Homeopathic treatment as an alternative prophylactic to minimize bacterial infection and prevent neonatal diarrhea in calves.

Bovine neonatal diarrhea is common due low immunity in newborn calves, poor management (or absence) of sanitary barriers, and other factors. Newborn calves with diarrhea in the first days of life suffer failure to thrive and may die if left untreated. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether prophylactic administration of a homeopathic product (Dia 100®) can control bovine neonatal diarrhea in calves born on a farm with substantial sanitary challenges. We counted total bacteria and protozoan parasites in fecal samples. We measured serum glucose, total protein, globulin, albumin, cholesterol and triglycerides on days 1, 7 and 14 of life. Twenty newborn calves were maintained in individual stalls, and were divided in two groups: ten untreated animals (control) and ten animals treated with Dia 100®. Fecal consistency was evaluated daily. We diagnosed diarrhea in five animals in the treated group, and in all animals from the control group. Infections with Escherichia coli and Giardia duodenalis were identified as the responsible organisms. The E. coli count was low in the treatment group on day 7 of life compared with the control group. Antibiotics were given to eight animals in the control group, and to two animals in the treatment group. On day of life 7, serum levels of total protein and globulins were higher in the control group, but were lower on day 14. Serum levels of glucose and triglycerides were greater in treated animals on days 7 and 14, suggesting that the homeopathic product contributes to improvement of intestinal health and absorption and nutrients. We conclude that Dia 100® controls diarrhea with 50% of efficacy, and reduces antibiotic utilization.

Impact of single-dose nandrolone decanoate on gonadotropins, blood lipids and HMG CoA reductase in healthy men.

The aim was to study the effect and time profile of a single dose of nandrolone decanoate (ND) on gonadotropins, blood lipids and HMG CoA reductase [3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGCR)] in healthy men. Eleven healthy male participants aged 29-46 years were given a single dose of 150 mg ND as an intramuscular dose of Deca Durabol®, Organon. Blood samples for sex hormones, lipids and HMGCR mRNA analysis were collected prior to ND administration day 0, 4 and 14. A significant suppression of luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) was seen after 4 days. Total testosterone and bioavailable testosterone level decreased significantly throughout the observed study period. A small but significant decrease in sexual hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) was seen after 4 days but not after 14 days. Total serum (S)-cholesterol and plasma (P)-apolipoprotein B (ApoB) increased significantly after 14 days. In 80% of the individuals, the HMGCR mRNA level was increased 4 days after the ND administration. Our results show that a single dose of 150 mg ND increases (1) HMGCR mRNA expression, (2) total S-cholesterol and (3) P-ApoB level. The long-term consequences on cardiovascular risk that may appear in users remain to be elucidated.

Opium and heroin alter biochemical parameters of human's serum.

BACKGROUND: Iran is a significant consumer of opium, and, generally, of opioids, in the world. Addiction is one of the important issues of the 21st century and is an imperative issue in Iran. Long-term consumption of opioids affects homeostasis. OBJECTIVE: To determine the effects of opium and heroin consumption on serum biochemical parameters. METHODS: In a cross-sectional study, subjects who had consumed heroin (n = 35) or opium (n = 42) for more than two years and 35 nonaddict volunteers as the control group were compared in regard to various biochemical parameters such as fasting blood sugar (FBS), Na(+), K(+), Ca(2+), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), uric acid (UA), triglyceride (TG), cholesterol, creatinine, and total protein. Chromatography was used to confirm opioid consumption, and the concentration of biochemical parameters was determined by laboratory diagnostic tests on serum. RESULTS: No significant differences were found in Na(+), Ca(2+), BUN, UA, TG, creatinine, and total protein concentrations among the three groups. FBS, K(+), and UA levels were significantly lower in opium addicts compared to the control group. Serum Ca(2+) concentration of heroin addicts showed a significant decrease compared to that of the control group. Both addict groups showed a significant decrease in serum cholesterol levels. CONCLUSION: Chronic use of opium and heroin can change serum FBS, K(+), Ca(2+), UA, and cholesterol. SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE: This study, one of few on the effects of opium on serum biochemical parameters in human subjects, has the potential to contribute to the investigation of new approaches for further basic studies.

[Effects of Tongxinluo capsule on atherosclerosis obliterans in iliofemoral artery of rabbits].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the effects of Tongxinluo capsule (TXL) on the atherosclerosis obliterans (ASO) in iliofemoral artery of rabbits. METHOD: Rabbits were randomly divided into 7 groups: sham, model, TXL (0.8, 0.4, 0.2 g x kg(-1)), Tongsaimai tablet (0.8 g x kg(-1)) and Laishike (0.002 g x kg(-1)). The animal model of ASO was established with a combined method of mechanical trauma, immunologic injury and high fat fodder feeding. Rabbits were administrated the drugs 8 weeks after surgery. The levels of TC, TG, HDL-C and LDL-C in serum were determined at the time points below: pre-experiment (0 week), pre-drug administration (8 weeks post-surgery), 4 weeks after drug administration (12 weeks post-surgery), 8 weeks after drug administration (16 weeks post-surgery), 12 weeks after drug administration (20 weeks post-surgery). Meanwhile, the behavioral study was performed, the distal skin temperature of the injured hind limb detected. The histopathological changes in iliofemoral artery were examined after opacification. RESULT: The levels of TC, TG, LDL-C, VLDL-C and TC/HDL-C were decreased significantly in serum of ASO rabbits. The severity of lameness in the injured hind limb was improved. The distal skin temperature was increased. The thickness and the ratio of intima area of the iliofemoral artery of the injured hind limb were decreased, while the stenosis extent was improved. CONCLUSION: TXL might be beneficial to modulate blood lipid, as well as the prevention and treatment for ASO.

A cross-over study of three oral contraceptives containing ethinyloestradiol and either desogestrel or levonorgestrel.

A randomised cross-over trial was performed to compare the pharmacodynamic actions of three low-dose oral contraceptives (OCs): Marvelon (150 micrograms desogestrel (DSG)+ 30 micrograms ethinyloestradiol (EE)), Mercilon (150 micrograms DSG + 20 micrograms EE) and Microgynon (150 micrograms levonorgestrel (LNG) + 30 micrograms EE). None of the OCs produced any significant changes in serum cholesterol, LDL-C and apoprotein B. Triglycerides were increased by the desogestrel OCs but not by Microgynon. The latter however increased the glucose and insulin responses to a glucose tolerance test whereas Marvelon and Mercilon had no effect. HDL-C increased with Marvelon, was unchanged with Mercilon and was decreased with Microgynon. Apoprotein AII was increased by all three OCs but only the DSG OCs increased apoprotein AI. All OCs produced similar increases in caeruloplasmin but the increase in SHBG was much greater with Marvelon and Mercilon than with Microgynon. Testosterone was reduced more with Microgynon than with the DSG OCs. Many of the changes reflect the strong anti-oestrogenic action of LNG on metabolic parameters compared to DSG. Except for the effect on HDL-C, there was little difference between Marvelon and Mercilon on metabolic parameters and this complements the findings from large-scale clinical trials of the two OCs. Mercilon, therefore provides a very satisfactory alternative to Marvelon.

PIP: 12 healthy volunteers attending the family planning clinic at Shanghai, First Maternity and Infant China, Hospital, enrolled in the study, Oral contraceptives (OCs) were prescribed: Marvelon (150 mcg of desogestrel--DSG), Mercilon (150 mcg of DSG), and Microgynon (150 mcg of levonorgestrel--LNG). The patients were divided into 6 groups of 2 persons each in a randomized cross-over study. OCs were taken on day 6 of the cycle up to day 21, then stopping for 7 days. Each OC was used for 3 months. During the pretreatment cycle between days 6 and 9 of the follicular phase and 21 and 22 of the luteal phase a blood sample was taken after fasting for determination of lipids, sex hormone binding globulin (SHGB), ceruloplasmin, and testosterone. After glucose loading, significant increases of glucose and insulin occurred at 1, 2, and 3 hours during treatment with Microgynon only. The ratio for total areas of insulin to glucose did not change significantly nor did glycosilated hemoglobin A1 levels. Serum triglyceride concentrations increased significantly for both Marvelon (27%-43%) and Mercilon (29-40%). Serum high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol concentrations were significantly elevated with Marvelon but less so with Mercilon, while HDL-C decreased significantly with Microgynon. The serum low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol changes were not significant, but LDL-C concentrations declined with DSG formulations and increased with Microgynon. Apoprotein A1 and A2 increased significantly for both Marvelon and Mercilon. Apoprotein A2 increased with Microgynon. Serum SHBG increased markedly with Marvelon (335-380%). Serum testosterone concentrations decreased significantly (33.2-40.4% with Microgynon) and so did ceruloplasmin values. The antiestrogenic effect of strong LNG in Microgynon produced significant metabolic changes. The effect of 30 mcg EE in Marvelon and 20 mcg EE of Mercilon was equal.

[Prothrombotic and prethrombotic markers in obese diabetic and non-diabetic subjects]. / Indici protrombotici e pretrombotici in soggetti obesi diabetici e non diabetici.

The Authors studied the behaviour of some prothrombotic (fibrinogen, factor VII, antithrombin III and tissue plasminogen activator) and prethrombotic (beta thromboglobulin, D-dimer) markers in a group of obese subjects in relation to various physiopathological parameters. The series consist of 93 obese subjects (29 m, 64 f, mean age 55 +/- 6 yrs, BMI 33 +/- 1), of whom 62 suffering from type 2 diabetes in good metabolic control obtained by oral hypoglycemic (42 cases) or insulin (20 cases) treatment. For each subject the Authors determined the plasmatic levels of glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides (enzymatic method, Boehringer kits), fibrinogen (coagulometric method, Organon kit), factor VII (chromogenic method, IL kit), antithrombin III (chromogenic method, IL kit), tissue plasminogen, beta thromboglobulin and D-dimer (ELISA method, Boehringer kits). The results were examined in relation to sex, age, overweight degree, waist/thigh ratio, total cholesterol, triglycerides and, for diabetics, to the therapeutical treatment. The fibrinogen plasma levels proved statistically (0.05) increased proportionally to the overweight degree (BMI over 35), cholesterol levels (over 250 mg%) and age (51-65 yrs); factor VII showed a significant increase (0.05) related to the cholesterol levels, the overweight degree and, surprisingly, to female sex; as regards antithrombin III, its sharp reduction was related with ageing and with the "gynoid type" waist/thigh ratio; tissue plasminogen activator showed a statistically significant reduction (0.05) in the group with older age (over 65 yrs); the beta thromboglobulin levels were obviously increased (0.05) in the hypercholesterolemic and hypertriglyceridemic subjects (over 250 mg%), the D-dimer values increased proportionally with age (0.05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Benefits of vaginal estriol cream combined with clonidine HCL for menopausal syndrome treatment.

In a group of 25 post menopausal women mean age 57.2 years, treatment with Estriol vagina cream (Ovestin cream from Organon-Holland) gives rise (but within normal limits) to cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL-cholesterol, the protective factor against M. I. A rise in glycohemoglobin (HbA1C) statisticaly significant was noted, as a sign of slight glucose intolerance, but in no case was there a diabetic pattern. Vaginal Estriol cream was able to prevent osteoporosis. After a few weeks of treatment urinary calcium/creatinine ratio decreased. In the light of our own findings, Ovestin being a weak estrogen does not induce endometrial proliferation or breakthrough bleeding and does not modify the blood biochemistry, and can be recommended for postmenopausal syndrome even in familial hyperlipidemia diabetes, and for prevention of osteoporosis.

[Experimental study on reducing effect of shexiang baoxin pill from damage of arterial wall caused by hyperlipemia].

OBJECTIVE: To study the protecting effect of Shexiang Baoxin Pill (SXBXP) on arterial wall in hyperlipemia rabbit model. METHODS: Thirty-six male, New Zealand rabbits were randomized into three groups: control group, fed with common diet for 8 weeks: Hypercholesterolemia group (HC) and SXBXP group (SX), fed with 1% cholesterol and 3% lard diet for 8 weeks. In SX group, SXBXP was iven from 7th week for 2 weeks. The plasma levels of triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were measured at the first, 6th and the 8th week of experiment. Serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) and electrocardiography (ECG) were also evaluated at the 8th week. Light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were adopted to assess the degree of pathologic damage of arterial wall. RESULTS: SXBXP could reduce the levels of serum TC and LDL-C, as compared with the HC group, P < 0.05. It could also reduce the extent of atherosclerotic lesion and the severity of intimal proliferation. CONCLUSION: SXBXP has the effect of inhibiting development of experimental atherosclerosis.

[Study on effects of Codonopsis eupolyphaga anti-obesity powder in mice with nutritive obesity].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the effects of Codonopsis Eupolyphaga anti-obesity powder(CEAOP) in mice with nutritive obesity. METHODS: CEAOP 0.5-2.5 g/kg was given to mice for 4 weeks and its effect was observed. RESULTS: CEAOP could significantly reduce the Lee's index, weight of fat cushion and fat index, lower the blood levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride and blood glucose, but influence neither the calories and quantity of food intake, nor the endurance against anoxia and fatigue, the property of stool was not changed at all. CONCLUSIONS: The anti-obesity effect of CEAOP was similar to Fenfluramini but without influence on appetite and bowel movement, tolerance against anoxia and fatigue. The mechanism of the anti-obesity might be related with its metabolism regulating actions on lipids and glucose.

[Effects of leech and ground beetle powder on hemorheology and blood lipid of ischemic stroke].

In order to improve blood supply for the brain, restore the functions of the cerebral cells and the limbs, and increas the curative rate, the leech (Hirudo nipponica and ground beetle Eupolyphage sinensis), powder (LGBP) to the patients according to the principle of promoting the blood circulation to remove the stasis was administered, and the clinical observation and experimental study was conducted. Its effects were compared with those of Western medicines. The results showed that after medication of LGBP, the blood flow of brain significantly increased, the hypoxia was improved, blood viscosity and blood lipid were lowered and thrombosis was inhibited in vitro or in vivo. No toxic side-effects caused by LGBP was found.

[The research of 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid on experiment hyperlipoidemic rat].

OBJECTIVE: To study the pharmacological effect of 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid(10-HDA) in experiment hyperlipoidemic rat. METHODS: Preventive and therapeutic effects of 10-HDA were tested on hyperlioidemic rat model induced by high fat food. RESULTS: 10-HDA could reduce the content of TC, TG and beta-lioprotein, raise the content of HDL, which showed 10-HDA had preventive and therapeutic effects on hyperlipoidemic rat. CONCLUSION: 10-HDA was functional factor of preventive and therapeutic effects of royal jelly on hyperlipoidemia.

[Influence of zhuangling agent to metabolism of lipid in aged rats].

The influence of Zhuangling Agent to the metabolism of lipid in healthy old rats has been studied. The results indicate that the agent can decrease the level of serum total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and peroxilipid and meanwhile can increase serum superoxide-dismutase and enhance the activity of acid phosphatase in some parts of the tissues. The result suggests that Zhuangling Agent possibly has an effect of anti-arteriosclerosis.

[Pumpan in the treatment of ischemic heart disease associated with arterial hypertension]. / Pumpan pri lechenii ishemicheskoi bolezni serdtsa v sochetanii s arterial'noi gipertoniei.

AIM: To study effectiveness of natural combined medicine pumpan in patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD) including cases with concomitant arterial hypertension (AH). MATERIAL AND METHODS: 35 patients with different forms of IHD (myocardial infarction, stable and unstable angina pectoris of functional class III-IV) received conventional treatment combined with pumpan given for 7-11 weeks. Changes in clinical condition, biochemical blood indices, ECG, echo-CG, 24-h arterial pressure monitoring data were investigated. RESULTS: The addition of pumpan to the standard therapy reduced frequency of anginal attacks, improved intracardiac hemodynamics, psychic and adaptive indices. CONCLUSION: Pumpan is a good adjuvant to conventional treatment of various IHD forms including combination of IHD with AH. Pumpan enables reduction in the required doses of beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, nitrates, sedatives. It also provides hypocoagulatory and hypocholesterolemic effect.

Effect of etonogestrel implant on serum lipids, liver function tests and hemoglobin levels.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to assess the possible effects of etonogestrel implant (Implanon, Organon, Oss, The Netherlands) on total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and Hb levels in a sample of Turkish population. STUDY DESIGN: Healthy women of childbearing potential who had applied to our Family Planning Clinic for a contraceptive method and had chosen to have an Implanon insertion after thorough counseling about all family planning methods and screening for eligibility for Implanon use were enrolled in the study. Serum concentrations of TC, TG, HDL-C, LDL-C, AST, ALT and Hb levels were tested before and at 3 and 6 months after insertion. Baseline mean parameters were compared with mean parameters at 3 and 6 months for statistical significance using paired-samples t test. RESULTS: Eighty-two women eligible for the study were included. Mean age of the patients was 27.5+/-4.8 years. When compared to the baseline values, there was a statistically significant decrease in the TC (p<.001), HDL-C (p<.001) and TG (p=.006) at the end of the third month, while there was a significant increase in Hb values (p=.01). The decrease in TC (p=.001) and HDL-C (p<.001) and increase in Hb value (p=.03) persisted by the end of sixth month while the decrease in TG was transient. A statistically significant increase in mean ALT level was observed at 6 months (p=.03). CONCLUSION: The effect of Implanon on liver functions and lipid metabolism does not lead to unhealthy alterations. Increase in Hb can be attributed to the high frequency of amenorrhea in patients.

Effect of opium addiction on lipid profile and atherosclerosis formation in hypercholesterolemic rabbits.

In some Asian and Middle Eastern societies, opium consumption has traditionally been regarded as a way to lower blood lipids and to prevent heart diseases. This could eventually lead to addiction. In this study, the effect of oral opium consumption on serum lipids and atherogenesis in rabbits was investigated. Twenty-eight male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into control, hypercholesterolemic, addicted, and hypercholesterolemic-addicted groups and were studied for 3 months. Serum lipid profile was determined at the beginning of the study and at 1 month intervals thereafter. At the end of the study period, aortic plaque formation was assessed. Compared with control, in the hypercholesterolemic and hypercholesterolemic-addicted groups, cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were significantly increased (P<0.01). The increases in lipids and lesion areas in the aorta were higher in hypercholesterolemic-addicted than hypercholesterolemic group (P<0.05). Our findings suggest that opium consumption can have aggravating effects in atherosclerosis formation related with hypercholesterolemia, mainly affecting lipid profile.

[The effect of a homeopathic drug on the blood pressure of hypertensive patients--a randomised double-blind controlled parallel group comparative trial]. / Zur Wirkung eines homöopathischen Fertigarzneimittels auf den Blutdruck von Hypertonikern. Eine randomisierte doppelblinde kontrollierte Parallelgruppen-Vergleichsstudie.

Pumpan in a dosage of 3 x 10 drops daily over 6 weeks does not differ in its effect on systolic and diastolic blood pressure significantly from placebo. The tolerance was excellent: not one single patient had to be withdrawn from the study due to side effects. Blood lipids (cholesterol, HDL-, LDL-cholesterol and triglyzerides) did not change, neither in the placebo nor in the verum group.