Endocrinology Research Articles

A stacking ensemble model for predicting the occurrence of carotid atherosclerosis.

Carotid atherosclerosis (CAS) is a significant risk factor for cardio-cerebrovascular events. The objective of this study is to employ stacking ensemble machine learning techniques to enhance the prediction of CAS occurrence, incorporating a wide range of predictors, including endocrine-related markers. Based on data from a routine health check-up cohort, five individual prediction models for CAS were established based on logistic regression (LR), random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) and gradient boosting decision tree (GBDT) methods. Then, a stacking ensemble algorithm was used to integrate the base models to improve the prediction ability and address overfitting problems. Finally, the SHAP value method was applied for an in-depth analysis of variable importance at both the overall and individual levels, with a focus on elucidating the impact of endocrine-related variables. A total of 441 of the 1669 subjects in the cohort were finally diagnosed with CAS. Seventeen variables were selected as predictors. The ensemble model outperformed the individual models, with AUCs of 0.893 in the testing set and 0.861 in the validation set. The ensemble model has the optimal accuracy, precision, recall and F1 score in the validation set, with considerable performance in the testing set. Carotid stenosis and age emerged as the most significant predictors, alongside notable contributions from endocrine-related factors. The ensemble model shows enhanced accuracy and generalizability in predicting CAS risk, underscoring its utility in identifying individuals at high risk. This approach integrates a comprehensive analysis of predictors, including endocrine markers, affirming the critical role of endocrine dysfunctions in CAS development. It represents a promising tool in identifying high-risk individuals for the prevention of CAS and cardio-cerebrovascular diseases.

Effects of gestational hypothyroidism on mouse brain development: Gabaergic systems and oxidative stress

Hormonal imbalance during pregnancy is a risk factor for neuropsychiatric impairment in the offspring. It has been suggested that hypothyroidism leads to dysfunction of cortical GABAergic interneurons and inhibitory system development that in turn underlies impairment of the central nervous system. Here we investigated how gestational hypothyroidism affected offspring GABAergic system development as well as redox regulation parameters, because of previous links identified between the two. Experimental Gestational Hypothyroidism (EGH) was induced in CD-1 mice with 0.02% methimazole (MMI) in drinking water from embryonic day 9 (E9) until tissue collection at embryonic day 14 (E14) or E18. We examined GABAergic cell distribution and inhibitory system development gene expression as well as redox relevant gene expression and direct measures across all embryos regardless of sex. Intrauterine restriction of maternal thyroid hormones significantly impacted both of these outcomes in brain, as well as altering redox regulation in the placenta. GAD67+ neuronal migration was reduced, accompanied by a disruption in gene expression influencing GABAergic cell migration and cortical inhibitory neural system development. EGH also altered embryonic brain gene expression of Gpx1, Nfe2l2, Cat levels in the dorsal E14 brains. Additionally, EGH resulted in elevated TBARS, Gpx1 and Nfe2l2 in the ventral E18 brains. Furthermore, EGH downregulated placental Gpx1 gene expression at E14 and increased protein oxidation at E18. These findings support the hypothesis that sufficient maternal thyroid hormone supply to the fetus influences central nervous system development, including processes of GABAergic system development and redox equilibrium.

Strong Early Impact of Letrozole on Ovulation Induction Outperforms Clomiphene Citrate in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common endocrine disorder, characterized by hyperandrogenism and/or chronic oligo/anovulation, which leads to infertility. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to explore the efficacy of letrozole compared with clomiphene citrate for ovulation induction in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. The study protocol has been registered with PROSPERO (registration number CRD42022376611). The literature search included randomized clinical trials. We conducted our systematic literature search across three medical databases: MEDLINE (via PubMed), Cochrane Library (CENTRAL), and Embase. The data synthesis employed a random effects model. Out of the 1994 articles screened, 25 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The letrozole group exhibited a significant increase in endometrial thickness (mean difference = 1.70, confidence interval: 0.55-2.86; I2 = 97%, p-value = 0.008). The odds of ovulation (odds ratio = 1.8, confidence interval: 1.21-2.69; I2 = 51%, p-value = 0.010) and pregnancy (odds ratio = 1.96, confidence interval: 1.37-2.81; I2 = 32%, p-value = 0.002) were significantly higher. The resistance index of the subendometrial arteries showed a significant decrease (mean difference = -0.15, confidence interval: -0.27 to -0.04; I2 = 92%, p-value = 0.030). Women diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome and treated with letrozole for ovulation induction had increased ovulation and pregnancy rates and increased endometrial thickness. The lower resistance index of subendometrial arteries can enhance intrauterine circulation, creating more favorable conditions for embryo implantation and development.

The impact of the presence of hirsutism and hypertrichosis on the psychological state of women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome and hyperandrogenism

This review article focuses on analyzing the impact of excessive hairiness, in the form of hirsutism and hypertrichosis, on the psychological state of women affected by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hyperandrogenism. PCOS is one of the most common endocrine disorders in women, characterized by hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance and menstrual disorders, among others. Studies suggest that excessive body hair can have a significant impact on the quality of life and psychological state of PCOS patients, leading to lowered self-esteem, depression, anxiety and body dysmorphophobia. Despite numerous clinical observations, however, a complete understanding of the mechanisms underlying this association is lacking. The article underscores the need for further research to identify the biological and psychological mechanisms affecting the psychological state of women with excessive body hair in the context of PCOS and hyperandrogenism. As progress is made in this area, it will be possible to develop more effective management strategies and therapeutic interventions that can help improve the quality of life for these patients.

Flavonoid Supplementation Is Beneficial for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent hormonal imbalance that predominantly affects women in their reproductive years. Previous studies have yielded conflicting conclusions. This is an updated meta-analysis aiming to explore the connection between flavonoid supplementation and PCOS. Seven databases were searched: Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Wanfang, China Science and Technology Journal, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure, spanning from their inception to April 15, 2024. Two authors independently searched the databases using the search terms. Following strict inclusion criteria, 8 papers were ultimately included. This updated meta-analysis suggests that flavonoid supplementation could enhance follicular development, promote the proliferation and differentiation of follicular granulosa cells, elevate estradiol levels, and mitigate testosterone, C-reactive protein, and ovarian index levels. This analysis suggests that dietary flavonoids could potentially alleviate symptoms associated with PCOS. PROSPERO registration no. CRD42022382912.

Objective and self-reported assessment of sleep quality during each trimester of pregnancy: A prospective observational study

ObjectivesStudies on actual circumstances of sleep in pregnant women are limited to surveys of self-reported symptoms, and objective assessments are missing. Sleep disturbances due to hormonal imbalances are common during pregnancy. This study aimed to assess sleep quality by objective assessment using an actigraph and by self-reported assessment using a questionnaire for sleep during each trimester of pregnancy and to elucidate how sleep quality changed from the first to the third trimester of pregnancy. Study designA longitudinal questionnaire survey was administered and sleep measurements using an actigraph were recorded at three time points during the first, second, and third trimesters in primiparous women who had conceived naturally. ResultsDuring the first trimester, “feeling of being refreshed when waking up in the morning” was not noted, and a decline was observed in mental function. During the second trimester, a positive correlation was observed between morning sickness and sleep quality. ConclusionsSleep quality was the worst during the third trimester, with the shortest total sleep time and poor sleep efficiency, along with poor physical function scores. Back pain and leg cramps significantly correlated with sleep efficiency in the third trimester. Poor sleep during pregnancy begins in the first trimester. If minor problems, such as morning sickness, continue in the second trimester, sleep quality is greatly affected. Furthermore, during the third trimester of pregnancy, low back pain and leg cramps are more likely to occur due to an increase in the abdominal area and may interfere with sleep.

Is intraoperative parathyroid monitoring during minimally invasive parathyroidectomy still justified?

Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is the third most common endocrine disease. With parathyroidectomy, a cure rate of over 95% at initial surgery is reported. Localization of the abnormal parathyroid gland is critical for the operation to be successful. The aim of this study is to analyze data of patients with single gland disease (SGD) and positive concordant localization imaging undergoing minimally invasive parathyroidectomy (MIP) and intraoperative parathyroid hormone monitoring (IOPTH) to evaluate if IOPTH is still justified in patients with localized SGD. A retrospective database analysis of all minimally invasive operations with IOPTH for PHPT and positive concordant localization in ultrasound (US) and 99mTc-sestamibi scintigraphy (MIBI) between 2016-2021. When both US and MIBI were negative, patients underwent either choline or methionine PET-CT. The patients were also analyzed a second time without applying IOPTH. In total, 198 patients were included in the study. The sensitivity of US, MIBI and PET-CT was 96%, 94% and 100%, respectively. Positive predictive value was 88%, 89% and 94% with US, MIBI and PET-CT, respectively. IOPTH was true positive in 185 (93.4%) patients. In 13 (6.6%) patients, no adequate IOPTH decline was observed after localizing and extirpating the assumed enlarged parathyroid gland. Without IOPTH, the cure rate decreased from 195 (98.5%) to 182 (92%) patients and the rate of persisting disease increased from 2 (1.0%) to 15 (7.5%) patients. Discontinuing IOPTH significantly increases the persistence rate by a factor of 7.5 in patients with concordantly localized adenoma. Therefore, IOPTH appears to remain necessary even for this group of patients.

Review of clinical practice guidelines for hypoparathyroidism

Hypoparathyroidism is an endocrine disease characterized by reduced production of parathyroid hormone by the parathyroid glands or tissue resistance to its action. This is accompanied by disturbances in phosphorus-calcium metabolism.The main cause of hypoparathyroidism is damage or removal of the parathyroid glands during surgery on the neck organs. Autoimmune hypoparathyroidism is the second most common form of the disease, which occurs, as a rule, within the autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 1.The development of chronic hypoparathyroidism of any etiology requires lifelong appointment of multicomponent therapy, as well as careful monitoring and an individual approach. In the absence of adequate dynamic monitoring, multiple complications develop from vital organs, in particular calcification of the urinary system, soft tissues and the brain; cardiovascular pathology; visual disturbances; muscle and bone diseases leading to decreased quality of life of patients.Thus, timely diagnosis, rationally selected drug therapy and competent patient management will reduce the risks of complications, improve the prognosis, and reduce the frequency of hospitalizations and disability of patients with chronic hypoparathyroidism.The article presents the main recommendations of the new project of clinical guidelines for patients with hypoparathyroidism, approved by the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation in 2021. They include the algorithms of diagnosis, treatment and dynamic monitoring of hypoparathyroidism, as well as management of postsurgical hypocalcemia and medical care of and the disease during pregnancy.

Transcriptome Analysis of Mesenchymal Progenitor Cells Revealed Molecular Insights into Metabolic Dysfunction and Inflammation in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a female endocrine disorder with metabolic issues. Hyperandrogenism combined with hyperinsulinemia exacerbates the reproductive, metabolic, and inflammatory problems in PCOS patients. The etiology of PCOS is unclear. Patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) offer a promising model for studying disease mechanisms and conducting drug screening. Here, we aim to use mesenchymal progenitor cells (MPCs) derived from PCOS iPSCs to explore the mechanism of PCOS. We compared the transcriptome profiles of PCOS and healthy control (HC) iPSC-derived MPCs (iPSCMs). Moreover, we assess the impact of androgens on iPSCMs. In the comparison between PCOS and HC, the expression levels of 1026 genes were significantly different. A gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed that adipogenesis- and metabolism-related genes were downregulated, whereas inflammation-related genes were upregulated in the PCOS iPSCMs. Dysregulation of the TGF-β1 and Wnt signaling pathways was observed in the PCOS iPSCMs. Furthermore, there was impaired adipogenesis and decreased lipolysis in the PCOS iPSCMs-derived adipocytes. With testosterone treatment, genes related to metabolism were upregulated in the HC iPSCMs but downregulated in the PCOS iPSCMs. The impact of testosterone varied among HCs and PCOS iPSCMs, possibly because of a genetic predisposition toward PCOS. This study found specific signaling pathways that could serve as therapeutic targets for PCOS.

The possibilities of correction of premature greying of hair and involutive hair changes

The review highlights the available published data on the etiopathogenesis of early graying, hair involution and restoration methods. Early graying of hair is defined as settlement before the age of 20 in Caucasians, before the age of 25 in Asians and before the age of 30 in Africans. In etiopathogenesis, an imbalance between oxidative stress and the antioxidant system is considered as the leading mechanism, a significant role is played by genetic predisposition, hormonal disorders of the thyroid gland, acute stress; the causes may also be deficiency of vitamin B12, copper, iron. Currently, the active molecule palmitoyl tetrapeptide-20 is used to prevent pigment loss and restore it. The endocannabinoid system in the hair follicle is also considered as a target for stimulation during the restoration of hair growth.

Analysis of population mortality from endocrine diseases and diabetes mellitus in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) since 2018 to 2022

Analysis of population mortality from endocrine diseases and diabetes mellitus in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) since 2018 to 2022

Evaluation of Knowledge and Assessment of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Among Healthcare Providers in Medical Institutes of Bahawalpur

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder (an imbalance of sex hormones) in which water-filled sacs called cysts form in ovaries. Hormone imbalances in PCOS can lead to problems like irregular periods, troubled ovulation, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders. PCOS is the main reason for ovulation issues and infertility among females. This study aims to check how many female healthcare providers in the medical institutes of Bahawalpur know about PCOS. In Pakistan, around 52% of reproductive-age women deal with PCOS versus 20–25% in the UK. The study surveyed 341 participants to assess their knowledge. Findings showed that nearly all participants had good knowledge about PCOS (94.4%), and over one-fifth showed possible symptoms (23%). Many of them were undergraduates. The research highlights the need for better education and awareness of PCOS for the general population through these healthcare providers and care to enhance affected women’s quality of life. Based on signs and symptoms, 78 respondents (22.9%) are suspected to have PCOS but are living unknowingly with a low quality of life. They should take medical action as early diagnosis of PCOS is beneficial for improving their quality of life. Hence, community-based awareness programs are needed to address the risk factors, problems, and clinical manifestations for healthcare providers and the general population.

Asprosin: the potential player in combined double diabetes and hypothyroidism.

Double diabetes is a term used to describe people with type 1 diabetes who are overweight, show signs of insulin resistance, or have a family history of type 2 diabetes. Asprosin is a novel glucogenic adipokine; Asprosin regulates appetite and glucose metabolism. The study aimed to investigate the level of asprosin in people with double diabetes with and without hypothyroidism and its association with markers of insulin resistance. This case-control study was conducted in Iraq between March 2022 and January 2023. One hundred sixty participants were enrolled; the selected participants were classified into three age and sex-matched groups. The first group consisted of eighty healthy controls served as the control group. Of eighty participants with newly discovered DD, half (40) have DD alone, and 40 have both DD and hypothyroidism. Serum asprosin, insulin, thyroid, lipid profile, glucose, and glycated hemoglobin were measured. The estimated glucose disposal rate, triglyceride-glucose index, and HOMA-IR were calculated. Participants with double diabetes had significantly (p ≤ 0.001) greater circulation asprosin levels than subjects in the control group. Comparatively, to double diabetes participants without hypothyroidism, asprosin levels were also higher in double diabetes subjects with hypothyroidism (p ≤ 0.001), and the insulin resistance markers increased in a stepwise way across the asprosin quartiles (p ≤ 0.001). Asprosin significantly correlated with insulin resistance markers, eGDR, plasma glucose, HbA1C, triglycerides, HDL-C, and LDL-C. Elevated asprosin levels might be a potential biomarker for the alteration in glucose metabolism, insulin resistance, and double diabetes. It may be the missing link between metabolic and endocrine disorders.

Kallistatin as a Potential Biomarker in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Prospective Cohort Study.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder with significant metabolic implications, including an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Kallistatin, a serine proteinase inhibitor with anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, has been identified as a potential biomarker for PCOS due to its role in modulating inflammation and oxidative stress. This prospective cohort study was conducted at a university hospital's gynecology clinic. It included 220 women diagnosed with PCOS and 220 healthy controls matched for age and body mass index. Kallistatin levels were quantitatively assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) techniques. Associations between kallistatin levels and clinical manifestations of PCOS, including hyperandrogenism and metabolic profiles, were examined. Kallistatin levels were significantly lower in patients with PCOS (2.65 ± 1.84 ng/mL) compared to controls (6.12 ± 4.17 ng/mL; p < 0.001). A strong negative correlation existed between kallistatin levels and androgen concentrations (r = -0.782, p = 0.035). No significant associations were found between kallistatin levels and insulin resistance or lipid profiles. The findings indicate that reduced kallistatin levels are closely associated with PCOS and could serve as a promising biomarker for its diagnosis. The specific correlation with hyperandrogenism suggests that kallistatin could be particularly effective for identifying PCOS subtypes characterized by elevated androgen levels. This study supports the potential of kallistatin in improving diagnostic protocols for PCOS, facilitating earlier and more accurate detection, which is crucial for effective management and treatment.

Evaluating the efficacy of surgical and conservative approaches in mild autonomous cortisol secretion: a meta-analysis.

The management of Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion (MACS) remains a topic of debate among clinicians, with differing opinions on the effectiveness of surgical intervention compared to conservative treatment methods. This meta-analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of available literature to determine the most effective approach for treating this condition. On December 1, 2023, an exhaustive literature search of English databases Embase, PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, as well as the Chinese databases China HowNet, Wanfang Database, SinoMed Database, and Weipu Database using the keywords "Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion", "Subclinical Cushing's Syndrome", "Subclinical Hypercortisolism", "Mild Cortisol Autonomous Secretion", "Adrenal Incidentaloma", "Surgical Treatment" and "Adrenalectomy". The data were statistically analyzed using STATA version 15.0. In this comprehensive analysis involving 629 patients with MACS, the therapeutic efficacy of adrenalectomy was evident. The meta-analysis results indicate that compared to conservative treatment, surgical intervention more effectively improves obesity indicators in patients: waist circumference (SMD=-0.62, 95% CI: -1.06 to -0.18), BMI (SMD=-0.41, 95% CI: -0.62 to -0.20), enhances glycemic control: fasting blood glucose (SMD=-0.47, 95% CI: -0.68 to -0.26), glycated hemoglobin (SMD=-0.66, 95% CI: -0.95 to -0.38), improves lipid metabolism: triglycerides (SMD=-0.45, 95% CI: -0.73 to -0.16), lowers blood pressure: systolic blood pressure (SMD=-1.04, 95% CI: -1.25 to -0.83), diastolic blood pressure (SMD=-0.89, 95% CI: -1.12 to -0.65), and ameliorates hormonal metabolic disorder: 24h urinary free cortisol (SMD=-1.10, 95% CI: -1.33 to -0.87), ACTH (SMD=2.30, 95% CI: 1.63 to 2.97). All these differences are statistically significant. This meta-analysis shows that, compared to conservative treatment, surgical treatment is more effective in improving obesity indicators, glycemic control, lipid metabolism, reducing blood pressure, and ameliorating hormonal metabolic disorders in patients with MACS. These statistically significant results highlight the importance of considering surgical intervention in the management of patients with MACS. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42023492527.

Obesity and Male Fertility: An In-Depth Review of the Impact of Elevated BMI

This paper discusses the complex relationship between obesity and male infertility in a detailed manner. According to the introduction, obesity-related infertility is importantly discussed since it affects some 15% of couples in which half cases are attributed for obesity-related infertility is important to discuss since it affects some 15% of couples, and half of cases are attributed to male factors. The body of the analysis discusses various factors related to obesity-associated male reproduction implications, including endocrinopathies insulin sensitivity, sperm DNA fragmentation, erectile dysfunction OSAS asshened semen characteristics chronic epididymitis and epigenetic changes. The above discussion on endocrinopathies shows that excessive white adipose tissues derail the HPG axis, triggering hormonal imbalances which lead to infertility. This paper explains the interaction between insulin resistance and testosterone levels in type 2 diabetes affected men. The paper also focuses on sperm DNA fragmentation, showing the association between obesity and increased levels of sperm DNA damage, mitochondrial dysfunction and abnormality in morphology. Erectile dysfunction is focused on obesity-induced oxidative stress, inflammation and hormonal abnormalities that impair male reproductive function. Additionally, the role of sleep apnea in testosterone secretion and possible association between its severity to lower level of this hormone are presented. There is a further discussion of altered sperm traits, chronic epididymitis and epigenetic changes with regard to the obesity which gives us a broad perspective on male fertility. The paper then concludes its discussion regarding weight loss interventions restoring fertility, focusing on diet and exercise as means for reducing certain parameters associated with modifiable inflammatory markers linked to infertility. In summary, the general assessment highlights that obesity management is crucial in male infertility.

Management of post-extubation anxiety in the intensive care unit

Post-extubation anxiety causes significant distress in intensive care unit patients. This review provides treatment recommendations for managing anxiety during weaning and extubation from mechanical ventilation. Factors predisposing to anxiety include cerebral vascular disease, endocrine disorders, cardiopulmonary decompensation, disrupted sleep-wake cycles, and the stressful ICU environment. This review analyzed 21 articles sourced from Google Scholar and PubMed, focusing on case reports, case series, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. These studies reported that dexmedetomidine effectively reduces extubation time and ICU length of stay through its anxiolytic properties. Antipsychotics, like quetiapine, showed potential in managing anxiety during ventilator weaning, but high-dose haloperidol posed risks. Benzodiazepines were linked to paradoxical agitation and respiratory suppression. Non-pharmacological treatments, such as aromatherapy, music therapy, and massage therapy, appeared to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. Caregiver approaches, including parental presence and psychological training, also reduced anxiety. In conclusion, non-pharmacological approaches should be prioritized, and pharmacological treatments considered when necessary. More research is essential to identify optimal treatments for post-extubation anxiety with minimal patient risk and effective symptom control. Keywords: Anxiety, ICU patients, critically ill patients, post-extubation

Metabolic and Microbial Dysregulation in Preterm Infants with Neonatal Respiratory Distress Syndrome: An Early Developmental Perspective.

Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS) is one of the most severe respiratory disorders in preterm infants (PTIs) due to immature lung development. To delineate the serum metabolic alterations and gut microbiota variations in NRDS and assess their implications on neonatal development, we enrolled 13 NRDS neonates and 12 PTIs and collected fecal and serum specimens after birth. Longitudinal fecal sampling was conducted weekly for a month in NRDS neonates. NRDS neonates were characterized by notably reduced gestational ages and birth weights and a higher rate of asphyxia at birth relative to PTIs. Early postnatal disturbances in tryptophan metabolism were evident in the NRDS group, concomitant with elevated relative abundance of Haemophilus, Fusicatenibacter, and Vibrio. Integrative multiomics analyses revealed an inverse relationship between tryptophan concentrations and Blautia abundance. At one-week old, NRDS neonates exhibited cortisol regulation anomalies and augmented hepatic catabolism. Sequential microbial profiling revealed distinct gut microbiota evolution in NRDS subjects, characterized by a general reduction in potentially pathogenic bacteria. The acute perinatal stress of NRDS leads to mitochondrial compromise, hormonal imbalance, and delayed gut microbiota evolution. Despite the short duration of NRDS, its impact on neonatal development is significant and requires extended attention.

Pre-Experimental Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Structured Teaching Program on Knowledge Regarding Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Among Adolescent Girls in Selected Hospitals of Indore

polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent disorder among females, characterized by hormonal imbalances and diverse clinical manifestations, with a global prevalence estimated between 4% and 20%. Early diagnosis and personalized management are vital for improving the quality of life for women with PCOS. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a Structured Teaching Programme (STP) on enhancing knowledge about PCOS among adolescent girls in selected hospitals of Indore. Employing a quantitative pre-experimental one-group pre- and post-test design, 45 adolescent girls were selected through purposive sampling. Data analysis using descriptive and inferential statistics revealed a significant increase in knowledge post-intervention. The mean post-test knowledge score (19.97 ± 2.27) significantly surpassed the pre-test score (11.5 ± 1.998), with a computed 't' value of 23.43 (p &lt; 0.001). The findings indicate that the STP effectively improved knowledge about PCOS, though no significant association was found between pre-test scores and demographic variables.

Perception of couples’ on multipurpose prevention technology attribute choice: the case of MTN 045

BackgroundMultipurpose prevention technologies (MPTs) are products capable of simultaneously addressing multiple sexual and reproductive health needs such as unwanted pregnancy, STIs including HIV-1, and other reproductive tract infections. MPTs are urgently needed to address the double burden of unplanned pregnancy and HIV. While condoms are currently the only accessible MPTs, they are not solely under a woman’s control, and female condoms face limitations due to poor acceptability and high cost.MethodsWe conducted a sub-analysis of qualitative data from 39 couples participating in the MTN 045 study to examine the perception of couples on choice and acceptability of a “2 in 1” MPT that combines HIV and pregnancy prevention.ResultsCouples recognized the benefits of MPTs for HIV and pregnancy prevention but perceptions tied to each indication and a novel prevention technology tool raised important concerns relevant to use of future MPTs. In the study, participants’ perceptions of MPT use were influenced by pregnancy planning. When the timing was less critical, they prioritized HIV prevention. Misinformation about family planning methods, including MPTs, affected decision-making with potential to hinder uptake of future MPTs. Concerns about side effects, such as weight gain and hormonal imbalances, influenced willingness to use MPTs.ConclusionAddressing the myths and misconceptions surrounding the use of contraceptives is crucial in promoting their acceptance and ultimate use. Strategies for addressing the drawbacks women might experience while using a particular product should be in place as new MPTs progress through the development pipeline and approach roll-out.