needs to be linked to external exposure for it to be interpreted in term of sources of exposure and for risk management purposes. The objective of this work is thus to interpret the cadmium biomonitoring data of the French population in terms of dietary and cigarette smoke exposures. Dietary and smoking habits recorded inmore » the ENNS study were combined with contamination levels in food and cigarettes to assess individual exposures. A PBPK model was used in a Bayesian population model to link this external exposure with the measured urinary concentrations. In this model, the level of the past exposure was corrected thanks to a scaling function which account for a trend in the French dietary exposure. It resulted in a modelling which was able to explain the current urinary concentrations measured in the French population through current and past exposure levels. Risk related to cadmium exposure in the general French population was then assessed from external and internal critical values corresponding to kidney effects. The model was also applied to predict the possible urinary concentrations of the French population in 2030 assuming there will be no more changes in the exposures levels. This scenario leads to significantly lower concentrations and consequently lower related risk. - Highlights: • Interpretation of urine cadmium concentrations in France • PBPK and Bayesian population modelling of cadmium exposure • Assessment of the historic time-trend of the cadmium exposure in France • Risk assessment from current and future external and internal exposure.« less

Exposure to different sources of second-hand smoke during pregnancy and its effect on urinary cotinine and tobacco-specific nitrosamine (NNAL) concentrations.

PubMed

Vardavas, Constantine I; Fthenou, Eleni; Patelarou, Evridiki; Bagkeris, Emmanouil; Murphy, Sharon; Hecht, Stephen S; Connolly, Gregory N; Chatzi, Leda; Kogevinas, Manolis

2013-05-01

To date, no research exists on the role that different sources of exposure to second-hand smoke (SHS) have on 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) and nicotine uptake, assessed via urinary 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol (NNAL) and cotinine concentrations of non-smoking pregnant women, nor the differences in NNAL concentrations among pregnant women who quit smoking in comparison to those who do not. As part of the 'Rhea' mother childbirth cohort in Crete, Greece, 1317 mother-child pairs were followed-up until delivery, while among a subsample, maternal urine was assessed for its NNAL (n=117) and cotinine concentrations (n=377). Pregnant women who continued to smoke during pregnancy were found to have geometric mean urinary NNAL concentrations of 0.612 pmol/ml, in comparison to the 0.100 pmol/ml of ex-smokers and 0.0795 pmol/ml of non-smokers exposed to SHS. Exposure to SHS in the home was associated with a 4.40 ng/ml increase in urinary cotinine levels, while reported exposure to SHS in cars was associated with an even higher (8.73 ng/ml) increase in cotinine concentrations and was strongly related to NNAL concentrations. Exposure to SHS in the workplace and in public places was also shown to increase cotinine and NNAL concentrations. The NNAL:cotinine ratio was found to be higher among pregnant women who were exposed to SHS but did not smoke (p<0.001). Using cotinine levels as an indicator of NNK, exposure due to SHS during pregnancy leads to an underestimation of exposure to NNK uptake. Moreover, each source of exposure contributed to the increase in cotinine levels, indicating the importance of avoiding SHS exposure from any source.

Biomonitoring of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exposure in small groups of residents in Brisbane, Australia and Hanoi, Vietnam, and those travelling between the two cities.

PubMed

Thai, Phong K; Li, Zheng; Sjödin, Andreas; Fox, Annette; Diep, Nguyen Bich; Binh, Ta Thi; Mueller, Jochen F

2015-11-01

Exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) has been associated with adverse health outcomes. Concentrations of urinary PAH metabolites (OH-PAHs) provide an integrated measure of human exposure to PAHs but measurement of urinary OH-PAHs has not been done in Australia and rarely in Vietnam, where air pollution is of concern. In this study, we assessed exposure to PAHs in 16 participants living in Brisbane, Australia and Hanoi, Vietnam, with 4 participants travelling between the two cities during the monitoring period. A total of 312 first morning urine samples were collected over 10weeks and were analysed for nine OH-PAHs. Concentrations of the urinary OH-PAHs were 2-10 times higher in participants from Hanoi than those from Brisbane. For example, the median concentrations of 1-hydroxypyrene were 292pg/mL in Hanoi, compared to 64pg/mL in Brisbane. For participants travelling from Brisbane to Hanoi and back, differences in exposure to PAHs in these two cities resulted in corresponding changes of urinary OH-PAH concentrations, demonstrating that the more polluted environment in Hanoi was likely the source for higher PAH exposure there. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Detection, quantification, and pharmacokinetics of furosemide and its effects on urinary specific gravity following IV administration to horses.

PubMed

Dirikolu, Levent; Lehner, Andreas F; Hughes, Charlie; Karpiesiuk, Wojciech; Camargo, Fernanda C; Harkins, J Daniel; Woods, William E; Bosken, Jeffrey M; Boyles, Jeff; Troppmann, Amy; Fisher, Mitzi; Tobin, Thomas

2003-01-01

Furosemide is a potent loop diuretic used for the prevention of exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage in horses. This drug may interfere with the detection of other substances by reducing urinary concentrations, so its use is strictly regulated. The regulation of furosemide in many racing jurisdictions is based on paired limits of urinary SG (<1.010) and serum furosemide concentrations (>100 ng/ml). To validate this regulatory mechanism, a liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry method employing a solid-phase extraction procedure and furosemide-d5 as an internal standard was developed. The method was used to determine the pharmacokinetic parameters of furosemide in equine serum samples and its effects on urinary SG after IV administration (250 mg) to 10 horses. Pharmacokinetic analysis showed that serum concentrations of furosemide were well described by a two-compartmental open model. Based on results in this study, it is very unlikely for horses to have serum furosemide concentrations greater than 100 ng/ml or urine SG less than 1.010 at 4 hours after administration (250 mg IV). However, it should be remembered that urine SG is a highly variable measurement in horses, and even without furosemide administration, some horses might naturally have urine SG values less than 1.010.

Comparison of Sofia Legionella FIA and BinaxNOW® Legionella urinary antigen card in two national reference centers.

PubMed

Beraud, L; Gervasoni, K; Freydiere, A M; Descours, G; Ranc, A G; Vandenesch, F; Lina, G; Gaia, V; Jarraud, S

2015-09-01

The Sofia Legionella Fluorescence Immunoassay (FIA; Quidel) is a recently introduced rapid immunochromatographic diagnostic test for Legionnaires' disease using immunofluorescence technology designed to enhance its sensitivity. The aim of this study was to evaluate its performance for the detection of urinary antigens for Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 in two National Reference Centers for Legionella. The sensitivity and specificity of the Sofia Legionella FIA test were determined in concentrated and nonconcentrated urine samples, before and after boiling, in comparison with the BinaxNOW® Legionella Urinary Antigen Card (UAC; Alere). Compared with BinaxNOW® Legionella UAC, the sensitivity of the Sofia Legionella test was slightly higher in nonconcentrated urine samples and was identical in concentrated urine samples. The specificity of the Sofia Legionella FIA test was highly reduced by the concentration of urine samples. In nonconcentrated samples, a lack of specificity was observed in 2.3 % of samples, all of them resolved by heat treatment. The Sofia Legionella FIA is a sensitive test for detecting Legionella urinary antigens with no previous urine concentration. However, all positive samples have to be re-tested after boiling to reach a high specificity. The reading is automatized on the Sofia analyzer, which can be connected to laboratory information systems, facilitating accurate and rapid reporting of results.

Urinary fluoride as a monitoring tool for assessing successful intervention in the provision of safe drinking water supply in five fluoride-affected villages in Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh, India.

PubMed

Srikanth, R; Gautam, Anil; Jaiswal, Suresh Chandra; Singh, Pavitra

2013-03-01

Endemic fluorosis was detected in 31 villages in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh, Central India. Out of the 109 drinking water sources that were analyzed, about 67 % were found to contain high concentration of fluoride above the permissible level of 1.0 mg/l. Dental fluorosis among the primary school children in the age between 8 and 15 served as primary indicator for fluoride intoxication among the children. Urinary fluoride levels among the adults were found to be correlated with drinking water fluoride in 10 villages affected by fluoride. Intervention in the form of alternate safe water supply in five villages showed significant reduction in the urinary fluoride concentration when compared to the control village. Urinary fluoride serves as an excellent marker for assessing the effectiveness of intervention program in the fluoride-affected villages.

Long-Term Outcomes of Renal Transplant in Recipients With Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction.

PubMed

Wilson, Rebekah S; Courtney, Aisling E; Ko, Dicken S C; Maxwell, Alexander P; McDaid, James

2018-01-02

Lower urinary tract dysfunction can lead to chronic kidney disease, which, despite surgical intervention, will progress to end-stage renal disease, requiring dialysis. Urologic pathology may damage a transplanted kidney, limiting patient and graft survival. Although smaller studies have suggested that urinary tract dysfunction does not affect graft or patient survival, this is not universally accepted. Northern Ireland has historically had the highest incidence of neural tube defects in Europe, giving rich local experience in caring for patients with lower urinary tract dysfunction. Here, we analyzed outcomes of renal transplant recipients with lower urinary tract dysfunction versus control recipients. We identified 3 groups of kidney transplant recipients treated between 2001 and 2010; those in group 1 had end-stage renal disease due to lower urinary tract dysfunction with prior intervention (urologic surgery, long-term catheter, or intermittent self-catheterization), group 2 had end-stage renal disease secondary to lower urinary tract dysfunction without intervention, and group 3 had end-stage renal disease due to polycystic kidney disease (chosen as a relatively healthy control cohort without comorbid burden of other causes of end-stage renal disease such as diabetes). The primary outcome measured, graft survival, was death censored, with graft loss defined as requirement for renal replacement therapy or retransplant. Secondary outcomes included patient survival and graft function. In 150 study patients (16 patients in group 1, 64 in group 2, and 70 in group 3), 5-year death-censored graft survival was 93.75%, 90.6%, and 92.9%, respectively, with no significant differences in graft failure among groups (Cox proportional hazards model). Five-year patient survival was 100%, 100%, and 94.3%, respectively. Individuals with a history of lower urinary tract dysfunction had graft and patient survival rates similar to the control group. When appropriately treated, lower urinary tract dysfunction is not a barrier to successful renal transplant.

Mineralogy and chemistry of urinary stones: patients from North Jordan.

PubMed

Abboud, Iyad Ahmed

2008-10-01

Urinary stone diseases are increasing in the Middle East. The majority of urinary stone cases are found in the northern part of the country. Stone samples taken from patients living in the Irbid area were collected from Princess Basma Hospital. The present study concentrates on the mineralogical and chemical composition of the urinary stones and on the effective environmental factors that assist in developing the different types of urinary stones. Using X-ray diffraction techniques, the mineralogical composition of the urinary stones was found to be as follows: oxalate, cholesten, and uric acid, with cystine stones occuring more frequently than the others. Cholesten and calcium oxalate stones are the most dominant types of stones. Calcium oxalate is the most common type of oxalate stone. Calcium oxalate is represented in: whewellite, wheddellite, and calcium carbonate oxalate hydrate minerals, in addition to other minerals such as brushite, ammonium phosphate, vaterite, valleriite, and bobierrite from other types of stones. Bobierrite (phosphate group) is a new mineral reported in urinary stones, and this has not been determined in any previous study worldwide. Apatite (calcium phosphate) is deduced using scanning electron microscope (SEM) images. The SEM technique determined crystal forms and systems, shapes, morphological features, and the names of the minerals forming urine stones, while optical properties are studied by polarizing microscope. X-ray fluorescence technique determined the concentrations of major and some trace elements. It revealed that Ca is the main constituent of the urinary stones, especially those composed of calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate. The concentration of trace elements was Ba = 1.57, P = 3.61, Fe = 1.78, S = 2.08, Zr = 4.63, Mo = 3.92, Cu = 1.89, Co = 1.56, and F = 4.2% and was higher in the urinary stones of Jordanian patients than in foreigners in the country. Questionnaires completed by patients suggest that the most significant factors directly effecting the formation of stones are water, climate conditions, food rich in protein and rich in different chemicals. Moreover, some drugs and diseases might also help in developing other stones.

Urinary and dietary analysis of 18,470 bangladeshis reveal a correlation of rice consumption with arsenic exposure and toxicity.

PubMed

Melkonian, Stephanie; Argos, Maria; Hall, Megan N; Chen, Yu; Parvez, Faruque; Pierce, Brandon; Cao, Hongyuan; Aschebrook-Kilfoy, Briseis; Ahmed, Alauddin; Islam, Tariqul; Slavcovich, Vesna; Gamble, Mary; Haris, Parvez I; Graziano, Joseph H; Ahsan, Habibul

2013-01-01

We utilized data from the Health Effects of Arsenic Longitudinal Study (HEALS) in Araihazar, Bangladesh, to evaluate the association of steamed rice consumption with urinary total arsenic concentration and arsenical skin lesions in the overall study cohort (N=18,470) and in a subset with available urinary arsenic metabolite data (N=4,517). General linear models with standardized beta coefficients were used to estimate associations between steamed rice consumption and urinary total arsenic concentration and urinary arsenic metabolites. Logistic regression models were used to estimate prevalence odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the associations between rice intake and prevalent skin lesions at baseline. Discrete time hazard models were used to estimate discrete time (HRs) ratios and their 95% CIs for the associations between rice intake and incident skin lesions. Steamed rice consumption was positively associated with creatinine-adjusted urinary total arsenic (β=0.041, 95% CI: 0.032-0.051) and urinary total arsenic with statistical adjustment for creatinine in the model (β=0.043, 95% CI: 0.032-0.053). Additionally, we observed a significant trend in skin lesion prevalence (P-trend=0.007) and a moderate trend in skin lesion incidence (P-trend=0.07) associated with increased intake of steamed rice. This study suggests that rice intake may be a source of arsenic exposure beyond drinking water.

Cross-Classification of Human Urinary Lipidome by Sex, Age, and Body Mass Index.

PubMed

Okemoto, Kazuo; Maekawa, Keiko; Tajima, Yoko; Tohkin, Masahiro; Saito, Yoshiro

2016-01-01

Technological advancements in past decades have led to the development of integrative analytical approaches to lipidomics, such as liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS), and information about biogenic lipids is rapidly accumulating. Although several cohort-based studies have been conducted on the composition of urinary lipidome, the data on urinary lipids cross-classified by sex, age, and body mass index (BMI) are insufficient to screen for various abnormalities. To promote the development of urinary lipid metabolome-based diagnostic assay, we analyzed 60 urine samples from healthy white adults (young (c.a., 30 years) and old (c.a., 60 years) men/women) using LC/MS. Women had a higher urinary concentration of omega-3 12-lipoxygenase (LOX)-generated oxylipins with anti-inflammatory activity compared to men. In addition, young women showed increased abundance of poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and cytochrome P450 (P450)-produced oxylipins with anti-hypertensive activity compared with young men, whereas elderly women exhibited higher concentration of 5-LOX-generated anti-inflammatory oxylipins than elderly men. There were no significant differences in urinary oxylipin levels between young and old subjects or between subjects with low and high BMI. Our findings suggest that sex, but neither ages nor BMI could be a confounding factor for measuring the composition of urinary lipid metabolites in the healthy population. The information showed contribute to the development of reliable biomarker findings from urine.

Benzene exposure monitoring of Tunisian workers.

PubMed

Chakroun, Radhouane; Kaabachi, Néziha; Hedhili, Abderrazek; Feki, Moncef; Nouaigui, Habib; Ben Laiba, Mohamed; Mebazaa, Abderraouf

2002-12-01

To monitor benzene exposure and to check reliability of urinary trans,trans-Muconic Acid (t,t-MA) as a bio-marker of benzene exposure in local conditions, a study was conducted on 30 Tunisian exposed workers (20 tanker fillers and 10 filling station attendants). The analyses were carried out on environmental air and urinary t,t-MA before (t,t-MAA) and at the end of work shift (t,t-MAB). 20 nonoccupationally exposed subjects were also investigated. The average value of environmental benzene concentration was 0.17 ppm. The differences between t,t-MAA and t,t-MAB concentrations and between t,t-MAB and t,t-MA measured in controls (t,t-MAC) were both significant (p < 0.001). Benzene air concentrations were well correlated with t,t-MAB: R = 0.76. In the nonexposed group, average t,t-MA concentrations is significantly higher among smokers than nonsmokers (P < 0.02). Analysis of urinary t,t-MA offers a relatively simple and suitable method for benzene exposure monitoring.

Plasma and Urinary Aluminum Concentrations in Severely Anemic Geophagous Pregnant Women in the Bas Maroni Region of French Guiana: A Case-Control Study

PubMed Central

Lambert, Veronique; Boukhari, Rachida; Nacher, Mathieu; Goullé, Jean-Pierre; Roudier, Estelle; Elguindi, Wael; Laquerrière, Annie; Carles, Gabriel

2010-01-01

The clays consumed by geophagous individuals contain large quantities of aluminum, a known neurological and hematological toxin. This is the first study to evaluate the risk of aluminum poisoning in geophagous individuals. Blind determinations of plasma and urinary aluminum concentrations were carried out in 98 anemic geophagous pregnant women and 85 non-anemic non-geophagous pregnant women. Aluminum concentrations were significantly higher (P < 0.0001) in the geophagous anemic women than in the controls, with odds ratios of 6.83 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.72–19.31) for plasma concentrations (13.92 ± 14.09 μg/L versus 4.95 ± 7.11 μg/L) and 5.44 (95% CI = 2.17–14.8) for urinary concentrations (92.83 ± 251.21 μg/L versus 12.11 ± 23 μg/L). The ingested clay is the most likely source of this overexposure to aluminum. If confirmed, the clinical consequences of this absorption for pregnant women and their offspring should be explored. PMID:21036845

Concentrations of Water-Soluble Vitamins in Blood and Urinary Excretion in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus.

PubMed

Iwakawa, Hiromi; Nakamura, Yasuyuki; Fukui, Tomiho; Fukuwatari, Tsutomu; Ugi, Satoshi; Maegawa, Hiroshi; Doi, Yukio; Shibata, Katsumi

2016-01-01

We examined the concentrations of water-soluble vitamins in blood and urinary excretion of 22 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (type 2DM) and 20 healthy control participants. Macronutrient and vitamin intakes of type 2DM subjects were measured using a weighed food record method. Control participants consumed a semipurified diet for eight days. Multiple linear regression models were used to determine whether significant differences existed in vitamin concentrations in blood independent of age, sex, and other confounding factors. Concentrations of vitamins B2, B6, C, niacin, and folate in blood were significantly lower in type 2DM subjects than in controls, independent of confounding factors. Renal clearances of vitamins B6, C, niacin, and folate were significantly higher in type 2DM subjects than in controls. In conclusion, concentrations of vitamins B2, B6, C, niacin, and folate in blood were significantly lower in type 2DM subjects than in controls, independent of confounding factors; based on the evidence of increased urinary clearance of these vitamins, the lower levels were likely due to impaired reabsorption processes.

Safety of latex urinary catheters for the short time drainage

PubMed Central

Hosseinpour, Mehrdad; Noori, Saeed; Amir-Beigi, Mahdieh; Pourfakharan, Mohammad Hassan; Ehteram, Hassan; Hamsayeh, Mohadese

2014-01-01

Background: In this study, we attempt to identify the most appropriate catheter (silicone vs. latex) for short-term urinary catheterization. We compared the post-operative clinico-pathological complications between latex and silicone for short term catheterization in rabbits with hypospadias. Materials and Methods: Forty rabbits were used in our study to compare complications of catheterization. They were divided in two groups. Hypospadias like defect was created by a 1 cm long excision of the ventral urethra. For urethroplasty, we used tubularized incised plate technique. Latex and silicon catheters were used in groups 1 and 2, respectively. Post-operatively, routine laboratory urine test and complications (allergy, infection, bleeding) were compared in groups. Results: A total of 40 rabbits underwent hypospadias repair. Findings showed that there were no significant differences between groups based on urine test indices (P = NS). Urinary tract infection rate was 10% (2 rabbits) in latex and 0% in silicone groups (P = NS). There were no significant differences between groups regarding of cystitis grades between study groups (P = NS). Conclusion: It seems that urinary tract catheterization with latex catheters is a safe, feasible, and in-expensive procedure for short-term post-operative course in hypospadias surgery in patients without latex hypersensitivity. PMID:25125890

[Associated brachial cleft anomalies in the cat eye syndrome].

PubMed

Avior, Galit; Derowe, Ari; Fliss, Dan M; Leicear-Trejo, Leonor; Braverman, Itzhak

2007-02-01

The cat eye syndrome is a congenital malformation usually associated with anal atresia, ocular coloboma, downward slanting eyes, microphthalmia, hypertelorism, strabismus, preauricular tags or fistulas, congenital heart defect particularly septal defect, urinary tract abnormalities, skeletal anomalies and frequently mental and physical retardation. A small supernumerary chromosome (smaller than chromosome 21) is present, frequently has 2 centromeres, is bisatellited and represents an inv dup 22 (q11). A two years old female presented to our department with an association of cat eye syndrome with preauricular tags and a first branchial arch anomaly. This article discusses the surgical management and the association between the cat eye syndrome and first branchial cleft anomaly.

Urinary fluoride levels and prevalence of dental fluorosis in three Brazilian cities with different fluoride concentrations in the drinking water.

PubMed

Heintze, S D; Bastos, J R; Bastos, R

1998-10-01

Urine samples from three daytime periods were collected from 545 5-50-year-old residents of three different Brazilian cities: Garça had fluoridated drinking water since 1973, Bauru since 1975 and Itápolis was not fluoridated. Dental fluorosis was examined in 985 5-24-year-olds using the Thylstrup-Fejerskov index (TF). The subjects were asked to estimate their daily intake of liquids and frequency of beverage consumption. The analysis of 94 water samples showed high variations in the fluoride content of the drinking water. The mean fluoride concentration of the water samples in Garça was 0.9 mg/L (range 0.75-1.2), in Bauru 0.64 mg/L (range 0.01-1.3), and in Itápolis 0.02 mg/L. Mean urinary fluoride concentration was 1.31 mg/L (s 0.61) in Garça, 0.88 mg/L (s 0.49) in Bauru, and 0.39 mg/L (s 0.21) in Itápolis. Self-reported daily liquid intake was not related to urinary fluoride concentration. The mean prevalence of fluorosis was 13.3% in Garça, 6.8% in Bauru, and 1.7% in Itápolis, with mainly categories TF 1 and TF 2 being recorded. Subjects with dental fluorosis tended to show a higher mean urinary fluoride concentration but the difference was not statistically significant. The study showed that fluoride exposure measured by urinary fluoride excretion was within the range expected for the level of fluoride concentration in the drinking water. However, enamel fluorosis tended to be markedly lower than expected. This study revealed that fluoride levels in the two cities with fluoridated drinking water were variable. To optimise anticaries benefits and minimise the risk of fluorosis greater control of the fluoride dosing of the drinking water is required.

Concentrations of urinary arsenic species in relation to rice and seafood consumption among children living in Spain.

PubMed

Signes-Pastor, Antonio J; Vioque, Jesus; Navarrete-Muñoz, Eva M; Carey, Manus; García de la Hera, Manoli; Sunyer, Jordi; Casas, Maribel; Riaño-Galán, Isolina; Tardón, Adonina; Llop, Sabrina; Amorós, Rubén; Amiano, Pilar; Bilbao, José R; Karagas, Margaret R; Meharg, Andrew A

2017-11-01

Inorganic arsenic (i-As) has been related to wide-ranging health effects in children, leading to lifelong concerns. Proportionally, dietary i-As exposure dominates in regions with low arsenic drinking water. This study aims to investigate the relation between rice and seafood consumption and urinary arsenic species during childhood and to assess the proportion of urinary i-As metabolites. Urinary arsenic species concentration in 400 4-year-old children living in four geographical areas of Spain, in addition to repeated measures from 100 children at 7 years of age are included in this study. Rice and seafood products intake was collected from children's parents using a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). At 4 years of age, children's urine i-As and monomethylarsonic acid (MMA) concentrations increased with rice product consumption (p-value = 0.010 and 0.018, respectively), and urinary arsenobetaine (AsB) with seafood consumption (p = 0.002). Four-year-old children had a higher consumption of both rice and seafood per body weight and a higher urinary %MMA (p-value = 0.001) and lower % dimethylarsinic acid (DMA) (p-value = 0.017). This study suggests increased dietary i-As exposure related to rice product consumption among children living in Spain, and the younger ones may be especially vulnerable to the health impacts of this exposure also considering that they might have a lower i-As methylation capacity than older children. In contrast, seafood consumption did not appear to influence the presence of potentially toxic arsenic species in this population of children. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Moderate-to-high normal levels of thyrotropin is a risk factor for urinary incontinence and an unsuitable quality of life in women over 65 years.

PubMed

Cuevas-Romero, Estela; Sánchez-Cardiel, Angélica; Zamora-Gallegos, Angélica M; Cruz-Lumbreras, Rosalía; Corona-Quintanilla, Dora L; Castelán, Francisco; Martínez-Gómez, Margarita

2017-12-01

The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between normal serum concentrations of thyrotropin (TSH) and urinary incontinence (IU), urinary infections, and quality of life in old women. Euthyroid post-menopausal women without sarcopenia, estrogen replacement, emotional illness, and/or cancer were enrolled as participants. Anthropometric indicators, serum glucose and estradiol, and thyroid profile were measured. Sociodemographic, clinical, physical activity, and quality of life (SF-36) surveys were applied. One-hour pad test and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form (ICIQ-SF) were used to determine UI. Urinalysis was also done. In agreement with results from the pad test (cut-off point ≥1.4 g), the ICIQ-SF reveled approximately 50% of incontinent women. A high percentage of women had moderate-high bacteriuria and urinary infections. Logistic regression analysis showed that age is a risk factor for both UI and urinary infection. Diabetes, number of pregnancies or childbirths, urinary infections, and bacteriuria did not influence the presence of UI. To allocate women into four groups according to their age (<65 or ≥65 years old) and TSH concentrations (0.3-1.9 or 2-10 μUI/mL), we found that moderate-to-high normal levels of TSH is a risk factor for UI and a worse quality of life in the oldest women. Our results highlight the profit of measuring TSH concentrations in post-menopausal women. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

Phytoestrogen Concentrations in Human Urine as Biomarkers for Dietary Phytoestrogen Intake in Mexican Women

PubMed Central

Chávez-Suárez, Karina M.; Ortega-Vélez, María I.; Valenzuela-Quintanar, Ana I.; Galván-Portillo, Marcia; López-Carrillo, Lizbeth; Esparza-Romero, Julián; Saucedo-Tamayo, María S.; Robles-Burgueño, María R.; Gutiérrez-Coronado, María L.; Campa-Siqueiros, Melissa M.; Grajeda-Cota, Patricia; Caire-Juvera, Graciela

2017-01-01

There has been substantial interest in phytoestrogens, because of their potential effect in reducing cancer and heart disease risk. Measuring concentrations of phytoestrogens in urine is an alternative method for conducting epidemiological studies. Our objective was to evaluate the urinary excretion of phytoestrogens as biomarkers for dietary phytoestrogen intake in Mexican women. Participants were 100 healthy women from 25 to 80 years of age. A food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and a 24 h recall were used to estimate habitual and recent intakes of isoflavones, lignans, flavonols, coumestrol, resveratrol, naringenin, and luteolin. Urinary concentrations were measured by liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled to mass spectrometry (MS) using the electrospray ionization interface (ESI) and diode array detector (DAD) (HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS). Spearman correlation coefficients were used to evaluate associations between dietary intake and urine concentrations. The habitual consumption (FFQ) of total phytoestrogens was 37.56 mg/day. In urine, the higher compounds were naringenin (60.1 µg/L) and enterolactone (41.7 µg/L). Recent intakes (24 h recall) of isoflavones (r = 0.460, p < 0.001), lignans (r = 0.550, p < 0.0001), flavonoids (r = 0.240, p < 0.05), and total phytoestrogens (r = 0.410, p < 0.001) were correlated to their urinary levels. Total phytoestrogen intakes estimated by the FFQ showed higher correlations to urinary levels (r = 0.730, p < 0.0001). Urinary phytoestrogens may be useful as biomarkers of phytoestrogen intake, and as a tool for evaluating the relationship of intake and disease risk in Mexican women. PMID:28961176

Urinary porphyrin excretion in neurotypical and autistic children.

PubMed

Woods, James S; Armel, Sarah E; Fulton, Denise I; Allen, Jason; Wessels, Kristine; Simmonds, P Lynne; Granpeesheh, Doreen; Mumper, Elizabeth; Bradstreet, J Jeffrey; Echeverria, Diana; Heyer, Nicholas J; Rooney, James P K

2010-10-01

Increased urinary concentrations of pentacarboxyl-, precopro- and copro-porphyrins have been associated with prolonged mercury (Hg) exposure in adults, and comparable increases have been attributed to Hg exposure in children with autism (AU). This study was designed to measure and compare urinary porphyrin concentrations in neurotypical (NT) children and same-age children with autism, and to examine the association between porphyrin levels and past or current Hg exposure in children with autism. This exploratory study enrolled 278 children 2-12 years of age. We evaluated three groups: AU, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), and NT. Mothers/caregivers provided information at enrollment regarding medical, dental, and dietary exposures. Urine samples from all children were acquired for analyses of porphyrin, creatinine, and Hg. Differences between groups for mean porphyrin and Hg levels were evaluated. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine whether porphyrin levels were associated with increased risk of autism. Mean urinary porphyrin concentrations are naturally high in young children and decline by as much as 2.5-fold between 2 and 12 years of age. Elevated copro- (p < 0.009), hexacarboxyl- (p < 0.01) and pentacarboxyl- (p < 0.001) porphyrin concentrations were significantly associated with AU but not with PDD-NOS. No differences were found between NT and AU in urinary Hg levels or in past Hg exposure as determined by fish consumption, number of dental amalgam fillings, or vaccines received. These findings identify disordered porphyrin metabolism as a salient characteristic of autism. Hg exposures were comparable between diagnostic groups, and a porphyrin pattern consistent with that seen in Hg-exposed adults was not apparent.

An outbreak of occupational asthma due to chromium and cobalt.

PubMed

Walters, G I; Moore, V C; Robertson, A S; Burge, C B S G; Vellore, A-D; Burge, P S

2012-10-01

Five metal turners employed by an aerospace manufacturer presented to the Birmingham Chest Clinic occupational lung disease unit. Four cases of occupational asthma (OA) due to chromium salt (3) and cobalt (1) were diagnosed by serial peak-expiratory flow measurements and specific inhalation challenge testing. To measure the extent of the outbreak and to provide epidemiological data to ascertain the aetiology. Participants answered a detailed, self-administered questionnaire, designed to detect occupational lung disease. Urine chromium and cobalt excretion, spirometry and exhaled nitric oxide measurements were taken. Those with possible, probable or definite non-OA or OA, after questionnaire, were invited to undertake two-hourly peak flow measurements and received specialist follow-up. A total of 62 workers (95% of workforce) participated. Sixty-one per cent of employees were working in higher metalworking fluid (MWF) exposure areas. Ninety per cent of workers had urinary chromium excretion indicating occupational exposure. Sixty-six per cent of workers reported active respiratory symptoms, although there were no significant differences between exposure groups. Two further workers with probable OA were identified and had significantly higher urinary chromium and cobalt concentration than asymptomatic controls. Eighteen cases of occupational rhinitis (OR) were identified, with significantly raised urinary chromium concentration compared with asymptomatic controls. Chromium salt and cobalt can be responsible for OA and OR in workers exposed to MWF aerosols. Onset of symptoms in those with positive specific challenges followed change in MWF brand. Workers with OA had increased urinary concentrations of chromium and cobalt, and those with OR had increased urinary concentrations of chromium.

MODELING OF MACROSCALE AGRICULTURAL ELEMENTS IN PESTICIDE EXPOSURE

EPA Science Inventory

Yuma County, Arizona, is the site of year around agriculture. To understand the role of agricultural pesticide exposures experienced by children, urinary metabolite concentrations were compared with agricultural use of pesticides. The urinary metabolite and household data wer...

Complexities of management of a urostomy in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: a reflective account.

PubMed

Oxenham, Julie

Mary (pseudonym) is a 30-year-old woman who underwent a urinary diversion and formation of an ileal conduit/urostomy (urinary stoma) due to the formation of multiple bladder diverticula, which caused micturition difficulties and recurrent urinary tract infections with associated pain and discomfort. The bladder diverticula were caused by Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), a hereditary disorder of the connective tissue or, particulary, defective collagen. Surgical intervention in patients with EDS is prone to complications due to poor wound healing, including issues of dehiscence, postoperative bleeding and poor uptake of anaesthesia and analgesia. After an initial presentation of the syndrome of EDS and Mary's history, this article offers a reflective account (informed by Gibbs' Reflective Cycle) and illustrates the complexities of caring for an individual with EDS who undergoes stoma formation. The author, a stoma care nurse, demonstrates how using purposeful reflection resulted in better understanding and awareness of caring for an individual with a rare syndrome and the nursing challenges this presented.

Urinary tract infection in children: recurrent infections.

PubMed

Larcombe, James

2015-06-12

Up to 11% of girls and 7% of boys will have had a urinary tract infection (UTI) by the age of 16 years, and recurrence of infection is common. Vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) is identified in up to 40% of children being investigated for a first UTI, and is a risk factor for, but weak predictor of, renal parenchymal defects. We conducted a systematic review and aimed to answer the following clinical questions: What are the effects of prophylactic antibiotics to prevent recurrent urinary tract infection in children? We searched: Medline, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and other important databases up to December 2013 (Clinical Evidence reviews are updated periodically; please check our website for the most up-to-date version of this review). We found three studies that met our inclusion criteria. We performed a GRADE evaluation of the quality of evidence for interventions. In this systematic review we present information relating to the effectiveness and safety of the following intervention: prophylactic antibiotics.

Exposure to hexavalent chromium in welders: Results of the WELDOX II field study.

PubMed

Pesch, Beate; Lehnert, Martin; Weiss, Tobias; Kendzia, Benjamin; Menne, Eleonore; Lotz, Anne; Heinze, Evelyn; Behrens, Thomas; Gabriel, Stefan; Schneider, Wolfgang; Brüning, Thomas

2018-03-12

Exposure to hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) has been primarily studied in chromate production. Here, we measured personal exposure to respirable Cr(VI) together with airborne and urinary Cr and Ni in welders to explore levels and associations between various measures of exposure. Shift concentrations of Cr(VI), Cr, and Ni were measured in respirable welding fumes in 50 men who used either gas metal arc welding (GMAW) (n = 24) or tungsten inert gas welding (TIG) (n = 19) as their major technique. Cr and Ni were determined in pre- and post-shift urine samples. Concentrations below the limit of quantification (LOQ) were multiply imputed. Spearman correlation coefficients (rs) were calculated with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to explore associations between the exposure variables, and regression models were applied to estimate the effect of the parent metal on the urinary concentration. Regarding the respirable Cr(VI), 62% of the measurements were below the LOQ, the 75th percentile was 0.50 µg m-3, and 8 out of 50 (16%) welders exceeded 1 µg m-3. The highest shift concentration that occurred as a result of shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) was 180 µg m-3. The Cr(VI) content in total Cr ranged from 4 to 82% (median 20%), although the concentration correlated with total Cr (rs 0.55, 95% CI 0.46; 0.64). The correlation between Cr(VI) and Ni was weaker (rs 0.42, 95% CI 0.34; 0.51) than that between total Cr and Ni in welding fumes (rs 0.83, 95% CI 0.74; 0.92). Both Cr(VI) and total Cr influenced the urinary Cr concentrations in post-shift samples (P = 0.0008 and P ≤ 0.0001, respectively). The airborne shift exposure was a weaker determinant than the Cr content in pre-shift urine samples, which strongly correlated with post-shift urinary Cr (rs 0.78, 95% CI 0.69; 0.87). The Cr(VI) content in total Cr varied considerably in welding fumes. The majority of welders using GMAW or TIG presented with shift concentrations of respirable Cr(VI) below 1 µg m-3. However, very high Cr(VI) concentrations may occur, for example in SMAW. The urinary concentration of total Cr, cannot be used to precisely determine the shift concentration of respirable Cr(VI) in welders.

Urinary 1-hydroxypyrene in coke oven workers relative to exposure, alcohol consumption, and metabolic enzymes

PubMed Central

Zhang, J; Ichiba, M; Hara, K; Zhang, S; Hanaoka, T; Pan, G; Yamano, Y; Takahashi, K; Tomokuni, K

2001-01-01

OBJECTIVES—To investigate the influence of personal lifestyle—such as smoking and alcohol consumption—on urinary 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP) concentrations in coke oven workers exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and to evaluate the association of 1-OHP concentrations with the genetic polymorphism of several metabolic enzymes including cytochrome P-450 (CYP) 1A1 and glutathione S-tranferases (GSTs).
METHODS—The study population contained 162 coke oven workers and 58 controls employed at the largest iron and steel factory in China. Personal data were collected at the interview. 1-OHP in urine was measured with high performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. Genetic polymorphisms were identified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method.
RESULTS—A positive association between excretion of urinary 1-OHP and the levels of exposure to PAHs was confirmed. Those people who consumed ⩾50 g/day ethanol had significantly higher 1-OHP excretion than did other coke oven workers (p<0.01). No significant difference in urinary 1-OHP was found between smokers and non-smokers, in both controls and exposed subjects. The variant homozygotes at exon 7 of the CYP1A1 gene had significantly higher urinary 1-OHP concentrations than other CYP1A1 genotypes among the exposed workers (p=0.03). There was less association between the concentrations of 1-OHP and the GSTM1, GSTP1, or GSTT1 polymorphism.
CONCLUSIONS—The present study confirmed that urinary 1-OHP is a good biomarker for exposure to PAHs. Alcohol consumption affected urinary 1-OHP excretion. The variant genotypes of the CYP1A1 gene may result in the enhancement of PAH metabolites. It is helpful to understand the role of individual susceptibility on metabolism of carcinogens. These findings suggest that the modulating effect of individual lifestyle factors or genetic nature should be considered in future studies on occupational exposure to PAHs and in evaluating the health risk from harmful chemicals.


Keywords: 1-hydroxypyrene; genetic polymorphism; alcohol drinking PMID:11600727

Self-reported sunscreen use and urinary benzophenone-3 concentrations in the United States: NHANES 2003–2006 and 2009–2012

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

Zamoiski, Rachel D., E-mail: rachel.zamoiski@nih.gov; Cahoon, Elizabeth K.; Michal Freedman, D.

Background: Sunscreens protect against skin cancer and other harmful effects of solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Epidemiologic and public health surveys often rely on self-reported sunscreen use to estimate sun exposure and avoidance, but questions remain about the validity of self-reports. Benzophenone-3 (BP-3), a common sunscreen ingredient, can be detected in the urine. Prior studies suggest that BP-3 concentrations increase after application of sunscreen. Objectives: The goal of this study was to assess the validity of self-reported frequency of sunscreen use in relation to urinary BP-3 concentrations in a representative sample of the general US population, including in sub-groups defined bymore » age, sex and race/ethnicity. Methods: To assess the relationship between categorical self-reported sunscreen use and creatinine-corrected urinary BP-3 concentrations, we conducted a linear regression adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, six-month time period, body mass index, education, and sun avoidance behaviors. We tested for effect modification by age, sex, ethnicity and time period of measurement using multiplicative interaction terms and a F test. Results: BP-3 was positively associated with self-reported frequency of sunscreen use across all ages, sexes, race/ethnicities, and time periods. Crude and multivariate adjusted models were all statistically significant. R-square was relatively low for all models, ranging from 0.15 to 0.43. Conclusions: Urinary BP-3 is positively associated with self-reported frequency of sunscreen use in the general US population, even in groups with overall low sunscreen use. These results suggest that self-report is a valid, although weak, way of assessing relative frequencies of sunscreen usage in a population-based study. - Highlights: • Urinary benzophenone-3 (BP-3) is a metabolite of a common sunscreen ingredient. • We modeled urinary BP-3 against self-reported sunscreen usage. • We observed a positive association between sunscreen use and urinary BP-3. • R{sup 2} was low, suggesting self-report is a valid but weak way to assess sunscreen use.« less

Urinary biomarkers in hydronephrosis.

PubMed

Madsen, Mia Gebauer

2013-02-01

Hydronephrosis is diagnosed in 0.5-1% of all newborns, and ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) accounts for 35% of those cases. A urinary tract obstruction that occurs during early kidney development affects renal morphogenesis, maturation, and growth, and in the most severe cases, this will ultimately lead to progressive renal tubular atrophy and interstitial fibrosis with the loss of nephrons. The clinical management of these patients remains a controversial topic. The aim is to preserve renal function by identifying the 15-20% of children who require early surgical intervention from those for whom watchful waiting may be appropriate because of spontaneous resolving/stabilization without significant loss of renal function. Although the patients attend regular follow-ups, including repetitive blood tests, ultrasonographies, and the more invasive diuretic renograms, the surgeons still miss reliably biomarkers that could be used as predictors for renal parenchymal damage and decreased renal function, and thereby provide more clear indications for surgical intervention. The aim of this PhD thesis was to further elucidate the pathophysiology of obstructive nephropathy (study I) and to search for potential candidate biomarkers that may have a predictive and/or diagnostic value in the management of hydronephrosis (study II). Study I: Urine and kidney cytokine profiles in experimental unilateral acute and chronic hydronephrosis. To study the dynamics of the urinary secretion of cytokines after the release of unilateral ureteral obstruction, and to study whether the urinary concentrations of these compounds reliably reflects changes in the renal parenchyma. This was tested in 2 experimental rat models: an acute obstruction model and a chronic obstruction model. The acute obstruction model demonstrated significant differences in the renal levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10 in comparison with controls, and these differences were associated with similar differences in their urinary excretion. Such results were not obtained in the chronic obstruction model in which significant differences were only demonstrated in the urinary concentrations of IL-6. Study II: Candidate urinary biomarkers in hydronephrosis - a clinical study. To study the dynamics of the urinary excretion of selected potential biomarkers in children after the relief of UPJO, and to compare their findings with healthy controls. Twenty-eight children with UPJO were included in the study from 2007-2011 together with 13 healthy children. Pre-, peri- and post-operatively (1 year) urine samples were collected. The median age of the patients was 8.1 (3.5-14.5) years. Five proteins (EGF, IP-10, MCP-1, RANTES, and MIP-1α) were examined in study IIa, and 4 proteins (NGAL, CyC, βM-2, and OPN) were examined in study IIb. In brief, significantly increased urinary concentrations of EGF and MCP-1 were demonstrated in children with UPJO compared to controls, which was followed by a decline in the post-operative period to levels similar to the controls. This indicates that the urinary concentrations of EGF and MCP-1 are regulated as a response to the obstruction, suggesting that they may have a potential as urinary biomarkers in hydronephrosis. In general, urine from the obstructed kidney exhibited higher concentrations of the proteins compared to urine from the nonobstructed kidney. Furthermore, CyC, β-2M, and OPN were negatively correlated with age, and IP-10 and MCP-1 were negatively correlated with DRF. In conclusion, this PhD study confirmed increased concentrations of selected proteins in urine from kidneys suffering from obstruction. Interestingly, it was observed that some urinary proteins had an age-dependent excretion. Further investigations are required to test the ability of the examined proteins to identify an obstruction and reveal disease progression and, thereby, be useful clinical tools.

An exploratory analysis of the relationship between ambient ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Background: Associations between ozone (O3) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations and birth outcomes have been previously demonstrated. We perform an exploratory analysis of O3 and PM2.5 concentrations during early pregnancy and multiple types of birth defects. Methods: Data on births were obtained from the Texas Birth Defects Registry and the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (NBDPS) in Texas. Air pollution concentrations were determined using a Bayesian hierarchical model that combined modeled air pollution concentrations with air monitoring data to create bias-corrected concentrations and matched to residential address at birth. Average air pollution concentrations during the first trimester were calculated. Results: The analysis generated hypotheses for future, confirmatory studies; although many of the observed associations between the air pollutants and birth defects were null. The hypotheses are provided by an observed association between O3 and craniosynostosis [adjusted OR 1.28 (95% CI 1.04, 1.58) per 13.3 ppb increase) and observed inverse associations between PM2.5 concentrations and septal heart defects and obstructive heart defects [adjusted ORs 0.79 (95% CI 0.75, 0.82) and 0.88 (95% CI 0.79, 0.97) per 5.0 µg/m3 increase, respectively] in the Texas Birth Defects Registry study. Septal heart defects and ventricular outflow tract obstructions were also examined using the NBDPS but the associations with PM2.5 were null [adj

[New options in reconstructive pelvic floor surgery and surgery in urogynecology].

PubMed

Martan, A

2006-12-01

The aim of this paper is to provide a brief update review of reconstructive pelvic floor surgery and surgery in urogynecology, including the application of surgical implants. Review article. Gynecological and Obstetric Clinic, 1 LF UK and VFN, Prague. Summarization, compilation and classification of recent findings, opinions and recommendations on new options in surgical procedures of reconstructive pelvic floor surgery and surgery in gynecology, with emphasis on the use of implants and their introduction into common clinical practice. From the beginning of the 1990s, the view of pelvic floor defects and urinary incontinence in women started to change significantly. The validity of De Lancey's classification of vaginal fixation into 3 basic levels was confirmed, with resulting modifications in surgical procedures. The etiology of pelvic floor defects comprises not only labor trauma or incorrectly performed previous operations (e.g. hysterectomy), but also hereditary influences and changes in the metabolism of the connective tissue. When comparing patients with or without descensus, there is a significant difference in the composition of collagen connective tissue; these findings, and the frequency of recurrence in up to 40% of patients within 3 years after the operations, resulted in the introduction of allogenous implants--meshes in the surgical treatment. These have been used for a long time in surgical treatment of abdominal wall defects, and for the above reasons the polypropylene meshes were introduced in pelvic floor defects surgery, while their safety has been proved in accordance with the principles of Evidence Based Medicine. In gynecology, these materials are already used in the laparoscopic approach to treat female stress incontinence. Pelvic floor defects occur either isolated, or combined (a defect of anterior, posterior or medial segment, or combination of all), while the patients may at the same time suffer from a stress type of urinary incontinence (SI). In surgical treatment of this type of urinary incontinence (TVT, TVT-O, TVT-S) allogenous implants--tapes--are frequently used. The results of studies suggest that one factor affecting the success of the operation using allogenous implants is the surgeon's erudition and experience in pelvic and vaginal surgery, while the long-term effect of the operation also depends on the surgical procedure involved, i.e. on the correct selection of operation methods and decision whether to use an implant or not. The effect of various operations using implants may differ as well, especially there is a difference between operations where the implant is placed freely under the bladder, and those where it is stabilized by fixing the arms of the implant under the lower arms of symphysis. Another factor to consider is the material of the implant used. Material currently recommended according to Evidence Based Medicine is: a lightweight, flexible polypropylene; and according to Amid's classification: type 1, i.e. macro-porous, monofilament material. The advantage of surgical treatment of pelvic floor defect using implants consists in a low percentage of recurrence of the descensus; there is, however, a certain risk of rejection (around 5%) and shrinking of tissues provoked by the implant.

Distribution, variability, and predictors of urinary bisphenol A levels in 50 North Carolina adults over a six-week monitoring period.

PubMed

Morgan, Marsha K; Nash, Maliha; Barr, Dana Boyd; Starr, James M; Scott Clifton, M; Sobus, Jon R

2018-03-01

Bisphenol A (BPA) is commonly manufactured to make polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins for use in consumer products and packaged goods. BPA has been found in several different types of environmental media (e.g., food, dust, and air). Many cross-sectional studies have frequently detected BPA concentrations in adult urine samples. However, limited data are available on the temporal variability and important predictors of urinary BPA concentrations in adults. In this work, the major objectives were to: 1) quantify BPA levels in duplicate-diet solid food, drinking water, hard floor surface wipe, and urine samples (first-morning void [FMV], bedtime, and 24-h) collected from adults over a six-week monitoring period; 2) determine the temporal variability of urinary BPA levels using concentration, specific gravity (SG) adjusted, creatinine (CR) adjusted, and excretion rate values, and; 3) examine associations between available study factors and urinary BPA concentrations. In 2009-2011, a convenience sample of 50 adults was recruited from residential settings in North Carolina. The participants completed diaries and collected samples during weeks 1, 2, and/or 6 of a six-week monitoring period. BPA was detected in 38%, 4%, and 99% of the solid food (n=775), drinking water (n=50), and surface wipe samples (n=138), respectively. Total BPA (free plus conjugated) was detected in 98% of the 2477 urine samples. Median urinary BPA levels were 2.07ng/mL, 2.20ng/mL-SG, 2.29ng/mg, and 2.31ng/min for concentration, SG-adjusted, CR-adjusted, and excretion rate values, respectively. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) estimates for BPA showed poor reproducibility (≤0.35) for all urine sample types and methods over a day, week, and six weeks. CR-adjusted bedtime voids collected over six-weeks required the fewest, realistic number of samples (n=11) to obtain a reliable biomarker estimate (ICC=0.80). Results of linear mixed-effects models showed that sex, race, season, and CR-level were all significant predictors (p<0.05) of the adults' urinary BPA concentrations. BPA levels in the solid food and surface wipe samples did not contribute significantly to the participants' urinary BPA concentrations. However, a significant positive relationship was observed between solid food intake and urine-based estimates of BPA dose, when aggregated over 24-h periods. Ingestion of BPA via solid food explained only about 20% of the total dose (at the median of the dose distribution), suggesting that these adults were likely exposed to other major unknown (non-dietary) sources of BPA in their everyday environments. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Defect studies of thin ZnO films prepared by pulsed laser deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vlček, M.; Čížek, J.; Procházka, I.; Novotný, M.; Bulíř, J.; Lančok, J.; Anwand, W.; Brauer, G.; Mosnier, J.-P.

2014-04-01

Thin ZnO films were grown by pulsed laser deposition on four different substrates: sapphire (0 0 0 1), MgO (1 0 0), fused silica and nanocrystalline synthetic diamond. Defect studies by slow positron implantation spectroscopy (SPIS) revealed significantly higher concentration of defects in the studied films when compared to a bulk ZnO single crystal. The concentration of defects in the films deposited on single crystal sapphire and MgO substrates is higher than in the films deposited on amorphous fused silica substrate and nanocrystalline synthetic diamond. Furthermore, the effect of deposition temperature on film quality was investigated in ZnO films deposited on synthetic diamond substrates. Defect studies performed by SPIS revealed that the concentration of defects firstly decreases with increasing deposition temperature, but at too high deposition temperatures it increases again. The lowest concentration of defects was found in the film deposited at 450° C.

Enhancing the Detection of Dysmorphic Red Blood Cells and Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells with a Modified Urinalysis Protocol.

PubMed

Chu-Su, Yu; Shukuya, Kenichi; Yokoyama, Takashi; Lin, Wei-Chou; Chiang, Chih-Kang; Lin, Chii-Wann

2017-01-11

Urinary sediment is used to evaluate patients with possible urinary tract diseases. Currently, numerous protocols are applied to detect dysmorphic red blood cells (RBCs) and renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) in urinary sediment. However, distinct protocols are used by nephrologists and medical technologists for specimen concentration and observation, which leads to major discrepancies in the differential counts of formed elements such as dysmorphic RBCs and RTECs and might interfere with an accurate clinical diagnosis. To resolve these problems, we first tested a modified urinalysis protocol with an increased relative centrifuge force and concentration factor in 20 biopsy-confirmed glomerulonephritis patients with haematuria. We successfully improved the recovery ratio of dysmorphic RBCs in clinical specimens from 34.7% to 42.0% (P < 0.001). Furthermore, we confirmed the correlation between counts by the modified urinary protocol and Sysmex UF-1000i urinary flow cytometer (r ≥ 0.898, P < 0.001). A total of 28 types of isomorphic and dysmorphic RBCs were detected using a bright field microscope, with results comparable to those using a standard phase contrast microscope. Finally, we applied Sternheimer stain to enhance the contrast of RTECs in the urinary sediments. We concluded that this modified urinalysis protocol significantly enhanced the quality of urinalysis.

Enhancing the Detection of Dysmorphic Red Blood Cells and Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells with a Modified Urinalysis Protocol

PubMed Central

Chu-Su, Yu; Shukuya, Kenichi; Yokoyama, Takashi; Lin, Wei-Chou; Chiang, Chih-Kang; Lin, Chii-Wann

2017-01-01

Urinary sediment is used to evaluate patients with possible urinary tract diseases. Currently, numerous protocols are applied to detect dysmorphic red blood cells (RBCs) and renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) in urinary sediment. However, distinct protocols are used by nephrologists and medical technologists for specimen concentration and observation, which leads to major discrepancies in the differential counts of formed elements such as dysmorphic RBCs and RTECs and might interfere with an accurate clinical diagnosis. To resolve these problems, we first tested a modified urinalysis protocol with an increased relative centrifuge force and concentration factor in 20 biopsy-confirmed glomerulonephritis patients with haematuria. We successfully improved the recovery ratio of dysmorphic RBCs in clinical specimens from 34.7% to 42.0% (P < 0.001). Furthermore, we confirmed the correlation between counts by the modified urinary protocol and Sysmex UF-1000i urinary flow cytometer (r ≥ 0.898, P < 0.001). A total of 28 types of isomorphic and dysmorphic RBCs were detected using a bright field microscope, with results comparable to those using a standard phase contrast microscope. Finally, we applied Sternheimer stain to enhance the contrast of RTECs in the urinary sediments. We concluded that this modified urinalysis protocol significantly enhanced the quality of urinalysis. PMID:28074941

Predictors and correlations of phthalate metabolite concentrations in urine and seminal plasma among reproductive-aged men.

PubMed

Wang, Yi-Xin; Liu, Chong; Chen, Ying-Jun; Chen, Heng-Gui; Yang, Pan; Wang, Peng; Huang, Li-Li; Ai, Song-Hua; Duan, Peng; Pan, An; Zeng, Qiang; Lu, Wen-Qing

2018-02-01

Certain phthalates are suspected to be endocrine disruptors that are adversely associated with male reproductive health. However, the predictors and correlations of phthalate metabolite concentrations in urine and seminal plasma among reproductive-aged men have not been thoroughly studied. To investigate the predictors and correlations of phthalate metabolite concentrations in urine and seminal plasma among adult Chinese males. We measured mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP), monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP), monomethyl phthalate (MMP), monoethyl phthalate (MEP), mono-n-octyl phthalate (MOP), mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), mono(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEHHP) and mono(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (MEOHP) concentrations in seminal plasma and repeated spot-urine samples from 687 men who visited a reproductive center. Mixed-effect models were used to examine the associations of sociodemographic, lifestyle and medical factors with urinary metabolite concentrations. Linear regression models were used to identify predictors of metabolite concentrations in seminal plasma and correlations between metabolite concentrations in spot urine samples and seminal plasma. Measurements taken from spot urine samples poorly predicted same-day seminal plasma concentrations (all R 2 <0.10). Inverse associations were observed between education level and urinary MBP and MEOHP and between household income and urinary MMP; receiving intravenous infusion therapy was associated with increased urinary MBP, MEHHP and MEOHP, use of facial cleanser/cream was associated with increased MEP, and smoking was associated with increased MEHP. The predictors of metabolite concentrations in seminal plasma differed from those in urine, except for the association of intravenous infusion therapy with MBP. BMI was associated with increased seminal plasma MBP, MEHP and MEOHP, smoking was associated with increased MEP, and contact with plastics was associated with increased MEOHP. Phthalate metabolite concentrations in adult men varied in accordance with sociodemographic variables, lifestyle factors and intravenous therapy. Measures of metabolite levels in urine may not directly reflect the exposure status of the male reproductive system. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Urinary Angiogenin Reflects the Magnitude of Kidney Injury at the Infrahistologic Level

PubMed Central

Tavernier, Quentin; Mami, Iadh; Rabant, Marion; Karras, Alexandre; Laurent-Puig, Pierre; Chevet, Eric; Thervet, Eric; Anglicheau, Dany

2017-01-01

The ribonuclease angiogenin is a component of the mammalian stress response that is secreted by renal epithelial cells on activation of the inositol–requiring enzyme 1α (IRE1α)–active spliced X–box binding protein 1 (sXBP1) axis and instrumental to the adaptation to AKI associated with endoplasmic reticulum stress. To determine whether the amount of angiogenin in urine of individuals with a kidney injury reflects the magnitude of the lesions and provides information on the risk of organ failure, we examined individuals referred for a kidney injury and determined the biochemical characteristics of urinary angiogenin and its diagnostic and prognostic values. Urinary angiogenin did not correlate with the urinary concentrations of high molecular weight proteins and correlated only weakly with low molecular weight proteins, suggestive of tubular production. In a cohort of 242 kidney transplant recipients with acute allograft dysfunction, higher urinary angiogenin concentrations at the time of the biopsy associated with worse renal function and higher proteinuria but did not correlate with histologic lesions as defined in the Banff classification. Kidney transplant recipients with urinary angiogenin amounts in the highest 50% had a risk of graft failure 3.59 times as high (95% confidence interval, 1.12 to 15.94) as that of patients with amounts in the lowest 50%. Finally, the amount of urinary angiogenin reflected the activity of the IRE1α-XBP1 axis in allografts. Our approach identified urinary angiogenin as a noninvasive indicator of the extent of tissue damage, independent of the histologic lesions, and a risk predictor of kidney allograft failure. PMID:27436854

Multiple-metal exposure, diet, and oxidative stress in Uruguayan school children.

PubMed

Kordas, Katarzyna; Roy, Aditi; Vahter, Marie; Ravenscroft, Julia; Mañay, Nelly; Peregalli, Fabiana; Martínez, Gabriela; Queirolo, Elena I

2018-06-26

Oxidative stress (OS) is an important consequence of exposure to toxic metals but it is unclear to what extent low-level metal exposures contribute to OS in children. We examined the cross-sectional association between urinary concentrations of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) and urinary markers of OS: F 2 -8α isoprostane and 8-hydroxy-2-deoxy-guanosine (8-OHdG). We also tested effect modification by dietary intakes. Of the 211 children aged 6-8 years living in Montevideo who were eligible for the study because they had at least one OS marker measured via ELISA, 143 were included in a complete-case analysis. Urinary metals were measured with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS: Pb, Cd) and high-performance liquid chromatography online with hydride generation ICP-MS (As-metabolites); concentrations were log 2 -transformed. All urinary markers were adjusted for specific gravity of urine. Two 24-h dietary recalls were conducted to estimate children's dietary intakes, including total fruit and vegetable consumption and vitamin C, zinc and fiber intake. Ordinary least square (OLS) and weighted quantile sum (WQS) regressions were used to estimate the association between metals and each OS marker as outcome. Metal exposure was generally low: median urinary As, Cd, Pb 9.6 μg/L, 0.06 μg/L and 1.9 μg/L, respectively. Median 8-isoprostane concentration was 1.1 and 8-OHdG 39.6 ng/mL. Log 2 -transformed urinary As concentrations were positively associated with 8-OHdG concentrations (10.90 [3.82, 17.97]) in covariate-adjusted OLS models which also took account of exposure to Cd and Pb. In WQS, a mixture index was also associated with higher 8-OHdG (8.71 [1.12, 16.3] for each 25% increase in index value), mostly driven by As exposure. There was little evidence of effect modification by dietary antioxidants. In sum, even at low-level, As exposure is associated with detectable oxidative damage to the DNA. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Prenatal and Postnatal Bisphenol A Exposure and Body Mass Index in Childhood in the CHAMACOS Cohort

PubMed Central

Schall, Raul Aguilar; Chevrier, Jonathan; Tyler, Kristin; Aguirre, Helen; Bradman, Asa; Holland, Nina T.; Lustig, Robert H.; Calafat, Antonia M.; Eskenazi, Brenda

2013-01-01

Background: Bisphenol A (BPA), a widely used endocrine-disrupting chemical, has been associated with increased body weight and fat deposition in rodents. Objectives: We examined whether prenatal and postnatal urinary BPA concentrations were associated with body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, percent body fat, and obesity in 9-year-old children (n = 311) in the CHAMACOS longitudinal cohort study. Methods: BPA was measured in spot urine samples collected from mothers twice during pregnancy and from children at 5 and 9 years of age. Results: Prenatal urinary BPA concentrations were associated with decreased BMI at 9 years of age in girls but not boys. Among girls, being in the highest tertile of prenatal BPA concentrations was associated with decreased BMI z-score (β = –0.47, 95% CI: –0.87, –0.07) and percent body fat (β = –4.36, 95% CI: –8.37, –0.34) and decreased odds of overweight/obesity [odds ratio (OR) = 0.37, 95% CI: 0.16, 0.91] compared with girls in the lowest tertile. These findings were strongest in prepubertal girls. Urinary BPA concentrations at 5 years of age were not associated with any anthropometric parameters at 5 or 9 years, but BPA concentrations at 9 years were positively associated with BMI, waist circumference, fat mass, and overweight/obesity at 9 years in boys and girls. Conclusions: Consistent with other cross-sectional studies, higher urinary BPA concentrations at 9 years of age were associated with increased adiposity at 9 years. However, increasing BPA concentrations in mothers during pregnancy were associated with decreased BMI, body fat, and overweight/obesity among their daughters at 9 years of age. PMID:23416456

Prenatal Exposure to Organophosphate Pesticides and IQ in 7-Year-Old Children

PubMed Central

Bouchard, Maryse F.; Chevrier, Jonathan; Harley, Kim G.; Kogut, Katherine; Vedar, Michelle; Calderon, Norma; Trujillo, Celina; Johnson, Caroline; Bradman, Asa; Barr, Dana Boyd

2011-01-01

Context: Organophosphate (OP) pesticides are neurotoxic at high doses. Few studies have examined whether chronic exposure at lower levels could adversely affect children’s cognitive development. Objective: We examined associations between prenatal and postnatal exposure to OP pesticides and cognitive abilities in school-age children. Methods: We conducted a birth cohort study (Center for the Health Assessment of Mothers and Children of Salinas study) among predominantly Latino farmworker families from an agricultural community in California. We assessed exposure to OP pesticides by measuring dialkyl phosphate (DAP) metabolites in urine collected during pregnancy and from children at 6 months and 1, 2, 3.5, and 5 years of age. We administered the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, 4th edition, to 329 children 7 years of age. Analyses were adjusted for maternal education and intelligence, Home Observation for Measurement of the Environment score, and language of cognitive assessment. Results: Urinary DAP concentrations measured during the first and second half of pregnancy had similar relations to cognitive scores, so we used the average of concentrations measured during pregnancy in further analyses. Averaged maternal DAP concentrations were associated with poorer scores for Working Memory, Processing Speed, Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Reasoning, and Full-Scale intelligence quotient (IQ). Children in the highest quintile of maternal DAP concentrations had an average deficit of 7.0 IQ points compared with those in the lowest quintile. However, children’s urinary DAP concentrations were not consistently associated with cognitive scores. Conclusions: Prenatal but not postnatal urinary DAP concentrations were associated with poorer intellectual development in 7-year-old children. Maternal urinary DAP concentrations in the present study were higher but nonetheless within the range of levels measured in the general U.S. population. PMID:21507776

Pregnancy urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and gestational diabetes risk factors.

PubMed

James-Todd, Tamarra M; Meeker, John D; Huang, Tianyi; Hauser, Russ; Ferguson, Kelly K; Rich-Edwards, Janet W; McElrath, Thomas F; Seely, Ellen W

2016-11-01

Epidemiologic studies suggest phthalate metabolite concentrations are associated with type 2 diabetes. GDM is a strong risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Little is known about phthalates and GDM risk factors (i.e. 1st trimester body mass index (BMI), gestational weight gain (GWG), and 2nd trimester glucose levels). A total of 350 women participating in Lifecodes pregnancy cohort (Boston, MA), delivered at term and had pregnancy urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations. Nine specific gravity-adjusted urinary phthalate metabolites were evaluated. General linear regression was used to assess associations between quartiles of phthalate metabolites and continuous 1st trimester BMI and late 2nd trimester blood glucose. Linear mixed models were used for total GWG. Multivariable logistic regression was used for phthalate concentrations and categorized GWG and impaired glucose tolerance defined as glucose≥140mg/dL based on a 50-gram glucose load test. Models were adjusted for potential confounders. There were no associations between 1st trimester urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and 1st trimester BMI. Mono-ethyl phthalate concentrations averaged across pregnancy were associated with a 2.17 increased odds of excessive GWG (95% CI: 0.98, 4.79). Second trimester mono-ethyl phthalate was associated with increased odds of impaired glucose tolerance (adj. OR: 7.18; 95% CI: 1.97, 26.15). A summary measure of di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate metabolite concentrations were inversely associated with impaired glucose tolerance (adj. OR: 0.25; adj. 95% CI: 0.08, 0.85). Higher exposure to mono-ethyl phthalate, a metabolite of the parent compound of di-ethyl phthalate, may be associated with excessive GWG and impaired glucose tolerance; higher di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate was associated with reduced odds of impaired glucose tolerance. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Pregnancy urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and gestational diabetes risk factors

PubMed Central

James-Todd, TM; Meeker, JD; Huang, T; Hauser, R; Ferguson, KK; Rich-Edwards, JW; McElrath, TF; Seely, EW

2016-01-01

Background Epidemiologic studies suggest phthalate metabolite concentrations are associated with type 2 diabetes. GDM is a strong risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Little is known about phthalates and GDM risk factors (i.e. 1st trimester body mass index (BMI), gestational weight gain (GWG), and 2nd trimester glucose levels). Methods A total of 350 women participating in Lifecodes pregnancy cohort (Boston, MA), delivered at term and had pregnancy urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations. Nine specific gravity-adjusted urinary phthalate metabolites were evaluated. General linear regression was used to assess associations between quartiles of phthalate metabolites and continuous 1st trimester BMI and late 2nd trimester blood glucose. Linear mixed models were used for total GWG. Multivariable logistic regression was used for phthalate concentrations and categorized GWG and impaired glucose tolerance defined as glucose ≥ 140mg/dL based on a 50-gram glucose load test. Models were adjusted for potential confounders. Results There were no associations between 1st trimester urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and 1st trimester BMI. Mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP) concentrations averaged across pregnancy were associated with a 2.17 increased odds of excessive GWG (95% CI: 0.98, 4.79). Second trimester MEP was associated with an increased odds of impaired glucose tolerance (adj. OR: 7.18; 95% CI: 1.97, 26.15). Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate metabolite concentrations were inversely associated with impaired glucose tolerance (adj. OR: 0.25; adj. 95% CI: 0.08, 0.85). Conclusions Higher exposure to di-ethyl phthalate, the parent compound of MEP, may be associated with excessive GWG and impaired glucose tolerance; higher di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate was associated with reduced odds of impaired glucose tolerance. PMID:27649471

Urinary and Milk Iodine Status in Neonates and Their Mothers during Congenital Hypothyroidism Screening Program in Eastern Azerbaijan: A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

MOBASSERI, Majid; ROSHANRAVAN, Neda; MESRI ALAMDARI, Naimeh; OSTADRAHIMI, Alireza; ASGHARI JAFARABADI, Mohammad; ANARI, Farideh; HEDAYATI, Mehdi

2014-01-01

Abstract Background Iodine is essential element in thyroid hormones synthesis and normal growth and development of the brain. Milk and iodine concentrations can be appropriate indicator of body iodine status; in this study, we evaluated the concentrations of urine and milk iodine in newborns and their mothers. Methods In a cross-sectional study conducted in 2013, urine and milk iodine in 106 neonates and their mothers referred to healthcare center in Shabestar, Eastern Azerbaijan for congenital hypothyroidism screening program were determined. Median urinary iodine < 100 µg/L and milk iodine < 50 µg/L was considered as iodine deficiency. Results The median urine iodine concentrations (UIC) in mothers and infants were 142.31 µg/L (.0 - 1260) and 306.76 µg/L (23.56-1020) respectively. Urine iodine concentrations were < 100 µg/L in 33.9% of mothers and 14.2% of neonates. The median milk iodine concentration (MIC) was 58.23 µg/L (20.31- 425) and in 41.9% of mothers was <50 µg/L. A positive significant correlation was found between milk iodine and maternal urinary iodine concentration (r=0.533, P= 0.000). There was significant correlation between neonatal UIC and maternal UIC (r=0.462, P= 0.000), neonatal UIC and MIC (r=0.414, P= 0.000). Conclusions Urinary and milk iodine concentrations in mothers and infants were within acceptable range, which indicates adequate iodine intake. However, there were moderate and marginal iodine deficiencies in about half percentage of participants. Insufficient amount of milk iodine in about half of the mothers can result in iodine deficiency in breast-fed infants. PMID:26060700

Exposure estimates to disinfection by-products of chlorinated drinking water.

PubMed Central

Weisel, C P; Kim, H; Haltmeier, P; Klotz, J B

1999-01-01

Exposure to disinfection by-products (DBPs) of drinking water is multiroute and occurs in households serviced by municipal water treatment facilities that disinfect the water as a necessary step to halt the spread of waterborne infectious diseases. Biomarkers of the two most abundant groups of DBPs of chlorination, exhaled breath levels of trihalomethanes (THMs) and urinary levels of two haloacetic acids, were compared to exposure estimates calculated from in-home tap water concentrations and responses to a questionnaire related to water usage. Background THM breath concentrations were uniformly low. Strong relationships were identified between the THM breath concentrations collected after a shower and both the THM water concentration and the THM exposure from a shower, after adjusting for the postshower delay time in collecting the breath sample. Urinary haloacetic acid excretion rates were not correlated to water concentrations. Urinary trichloroacetic acid excretion rates were correlated with ingestion exposure, and that correlation was stronger in a subset of individuals who consumed beverages primarily within their home where the concentration measurements were made. No correlation was observed between an average 48-hr exposure estimate and the urinary dichloroacetic acid excretion rate, presumably because of its short biological half-life. Valid biomarkers were identified for DBP exposures, but the time between the exposure and sample collection should be considered to account for different metabolic rates among the DBPs. Further, using water concentration as an exposure estimate can introduce misclassification of exposure for DBPs whose primary route is ingestion due to the great variability in the amount of water ingested across a population. Images Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 PMID:9924004

A case of gain-of-function mutation in calcium-sensing receptor: supplemental hydration is required for renal protection.

PubMed

Suzuki, M; Aso, T; Sato, T; Michimata, M; Kazama, I; Saiki, H; Hatano, R; Ejima, Y; Miyama, N; Sato, A; Matsubara, M

2005-06-01

The calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) regulates the extracellular calcium level, mainly by controlling parathyroid hormon secretion and renal calcium reabsorption. In gain-of-function CaSR mutations, the genetic abnormalities increase CaSR activity leading to the development of such clinical manifestations as hypercalciuric hypocalcemia and hypoparathyroidism. We report a Japanese case of CaSR gain-of-function mutation and represent a therapeutic intervention based on the functional characteristics of CaSR in renal tubule. DNA sequence analysis revealed a heterozygous G to T mutation identified in a 12-year-old Japanese girl presenting with sporadic onset of hypercalciuric hypocalcemia and hypoparathyroidism. The mutation is located in the N-terminal extracellular domain of the CaSR gene, one of the most important parts for the three-dimensional construction of the receptor, resulting in the substitution of phenylalanine for cysteine at amino acid 131 (C131F) in exon 3. Based on the diagnosis of the gain-of-function mutation in the CaSR, oral hydrochlorothiazide administration and supplemental hydration were started in addition to calcium supplementation. The combination therapy of thiazide and supplemental hydration markedly reduced both renal calcium excretion and urinary calcium concentration from 0.4-0.7 to less than 0.1 mg/mg (urinary calcium/creatinine ratio) and from 10-15 to 3-5 mg/dl (urinary calcium concentration), respectively. This therapy stopped the progression of renal calcification during the follow-up period. Supplemental hydration should be considered essential for the following reasons: (1) calcium supplementation activates the CaSR in the kidney and suppresses renal urinary concentrating ability, (2) the thiazide has a diuretic effect, (3) as calcium supplementation increases renal calcium excretion, the supplemental hydration decreases urinary calcium concentration by increasing urinary volume, thereby diminishing the risk of intratubular crystallization of calcium ion.

Soy Intake Modifies the Relation Between Urinary Bisphenol A Concentrations and Pregnancy Outcomes Among Women Undergoing Assisted Reproduction.

PubMed

Chavarro, Jorge E; Mínguez-Alarcón, Lidia; Chiu, Yu-Han; Gaskins, Audrey J; Souter, Irene; Williams, Paige L; Calafat, Antonia M; Hauser, Russ

2016-03-01

Experimental data in rodents suggest that the adverse reproductive health effects of bisphenol A (BPA) can be modified by intake of soy phytoestrogens. Whether the same is true in humans is not known. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether soy consumption modifies the relation between urinary BPA levels and infertility treatment outcomes among women undergoing assisted reproduction. The study was conducted in a fertility center in a teaching hospital. We evaluated 239 women enrolled between 2007 and 2012 in the Environment and Reproductive Health (EARTH) Study, a prospective cohort study, who underwent 347 in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. Participants completed a baseline questionnaire and provided up to 2 urine samples in each treatment cycle before oocyte retrieval. IVF outcomes were abstracted from electronic medical records. We used generalized linear mixed models with interaction terms to evaluate whether the association between urinary BPA concentrations and IVF outcomes was modified by soy intake. Live birth rates per initiated treatment cycle were measured. Soy food consumption modified the association of urinary BPA concentration with live birth rates (P for interaction = .01). Among women who did not consume soy foods, the adjusted live birth rates per initiated cycle in increasing quartiles of cycle-specific urinary BPA concentrations were 54%, 35%, 31%, and 17% (P for trend = .03). The corresponding live birth rates among women reporting pretreatment consumption of soy foods were 38%, 42%, 47%, and 49% (P for trend = 0.35). A similar pattern was found for implantation (P for interaction = .02) and clinical pregnancy rates (P for interaction = .03) per initiated cycle, where urinary BPA was inversely related to these outcomes among women not consuming soy foods but unrelated to them among soy consumers. Soy food intake may protect against the adverse reproductive effects of BPA. As these findings represent the first report suggesting a potential interaction between soy and BPA in humans, they should be further evaluated in other populations.

Using a simulation model to assess risk of false negative point-of-care urinary human chorionic gonadotropin device results due to high-dose hook interference.

PubMed

Milhorn, Denise; Korpi-Steiner, Nichole

2015-02-01

It is unclear if the point-of-care (POC) Clinitest hCG device is subject to high-dose hook interference from physiological concentrations of intact human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), β-core fragment of hCG (hCGβcf), and hCG free β-subunit (hCGβ) found in urine during pregnancy. We used a simulation model to address this question and related our findings to our institution's pregnant population in order to assess risk for potential false-negative hCG results. The expected distribution of days relative to ovulation during routine POC hCG testing was estimated from 182 patients. Clinitest-Clinitek Status hCG device susceptibility to high-dose hook interference from hCG variants and potential risk of false-negative results as it relates to this population were evaluated by testing increasing concentrations of hCG, hCGβcf, hCGβ as well as urine simulating physiological hCG, hCGβcf and hCGβ concentrations expected during early pregnancy (≤44 days post-ovulation). The Clinitest-Clinitek Status hCG device exhibited high-dose hook interference from hCGβcf alone, but not from hCG, hCGβ, or simulated physiological urinary concentrations of combined hCG, hCGβcf and hCGβ expected during early pregnancy. The majority of our patient population had urinary hCG testing conducted during early pregnancy. The Clinitest-Clinitek Status hCG device is unlikely to exhibit false-negative urinary hCG results due to high-dose hook interference for women in early healthy pregnancy, although additional studies are necessary to determine potential risk in other patient populations. Visual interpretation of POC urinary hCG device results is an important failure mode to consider in risk analyses for erroneous urinary hCG device results. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Iodine status and thyroid function of Boston-area vegetarians and vegans.

PubMed

Leung, Angela M; Lamar, Andrew; He, Xuemei; Braverman, Lewis E; Pearce, Elizabeth N

2011-08-01

Adequate dietary iodine is required for normal thyroid function. The iodine status and thyroid function of U.S. vegetarians and vegans have not been previously studied. Environmental perchlorate and thiocyanate (inhibitors of thyroid iodine uptake) exposures may adversely affect thyroid function. The objective of the study was to assess the iodine status and thyroid function of U.S. vegetarians (consume plant based products, eggs, milk; abstain from meat, poultry, fish, shellfish) and vegans (avoid all animal products) and whether these may be affected by environmental perchlorate and thiocyanate exposures. This was a cross-sectional assessment of urinary iodine, perchlorate, and thiocyanate concentrations and serum thyroid function in Boston-area vegetarians and vegans. One hundred forty-one subjects (78 vegetarians, 63 vegans) were recruited; one vegan was excluded. Median urinary iodine concentration of vegans (78.5 μg/liter; range 6.8-964.7 μg/liter) was lower than vegetarians (147.0 μg/liter; range 9.3-778.6 μg/liter) (P < 0.01). Adjusted for cigarette smoking (confirmed by urinary cotinine levels) and thiocyanate-rich food consumption, median urinary thiocyanate concentration of vegans (630 μg/liter; range 108-3085 μg/liter) was higher than vegetarians (341 μg/liter; range 31-1963 μg/liter) (P < 0.01). There were no between-group differences in urinary perchlorate concentrations (P = 0.75), TSH (P = 0.46), and free T(4) (P = 0.77). Urinary iodine, perchlorate, and thiocyanate levels were not associated with TSH (P = 0.59) or free T(4) (P = 0.14), even when adjusted for multiple variables. U.S. vegetarians are iodine sufficient. U.S. vegans may be at risk for low iodine intake, and vegan women of child-bearing age should supplement with 150 μg iodine daily. Environmental perchlorate and thiocyanate exposures are not associated with thyroid dysfunction in these groups.

Iodine Status and Thyroid Function of Boston-Area Vegetarians and Vegans

PubMed Central

LaMar, Andrew; He, Xuemei; Braverman, Lewis E.; Pearce, Elizabeth N.

2011-01-01

Context: Adequate dietary iodine is required for normal thyroid function. The iodine status and thyroid function of U.S. vegetarians and vegans have not been previously studied. Environmental perchlorate and thiocyanate (inhibitors of thyroid iodine uptake) exposures may adversely affect thyroid function. Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the iodine status and thyroid function of U.S. vegetarians (consume plant based products, eggs, milk; abstain from meat, poultry, fish, shellfish) and vegans (avoid all animal products) and whether these may be affected by environmental perchlorate and thiocyanate exposures. Design and Setting: This was a cross-sectional assessment of urinary iodine, perchlorate, and thiocyanate concentrations and serum thyroid function in Boston-area vegetarians and vegans. Subjects: One hundred forty-one subjects (78 vegetarians, 63 vegans) were recruited; one vegan was excluded. Results: Median urinary iodine concentration of vegans (78.5 μg/liter; range 6.8–964.7 μg/liter) was lower than vegetarians (147.0 μg/liter; range 9.3–778.6 μg/liter) (P < 0.01). Adjusted for cigarette smoking (confirmed by urinary cotinine levels) and thiocyanate-rich food consumption, median urinary thiocyanate concentration of vegans (630 μg/liter; range 108-3085 μg/liter) was higher than vegetarians (341 μg/liter; range 31–1963 μg/liter) (P < 0.01). There were no between-group differences in urinary perchlorate concentrations (P = 0.75), TSH (P = 0.46), and free T4 (P = 0.77). Urinary iodine, perchlorate, and thiocyanate levels were not associated with TSH (P = 0.59) or free T4 (P = 0.14), even when adjusted for multiple variables. Conclusions: U.S. vegetarians are iodine sufficient. U.S. vegans may be at risk for low iodine intake, and vegan women of child-bearing age should supplement with 150 μg iodine daily. Environmental perchlorate and thiocyanate exposures are not associated with thyroid dysfunction in these groups. PMID:21613354

Plasma asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) levels in Mexican women exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs): A preliminary study.

PubMed

Pruneda-Alvarez, Lucía G; Ruíz-Vera, Tania; Ochoa-Martínez, Angeles C; Pérez-Vázquez, Francisco J; González Palomo, Ana K; Ilizaliturri-Hernández, Cesar A; Pérez-Maldonado, Iván N

2016-12-01

Recent studies indicate that exposure to environmental pollutants (as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) is a very important risk factor for development of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Correspondingly, in recent times asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) has been proposed as a new and meaningful biomarker predictor for the risk of CVDs. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate plasma ADMA concentrations in Mexican women (n=155) exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Urinary 1-hydroxypyrene [(1-OHP), exposure biomarker for PAHs] levels were quantified using a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique and plasma ADMA concentrations were analyzed using a commercially available ELISA kit. Urinary 1-OHP levels in all women assessed ranged from

Effects on milk urea concentration, urine output, and drinking water intake from incremental doses of potassium bicarbonate fed to mid-lactation dairy cows.

PubMed

Eriksson, T; Rustas, B-O

2014-07-01

Large variation exists in the potassium content of dairy cow feeds and also within a feed type due to soil type and fertilization. Increased ration K concentration causes a subsequent increase in urinary volume and could be expected to also lower milk urea concentration. Six multiparous mid-lactation Swedish Red dairy cows, all fitted with rumen cannulas, were subjected to 3 different levels of K intake in a Latin square experiment with three 2-wk periods to evaluate the effects on concentrations of milk urea and rumen ammonia, urinary output, and drinking water intake. The treatments were achieved by K supplementation on top of a low-K basal ration fed at individual allowances fixed throughout the experiment. The basal ration, consumed at 20.2 kg of dry matter (DM)/d, provided 165 g of crude protein/kg of DM and consisted of grass silage, concentrates, and urea in the proportions 39.3:60.0:0.7 on a DM basis. Potassium bicarbonate supplementation was 0, 616, and 1,142 g/d, respectively, to give total ration K concentrations that were low (LO; 12 g/kg of DM), medium (MED; 23 g/kg of DM), or high (HI; 32 g/kg of DM). Production and composition of milk was not affected by treatment. A linear effect on milk urea concentration was detected, being 4.48, 4.18, and 3.77 mM for LO, MED, and HI, respectively, and a linear tendency for rumen ammonia concentration with 6.65, 6.51, and 5.84 mg of NH₃-N/dL for LO, MED, and HI, respectively. Milk urea concentration peaked about 3h after the rumen ammonia peak from the morning feeding, at a level 1.3mM over the baseline. Urinary urea excretion declined linearly (105, 103, and 98 g of urea-N/d for LO, MED, and HI, respectively). Linear increases occurred in urinary output (0.058 ± 0.001 kg of urine/g of K intake; no intercept; coefficient of determination=0.997) and drinking water intake (65.9 ± 2.02 + 0.069 ± 0.004 kg of water/g of K intake; coefficient of determination=0.95). Urinary K concentration leveled off at 12.4 g/L. Urinary creatinine excretion was not affected by K addition, but allantoin excretion increased linearly by 27% from LO to HI, suggesting increased rumen microbial growth. Rumen pH, acetate proportion of total volatile fatty acids, and digestibility of DM, organic matter, and neutral detergent fiber increased linearly with increasing potassium intake. We concluded that increased ration K concentration lowers milk urea concentration with a magnitude significant for the interpretation of milk urea values, but other sources of variation, such as sampling time relative to feeding, may be even more important. Copyright © 2014 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Efficacy of Bulbar Urethral Mobilization for Anastomotic Anterior Urethroplasty in a Case With Recurrent Anterior Urethral Stricture

PubMed Central

Fukui, Shinji; Aoki, Katsuya; Kaneko, Yoshiteru; Samma, Shoji; Fujimoto, Kiyohide

2014-01-01

A 2-month-old boy was diagnosed with febrile urinary tract infection. Voiding cystourethrography showed bulbar and anterior urethral strictures, and endoscopic internal urethrotomy was performed. He developed febrile urinary tract infection again and revealed the recurrence of the anterior urethral stricture. Consequently, endoscopic internal urethrotomy was performed 4 times. Because the anterior urethral stricture had not improved, he was referred to us. Anterior urethroplasty was performed when he was 5 years. After excision of the scarred portions of the urethra, the defect of the urethra was 20 mm. Transperineal bulbar urethral mobilization was performed, and a single-stage end-to-end anterior urethroplasty without tension could be performed simultaneously. PMID:26955558

The Efficacy of Bulbar Urethral Mobilization for Anastomotic Anterior Urethroplasty in a Case With Recurrent Anterior Urethral Stricture.

PubMed

Fukui, Shinji; Aoki, Katsuya; Kaneko, Yoshiteru; Samma, Shoji; Fujimoto, Kiyohide

2014-05-01

A 2-month-old boy was diagnosed with febrile urinary tract infection. Voiding cystourethrography showed bulbar and anterior urethral strictures, and endoscopic internal urethrotomy was performed. He developed febrile urinary tract infection again and revealed the recurrence of the anterior urethral stricture. Consequently, endoscopic internal urethrotomy was performed 4 times. Because the anterior urethral stricture had not improved, he was referred to us. Anterior urethroplasty was performed when he was 5 years. After excision of the scarred portions of the urethra, the defect of the urethra was 20 mm. Transperineal bulbar urethral mobilization was performed, and a single-stage end-to-end anterior urethroplasty without tension could be performed simultaneously.

Major metabolite of F2-isoprostane in urine may be a more sensitive biomarker of oxidative stress than isoprostane itself1234

PubMed Central

Dorjgochoo, Tsogzolmaa; Gao, Yu-Tang; Chow, Wong-Ho; Shu, Xiao-ou; Yang, Gong; Cai, Qiuyin; Rothman, Nathaniel; Cai, Hui; Li, Honglan; Deng, Xinqing; Franke, Adrian; Roberts, L Jackson; Milne, Ginger; Zheng, Wei; Dai, Qi

2012-01-01

Background: There is limited literature on the contributors to isoprostane metabolite 2,3-dinor-5,6-dihydro-15-F2t-isoprostane (15-F2t-IsoP-M) compared with F2-isoprostanes (F2-IsoPs) as an oxidative stress biomarker. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate whether plasma concentrations of antioxidants, urinary excretion rates of polyphenols, and antioxidants in food and dietary supplements are attributable to both urinary F2-IsoP and 15-F2t-IsoP-M concentrations. Design: Dietary intake information and blood and urine samples were obtained from 845 healthy middle-aged and elderly female participants of the Shanghai Women's Health Study. Urinary isoprostanes (F2-IsoPs and 15-F2t-IsoP-M) were measured and adjusted for creatinine concentrations. Results: Urinary 15-F2t-IsoP-M and F2-IsoP concentrations were lower in subjects who used a multivitamin. Lower F2-IsoP concentrations were observed in ginseng users, whereas lower concentrations of 15-F2t-IsoP-M were shown in subjects who used a vitamin E supplement. Plasma concentrations of several antioxidants (ie, β-carotenes, both trans and cis β-carotenes, lycopene other than trans, 5-cis and 7-cis isomers, cis anhydrolutein, and cis β-cryptoxanthin) were inversely associated with 15-F2t-IsoP-M but not with F2-IsoPs, whereas β-, γ-, and δ-tocopherols were positively associated with 15-F2t-IsoP-M but not with F2-IsoPs. Urinary polyphenol quercetin was positively associated with both F2-IsoPs and 15-F2t-IsoP-M. Conclusion: The results suggest that the F2-IsoP major metabolite 15-F2t-IsoP-M may be a more sensitive marker of endogenous oxidative stress status than are F2-IsoPs in the assessment of effects of antioxidants on age-related diseases. PMID:22760572

Variability of Urinary Phthalate Metabolite and Bisphenol A Concentrations before and during Pregnancy

PubMed Central

Braun, Joe M.; Smith, Kristen W.; Williams, Paige L.; Calafat, Antonia M.; Berry, Katharine; Ehrlich, Shelley

2012-01-01

Background: Gestational phthalate and bisphenol A (BPA) exposure may increase the risk of adverse maternal/child health outcomes, but there are few data on the variability of urinary biomarkers before and during pregnancy. Objective: We characterized the variability of urinary phthalate metabolite and BPA concentrations before and during pregnancy and the ability of a single spot urine sample to classify average gestational exposure. Methods: We collected 1,001 urine samples before and during pregnancy from 137 women who were partners in couples attending a Boston fertility clinic and who had a live birth. Women provided spot urine samples before (n ≥ 2) and during (n ≥ 2) pregnancy. We measured urinary concentrations of monoethyl phthalate (MEP), mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP), mono-iso-butyl phthalate, monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP), four metabolites of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), and BPA. After adjusting for specific gravity, we characterized biomarker variability using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and conducted several surrogate category analyses to determine whether a single spot urine sample could adequately classify average gestational exposure. Results: Absolute concentrations of phthalate metabolites and BPA were similar before and during pregnancy. Variability was higher during pregnancy than before pregnancy for BPA and MBzP, but similar during and before pregnancy for MBP, MEP, and ΣDEHP. During pregnancy, MEP (ICC = 0.50) and MBP (ICC = 0.45) were less variable than BPA (ICC = 0.12), MBzP (ICC = 0.25), and ΣDEHP metabolites (ICC = 0.08). Surrogate analyses suggested that a single spot urine sample may reasonably classify MEP and MBP concentrations during pregnancy, but more than one sample may be necessary for MBzP, DEHP, and BPA. Conclusions: Urinary phthalate metabolites and BPA concentrations were variable before and during pregnancy, but the magnitude of variability was biomarker specific. A single spot urine sample adequately classified MBP and MEP concentrations during pregnancy. The present results may be related to unique features of the women studied, and replication in other pregnancy cohorts is recommended. PMID:22262702

Urinary and Dietary Analysis of 18,470 Bangladeshis Reveal a Correlation of Rice Consumption with Arsenic Exposure and Toxicity

PubMed Central

Melkonian, Stephanie; Argos, Maria; Hall, Megan N.; Chen, Yu; Parvez, Faruque; Pierce, Brandon; Cao, Hongyuan; Aschebrook-Kilfoy, Briseis; Ahmed, Alauddin; Islam, Tariqul; Slavcovich, Vesna; Gamble, Mary; Haris, Parvez I.; Graziano, Joseph H.; Ahsan, Habibul

2013-01-01

Background We utilized data from the Health Effects of Arsenic Longitudinal Study (HEALS) in Araihazar, Bangladesh, to evaluate the association of steamed rice consumption with urinary total arsenic concentration and arsenical skin lesions in the overall study cohort (N=18,470) and in a subset with available urinary arsenic metabolite data (N=4,517). Methods General linear models with standardized beta coefficients were used to estimate associations between steamed rice consumption and urinary total arsenic concentration and urinary arsenic metabolites. Logistic regression models were used to estimate prevalence odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the associations between rice intake and prevalent skin lesions at baseline. Discrete time hazard models were used to estimate discrete time (HRs) ratios and their 95% CIs for the associations between rice intake and incident skin lesions. Results Steamed rice consumption was positively associated with creatinine-adjusted urinary total arsenic (β=0.041, 95% CI: 0.032-0.051) and urinary total arsenic with statistical adjustment for creatinine in the model (β=0.043, 95% CI: 0.032-0.053). Additionally, we observed a significant trend in skin lesion prevalence (P-trend=0.007) and a moderate trend in skin lesion incidence (P-trend=0.07) associated with increased intake of steamed rice. Conclusions This study suggests that rice intake may be a source of arsenic exposure beyond drinking water. PMID:24260455

ASSOCIATION OF URINARY PERCHLORATE WITH INDIRECT MEASURES OFTHYROID DYSFUNCTION BASED ON NHANES 2001-2002

EPA Science Inventory

Background/Aims: Perchlorate is a widespread environmental pollutant. Previous population studies based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001-2002, showed that urinary perchlorate concentrations were associated with increased levels of thyroid stim...

Kidney injury biomarkers and urinary creatinine variability in nominally healthy adults

EPA Science Inventory

Environmental exposure diagnostics use creatinine concentrations in urine aliquots as the internal standard for dilution normalization of all other excreted metabolites when urinary excretion rate data are not available. This is a reasonable approach for healthy adults as creati...

RELIABILITY OF BIOMARKERS OF PESTICIDE EXPOSURE AMONG CHILDREN AND ADULTS IN CTEPP OHIO

EPA Science Inventory

Urinary biomarkers offer the potential for providing an efficient tool for exposure classification by reflecting the aggregate of all exposure routes. Substantial variability observed in urinary pesticide metabolite concentrations over short periods of time, however, has cast so...

Urinary concentrations of acrylamide (AA) and N-acetyl-S-(2-carbamoylethyl)-cysteine (AAMA) and associations with demographic factors in the South Korean population.

PubMed

Lee, Jin Heon; Lee, Kee Jae; Ahn, Ryoungme; Kang, Hee Sook

2014-09-01

Acrylamide (AA) and N-acetyl-S-(2-carbamoylethyl)-cysteine (AAMA) are important urinary biomarkers of acrylamide exposure in human biomonitoring, because AA is classified as a probable carcinogen in humans. In this study, urinary AA and AAMA were assessed in the South Korean adult population aged 18-69, based on the Korean National Human Biomonitoring Survey conducted in 2009. Urinary metabolites in samples were analyzed with LC-MS/MS system. Relying on data from 1873 representative South Korean adults, the population-weighted geometric means of urinary AA and AAMA concentrations were 6.8 ng/ml (95% CI: 6.4-7.3), and 30.0 ng/ml (95% confidence interval (CI): 28.2-31.8), respectively. The creatinine-adjusted geometric means of AA and AAMA were 6.2 μg/g creatinine (95% CI: 5.8-6.7) and 26.4μg/g creatinine (95% CI: 24.9-28.0), respectively. When covariates for predictors of urinary metabolites were adjusted simultaneously in a log-linear multiple regressions, the strongest predictors of urinary AA were education (OR=1.08-1.28; 95% CI: 1.11-1.48; p=0.0024) and age (OR=0.66-0.84; 95% CI: 0.54-0.97; p=0.0003), and those of urinary AAMA were smoking status (OR=1.16-2.63; 95% CI: 0.98-3.08; p=0.001) and education (OR=1.12-1.19; 95% CI: 1.02-1.38; p=0.0425). The ratio of current/never smokers for urinary AA was 1.3, whereas the same ratio for urinary AAMA was 3.0. These findings suggested that most South Koreans had detectable levels of AA and AAMA (98.7% and 99.4%, respectively) in their urine and that the body burden of AA and AAMA varied according to demographic, geographic, and lifestyle (smoking) factors. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Origin of Urinary Oxalate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holmes, Ross P.; Knight, John; Assimos, Dean G.

2007-04-01

Urinary oxalate is mostly derived from the absorption of ingested oxalate and endogenous synthesis. The breakdown of vitamin C may also contribute small amounts to the urinary oxalate pool. The amount of oxalate absorbed is influenced by the oxalate content of the diet, the concentrations of divalent cations in the gut, the presence of oxalate-degrading organisms, transport characteristics of the intestinal epithelium, and other factors associated with the intestinal environment. Knowledge of pathways associated with endogenous oxalate synthesis is limited. Urinary oxalate excretion can be modified using strategies that limit dietary oxalate absorption and the ingestion of oxalogenic substrates such as hydroxyproline.

Urinary Concentrations of Bisphenols and Their Association with Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress in People Living Near E-Waste Recycling Facilities in China.

PubMed

Zhang, Tao; Xue, Jingchuan; Gao, Chuan-zi; Qiu, Rong-liang; Li, Yan-xi; Li, Xiao; Huang, Ming-zhi; Kannan, Kurunthachalam

2016-04-05

In this study, concentrations of bisphenol A (BPA) and seven other bisphenols (BPs) were measured in urine samples collected from people living in and around e-waste dismantling facilities, and in matched reference population from rural and urban areas in China. BPA, bisphenol S (BPS), and bisphenol F (BPF) were frequently detected (detection frequencies: > 90%) in urine samples collected from individuals who live near e-waste facilities, with geometric mean (GM) concentrations of 2.99 (or 3.75), 0.361 (or 0.469), and 0.349 (or 0.435) ng/mL (or μg/g Cre), respectively; the other five BPs were rarely found in urine samples, regardless of the sampling location. The urinary concentrations of BPA and BPF, but not BPS, were significantly higher in individuals from e-waste recycling locations than did individuals from a rural reference location. Our findings indicated that e-waste dismantling activities contribute to human exposure to BPA and BPF. 8-Hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) was measured in urine as a marker of oxidative stress. In the e-waste dismantling location, urinary 8-OHdG was significantly and positively correlated (p < 0.001) with urinary BPA and BPS, but not BPF; a similar correlation was also observed in reference sites. These findings suggest that BPA and BPS exposures are associated with elevated oxidative stress.

An evaluation of the effect of age and the peri-parturient period on bone metabolism in dairy cows as measured by serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase activity and urinary deoxypyridinoline concentration.

PubMed

Sato, Reiichiro; Onda, Ken; Kato, Hajime; Ochiai, Hideharu; Kawai, Kazuhiro; Iriki, Tsunenori; Kaneko, Kazuyuki; Yamazaki, Yukio; Wada, Yasunori

2013-08-01

Various biochemical markers help to evaluate the state of bone turnover in humans and could be used during the peri-parturient period in dairy cows when calcium (Ca) metabolism changes dramatically. To investigate this, the peri-partum characteristics of serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP) and urinary deoxypyridinoline (DPD) were investigated. Both serum BAP activity and urinary DPD concentrations were increased and demonstrated wide variability in younger animals, and these findings were consistent with other bone turnover markers. Around the time of parturition, serum Ca concentration and serum BAP activity in multiparous cows were significantly lower than in primiparous cows, but urinary DPD concentration was unchanged. The use of BAP as a bone formation marker appears to be valuable for evaluating bone remodelling status in cows, but the specificity of the test needs to be confirmed. The DPD/BAP ratio around parturition demonstrated a clear difference in bone turnover status between the two parity groups with multiparous cows demonstrating increased signs of bone resorption compared with primiparous cows, corresponding to the Ca requirement for milk production. In future studies, the applicability of the ratio of bone resorption marker to bone formation marker should be evaluated for bone turnover assessment. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Effects of Low-Dose Creatine Supplementation Versus Creatine Loading in Collegiate Football Players

PubMed Central

Deivert, Richard G.; Hagerman, Frederick; Gilders, Roger

2001-01-01

Objective: To compare the effects of low doses of creatine and creatine loading on strength, urinary creatinine concentration, and percentage of body fat. Design and Setting: Division IA collegiate football players took creatine monohydrate for 10 weeks during a sport-specific, periodized, off-season strength and conditioning program. One-repetition maximum (1-RM) squat, urinary creatinine concentrations, and percentage of body fat were analyzed. Subjects: Twenty-five highly trained, Division IA collegiate football players with at least 1 year of college playing experience. Measurements: We tested strength with a 1-RM squat exercise before, during, and after creatine supplementation. Percentage of body fat was measured by hydrostatic weighing before and after supplementation. Urinary creatinine concentration was measured via light spectrophotometer at 0, 1, 3, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, 48, 56, and 63 days. An analysis of variance with repeated measures was computed to compare means for all variables. Results: Creatine supplementation had no significant group, time, or interaction effects on strength, urinary creatinine concentration, or percentage of body fat. However, significant time effects were found for 1-RM squat and fat-free mass in all groups. Conclusions: Our data suggest that creatine monohydrate in any amount does not have any beneficial ergogenic effects in highly trained collegiate football players. However, a proper resistance training stimulus for 10 weeks can increase strength and fat-free mass in highly trained athletes. PMID:12937451

Horseradish extract promotes urinary bladder carcinogenesis when administered to F344 rats in drinking water.

PubMed

Cho, Young-Man; Hasumura, Mai; Imai, Toshio; Takami, Shigeaki; Nishikawa, Akiyoshi; Ogawa, Kumiko

2017-07-01

Horseradish extract (HRE), consisting mainly of a mixture of allyl isothiocyanate and other isothiocyanates, has been used as a food additive. To evaluate the potential hazards of HRE, a 104-week chronic study, a 2-week analysis of cell proliferation in the urinary bladder and a medium-term promotion bioassay of HRE were conducted with administration at concentrations of up to 0.04% HRE in the drinking water to male F344 rats. In the 104-week chronic study with 32 male rats per group, no treatment-related increases in the incidences of neoplastic lesions in any organ, including urinary bladder, were observed, except for simple hyperplasia in the urinary bladder in rats treated with HRE at concentrations of more than 0.01% (5.0 mg kg -1 body weight day -1 ). In the promotion study, HRE treatment after N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl)nitrosamine initiation caused a clear increase in papillary or nodular hyperplasia, papilloma, and urothelial carcinoma of the urinary bladder in the groups given HRE for 13 weeks at doses higher than 0.005%, 0.01%, and 0.04% (2.7, 5.4 and 20.5 mg kg -1 body weight day -1 ), respectively. In the 2-week cell proliferation analysis, treatment with HRE at concentrations greater than 0.005% (3.9 mg kg -1 body weight day -1 ) caused transient increases in 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine labeling indices in the urothelium. Although clear tumor induction was not observed, administration of relatively low-dose HRE increased cell proliferation in the urothelium and exerted obvious promoting effects on rat urinary bladder carcinogenesis. Further studies are needed to elucidate the mode of action of HRE in the rat urinary bladder to facilitate data extrapolation from the present study and provide insights into risk assessment. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Daily urinary urea excretion to guide intermittent hemodialysis weaning in critically ill patients.

PubMed

Aniort, Julien; Ait Hssain, Ali; Pereira, Bruno; Coupez, Elisabeth; Pioche, Pierre Antoine; Leroy, Christophe; Heng, Anne Elisabeth; Souweine, Bertrand; Lautrette, Alexandre

2016-02-19

There are no easily available markers of renal recovery to guide intermittent hemodialysis (IHD) weaning. The aim of this study was to identify markers for IHD weaning in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury (AKI). We performed a retrospective single-center cohort study of patients treated with IHD for at least 7 days and four dialysis sessions for AKI between 2006 and 2011 in an intensive care unit (ICU) of a French university hospital. Blood and urinary markers were recorded on the day of the last IHD in the ICU for unweaned patients and 2 days after the last IHD for weaned patients. Factors associated with IHD weaning were identified by multiple logistic regression. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) and the characteristics of the best diagnostic thresholds were compared. Sixty-seven patients were analyzed, including thirty-seven IHD-weaned patients. Urine output [odds ratio (OR) 1.59, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.20-2.10 (per ml/kg/24 h increase); P = 0.01] and urinary urea concentration [OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.01-1.64 (per 10 mmol/L increase); P = 0.04] were both associated with IHD weaning. The optimal diagnostic thresholds for IHD weaning were urine output greater than 8.5 ml/kg/24 h, urinary urea concentration greater than 148 mmol/L, and daily urea excretion greater than 1.35 mmol/kg/24 h, with accuracy of 82.1%, 76.1%, and 92.5% (P = 0.03), respectively. The AUROC of daily urinary urea excretion (0.96) was greater than the AUROC of urine output (0.86) or the AUROC of urinary urea concentration (0.83) (P < 0.001). A daily urinary urea excretion greater than 1.35 mmol/kg/24 h was found to be the best marker for weaning ICU patients with AKI from IHD.

Effectiveness of the iodine prophylaxis model adopted in Poland.

PubMed

Szybinski, Z; Golkowski, F; Buziak-Bereza, M; Trofimiuk, M; Przybylik-Mazurek, E; Huszno, B; Bandurska-Stankiewicz, E; Bar-Andziak, E; Dorant, B; Kinalska, I; Lewinski, A; Klencki, M; Rybakowa, M; Sowinski, J; Szewczyk, L; Szponar, L; Wasik, R

2008-04-01

Most of the Polish territory has been classified as an iodine-deficient and endemic goiter area according to the International Council for Control of Iodine Deficiency (ICCIDD) criteria. In 1997 the obligatory model of iodine prophylaxis was implemented. Our investigations were aimed at the effectiveness of iodine prophylaxis in Poland. We assessed urinary iodine excretion and goiter prevalence in 5663 children aged 6-12 yr. The population of children from the same 27 schools was investigated from 1992 to 1994 (1406 girls and 1244 boys) and from 1999 to 2005 (1563 girls and 1450 boys) using identical laboratory and ultrasound methods. We found significant increase in iodine urinary concentration (median 52 microg/l vs 93 microg/l, p<0.001) with accompanying drop in goiter prevalence (29.6% vs 5.2%, p<0.001) after implementation of iodine prophylaxis. Iodine excretion distribution changed significantly after 1997 with an increase in the percentage of children with iodine urinary concentration above 100 microg/l from 10.8% to 45.4%, respectively. A significantly higher iodine urinary concentration was observed in lowlands compared to uplands both before and after implementation of iodine prophylaxis (median, 50 microg/l vs 57 microg/l and 86 microg/l vs 114 microg/l, respectively, p<0.001). The goiter prevalence did not differ between girls and boys from 1992 to 1994 (28.8% vs 30.5%, p=0.35) and 1999 to 2005 (5.5% vs 4.9%, p=0.45). Implementation of the new model of iodine prophylaxis in Poland in 1997 has led to significant increase in iodine urinary concentration and decrease in goiter prevalence among Polish schoolchildren. In the youngest group of children (6-8 yr olds), prevalence of goiter decreased to 3.2%--i.e. below endemic levels.

AS3MT, GSTO, and PNP polymorphisms: impact on arsenic methylation and implications for disease susceptibility.

PubMed

Antonelli, Ray; Shao, Kan; Thomas, David J; Sams, Reeder; Cowden, John

2014-07-01

Oral exposure to inorganic arsenic (iAs) is associated with adverse health effects. Epidemiological studies suggest differences in susceptibility to these health effects, possibly due to genotypic variation. Genetic polymorphisms in iAs metabolism could lead to increased susceptibility by altering urinary iAs metabolite concentrations. To examine the impact of genotypic polymorphisms on iAs metabolism. We screened 360 publications from PubMed and Web of Science for data on urinary mono- and dimethylated arsenic (MMA and DMA) percentages and polymorphic genes encoding proteins that are hypothesized to play roles in arsenic metabolism. The genes we examined were arsenic (+3) methyltransferase (AS3MT), glutathione-s-transferase omega (GSTO), and purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP). Relevant data were pooled to determine which polymorphisms are associated across studies with changes in urinary metabolite concentration. In our review, AS3MT polymorphisms rs3740390, rs11191439, and rs11191453 were associated with statistically significant changes in percent urinary MMA. Studies of GSTO polymorphisms did not indicate statistically significant associations with methylation, and there are insufficient data on PNP polymorphisms to evaluate their impact on metabolism. Collectively, these data support the hypothesis that AS3MT polymorphisms alter in vivo metabolite concentrations. Preliminary evidence suggests that AS3MT genetic polymorphisms may impact disease susceptibility. GSTO polymorphisms were not associated with iAs-associated health outcomes. Additional data are needed to evaluate the association between PNP polymorphisms and iAs-associated health outcomes. Delineation of these relationships may inform iAs mode(s) of action and the approach for evaluating low-dose health effects for iAs. Genotype impacts urinary iAs metabolite concentrations and may be a potential mechanism for iAs-related disease susceptibility. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Urinary Porphyrin Excretion in Neurotypical and Autistic Children

PubMed Central

Woods, James S.; Armel, Sarah E.; Fulton, Denise I.; Allen, Jason; Wessels, Kristine; Simmonds, P. Lynne; Granpeesheh, Doreen; Mumper, Elizabeth; Bradstreet, J. Jeffrey; Echeverria, Diana; Heyer, Nicholas J.; Rooney, James P.K.

2010-01-01

Background Increased urinary concentrations of pentacarboxyl-, precopro- and copro-porphyrins have been associated with prolonged mercury (Hg) exposure in adults, and comparable increases have been attributed to Hg exposure in children with autism (AU). Objectives This study was designed to measure and compare urinary porphyrin concentrations in neurotypical (NT) children and same-age children with autism, and to examine the association between porphyrin levels and past or current Hg exposure in children with autism. Methods This exploratory study enrolled 278 children 2–12 years of age. We evaluated three groups: AU, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), and NT. Mothers/caregivers provided information at enrollment regarding medical, dental, and dietary exposures. Urine samples from all children were acquired for analyses of porphyrin, creatinine, and Hg. Differences between groups for mean porphyrin and Hg levels were evaluated. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine whether porphyrin levels were associated with increased risk of autism. Results Mean urinary porphyrin concentrations are naturally high in young children and decline by as much as 2.5-fold between 2 and 12 years of age. Elevated copro- (p < 0.009), hexacarboxyl- (p < 0.01) and pentacarboxyl- (p < 0.001) porphyrin concentrations were significantly associated with AU but not with PDD-NOS. No differences were found between NT and AU in urinary Hg levels or in past Hg exposure as determined by fish consumption, number of dental amalgam fillings, or vaccines received. Conclusions These findings identify disordered porphyrin metabolism as a salient characteristic of autism. Hg exposures were comparable between diagnostic groups, and a porphyrin pattern consistent with that seen in Hg-exposed adults was not apparent. PMID:20576582

Urinary biomarkers of exposure to insecticides, herbicides, and one insect repellent among pregnant women in Puerto Rico.

PubMed

Lewis, Ryan C; Cantonwine, David E; Anzalota Del Toro, Liza V; Calafat, Antonia M; Valentin-Blasini, Liza; Davis, Mark D; Baker, Samuel E; Alshawabkeh, Akram N; Cordero, José F; Meeker, John D

2014-11-19

There are potential adverse health risks to the mother and fetus from exposure to pesticides. Thus, studies of exposure to pesticides among pregnant women are of interest as they will assist with understanding the potential burden of exposure globally, identifying sources of exposure, and designing epidemiology studies. We measured urinary concentrations of the insect repellent N-N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET) and two of its metabolites [3-diethyl-carbamoyl benzoic acid (DCBA) and N,N-diethyl-3-hydroxymethylbenzamide (DHMB)], four pyrethroid insecticide metabolites [4-fluoro-3-phenoxybenzoic acid (4-F-3-PBA); 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3-PBA); trans-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane carboxylic acid (trans-DCCA); and cis-3-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane carboxylic acid (cis-DBCA)], and two chlorophenoxy herbicides [2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5-T)] in 54 pregnant women from Puerto Rico at three separate time points (20 ± 2 weeks, 24 ± 2 weeks, and 28 ± 2 weeks of gestation). We calculated the distributions of the biomarker concentrations and compared them to those of women of reproductive age from the general U.S. population where available, and estimated the within-subject temporal variability of these repeated measurements. We also collected questionnaire data on demographics, consumption of select fruits, vegetables, and legumes in the past 48-hr, and pest-related issues, and associations between these variables and biomarker concentrations were examined. We found that 95th percentile urinary concentrations of DEET, 3-PBA, trans-DCCA, and 2,4-D were lower than women of reproductive age on the U.S. mainland, whereas 95th percentile urinary concentrations of 4-F-3-PBA, cis-DBCA, and 2,4,5-T were similar. DCBA, the only urinary biomarker detected in >50% of the samples, showed fair to good reproducibility across pregnancy (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.60). Women were more likely (p <0.05) to have greater urinary concentrations of pesticide biomarkers if they were less educated (DCBA and trans-DCCA), unemployed (DHMB), or married (2,4-D), had consumed collards or spinach in past 48-hr (2,4-D) or had been using insect repellent since becoming pregnant (DCBA), or were involved with residential applications of pesticides (trans-DCCA). We identified concentrations and predictors of several pesticides among pregnant women in Puerto Rico. Further research is needed to understand what aspects of the predictors identified lead to greater exposure, and whether exposure during pregnancy is associated with adverse health.

Short-term variability and predictors of urinary pentachlorophenol levels in Ohio preschool children

EPA Science Inventory

Pentachlorophenol (PCP) is a persistent and ubiquitous environmental contaminant. No published data exist on the temporal variability or important predictors of urinary PCP concentrations in young children. In this further analysis of study data, we have examined the associations...

Association between arsenic exposure from a coal-burning power plant and urinary arsenic concentrations in Prievidza District, Slovakia.

PubMed

Ranft, Ulrich; Miskovic, Peter; Pesch, Beate; Jakubis, Pavel; Fabianova, Elenora; Keegan, Tom; Hergemöller, Andre; Jakubis, Marian; Nieuwenhuijsen, Mark J

2003-06-01

To assess the arsenic exposure of a population living in the vicinity of a coal-burning power plant with high arsenic emission in the Prievidza District, Slovakia, 548 spot urine samples were speciated for inorganic As (Asinorg), monomethylarsonic acid (MMA), dimethylarsinic acid (DMA), and their sum (Assum). The urine samples were collected from the population of a case-control study on nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC). A total of 411 samples with complete As speciations and sufficient urine quality and without fish consumption were used for statistical analysis. Although current environmental As exposure and urinary As concentrations were low (median As in soil within 5 km distance to the power plant, 41 micro g/g; median urinary Assum, 5.8 microg/L), there was a significant but weak association between As in soil and urinary Assum(r = 0.21, p < 0.01). We performed a multivariate regression analysis to calculate adjusted regression coefficients for environmental As exposure and other determinants of urinary As. Persons living in the vicinity of the plant had 27% higher Assum values (p < 0.01), based on elevated concentrations of the methylated species. A 32% increase of MMA occurred among subjects who consumed homegrown food (p < 0.001). NMSC cases had significantly higher levels of Assum, DMA, and Asinorg. The methylation index Asinorg/(MMA + DMA) was about 20% lower among cases (p < 0.05) and in men (p < 0.05) compared with controls and females, respectively.

Association between arsenic exposure from a coal-burning power plant and urinary arsenic concentrations in Prievidza District, Slovakia.

PubMed Central

Ranft, Ulrich; Miskovic, Peter; Pesch, Beate; Jakubis, Pavel; Fabianova, Elenora; Keegan, Tom; Hergemöller, Andre; Jakubis, Marian; Nieuwenhuijsen, Mark J

2003-01-01

To assess the arsenic exposure of a population living in the vicinity of a coal-burning power plant with high arsenic emission in the Prievidza District, Slovakia, 548 spot urine samples were speciated for inorganic As (Asinorg), monomethylarsonic acid (MMA), dimethylarsinic acid (DMA), and their sum (Assum). The urine samples were collected from the population of a case-control study on nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC). A total of 411 samples with complete As speciations and sufficient urine quality and without fish consumption were used for statistical analysis. Although current environmental As exposure and urinary As concentrations were low (median As in soil within 5 km distance to the power plant, 41 micro g/g; median urinary Assum, 5.8 microg/L), there was a significant but weak association between As in soil and urinary Assum(r = 0.21, p < 0.01). We performed a multivariate regression analysis to calculate adjusted regression coefficients for environmental As exposure and other determinants of urinary As. Persons living in the vicinity of the plant had 27% higher Assum values (p < 0.01), based on elevated concentrations of the methylated species. A 32% increase of MMA occurred among subjects who consumed homegrown food (p < 0.001). NMSC cases had significantly higher levels of Assum, DMA, and Asinorg. The methylation index Asinorg/(MMA + DMA) was about 20% lower among cases (p < 0.05) and in men (p < 0.05) compared with controls and females, respectively. PMID:12782488

Effect of Ramadan fasting on urinary risk factors for calculus formation.

PubMed

Miladipour, Amir Hossein; Shakhssalim, Nasser; Parvin, Mahmoud; Azadvari, Mohaddeseh

2012-01-01

Even though dehydration could aggravate formation of urinary calculi, the effects of fluid and food restriction on calculus formation is not thoroughly defined. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of fluid and food restriction in Ramadan fasting on urinary factors in kidney and urinary calculus formation. Fifty-seven men aged 30 to 55 years old, including 37 recurrent calcium calculus formers and 20 with no history of kidney calculi were evaluated for blood tests, ultrasonography investigations, urinalysis, urine culture, and also 24-hour urine collection test. Metabolites including calcium, oxalate, citrate, uric acid, magnesium, phosphate, potassium, sodium, and creatinine were measured before and during Ramadan fasting. The values of calculus-precipitating solutes as well as inhibitory factors were documented thoroughly. Total excretion of calcium, phosphate, and magnesium in 24-hour urine and also urine volume during fasting were significantly lower than those in the nonfasting period. Urine concentration of calcium during fasting was significantly lower than nonfasting (P < .001). Urine concentrations of uric acid, citrate, phosphate, sodium, and potassium during fasting were significantly higher than nonfasting. Uric acid supersaturation was accentuated, and calcium phosphate supersaturation was decreased significantly during fasting. There was no significant increase in calcium oxalate supersaturation during the fasting period. Fasting during Ramadan has different effects on total excretion and concentrations of urinary precipitate and inhibitory factors contributing to calculus formation. We did not find enough evidence in favor of increased risks of calculus formation during Ramadan fasting.

Dynamics of L-Carnitine in Plasma and Urine in Patients Undergoing Cisplatin Chemotherapy.

PubMed

Gomi, Daisuke; Tanaka, Aika; Fukushima, Toshirou; Kobayashi, Takashi; Matsushita, Hirohide; Sekiguchi, Nodoka; Sakamoto, Akiyuki; Sasaki, Shigeru; Mamiya, Keiko; Koizumi, Tomonobu

2017-01-01

Several studies have indicated that cisplatin (cis-diamminedichloroplatinum II; CDDP) causes urinary excretion of L-carnitine (LC). However, the underlying cofactors affecting the increased urinary excretion remain unclear. The present study was performed to evaluate the dynamics of LC in plasma and urine after CDDP chemotherapy and to examine the relations with clinical parameters, such as gender, body mass index (BMI), and renal function. Twenty-two patients treated with CDDP therapy were selected. Blood and urine samples were taken from patients before starting CDDP treatment (day 0), on the next day (day 1), and on the seventh day (day 7). We measured plasma and urine concentrations of total, free, and acyl-LC, and examined the relationships with gender, age, treatment cycle, skeletal muscle mass, BMI, glomerular filtration rate, and change in creatinine concentration after CDDP administration. Both urinary and plasma concentrations of 3 types of LC increased markedly on day 1 and subsequently reverted to the pre-CDDP level on day 7. There was a positive correlation between the % changes in plasma and urine LC (correlation coefficient 0.59, p = 0.003) on day 1, but no significant relations were seen in other clinical parameters. CDDP transiently increased plasma LC levels. The mechanism seemed to involve recruitment for marked urinary loss of LC. However, these changes in plasma and urinary LC levels were not related to clinical factors, suggesting that the dynamics of LC were independent of preexisting physical parameters. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Urinary and plasma purine derivatives in fed and fasted llamas (Lama glama and L. guanacoe).

PubMed

Bakker, M L; Chen, X B; Kyle, D J; Orskov, E R; Bourke, D A

1996-02-01

The changes in urinary and plasma purine derivatives in response to fasting and level of feeding in llamas were examines. In one experiment, four llamas were gradually deprived of feed within 3 days and then fasted for 6 days. Daily urinary excretion of purine derivatives decreased with feed intake and leveled on the last 3 days of fasting at 177 +/- 26 mumol/kg W0.75. Allantoin and uric acid comprised 71% and 15% of total purine derivatives, respectively, in both fed and fasted states, but hypoxanthine plus xanthine increased from 9% to 36%. Plasma concentration of allantoin declined with feed intake reduction, but those of uric acid (217 mumol/l) and hypoxanthine plus xanthine (27 mumol/l) remained relatively unchanged. Concentration of uric acid was higher than that of allantoin, probably due to a high reabsorption of uric acid in renal tubules, which was measured as over 90%. In a second experiment, the four llamas were fed at 860 and 1740 g dry matter/d in a crossover design. Urinary total purine derivatives excretion responded to feed intake (10.4 vs 14.4 mmol/d), although the observed differences did not reach significance. Compared with some ruminant species, it appears that the llama resembles sheep regarding the magnitude of urinary purine derivatives excretion but is unique in maintaining a high concentration of uric acid in plasma, which could be part of the llama's adaptation to their environment.

Monitoring of urinary calcium and phosphorus excretion in preterm infants: comparison of 2 methods.

PubMed

Staub, Eveline; Wiedmer, Nicolas; Staub, Lukas P; Nelle, Mathias; von Vigier, Rodo O

2014-04-01

Premature babies require supplementation with calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) to prevent metabolic bone disease of prematurity. To guide mineral supplementation, 2 methods of monitoring urinary excretion of Ca and P are used: urinary Ca or P concentration and Ca/creatinine (Crea) or P/Crea ratios. We compare these 2 methods in regards to their agreement on the need for mineral supplementation. Retrospective chart review of 230 premature babies with birth weight <1500 g, undergoing screening of urinary spot samples from day 21 of life and fortnightly thereafter. Hypothetical cutoff values for urine Ca or P concentration (1 mmol/L) and urine Ca/Crea ratio (0.5 mol/mol) or P/Crea ratio (4 mol/mol) were applied to the sample results. The agreement on whether to supplement the respective minerals based on the results with the 2 methods was compared. Multivariate general linear models sought to identify patient characteristics to predict discordant results. A total of 24.8% of cases did not agree on the indication for Ca supplementation, and 8.8% for P. Total daily Ca intake was the only patient characteristic associated with discordant results. With the intention to supplement the respective mineral, comparison of urinary mineral concentration with mineral/Crea ratio is moderate for Ca and good for P. The results do not allow identifying superiority of either method on the decision as to which babies require Ca and/or P supplements.

Urinary concentrations of PAH and VOC metabolites in marijuana users.

PubMed

Wei, Binnian; Alwis, K Udeni; Li, Zheng; Wang, Lanqing; Valentin-Blasini, Liza; Sosnoff, Connie S; Xia, Yang; Conway, Kevin P; Blount, Benjamin C

2016-03-01

Marijuana is seeing increased therapeutic use, and is the world's third most-popular recreational drug following alcohol and tobacco. This widening use poses increased exposure to potentially toxic combustion by-products from marijuana smoke and the potential for public health concerns. To compare urinary metabolites of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) among self-reported recent marijuana users and nonusers, while accounting for tobacco smoke exposure. Measurements of PAH and VOC metabolites in urine samples were combined with questionnaire data collected from participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) from 2005 to 2012 in order to categorize participants (≥18years) into exclusive recent marijuana users and nonusers. Adjusted geometric means (GMs) of urinary concentrations were computed for these groups using multiple regression analyses to adjust for potential confounders. Adjusted GMs of many individual monohydroxy PAHs (OH-PAHs) were significantly higher in recent marijuana users than in nonusers (p<0.05). Urinary thiocyanate (p<0.001) and urinary concentrations of many VOC metabolites, including metabolites of acrylonitrile (p<0.001) and acrylamide (p<0.001), were significantly higher in recent marijuana users than in nonusers. We found elevated levels of biomarkers for potentially harmful chemicals among self-identified, recent marijuana users compared with nonusers. These findings suggest that further studies are needed to evaluate the potential health risks to humans from the exposure to these agents when smoking marijuana. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Detection of urinary estrogen conjugates and creatinine using near infrared spectroscopy in Bornean orangutans (Pongo Pygmaeus).

PubMed

Kinoshita, Kodzue; Kuze, Noko; Kobayashi, Toshio; Miyakawa, Etsuko; Narita, Hiromitsu; Inoue-Murayama, Miho; Idani, Gen'ichi; Tsenkova, Roumiana

2016-01-01

For promoting in situ conservation, it is important to estimate the density distribution of fertile individuals, and there is a need for developing an easy monitoring method to discriminate between physiological states. To date, physiological state has generally been determined by measuring hormone concentration using radioimmunoassay or enzyme immunoassay (EIA) methods. However, these methods have rarely been applied in situ because of the requirements for a large amount of reagent, instruments, and a radioactive isotope. In addition, the proper storage of the sample (including urine and feces) on site until analysis is difficult. On the other hand, near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy requires no reagent and enables rapid measurement. In the present study, we attempted urinary NIR spectroscopy to determine the estrogen levels of orangutans in Japanese zoos and in the Danum Valley Conservation Area, Sabah, Malaysia. Reflectance NIR spectra were obtained from urine stored using a filter paper. Filter paper is easy to use to store dried urine, even in the wild. Urinary estrogen and creatinine concentrations measured by EIA were used as the reference data of partial least square (PLS) regression of urinary NIR spectra. High accuracies (R(2) > 0.68) were obtained in both estrogen and creatinine regression models. In addition, the PLS regressions in both standards showed higher accuracies (R(2) > 0.70). Therefore, the present study demonstrates that urinary NIR spectra have the potential to estimate the estrogen and creatinine concentrations.

Urinary concentrations of PAH and VOC metabolites in marijuana users

PubMed Central

Wei, Binnian; Alwis, K. Udeni; Li, Zheng; Wang, Lanqing; Valentin-Blasini, Liza; Sosnoff, Connie S.; Xia, Yang; Conway, Kevin P.; Blount, Benjamin C.

2016-01-01

Background Marijuana is seeing increased therapeutic use, and is the world’s third most-popular recreational drug following alcohol and tobacco. This widening use poses increased exposure to potentially toxic combustion by-products from marijuana smoke and the potential for public health concerns. Objectives To compare urinary metabolites of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) among self-reported recent marijuana users and nonusers, while accounting for tobacco smoke exposure. Methods Measurements of PAH and VOC metabolites in urine samples were combined with questionnaire data collected from participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) from 2005 to 2012 in order to categorize participants (≥18 years) into exclusive recent marijuana users and nonusers. Adjusted geometric means (GMs) of urinary concentrations were computed for these groups using multiple regression analyses to adjust for potential confounders. Results Adjusted GMs of many individual monohydroxy PAHs (OH-PAHs) were significantly higher in recent marijuana users than in nonusers (p < 0.05). Urinary thiocyanate (p < 0.001) and urinary concentrations of many VOC metabolites, including metabolites of acrylonitrile (p < 0.001) and acrylamide (p < 0.001), were significantly higher in recent marijuana users than in nonusers. Conclusions We found elevated levels of biomarkers for potentially harmful chemicals among self-identified, recent marijuana users compared with nonusers. These findings suggest that further studies are needed to evaluate the potential health risks to humans from the exposure to these agents when smoking marijuana. PMID:26690539

Ratio-based vs. model-based methods to correct for urinary creatinine concentrations.

PubMed

Jain, Ram B

2016-08-01

Creatinine-corrected urinary analyte concentration is usually computed as the ratio of the observed level of analyte concentration divided by the observed level of the urinary creatinine concentration (UCR). This ratio-based method is flawed since it implicitly assumes that hydration is the only factor that affects urinary creatinine concentrations. On the contrary, it has been shown in the literature, that age, gender, race/ethnicity, and other factors also affect UCR. Consequently, an optimal method to correct for UCR should correct for hydration as well as other factors like age, gender, and race/ethnicity that affect UCR. Model-based creatinine correction in which observed UCRs are used as an independent variable in regression models has been proposed. This study was conducted to evaluate the performance of ratio-based and model-based creatinine correction methods when the effects of gender, age, and race/ethnicity are evaluated one factor at a time for selected urinary analytes and metabolites. It was observed that ratio-based method leads to statistically significant pairwise differences, for example, between males and females or between non-Hispanic whites (NHW) and non-Hispanic blacks (NHB), more often than the model-based method. However, depending upon the analyte of interest, the reverse is also possible. The estimated ratios of geometric means (GM), for example, male to female or NHW to NHB, were also compared for the two methods. When estimated UCRs were higher for the group (for example, males) in the numerator of this ratio, these ratios were higher for the model-based method, for example, male to female ratio of GMs. When estimated UCR were lower for the group (for example, NHW) in the numerator of this ratio, these ratios were higher for the ratio-based method, for example, NHW to NHB ratio of GMs. Model-based method is the method of choice if all factors that affect UCR are to be accounted for.

Maternal Urinary Triclosan Concentration in Relation to Maternal and Neonatal Thyroid Hormone Levels: A Prospective Study.

PubMed

Wang, Xu; Ouyang, Fengxiu; Feng, Liping; Wang, Xia; Liu, Zhiwei; Zhang, Jun

2017-06-27

Triclosan (TCS) is a synthetic antibacterial chemical widely used in personal care products. TCS exposure has been associated with decreased thyroid hormone levels in animals, but human studies are scarce and controversial. We evaluated the association between maternal TCS exposure and thyroid hormone levels of mothers and newborns. TCS was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) in urine samples collected during gestational weeks 38.8±1.1 from 398 pregnant women in a prospective birth cohort enrolled in 2012-2013 in Shanghai, China. Maternal serum levels of free thyroxine (FT 4 ), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) were obtained from medical records. Cord blood levels of free triiodothyronine (FT 3 ), FT 4 , TSH, and TPOAb were measured. Multiple linear and logistic regression models were used to examine the relationship between maternal urinary TCS and thyroid hormone levels. TCS was detectable (≥0.1 ng/mL) in 98.24% of maternal urine samples with tertile of urinary TCS levels: low (>0.1-2.75 μg/g.Cr), medium (2.75–9.78 μg/g.Cr), and high (9.78–427.38 μg/g.Cr). With adjustment for potential confounders, cord blood log(FT 3 )pmol/L concentration was 0.11 lower in newborns of mothers with medium and high urinary TCS levels compared with those with low levels. At third trimester, the high TCS concentration was associated with 0.03 [95% confidence interval (CI) −0.08, −0.02] lower maternal serum log(FT 4 )pmol/L, whereas the medium TCS concentration was associated with 0.15 (95% CI: −0.28, −0.03) lower serum log(TSH)mIU/L with adjustment for covariates. Our results suggest significant inverse associations between maternal urinary TCS and cord blood FT 3 as well as maternal blood FT 4 concentrations at third trimester. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP500.

The association between total phthalate concentration and non-communicable diseases and chronic inflammation in South Australian urban dwelling men.

PubMed

Bai, Peter Y; Wittert, Gary; Taylor, Anne W; Martin, Sean A; Milne, Robert W; Jenkins, Alicia J; Januszewski, Andrzej S; Shi, Zumin

2017-10-01

To investigate associations between urinary total phthalate concentration, chronic low-grade inflammation and non-communicable diseases in a cohort of South Australian men. 1504 men aged 39-84 years who provided a urinary sample at the follow-up visit of the Men Androgen Inflammation Lifestyle Environment and Stress (MAILES) study, a randomly-selected group of urban-dwelling, community-based men from Adelaide, Australia (n = 2038; study participation rate: 78.1%). Total phthalate concentration was quantified in fasting morning urine samples. Chronic diseases were assessed through self-report questionnaire or directly measured using standardised clinical and laboratory procedures. Inflammatory biomarkers were assayed by ELISA or spectroscopy. Multivariable linear and logistic regression models were applied to determine associations of log-transformed urinary phthalate concentration with inflammation and chronic disease. Total phthalates were detected in 99.6% of urinary samples; geometric mean (95% CI) was 114.1 (109.5-118.9)µg/g creatinine. Higher total phthalate levels were associated with higher levels of hs-CRP, IL-6 (all p < 0.05) and TNF-α but not MPO. Urinary total phthalate concentrations were positively associated with cardiovascular disease, type-2-diabetes and hypertension. Comparing extreme quartiles of total phthalate, prevalence ratios were 1.78 (95% CI 1.17 - 2.71, p-trend = 0.001) for cardiovascular disease and 1.84 (95%CI 1.34 - 2.51, p-trend = 0.001) for type-2-diabetes and 1.14 (95%CI 1.01 - 1.29, p-trend = 0.013) for hypertension. Total phthalates and asthma and depression were not significantly associated. A positive association between total phthalates and cardiovascular disease, type-2-diabetes, hypertension and increased levels of chronic low-grade inflammatory biomarkers was observed in urban-dwelling Australian men. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Phthalate metabolites in Norwegian mothers and children: Levels, diurnal variation and use of personal care products.

PubMed

Sakhi, Amrit Kaur; Sabaredzovic, Azemira; Cequier, Enrique; Thomsen, Cathrine

2017-12-01

Exposure to phthalates has been associated with reproductive and developmental toxicity. Data on levels of these compounds in the Norwegian population is limited. In this study, urine samples were collected from 48 mothers and their children in two counties in Norway. Eleven different phthalate metabolites originating from six commonly used phthalates in consumer products were determined. Concentrations of phthalate metabolites were significantly higher in children compared to mothers except for mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP). The mothers provided several urine samples during 24hours (h) and diurnal variation showed that the concentrations in the morning urine samples (24-8h) were significantly higher than at other time-periods for most of the phthalate metabolites. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for 24-hour time-period were in the range of 0.49-0.81. These moderate to high ICCs indicate that one spot urine sample can be used to estimate the exposure to phthalates. Since a significant effect of time of day was observed, it is still advisable to standardize the collection time point to reduce the variation. For the mothers, the use of personal care products (PCPs) were less associated with morning urine samples than early day (8-12h) and evening (16-24h) urine samples. The use of perfume and hair products were positively associated with the urinary concentrations of low molecular weight phthalates. Use of shower soap and shampoo were positively associated with urinary concentration of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) metabolites. For children, face cream use was positively associated with phthalate metabolites in the morning samples, and hand soap use was negatively associated with concentration of urinary DEHP metabolites in afternoon/evening samples. Since different PCPs were associated with the urinary phthalate metabolites in different time-periods during a day, more than one spot urine sample might be required to study associations between urinary phthalate metabolites and the use of PCPs. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of genotoxicity in workers exposed to low levels of formaldehyde in a furniture manufacturing facility.

PubMed

Peteffi, Giovana Piva; da Silva, Luciano Basso; Antunes, Marina Venzon; Wilhelm, Camila; Valandro, Eduarda Trevizani; Glaeser, Jéssica; Kaefer, Djeine; Linden, Rafael

2016-10-01

Formaldehyde (FA) is a chemical widely used in the furniture industry and has been classified as a potential human carcinogen. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the occupational exposure of workers to FA at a furniture manufacturing facility and the relationship between environmental concentrations of FA, formic acid concentration in urine, and DNA damage. The sample consisted of 46 workers exposed to FA and a control group of 45 individuals with no history of occupational exposure. Environmental concentrations of FA were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. Urinary formic acid concentrations were determined by gas chromatography with flame ionization detector. DNA damage was evaluated by the micronucleus (MN) test performed in exfoliated buccal cells and comet assay with venous blood. The 8-h time-weighted average of FA environmental concentration ranged from 0.03 ppm to 0.09 ppm at the plant, and the control group was exposed to a mean concentration of 0.012 ppm. Workers exposed to higher environmental FA concentrations had urinary formic acid concentrations significantly different from those of controls (31.85 mg L(-1) vs. 19.35 mg L(-), p ≤ 0.01 Mann-Whitney test). Significant differences were found between control and exposed groups for the following parameters: damage frequency and damage index in the comet assay, frequency of binucleated cells in the MN test, and formic acid concentration in urine. The frequency of micronuclei, nuclear buds, and karyorrhexis did not differ between groups. There was a positive correlation between environmental concentrations of FA and damage frequency (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient [r s] = 0.24), damage index (r s = 0.21), binucleated cells (r s = 0.34), and urinary formic acid concentration (r s = 0.63). The results indicate that, although workers in the furniture manufacturing facility were exposed to low environmental levels of FA, this agent contributes to the observed increase in cytogenetic damage. In addition, urinary formic acid concentrations correlated strongly with occupational exposure to FA. © The Author(s) 2015.

Predictors of urinary levels of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol, 3-phenoxybenzoic acid, and pentachlorophenol in 121 adults in Ohio.

PubMed

Morgan, Marsha K

2015-07-01

Limited data exist on the driving factors that influence the non-occupational exposures of adults to pesticides using urinary biomonitoring. In this work, the objectives were to quantify the urinary levels of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCP), 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3-PBA), and pentachlorophenol (PCP) in 121 adults over a 48-h monitoring period and to examine the associations between selected sociodemographic and lifestyle factors and urinary levels of each pesticide biomarker. Adults, ages 20-49 years old, were recruited from six counties in Ohio (OH) in 2001. The participants collected 4-6 spot urine samples and completed questionnaires and diaries at home over a 48-h monitoring period. Urine samples were analyzed for 2,4-D, TCP, 3-PBA, and PCP by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Multiple regression modeling was used to determine the impact of selected sociodemographic and lifestyle factors on the log-transformed (ln) levels of each pesticide biomarker in adults. The pesticide biomarkers were detected in ≥ 89% of the urine samples, except for 3-PBA (66%). Median urinary levels of 2,4-D, TCP, 3-PBA, and PCP were 0.7, 3.4, 0.3, and 0.5 ng/mL, respectively. Results showed that 48-h sweet/salty snack consumption, 48-h time spend outside at home, and ln(creatinine) levels were significant predictors (p < 0.05), and race was a marginally significant predictor (p = 0.093) of the adults' ln(urinary 2,4-D) concentrations. Strong predictors (p < 0.05) of the adults' ln(urinary TCP) concentrations were urbanicity, employment status, sampling season, and ln(creatinine) levels. For 3-PBA, sampling season, pet ownership and removal of shoes before entering the home were significant predictors (p < 0.05) of the adults' ln(urinary 3-PBA) levels. Finally for PCP, removal of shoes before entering the home and ln(creatinine) levels were significant predictors (p < 0.05), and pet ownership was a marginally significant predictor (p = 0.056) of the adults' ln(urinary PCP) concentrations. In conclusion, specific sociodemographic and lifestyle factors were identified that increased the exposures of these adults to several different pesticides in their daily environments. Published by Elsevier GmbH.

Maternal exposure to metals—Concentrations and predictors of exposure

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

Callan, A.C., E-mail: a.callan@ecu.edu.au; Hinwood, A.L.; Ramalingam, M.

2013-10-15

A variety of metals are important for biological function but have also been shown to impact health at elevated concentrations, whereas others have no known biological function. Pregnant women are a vulnerable population and measures to reduce exposure in this group are important. We undertook a study of maternal exposure to the metals, aluminium, arsenic, copper, cobalt, chromium, lithium, manganese, nickel, selenium, tin, uranium and zinc in 173 participants across Western Australia. Each participant provided a whole blood and urine sample, as well as drinking water, residential soil and dust samples and completed a questionnaire. In general the concentrations ofmore » metals in all samples were low with the notable exception of uranium (blood U mean 0.07 µg/L, range <0.01–0.25 µg/L; urinary U mean 0.018 µg/g creatinine, range <0.01–0.199 µg/g creatinine). Factors that influenced biological concentrations were consumption of fish which increased urinary arsenic concentrations, hobbies (including mechanics and welding) which increased blood manganese concentrations and iron/folic acid supplement use which was associated with decreased concentrations of aluminium and nickel in urine and manganese in blood. Environmental concentrations of aluminium, copper and lithium were found to influence biological concentrations, but this was not the case for other environmental metals concentrations. Further work is underway to explore the influence of diet on biological metals concentrations in more detail. The high concentrations of uranium require further investigation. -- Highlights: • High concentrations of uranium with respect to international literature. • Environmental concentrations of Al, Cu and Li influenced urinary concentrations. • Exposure to mechanics/welding hobbies increased blood Mn concentrations. • Iron/Folic acid supplements reduced biological concentrations of Al, Ni and Mn.« less

Progesterone receptors in the female lower urinary tract

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

Batra, S.C.; Iosif, C.S.

1987-11-01

When female estrogenized rabbits were injected i.v. with /sup 3/H-progesterone, the tritium concentration determined after one hour was about two to three times higher in urethra, urinary bladder and vagina than in the heart. High affinity progesterone receptors (KD = 1-2 nM) could be demonstrated in both cytoplasmic and nuclear fractions prepared from estrogenized rabbit urethra, bladder and vagina. The cytosolic receptor concentration in both urethra and bladder was about half of that in the vagina. The concentration of nuclear receptors in urethra was not significantly different from that in the vagina, but in the bladder the concentration was onlymore » about one fourth of that in the vagina or urethra. The mean KD of cytosolic receptors from bladder was significantly higher than the corresponding values in urethra and vagina. Progesterone binding sites in the bladder had a broader hormonal specificity than those in the urethra or vagina. The present demonstration of specific progesterone receptors in the female urethra might provide a possible link between estrogen progesterone interaction and the appearance of urinary incontinence during pregnancy in women.« less

Barth syndrome: clinical observations and genetic linkage studies.

PubMed

Christodoulou, J; McInnes, R R; Jay, V; Wilson, G; Becker, L E; Lehotay, D C; Platt, B A; Bridge, P J; Robinson, B H; Clarke, J T

1994-04-15

Barth syndrome is an X-linked recessive condition characterized by skeletal myopathy, cardiomyopathy, proportionate short stature, and recurrent neutropenia, but with normal cognitive function. Some, but not all patients, exhibit carnitine deficiency and/or the presence of 3-methylglutaconic and ethylhydracylic acids in urine. Recently the mutation causing Barth syndrome was localised to the Xq28 region by linkage analysis. We report 6 cases of Barth syndrome from 4 families and highlight the fact that neuromuscular and cardiovascular symptoms and the severity of infections tend to improve with age, while short stature persists. Also previously unreported was myopathic facies and nasal quality to speech in our cases. The urinary organic acid abnormalities and plasma carnitine deficiency were inconsistent findings. We propose that they may be epiphenomena rather than indicators of the primary metabolic defect, and that the primary defect or defects in this disorder may lie in the mitochondrial electron transport chain.

Changes of urinary angiotensinogen concentration and its association with urinary proteins in diabetic rats

PubMed Central

Zhuang, Zhen; Bai, Qiong; A, Lata; Liang, Yaoxian; Zheng, Danxia; Wang, Yue

2015-01-01

Objective: It had been reported that angiotensinogen might be a marker for activation of renin-angiotensin system, which was associated with the development of diabetic nephropathy. The purpose of this study was to investigate the functional roles of AGT in DN in vitro. Methods: Diabetic rat models were built by single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. The diabetic rats were divided into three groups, two of the three groups were treated with different doses of losartan, the other diabetic group was as control and normal rats acted as healthy control. In a 12-week investigation, we detected the changes of AGT in all rats’ blood and urine and the association between AGT concentration and RAS activation and urinary proteins were analyzed in this study. Results: The serum AGT of rats had no significant differences (P>0.05 for all). The urinary AGT of the diabetic rats was significantly different from the control group, moreover, the urinary AGT of the diabetic rats under different treatments was also obviously different (P<0.05 for all). Besides, the results of immunohistochemical assay indicated that AGT expression level was correlated with renal tissues damage. The level of AGT was positively associated with urinary protein (r=0.493, P<0.01) and negatively correlated with CCr (r=-0.474, P=0.007) and the dose of ARB (r=-0.575, P=0.001). Moreover, the dose of ARB was independently associated with urinary AGT (B=-2.963, P=0.024) in diabetic rats. Conclusion: Urinary AGT may be a marker for the activation of local RAS in kidney and independently associated with ARB. PMID:26722381

Tuning the relative concentration ratio of bulk defects to surface defects in TiO2 nanocrystals leads to high photocatalytic efficiency.

PubMed

Kong, Ming; Li, Yuanzhi; Chen, Xiong; Tian, Tingting; Fang, Pengfei; Zheng, Feng; Zhao, Xiujian

2011-10-19

TiO(2) nanocrystals with tunable bulk/surface defects were synthesized and characterized with TEM, XRD, BET, positron annihilation, and photocurrent measurements. The effect of defects on photocatalytic activity was studied. It was found for the first time that decreasing the relative concentration ratio of bulk defects to surface defects in TiO(2) nanocrystals could significantly improve the separation efficiency of photogenerated electrons and holes, thus significantly enhancing the photocatalytic efficiency.

Speciation of arsenic in exfoliated urinary bladder epithelial cells from individuals exposed to arsenic in drinking water.

PubMed

Hernández-Zavala, Araceli; Valenzuela, Olga L; Matousek, Tomás; Drobná, Zuzana; Dĕdina, Jirí; García-Vargas, Gonzalo G; Thomas, David J; Del Razo, Luz M; Stýblo, Miroslav

2008-12-01

The concentration of arsenic in urine has been used as a marker of exposure to inorganic As (iAs). Relative proportions of urinary metabolites of iAs have been identified as potential biomarkers of susceptibility to iAs toxicity. However, the adverse effects of iAs exposure are ultimately determined by the concentrations of iAs metabolites in target tissues. In this study we examined the feasibility of analyzing As species in cells that originate in the urinary bladder, a target organ for As-induced cancer in humans. Exfoliated bladder epithelial cells (BECs) were collected from urine of 21 residents of Zimapan, Mexico, who were exposed to iAs in drinking water. We determined concentrations of iAs, methyl-As (MAs), and dimethyl-As (DMAs) in urine using conventional hydride generation-cryotrapping-atomic absorption spectrometry (HG-CT-AAS). We used an optimized HG-CT-AAS technique with detection limits of 12-17 pg As for analysis of As species in BECs. All urine samples and 20 of 21 BEC samples contained detectable concentrations of iAs, MAs, and DMAs. Sums of concentrations of these As species in BECs ranged from 0.18 to 11.4 ng As/mg protein and in urine from 4.8 to 1,947 ng As/mL. We found no correlations between the concentrations or ratios of As species in BECs and in urine. These results suggest that urinary levels of iAs metabolites do not necessarily reflect levels of these metabolites in the bladder epithelium. Thus, analysis of As species in BECs may provide a more effective tool for risk assessment of bladder cancer and other urothelial diseases associated with exposures to iAs.

Quantitative analysis of urinary glycine conjugates by high performance liquid chromatography: excretion of hippuric acid and methylhippuric acids in the urine of subjects exposed to vapours of toluene and xylenes.

PubMed

Ogata, M; Taguchi, T

1986-01-01

A new method for the direct determination of hippuric acid (HA) and o-, m- and p-methylhippuric acids (MHAs) in the urine, metabolites of toluene and o-, m- and p-xylenes by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is described. A stainless-steel column packed with silica gel having dinitrophenyl residue and a mixed solution of methanol/water/acetic acid (80/20/0.2) containing tetra-n-butylammonium bromide (0.2% w/v) as mobile phase was used. Concentrations of HA and MHAs were estimated from their peak height at a wave length of 225 nm. Urine can be analyzed directly without solvent extraction or pretreatment to obtain complete separation of HA and o-, m- and p-MHAs. Urine samples from male workers exposed to toluene or xylenes were analyzed for HA or MHAs. The urinary levels of HA and MHAs increased by exposure to toluene and xylenes in proportion to the environmental concentrations of the solvents, although there is a considerable variation in metabolite concentrations. The slope of regression line between toluene and HA and that between m-xylene and m-MHA were similar. The urinary concentrations of HA and MHAs corresponding to 100 ppm (TLV) of toluene was 2.35 g/g creatinine and that of m-MHA corresponding to 100 ppm (TLV) of m-xylene was 2.05 g/g creatinine. The warning levels of the urinary metabolite concentrations of a group of workers and that of an individual worker corresponding to TLV of organic solvent concentration is discussed.

Variability and Predictors of Urinary Concentrations of Phthalate Metabolites during Early Childhood

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

The variability and predictors of urinary concentrations of phthalate metabolites in preschool-aged children have not been thoroughly examined. Additionally, the impact of temporal changes in the use and restriction of phthalates in children’s products has not been assessed. Our objective was to identify demographic, behavioral, and temporal predictors of urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations in young children. Between 2004 and 2011, we collected up to five urine samples from each of 296 children participating in a prospective birth cohort during annual study visits at ages 1–5 years. We used linear mixed models to calculate intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), a measure of within-individual reproducibility, and identify demographic predictors of urinary phthalate metabolites. We used multivariable linear regression to examine cross-sectional relationships between food packaging or personal care product use and phthalate metabolites measured at age 5 years. Across annual measurements, monoethyl phthalate exhibited the least variation (ICC = 0.38), while di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (ΣDEHP) metabolites exhibited the most variation (ICC = 0.09). Concentrations changed with age, suggesting age-related changes in phthalate exposure and perhaps metabolism. Our findings suggest that fast food consumption may be a source of butylbenzyl phthalate and di-isononyl phthalate (DiNP) exposure, and some personal care products may be sources of diethyl phthalate exposure. Concentrations of ΣDEHP metabolites decreased over the study period; however, concentrations of DiNP metabolites increased. This finding suggests that manufacturer practices and regulations, like the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008, may decrease DEHP exposure, but additional work characterizing the nature and toxicity of replacements is critically needed. PMID:24977926

Life without plastic: A family experiment and biomonitoring study.

PubMed

Hutter, Hans-Peter; Kundi, Michael; Hohenblum, Philipp; Scharf, Sigrid; Shelton, Janie F; Piegler, Kathrin; Wallner, Peter

2016-10-01

Exposure to bisphenol-A (BPA) and phthalates has been associated with negative health outcomes in animal and human studies, and human bio-monitoring studies demonstrate widespread exposure in the US and Europe. Out of concern for the environment and health, individuals may attempt to modify their environment, diet, and consumer choices to avoid such exposures, but these natural experiments are rarely if ever quantitatively evaluated. The aim of the study was to evaluate the difference in urinary concentrations of BPA and phthalate metabolites following an exposure reduction intervention among an Austrian family of five. Urine samples were taken shortly after the family had removed all plastic kitchenware, toys, and bathroom products, and started a concerted effort to eat less food packaged in plastic. Two-months later, urine samples were collected at a follow-up visit, and concentrations of BPA and phthalate metabolites were compared. Shortly after removal of plastic urinary concentrations of BPA were below limit of quantification in all samples. Phthalate concentrations were low, however, 10 of 14 investigated metabolites could be found above limit of quantification. After the two-month intervention, phthalate urinary concentrations had declined in some but not all family members. In the mother most phthalate metabolites increased. The low levels might be partly due to the environmentally conscious lifestyle of the family and partly due to the fact that body levels had dropped already because of the delay of four days between finishing removal and first measurement. Further two months avoidance of dietary exposure and exposure to environmental plastics reduced urinary concentrations for all but one metabolite in the oldest son only, but decreased somewhat in all family members except the mother. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Gamma hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) concentrations in humans and factors affecting endogenous production.

PubMed

Elliott, Simon P

2003-04-23

The endogenous nature of the drug of abuse gamma hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) has caused various interpretative problems for toxicologists. In order to obtain data for the presence of endogenous GHB in humans and to investigate any factors that may affect this, a volunteer study was undertaken. The GHB concentrations in 119 urine specimens from GHB-free subjects and 25 urine specimens submitted for toxicological analysis showed maximal urinary GHB concentrations of 3mg/l. Analysis of 15 plasma specimens submitted for toxicological analysis detected no measurable GHB (less than 2.5mg/l). Studies in a male and female volunteer in which different dietary food groups were ingested at weekly intervals, showed significant creatinine-independent intra-individual fluctuation with overall urine GHB concentrations between 0 and 2.55, and 0 and 2.74mg/l, respectively. Urinary concentrations did not appear to be affected by the particular dietary groups studied. The concentrations measured by gas chromatography with flame ionisation detection (GC-FID) and gas chromatography with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) lend further support to the proposed urinary and plasma interpretative cut-offs of 10 and 4mg/l, respectively, where below this it is not possible to determine whether any GHB detected is endogenous or exogenous in nature.

Renal tubular NHE3 is required in the maintenance of water and sodium chloride homeostasis.

PubMed

Fenton, Robert A; Poulsen, Søren B; de la Mora Chavez, Samantha; Soleimani, Manoocher; Dominguez Rieg, Jessica A; Rieg, Timo

2017-08-01

The sodium/proton exchanger isoform 3 (NHE3) is expressed in the intestine and the kidney, where it facilitates sodium (re)absorption and proton secretion. The importance of NHE3 in the kidney for sodium chloride homeostasis, relative to the intestine, is unknown. Constitutive tubule-specific NHE3 knockout mice (NHE3 loxloxCre) did not show significant differences compared to control mice in body weight, blood pH or bicarbonate and plasma sodium, potassium, or aldosterone levels. Fluid intake, urinary flow rate, urinary sodium/creatinine, and pH were significantly elevated in NHE3 loxloxCre mice, while urine osmolality and GFR were significantly lower. Water deprivation revealed a small urinary concentrating defect in NHE3 loxloxCre mice on a control diet, exaggerated on low sodium chloride. Ten days of low or high sodium chloride diet did not affect plasma sodium in control mice; however, NHE3 loxloxCre mice were susceptible to low sodium chloride (about -4 mM) or high sodium chloride intake (about +2 mM) versus baseline, effects without differences in plasma aldosterone between groups. Blood pressure was significantly lower in NHE3 loxloxCre mice and was sodium chloride sensitive. In control mice, the expression of the sodium/phosphate co-transporter Npt2c was sodium chloride sensitive. However, lack of tubular NHE3 blunted Npt2c expression. Alterations in the abundances of sodium/chloride cotransporter and its phosphorylation at threonine 58 as well as the abundances of the α-subunit of the epithelial sodium channel, and its cleaved form, were also apparent in NHE3 loxloxCre mice. Thus, renal NHE3 is required to maintain blood pressure and steady-state plasma sodium levels when dietary sodium chloride intake is modified. Copyright © 2017 International Society of Nephrology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Urea Transport and Clinical Potential of Urearetics

PubMed Central

Klein, Janet D.; Sands, Jeff M.

2016-01-01

Purpose of review Urea is transported by urea transporter proteins in kidney, erythrocytes, and other tissues. Mice in which different urea transporters have been knocked-out have urine concentrating defects, which has led to the development and testing of UT-A and UT-B inhibitors as urearetics. This review summarizes the knowledge gained during the past year on urea transporter regulation and investigations into the clinical potential of urearetics. Recent findings UT-A1 undergoes several post-translational modifications that increase its function by increasing UT-A1 accumulation in the apical plasma membrane. UT-A1 is phosphorylated by PKA, Epac, PKCα, and AMPK, all at different serine residues. UT-A1 is also regulated by 14-3-3, which contributes to UT-A1 removal from the membrane. UT-A1 is glycosylated with various glycan moieties in animal models of diabetes mellitus. Transgenic expression of UT-A1 into UT-A1/UT-A3 knock-out mice restores urine concentrating ability. UT-B is present in descending vasa recta and urinary bladder, and is linked to bladder cancer. Inhibitors of UT-A and UT-B have been developed that result in diuresis with fewer abnormalities in serum electrolytes than conventional diuretics. Summary Urea transporters play critical roles in the urine concentrating mechanism. Urea transport inhibitors are a promising new class of diuretic agents. PMID:27367911

Dramatic elevation in urinary amino terminal titin fragment excretion quantified by immunoassay in Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients and in dystrophin deficient rodents.

PubMed

Robertson, Alan S; Majchrzak, Mark J; Smith, Courtney M; Gagnon, Robert C; Devidze, Nino; Banks, Glen B; Little, Sean C; Nabbie, Fizal; Bounous, Denise I; DiPiero, Janet; Jacobsen, Leslie K; Bristow, Linda J; Ahlijanian, Michael K; Stimpson, Stephen A

2017-07-01

Enzyme-linked and electrochemiluminescence immunoassays were developed for quantification of amino (N-) terminal fragments of the skeletal muscle protein titin (N-ter titin) and qualified for use in detection of urinary N-ter titin excretion. Urine from normal subjects contained a small but measurable level of N-ter titin (1.0 ± 0.4 ng/ml). A 365-fold increase (365.4 ± 65.0, P = 0.0001) in urinary N-ter titin excretion was seen in Duchene muscular dystrophy (DMD) patients. Urinary N-ter titin was also evaluated in dystrophin deficient rodent models. Mdx mice exhibited low urinary N-ter titin levels at 2 weeks of age followed by a robust and sustained elevation starting at 3 weeks of age, coincident with the development of systemic skeletal muscle damage in this model; fold elevation could not be determined because urinary N-ter titin was not detected in age-matched wild type mice. Levels of serum creatine kinase and serum skeletal muscle troponin I (TnI) were also low at 2 weeks, elevated at later time points and were significantly correlated with urinary N-ter titin excretion in mdx mice. Corticosteroid treatment of mdx mice resulted in improved exercise performance and lowering of both urinary N-ter titin and serum skeletal muscle TnI concentrations. Low urinary N-ter titin levels were detected in wild type rats (3.0 ± 0.6 ng/ml), while Dmd mdx rats exhibited a 556-fold increase (1652.5 ± 405.7 ng/ml, P = 0.002) (both at 5 months of age). These results suggest that urinary N-ter titin is present at low basal concentrations in normal urine and increases dramatically coincident with muscle damage produced by dystrophin deficiency. Urinary N-ter titin has potential as a facile, non-invasive and translational biomarker for DMD. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Clinical evaluation of cats with nonobstructive urinary tract diseases.

PubMed

Buffington, C A; Chew, D J; Kendall, M S; Scrivani, P V; Thompson, S B; Blaisdell, J L; Woodworth, B E

1997-01-01

To identify the underlying cause of clinical signs in cats with nonobstructive diseases of the bladder and urethra. Prospective case series. 109 cats examined by the urology service of The Ohio State University's veterinary teaching hospital because of stranguria, hematuria, pollakiuria, or urination in inappropriate locations. History was obtained and a CBC, serum biochemical analyses, serologic tests for FeLV and feline immunodeficiency virus, urinalysis, bacterial culture of urine, and contrast radiography or urethrocystoscopy (females only) were performed. 16 cats had cystic calculi: 8 had struvite uroliths, 7 had calcium oxalate uroliths, and 1 had a urolith of unknown composition in conjunction with an anatomic defect. Anatomic defects, including diverticulae, urethral strictures, and a malpositioned urethra, were identified in 12 cats. A urinary tract infection was identified in 1 cat, and neoplasia was diagnosed in 2. One of the cats with neoplasia also had a struvite urolith. The remaining 80 cats did not have an anatomic defect, urolith, or tumor. Ten of these cats also did not have radiographic or cystoscopic abnormalities and were presumed to have a behavioral disorder. The remaining 70 cats had radiographic or cystoscopic abnormalities, and idiopathic cystitis was diagnosed. In 14 of the cats with idiopathic cystitis, results of a urinalysis were normal. Cats with idiopathic cystitis were significantly more likely to eat dry food exclusively (59%) than were cats in the general population (19%). Results suggest that idiopathic cystitis occurs commonly in cats with stranguria, hematuria, pollakiuria, or inappropriate elimination and is associated with consumption of dry foods. Contrast radiography or cystoscopy is necessary for differentiating idiopathic cystitis from behavioral disorders in some cats.

Current concepts in the management of pelvic fracture urethral distraction defects

PubMed Central

Manikandan, Ramanitharan; Dorairajan, Lalgudi N.; Kumar, Santosh

2011-01-01

Objectives: Pelvic fracture urethral distraction defect (PFUDD) may be associated with disabling complications, such as recurrent stricture, urinary incontinence, and erectile dysfunction. In this article we review the current concepts in the evaluation and surgical management of PFUDD, including redo urethroplasty. Materials and Methods: A PubMed™ search was performed using the keywords “pelvic fracture urethral distraction defect, anastomotic urethroplasty, pelvic fracture urethral stricture, pelvic fracture urethral injuries, and redo-urethroplasty.” The search was limited to papers published from 1980 to March 2010 with special focus on those published in the last 15 years. The relevant articles were reviewed with regard to etiology, role of imaging, and the techniques of urethroplasty. Results: Pelvic fracture due to accidents was the most common etiology of PFUDD that usually involved the membranous urethra. Modern cross-sectional imaging, such as sonourethrography and magnetic resonance imaging help assess stricture pathology better, but their precise role in PFUDD management remains undefined. Surgical treatment with perineal anastomotic urethroplasty yields a success rate of more than 90% in most studies. The most important complication of surgical reconstruction is restenosis, occurring in less than 10% cases, most of which can be corrected by a redo anastomotic urethroplasty. The most common complication associated with this condition is erectile dysfunction. Urinary incontinence is a much rarer complication of this surgery in the present day. Conclusions: Anastomotic urethroplasty remains the cornerstone in the management of PFUDD, even in previously failed repairs. Newer innovations are needed to address the problem of erectile dysfunction associated with this condition. PMID:22022064

Contribution of creatine to protein homeostasis in athletes after endurance and sprint running.

PubMed

Tang, Fu-Chun; Chan, Chun-Chen; Kuo, Po-Ling

2014-02-01

Few studies have focused on the metabolic changes induced by creatine supplementation. This study investigated the effects of creatine supplementation on plasma and urinary metabolite changes of athletes after endurance and sprint running. Twelve male athletes (20.3 ± 1.4 y) performed two identical (65-70 % maximum heart rate reserved) 60 min running exercises (endurance trial) before and after creatine supplementation (12 g creatine monohydrate/day for 15 days), followed by a 5-day washout period. Subsequently, they performed two identical 100 m sprint running exercises (power trial) before and after 15 days of creatine supplementation in accordance with the supplementary protocol of the endurance trial. Body composition measurements were performed during the entire study. Plasma samples were examined for the concentrations of glucose, lactate, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), free-tryptophan (f-TRP), glutamine, alanine, hypoxanthine, and uric acid. Urinary samples were examined for the concentrations of hydroxyproline, 3-methylhistidine, urea nitrogen, and creatinine. Creatine supplementation significantly increased body weights of the athletes of endurance trial. Plasma lactate concentration and ratio of f-TRP/BCAAs after recovery from endurance running were significantly decreased with creatine supplementation. Plasma purine metabolites (the sum of hypoxanthine and uric acid), glutamine, urinary 3-methylhistidine, and urea nitrogen concentrations tended to decrease before running in trials with creatine supplements. After running, urinary hydroxyproline concentration significantly increased in the power trial with creatine supplements. The findings suggest that creatine supplementation tended to decrease muscle glycogen and protein degradation, especially after endurance exercise. However, creatine supplementation might induce collagen proteolysis in athletes after sprint running.

CO-occurring exposure to perchlorate, nitrate and thiocyanate alters thyroid function in healthy pregnant women.

PubMed

Horton, Megan K; Blount, Benjamin C; Valentin-Blasini, Liza; Wapner, Ronald; Whyatt, Robin; Gennings, Chris; Factor-Litvak, Pam

2015-11-01

Adequate maternal thyroid function during pregnancy is necessary for normal fetal brain development, making pregnancy a critical window of vulnerability to thyroid disrupting insults. Sodium/iodide symporter (NIS) inhibitors, namely perchlorate, nitrate, and thiocyanate, have been shown individually to competitively inhibit uptake of iodine by the thyroid. Several epidemiologic studies examined the association between these individual exposures and thyroid function. Few studies have examined the effect of this chemical mixture on thyroid function during pregnancy We examined the cross sectional association between urinary perchlorate, thiocyanate and nitrate concentrations and thyroid function among healthy pregnant women living in New York City using weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression. We measured thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (FreeT4) in blood samples; perchlorate, thiocyanate, nitrate and iodide in urine samples collected from 284 pregnant women at 12 (±2.8) weeks gestation. We examined associations between urinary analyte concentrations and TSH or FreeT4 using linear regression or WQS adjusting for gestational age, urinary iodide and creatinine. Individual analyte concentrations in urine were significantly correlated (Spearman's r 0.4-0.5, p<0.001). Linear regression analyses did not suggest associations between individual concentrations and thyroid function. The WQS revealed a significant positive association between the weighted sum of urinary concentrations of the three analytes and increased TSH. Perchlorate had the largest weight in the index, indicating the largest contribution to the WQS. Co-exposure to perchlorate, nitrate and thiocyanate may alter maternal thyroid function, specifically TSH, during pregnancy. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Co-occurring exposure to perchlorate, nitrate and thiocyanate alters thyroid function in healthy pregnant women

PubMed Central

Horton, Megan K.; Blount, Benjamin C.; Valentin-Blasini, Liza; Wapner, Ronald; Whyatt, Robin; Gennings, Chris; Factor-Litvak, Pam

2015-01-01

Background Adequate maternal thyroid function during pregnancy is necessary for normal fetal brain development, making pregnancy a critical window of vulnerability to thyroid disrupting insults. Sodium/iodide symporter (NIS) inhibitors, namely perchlorate, nitrate, and thiocyanate, have been shown individually to competitively inhibit uptake of iodine by the thyroid. Several epidemiologic studies examined the association between these individual exposures and thyroid function. Few studies have examined the effect of this chemical mixture on thyroid function during pregnancy. Objectives We examined the cross sectional association between urinary perchlorate, thiocyanate and nitrate concentrations and thyroid function among healthy pregnant women living in New York City using weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression. Methods We measured thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (FreeT4) in blood samples; perchlorate, thiocyanate, nitrate and iodide in urine samples collected from 284 pregnant women at 12 (± 2.8) weeks gestation. We examined associations between urinary analyte concentrations and TSH or FreeT4 using linear regression or WQS adjusting for gestational age, urinary iodide and creatinine. Results Individual analyte concentrations in urine were significantly correlated (Spearman’s r 0.4–0.5, p < 0.001). Linear regression analyses did not suggest associations between individual concentrations and thyroid function. The WQS revealed a significant positive association between the weighted sum of urinary concentrations of the three analytes and increased TSH. Perchlorate had the largest weight in the index, indicating the largest contribution to the WQS. Conclusions Co-exposure to perchlorate, nitrate and thiocyanate may alter maternal thyroid function, specifically TSH, during pregnancy. PMID:26408806

Assessment of urinary inhibitor or promoter activity in uric acid nephrolithiasis

PubMed Central

Doizi, Steeve; Rodgers, Kathy; Poindexter, John; Sakhaee, Khashayar; Maalouf, Naim M.

2017-01-01

Purpose To assess the presence of a reduced inhibitor activity or an increased promoter activity in urine of idiopathic uric acid stone formers (IUASF) compared to non-stone formers (NSF) independent of urinary pH. Methods 30 IUASF, 9 obese NSF and 12 lean NSF collected 24-hour urine under metabolic diet. Three urine aliquots per subject were used to assess spontaneous nucleation (SN, de novo crystal formation), crystal growth (CG) using a 0.1 mg/mL seed of anhydrous uric acid (UA) and steady state (SS) of UA solubility using a 5 mg/mL seed of UA (assessing maximum amount of UA dissolvable in urine). All experiments were conducted for 6 hours at a constant pH of 5.0. UA concentration was measured in filtered aliquots at 0, 3 and 6 hours. Results At baseline, 24-hour urinary pH was significantly lower and UA saturation significantly higher in IUASF. No significant SN occurred and a similar SS UA concentration was reached in the three groups. IUASF and lean NSF displayed a similar decrease in UA concentration during CG, while obese NSF started with higher UA concentration and consequently displayed higher magnitude of decrease in UA concentration for CG. Conclusions This study suggests that there is no significant difference between IUASF and NSF in terms of promoter or inhibitor activity in whole urine against UA stone formation when urine pH is maintained constant. The findings suggest that UA stone formation is dictated by a high urinary saturation with respect to UA, driven primarily by a low urine pH. PMID:26723865

Urinary arsenic species, toenail arsenic, and arsenic intake estimates in a Michigan population with low levels of arsenic in drinking water.

PubMed

Rivera-Núñez, Zorimar; Meliker, Jaymie R; Meeker, John D; Slotnick, Melissa J; Nriagu, Jerome O

2012-01-01

The large disparity between arsenic concentrations in drinking water and urine remains unexplained. This study aims to evaluate predictors of urinary arsenic in a population exposed to low concentrations (≤50 μg/l) of arsenic in drinking water. Urine and drinking water samples were collected from a subsample (n=343) of a population enrolled in a bladder cancer case-control study in southeastern Michigan. Total arsenic in water and arsenic species in urine were determined using ICP-MS: arsenobetaine (AsB), arsenite (As[III]), arsenate (As[V]), methylarsenic acid (MMA[V]), and dimethylarsenic acid (DMA[V]). The sum of As[III], As[V], MMA[V], and DMA[V] was denoted as SumAs. Dietary information was obtained through a self-reported food intake questionnaire. Log(10)-transformed drinking water arsenic concentration at home was a significant (P<0.0001) predictor of SumAs (R(2)=0.18). Associations improved (R(2)=0.29, P<0.0001) when individuals with less than 1 μg/l of arsenic in drinking water were removed and further improved when analyses were applied to individuals who consumed amounts of home drinking water above the median volume (R(2)=0.40, P<0.0001). A separate analysis indicated that AsB and DMA[V] were significantly correlated with fish and shellfish consumption, which may suggest that seafood intake influences DMA[V] excretion. The Spearman correlation between arsenic concentration in toenails and SumAs was 0.36 and between arsenic concentration in toenails and arsenic concentration in water was 0.42. Results show that arsenic exposure from drinking water consumption is an important determinant of urinary arsenic concentrations, even in a population exposed to relatively low levels of arsenic in drinking water, and suggest that seafood intake may influence urinary DMA[V] concentrations.

Urinary creatinine concentrations in an industrial workforce and comparison with reference values of the general population.

PubMed

Bader, Michael; Messerer, Peter; Will, Wolfgang

2013-08-01

Urinary creatinine is an important parameter for the adjustment of metabolite concentrations in differently diluted urine specimens, as a reference dimension for biological limit or guidance values and as a selection criterion for spot urine samples in human biomonitoring. While the creatinine output of the general population has been well described in environmental surveys, this study focused specifically on creatinine concentrations in a large industrial workforce in order to compare these data with the general population and to provide a database for the calculation of a reasonable conversion factor between volume-related and creatinine-adjusted data and vice versa. Urinary creatinine was analysed in 6,438 spot urine samples by a photometric assay in the time period between 1989 and 2009. Basic demographic data (age, sex, body weight, body height) and job category (apprentices, skilled craftsmen, skilled chemical workers, foremen, laboratory staff and executives) were considered in a statistical analysis. The median concentration of urinary creatinine in all urine samples was 1.36 g/L with male employees showing significantly higher values (1.37 g/L, n = 6,148 samples) than female employees (1.00 g/L, n = 290) and concentrations ranging from 0.01 up to 9.76 g/L. Age, body mass index and job category were significant influence factors on urinary creatinine. About 92 % of all samples showed creatinine concentrations between 0.3 and 3.0 g/L, a range recommended by the World Health Organization as a criterion for valid spot urine samples. The results of this study correspond well with data from environmental surveys and with recent data from an active workforce in industry with similar sampling strategies. Therefore, a median of 1.4 g creatinine per litre urine seems to be a reasonable value for general calculations and adjustments. The study data also support the validity of the current recommendations by the WHO and several scientific committees and institutions with respect to creatinine limits in spot urine samples for occupational-medical biomonitoring.

Relationship of 24-hour urinary free cortisol to 4-hour salivary morning and afternoon cortisol and cortisone as measured by a time-integrated oral diffusion sink.

PubMed

Kathol, R G; Poland, R E; Stokes, P E; Wade, S

1995-05-01

The relationship between salivary corticosteroids integrated over 4-hour periods and urinary free cortisol collected over 24 hours was investigated in normal controls. Twenty-one normal volunteers wore "oral diffusion sink" sampling devices in their mouths for two 4-hour periods (08:00-12:00 hours and 13:00-17:00 hours) and on the same day collected a 24-hour urine specimen. Time-integrated salivary corticosteroid concentrations were determined from the sample devices and urinary free cortisol was measured. Salivary corticosteroids were not consistently higher in the morning than in the afternoon period and did not differ between men and women. Urinary free cortisol levels were higher in women. No salivary corticosteroids measure was significantly correlated with urinary free cortisol. We conclude that time-integrated salivary corticosteroids do not reflect urinary free cortisol levels in normal controls.

Urinary renin, but not angiotensinogen or aldosterone, reflects the renal renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system activity and the efficacy of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockade in the kidney.

PubMed

van den Heuvel, Mieke; Batenburg, Wendy W; Jainandunsing, Sjaam; Garrelds, Ingrid M; van Gool, Jeanette M G; Feelders, Richard A; van den Meiracker, Anton H; Danser, A H Jan

2011-11-01

To study which renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) component best reflects renal RAAS activity. We measured urinary and plasma renin, prorenin, angiotensinogen, aldosterone, albumin and creatinine in 101 diabetic and nondiabetic patients with or without hypertension. Plasma prorenin was elevated in diabetic patients. Urinary prorenin was undetectable. Urinary albumin and renin were higher in diabetic patients. Men had higher plasma renin/prorenin levels, and lower plasma angiotensinogen levels than women. Plasma creatinine and albumin were also higher in men. Urinary RAAS components showed no sexual dimorphism, whereas urinary creatinine and albumin were higher in men. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockers increased plasma renin and decreased plasma angiotensinogen, without altering plasma aldosterone. In contrast, in urine, these drugs decreased renin and aldosterone without affecting angiotensinogen. When analyzing all patients together, urinary angiotensinogen excretion closely mimicked that of albumin, whereas urinary angiotensinogen and albumin levels both were 0.05% or less of their concomitant plasma levels. This may reflect the identical glomerular filtration and tubular handling of both proteins, which have a comparable molecular weight. In contrast, urinary renin excretion did not correlate with urinary albumin excretion, and the urinary/plasma concentration ratio of renin was more than 200 times the ratio of albumin, despite its comparable molecular weight. Urinary aldosterone excretion closely followed urinary creatinine excretion. The increased urinary renin levels in diabetes and the decreased urinary renin levels following RAAS blockade, occurring independently of changes in plasma renin, reflect the activated renal RAAS in diabetes and the success of RAAS blockade in the kidney, respectively. Urinary renin, therefore, more closely reflects renal RAAS activity than urinary angiotensinogen or aldosterone.

Cause-effect relations between 55 kD soluble TNF receptor concentrations and specific and unspecific symptoms in a patient with mild SLE disease activity: an exploratory time series analysis study.

PubMed

Schubert, Christian; Haberkorn, Julia; Ocaña-Peinado, Francisco M; König, Paul; Sepp, Norbert; Schnapka-Köpf, Mirjam; Fuchs, Dietmar

2015-09-21

This integrative single-case study investigated the 12 h-to-12 h cause-effect relations between 55 kD soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor type 1 (sTNF-R55) and specific and unspecific symptoms in a 52-year-old Caucasian woman with mild systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) disease activity. The patient collected her entire urine for 56 days in 12 h-intervals to determine sTNF-R55/creatinine and protein/creatinine levels (ELISA, HPLC). Additionally, twice a day, she took notes on oral ulceration and facial rash; answered questionnaires (VAS) on fatigue, weakness, and joint pain; and measured body temperature orally. Time series analysis consisted of ARIMA modeling and cross-correlational analyses (significance level = p < 0.05). Time series analysis revealed both a circadian and a circasemiseptan rhythm in the urinary sTNF-R55 data. Moreover, several significant lagged correlations between urinary sTNF-R55 concentrations and SLE symptoms in both directions of effect were identified. Specifically, increased urinary sTNF-R55 concentrations preceded decreased urinary protein levels by 36-48 h (r = -0.213) and, in the opposite direction of effect, increased protein levels preceded increased sTNF-R55 concentrations by 24-36 h (r = +0.202). In addition, increased urinary sTNF-R55 levels preceded increased oral ulcers by 36-48 h (r = +0.277) and, conversely, increased oral ulceration preceded decreased sTNF-R55 levels by 36-48 h (r = -0.313). Moreover, increased urinary sTNF-R55 levels preceded decreased facial rash by 36-48 h (r = -0.223) and followed increased body temperature after 36-48 h (r = +0.209). Weakness, fatigue and joint pain were not significantly correlated with urinary sTNF-R55 levels. This study gathered first evidence of real-life, long-term feedback loops between cytokines and SLE symptoms in mild SLE disease activity. Such insights into the potential role of sTNF-R55 in SLE would not have been possible had we applied a pre-post design group study. These findings require replication before firm conclusions can be drawn.

Defect in dermatan sulfate in urine of patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome caused by a CHST14/D4ST1 deficiency.

PubMed

Mizumoto, Shuji; Kosho, Tomoki; Hatamochi, Atsushi; Honda, Tomoko; Yamaguchi, Tomomi; Okamoto, Nobuhiko; Miyake, Noriko; Yamada, Shuhei; Sugahara, Kazuyuki

2017-08-01

Dermatan sulfate (DS) plays a number of roles in a wide range of biological activities such as cell signaling and tissue morphogenesis through interactions with various extracellular matrix proteins including collagen. Mutations in the carbohydrate sulfotransferase 14 gene (CHST14) encoding CHST14/dermatan 4-O-sulfotransferase-1 (D4ST1), which is responsible for the biosynthesis of DS, cause a recently delineated form of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS, musculocontractural type 1), an autosomal recessive connective tissue disorder characterized by congenital malformations (specific craniofacial features, and congenital multiple contractures) and progressive fragility-related complications (skin hyperextensibility, bruisability, and fragility with atrophic scars; recurrent dislocations; progressive talipes or spinal deformities; and large subcutaneous hematomas). In an attempt to develop a diagnostic screening method for this type of EDS, the amount of DS in the urine of patients was analyzed. Urinary DS was quantified by an anion-exchange chromatography after treatment with DS-specific degrading enzyme. DS was not detected in the urine of patients with homo- or compound heterozygous mutations in CHST14. These results suggest that the quantification of DS in urine is applicable to an initial diagnosis of DS-defective EDS. This is the first study to perform a urinary disaccharide compositional analysis of chondroitin sulfate (CS)/DS chains in patients with EDS caused by a CHST14/D4ST1 deficiency, and demonstrated the absence of DS chains. This result suggests systemic DS depletion in this disorder, and also proposes the usefulness of a urinary disaccharide compositional analysis of CS/DS chains as a non-invasive screening method for this disorder. Copyright © 2017 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

IgA-kappa type multiple myeloma affecting proximal and distal renal tubules.

PubMed

Minemura, K; Ichikawa, K; Itoh, N; Suzuki, N; Hara, M; Shigematsu, S; Kobayashi, H; Hiramatsu, K; Hashizume, K

2001-09-01

A 45-year-old male was admitted because of chest pain, lumbago, and bilateral ankle pain. Examination disclosed hypophosphatemic osteomalacia, acquired Fanconi syndrome, and abnormalities in distal nephron such as distal renal tubular acidosis and renal diabetes insipidus. Further exploration revealed IgA kappa multiple myeloma excreting urinary Bence Jones protein (kappa-light chain). Renal biopsy revealed thick basement membranes and elec-tron-dense crystals in proximal tubular epithelial cells. Immunofluorescent studies revealed deposition of kappa-light chain in renal tubular epithelial cells that caused the renal tubular damage. Although the osteomalacia was relieved by medical treatment, the urinary Bence Jones protein and the renal tubular defects were not improved by the chemotherapy for the myeloma. The patient died of exacerbation of multiple myeloma at 50 years of age.

Reference intervals for urinary renal injury biomarkers KIM-1 and NGAL in healthy children

PubMed Central

McWilliam, Stephen J; Antoine, Daniel J; Sabbisetti, Venkata; Pearce, Robin E; Jorgensen, Andrea L; Lin, Yvonne; Leeder, J Steven; Bonventre, Joseph V; Smyth, Rosalind L; Pirmohamed, Munir

2014-01-01

Aim The aim of this study was to establish reference intervals in healthy children for two novel urinary biomarkers of acute kidney injury, kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL). Materials & Methods Urinary biomarkers were determined in samples from children in the UK (n = 120) and the USA (n = 171) using both Meso Scale Discovery (MSD) and Luminex-based analytical approaches. Results 95% reference intervals for each biomarker in each cohort are presented and stratified by sex or ethnicity where necessary, and age-related variability is explored using quantile regression. We identified consistently higher NGAL concentrations in females than males (p < 0.0001), and lower KIM-1 concentrations in African–Americans than Caucasians (p = 0.02). KIM-1 demonstrated diurnal variation, with higher concentrations in the morning (p < 0.001). Conclusion This is the first report of reference intervals for KIM-1 and NGAL using two analytical methods in a healthy pediatric population in both UK and US-based populations. PMID:24661102

The atypical excretion profile of meldonium: Comparison of urinary detection windows after single- and multiple-dose application in healthy volunteers.

PubMed

Görgens, Christian; Guddat, Sven; Bosse, Christina; Geyer, Hans; Pop, Valentin; Schänzer, Wilhelm; Thevis, Mario

2017-05-10

Following a one-year monitoring program providing unequivocal analytical evidence for a high prevalence in international elite sports, meldonium has been included in the World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) list of prohibited substances that came into effect on 1 January 2016. Despite of the polar and hydrophilic nature of the molecule, an unusual long detection window was observed in pilot elimination studies. Consequently, in the present study, urinary excretion profiles after single-dose (5 volunteers, 1×500mg) and multiple-dose oral application (5 volunteers; 2×500mg/day for 6days) were determined in order to facilitate the result management concerning meldonium findings in doping controls. Particularly the option to differentiate between recent use and tapering concentrations was studied. Urinary meldonium concentrations were determined using an analytical approach based on hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography and high resolution tandem mass spectrometry. The study corroborates the hypothesis of a non-linear, dose-depended and biphasic excretion profile after oral application of meldonium and demonstrates that urinary detection windows are of considerable extent with up to 65 and 117days (concentrations>LOQ of 10ng/mL) following single- and multiple-dose applications, respectively. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Influence of anisotropy on percolation and jamming of linear k-mers on square lattice with defects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tarasevich, Yu Yu; Laptev, V. V.; Burmistrov, A. S.; Shinyaeva, T. S.

2015-09-01

By means of the Monte Carlo simulation, we study the layers produced by the random sequential adsorption of the linear rigid objects (k-mers also known as rigid or stiff rods, sticks, needles) onto the square lattice with defects in the presence of an external field. The value of k varies from 2 to 32. The point defects randomly and uniformly placed on the substrate hinder adsorption of the elongated objects. The external field affects isotropic deposition of the particles, consequently the deposited layers are anisotropic. We study the influence of the defect concentration, the length of the objects, and the external field on the percolation threshold and the jamming concentration. Our main findings are (i) the critical defect concentration at which the percolation never occurs even at jammed state decreases for short k-mers (k < 16) and increases for long k-mers (k > 16) as anisotropy increases, (ii) the corresponding critical k-mer concentration decreases with anisotropy growth, (iii) the jamming concentration decreases drastically with growth of k-mer length for any anisotropy, (iv) for short k-mers, the percolation threshold is almost insensitive to the defect concentration for any anisotropy.

Moderate alcohol consumption and 24-hour urinary levels of melatonin in postmenopausal women

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Low overnight urinary melatonin metabolite concentrations have been associated with increased risk for breast cancer among postmenopausal women. The Postmenopausal Women's Alcohol Study was a controlled feeding study to test the effects of low to moderate alcohol intake on potential risk factors for...

NOVEL ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN URINARY PERCHLORATE AND POTENTIALLY RELEVANT EFFECTS ON RISK FACTORS FOR HEART DISEASE BASED ON NHANES 2001-2002

EPA Science Inventory

Perchlorate is a widespread environmental pollutant, and is a thyroid hormone disruptor. A previous population study based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001-2002 database showed that urinary perchlorate concentrations were associated with signi...

Dose-response relationship between urinary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons metabolites and urinary 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine in a Chinese general population.

PubMed

Sun, Huizhen; Hou, Jian; Zhou, Yun; Yang, Yuqing; Cheng, Juan; Xu, Tian; Xiao, Lili; Chen, Weihong; Yuan, Jing

2017-05-01

Association of exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) with increased urinary 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) formation has been reported in occupational population and children. However, studies on the association between them in general population are limited. A total of 1864 eligible subjects from the baseline Wuhan participants of the Wuhan-Zhuhai Cohort Study (n = 3053) were included in this study, after excluding individuals with certain disease and missing data on urinary monohydroxy PAHs (OH-PAHs) and 8-OHdG levels. Urinary monohydroxy PAHs and 8-OHdG levels were measured by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and high performance liquid chromatography-electrochemical detection, respectively. Association of urinary OH-PAHs with urinary 8-OHdG was analyzed by multiple linear regression analysis. We found a dose-dependent relationship between urinary PAHs metabolites and urinary 8-OHdG (p < 0.05 for all). Furthermore, more evidence for the association of total concentrations of urinary OH-PAHs with 8-OHdG levels were observed in individuals with normal body mass index or central obesity (p < 0.01 for all). There was a dose-dependent relationship between urinary OH-PAHs levels and urinary 8-OHdG levels among a general Chinese population. Exposure to background PAHs may have a greater influence on urinary 8-OHdG levels in individuals with central obesity. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Three job stress models/concepts and oxidative DNA damage in a sample of workers in Japan.

PubMed

Inoue, Akiomi; Kawakami, Norito; Ishizaki, Masao; Tabata, Masaji; Tsuchiya, Masao; Akiyama, Miki; Kitazume, Akiko; Kuroda, Mitsuyo; Shimazu, Akihito

2009-04-01

Three job stress models/concepts (the job demands-control [DC] model, the effort-reward imbalance [ERI] model, and organizational justice) have been linked to coronary heart disease (CHD) at work. In recent years, oxidative DNA damage has been identified as a new risk factor for CHD. However, evidence for the association between these job stressors and oxidative DNA damage is limited. The present cross-sectional study investigated the association between these job stress models/concepts and oxidative DNA damage as a possible mediator of the adverse health effects of job stress. A total of 166 male and 51 female workers of a manufacturing factory in Japan were surveyed using a mailed questionnaire regarding job stressors and demographic, occupational, and lifestyle variables. Urinary concentrations of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), a biomarker of oxidative DNA damage, were also measured. In male subjects, the urinary concentrations of 8-OHdG were significantly higher among the group with lower interactional justice, one of the two components of organizational justice; however, no association was observed with the DC model or the ERI model. In female subjects, high job demands/control ratio was significantly and positively associated with the urinary concentrations of 8-OHdG. Interactional justice among male workers and the DC model-based strain among female workers may be associated with increased urinary concentrations of 8-OHdG which possibly reflects oxidative DNA damage.

Urine and toenail cadmium levels in pregnant women: A reliability study.

PubMed

White, Alexandra J; O'Brien, Katie M; Jackson, Brian P; Karagas, Margaret R

2018-05-29

Cadmium, as measured in human tissue, has been associated with numerous health outcomes. However, few studies have evaluated the reliability of cadmium measurements across different biologic samples. We evaluated toenail cadmium levels over time and compared toenail cadmium to urinary cadmium. We also evaluated the relationship between biomarker concentrations and cigarette smoking, a known source of cadmium exposure. Cadmium was assessed in urine and toenail samples collected from 1338 pregnant women participating in the New Hampshire Birth Cohort Study. Each participant was asked to provide a urine and a toenail sample at enrollment (between 24 and 28 weeks gestation) and another toenail sample 2-8 weeks postpartum. Cadmium concentrations were determined using inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Spearman correlations were assessed for cadmium in the toenails across the two-time points and comparing toenail and urine levels. Smoking status was evaluated as a predictor of cadmium levels. Toenail cadmium assessed during pregnancy and postpartum were modestly correlated (R = 0.3, p < 0.0001). However, urine and toenail cadmium levels were unrelated (R = -0.03, p = 0.46). Both toenail and urinary cadmium levels were associated with women's smoking status. Our findings suggest that both toenail and urinary cadmium concentrations reflect the major source of exposure - cigarette smoking. Toenail cadmium concentrations are modestly reproducible pre- and postpartum; but do not appear to be related to urinary cadmium and thus likely represent different windows and chronicity of exposure among pregnant women. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

High human exposure to cobalt and other metals in Katanga, a mining area of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

PubMed

Banza, Célestin Lubaba Nkulu; Nawrot, Tim S; Haufroid, Vincent; Decrée, Sophie; De Putter, Thierry; Smolders, Erik; Kabyla, Benjamin Ilunga; Luboya, Oscar Numbi; Ilunga, Augustin Ndala; Mutombo, Alain Mwanza; Nemery, Benoit

2009-08-01

The human health impact of the historic and current mining and processing of non-ferrous metals in the African Copperbelt is not known. This study assessed the exposure to metals in the population of Katanga, in the south east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, using biomonitoring. Seventeen metals (including Cd, Co, Cu, Pb, U) and non-metals (including As) were measured by ICP-MS in urine spot samples from 351 subjects (32% women), aged 2-74 yr (mean 33 yr). Forty subjects (controls) lived 400 km outside the mining area; 311 subjects lived in the mining area, either very close (< 3 km) (n=179; 6 communities) or moderately close (3-10 km) (n=132; 4 communities) to mines or smelting plants. For all metals (except Ni) urinary concentrations were significantly higher in subjects from the mining area than in control subjects. In subjects living very close to mines or smelting plants, the geometric means (25th-75th percentile) of urinary concentrations, expressed as microg/g creatinine, were 17.8 (10.9-29.0) for As, 0.75 (0.38-1.16) for Cd, 15.7 (5.27-43.2) for Co, 17.1 (8.44-43.2) for Cu, 3.17 (1.47-5.49) for Pb and 0.028 (0.013-0.065) for U, these values being significantly higher than those of subjects living 3-10 km from mines or industrial operations. Urinary Co concentrations were markedly elevated, exceeding 15 microg/g creatinine in 53% of the subjects, and even 87% of children (<14 yr), living very close to the mining areas. Urinary As was also high (79% above 10 microg/g creatinine in subjects living very close to the mining areas). Compared with background values from the US general population, subjects living very close to areas of mining or refining had 4-, 43-, 5- and 4-fold higher urinary concentrations of Cd, Co, Pb and U, respectively. This first biomonitoring study of metal exposure in the African Copperbelt reveals a substantial exposure to several metals, especially in children. The urinary Co concentrations found in this population are the highest ever reported for a general population. The pathways of exposure and health significance of these findings need to be further investigated.

Molecular dynamical simulations of melting Al nanoparticles using a reaxff reactive force field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Junpeng; Wang, Mengjun; Liu, Pingan

2018-06-01

Molecular dynamics simulations were performed to study thermal properties and melting points of Al nanoparticles by using a reactive force field under canonical (NVT) ensembles. Al nanoparticles (particle size 2–4 nm) were considered in simulations. A combination of structural and thermodynamic parameters such as the Lindemann index, heat capacities, potential energy and radial-distribution functions was employed to decide melting points. We used annealing technique to obtain the initial Al nanoparticle model. Comparison was made between ReaxFF results and other simulation results. We found that ReaxFF force field is reasonable to describe Al cluster melting behavior. The linear relationship between particle size and melting points was found. After validating the ReaxFF force field, more attention was paid on thermal properties of Al nanoparticles with different defect concentrations. 4 nm Al nanoparticles with different defect concentrations (5%–20%) were considered in this paper. Our results revealed that: the melting points are irrelevant with defect concentration at a certain particle size. The extra storage energy of Al nanoparticles is proportional to nanoparticles’ defect concentration, when defect concentration is 5%–15%. While the particle with 20% defect concentration is similar to the cluster with 10% defect concentration. After melting, the extra energy of all nanoparticles decreases sharply, and the extra storage energy is nearly zero at 600 K. The centro-symmetry parameter analysis shows structure evolution of different models during melting processes.

Decrease in Urinary Creatinine Excretion in Early Stage Chronic Kidney Disease

PubMed Central

Tynkevich, Elena; Flamant, Martin; Haymann, Jean-Philippe; Metzger, Marie; Thervet, Eric; Boffa, Jean-Jacques; Vrtovsnik, François; Houillier, Pascal; Froissart, Marc; Stengel, Bénédicte

2014-01-01

Background Little is known about muscle mass loss in early stage chronic kidney disease (CKD). We used 24-hour urinary creatinine excretion rate to assess determinants of muscle mass and its evolution with kidney function decline. We also described the range of urinary creatinine concentration in this population. Methods We included 1072 men and 537 women with non-dialysis CKD stages 1 to 5, all of them with repeated measurements of glomerular filtration rate (mGFR) by 51Cr-EDTA renal clearance and several nutritional markers. In those with stage 1 to 4 at baseline, we used a mixed model to study factors associated with urinary creatinine excretion rate and its change over time. Results Baseline mean urinary creatinine excretion decreased from 15.3±3.1 to 12.1±3.3 mmol/24 h (0.20±0.03 to 0.15±0.04 mmol/kg/24 h) in men, with mGFR falling from ≥60 to <15 mL/min/1.73 m2, and from 9.6±1.9 to 7.6±2.5 (0.16±0.03 to 0.12±0.03) in women. In addition to mGFR, an older age, diabetes, and lower levels of body mass index, proteinuria, and protein intake assessed by urinary urea were associated with lower mean urinary creatinine excretion at baseline. Mean annual decline in mGFR was 1.53±0.12 mL/min/1.73 m2 per year and that of urinary creatinine excretion rate, 0.28±0.02 mmol/24 h per year. Patients with fast annual decline in mGFR of 5 mL/min/1.73 m2 had a decrease in urinary creatinine excretion more than twice as big as in those with stable mGFR, independent of changes in urinary urea as well as of other determinants of low muscle mass. Conclusions Decrease in 24-hour urinary creatinine excretion rate may appear early in CKD patients, and is greater the more mGFR declines independent of lowering protein intake assessed by 24-hour urinary urea. Normalizing urine analytes for creatininuria may overestimate their concentration in patients with reduced kidney function and low muscle mass. PMID:25401694

Measurement of Total and Free Urinary Phenol and Paraben Concentrations over the Course of Pregnancy: Assessing Reliability and Contamination of Specimens in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study

PubMed Central

Longnecker, Matthew P.; Aase, Heidi; Eggesbø, Merete; Zeiner, Pål; Reichborn-Kjennerud, Ted; Knudsen, Gun P.; Bertelsen, Randi J.; Ye, Xiaoyun; Calafat, Antonia M.; Engel, Stephanie M.

2015-01-01

Background Exposures to environmental phenols and parabens may be harmful, especially in utero. Prior studies have demonstrated high within-person variability of urinary concentrations across pregnancy. Objectives We sought to measure phenol and paraben biomarker concentrations for the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort (MoBa) study, assess within-person variability, and investigate any possible external phenol or paraben contamination of specimens. Methods We collected three spot urine samples at approximately 17, 23, and 29 weeks gestation in a hospital setting and added a preservative containing ethyl paraben. We measured urinary concentrations and within-person variability for phenols and parabens in a MoBa sample (n = 45), including a subgroup of 15 participants previously randomly selected for a bisphenol A (BPA) exposure study who had unusually high total BPA concentrations. Additionally, we compared reliability results for total, conjugated, and free concentrations of phenolic compounds. Results We detected total and free BPA, butyl paraben, propyl paraben, and methyl paraben in 100% of samples, total benzophenone-3 in 95% of samples, and infrequently detected free benzophenone-3 and total and free 2,4-dichlorophenol and 2,5-dichlorophenol. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for total, conjugated, and free concentrations ranged from relatively low for BPA to moderate for propyl paraben. ICCs were generally similar overall and by subgroup. Conclusions Using conjugated concentrations improved reliability estimates only for BPA. Measuring total and free concentrations, an approach that may be useful for future studies, allowed us to identify likely BPA and butyl paraben contamination of archived MoBa urine specimens. Citation Guidry VT, Longnecker MP, Aase H, Eggesbø M, Zeiner P, Reichborn-Kjennerud T, Knudsen GP, Bertelsen RJ, Ye X, Calafat AM, Engel SM. 2015. Measurement of total and free urinary phenol and paraben concentrations over the course of pregnancy: assessing reliability and contamination of specimens in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study. Environ Health Perspect 123:705–711; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1408325 PMID:25782115

The humoral pattern recognition molecule PTX3 is a key component of innate immunity against urinary tract infection.

PubMed

Jaillon, Sébastien; Moalli, Federica; Ragnarsdottir, Bryndis; Bonavita, Eduardo; Puthia, Manoj; Riva, Federica; Barbati, Elisa; Nebuloni, Manuela; Cvetko Krajinovic, Lidija; Markotic, Alemka; Valentino, Sonia; Doni, Andrea; Tartari, Silvia; Graziani, Giorgio; Montanelli, Alessandro; Delneste, Yves; Svanborg, Catharina; Garlanda, Cecilia; Mantovani, Alberto

2014-04-17

Immunity in the urinary tract has distinct and poorly understood pathophysiological characteristics and urinary tract infections (UTIs) are important causes of morbidity and mortality. We investigated the role of the soluble pattern recognition molecule pentraxin 3 (PTX3), a key component of the humoral arm of innate immunity, in UTIs. PTX3-deficient mice showed defective control of UTIs and exacerbated inflammation. Expression of PTX3 was induced in uroepithelial cells by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) in a Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)- and MyD88-dependent manner. PTX3 enhanced UPEC phagocytosis and phagosome maturation by neutrophils. PTX3 was detected in urine of UTI patients and amounts correlated with disease severity. In cohorts of UTI-prone patients, PTX3 gene polymorphisms correlated with susceptibility to acute pyelonephritis and cystitis. These results suggest that PTX3 is an essential component of innate resistance against UTIs. Thus, the cellular and humoral arms of innate immunity exert complementary functions in mediating resistance against UTIs. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Preeclampsia: is it because of the asymptomatic, unrecognized renal scars caused by urinary tract infections in childhood that become symptomatic with pregnancy?

PubMed

Ozlü, Tülay; Alçelik, Aytekin; Calişkan, Billur; Dönmez, Melahat Emine

2012-11-01

Preeclampsia is an important disease of pregnancy whose exact etiology is still unknown despite continuing developments in medicine. Although most commonly it is believed to be caused by a defective placentation, in this paper, we hypothesize that the primary underlying problem in the development of preeclampsia can be in kidneys in a greater proportion of cases than it is believed today. The increased intravascular volume and the increased work load of kidneys together with the resulting glomerular hypertrophy may precipitate nephrotic syndrome, which in this case is called "preeclampsia" in a previously affected kidney. Urinary tract infections in childhood leaving silent, unrecognized small scars in the kidneys may be the underlying renal cause which disrupts its silence with an increased work load of kidneys prominently occurring after the midtrimester. The histopathologic finding in kidneys with renal scars after childhood urinary tract infections and in preeclampsia is focal segmental glomerulosclerosis in the majority of cases and this similarity strengthens our hypothesis. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Soy Intake Modifies the Relation Between Urinary Bisphenol A Concentrations and Pregnancy Outcomes Among Women Undergoing Assisted Reproduction

PubMed Central

Mínguez-Alarcón, Lidia; Chiu, Yu-Han; Gaskins, Audrey J.; Souter, Irene; Williams, Paige L.; Calafat, Antonia M.; Hauser, Russ

2016-01-01

Context: Experimental data in rodents suggest that the adverse reproductive health effects of bisphenol A (BPA) can be modified by intake of soy phytoestrogens. Whether the same is true in humans is not known. Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether soy consumption modifies the relation between urinary BPA levels and infertility treatment outcomes among women undergoing assisted reproduction. Setting: The study was conducted in a fertility center in a teaching hospital. Design: We evaluated 239 women enrolled between 2007 and 2012 in the Environment and Reproductive Health (EARTH) Study, a prospective cohort study, who underwent 347 in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. Participants completed a baseline questionnaire and provided up to 2 urine samples in each treatment cycle before oocyte retrieval. IVF outcomes were abstracted from electronic medical records. We used generalized linear mixed models with interaction terms to evaluate whether the association between urinary BPA concentrations and IVF outcomes was modified by soy intake. Main Outcome Measure: Live birth rates per initiated treatment cycle were measured. Results: Soy food consumption modified the association of urinary BPA concentration with live birth rates (P for interaction = .01). Among women who did not consume soy foods, the adjusted live birth rates per initiated cycle in increasing quartiles of cycle-specific urinary BPA concentrations were 54%, 35%, 31%, and 17% (P for trend = .03). The corresponding live birth rates among women reporting pretreatment consumption of soy foods were 38%, 42%, 47%, and 49% (P for trend = 0.35). A similar pattern was found for implantation (P for interaction = .02) and clinical pregnancy rates (P for interaction = .03) per initiated cycle, where urinary BPA was inversely related to these outcomes among women not consuming soy foods but unrelated to them among soy consumers. Conclusion: Soy food intake may protect against the adverse reproductive effects of BPA. As these findings represent the first report suggesting a potential interaction between soy and BPA in humans, they should be further evaluated in other populations. PMID:26815879

Urinary concentrations of organophosphate and carbamate pesticides in residents of a vegetarian community.

PubMed

Berman, T; Göen, T; Novack, L; Beacher, L; Grinshpan, L; Segev, D; Tordjman, K

2016-11-01

Few population studies have measured urinary levels of pesticides in individuals with vegan, vegetarian, or organic diets. The objectives of this study were to evaluate whether a vegan/vegetarian diet was associated with increased exposure to organophosphate and carbamate pesticides, and to evaluate the impact of organic consumption on pesticide exposure in vegans and vegetarians. In the current pilot study conducted in 2013-2014, we collected spot urine samples and detailed 24h recall dietary data in 42 adult residents of Amirim, a vegetarian community in Northern Israel. We measured urinary levels of non-specific organophosphate pesticide metabolites (dialkylphosphates, (DAPs)) and specific metabolites of the current-use pesticides chlorpyrifos (3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCPy)), propoxur (-isopropoxyphenol (IPPX)), and carbaryl (1-naphthol). Six DAP metabolites were detected in between 67 and 100% of urine samples, with highest geometric mean concentrations for dimethylphosphate (19.2μg/g). Creatinine-adjusted median concentrations of total DAPs and of TCPy were significantly higher in Amirim residents compared to the general Jewish population in Israel (0.29μmol/g compared to 0.16, p<0.05 for DAPs and 4.32μg/g compared to 2.34μg/g, p<0.05 for TCPy). Within Amirim residents, we observed a positive association between vegetable intake and urinary TCPy levels (rho=0.47, p<0.05) and lower median total dimethyl phosphate levels in individuals reporting that >25% of the produce they consume is organic (0.065μmol/L compared to 0.22, p<0.05). Results from this pilot study indicate relatively high levels of urinary organophosphate pesticide metabolite concentrations in residents of a vegetarian community, a positive association between vegetable intake and urinary levels of a chlorpyrifos specific metabolite, and lower levels of total dimethyl phosphate in individuals reporting higher intake of organic produce. Results suggest that consumption of organic produce may offer some protection from increased exposure to organophosphate pesticide residues in vegetarians. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Urinary Phthalate Metabolite Concentrations and Reproductive Outcomes among Women Undergoing in Vitro Fertilization: Results from the EARTH Study.

PubMed

Hauser, Russ; Gaskins, Audrey J; Souter, Irene; Smith, Kristen W; Dodge, Laura E; Ehrlich, Shelley; Meeker, John D; Calafat, Antonia M; Williams, Paige L

2016-06-01

Evidence from both animal and human studies suggests that exposure to phthalates may be associated with adverse female reproductive outcomes. We evaluated the associations between urinary concentrations of phthalate metabolites and outcomes of assisted reproductive technologies (ART). This analysis included 256 women enrolled in the Environment and Reproductive Health (EARTH) prospective cohort study (2004-2012) who provided one to two urine samples per cycle before oocyte retrieval. We measured 11 urinary phthalate metabolites [mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), mono(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEHHP), mono(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (MEOHP), mono(2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate (MECPP), mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP), mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP), monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP), monoethyl phthalate (MEP), monocarboxyisooctyl phthalate (MCOP), monocarboxyisononyl phthalate (MCNP), and mono(3-carboxypropyl) phthalate (MCPP)]. We used generalized linear mixed models to evaluate the association of urinary phthalate metabolites with in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes, accounting for multiple IVF cycles per woman. In multivariate models, women in the highest as compared with lowest quartile of MEHP, MEHHP, MEOHP, MECPP, ΣDEHP (MEHP + MEHHP + MEOHP + MECPP), and MCNP had lower oocyte yield. Similarly, the number of mature (MII) oocytes retrieved was lower in the highest versus lowest quartile for these same phthalate metabolites. The adjusted differences (95% CI) in proportion of cycles resulting in clinical pregnancy and live birth between women in the fourth versus first quartile of ΣDEHP were -0.19 (-0.29, -0.08) and -0.19 (-0.28, -0.08), respectively, and there was also a lower proportion of cycles resulting in clinical pregnancy and live birth for individual DEHP metabolites. Urinary concentrations of DEHP metabolites were inversely associated with oocyte yield, clinical pregnancy, and live birth following ART. Hauser R, Gaskins AJ, Souter I, Smith KW, Dodge LE, Ehrlich S, Meeker JD, Calafat AM, Williams PL, for the EARTH Study Team. 2016. Urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and reproductive outcomes among women undergoing in vitro fertilization: results from the EARTH study. Environ Health Perspect 124:831-839; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1509760.

Quantifying cobalt in doping control urine samples--a pilot study.

PubMed

Krug, Oliver; Kutscher, Daniel; Piper, Thomas; Geyer, Hans; Schänzer, Wilhelm; Thevis, Mario

2014-01-01

Since first reports on the impact of metals such as manganese and cobalt on erythropoiesis were published in the late 1920s, cobaltous chloride became a viable though not widespread means for the treatment of anaemic conditions. Today, its use is de facto eliminated from clinical practice; however, its (mis)use in human as well as animal sport as an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent has been discussed frequently. In order to assess possible analytical options and to provide relevant information on the prevalence of cobalt use/misuse among athletes, urinary cobalt concentrations were determined by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) from four groups of subjects. The cohorts consisted of (1) a reference population with specimens of 100 non-elite athletes (not being part of the doping control system), (2) a total of 96 doping control samples from endurance sport athletes, (3) elimination study urine samples collected from six individuals having ingested cobaltous chloride (500 µg/day) through dietary supplements, and (4) samples from people supplementing vitamin B12 (cobalamin) at 500 µg/day, accounting for approximately 22 µg of cobalt. The obtained results demonstrated that urinary cobalt concentrations of the reference population as well as the group of elite athletes were within normal ranges (0.1-2.2 ng/mL). A modest but significant difference between these two groups was observed (Wilcoxon rank sum test, p < 0.01) with the athletes' samples presenting slightly higher urinary cobalt levels. The elimination study urine specimens yielded cobalt concentrations between 40 and 318 ng/mL during the first 6 h post-administration, and levels remained elevated (>22 ng/mL) up to 33 h. Oral supplementation of 500 µg of cobalamin did not result in urinary cobalt concentrations > 2 ng/mL. Based on these pilot study data it is concluded that measuring the urinary concentration of cobalt can provide information indicating the use of cobaltous chloride by athletes. Additional studies are however required to elucidate further factors potentially influencing urinary cobalt levels. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Bisphenol A exposure through receipt handling and its association with insulin resistance among female cashiers.

PubMed

Lee, Inae; Kim, Sunmi; Kim, Ki-Tae; Kim, Sungkyoon; Park, Suhyun; Lee, Hyojin; Jeong, Yunsun; Lim, Jae-Eun; Moon, Hyo-Bang; Choi, Kyungho

2018-05-16

Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the most widely used chemicals in various consumer products. In thermal papers such as receipts and tickets, BPA is used as a heat-activated developer. Cashiers are therefore suspected to be a vulnerable group of exposure to BPA, but neither contribution of receipt handling to the total body burden of BPA among cashiers, nor related health effects are well characterized. Female cashiers (n = 54) were recruited from seven retail shops of a major supermarket chain in Korea, and urinary levels of BPA and metabolic syndrome (MetS) related biomarkers were measured. In order to estimate the contribution of receipt handling to the body burden of BPA, an intervention was designed on the use of gloves: the subjects were asked not to wear gloves during the work for one week, and in the following week, to wear gloves. Urine samples were collected at pre-shift and post-shift for the first two consecutive days in each week, and urinary BPA concentrations were measured. In cashiers without gloves, about a two-fold increase in urinary BPA concentrations was observed after work-shift. When the cashiers wore gloves, however, urinary BPA levels showed no changes. Higher urinary BPA concentrations were associated with greater levels of fasting insulin and insulin resistance. Our observation shows that receipt handling among the cashiers could double the BPA exposure levels at post-shift compared to those at pre-shift, and use of simple protective equipment such as gloves could effectively reduce the BPA exposure levels. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Molecular mechanisms involved in the protective effect of the chloroform extract of Selaginella lepidophylla (Hook. et Grev.) Spring in a lithiasic rat model.

PubMed

Mirian, Estévez-Carmona María; Juanita, Narvaéz-Morales; Christophe, Barbier Olivier; Estela, Meléndez-Camargo María

2013-06-01

Urolithiasis is a multifaceted process, progressing from urine supersaturation to the formation of mature renal calculi. Calcium oxalate, the main component of kidney stones, has toxicological effects on renal epithelial cells. Some medicinal plants have shown pharmacological effects against renal lithiasis, such as Selaginella lepidophylla (Hook. et Grev) Spring, a plant empirically used in Mexico for its diuretic and antilithiasic activity. The plant was identified and ground, and a chloroform extract (CE) was obtained. Urolithiasis was induced in Wistar female rats by administration of ethylene glycol and ammonium chloride for 21 days. Urolithiasis rats were treated with the CE (50 mg/kg) for 21 days. Osmolality, creatinine, sodium and potassium concentrations were measured in blood and urine. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and electrolytic and water balances were calculated. Urinary oxalic acid concentration was measured. Apoptosis, lipoperoxidation, ROS and p-amino hippuric acid were determined in cortical tissue. Urolithiasis rats showed a decrease of urinary flow, GFR, electrolytic balance, renal tubular secretion and ATP concentration and increase of urinary oxalic acid, lipoperoxidation, oxidative stress and apoptosis in cortical tissue. After treatment with the CE, urinary flow rate, GFR and renal tubular secretion levels were recovered; on the other hand, serum creatinine and urinary oxalic acid decreased on day 21. CE of Selaginella lepidophylla prevented the damage caused by lithiasic process by improving the active secretion in the proximal tubules, counteracting the ROS and lipoperoxidation effects by oxalate and decreased the OAT3 expression on kidney.

Methylated purines in urinary stones.

PubMed

Safranow, Krzysztof; Machoy, Zygmunt

2005-08-01

The aim of the study was to measure the content of methylated purines that appear as admixtures in uric acid stones. We analyzed urinary calculi from 48 residents of Western Pomerania who underwent surgery at the urology ward in Szczecin. Stone samples were dissolved in 0.1 mol/L NaOH. Extracts were diluted in 50 mmol/L KH(2)PO(4) and analyzed by reversed-phase HPLC with ultraviolet detection and use of a gradient of methanol concentration and pH. Uric acid was the main component of 9 stones. All 9 showed admixtures of 9 other purine derivatives: endogenous purine breakdown products (xanthine, hypoxanthine, and 2,8-dihydroxyadenine) and exogenous methyl derivatives of uric acid and xanthine (1-, 3-, and 7-methyluric acid; 1,3-dimethyluric acid; and 3- and 7-methylxanthine). Amounts of these purine derivatives ranged from the limit of detection to 12 mg/g of stone weight and showed a strong positive correlation (Spearman rank correlation coefficients, 0.63-0.94) with the uric acid content of the samples. The main methylated purine in the stones was 1-methyluric acid. Urinary purines at concentrations below their saturation limits may coprecipitate in samples supersaturated with uric acid and appear as admixtures in urinary stones. The amount of each purine depends on its average urinary excretion, similarity to the chemical structure of uric acid, and concentration of the latter in the stone. These findings suggest that purines in stones represent a substitutional solid solution with uric acid as solvent. Methylxanthines, which are ubiquitous components of the diet, drugs, and uric acid calculi, may be involved in the pathogenesis of urolithiasis.

In utero and early childhood exposure to arsenic decreases lung function in children

PubMed Central

Recio-Vega, Rogelio; Gonzalez-Cortes, Tania; Olivas-Calderon, Edgar; Lantz, R. Clark; Gandolfi, A. Jay; Gonzalez-De Alba, Cesar

2016-01-01

Background The lung is a target organ for adverse health outcomes following exposure to arsenic. Several studies have reported a high prevalence of respiratory symptoms and diseases in subjects highly exposed to arsenic through drinking water, however, most studies to date has been performed in exposed adults, with little information on respiratory effects in children. The objective of the study was to evaluate the association between urinary levels of arsenic and its metabolites with lung function in children exposed in utero and in early childhood to high arsenic levels through drinking water. Methods A total of 358 healthy children were included in our study. Individual exposure was assessed based on urinary concentration of inorganic arsenic. Lung function was assessed by spirometry. Results Participants were exposed since pregnancy until early childhood to an average water As concentration of 152.13 μg/L. The mean urinary arsenic level registered in the studied subjects was 141.2 μg/L and only 16.7% had a urinary concentration below the national concern level. Forced vital capacity was significantly decreased in the studied population and it was negatively associated with the percent of inorganic arsenic. More than 57% of the subjects had a restrictive spirometric pattern. The urinary As level was higher in those children with restrictive lung patterns when compared with the levels registered in subjects with normal spirometric patterns. Conclusion Exposure to arsenic through drinking water during in utero and early life was associated with a decrease in FVC and with a restrictive spirometric pattern in the children evaluated. PMID:25131850

In utero and early childhood exposure to arsenic decreases lung function in children.

PubMed

Recio-Vega, Rogelio; Gonzalez-Cortes, Tania; Olivas-Calderon, Edgar; Lantz, R Clark; Gandolfi, A Jay; Gonzalez-De Alba, Cesar

2015-04-01

The lung is a target organ for adverse health outcomes following exposure to As. Several studies have reported a high prevalence of respiratory symptoms and diseases in subjects highly exposed to As through drinking water; however, most studies to date has been performed in exposed adults, with little information on respiratory effects in children. The objective of the study was to evaluate the association between urinary levels of As and its metabolites with lung function in children exposed in utero and in early childhood to high As levels through drinking water. A total of 358 healthy children were included in our study. Individual exposure was assessed based on urinary concentration of inorganic As. Lung function was assessed by spirometry. Participants were exposed since pregnancy until early childhood to an average water As concentration of 152.13 µg l⁻¹. The mean urinary As level registered in the studied subjects was 141.2 µg l⁻¹ and only 16.7% had a urinary concentration below the national concern level. Forced vital capacity was significantly decreased in the studied population and it was negatively associated with the percentage of inorganic As. More than 57% of the subjects had a restrictive spirometric pattern. The urinary As level was higher in those children with restrictive lung patterns when compared with the levels registered in subjects with normal spirometric patterns. Exposure to As through drinking water during in utero and early life was associated with a decrease in forced vital capacity and with a restrictive spirometric pattern in the children evaluated. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Urinary concentrations of parabens and their association with demographic factors: A population-based cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Kang, Hui-Seung; Kyung, Min-Sik; Ko, Ahra; Park, Jae-Hong; Hwang, Myung-Sil; Kwon, Ji-Eun; Suh, Jin-Hyang; Lee, Hee-Seok; Moon, Gui Im; Hong, Jin-Hwan; Hwang, In Gyun

2016-04-01

Parabens are broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents used in a range of consumer products, including personal care products, cosmetics, and food. Recently, the widespread use of parabens has raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with their endocrine-disrupting effect. In the present study, 2541 urine samples were collected and analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry for the determination of the concentrations of methyl paraben (MeP), ethyl paraben (EtP), propyl paraben (PrP) and butyl paraben (BuP). The detection rate and geometric mean concentrations of parabens in the general population followed the order MeP (97.7%; 116ng/mL)>EtP (97.2%; 24.7ng/mL)>PrP (96.7%; 11.0ng/mL)>BuP (83.5%; 1.13ng/mL). The composition profiles showed that MeP and EtP accounted for >90% of the urinary paraben concentration. We performed statistical analysis in order to evaluate differences between demographic variables and urinary concentrations. Our results showed that adjusted proportional change of MeP, PrP, and BuP in adults were 2.67-6.13 times higher in females than in males. The urinary concentrations of PrP in adults increased significantly with age. The adjusted proportional changes of MeP and PrP in adults were associated with increased body mass index (BMI). The adjusted proportional changes of BuP and PrP in children and adolescents were 1.44 and 1.69 times higher in females than in males. However, there was no clear association between paraben concentrations and demographic variables in the children and adolescents groups. The estimated daily intake (EDIurine) of MeP and EtP in adults were 301μg/kg bw/day, which is lower than the acceptable daily intake (ADI; 10mg/kg bw/day). In summary, our results revealed that the general population in Korea was exposed to parabens during 2009-2010, and most Koreans are exposed to parabens. The urinary levels of parabens varied by age group with demographic factors in the Korean population. The results of study may be used to establish a nationally representative baseline of exposure to parabens in risk assessment. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Renal Phenotype of UT-A Urea Transporter Knockout Mice

PubMed Central

Fenton, Robert A.; Flynn, Anneliese; Shodeinde, Adetola; Smith, Craig P.; Schnermann, Jurgen; Knepper, Mark A.

2006-01-01

The urea transporters UT-A1 and UT-A3 mediate rapid transepithelial urea transport across the inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD). In a previous study, using a new mouse model in which both UT-A1 and UT-A3 were genetically deleted from the IMCD (UT-A1/3−/− mice), we investigated the role of these transporters in the function of the renal inner medulla. Here we report a series of studies investigating more generally the renal phenotype of UT-A1/3−/− mice. Pathological screening revealed abnormalities in both the testis (increased size) and kidney (decreased size and vascular congestion) of UT-A1/3−/− mice. Total urinary nitrate and nitrite excretion rates in UT-A1/3−/− mice were more than double those in wildtype mice. Total renal blood flow was not different between UT-A1/3−/− and wildtype mice, but underwent a greater percentage decrease in response to NG-Nitro-L-arginine Methyl Ester Hydrochloride (L-NAME) infusion. Whole kidney glomerular filtration rate was not different in UT-A1/3−/− mice compared to controls and underwent a similar increase in response to a greater dietary protein intake. Fractional urea excretion was markedly elevated in UT-A1/3−/− mice on a 40% protein diet, reaching 102.4 ± 8.8% of the filtered load, suggesting that there may be active urea secretion along the renal tubule. Although there was a marked urinary concentrating defect in UT-A1/3−/− mice, there was no decrease in aquaporin-2 or -3 expression. Furthermore, although urea accumulation in the inner medulla was markedly attenuated, there was no decrease in NaCl concentration in tissue from outer medulla or 2 levels of the inner medulla. PMID:15829709

[School bathrooms: children's perceptions and prevalence of gastrointestinal and urinary disorders, a survey in 3 secondary schools near Saint-Etienne].

PubMed

Hoarau, Bénédicte; Vercherin, Paul; Bois, Christophe

2014-01-01

Irregular use of toilets can contribute to urinary and gastrointestinal disorders. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of gastrointestinal and urinary symptoms among a secondary school teenage population and to evaluate their perception and use of school toilets. 791 adolescents aged 12 to 16 filled in an anonymous questionnaire, which was administered in three secondary schools near Saint-Etienne, France. 22% reported abdominal pain at least once a week during the past two months and 26% experienced abdominal pain about once every month. 9% of schoolchildren suffered from urinary incontinence at least once during the two months before the study: 4% of boys and 13% of girls. Children had a negative perception of school toilets: 62% didn't feel safe and 54% of boys reported a lack of privacy. 34% of students avoided school toilets: 21% never used them to urinate and 85% never used them to defecate. 28% of children acknowledged they had experienced abdominal pain because they couldn't use school toilets and 29% said that they had experienced poor concentration as a result of their pain. Abdominal pain and urinary disorders are common among secondary schoolchildren. Stool and urine withholding behaviours are be widespread and affect students' concentration while at school.

Promoting the Adsorption of Metal Ions on Kaolinite by Defect Sites: A Molecular Dynamics Study

PubMed Central

Li, Xiong; Li, Hang; Yang, Gang

2015-01-01

Defect sites exist abundantly in minerals and play a crucial role for a variety of important processes. Here molecular dynamics simulations are used to comprehensively investigate the adsorption behaviors, stabilities and mechanisms of metal ions on defective minerals, considering different ionic concentrations, defect sizes and contents. Outer-sphere adsorbed Pb2+ ions predominate for all models (regular and defective), while inner-sphere Na+ ions, which exist sporadically only at concentrated solutions for regular models, govern the adsorption for all defective models. Adsorption quantities and stabilities of metal ions on kaolinite are fundamentally promoted by defect sites, thus explaining the experimental observations. Defect sites improve the stabilities of both inner- and outer-sphere adsorption, and (quasi) inner-sphere Pb2+ ions emerge only at defect sites that reinforce the interactions. Adsorption configurations are greatly altered by defect sites but respond weakly by changing defect sizes or contents. Both adsorption quantities and stabilities are enhanced by increasing defect sizes or contents, while ionic concentrations mainly affect adsorption quantities. We also find that adsorption of metal ions and anions can be promoted by each other and proceeds in a collaborative mechanism. Results thus obtained are beneficial to comprehend related processes for all types of minerals. PMID:26403873

Early life low-level cadmium exposure is positively associated with increased oxidative stress

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

Kippler, Maria; Bakhtiar Hossain, Mohammad; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Section of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Lund University, Lund

Environmental exposure to cadmium (Cd) is known to induce oxidative stress, a state of imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the ability to detoxify them, in adults. However, data are lacking on potential effects in early-life. We evaluated urinary concentrations of 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2 Prime -deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG), a recognized marker of oxidative DNA damage, in relation to Cd exposure in 96 predominantly breast-fed infants (11-17 weeks of age) in rural Bangladesh. Urinary 8-oxodG was measured using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry and Cd in urine and breast milk by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Median concentration of 8-oxodGmore » was 3.9 nmol/L, urinary Cd 0.30 {mu}g/L, and breast-milk Cd 0.13 {mu}g/L. In linear regression analyses, urinary 8-oxodG was positively associated with Cd in both urine (p=0.00067) and breast milk (p=0.0021), and negatively associated with body weight (kg; p=0.0041). Adjustment for age, body weight, socio-economic status, urinary arsenic, as well as magnesium, calcium, and copper in breast milk did not change the association between Cd exposure and urinary 8-oxodG. These findings suggest that early-life low-level exposure to Cd via breast milk induces oxidative stress. Further studies are warranted to elucidate whether this oxidative stress is associated with impaired child health and development.« less

Insulin and the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase signaling pathway regulate Ribonuclease 7 expression in the human urinary tract.

PubMed

Eichler, Tad E; Becknell, Brian; Easterling, Robert S; Ingraham, Susan E; Cohen, Daniel M; Schwaderer, Andrew L; Hains, David S; Li, Birong; Cohen, Ariel; Metheny, Jackie; Tridandapani, Susheela; Spencer, John David

2016-09-01

Diabetes mellitus is a systemic disease associated with a deficiency of insulin production or action. Diabetic patients have an increased susceptibility to infection with the urinary tract being the most common site. Recent studies suggest that Ribonuclease 7 (RNase 7) is a potent antimicrobial peptide that plays an important role in protecting the urinary tract from bacterial insult. Because the impact of diabetes on RNase 7 expression and function are unknown, we investigated the effects of insulin on RNase 7 using human urine specimens. The urinary RNase 7 concentrations were measured in healthy control patients and insulin-deficient type 1 diabetics before and after starting insulin therapy. Compared with controls, diabetic patients had suppressed urinary RNase 7 concentrations, which increased with insulin. Using primary human urothelial cells, the mechanisms by which insulin stimulates RNase 7 synthesis were next explored. Insulin induced RNase 7 production via the phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase signaling pathway (PI3K/AKT) to shield urothelial cells from uropathogenic E. coli. In contrast, uropathogenic E. coli suppressed PI3K/AKT activity and RNase 7 production. Thus, insulin and PI3K/AKT signaling are essential for RNase 7 expression and increased infection risks in diabetic patients may be secondary to suppressed RNase 7 production. Our data may provide unique insight into novel urinary tract infection therapeutic strategies in at-risk populations. Copyright © 2016 International Society of Nephrology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Arsenic Exposure From Drinking Water and the Incidence of CKD in Low to Moderate Exposed Areas of Taiwan: A 14-Year Prospective Study.

PubMed

Hsu, Ling-I; Hsieh, Fang-I; Wang, Yuan-Hung; Lai, Tai-Shuan; Wu, Meei-Maan; Chen, Chien-Jen; Chiou, Hung-Yi; Hsu, Kuang-Hung

2017-12-01

Arsenic exposure is associated with decreased kidney function. The association between low to moderate arsenic exposure and kidney disease has not been fully clarified. The association between arsenic exposure from drinking water and chronic kidney disease (CKD) was examined in a long-term prospective observational study. 6,093 participants 40 years and older were recruited from arseniasis-endemic areas in northeastern Taiwan. Arsenic levels were 28.0, 92.8, and 295.7μg/L at the 50th, 75th, and 90th percentiles, respectively. Well-water arsenic and urinary total arsenic (inorganic plus methylated arsenic species) concentrations, adjusted for urinary creatinine concentration. Kidney diseases (ICD-9 codes: 250.4, 274.1, 283.11, 403.*1, 404.*2, 404.*3, 440.1, 442.1, 447.3, or 580-589) and CKD (ICD-9 code: 585) ascertained using Taiwan's National Health Insurance database 1998 to 2011. HRs contrasting CKD risk across arsenic exposure levels were estimated using Cox regression. Prevalence ORs for proteinuria (protein excretion ≥ 200mg/g) comparing quartiles of total urinary arsenic concentrations were estimated using logistic regression. We identified 1,104 incident kidney disease cases, including 447 CKD cases (incidence rates, 166.5 and 67.4 per 10 4 person-years, respectively). A dose-dependent association between well-water arsenic concentrations and kidney diseases was observed after adjusting for age, sex, education, body mass index, cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, and analgesic use. Using arsenic concentration ≤ 10.0μg/L as reference, multivariable-adjusted HRs for incident CKD were 1.12 (95% CI, 0.88-1.42), 1.33 (95% CI, 1.03-1.72), and 1.33 (95% CI, 1.00-1.77) for arsenic concentrations of 10.1 to 49.9, 50.0 to 149.9, and ≥150.0μg/L, respectively (P for trend=0.02). The association between arsenic concentration and kidney diseases was stronger for women (P for interaction=0.06). Arsenic values in the range of 50th to 75th and 75th to 100th percentiles of total urinary arsenic concentrations were associated with 50% and 67% higher prevalences, respectively, of proteinuria. Kidney diseases and CKD outcomes were based on diagnostic codes. Glomerular filtration rates were not available. Other heavy metals were not measured. This study describes the temporal relationship between arsenic concentrations ≥ 10μg/L in drinking water and CKD. A dose-dependent association between well-water arsenic concentration and kidney diseases was observed. Higher creatinine-adjusted urinary total arsenic concentrations were associated with a higher prevalence of proteinuria. Copyright © 2017 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Bisphenol A and reproductive hormones and cortisol in peripubertal boys: The INMA-Granada cohort.

PubMed

Mustieles, Vicente; Ocón-Hernandez, Olga; Mínguez-Alarcón, Lidia; Dávila-Arias, Cristina; Pérez-Lobato, Rocío; Calvente, Irene; Arrebola, Juan P; Vela-Soria, Fernando; Rubio, Soledad; Hauser, Russ; Olea, Nicolás; Fernández, Mariana F

2018-03-15

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a well-known endocrine disrupting compound. Although several studies have investigated the effect of BPA exposure and reproductive hormones in humans, results have been inconsistent. To explore the cross-sectional relationship between bisphenol A (BPA) exposure and reproductive hormones/cortisol among peripubertal boys. Urinary BPA and serum hormones were assessed in 172 boys belonging to the INMA "Environment and Childhood" Granada birth cohort in their follow-up at 9-11years of age. BPA concentrations were quantified by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, and levels of serum total testosterone (TT), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and cortisol were measured by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. After adjustment for confounders, linear regression models showed that each natural-log unit increase in urinary BPA concentrations was associated with a 19% increase in geometric mean (GM) serum TT levels, and a 16% decrease in GM serum cortisol levels. When urinary BPA concentrations were categorized in tertiles, boys in the 3rd tertile showed 49% higher TT levels and 23% lower cortisol concentrations compared to boys in the 1st tertile. Additionally, urinary BPA concentrations were also significantly associated with higher TT:LH and TT:cortisol ratios, but not with serum LH or FSH levels. Our results suggest the possible endocrine disrupting potential of BPA during this important period of development. Although action at the testis or pituitary cannot be ruled out, our findings are compatible with a possible involvement of BPA at the adrenal gland, resulting in a differential production of androgens/cortisol. However, given the cross-sectional design of our study, the heterogeneous results reported in the literature, and the scant experimental research on BPA effects at the adrenal gland, the present findings should be interpreted with caution. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Associations between intestinal mucosal function and changes in plasma zinc concentration following zinc supplementation1

PubMed Central

Wessells, K. Ryan; Hess, Sonja Y.; Rouamba, Noel; Ouédraogo, Zinewendé P.; Kellogg, Mark; Goto, Rie; Duggan, Christopher; Ouédraogo, Jean-Bosco; Brown, Kenneth H.

2015-01-01

Objectives Subclinical environmental enteropathy is associated with malabsorption of fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins A, B12 and folate; however, little information is available on mineral absorption. We therefore investigated the relationship between intestinal mucosal function (measured by the lactulose:mannitol permeability test and plasma citrulline concentration), and zinc absorption, as estimated by the change in plasma zinc concentration (PZC) following short-term zinc or placebo supplementation. Methods We conducted a randomized, partially-masked, placebo-controlled trial among 282 apparently healthy children 6–23 mo of age in Burkina Faso. After completing baseline intestinal function tests, participants received either 5 mg zinc, as zinc sulfate, or placebo, daily for 21 d. Results At baseline, mean ± SD PZC was 62.9 ± 11.9 µg/dL; median (IQR) urinary lactulose:mannitol (L:M) recovery ratio and plasma citrulline concentration were 0.04 (0.03 – 0.07) and 11.4 (9.0 – 15.6) µmol/L, respectively. Change in PZC was significantly greater in the zinc supplemented versus placebo group (15.6 ± 13.3 µg/dL vs. 0.02 ± 10.9 µg/dL; P < 0.0001), and was negatively associated with initial urinary L:M recovery ratio (−1.1 µg/dL per 50% increase in urinary L:M recovery ratio; P = 0.014); this latter relationship did not differ between supplementation groups (P = 0.26). Baseline plasma citrulline concentration was not associated with change in PZC. Conclusions Although altered intestinal permeability may reduce dietary zinc absorption, it likely does not undermine the efficacy of zinc supplementation, given the large increases in PZC following short-term zinc supplementation observed in this study, even among those with increased urinary L:M recovery ratios. PMID:23689263

[Effect of urinary Tamm-horsfall protein concentration changes under centrifugation and its association with urolithiasis formation in rats].

PubMed

Chen, Yuanhao; Guo, Heqing; Sun, Bin; Li, Jianye; Yan, Jingmin; Hong, Quan; Zou, Zhikang; Wang, Jianchang

2014-04-15

To explore the concentration changes of Tamm-Horsefall protein (THP) under centrifugation in rat urine and discuss its association with urolithiasis formation. A total of 40 Wistar rats were divided randomly into 4 groups of flying with stone (A), flying without stone (B), stone without flying (C) and control (D). After centrifugation, the THP concentrations of each group were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Then urinary system was dissected, stained with hematoxylin & eosin and observed under electron microscopy to examine the distribution and number of each section. The SPSS 13.0 software was used for data analyses. Group A showed significant difference in THP concentrations with groups C and D ( (11 ± 4) vs (15 ± 6), (17 ± 4) ng/ml, P = 0.037 and 0.005).No statistically significant difference existed between groups A and B ((11 ± 5) ng/ml, P = 0.998) or groups C and D (P = 0.422). Group B had significant difference in THP concentrations with groups D (P = 0.036). Regarding the number of stones in ureter, Group A had statistically significant difference with B (P = 0.029).However, there was no difference in the number of bladder stones.In kidney stones, there was significant difference (P = 0.029) on "+ +" rating. Centrifugation may reduce the urinary concentration of THP so as cause urolithiasis formation in rats.

Kidney Function after Methoxyflurane Analgesia during Labour

PubMed Central

Rosen, Michael; Latto, P.; Asscher, A. W.

1972-01-01

In a study of the effects of methoxyflurane on renal function, the urinary and blood urea concentrations, the urinary and plasma osmolalities, and the packed cell volume were studied in each of 50 mothers before and after delivery. Methoxyflurane 0·35% was used as an analgesic in 25 patients and the other 25 had 50% nitrous oxide and 50% oxygen (Entonox). There was no evidence of renal dysfunction in either group, nor were there any significant differences between the groups. In a further 200 mothers, of whom 100 had methoxyflurane and 100 had nitrous oxide analgesia, the urinary and blood urea concentrations were measured on the morning of discharge from hospital. There were no significant differences between the groups. These results suggest that methoxyflurane is not nephrotoxic when used as a self-administered analgesic. PMID:5007074

Urinary Fluoride Concentration in Children with Disabilities Following Long-Term Fluoride Tablet Ingestion

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Hsiu-Yueh; Chen, Jung-Ren; Hung, Hsin-Chia; Hsiao, Szu-Yu; Huang, Shun-Te; Chen, Hong-Sen

2011-01-01

Urine is the most commonly utilized biomarker for fluoride excretion in public health and epidemiological studies. Approximately 30-50% of fluoride is excreted from urine in children. Urinary fluoride excretion reflects the total fluoride intake from multiple sources. After administering fluoride tablets to children with disabilities, urinary…

Urinary Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (OH-PAH) Metabolite Concentrations and the Effect of GST Polymorphisms Among US Air Force Personnel Exposed to Jet Fuel

PubMed Central

Rodrigues, Ema G.; Smith, Kristen; Maule, Alexis L.; Sjodin, Andreas; Li, Zheng; Romanoff, Lovisa; Kelsey, Karl; Proctor, Susan; McClean, Michael D.

2016-01-01

Objective To evaluate the association between inhalation exposure to jet propulsion fuel 8 (JP-8) and urinary metabolites among US Air Force (USAF) personnel, and investigate the role of glutathione S-transferase polymorphisms. Methods Personal air samples were collected from 37 full-time USAF personnel during 4 consecutive workdays and analyzed for JP-8 constituents and total hydrocarbons. Pre- and postshift urine samples were collected each day and analyzed for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon urinary metabolites. Results Work shift exposure to total hydrocarbons was significantly associated with postshift urinary 1-naphthol (β = 0.17; P = <0.0001), 2-naphthol (β = 0.09; P = 0.005), and 2-hydroxyfluorene concentrations (β = 0.08; P = 0.006), and a significant gene-environment interaction was observed with glutathione S-transferase mu-1. Conclusions USAF personnel experience inhalation exposure to JP-8, which is associated with absorption of JP-8 constituents while performing typical job-related tasks, and in our data the glutathione S-transferase mu-1 polymorphism was associated with differential metabolism of naphthalene. PMID:24806557

Associations between paternal urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and reproductive outcomes among couples seeking fertility treatment

PubMed Central

Dodge, LE; Williams, PL; Williams, MA; Missmer, SA; Souter, I; Calafat, AM; Hauser, R

2015-01-01

INTRODUCTION Limited evidence suggests that male exposure to ubiquitous environmental phthalates may result in poor reproductive outcomes among female partners. METHODS This analysis included male-female couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) and/or intrauterine insemination (IUI). We evaluated associations between the geometric mean of paternal specific gravity-adjusted urinary phthalate concentrations prior to the female partners’ cycle and fertilization, embryo quality, implantation, and live birth using generalized linear mixed models. RESULTS Two-hundred eighteen couples underwent 211 IVF and 195 IUI cycles. Trends were observed between paternal urinary mono-3-carboxypropyl phthalate (MCPP; P=0.01) and mono(carboxyoctyl) phthalate (MCOP; P=0.01) and decreased odds of implantation. MCPP and MCOP were also associated with decreased odds of live birth following IVF (P=0.01 and P=0.04, respectively), and monobutyl phthalate above the first quartile was significantly associated with decreased odds of live birth following IUI (P=0.04). However, most urinary phthalate metabolites were not associated with these reproductive outcomes. CONCLUSION Selected phthalates were associated with decreased odds of implantation and live birth. PMID:26456810

Urinary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (OH-PAH) metabolite concentrations and the effect of GST polymorphisms among US Air Force personnel exposed to jet fuel.

PubMed

Rodrigues, Ema G; Smith, Kristen; Maule, Alexis L; Sjodin, Andreas; Li, Zheng; Romanoff, Lovisa; Kelsey, Karl; Proctor, Susan; McClean, Michael D

2014-05-01

To evaluate the association between inhalation exposure to jet propulsion fuel 8 (JP-8) and urinary metabolites among US Air Force (USAF) personnel, and investigate the role of glutathione S-transferase polymorphisms. Personal air samples were collected from 37 full-time USAF personnel during 4 consecutive workdays and analyzed for JP-8 constituents and total hydrocarbons. Pre- and postshift urine samples were collected each day and analyzed for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon urinary metabolites. Work shift exposure to total hydrocarbons was significantly associated with postshift urinary 1-naphthol (β = 0.17; P = <0.0001), 2-naphthol (β = 0.09; P = 0.005), and 2-hydroxyfluorene concentrations (β = 0.08; P = 0.006), and a significant gene-environment interaction was observed with glutathione S-transferase mu-1. USAF personnel experience inhalation exposure to JP-8, which is associated with absorption of JP-8 constituents while performing typical job-related tasks, and in our data the glutathione S-transferase mu-1 polymorphism was associated with differential metabolism of naphthalene.

Relationship between plasma uridine and urinary urea excretion.

PubMed

Ka, Tuneyoshi; Inokuchi, Taku; Tamada, Daisuke; Suda, Michio; Tsutsumi, Zenta; Okuda, Chihiro; Yamamoto, Asako; Takahashi, Sumio; Moriwaki, Yuji; Yamamoto, Tetsuya

2010-03-01

To investigate whether the concentration of uridine in plasma is related to the urinary excretion of urea, 45 healthy male subjects with normouricemia and normal blood pressure were studied after providing informed consent. Immediately after collection of 24-hour urine, blood samples were drawn after an overnight fast except for water. The contents of ingested foods during the 24-hour urine collection period were described by the subjects and analyzed by a dietician. Simple regression analysis showed that plasma uridine was correlated with the urinary excretions of urea (R = 0.41, P < .01), uric acid (R = 0.36, P < .05), and uridine (R = 0.30, P < .05), as well as uric acid clearance (R = 0.35, P < .05) and purine intake (R = 0.30, P < .05). In contrast, multiple regression analysis showed a positive relationship only between plasma uridine and urinary excretion of urea. These results suggest that an increase in de novo pyrimidine synthesis leads to an increased concentration of uridine in plasma via nitrogen catabolism in healthy subjects with normouricemia and normal blood pressure. (c) 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Attraction thresholds and sex discrimination of urinary odorants in male and female aromatase knockout (ArKO) mice.

PubMed

Pierman, Sylvie; Douhard, Quentin; Balthazart, Jacques; Baum, Michael J; Bakker, Julie

2006-01-01

We previously found that both male and female aromatase knockout (ArKO) mice, which cannot synthesize estrogens due to a targeted mutation of the aromatase gene, showed less investigation of volatile body odors from anesthetized conspecifics of both sexes in Y-maze tests. We now ask whether ArKO mice are in fact capable of discriminating between and/or responding to volatile odors. Using habituation/dishabituation tests, we found that gonadectomized ArKO and wild-type (WT) mice of both sexes, which were tested without any sex hormone replacement, reliably distinguished between undiluted volatile urinary odors of either adult males or estrous females versus deionized water as well as between these two urinary odors themselves. However, ArKO mice of both sexes were less motivated than WT controls to investigate same-sex odors when they were presented last in the sequence of stimuli. In a second experiment, we compared the ability of ArKO and WT mice to respond to decreasing concentrations of either male or female urinary odors. We found a clear-cut sex difference in urinary odor attraction thresholds among WT mice: WT males failed to respond to urine dilutions higher than 1:20 by volume, whereas WT females continued to respond to urine dilutions up to 1:80. Male ArKO mice resembled WT females in their ability to respond to lower concentrations of urinary odors, raising the possibility that the observed sex difference among WT mice in urine attraction thresholds results from the perinatal actions of estrogen in the male nervous system. Female ArKO mice failed to show significant dishabituation responses to two (1:20 and 1:80) dilutions of female urine, perhaps, again, because of a reduced motivation to investigate less salient, same-sex urinary odors. Previously observed deficits in the preference of ArKO male and female mice to approach volatile body odors from conspecifics of either sex cannot be attributed to an inability of ArKO subjects to discriminate these odors according to sex but instead may reflect a deficient motivation to approach same-sex odors, especially when their concentration is low.

Mechanical properties and fracture behaviour of defective phosphorene nanotubes under uniaxial tension

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Ping; Pei, Qing-Xiang; Huang, Wei; Zhang, Yong-Wei

2017-12-01

The easy formation of vacancy defects and the asymmetry in the two sublayers of phosphorene nanotubes (PNTs) may result in brand new mechanical properties and failure behaviour. Herein, we investigate the mechanical properties and fracture behaviour of defective PNTs under uniaxial tension using molecular dynamics simulations. Our simulation results show that atomic vacancies cause local stress concentration and thus significantly reduce the fracture strength and fracture strain of PNTs. More specifically, a 1% defect concentration is able to reduce the fracture strength and fracture strain by as much as 50% and 66%, respectively. Interestingly, the reduction in the mechanical properties is found to depend on the defect location: a defect located in the outer sublayer has a stronger effect than one located in the inner layer, especially for PNTs with a small diameter. Temperature is also found to strongly influence the mechanical properties of both defect-free and defective PNTs. When the temperature is increased from 0 K to 400 K, the fracture strength and fracture strain of defective PNTs with a defect concentration of 1% are reduced further by 71% and 61%, respectively. These findings are of great importance for the structural design of PNTs as building blocks in nanodevices.

Circadian characteristics of urinary leukotriene E(4) in healthy subjects and nocturnal asthmatic patients.

PubMed

Kurokawa, K; Tanaka, H; Tanaka, S; Abe, S

2001-12-01

Circadian rhythmicity of cysteinyl leukotrienes (LTs) and thromboxane (TX)-A(2) in healthy subjects and nocturnal asthmatic patients remains a subject of controversy. The aim of this study was to investigate the contribution of these mediators to the pathogenesis of nocturnal asthma. We measured peak expiratory flow rate, urinary concentration of LTE(4), 11-dehydro-TXB(2), and creatinine eight times every 3 h in three groups: healthy control subjects (n = 5, group A), nocturnal asthmatic patients (n = 9, group B), and nonnocturnal asthmatic subjects (n = 9, group C). To evaluate the reproducibility of the measurement of urinary LTE(4), we measured urinary LTE(4) in group A for 3 separate days. The urinary LTE(4) concentrations from 3 to 6 AM were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than from 3 to 6 PM in both group A and group B, but not in group C. The mean levels of LTE(4) in group B and group C were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those in group A. In group B, another small peak was observed from 6 to 9 PM. No significant day-to-day variation was observed in group A. Urinary 11-dehydro-TXB(2) values from 3 to 6 AM were significantly (p < 0.001) higher than those levels from 3 to 6 PM in all groups, and the mean levels in group B and group C were significantly higher than those in group A (p < 0.05). Circadian rhythmicity of urinary LTE(4) with a morning peak was found in healthy control subjects and nocturnal asthmatic subjects, but not in nonnocturnal asthmatic patients. It was suggested that cysteinyl LTs rather than TXA(2) might contribute to the nocturnal worsening of asthma.

Social evolution. Oxytocin-gaze positive loop and the coevolution of human-dog bonds.

PubMed

Nagasawa, Miho; Mitsui, Shouhei; En, Shiori; Ohtani, Nobuyo; Ohta, Mitsuaki; Sakuma, Yasuo; Onaka, Tatsushi; Mogi, Kazutaka; Kikusui, Takefumi

2015-04-17

Human-like modes of communication, including mutual gaze, in dogs may have been acquired during domestication with humans. We show that gazing behavior from dogs, but not wolves, increased urinary oxytocin concentrations in owners, which consequently facilitated owners' affiliation and increased oxytocin concentration in dogs. Further, nasally administered oxytocin increased gazing behavior in dogs, which in turn increased urinary oxytocin concentrations in owners. These findings support the existence of an interspecies oxytocin-mediated positive loop facilitated and modulated by gazing, which may have supported the coevolution of human-dog bonding by engaging common modes of communicating social attachment. Copyright © 2015, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Parental contributions to early embryo development: influences of urinary phthalate and phthalate alternatives among couples undergoing IVF treatment.

PubMed

Wu, Haotian; Ashcraft, Lisa; Whitcomb, Brian W; Rahil, Tayyab; Tougias, Ellen; Sites, Cynthia K; Pilsner, J Richard

2017-01-01

Are preconception urinary concentrations of phthalates and phthalate alternatives associated with diminished early stage embryo quality in couples undergoing IVF? Male, but not female, urinary concentrations of select metabolites of phthalates and phthalate alternatives are associated with diminished blastocyst quality. Although phthalates are endocrine disrupting compounds associated with adverse reproductive health, they are in widespread use across the world. Male and female preconception exposures to select phthalates have been previously associated with adverse reproductive outcomes in both the general population and in those undergoing IVF. This prospective cohort included 50 subfertile couples undergoing IVF in western Massachusetts. This study includes the first 50 couples recruited from the Baystate Medical Center's Fertility Center in Springfield, MA, as part of the Sperm Environmental Epigenetics and Development Study (SEEDS). Relevant data from both partners, including embryo quality at the cleavage (Day 3) and blastocyst (Day 5) stages, were collected by clinic personnel during the normal course of an IVF cycle. A spot urine sample was collected from both male and female partners on the same day as semen sample procurement and oocyte retrieval. Concentrations of 17 urinary metabolite were quantified by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry and normalized via specific gravity. Generalized estimating equations were used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% CI, with urinary phthalates and phthalate alternatives fitted as continuous variables and embryo quality as a binary variable. The 50 couples contributed 761 oocytes, of which 423 progressed to the cleavage stage, 261 were high-quality cleavage stage embryos, 137 were transferrable quality blastocysts and 47 were high-quality blastocysts. At the cleavage stage, male urinary monoethyl phthalate concentrations were positively associated with high-quality cleavage stage embryos (OR = 1.20, 95% CI 1.01-1.43, P = 0.04); no other significant associations were observed at this stage. At the blastocyst stage, male urinary concentrations of monobenzyl phthalate (OR = 0.55, 95% CI 0.36-0.84, P = 0.01), mono-3-hydroxybutyl phthalate (OR = 0.37, 95% CI 0.18-0.76, P = 0.01), mono-n-butyl phthalate (OR = 0.55, 95% CI 0.42-0.73, P < 0.01) and monomethyl phthalate (OR = 0.39, 95% CI 0.26-0.60, P < 0.01) were inversely associated with high-quality blastocysts. A borderline statistically significant relationship was observed for male concentrations of mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (OR = 0.52, 95% CI 0.27-1.00, P = 0.05) and cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylic acid-monocarboxy isooctyl ester (OR = 0.21, 95% CI 0.04-1.03, P = 0.05) at the blastocyst stage. Similar inverse associations were observed between male urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and likelihood of transferrable quality blastocysts. For female partners, select metabolites were positively associated with odds of high or transferrable blastocyst quality, but the observed associations were not consistent across blastocyst quality measures or between sex-specific and couples-level models. All models were adjusted for age of both partners, urinary metabolite concentrations of female partners and male infertility status, while models of blastocysts were additionally adjusted for embryo quality at cleavage stage. Our modest sample included only 50 couples contributing one cycle each. In addition, non-differential misclassification of exposure remains a concern given the single-spot urine collection and the short half-life of phthalates. Our results suggest an inverse association between male preconception concentrations of select phthalate metabolites and blastocyst quality, likely occurring after genomic activation. If corroborated with other studies, such findings will have public health and clinical significance for both the general population and those undergoing IVF. This work was generously supported by grant K22-ES023085 from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. The authors declare no competing interests. N/A. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Cadmium body burden and increased blood pressure in middle-aged American Indians: the Strong Heart Study.

PubMed

Franceschini, N; Fry, R C; Balakrishnan, P; Navas-Acien, A; Oliver-Williams, C; Howard, A G; Cole, S A; Haack, K; Lange, E M; Howard, B V; Best, L G; Francesconi, K A; Goessler, W; Umans, J G; Tellez-Plaza, M

2017-03-01

Cadmium (Cd) is an environmental pollutant that has been associated with cardiovascular disease in populations, but the relationship of Cd with hypertension has been inconsistent. We studied the association between urinary Cd concentrations, a measure of total body burden, and blood pressure in American Indians, a US population with above national average Cd burden. Urinary Cd was measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and adjusted for urinary creatinine concentration. Among 3714 middle-aged American Indian participants of the Strong Heart Study (mean age 56 years, 41% male, 67% ever-smokers, 23% taking antihypertensive medications), urinary Cd ranged from 0.01 to 78.48 μg g -1 creatinine (geometric mean=0.94 μg g -1 ) and it was correlated with smoking pack-year among ever-smokers (r 2 =0.16, P<0.0001). Participants who were smokers were on average light-smokers (mean 10.8 pack-years), and urinary Cd was similarly elevated in light- and never-smokers (geometric means of 0.88 μg g -1 creatinine for both categories). Log-transformed urinary Cd was significantly associated with higher systolic blood pressure in models adjusted for age, sex, geographic area, body mass index, smoking (ever vs never, and cumulative pack-years) and kidney function (mean blood pressure difference by lnCd concentration (β)=1.64, P=0.002). These associations were present among light- and never-smokers (β=2.03, P=0.002, n=2627), although not significant among never-smokers (β=1.22, P=0.18, n=1260). Cd was also associated with diastolic blood pressure among light- and never-smokers (β=0.94, P=0.004). These findings suggest that there is a relationship between Cd body burden and increased blood pressure in American Indians, a population with increased cardiovascular disease risk.

Cadmium body burden and increased blood pressure in middle-aged American Indians: the Strong Heart Study

PubMed Central

Franceschini, Nora; Fry, Rebecca; Balakrishnan, Poojitha; Navas-Acien, Ana; Oliver-Williams, Clare; Howard, Annie G; Cole, Shelley A; Haack, Karin; Lange, Ethan M.; Howard, Barbara V.; Best, Lyle G; Francesconi, Kevin A.; Goessler, Walter; Umans, Jason G; Tellez-Plaza, Maria

2016-01-01

Cadmium is an environmental pollutant that has been associated with cardiovascular disease in populations, but the relationship of cadmium with hypertension has been inconsistent. We studied the association between urinary cadmium concentrations, a measure of total body burden, and blood pressure in American Indians, a U.S. population with above national average cadmium burden. Urinary cadmium (Cd) was measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and adjusted for urinary creatinine concentration. Among 3,714 middle-aged American Indian participants of the Strong Heart Study (mean age 56 years, 41% male, 67% ever-smokers, 23% taking anti-hypertensive medications), urinary Cd ranged from 0.01 to 78.48 μg/g creatinine (geometric mean=0.94 μg/g) and it was correlated with smoking pack-year among ever-smokers (r2=0.16, P<0.0001). Participants who were smokers were on average light smokers (mean 10.8 pack-years), and urinary Cd was similarly elevated in light- and never-smokers (geometric means of 0.88 μg/g creatinine for both categories). Log-transformed urinary Cd was significantly associated with higher systolic blood pressure in models adjusted for age, sex, geographic area, body mass index, smoking (ever vs. never, and cumulative pack-years) and kidney function (mean blood pressure difference by lnCd concentration [β]=1.64, P=0.002). These associations were present among light- and never-smokers (β=2.03, P=0.002, n=2,627), although not significant among never-smokers (β=1.22, P=0.18, n=1,260). Cd was also associated with diastolic blood pressure among light- and never-smokers (β=0.94, P=0.004). These findings suggest there is a relationship between cadmium body burden and increased blood pressure in American Indians, a population with increased cardiovascular disease risk. PMID:27629244

Dietary administration of sodium arsenite to rats: Relations between dose and urinary concentrations of methylated and thio-metabolites and effects on the rat urinary bladder epithelium

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

Suzuki, Shugo; Arnold, Lora L.; Pennington, Karen L.

2010-04-15

Based on epidemiological data, chronic exposure to high levels of inorganic arsenic in drinking water is carcinogenic to humans, inducing skin, urinary bladder and lung tumors. In vivo, inorganic arsenic is metabolized to organic methylated arsenicals including the highly toxic dimethylarsinous acid (DMA{sup III}) and monomethylarsonous acid (MMA{sup III}). Short-term treatment of rats with 100 mug/g trivalent arsenic (As{sup III}) as sodium arsenite in the diet or in drinking water induced cytotoxicity and necrosis of the urothelial superficial layer, with increased cell proliferation and hyperplasia. The objectives of this study were to determine if these arsenic-induced urothelial effects are dosemore » responsive, the dose of arsenic at which urothelial effects are not detected, and the urinary concentrations of the arsenical metabolites. We treated female F344 rats for 5 weeks with sodium arsenite at dietary doses of 0, 1, 10, 25, 50, and 100 ppm. Cytotoxicity, cell proliferation and hyperplasia of urothelial superficial cells were increased in a dose-responsive manner, with maximum effects found at 50 ppm As{sup III}. There were no effects at 1 ppm As{sup III}. The main urinary arsenical in As{sup III}-treated rats was the organic arsenical dimethylarsinic acid (DMA{sup V}). The thio-metabolites dimethylmonothioarsinic acid (DMMTA{sup V}) and monomethylmonothioarsinic acid (MMMTA{sup V}) were also found in the urine of As{sup III}-treated rats. The LC{sub 50} concentrations of DMMTA{sup V} for rat and human urothelial cells in vitro were similar to trivalent oxygen-containing arsenicals. These data suggest that dietary As{sup III}-induced urothelial cytotoxicity and proliferation are dose responsive, and the urothelial effects have a threshold corresponding to the urinary excretion of measurable reactive metabolites.« less

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

PubMed

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

2016-01-08

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

[Assessment of dietary habits related to iodine intake and iodine concentration and thyroid dysfunction in a non-preselected population in Spain (the Thyrobus Project)].

PubMed

Ballester, Lluís Vila; Candil, Sergio Donnay; Reymunde, Teresa Iglesias; Escofet, Federico Soriguer; Henzi, Frederic Tortosa; Jaramillo, Sara Torrejón; Alcázar, Javier; Tapias, María José; Torres, Yolanda; Puig-Domingo, Manel

2010-11-01

Most of the studies on urinary iodine levels in Spain in the last decade have reported a significant improvement. A survey was undertaken together with an information campaign on the thyroid gland, the importance of iodine intake and hypothyroidism in four Spanish cities. The goals of the survey were to obtain information on consumption of iodine-containing foods, to measure urinary iodine levels and to evaluate the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction. A non-preselected population attending the information campaign centers located in Barcelona, La Coruña, Malaga and Madrid was studied. A questionnaire on fish, milk and iodized salt consumption was administered. Urinary iodine levels (Pino's method) and thyrotropin (TSH) concentrations (Whatman 903® dry paper method) were measured. A total of 872 questionnaires were completed (Madrid 40%; La Coruña 27%; Malaga 19%; and Barcelona 14%). The mean age was 51 years (SD 16); 81% were women. A total of 60.6% of interviewees reported they consumed iodized salt, 90.8% reported daily milk intake and 29.3% reported fish consumption ≥3 times per week. The mean urinary iodine concentration was 143.2 μg/L. The prevalence of high TSH levels (>4 mUI/L) was 1.3% and that of low TSH levels (<0.4 mUI/mL) was 1.2%. According to the World Health Organization criteria, the median urinary iodine concentration, both overall or by city, is indicative of optimal iodine intake. In addition to iodized salt intake, consumption of products such as milk and fish has probably contributed to these positive results. The prevalences of undiagnosed hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism detected in this study were similar to those found in other studies. Copyright © 2010 SEEN. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Total arsenic concentrations in Chinese children's urine by different geographic locations, ages, and genders.

PubMed

Zhang, Xuan; Wang, Beibei; Cui, Xiaoyong; Lin, Chunye; Liu, Xitao; Ma, Jin

2018-06-01

Little is known about the variation of Chinese children's exposure to arsenic by geography, age, gender, and other potential factors. The main objective of this study was to investigate the total arsenic concentration in Chinese children's urine by geographic locations, ages, and genders. In total, 259 24-h urine samples were collected from 210 2- to 12-year-old children in China and analyzed for total arsenic and creatinine concentrations. The results showed that the upper limit (upper limit of the 90% confidence interval for the 97.5 fractile) was 27.51 µg/L or 55.88 µg/g creatinine for Chinese children. The total urinary arsenic levels were significantly different for children in Guangdong, Hubei, and Gansu provinces (P < 0.05), where the upper limits were 24.29, 58.70, and 44.29 µg/g creatinine, respectively. In addition, the total urinary arsenic levels were higher for 2- to 7-year-old children than for 7- to 12-year-old children (P < 0.05; the upper limits were 59.06 and 44.29 µg/g creatinine, respectively) and higher for rural children than for urban children (P < 0.05; the upper limits were 59.06 and 50.44 µg/g creatinine, respectively). The total urinary arsenic levels for boys were not significantly different from those for girls (P > 0.05), although the level for boys (the upper limit was 59.30 µg/g) was slightly higher than that for girls (the upper limit was 58.64 µg/g creatinine). Because the total urinary arsenic concentrations are significantly different for general populations of children in different locations and age groups, the reference level of total urinary arsenic might be dependent on the geographic site and the child's age.

Urinary nandrolone metabolite detection after ingestion of a nandrolone precursor.

PubMed

Watson, Phillip; Judkins, Catherine; Houghton, Ed; Russell, Caroline; Maughan, Ronald J

2009-04-01

Quantities of various anabolic/androgenic steroids have been found in dietary supplements without their presence being disclosed on the label. The aim of this study was to quantify the excretion patterns of the diagnostic metabolites, 19-norandrosterone (19-NA), and 19-noretiocholanolone (19-NE) after ingestion of small doses of 19-nor-4-androstene-3,17-dione (19-norandrostenedione). Eleven males and nine females entered the laboratory in the morning after an overnight fast. An initial urine sample was collected, and volunteers then ingested 500 mL of water containing 5 g of creatine monohydrate and 1.0, 2.5, or 5.0 microg of 19-norandrostenedione. The volume of each urine void was measured, and an aliquot was taken. Samples were analyzed for the metabolites 19-NA and 19-NE by GCMS. Baseline urinary 19-NA concentrations were 0.19 +/- 0.14 ng x mL. Ingestion of the supplement resulted in peak mean urinary 19-NA concentrations of 0.68 +/- 0.36, 1.56 +/- 0.86, and 3.89 +/- 3.11 ng.mL in the 1.0-, 2.5-, or 5.0-microg trials, respectively. Under current WADA regulations, ingestion of the 1.0-microg dose produced 0 positive doping tests, 5 subjects (20%) tested positive in the 2.5-microg trial, and 15 subjects (75%) had urinary 19-NA concentrations exceeding 2 ng x mL after ingesting creatine containing 5.0 microg of the steroid. The recovery of the ingested dose was highly variable between individuals, with values ranging from 11% to 84% (mean +/- SD = 47% +/- 18%). Ingestion of trace amounts of 19-norandrostenedione can result in transient elevations of urinary 19-NA and 19-NE concentrations. The addition of as little as 2.5 microg of 19-norandrostenedione to a supplement (0.00005% contamination) appears sufficient to result in a doping violation in some individuals.

Chlorpyrifos exposure in farmers and urban adults: Metabolic characteristic, exposure estimation, and potential effect of oxidative damage.

PubMed

Wang, Lei; Liu, Zhen; Zhang, Junjie; Wu, Yinghong; Sun, Hongwen

2016-08-01

Chlorpyrifos is a widely used organophosphorus pesticide that efficiently protects crops against pests. However, recent studies suggest that severe exposure to chlorpyrifos may present adverse health effects in human. To analyze the exposure level and metabolic characteristics of chlorpyrifos pesticide in urban adults and farmers with/without occupation pesticide contact, the occurrence of urinary chlorpyrifos and methyl chlorpyrifos (CP-me), as well as their metabolite, 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCPy), was determined in farmers of an agricultural village in China, and in urban adults of a nearby town. The geometric mean (GM) concentrations of TCPy, which is the major marker of chlorpyrifos exposure, were 4.29 and 7.57μg/g-creatinine in urban adults and farmers before pesticide application, respectively. Chlorpyrifos spraying significantly increased the concentrations of urinary TCPy. In the first day after spraying, a GM concentration of 43.7μg/g-creatinine was detected in the urine specimens from farmers, which decreased to 38.1 and 22.8μg/g-creatinine in the second and third day after chlorpyrifos spraying. The ratio of TCPy and its parent compounds, i.e. chlorpyrifos and CP-me, was positively associated with the sum concentration of urinary chlorpyrifos, CP-me, and TCPy, suggesting the increasing metabolic efficiency of chlorpyrifos to TCPy at higher chlorpyrifos exposure levels. To estimate the farmers' occupational exposure to chlorpyrifos pesticide, a new model based on the fitted first-order elimination kinetics of TCPy was established. Occupational chlorpyrifos exposure in a farmer was estimated to be 3.70μg/kg-bw/day (GM), which is an exposure level that is higher than the recommended guideline levels. Significant increase of urinary 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) was observed on the first day after chlorpyrifos spraying, which indicates a potential oxidative damage in farmers. However, urinary 8-OHdG returned to its baseline level within two days. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Characterization of Urinary Phthalate Metabolites Among Custodians

PubMed Central

Cavallari, Jennifer M.; Simcox, Nancy J.; Wakai, Sara; Lu, Chensheng; Garza, Jennifer L.; Cherniack, Martin

2015-01-01

Phthalates, a ubiquitous class of chemicals found in consumer, personal care, and cleaning products, have been linked to adverse health effects. Our goal was to characterize urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and to identify work and nonwork sources among custodians using traditional cleaning chemicals and ‘green’ or environmentally preferable products (EPP). Sixty-eight custodians provided four urine samples on a workday (first void, before shift, end of shift, and before bedtime) and trained observers recorded cleaning tasks and types of products used (traditional, EPP, or disinfectant) hourly over the work shifts. Questionnaires were used to assess personal care product use. Four different phthalate metabolites [monoethyl phthalate (MEP), monomethyl phthalate (MMP), mono (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), and monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP)] were quantified using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Geometric means (GM) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated for creatinine-adjusted urinary phthalate concentrations. Mixed effects univariate and multivariate modeling, using a random intercept for each individual, was performed to identify predictors of phthalate metabolites including demographics, workplace factors, and personal care product use. Creatinine-adjusted urinary concentrations [GM (95% CI)] of MEP, MMP, MEHP, and MBzP were 107 (91.0–126), 2.69 (2.18–3.30), 6.93 (6.00–7.99), 8.79 (7.84–9.86) µg g−1, respectively. An increasing trend in phthalate concentrations from before to after shift was not observed. Creatinine-adjusted urinary MEP was significantly associated with frequency of traditional cleaning chemical intensity in the multivariate model after adjusting for potential confounding by demographics, workplace factors, and personal care product use. While numerous demographics, workplace factors, and personal care products were statistically significant univariate predictors of MMP, MEHP, and MBzP, few associations persisted in multivariate models. In summary, among this population of custodians, we identified both occupational and nonoccupational predictors of phthalate exposures. Identification of phthalates as ingredients in cleaning chemicals and consumer products would allow workers and consumers to avoid phthalate exposure. PMID:26240196

Multiscale simulations of defect dipole-enhanced electromechanical coupling at dilute defect concentrations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Shi; Cohen, R. E.

2017-08-01

The role of defects in solids of mixed ionic-covalent bonds such as ferroelectric oxides is complex. Current understanding of defects on ferroelectric properties at the single-defect level remains mostly at the empirical level, and the detailed atomistic mechanisms for many defect-mediated polarization-switching processes have not been convincingly revealed quantum mechanically. We simulate the polarization-electric field (P-E) and strain-electric field (ɛ-E) hysteresis loops for BaTiO3 in the presence of generic defect dipoles with large-scale molecular dynamics and provide a detailed atomistic picture of the defect dipole-enhanced electromechanical coupling. We develop a general first-principles-based atomistic model, enabling a quantitative understanding of the relationship between macroscopic ferroelectric properties and dipolar impurities of different orientations, concentrations, and dipole moments. We find that the collective orientation of dipolar defects relative to the external field is the key microscopic structure feature that strongly affects materials hardening/softening and electromechanical coupling. We show that a small concentration (≈0.1 at. %) of defect dipoles dramatically improves electromechanical responses. This offers the opportunity to improve the performance of inexpensive polycrystalline ferroelectric ceramics through defect dipole engineering for a range of applications including piezoelectric sensors, actuators, and transducers.

Historical exposure to inorganic mercury at the smelter works of Abbadia San Salvatore, Italy.

PubMed

Bellander, T; Merler, E; Ceccarelli, F; Boffetta, P

1998-02-01

Metallic mercury production from cinnabar ore may result in high exposures to inorganic mercury, that are difficult to assess separately from the exposures originating from underground extraction, and previously have only been scantily described. We retrieved and analysed the air and biological mercury determinations on workers involved in the smelting process of the Abbadia San Salvatore mine (Monte Amiata, Italy). Native mercury was not present in the ore, and the exposure in the underground extraction was low. The smelter operated from 1897 to 1983. Blood and urine (24/h urine collections and concentration samples) had been sampled in 1968 to 1982, and analysed for mercury by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and relate to all subjects. Exposure to mercury in air had been determined in a small set of personal samples in 1982. The data relate to all jobs in the smelter process, and all jobs entailed substantial exposure to mercury. The overall distribution of breathing zone air, blood and urinary levels is right-skewed and similar to the log-normal distribution (air, median 48 micrograms/m3, n = 49; blood, arithmetic mean AM 49 micrograms/L; geometric mean GM 26 micrograms/L, n = 192; urinary excretion, AM 140 micrograms/24 h, GM 78 micrograms/24 h, n = 839; and urinary concentration, AM 160 micrograms/L, GM 83 micrograms/L, n = 632). Air, blood and urinary values show a high ratio of the between- and within-job variance, indicating differences in exposure by job. Cinnabar pigment production, of which the exposure has not been characterised previously, was the job with the highest air (AM 160 micrograms/m3) and urinary levels (excretion AM 690 micrograms/24 h; concentration AM 1100 micrograms/L). Other jobs with high urinary levels were soot purification, laboratory work, and bottling. Cleaning of condensers showed the highest blood level (AM 280 micrograms/L). There is a downwards time trend in mercury concentration in blood and in urine. The corresponding trend is not seen for urinary excretion levels, the reason for this being unclear. Roasters, which is the most frequently monitored group, show however a decreasing trend in all sets of data (e.g. the mean of urinary excretion decreased from 300 micrograms/24 h in 1968/69 to 50 micrograms/24 h in 1980/81). The mercury exposure experienced by the smelters of Abbadia San Salvatore is in line with the few available data on workers from other mercury mines and smelters, and our data confirm the high exposure levels in this occupational group, in particular at cinnabar pigment production, soot purification, and condenser cleaning.

Changes in Urinary Bisphenol A Concentrations Associated with Placement of Dental Composite Restorations in Children and Adolescents

PubMed Central

Maserejian, Nancy N.; Trachtenberg, Felicia L.; Wheaton, Olivia Brown; Calafat, Antonia M.; Ranganathan, Gayatri; Kim, Hae-Young; Hauser, Russ

2016-01-01

Background BisGMA-based dental composites may release bisphenol A (BPA). Our purpose was to assess changes in urinary BPA concentrations over 6-months follow-up in children and adolescents receiving bisGMA-based restorations. Methods We collected urine and interviewed parents/guardians for BPA-related exposure information before and approximately one-day, 14-days, and 6-months post-treatment among 91 participants aged 3–17 years needing composite restorations. We used multivariable linear regression models to test associations between number of surface-restorations placed and changes in urinary BPA concentrations. Results Participants had on average 1.4 (sd=1.0) surfaces filled with composite at the first treatment visit and a cumulative 2.3 (sd=1.6) surfaces filled during the study. Mean change in BPA between pretreatment and next-day was 1.71 ng/mL (sd=9.94) overall and 0.87 (sd=5.98) after excluding one participant with 8 surfaces filled at the visit. Overall, a greater number of composite surface-restorations placed was associated with higher BPA in the next-day sample (posterior-occlusal eβ=1.47, 95% CI 1.18–1.83; P<0.001), but this was attenuated after restricting to the 88 participants with ≤4 fillings (eβ=1.19, 95% CI 0.86, 1.64), and no association was observed using 14-day (eβ=0.94, 95% CI 0.75–1.18) or 6- month (eβ=0.88, 95% CI 0.74–1.04) samples. Conclusions Placement of bisGMA-based restorations in children and adolescents may produce transient increases in urinary BPA concentration, which are no longer detectable approximately 14-days or 6-months post-treatment in urine samples. When few restorations are placed, increases in urinary BPA concentrations may not be detectable owing to high inter-individual variation in BPA exposure. Practical Implications These results suggest that leaching of BPA from newly placed composites ceases being detectable in urine within 2 weeks of restoration placement. The potential human health impact of such short-term exposure remains uncertain. PMID:27083778

Relationship between bisphenol A exposure and attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder: A case-control study for primary school children in Guangzhou, China.

PubMed

Li, Yanru; Zhang, Haibin; Kuang, Hongxuan; Fan, Ruifang; Cha, Caihui; Li, Guanyong; Luo, Zhiwei; Pang, Qihua

2018-04-01

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine-disrupting chemical. Studies have shown that the exposure to BPA is associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) during adolescent development. However the direct clinical evidence is limited. To investigate the possible association between environmental BPA exposure and the altered behavior of children, a case-control study was conducted with children aged 6-12 years in Guangzhou, China. Two hundred fifteen children diagnosed with ADHD and 253 healthy children from Guangzhou were recruited as the case and control groups, respectively. Urinary BPA and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG, a biomarker of oxidative DNA damage) concentrations were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography/tandem spectrometry. The results showed that concentrations of urinary BPA for the case group were significantly higher than those for the control group (3.44 vs 1.70 μg/L; 4.63 vs 1.71 μg/g Crt. p < .001). A stepwise increase in the odds ratios for ADHD was observed with the increasing quartiles of children's urinary BPA (first quartile: reference category; second quartile adjusted OR: 1.79, 95% CI: 0.95-3.37; third quartile adjusted OR: 7.44, 95% CI: 3.91-14.1; fourth quartile adjusted OR: 9.41, 95% CI: 4.91-18.1). When the BPA levels were stratified by gender, the odds of ADHD among boys and girls increased significantly with urinary BPA concentrations (adjusted OR: 4.58, 95% CI: 2.84-7.37; adjusted OR: 2.83, 95% CI: 1.17-6.84). Urinary 8-OHdG concentrations in the ADHD children were significantly higher than those in the control group. Furthermore, the linear regression analysis results indicated that a significant relationship existed between BPA exposure and 8-OHdG levels (R = 0.257, p < .001). Our findings provide direct evidence that childhood BPA exposure may be related to ADHD and 8-OHdG concentrations for children. Moreover, BPA exposure could increase the higher occurrence of ADHD for boy than for girls. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Maternal Arsenic Exposure, Arsenic Methylation Efficiency, and Birth Outcomes in the Biomarkers of Exposure to ARsenic (BEAR) Pregnancy Cohort in Mexico

PubMed Central

Laine, Jessica E.; Bailey, Kathryn A.; Rubio-Andrade, Marisela; Olshan, Andrew F.; Smeester, Lisa; Drobná, Zuzana; Herring, Amy H.; Stýblo, Miroslav; García-Vargas, Gonzalo G.

2014-01-01

Background: Exposure to inorganic arsenic (iAs) from drinking water is a global public health problem, yet much remains unknown about the extent of exposure in susceptible populations. Objectives: We aimed to establish the Biomarkers of Exposure to ARsenic (BEAR) prospective pregnancy cohort in Gómez Palacio, Mexico, to better understand the effects of iAs exposure on pregnant women and their children. Methods: Two hundred pregnant women were recruited for this study. Concentrations of iAs in drinking water (DW-iAs) and maternal urinary concentrations of iAs and its monomethylated and dimethylated metabolites (MMAs and DMAs, respectively) were determined. Birth outcomes were analyzed for their relationship to DW-iAs and to the concentrations and proportions of maternal urinary arsenicals. Results: DW-iAs for the study subjects ranged from < 0.5 to 236 μg As/L. More than half of the women (53%) had DW-iAs that exceeded the World Health Organization’s recommended guideline of 10 μg As/L. DW-iAs was significantly associated with the sum of the urinary arsenicals (U-tAs). Maternal urinary concentrations of MMAs were negatively associated with newborn birth weight and gestational age. Maternal urinary concentrations of iAs were associated with lower mean gestational age and newborn length. Conclusions: Biomonitoring results demonstrate that pregnant women in Gómez Palacio are exposed to potentially harmful levels of DW-iAs. The data support a relationship between iAs metabolism in pregnant women and adverse birth outcomes. The results underscore the risks associated with iAs exposure in vulnerable populations. Citation: Laine JE, Bailey KA, Rubio-Andrade M, Olshan AF, Smeester L, Drobná Z, Herring AH, Stýblo M, García-Vargas GG, Fry RC. 2015. Maternal arsenic exposure, arsenic methylation efficiency, and birth outcomes in the Biomarkers of Exposure to ARsenic (BEAR) pregnancy cohort in Mexico. Environ Health Perspect 123:186–192; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1307476 PMID:25325819

Predictors of Urinary Bisphenol A and Phthalate Metabolite Concentrations in Mexican Children

PubMed Central

Lewis, Ryan C.; Meeker, John D.; Peterson, Karen E.; Lee, Joyce M.; Pace, Gerry G.; Cantoral, Alejandra; Téllez-Rojo, Martha Maria

2013-01-01

Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates is prevalent among children and adolescents, but little is known regarding important sources of exposure at these sensitive life stages. In this study, we measured urinary concentrations of BPA and nine phthalate metabolites in 108 Mexican children aged 8–13 years. Associations of age, time of day, and questionnaire items on external environment, water use, and food container use with specific gravity-corrected urinary concentrations were assessed, as were questionnaire items concerning the use of 17 personal care products in the past 48-hr. As a secondary aim, third trimester urinary concentrations were measured in 99 mothers of these children, and the relationship between specific gravity-corrected urinary concentrations at these two time points was explored. After adjusting for potential confounding by other personal care product use in the past 48-hr, there were statistically significant (p <0.05) positive associations in boys for cologne/perfume use and monoethyl phthalate (MEP), mono(3-carboxypropyl) phthalate (MCPP), mono(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEHHP), and mono(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (MEOHP), and in girls for colored cosmetics use and mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP), mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), MEHHP, MEOHP, and mono(2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate (MECPP), conditioner use and MEP, deodorant use and MEP, and other hair products use and MBP. There was a statistically significant positive trend for the number of personal care products used in the past 48-hr and log-MEP in girls. However, there were no statistically significant associations between the analytes and the other questionnaire items and there were no strong correlations between the analytes measured during the third trimester and at 8–13 years of age. We demonstrated that personal care product use is associated with exposure to multiple phthalates in children. Due to rapid development, children may be susceptible to impacts from exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals; thus, reduced or delayed use of certain personal care products among children may be warranted. PMID:24041567

Exposure Classification and Temporal Variability in Urinary Bisphenol A Concentrations among Couples in Utah--The HOPE Study.

PubMed

Cox, Kyley J; Porucznik, Christina A; Anderson, David J; Brozek, Eric M; Szczotka, Kathryn M; Bailey, Nicole M; Wilkins, Diana G; Stanford, Joseph B

2016-04-01

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disruptor and potential reproductive toxicant, but results of epidemiologic studies have been mixed and have been criticized for inadequate exposure assessment that often relies on a single measurement. Our goal was to describe the distribution of BPA concentrations in serial urinary specimens, assess temporal variability, and provide estimates of exposure classification when randomly selected samples are used to predict average exposure. We collected and analyzed 2,614 urine specimens from 83 Utah couples beginning in 2012. Female participants collected daily first-morning urine specimens during one to two menstrual cycles and male partners collected specimens during the woman's fertile window for each cycle. We measured urinary BPA concentrations and calculated geometric means (GM) for each cycle, characterized the distribution of observed values and temporal variability using intraclass correlation coefficients, and performed surrogate category analyses to determine how well repeat samples could classify exposure. The GM urine BPA concentration was 2.78 ng/mL among males and 2.44 ng/mL among females. BPA had a high degree of variability among both males (ICC = 0.18; 95% CI: 0.11, 0.26) and females (ICC = 0.11; 95% CI: 0.08, 0.16). Based on our more stringent surrogate category analysis, to reach proportions ≥ 0.80 for sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value (PPV) among females, 6 and 10 repeat samples for the high and low tertiles, respectively, were required. For the medium tertile, specificity reached 0.87 with 10 repeat samples, but even with 11 samples, sensitivity and PPV did not exceed 0.36. Five repeat samples, among males, yielded sensitivity and PPV values ≥ 0.75 for the high and low tertiles, but, similar to females, classification for the medium tertile was less accurate. Repeated urinary specimens are required to characterize typical BPA exposure. Cox KJ, Porucznik CA, Anderson DJ, Brozek EM, Szczotka KM, Bailey NM, Wilkins DG, Stanford JB. 2016. Exposure classification and temporal variability in urinary bisphenol A concentrations among couples in Utah-the HOPE study. Environ Health Perspect 124:498-506; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1509752.

Prediction of Cortical Defect Using C-Reactive Protein and Urine Sodium to Potassium Ratio in Infants with Febrile Urinary Tract Infection

PubMed Central

Jung, Su Jin

2016-01-01

Purpose We investigated whether C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, urine protein-creatinine ratio (uProt/Cr), and urine electrolytes can be useful for discriminating acute pyelonephritis (APN) from other febrile illnesses or the presence of a cortical defect on 99mTc dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) scanning (true APN) from its absence in infants with febrile urinary tract infection (UTI). Materials and Methods We examined 150 infants experiencing their first febrile UTI and 100 controls with other febrile illnesses consecutively admitted to our hospital from January 2010 to December 2012. Blood (CRP, electrolytes, Cr) and urine tests [uProt/Cr, electrolytes, and sodium-potassium ratio (uNa/K)] were performed upon admission. All infants with UTI underwent DMSA scans during admission. All data were compared between infants with UTI and controls and between infants with or without a cortical defect on DMSA scans. Using multiple logistic regression analysis, the ability of the parameters to predict true APN was analyzed. Results CRP levels and uProt/Cr were significantly higher in infants with true APN than in controls. uNa levels and uNa/K were significantly lower in infants with true APN than in controls. CRP levels and uNa/K were relevant factors for predicting true APN. The method using CRP levels, u-Prot/Cr, u-Na levels, and uNa/K had a sensitivity of 94%, specificity of 65%, positive predictive value of 60%, and negative predictive value of 95% for predicting true APN. Conclusion We conclude that these parameters are useful for discriminating APN from other febrile illnesses or discriminating true APN in infants with febrile UTI. PMID:26632389

Identification of urinary metabolites of imperatorin with a single run on an LC/Triple TOF system based on multiple mass defect filter data acquisition and multiple data mining techniques.

PubMed

Qiao, Shi; Shi, Xiaowei; Shi, Rui; Liu, Man; Liu, Ting; Zhang, Kerong; Wang, Qiao; Yao, Meicun; Zhang, Lantong

2013-08-01

The detection of drug metabolites, especially for minor metabolites, continues to be a challenge because of the complexity of biological samples. Imperatorin (IMP) is an active natural furocoumarin component originating from many traditional Chinese herbal medicines and is expected to be pursued as a new vasorelaxant agent. In the present study, a generic and efficient approach was developed for the in vivo screening and identification of IMP metabolites using liquid chromatography-Triple TOF mass spectrometry. In this approach, a novel on-line data acquisition method mutiple mass defect filter (MMDF) combined with dynamic background subtraction was developed to trace all probable urinary metabolites of IMP. Comparing with the traditionally intensity-dependent data acquisition method, MMDF method could give the information of low-level metabolites masked by background noise and endogenous components. Thus, the minor metabolites in complex biological matrices could be detected. Then, the sensitive and specific multiple data-mining techniques extracted ion chromatography, mass defect filter, product ion filter, and neutral loss filter were used for the discovery of IMP metabolites. Based on the proposed strategy, 44 phase I and 7 phase II metabolites were identified in rat urine after oral administration of IMP. The results indicated that oxidization was the main metabolic pathway and that different oxidized substituent positions had a significant influence on the fragmentation of the metabolites. Two types of characteristic ions at m/z 203 and 219 can be observed in the MS/MS spectra. This is the first study of IMP metabolism in vivo. The interpretation of the MS/MS spectra of these metabolites and the proposed metabolite pathway provide essential data for further pharmacological studies of other linear-type furocoumarins.

Chronic Renal Failure Secondary to Unrecognized Neurogenic Bladder in A Child with Myelodysplasia.

PubMed

Ahmed, Shameem; Paul, Siba Prosad

2017-01-01

Myelodysplasia includes a group of developmental anomalies resulting from defects that occur during neural tube closure. Urological morbidity in patients with myelodysplasia is significant and if not treated appropriately in a timely manner can potentially lead to progressive renal failure, requiring dialysis or transplantation. We report the case of a 13-year old girl with neurogenic bladder who presented chronic renal failure secondary to lipomyelomeningocele with retethering of cord. She was managed with urinary indwelling catheterization until optimization of renal function and then underwent detethering of cord with excision and repair of residual lipomeningomyelocele. Her renal parameters improved gradually over weeks and then were managed on self clean intermittent catheterization. The case emphasizes the need for considering retethering of spinal cord in children with myelodysplasia where symptoms of neurogenic bladder and recurrent urinary tract infections occur.

Catheterization alters bladder ecology to potentiate Staphylococcus aureus infection of the urinary tract.

PubMed

Walker, Jennifer N; Flores-Mireles, Ana L; Pinkner, Chloe L; Schreiber, Henry L; Joens, Matthew S; Park, Alyssa M; Potretzke, Aaron M; Bauman, Tyler M; Pinkner, Jerome S; Fitzpatrick, James A J; Desai, Alana; Caparon, Michael G; Hultgren, Scott J

2017-10-10

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an emerging cause of catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI), which frequently progresses to more serious invasive infections. We adapted a mouse model of CAUTI to investigate how catheterization increases an individual's susceptibility to MRSA UTI. This analysis revealed that catheterization was required for MRSA to achieve high-level, persistent infection in the bladder. As shown previously, catheter placement induced an inflammatory response resulting in the release of the host protein fibrinogen (Fg), which coated the bladder and implant. Following infection, we showed that MRSA attached to the urothelium and implant in patterns that colocalized with deposited Fg. Furthermore, MRSA exacerbated the host inflammatory response to stimulate the additional release and accumulation of Fg in the urinary tract, which facilitated MRSA colonization. Consistent with this model, analysis of catheters from patients with S. aureus -positive cultures revealed colocalization of Fg, which was deposited on the catheter, with S. aureus Clumping Factors A and B (ClfA and ClfB) have been shown to contribute to MRSA-Fg interactions in other models of disease. We found that mutants in clfA had significantly greater Fg-binding defects than mutants in clfB in several in vitro assays. Paradoxically, only the ClfB - strain was significantly attenuated in the CAUTI model. Together, these data suggest that catheterization alters the urinary tract environment to promote MRSA CAUTI pathogenesis by inducing the release of Fg, which the pathogen enhances to persist in the urinary tract despite the host's robust immune response.

Role of Klebsiella pneumoniae Type 1 and Type 3 Fimbriae in Colonizing Silicone Tubes Implanted into the Bladders of Mice as a Model of Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections

PubMed Central

Murphy, Caitlin N.; Mortensen, Martin S.; Krogfelt, Karen A.

2013-01-01

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections are biofilm-mediated infections that cause a significant economic and health burden in nosocomial environments. Using a newly developed murine model of this type of infection, we investigated the role of fimbriae in implant-associated urinary tract infections by the Gram-negative bacterium Klebsiella pneumoniae, which is a proficient biofilm former and a commonly isolated nosocomial pathogen. Studies have shown that type 1 and type 3 fimbriae are involved in attachment and biofilm formation in vitro, and these fimbrial types are suspected to be important virulence factors during infection. To test this hypothesis, the virulence of fimbrial mutants was assessed in independent challenges in which mouse bladders were inoculated with the wild type or a fimbrial mutant and in coinfection studies in which the wild type and fimbrial mutants were inoculated together to assess the results of a direct competition in the urinary tract. Using these experiments, we were able to show that both fimbrial types serve to enhance colonization and persistence. Additionally, a double mutant had an additive colonization defect under some conditions, indicating that both fimbrial types have unique roles in the attachment and persistence in the bladder and on the implant itself. All of these mutants were outcompeted by the wild type in coinfection experiments. Using these methods, we are able to show that type 1 and type 3 fimbriae are important colonization factors in the murine urinary tract when an implanted silicone tube is present. PMID:23753626

Catheterization alters bladder ecology to potentiate Staphylococcus aureus infection of the urinary tract

PubMed Central

Walker, Jennifer N.; Flores-Mireles, Ana L.; Pinkner, Chloe L.; Schreiber, Henry L.; Joens, Matthew S.; Park, Alyssa M.; Potretzke, Aaron M.; Bauman, Tyler M.; Pinkner, Jerome S.; Fitzpatrick, James A. J.; Desai, Alana; Caparon, Michael G.

2017-01-01

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an emerging cause of catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI), which frequently progresses to more serious invasive infections. We adapted a mouse model of CAUTI to investigate how catheterization increases an individual’s susceptibility to MRSA UTI. This analysis revealed that catheterization was required for MRSA to achieve high-level, persistent infection in the bladder. As shown previously, catheter placement induced an inflammatory response resulting in the release of the host protein fibrinogen (Fg), which coated the bladder and implant. Following infection, we showed that MRSA attached to the urothelium and implant in patterns that colocalized with deposited Fg. Furthermore, MRSA exacerbated the host inflammatory response to stimulate the additional release and accumulation of Fg in the urinary tract, which facilitated MRSA colonization. Consistent with this model, analysis of catheters from patients with S. aureus-positive cultures revealed colocalization of Fg, which was deposited on the catheter, with S. aureus. Clumping Factors A and B (ClfA and ClfB) have been shown to contribute to MRSA–Fg interactions in other models of disease. We found that mutants in clfA had significantly greater Fg-binding defects than mutants in clfB in several in vitro assays. Paradoxically, only the ClfB− strain was significantly attenuated in the CAUTI model. Together, these data suggest that catheterization alters the urinary tract environment to promote MRSA CAUTI pathogenesis by inducing the release of Fg, which the pathogen enhances to persist in the urinary tract despite the host’s robust immune response. PMID:28973850

Mutagenicity studies in a tyre plant: in vitro activity of workers' urinary concentrates and raw materials.

PubMed

Crebelli, R; Paoletti, A; Falcone, E; Aquilina, G; Fabri, G; Carere, A

1985-07-01

The possible contribution to urinary mutagenicity of occupational exposures in the rubber industry was studied by assaying the urine concentrates of 72 workmen (44 smokers) employed in a tyre plant. Twenty three clerks (16 smokers) engaged in the administrative department of the same factory served as presumptive unexposed controls. XAD-2 resin concentrates of urine samples were assayed in the plate incorporation test and in the microtitre fluctuation assay with Salmonella typhimurium strains TA1535, TA98, and TA100. Furthermore, the in vitro mutagenicity of the major raw materials in use at the plant was determined in the plate incorporation assay with S typhimurium strains TA1535, TA1537, TA98, and TA100. The results obtained from the urinary mutagenicity study show that smoking habits, but not occupation, were statistically significantly related to the appearance of a urinary mutagenicity that was detectable with strain TA98. A possible synergistic effect of occupation with smoking was observed among tyre builders who were also smokers. The study of the raw materials showed that three technical grade materials were weakly active as mutagens in strain TA98 in the absence (poly-p-dinitrosobenzene) or in the presence of metabolic activation (mixed diaryl-p-phenylendiamines and tetramethyltiuram disulphide). The latter chemical was also weakly active in strain TA100.

Mutagenicity studies in a tyre plant: in vitro activity of workers' urinary concentrates and raw materials.

PubMed Central

Crebelli, R; Paoletti, A; Falcone, E; Aquilina, G; Fabri, G; Carere, A

1985-01-01

The possible contribution to urinary mutagenicity of occupational exposures in the rubber industry was studied by assaying the urine concentrates of 72 workmen (44 smokers) employed in a tyre plant. Twenty three clerks (16 smokers) engaged in the administrative department of the same factory served as presumptive unexposed controls. XAD-2 resin concentrates of urine samples were assayed in the plate incorporation test and in the microtitre fluctuation assay with Salmonella typhimurium strains TA1535, TA98, and TA100. Furthermore, the in vitro mutagenicity of the major raw materials in use at the plant was determined in the plate incorporation assay with S typhimurium strains TA1535, TA1537, TA98, and TA100. The results obtained from the urinary mutagenicity study show that smoking habits, but not occupation, were statistically significantly related to the appearance of a urinary mutagenicity that was detectable with strain TA98. A possible synergistic effect of occupation with smoking was observed among tyre builders who were also smokers. The study of the raw materials showed that three technical grade materials were weakly active as mutagens in strain TA98 in the absence (poly-p-dinitrosobenzene) or in the presence of metabolic activation (mixed diaryl-p-phenylendiamines and tetramethyltiuram disulphide). The latter chemical was also weakly active in strain TA100. PMID:4015996

Urinary arsenic profiles reveal exposures to inorganic arsenic from private drinking water supplies in Cornwall, UK.

PubMed

Middleton, D R S; Watts, M J; Hamilton, E M; Ander, E L; Close, R M; Exley, K S; Crabbe, H; Leonardi, G S; Fletcher, T; Polya, D A

2016-05-09

Private water supplies (PWS) in Cornwall, South West England exceeded the current WHO guidance value and UK prescribed concentration or value (PCV) for arsenic of 10 μg/L in 5% of properties surveyed (n = 497). In this follow-up study, the first of its kind in the UK, volunteers (n = 207) from 127 households who used their PWS for drinking, provided urine and drinking water samples for total As determination by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and urinary As speciation by high performance liquid chromatography ICP-MS (HPLC-ICP-MS). Arsenic concentrations exceeding 10 μg/L were found in the PWS of 10% of the volunteers. Unadjusted total urinary As concentrations were poorly correlated (Spearman's ρ = 0.36 (P < 0.001)) with PWS As largely due to the use of spot urine samples and the dominance of arsenobetaine (AB) from seafood sources. However, the osmolality adjusted sum, U-As(IMM), of urinary inorganic As species, arsenite (As(III)) and arsenate (As(V)), and their metabolites, methylarsonate (MA) and dimethylarsinate (DMA), was found to strongly correlate (Spearman's ρ: 0.62 (P < 0.001)) with PWS As, indicating private water supplies as the dominant source of inorganic As exposure in the study population of PWS users.

Heat Stress Nephropathy From Exercise-Induced Uric Acid Crystalluria: A Perspective on Mesoamerican Nephropathy.

PubMed

Roncal-Jimenez, Carlos; García-Trabanino, Ramón; Barregard, Lars; Lanaspa, Miguel A; Wesseling, Catharina; Harra, Tamara; Aragón, Aurora; Grases, Felix; Jarquin, Emmanuel R; González, Marvin A; Weiss, Ilana; Glaser, Jason; Sánchez-Lozada, Laura G; Johnson, Richard J

2016-01-01

Mesoamerican nephropathy (MeN), an epidemic in Central America, is a chronic kidney disease of unknown cause. In this article, we argue that MeN may be a uric acid disorder. Individuals at risk for developing the disease are primarily male workers exposed to heat stress and physical exertion that predisposes to recurrent water and volume depletion, often accompanied by urinary concentration and acidification. Uric acid is generated during heat stress, in part consequent to nucleotide release from muscles. We hypothesize that working in the sugarcane fields may result in cyclic uricosuria in which uric acid concentrations exceed solubility, leading to the formation of dihydrate urate crystals and local injury. Consistent with this hypothesis, we present pilot data documenting the common presence of urate crystals in the urine of sugarcane workers from El Salvador. High end-of-workday urinary uric acid concentrations were common in a pilot study, particularly if urine pH was corrected to 7. Hyperuricemia may induce glomerular hypertension, whereas the increased urinary uric acid may directly injure renal tubules. Thus, MeN may result from exercise and heat stress associated with dehydration-induced hyperuricemia and uricosuria. Increased hydration with water and salt, urinary alkalinization, reduction in sugary beverage intake, and inhibitors of uric acid synthesis should be tested for disease prevention. Copyright © 2016 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Urinary arsenic profiles reveal exposures to inorganic arsenic from private drinking water supplies in Cornwall, UK

PubMed Central

Middleton, D. R. S.; Watts, M. J.; Hamilton, E. M.; Ander, E. L.; Close, R. M.; Exley, K. S.; Crabbe, H.; Leonardi, G. S.; Fletcher, T.; Polya, D. A.

2016-01-01

Private water supplies (PWS) in Cornwall, South West England exceeded the current WHO guidance value and UK prescribed concentration or value (PCV) for arsenic of 10 μg/L in 5% of properties surveyed (n = 497). In this follow-up study, the first of its kind in the UK, volunteers (n = 207) from 127 households who used their PWS for drinking, provided urine and drinking water samples for total As determination by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and urinary As speciation by high performance liquid chromatography ICP-MS (HPLC-ICP-MS). Arsenic concentrations exceeding 10 μg/L were found in the PWS of 10% of the volunteers. Unadjusted total urinary As concentrations were poorly correlated (Spearman’s ρ = 0.36 (P < 0.001)) with PWS As largely due to the use of spot urine samples and the dominance of arsenobetaine (AB) from seafood sources. However, the osmolality adjusted sum, U-AsIMM, of urinary inorganic As species, arsenite (AsIII) and arsenate (AsV), and their metabolites, methylarsonate (MA) and dimethylarsinate (DMA), was found to strongly correlate (Spearman’s ρ: 0.62 (P < 0.001)) with PWS As, indicating private water supplies as the dominant source of inorganic As exposure in the study population of PWS users. PMID:27156998

Urinary arsenic profiles reveal exposures to inorganic arsenic from private drinking water supplies in Cornwall, UK

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Middleton, D. R. S.; Watts, M. J.; Hamilton, E. M.; Ander, E. L.; Close, R. M.; Exley, K. S.; Crabbe, H.; Leonardi, G. S.; Fletcher, T.; Polya, D. A.

2016-05-01

Private water supplies (PWS) in Cornwall, South West England exceeded the current WHO guidance value and UK prescribed concentration or value (PCV) for arsenic of 10 μg/L in 5% of properties surveyed (n = 497). In this follow-up study, the first of its kind in the UK, volunteers (n = 207) from 127 households who used their PWS for drinking, provided urine and drinking water samples for total As determination by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and urinary As speciation by high performance liquid chromatography ICP-MS (HPLC-ICP-MS). Arsenic concentrations exceeding 10 μg/L were found in the PWS of 10% of the volunteers. Unadjusted total urinary As concentrations were poorly correlated (Spearman’s ρ = 0.36 (P < 0.001)) with PWS As largely due to the use of spot urine samples and the dominance of arsenobetaine (AB) from seafood sources. However, the osmolality adjusted sum, U-AsIMM, of urinary inorganic As species, arsenite (AsIII) and arsenate (AsV), and their metabolites, methylarsonate (MA) and dimethylarsinate (DMA), was found to strongly correlate (Spearman’s ρ: 0.62 (P < 0.001)) with PWS As, indicating private water supplies as the dominant source of inorganic As exposure in the study population of PWS users.

Defective Store-Operated Calcium Entry Causes Partial Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus

PubMed Central

Mamenko, Mykola; Dhande, Isha; Tomilin, Viktor; Zaika, Oleg; Boukelmoune, Nabila; Zhu, Yaming; Gonzalez-Garay, Manuel L.

2016-01-01

Store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) is the mechanism by which extracellular signals elicit prolonged intracellular calcium elevation to drive changes in fundamental cellular processes. Here, we investigated the role of SOCE in the regulation of renal water reabsorption, using the inbred rat strain SHR-A3 as an animal model with disrupted SOCE. We found that SHR-A3, but not SHR-B2, have a novel truncating mutation in the gene encoding stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1), the endoplasmic reticulum calcium (Ca2+) sensor that triggers SOCE. Balance studies revealed increased urine volume, hypertonic plasma, polydipsia, and impaired urinary concentrating ability accompanied by elevated circulating arginine vasopressin (AVP) levels in SHR-A3 compared with SHR-B2. Isolated, split-open collecting ducts (CD) from SHR-A3 displayed decreased basal intracellular Ca2+ levels and a major defect in SOCE. Consequently, AVP failed to induce the sustained intracellular Ca2+ mobilization that requires SOCE in CD cells from SHR-A3. This effect decreased the abundance of aquaporin 2 and enhanced its intracellular retention, suggesting impaired sensitivity of the CD to AVP in SHR-A3. Stim1 knockdown in cultured mpkCCDc14 cells reduced SOCE and basal intracellular Ca2+ levels and prevented AVP-induced translocation of aquaporin 2, further suggesting the effects in SHR-A3 result from the expression of truncated STIM1. Overall, these results identify a novel mechanism of nephrogenic diabetes insipidus and uncover a role of SOCE in renal water handling. PMID:26574044

Recent advances in recurrent urinary tract infection from pathogenesis and biomarkers to prevention.

PubMed

Jhang, Jia-Fong; Kuo, Hann-Chorng

2017-01-01

Recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) might be one of the most common problems in urological clinics. Recent research has revealed novel evidence about recurrent UTI and it should be considered a different disease from the first infection. The pathogenesis of recurrent UTI might include two mechanisms, bacterial factors and deficiencies in host defense. Bacterial survival in the urinary bladder after antibiotic treatment and progression to form intracellular bacterial communities might be the most important bacterial factors. In host defense deficiency, a defect in pathogen recognition and urothelial barrier function impairment play the most important roles. Immunodeficiency and urogenital tract anatomical abnormalities have been considered the essential risk factors for recurrent UTI. In healthy women, voiding dysfunction and behavioral factors also increase the risk of recurrent UTI. Sexual intercourse and estrogen deficiency in postmenopausal women might have the strongest association with recurrent UTI. Traditional lifestyle factors such as fluid intake and diet are not considered independent risk factors now. Serum and urine biomarkers to predict recurrent UTI from the first infection have also attracted a wide attention recently. Current clinical evidence suggests that serum macrophage colony-stimulating factor and urinary nerve growth factor have potential predictive value for recurrent UTI. Clinical trials have proven the efficacy of the oral immunoactive agent OM-89 for the prevention of UTI. Vaccines for recurrent UTI are recommended by the latest guidelines and are available on the market.

Bisphenol A concentrations in maternal breast milk and infant urine

PubMed Central

Mendonca, K.; Hauser, R.; Calafat, A.M.; Arbuckle, T.E.; Duty, S.M.

2013-01-01

Purpose The present report describes the distribution of breast milk and urinary free and total bisphenol A (BPA) concentrations, from 27 post-partum women and their 31 infants, and explores the influence of age, sex, and nutritional source on infant BPA urinary concentration. Methods Both free (unconjugated) and total (free plus conjugated) BPA concentrations from women’s breast milk samples and infants’ urine samples were measured by online solid-phase extraction coupled to high-performance liquid chromatography–isotope dilution tandem mass spectrometry. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests of group comparisons were conducted. Results Total BPA was detected in 93% of urine samples in this healthy infant population aged 3–15 months who were without known environmental exposure to BPA (interquartile range [IQR]=1.2 – 4.4 μg/L). Similarly, 75% of the mothers’ breast milk samples had detectable concentrations of total BPA (IQR=0.4 – 1.4 μg/L). The magnitude and frequency of detection of free BPA in the children’s urine and the mothers’ breast milk were much lower than the total concentrations. Conclusions Total BPA was detected in 93% of this healthy infant population aged 3–15 months who are without known environmental exposure to BPA. Neither free nor total BPA urinary concentrations differed significantly by infant’s sex or by nutritional source (breast milk and/or formula) while age group was of borderline significance. There were no significant correlations between free or total BPA concentrations in mothers’ breast milk and their infants’ urine. PMID:23212895

Dietary folate intake and modification of the association of urinary bisphenol A concentrations with in vitro fertilization outcomes among women from a fertility clinic

PubMed Central

Mínguez-Alarcón, Lidia; Gaskins, Audrey J.; Chiu, Yu-Han; Souter, Irene; Williams, Paige L.; Calafat, Antonia M.; Hauser, Russ; Chavarro, Jorge E.

2016-01-01

Experimental data in rodents suggest that the effects of bisphenol A (BPA) on oocyte development may be modified by dietary methyl donors. Whether the same interaction exists in humans is unknown. We evaluated whether intake of methyl donors modified the associations between urinary BPA concentrations and treatment outcomes among 178 women who underwent 248 IVF cycles at a fertility center in Boston between 2007 and 2012. Participants completed a validated food frequency questionnaire and provided up to two urine samples per treatment cycle. High urinary BPA concentrations were associated with a 66% lower probability of implantation (p=0.007) among women who consumed <400μg/day of food folate, but not among women consuming ≥400μg/day (21% higher probability of implantation, p=0.18) (p,interaction=0.04). A similar pattern was observed for probability of clinical pregnancy (p,interaction=0.07) and live birth (p,interaction=0.16). These results are consistent with previous animal data but further evaluation in other human populations is needed. PMID:27423903

Exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and volatile organic compounds among recently pregnant rural Guatemalan women cooking and heating with solid fuels.

PubMed

Weinstein, John R; Asteria-Peñaloza, Renée; Diaz-Artiga, Anaité; Davila, Gilberto; Hammond, S Katharine; Ryde, Ian T; Meyer, Joel N; Benowitz, Neal; Thompson, Lisa M

2017-06-01

Household air pollution is a major contributor to death and disability worldwide. Over 95% of rural Guatemalan households use woodstoves for cooking or heating. Woodsmoke contains carcinogenic or fetotoxic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Increased PAHs and VOCs have been shown to increase levels of oxidative stress. We examined PAH and VOC exposures among recently pregnant rural Guatemalan women exposed to woodsmoke and compared exposures to levels seen occupationally or among smokers. Urine was collected from 23 women who were 3 months post-partum three times over 72h: morning (fasting), after lunch, and following dinner or use of wood-fired traditional sauna baths (samples=68). Creatinine-adjusted urinary concentrations of metabolites of four PAHs and eight VOCs were analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Creatinine-adjusted urinary biomarkers of oxidative stress, 8-isoprostane and 8-OHdG, were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Long-term (pregnancy through 3 months prenatal) exposure to particulate matter and airborne PAHs were measured. Women using wood-fueled chimney stoves are exposed to high levels of particulate matter (median 48h PM 2.5 105.7μg/m 3 ; inter-quartile range (IQR): 77.6-130.4). Urinary PAH and VOC metabolites were significantly associated with woodsmoke exposures: 2-naphthol (median (IQR) in ng/mg creatinine: 295.9 (74.4-430.9) after sauna versus 23.9 (17.1-49.5) fasting; and acrolein: 571.7 (429.3-1040.7) after sauna versus 268.0 (178.3-398.6) fasting. Urinary PAH (total PAH: ρ=0.89, p<0.001) and VOC metabolites of benzene (ρ=0.80, p<0.001) and acrylonitrile (ρ=0.59, p<0.05) were strongly correlated with long-term exposure to particulate matter. However urinary biomarkers of oxidative stress were not correlated with particulate matter (ρ=0.01 to 0.05, p>0.85) or PAH and VOC biomarkers (ρ=-0.20 to 0.38, p>0.07). Urinary metabolite concentrations were significantly greater than those of heavy smokers (mean cigarettes/day=18) across all PAHs. In 15 (65%) women, maximum 1-hydroxypyrene concentrations exceeded the occupational exposure limit of coke-oven workers. The high concentrations of urinary PAH and VOC metabolites among recently pregnant women is alarming given the detrimental fetal and neonatal effects of prenatal PAH exposure. As most women used chimney woodstoves, cleaner fuels are critically needed to reduce smoke exposure. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Diet effects on urine composition of cattle and N2O emissions.

PubMed

Dijkstra, J; Oenema, O; van Groenigen, J W; Spek, J W; van Vuuren, A M; Bannink, A

2013-06-01

Ruminant production contributes to emissions of nitrogen (N) to the environment, principally ammonia (NH3), nitrous oxide (N2O) and di-nitrogen (N2) to air, nitrate (NO3 -) to groundwater and particulate N to surface waters. Variation in dietary N intake will particularly affect excretion of urinary N, which is much more vulnerable to losses than is faecal N. Our objective is to review dietary effects on the level and form of N excreted in cattle urine, as well as its consequences for emissions of N2O. The quantity of N excreted in urine varies widely. Urinary N excretion, in particular that of urea N, is decreased upon reduction of dietary N intake or an increase in the supply of energy to the rumen microorganisms and to the host animal itself. Most of the N in urine (from 50% to well over 90%) is present in the form of urea. Other nitrogenous components include purine derivatives (PD), hippuric acid, creatine and creatinine. Excretion of PD is related to rumen microbial protein synthesis, and that of hippuric acid to dietary concentration of degradable phenolic acids. The N concentration of cattle urine ranges from 3 to 20 g/l. High-dietary mineral levels increase urine volume and lead to reduced urinary N concentration as well as reduced urea concentration in plasma and milk. In lactating dairy cattle, variation in urine volume affects the relationship between milk urea and urinary N excretion, which hampers the use of milk urea as an accurate indicator of urinary N excretion. Following its deposition in pastures or in animal houses, ubiquitous microorganisms in soil and waters transform urinary N components into ammonium (NH4 +), and thereafter into NO3 - and ultimately in N2 accompanied with the release of N2O. Urinary hippuric acid, creatine and creatinine decompose more slowly than urea. Hippuric acid may act as a natural inhibitor of N2O emissions, but inhibition conditions have not been defined properly yet. Environmental and soil conditions at the site of urine deposition or manure application strongly influence N2O release. Major dietary strategies to mitigating N2O emission from cattle operations include reducing dietary N content or increasing energy content, and increasing dietary mineral content to increase urine volume. For further reduction of N2O emission, an integrated animal nutrition and excreta management approach is required.

Spectroscopic Study of Deep Level Emissions from Acceptor Defects in ZnO Thin Films with Oxygen Rich Stoichiometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ilyas, Usman; Rawat, R. S.; Tan, T. L.

2013-10-01

This paper reports the tailoring of acceptor defects in oxygen rich ZnO thin films at different post-deposition annealing temperatures (500-800°C) and Mn doping concentrations. The XRD spectra exhibited the nanocrystalline nature of ZnO thin films along with inconsistent variation in lattice parameters suggesting the temperature-dependent activation of structural defects. Photoluminescence emission spectra revealed the temperature dependent variation in deep level emissions (DLE) with the presence of acceptors as dominating defects. The concentration of native defects was estimated to be increased with temperature while a reverse trend was observed for those with increasing doping concentration. A consistent decrease in DLE spectra, with increasing Mn content, revealed the quenching of structural defects in the optical band gap of ZnO favorable for good quality thin films with enhanced optical transparency.

Chronic arsenic exposure increases TGFalpha concentration in bladder urothelial cells of Mexican populations environmentally exposed to inorganic arsenic

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

Valenzuela, Olga L.; Germolec, Dori R.; Borja-Aburto, Victor H.

Inorganic arsenic (iAs) is a well-established carcinogen and human exposure has been associated with a variety of cancers including those of skin, lung, and bladder. High expression of transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-{alpha}) has associated with local relapses in early stages of urinary bladder cancer. iAs exposures are at least in part determined by the rate of formation and composition of iAs metabolites (MAs{sup III}, MAs{sup V}, DMAs{sup III}, DMAs{sup V}). This study examines the relationship between TGF-{alpha} concentration in exfoliated bladder urothelial cells (BUC) separated from urine and urinary arsenic species in 72 resident women (18-51 years old) frommore » areas exposed to different concentrations of iAs in drinking water (2-378 ppb) in central Mexico. Urinary arsenic species, including trivalent methylated metabolites were measured by hydride generation atomic absorption spectrometry method. The concentration of TGF-{alpha} in BUC was measured using an ELISA assay. Results show a statistically significant positive correlation between TGF-{alpha} concentration in BUC and each of the six arsenic species present in urine. The multivariate linear regression analyses show that the increment of TGF-{alpha} levels in BUC was importantly associated with the presence of arsenic species after adjusting by age, and presence of urinary infection. People from areas with high arsenic exposure had a significantly higher TGF-{alpha} concentration in BUC than people from areas of low arsenic exposure (128.8 vs. 64.4 pg/mg protein; p < 0.05). Notably, exfoliated cells isolated from individuals with skin lesions contained significantly greater amount of TGF-{alpha} than cells from individuals without skin lesions: 157.7 vs. 64.9 pg/mg protein (p = 0.003). These results suggest that TGF-{alpha} in exfoliated BUC may serve as a susceptibility marker of adverse health effects on epithelial tissue in arsenic-endemic areas.« less

Chronic arsenic exposure increases TGFalpha concentration in bladder urothelial cells of Mexican populations environmentally exposed to inorganic arsenic☆

PubMed Central

Valenzuela, Olga L.; Germolec, Dori R.; Borja-Aburto, Víctor H.; Contreras-Ruiz, José; García-Vargas, Gonzalo G.; Del Razo, Luz M.

2009-01-01

Inorganic arsenic (iAs) is a well-established carcinogen and human exposure has been associated with a variety of cancers including those of skin, lung, and bladder. High expression of transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-α) has associated with local relapses in early stages of urinary bladder cancer. iAs exposures are at least in part determined by the rate of formation and composition of iAs metabolites (MAsIII, MAsV, DMAsIII, DMAsV). This study examines the relationship between TGF-α concentration in exfoliated bladder urothelial cells (BUC) separated from urine and urinary arsenic species in 72 resident women (18-51 years old) from areas exposed to different concentrations of iAs in drinking water (2-378 ppb) in central Mexico. Urinary arsenic species, including trivalent methylated metabolites were measured by hydride generation atomic absorption spectrometry method. The concentration of TGF-α in BUC was measured using an ELISA assay. Results show a statistically significant positive correlation between TGF-α concentration in BUC and each of the six arsenic species present in urine. The multivariate linear regression analyses show that the increment of TGF-α levels in BUC was importantly associated with the presence of arsenic species after adjusting by age, and presence of urinary infection. People from areas with high arsenic exposure had a significantly higher TGF-α concentration in BUC than people from areas of low arsenic exposure (128.8 vs. 64.4 pg/mg protein; p<0.05). Notably, exfoliated cells isolated from individuals with skin lesions contained significantly greater amount of TGF-α than cells from individuals without skin lesions: 157.7 vs. 64.9 pg/mg protein (p=0.003). These results suggest that TGF-α in exfoliated BUC may serve as a susceptibility marker of adverse health effects on epithelial tissue in arsenic-endemic areas. PMID:17267001

Urinary cadmium concentration and the risk of ischemic stroke.

PubMed

Chen, Cheng; Xun, Pengcheng; Tsinovoi, Cari; McClure, Leslie A; Brockman, John; MacDonald, Leslie; Cushman, Mary; Cai, Jianwen; Kamendulis, Lisa; Mackey, Jason; He, Ka

2018-06-22

To examine the association between urinary cadmium levels and the incidence of ischemic stroke and to explore possible effect modifications. A case-cohort study was designed nested in the Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) study, including 680 adjudicated incident cases of ischemic stroke and 2,540 participants in a randomly selected subcohort. Urinary creatinine-corrected cadmium concentration was measured at baseline. Multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated with the Barlow weighting method for the Cox proportional hazards regression model. The median urinary cadmium concentration was 0.42 (interquartile range 0.27-0.68) μg/g creatinine. After adjustment for potential confounders, urinary cadmium was associated with increased incidence of ischemic stroke (quintile 5 vs quintile 1: HR 1.50, 95% CI 1.01-2.22, p for trend = 0.02). The observed association was more pronounced among participants in the lowest serum zinc tertile (tertile 3 vs tertile 1: HR 1.82, 95% CI 1.06-3.11, p for trend = 0.004, p for interaction = 0.05) but was attenuated and became nonsignificant among never smokers (tertile 3 vs tertile 1: never smokers: HR 1.27, 95% CI 0.80-2.03, p for trend = 0.29; ever smokers: HR 1.60, 95% CI 1.06-2.43, p for trend = 0.07, p for interaction = 0.51). Findings from this study suggest that cadmium exposure may be an independent risk factor for ischemic stroke in the US general population. Never smoking and maintaining a high serum zinc level may ameliorate the potential adverse effects of cadmium exposure. © 2018 American Academy of Neurology.

[Diuretics and their potential effect on breath-alcohol concentration--a case report].

PubMed

Schmitt, Georg; Skopp, Gisela

2015-01-01

Many objections were raised to breath-alcohol analysis upon its introduction in the field of traffic law enforcement in Germany, but in the meantime this issue has become less relevant in forensic routine work. In the present case, the defending lawyer claimed that the ethanol concentration in the blood and hence in the breath of his client, which was 0.35 mg/l according to the Dräger Alcotest 7110® Evidential and thus above the legal limit of 0.25 mg/l, had been changed by diuretics taken 4 hours before the breath alcohol test, viz. 10 mg of torasemide, a loop diuretic, and 50 mg of spironolactone, a competitive aldosterone antagonist. According to the literature, the maximum urinary output in healthy subjects within the first 4 hours after 10 mg torasemide was 1450 ml. In patients suffering from heart failure, the urinary volume was reduced by a factor of 2.5-3; after chronic intake of torasemide, water loss did not differ from placebo. Spironolactone, which acts on the distal tubule, has little effect on urinary output. In a publication, the loss of water in excess within 24 hours was 90 ml. Co-administration of 100 mg spironolactone and 20 mg furosemide, which roughly compares to 10 mg torasemide, resulted in a mean urinary volume of 1566 ml within the first 4 hours. In terms of the reported case and provided that no compensatory fluid had been taken, a purely theoretical maximum shift of 0.007 mg/ may occur in the breath-alcohol concentration due to the smaller distribution volume even considering maximum urinary excretion values. On the other hand, already mild levels of dehydration may be associated with negative symptoms affecting driving ability.

Personal care product use and urinary levels of phthalate metabolites in Mexican women.

PubMed

Romero-Franco, Michelle; Hernández-Ramírez, Raúl U; Calafat, Antonia M; Cebrián, Mariano E; Needham, Larry L; Teitelbaum, Susan; Wolff, Mary S; López-Carrillo, Lizbeth

2011-07-01

Sources of phthalates other than Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) related products are scarcely documented in Mexico. The objective of our study was to explore the association between urinary levels of nine phthalate metabolites and the use of personal care products. Subjects included 108 women who participated as controls in an ongoing population-based case-control study of environmental factors and genetic susceptibility to breast cancer in northern Mexico. Direct interviews were performed to inquire about sociodemographic characteristics, reproductive history, use of personal care products, and diet. Phthalate metabolites measured in urine by high performance liquid chromatography-isotope dilution tandem mass spectrometry were monoethyl phthalate (MEP), monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP), mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP), mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP), mono-3-carboxypropyl phthalate (MCPP) as well as mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP), mono-2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl phthalate (MEOHP), mono-2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl phthalate (MEHHP), mono-2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl phthalate (MECPP) that are metabolites of di-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP). Detectable urinary concentrations of phthalate metabolites varied from 75% (MEHP) to 100% (MEP, MBP, MEOHP, MEHHP and MECPP). Medians of urinary concentrations of some phthalate metabolites were significantly higher among users of the following personal care products compared to nonusers: body lotion (MEHHP, MECPP and sum of DEHP metabolites (ΣDEHP)), deodorant (MEHP and ΣDEHP), perfume (MiBP), anti-aging facial cream (MEP, MBP and MCPP) and bottled water (MCPP, MEHHP and MEOHP). Urinary concentrations of MEP showed a positive relationship with the number of personal care products used. Our results suggest that the use of some personal care products contributes to phthalate body burden that deserves attention due to its potential health impact. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Iodine deficiency in pregnant women living in the South-East of the UK: the influence of diet and nutritional supplements on iodine status

PubMed Central

Bath, Sarah C.; Walter, Alan; Taylor, Andrew; Wright, John; Rayman, Margaret P.

2015-01-01

Iodine is a key component of the thyroid hormones which are crucial for brain development. Pregnant women are vulnerable to iodine deficiency because their requirement for iodine is higher than that of non-pregnant adults. Data on the iodine status of UK pregnant women are sparse and there are no such data in the South East. One hundred pregnant women were recruited to a cross-sectional study at the Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, at their first-trimester visit for an ultrasound scan. Participants provided a spot-urine sample (for the measurement of urinary iodine and creatinine concentrations) and 24-hour excretion of iodine was estimated from the urinary iodine-to-creatinine ratio. Women completed a general questionnaire and a food-frequency questionnaire. The median urinary iodine concentration (85·3 μg/l) indicated that the group was iodine deficient by WHO criteria. The median values of the iodine-to-creatinine ratio (122·9 μg/g) and of the estimated 24-hr iodine excretion (151·2 μg/day) were also suggestive of iodine deficiency. Urinary iodine concentration was significantly higher in women taking an iodine-containing prenatal supplement (n=42) than in those not taking such a supplement (P<0·001). In adjusted analyses, milk intake, maternal age and iodine-containing prenatal supplement use were positively associated with estimated 24-hour urinary iodine excretion. Our finding of iodine deficiency in these women gives cause for concern. We suggest that women of childbearing age and pregnant women should be given advice on how to improve their iodine status through dietary means. A national survey of iodine status in UK pregnant women is required. PMID:24398008

Ectodermal Wnt signaling regulates abdominal myogenesis during ventral body wall development.

PubMed

Zhang, Lingling; Li, Hanjun; Yu, Jian; Cao, Jingjing; Chen, Huihui; Zhao, Haixia; Zhao, Jianzhi; Yao, Yiyun; Cheng, Huihui; Wang, Lifang; Zhou, Rujiang; Yao, Zhengju; Guo, Xizhi

2014-03-01

Defects of the ventral body wall are prevalent birth anomalies marked by deficiencies in body wall closure, hypoplasia of the abdominal musculature and multiple malformations across a gamut of organs. However, the mechanisms underlying ventral body wall defects remain elusive. Here, we investigated the role of Wnt signaling in ventral body wall development by inactivating Wls or β-catenin in murine abdominal ectoderm. The loss of Wls in the ventral epithelium, which blocks the secretion of Wnt proteins, resulted in dysgenesis of ventral musculature and genito-urinary tract during embryonic development. Molecular analyses revealed that the dermis and myogenic differentiation in the underlying mesenchymal progenitor cells was perturbed by the loss of ectodermal Wls. The activity of the Wnt-Pitx2 axis was impaired in the ventral mesenchyme of the mutant body wall, which partially accounted for the defects in ventral musculature formation. In contrast, epithelial depletion of β-catenin or Wnt5a did not resemble the body wall defects in the ectodermal Wls mutant. These findings indicate that ectodermal Wnt signaling instructs the underlying mesodermal specification and abdominal musculature formation during ventral body wall development, adding evidence to the theory that ectoderm-mesenchyme signaling is a potential unifying mechanism for the origin of ventral body wall defects. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Carrier removal and defect behavior in p-type InP

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Weinberg, I.; Swartz, C. K.; Drevinsky, P. J.

1992-01-01

A simple expression, obtained from the rate equation for defect production, was used to relate carrier removal to defect production and hole trapping rates in p-type InP after irradiation by 1-MeV electrons. Specific contributions to carrier removal from defect levels H3, H4, and H5 were determined from combined deep-level transient spectroscopy (DLTS) and measured carrier concentrations. An additional contribution was attributed to one or more defects not observed by the present DLTS measurements. The high trapping rate observed for H5 suggests that this defect, if present in relatively high concentration, could be dominant in p-type InP.

Agrichemicals in surface water and birth defects in the United States

PubMed Central

Winchester, Paul D; Huskins, Jordan; Ying, Jun

2009-01-01

Objectives: To investigate if live births conceived in months when surface water agrichemicals are highest are at greater risk for birth defects. Methods: Monthly concentrations during 1996–2002 of nitrates, atrazine and other pesticides were calculated using United States Geological Survey's National Water Quality Assessment data. Monthly United States birth defect rates were calculated for live births from 1996 to 2002 using United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention natality data sets. Birth defect rates by month of last menstrual period (LMP) were then compared to pesticide/nitrate means using logistical regression models. Results: Mean concentrations of agrichemicals were highest in April–July. Total birth defects, and eleven of 22 birth defect subcategories, were more likely to occur in live births with LMPs between April and July. A significant association was found between the season of elevated agrichemicals and birth defects. Conclusion: Elevated concentrations of agrichemicals in surface water in April–July coincided with higher risk of birth defects in live births with LMPs April–July. While a causal link between agrichemicals and birth defects cannot be proven from this study an association might provide clues to common factors shared by both variables. PMID:19183116

Effect of different concentrations of dietary P and Ca on plasma inorganic P and urinary P excretion using noncolostomized and colostomized broilers.

PubMed

Manangi, Megharaja K; Maharjan, Pramir; Coon, Craig N

2018-02-01

Two 5-d bioassays were conducted to explore the P physiological threshold in broilers based on plasma inorganic P (iP), urinary P and Ca, and excreta P and Ca measurements in non-colostomized and colostomized broilers fed with different concentrations of non-phytate P (NPP) and Ca. In Experiment 1, 80 40-day-old Cobb 500 non-colostomized male broilers were assorted into 8 groups consisting of 10 broilers each and placed in individual metabolic cages. Similarly, 8 colostomized broilers of same age were allotted to 8 individual metabolic cages. The experimental diets consisted of a corn soybean meal basal containing 0.17% phytate P (PP) with 8 concentrations (0.08, 0.13, 0.18, 0.23, 0.28, 0.33, 0.38, and 0.45%) of NPP. The dietary Ca concentration was maintained at 0.5% by adjusting a 185-micron particle size limestone with each concentration of added P from added calcium phosphate, dibasic, monohydrate. After Experiment 1, broilers were fed a standard grower diet for 5 d and Experiment 2 was conducted the same as Experiment 1; however, Ca was maintained at 0.9% for all test diets. Plasma iP, urinary P and Ca, and total P (TP) and Ca retention along with phytate P hydrolysis were measured. At 0.5% Ca dietary level, the inflection points for dietary NPP obtained from segmented line regression analysis for plasma iP, urinary P, and urinary Ca were 0.26% (±0.04 SE), 0.28% (±0.01 SE), and 0.30% (±0.04 SE), respectively. The similar values for 0.9% Ca diets were 0.27% (±0.03 SE), 0.21% (±0.03 SE), and 0.30% (±0.0 SE), respectively. In summary, the present findings suggest that an increased dietary NPP would increase plasma inorganic P concentration along with increased % retention of TP and NPP until the broilers reach a point of physiological steady state (7.51 mg iP/dL - 8.13 mg iP/dL as found in this study). Excess P beyond physiological threshold is eliminated in urine coupled with decreased % retention. © 2017 Poultry Science Association Inc.

Renal excretion of intravenously infused amoxycillin and ampicillin.

PubMed Central

Sjövall, J; Westerlund, D; Alván, G

1985-01-01

The aim of this study was to determine whether concentration-dependent renal clearance of ampicillin and amoxycillin occurs. The drugs were given as single 20 min i.v. infusions in doses ranging from 1.9 to 2.8 g to nine healthy volunteers using a cross-over design. Plasma and urinary concentrations were determined by a selective liquid chromatographic method using frequent sampling up to 10 and 30 h respectively after termination of the infusion. The renal clearance of the drugs was independent of the plasma concentration. The mean (s.d.) renal clearances of ampicillin and amoxycillin were 167 (24) and 157 (20) ml min-1 1.73 m-2 respectively. The net secretion was about 50% of the total renal clearance of both drugs. The plasma concentration and urinary excretion rate versus time curves indicated a polyexponential decline, which could be described by both a biexponential and a triexponential equation. The former proved to be more reliable, especially in the calculation of micro rate constants. There was a tendency to more sustained plasma concentrations after amoxycillin, also illustrated by a significantly lower mean (s.d.) plasma clearance of this drug, viz. 185 (30) ml min-1 1.73 m-2, as compared to ampicillin, 210 (24) ml min-1 1.73 m-2 (P less than 0.04). There were no major differences in the disposition rate constants and the distribution volumes of ampicillin and amoxycillin. The mean (s.d.) plasma half-life was 1.7 (0.3) h for both drugs. The urinary excretion rate indicated a slower terminal disposition rate however, with ampicillin and amoxycillin half-lives of 3.4 (2.0) and 3.9 (1.2) h respectively. The longer half-life in the terminal phase may be due to increased tubular reabsorption at low urinary concentrations. It was not possible to determine in this study whether the half-life was affected by changes in clearance or volume of distribution. The urinary solubility of the drugs was dependent on pH. This could explain the massive macroscopic crystalluria seen in one subject after amoxycillin. Three hours after termination of the infusion, crystals could no longer be found in the sediment. There was no clinical or laboratory evidence of renal damage. PMID:3986077

Biochemical diagnosis of phaeochromocytoma: two instructive case reports.

PubMed Central

Stewart, M F; Reed, P; Weinkove, C; Moriarty, K J; Ralston, A J

1993-01-01

The biochemical features of two patients with phaeochromocytomas illustrate the inadvisability of depending on a single group of analytes for the diagnosis. The first case presented as a surgical emergency with retroperitoneal haemorrhage. Biochemical diagnosis was difficult since total 24 hour urinary free catecholamine excretion was within normal limits in two out of three samples, and only marginally raised in the third with an atypical preponderance of adrenaline. Plasma catecholamine concentrations were also normal. But urinary excretion of the catecholamine metabolites, metadrenaline and 4-hydroxy-3-methoxy mandelic acid (HMMA), was consistently raised. In contrast, the second patient presenting with headache and labile hypertension showed normal metabolite excretion in the face of grossly increased free noradrenaline excretion and raised plasma noradrenaline concentrations. It is therefore recommend that, as well as urinary free catecholamines, one group of their main metabolites, the 3-methoxy amines (normetadrenaline and metadrenaline) or HMMA, should routinely be measured whenever a phaeochromocytoma is suspected. PMID:8463426

Neurohumoral mechanism in the natriuretic action of intracerebroventricular administration of renin.

PubMed

Zavala, Lida; Barbella, Yarisma; Israel, Anita

2004-03-01

Intracerebroventricular (i.v.t.) administration of renin (R) decreases urinary volume and increases urinary sodium excretion. We investigated whether i.v.t.-R-induced natriuresis could be associated with the release of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), its interaction with renal ANP-A receptors (ANPR-A) and the subsequent increase of urinary cyclic 3-5 guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). In i.v.t. cannulated rats, the left carotid artery was catheterised with PE-50 tubing for blood collection, renin was injected i.v.t. and arterial blood samples were collected at 0, 2, 5, 10 and 15 minutes of injection, and urinary sodium and cGMP excretion at 1-, 3- and 6-hour periods of urine collection. Plasma ANP levels and urinary cGMP were determined by radioimmunoassay, and each urine sample was analysed for sodium concentration using a flame photometer. Our results demonstrate that i.v.t.-R administration increases plasma ANP levels after two minutes of injection and urinary cGMP concentration at 1-, 3- and 6 hour period of urine collection. The natriuretic action induced by i.v.t.-R was blunted by peripheral administration of anantin, an ANPR-A antagonist. We assessed the role of brain angiotensin II (Ang II) AT1-receptors on the i.v.t.-induced antidiuresis, natriuresis and cGMP urinary excretion, the last as an indirect index of ANP secretion. Blockade of brain Ang II AT1-receptors with losartan (LOS; 120 microg/3 microl, i.v.t.), inhibited the antidiuretic action and blocked the increased urinary sodium and cGMP excretion induced by i.v.t.-R (7.14 mGU/5 microl). The increase in urinary cGMP was independent of nitric oxide synthase stimulation, since L-NAME pre-treatment did not alter the renal actions induced by i.v.t.-R. Our results suggest that there is a link between the brain and the kidney. The activation of brain angiotensinergic neurons and stimulation of AT1- receptors may stimulate the release of ANP to the circulation. The released ANP circulates to the kidneys where it acts through renal ANPR-As and the consequent increase in cGMP to produce natriuresis.

Effect of zeolite nano-materials and artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) leaf extract on increase in urinary clearance of systematically absorbed nicotine.

PubMed

Malekshah, R E; Mahjub, R; Rastgarpanah, M; Ghorbani, M; Partoazar, A R; Mehr, S E; Dehpour, A R; Dorkoosh, F A

2012-12-01

Nicotine, the main pharmacologically active component in tobacco and cigarette, has some toxic effects and also high potential for addiction. In this study, the effect of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) and zeolite nano-materials on urinary excretion of nicotine and consequently elimination of systematically absorbed nicotine was investigated. A simple, valid and highly sensitive high performance liquid chromatography method has been developed for determination of nicotine in rat urine according to guidelines for bioanalysis.It was found that nano-zeolites can cause increase in urinary concentration of nicotine due to its high surface adsorption. Artichoke leaf extract can cause increase in urinary excretion of nicotine in longer post administration times. It was observed that co-administration of nanozeolites and the leaf extract has the synergetic effect on increasing the urinary excretion of nicotine. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Sensitivity of thermal transport in thorium dioxide to defects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Jungkyu; Farfán, Eduardo B.; Mitchell, Katherine; Resnick, Alex; Enriquez, Christian; Yee, Tien

2018-06-01

In this research, the reverse non-equilibrium molecular dynamics is employed to investigate the effect of vacancy and substitutional defects on the thermal transport in thorium dioxide (ThO2). Vacancy defects are shown to severely alter the thermal conductivity of ThO2. The thermal conductivity of ThO2 decreases significantly with increasing the defect concentration of oxygen vacancy; the thermal conductivity of ThO2 decreases by 20% when 0.1% oxygen vacancy defects are introduced in the 100 unit cells of ThO2. The effect of thorium vacancy defect on the thermal transport in ThO2 is even more detrimental; ThO2 with 0.1% thorium vacancy defect concentration exhibits a 38.2% reduction in its thermal conductivity and the thermal conductivity becomes only 8.2% of that of the pristine sample when the thorium vacancy defect concentration is increased to 5%. In addition, neutron activation of thorium produces uranium and this uranium substitutional defects in ThO2 are observed to affect the thermal transport in ThO2 marginally when compared to vacancy defects. This indicates that in the thorium fuel cycle, fissile products such as 233U is not likely to alter the thermal transport in ThO2 fuel.

Self-regulation mechanism for charged point defects in hybrid halide perovskites

DOE PAGES

Walsh, Aron; Scanlon, David O.; Chen, Shiyou; ...

2014-12-11

Hybrid halide perovskites such as methylammonium lead iodide (CH 3NH 3PbI 3) exhibit unusually low free-carrier concentrations despite being processed at low-temperatures from solution. We demonstrate, through quantum mechanical calculations, that an origin of this phenomenon is a prevalence of ionic over electronic disorder in stoichiometric materials. Schottky defect formation provides a mechanism to self-regulate the concentration of charge carriers through ionic compensation of charged point defects. The equilibrium charged vacancy concentration is predicted to exceed 0.4 % at room temperature. Furthermore, this behavior, which goes against established defect conventions for inorganic semiconductors, has implications for photovoltaic performance.

Effects of Excess Carriers on Charged Defect Concentrations in Wide Bandgap Semiconductors

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

Alberi, Kirstin M; Scarpulla, Michael A.

Unintentional doping and doping limits in semiconductors are typically caused by compensating defects with low formation energies. Since the formation enthalpy of a charged defect depends linearly on the Fermi level, doping limits can be especially pronounced in wide bandgap semiconductors where the Fermi level can vary substantially. Introduction of non-equilibrium carrier concentrations during growth or processing alters the chemical potentials of band carriers and allows populations of charged defects to be modified in ways impossible at thermal equilibrium. We demonstrate that in the presence of excess carriers, the rates of carrier capture and emission involving a defect charge transitionmore » level determine the admixture of electron and hole quasi-Fermi levels involved in the formation enthalpy of non-zero charge defect states. To understand the range of possible responses, we investigate the behavior of a single donor-like defect as functions of extrinsic doping and charge transition level energy. We find that that excess carriers will increase the formation enthalpy of compensating defects for most values of the charge transition level in the bandgap. Thus, it may be possible to use non-equilibrium carrier concentrations to overcome limitations on doping imposed by native defects. Cases also exist in which the concentration of defects with the same charge polarity as the majority dopant is either left unchanged or actually increases. This surprising effect arises when emission rates are suppressed relative to the capture rates and is most pronounced in wide bandgap semiconductors. We provide guidelines for carrying out experimental tests of this model.« less

Effects of excess carriers on charged defect concentrations in wide bandgap semiconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alberi, Kirstin; Scarpulla, Michael A.

2018-05-01

Unintentional doping and doping limits in semiconductors are typically caused by compensating defects with low formation energies. Since the formation enthalpy of a charged defect depends linearly on the Fermi level, doping limits can be especially pronounced in wide bandgap semiconductors where the Fermi level can vary substantially. Introduction of non-equilibrium carrier concentrations during growth or processing alters the chemical potentials of band carriers and allows populations of charged defects to be modified in ways impossible at thermal equilibrium. We demonstrate that in the presence of excess carriers, the rates of carrier capture and emission involving a defect charge transition level determine the admixture of electron and hole quasi-Fermi levels involved in the formation enthalpy of non-zero charge defect states. To understand the range of possible responses, we investigate the behavior of a single donor-like defect as functions of extrinsic doping and charge transition level energy. We find that that excess carriers will increase the formation enthalpy of compensating defects for most values of the charge transition level in the bandgap. Thus, it may be possible to use non-equilibrium carrier concentrations to overcome limitations on doping imposed by native defects. Cases also exist in which the concentration of defects with the same charge polarity as the majority dopant is either left unchanged or actually increases. This surprising effect arises when emission rates are suppressed relative to the capture rates and is most pronounced in wide bandgap semiconductors. We provide guidelines for carrying out experimental tests of this model.

Point Defects in Quenched and Mechanically-Milled Intermetallic Compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sinha, Praveen

Investigations were made of structural and thermal point defects in the highly-ordered B2 compound PdIn and deformation-induced defects in PdIn and NiAl. The defects were detected through the quadrupole interactions they induce at nearby ^{111}In/Cd probe atoms using the technique of perturbed gamma-gamma angular correlations (PAC). Measurements on annealed PdIn on both sides of stoichiometry show structural defects that are the Pd vacancies on the Pd-poor side of the stoichiometry and Pd antisite atoms on the Pd-rich side. Signals were attributed to various defect configurations near the In/Cd probes. In addition to the first-shell Pd vacancy and second-shell Pd antisite atom configurations previously observed by Hahn and Muller, we observed two Pd-divacancy configurations in the first shell, a fourth-shell Pd vacancy, a second-shell In vacancy and the combination of a first -shell Pd vacancy and fourth-shell Pd vacancy. Vacancies on both the Pd and In sublattices were detected after quenching. Fractions of probe atoms having each type of neighboring vacancy defect were observed to increase monotonically with quenching temperature over the range 825-1500 K. For compositions very close to 50.15 at.% Pd, nearly equal site fractions were observed for Pd and In vacancies, indicating that the Schottky vacancy-pair defect is the thermal defect at high temperature. The formation enthalpy of the Schottky defect was determined from measurements of the Pd-vacancy site fraction to be 1.30(18) eV from analysis of quenching data in the range 825-1200 K, using the law of mass action and assuming a random distribution. Above 1200 K, the Pd-vacancy concentration was observed to be saturated at a value of 1.3(2) atomic percent. For more Pd-rich compositions, evidence was also obtained for a defect reaction in which a Pd antisite atom and Pd vacancy react to form an In vacancy, thereby increasing the In vacancy concentration and decreasing the Pd vacancy concentration. Analysis of defect concentrations allowed the conclusion that the In vacancy signal was due to second-shell and not third-shell defects. PAC spectroscopy was applied to study deformation -induced defects in PdIn and NiAl after mechanically milling in a SPEX 8000 vibrator mill for periods of up to four hours. For PdIn, the Pd vacancy concentration increased rapidly for short milling times and was observed to saturate at a value of 3.5(5) at.% after 10 minutes of milling when milling was carried out using a WC vial to avoid sample contamination. Such a large vacancy concentration accounts for 4.41(63) kJ mol-1 excess-stored energy in milled PdIn and implies a high density of "broken bonds" which may lead to mechanical instability of the lattice. Milling also produced In antisite atoms on the Pd sublattice. The antisite-atom concentration increased linearly with milling time, reaching a value of 4.0(7) at.% after 2 hours of milling. The Ni vacancy concentration in NiAl was also observed to increase with milling and to saturate after two hours of milling. Here, the "local" Ni vacancy concentration in the first-neighbor shell of the probe, deduced from the vacancy site fraction, was in excess of values that should occur if defects were located at random. This is attributed to binding between the Ni vacancy and the In/Cd probe, which is known from other work to be 0.22 eV.

Reliability and validity of expert assessment based on airborne and urinary measures of nickel and chromium exposure in the electroplating industry.

PubMed

Chen, Yu-Cheng; Coble, Joseph B; Deziel, Nicole C; Ji, Bu-Tian; Xue, Shouzheng; Lu, Wei; Stewart, Patricia A; Friesen, Melissa C

2014-11-01

The reliability and validity of six experts' exposure ratings were evaluated for 64 nickel-exposed and 72 chromium-exposed workers from six Shanghai electroplating plants based on airborne and urinary nickel and chromium measurements. Three industrial hygienists and three occupational physicians independently ranked the exposure intensity of each metal on an ordinal scale (1-4) for each worker's job in two rounds: the first round was based on responses to an occupational history questionnaire and the second round also included responses to an electroplating industry-specific questionnaire. The Spearman correlation (r(s)) was used to compare each rating's validity to its corresponding subject-specific arithmetic mean of four airborne or four urinary measurements. Reliability was moderately high (weighted kappa range=0.60-0.64). Validity was poor to moderate (r(s)=-0.37-0.46) for both airborne and urinary concentrations of both metals. For airborne nickel concentrations, validity differed by plant. For dichotomized metrics, sensitivity and specificity were higher based on urinary measurements (47-78%) than airborne measurements (16-50%). Few patterns were observed by metal, assessment round, or expert type. These results suggest that, for electroplating exposures, experts can achieve moderately high agreement and (reasonably) distinguish between low and high exposures when reviewing responses to in-depth questionnaires used in population-based case-control studies.

Reliability and validity of expert assessment based on airborne and urinary measures of nickel and chromium exposure in the electroplating industry

PubMed Central

Chen, Yu-Cheng; Coble, Joseph B; Deziel, Nicole C.; Ji, Bu-Tian; Xue, Shouzheng; Lu, Wei; Stewart, Patricia A; Friesen, Melissa C

2014-01-01

The reliability and validity of six experts’ exposure ratings were evaluated for 64 nickel-exposed and 72 chromium-exposed workers from six Shanghai electroplating plants based on airborne and urinary nickel and chromium measurements. Three industrial hygienists and three occupational physicians independently ranked the exposure intensity of each metal on an ordinal scale (1–4) for each worker's job in two rounds: the first round was based on responses to an occupational history questionnaire and the second round also included responses to an electroplating industry-specific questionnaire. Spearman correlation (rs) was used to compare each rating's validity to its corresponding subject-specific arithmetic mean of four airborne or four urinary measurements. Reliability was moderately-high (weighted kappa range=0.60–0.64). Validity was poor to moderate (rs= -0.37–0.46) for both airborne and urinary concentrations of both metals. For airborne nickel concentrations, validity differed by plant. For dichotomized metrics, sensitivity and specificity were higher based on urinary measurements (47–78%) than airborne measurements (16–50%). Few patterns were observed by metal, assessment round, or expert type. These results suggest that, for electroplating exposures, experts can achieve moderately-high agreement and (reasonably) distinguish between low and high exposures when reviewing responses to in-depth questionnaires used in population-based case-control studies. PMID:24736099

Magnesium and Space Flight

PubMed Central

Smith, Scott M.; Zwart, Sara R.

2015-01-01

Magnesium is an essential nutrient for muscle, cardiovascular, and bone health on Earth, and during space flight. We sought to evaluate magnesium status in 43 astronauts (34 male, 9 female; 47 ± 5 years old, mean ± SD) before, during, and after 4–6-month space missions. We also studied individuals participating in a ground analog of space flight (head-down-tilt bed rest; n = 27 (17 male, 10 female), 35 ± 7 years old). We evaluated serum concentration and 24-h urinary excretion of magnesium, along with estimates of tissue magnesium status from sublingual cells. Serum magnesium increased late in flight, while urinary magnesium excretion was higher over the course of 180-day space missions. Urinary magnesium increased during flight but decreased significantly at landing. Neither serum nor urinary magnesium changed during bed rest. For flight and bed rest, significant correlations existed between the area under the curve of serum and urinary magnesium and the change in total body bone mineral content. Tissue magnesium concentration was unchanged after flight and bed rest. Increased excretion of magnesium is likely partially from bone and partially from diet, but importantly, it does not come at the expense of muscle tissue stores. While further study is needed to better understand the implications of these findings for longer space exploration missions, magnesium homeostasis and tissue status seem well maintained during 4–6-month space missions. PMID:26670248

Magnesium and Space Flight.

PubMed

Smith, Scott M; Zwart, Sara R

2015-12-08

Magnesium is an essential nutrient for muscle, cardiovascular, and bone health on Earth, and during space flight. We sought to evaluate magnesium status in 43 astronauts (34 male, 9 female; 47 ± 5 years old, mean ± SD) before, during, and after 4-6-month space missions. We also studied individuals participating in a ground analog of space flight (head-down-tilt bed rest; n = 27 (17 male, 10 female), 35 ± 7 years old). We evaluated serum concentration and 24-h urinary excretion of magnesium, along with estimates of tissue magnesium status from sublingual cells. Serum magnesium increased late in flight, while urinary magnesium excretion was higher over the course of 180-day space missions. Urinary magnesium increased during flight but decreased significantly at landing. Neither serum nor urinary magnesium changed during bed rest. For flight and bed rest, significant correlations existed between the area under the curve of serum and urinary magnesium and the change in total body bone mineral content. Tissue magnesium concentration was unchanged after flight and bed rest. Increased excretion of magnesium is likely partially from bone and partially from diet, but importantly, it does not come at the expense of muscle tissue stores. While further study is needed to better understand the implications of these findings for longer space exploration missions, magnesium homeostasis and tissue status seem well maintained during 4-6-month space missions.

Urea transport and clinical potential of urearetics.

PubMed

Klein, Janet D; Sands, Jeff M

2016-09-01

Urea is transported by urea transporter proteins in kidney, erythrocytes, and other tissues. Mice in which different urea transporters have been knocked out have urine-concentrating defects, which has led to the development and testing of urea transporters Slc14A2 (UT-A) and Slc14A1 (UT-B) inhibitors as urearetics. This review summarizes the knowledge gained during the past year on urea transporter regulation and investigations into the clinical potential of urearetics. UT-A1 undergoes several posttranslational modifications that increase its function by increasing UT-A1 accumulation in the apical plasma membrane. UT-A1 is phosphorylated by protein kinase A, exchange protein activated by cyclic AMP, protein kinase Cα, and AMP-activated protein kinase, all at different serine residues. UT-A1 is also regulated by 14-3-3, which contributes to UT-A1 removal from the membrane. UT-A1 is glycosylated with various glycan moieties in animal models of diabetes mellitus. Transgenic expression of UT-A1 into UT-A1/UT-A3 knockout mice restores urine-concentrating ability. UT-B is present in descending vasa recta and urinary bladder, and is linked to bladder cancer. Inhibitors of UT-A and UT-B have been developed that result in diuresis with fewer abnormalities in serum electrolytes than conventional diuretics. Urea transporters play critical roles in the urine-concentrating mechanism. Urea transport inhibitors are a promising new class of diuretic agent.

Gender and age differences in mixed metal exposure and urinary excretion

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

Berglund, Marika, E-mail: Marika.Berglund@ki.se; Lindberg, Anna-Lena; Rahman, Mahfuzar

Background: Little is known about the variation in exposure to toxic metals by age and gender and other potential modifying factors. We evaluated age and gender differences by measurements of metal/element concentrations in urine in a rural population in Matlab, Bangladesh, in three age groups: 8-12 (N=238), 14-15 (N=107) and 30-88 (N=710) years of age, living in an area with no point sources of metal exposure but where elevated water arsenic concentrations are prevalent. Results: We found marked differences in urine concentrations of metals and trace elements by gender, age, tobacco use, socioeconomic and nutritional status. Besides a clearly elevatedmore » urinary arsenic concentration in all age groups (medians 63-85 {mu}g As/L), and despite the low degree of contamination from industries and traffic, the urine concentrations of toxic metals such as cadmium and lead were clearly elevated, especially in children (median 0.31 {mu}g Cd/L and 2.9 {mu}g Pb/L, respectively). In general, women had higher urinary concentrations of toxic metals, especially Cd (median 0.81 {mu}g/L) compared to men (0.66 {mu}g/L) and U (median 10 ng/L in women, compared to 6.4 ng/L in men), while men had higher urinary concentrations of the basic and essential elements Ca (69 mg/L in men, 30-50 years, compared to 52 mg/L in women), Mg (58 mg/L in men compared to 50 mg/L in women), Zn (182 {mu}g/L in men compared to 117 {mu}g/L in women) and Se (9.9 {mu}g/L in men compared to 8.7 {mu}g/L in women). Manganese was consistently higher in females than in males in all age groups, suggesting a biological difference between females and males in Mn metabolism. Increasing socioeconomic status decreased the toxic metal exposure significantly in children and especially in men. Poor iron status was detected in 17% of children, adolescents and women, but only in 6% of men. Also zinc deficiency was more prevalent in females than in males. Conclusions: Women and children seemed to be more at risk for toxic metal exposure than men and at the same time more vulnerable to micronutrient deficiency. Higher concentrations of the toxic metals in urine in women are likely to reflect an increased gastrointestinal absorption of these metals at micronutrient deficiency, such as low body iron stores and Zn deficiency. Higher urinary concentrations of the essential elements in men likely reflect a better nutritional status. There is a need for information on exposure, lifestyle and socioeconomic factors, stratified by gender and age, for the purpose of conducting balanced risk assessment and management that considers such differences.« less

[Effects of smoking on the concentrations of urinary 10 metabolites of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in coke oven workers].

PubMed

He, Yun-feng; Zhang, Wang-zhen; Kuang, Dan; Deng, Hua-xin; Li, Xiao-hai; Lin, Da-feng; Deng, Qi-fei; Huang, Kun; Wu, Tang-chun

2012-12-01

To explore the effects of smoking on urinary 10 metabolites of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the coke oven workers. Occupational health examination was performed on 1401 coke oven workers in one coking plant, their urine were collected respectively. The concentrations of the ten monohydroxy polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in urine were detected by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The 1401 workers were divided into four groups, namely control, adjunct workplaces, bottom and side, top group according to their workplaces and the different concentrations of PAHs in the environment. The concentrations of the ten monohydroxy polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons between smokers and nonsmokers in each workplace group were compared using analysis of covariance, respectively. The levels of concentrations of the sixteen polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons we detected at control were significantly higher than those at other areas (P < 0.05). Comparing the ten monohydroxy polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons levels between smokers and nonsmokers, the levels of 1-hydroxynaphthalene and 2-hydroxynaphthalene among smokers were higher than nonsmokers with statistically significance in control, adjunct workplaces, bottom and side and top groups (P < 0.05). However, the levels of 1-hydroxypyrene had no statistically significant differences between the four areas. Urinary 1-hydroxynaphthalene and 2-hydroxynaphthalene may be used as biomarkers for the impact of smoking on monohydroxy polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the coke oven workers.

Comparison of the excretion of sodium and meglumine diatrizoate at urography with simulated compression: an experimental study in the rat.

PubMed

Owman, T

1981-07-01

In the experimental model in the rabbit the excretion of sodium and meglumine diatrizoate, respectively, have been compared. Urographic density which was estimated through renal pelvic volume as calculated according to previous experiments (Owman 1978; Owman & Olin 1980) and urinary iodine concentration, is suggested to be more accurate than mere determination of urine iodine concentration and diuresis when evaluating and comparing urographic contrast media experimentally. More reliable dose optima are probably found when calculating density rather than determining urine concentrations. Of the examined media in this investigation, the sodium salt of diatrizoate was not superior to the meglumine salt in dose ranges up to 320 mg I/kg body weight, while at higher doses sodium diatrizoate gave higher urinary iodine concentrations and higher estimated density.

Urinary Phthalate Metabolite Concentrations and Reproductive Outcomes among Women Undergoing in Vitro Fertilization: Results from the EARTH Study

PubMed Central

Hauser, Russ; Gaskins, Audrey J.; Souter, Irene; Smith, Kristen W.; Dodge, Laura E.; Ehrlich, Shelley; Meeker, John D.; Calafat, Antonia M.; Williams, Paige L.

2015-01-01

Background: Evidence from both animal and human studies suggests that exposure to phthalates may be associated with adverse female reproductive outcomes. Objective: We evaluated the associations between urinary concentrations of phthalate metabolites and outcomes of assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Methods: This analysis included 256 women enrolled in the Environment and Reproductive Health (EARTH) prospective cohort study (2004–2012) who provided one to two urine samples per cycle before oocyte retrieval. We measured 11 urinary phthalate metabolites [mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), mono(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEHHP), mono(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (MEOHP), mono(2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate (MECPP), mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP), mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP), monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP), monoethyl phthalate (MEP), monocarboxyisooctyl phthalate (MCOP), monocarboxyisononyl phthalate (MCNP), and mono(3-carboxypropyl) phthalate (MCPP)]. We used generalized linear mixed models to evaluate the association of urinary phthalate metabolites with in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes, accounting for multiple IVF cycles per woman. Results: In multivariate models, women in the highest as compared with lowest quartile of MEHP, MEHHP, MEOHP, MECPP, ΣDEHP (MEHP + MEHHP + MEOHP + MECPP), and MCNP had lower oocyte yield. Similarly, the number of mature (MII) oocytes retrieved was lower in the highest versus lowest quartile for these same phthalate metabolites. The adjusted differences (95% CI) in proportion of cycles resulting in clinical pregnancy and live birth between women in the fourth versus first quartile of ΣDEHP were –0.19 (–0.29, –0.08) and –0.19 (–0.28, –0.08), respectively, and there was also a lower proportion of cycles resulting in clinical pregnancy and live birth for individual DEHP metabolites. Conclusions: Urinary concentrations of DEHP metabolites were inversely associated with oocyte yield, clinical pregnancy, and live birth following ART. Citation: Hauser R, Gaskins AJ, Souter I, Smith KW, Dodge LE, Ehrlich S, Meeker JD, Calafat AM, Williams PL, for the EARTH Study Team. 2016. Urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and reproductive outcomes among women undergoing in vitro fertilization: results from the EARTH study. Environ Health Perspect 124:831–839; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1509760 PMID:26545148

Experimental colitis triggers the release of substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide in the urinary bladder via TRPV1 signaling pathways

PubMed Central

Pan, Xiao-Qing; Gonzalez, Jessica A.; Chang, Shaohua; Chacko, Samuel; Wein, Alan J.; Malykhina, Anna P.

2010-01-01

Clinical data provides evidence of high level of co-morbidity among genitourinary and gastrointestinal disorders characterized by chronic pelvic pain. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that colonic inflammation can impact the function of the urinary bladder via activation of TRPV1 signaling pathways followed by alterations in gene and protein expression of Substance P (SP) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in sensory neurons and in the bladder. Inflammation was induced by intracolonic instillation of trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS, 12.5 mg/kg) and desensitization of TRPV1 receptors was evoked by intracolonic resiniferatoxin (RTX, 10−7 M). mRNA and protein concentrations of CGRP and SP were measured at 3, 5 and 30 days. RTX instillation in the colon caused 3-fold up-regulation of SP mRNA in the urinary bladder at day 5 (n=7, p≤0.05) followed by 35-fold increase at day 30 (n=5, p≤0.05). Likewise, TNBS colitis triggered 15.8-fold up-regulation of SP mRNA one month after TNBS (n=5, p≤0.05). Desensitization of colonic TRPV1 receptors prior to TNBS abolished SP increase in the urinary bladder. RTX led to 4.3-fold increase of CGRP mRNA at day 5 (n=7, p≤0.05 to control) in the bladder followed by 28-fold increase at day 30 post-RTX (n=4, p≤0.05). Colitis did not alter CGRP concentration during acute phase, however, at day 30 mRNA level was increased by 17.8±6.9 fold (n=5, p≤0.05) in parallel with 4-fold increase in CGRP protein (n=5, p≤0.01) in the detrusor. Protein concentration of CGRP in the spinal cord was diminished by 45–65% (p≤0.05) during colitis. RTX pretreatment did not affect CGRP concentration in the urinary bladder, however, caused a reduction in CGRP release from lumbosacral DRG neurons during acute phase (3 and 5 days post-TNBS). Our results clearly demonstrate that colonic inflammation triggers the release of pro-inflammatory neuropeptides SP and CGRP in the urinary bladder via activation of TRPV1 signaling mechanisms enunciating the neurogenic nature of pelvic organ cross-sensitization. PMID:20501335

Urinary total arsenic and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine are associated with renal cell carcinoma in an area without obvious arsenic exposure

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

Huang, Chao-Yuan; Department of Urology, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Su, Chien-Tien

2012-08-01

8-Hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) is one of the most reliable and abundant markers of DNA damage. The study was designed to explore the relationship between urinary 8-OHdG and renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and to investigate whether individuals with a high level of 8-OHdG would have a modified odds ratio (OR) of arsenic-related RCC. This case–control study was conducted with 132 RCC patients and 245 age- and sex-matched controls from a hospital-based pool between November 2006 and May 2009. Pathological verification of RCC was completed by image-guided biopsy or surgical resection of renal tumors. Urinary 8-OHdG levels were determined using liquid chromatography withmore » tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). Concentrations of urinary arsenic species, including inorganic arsenic, monomethylarsonic acid (MMA) and dimethylarsinic acid (DMA), were determined by a high performance liquid chromatography-linked hydride generator and atomic absorption spectrometry. Level of urinary 8-OHdG was significantly associated with the OR of RCC in a dose–response relationship after multivariate adjustment. Urinary 8-OHdG was significantly related to urinary total arsenic. The greatest OR (3.50) was seen in the individuals with high urinary 8-OHdG and high urinary total arsenic. A trend test indicated that the OR of RCC was increased with one of these factors and was further increased with both (p = 0.002). In conclusion, higher urinary 8-OHdG was a strong predictor of the RCC. High levels of 8-OHdG combined with urinary total arsenic might be indicative of arsenic-induced RCC. -- Highlights: ► Urinary 8-OHdG was significantly related to urinary total arsenic. ► Higher urinary 8-OHdG was a strong predictor of RCC risk. ► Urinary 8-OHdG may modify arsenic related RCC risk.« less

Urinary interleukin-6 as a predictor of radiographic progression in rheumatoid arthritis: A 3-year evaluation.

PubMed

Park, Yune-Jung; Yoo, Seung-Ah; Kim, Ga-Ram; Cho, Chul-Soo; Kim, Wan-Uk

2016-10-12

Previously, we demonstrated that the urine proteome signature of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) reflects inflammation-related cellular processes. Here, we measured interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) concentrations in the urine of RA patients and prospectively investigated their role in predicting RA activity and prognosis. One hundred seventy-three RA patients and 62 non-RA controls were recruited. Urinary IL-6, CCL2, and IL-8 levels were elevated in RA patients and correlated well with disease activity. Urinary IL-6 level at presentation was an independent risk factor of radiographic progression at 1 and 3 years. High urinary IL-6 level increased the risk ratio of radiographic progression by 2.9-fold, which was comparable to high serum CRP. Moreover, combination of urinary IL-6 and serum CRP measures synergistically increased the predictability of radiographic progression. In a subgroup with normal ESR, patients with the highest tertile of urinary IL-6 were at 6.4-fold greater risk of radiographic progression. Conclusively, high urinary IL-6 level at presentation is an independent risk factor for radiographic progression of RA, reflecting disease activity. Urinary IL-6 in combination with serum CRP may be a useful parameter for estimating RA prognosis.