Significant Sex Research Articles

Correlation of the Upper Nasolabial Angle With Skeletal Patterns and Nasal Morphology in Indian Adults: An Observational Study.

The upper nasolabial angle (UNLA) is an important determinant in clinical diagnosis and treatment planning. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to assess the correlation between various skeletal parameters and nasal morphology in an Indian cohort, particularly UNLA. The secondary objectives were to evaluate sex differences in nasal morphology, optimal cut-off values of the UNLA for skeletal malocclusions, and differences in nasal morphology in different skeletal malocclusions. This retrospective study used 162 pre-treatment lateral cephalometric records of patients with skeletal Class I, Class II, and Class III relationships. Group 1 consisted of 68 skeletal Class I patients (ANB angle of 2-40), Group 2 consisted of 68 skeletal Class II patients (ANB angle > 40), and Group 3 consisted of 26 skeletal Class III patients (ANB angle of less than 20). Each group was further subdivided according to the growth pattern into low (horizontal), average, and high (vertical) growers. The angle between the sella-nasion plane and mandibular plane (SN-GoGn angle) was used to further divide the groups according to their growth pattern into a horizontal growth pattern (SN-GoGn angle < 280), an average growth pattern (SN-GoGn angle of 28-360), and a vertical growth pattern (SN-GoGn angle > 360). The study sample was also divided into males and females to assess gender differences. Spearman's correlation coefficient, multinomial logistic regression analysis, Mann-Whitney U test, and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to obtain the optimal cut-off values for UNLA. The UNLA showed a positive correlation with the sagittal position of the maxilla and a negative correlation with the sagittal position of the mandible and palatal plane (PP) inclination angle. Statistically significant sex differences were observed in nasal length, nasal depth, and lower anterior facial height. The optimal cut-off values for the UNLA angle in the class II skeletal pattern were ≥ 200, 16-200 for skeletal class I, and ≤ 160 for skeletal class III patients. None of the skeletal and nasal parameters were reliable predictors of the skeletal pattern type. The present study showed that the UNLA increased in the skeletal class II pattern with the downward inclination of the PP. Patients with skeletal class III malocclusion had an upward-canted nasal tip.

Association of body composition with ambulatory blood pressure among Chinese youths

BackgroundFor youths, abnormalities in ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) patterns are known to be associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk and potential target organ damage. Body composition, including indicators such as lean mass index (LMI), fat mass index (FMI), and visceral fat level (VFL), plays a significant role in blood pressure (BP) regulation. However, little is known about the association between these body composition indicators and ABP. Therefore, the present study examined the association between these body composition indicators and BP among Chinese youths.MethodsA total of 477 college students aged 17 to 28 years old (mean ± Standard deviation = 18.96 ± 1.21) from a university in Changsha, Hunan Province, China, were included in this study. Body composition indicators were measured with a bioelectrical impedance body composition analyzer, and 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) was conducted. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to assess the relationship between body composition indicators and abnormal ABP.ResultsThe prevalence of abnormal BP, including 24-hour BP, daytime BP, nighttime BP, and clinic BP, were 4.8%, 4.2%, 8.6%, and 10.9%, respectively. After adjusting for potential covariates, LMI [abnormal 24-hour BP (OR = 1.85, 95%CI:1.31, 2.62), abnormal daytime BP (OR = 1.76, 95%CI:1.21, 2.58), abnormal nighttime BP (OR = 1.64, 95%CI:1.25, 2.14), abnormal clinic BP (OR = 1.84, 95%CI:1.38, 2.45)], FMI [abnormal 24-hour BP (OR = 1.20, 95%CI:1.02, 1.41), abnormal daytime BP (OR = 1.30, 95%CI:1.07, 1.57), abnormal nighttime BP (OR = 1.24, 95%CI:1.10, 1.39), abnormal clinic BP (OR = 1.42, 95%CI:1.22, 1.65)], and VFL [abnormal 24-hour BP (OR = 1.22, 95%CI:1.06, 1.39), abnormal daytime BP (OR = 1.29, 95%CI:1.10, 1.51), abnormal nighttime BP (OR = 1.24, 95%CI:1.12, 1.39), abnormal clinic BP (OR = 1.38, 95%CI:1.21, 1.57)] are positively linked to abnormal BP. Additionally, there were significant sex differences in the association between body composition and abnormal BP.ConclusionsOur findings suggested maintaining an individual’s appropriate muscle mass and fat mass and focusing on the different relations of males’ and females’ body composition is crucial for the achievement of appropriate BP profiles.

Decoding Age-Linked Masseter Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potential Changes in Healthy, Aging Individuals.

The primary objective of this study was to assess how age influences masseter vestibular evoked myogenic potential (mVEMP) parameters by utilizing 500-Hz tone burst stimuli delivered through air conduction. The study involved 110 participants ranging from 15 to 60 years of age, grouped into five categories, all of whom had no previous issues related to their vestibular system. The participants were exposed to 500-Hz tone burst stimuli at 125 dB SPL through ER-3A inserts. These stimuli were presented to one ear at a time, with alternating polarity. A Tukey's honestly significant difference test was conducted to compare rectified and unrectified amplitude, along with latencies (P11 and N21) and the asymmetric ratio across all age groups. Additionally, a multivariate analysis of variance was performed to assess the impact of sex on the study variables. All 110 participants (220 ears) in the study provided mVEMP responses, encompassing 100% of the subjects. The results revealed a significant reduction in both amplitude and latency extension for the P11 and N21 peaks. Interestingly, P11 latency was also prolonged in the youngest participants (Group 1), suggesting ongoing maturation of the system even beyond the age of 16 years. Moreover, a significant sex difference was observed in the P11 latencies. However, there were no substantial sex differences (p > .05) in N1 peak latency, peak-to-peak amplitude, rectified amplitude, and asymmetric ratio. Changes in structure occur due to degeneration, and the quantity of vestibular sensory hair cells gradually diminishes with age. The rate of decline is faster in semicircular canals compared to end organs, as observed by Merchant et al. (2000). Following a linear degeneration starting at the age of 40 years, a continuous reduction in sensory cells and primary neurons takes place until approximately 40% of vestibular sensory cells are lost by the age of 75 years and insufficient maturation can lead to prolonged peaks and reduced amplitudes compared with those that are considered normal. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the age of the participants when making diagnoses and incorporate relevant correction factors based on age-related reference data.

Prevalence, Symptom Profiles, and Correlates of Mixed Anxiety–Depression in Male and Female Autistic Youth

Relatively little attention has been given to mixed anxiety and depression in autistic youth, particularly how this differs between males and females. This study investigated sex-based differences in the prevalence and correlates of mixed anxiety and depression in a sample of 51 autistic males (M age = 10.16 yr, SD = 2.81 yr, and range = 6 yr to 17 yr) and 51 autistic females (M age = − 10.07 yr, SD = 2.76 yr, and range = 6 yr to 17 yr), matched for age, IQ, and autism severity. Self-reports on generalised anxiety disorder and major depressive disorder, morning salivary cortisol, ADOS-2 scores, and WASI-II full-scale scores were collected from these autistic youth, and data on the ASD-related symptoms of these youth were collected from their parents. The data were analysed for total anxiety–depression score levels, for the underlying components of this scale, and for the individual items used in the scale. The results indicate no significant sex differences for the prevalence of mixed anxiety and depression total scores or the underlying components of anxiety and depression or for the individual items of the mixed anxiety–depression scale. There were sex differences in the significant correlates of mixed anxiety and depression: morning cortisol and ASD-related difficulties in social interaction for females, and ASD-related behaviour for males. Males’ feelings of being restless or edgy were correlated with their social interaction and repetitive and restricted behaviour. Females’ difficulties in social interaction were correlated with their concerns about their abilities and their sleeping problems. Females’ sleeping problems, their tendency to talk about dying, and feeling worthless, were correlated with their morning cortisol. These findings suggest that, while mixed anxiety and depression is experienced similarly by autistic males and females at the global, component, and individual item levels, specific aspects of the symptomatology of mixed anxiety and depression are differently associated with aspects of their ASD-related symptomatology and their levels of chronic physiological stress for males and females.

Weight Loss Differentially Impacts Sex Hormones in Women and Men with Type 2 Diabetes: Look AHEAD Sex Hormone Study.

Despite sex differences in T2D, few studies have examined the role of sex hormones. We sought to assess the impact of weight loss, the cornerstone of T2D management, on sex hormone levels. This was an ancillary study to the Look AHEAD (Action for Health In Diabetes) Study (n=850 postmenopausal females, n=890 males, with T2D and BMI ≥25 kg/m2). We measured total testosterone (T), estradiol (E2) and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and calculated bioavailable T (bioT). We examined the effect of the intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI) on hormone changes, whether changes were mediated by waist circumference and sex differences in treatment effect. The baseline mean age was 60 years with a higher proportion of Black females (21%) vs. males (9%) and higher mean BMI in females vs. males (36.3 vs. 34.8 kg/m2). At year 1 in females, ILI decreased E2 by 15% and bioT by 13% and increased SHBG by 21%. At year 1 in males, ILI did not change E2 levels, but increased T by 14% and increased SHBG by 18%. The effect was attenuated over 4 years, there were statistically significant sex differences in treatment effect and change in waist circumference due to ILI at year 1 was a significant mediator of sex hormone changes. Weight loss in T2D resulted in sex hormone changes, which varied by sex and were mediated by changes in WC. Changes in sex hormone due to weight loss in T2D should be considered in the context of an individual's health risks, including cardiovascular, bone health, menopausal symptoms and cognition.

The Interaction Effects of Sex, Age, APOE and Common Health Risk Factors on Human Brain Functions.

Nonlinear changes in brain function during aging are shaped by a complex interplay of factors, including sex, age, genetics, and modifiable health risk factors. However, the combined effects and underlying mechanisms of these factors on brain functional connectivity remain poorly understood. To comprehensively investigate the combined associations of sex, age, APOE genotypes, and ten common modifiable health risk factors with brain functional connectivities during aging. This analysis used data from 36,630 UK Biobank participants, aged 44-81, who were assessed for sex, age, APOE genotypes, 10 health risk factors, and brain functional connectivities through resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging. Brain functional connectivities were evaluated through within- and between-network functional connectivities and connectivity strength. Associations between risk factors and brain functional connectivities, including their interaction effects, were analyzed. Hypertension, BMI, and education were the top three influential factors. Sex-specific effects were also observed in interactions involving APOE4 gene, smoking, alcohol consumption, diabetes, BMI, and education. Notably, a negative sex-excessive alcohol interaction showed a stronger negative effect on functional connectivities in males, particularly between the dorsal attention network and the language network, while moderate alcohol consumption appeared to have protective effects. A significant negative interaction between sex and APOE4 revealed a greater reduction in functional connectivity between the cingulo-opercular network and the posterior multimodal network in male APOE4 carriers. Additional findings included a negative age-BMI interaction between the visual and dorsal attention networks, and a positive age-hypertension interaction between the frontoparietal and default mode networks. The findings highlight significant sex disparities in the associations between age, the APOE-ε4 gene, modifiable health risk factors, and brain functional connectivity, emphasizing the necessity of jointly considering these factors to gain a deeper understanding of the complex processes underlying brain aging.

Sex disparity in the association between metabolic-anthropometric phenotypes and risk of obesity-related cancer: a prospective cohort study

BackgroundSex disparity between metabolic-obesity (defined by body mass index, BMI) phenotypes and obesity-related cancer (ORC) remains unknown. Considering BMI reflecting overall obesity but not fat distribution, we aimed to systematically assess the association of our newly proposed metabolic-anthropometric phenotypes with risk of overall and site-specific ORC by sex.MethodsA total of 141,579 men (mean age: 56.37 years, mean follow-up time: 12.04 years) and 131,047 women (mean age: 56.22 years, mean follow up time: 11.82 years) from the UK Biobank was included, and designated as metabolic-anthropometric phenotypes based on metabolic status (metabolically healthy/unhealthy), BMI (non-obesity/obesity) and body shape (pear/slim/apple/wide). The sex-specific association of different phenotypes with overall and site-specific ORC was assessed by hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using Cox proportional hazards regression models.ResultsWe found metabolically unhealthy and/or obesity phenotypes conveyed a higher risk in men than in women for overall ORC and colorectal cancer compared with metabolically healthy non-obesity phenotype (Pinteraction < 0.05). Of note, metabolically healthy obesity phenotype contributed to increased risks of most ORC in men (HRs: 1.58 ~ 2.91), but only correlated with higher risks of endometrial (HR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.54–2.32) and postmenopausal breast cancers (HR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.05–1.31) in women. Similarly, even under metabolically healthy, men carrying apple and wide shapes phenotypes (metabolically healthy apple/wide and metabolically healthy non-obesity apple/wide) suffered an increased risk of ORC (mainly colorectal, liver, gastric cardia, and renal cancers, HRs: 1.20 ~ 3.81) in comparison with pear shape or non-obesity pear shape.ConclusionsThere was a significant sex disparity between metabolic-anthropometric phenotypes and ORC risk. We advised future ORC prevention and control worth taking body shape and sex disparity into account.

Influence of Age and Sex on Stability Indicators of the Right-Left Hemodynamic Balance of Skin Microcirculation in Symmetrical Areas of the Human Head.

Indicators (markers) of microcirculation stability (MCR) of the skin in symmetric areas of the head were studied in young (18-19-years-old) and elderly (60-80-years-old) male and female subjects. We performed synchronous MCR measurements of symmetrical areas of the head using laser Doppler flowmetry in 40 healthy volunteers (10 men and 10 women in each age group). Numerical values of stability markers (T1, T2, and ζ) and indicators of the right-left hemodynamic balance of the MCR (regression coefficients a1, a2, b1, b2) were obtained using the previously developed computational and experimental methods. The coefficients a2 and b2 that determine the contribution of the right MCR bed to the right-left hemodynamic balance were higher in elderly men than in young men, while in young and elderly women, no significant differences in the values of these coefficients were revealed. In young men, coefficients a2 and b2 were lower than in young women, while in elderly subjects, the sex differences in these coefficients were leveled. Young men have lower stability markers than women, while in elderly subjects, these stability markers were similar in men and women. No significant age and sex differences in the level of perfusion of the symmetrical temporal regions were found. The results attest to low stability of MCR in young men in comparison with young women and similar stability in old age, which, apparently, can be explained by the influence of sex hormones on the regulation of human cardiovascular functions.

Age- and Sex-Specific Analysis of Stroke Hospitalization Rates, Risk Factors, and Outcomes From German Nationwide Data.

Significant age and sex differences have been reported at each stage of the stroke pathway, from risk factors to outcomes. However, there is some uncertainty in previous studies with regard to the role of potential confounders and selection bias. Therefore, using German nationwide administrative data, we aimed to determine the magnitude and direction of trends in age- or sex-specific differences with respect to admission rates, risk factors, and acute treatments of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. We obtained and analyzed data from the Research Data Centres of the Federal Statistical Office for the years 2010 to 2020 with regard to all acute stroke hospitalizations, risk factors, treatments, and in-hospital mortality, stratified by sex and stroke subtype. This database provides a complete national-level census of stroke hospitalizations combined with population census counts. All hospitalized patients ≥15 years with an acute stroke (diagnosis code: I60-64) were included in the analysis. Over the 11-year study period, there were 3 375 157 stroke events; 51.2% (n=1 728 954) occurred in men. There were higher rates of stroke admissions in men compared with women for both ischemic (378.1 versus 346.7/100 000 population) and hemorrhagic subtypes (75.6 versus 65.5/100 000 population) across all age groups. The incidence of ischemic stroke admissions peaked in 2016 among women (354.0/100 000 population) and in 2017 among men (395.8/100 000 population), followed by a consistent decline from 2018 onward. There was a recent decline in hemorrhagic stroke admissions observed for both sexes, reaching its nadir in 2020 (68.9/100 000 for men; 59.5/100 000 for women). Female sex was associated with in-hospital mortality for both ischemic (adjusted odds ratio, 1.11 [1.09-1.12]; P<0.001) and hemorrhagic stroke (adjusted odds ratio, 1.18 [95% CI, 1.16-1.20]; P<0.001). Despite improvements in stroke prevention and treatment pathways in the past decade, sex-specific differences remain with regard to hospitalization rates, risk factors, and mortality. Better understanding the mechanisms for these differences may allow us to develop a sex-stratified approach to stroke care.

Sex differences in Murine MASH evoked by a Fructose-Palmitate-Cholesterol-Enriched Diet

Background/AimsMetabolic syndrome-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and metabolic syndrome-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) have global prevalence rates exceeding 25% and 3-6%, respectively. The introduction of high fructose corn syrup to the diet in the 1970s has been linked to metabolic and hepatic disturbances. Despite these associations, the potential for sex-dependent responses resulting from fructose-containing diets on MASLD/MASH has not been addressed. MethodsFemale and male C57BL/6J mice were fed fructose-palmitate-cholesterol (“FPC-(non-alcoholic steatohepatitis) (NASH)”) diet versus standard chow (SC) for 16 weeks (N=40 mice). At sacrifice, plasma and liver were retrieved, the latter for single nucleus RNA sequencing. Publicly-available data sets of human male and female MASH liver were probed. ResultsThe FPC-NASH diet induced metabolic dysfunction in both female and male mice, with females exhibiting more severe hepatic steatosis (p=0.0262), inflammation (p=0.0206), and fibrosis (p<0.0001). Single-nucleus RNA sequencing revealed distinct sex-specific transcriptional profiles in hepatocytes and stellate cells responding to the FPC-NASH diet compared to the SC diet. In female mice, compared to males, pathways associated with lipid and metabolic processes in hepatocytes and cell-cell communication and adhesion in stellate cells were enriched. Metabolic flux analyses demonstrated reduced bile acid metabolism in female mice and human hepatocytes in FPC-NASH and MASH conditions, respectively, compared to their male counterparts. ConclusionsMolecular profiling of hepatocytes and stellate cells in FPC-NASH diet-fed mice revealed significant sex differences mirrored in human MASH. The identification of intrinsic, within-sex, diet-dependent disparities underscores the critical need to include both male and female subjects in MAFLD/MASH studies and clinical trials. Impact and ImplicationsDespite the importance of metabolic syndrome-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) in impairment of human health, the potential for and mechanisms of sex-dependent responses have yet to be well-studied, particularly with respect to the possible influence of high fructose corn syrup additives to the diet, which has been linked to metabolic and hepatic disturbances. In a mouse model of fructose supplementation to a NASH diet, female mice displayed significantly higher MASH scores (steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis) compared to male mice. Single nucleus RNA sequencing of liver revealed intrinsic, diet-dependent molecular disparities within sex, which were exaggerated when comparing female versus male mice fed the fructose-containing NASH diet; many of these findings were recapitulated in human female versus male MASH patients. Our findings of dysregulated bile acid metabolism and androgen receptor-related within-sex increases in testosterone in female versus male mice fed fructose-NASH diet versus standard chow diet highlight potential mechanistic explanations and therapeutic targets for addressing sex differences and underscore the need to study both sexes in animal models and human MASH.

Association of MTHFR C677T, MTHFRA1298C, and MTRRA66G Gene Polymorphisms with Hyperhomocysteinemia and Its Modulation by the Combined Effect of Vitamin B12 and Folate in Chinese Population with Hypertension

BackgroundIn China, the MTHFR 677T allele, unlike in most Western populations, is a rare genetic variant linked to various disorders. The contributing nutritional and genetic factors to this genetic risk remain unclear. ObjectiveThis study aimed to elucidate the interactions between genetic variations in total homocysteine (tHcy) pathway genes, serum tHcy concentrations, and nutritional factors in a Chinese population with hypertension. MethodsThis study analyzed 1304 Chinese adults with hypertension aged ≥18 y enrolled in the China Precision Nutrition and Health KAP Real World Study (CPNAS). Serum concentrations of vitamin B12 and folate were measured using the magnetic microparticle chemiluminescence method, and tHcy concentrations were measured using Hcy Assay kits. Identification of the MTHFR C677T, MTHFR A1298C, and MTRR A66G polymorphisms was performed via time-of-flight nucleic spectrometry. ResultsOur findings revealed significant sex differences in tHcy concentrations, with males exhibiting higher tHcy concentrations than females (13.95 μmol/L vs. 11.15 μmol/L, P < 0.001). Individuals deficient in both vitamin B12 and folate had an increased risk of hyperhomocysteinemia (H-Hcy) (57.4%). In contrast, the prevalence of H-Hcy was lower among those deficient in either vitamin B12 (31.1%) or folate (23.2%) alone. Significant associations were identified between the MTHFR C677T and A1298C polymorphisms and elevated serum tHcy concentrations, particularly in individuals homozygous for the T allele. Conversely, the MTRR A66G genotype did not show a significant correlation with tHcy concentrations. Optimal vitamin B12 concentrations significantly modulated the genotypic effect on tHcy concentrations, with individuals having adequate vitamin B12 and folate exhibiting low tHcy concentrations, even among high-risk genotypes (TT). ConclusionsAdequate concentrations of folate and vitamin B12 significantly reduce serum tHcy concentrations and mitigate the genotypic impact on tHcy concentrations, highlighting the potential for targeted nutritional interventions to manage cardiovascular risks associated with H-Hcy.This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as ChiCTR2100051983.

Establishment of Reference Intervals for Common Renal and Liver Function Parameters in Healthy Adults in Mogadishu, Somalia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Reference intervals (RIs) are crucial for the accurate interpretating of laboratory test results in clinical settings, serving as benchmarks for evaluating individual health status. This study investigates the influence of sex and age on common liver function tests (LFTs) and renal function tests (RFTs) in healthy adults in Mogadishu, Somalia. A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out from October 2022 to January 2023 on a randomly selected sample of 255 healthy participants from Mogadishu, Somalia. Approximately 5 mL of whole blood was collected from each participant and processed screening of hepatitis B and C, and human immunodeficiency virus, and then biochemical analyses were conducted for common liver and kidney parameters. The study found significant sex and age-related differences in the measured LFTs and RFTs parameters. For LFTs, males had higher levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) compared to females (ALT: 11.5 vs 7.5 U/L; AST: 25.5 vs 19.1 U/L; both p < 0.001). Age-related differences were also observed, with individuals aged 30 and above had higher levels of ALT and AST compared to those aged 18-29 (ALT: 10.9 vs 8.5 U/L; AST: 24.3 U/L vs 21.0 U/L, both p < 0.001). For RFTs, males had higher levels of creatinine (0.9 vs 0.7 mg/dL), urea (23.1 vs 16.1 mg/dL), and uric acid (5.2 vs 4.2 mg/dL) than females, all with p < 0.001. The study established population specific RIs for common liver and renal function parameters and revealed significant variations across sex and age groups. These findings underscore the importance of developing and using local RIs to ensure accurate clinical interpretation and effective patient management. Further research with larger sample sizes and in diverse regions of Somalia is highly recommended.

Glial activation in pain and emotional processing regions in the nitroglycerin mouse model of chronic migraine.

Our aim was to survey astrocyte and microglial activation across four brain regions in a mouse model of chronic migraine. Chronic migraine is a leading cause of disability, with higher rates in females. The role of central nervous system neurons and glia in migraine pathophysiology is not fully elucidated. Preclinical studies have shown abnormal glial activation in the trigeminal nucleus caudalis of male rodents. No current reports have investigated glial activation in both sexes in other important brain regions involved with the nociceptive and emotional processing of pain. The mouse nitroglycerin model of migraine was used, and nitroglycerin (10 mg/kg) or vehicle was administered every other day for 9 days. Prior to injections on days 1, 5, and 9, cephalic allodynia was determined by periorbital von Frey hair testing. Immunofluorescent staining of astrocyte marker, glial fibrillary protein (GFAP), and microglial marker, ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1), in male and female trigeminal nucleus caudalis, periaqueductal gray, somatosensory cortex, and nucleus accumbens was completed. Behavioral testing demonstrated increased cephalic allodynia in nitroglycerin- versus vehicle-treated mice. An increase in the percent area covered by GFAP+ cells in the trigeminal nucleus caudalis and nucleus accumbens, but not the periaqueductal gray or somatosensory cortex, was observed in response to nitroglycerin. No significant differences were observed for Iba1 staining across brain regions. We did not detect significant sex differences in GFAP or Iba1 quantification. Immunohistochemical analysis suggests that, at the time point tested, immunoreactivity of GFAP+ astrocytes, but not Iba1+ microglia, changes in response to chronic migraine-associated pain. Additionally, there do not appear to be significant differences between males and females in GFAP+ or Iba1+ cells across the four brain regions analyzed.

Bengali Translation and Validation of Academic Resilience Scale in Bangladeshi School-Going Students

This study aimed to translate and validate the Academic Resilience Scale (ARS) for use among Bangladeshi school students in Bengali. The ARS, developed by Martin and Marsh, measures students' ability to cope with academic challenges. This study addresses the gap in validated Bengali instruments for assessing academic resilience. A cross-sectional design study involving 234 students aged 12-18 years from two schools in Dhaka, Bangladesh, was used. The ARS underwent a rigorous translation process, which included two forward translations, two back translations, and comparisons of the original and translated versions. The data collected were collected by administering both the original and translated ARSs, with a one-week interval between administrations. Analysis was conducted using SPSS 29.0, employing descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, Cronbach’s alpha, and independent sample t-tests. Descriptive statistics revealed mean scores for the original ARS (M = 23.78, SD = 7.456) and the translated ARS (M = 23.77, SD = 7.516), indicating similar levels of academic resilience. Pearson correlations between the original and translated items ranged from .909 to .941 (p &lt; .01). Cronbach’s alpha was 0.747 for the original scale and 0.754 for the translated ARS, demonstrating acceptable reliability. No significant sex differences in resilience scores were found for either version. The Bengali-translated ARS is a reliable and valid tool for measuring academic resilience among Bangladeshi students. This validated scale offers a valuable resource for future research and interventions aimed at improving academic resilience. Future studies should address limitations and explore resilience factors in diverse contexts.

Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Epidemiologic Trends at King Abdulaziz University Hospital in Jeddah

Objectives: We aim to enhance the understanding of soft tissue sarcomas (STS) within the Saudi population, guiding better diagnosis, treatment strategies, and healthcare resource allocation for this rare but challenging cancer type. Methods: Retrospective data of 160 patients at King Abdulaziz University Hospital (2013-2023) were examined for demographics, anatomical sites, and diagnoses of STS. Statistical analysis in RStudio (R v4.3.1) utilized Fisher's exact and chi-squared tests for categorical variables (p&lt;0.05), while continuous variables were summarized by medians and interquartile range. Results: We included patients with STS, evenly split between males and females (median age: 47 years) Significant differences were observed between age groups: younger patients (&lt;50 years) more commonly had rhabdomyosarcoma and synovial sarcoma, while older patients (≥50 years) showed higher rates of dedifferentiated liposarcoma, Kaposi sarcoma, and leiomyosarcoma. Sarcoma locations varied, with the thigh, retroperitoneum, and head and neck being prominent sites. Higher frequencies of Kaposi sarcoma and skin sarcomas were noted in males, and leiomyosarcoma and uterine sarcomas exclusively in females. Conclusion: The study highlights significant sex and age disparities in the diagnosis and distribution of STS among Saudi patients. Rhabdomyosarcoma emerges as the most frequent subtype, influenced by factors such as genetic predisposition and advanced diagnostic capabilities. Understanding these demographic variations is crucial for developing targeted treatment strategies tailored to the unique needs of different patient groups. Further research into the underlying biological and environmental factors driving these disparities is essential for advancing sarcoma care and improving patient outcomes in Saudi Arabia.

Sex differences in the flexibility of dynamic network reconfiguration of autism spectrum disorder based on multilayer network.

Dynamic network reconfiguration alterations in the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) brain have been frequently reported. However, since the prevalence of ASD in males is approximately 3.8 times higher than that in females, and previous studies of dynamic network reconfiguration of ASD have predominantly used male samples, it is unclear whether sex differences exist in dynamic network reconfiguration in ASD. This study used resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data from the Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange database, which included balanced samples of 64 males and 64 females with ASD, along with 64 demographically-matched typically developing control (TC) males and 64 TC females. The multilayer network analysis was used to explore the flexibility of dynamic network reconfiguration. The two-way analysis of variance was further performed to examine the sex-related changes in ASD in flexibility of dynamic network reconfiguration. A diagnosis-by-sex interaction effect was identified in the cingulo-opercular network (CON), central executive network (CEN), salience network (SN), and subcortical network (SUB). Compared with TC females, females with ASD showed lower flexibility in CON, CEN, SN, and SUB. The flexibility of CEN and SUB in males with ASD was higher than that in females with ASD. In addition, the flexibility of CON, CEN, SN, and SUB predicted the severity of social communication impairments and stereotyped behaviors and restricted interests only in females with ASD. These findings highlight significant sex differences in the flexibility of dynamic network reconfiguration in ASD and emphasize the importance of further study of sex differences in future ASD research.

Gabapentinoids Increase the Potency of Fentanyl and Heroin and Decrease the Potency of Naloxone to Antagonize Fentanyl and Heroin in Rats Discriminating Fentanyl.

Despite a significant decrease in the number of prescriptions for opioids, the opioid crisis continues, fueled in large part by the availability of the phenylpiperidine mu opioid receptor (MOR) agonist fentanyl. In contrast, the number of prescriptions for and the off-label use of gabapentinoids (gabapentin and pregabalin) has increased dramatically, with gabapentinoids commonly detected in opioid overdose victims. Although gabapentinoids can decrease the potency of the opioid receptor antagonist naloxone to reverse heroin-induced hypoventilation in male rats, the specificity and nature of interaction between gabapentinoids and MOR agonists and any potential sex difference in those interactions are not well characterized. Gabapentinoids were studied in female and male rats discriminating fentanyl (0.0032 mg/kg, i.p.) or cocaine (3.2 mg/kg, i.p.). Alone, neither gabapentin nor pregabalin significantly increased fentanyl- or cocaine-appropriate responding. In rats discriminating fentanyl, each gabapentinoid dose-dependently shifted the fentanyl and heroin discrimination dose-effect functions to the left, whereas naloxone dose-dependently shifted the fentanyl and heroin discrimination dose-effect functions to the right. Each gabapentinoid (100 mg/kg) significantly decreased the potency of naloxone to antagonize the discriminative stimulus effect of fentanyl or heroin. In contrast, each gabapentinoid dose-dependently shifted the cocaine and d-methamphetamine discrimination dose-effect functions to the right. There were no significant sex differences in this study. These results suggest that gabapentinoids impact the misuse of opioids, the co-use of opioids and stimulant drugs, and the increasing number of overdose deaths in individuals using opioids, stimulant drugs, and gabapentinoids in mixtures. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The number of prescriptions for and the off-label use of gabapentinoids (gabapentin and pregabalin) has increased dramatically, with gabapentinoids commonly detected in opioid overdose victims. This study reports that in rats gabapentinoids increase the potency of fentanyl and heroin to produce discriminative stimulus effects while decreasing the potency of naloxone to antagonize those effects of fentanyl and heroin. These results can help guide policies for regulating gabapentinoids and treating opioid misuse and overdose.

Late development of OCD-like phenotypes in Dlgap1 knockout mice.

Despite variants in the Dlgap1 gene having the two lowest p-value in a genome-wide association study of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), previous studies reported the absence of OCD-like phenotypes in Dlgap1 knockout (KO) mice. Since these studies observed behavioral phenotypes only for a short period, development of OCD-like phenotypes in these mice at older ages was still plausible. To examine the presence or absence of development of OCD-like phenotypes in Dlgap1 KO mice and their responsiveness to fluvoxamine. Newly produced Dlgap1 KO mice were observed for a year. Modified SHIRPA primary screen in 2-month-old homozygous mutant mice showed only weak signs of anxiety, stress conditions and aggression. At older ages, however, these mutant mice exhibited excessive self-grooming characterized by increased scratching which led to skin lesions. A significant sex difference was observed in this scratching behavior. The penetrance of skin lesions reached 50% at 6-7 months of age and 90% at 12 months of age. In the open-field test performed just after the appearance of these lesions, homozygous mutant mice spent significantly less time in the center, an anxiety-like behavior, than did their wild-type and heterozygous littermates, none and less than 10% of which showed skin lesions at 1 year, respectively. The skin lesions and excessive self-grooming were significantly alleviated by two-week treatment with fluvoxamine. Usefulness of Dlgap1 KO mice as a tool for investigating the pathogenesis of OCD-like phenotypes and its translational relevance was suggested.

Gender Disparities in the Association Between Educational Attainment and Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Syndrome: Cross-Sectional Study.

Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) health is affected by social determinants of health, especially education. CKM syndrome has not been evaluated in Chinese population, and the association of education with CKM syndrome in different sexes and its intertwined relation with lifestyles have not been explored. We aimed to explore the association between educational attainment and the prevalence of CKM syndrome stages in middle-aged and older Chinese men and women as well as the potential role of health behavior based on Life's Essential 8 construct. This study used data from the nationwide, community-based REACTION (Risk Evaluation of Cancers in Chinese diabetic individuals: a longitudinal study). A total of 132,085 participants with complete information to determine CKM syndrome stage and education level were included. Educational attainment was assessed by the self-reported highest educational level achieved by the participants and recategorized as low (elementary school or no formal education) or high (middle school, high school, technical school/college, or above). CKM syndrome was ascertained and classified into 5 stages according to the American Heart Association presidential advisory released in 2023. Among 132,085 participants (mean age 56.95, SD 9.19 years; n=86,675, 65.62% women) included, most had moderate-risk CKM syndrome (stages 1 and 2), and a lower proportion were at higher risk of CKM (stages 3 and 4). Along the CKM continuum, low education was associated with 34% increased odds of moderate-risk CKM syndrome for women (odds ratio 1.36, 95% CI 1.23-1.49) with a significant sex disparity, but was positively correlated with high-risk CKM for both sexes. The association between low education and high-risk CKM was more evident in women with poor health behavior but not in men, which was also interactive with and partly mediated by behavior. Low education was associated with adverse CKM health for both sexes but was especially detrimental to women. Such sex-specific educational disparity was closely correlated with health behavior but could not be completely attenuated by behavior modification. These findings highlight the disadvantage faced by women in CKM health ascribed to low education, underscoring the need for public health support to address this inequality.

Does Sequential Thoracoscopic Sympathectomy Affect the Development of Postoperative Compensatory Sweating in Children?

BackgroundThe development of compensatory sweating (CS) following thoracoscopic sympathectomy (TS) for palmar hyperhidrosis (PH) is the major drawback of this procedure. Several techniques were proposed to minimize the occurrence of CS such as changing the level of sympathectomy or conducting it sequentially on both sides with an interval between the two procedures. The aim of this study is to compare sequential T3-T4 TS versus bilateral same-setting T3-T4 TS regarding the development and severity of postoperative compensatory sweating. MethodsThis comparative study included 38 patients (20 females and 18 males) with primary palmar hyperhidrosis between March 2020 and March 2023. Patient's ages ranged between 5 and 18 years, and they were divided into two groups: group I included 23 patients treated with sequential T3-T4 TS; and group II included 15 patients who underwent bilateral same-setting T3-T4 TS. Both groups were compared with regard to patient characteristics, operative details, and postoperative outcomes. ResultsThere were no significant sex or age distribution differences among both groups. The mean cumulative operative time was significantly longer in group I (38 versus 27 min). There was no statistically significant difference in the rate of compensatory sweating between groups I and II (6/23 [26%] vs 5/15 [33%], respectively; p = 0.77). No over-dryness or recurrence occurred in any patient in either group. ConclusionSequential TS does not seem to have superior results when compared to bilateral same-setting TS regarding the development of compensatory sweating. Conducting bilateral same-setting TS is both safe and feasible with shorter operative time, hospital stay, and overall cost. Level of evidenceIV.