Men In Control Group Research Articles

Assessment of the Quality of Life of Men with Premature Ejaculation

Sexual health is an integral part of the quality of life of every person, as it is of great importance for the physical and mental well-being of individuals, couples, families, and, accordingly, for the social and economic development of communities and countries. The objective: to assess the impact of premature ejaculation (PE) on the quality of life of men depending on the degree of clinical manifestations. Materials and methods. 89 men who had premature ejaculation were under observation. The average age of the patients was 32.6±4.2 years. The average duration of the disease was 4.6±2.4 years. 22 (24.7%) patients had secondary (acquired) premature ejaculation against the background of chronic prostatitis or prostatic vesiculitis. Other 67 (75.3%) men had a primary (congenital) form of premature ejaculation, which began with the beginning of sexual life. The premature ejaculation diagnostic tool (PEDT) was used to determine the severity of premature ejaculation. Quality of life was assessed on the basis of Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire – Short Form (Q-LES-Q-SF) (). Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used for screening detection of anxiety and depression. Study of medical and social characteristics based on the developed program was performed and the sensitivity of the penis was also assessed using biotensiometry. Results. It was established that men with premature ejaculation have a low satisfaction with life (76.4%), against the background of complete (55.1%) or partial (44.9%) dissatisfaction with their sexual life. Premature ejaculation has a negative impact on their daily life, as it leads to negative experiences (92.1%), reduced work capacity (41.6%), deterioration of relations with a wife or partner (48.3%), a feeling of exhaustion and fatigue (32.6%). When evaluating the results of the PEDT diagnostic test, according to the severity of the manifestations, men had a mild (50.5%), medium (31.5%) or severe (18%) degree. A clear correlation between the decline in men’s quality of life and the severity of premature ejaculation was noted (Spearman’s r = –0.938; p<0.01). The data of anxiety and depression scales indicated their high level, which also depended on the degree of severity of premature ejaculation manifestations (Spearman’s r = 0.790; p<0.01) and negatively affected the quality of life (Spearman’s r = –0.760; p<0,01). According to the data of biotensiometry, hypersensitivity of the head of the penis was noted in men with premature ejaculation, in comparison with the data in the control group of men who did not have sexual disorders: 4.2±1.6 W and 12.4±2.6 W respectively (p<0.05). More pronounced indicators of penile hypersensitivity were observed in men with severe PE with a statistically significant difference compared to the indicators in the group of men with mild manifestations of PE (p<0.05) and without a significant difference compared to the indicators in the group of men with average by the degree of PE (p>0.05). Somewhat more pronounced indicators of penile hypersensitivity were observed in men with PE under the age of 30. Conclusions. Premature ejaculation is characteristic of men of young working age, which is accompanied by a negative impact on various areas of their life, and the development of anxiety and depression, as well as a decrease in the quality of life. This requires improving the organization of providing medical and psychological assistance to such patients.

Gaining metabolic insight in older men undergoing androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer (the ADT & Metabolism Study): Protocol of a longitudinal, observational, cohort study.

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), a cornerstone of treatment for patients with locally advanced and metastatic prostate cancer, is associated with many adverse effects, including osteoporosis, sexual dysfunction, fatigue, and vasomotor symptoms. It is also associated with loss of muscle mass and increased adiposity. This change in body composition is likely the inciting event in the development of insulin resistance, an independent risk factor for diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. Although the occurrence of insulin resistance during ADT has been reported, it remains unclear whether this insulin resistance is primarily hepatic or muscular. Similarly, the mechanisms that lead to insulin resistance also remain unknown. The ADT & Metabolism Study was designed to address these knowledge gaps, as the elucidation of the predominant site of insulin resistance will allow prevention strategies and the use of targeted, tissue-specific insulin-sensitizing agents in patients undergoing ADT. This prospective, mechanistic, single-center, 24-week, observational cohort study will enroll treatment-naïve adult men with prostate cancer about to undergo surgical or medical ADT for at least 24 weeks (ADT group; n = 50) and a control group of men who had undergone radical prostatectomy and are in remission (non-ADT group, n = 25). The primary outcome is to determine the site of insulin resistance (skeletal muscle or liver) using frequent sampling oral glucose tolerance test at baseline and 12 and 24 weeks after commencement of ADT (ADT group) or after enrollment in the study (non-ADT group). Secondary outcomes will assess changes in hepatic and intramyocellular fat (using magnetic resonance spectroscopy), inflammatory markers, adipokines, free fatty acids, and changes in body composition (assessed using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry) and their correlation with the development of insulin resistance. Exploratory outcomes will include changes in muscle performance, physical function, physical activity, vitality, and sexual drive.

ANTHROPOMETRIC PROFILE OF PATIENTS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS IN LVIV REGION

The body of PLHIV undergoes profound anthropometric changes in adipose tissue distribution, which develop under the influence of pathogenetic mechanisms caused by HIV and due to impaired side effects of ART. ART leads to the development of lipoatrophy / lipohypertrophy syndrome. This phenomenon is described as a syndrome characterized by the loss and/or accumulation of fat and has three types: lipohypertrophy, lipoatrophy, and mixed lipodystrophy. These changes in body shape are very important to determine because they are associated with negative disease dynamics and high mortality. Therefore, it is extremely important to detect this syndrome early to ensure a better quality of life for this population, as the clinical approach is not easy. Potential approaches to treatment, including lifestyle changes, with adequate eating habits, exercise, and some medical interventions, showed little effect in PLHIV. In this case can be effectively reduced through exercise. Despite the existence of established exercise guidelines, the effective dosage of exercise to reduce HRT requires verification.
 The aim. Study the anthropometric parameters in PLHIV and establish the relationship between the parameters and the degree of viral load (HV) of HIV, the level of CD4 + T-lymphocytes.
 Materials and methods: 60 patients aged 18 to 60 years were examined. We used standard methods of measuring the following anthropometric indicators: body weight, height, chest circumference, waist and hips. The waist-to-thigh ratio index was also determined. The calculation of the body mass index was performed according to the standard formula by dividing body weight (in kilograms) by the square of height (in square meters). The indicator 18.5-24.9 is considered normal. The level of CD4 + T-lymphocytes was determined by flow cytofluorometry. The viral load of HIV was determined by real-time PCR. Statistical indicators, median, Pearson's coefficient, Student's t-test, were calculated using Microsoft Excel 2016.
 Results. The average waist circumference was smaller in both the men of the experimental group (74.5 ± 10.3 cm) and the women of the experimental group (61.9 ± 11.0 cm) than in the control groups of men (90.4 ± 9.4 cm) and women (67.5 ± 7.3 cm (p <0.05)). The average ratio of waist circumference to hip circumference in the group of male PLHIV was 0.94 ± 0.08 cm in the control group of men - 0.97 ± 0.8 cm (p <0.05). In the group of female PLHIV, this indicator reached 0.86 ± 0.1 cm, and in the control group - 0.75 ± 0.3 cm (p <0.05). The mean forearm circumference was lower in the two research groups. However, in men with HIV (18.5 ± 3.1 cm) this figure was lower than in women with HIV (19.9 ± 3.9 cm (p <0.05)). Also, the circumference of the tibia was larger in female PLHIV (26.9 ± 3.9 cm) than in male PLHIV (20.8 ± 3.8 cm (p <0.05)).
 Conclusions. PLHIV at the stage of AIDS leads to the recomposition of the body. It is manifested by a decrease in BMI, waist circumference, hip, mid-upper arm, and calf, which indicates lipodystrophy. Increase in the index of the waist circumference to hip circumference ratio indicates a probable redistribution of adipose tissue. BMI cannot be used as an accurate method to determine obesity or lipodystrophy. A positive correlation was found between the value of the anthropometric profile and the level of viral load and CD4 + T-lymphocytes. Early administration of ART and dosed exercise is likely to have a positive effect on the body structure of PLHIV in the AIDS stage, although this requires further research.

Genotypic stratification of risk of acute cerebral circulation disorder

Genotypic stratification of risk of acute cerebral circulation disorder

СВЯЗЬ ПОЛИМОРФИЗМА ГЕНОВ ТРОМБОЦИТАРНЫХ РЕЦЕПТОРОВ GPIA(С807Т), GPIIIA (Т1565С) С АКТИВНОСТЬЮ ТРОМБОЦИТОВ И ЭФФЕКТИВНОСТЬЮ АЦЕТИЛСАЛИЦИЛОВОЙ КИСЛОТЫ У ПАЦИЕНТОВ СО СТАБИЛЬНОЙ СТЕНОКАРДИЕЙ НАПРЯЖЕНИЯ

Background. Recently, much attention has been paid to the genetic aspects of thrombus formation. Understanding the genetic contribution to platelet function may have clinical implications for personalized pharmacotherapy. The aim of the study was to assess the distribution of polymorphic variants C807T of the ITGA2 gene and T1565C of the ITGB3 gene and to study their effect on platelet activity and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) efficiency in patients with stable angina (SA) living in the Grodno region. Material and methods. The study included 92 patients with SA, 89 of them underwent elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and 93 were apparently healthy people. The survey data (general clinical, aggregometry, general blood count and platelet indices, polymerase chain reaction genotyping) were analyzed using the STATISTICA 10.0 program. Results. The prevalence of carriage of genotypes associated with possible variability of response to ASA therapy among patients with SA was 69.6% for the C807T polymorphic locus of the ITGA2 gene, 31.5% for the T1565C polymorphic ITGB3 locus, 60.2% and 37.6% among practically healthy individuals respectively. A lower frequency of the CC variant of the C807T polymorphic locus of the ITGA2 gene was noted in the group of men with SA in comparison with the control group of men (p = 0.043) according to Fisher's exact test. The patients were divided into subgroups (SG). Carriers of the CC genotype of the C807T polymorphic locus of the ITGA2 gene and TT genotype of the T1565C polymorphic locus of the ITGB3 gene were in SG1. Carriers of the CT+TT genotypes of the C807T polymorphic locus of the ITGA2 gene and TC+CC of the T1565C polymorphic locus of the ITGB3 gene were in SG2. The ASPI-test values were 23.0 [14.0; 50.5] U in SG1 and 22.5 [14.5; 34.5] U in SG2 of the ITGA2 gene, p>0.05. The ASPI-test values were 23.0 [16.0; 38.0] U in SG1 and 20.0 [14.0; 34.0] U in SG2 of the ITGB3 gene, p>0.05. Conclusions. No relationship was found between the polymorphic variants C807T of the ITGA2 gene and T1565C of the ITGB3 gene and platelet activity and the effectiveness of ASA in patients with SA.

The characteristic of the component body composition of athletes involved in game-based and cyclic kinds of sports

Objective:to determine a component body composition of students specializing in volleyball and athletics and to conduct a comparative analysis of the results.Materials and methods:the study was conducted at the Department of physical training and sports at the Yaroslavl State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. The study included students from different groups of physical training: volleyball (10 men and 10 women), athletics (10 women) (experimental groups), and first­year students that attended physical training classes (14 men and 16 women) (control group).Results:significant differences were revealed between the anthropometric measurements in the experimental groups of the studied women and between the results of anthropometric measurements in the female volleyball players, female athletes, and students from the control group. Significant differences were revealed in the component body composition of the studied women from the experimental and control groups. The analysis of the results of anthropometric measurements in the experimental and control groups of men did not reveal any significant differences between the parameters. Bioimpedancemetry revealed significant differences in the composition of the internal milieu of volleyball players in comparison with the control group.Conclusions:1. differences were revealed in the component composition of the body of female athletes involved in game­based and cyclic kinds of sport as well as in the parameters of bio­impedance of female volleyball players and the control group. Female volleyball players had higher parameters of total body fluids, intracellular and extracellular fluids, fat­free, fat, and active cell mass in comparison with female light athletes and the control group. The differences in the obtained results were more significant in the experimental groups. 2. Bio­impendance analysis of men showed significant differences in the component body composition of volleyball players in comparison with untrained students. The parameters of total body fluids, fat­free, fat, and active cell mass in sportsmen exceeded the same parameters in the control group. 3. Differences were established in the anthropometric parameters depending on the sport­oriented specialization of female students. Female volleyball players had higher values of mass, length, body weight index, and body surface area, the circumferences of the pelvis, thighs, and wrists in comparison with the results obtained in female light athletes. Similar differences were revealed in the anthropometric parameters of female volleyball players and students from the control group. Significantly lower values of the body weight index, circumference of the chest and pelvis of female athletes were registered in comparison with students from the control group. Male volleyball players did not have significant differences in the anthropometric parameters. They tended to have an increase in the body mass, length and surface area of the body, circumference of the chest, thighs, and wrists.

Cytoarchitectonics of the Superior Parietal Cortex of an Outstanding Russian Scientist-Physiologist

The aim of the study is to identify possible cytoarchitectonic features of the structure of the cortex in the superior parietal region of an outstanding and talented scientist-physiologist.Material and methods. The cortex (area 7) of the superior parietal region of a scientist-physiologist and men of the senile age in the control group (8 hemispheres) was studied on the series of frontal brain slices, 20 μ thick, stained with cresyl purple according to Nissl method. The cortex area thickness, the thickness of the cytoarchitectonics layer III, the area of profile field of pyramidal neurons in layers III and V, the density of neurons surrounded by satellite glia and satellite glia density in layers III and V were measured in the cortex (area 7) of the superior parietal region in the left and right hemispheres of the brain.Results. We have identified several features of the cytoarchitectonics structure of the cortex (area 7) in the brain of the scientist-physiologist that may correlate with his outstanding scientific abilities. The cortex of a scientist-physiologist is characterized by a large thickness of the studied cortex and its cytoarchitectonic layers III and V, and a greater value of the area of the profile field of neurons if compared with the cortex in men of the senile age from the control group. A higher value of the neuron density and satellite glia in the cortex of the superior parietal region of the scientist-physiologist was revealed. There was also a lower severity of age-related changes in the cortex of the scientist-physiologist compared with the control group of men.Conclusion. The structure of the cortex (area 7) of the superior parietal region of the scientistphysiologist is characterized by a greater parameter of the cortical thickness and the thickness of the associative layer III, the size of neurons and the density of satellite glia if compared with those in men of the senile age of the control group. These features distinguish the structure of his cortex from the similar cortex of the control group of men and may be related to the features of the cognitive activity of the outstanding scientist-physiologist.

Do People with Rheumatoid Arthritis Need Mental Support?

Introduction: Depression is an increasingly common mental disorder. Among the factors significantly contributing to its occurrence is permanent pain. Thence high percentage of people struggling with depression in chronically ill people and the elderly. Depression is diagnosed late, which is a serious problem in the comprehensive recovery process. Aim: The aim of the study was to demonstrate the relationship between the occurrence of RA and depression, taking into account data such as gender, age and place of residence. Material and Methods: The study involved 163 adults - 116 people with RA and 47 healthy people. The Beck Depression Inventory was used for research purposes. It consists of 21 questions, to which the patient answers according to the symptoms appearing in the last two weeks. Results: Analysis of the results of the examined and control groups indicates a higher percentage of occurrence of depression symptoms in people diagnosed with RA. In women, depression was more common than in men. In addition, there were more depressive episodes in women in the study group than in healthy women. There were no significant differences in the study and control groups of men and depending on age and place of residence. Conclusion: The presence of RA has a significant impact on the occurrence of depressive disorders. Illness and gender are a determining factor for depression. Research shows that women are more likely to be affected than men. Rapid intervention of doctors is very important, which can prevent the negative effects of the disease, i.e. suicidal thoughts. Prevention is therefore important. People with chronic illnesses should be under psychological support.

Metabolic dysregulation in older adults with depression and loneliness: The ATHLOS study

This study aimed to examine how loneliness contributes to metabolic dysregulation among older adults with depression and determine the relative contribution of loneliness to the development of chronic diseases in late adulthood. Harmonised data from the Ageing Trajectories of Health: Longitudinal Opportunities and Synergies (ATHLOS) project were used. Concretely, the sample comprised 6195 participants (53.95% women; M = 61.30 years, SD = 7.11) from three European cohorts. Three groups were considered: control group (CG); depressive symptom episode group (DEP); and a group with depression and loneliness (DEP + LONE). A metabolic score was estimated using anthropometric and blood indicators, by means of multi-indicator multi-causes (MIMIC) modelling and after controlling for sociodemographic and health-related covariates. Group-comparison was based on measurement-invariance procedures. Multimorbidity development was predicted at follow-up considering the study group and relevant covariates. All the analyses were sex-specific. As a result, measurement invariance revealed the influence of group (ΔCFI = −0.017 for male participants and ΔCFI = −0.009 for female ones) on metabolic scores in both sexes. Metabolic scores were significantly lower (i.e., they had more metabolic risk) in DEP + LONE women in comparison to women from the other groups. DEP men showed the lowest metabolic scores but those from the DEP + LONE group showed meaningfully lower scores than CG men (d = 1.35). In terms of multimorbidity prediction, DEP + LONE group membership significantly predicted the outcome in both sexes; DEP group membership significantly predicted multimorbidity at follow-up in women. In summary, these results highlight the relevant contribution of loneliness in depression-related metabolic dysregulation in the short- (concurrent metabolic risk) and long-term (chronic condition development). Moreover, sex-specific mechanisms seem to be involved in metabolic alterations of depressed people showing loneliness feelings. This study calls for action to reduce the impact of loneliness in old age and to promote healthy ageing.

Changes in the blood fatty-acid profile associated with oxidative-antioxidant disturbances in coronary atherosclerosis.

The objective of this work was to study the profile of fatty acids and to search for associations of fatty acids with oxidative-antioxidant parameters and an oxidative-inflammatory biomarker (lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2) in men with coronary atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. Analysis of 20 fatty acids was performed in 60 men with angiographically confirmed coronary atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease and in a control group of men without coronary heart disease. Serum fatty-acid content was evaluated by high-performance gas-liquid chromatography. The blood levels of oxidative stress, total antioxidative defence, and lipoprotein-associated phospholipase 2 were analyzed. In the group of men with coronary atherosclerosis the levels of myristic and palmitic fatty acids were higher by 59% and 22%, respectively. An increase in the weight percentage of monounsaturated fatty acids was noted, such as palmitoleic, oleic, and octadecenic. Significantly lower levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as linolic, eicosadienoic, eicosatrienoic, arachidonic, eicosapentaenoic, glinolenic, docosapentaenoic, and docosahexaenoic were detected in the group with coronary atherosclerosis. The lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 level was higher by 48%. Oxidative stress was higher by 17%, and the total antioxidant defence in serum was lower by 45%. We found correlations between fatty acids and oxidative-antioxidative alterations. The relative risk of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques correlated with increased levels of palmitic, stearic, oleic, and linolic fatty acids. Significant alterations in the profile of fatty acids are associated with oxidative-antioxidative alterations and are accompanied by an increase in free-radical formation, which can probably serve as a risk factor of atherosclerosis.

Correlation between late-onset sporadic Parkinson's disease and single nucleotide polymorphism of Atg7 rs2606757

Objective To investigate the correlation between late-onset sporadic parkinson's disease(PD)and single nucleotide polymorphism(SNP)of autophagy-related genes 7(Atg7)rs2606757(6+ 1196A/T)in Han Chinese population. Methods Totally 124 patients with late-onset sporadic PD(the PD group)and 105 age- and sex-matched healthy individuals(the control group)were enrolled in this study.The SNP of Atg7 rs2606757 was detected by the polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism(PCR-RFLP). After gene sequencing for the detection of allele and genotype frequencies distribution and testing Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, the differences in Atg7 rs2606757 genotype and allele frequency were compared between PD group and control group and between males and females. Results The frequency of AA genotype was statistically significantly lower in the PD group[34.7%(43/124)]than in the control group[53.3%(56/105)](χ2=8.063, P=0.005, OR=0.465, 95%CI: 0.273-0.791). In men's PD group versus men's control group, AA genotype of the Atg7 rs2606757 showed a lower frequency for late-onset sporadic PD[33.3%(23/69)vs.53.2%(33/62), χ2=5.280, P=0.022, OR=0.439, 95%CI: 0.217-0.891]. Logistic regression analysis indicated that the AA genotype frequency distribution of Atg7 rs2606757 showed a significant difference between PD and control groups(OR=2.210, 95%CI: 1.289-3.789, P=0.004). Conclusions The higher frequence of AA genotype at Atg7 rs2606757 only in males might be associated with the decreased risk of late-onset sporadic PD. Key words: Autophagy; Atg7; Polymorphism single nucleotide; Parkinson's disease

Melatonin and the Aging Process in Men in the European Part of the Arctic Zone of Russia

We analyzed the concentrations of 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (6-SMT) in working-age men (aged 19–69 years) living in the European part of the Arctic zone of Russia. The 6-SMT level in the studied group was similar to that in the control group of men living in Western Siberia. The 6-SMT level decreased with age and reached the minimal values at the age of 40–49 years. In the group aged 60–69 years, there was a tendency to increase; however, the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05) as compared with men aged <29 years. We observed the effect of alcohol use on the 6-SMT level; it was lower in men who consumed alcohol than in nonconsumers. The plasma level of free testosterone decreased with age; this value in the group aged 60–69 years was 50% lower than in the group aged 29 years. We observed the activation of lipid peroxidation, which was not compensated for by a higher activity rate of glutathione-reductase or higher plasma levels of SH groups as compared with the control group. Age-related decrease in the level of melatonin, which is an endogenous antioxidant, was associated with a gradual accumulation of peroxidation products and reduced activity of the antioxidant system due to decreasing level of SH-groups.

Muscle Dysmorphia and Eating Disorders: Comparison on Self-Esteem and Personality Traits

Even though muscle dysmorphia (MD) is classified as a body dysmorphic disorder, it shares similarities with eating disorders (ED). The aim of the present study was to explore similarities between men with MD, women with ED, and a control group of men with body related preoccupations, regarding self-esteem, body esteem, and personality traits.

Mechanisms responsible for reduced erythropoiesis during androgen deprivation therapy in men with prostate cancer.

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a mainstay of treatment for prostate cancer (PCa). As androgens stimulate erythropoiesis, ADT is associated with a reduction in hematocrit, which in turn contributes to fatigue and related morbidity. However, the mechanisms involved in ADT-induced reduction in erythropoiesis remain unclear. We conducted a 6-mo prospective cohort study and enrolled men with PCa about to undergo ADT (ADT-Group) and a control group of men who had previously undergone prostatectomy for localized PCa and were in remission (Non-ADT Group). All participants had normal testosterone levels at baseline. Fasting blood samples were collected at baseline, 12 wk, and 24 wk after initiation of ADT; samples were obtained at the same intervals from enrollment in the Non-ADT group. Blood count, iron studies, erythropoietin, erythroferrone, and hepcidin levels were measured. Seventy participants formed the analytical sample (31 ADT, 39 Non-ADT). ADT was associated with a significant reduction in erythrocyte count (estimated mean difference = -0.2×106 cells/µl, 95%CI = -0.3 to -0.1×106 cells/µl, P < 0.001), hematocrit (-1.9%, 95%CI = -2.7 to -1.1%, P < 0.001), and hemoglobin (-0.6 g/dl, 95%CI = -0.8 to -0.3 g/dl, P < 0.001). Serum hepcidin concentration increased in the ADT-group (18 ng/ml, P < 0.001); however, iron concentrations did not change (-1.1 µg/dl, P = 0.837). Ferritin levels increased in men on ADT (60 ng/ml, P < 0.001). Iron binding capacity, transferrin saturation, erythroferrone, and erythropoietin did not change. Nine men undergoing ADT developed new-onset anemia. In conclusion, reduced proliferation of marrow erythroid progenitors leads to ADT-induced reduction in erythropoiesis. Future studies should evaluate the role of selective androgen receptor modulators in the treatment of ADT-induced anemia.

Androgen Deprivation Therapy Is Associated With Prolongation of QTc Interval in Men With Prostate Cancer.

ContextAndrogen deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate cancer (PCa) is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality and sudden cardiac death, with some events occurring early after initiation of ADT. Testosterone levels are inversely associated with corrected QT (QTc) interval duration; therefore, prolongation of QTc duration could be responsible for some of these events during ADT.ObjectiveTo evaluate changes in QTc duration during ADT.Design and InterventionsA 6-month prospective cohort study that enrolled men with PCa about to undergo ADT (ADT group) and a control group of men who previously underwent prostatectomy for PCa and never received ADT (non-ADT group).PatientsAt study entry, all participants were eugonadal and had no history of cardiac arrhythmias or complete bundle branch block.OutcomesDifference in change in QTc duration from baseline on a 12-lead electrocardiogram at 6, 12, and 24 weeks after initiation of ADT compared with electrocardiograms performed at the same intervals in the non-ADT group. PR, QRS, and QT interval durations were also evaluated.ResultsSeventy-one participants formed the analytical sample (33 ADT and 38 non-ADT). ADT was associated with prolongation of the QTc by 7.4 ms compared with the non-ADT group [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.08 to 14.7 ms; P = 0.048]. ADT was also associated with shortening of the QRS interval by 2.4 ms (95% CI −4.64 to −0.23; P = 0.031). Electrolytes did not change.ConclusionsMen undergoing ADT for PCa experienced prolongation of the QTc. These findings might explain the increased risk of sudden cardiac death seen in these patients.

Neurobiološke osnove rodne disforije aktuelni hipotetički modeli

The term transgender refers to the incongruence between an individually experienced and manifested gender with a sex assigned at birth (natal). Gender dysphoria refers to the distress caused by this incongruence, which can lead to a social, occupational or emotional disorder. Research in the field of gender identity, gender dysphoria and gender incongruence, due to the complex nature of the phenomenon, are very complicated. Nevertheless, researchers have noticed that pathophysiology of gender dysphoria is not sufficiently understandable. Modern models of gender identity development, both typical and atypical, are based on multifactorial etiology and the synergy of numerous genetic, epigenetic and developmental factors. Significant sources of knowledge transgender phenomena are clinical phenomena (DSD - disorder of sexual development, or developmental anomalies - children with unspecified sexuality: congenital adrenal hyperplasia - KAH, androgen-related insensitivity syndrome - AIS, monitoring and follow-up of the development of gender atypical, incongruent and dysphoric children and neurobiological studies of neurovizualization). The current paper focuses on the review of modern neurobiological studies of the brain of transgender individuals. The results of in vivo neuroimaging studies related to the etiology of feelings of gender incongruity, based on the hypothesis of sexual differentiation are presented. The aim of these studies is to answer the question whether the brain of transgender individuals is like the brain of the same gender at birth or those with the same gender-related feelings. Neuroimaging studies in this field are primarily focused on the brain phenotype of transmen and transwomen, with the assumption that they differ in a number of ways from the control group of men and women (sex and gender congruent) with feminine, masculine, de masculinised and de feminised manifestations. Knowledge of the brain phenotype of people with a feelings of gender incongruity could contribute to the answering the question of whether full differentiation of the brain in these people is atypical. Such knowledge could further contribute to knowledge of the gender identity development itself. Imaging studies related to tasks have as a goal to show whether cerebral activation and performance is performed after receiving tasks completely atypical in transgender individuals. The third type of study in this field deals with the evaluation of the effects of the application of full hormones on the brain, which provides insight into how the changes in the level of sex hormones can affect brain structures and their function. The obtained phenotypes can have theoretical implications for brain intersection, asymmetry and body perception in people with gender dysphoria.

ŞİZOFRENİ VE BİPOLAR BOZUKLUKLAR İLE ENFEKSİYON HASTALIKLARI ARASINDAKİ İLİŞKİNİN ARAŞTIRILMASI

Aim: Considering the results of epidemiological studies, claimed that some congenital and postpartum infections in the intrauterine period, especially in 2nd Trimester, may play a role for the occurrence of Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder(BD). Aim of our study; serum samples of schizophreni-BD patients and healthy asymptomatic donors, Toxoplasma gondii (T.gondii), Chlamydia pneumoni (C.pneumoniae), Chlamydia trachomatis (C.trachomatis), Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Herpes simplex Virus(HSV1-HSV2), Treponema pallidum (T.pallidum) and Barnavirus which associated with psychic disorders evaluated using serological diagnostic methods and investigated the possible relationship of infections. Material and Methods: In this study, ELISA method was used for seroprevalence of congenital and postpartum infections. Also, Sandwich EIA method was used for Endogenous Bornavirus Like Nucleoprotein1(EBLN1) in peripheral blood samples. Results: Serum samples from 258 patients consisting of 96 female-162 male observed in psychiatry clinics and from healthy asymptomatic 150 donors including 100 male-50 female who came to the blood centers to donate blood. A significant difference wasn’t detected among seropositivity rates of CMV, HSV1-HSV2 and T.pallidum for patients and control groups. In statistical aspects, seroprevalence of T.gondii and C.pneumoniae in patients(93.02%-68.99%) were found significantly higher than the seropositivity rate of the control groups(63.33%-50%). Despite C.trachomatis showed a statistically significant difference between patients and control group of women compared to patients and control group of men, but significant difference weren’t detected in whole investigated population. BVLN1 was detected 4 men(2.46%) in the patient group. Conclusion: Based on study results, T.gondii and C.pneumoniae carry higher risk in patients with schizophrenia and BD compared to control ones.

Psychological dysfunctions in women with bronchial asthma

Background. The importance of psychosocial factors in the management of bronchial asthma (BA) is discussed in clinical guidelines, including in international and national clinical guidelines. However, a specific evaluation of their role as a cause of poor asthma control in susceptible patients is required. Aim. Assessment of psychological health of women with different levels of asthma control. Materials and methods. The study included 108 women with asthma observed in Saratov center for Allergology who were stratified into 3 groups according to the control level (good, partial, uncontrolled, according to GINA). In establishing a diagnosis of asthma, standard methods were used (medical history, symptoms, spirography). To assess the level of control, ACQ-5 (Asthma Control Questionnaire 5 items-self-administered) was used, to assess the quality of life, questionnaires AQLQ-S (Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire S); SF-36 (36-ltem MOS Short-Form Health Survey), a standardized and validated Russian version of the women’s health questionnaire WHQ (Women’s Health Questionnaire) were used; for psychological diagnosis and evaluation of social and personal competencies that contribute to the preservation and improvement of human health (the intellectual, personal, emotional, physical, social, creative, spiritual aspects), integrated multimodal questionnaire was used. The comparison was conducted with a control group of men with bronchial asthma, comparable in age and level of control. Results. Women with poorly controlled asthma had worse performance of AQLQ-S (combined median score of 3,43 instead of 5,13 in the group of good control; p < 0,05); all scales of the SF-36, including the general condition (43,48 against 55,07), role of physical (25,93 against 57,76) and emotional problems (43,83 against 64,37); at p < 0.05. According to the WHQ questionnaire (the inverse relationship: the higher the score, the lower the quality of life) in the group with poor control there is a high level of depression (mean 0,36 versus 0,24; p < 0,05); physical health problems are marked (0,47 against 0,27; p < 0,05). There is a very low selfestimation of their attractiveness in BA (0,71 and 0,64 for bad and good control, respectively). According to the integrated multimodal questionnaire, in both men and women with asthma almost identical results were obtained on the scales sensitive to manifestations of anxiety-depressive symptoms, emotional balance, scales of emotional skills, correlating with severe alexithymia and low capacity for reflection. Among women the proportion of individuals with high scores of intellectual functioning, strong-willed competence, goal-setting, and ability of making contacts was higher. Conclusion. The severity of asthma and disease control are closely linked with the psychological condition of the patient. Psychological dysfunctions are correlated with suboptimal BA control. It is important to understand psychological differences in women and to educate patients in both effective BA control and in establishing individualized asthma management strategies.There is a need for a multidisciplinary approach aimed at the identification and effective correction of asthma. The study of the psychological characteristics of personality and motivational sphere of the patient can help to optimize therapy, improve monitoring and prognosis of the disease.

The human RHOX gene cluster: target genes and functional analysis of gene variants in infertile men.

The X-linked reproductive homeobox (RHOX) gene cluster encodes transcription factors preferentially expressed in reproductive tissues. This gene cluster has important roles in male fertility based on phenotypic defects of Rhox-mutant mice and the finding that aberrant RHOX promoter methylation is strongly associated with abnormal human sperm parameters. However, little is known about the molecular mechanism of RHOX function in humans. Using gene expression profiling, we identified genes regulated by members of the human RHOX gene cluster. Some genes were uniquely regulated by RHOXF1 or RHOXF2/2B, while others were regulated by both of these transcription factors. Several of these regulated genes encode proteins involved in processes relevant to spermatogenesis; e.g. stress protection and cell survival. One of the target genes of RHOXF2/2B is RHOXF1, suggesting cross-regulation to enhance transcriptional responses. The potential role of RHOX in human infertility was addressed by sequencing all RHOX exons in a group of 250 patients with severe oligozoospermia. This revealed two mutations in RHOXF1 (c.515G > A and c.522C > T) and four in RHOXF2/2B (-73C > G, c.202G > A, c.411C > T and c.679G > A), of which only one (c.202G > A) was found in a control group of men with normal sperm concentration. Functional analysis demonstrated that c.202G > A and c.679G > A significantly impaired the ability of RHOXF2/2B to regulate downstream genes. Molecular modelling suggested that these mutations alter RHOXF2/F2B protein conformation. By combining clinical data with in vitro functional analysis, we demonstrate how the X-linked RHOX gene cluster may function in normal human spermatogenesis and we provide evidence that it is impaired in human male fertility.

Structural sex differences at disease onset in multiple sclerosis patients.

Male sex is associated with worsening disability and a more rapid progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). This study analysed structural sex differences in magnetic resonance images of the brain, comparing women whose disease started before and after the menopause with a control group of men. This was a case control study in which female patients whose MS started before (Group 1) and after (Group 2) the menopause were included. The control group was matched by age, disease duration, Expanded Disability Status Scale and disease-modifying treatment. Patients were analysed according to demographic and clinical variables, as well as in terms of radiological measurements at disease onset and during the first 12 months of follow-up. These measurements included normalised total brain volume (NTBV), normalised cortical volume (NCV), normalised white matter volume, left and right hippocampus, the thalamus, brain stem volume, lesion load and percentage brain volume change. A linear regression model was used to analyse the data. A total of 97 patients were included: 53 in Group 1 (27 females) and 44 in Group 2 (22 females). In Group 1, we observed a reduction in brain volume in males compared with females at disease onset in NTBV (p = 0.01), NCV (p = 0.001) and brain stem volume (p = 0.01). We did not observe differences in Group 2 at disease onset in the brain volumes analysed. We observed structural sex differences in brain volume at disease onset in the pre-menopausal group. However, no structural differences were observed at disease onset between the sexes after the menopause had started.