Higher Growth Hormone Levels are Associated with Erectile Dysfunction in Male Patients With Acromegaly

Objective: To investigate in vivo correlates of erectile dysfunction (ED) in male patients with acromegaly.Methods: Fifty-one male patients with acromegaly were assessed by the International Index of Erectile Function-5 and Acromegaly Quality of Life (Acro-QoL) questionnaires. The measurement of serum nitric oxide (NO) were performed in patients and age-matched nonacromegalic controls.Results: Among 51 patients analyzed, 32 (62.7%) had ED. Patients with ED showed lower Acro-QoL scores regarding global (69.8 ± 17.7 versus 79.4 ± 11.2; P = .035) and personal relationship dimensions (59.6 ± 22.1 versus 76.8 ± 17.6; P = .012) than non-ED patients. ED patients were older (44.5 ± 11.2 years versus 33.2 ± 8.5 years; P = .04) and showed higher growth hormone (GH) levels (15.5 μg/L [interquartile range of 9.5 to 34.5 μg/L] versus 5.9 μg/L [interquartile range of 3.4 to 13.9 μg/L]; P = .001) compared to non-ED patients. The cutoff values for identifying ED were 7.9 μg/L for random GH and 5.3 μg/L for GH nadir after oral administration of 75 g of glucose. There was no significant difference in total testosterone levels between the two groups (6.36 ± 4.24 nmol/L versus 9.54 ± 5.50 nmol/L; P = .299). The NO levels in patients with acromegaly were significantly lower than those in nonacromegalic controls (8.77 ± 1.78 μmol/L versus 19.19 ± 5.02 μmol/L, respectively; P = .049). Furthermore, the NO levels were even lower in ED patients than those in non-ED patients (5.14 ± 0.98 μmol/L versus 12.09 ± 3.44 μmol/L; P = .027).Conclusion: Our study showed that ED is prevalent in male acromegalic patients and may be associated with systemic endothelial dysfunction induced by excessive GH. Further studies investigating the mechanism of GH and ED are required.Abbreviations: Acro-QoL = Acromegaly Quality of Life; ED = erectile dysfunction; FSH = follicle-stimulating hormone; GH = growth hormone; IGF-1 = insulin-like growth factor 1; IIEF-5 = international index of erection function-5; LH = luteinizing hormone; MRI = magnetic resonance imaging; NO = nitric oxide; OGTT = oral glucose tolerance test; QoL = quality of life; ROC = receiver operating characteristic     

Utilidad y seguridad de los ingresos directos a una unidad hospitalaria de agudos de un servicio de geriatría valorados por atención geriátrica en residencias

Background and objectiveMore than half of institutionalized older people need a emergency department visit annually, with high resources consumption and higher risk of adverse events, due to high complexity. Direct admission to Acute Geriatric Unit (AGU), after geriatric consultant and nursing home medical team assessment, could be a safety and effective alternative to emergency department (ED) admission.MethodsRetrospective observational study of AGU patients admitted by Nursing Home Geriatric Team between January, 1st and December, 31st, 2021. Planned admissions and SARS-CoV-2 positive patients were excluded. Medical (sociodemographic, clinical, functional and cognitive) records and outcomes data (inpatient mortality, hospital and ED lenght of stay, transfer to ED and delirium within 48 h after admission, hospital discharge location) were collected.ResultsTwo hundred and six patients directly admitted, 101 through ED (N 307). 62.5% with Barthel index <40, 65% with dementia, 56.4% with Charlson index ≥3. Inpatient mortality was 14.6% in direct admission, 20.8% in ED referral group, p = 0.14. Hospital lenght of stay was 9.61 ± 6.01 days in direct admission, 11.22 ± 5.36 days in ED group, p = 0.02. 27.7% of patients with delirium in direct admission and 36.6% in ED group; only one patient was transferred to ED, within 48 h after admission.ConclusionsDirect admission is a safety and effective alternative to ED referral in institutionalized older people after geriatric assessment, due to no increased mortality, shorter length of stay and hospital cost reduction.     

Ghrelin and peptide YY increase with weight loss during a 12-month intervention to reduce dietary energy density in obese women

Reducing dietary energy density (ED) promotes weight loss; however, underlying mechanisms are not well understood. The purpose of this study was to determine if low-ED diets facilitate weight loss through actions on ghrelin and peptide YY (PYY), independent of influences of psychosocial measures. Seventy-one obese women (BMI 30–40 kg/m²) ages 22–60 years received counseling to reduce ED. Fasting blood samples were analyzed for total ghrelin and total PYY by radioimmunoassay at months 0, 3, 6, and 12. Restraint, disinhibition, and hunger were assessed by the Eating Inventory. Body weight (−7.8 ± 0.5 kg), BMI (−2.9 ± 0.2 kg/m²), body fat (−3.0 ± 0.3%), and ED (−0.47 ± 0.05 kcal/g or −1.97 ± 0.21 kJ/g) decreased from months 0 to 6 (p < 0.05) after which no change occurred from months 6 to 12. Ghrelin increased in a curvilinear fashion (month 0: 973 ± 39, month 3: 1024 ± 37, month 6: 1109 ± 44, and month 12: 1063 ± 45 pg/ml, p < 0.001) and PYY increased linearly (month 0: 74.2 ± 3.1, month 3: 76.4 ± 3.2, month 6: 77.2 ± 3.0, month 12: 82.8 ± 3.2 pg/ml, p < 0.001). ED, body weight, and hunger predicted ghrelin, with ED being the strongest predictor (ghrelin = 2674.8 + 291.6 × ED − 19.2 × BW − 15 × H; p < 0.05). There was a trend toward a significant association between ED and PYY (PYY = 115.0 − 43.1 × ED; p = 0.05). Reductions in ED may promote weight loss and weight loss maintenance by opposing increases in ghrelin and promoting increases in PYY.     

Comparison of two methods of synchronization of estrus in brown brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira)

This study aimed to establish a protocol for synchronization of estrus in brown brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira). Two groups of hinds (n = 3) were submitted to two different protocols: Treatment 1 received an intravaginal progesterone (CIDR^®) device for 8 days, followed by 265 μg injection of cloprostenol at the time of removal; and Treatment 2 received two injections of 265 μg of cloprostenol 11 days apart. After 30 days, each group of three hinds received the other treatment. Treatment efficacy was evaluated by reproductive behavior, fecal progestin and estrogen concentration and the observation of CL by laparoscopy 6 days after the end of estrus. All the hinds (100%) had estrous behavior upon the completion of treatment, but a significant difference occurred between the time of onset, 70.5 ± 5.0 h for Treatment 1 and 52.3 ± 5.6 h for Treatment 2. The mean estrus duration time (34.7 ± 4.50 and 37.0 ± 8.11 h), ovulation rates (5/6 and 4/6), mean CL size (4.85 ± 0.74 and 3.21 ± 0.19 mm) and mean fecal progestin concentration at 6 days after the end of estrus (865.53 ± 76.59 and 1073.35 ± 106.82 ng/g feces) were not significantly different between treatments. There was no difference in fecal estrogen concentrations throughout the treatment and the greatest values of the estrogen:progestin ratio coincided with estrous behavior. Although fertility was not evaluated directly, both treatments were effective in synchronizing estrus in the species M. gouazoubira, with the formation of functional corpora lutea.     

Perfil clínico y mortalidad a 90 días de los pacientes centenarios atendidos en servicios de urgencias hospitalarios

ObjectivesTo determine the clinical profile and to develop a model to predict 90-day mortality in centenarian patients attended in emergency departments (ED).MethodologyThis was an observational, retrospective, multicentre cohort study including patients > 99 years attended in 5 ED in the Community of Madrid from January to December 2012. Demographic variables were recorded, as well as, comorbidities, cognitive, functional, social basal status, geriatric syndromes, acute episode, and hospital and social resources use, and 90-day mortality.ResultsThe study included 209 patients aged 101 years (SD 1.7) of whom 161 (77.0%) were female. Sixty four (32.5%) had severe comorbidity (Charlson index ≥ 3), 101 (49.8%) on multiple medication, 100 (52.6%) had cognitive impairment, 82 (42.3%) had severe functional dependence, 85 (40.7%) were institutionalised, and 190 (94.5%) had a geriatric syndrome. Dyspnoea (26.8%), followed by falls (12.4%) were the most common causes of attendance. One hundred and eighteen (56.5%) were admitted, and 58 out of 174 (33.3%) died in the first 90 days. The model to predict 90-day overall mortality included male sex (OR 2.42 95% CI = 0.97-6.04; P = .059), emergency care in the previous 3 months (OR 4.08 95% CI = 1.26-13.16; P = .019) and the hospitalization by index event (OR 8.63 95% CI = 3.25-22.9; P < .001) and this model had an area under ROC curve of 0.776 (95% CI = 0.70-0.85; P < .001).ConclusionsCentenarian patients attended in ED had a significant frailty and one in three cases died in the first 90 days after being attended, and this was associated with male sex, emergency care in the previous 3 months, and hospitalisation.     

Effect of polymer/nanosilver composite packaging on long-term microbiological status of Iranian saffron (Crocus sativus L.)

Crocus sativus L. (saffron) is a valuable plant which is native to Iran. Saffron is the dried stigmata of the flowering part of the plant that is usually contaminated with different bacteria and fungi through production process. Antimicrobial properties of silver nanoparticles are well recognized. To survey the effects of nanosilver packaging on microbiological status of spiked, saffron samples over a six month period were chosen. Saffron samples from five regions of Khorasan province were purchased and de novo frequencies of microbial contaminants were determined using standard procedures. Totally 35 g of saffron was spiked with known numbers of four bacterial and two fungal species and packaged into one gram packets. The packaging materials consisted of polyethylene polymers containing 0, 400, 800, 1200 or 4000 ppm nanosilver (as Ag). Total and differential numbers of spiked microorganisms in the packaged saffrons were enumerated at initial and at six time points of seven, 14, 28, 64, 90 and 180 days. Baird-Parker agar (BP agar), Kenner Fecal (KF), Salmonella–Shigella agar (SS agar), Violet Red Bile Glucose Agar (VRBGA), and Sabouraud Dextrose agar (SD agar) media were used for enumeration of the six spiked microorganisms including Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Salmonella Enteritidis, Enterobacter species and Escherichia coli, Fusarium oxysporum and Aspergillus flavus, respectively. Direct antibacterial activity of the composites was also determined. De novo frequencies of microorganisms in five saffron samples were at acceptable levels with dominance of fungi species. Nanosilver embedded packages accelerated the reduction in live microbial numbers in saffron samples and the efficacy was the best in packages containing 4000 ppm nanosilver particles. Nanosilver packaging can significantly reduce microbial burden of saffron.     

Survival and development of maize stem borer Chilo Partellus (Swinhoe) Lepidoptera: Crambidae on artificial diet

The Life cycle of maize stem borer, Chilo partellus (Swinhoe) was studied in in vitro conditions. Development of stem borer undergoes following stages like egg, larvae, pupa and moth. The egg incubation period ranged from 3 to 6 days, larval stage was observed in five instars. The mean value of I, II, III, IV and V instars showed 3.8 ± 0.16, 5.2 ± 0.02, 6.1 ± 0.06, 7.35 ± 1.5, and 10.12 ± 0.29 days, respectively and complete larvae period ranged from 42 to 49 days. Pupae stage was observed in 8–9 days. The pre-mating and mating period was found at 9.10 ± 1.20 and 5.14 ± 1.08 h while egg laying period in 4.1 ± 1.32 days respectively. Fecundity rate of stem borer is from 262 to 657 eggs. The life span of adult male (3-7) and female (3-8) days was observed with a mean of 6.30 ± 0.85 and 5.10 ± 0.69 days respectively. Life cycle of stem borer gets completed in 47 to 51 days. Development of quality insects in required quantities at different developmental stages and their timely supply plays an inevitable role particularly for insect-breeding resistant programs. Hence to meet these challenges we had tried to standardize an artificial diet with cost effective to rear Chilo partellus under in vitro conditions.     

Genetic variation in fertility of heat-stressed male mice

The damaging effects of heat stress on male fertility are evident in developing spermatozoa expressed in ejaculates 18–28 days post-stress in mice. Our objectives were to: (1) assess genetic variation in fertility of heat-stressed male mice and (2) determine response to selection for fertility after heat stress in male mice. Mature male mice were exposed to heat stress (35 ± 1 °C; n = 50) or control (21 ± 1 °C; n = 10) conditions for 24 h (day 0) and then hemicastrated for tissue collection. Two periods of mating tests followed, period 1 (from days 3 to 11) when no reductions in fertility were anticipated, and period 2 (days 18–26) when variation in fertility was expected. Period 2 pregnant females were sacrificed in late gestation. Males were indexed by multiplying overall mean ovulation rate by pre-implantation survival and number of pregnant period 2 mates. The five highest and five lowest ranking males were identified as heat stress resistant and susceptible, respectively. Resistant males were 61.2 units superior in the index, 57.5% greater in pregnancy rate, and 57.6 total fetuses greater than susceptible males. Progeny of resistant sires were superior to progeny of susceptible sires in estimated breeding value by 4.5 units for the index, 4.1% for pregnancy rate, and 5.2 fetuses (P < 0.0001). Heritability estimates for the index, pregnancy rate, and number of fetuses ranged from 0.09 to 0.13, suggesting male fertility following heat stress is heritable and responds to selection.     

Higher serum bone alkaline phosphatase as a predictor of mortality in male hemodialysis patients

AimsHigher serum alkaline phosphatase predicts lower mortality in chronic kidney disease and hemodialysis patients without liver dysfunction because it reflects high bone turnover. The purpose of our study was to compare the significance of serum bone alkaline phosphatase (BAP) with that of other bone markers in prediction of all-cause mortality(ACM) in male hemodialysis patients.Main methodsThe study was performed for 5 years. Serum BAP, intact osteocalcin (iOC), ß-CrossLaps (CTX), and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) were measured in 196 male hemodialysis patients without radiographic fracture. Their day-to-day variation during 5 consecutive days and diurnal variation were determined in 13 healthy males.Key findingsThe patients were divided into higher and lower groups based on serum levels of bone markers(mean ± SD: iPTH 218.6 ± 214.5 pg/ml, BAP 23.6 ± 12.2U/L, iOC 42.8 ± 45.2 ng/ml, CTX 1.71 ± 1.23 nmol/L BCE). In Kaplan–Meier analysis, the higher BAP group had significantly higher ACM than the lower BAP group (P = 0.013), whereas mortality did not differ between the higher and lower groups in other markers. Cox regression hazard analysis identified higher log BAP as a significant independent predictor [hazard ratio(HR) 8.32(95%CI:1.18–58.98)] for ACM after adjustment for various factors including pre-existing cardiovasucular disease, presence of DM. The significant association of mortality with serum BAP alone, in contrast with other markers including CTX [HR0.64 (95%CI:0.16–2.47)], iOC [HR0.97(95%CI:0.36–2.64)], iPTH [HR0.84(95%CI:0.44–1.60)],it may be due to the narrower day-to-day variation and the absence of diurnal variation in serum BAP compared to other markers.SignificanceHigher serum BAP may be a predictor of ACM in male hemodialysis patients.     

Pregnancy in the domestic cat after vaginal or transcervical insemination with fresh and frozen semen

The objective was to compare pregnancy rates in domestic cats using fresh semen for intravaginal artificial insemination (IVI), either at the time of hCG treatment for induction of ovulation, or 28 h later, and to compare pregnancy rates following IVI or transcervical intrauterine insemination (IUI) of frozen–thawed semen. Eighteen queens were inseminated during 39 estrus cycles. Fresh semen with 13.5 ± 5.4 × 10⁶ sperm (range, 6.8–22 × 10⁶) collected by electroejaculation from four male cats was used in Experiment 1, and cryopreserved semen (20 × 10⁶ sperm, with 70 ± 5% post-thaw motility) from one male cat was used in Experiment 2. Serum concentrations of estradiol-17β and progesterone were determined in most queens on the day of AI and again 30–40 days later. Treatment with 100 IU of hCG 3 days after the onset of estrus induced ovulation in 95% of treated queens. Pregnancy rates to IVI with fresh semen at the time of hCG administration versus 28 h later were not different (P = 0.58); overall 33% (5/15) of the queens became pregnant. For frozen–thawed semen, AI was consistently done 28 h after hCG administration; IUI and IVI resulted in pregnancy rates of 41.7% (5/12), whereas no queen (0/12) became pregnant by IVI (P = 0.0083). In conclusion, an acceptable pregnancy rate was obtained with frozen–thawed semen in the domestic cat by non-surgical transcervical IUI; this method might also be useful in other small felids.     

Biology of Apanteles myeloenta (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a larval parasitoid of carob moth Ectomyelais ceratoniae (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)

The carob moth, Ectomyelois ceratoniae (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), is the most important pest of pomegranate orchards (in terms of economic damage) within Iran, and hence, several control procedures, including biological methods of control, have been attempted as a means of controlling populations of this insect. This research was carried out in order to study the biology of Apanteles myeloenta (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a larval parasitoid of the carob moth. Laboratory studies were conducted to determine larval developmental time, adult longevity, sex ratio, parasite progeny production, and host stage preference of A. myeloenta. At 25 ± 1 °C, immature developmental time (egg to pupa; mean ± SE) was 28.33 ± 0.85 days and 27.46 ± 0.37 days for male and females, respectively. Adult females survived on average 17.5 ± 0.14, 11.7 ± 0.22, 3.4 ± 0.18, and 2.8 ± 0.12 days at 25 C when provided with honey and water, honey only, water only or no food source, respectively. The sex ratio (females to males) of A. myeloenta was 1:3.5 from hosts parasitized in the first instar, 1:3 for second instars and 1:2 for third instar carob moth larvae. Female A. myeloenta typically preferred to parasitize second instar over third or first instar. The oviposition activity peaked on the 7th and 8th days following emergence, when provided with honey, and 10% sucrose solution, respectively.     

Impact of Ramadan Fasting on Thyroid Status and Quality of Life in Patients with Primary Hypothyroidism: a Prospective Cohort Study from karachi,pakistan

Objective: Ramadan is the ninth month in the lunar calendar, during which Muslims fast from predawn to sunset and major changes occur in their dietary, sleep, and physical activity patterns. Most patients with hypothyroidism are unable to comply with the proper timings of levothyroxine (LT4) administration. The objective of the study was to determine the change in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level and quality of life (QOL) before and after Ramadan in patients with primary hypothyroidism.Methods: This prospective cohort study included adult patients on stable doses of LT4 who fasted for at least 20 days during the month of Ramadan in the Islamic year 1437 Hijri (June/July 2016). Baseline characteristics and TSH levels were recorded on all consenting patients within 6 weeks prior to Ramadan. Post-Ramadan TSH was tested within 1 to 2 weeks after Eid-ul-Fitr.Results: During the study period, 64 patients with hypothyroidism were enrolled, of which 58 were female. The mean age of participants was 44.2 ± 13.2 years. Average daily dose of LT4 was 95.3 ± 35.4 μg. On average, patients fasted for 26.5 days and missed a dose of LT4 on 1.27 days. Mean TSH pre-Ramadan was 2.37 ± 1.35 mIU/L, and post-Ramadan, it was 4.69 ± 3.87 mIU/L. Mean difference between TSH pre- and post-Ramadan was 2.32 ± 3.80 mIU/L (P<.001). However, the difference in TSH was not significantly different between those who were compliant with meals and LT4 interval versus those who were not (compliant, 2.04 mIU/L; noncompliant, 3.15 mIU/L; P = .30). Overall, an increase in QOL scores in the domains of physical health, psychological health, and social relationships was observed after Ramadan.Conclusion: We observed statistically significant changes in TSH concentrations after the month of Ramadan in hypothyroid patients who fasted. The change in TSH was not affected by timing of LT4 intake and interval from meal.Abbreviations: AKUH = Aga Khan University Hospital; LT4 = levothyroxine; QOL = quality of life; TSH = thyroid-stimulating hormone     

Effect of sucrose on dynamic mechanical characteristics of maize and potato starch films

The dynamic mechanical properties of prepared maize and potato starch films were evaluated for mixtures containing 0%, 10% and 15% (w/w) of sucrose at temperatures ranging from 40.0 to 140.0 °C. The spectra of storage modulus (G′), loss modulus (G″), and loss factor (tan δ) of starch films were acquired. Remarkable reduction in the glass transition temperature of maize and potato starch films was observed with the increasing sucrose content. The spectra of storage modulus (G′), loss modulus (G″), and loss factor (tan δ) were measured for the second and third time after two and seven days, respectively. The peaks of loss factor (tan δ) appeared at 59.81 ± 1.86 °C and 95.96 ± 1.67 °C after two-day-storage, but only one peak appeared at 85.46 ± 5.50 °C after seven days. A shifting trend from higher to lower temperature for loss factor was observed after seven days.     

Effects of intermittent watering on water balance and feed intake in male Ethiopian Somali goats

The objective of this study was to investigate the regulation of water balance and dry matter (DM) intake of male Ethiopian Somali goats. Twenty-eight goats were grouped into four treatments; goats watered every day (W1), every 2nd day (W2), every 3rd day (W3) and every 4th day (W4) for a total period of 72 days. Plasma sodium and potassium were analyzed by flame photometry, plasma osmolality by freezing point depression, plasma protein concentration by TS refractometry, and the plasma vasopressin concentration by radioimmunoassay. Goats were fed grass hay ad libitum and were given 200 g of concentrates daily. The calculated daily water intake (ml/kg BW^0.75) of W1, W2, W3 and W4 was 128 ± 4, 86 ± 4, 88 ± 4 and 78 ± 4, respectively, (P < 0.001, W1 versus the other groups). Calculated total concentrates intake did not change, whereas Group W2 and W4 consumed less hay on days of water deprivation (W1 versus W2, P < 0.01; W1 versus W4, P < 0.001). Plasma sodium concentration of W1 was 143 ± 1 mmol/l. Intermittent watering increased plasma sodium concentration from 140 or 141 ± 1 mmol/l to 145 or 146 ± 1 mmol/l every 2nd day in group W2. In W3, it increased from 139 ± 1 to 146 ± 1 mmol/l and in W4 from 137 ± 1 to 149 ± 1 mmol/l (P < 0.001 for all) on days after watering compared to last day of water deprivation, respectively. Corresponding changes were observed in plasma osmolality. Total plasma protein concentration increased only in W3 from 65 ± 1 to 67 ± 1 mmol/l on day 3 (P < 0.01) and in W4 from 65 ± 1 to 67 and 68 ± 1 mmol/l on days 3 and 4, respectively (P < 0.05). The plasma vasopressin concentration of W1 was close to 0.80 ± 0.28 pmol/l on all days, but it increased on dehydration days in W2 (P < 0.05). In W3, the vasopressin concentration increased from 0.95 or 1.19 pmol/l the day after watering to 3.11 ± 0.28 pmol/l on day 3 (P < 0.01). In W4, it was 0.82 ± 0.31 pmol/l the day after watering and reached 6.06 ± 0.31 pmol/l on day 4 (P < 0.001). We conclude that male Ethiopian Somali goats can be watered once every 3rd days, and that longer interval is not recommended because it demands marked mobilization of water saving mechanisms and causes decreased DM intake.     

Serum progesterone concentrations,follicular development and time of ovulation using a new progesterone releasing device (DICO®) in sheep

Four experiments were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of a new controlled drug releasing device containing 0.3 g progesterone (DICO^®) on ovarian control in sheep. In experiment 1, serum progesterone concentrations induced by a 14 days treatment of DICO^® (n = 9) and CIDR-G^® (n = 9) were compared in ovariectomized ewes. Both devices induced similar responses and no differences were recorded. In experiment 2, the onset of oestrus and the time of ovulation obtained after 14 days treatment with DICO^® (n = 8) and CIDR-G^® (n = 7) were compared in cyclic ewes. Both devices induced oestrus and ovulation in all of the ewes. The onset of oestrus (34.5 ± 2.8 and 30.0 ± 7.7 h), the time of ovulation (60.0 ± 9.1 and 54.9 ± 6.4 h), the ovulation rate (1.3 ± 0.5 and 1.4 ± 0.5), the follicular diameter at ovulation (7.0 ± 0.8 and 7.3 ± 1.1 mm), and the lifespan of the ovulatory follicles (8.6 ± 2.2 and 10.0 ± 2.9 days) were similar for the DICO^® and CIDR-G^® devices, respectively. In Experiment 3, the re-utilization of DICO^® devices inserted for 6 days (i.e. short-term protocol) was evaluated in ovariectomized ewes. The females received a re-used (previously used for 6 days; n = 11) or a new DICO^® (n = 11) for a period of 6 days. The re-used DICO^® devices induced a lower serum progesterone concentration than the new devices (P < 0.05). However, the re-used DICO^® device maintained serum progesterone concentrations above 7.1 nmol/L (i.e. >2 ng/ml) throughout treatment. In Experiment 4, the administration of eCG treatment at DICO^® withdrawal was evaluated in cyclic ewes. The short-term protocol using DICO^® devices for 6 days was applied with (n = 8) or without (n = 7) 300 IU eCG at the time of device withdrawal. The administration of eCG advanced ovarian follicular development, synchronizing the onset of oestrus at 36 h and the time of ovulation at 60 h from device withdrawal. In conclusion, data from these experiments show the use of DICO^® or CIDR-G^® devices containing 0.3 g of progesterone to have a similar efficiency in controlling serum progesterone concentrations, follicular development and the time of ovulation in sheep. The re-use of the devices, associated with the short-term protocol for 6 days is possible, although further studies on induced fertility rates are warranted.     

Elevated plasma levels of soluble (pro)renin receptor in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: Association with polysomnographic parameters

(Pro)renin receptor ((P)RR) is a specific receptor for both renin and its precursor prorenin. (P)RR was shown to be involved in pathophysiology of cardiovascular and renal diseases. Soluble (pro)renin receptor (s(P)RR), which is generated by furin from full length (P)RR, is present in blood. The aim of the present study is to clarify the association of plasma s(P)RR levels and the severity of OSAS. Plasma levels of s(P)RR were measured by ELISA in 58 male patients diagnosed as OSAS based on polysomnography, and 14 age-matched male control subjects. Blood samples were obtained at 6:00 a.m. just after overnight polysomnography. Plasma s(P)RR levels were significantly higher in patients with OSAS (9.0 ± 2.0 ng/mL, mean ± SD) than in control subjects (7.4 ± 1.5 ng/mL) (P = 0.0026). Plasma s(P)RR levels showed a significant negative correlation with % stage rapid eye movement (REM) sleep (r = −0.377, p < 0.005), and significant positive correlations with % stage 1 (r = 0.374, p < 0.005), arousal index (r = 0.341, p < 0.01), apnea hypopnea index (AHI) (r = 0.352, p < 0.01) and desaturation index (r = 0.302, p < 0. 05). In 12 OSAS patients with AHI ≥20, plasma levels of s(P)RR were studied after 3-month treatment with nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP). Plasma s(P)RR levels were significantly decreased after the nCPAP treatment (p = 0.0016). The present study has shown for the first time elevated plasma s(P)RR levels in patients with OSAS. Plasma s(P)RR levels were associated with the severity of OSAS. Soluble (P)RR may serve as a plasma marker reflecting the severity of OSAS.     

The effect of diet on longevity,fecundity, and the sex ratio of Clitostethus arcuatus (Rossi) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)

Clitostethus arcuatus is a major, cosmopolitan predator of some Aleyrodidae. Field collected adult beetles were reared in the laboratory on different diets: Siphoninus phillyreae eggs, Trialeurodes vaporariorum eggs, Sitotroga cerealella eggs, or an artificial diet consisting of honey, yeast, and pollen. All experiments were conducted at 25 ± 2 °C, 65 ± 5% RH and a photoperiod of 16:8 (L:D) h. Female and male C. arcuatus consumed a mean (± SE) of 61 ± 0.6 and 27 ± 0.9 T. vaporariorum eggs d^? 1, respectively, and a mean of 56 ± 2.2 and 29 ± 1.1 S. phillyreae eggs d^? 1, respectively. Significant differences were noted between sexes and between hosts consumed by female C. arcuatus. No feeding occurred on S. cerealella eggs. Although there was a significant difference between rates of oviposition due to diet, fertility rates on different diets did not show significant differences. The sex ratio of C. arcuatus (female:male) was 51.4:48.6, 55.2:44.8, and 54.6:45:4 when adults fed on T. vaporariorum, S. phillyreae, and artificial diet, respectively. These differences were not significantly different. Average longevity (± SE) was 66.4 ± 2.6, 54.9 ± 2.5; 77.3 ± 6.9, 67.5 ± 7.2; and 86.4 ± 4.5 70.3 ± 3.6 days for female and male C. arctuatus, respectively, on T. vaporariorum, S. phillyreae and artificial diet, respectively, with significant differences between sexes and diets. Although developmental duration on T. vaporariorum was longer than ash whitefly, this difference was not significant (mean 27.68 ± 0.31 and 25.09 ± 0.21 days for predators reared on T. vaporariorum and S. phillyreae, respectively). Given its longevity and fecundity on T. vaporariorum, C. arcuatus may be a good choice for mass release on glasshouse crops infected by greenhouse whitefly.     

Postpartum ovarian activity and uterine involution in non-seasonal Shiba goats,with or without nursing

Postpartum ovarian activity, uterine involution, and the relationship with hormonal profiles were studied in non-seasonal Shiba goats, with or without nursing of their kids. After parturition, does were allocated to one of two groups, with either weaning on the day of parturition (n = 3; non-nursing group) or weaning at 7–10 weeks after parturition (n = 4; nursing group). Blood sampling (starting 7 days prior to expected day of parturition) and transrectal ultrasound evaluations (starting 2 days after parturition) were conducted every other day or daily to monitor the follicular dynamics, uterus size, and the levels of plasma progesterone, blood glucose, and insulin concentration until at 3 weeks following the first postpartum ovulation. In the nursing group, blood samples were also collected every 10 min for an 8 h period on the day before weaning, 2 and 6 days after weaning, for the analysis of the pulsatile patterns of LH release. In all animals, the blood glucose concentrations increased transiently on the day before parturition and were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than those on the day of parturition (mean of 144 ± 48.8 mg/dl vs 63 ± 11.2 mg/dl). In the non-nursing group, the first postpartum ovulation was observed 9.3 ± 3.2 days after parturition, while in the nursing group, no ovulation occurred before weaning in any of the goats. Here ovulation was observed 18.8 ± 5.0 days after weaning, which was significantly (p < 0.05) later than in the non-nursing group. After first ovulation, all animals in both groups showed early luteal regression. No significant difference in the time required for the completion of uterine involution was recorded between the non-nursing and nursing groups (18.3 ± 4.2 days vs 19.3 ± 3.6 days, respectively), nor in the plasma LH pulse frequency obtained before (1.3 ± 0.5 pulses/8 h), 2 (1.3 ± 1.0 pulses/8 h) and 6 days (2.0 ± 0.8 pulses/8 h) after parturition, in the nursing group. It can be concluded that no ovulation occurs during nursing postpartum, suggesting that nursing is a determinant of the resumption of ovulation in these non-seasonal goats. Ultrasonic observations of the ovary suggest that uterine involution was not influenced by nursing or suckling.     

Levothyroxine Replacement In Obese Hypothyroid Females After Total Thyroidectomy

Objective: Levothyroxine (LT4) replacement in hypothyroid obese patients is poorly understood. We assessed whether the LT4 regimen required to achieve euthyroidism differs between nonobese and obese hypothyroid females.Methods: We retrospectively identified nonobese and obese females who received LT4 starting with a standard dose of 1.6 μg/kg after total thyroidectomy for preoperative diagnosis of benign goiter. We examined the association between LT4 dosage required to achieve euthyroid state (thyroid-stimulating hormone [TSH] 0.4–2.5 mIU/L) and patient characteristics using linear regression models with and without adjustment for age, ethnicity, medication use, and postoperative hypoparathyroidism.Results: We identified 32 females (15 nonobese/17 obese) who achieved euthyroid state. Obese patients weighed more (104.1 ± 22.5 vs. 64.9 ± 10.0 kg, P<.0001) and required a higher final LT4 than nonobese (146 ± 38 vs. 102 ± 12 μg, P = .0002) but LT4 requirements per kg total body weight (TBW) were similar (1.60 ± 0.29 vs. 1.42 ± 0.38 μg/kg, P = .15). LT4 dose per kg ideal body weight (IBW) was higher in obese than in nonobese females (2.62 ± 0.67 vs. 1.88 ± 0.28 μg/kg, P = .0004) and this difference persisted after adjustments (P<.05). During LT4 titration, 47% and 20% of obese and nonobese patients had subnormal TSH episodes, respectively (P = .11). After taking LT4 compliance, malabsorption, and competing medication use into consideration, we found marked LT4 dose variability in obese patients. Patients who needed a mean daily LT4 dose ≤150 mg (124 ± 16 μg/day) compared with >150 μg (198 ± 4 μg/day) demonstrated lower LT4 per TBW (1.25 ± 0.18 vs. 1.84 ± 0.43 μg/kg, P = .03) and IBW (2.28 ± 0.47 vs. 3.44 ± 0.18 μg/kg, P<.0001), respectively.Conclusion: The standard approach to LT4 replacement in obese and nonobese females after thyroidectomy is imprecise. Mean daily LT4 doses in obese and nonobese patients were similar if expressed per kg TBW, though there was variability in the final LT4 among obese patients. We suggest initiating LT4 at a dose lower than that routinely recommended in obese females.Abbreviations:AACE = American Association of Clinical EndocrinologistsATA = American Thyroid AssociationBMI = body mass indexIBW = ideal body weightLT4 = levothyroxineTBW = total body weightTSH = thyroid-stimulating hormone     

Serum sialic acid changes in non-insulin-dependant diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) patients following bitter melon (Momordica charantia) and rosiglitazone (Avandia) treatment

Diabetes mellitus is associated with an increase in sialic acid concentration along with other complications. Sialic acid changes in NIDDM patients were investigated following bitter melon (55 ml/24 h) and rosiglitazone (4 mg/24 h) treatment. A total of 25 patients of both sexes were used in each experimental group. Patients following bitter melon treatment showed no significant difference of serum sialic acid (57.95±4.90 vs. 57.6±5.56 mg/dl, p=0.17) and serum glucose concentration (93.7±9.63 vs. 88.35±6.31 mg/dl, p=0.78) as compared to control subjects. However, the concentration of total cholesterol was significantly high in these patients as compared to control subjects (192±14.23 vs. 170.6±15.1 mg/dl, p<0.03) but within normal range (160–200 mg/dl), suggesting the significant hypoglycemic and lipid-lowering properties of bitter melon. The patients following rosiglitazone treatment showed a significant increase of serum sialic acid concentration (60.2±5.80 vs. 57.6±5.56 mg/dl, p=0.01) along with glucose (112±6.2 vs. 88.35±6.31 mg/dl, p<0.04) and total cholesterol concentration (216.45±20.2 vs. 170.6±15.1 mg/dl, p<0.01) as compared to control subjects. In addition six of the patients had retinopathy, two of whom were suffering also from myocardial infarction and they still had a higher serum sialic acid (61.05±1.20 mg/dl), glucose (187±2.11 mg/dl), total cholesterol (239.10±5.04 mg/dl) and triglyceride (183±4.14 mg/dl) concentration, indicating a poor response of these patients to rosiglitazone. Comparison of serum sialic acid concentration of patients, following bitter melon and rosiglitazone treatment revealed no significant difference but the study showed that bitter melon could be more effective in the management of diabetes and its related complications as compared to rosiglitazone.