Function Index Research Articles

Combined effects of high-intensity focused electromagnetic therapy and pelvic floor exercises on pelvic floor muscles and sexual function in postmenopausal women. A randomized controlled trial.

This study aimed to explore the impact of high-intensity focused electromagnetic therapy (HIFEMT) on the pelvic floor muscles (PFM), sexual function, and quality of life (QoL) among postmenopausal women. Fifty postmenopausal women with PFM weakness and sexual dysfunction were randomly allocated into two equal groups. The HIFEMT group participated in the PFM training program in addition to HIFEMT, whereas the control group performed PFM training only. For 12 weeks, HIFEMT was scheduled two times a week, while PFM training was performed daily. At baseline and after 12 weeks, PFM strength and endurance were assessed using a perineometer and sexual function was examined using the female sexual function index (FSFI) and menopause-specific quality of life questionnaire (MENQOL). The HIFEMT and control groups showed significant increases in PFM strength and endurance and FSFI scores, and significant declines in MENQOL compared with baseline measures (P<0.05). Compared to the control group, the HIFEMT group showed substantial improvements in all measured variables after 12 weeks (P<0.05). Addition of HIFEMT to PFM training improved the PFM strength, endurance, sexual function, and QoL in postmenopausal women with PFM weakness and sexual dysfunction.

Reliability, measurement error, and validity of the Arabic version of the Patient-Specific Functional Scale in patients with upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders.

To evaluate the measurement properties of the Arabic Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) in individuals with upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders. Participants with upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders (N = 139) completed the PSFS, Upper Extremity Functional Index (UEFI), the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and the Global Assessment of Function scale (GAF). The same outcome measures were completed again with one week in addition to the Global Rating of Change Scale. The test-retest reliability, measurement error, floor and ceiling effects, and construct validity of the PSFS were examined. The PSFS demonstrated very good test-retest reliability (ICC2,1 = 0.82; 95% CI: 0.71-0.88), with no evidence of floor or ceiling effects. The standard error of measurement was determined to be 0.74 while the minimal detectable change was 1.73 points. The PSFS demonstrated significant negative correlation with DASH, NPRS (-0.58, -0.35), and significant positive correlation with the UEFI and GAF (0.56, 0.50). The PSFS demonstrated statistically higher correlation with the DASH and UEFI compared with the NPRS (p < 0.004) supporting our predefined construct validity hypotheses. The Arabic PSFS is an applicable, reliable, and valid outcome measure of upper-extremity activity limitations for patients with upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders.

A nanofibrous polycaprolactone/collagen neural guidance channel filled with sciatic allogeneic schwann cells and platelet-rich plasma for sciatic nerve repair.

Sciatic nerve damage, a common condition affecting approximately 2.8% of the US population, can lead to significant disability due to impaired nerve signal transmission, resulting in loss of sensation and motor function in the lower extremities. In this study, a neural guidance channel was developed by rolling a nanofibrous scaffold produced via electrospinning. The scaffold's microstructure, biocompatibility, biodegradation rate, porosity, mechanical properties, and hemocompatibility were evaluated. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) activated with 30,000 allogeneic Schwann cells (SCs) was injected into the lumen of the channels following implantation into a rat model of sciatic nerve injury. Recovery of motor function, sensory function, and muscle re-innervation was assessed using the sciatic function index (SFI), hot plate latency time, and gastrocnemius muscle wet weight loss. Results showed mean hot plate latency times of Autograft: 7.03, PCL/collagen scaffolds loaded with PRP and SCs (PCLCOLPRPSCs): 8.34, polymer-only scaffolds (PCLCOL): 10.66, and untreated animals (Negative Control): 12.00. The mean SFI values at week eight were Autograft: -49.30, PCLCOLPRPSCs: -64.29, PCLCOL: -75.62, and Negative Control: -77.14. The PCLCOLPRPSCs group showed a more negative SFI compared to the Autograft group but performed better than both the PCLCOL and Negative Control groups. These findings suggest that the developed strategy enhanced sensory and functional recovery compared to the negative control and polymer-only scaffold groups.

Dayuan Yin alleviates symptoms of HCoV-229E-induced pneumonia and modulates the Ras/Raf1/MEK/ERK pathway

Viral pneumonia is characterized by inflammation in the lungs triggered by respiratory viruses. Dayuan Yin (DYY), a traditional Chinese medicine formula known for treating infectious diseases, is hypothesized to offer therapeutic benefits in treating viral pneumonia, although its specific molecular impacts remain understudied. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of DYY in mitigating HCoV-229E virus-induced pneumonia in mice. This study employed an HCoV-229E virus-infected mouse model to investigate the therapeutic potential and underlying molecular mechanisms of DYY on virus-induced pneumonia. The respiratory function and organ indices post-treatment were assessed. Lung tissue and tracheal lesions were evaluated via immunohistochemistry. Spleen immune cell composition was analyzed using flow cytometry. Inflammatory cytokines and viral loads were quantified using hypersensitive multiplex electrochemiluminescence method and PCR analysis, respectively. The expression levels of MAS1, Ras, Raf1, MEK1/2, and ERK1/2 in lung tissues were determined through western blot analysis. DYY significantly improved respiratory function, and reduced organ pathology in infected mice. It effectively decreased viral loads and inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α in lung tissues. Enhancements in immune response were evidenced by increased CD4/CD8 ratios in the spleen. DYY also notably upregulated MAS1 protein levels and suppressed the activation of the Ras/Raf1/MEK/ERK signaling pathway. DYY enhanced respiratory function and exerted significant antiviral and immunomodulatory effects in mice infected with the HCoV-229E virus, primarily by modulating MAS1 expression and inhibiting the Ras/Raf1/MEK/ERK pathway.Graphical

Systolic and global right ventricular functions of children with bronchial asthma as compared with those of healthy controls using echocardiography: a single-centre cross-sectional observational study from Nigeria

BackgroundAsthma is the most prevalent chronic airway condition in children. It is characterised by hyperresponsiveness of the small airways leading to airway narrowing, which is usually reversible, with or without treatment. Asthma is known to cause right ventricular dysfunction, but not much is known of this effect among children with highest burden of asthma. The aim of this study is to compare the right ventricular functions of children with asthma, aged 6– ≤ 13 years, with those of their age and sex-matched apparently healthy control using transthoracic echocardiography. The systolic and global right ventricular functions were assessed using Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Function (TAPSE) and Tei index, respectively.ResultsSeventy cases and 68 controls were included in the final analysis of the results. The male-to-female ratios are 1.9:1 and 2:1 for the cases and controls, respectively, and their mean age were 8.82 (± 2.28) and 9.05 (2.50) years. There was no statistically significant difference between their sex (X2\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${X}^{2}$$\\end{document}/P = 0.810/0.85) and their mean age (P = 0.554). The mean TAPSE of the cases (20.16 ± 2.15 mm) and the controls (20.28 ± 2.71 mm) did not differ significantly (P = 0.74), but the mean Tei index of the cases (0.56 ± 0.16) was significantly higher than that of the control (0.50 ± 0.10) (P = 0.007). Among the asthmatics, 17.1% (12/70) and 2.9% (2/70) had global and systolic RV dysfunctions, respectively; 2.9% (2/70) of the controls had RV global dysfunctions, but none had RV systolic dysfunction. The global dysfunction among the asthmatics was significantly associated with their age range and frequency of hospitalisation (X2\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${X}^{2}$$\\end{document} /p of 6.051/0.014 and 7.209/0.021, respectively), and significantly correlates with their Body Mass Index, and peripheral oxygen saturation (r/P of −0.236/0.049 and − 2.490/0.038, respectively). None of the participants had right ventricular systolic dysfunction.ConclusionThis study shows that asthmatic patients have global RV dysfunction, and it is suggested that better control of asthma would preserve cardiac function.

Use of radiofrequency ablation of the vaginal canal for genitourinary syndrome of menopause.

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a prevalent condition with a constellation of symptoms including burning, dryness, dyspareunia, and irritative lower urinary tract symptoms that result from vulvovaginal atrophic changes. Though hormonal therapy is a mainstay of treatment in GSM, some patients may pursue nonhormonal therapies. To determine the efficacy of radiofrequency ablation of the vaginal canal with the MorpheusV applicator in reducing the symptoms of GSM. We conducted a multicenter prospective case series of women with GSM as confirmed by Vaginal Health Index Score (VHIS). Subjects received 3 treatments of radiofrequency ablation ~4weeks apart with follow-up to 6-month posttreatment. The primary endpoint was VHIS at 6-month posttreatment. Secondary endpoints were VHIS at 3 months, Visual analog scale (VAS) pain with each treatment, 3- and 6-month measurements of urogenital distress inventory-6 (UDI-6), and female sexual function index (FSFI) questionnaires. From 2021 to 2023, 71 women were enrolled in the study with 51 followed to the 6-month follow-up time point. Treatments were found to be low in VAS pain score with mean values of 2.13 ± 2.1, 2.55 ± 2.38, and 2.18 ± 2.14 at treatments 1, 2, and 3 respectively. An improvement in VHIS score was seen from baseline to 3 months after the last treatment (15.00 ± 5.37 vs. 19.62 ± 4.44) and sustained at 6 months (20.23 ± 4.12) (P < .001). Significant improvements in both UDI-6 and FSFI were also noted. Between baseline and 6 months after treatment (FSFI: 18.81 ± 9.57 vs. 22.81 ± 10.34, P < 0.001; UDI-6: 39.58 ± 15.98 vs. 22.42 ± 14.03, P < 0.001). No adverse events were encountered by any subject during this study. A therapy that is safe and effective in the treatment of both GSM and lower urinary tract symptoms without the use of hormonal methods is clinically impactful for the many patients who cannot receive or do not desire to receive these medications. Strengths of this study include the utilization of 3 treatment sessions, with follow-up of subjects to 6-month posttreatment with a comprehensive assessment of patient symptoms. Limitations include the unblinded nature of the study and the lack of a comparator group. The data from this study suggests that radiofrequency ablation of the vaginal canal by the MorpheusV applicator is a safe and effective intervention for GSM. It also shows subjective improvements in stress urinary incontinence, urge urinary incontinence, and sexual function.

Relationship Status Rather than Sociosexuality or Sexual Orientation Predicts Male Sexual Functioning.

Male sexual functioning is a prerequisite for conception and consequently for reproduction and is thus a crucial mechanism from an evolutionary and social perspective. Previous studies reported better sexual functioning in coupled compared to single individuals. However, it is not clear whether sexual functioning increases or decreases with a short-term casual sexual strategy, which is another possibility, along with a long-term strategy. Furthermore, sexual orientation may represent yet another mating strategy that may influence sexual functioning. Here, we aimed to test the possible associations between male sexual functioning and sexual strategies, as measured through sociosexuality, relationship status, and sexual orientation. We hypothesize that due to its relationship with the evolved motivation of mate acquisition and mate retention, both stable relationships and sociosexuality would be positively associated with male sexual functioning. We did not expect significant differences in sexual functioning among men with different sexual orientations. We sampled 427 healthy men of different sexual orientations (203 heterosexuals, 77 bisexuals, and 147 gay men) who completed the Male Sexual Function Index (MSFI) and its subscales of desire, arousal, erection, orgasm, and satisfaction; the Sociosexual Orientation Inventory-Revised; and sociodemographic questions. A multivariate general linear model showed that, compared to single individuals, partnered individuals reported greater MSFI-arousal, MSFI-erection, MSFI-orgasm, and MSFI-satisfaction. Sociosexuality and sexual orientation only weakly predicted MSFI domains. Male sexual functioning thus seems to be moderately associated with a long-term mating strategy and can thus serve for relationship maintenance rather than for acquiring new partners.

Sexual dysfunctions in inflammatory bowel disease: role of Mediterranean diet and quality of life.

Dietary factors and chronic gastrointestinal diseases are frequent determinants of sexual dysfunctions (SD). Whether inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are associated with SD is not well known as well as the role of diet and quality of life (QoL). To evaluate the prevalence of SD in a cohort of IBD patients and assess the role of clinical-demographic variables, adherence to Mediterranean diet (MD) and QoL. This is a cross-sectional observational study involving 301 patients (134 females and 167 males); 119 had Crohn's Disease and 182 had ulcerative colitis. SD were assessed through the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). Adherence to MD was evaluated by the MD Score. QoL was investigated by the 12-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12) which yields summary scores of physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) health. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify predictors of SD. Prevalence of SD in females was 61.9%, while 52.1% of males had erectile dysfunction. No differences in the prevalence of SD were found between CD and UC in both males and females. IBD activity, as defined by patient-reported outcomes, was significantly associated with SD in both sexes. In females, MD adherence score (OR 0.8, 95% CI 0.653-0.974, p=0.027), PCS (OR=0.936, CI 95%=0.891-0.983, p=0.008), and MCS (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.906-0.985, p=0.008) were protective against SD, whereas in males a higher PCS was associated with a lower probability of SD (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.891-0.978, p=0.004) DISCUSSION: IBD patients had a significant prevalence of SD which occurred more frequently in females than in males. Disease activity is associated with a higher likelihood of SD in both sexes, whereas dietary factors are differentially associated with SD in males and females. A better QoL is associated with a lower risk of SD. SD is prevalent among men and women with IBD. Adherence to MD, PCS and MCS in females as well as PCS in males were protective against SD. The assessment of sexual function in IBD patients could be relevant in order to reach an early diagnosis and a timely treatment.

Metatarsal sliding osteotomy is effective without altering plantar pressure in Morton's neuroma: Retrospective case series.

Various operative methods for the treatment of Morton's neuroma have been discussed, and osteotomy of the metatarsal bone has been reported recently. However, there has been no report of pedobarographic changes after metatarsal osteotomy. Pedobarographic changes of other metatarsal area after the surgery may cause transfer metatarsalgia, and thorough analysis of the pedobarographic data should be performed peri-operatively. The purpose of this study is to investigate the post-operative pedobarographic changes of sliding osteotomy of the 3rd metatarsal bone for treating Morton's neuroma. Forty patients (45 feet) who underwent metatarsal sliding osteotomy of the 3rd metatarsal bone for treating Morton's neuroma from November 2013 to December 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Proximal sliding osteotomy was performed at the proximal 3rd metatarsal bone through dorsal approach. Clinical outcomes were evaluated with American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Lesser Metatarsophalangeal Interphalangeal Scale (AOFAS LMIS), Foot Function Index (FFI), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Plain radiograph and pedobarogram were performed to evaluate the radiologic and pedobarographic outcomes. AOFAS score was improved from 52.8±9.0 (18-62) to 88.8±9.8 (78-100) and FFI was improved from 61.8±4.9 (50-70) to 32.2±5.1 (23-42) on average. The 3rd metatarsal bone was shortened by 3.1±0.8mm and dorsally shifted by 1.5±0.4mm after the surgery. Plantar intermetatarsal distances between 2nd and 3rd and 3rd and 4th metatarsal heads were significantly increased post-operatively. Average forefoot pressure and maximum pressure of the 2nd to 4th metatarsal head were not significantly changed between pre-operatively and post-operatively. Proximal metatarsal sliding osteotomy of the 3rd metatarsal bone shows a satisfactory result in both clinical and pedobarographical evaluations. It could be an effective treatment of permanent indirect decompression of Morton's neuroma with avoiding recurred neuroma, adhesion of tissue, paresthesia, and transfer metatarsalgia.

Establishment and validation of a population pharmacokinetic model for apatinib in patients with tumors

ObjectiveThis study aimed to develop a population pharmacokinetic (PPK) model for oral apatinib in Chinese oncology patients and investigate the factors influencing the pharmacokinetics of apatinib.MethodsWe gathered 199 blood concentration monitoring data points from 91 inpatient oncology participants receiving oral apatinib at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University. Covariates, such as age, gender, body weight, and indices of liver and renal function, were examined to assess their influence on the pharmacokinetic parameters of apatinib. The PPK model was developed using the nonlinear mixed-effects modeling procedure (NONMEM), and model validation was conducted using the bootstrap method and normalized prediction distribution error (NPDE) method.ResultsThe structural model adopted a one-compartment structure with first-order elimination. Notably, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and the co-administered drug type emerged as primary covariates affecting apatinib clearance (CL/F). The finalized model was expressed as CL/F (L/h) = 56.7 × (AST/26.6)−0.298 × θ, when apatinib was combined with monoclonal antibodies, θ was 1; when combined with paclitaxel, θ was 0.58; when combined with other drugs (e.g., platinum, capecitabine, or the combination of tegafur, gimeracil, and oteracil potassium), θ was 1.60; When used as monotherapy, θ was 1.38. V/F = 674 L, and the absorption rate constant (Ka) was fixed at 0.08 h−1. Bootstrap results affirmed the model’s reliability and stability, while NPDE outcomes attested to the model’s fit.ConclusionOur study successfully established a PPK model for apatinib in oncology patients, revealing that liver function status and co-administered drug types significantly impacted apatinib CL/F. This finding underscored the potential necessity for dose adjustments to optimize efficacy, particularly in patients undergoing different chemotherapy regimens involving apatinib.

Cardiopulmonary Physiology of Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure among Preterm Infants with Septic Shock

To examine cardiopulmonary physiological alterations associated with hypoxemic respiratory failure (HRF; fraction of inspired oxygen ≥0.60) among preterm neonates requiring vasopressors/inotropes during sepsis (septic shock). We conducted a retrospective cohort study from 2015 through 2022 at a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit. Neonates <34 weeks gestational age who had septic shock and underwent a comprehensive targeted neonatal echocardiography (TNE) ≤72 hours of sepsis onset were included. TNE findings of patients with shock and HRF were compared with those with shock without HRF. Indices of pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), right (RV) and left (LV) ventricular systolic and diastolic function, measured using conventional, tissue Doppler imaging and speckle-tracking echocardiography, were examined. Of 52 included infants with septic shock, 19 (37%) also had HRF. Baseline characteristics were similar. On TNE, although the HRF group more frequently had bidirectional/right-to-left flow across the patent ductus arteriosus (67% vs. 33%; p=0.08), all indices of PVR and RV function were similar. However, the HRF group demonstrated reduced LV systolic function [ejection fraction: 51.8±12.3 vs. 62.6±13.0%; global peak systolic longitudinal strain -15.2±4.5 vs. -18.6±4.5%], diastolic function [early (2.3±1.0 vs. 3.6±1.2 /s) and late (2.4 (1.9, 2.6) vs. 2.8 (2.3, 3.5) /s diastolic strain rate], and higher frequency of LV output <150 ml/min/kg (44 vs. 12%); all p<0.05. Acute HRF occurring in preterm neonates with septic shock is associated with alterations in TNE measures of LV function, and not PVR or RV function. Future studies should evaluate the impact of supporting LV function in these patients.

Shifting official development assistance during COVID-19: earmarking, donor concentration and loans

ContextIn contrast to bilateral aid, aid disbursed from multilateral institutions increased significantly at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, at a time when a coherent and effective multilateral response...

Ab-initio atomistic insights into lead-free perovskites for Photovoltaics Technology

The primary objective of this manuscript is to enhance knowledge and comprehension of hexagonal perovskites KNiX3 (X=I, Br). The world is fascinated by halide perovskites because of their advancements in opto-electronic applications, particularly in the photovoltaic field. KNiI3 and KNiBr3 halide perovskites correspond to the two anion I and Br. Here we aim to investigate how opto-electronic applications are affected by the substitution of cations and anion. Within the framework of density functional theory (DFT), the structural, electronic, and optical properties have been computed using the PBE GGA approximation. Br-based perovskites have a shorter bond length than I-based compounds because iodine ions have a larger ionic radius than bromine ions. Thus, the lattice constant increases from I-based potassium halide perovskites to Br-based potassium halide perovskites. The values of the lattice constant match the results of experimental computations. The Density of States (DOS) curves and band structure are used to examine the contribution of the bands. From Br to I, there is a reduction in the band gap, indicating an improvement in photovoltaic applications. Various energy ranges are used to calculate the optical spectra, dielectric function, absorption coefficient, optical reflectivity, and refractive index. KNiX3 (X=I, Br) compound reveals low reflection value which is typically an excellent choice for photovoltaic and opto-electronic applications.

Spousal Postpartum Social Support and Association with Sexual Function and Sexual Quality of Life among Breastfeeding Women

Background: The present study investigated the relationship between spousal support during postpartum period and the sexual function and sexual quality of life among lactating women. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out from October to March 2021 comprising 301 breastfeeding women referred to comprehensive health centers in Qazvin, Iran. The sampling method was performed in two stages. First, via cluster sampling, ten comprehensive health centers were randomly selected. Then based on the list of lactating mothers, 31 mothers in each center were randomly selected and invited to complete the survey. The survey included three psychometric instruments (i.e., Postpartum Partner Support Scale [PPSS], Female Sexual Function Index [FSFI] and Sexual Quality of Life-Female version [SQOL-F]) as well as a reproductive and demographic information questionnaire. The findings were analyzed using univariable and multivariable regression models at a significance level of p&lt;0.05. Results: The participants had a mean age of 30.33 years and a mean length of marriage of 7.99 years. A total of 219 women were exclusively breastfeeding (72.8%), and 82 used a combination of breastfeeding and formula milk to feed their infants (27.2%). The mean (standard deviation) scores in the postpartum period were 61.34 out of 80 (SD=11.41) on the PPSS, 86.52 out of 108 (SD=19.68) on the SQOL-F, and 22.78 out of 36 (SD=6.20) on the FSFI. Based on adjusted multivariable regression models, spousal support in the postpartum period was a significant predictor of sexual quality of life (β=0.39, p&lt;0.001) but not a significant predictor of sexual function. Sexual quality of life was a significant predictor of sexual function (β=0.44, p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: Given the importance of spousal support during the postpartum period in relation to sexual quality of life and sexual function, designing and implementing counseling programs based on the role of spousal support during postpartum sexual life would be helpful.

Role of body mass index in unbalanced (dysanaptic) lung growth of healthy infants.

Imbalance between forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity(FVC) (dysanapsis) has been reported in children who are obese. This dysanaptic growth might begin at an early age, although there are no data on children younger than 6 years. To assess whether body mass index (BMI) and early weight gain, in healthy infants born at term, plays a significant role in the imbalance between FEV1 and FVC, even in the absence of obesity. Lung function was measured by means of raised volume rapid thoracic compression in 69 healthy infants born at term from the Nutrition in Early Life and Asthma cohort. Dysanapsis was defined as zFVC >0.674, zFEV0 .5 ≥-1.645, and FEV0 .5/FVC ≤-1.645. Weight gain (g/day) and growth rate (cm/year) were calculated as the difference between weight and length on the test date and those at birth. To assess the relationship between zBMI and dysanapsis, a receiver operating characteristic curve was performed. Multivariable analysis was carried out by means of linear regressions (one for each lung function index) and by logistic regression for dysanapsis (yes/no). Higher zBMI was associated with risk of dysanapsis (odds ratio: 3.53, [95% confidence interval: 1.30; 9.66]; p = .014): Each additional zBMI unit was associated with ~10 mL higher FVC and with ~3.5% lower FEV0.5/FVC. Weight gain was associated with lower FEV0.5/FVC ratio. Dysanaptic development of lung function begins very early in infancy and is related with weight gain and body mass index, even in the absence of obesity.

Correlation of thyroid function and sensitivity to thyroid hormone with spinal bone mineral content, bone mineral density, and osteoporotic vertebral fracture: A cross-sectional study based on NHANES.

Previous studies have demonstrated that thyroid hormone plays an important role in normal bone development, bone metabolism, and establishment of peak bone mass. However, the correlation of thyroid status with bone mineral content (BMC), bone mineral density (BMD), and osteoporotic vertebral fracture (OVF) is rarely discussed. The current study probes into the potential association between thyroid status and spinal BMC, BMD, and OVF from a novel perspective of thyroid function (TF) and sensitivity to thyroid hormone based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database. A total of 1844 participants were included in this study. The association of thyroid status with outcome variables, like spinal BMC, BMD, and OVF, was analyzed using thyroid function indices and sensitivity to thyroid hormone indices as influence factors. The correlation of them were assessed using univariate and multivariable weighted linear regression, weighted logistic regression models, restricted cubic spline model, and subgroup analyses. The results of this study showed that the association of free triiodothyronine (FT3)/free thyroxine (FT4) with BMC remained negatively associated after adjustment for all covariates. Higher thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) was significantly associated with an increased risk of developing OVF in both unadjusted and adjusted models. In addition, the results of the restricted cubic spline model were consistent with the weighted multivariate regression analysis after adjustment. The results of this cross-sectional study showed that higher FT3/FT4 and TPOAb were associated with decreased spinal BMC and the increased risk of OVF, indicating a complex link between thyroid status and bone health. Therefore, patients with hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, autoimmune thyroid disease, or abnormal peripheral thyroid sensitivity, especially who with elevated TPOAb or FT3/FT4, should focus on the prevention of vertebral osteopenia, osteoporosis, and OVF.

Comparison of Sexual Function, Satisfaction, and Assertiveness in Genital Cosmetic Surgery Groups: A Randomized-Sampling Cross-Sectional Study.

Sexual dissatisfaction is one of the main motivations for seeking female genital cosmetic surgery (FGCS), though the outcomes of such surgeries are controversial. Evaluation of the sexual function, satisfaction, and assertiveness in FGCS groups. From five clinical centers in Tehran, Iran, 200 women in the study group (women seeking or had undergone labiaplasty (LP), women seeking or had undergone multi-procedure (MP) of FGCS simultaneously) and the control group were randomly selected. Participants completed the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the Global Measure of Sexual Satisfaction (GMSEX), and the Hurlbert Index of Sexual Assertiveness (HISA). The groups were compared using the Chi-square, one-way ANOVA with post hoc analysis. In women seeking LP, the mean FSFI, GMSEX, and HISA score was lower than that of women who had undergone LP (FSFI: 18.41 vs 21.36, p =0.04, GMSEX: 20.36 vs 28.03 p <0.001, HISA: 49.7 vs 62.5 p <0.001). Our finding showed as well that women seeking MP also had lower mean FSFI, GMSEX, and HISA scorecompared to women had undergone MP (FSFI: 23.02 vs 18.02, p <0.001, GMSEX: 19.63 vs 28.94 p <0.001, HISA: 45.72 vs 60.62 p <0.001). Women who had completed FGCS experienced better sexual function, satisfaction, and assertiveness compared with women seeking surgery. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Accessibility of the Female Sexual Function Index: A Study of Readability and Understandability

Accessibility of the Female Sexual Function Index: A Study of Readability and Understandability

Obese Patients With Polymyalgia Rheumatica Experience More Pain And Disability At Disease Onset And Require Higher Doses Of Glucocorticoids.

polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory disorder of the elderly characterized by girdle pain and stiffness. Obesity has an influence on disease activity and outcome in rheumatic diseases like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but its relationship to the severity and outcome of PMR is unknown. In a post-hoc analysis, 83 patients with recent-onset PMR were studied over six months with clinical examination, laboratory evaluation, and girdle ultrasound. MHAQ, Short Form 36 (SF36), and PMR-VAS, as well as prednisone (PDN) therapy were recorded. Patients were divided according to their body mass index (BMI). at baseline, the 12 obese patients had significantly more shoulder pain (p=0.03), global pain (p=0.03), PMR VAS (p<0.01), and fatigue (p=0.03), higher MHAQ (p=0.01), and lower physical component summary on SF36 (p=0.048), SF36 social functioning index (p=0.05) and SF36 pain index (p<0.001). The mean initial PDN dose was similar among groups, but obese patients received a lower dose per kg weight (1.9±0.7 mg vs. 2.2±0.7 mg; p<0.01). At six months, obese patients were being treated with higher mean daily PDN doses (8.5±3.2 mg/day vs. 6.2±5.2 mg/day, p=0.02); 40% of them were receiving higher daily PDN dose than per-protocol, vs. 14% non-obese patients (p=0.048). Clinical features, laboratory and ultrasound results were similar. obesity affects both symptoms severity and PDN utilization in patients with PMR. The reason thereof may relate to different subjective pain perception rather than increased inflammation in obese patients. BMI should be considered when interpreting symptoms in PMR patients and deciding their PDN doses.

Sexual Function and Satisfaction among Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in the West of Iran: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: We haven’t found any reported study that addressed sexual function and satisfaction in infertile women who are undergoing IVF treatment in the west of Iran. Objective: The present study was conducted to investigate sexual performance and satisfaction among women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) in Western Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 170 women from December 2022 to March 2023. The participants were selected by convenience sampling until the sample size was reached. The participants were included in the study as available sampling. Women completed the demographic questionnaire, FSFI (female sexual function index), and Linda Berg’s Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire. For data analysis, we used the Stata version 14 (StataCorp, College Station, TX) and we considered the P-value less than 0.05 significant. Result: There was a significant relationship between husband occupations, economic status, marriage duration, period of infertility, cause of infertility, and intercourse times with sexual satisfaction (P&lt;0.05). The highest percentage of the obtained score was related to pain (51.6%) and the lowest was related to desire (38%). All of the patients with weak sexual function had weak sexual satisfaction and 60.19% of the patients with good sexual function had good sexual satisfaction (P&lt;0.001). Conclusion: Women with weak sexual function had weak sexual satisfaction. Policymakers should consider strategies, such as counseling and psychological support for women during the treatment process to help them cope with their problems, especially psychological problems.