Serum dehydroepiandrosterone and lipid peroxides in human volunteers of different age groups

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the changes in serum dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and lipid peroxide levels during ageing in human subjects. Random blood samples were collected from a total of 128 apparently normal human volunteers of both sexes, whose age ranged between 21–70 years. The subjects were divided into groups of a decade years of age difference. Serum levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), lipid peroxides as malondialdehyde (MDA), and insulin were analysed in all the subjects recruited in the study. In the present study there was decrease in serum DHEA levels with age (11.30 to 7.99 ng/ml). However the differences were significant only after 50 years up to 70 years. Serum MDA levels of these subjects were higher (3.91 to 4.74 ng/ml) as compared to the values reported earlier (2.64 to 3.94 ng/ml). The serum MDA levels also showed an increasing trend with age but the increase was significant only in the 40–50 years age group and values plateaud off at later ages. The MDA and DHEA levels in women in general were lower than in men and this could be due to female hormones, which are known to protect lipid against peroxidation. There was a significant negative correlation between age and DHEA (r=−0.311 P<0.05) and positive correction between MDA and age (r=+0.405 P<0.01). No significant differences were seen in serum insulin, albumin and total protein levels. These preliminary findings support the possible utility of DHEA and MDA as markers for chronological ageing.     

Factors of Role Conflict among Livestock Extension Professionals in Andhra Pradesh,India

Abstract

To know the factors of role conflict among livestock extension professionals in Andhra Pradesh, India. Study was conducted following ex-post facto research design. Data were collected from 180 respondents through survey questionnaires. The data were subjected to multiple regression and path analyses to know the factors of role conflict. Respondents were experiencing four types of role conflicts, viz., intra-role conflict, intra-sender conflict, inter-role conflict, and conflicting expectations. The 16 independent variables put together explained 59% variation in role conflict. Most of the variation was found to be governed by job experience, physical facilities, trainings undergone, participativeness, work motivation and persistence disposition. Persistence disposition, job satisfaction and work motivation were the channels for indirect effects of other variables on role conflict. If higher levels of role conflict and factors influencing role conflict are not properly coped, it affects the performance in a dysfunctional style. Therefore, an orientation program to newly recruited veterinarians on role conflict and its coping strategies is recommended. The other related implications for animal husbandry department are also discussed. With the knowledge on factors of role conflict, performance of the staff can be improved by addressing the related factors. Therefore, this investigation has a personal, social as well as organizational significance to animal husbandry departments in India.