Total Cortisol Concentrations Research Articles

Gender peculiarities of cortisol, testosterone and vitamin D blood levels in athletes

Objective. To assess the gender characteristics of the concentration of cortisol, testosterone and vitamin D in blood serum in athletes, and to analyze the correlations between vitamin D levels and the hormonal status of athletes. Materials and methods. 52 athletes (32 men and 20 women) were examined, their age was 17-23, their sports specialization was cyclic sports (kayaking) and acyclic sports (gymnastics, martial arts), and qualification – candidates for master of sports, masters of sports. Venous blood was taken in the morning on an empty stomach before training loads. Determination of total testosterone and cortisol concentration and assessment of vitamin D level by determination of its metabolite 25(OH)D (25-hydroxyvitamin D) in blood serum was performed by immunochemiluminescent method. Results. In male athletes with vitamin D deficiency, serum testosterone concentration and anabolic index were significantly lower (p = 0.0093 and p = 0.0015, respectively) compared to the same indices in the group of athletes with normal vitamin D content. Correlation analysis in male athletes revealed a positive correlation between serum 25(OH)D (25-hydroxyvitamin D) content and testosterone concentration (r = 0.36; p < 0.05), as well as between 25(OH)D content and anabolic index (r = 0.42; p < 0.05). The group of female athletes with vitamin D deficiency showed significantly lower serum testosterone concentration compared to athletes with normal vitamin D levels (p = 0.0112). No significant relationships were found between vitamin D levels and cortisol concentrations in both male and female athlete groups. Conclusion. The study results can be the evidence of modulation effect of vitamin D on testosterone levels in male athletes, indicating the importance of controlling and correcting vitamin D content in the dynamics of the training process.

Highly Responsive Bioassay for Quantification of Glucocorticoids.

Measurement of total cortisol levels in serum samples is currently based on immunoassays or liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). However, measurement of bioavailable cortisol is laborious, unreliable, and inconvenient for the patient. Therefore, a new versatile assay with the ability to measure both total and bioavailable cortisol from serum represents an important supplement to the current methods. We have generated a cell-based glucocorticoid reporter assay (HEK293F-GRE). The assay was validated for cell line stability, accuracy by dilution, precision, repeatability, reproducibility, and specificity. Additionally, the assay was tested for measuring both total and bioavailable cortisol in serum. The assay showed linearity at five dilution levels with R2 = 0.98 and an accuracy between 0.8 and 1.2. Precision (CV < 20%) was validated down to 3-6 nM dexamethasone, and estimation of the total cortisol concentration was comparable to cortisol immunoassay and LC-MS/MS in most serum samples. Moreover, the assay estimated the bioavailable cortisol fraction in serum samples to a level that agreed with the literature. The HEK293F-GRE assay holds the potential to be a complementary method for estimating cortisol in clinical practice. The ability to quantify bioavailable cortisol directly from serum samples is alluring and provides an opportunity for monitored and personal dose regimens of exogenous glucocorticoids.

Variability in residual feed intake, nutrient utilisation and blood parametersin Murrah buffalo calves fed on total mixed ration

The present study was conducted on 18 female Murrah buffalo calves divided into two treatment groups to determine the residual feed intake, nutrient digestibility and blood metabolite parameters when fed with ration containing wheat (Triticum aestivum) straw, berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum) fodder as roughages and concentrate mixture to meet their requirements. Regular recording of body weight and feed intake was done during 90-day trial period. Residual feed intake (RFI) values were determined for individual animals based on which they were divided into low and high RFI groups. DM intake was lower in low RFI animals than high RFI animals. The blood glucose level and growth hormone level in low and high RFI group was comparable in both groups. Low RFI group had greater concentration of creatinine (1.62 vs. 1.21 mg/dL) as well as IGF-1 (136.70 vs. 120.38 ng/mL) whereas, concentration of total plasma protein level (6.80 vs 7.43 g/dL), albumin (3.46 vs 3.71 g/dl), aspartate aminotransferase (102.20 vs. 122.60 IU/L) and cortisol (3.48 vs. 5.32 ng/mL) were lesser in low RFI group with respect to high RFI group, indicating a positive correlation of RFI with total plasma protein, albumin, aspartate aminotransferase and cortisol and a negative correlation with plasma creatinine and IGF-1 levels in female Murrah buffalo calves. It was concluded that low RFI group of female Murrah buffalo calves showed better performance when fed with total mixed ration.

THU610 Distribution Of Cortisol In Human Serum In Vitro: Role Of Competitive Ligand-protein Interactions In Women On Oral Contraceptives

Abstract Disclosure: R.I. Dorin: None. I. Perogamvros: None. C.R. Qualls: None. Background: The relationship between serum concentrations of total (XTotF) and free (XF) cortisol (test tube equilibrium at 37°C) is influenced by many factors. These include concentrations and affinities of serum binding proteins (BP), such as CBG and albumin (A). Among women taking oral contraceptives (OC), XF was found to be higher than predicted using ligand-BP association parameters developed in healthy volunteers (HV). We hypothesized that ligand(s) (XP) competing for XF binding to CBG may contribute to altered relationships between XTotF and XF observed in OC relative to HV. Methods: Feldman’s system of iterative, non-linear equilibrium equations1 were developed in (nxm) matrix format. Data included measured XTotF and XF at each time point (0-480 min) after 20 mg hydrocortisone2. Groups were stratified by (i) mode of administration (iv vs. po) and (ii) condition (HV, n=13 vs. OC, n=12). The matrix was interrupted to obtain iterative equilibrium solutions for parameters of interest using (1x2) minimal model (MM) and (2x2) ligand competition model (LCM). Solutions were optimized by minimizing least squares differences between measured and model predicted XF. Albumin-bound cortisol was parameterized as a constant ratio of XF (N) to simplify the matrix problem. Comparisons and interactions within the 2x2x2 design (delivery, group, and model) were analyzed by ANOVA. Results: In OC, LCM provided significantly better fit to measured XF relative to MM (13 vs. 19% error, P=0.003). MM solutions for CBG-cortisol affinities were significantly higher in HV (KD=26.6) vs. OC (KD=71.9 nmol/L), but LCM yielded similar affinities in both groups (KD = 23.9 in HV and 16.1 nmol/L in OC, interaction P&amp;lt;0.001). LCM solutions for concentrations and CBG-binding affinities of XP were significantly increased in OCP vs. HV (both P&amp;lt;0.001). LCM solutions for HV yielded higher N for po (3.1±1.2) vs. iv (1.4±0.4) (P=0.007). Limitations: Model solutions depend on the precision and accuracy of measurements made in clinical samples. Although the competitor (XP) is treated as a single compound in LCM, it may represent the combined effects (e.g., harmonic means) of multiple ligands. Conclusions: (i) matrix notation was useful to development of non-linear, iterative equations for competitive ligand-BP interactions, which were applicable to both forward and inverse solutions of the matrix problems (ii) LCM provided a better fit to experimental data for OC compared to MM, providing (indirect) evidence that competing ligand(s) (XP) influence the distribution of cortisol in serum samples obtained from women on OC, (iii) inter- and intra-subject variability for N was observed for both models, suggesting that assignment of a single population value for cortisol-albumin binding constant may be unrealistic.

The free cortisol calculated: correlation with the free cortisol concentrations measured with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry after equilibrium dialysis and establishment of reference intervals

Background Changes in cortisol binding globulin (CBG) impact the total serum cortisol concentration and affect the accurate assessment of adrenal function. Free biologically cortisol can be calculated using different equations or directly measured after complicated procedures. Methods The free cortisol index (FCI) obtained using the Bonte formula as well as the free cortisol concentration calculated (Coolens equation) were first estimated for 45 healthy workers. The CBG level was determined by a competitive radioimmunoassay and the total cortisol concentration, was measured with an electrochemiluminescent assay. The correlations between FCI, the free cortisol concentrations calculated and the free cortisol levels measured with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry after equilibrium dialysis were studied for those 45 samples. Reference limits were established on 158 healthy hospital workers and patients with serum samples collected between 7:30 am and 10 am. Results The FCI as well as the free cortisol concentrations calculated obtained for the 45 samples correlated significantly with the free cortisol levels measured. Although the cortisol and CBG levels were statistically higher in women using contraceptives compared with women not taking them as well as men, the calculated FCI and free cortisol concentrations did not differ between these groups. The medians (P2.5-P97.5) obtained for the 158 healthy workers were respectively 26.4% (12.3-51.6%) and 10.6 nmol/L (4.3-26.7 nmol/L). Conclusions This study highlighted a significant correlation between the FCI, the free cortisol concentrations calculated and the free cortisol levels measured with LC-MS/MS, it has also allowed the establishment of reference intervals for calculated FCI and free cortisol.

Role of adrenal venous sampling in the differential diagnosis and treatment protocol of ACTH-independent Cushing's syndrome with bilateral adrenal lesions.

The diagnosis and management of adrenocorticotropic hormone-independent Cushing's syndrome (AICS) with bilateral adrenal lesions remain challenging. Some studies have explored the value of adrenal vein sampling (AVS) in patients with AICS; however, more investigations are needed to assess its benefits for diagnosis and treatment planning in this population. Thirteen patients with clinical, biochemical and imaging evidence of AICS with bilateral adrenal lesions underwent AVS in our department from 2017-2022 were recruited. Only the data from nine patients for whom AVS succeeded were finally included in this study and further analyzed. Blood samples were successfully collected from both adrenal veins (AV) and inferior vena cava (IVC) in these nine patients, and the levels of plasma total cortisol (PTC) and plasma aldosterone concentrations (PAC) were measured. The ratio of the PAC of the AV to the IVC was calculated, and the PTC to PAC ratios were compared between AV. The surgical strategy was chosen according to the results of AVS. Postoperative histology and immunohistochemistry of the adrenal tissues were performed. The prognosis was evaluated based on the improvement of clinical symptoms and biochemical parameters (including PTC and ACTH measurements). Patients with AICS were clinically diagnosed based on clinical signs, results of functional tests and the presence of bilateral adrenal lesions as observed on computed tomography imaging. An AV to IVC PAC ratio greater than 2 confirmed successful AVS. The PTC to PAC ratio (high side to low side) was greater than 2 in four patients, and less than 2 in five patients. The postoperative pathological results were consistent with clinical diagnosis and AVS. During the mean follow-up of 33 months, all nine patients achieved varying degrees of clinical improvement. Our study showed that AVS helped to distinguish unilateral and bilateral lesions, identify the laterality of the autonomous hypercortisolism, and improve therapeutic strategy selection in patients with AICS and bilateral adrenal lesions.

Stress-is-debilitating mindset is linked to higher cortisol awakening response in women

Negative attributes and expectations ascribed to the nature of stress itself, known as a stress-is-debilitating mindset, are linked to poor cognitive, psychological, and cardiovascular outcomes. However, how negative perspectives about stress impact biological systems remains unclear. to determine whether stress-mindset is associated with diurnal cortisol rhythm in highly stressed women. Using a cross-sectional design, 60 women (age range 23-44) from Sao Paulo, Brazil, with high levels of stress determined through the Stress Symptoms Inventory (SSI) were included. Stress-mindset (stress-is-enhancing vs. stress-is-debilitating) was evaluated using the Stress Mindset Scale (SMS). Saliva samples obtained over two consecutive workdays at awakening, 30 min after it, afternoon, and bedtime determined the diurnal cortisol rhythm through the area under the curve (AUC) for total concentration over the day and cortisol awakening response (CAR). Adjusting for age, anticontraceptive and awakening time, lower SMS scores, representing stress-is-debilitating mindsets, were associated with higher CAR (F=5.866; R2=0.10; β= -0.316; p=0.019). No association was observed between SMS scores and AUC for total cortisol concentration (p=0.572). Negative perspectives about stress are linked to higher cortisol reactivity to awakening demands, suggesting that stress-mindsets might influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the stress response. These findings inform future studies, including men at different age levels, analyzing stress-mindset profiles related to acute stress responsiveness to expand the understanding of how our beliefs about stress influence the body responses impacting our health.

Acute Hormonal Responses to Multi-Joint Resistance Exercises with Blood Flow Restriction.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the acute effects of multi-joint resistance exercises (MJRE) with blood flow restriction on hormonal responses. Ten men participated in the study and underwent two experimental protocols in random order: four sets (30, 15, 15, and 15 reps, respectively) of MJRE (half squat and horizontal chest press) were performed with 20% of 1RM and a rest time between sets of 30 s, combined with intermittent blood flow restriction (LI + BFR protocol); and four sets (8, 8, 8, 20 reps, respectively) of the same MJRE performed with 75% of 1RM load (HI protocol), with a 90 s rest between the first three sets and 30 s between the third to the fourth set. Blood samples were collected before (PRE), immediately after (POST), and 15 min after the performance of MJRE (POST15). A time effect was observed for growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like-growth-factor-1-binding-protein-3 (IGFPB-3), but no protocol effects or interactions between protocol and times were observed (p > 0.05). There was no effect of either protocol or time (p > 0.05) on total testosterone, free testosterone, or cortisol concentrations. However, significant (p < 0.05) increases were observed in the GH serum concentrations of 2072.73% and 2278.5%, HI, and LI + BFR protocols, respectively, from the PRE to POST15 test. In addition, there was an increase of 15.30% and 13.29% in the IGFPB-3 concentrations (p < 0.05) from PRE to POST0 times for HI and LI + BFR protocols, respectively. Furthermore, there was a decrease of −6.17% and −11.54%, p = 0.00, between the times POST0 to POST15 in the IGFPB-3 for the HI and LI + BFR protocols, respectively. It is concluded that multi-joint resistance exercises combined with intermittent blood flow restriction seemed to promote acute hormonal responses in a manner similar to traditional exercise with high loads. Future studies may investigate whether chronic use of LI + BFR with MJRE may promote muscle hypertrophy.

Exploring salivary biomarkers and swallowing perceptions in Sjogren's syndrome: A case–control feasibility study

AbstractBackgroundThe autoimmune disease Sjogren's syndrome (SS) is often characterized by salivary changes that may affect swallowing. No known study has investigated the association between salivary biomarkers and perceptions of swallowing in individuals with SS. Our objectives were to explore: (1) the operational feasibility of investigating saliva volume and composition, along with perceptions of swallowing, in those with and without SS; and (2) the relationship between saliva composition and perceptions of oral dryness, swallowing, and quality of life.MethodsWe conducted a prospective, case–control feasibility study, collecting feasibility data (recruitment rate and optimal saliva collection methods) and whole mouth saliva samples (unstimulated and stimulated). We measured total protein content and conducted sialochemical (α‐amylase, cortisol, C‐reactive protein [CRP], and mucins), sialometric (flow rate), and perceptual (oral dryness and swallowing‐related quality of life [SWAL‐QOL]) assessments. Our exploratory analyses focused on the main and fixed effects. We summarized all data descriptively, comparing: (a) outcomes between groups (t tests or Mann–Whitney U) and (b) salivary and perceptual data across participants (partial least‐squares correlation [PLSC]).ResultsWe enrolled 12 (N) participants (6 per group), all providing analyzable saliva. Cases had lower flow rate (p = 0.003) and higher total protein, cortisol, and CRP concentrations (p &lt; 0.02) than controls. PLSC revealed inverse covariance between sialochemical and SWAL‐QOL data across participants.ConclusionOur study was feasible as designed. We explored novel relationships between salivary outcomes and participant‐reported perceptions, distinguishing individuals with and without SS. Our findings support further study of saliva's role in perceptions of swallowing, specifically analytes with lubricative properties.

Effect of Intensive Physical Loads on Plasma Testosterone and Cortisol Concentration in Elite Athletes

The study purpose was to investigate changes in the content of testosterone and cortisol in the blood of qualified athletes after testing them to determine their maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max). &#x0D; Materials and methods. Thirty-seven international level athletes: 15 biathletes, 12 rowers, 6 boxers, 4 modern pentathletes participated in this study. The test to evaluate VO2max used exercise of increasing intensity on a rowing ergometer for rowers and on a treadmill for biathletes, boxers, modern pentathletes. Total testosterone and cortisol concentrations were determined in blood serum by an immunoenzyme analyzer before and after the test for determination of VO2max. &#x0D; Results. The concentration of total testosterone has been found to decrease significantly on average by 24,4% and the concentration of cortisol has increased by 34% due to physical activity. The highest level of maximum oxygen consumption was found in athletes with high levels of basal testosterone and cortisol in the blood. There is a high correlation between the basal content of total testosterone and the maximum consumption of oxygen in athletes (r = 0,58). &#x0D; Conclusions. The high content of basal testosterone and cortisol is an important factor for the athlete’s special working efficiency: higher level of basal cortisol has been accompanied by smaller increases in cortisol per load and high basal level of testosterone makes is possible to keep its concentration sufficient. The concentration of total testosterone and cortisol can be used as a marker of the effect of a training load.

Case-control exercise challenge study on the pathogenesis of high serum gamma-glutamyl transferase activity in racehorses.

High serum γ-glutamyl-transferase (GGT) activity syndrome in racehorses has been associated with maladaption to exercise. Investigation of affected horses before and immediately after standard exercise may provide critical insight into the syndrome's pathophysiology. To investigate blood biomarker changes in actively competing racehorses with high GGT activity associated with an exercise challenge. Case-control study. High GGT case (age: 2-3 years) and normal GGT control (age: 2-7 years) pairs (3 Thoroughbred, 4 Standardbred pairs) at least 3months into their training/racing season were included. Horses with a recent history of high GGT activity (≥50 IU/L) without additional biochemical evidence of liver disease were identified by veterinarians. Horses were tested again in the week prior to a planned exercise challenge to confirm persistent increases in GGT activity. Controls from the same stable with similar training/racing intensity and serum GGT activity ≤36 IU/L were matched with each case. Blood samples were obtained immediately before, 15 and 120 min after exercise. Pre-exercise serum samples were analysed for baseline select serum chemistries, selenium and vitamin E concentrations. Cortisol concentration and markers of oxidative status were measured in serum or plasma for all time points. Individual serum bile acid and coenzyme Q10 concentrations, plasma lipid mediator (fatty acids, oxylipids, isoprostanes) concentrations and targeted metabolomics analyses were performed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Serum viral PCR for equine hepaci- and parvovirus was performed in each animal. Cases had higher baseline concentrations of total glutathione, taurocholic acid, cortisol and cholesterol concentrations and higher or lower concentrations of specific oxylipid and isoprostane mediators, but there were no case-dependent changes after exercise. Small sample size. Results indicated that glutathione metabolism was altered in high GGT horses. Enhanced glutathione recycling and mild cholestasis are possible explanations for the observed differences.

Hormonal response after masturbation in young healthy men \u2013 a randomized controlled cross-over pilot study

BackgroundHormones like testosterone play a crucial role in performance enhancement and muscle growth. Therefore, various attempts to increase testosterone release and testosterone concentration have been made, especially in the context of resistance training. Among practitioners, sexual activity (coitus and masturbation) a few hours before training is often discussed to result in increases of testosterone concentration and thus promote muscle growth. However, there is no evidence to support this assumption and the kinetics of the testosterone and cortisol response after sexual activity have not been adequately investigated. Therefore, the aim of this pilot-study was to examine the kinetics of hormone concentrations of total testosterone, free testosterone and cortisol and their ratios after masturbation. In a three-arm single blinded cross-over study, the effects of masturbation with visual stimulus were compared to a visual stimulus without masturbation and the natural kinetics in healthy young men.ResultsThe results showed a significant between-condition difference in free testosterone concentrations. Masturbation (p < 0.01) and a visual stimulus (p < 0.05) may seem to counteract the circadian drop of free testosterone concentrations over the day. However, no statistical change was observed in the ratios between total testosterone, free testosterone and cortisol.ConclusionsIt can be assumed that masturbation may have a potential effect on free testosterone concentrations but not on hormonal ratios. However, additional studies with larger sample sizes are needed to validate these findings.

Persisting neuroendocrine abnormalities and their association with physical impairment 5\xa0years after critical illness

BackgroundCritical illness is hallmarked by neuroendocrine alterations throughout ICU stay. We investigated whether the neuroendocrine axes recover after ICU discharge and whether any residual abnormalities associate with physical functional impairments assessed 5 years after critical illness.MethodsIn this preplanned secondary analysis of the EPaNIC randomized controlled trial, we compared serum concentrations of hormones and binding proteins of the thyroid axis, the somatotropic axis and the adrenal axis in 436 adult patients who participated in the prospective 5-year clinical follow-up and who provided a blood sample with those in 50 demographically matched controls. We investigated independent associations between any long-term hormonal abnormalities and physical functional impairments (handgrip strength, 6-min walk distance, and physical health-related quality-of-life) with use of multivariable linear regression analyses.ResultsAt 5-year follow-up, patients and controls had comparable serum concentrations of thyroid-stimulating hormone, thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine-binding globulin, whereas patients had higher reverse T3 (rT3, p = 0.0002) and lower T3/rT3 (p = 0.0012) than controls. Patients had comparable concentrations of growth hormone, insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) and IGF-binding protein 1 (IGFBP1), but higher IGFBP3 (p = 0.030) than controls. Total and free cortisol, cortisol-binding globulin and albumin concentrations were comparable for patients and controls. A lower T3/rT3 was independently associated with lower handgrip strength and shorter 6-min walk distance (p ≤ 0.036), and a higher IGFBP3 was independently associated with higher handgrip strength (p = 0.031).ConclusionsFive years after ICU admission, most hormones and binding proteins of the thyroid, somatotropic and adrenal axes had recovered. The residual long-term abnormality within the thyroid axis was identified as risk factor for long-term physical impairment, whereas that within the somatotropic axis may be a compensatory protective response. Whether targeting of the residual abnormality in the thyroid axis may improve long-term physical outcome of the patients remains to be investigated.Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00512122, registered on July 31, 2007 (https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00512122).Graphical

Circulating Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Hormones and Insulin Concentrations in Horses and Ponies

Mechanisms resulting in breed predispositions to insulin dysregulation (ID) are poorly characterized. Cortisol antagonizes insulin, and free, biologically active cortisol can be increased in ID. Breed-related differences in serum free cortisol fraction (FCF) could contribute to ID, but FCF has not been quantified in equidae predisposed to ID, such as ponies. To compare FCF and other hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis hormones between horses and ponies during health and ID. We hypothesized: (1) FCF is higher in ponies than horses in health, and is higher still in ponies with ID and obesity; and (2) FCF is positively correlated with insulin in horses and ponies during health and ID. Thirty-three horses and 24 ponies were sampled before morning feeding in their normal routine. Plasma ACTH and insulin and serum total cortisol concentrations and FCF were measured. ID was defined as evidence of hyperinsulinemia at rest or after oral sugar administration. Data were compared with Mann-Whitney tests and Spearman correlation analysis (P < 0.05). Total cortisol, free cortisol, insulin concentrations, and FCF were comparable in healthy horses (n = 24) and ponies (n = 12), but ACTH concentrations were 29% higher in ponies than in horses (P = 0.016). In animals with ID, total cortisol, free cortisol, and insulin concentrations were similar between horses and ponies, but FCF was increased 40% in ponies (n = 12) compared to horses (n = 9). These data demonstrate differences in insulin, ACTH, and free cortisol during health and ID between ponies and horses.

Адаптационный потенциал и эндокринный статус работников целлюлозно- бумажного комбината г. Архангельска

Introduction. Maintaining good health and working capacity of the population is one of the main tasks of the healthcare system. Living under adverse climatic conditions of the North and being exposed to dangerous production factors of the pulp and paper industry, strongly represented in the Arkhangelsk Region, can significantly reduce the adaptive capacity of the body. Major role in providing an adequate response to the action of irritators and initiating the adaptation process is played by the neuroendocrine, cardiovascular, and circulatory systems, which reflect qualitative and quantitative changes in the body while being reliable markers of homeostasis. The aim was to study the adaptive potential of workers showing the level of functioning of the circulatory system and to evaluate their endocrine profile depending on the revealed functional capabilities of the body. Materials and methods. The study involved 50 men aged 22–60 years working in the production departments of Solombala Pulp and Paper Mill (Arkhangelsk) with a body mass index of 19–25 and without earlier history of endocrine pathology. Serum levels of thyroxine-binding globulin and oestradiol were determined by means of radioimmunoassay, while serum concentrations of total cortisol, thyrotropin, thyroxine, triiodothyronine, progesterone, testosterone, insulin, C-peptide, and somatotropin were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results. The research demonstrated that in 2/3 of the examined employees of the pulp and paper mill the adaptation mechanisms were under strain, while the condition of two subjects corresponded to the physiological norm, which is characterized by good and satisfactory adaptation. Workers with decreased adaptive capabilities to the point of unsatisfactory adaptation showed increased levels of cortisol, thyroxine-binding globulin, oestradiol, C-peptide, and insulin against the background of a decrease in testosterone, progesterone, and the testosterone/oestradiol ratio. The authors recommend conducting periodic medical examinations of pulp and paper workers, including endocrine profile assessment, and monitoring changes that occur over time.

Short-term transport stress and supplementation alter immune function in aged horses.

Long-distance transport is associated with stress-related changes in equine immune function, and shipping-associated illnesses are often reported. Horses are frequently transported short distances, yet the effects of short-term transport on immune function remain largely unknown. Twelve horses, aged 15–30 yr, were assigned to either the control (n = 6) or treatment (n = 6) groups; treatment horses received a daily antioxidant supplement 3 weeks before and after transport. All horses were transported for approximately 1.5–2 hr on Day 0. Blood was collected via jugular venipuncture at 15-min pre- and post-transport and on Days –21, 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21. Body temperature, heart rate, body weight, total cortisol, and gene expression of IFNγ, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12α, IL-17α, SAA1, and TNFα in whole blood were measured. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated, stimulated with PMA/ionomycin, and stained for IFNγ and TNFα before analysis via flow cytometry. Statistical analyses were performed with significance set at P < 0.05 (SAS 9.4). Transport and supplementation did not appear to affect body weight, heart rate, IL-4, IL-8, IL-12α, IL-17α, change (Δ) in the % and mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of IFNγ+ lymphocytes after stimulation, or Δ in the % and MFI of TNFα+ lymphocytes after stimulation. Supplementation decreased IL-1β and SAA1 expression. Transport increased total cortisol concentration, body temperature, and IL-2, IL-6, and IL-10 expression but decreased IL-1β, TNFα, and IFNγ expression. Short-term transportation affected physiological, endocrine, and immune responses; supplementation may ameliorate inflammation in aged horses. Immune responses were most altered at 15-min post-transport and typically recovered by Day 1, suggesting that horses may be vulnerable to disease during and almost immediately after short-term transport.

Individual variation in diurnal cortisol in patients with knee osteoarthritis: Clinical correlates

BackgroundThe cortisol awakening response (CAR) is a core biomarker of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis regulation. To date, however, studies of HPA-axis function among patients with chronic pain are scarce and show equivocal results. The objectives of this study were to investigate the association between CAR and pain-related outcomes and to investigate potential sex differences in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, KOA patients (N = 96) completed self-report questionnaires assessing pain and psychosocial factors and underwent Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST) to assess pressure pain threshold (PPT). Additionally, salivary cortisol samples (N = 60) were collected to assess HPA-axis function at 6 time points (awakening, 15- and 30-minute post-awakening, 4 PM, 9 PM and bedtime). The CAR was calculated by examining increases in salivary cortisol from awakening to 30 min post awakening and the total post-awakening cortisol concentration by calculating the lower areas under the curve of cortisol with respect to ground (AUCG). ResultsPatients with a relatively blunted CAR had significantly higher anxiety levels and lower PPT than patients with relatively normal CAR. Similarly, patients with a relatively reduced AUCG had significantly higher pain interference and anxiety levels compared to patients with relatively normal AUCG. PPT was positively correlated with CAR and AUCG and negatively correlated with pain severity and anxiety. Men with KOA had significantly lower anxiety, higher PPT and higher CAR and AUCG than women with KOA. Mediation analysis results revealed a significant indirect effect of PPT on the relationship between sex and AUCG. ConclusionsThe findings of this study suggest that neuroendocrine factors such as CAR and AUCG may contribute to individual differences in pain-related outcomes in patients with KOA. Additionally, our results show sex differences in the magnitude of morning HPA activation and pain-related outcomes. Finally, our findings are suggestive of a sex-dependent relationship between post-awakening cortisol concentrations and pain perception. Future research should examine these associations across various pain populations.

Two-day low-dose dexamethasone suppression test more accurate than overnight 1-mg in women taking oral contraceptives.

IntroductionLate‐night salivary cortisol (LSaC) and 24‐h urinary free cortisol measurement, and overnight 1‐mg dexamethasone suppression test (1 mg‐DST) are the first‐line screening tests recommended for Cushing's syndrome. Through elevations in the level of cortisol‐binding globulin, oral contraceptive agents lead to increases in the total plasma cortisol concentration, yielding false‐positive 1 mg‐DST results.ObjectiveTo compare the accuracy of the overnight 1‐mg DST and two‐day low‐dose DST (2d‐DST) in female volunteers taking combined oestrogen‐progestin oral contraceptives (COCs).MethodsThis prospective study enrolled 30 healthy participants. Their plasma cortisol response levels were compared after the 1‐mg DST and 2d‐DST and classified into three categories: normal (≤50 nmol/L), doubtful (51–138 nmol/L) and abnormal (>138 nmol/L). Salivary cortisol was also measured at late night and after the DSTs.ResultsFollowing the 1‐mg DST and 2d‐DST, the plasma cortisol concentrations decreased to a median of 69 nmol/L and 37 nmol/L, respectively (p < 0.001). A statistically significant higher proportion of unclear or abnormal results were observed after the 1‐mg DST (63%) than after the 2d‐DST (27%) (p = 0.004). None of the values were >138 nmol/L after the 2d‐DST, while 11% of them were abnormal after the 1‐mg DST (p = 0.25). No LSaC value was abnormal.ConclusionOur results suggest that, when late‐night salivary cortisol is not available, the 2d‐DST could be a better screening option than the 1‐mg DST for women taking oral contraceptive agents who are reluctant to stop them. This finding requires confirmation in those with a suspicion of hypercortisolism.

Decreased maximal cortisol secretion rate in patients with cirrhosis: Relation to disease severity

Background & AimsHepatic enzymes play a major role in the metabolic elimination of cortisol, and reduced rates of cortisol clearance have been consistently observed in patients with chronic liver disease. It is less clear whether there are concomitant abnormalities of adrenocortical function in patients with cirrhosis. In the present study, we sought to assess adrenocortical function in patients with cirrhosis using measures of free cortisol appearance and elimination rates that are independent of serum concentrations of cortisol binding proteins.MethodsPost hoc analysis used computer-assisted numerical and modelling methods with serial total and free cortisol concentration data to obtain rates of free cortisol appearance and elimination. Rate parameters were obtained in 114 patients with chronic liver disease, including Child-Pugh (CP) ≤8 (n = 53) and CP >8 (n = 61).ResultsMaximal cortisol secretion rate (CSRmax) was significantly decreased (p = 0.01) in patients with cirrhosis with CP >8 (0.28 nM/s; 95% CI 0.24–0.34) compared with those with CP ≤8 (0.39 nM/s; 95% CI 0.33–0.46), and CSRmax was negatively correlated with CP score (r = −0.19, p = 0.01). Free cortisol elimination rate was significantly (p = 0.04) decreased in the CP >8 group (0.16 ± 0.20 min−1) compared with that in the CP ≤8 group (0.21 ± 0.21 min−1), and free cortisol elimination rates were negatively correlated with CP score (r = −0.23, p = 0.01). A significant correlation between CSRmax and free cortisol elimination rate (r = 0.88, p <0.001) was observed.ConclusionsCSRmax and free cortisol elimination rates were significantly reduced according to severity of cirrhosis. In contrast to stimulated total cortisol concentrations, CSRmax estimates were independent of cortisol-binding protein concentrations. Results provide additional evidence of subnormal adrenocortical function in patients with cirrhosis.Lay summaryWe applied numerical analytic methods to characterise adrenocortical function in patients with varying stages of chronic liver disease. We found that patients with more severe cirrhosis have decreased rate of free cortisol elimination and decreased maximal cortisol secretion rate, which is a measure of adrenocortical function. In contrast to conventional measures of adrenocortical function, those obtained using numerical methods were not affected by variation in corticosteroid binding globulin and albumin concentrations. We conclude that patients with cirrhosis demonstrate measurable abnormalities of adrenocortical function, evidence of which supports aspects of the hepatoadrenal syndrome hypothesis.

ДИНАМИКА КОРТИЗОЛА И ТЕСТОТЕРОНА В КРОВИ НЕТЕЛЕЙ РАЗНЫХ ПОРОД

The paper presents the results of a study of the dynamics of testosterone and cortisol in 40 heifers of different breeds (Holstein black-and-white breed, Simmental breed, Aberdeen-Angus breed, crossbred animals. 10 heads from each breed.All experimental groups of heifers were analogous in age and term of pregnancy. The conditions for raising animals were the same and corresponded to their zootechnical feeding standards. The hormones cortisol and testosterone were determined by the enzyme immunoassay. The results of the conducted studies showed that before insemination, a slightly higher concentration of testosterone was observed in crossbred animals (Aberdeen-Angus x Simmental) and was 4.7±0.4 nmol/l. This indicator was relatively lower in black – and-white heifers and was 3.6±0.4 nmol/l. Significant changes in it were observed at 5 months of pregnancy.By the 5th month of pregnancy, the concentration of testosterone in all experimental groups increased approximately 2 times. There is a significant difference between crossbreeds, Simmental and black-and-white breeds at 5 months of pregnancy (р&lt;0.05). More pronounced interbreeding differences were observed from the 6th month of pregnancy to the last month of pregnancy. At 6, 7, 8, 9 months of pregnancy between black – and-white heifers and crossbred animals, the testosterone level was statistically significant (р&lt;0.05). Interbreed differences in the level of testosterone in the blood of experimental animals indicate the features of the testosterone-synthesizing system of different breeds, which is probably determined at the gene level. An increase in the concentration of testosterone in the blood of heifers indicates its participation in the processes of fetal formation and the reaction of the testosterone-synthesizing system of the mother’s body to the course of pregnancy. Differences in the level of testosterone in the blood of Black-and-white, Simmental, Aberdeen-Angus breeds and crossbreeds indicate the breed characteristics of the testosterone-synthesizing system, which is possibly determined at the gene level. Changes in cortisol concentration were similar to changes in testosterone. It should be noted that the highest levels of cortisol in the second half of pregnancy were consistently maintained in cross-bred heifers in relation to the black-and-white and Simmental breeds. At the 9th month of pregnancy, local weeks were statistically significantly higher than black-and-white and Simmental weeks (р&lt;0.05). During pregnancy, the level of cortisol in the blood of heifers had ambiguous indicators and depended on the month of pregnancy and the breed affiliation of the animals. The increase in cortisol in the blood during pregnancy is obviously due to the effect of estrogens on the female body. Thus, we believe that as a result of pregnancy, the synthesis of α-glycoprotein increases, which binds to cortisol, contributing to an increase in its life in the blood and contributing to an increase in the concentration of total cortisol.