Evaluating the Low-Dose ACTH Stimulation Test in Neonates: Ideal Times for Cortisol Measurement.

Context: Low-dose adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation testing (LDST) can be used to diagnose central adrenal insufficiency. However, uncertainty remains over optimal times to draw serum cortisol levels.

Objective: To determine optimal times to draw serum cortisol levels for the LDST in neonates.

Photoprotection But Not N-acetylcysteine Improves Intestinal Blood Flow and Oxidation Status in Parenterally Fed Piglets.

Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to determine if protecting parenteral nutrition solutions from ambient light and supplementing with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) improves mesenteric blood flow, gut morphology, and oxidative status of parenterally fed neonates.

Methods: Neonatal Yucatan miniature piglets (n = 23, 7-11 days old) were surgically fitted with central venous catheters and an ultrasonic blood flow probe around the superior mesenteric artery. Piglets were fed continuously for 7 days either light-protected (LP) or light-exposed (LE) complete parenteral nutrition that was enriched with either NAC or alanine (ALA).