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Monitoring of hormone replacement therapy represents a major challenge in the management of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). In the absence of clear guidance and standardised monitoring strategies, there is no consensus among clinicians regarding the relevance of various biochemical markers used in practice, leading to wide variability in their application and interpretation. In this review, we summarise the published evidence on biochemical monitoring of CAH. We discuss temporal variations of the most commonly measured biomarkers throughout the day, the interrelationship between different biomarkers, as well as their relationship with different glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid treatment regimens and clinical outcomes. Our review highlights significant heterogeneity across studies in both aims and methodology. However, we identified key messages for the management of patients with CAH. The approach to hormone replacement therapy should be individualised, based on the individual hormonal profile throughout the day in relation to medication. There are limitations to using 17‐hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione and testosterone, and the role of additional biomarkers such 11‐oxygenated androgens which are more disease specific should be further established. Noninvasive monitoring via salivary and urinary steroid measurements is becoming increasingly available and should be considered, especially in the management of children with CAH. Additionally, this review indicates the need for large scale longitudinal studies analysing the interrelation between different monitoring strategies used in clinical practice and health outcomes in children and adults with CAH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Polycystic Ovary Disorder (PCOS) is a complicated endocrine problem influencing ladies of reproductive age, with ramifications for fertility, metabolic process plus cardio health and wellness. personalized medication supplies a confident technique by customizing therapies to specific genetic hormone as well as ecological accounts. Methods: This research used a mixed-methods, incorporating measurable hereditary screening and also scientific examinations with qualitative person meetings to personalized therapy prepare for ladies with PCOS in Baghdad. Individuals were ladies aged 18-45 detected with PCOS, chosen with strict incorporation as well as exemption standards. Information evaluation included analytical screening to analyze the effect of individualized therapies on different PCOS signs together with pens. Measurable information was analyzed and examined based on topics of mathematical statistics using the statistical program SPSS for detailed data, t-tests, as well as chi-square examinations for value (p. value 0.05). Results: The research entailed 150 individuals exposing substantial irregularity in PCOS signs and symptoms and also hereditary pens. Individualized therapies resulted in substantial enhancements: menstruation uniformity raised in 85% of the individuals (p. value 0.01) hirsutism ratings lowered by 60% (p. value 0.05) acne enhanced in 70% of instances (p & lt; 0.01), and also BMI decreases were observed in 75% of individuals (p. value 0.001). Additionally, insulin degrees stabilized in 80% (p. value 0.001) together with cholesterol degrees boosted in 65% (p. value 0.05) of the research study team. Conclusion: Personalized medication in PCOS administration reveals assurance in boosting individual results by attending to hereditary, hormone, way of living as well as ecological aspects. This strategy calls for a standard change in the direction of personalized treatment in gynecology possibly establishing brand-new requirements for PCOS therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated the comparative influence of different extraction solvents on spermiogram, hormonal profiles and antioxidant activities in rabbit bucks. Adult New Zealand White rabbit bucks (n=18), with average live weight of 1.2±0.03 kg and aged 10-18 mo were fed ad libitum on a commercial diet. They were administered five different Azanza garckeana (AG) fruit pulp extracts at 500 mg/kg via oral gavage, comprising control group (Con), crude (AG Cr), methanol (AG M), n-hexane (AG H), ethyl acetate (AG E) and aqueous (AG AQ) for four weeks. The extracts improved the spermiogram in rabbit bucks administered methanol (AG M) and the reaction time was significantly (P

The study investigated the comparative influence of different extraction solvents on spermiogram, hormonal profiles and antioxidant activities in rabbit bucks. Adult New Zealand White rabbit bucks (n=18), with average live weight of 1.2±0.03 kg and aged 10-18 mo were fed ad libitum on a commercial diet. They were administered five different Azanza garckeana (AG) fruit pulp extracts at 500 mg/kg via oral gavage, comprising control group (Con), crude (AG Cr), methanol (AG M), n-hexane (AG H), ethyl acetate (AG E) and aqueous (AG AQ) for four weeks. The extracts improved the spermiogram in rabbit bucks administered methanol (AG M) and the reaction time was significantly (P<0.05) lower in AG E group when compared to other groups. The ejaculate volume, sperm motility, pH and sperm concentration were significantly (P<0.05) higher in the AG M group when compared to the other groups. There was a significant (P<0.05) increase in concentrations of blood testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinising hormone in methanol extract group (AG M). While the glutathione and malondialdehyde concentrations were (P<0.05) lower, catalase and superoxide dismutase activities were significantly (P<0.05) higher in the groups administered methanol extract (AG M). It was concluded that AG M extracts of AG pulp elicited the best response in spermiogram, hormonal concentrations and antioxidant activities in New Zealand White rabbit bucks. Its use as the extraction solvent is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the co-administration of carnitine and chromium on mental health, hormonal, inflammatory and genetic parameters in women with PCOS. Methods: This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted on 54 subjects, aged 18–40 years old. Subjects were randomly allocated to take either 1000 mg/d carnitine plus 200 µg/d chromium as chromium picolinate (n = 26) or placebo (n = 27) for 12 weeks. Results: Carnitine and chromium co-supplementation, compared with the placebo, significantly improved beck depression inventory (β − 0.84; 95% CI, −1.51, −0.17; p = 0.01), general health questionnaire scores (β − 1.13; 95% CI, −2.13, −0.14; p = 0.02) and depression anxiety and stress scale scores (β − 0.96; 95% CI, −0.78, −0.14; p = 0.02). Participants who received carnitine plus chromium supplements had significantly lower total testosterone (β − 0.15 ng/mL; 95% CI, −0.24, −0.06; p = 0.002), hirsutism (β − 0.48; 95% CI, −0.91, −0.06; p = 0.02), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (β − 1.02 mg/L; 95% CI, −1.79, −0.25; p = 0.01), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (β − 0.38 µmol/L; 95% CI, −0.56, −0.20; p

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to determine the effect of vitamin D and probiotic co-administration on mental health, hormonal, inflammatory and oxidative stress parameters in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Methods This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial was carried out on 60 subjects, aged 18–40 years old. Subjects were randomly allocated to take either 50,000 IU vitamin D every 2 weeks plus 8 × 109 CFU/day probiotic (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) for 12 weeks. Results Vitamin D and probiotic co-supplementation, compared with the placebo, significantly improved beck depression inventory [β (difference in the mean of outcomes measures between treatment groups) − 0.58; 95% CI, − 1.15, − 0.02; P = 0.04], general health questionnaire scores (β − 0.93; 95% CI, − 1.78, − 0.08; P = 0.03) and depression, anxiety and stress scale scores (β − 0.90; 95% CI, − 1.67, − 0.13; P = 0.02). Vitamin D and probiotic co-supplementation was associated with a significant reduction in total testosterone (β − 0.19 ng/mL; 95% CI, − 0.28, − 0.10; P

The objective of present study was to evaluated the effect of Oxymetholone drug on sperm parameters and sex hormone in adult male rats. Twenty male rats sexually mature were randomly divided into two groups; Each group has 10 rats. The treated group administered orally with Oxymethololne drug 5 mg/g body weight/ day of for 60 days while the control group administered orally normal saline per day. SPSS analysis of data generated with P< 0.05 considered statistically significant. The results showed a significant decrease (p <0.05) in the mean sperm count, the motility and viability in treated group compared to control. Also, LH (luteinizing hormone) FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and T (testosterone) of the treated group were significantly lowered compared to the control. The administration of Oxymethylene induces low sperm quality with reduction in sex hormone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the co-administration of probiotic and selenium on parameters of mental health, hormonal profiles, and biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in women with PCOS. Data on the effects of selenium and probiotic co-supplementation on mental health, hormonal and inflammatory parameters of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are scarce. This investigation was carried out to evaluate the effects of selenium and probiotic co-supplementation on mental health, hormonal and inflammatory parameters in women with PCOS. Methods This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted on 60 subjects, aged 18–40 years old. Participants were randomly allocated into two groups to intake 8 × 109 CFU/day probiotic plus 200 μg/day selenium supplements (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) for 12 weeks. Hormonal and inflammatory parameters were measured at baseline and after the 12-week intervention. Results Probiotic and selenium co-supplementation resulted in a significant improvement in beck depression inventory (β − 0.76; 95% CI, − 1.26, − 0.26; P = 0.003), general health questionnaire scores (β − 1.15; 95% CI, − 1.97, − 0.32; P = 0.007) and depression anxiety and stress scale scores (β − 1.49; 95% CI, − 2.59, − 0.39; P = 0.009) compared with the placebo. Furthermore, probiotic and selenium co-supplementation significantly reduced total testosterone (β − 0.26 ng/mL; 95% CI, − 0.51, − 0.02; P = 0.03), hirsutism (β − 0.43; 95% CI, − 0.74, − 0.11; P = 0.008), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (β − 0.58 mg/L; 95% CI, − 0.97, − 0.19; P = 0.004) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (β − 0.29 μmol/L; 95% CI, − 0.56, − 0.02; P = 0.03), and significantly increased total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (β + 84.76 mmol/L; 95% CI, + 48.08, + 121.44; P

Purpose: The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effect of melatonin administration on clinical, hormonal, inflammatory, and genetic parameters in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).Methods: The present randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted among 56 patients with PCOS, aged 18–40 years old. Subjects were randomly allocated to take either 5 mg melatonin supplements (n = 28) or placebo (n = 28) twice a day for 12 weeks.Results: Melatonin administration significantly reduced hirsutism (β −0.47; 95% CI, −0.86, −0.09; P = 0.01), serum total testosterone (β −0.11 ng/mL; 95% CI, −0.21, −0.02; P = 0.01), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (β −0.61 mg/L; 95% CI, −0.95, −0.26; P = 0.001), and plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (β −0.25 μmol/L; 95% CI, −0.38, −0.11; P < 0.001), and significantly increased plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels (β 106.07 mmol/L; 95% CI, 62.87, 149.28; P < 0.001) and total glutathione (GSH) (β 81.05 μmol/L; 95% CI, 36.08, 126.03; P = 0.001) compared with the placebo. Moreover, melatonin supplementation downregulated gene expression of interleukin-1 (IL-1) (P = 0.03) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) (P = 0.01) compared with the placebo.Conclusions: Overall, melatonin administration for 12 weeks to women with PCOS significantly reduced hirsutism, total testosterone, hs-CRP, and MDA, while increasing TAC and GSH levels. In addition, melatonin administration reduced gene expression of IL-1 and TNF-α.Clinical Trial Registration:www.irct.ir, identifier IRCT2017082733941N9, Available online at: https://www.irct.ir/trial/26051

Purpose: The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effect of melatonin administration on clinical, hormonal, inflammatory, and genetic parameters in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Methods: The present randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted among 56 patients with PCOS, aged 18–40 years old. Subjects were randomly allocated to take either 5 mg melatonin supplements (n = 28) or placebo (n = 28) twice a day for 12 weeks. Results: Melatonin administration significantly reduced hirsutism (β −0.47; 95% CI, −0.86, −0.09; P = 0.01), serum total testosterone (β −0.11 ng/mL; 95% CI, −0.21, −0.02; P = 0.01), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (β −0.61 mg/L; 95% CI, −0.95, −0.26; P = 0.001), and plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (β −0.25 μmol/L; 95% CI, −0.38, −0.11; P < 0.001), and significantly increased plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels (β 106.07 mmol/L; 95% CI, 62.87, 149.28; P < 0.001) and total glutathione (GSH) (β 81.05 μmol/L; 95% CI, 36.08, 126.03; P = 0.001) compared with the placebo. Moreover, melatonin supplementation downregulated gene expression of interleukin-1 (IL-1) (P = 0.03) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) (P = 0.01) compared with the placebo. Conclusions: Overall, melatonin administration for 12 weeks to women with PCOS significantly reduced hirsutism, total testosterone, hs-CRP, and MDA, while increasing TAC and GSH levels. In addition, melatonin administration reduced gene expression of IL-1 and TNF-α. Clinical Trial Registration: www.irct.ir, identifier IRCT2017082733941N9, Available online at: https://www.irct.ir/trial/26051 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractObjective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the co-administration of carnitine and chromium on mental health, hormonal, inflammatory and genetic parameters in women with PCOS.Methods: This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted on 54 subjects, aged 18–40 years old. Subjects were randomly allocated to take either 1000 mg/d carnitine plus 200 µg/d chromium as chromium picolinate (n = 26) or placebo (n = 27) for 12 weeks.Results: Carnitine and chromium co-supplementation, compared with the placebo, significantly improved beck depression inventory (β − 0.84; 95% CI, −1.51, −0.17; p = 0.01), general health questionnaire scores (β − 1.13; 95% CI, −2.13, −0.14; p = 0.02) and depression anxiety and stress scale scores (β − 0.96; 95% CI, −0.78, −0.14; p = 0.02). Participants who received carnitine plus chromium supplements had significantly lower total testosterone (β − 0.15 ng/mL; 95% CI, −0.24, −0.06; p = 0.002), hirsutism (β − 0.48; 95% CI, −0.91, −0.06; p = 0.02), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (β − 1.02 mg/L; 95% CI, −1.79, −0.25; p = 0.01), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (β − 0.38 µmol/L; 95% CI, −0.56, −0.20; p < 0.001), and higher total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels (β 107.18 mmol/L; 95% CI, 44.24, 170.12; p = 0.001) compared with the placebo. Moreover, carnitine and chromium co-supplementation upregulated gene expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) (p = 0.02) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) (p = 0.02) compared with the placebo.Conclusion: Overall, the co-administration of carnitine and chromium for 12 weeks to women with PCOS had beneficial effects on mental health parameters, serum total testosterone, mF-G scores, hs-CRP, TAC and MDA levels, and gene expression of IL-6 and TNF-α. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The most prevalent endocrine condition affecting women of reproductive age is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which is linked to a variety of metabolic abnormalities. Although the pathogenesis of PCOS is not fully understood, it is known that oxidative stress, altered gut microbiome, and increased gonadotrophin-releasing hormone play a significant role. Gum arabic (GA) is an edible, dried, gummy exudate from the Acacia senegal tree, well-known for its prebiotic and antioxidant effects. The main objective of the study was to assess the changes in hormonal and metabolic profiles in PCOS patients after the ingestion of gum arabic. Method This was a clinical trial conducted on fifteen patients suffering from PCOS, with a mean age of 27.8 years (20-39 years). All patients experienced irregular cycles. Hormonal and metabolic markers (follicular stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), total testosterone (TT), fasting insulin, total cholesterol (TC), and glycosylated hemoglobin (HBA1c) were measured before and after the ingestion of gum arabic (30 g/day of GA dissolved in 250 ml water for eight weeks) on the second day of the menstrual cycle after granting ethical approval from the National Medicine and Poisons Board and from the participants of the study. Results The study demonstrated a significant decrease in the luteinizing hormone level, FSH/LH ratio, and cholesterol pre- and post-gum arabic ingestion (p-values 0.001, 0.013, and 0.007, respectively). Follicular stimulating hormone slightly reduced post-ingestion with no significant difference (p-value 0.414). No significant changes were seen in the testosterone, insulin, or HBA1c levels. Conclusion The study concluded that gum arabic ingestion for eight weeks decreases the luteinizing hormone and LH/FSH ratio and improves the metabolic profile by reducing the cholesterol level in PCOS patients., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright © 2023, Mohamed et al.)

Background: To the best of our knowledge, data on effects of probiotic administration on hormonal profiles, biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are scarce. This investigation was conducted to assess the effects of probiotic supplementation on hormonal profiles, biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in women with PCOS. Methods: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted on 60 women with PCOS, aged 18-40 years old. Subjects were randomly assigned into 2 groups to receive either probiotics or placebo (n = 30 each group) for 12 weeks. Metabolic profiles were quantified at baseline and after a 12-week intervention. Results: After the 12-week intervention, compared with placebo, probiotic supplementation significantly increased serum sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) (+25.9 ± 32.5 vs. +0.5 ± 15.6 nmol/L, P < 0.001) and plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (+8.8 ± 120.5 vs. -98.3 ± 246.4 mmol/L, P = 0.04), and significantly decreased serum total testosterone (-0.2 ± 0.7 vs. +0.2 ± 0.6 ng/mL, P = 0.03), modified Ferriman-Gallwey (mF-G) scores (-1.7 ± 1.5 vs. -0.2 ± 1.0, P < 0.001), serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (-1150.0 ± 1295.2 vs. +202.5 ± 1426.3 ng/mL, P < 0.001) and plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations (-0.2 ± 0.6 vs. +0.9 ± 1.3 µmol/L, P < 0.001). We did not observe any detrimental effect of probiotic supplementation on other metabolic profiles. Conclusion: Overall, probiotic supplementation of PCOS women for 12 weeks had beneficial effects on total testosterone, SHBG, mFG scores, hs-CRP, TAC and MDA levels but did not affect other metabolic profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to evaluate the effects of vitamin D supplementation on the metabolic profiles of insulin-resistant subjects with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted on 90 insulin-resistant women with PCOS. Participants were randomly assigned to three groups to intake either 4000 IU of vitamin D or 1000 IU of vitamin D or placebo (n = 30 each group) daily for 12 weeks. Vitamin D supplementation (4000 IU), compared with vitamin D (1000 IU) and placebo, led to significant reductions in total testosterone (-0.2 ± 0.2 vs. -0.1 ± 0.6 and +0.1 ± 0.2 ng/mL, respectively, p = 0.02), free androgen index (FAI) (-0.06 ± 0.12 vs. -0.02 ± 0.12 and +0.004 ± 0.04, respectively, p = 0.04), hirsutism (-1.1 ± 1.1 vs. -0.8 ± 1.2 and -0.1 ± 0.4, respectively, p = 0.001) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (-0.7 ± 1.4 vs. -0.5 ± 0.9 and +0.5 ± 2.4 mg/L, respectively, p = 0.01). In addition, we found significant elevations in mean change of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) (+19.1 ± 23.0 vs. +4.5 ± 11.0 and +0.7 ± 10.4 nmol/L, respectively, p < 0.001) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (+130 ± 144 vs. +33 ± 126 and -36 ± 104 mmol/L, respectively, p < 0.001) in the high-dose vitamin D group compared with low-dose vitamin D and placebo groups. Overall, high-dose vitamin D administration for 12 weeks to insulin-resistant women with PCOS had beneficial effects on total testosterone, SHBG, FAI, serum hs-CRP and plasma TAC levels compared with low-dose vitamin D and placebo groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An on-farm lactation trial of 4 months duration was conducted to study the effect of feeding strategic limiting nutrient supplements on milk production performance and hormonal profile of crossbred cows under field condition. Crossbred cows (36) were equally divided into 6 groups (control and experimental) based on lactation number, milk yield and stage of lactation. Strategic nutrient supplements (1, 2, 3, 4 and 5) were prepared with 65% of locally available bypass rich protein/amino acid supplements and 30% of the bypass fat and 5% of area specific mineral mixture (ASMM), respectively in all the supplements. Protected soybean extraction (0.9% formaldehyde treated; PS) was added as a source of bypass rich protein/amino acid supplement in supplement 1, PS and maize gluten meal (MGM) (60: 40) in supplement 2, cottonseed cake (CSC) and MGM (60:40) in supplement 3, PS, MGM and CSC (70:15:15) in supplement 4 and PS, MGM and CSC (40:40: 20) in supplement 5. The cows in control group were fed local mixed grass with supplements such as groundnut cake (GNC) and wheat bran as practiced by the farmers. Animals in experimental groups (G 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5) were fed local mixed grass with GNC, wheat bran and supplements 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, respectively @ 200g/day/animal by replacing the double the quantity of GNC in the experimental groups. There was an increase of 16, 14, 9, 10 and 2 % in 4% fat-corrected milk (FCM) yield in animals fed with limiting nutrient supplements 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, respectively when compared to control. Plasma hormonal profiles of growth hormone, insulin like growth factor 1, estradiol-17β, progesterone, triiodothyronine and thyroxine hormone were positively correlated (r=0.69; P<0.05) with milk yield in cows fed with strategic nutrient supplements (SNS). The study showed that feeding of supplements 1 and 2 in experimental groups-1 and 2 significantly (P<0.05) increased FCM yield and reduced the feed cost in medium yielding cows on local mixed grass based diets and increased the overall income of the farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to evaluate the effects of vitamin D supplementation on the metabolic profiles of insulin-resistant subjects with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted on 90 insulin-resistant women with PCOS. Participants were randomly assigned to three groups to intake either 4000 IU of vitamin D or 1000 IU of vitamin D or placebo (n = 30 each group) daily for 12 weeks. Vitamin D supplementation (4000 IU), compared with vitamin D (1000 IU) and placebo, led to significant reductions in total testosterone (−0.2 ± 0.2 vs. −0.1 ± 0.6 and +0.1 ± 0.2 ng/mL, respectively, p = 0.02), free androgen index (FAI) (−0.06 ± 0.12 vs. −0.02 ± 0.12 and +0.004 ± 0.04, respectively, p = 0.04), hirsutism (−1.1 ± 1.1 vs. −0.8 ± 1.2 and −0.1 ± 0.4, respectively, p = 0.001) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (−0.7 ± 1.4 vs. −0.5 ± 0.9 and +0.5 ± 2.4 mg/L, respectively, p = 0.01). In addition, we found significant elevations in mean change of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) (+19.1 ± 23.0 vs. +4.5 ± 11.0 and +0.7 ± 10.4 nmol/L, respectively, p < 0.001) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (+130 ± 144 vs. +33 ± 126 and −36 ± 104 mmol/L, respectively, p < 0.001) in the high-dose vitamin D group compared with low-dose vitamin D and placebo groups. Overall, high-dose vitamin D administration for 12 weeks to insulin-resistant women with PCOS had beneficial effects on total testosterone, SHBG, FAI, serum hs-CRP and plasma TAC levels compared with low-dose vitamin D and placebo groups.

The present study was conducted to find out the effect of supplementing defatted and detoxified neem ( Azadirachta indica ) seed cake as a partial replacement of soybean meal (SBM) in the diet of growing lambs. Male lambs of uniform body weight (8.31 ± 0.32 kg) were randomly allotted to three groups such as control (diet containing SBM) and two test diets with defatted and detoxified neem cake (DNC) at two levels (34 g and 68 g per kg of diet) replacing 25% and 50% nitrogen of SBM (DNC-25 and DNC-50). The respective diets (concentrate mixtures along with finger millet ( Eleucine corocana ) straw) were fed individually to lambs for a period of 140 days. The repeated measure ANOVA indicated that lambs on DNC treatments grew on par with control across all the periods and no interaction was observed. The difference in the dry matter intake was not found to be significant ( P > 0.05) in any of the three study groups. Similarly apparent nutrient digestibility, nitrogen balance, rumen and hormonal profiles did not differ ( P > 0.05) across the groups. Humoral and cell mediated immune response measured in terms of antibody titre and lymphocyte proliferation assay was also the same ( P > 0.05) across the groups. The relative gene expression of IGF-I and LHR transcripts in testes tissue was positively influenced ( P < 0.05) in DNC-50 treatment (3–4 fold increase) as compared to control and DNC-25. No histopathological changes were observed in vital organs of sheep fed DNC diets compared to control. It can be concluded that based on the studied parameters, DNC can replace 50% of SBM nitrogen with 3–4 fold increase in gene expression in testes tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to identify the changes in estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, luteotropic (LTH), follicle-stimulating (FSH), thyreotropic (TTH) hormones, prolactin, triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4) in autonomicdyshormonal myocardiodystrofy (ADM) of various ethiology. Hormone levels were measured in 52 menopausal women with pathological climax, women with uterine fibromyoma (n=45), premenstrual syndrome, PMS (n=36), and with post-castration syndrome (n=42). Mean estradiol level in ADM of various genesis was close to lower norm limit. Estradiol level disturbances were identified in more than 50% of all cases, typically manifesting in lower concentrations. High prevalence of normal estradiol levels in all four groups was an evidence of ADM pathogenesis complexity. Progesterone and testosterone levels were also not significant in ADM development. In uterine myoma and, to a lesser extent, in PMS, increased LTH levels were more prevalent. In PMS and, especially, in uterine myoma, FSH levels were usually elevated. Nevertheless, the role of these disturbances in ADM pathogenesis is still understudied. Mean prolactin level in myoma patients was higher than normal or that in ADM of another genesis. TTG, T3, and T4 levels in all four groups were normal, and couldn't play a significant role in ADM development.

Studies reporting the effects of oxytocin on the health of lactating animals are lacking and still no such data is available on Nili Ravi buffalo, the most prominent Asian buffalo breed. The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of oxytocin on physiological and metabolic parameters of lactating Nili Ravi buffaloes. Healthy lactating buffaloes ( n = 40) of recent calving were selected from a commercial dairy farm situated in the peri-urban area of district Faisalabad, Pakistan. These buffaloes were randomly allocated to two equal groups viz experimental and control, comprising 20 animals each. Twice-a-day (morning and evening) milking practice was followed. The experimental and control buffaloes were administered subcutaneously with 3 mL of oxytocin (10 IU/mL) and normal saline respectively, prior to each milking. Serum biochemical profile including glucose, total cholesterol (tChol), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG), total proteins (TP), C-reactive protein (CRP), liver enzymes aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and metabolic hormones triiodothyronine (T) and thyroxine (T) were studied. Results revealed significantly higher ( P ≤ 0.01) levels of glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-C, triglycerides, total proteins, and C-reactive protein in experimental (oxytocin-injected) lactating buffaloes compared to control group. Liver enzymes AST and ALT as well as serum T concentration was significantly higher ( P ≤ 0.01) in oxytocin-injected lactating buffaloes as compared to control animals. It was concluded that oxytocin had the key role in increasing the metabolic parameters and hormones, resulting in the optimization of production. But, at the same time, it may pose a threat to the animal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper concerns the applicability of the cross-correlation technique for the assessment of shifts of the circadian system (e.g., caused by night work). Melatonin and cortisol profiles of 52 healthy young men were ascertained during two 24 h phase assessment procedures. The first was performed after three consecutive day shifts, and the second was performed one week later on 24 men again after three day shifts and on 28 men after three night shifts, where adaptation to night work was accelerated by bright light. The cross-correlation technique that relies on the processing of all the measured data of a whole profile, as compared to the differences between temporal parameters determined with a conventional method, provided reliable estimates of the phase shifts. Its applicability is restricted to time series with similar profiles assessed at different times and to observation periods of a full diurnal cycle (in the case of substantial shifts) with equally distributed measures, but it is applicable to raw data and available in common statistical packages (e.g., SPSS, SAS, BMDP). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study investigated whether injections of ACTH for 48h, from the onset of the second standing estrus after weaning, had any impact on time of ovulation and patterns of progesterone, estradiol, luteinizing hormone (LH), and inhibin α. The studied sows (n =15) were fitted with jugular vein catheters and randomly divided into a control (C group) and an ACTH group. From the onset of standing estrus, the sows were injected (NaCl or synthetic ACTH, 5μg/kg) every 4h; blood samples were collected immediately before and 45min after each injection. Ovulation was monitored using ultrasonography. The ACTH-group sows stopped displaying signs of standing estrus sooner after ovulation in their second estrus, but no impact was found on time of ovulation. There were no significant differences in the intervals between LH peak, estradiol peak, and the onset of standing estrus between the C and ACTH groups. The cortisol and progesterone concentrations were significantly elevated (p <0.001) in samples taken 45min after ACTH injection. There were minor differences in estradiol and LH concentrations between the groups. Overall inhibin α concentrations were significantly higher during the treatment period in the ACTH than in the C group, but there were no significant differences between samples taken either 45min or 4h after injection. In conclusion, injections of synthetic ACTH during estrus in the sow apparently disturb the duration of signs of standing estrus and the hormonal pattern of progesterone, and possibly of inhibin α, estradiol and LH. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The onset of sexual cycle postpartum was described in the collared peccary (Tayassu tajacu). Serum progesterone and 17β-estradiol profiles, vaginal smears and external genitalia were analyzed in 20 animals housed with their piglets during the first postpartum month. The appearance of external genitalia showed no variation in any of the females: a shallow, reddish vulva, and vaginal mucus were constant features throughout the study. Based on hormonal profiles and vaginal smear cell patterns, 16 (80%) of the 20 peccaries showed signs of estrus and were considered cycling. The remaining four females (20%) did no show signs of estrus confirmed by low levels of progesterone (0.9±0.4ng/mL) during the first postpartum month. In the cycling peccaries, a serum 17β-estradiol peak (53.4±8.1pg/mL) was observed on Day 7±1 postpartum, along with a linear increase in progesterone concentration from 3 (4.3±2.6ng/mL) to 11 (30.8±4.9ng/mL) days after this estradiol peak. Proportions of the different cells of the vaginal epithelium also changed in these females: superficial plus intermediate cells amounted to 76% of the cell total between Days 6 and 9 postpartum, corresponding to the estradiol peak. Nine (56%) of the 16 cycling females mated, indicated by the presence of sperm cells in their vaginal smears, and 6 (67%) became pregnant, reaching term. Non-pregnant cycling females (n =10) showed a steady decrease in serum progesterone concentration from 11 to 23 days after the estradiol peak, when basal levels were attained and a new estradiol peak registered, indicating the resumption of cyclicity in these females. The time interval between the two estradiol peaks was 23.5±2.1 days in these females. In pregnant females, progesterone concentrations continued to rise to levels of 60ng/mL (n =6) 23 days after mating. These findings indicate that the lactating collared peccary female can become cycling and fertile during the early postpartum period, and that a predominance of superficial plus intermediate vaginal cells can be taken as the first sign of estrus. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The hormonal interactions of the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian–uterine axis are accountable for a normal reproduction in female pigs. It is of importance to have knowledge of estrous symptoms and hormonal profiles around ovulation. The introduction of the transrectal ultrasonography in sows has given us the possibility to study ovarian activity in conscious animals and relate the timing of estrus to ovulation. Combining this technique with measuring of several hormones like luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), inhibin, estradiol, progesterone, insulin-like growth hormone I (IGF-I), prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) metabolite, oxytocin, facilitate our knowledge about the sequence of ovarian events. Evidence suggests that activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis may hamper the normal gonadotropin secretion and in consequence, the ovarian function. The metabolic status during lactation, weaning of piglets and social stress might affect onset of ovarian activity and the related estrous behavior. The role of seminal plasma, artificial insemination and presence of the boar might also be included as factors regulating the temporal kinetics of ovulation, corpus luteum development, uterine function and steroid production in the ovary. Studies using a simulated stress by means of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) administration or food deprivation are tools in understanding how the ovary is susceptible to impairment. The intention of this paper is to review current knowledge concerning the endocrine aspects of normal and stress-influenced ovarian function in pigs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is a common and serious complication of human menopausal gonadotrophin/human chorionic gonadotrophin treatment. We evaluated the changes in the pituitary and ovarian hormone profiles and ultrasonographic follicular regression in 12 patients in whom human menopausal gonadotrophin was discontinued due to ‘imminent’ ovarian hyperstimulation. Following discontinuation, three distinct periods were ovserved: (i) days 1–2, the levels of oestradiol, testosterone and prolactin, and the total number of follicles continued to rise; (ii) days 3–6, the levels of oestradiol, testosterone and prolactin declined sharply and the total number of follicles was reduced significantly, while the large and medium sized follicles continued to increase. Levels of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone gradually declined to reach their lowest levels by days 5–6 and then increased. (iii) Thereafter the number of follicles and steroid output declined to early follicular phase levels. We conclude that discontinuation of human menopausal gonadotrophin and withholding human chorionic gonadotrophin in cycles with laboratory signs of ‘imminent’ ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, allows regression of the ovarian ultrasonographic finding and prevents the development of clinical symptoms. However, if rescue of the cycle is attempted, human chorionic gonadotrophin should be given during the first 4 days after discontinuation of stimulation. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]