Blood Hormone Research Articles

GABAergic input through GABAB receptors is necessary during a perinatal window to shape gene expression of factors critical to reproduction such as Kiss1.

Lack of GABAB receptors in GABAB1 knockout mice decreases neonatal ARC kisspeptin 1 (Kiss1) expression in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus (ARC) in females, which show impaired reproduction as adults. Our aim was to selectively impair GABAB signaling during a short postnatal period to evaluate its impact on the reproductive system. Neonatal male and female mice were injected with the GABAB antagonist CGP 55845 (CGP, 1 mg/kg body wt sc) or saline from postnatal day 2 (PND2) to PND6, three times per day (8 AM, 1 PM, and 6 PM). One group was killed on PND6 for collection of blood samples (hormones by radioimmunoassay), brains for gene expression in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus-periventricular nucleus continuum (AVPV/PeN), and ARC micropunches [quantitative PCR (qPCR)] and gonads for qPCR, hormone contents, and histology. A second group of mice was injected with CGP (1 mg/kg body wt sc) or saline from PND2 to PND6, three times per day (8 AM, 1 PM, and 6 PM), and left to grow to adulthood. We measured body weight during development and parameters of sexual differentiation, puberty onset, and estrous cycles. Adult mice were killed, and trunk blood (hormones), brains for qPCR, and gonads for qPCR and hormone contents were obtained. Our most important findings on PND6 include the CGP-induced decrease in ARC Kiss1 and increase in neurokinin B (Tac2) in both sexes; the decrease in AVPV/PeN tyrosine hydroxylase (Th) only in females; the increase in gonad estradiol content in both sexes; and the increase in primordial follicles and decrease in primary and secondary follicles. Neonatally CGP-treated adults showed decreased ARC Kiss1 and ARC gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Gnrh1) and increased ARC glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 (Gad1) only in males; increased ARC GABAB receptor subunit 1 (Gabbr1) in both sexes; and decreased AVPV/PeN Th only in females. We demonstrate that ARC Kiss1 expression is chronically downregulated in males and that the normal sex difference in AVPV/PeN Th expression is abolished. In conclusion, neonatal GABAergic input through GABAB receptors shapes gene expression of factors critical to reproduction.

Evaluation inflammatory markers of hemogram parameters in primary ovarian insufficiency.

Objective:In most of primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) cases, etiologic factors have not been fully elucidated. Recent studies have revealed that inflammatory agents play an important role in the etiopathogenesis of POI. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the role of inflammatory markers of hemogram parameters in POI.Materials and Methods:The study compared 47 healthy women and 47 women diagnosed as having POI retrospectively by scanning electronic and written recording systems. Complete blood counts, day-3 hormone profiles levels of all subjects were analyzed. The neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), red cell distribution width (RDW), platelet ratio (RPR), platelet lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and mean platelet volume (MPV) mean platelet lymphocyte ratio (MPLR) were calculated from the complete blood count parameters.Results:White blood cell and MPV values, platelet, and lymphocyte counts were significantly higher in the POI patients (p<0.001, p=0.042, p=0.038, p=0.049, respectively), RPR was significantly lower than the control group (p=0.011), but there were no significant differences in hemoglobin, RDW, NLR, PLR, and MPLR (p=0.454, p=0.057, p=0.635, p=0.780, p=0.126, respectively). The neutrophil count of the study group was higher than in the control group (p=0.057). Bivariate correlation analyses showed no correlations between blood parameters and hormone levels. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for RPR in POI was 0.652, with a threshold value 0.053, sensitivity=63% and specificity=63.Conclusion:Inflammatory markers of hemogram detected higher in patients with POI then control subjects.

Investigation of ADAMTS-1, BAX and IL-10 Expressions in Granulosa Cells Determinanting Fertilization Success in IVF

Granulosa cells (GCs) are essential components of follicles and play a role in regulating follicle development. The aim of this study was to investigate certain cellular components involved in the proliferation, differentiation and functional characteristics of granulosa cells in the success of fertilization of human oocytes during invitro fertilization (IVF) via immunohistochemical techniques. In this study, 30 patients who were diagnosed as primary or secondary infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome in the IVF center of Memorial Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology were included. The amount of Anti Müllerian Hormone (AMH) in blood and granulosa cell diameter and cell core diameter were measured in 20 cells collected from each patient. In addition, degeneration scoring and BAX, ADAMTS-1, IL-10 expressions in granulosa cells were evaluated (p <0.01). It was thought that apoptosis induced by human GCs might be an indicator of egg quality. Moderate expression of ADAMTS-1 was thought to be related to failure of ovulation, deterioration of oocyte quality and decreased fertilization rate. This decrease in AMH levels may be associated with defects in granulosa cells. Therefore, significantly lower AMH secretion and increase in IL10 expression levels in healthy people can be explained by the increase of granulocyte cells.

Screening for congenital adrenal hyperplasia in infertile women with high androgenemia during childbearing age

Objective The causes of infertility are complex and diverse, and congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is often overlooked in screening for infertility. In this study, CAH was diagnosed in women with high androgenemia who were infertile during childbearing age, and the diagnosis and treatment of CAH in pregnant women was investigated. Methods This study included 20 women with high androgenemia and infertility in the childbearing age who were referred to the Endocrinology Department after visiting the Reproductive Medicine Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from December 2016 to April 2019. All patients were tested for blood hormone levels, glucose, and lipid metabolism, underwent ACTH stimulation test, uterus and bilateral ovarian B-ultrasound, adrenal computed cosmography (CT), etc. Full-length sequencing of the CYP21A2 gene was performed as necessary. Results Among the 20 women with hyperandrogenism who were infertile, there were 7 cases of CAH (35.0%), including 6 cases of 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD) confirmed by gene sequencing; 10 cases of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS); 3 cases of idiopathic hyperandrogenemia (IHA). Sex hormone results showed that testosterone in CAH group was significantly higher than that in PCOS group and IHA group [(4.4±2.0 vs 2.9±0.4, 2.8±0.8) nmol/L, P 0.05]. However, the 17-OHP (60 min) in CAH group was significantly higher than that in PCOS group and IHA group [(200.1±80.8 vs 3.1±1.2, 3.4±0.2) ng/ml, P<0.05]. Glucocorticoid therapy was given to patients with CAH, and 4 patients had successful pregnancy. No clinical symptoms of CAH and external genital malformations were found in the offspring of patients who had been delivered. Conclusions The ACTH stimulation test is of great significance in the differential diagnosis of CAH, especially 21-OHD. Genetic testing helps to identify the type of mutation in CAH patients. On the one hand, glucocorticoid therapy may improve the pregnancy rate of CAH patients, on the other hand, it can help to reduce the status of maternal high androgen and avoid masculine manifestation of female offspring. Key words: Infertility; Hyperandrogenism; Congenital adrenal hyperplasia; ACTH stimulation test

Рівень адренокортикотропного гормону периферичної крові як предиктор локалізації та поширення нейроендокринних пухлин грудної клітки, що супроводжуються ектопічним синдромом Кушинга

Попри стрімкий розвиток і вдосконалення діагностичних можливостей в онкології та ендокринології діагностика синдрому неопластичного гіперкортицизму залишається однією з найскладніших та остаточно не вирішених проблем сучасної медицини. Мета — виявити можливість залежності рівня адренокортикотропного гормону периферичної крові від локалізації та поширення нейроендокринних пухлин грудної клітки, що супроводжуються ектопічним синдромом Кушинга на ранньому, пре-візуальному етапі діагностики. Матеріал і методи. Проаналізовано дані літератури, які містили інформацію про зміну рівня адренокортикотропного гормону та ступінь поширення пухлинного процесу 71 хворого із не-йроендокринними пухлинами грудної клітки. Відповідно до локалізації пухлин хворих розподілили на 3 клінічні групи. Перша група (бронхолегеневий карциноїд) включала 30 пацієнтів, із них 23 пацієнти з обмеженим пухлинним процесом; друга група (дрібноклітинний рак легень) — 4 пацієнти, усі з поширеним процесом; третя група (карциноїд/карцинома тимуса) — 37 пацієнтів, із них з обмеженим процесом 17 хворих. Показник рівня адренокортикотропного гормону в периферичній крові пацієнтів представлений у вигляді співвідношення: рівень адренокортикотропного гормону пацієнта / значення верхньої межі норми. Результати. Найвище значення рівня адренокортикотропного гормону було в групі дрібноклітинного раку легень — підвищення в 11,2±9,89 раза, натомість у групі тимом — у 7,4±7,7 раза (р&lt;0,05), причому в підгрупі тимом обмеженої стадії рівень був дещо вищим, ніж за поширеної стадії — підвищення у 8,6±8,43 раза та 6,38±7,08 раза відповідно (р&lt;0,05). У групі бронхолегеневого карциноїду — середнє підвищення рівня адренокортикотропного гормону в 3,28±2,54 раза в загальній групі, у підгрупі з обмеженим пухлинним процесом середній рівень адренокортикотропного гормону був вищим, ніж у групі з поширеним процесом — підвищення в 3,45±2,78 раза та 2,72±1,53 раза відповідно (р&lt;0,05). Висновок. Отримані дані дають можливість модифікації діагностичного алгоритму в кожному конкретному клінічному випадку в пацієнтів із даною патологією, що дозволяє зробити економічно та радіологічно обґрунтований вибір подальшого діагностичного етапу.

Endothelium as a Therapeutic Target in Diabetes Mellitus: From Basic Mechanisms to Clinical Practice.

Endothelium plays an essential role in human homeostasis by regulating arterial blood pressure, distributing nutrients and hormones as well as providing a smooth surface that modulates coagulation, fibrinolysis and inflammation. Endothelial dysfunction is present in Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and contributes to the development and progression of macrovascular disease, while it is also associated with most of the microvascular complications such as diabetic retinopathy, nephropathy and neuropathy. Hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia and dyslipidemia are the main factors involved in the pathogenesis of endothelial dysfunction. Regarding antidiabetic medication, metformin, gliclazide, pioglitazone, exenatide and dapagliflozin exert a beneficial effect on Endothelial Function (EF); glimepiride and glibenclamide, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors and liraglutide have a neutral effect, while studies examining the effect of insulin analogues, empagliflozin and canagliflozin on EF are limited. In terms of lipid-lowering medication, statins improve EF in subjects with DM, while data from short-term trials suggest that fenofibrate improves EF; ezetimibe also improves EF but further studies are required in people with DM. The effect of acetylsalicylic acid on EF is dose-dependent and lower doses improve EF while higher ones do not. Clopidogrel improves EF, but more studies in subjects with DM are required. Furthermore, angiotensin- converting-enzyme inhibitors /angiotensin II receptor blockers improve EF. Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors improve EF locally in the corpus cavernosum. Finally, cilostazol exerts favorable effect on EF, nevertheless, more data in people with DM are required.

Sex-specific brain erythropoietin regulation of mouse metabolism and hypothalamic inflammation.

The blood hormone erythropoietin (EPO), upon binding to its receptor (EpoR), modulates high-fat diet-induced (HFD-induced) obesity in mice, improves glucose tolerance, and prevents white adipose tissue inflammation. Transgenic mice with constitutive overexpression of human EPO solely in the brain (Tg21) were used to assess the neuroendocrine EPO effect without increasing the hematocrit. Male Tg21 mice resisted HFD-induced weight gain; showed lower serum adrenocorticotropic hormone, corticosterone, and C-reactive protein levels; and prevented myeloid cell recruitment to the hypothalamus compared with WT male mice. HFD-induced hypothalamic inflammation (HI) and microglial activation were higher in male mice, and Tg21 male mice exhibited a lower increase in HI than WT male mice. Physiological EPO function in the brain also showed sexual dimorphism in regulating HFD response. Female estrogen production blocked reduced weight gain and HI. Targeted deletion of EpoR gene expression in neuronal cells worsened HFD-induced glucose intolerance in both male and female mice but increased weight gain and HI in the hypothalamus in male mice only. Both male and female Tg21 mice kept on normal chow and HFD showed significantly improved glycemic control. Our data indicate that cerebral EPO regulates weight gain and HI in a sex-dependent response, distinct from EPO regulation of glycemic control, and independent of erythropoietic EPO response.

The Role of Transthyretin in Oligodendrocyte Development

Transthyretin (TTR) is a protein that binds and distributes thyroid hormones (THs) in blood and cerebrospinal fluid. Previously, two reports identified TTR null mice as hypothyroid in the central nervous system (CNS). This prompted our investigations into developmentally regulated TH-dependent processes in brains of wildtype and TTR null mice. Despite logical expectations of a hypomyelinating phenotype in the CNS of TTR null mice, we observed a hypermyelination phenotype, synchronous with an increase in the density of oligodendrocytes in the corpus callosum and anterior commissure of TTR null mice during postnatal development. Furthermore, absence of TTR enhanced proliferation and migration of OPCs with decreased apoptosis. Neural stem cells (NSCs) isolated from the subventricular zone of TTR null mice at P21 revealed that the absence of TTR promoted NSC differentiation toward a glial lineage. Importantly, we identified TTR synthesis in OPCs, suggestive of an alternate biological function in these cells that may extend beyond an extracellular TH-distributor protein. The hypermyelination mechanism may involve increased pAKT (involved in oligodendrocyte maturation) in TTR null mice. Elucidating the regulatory role of TTR in NSC and OPC biology could lead to potential therapeutic strategies for the treatment of acquired demyelinating diseases.

Change of Rheoreaction and Concentration of Thyroid Hormones in Blood of Juvenile Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss during Starvation

Rheoreaction and concentration of thyroid hormones in blood of juvenile rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss is studied during starvation (12 days). It is found that starvation predominantly stimulates downstream migration of fish and decreases the concentration of total triiodothyronine in the blood. The concentration of total triiodothyronine decreases to a lesser degree in fish moving predominantly upstream. The concentrations of free triiodothyronine and total thyroxine do not change during starvation. The level of total triiodothyronine in fish’s blood is an indicator of their migratory activity.

Effects of diet on body weight, body composition, metabolic status, and physical activity levels of adult female dogs after spay surgery.

Neutering is a risk factor for pet obesity, which reduces the quality and length of life. Dietary interventions may serve as preventive and therapeutic options for pet obesity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of specially formulated diets on body weight (BW), body composition, and blood hormones and metabolites of adult female dogs after spay surgery. All procedures were approved by the University of Illinois Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee prior to experimentation. Twenty-eight healthy adult intact female Beagles (3.02 ± 0.7 yr; 10.28 ± 0.8 kg; body condition score [BCS]: 4.98 ± 0.57) were used in a longitudinal study. Twenty-four dogs were spayed and randomly allotted to one of three experimental diets: 1) moderate-protein, moderate-fiber diet (control; COSP), 2) high-protein, high-fiber diet (HP-HF), or 3) high-protein, high-fiber diet plus omega-3 and medium-chain fatty acids (HP-HF-O). Four dogs were sham-operated and fed the control diet (COSH). Food intake, BW, BCS, blood hormones and metabolites, body composition (via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans), and voluntary physical activity (via Actical devices) were measured over time. After spay, dogs were fed to maintain BW for 12 wk (restricted phase), then allowed to overeat for 12 wk (ad libitum phase). Change from baseline data was analyzed for treatment, time, and treatment × time effects as well as treatment, feeding regimen, and treatment × feeding regimen effects. During the first 12 wk, HP-HF and HP-HF-O had lower (P < 0.01) blood cholesterol than COSH and COSP. During the second 12 wk, HP-HF and HP-HF-O ate more (P < 0.01) food (g/d) than COSH. BCS change for COSP was greater (P < 0.01) than COSH from week 21 to 24, but HP-HF and HP-HF-O were not different. When comparing data by feeding regimen, HP-HF and HP-HF-O had a greater reduction in serum cholesterol (P < 0.001) than COSH and COSP. During the second 12 wk, all spayed dogs consumed more (P < 0.01) food than COSH. However, COSH, HP-HF, and HP-HF-O had a lower (P < 0.001) increase in BCS than COSP. HP-HF-O and COSH had similar serum leptin during weeks 12 to 24. COSP had higher (P ≤ 0.01) serum C-reactive protein than HP-HF-O. Overall, body fat increase in COSP was greater (P < 0.05) than for COSH at week 24, while HP-HF and HP-HF-O were intermediate. Our results indicate that an HP-HF diet can limit weight gain and body fat increase and attenuate serum cholesterol, triglycerides, and leptin concentrations in dogs after spay surgery.

Effects of feeding hay and calf starter as a mixture or as separate components to Holstein calves on intake, growth, and blood metabolite and hormone concentrations

This study investigated how providing hay mixed with calf starter to dairy calves affected their solid feed intake, feed sorting, growth, and plasma metabolite and hormone concentrations. Forty Holstein heifer calves were fed a texturized calf starter (23.4% crude protein, 32.3% starch on a dry matter basis) and chopped Klein grass hay as separate components (CONT) or the same starter and hay mixed at a 90:10 ratio on an as-fed basis (MIX) ad libitum from the date transported to the research farm (4-7 d of life) to 90 d of life. Calves were provided milk replacer (28% crude protein, 15% fat) at up to 557 g/d before the study, 737 g/d from d 14 to 20, 1,105 g/d from d 21 to 41, 737 g/d from d 42 to 48, and 557 g/d from d 49 to 55 on a dry matter basis. calves were fully weaned on d 56. Feed sorting for the MIX calves was evaluated using the Penn State Particle Separator; the sorting index was calculated as the actual intake as a percentage of predicted intake, with values >100% indicating sorting for and values <100% indicating sorting against. Treatment did not affect solid feed intake, growth performance, or plasma metabolite or hormone concentration during the preweaning or weaning periods. However, calves in the MIX treatment had less neutral detergent fiber intake as a percentage of solid feed intake than CONT calves in the preweaning (23.3 vs. 37.0%) and weaning (23.5 vs. 25.8%) periods, although MIX calves sorted (107.2%) for long particles, which were primarily hay, during weaning. During the postweaning period, MIX calves had greater neutral detergent fiber intake as a percentage of solid feed intake compared with CONT calves (23.4 vs. 22.7%), although they sorted against long particles (84.4%), and decreased solid feed dry matter intake compared with CONT calves (3,292 vs. 3,536 g/d) and average daily gain (1.20 vs. 1.31 kg/d). Weaned calves in the MIX treatment also had lower plasma concentration of glucagon-like peptide 2 compared with CONT (0.46 vs. 0.77 ng/mg) but had higher plasma concentrations of ghrelin (0.05 vs. 0.03 ng/mg). These results suggest that feeding a mixture of texturized calf starter and chopped hay at the 90:10 ratio to postweaned calves may decrease solid feed intake and growth.

Prenatal organophosphate pesticide exposure and reproductive hormones in cord blood in Shandong, China.

Organophosphate pesticides (OPs) have been found to be associated with endocrine disorders, but limited research has been conducted to evaluate the relationship between maternal OP exposure and fetal reproductive hormone levels. In this study, we investigated the association between prenatal OP exposure and fetal reproductive hormones. A total of 306 healthy pregnant women were enrolled between September 2010 and February 2012. Pesticide exposure was assessed via the analysis of maternal urinary nonspecific metabolites of OPs (dialkylphosphate, DAP), and four reproductive hormones were measured in cord blood. Linear regression models and generalized linear models were used to estimate the associations between DAP metabolites and reproductive hormones, and further stratified by infant sex. We found that concentrations of diethylphosphate (DEP) (β=-0.03; 95% CI: -0.07, -0.00) were inversely associated with estradiol (E2). Dimethylphosphate (DMP) (β=-0.08; 95% CI: -0.13, -0.03), diethylthiophosphate (DETP) (β=-0.08; 95% CI: -0.14, -0.01), and DAPs (β=-0.10; 95% CI: -0.17, -0.03) were inversely associated with testosterone (T) levels. DMP was inversely associated with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels (β=-0.03; 95% CI: -0.05, -0.01). DMP (β=-0.06; 95% CI: -0.10, -0.01) and DETP (β=-0.07; 95% CI: -0.13, -0.01) showed inverse associations with the testosterone/estradiol (T/E2) ratio. Moreover, the magnitude of associations notably increased in higher quartiles of concentrations in a dose-response manner. After stratification by sex, these effects were mainly observed among female infants. Our findings suggest the potential impacts of prenatal OP exposure on fetal reproductive hormones, and that sex-related differences may exist.

Altrenogest affects expression of galectin-3 and fibroblast growth factor 9 in the reproductive tract of sows

A synthetic progestin altrenogest (ALT) is used to synchronize the estrus cycle of swine for fixed-time artificial insemination (AI) and has been shown to improve follicular development and reproductive performances in post-weaning sows. However, the effects of ALT treatment on reproductive tracts, including the ovaries, oviducts and uterus have not been yet clarified. In this study, we examined the expression of genes involved in endometrial responses in ALT-treated sows. ALT did not significantly alter luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol profiles in blood compared to untreated control. Quantitative RT-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis showed that the expression of genes encoding galectin-3 (LGALS3) and fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9) was upregulated in the reproductive tracts of ALT-treated sows, including the ovaries, oviducts and uteri. Moreover, ALT treatment induced the expression of FGF9 and galectin-3 proteins, and promoted their localization to the luminal epithelium of the oviducts and uterus. Our findings suggest that the enhancement of reproductive performance shown by ALT-treated sows is associated with the upregulation of galectin-3 and FGF9, which are essential for endometrial receptivity, successful implantation, and pregnancy.

Androgenetic alopecia: effects of oral finasteride on hormone profile, reproduction and sexual function.

Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA) is a common non-cicatricial alopecia. AGA treatment with finasteride was reported to have sexological side effects and its induced hormonal alterations could damage spermatogenesis. Thus, in patients affected by AGA undergoing oral therapy with Finasteride 1 mg/die, we aimed to evaluate the presence of modification in sperm parameters, hormone profile and sexual function. We retrospectively evaluated 55 male subjects aged 18-45 years with AGA who underwent systemic therapy with Finasteride 1 mg/die. Each subject underwent semen and blood hormone analysis, IIEF15 questionnaire administration at baseline (T0) at 6 (T6) and 12 (T12) months after the beginning of therapy and 1 year after treatment discontinuation (TD). At T6 we detected a statistically significant worsening of total sperm number (232.4 ± 160.3 vs. 133.2 ± 82.0; p = 0.01 vs. T0) and abnormal forms (79.8 ± 6.0 vs. 82.7 ± 5.7; p < 0.05 vs. T0). No difference was found for all sperm parameters at T12 and T24, except for the percentage of abnormal forms (79.8 ± 6.0 vs. 82.6 ± 4.8; p < 0.05 T24 vs. T0). Testosterone levels were increased at T0 vs. T6 (22.1 ± 7.1 vs. 28.0 ± 8.0 ng/mL; p < 0.05). No significant differences of IIEF15 questionnaire were detected across the study. Finasteride is associated with significant seminological and testosterone alterations, but no sexual dysfunctions were reported during treatment of these andrologically healthy subjects. Although, sperm parameters seem to return comparable to baseline after treatment discontinuation, it is advisable to perform a careful andrological evaluation before treatment.

Evaluation, Treatment, and Insurance Coverage for Couples With Male Factor Infertility in the US: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Survey Data

To characterize the evaluation, treatment, and insurance coverage among couples with male factor infertility in the United States. A cohort of 969 couples undergoing fertility treatment with a diagnosis of male factor infertility were identified from an online survey. The proportion of men that were seen/not seen by a male were compared. Insurance coverage related to male factor was also assessed. Overall, 98.0% of the men reported at least one abnormal semen parameter. Of these, 72.0% were referred to a male fertility specialist with the majority being referred by the gynecologist of their female partner. As part of the male evaluation, 72.2% had blood hormone testing. Of the 248 men who were not recommended to see a male fertility specialist, 96.0% had an abnormal semen analysis including 7.6% who had azoospermia. Referral to a male fertility specialist was largely driven by severity of male factor infertility rather than socioeconomic status. Insurance coverage related to male factor infertility was poor with low coverage for sperm extractions (72.9% reported 0-25% coverage) and sperm freezing (83.7% reported 0-25% coverage). Although this cohort includes couples with abnormal semen parameters, 28% of the men were not evaluated by a male fertility specialist. In addition, insurance coverage for services related to male factor was low. These findings may be of concern as insufficient evaluation and coverage of the infertile man could lead to missed opportunities for identifying reversible causes of infertility/medical comorbidities and places an unfair burden on the female partner.

Bioelectronic sensor mimicking the human neuroendocrine system for the detection of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis hormones in human blood

In the neuroendocrine system, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) play important roles in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) system. Disorders of the HPA system lead to physiological problems, such as Addison’s disease and Cushing’s syndrome. Therefore, detection of CRH and ACTH is essential for diagnosing disorders related to the HPA system. Herein, receptors of the HPA axis were used to construct a bioelectronic sensor system for the detection of CRH and ACTH. The CRH receptor, corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor 1 (CRHR1), and the ACTH receptor, melanocortin 2 receptor (MC2R), were produced using an Escherichia coli expression system, and were reconstituted using nanodisc (ND) technology. The receptor-embedded NDs were immobilized on a floating electrode of a carbon nanotube field-effect transistor (CNT-FET). The constructed sensors sensitively detected CRH and ACTH to a concentration of 1 fM with high selectivity in real time. Furthermore, the reliable detection of CRH and ACTH in human plasma by the developed sensors demonstrated their potential in clinical and practical applications. These results indicate that CRHR1 and MC2R-based bioelectronic sensors can be applied for rapid and efficient detection of CRH and ACTH.

Breast Cancer and Hormonal Level Changes

Purpose: Study of Surgical procedure used in treating Breast Cancers – Mastectomy, Bilateral Mastectomy and Adjuvant procedures and the rise in the blood hormonal levels of the breast cancer patients. The purpose of the study is to understand breast cancer and to delve into various factors that increase the risk of contracting breast cancer. It describes various surgical procedures like mastectomy, bilateral mastectomy and adjuvant procedures. It also describes the various serums that body secretes that can cause cancer. It sees the genetic factors and other risk factors that can cause cancer. Method: It studied 30 breast cancer cases from private Clinicat Babylon. Only those patients who had undergone mastectomy or had tumors removed from breast were considered. These patients were in the age group of 25 to 65. Statistical data was arrived at by questionnaires and interviews with surgeons, nurses and patients. The paper also describes changes in the blood hormones of cancer patients. Complete blood tests were done on 30 patients that included the measurement of various serum and blood plasma cells such as Estrogen hormone, Progesterone hormone (Prog. H), Serum total cholesterol, Serum triglyceride, Serum HDL-cholesterol, the concentration of LDL cholesterol and other proteins in serum as IgG, IgM, and IgA. Interpretations : Cancer if detected at a young age need not lead to mastectomy, but surgically removing tumors will suffice. As the age progresses the incidence of mastectomy and bilateral mastectomy also increases. The blood hormones of cancer patients showed abnormal readings and a conclusion can be drawn that BC can be detected from the abnormal levels of blood hormones.

Breast Cancer and Hormonal Level Changes

Purpose: Study of Surgical procedure used in treating Breast Cancers–Mastectomy, Bilateral Mastectomy and Adjuvant procedures and the rise in the blood hormonal levels of the breast cancer patients. The purpose of the study is to understand breast cancer and to delve into various factors that increase the risk of contracting breast cancer. It describes various surgical procedures like mastectomy, bilateral mastectomy and adjuvant procedures. It also describes the various serums that body secretes that can cause cancer. It sees the genetic factors and other risk factors that can cause cancer. Method: It studied 30 breast cancer cases from private Clinicat Babylon. Only those patients who had undergone mastectomy or had tumors removed from breast were considered. These patients were in the age group of 25 to 65. Statistical data was arrived at by questionnaires and interviews with surgeons, nurses and patients. The paper also describes changes in the blood hormones of cancer patients. Complete blood tests were done on 30 patients that included the measurement of various serum and blood plasma cells such as Estrogen hormone, Progesterone hormone (Prog. H), Serum total cholesterol, Serum triglyceride, Serum HDL-cholesterol, the concentration of LDL cholesterol and other proteins in serum as IgG, IgM, and IgA. Interpretations: Cancer if detected at a young age need not lead to mastectomy, but surgically removing tumors will suffice. As the age progresses the incidence of mastectomy and bilateral mastectomy also increases. The blood hormones of cancer patients showed abnormal readings and a conclusion can be drawn that BC can be detected from the abnormal levels of blood hormones.

Physiological and Pathological Alterations in the Mammary Gland of Holstein Cows during Transition Period

Background: Physiological and immunological adaptations occurred in peripartum period may be responsible for susceptibility to intramammary infections during colostrogenesis. Increase in blood flow and hormones cause physiological edema by accumulation of lymphatic fluid in interstitial space. Specific composition of mammary secretion increases the susceptibility to mastitis. So, the study of physical, cellular and microbiological changes in the mammary gland in this period are fundamental for understanding, diagnosing and adopting prophylactic measures for bovine mastitis. This study aimed to characterize physiological and pathological changes that occur in the mammary gland during transition period.Materials, Methods &amp; Results: Thirteen cows, in second to fourth lactation were followed from 3 weeks pre-calving to 3 weeks post-calving. Cows were submitted weekly to physical examination of mammary gland, strip cup test, California Mastitis Test (CMT), Microscopic Somatic Cell Count (MSCC), and bacteriological examination of mammary secretion. Mammary quarters were divided into two groups: BAC-: samples that did not present bacteriological growth throughout transition period; BAC+: samples that presented bacteriological growth in at least two isolates of the same bacterial genus. Regarding physical examination of mammary gland, the parameters localized or generalized alteration in volume, asymmetry, reddish color, reduced skin elasticity, increased temperature, and swollen consistency presented higher frequencies in the BAC- group. On the other hand, infection in mammary quarters of cows from BAC+ group promoted a decrease in frequencies of increased volume, decreased elasticity, and elevated temperature in the mammary gland, in addition to a higher positivity to CMT and higher cellularity. Overall rate of intramammary infection was 25.82%, with non-aureus Staphylococci (NAS) being the predominant agent (69.2%). Maximum peak of bacterial isolates occurred immediately after calving (33.3%). Differences were observed between groups (P = 0.021) for CMT, showing a higher frequency of positive tests in BAC+ group (36.5%) compared to BAC- group (18%). MSCC varied between weeks (P = 0.001), groups (P = 0.001), and between the interaction of the two variables (P = 0.019). Highest median value of MSCC was observed at calving (1.5 × 106 cells/mL), being different (P = 0.001) from the +1, +2, and +3 weeks and the lowest median value of MSCC (0.08×106 cells/mL) was observed in +3 compared to previous weeks (P &lt; 0.05).Discussion: NAS was predominantly isolated in mammary secretions of cows during peripartum, it is commonly found in the skin and canal of the teat and are associated with subclinical mastitis. Peak of mammary infection was observed on calving, probably by the cortisol peak resulting in a stress leucogram and decrease in the functional activity of immune cells. Changes observed in the physical examination of mammary gland of cows from BAC- group are compatible with physiological edema caused by circulatory changes that occurs with the proximity of calving, increasing blood flow necessary for production of colostrum. Alterations in the mammary quarters of cows from BAC+ group may be associated with functional loss of mammary parenchyma or persistent infectious process, characterizing clinical findings of pathological changes during transition period. Mammary quarters of the BAC+ group presented higher percentages of positive reactions to CMT in weeks +1 and +2, and higher MSCC values and are associated with infection of the mammary gland.

Effect of Combined Prenatal and Adult Benzophenone-3 Dermal Exposure on Factors Regulating Neurodegenerative Processes, Blood Hormone Levels, and Hematological Parameters in Female Rats

Benzophenone-3 (BP-3), the most widely used UV chemical filter, is absorbed well through the skin and gastrointestinal tract and can affect some body functions, including the survival of nerve cells. Previously, we showed that BP-3 evoked a neurotoxic effect in male rats, but since the effects of this compound are known to depend on gender, the aim of the present study was to show the concentration and potential neurotoxic action of this compound in the female rat brain. BP-3 was administered dermally to female rats during pregnancy, and then in the 7th and 8th weeks of age to their female offspring. The effect of BP-3 exposure on short-term and spatial memory, its concentrations in blood, the liver, the frontal cortex, and the hippocampus, and the effect on selected markers of brain damage were determined. Also, the impact of BP-3 on sex and thyroid hormone levels in blood and hematological parameters was examined. It has been found that this compound was present in blood and brain structures in females at a lower concentration than in males. BP-3 in both examined brain structures increased extracellular glutamate concentration and enhanced lipid peroxidation, but did not induce the apoptotic process. The tested compound also evoked hyperthyroidism and decreased the blood progesterone level and the number of erythrocytes. The presented data indicated that, after the same exposure to BP-3, this compound was at a lower concentration in the female brain than in that of the males. Although BP-3 did not induce apoptosis in the hippocampus and frontal cortex, the increased extracellular glutamate concentration and lipid peroxidation, as well as impaired spatial memory, suggested that this compound also had adverse effects in the female brain yet was weaker than in males. In contrast to the weaker effects of the BP-3 on females than the brain of males, this compound affected the endocrine system and evoked a disturbance in hematological parameters more strongly than in male rats.