Capillary Blood Samples Research Articles

Capillary blood is not accurate in predicting blood ammonia values using an ammonia point-of-care test in dogs.

To compare results for blood ammonia (BA) concentrations measured with a point-of-care (POC) device versus commercial diagnostic assay (CDA) for venous and capillary blood samples from dogs with normal BA and hyperammonemia. Dogs were prospectively enrolled from January 2024 through July 2024 and grouped as being healthy (controls), having liver disease with normal BA, or having liver disease with hyperammonemia. All dogs had BA concentrations determined with a venous sample run on a CDA, a venous sample run on an ammonia POC device (POC venous [POC-V] method), and a capillary blood sample run on an ammonia POC device (POC capillary [POC-C] method). The results were compared across methods. 46 dogs were enrolled: 15 healthy dogs and 31 dogs with liver disease with normal BA (n = 16) or hyperammonemia (n = 15). The mean biases for BA concentration as measured with the POC-V and POC-C methods compared with the CDA method were -54.3 µg/dL (95% CI, -76.8 to 32.0) and 1.4 µg/dL (95% CI, -36.0 to 38.7), respectively. The mean bias of the POC-C method versus the POC-V method was 55.7 µg/dL (95% CI, 30.4 to 81.0). For the 31 dogs with CDA results for BA within reference limits, all were similarly classified with the POC-V method, whereas 25 of 31 (81%) were classified as normal with the POC-C method. The BA in the POC-V and POC-C groups was, on average, underestimated when compared to the CDA. The BA in the POC-C group was consistently overestimated when compared to the POC-V group. Although both POC methods had good agreement in the classification of normal BA values, venous (vs capillary) samples yielded better results. The use of a POC device to measure BA in venous blood, but not capillary blood, may be an alternative to CDAs in emergency settings.

Steroid hormone concentrations in dried blood spots: A comparison between capillary and venous blood samples.

An important aspect of the shift towards dried blood spots (DBS) as a sample matrix for laboratory measurements, is the availability of robust liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) methods that can reliably quantify analyte concentrations in DBS. The development and validation of these LC-MS/MS methods, however, concerns an extensive process, for which large amounts of DBS samples are required. DBS are usually obtained from capillary blood samples, but they can also be prepared from venous (residual) blood samples, which are widely available in clinical laboratories. Therefore, we aimed to determine whether DBS prepared from (residual) venous blood samples, collected in EDTA blood tubes, can be used for future development and validation of LC-MS/MS methods to quantify steroid hormones in DBS. Capillary DBS and venous blood samples (EDTA tube and tube without additives) were collected from twenty healthy volunteers (12F/8M). From both venous blood samples, DBS were prepared volumetrically. Samples were analyzed using in-house developed LC-MS/MS methods for testosterone, androstenedione, 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), cortisol, cortisone, corticosterone, and for dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S). DBS made from venous blood collected in EDTA tubes compared with capillary blood showed a correlation coefficient of ≥ 0.89 for all steroid hormones except corticosterone (0.67). DBS made from venous blood collected in tubes without additives showed a strong correlation with both DBS made from venous blood collected in EDTA tubes (≥0.97 for all steroid hormones) and capillary DBS (>0.90) except corticosterone (0.64). DBS prepared from (residual) venous blood collected in EDTA blood tubes can be used for future development and validation of LC-MS/MS methods to quantify steroid hormones, except for corticosterone, in capillary DBS.

Fifteen-second bouts of hyperoxia improve 5-minute time-trial performance in acute hypoxic conditions

Introduction Hyperoxia, e.g. administration of 100 % oxygen, is a wide spread tool to improve blood oxygenation (e.g. in emergency medicine) but is also applied in elite sports to improve training intensity or competition performance. The positive effects of continuous hyperoxia during aerobic high-intensity exercise has been shown repeatedly, however, the potential effects of intermittent doses are unclear. Out study aimed to test the effects of repeated bouts of hyperoxia, each lasting fifteen seconds, on maximal 5-minute cycling performance under acute hypoxic conditions. Methods 17 healthy and recreationally trained individuals (7 females, 10 males, age 27 ± 4 years) participated in this randomized placebo-controlled cross-over trial. The procedures included a graded cycle ergometer test until exhaustion and three maximal 5-minute cycling time trials (TT). The peak power output during the maximal cycle ergometer test provided the basis for the determination of the target power output for the TTs. The subsequent TTs were conducted in a normobaric hypoxic chamber at the Department of Sport Science of the University Innsbruck (590 m). TT1 took place in normoxia and served for habituation and reference. TT2 and TT3 were conducted in normobaric hypoxia (15.0 % inspiratory fraction of oxygen, corresponding to about 3200 m simulated altitude). During TT2 and TT3 the participants were breathing through a face mask during five 15-second periods (0:20 to 0:35; 1:20 to 1:35; etc.). The face mask was connected via a non-rebreathing T-valve to a 300-litre bag filled with 100 % oxygen (intermittent hyperoxia condition) or ambient hypoxic air (placebo condition). Heart rate was recorded continuously during the TTs. Ratings or perceived exertion were recorded after test termination and capillary blood samples were taken from the hyperaemic earlobe 2 minutes later to analyze blood lactate concentrations. Arterial oxygen saturation was measured via finger pulse oximeter during a 60-second period (ca. minutes 2:00 to 3:00). Thereby, one 15-second hyperoxic intervention bout during the test in the intermittent hyperoxia condition was included. Main outcome was the mean power output during the TT. Statistical significance level was set at p < 0.05. Results Mean power output was higher in the intermittent hyperoxia compared to the placebo condition (255.5 ± 49.6 W versus 247.4 ± 48.2 W, p = 0.001). Blood lactate concentration and ratings of perceived exertion were significantly lower in the intermittent hyperoxia compared to the placebo condition (10.2 ± 1.7 mmol/L versus 11.3 ± 2.5 mmol/L and 17.8 ± 1.4 versus 19.2 ± 1.1 respectively). However, heart rate values were unchanged between conditions (168.0 ± 8.6 bpm versus 169.4 ± 10.3 bpm, p = 0.332). Arterial oxygen saturation increased by the 15-second application of hyperoxia (82.9 ± 2.6 % to 92.4 ± 3.3 %, p < 0.001). Conclusion Repeated 15-second bouts of hyperoxia, applied during high-intensity exercise in hypoxia, are sufficient to increase power output. Future studies should focus on potential dose-response effects and the involved mechanisms.

A Droplet Microfluidic Sensor for Point-of-Care Measurement of Plasma/Serum Total Free Thiol Concentrations.

Total free thiols are an important marker of the whole-body redox state, which has been shown to be associated with clinical outcome in health and disease. Recent investigations have suggested that increased insight may be gained by monitoring alterations of redox state in response to exercise and hypoxia and to monitor redox trajectories in disease settings. However, conducting such studies is challenging due to the requirement for repeated venous blood sampling and intensive lab work. Droplet microfluidic sensors offer an alternative platform for developing a point-of-care testing approach using small sample volumes and automated systems to complement or ultimately replace laboratory testing. Here we developed a small, portable droplet microfluidic sensor that can measure total free thiol concentrations in 20 μL human plasma (or serum) samples, providing a reading in less than 10 min. This system features a novel method to enhance the mixing of reagent and analyte in droplets containing viscous biological fluids. The results in a range of real-world human plasma samples showed equivalence with current standard laboratory assays while reducing sample volume requirements 9-fold and fully automating the process. Micro hematocrit capillaries allowed testing of capillary blood samples collected by fingerprick lancing. The system was used to monitor total free thiols using fingerprick samples in healthy volunteers and revealed significant changes in total free thiols in response to food intake and exercise. This device has the potential to improve our ability to conduct physiological studies of total free thiol level changes and improve our understanding of redox physiology, which may ultimately be applied in redox medicine to improve patient care.

Effects of Frozen Red Dragon Fruit Consumption on Metabolic Markers in Healthy Subjects and Individuals at Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Background/Objectives: The interest in creating new products to decrease the risk of developing non-communicable chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes (T2D) is increasing. These products include traditional food sources used as part of diverse cultures around the world, such as dragon fruit. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a frozen red dragon fruit (FRDF) beverage on blood pressure, glycaemic response (GR) and insulinaemic response (IR), lipid profile (LP), total antioxidant status (TAS), and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in healthy subjects and individuals at risk of T2D. Methods: A parallel design trial (UREC registration number 211527; ClinicalTrials.gov registration number NCT05199636/19 January 2022) lasting four weeks and involving three testing sessions was conducted; participants were randomly assigned to one of two treatments (following general health guidance or consuming FRDF beverage). Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were taken; venous blood samples were collected to determine the LP and CRP levels; and capillary blood samples were taken before and after consuming a standard glucose drink to evaluate GR and IR at 15 min intervals (first hour) and 30 min intervals (second hour). Results: Eighteen participants completed this study, nine healthy (28.44 ± 5.20 years) and nine at risk (31.78 ± 12.11 years). The daily consumption of an FRDF-based beverage for four weeks by individuals at risk of T2D resulted in a reduction in blood pressure and IR–incremental area under the curve. The LP showed a downward trend, and a significant difference between treatments (p = 0.009) was found for CRP levels. Conclusions: Beverages based on FRDF may have the potential to decrease the risk of T2D.

Total Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Testing in Capillary Samples: Proof-of-Principle and Feasibility Study for Home Self-Testing for Prostate Cancer.

There is growing interest in the use of capillary blood sampling (CBS) for testing biochemical analytes owing to the advantages it offers including home surveillance of chronic conditions. In this study, we aimed to determine whether the use of CBS was a viable and feasible method for testing total prostate-specific antigen (TPSA) concentrations in men with prostate disease. Men with known prostate disease were recruited from a urology clinic where they were being treated or followed up. Samples were collected in serum separating tubes by the finger-prick method using validated devices. Simultaneously, venous blood was collected by venipuncture. We used validated immunoassays on both the Roche (Cobas 801) and Beckman (DXi) platforms to measure TPSA. In total, 66 adult men between 26 and 64 years of age were tested. Across the concentration range of normal (0.3 µg/L) to pathological (314 µg/L), the results between CBS and venous samples were highly comparable and correlated (r = 0.997). The average bias was 0.112 µg/L or 1.07% and was not significant (P = 0.274). Overall, there was no apparent proportional or constant bias observed. Our data showed that TPSA may be stable in CBS stored at ambient temperature for up to 8 days in the samples tested using either the Roche or Beckman assays. This feasibility study shows that CBS and venous samples are highly correlated and there was negligible bias. Further validation work is now required for the measurement of TPSA in CBS and determining outcomes in men with prostate disease.

Relationship between <I>E. coli, Enterobacter</i> spp. and <i>S. aureus</i> isolated from intestinal microflora and blood proteins associated with the immune system and infectious diseases during 3-day dry immersion

“Dry” immersion is one of the methods for simulating some factors of a space flight. Volunteer-derived intestinal microbiota previously studied by “dry” immersion showed profoundly deteriorated state of microflora and blood protein composition. The study was aimed to analyze mechanisms underlying a positive correlation with amount of intestinal E. coli, and negative correlation between S. aureus and Enterobacter spp. with the number of human blood proteins assessed by proteomics methods based on mass spectrometry, in a 3-day experiment “dry” female immersion. 6 female volunteers aged from 25 to 40 years took part in the 3-days “dry” immersion experiment. During the experiment, the subjects did not take any drugs that could affect the microflora. Fecal samples were collected once per 1–2 days before the onset of the experiment and once on days 1–3 after the end of the “dry” immersion, number of microorganisms in the above-mentioned samples was assessed. Capillary blood samples were obtained by puncture of the terminal phalanx of the ring finger 2 days before the onset of the experiment, on day 1, 2 and 3 during dry immersion and 2 days afterwards. The relationship between the level of proteins in the samples and the number of intestinal microorganisms was described using a regression model in which the blood specific protein was a dependent variable, and the number of microorganisms was an independent variable. The STATISTICA 12.0 program was used for data processing. When analyzing the data obtained, 30 proteins were identified, which positively correlated with the amount of E. coli and negatively correlated with the amount of S. aureus and Enterobacter spp. While considering the events in which these proteins are involved in the human body, they were divided into several groups. In the current study, there were examined 6 proteins associated with infectious diseases (PSMA2, PSMC3, PSME2, NCKAP1, LTF, ENO1) and 10 immune-related proteins (the above-mentioned proteins, as well as CCT2, APOB, FGB, CA1, STOM). Thus, it is necessary to continue close examination of the mechanisms underlying this relationship in the interest of ensuring spaceflight medical safety.

Effects of structured exercise training on miRNA expression in previously sedentary individuals.

Micro ribonucleic acids (miRNA) respond to acute bouts of vigorous exercise, such as maximal cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPET), by expressing an anti-atherogenic, anti-inflammatory and hence probably ergogenic profile. However, the impact of long-term engagement in physical exercise on CPET-induced miRNA response in sedentary individuals, with subsequent increased risk for cardiovascular diseases, remains unclear. Thirty-four sedentary participants underwent CPET before and after a four-month app-assisted exercise intervention, during which the moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was increased to over 150 min/week. Capillary blood samples were collected before and after CPET at baseline and after the exercise intervention. Twenty target miRNAs previously reported to be responsive to exercise and exercise adaptive pathways, or linked to atherogenic properties as inflammation, or previously identified upregulated following exercise in subjects with coronary artery disease versus healthy subjects were analyzed via real-time polymerase chain reaction. Physical activity increased from 64 ± 48 to 354 ± 332 min/week of MVPA (p<0.001, +553%), accompanied by an improvement in maximal power output during CPET (ΔWattmax: 19 ± 13, p<0.001, +9%). Eleven of the selected twenty miRNAs showed significant responses to CPETs at either the beginning or end of the study. We found a significant increase both times for miR-103a (glycolysis, %change base: +12%, post +17%), miR-146a (inflammation, %change base: +20%, post +21%), and miR-222 (cardiac remodeling, %change base: +10%, post +21%), while miR-30a (inflammation, %change base: -27%, post: -38%) decreased significantly (all p≤0.043). Increased physical activity led to a significant CPET-induced change in three miRNAs from an atherogenic profile to a healthier one, indicating improved metabolic health and reduced inflammation.

Replacing serum with dried blood microsampling for pharmacokinetics, viral neutralisation and immunogenicity bioanalysis supporting future paediatric development of RSM01, a candidate respiratory syncytial virus neutralising monoclonal antibody

BackgroundVirus neutralising antibodies in serum are considered key correlates of protection for vaccines and monoclonal antibodies against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSM01 is a novel, highly-potent, half-life-extended and fully-human monoclonal antibody candidate targeting the RSV prefusion F protein. Currently in Phase 1 development, RSM01 is primarily being developed to potentially provide an effective and affordable RSV prevention strategy in low- and middle-income countries. To evaluate the ability of dried blood collection to generate data sets and conclusions comparable to serum collection, we compared pharmacokinetics (PK) of RSM01, immunogenicity, and virus neutralisation for dried capillary blood samples with serum samples.MethodsRSM01 PK, anti-drug antibodies (ADA), and RSV-neutralising antibodies from the Phase 1 trial were analyzed and compared between matched serum and dried blood samples. Deming regression analysis was performed using baseline-corrected values to evaluate correlation between measurements in liquid serum versus dried blood.ResultsThe analysis showed good correlation (R2 > 0.95) between individual RSM01 concentrations measured in both serum and capillary blood. Analysis of RSM01 PK parameters in capillary blood yielded equivalent conclusions as from serum. A strong correlation (R2 > 0.95) was observed between RSV neutralising activity measured in both serum and capillary blood. In addition, RSV neutralising activity was correlated with RSM01 concentrations in both serum and capillary blood data sets. For ADA, individual sample results had 96% agreement (290/302) and overall participant ADA status had 93% agreement (52/56).ConclusionsBoth RSM01 concentrations and RSV neutralising activity showed a strong correlation between the serum and blood measurements. ADA measurements also had an agreement of > 90% for individual samples and overall participant status. Our results demonstrate that dried blood is a suitable specimen type for collection and evaluation in the RSM01 clinical development program and shows promise as a useful approach to reduce patient burden in clinical trials, particularly for infants in low- and middle-income countries.Trial RegistrationClinicaltrials.gov NCT05118386 November 12, 2021.

Comparison between point-of-care testing from capillary samples and conventional laboratory testing from venous samples for white blood cells and C-reactive protein in a pediatric outpatient setting.

Studies on the accuracy of point-of-care (POC) testing using capillary samples are scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the analytical accuracy of POC testing for white blood cell (WBC) and C-reactive protein (CRP) using capillary samples compared with conventional central laboratory testing using venous samples in a pediatric ambulatory care setting. This was a retrospective study including patients younger than 18 years who underwent concurrent WBC and CRP evaluations via capillary and subsequent venous sampling within a 2-h window. Capillary and venous blood samples were collected using finger prick and standard venipuncture techniques, respectively. Capillary blood analysis was performed using a Microsemi CRP device. Venous samples were measured in the hospital's central laboratory. The agreement between the capillary POC and venous laboratory results was evaluated using Bland-Altman analysis. A total of 277 pediatric patients were included in this study. The median age of the participants was 1 year (interquartile range: 0-2 years). The mean difference between the capillary and venous measurements for WBC was -18 × 100/μL with 95% limits of agreement of -73 × 100/μL to 37 × 100/μL. The mean difference between the capillary and venous measurements for CRP was -0.25 mg/dL with 95% limits of agreement of -2.1 mg/dL to 1.6 mg/dL. POC CRP testing via capillary sampling by finger prick demonstrated sufficient accuracy. POC CRP testing has the potential to be a valuable instrument for clinical decision making, particularly in screening febrile outpatient children.

Mexican Health and Aging Study Biomarker and Genetic Data Profile.

The Mexican Health and Aging Study (MHAS) is one of the largest ongoing longitudinal studies of aging in Latin America, with six waves over 20 years. MHAS includes sociodemographic, economic, and health data from a nationally representative sample of adults 50 years and older in urban and rural Mexico. MHAS is designed to study the impact of diseases on adults' health, function, and mortality. As Mexico is experiencing rapid population aging, providing adequate information to study this phenomenon is vital for designing and implementing public policies. The availability of biomarker and genetic data and longitudinal survey data elevates opportunities for research on aging in a low-middle-income country. This manuscript describes the profile of biomarkers and genetic data available in the MHAS study, including sample sizes and sociodemographic characteristics of participants who provided biospecimens for biomarker analyses, emphasizing recent genetic data. The sample size of individuals with anthropometric biomarkers was 2 707 (Wave 1-2001), 2 361 (Wave 2-2003), 2 086 (Wave 3-2012), and 2 051 (2016). Capillary blood samples were collected from 2 063 participants in 2012 (Wave 3) and 1 141 in 2016. Venous blood samples for blood-based biomarkers were collected from 2 003 participants in 2012 (Wave 3) and 752 in 2016. Venous blood samples were also collected for genetic data from 2 010 participants in 2012 (Wave 3) and 750 in 2016. A total of 7 821 participants provided saliva in 2018, and 2 671 provided hair in 2018. From these samples, a total of 7 204 have genome-wide genetic data, 8 600 have apolipoprotein-E genotype data, and 7 156 have genetic ancestry data.

Evaluation of the Performance of Portable Hemoglobinometers at Measuring Hemoglobin and Detecting Anemia in a Periurban Pediatric Population in Lima, Peru.

As many as one in three people worldwide have anemia, with young children at increased risk of both disease and complications. In settings without clinical laboratories, portable hemoglobinometers serve important roles in diagnosing anemia and estimating prevalence. Here, we assess the validity of two such point-of-care devices-the HemoCue Hb201 and the HemoCue Hb301-relative to the international reference standard, the cyanmethemoglobin method. In total, 428 children ages 6-60 months were recruited at health posts in Lima, Peru, and venous and capillary blood samples were collected from each participant. Venous blood was assessed with the cyanmethemoglobin method, whereas capillary blood was assessed using the Hb201 and the Hb301; 16.1% of participants were found to have anemia using the cyanmethemoglobin method. Both the Hb201 (43.7%) and the Hb301 (20.6%) overestimated this prevalence, with the former reaching statistical significance (P <0.0001 and P = 0.11, respectively). Both devices also tended to underestimate hemoglobin concentration, with the Hb201 (mean difference = -0.99 g/dL; percentage error = -8.1%) being appreciably less accurate than the Hb301 (mean difference = -0.35 g/dL; percentage error = -2.7%). Areas under the curve for the Hb201 (0.92) and the Hb301 (0.93) were statistically similar (P = 0.28); however, the Hb201 incorrectly classified 29.4% of participants compared with 11.0% for the Hb301. Both devices had more false positives than false negatives. In conclusion, the Hb301 was found to be significantly more accurate than the Hb201 at measuring hemoglobin, diagnosing anemia, and estimating anemia prevalence.

Optimizing Falling Drop Hemoglobin Method by Comparing Capillary Versus Venous Blood and Determining the Stability of the Copper Sulfate Solution.

Anemia is a global health issue that affects over 1 billion people and contributes to maternal mortality and birth defects. Low-resource, tropical areas face a dual challenge: high prevalence of anemia and inability to access affordable testing methods. The falling drop hemoglobin method has been developed by our lab to quantify hemoglobin concentration and assess anemia by timing the descent of venous blood in a column of copper sulfate solution, without using electricity or batteries. This research aimed to optimize the falling drop hemoglobin method by evaluating the use of capillary blood to reduce within sample variance and assessing copper sulfate stability to determine shelf life in expected working conditions. The falling drop hemoglobin method was performed on both venous and capillary blood samples collected directly from the fingertip by dispensing 44 µL of blood in a copper sulfate column. A microhematocrit was performed on the venous blood sample and converted mathematically to a hemoglobin level to serve as the standard. Copper sulfate stability was assessed for 32 weeks among three solutions: solution prepared fresh on day of testing, solution incubated at room temperature, and solution incubated at 37.7 °C. Capillary blood yielded higher average descent times and higher standard deviations than venous blood. Collecting precisely 44 µL of capillary blood proved challenging and impractical. In copper sulfate stability testing, freshly prepared solution yielded the highest average descent time. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test and Tukey's honestly significant difference (HSD) post hoc testing revealed no significant difference between mean descent times of freshly prepared and 37.7 °C solutions (P = 0.26) and between room temperature and 37.7 °C solutions (P = 0.64), but a significant difference between freshly prepared and room temperature solutions (P = 0.04). This study found that capillary blood did not present a more accurate alternative to venous blood in the falling drop hemoglobin test, and copper sulfate did not degrade over 32 weeks at 37.7 °C. This lends support for the current use of venous blood in the test, and for use of copper sulfate solution in tropical climates, where the test is most necessary, with a shelf life of at least 32 weeks.

Advancements in Adenine Nucleotides Extraction and Quantification from a Single Drop of Human Blood.

Adenine nucleotides (ANs)-adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP), adenosine 5'-diphosphate (ADP), and adenosine 5'-monophosphate (AMP)-are essential for energy transfer and the supply of countless processes within cellular metabolism. Their concentrations can be expressed as adenylate energy charge (AEC), a measure of cellular metabolic energy that directly correlates with the homeostasis of the organism. AEC index has broad diagnostic potential, as reduced ATP levels are associated to various conditions, such as inflammatory diseases, metabolic disorders, and cancer. We introduce a novel methodology for rapid isolation, purification, and quantification of ANs from a single drop of capillary blood. Of all the stationary phases tested, activated carbon proved to be the most efficient for the purification of adenine nucleotides, using an automated micro-solid phase extraction (µ-SPE) platform. An optimized µ-SPE method, coupled with RP-HPLC and a run time of 30 min, provides a reliable analytical framework for adenine nucleotide analysis of diverse biological samples. AN concentrations measured in capillary blood samples were 1393.1 µM, 254.8 µM, and 76.9 µM for ATP, ADP, and AMP molecules aligning with values reported in the literature. Overall, this study presents a streamlined and precise approach for analyzing ANs from microliters of blood, offering promising applications in clinical diagnostics.

Menstrual Blood as a Non-Invasive Alternative for Monitoring Vitamin Levels.

Background/Objectives: Menstrual blood has recently emerged as a novel specimen for diagnostics, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional blood testing methods. Despite the importance of vitamins and monitoring their levels in preventative healthcare measures, the feasibility of measuring them in menstrual blood has yet to be explored. In this study, we aimed to assess the potential of using menstrual blood for determining vitamin levels by comparing their levels in menstrual blood to those in matched capillary blood samples. Methods: A prospective, monocentric, observational study was conducted with healthy, reproductive-aged voluntary participants. Menstrual blood was collected from 30 participants using a menstrual cup, and the corresponding capillary blood samples were obtained using a finger prick. The samples were transferred to dried blood spot (DBS) cards and analyzed using mass spectrometry to determine vitamin levels. Statistical analyses were performed to compare menstrual blood vitamin A and D levels, and hemoglobin, to those in capillary blood. Results: The vitamin levels could be ascertained from the menstrual blood, and were observed to significantly correlate with those from the capillary blood for both vitamin A (r = 0.77, p < 0.001) and vitamin D (r = 0.66, p < 0.001), despite being statistically different. Conclusions: The results of this pilot study demonstrate the potential utility of menstrual blood in estimating vitamin A and D levels, illustrating the prospect of a non-invasive menstrual blood-based vitamin test following larger clinical and analytical validation studies.

Hubungan antara Pola Makan dengan Kadar Asam Urat pada Lansia di Posyandu Lansia Srikandi Kecamatan Lowokwaru Kota Malang

Gout, commonly known as Gout Arthritis, is a disease characterized by sudden, recurrent and painful attacks. Broadly speaking, purines are obtained from food, if the diet is not changed, excessive levels of uric acid in the blood will cause uric acid crystals to accumulate, if crystals form in the joint fluid, there will be a severe and sudden pain attack. This study aims to determine the relationship between diet and uric acid levels in the elderly at the Srikandi Elderly Posyandu, Lowokwaru District, Malang City. This type of research is qualitative using a cross sectional research design. The population was all elderly people aged 40-50 years, 51-60 years, 61-75 years, and 91 years at the Srikandi Elderly Posyandu, Lowokwaru District, Malang City, totaling 50 respondents. The sampling technique used purposive sampling with a sample of 35 respondents. Data collection using questionnaires and capillary blood sampling in the elderly. Tested using spearman rank analysis. The results showed that there was a relationship between diet and uric acid levels in the elderly (p-Value = 0.114). The conclusion is that there is a relationship between diet and uric acid levels in the elderly at the Srikandi Elderly Posyandu, Lowokwaru District, Malang City. It is recommended to the community in the work environment of the Srikandi Elderly Posyandu, Lowokwaru District, Malang City to maintain a good diet so that uric acid levels remain normal.

Cardiac Troponin-I Level at 24 hours of Age in Stable Newborn Infants Born at ≥35 Weeks of Gestation.

Cardiac troponin-I is a known biomarker of myocardial injury in adults and children but its diagnostic utility is unclear in newborns.This study aimed to establish normative data for troponin-I in stable newborns and assess any variation due to maternal diabetes status, mode of delivery, and Apgar scores. Prospective, observational study of stable newborn ≥35 weeks gestation admitted to a well-baby nursery at a single institution. Infants with respiratory distress, congenital infections, malformations, or syndromes were excluded. Troponin-I values were obtained by a validated point-of-care capillary blood sample at 24 hours of age. A total of 132 patients were included for analysis. Thirteen infants were born to mothers with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) during pregnancy and analyzed as a subgroup, with the remaining 119 infants comprising the base cohort to establish baseline normative troponin-I levels in stable newborn infants. The mean (standard deviation) troponin-I level of infants in the base cohort group was 0.019 ± 0.018 ng/mL and in infants born with maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy troponin-I level was 0.081 ± 0.1 ng/mL (p < 0.001). In infants of the base cohort, there was no significant difference in troponin-I levels between diabetic versus nondiabetic mothers, vaginal birth versus cesarean section, and 5-minute Apgar score of <7 versus ≥7. Cardiac troponin-I level in healthy term newborns was 0.019 ± 0.018 ng/mL, which conforms to healthy children and adult lab values. There was no statistically significant difference in troponin-I levels in infants of maternal diabetes or normal glucose status, mode of delivery, cesarean versus vaginal, or 5-minute Apgar score of <7 or ≥7. Troponin-I levels in asymptomatic neonates born to mothers with a history of SARS-CoV-2 during pregnancy demonstrated an elevation when compared to the baseline group of infants. · Troponin-I level, biomarker of myocardial injury, in newborns not requiring delivery-room.. · Resuscitation is comparable to normal pediatric & adult population independent of mode of delivery or maternal diabetes status..

Comparison of capillary finger stick and venous blood sampling for 34 routine chemistry analytes: potential for in the hospital and remote blood sampling.

This study examined the comparability of venous and capillary blood samples with regard to routine chemistry analytes. Venous and capillary blood samples were collected from adult patients to assess comparability of alanine transaminase, albumin, alkaline phosphatase, apolipoprotein B, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, calcium, chloride, creatin kinase, creatinine, C-reactive protein, ferritin, folic acid, free T4, gamma glutamyltransferase, glucose, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, iron, lipase, lipoprotein a, magnesium, phosphate, postassium, prostate specific antigen, sodium, total cholesterol, total protein, transferrin, triglycerides, thyroid stimulating hormone, urate, urea, vitamin B12 and 25-hydroxyvitamin-D3. Furthermore, hemolysis-icterus-lipemia Index (HIL-Index) was measured for all samples. All measurements were performed using the Siemens Atellica® CH or IH Analyzer. Deming regression analysis and mean relative differences between venous and capillary measurements of each analyte were contrasted with the desirable total allowable error (TEa) and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) 2024 proposed acceptance limits for proficiency testing. Deming regression and mean relative differences demonstrated excellent comparability between venous and capillary samples for most measured analytes. Capillary and venous samples showed comparable results for almost all studied chemistry analytes. Of the 33 studied analytes for which TEa criteria where available, 30 met TEa criteria. CLIA 2024 criteria where available for 29 of the studied analytes of which only glucose did not meet the criteria. In conclusion, capillary blood draw is a suitable alternative for venous blood sampling for measuring most of the investigated analytes. This benefits patients with fear of needles and might pave the way for remote self-sampling.

Evaluation of point-of-care capillary and venous blood glucose concentrations in hospitalized neonatal foals.

To compare glucose measurements from capillary and venous blood samples using a point-of-care (POC) glucometer with a standard laboratory (colorimetric, glucose oxidase) assay (LABGLU) in a population of hospitalized, neonatal foals. Multicenter, prospective, experimental study, conducted between March 2019 and June 2020. Four university teaching hospitals and 1 private referral hospital. Fifty-four hospitalized neonatal (≤30days of age) foals. Simultaneous capillary (muzzle, POCMUZ) and venous (jugular, POCJUG) blood samples were obtained to determine POC glucose concentrations. Venous samples were also analyzed by LABGLU. Each foal was sampled at the time of enrollment or admission to the hospital and at 1 subsequent point during hospitalization. Indirect mean arterial pressure and hematocrit were concurrently recorded. Bland-Altman analysis showed a mean bias (95% limits of agreement) of -28.0(-88.6to32.6)mg/dL for comparison of POCJUG with LABGLU, -8.2(-94.3to78.0)mg/dL for POCMUZ and LABGLU, and 18.8(-44.4to82.0)mg/dL for POCMUZ and POCJUG. A total of 63.5% of the POCJUG and 45.2% of the POCMUZ samples exceeded the reference value by ±15mg/dL (for LABGLU samples <75mg/dL) or ±15% (for LABGLU samples ≥75mg/dL). Concordance correlation coefficient (95% confidence interval [CI]) indicated a fair agreement between POCJUG and LABGLU (0.75, 95% CI: 0.66-0.82) and between POCMUZ and LABGLU (0.71, 95% CI: 0.58-0.80). Fifty percent (14/28) of hypoglycemic foals on the reference method were incorrectly classified as euglycemic by POCJUG, and 5 of 28 were incorrectly classified by POCMUZ. In the sampled population, the chosen POC glucometer lacked agreement with the standard laboratory measurement. Limits of agreement were wide for both POCJUG and POCMUZ. Inaccuracies in POC results could impact decision-making in the clinical management of glycemic control in hospitalized neonatal foals and, importantly, increase the risk of hypoglycemic events being underdiagnosed in critical patients.

Validation of point-of-care tests used at in-home assessments among older adults in primary care

Background Diagnosing acute disease in older adults is challenged by vague and atypical symptoms. Point-of-care tests (POCTs) at home may improve diagnostics and clinical decision-making. We compared various POCT devices to routine testing in acutely ill older adults to assess their clinical reliability. Methods We enrolled participants aged 65+ years requiring acute in-home assessment with signs of acute conditions. Venous and capillary blood samples were collected and analysed on-site using POCT, while identical samples were transported and analysed in a routine laboratory. Agreement between POCT and laboratory testing was assessed using scatter plots with linear regression, Pearson’s correlation coefficient (PCC), limits of agreement, and Bland-Altman plots. Misclassification rates were calculated based on clinically meaningful cut-offs to assess POCT’s clinical reliability. Results We included 100 participants with a mean age of 81.6 (±8.4 SD) years. Strong correlation was found between POCT and routine measurements (PCC: 0.76–0.94 for capillary samples and 0.85–0.98 for venous samples). Venous samples showed higher PCC than capillary, except for neutrophils (0.93 for capillary, 0.89 for venous). Misclassification occurred in capillary samples for haemoglobin (10/62) and total WBC (6/50), while in venous samples, misclassification was observed for haemoglobin (4/54), total WBC (4/50), K+ (5/47), urea (5/47), and creatinine (3/42). No misclassification was observed for Na+. Conclusion POCT provides acceptable, clinically reliable measurements in acutely ill older adults, potentially enhancing diagnostics and treatments during in-home assessment. Venous blood testing is preferable due to a lower misclassification rate, but capillary blood remains a pragmatic alternative, despite higher variation and inaccuracy.