Serum Alkaline Phosphatase Concentrations Research Articles

Abstract 3794: Inhibition of prostate cancer bone metastases by the dickkopf-1 neutralizing antibody BHQ880

Abstract Advanced prostate carcinoma (PCa) is usually complicated by the presence of bone metastases. Current therapies targeting bone metastases are suboptimal as the metastases progress in spite of therapy. Accordingly, novel therapeutics are needed to target these lesions. The Wnt inhibitor Dickkopf-1 (DKK-1) appears to play an important role in progression of PCa bone metastases. Overexpression of DKK-1 by PCa promotes tumor growth and bone lysis in laboratory studies and DKK1 is present in clinical PCa bone metastases. Development of a fully humanized anti-DKK-1 neutralizing antibody, BHQ880 (Novartis), provides a potential therapeutic strategy to target PCa bone metastases. The goal of this study was to test if BHQ880 could impact PCa bone metastases. PC-3-luc cells (2.5x105) were injected intratibially into mice. Treatment with anti-DKK-1 or isotype control antibody (n=12 mice per group) was initiated 0, 7, or 14 days post-tumor injection. Mice were treated three times weekly by intraperitoneal injection with 200 μg/mouse (approximately 10 mg/kg) Tumor growth and bone lysis were assessed by weekly bioluminescence and bi-weekly radiography, respectively. All mice were euthanized 31 days post-tumor injection, tumor bearing limbs were formalin fixed and serum was obtained. Tumor bearing limbs were analyzed by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and histology. Serum was assayed for the bone turnover biomarkers alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin (OC), and tartate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRAP5b). BHQ880 was well tolerated with no significant side effects observed. Significant inhibition of tumor growth was observed in mice where treatment was initiated 7 or 14 days post-tumor challenge when established tumors were present. Two mice from the 14-day treatment group had tumor regressions after treatment with BHQ880. Treatment with BHQ880 resulted in decreased bone lysis as determined using DEXA. Furthermore, increased serum concentrations of ALP and OC in mice treated with BHQ880 suggest increased bone production; no significant difference in TRAP5b concentration between treated and untreated mice was found. Treatment with the DKK-1 neutralizing antibody BHQ880 was found to inhibit tumor growth, tumor-induced osteolysis and increase serum bone remodeling markers associated with increased bone production in a murine model of PCa bone metastasis. These data suggest that anti-DKK-1 treatment is a plausible mechanism for inhibition of progression of PCa bone metastases. These data suggest that inhibition of DKK-1 may be an effective strategy to inhibit PCa growth in bone. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3794. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-3794

Extremely high isolated maternal alkaline phosphatase serum concentration – 2 case reports and literature review

CasesWe report 2 cases of isolated elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in pregnancy. Two healthy primigravida who are in their twenties presented with generally feeling unwell at approximately 36-37 weeks gestations....

Autoimmune Thyroid Disease in Patients With Vitiligo: Prevalence Study in India

To identify the prevalence of autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) in Asian Indian patients with vitiligo and to compare the clinical profile between thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibody-positive and TPO antibody-negative groups. In this cross-sectional, case-controlled study, 50 patients with vitiligo (29 women and 21 men) were included. Patients with previous disorders, irradiation, or surgical procedures involving the thyroid were excluded from the study. All participants underwent a complete physical examination, and a single fasting blood sample was analyzed for thyroid function (triiodothyronine, thyroxine, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and TPO and thyroglobulin antibodies), inflammatory and immunologic markers (erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, and rheumatoid factor), and serum calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase concentrations. All patients underwent thyroid ultrasonography, and the data were analyzed by appropriate statistical methods. The mean age of the study participants was 42.7 ± 17 years, and 14 of 50 patients (28%) had TPO antibody positivity. A goiter was present in 11 of 50 patients, and the thyroid volume by ultrasonography was similar between the 2 groups. Subclinical hypothyroidism was found in 14 of 50 patients (28%) but more frequently in the TPO antibody-positive group (8 of 14 or 57%) than in the TPO antibody-negative group (6 of 36 or 17%). The prevalence of AITD was 20 of 50 patients (40%) when the TPO antibody-positive group and those with subclinical hypothyroidism were considered collectively. None of the patients had overt hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. All other clinical, biochemical, and inflammatory variables did not differ significantly between the TPO antibody-positive and antibody-negative groups. Our data showed a 40% prevalence of thyroid disease in patients with vitiligo in India. The risk is exacerbated in patients with thyroid autoimmunity; thus, regular screening of patients with vitiligo for AITD is needed.

Development of an animal model for assessment of primary end-to-end biliary reconstruction

BACKGROUND: Bile duct anastomotic stricture after bile duct injury or liver transplantation remains as the most formidable clinical problem. Here, we attempt to describe the natural course of healing following experimental end-to-end anastomosis (EEA) and to evaluate the efficacy and safety of EEA in a rabbit model. METHODS: New Zealand rabbits were divided into experimental groups with complete transection of the common bile duct (CBD) and control group with CBD mobilization. Clinical, laboratory biochemical and cholangiographical manifestations were compared between the groups. At intervals postoperatively healing course of the bile duct was judged by macroscopic, microscopic and transmission electron microscope examination. The diameters of CBD were measured by sliding caliper. RESULTS: Serum concentrations of alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase and total bilirubin were significantly higher in experimental groups than those in control group (P < 0.05). The cholangiogram showed that anastomotic stricture and markedly dilated biliary tree were observed at varying time postoperatively. Inflammatory reactions, cicatricial stricture and fibrosis in the bile duct wall were observed in the experimental groups. In addition, biliary fibroblast increased and collagen deposition was observed in the anastomotic scar tissue. We observed that 3 (6%) rabbits had formed gallstones within 1–3 months after injury EEA. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that microsurgical techniques could achieve successful primary end-to-end biliary repair in the rabbit. Anastomotic tension, surgical technology and fibrotic healing may be the most important causes of stricture formation. Additionally, this model may allow for researching the pathologic changes in the healing process of the bile duct and the mechanisms of stricture formation.

Meta-analysis of the relationship of mycotoxins with biochemical and hematological parameters in broilers

A meta-analysis was carried out to study the association of mycotoxins with hematological and biochemical profiles in broilers. Ninety-eight articles published between 1980 and 2009 were used in the database, totaling 37,371 broilers. The information was selected from the Materials and Methods and Results sections in the selected articles and then tabulated in a database. Meta-analysis followed 3 sequential analyses: graphic, correlation, and variance-covariance. Mycotoxins reduced (P < 0.05) the hematocrit (−5%), hemoglobin (−15%), leukocytes (−25%), heterophils (−2%), lymphocytes (−2%), uric acid (−31%), creatine kinase (−27%), creatinine (−23%), triglycerides (−39%), albumin (−17%), globulin (−1%), total cholesterol (−14%), calcium (−5%), and inorganic phosphorus (−12%). Mycotoxins also altered (P < 0.05) the concentrations of alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase. A quadratic effect was observed on the relationship between the concentration of aflatoxin in diets and the serum concentration of alkaline phosphatase, γ-glutamyl transferase, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase. The total protein concentration in blood was 18% lower (P < 0.05) in broilers challenged by aflatoxins compared with that of the unchallenged ones. The inclusion of antimycotoxin additives in diets with aflatoxins altered (P < 0.05) some variables (uric acid, creatinine, alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and γ-glutamyl transferase) in relation to the group that received diets with the mycotoxin and without the additive. The meta-analysis performed in this study allowed us to address and quantify systematically the relationship of mycotoxins with alterations in hematologic and biochemical profiles in broilers.

Local osteogenic expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and systemic response in porcine models of osteomyelitis

It is suggested that cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) derived prostaglandins contributes to the progressive bone loss seen in osteomyelitis lesions. In the present study we examined the expression of COX-2 in bones from 23 pigs with experimental osteomyelitis. Osteomyelitis was induced with Staphylococcus aureus and groups of animals were euthanized following 6h, 12h, 24h, 2 days, 5 days, 11 days and 15 days, respectively. Expression of COX-2 was evaluated immunohistochemically and combined with characterization of morphological changes in bone tissue. Furthermore, the serum concentrations of alkaline phosphatase and haptoglobin were measured. Extensive COX-2 expression by osteoblasts was present 2 days after inoculation together with many activated osteoclasts. Simultaneously, the serum concentration of alkaline phosphatase decreased whereas the haptoglobin concentration increased. This is the first in vivo study showing an early wave of COX-2 mediated bone resorption during osteomyelitis. Therefore, treatment aiming to reduce the break down of bone tissue directed by the COX-2 pathway might be suggested early in the course of the disease.

A clinical study of serum alkaline phosphatase and calcium level in type 2 diabetes mellitus with periodontitis among the south Indian population

Aim: To evaluate the association of serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and calcium level in type 2 diabetes mellitus with periodontitis. Materials and Methods: In this study, a total of 240 subjects, aged 34-42 years were selected and was divided into four groups as 60 healthy individuals (group A), 60 type 2 diabetes mellitus without periodontitis (group B), 60 type 2 diabetes mellitus with periodontitis (group C), and 60 non-diabetes mellitus with periodontitis (group D). Blood samples were collected after an overnight fast for the estimation of serum glucose, ALP, and calcium using glucose oxidase-peroxidase (GOD-POD), p-Nitrophenyl Phosphate (p-NPP), and o-Cresolphthalein Complexone (OCPC) methods, respectively. Results: The concentration of serum ALP and calcium showed a significant increase ( P Conclusion: Increased serum ALP and calcium level could be often associated with the alveolar bone loss and tooth loss in type 2 diabetes mellitus with periodontitis among the South Indian population.

Evaluation of moxifloxacin-induced biochemical changes in mice

The aim of the present study was to investigate the toxicological effects of moxifloxacin in mice to determine the toxicological implications. Forty mice of both sexes were divided into four groups of 10 mice each, designated as A, B, C and D. Group A served as the control and received 2 ml of distilled water, while Groups B, C and D were orally administered 12.5, 25 and 50 mg/kg body weight of moxifloxacin once daily for 7 days, respectively. The weights of the mice were recorded before and throughout the duration of drug administration. Blood samples were collected for serum analysis. Total blood protein, cholesterol, triglyceride, creatinine, activities of aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase, levels of high density lipoprotein-cholesterol and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol were assayed. There were significant (P≤0.05) differences in the concentrations of serum creatinine, urea, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase, levels of high density lipoprotein-cholesterol, low density lipoprotein-cholesterol, cholesterol and triglyceride of mice administered moxifloxacin. Serum level of total bilirubin in low dose treated animals was not significantly different from that of the control group animals, but there were significant dose dependent decrease in the animals treated with 25 mg/kg as well as 50 mg/kg. Data of the study indicate there was a dose dependent reduction in the protein metabolites, lipid profile and liver enzyme activities of mice administered moxifloxacin.

Radio-protective response on the environmental pollutant induced oxidative stress

The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effect of low dose radiation on TCE induced oxidative damage in rats. The oxidative damage of both liver and kidney was assessed by serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Gamma Glutamyl Trans-Peptidase (GGTP), Alanine and Aspartate Amino Transferase (ALT & AST) activities in addition concentrations of cholesterol, high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-c), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c), Triacyglycerols (TGs), urea and creatinine were analyzed. Liver lipid peroxidation (MDA), Nitric Oxide (NO), reduced glutathione (GSH) levels, and activities of both Super-Oxide Dismutase (SOD) and Glutathione Peroxidase (GSH-Px) were measured. Results: TCE administration increase serum ALP, GGTP, ALT, AST activities, cholesterol, triacylglycerols, LDL-c, urea and creatinine concentrations, besides liver MDA and NO, whereas it decreased SOD, GSH-Px activities, GSH level in liver, HDL-c in serum. Low dose of gamma rays (0.5 Gy) exposure significantly improved lipid peroxidation and oxidative injury induced by TCE. Conclusion: The study indicates that treatment with low dose of gamma rays ameliorate harmful effects induced by TCE taking in consideration the effect of gamma radiation as a stimulant of radical detoxification.

Anaplasma marginale İle Doğal Enfekte Sütçü İneklerde Akut Faz Proteinler ile Klinik, Hematolojik ve Biyokimyasal Parametrelerin Değerlendirilmesi

The aim of the study was to evaluate acute phase response via Haptoglobin and serum amyloid-A concentrations in dairy cows naturally infected with Anaplasma marginale. The second aim of the study was to determine the changes in clinical, hematological and biochemical parameters in dairy cows naturally infected Anaplasma marginale. A total of 40 dairy cattle suffering from bovine anaplasmosis were included to the study from a dairy cattle herd. A total of 10 healthy dairy cattle were selected for control group. Analysis of acute phase proteins, hematologic analysis and biochemical analysis was performed in this study. Serum haptoglobin and serum amyloid-A concentrations significantly increased in cattle infected with Anaplasma marginale compared to healthy cattle. All cattle in infected group demonstrated clinical signs of anaplasmosis. Significantly decreased red blood cell count, packed cell volume, and hemoglobin concentration were observed in infected cattle compared to the control group. Serum aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, creatinine and bilirubin concentrations were significantly increased in infected cattle compared with the control group. In conclusion, the changes of biochemical and hematological parameters may be indicate of anemia and tissue damage in cattle with anaplasmosis. Serum haptoglobin and serum amyloid-A concentrations could be usefull in evaluate of acute phase response in cattle infected with Anaplasma marginale.

The efficacy of oral versus parentral vitamin D in treatment of nutritional rickets

Rickets is the most common form of metabolic bone disease in children. Vitamin D deficiency rickets is clearly a problem in breast-fed infants who do not receive enough vitamin D or adequate sunshine exposure. The study was carried out on 30 patients who had clinical evidence of rickets. Patients were divided into three equal groups. Group A received 600,000U IM once; group B received 20,000U IM three times a week for two weeks and group C received 2000U/day orally for a month. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of different doses of ergocalciferol on serum calcium, phosphorous and alkaline phosphatase. Results show that the serum alkaline phosphatase concentration significantly decreased more in the group B compared to group A and group B (p=0.013 and p=0.001, respectively). Patients who received the intramuscular dose responded promptly, whereas infants who received the oral dosages had less response.

Prosthetic valve, fever and arthropathy--Still a difficult diagnosis

Adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD) is a rare multisystem inflammatory condition of uncertain aetiology. The annual incidence is approximately 0.16 cases per 100 000 persons.1 The predominant manifestations are those of a spiking fever, arthropathy, an evanescent salmon-pink rash and elevated inflammatory markers. Diagnosis is often delayed given the non-specific clinical and laboratory findings. We describe a man with a febrile illness, rapidly deteriorating clinical course and recent prosthetic mitral valve replacement. A 67-year-old Caucasian male gave a 4-week history of fever, malaise and a cough productive of muco-purulent sputum. Over the week immediately preceding admission he had also noticed a sore throat and a patchy rash. Three months earlier he had undergone a metallic mitral valve replacement and coronary artery bypass grafting for ischaemic mitral regurgitation. On clinical examination he was afebrile with no peripheral stigmata of bacterial endocarditis or lymphadenopathy. He had a prosthetic first heart sound with a soft systolic murmur and a pink macular rash across his trunk and upper limbs. Laboratory investigations at presentation revealed a C-reactive protein (CRP) of 45 mg/l, serum alanine transferase 86 U/l with normal serum bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase and albumin concentrations. Renal function was also normal. Haemoglobin concentration was measured at 13.2 g/l, total leucocytes 9.9 × 109/l and platelet count 214 109/l. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate was 14 mm/h. Multiple blood and urine cultures were taken but no specific treatment instigated. His antistreptolysin O titre was 13 U/ml. A chest radiograph demonstrated …

A 4-week repeated oral dose toxicity study of the methanol extract from Diospyros canaliculata in rats

We studied the toxic effects of the methanol extract from the stem bark of Diospyros canaliculata via oral administration in rats. Extract was tested in an oral 28-day study at doses of 0.5, 1 and 2 g/kg body weight (bw). Toxicological endpoints examined included blood cell counts and selected organ weights, histopathological examination of the liver and kidneys tissue and biochemical parameters including alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransaminase (AST) and alanine aminotransaminase (ALT). The extract significantly increased concentrations of serum ALP, AST, total protein and urea at 2 g/kg bw. A significant increase (p < 0.05) was also noted in ASAT activity in 20% liver homogenate of rats receiving the highest dose. Results suggest that the methanol extract from the stem bark of D. canaliculata is slightly toxic, and therefore, has a low margin of drug safety. Long-term studies are required in order to rule out any long-term adverse effects.

Effect of different iron loads on serum and tissue biochemical parameters and liver hepcidin mRNA abundance of neonatal piglets

Iron (Fe) is an essential and important trace element for animals. In order to study its metabolism and relationship with hepcidin, piglet models of Fe-deficiency and Fe-overload were established by intramuscular injection with different doses of Fe-dextran (150 mg Fe/ml) within 1 week of age. Twelve piglets were divided into three groups of four animals: deficiency, regular and overload group, receiving 0 ml, 1 ml and 6 ml Fe-dextran, respectively. The piglets were euthanised at the age of 7 days for analysis. The results showed that the Fe-concentrations in liver, spleen and serum of piglets in the overload group were higher than in the regular and deficiency groups (p < 0.05). In the overload group, several serum biochemical parameters, e.g. globulin, total bilirubin, total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein (HDL), malondialdehyde, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), peroxidase and xanthine oxidase were higher, while alkaline phosphatase (AKP) and triglycerides were lower, compared with the regular group (p < 0.05). The serum concentrations of AKP, total bilirubin and peroxidase in the deficiency group were lower, while HDL and GPx were higher, compared with the regular group (p < 0.05). Hepcidin mRNA abundance was 131 times lower in the liver of piglets with Fe-deficiency, and 7 times higher in the overloaded group than that in the regular group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, Fe-overload and deficiency would influence Fe-metabolism, serum biochemical indexes, oxidation state and hepcidin mRNA abundance in piglet liver.

Wnt/β-Catenin Expression Does Not Correlate with Serum Alkaline Phosphatase Concentration in Canine Osteosarcoma Patients

Osteosarcoma is an aggressive malignancy of the bone and an increase in serum alkaline phosphatase concentration has clinical prognostic value in both humans and canines. Increased serum alkaline phosphatase concentration at the time of diagnosis has been associated with poorer outcomes for osteosarcoma patients. The biology underlying this negative prognostic factor is poorly understood. Given that activation of the Wnt signaling pathway has been associated with alkaline phosphatase expression in osteoblasts, we hypothesized that the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway would be differentially activated in osteosarcoma tissue based on serum ALP status. Archived canine osteosarcoma samples and primary canine osteosarcoma cell lines were used to evaluate the status of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway activity through immunohistochemical staining, western immunoblot analyses, quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, and a Wnt-responsive promoter activity assay. We found no significant difference in β-catenin expression or activation between OSA populations differing in serum ALP concentration. Pathway activity was mildly increased in the primary OSA cell line generated from a patient with increased serum ALP compared to the normal serum ALP OSA cell line. Further investigation into the mechanisms underlying differences in serum ALP concentration is necessary to improve our understanding of the biological implications of this negative prognostic indicator.

Coagulation profile, haematological and biochemical changes in kids naturally infected with peste des petits ruminants

The aim of this study was to examine the coagulation profile in peste des petits ruminant (PPR) in kids. Five kids from a group of 150 animals (72 goats and 78 kids) were brought to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital from a farm in Burdur province (Turkey) with nasal and ocular discharges and diarrhea. Fifteen goats and 41 kids had died due to diarrhea and three kids were presented to the Department of Pathology for diagnosis. Blood samples were taken from 12 ill animals (infected group) for haematological and biochemical analysis. In addition, five healthy kids were examined from another healthy flock (control group). Leukocyte and lymphocyte numbers of infected group showed significant declinations in comparison to control group (≤0.001). Haemorrhages in all organs of digestive system and small haemorrhagic areas in liver were caused to decrease in erythrocyte and haematocrit values (p ≤ 0.001) in infected group. Concentrations of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (p ≤ 0.01) and creatinine (p ≤ 0.001) in infected group were significantly higher than control group. Compared to control group, significant increases were determined in serum concentrations of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (p ≤ 0.01), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (p ≤ 0.001) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (p ≤ 0.001) in the infected group. No significant differences were observed between the infected and control groups for serum gamma glutamyl-transferase (GGT) concentration value. In our study, thrombocytopenia (p ≤ 0.001) together with prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT; p ≤ 0.01) and prothrombin time (PT; p ≤ 0.001) may show that disseminated intravascular coagulopathy which can occur in kids with PPR.

Effects of purified zearalenone on growth performance, organ size, serum metabolites, and oxidative stress in postweaning gilts1

Zearalenone (ZEA), an estrogenic mycotoxin, is produced mainly by Fusarium fungi. Previous studies indicated that acute ZEA exposure induced oxidative stress and damage in multiple organs. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the adverse effects of dietary ZEA (1.1 to 3.2 mg/kg of diet) on oxidative stress and organ damage in postweaning gilts. A total of 20 gilts (Landrace × Yorkshire × Duroc) weaned at d 21 with an average BW of 10.36 ± 1.21 kg was used in the study. Gilts were housed in a temperature-controlled room, divided into 4 treatments, and fed a basal diet only (control) or basal diet supplemented with purified ZEA at a dietary concentration of 1 (ZEA1), 2 (ZEA2), or 3 (ZEA3) mg/kg of diet for 18 d ad libitum. The actual ZEA contents (analyzed) were 0, 1.1 ± 0.02, 2.0 ± 0.01, and 3.2 ± 0.02 mg/kg for control, ZEA1, ZEA2, and ZEA3, respectively. Gilts fed different amounts of dietary ZEA grew similarly with no difference (P > 0.05) in feed intake. Vulva size increased linearly over the 18 d of feeding in gilts fed diets containing 1.1 mg of ZEA/kg or greater (P < 0.001). Relative weight of genital organs, liver, and kidney increased linearly (P < 0.05) in a ZEA-dose-dependent manner. Serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, γ-glutamate transferase, urea, and creatinine (P < 0.05), and malondialdehyde concentrations in both serum and liver (P < 0.001) were also increased linearly in a ZEA-dose-dependent manner. However, spleen relative weight (P = 0.002) and activities of total superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase (in both serum and liver (P < 0.05) were decreased linearly as dietary ZEA increased. Results showed that besides genital organs, the liver, kidney, and spleen may also be target tissues in young gilts fed diets containing 1.1 to 3.2 mg of ZEA/kg for 18 d. Increased key liver enzymes in the serum suggest progressive liver damage caused by feeding ZEA, and an increase in oxidative stress in gilts is another potential impact of ZEA toxicity in pigs.

Serum alkaline phosphatase levels associate with elevated serum C-reactive protein in chronic kidney disease

High serum alkaline phosphatase concentrations are associated with elevated serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in the general population. To examine whether this association is independent of serum vitamin D levels or modified in chronic kidney disease (CKD), we determined if such associations exist using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III of 14,420 adult participants in which 5.7% had CKD (defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 ml/min per 1.73 m²). For each doubling of serum alkaline phosphatase, the odds of elevated serum CRP (over 3 mg/l) were increased 2.73-fold in the non-chronic and 2.50-fold in the CKD sub-populations, respectively. Regression coefficients of each doubling of serum alkaline phosphatase with elevated CRP were not significantly different in between the sub-populations. Additional adjustment for the serum 25-hydroxy (OH) vitamin D level did not substantively change the results. Thus, associations of serum alkaline phosphatase with elevated CRP are independent of serum 25-OH vitamin D in the chronic and non-CKD populations. Hence, serum alkaline phosphatase might be a marker of the inflammatory milieu.

Treatment of Hyperparathyroidism With Cinacalcet in Kidney Transplant Recipients

Background After successful kidney transplantation, hyperparathyroidism can persist in 10%–50% of patients and can harmfully affect bone metabolism. Calcimimetic cinacalcet is a new treatment option in the management of persistent hyperparathyroidism in these patients. Methods This prospective, clinical study of 11 patients included those who had a serum intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) concentration >65 ng/L, a serum creatinine concentration was <200 μmol/L, stable kidney graft function, and were >1 year since transplantation. Patients were not treated with drugs other than calcitriol that could influence bone metabolism. During the 6-month observation period, in which the stability of measured parameters was determined, and in the 12-month treatment period (cinacalcet 30 mg/d), we followed serum concentrations of calcium, phosphate, iPTH, creatinine, vitamin 25OH D 3, bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin, collagen degradation fragments (CTX), urinary calcium excretion, and bone mineral density (BMD). Results During the treatment period, the serum calcium concentration decreased significantly (from 2.50 ± 0.12 to 2.32 ± 0.12 mmol/L; P < .01). Serum iPTH concentration decreased significantly (from 247 [range, 199–362] at time 0 to 198 [range, 165–233] ng/L after 1 month of treatment; P < .05), but increased slightly thereafter. After 6 months of treatment, the serum concentration of ALP and CTX increased significantly, but decreased thereafter. There were no significant changes in the other parameters assessed. Renal function remained stable during the treatment period. The BMD of the lumbar spine, hip, and forearm did not change during the 12 months of treatment. Conclusion Cinacalcet was effective in treating posttransplant hyperparathyroidism, resulting in decreased calcemia and transient decreased iPTH. ALP and CTX transiently increased during therapy, but other markers of bone metabolism remained unchanged. Twelve months of cinacalcet treatment did not result in a change in BMD. Cinacalcet seems to be a safe drug with no negative effect on renal function.

Comparison of hydrated sodium calcium aluminosilicate and yeast cell wall on counteracting aflatoxicosis in broiler chicks

The objective of this research was to determine the efficacy of 2 types of adsorbents [hydrated sodium calcium aluminosilicates (HSCAS) vs. a combination of clay and yeast cell wall] in preventing aflatoxicosis in broilers. A total of 275 one-day-old birds were randomly divided into 11 treatments, with 5 replicate pens per treatment and 5 chicks per pen. The 11 treatments included 3 diets without any adsorbent containing either 0, 1, or 2 mg/kg of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) plus 8 additional treatments employing 2 dietary levels of AFB1 (1 or 2 mg/kg), 2 different adsorbents [Solis (SO) and MTB-100 (MTB)], and 2 different levels of each absorbent (0.1 and 0.2%) in a 2×2×2 factorial arrangement. Solis is a mixture of different HSCAS and MTB is a combination of clay and yeast cell wall. Feed and water were provided ad libitum throughout the 21-d study period. Body weight gain and feed intake were depressed and relative liver weight was increased in chicks fed AFB1 compared with the positive control (P<0.05). Severe liver damage was observed in chicks fed 2 mg/kg of AFB1 with lesions consistent with aflatoxicosis, including fatty liver and vacuolar degeneration. Serum glucose, albumin, total protein, Ca, P, and alkaline phosphatase concentrations were reduced by AFB1 (P<0.05). The addition of either SO or MTB ameliorated the negative effects of 1 mg/kg of AFB1 on growth performance and liver damage (P<0.05). However, supplemental MTB failed to diminish the negative effects of 2 mg/kg of AFB1, whereas SO was more effective compared with MTB at 2 mg/kg of AFB1 (P<0.05). These data indicate that the HSCAS product effectively ameliorated the negative effect of AFB1 on growth performance and liver damage, whereas the yeast cell wall product was less effective especially at the higher AFB1 concentration.