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Pediatric gender-affirming medical care has strong research evidence and support, and transition-related regret is uncommon. Misinformation about regret has nonetheless been used to limit adolescents from accessing this care. This study is the first of a 3-part initiative to clarify long-term satisfaction and regret related to pediatric gender-affirming care (GAC). An anonymous survey was distributed to individuals of age 15 and older who participated in at least one prior appointment at a large pediatric gender clinic. The survey questions included (1) demographics; (2) use of gender-affirming interventions; (3) barriers to accessing medical interventions; (4) reasons for any discontinuation of medical interventions; (5) emotions associated with GAC; and (6) intervention-related regret. Participants (N = 150; M age = 18.6) were predominantly transmasculine-identified and/or assigned female at birth (86%). The most common emotions associated with GAC were satisfaction (88.0%) and confidence (86.7%). A total of 141 participants reported taking hormones, 30 of whom reported ever discontinuing (21.3%). Among these, 11 have already resumed hormones, and 16 might resume. Of the three with no plan to resume hormones, one is fully satisfied with the results, and the remaining two no longer identify as transgender. Only one participant (0.7% of those who ever took hormones) wishes they had never started testosterone or had top surgery, both of which occurred in adulthood. Individuals who accessed GAC as adolescents are largely satisfied with this care. Care-related satisfaction and regret are more nuanced than sometimes portrayed and should not be used to limit access. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Early ovarian cessation even in young women play a role in development of unfavorably altered lipid profile. • Women with newly diagnosed POI exhibited adverse lipid profile along with higher fasting glucose level in contrary to age-matched healthy controls. • Women with non-idiopathic POI present unfavorably altered lipid profile when compared to women with unknown cause of POI. Hypoestrogenism related to the cessation of ovarian function increases the risk of metabolic disorders in postmenopausal women. Women with primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) are exposed to longer period of estrogen deficiency together with a subsequently higher risk of long-term comorbidities. To compare metabolic along with hormonal status among newly diagnosed women with POI with pre- and postmenopausal women. To investigate the impact of POI etiology on both metabolic and hormonal profiles. A case-control study with women assigned to one of the groups: 1) POI (n = 216), 2) age-matched premenopausal (n = 216), 3) postmenopausal (n = 227). Lipid profile, fasting glucose and insulin levels together with insulin resistance were determined among all participants. POI women exhibited increased both total cholesterol (TC, p = 0.04) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C, p < 0.01) compared to the premenopausal women and higher triglycerides (TG, p < 0.001) than postmenopausal women. POI group showed higher fasting glucose level (p = 0.04) differently to premenopausal women. The idiopathic POI group showed both lower sex hormone binding globulin (p = 0.02) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (p = 0.04) along with reduced TC (p = 0.03) and TG (p = 0.01) together with increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = 0.04) levels than non-idiopathic POI women. Women with newly diagnosed POI exhibited less favorable lipid profile than pre- or postmenopausal women. The association of negatively changed lipid profile in POI women is mostly mediated by women with unknown cause of premature ovarian cessation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background This case describes a Reeves' muntjac deer (Muntiacus reevesi) with a suspected undescended testicle or cryptorchidism. The cryptorchid testicle could not be palpated or visualized with sonography. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) imaging was performed to avoid an exploratory surgical operation, but no cryptorchid testicle was discovered. The final diagnosis was a singular testicular anorchia. Discussion Cryptorchidism and hypogonadism affect a relatively small population of male infants but are the most common male genitourinary anomalies. Identifying the location of the undescended testicle is paramount because surgical intervention should occur before the individual's first birthday. Although sonography and magnetic resonance imaging can help identify the location of undescended testicles, when the testicle is intra-abdominal, surgical intervention often is required to identify or confirm the location. Conclusion Although CT is not a first-line imaging modality in human infants with suspected cryptorchidism because of the associated radiation exposure, this case serves as evidence that it might be useful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on the relationship between iodine, vitamin A (VA), and vitamin D (VD) and thyroid function are limited. This study aimed to analyze iodine and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) status and their possible relationships with VA, VD, and other factors in postpartum women. A total of 1,311 mothers (896 lactating and 415 non-lactating) from Hebei, Zhejiang, and Guangxi provinces were included in this study. The urinary iodine concentration (UIC), TSH, VA, and VD were measured. The median UIC of total and lactating participants were 142.00 µg/L and 139.95 µg/L, respectively. The median TSH, VA, and VD levels in all the participants were 1.89 mIU/L, 0.44 µg/mL, and 24.04 ng/mL, respectively. No differences in the UIC were found between lactating and non-lactating mothers. UIC and TSH levels were significantly different among the three provinces. The rural UIC was higher than the urban UIC. Obese mothers had a higher UIC and a higher prevalence of excessive TSH. Higher UICs and TSHs levels were observed in both the VD deficiency and insufficiency groups than in the VD-sufficient group. After adjustment, no linear correlation was observed between UIC and VA/VD. No interaction was found between vitamins A/D and UIC on TSH levels. The mothers in the present study had no iodine deficiency. Region, area type, BMI, and VD may be related to the iodine status or TSH levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Treatment includes TCM, hormone and immunosuppressive combination therapy. • Improvement of lower extremity skin ulcers in cutaneous polyarteritis nodosa. • Provided a therapeutic idea that TCM can effectively reduce the side effects of hormones in delaying wound healing. Cutaneous polyarteritis nodosa (cPAN) is a systemic disease that is limited to the skin. cPAN usually presents with cutaneous reticular cyanotic, erythematous and palpable nodules, and cutaneous ulcers.Research has indicated that the use of hormones and immunosuppressive drugs can delay ulcer healing and associated neuropathy, and also elevate the risk of disease recurrence upon their reduction or withdrawal. Therefore, it is a necessary to find a safe and effective approach that minimize hormone side effects in ulcer treatment. The patient, a 48-year-old female of Han Chinese ethnicity, has suffered from recurrent erythema nodosum on both lower limbs for 8 years. The condition was aggravated by skin breakdown over the last 3 months. Despite multiple treatments, the patient's condition did not improve significantly, leading to the exploration of a combined approach of traditional Chinese and Western medicine. Following six months of combined traditional Chinese and Western medicine treatment, t the patient's newborn erythema and ulcers on both lower limbs did not reappear, and the ulcers gradually decreased in size and the erythema disappeared. The patient took the TCM regularly until April 15, 2023, when the ulcers were completely healed. Three months after the patient stopped taking TCM, the ulcers had completely healed with no recurrence, as observed during the follow-up visit on July 14th, 2023. Traditional Chinese Medicine Combined with Low-Dose Hormones May Effectively Treat Bilateral Lower Extremity Skin Ulcers Caused by Cutaneous Polyarteritis Nodosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore delayed puberty in cerebral palsy (CP) and to test the acceptability of an interventional puberty induction algorithm. A two phase cohort study in children and adolescents diagnosed with CP who have delayed puberty. Phase 1: Retrospective review of clinical records and interviews with patients who have been treated with sex-steroids and Phase 2: Prospective interventional trial of pubertal induction with a proposed algorithm of transdermal testosterone (males) or oestrogen (females). Phase 1 examined experiences with sex-steroid treatment. Phase 2 collected data on height adjusted bone mineral density (BMAD), fractures, adverse effects, mobility and quality of life over two years during the induction. Phase 1, treatment was well tolerated in 11/20 treated with sex-steroids; phase 2, using the proposed induction algorithm, 7/10 treated reached Tanner stage 3 by nine months. One participant reached Tanner stage 5 in 24 months. Mean change in BMAD Z-scores was +0.27 % (SD 0.002) in those who could be scanned by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Delayed puberty may be diagnosed late. Treatment was beneficial and well tolerated, suggesting all patients with severe pubertal delay or arrest should be considered for sex hormone supplementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physiological dormancy of Vitis vinifera seeds jeopardises breeding programs and biodiversity evolution. To increase the knowledge on dormancy breaking, seeds of white and black Sardinian grape cultivars (cvs) were exposed to different pre-germination treatments. To shed light on the physiological and structural factors involved in seed dormancy, the contents of oil, abscisic acid, gibberellic acid, 3-indolacetic acid, condensed tannins, and total polyphenols were determined. In addition, sectioned seeds were observed by SEM to determine the morphological and anatomical characteristics. Dormancy break in white, but not in black grape seeds, occurred under almost all imposed pre-germination treatments. Among red cvs, only seeds from 'Cagnulari' germinated when kept at 25 °C. Chilling seeds of the white cvs 'Malvasia sarda' and 'Vernaccia di Oristano' for 30 d resulted in the most effective treatment. Compared to white cvs, seeds of red ones owned 7 times higher levels of abscisic acid however, gibberellic acid content resulted 4 times less. Concerning the coat characteristics, red cv seeds had a thicker cuticle (6-10 µm) than white (4-6 µm) ones, however the most significant diversities were found for the inner integument, where in addition to size variances, palisade cell wall were structurally different. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Uterine fibroids are a prevalent and benign tumor in the uterine wall that commonly affects women of reproductive age. These growths can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study aims to investigate the crucial role of myometrial stem cells in the development of fibroids and their impact on pregnancy complications. Methods: The following terms were used in the PubMed, Embase, Scopus, ScienceDirect and MEDLINE databases to search for articles in English: Uterine Fibroids, Myometrial stem cells, Pregnancy complications, and Hormones. The articles selected were systematic reviews, metaanalyses, randomized controlled trials, and reviews. These data were searched from 2016 to May 2023. Results: The study found that myometrial stem cells differentiated into smooth muscle cells, contributing to fibroid development. These fibroid stem cells had distinct hormone receptor characteristics. Hormonal imbalances and genetic predisposition led to the uncontrolled growth of myocytes, which played a central role in the formation of fibroids. Estrogen and progesterone, which support uterine tissue growth, were identified as key factors in this process. In addition, ECM remodeling, angiogenesis, inflammation, and dysregulated signaling pathways were shown to be implicated in fibroid development. Conclusion: Uterine fibroids have a significant impact on pregnancy outcomes, leading to various complications such as preterm birth, cesarean delivery, placental abnormalities, and heavy bleeding. The severity of these complications depends on factors like fibroid size, location, and individual factors. Therefore, understanding the complex interplay of factors, including the involvement of myometrial stem cells, hormonal influence, inflammation, and ECM changes, is crucial for improving patient care. The knowledge gained from this study has the potential to inform targeted therapies and interventions for women with fibroids during pregnancy, ultimately improving the health of both mother and baby. However, further research is needed to elucidate precise mechanisms and develop more effective treatments for managing pregnancies complicated by fibroids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Soccer is a sport with high intensity intervals, heavily relying on aerobic energy mechanisms, leading to various neuromuscular and endocrine responses. Aim of Study. The purpose of this study was to examine the changes in intermittent endurance performance, testosterone and cortisol concentrations, and their T/C ratio in elite professional soccer players during a soccer season. Material and Methods. Ten elite soccer players from a soccer club of Greek Super League were evaluated for intermittent endurance, using an interval shuttle run test (ISRT), testosterone (T) and cortisol (C) concentrations, and T/C ratio at the beginning of the preseason period (T1), at the beginning of the competitive period (T2), at the start of the second round of the competitive period (T3) and at the end of the competitive season (T4). Results. The distance covered at ISRT increased by 26% (p < 0.001) after the preseason. T increased by 8.6% after the preseason, while a statistically significant decrease (24.4%, p < 0.005) in T was observed between T1 and T3, and between T1 and T4 (p < 0.005). C increased significantly by 90% (p < 0.001) from T1 to T2, while a significant decrement by 15% (p < 0.001) was observed between T4 and T3. T/C decreased by 47% (p < 0.005) from T1 to T2, while T2 values of T/C indicated a further 30% (p < 0.05) until T3. T/C ratio increased by 13% (p < 0.005) from T3 to T4. Conclusions. This study shows significant changes in intermittent endurance performance, testosterone, cortisol and T/C ratio over the season. Conclusively, coaches of professional soccer teams shall monitor endurance and hormonal changes over the season so that players successfully improve their aerobic fitness, optimize peak performance, prevent injuries and overreaching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gender affirming healthcare (GAHC) is a relatively new field in primary health care that describes a range of gender affirming practices, including hormone therapy, for transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people. In 2019, gender affirming hormones were approved by South African National Essential Medicine List Committee (NEMLC) for tertiary-level care, and in October 2021 the Southern Africa HIV Clinicians Society published a GAHC guideline for South Africa. Unfortunately, TGD people still experience discrimination and stigmatisation in healthcare facilities in South Africa, leading to poor access to care and higher health risks with poorer outcomes. Gender affirming care in the primary health care clinic can improve access to health care, with improved provision of preventative services. This article defines key transgender concepts, describes the informed consent process and outlines the initiation and monitoring of both feminising and masculinising hormone treatment for TGD people. Staff at healthcare facilities need to receive training on gender affirming practices and how to ensure a safe environment for TGD clients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkaloids occur naturally in plants but are not established nutrients and are responsible for bioactive functions in the plants. This study evaluated the acute toxicity of alkaloid extract of Moringa oleifera leaves (AMOL) and its effect on reproductive hormones of pregnant wistar rats using standard techniques. Results showed that in both phases of the oral acute toxicity test, no death occurred within 24 h of post-treatment and 14 days after AMOL administration. Rejection of food, increased salivation and decreased mobility were only observed immediately after treatment. Pregnancy was maintained in all groups, with significant (P<0.05) increase in progesterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in animals in Group 3. AMOL had no effect on estrogen and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. In conclusion, AMOL may be relatively safe as pregnancy was maintained in AMOL treated groups and had significant effect on some of the reproductive hormones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Practical blood flow restriction (PBFR) is an innovative technique that reduces the venous return through the application of a pressure band calibrated using a perceived pressure scale. Owing the scarcity of studies investigating the acute effects of PBFR in conjunction with low-load resistance exercises versus traditional highintensity exercises on growth hormone (GH) and blood lactate (BL) levels following lower extremity training in collegiate athletes, this study sought to bridge this gap. The research aimed to explore the acute impact of a single session low-load resistance exercises with PBFR, comparing it with high-load resistance exercises without PBFR, specifically focusing on GH and BL levels. A convenience sample of collegiate athletes was divided into an experimental group engaging in low-resistance exercises with PBFR and a control group performing highresistance exercises without PBFR. GH and BL levels were assessed at three intervals: pre-training, immediately post-training, and 15-min post-training for both groups. There was no significant differences between groups in age, BMI, and the number of training hours per week. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to elucidate the main and interaction effects between the groups. Notably, a significant main effect of time on GH and BL levels was observed in both groups. While no significant differences emerged in GH secretion between the groups, a notable variance was found in BL secretion levels. This suggests that both low-resistance exercises with PBFR and high-resistance exercises without PBFR can elicit a similar effect on GH secretion. In contrast, the method of high-resistance exercises without PBFR may induce a more pronounced effect on BL secretion. In conclusion, this research demonstrates that PBFR implementation offers athletes dual benefits: it equivalence with low-load exercises, enabling benefits while using lighter training loads, and mitigating BL accumulation for sustained training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study assessed the outcomes of microsurgical testicular sperm extraction (mTESE) and potential preoperative predictors of sperm retrieval (SR) in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA). Materials and Methods: Clinical data of 111 NOA patients who underwent mTESE was reviewed retrospectively. Baseline patient characteristics, including age, body mass index (BMI), testicular volumes, and preoperative endocrine levels, such as testosterone (T), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), serum-luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), FSH/LH ratio along with T/LH ratio, were analyzed. After categorizing the patients into two groups based on SR success or failure, logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the preoperative predictors of successful SR. Results: Sixty-eight patients had successful SR (61.3%), whereas 43 patients (38.7%) showed negative results. Failed SR group had elevated serum FSH and LH levels, whereas successful SR patients had a significantly larger testicular volume (p<0.001). Moreover, the successful group had a higher T/LH ratio (p<0.001). Multivariate logistic analysis showed that the T/LH ratio, serum FSH levels, and bilateral testicular volumes were significantly associated with successful sperm extraction. Conclusion: In addition to traditional predictors, such as testicular volume and preoperative FSH levels, the T/LH ratio is a potential independent predictor of successful SR in infertile patients with NOA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Erectile dysfunction is the inability of a man to achieve and maintain an erection for desired and satisfactory sexual intercourse. Thiazide diuretics had been reported to affect some body functions especially erectile function. This study, therefore, investigates the effect of thiazide diuretics on nitric oxide and hormones linked with erectile function in hypertensive patients on this drug. Methods The study includes 150 subjects with 50 hypertensive patients on thiazide diuretics management regime (group 1), 50 hypertensive patients not under any management regime (group 2) and 50 normotensive subjects (group 3) attending the Osun State Specialist Hospital, llesha Osun State. Nitric oxide was determined with the spectrophotometric method while prolactin, estrogen and testosterone were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Results The mean serum levels of nitric oxide was significantly lower (p< 0.05) in hypertensive subjects not under any management regime (group 2) than in the healthy subjects (group 3) and the test subjects (group 1) respectively. Also, estrogen levels were significantly reduced (p<0.05) in hypertensive subjects using thiazide diuretics than in hypertensive subjects that have been left unmanaged; while both values are significantly lower than estrogen levels in healthy subjects. The result of the study also showed that the serum testosterone levels of hypertensive subjects under the thiazide diuretics management plan were significantly lower (p< 0.05) than that of hypertensive subjects not on any medications and healthy subjects. Finally, serum prolactin levels were significantly higher (p< 0.05) in hypertensive patients on thiazide diuretics and hypertensive patients not under any management regime than the mean value in normotensive subjects. Conclusion This study shows that thiazide diuretics have no effect on nitric oxide or estrogen levels in relation to erectile dysfunction while its effects on testosterone and prolactin levels can be related to the occurrence of erectile dysfunction in patients using thiazide diuretics as an antihypertensive regimen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Algeria, rabbit breeding remains a very limited activity despite its various advantages. The exploitation of local rabbit populations more adapted to the local environment may be the best alternative to promote this activity. Several research activities on the incorporation of local raw materials in the diet of growing rabbits were carried out worldwide, however, to our knowledge, no experiment was conducted on the incorporation of Jujube. In this study, we tested the effect of a diet incorporated with jujube on the evolution of weight and hormonal profile of does from local rabbit populations, during two physiological stages; stage of non-pregnancy and stage of pregnancy. Forty eight rabbits were divided into twelve groups arranged in a simple randomized block, each containing four does, three groups of non-pregnant females fed with 100% of commercial pelleted diet, three groups of non-pregnant females fed with 50% of commercial pelleted diet incorporated with 50% of jujube, three groups of pregnant does fed with 100% of commercial pelleted diet and finally three groups of pregnant does fed with 50% of commercial pelleted diet incorporated with 50% of jujube. The results showed that the ADG, progesterone, oestradiol, FSH and LH levels of the females rabbits fed on a diet incorporated with jujube were higher, compared to those fed with 100% of commercial pelleted diet, also the ADG and LH were positively related to progesterone, while FSH was negatively related to oestradiol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses transformative experience of pregnancy for singers and highlights the lack of documentation on how pregnancy impacts singing with topics including the hormonal, emotional and personal changes, as well as the effects on vocal health and career choices.

The present study examined the effect of medicinal plants - ginkgo, tribulus (puncture vine), and yucca - on ovarian functions and their response to the toxic influence of toluene. Therefore, we analyzed the effect of toluene with and without these plant extracts on cultured human ovarian granulosa cells. Cell viability and the release of progesterone, insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), oxytocin, and prostaglandin F (PGF) were analyzed using the trypan blue test, enzyme immunoassay, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. The ginkgo, tribulus and yucca were able to suppress ovarian cell viability and alter the release of hormones. Toluene suppressed cell viability and the release of PGF, but not of progesterone, IGF-I, or oxytocin. The negative effect of toluene on cell viability was prevented and even reversed by ginkgo and yucca, whereas its effect on PGF was prevented or inverted by all tested plant extracts. These findings (1) demonstrated the direct toxic effect of toluene on ovarian cells, (2) showed the direct effect of some medicinal plants on ovarian cell functions, and (3) demonstrated the ability of these plants to inhibit the effects of toluene and to act as natural protectors against the suppressive effect of toluene on female reproduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Laminitis is a complex and debilitating disease of horses. Numerous predisposing factors contribute to laminitis development, however the exact pathogenesis remains undetermined. Serum T4, cortisol, and histamine are components of the innate stress response and could play a causative or contributory role. Stress hormone concentrations in laminitis are largely unknown. Objective: To evaluate parameters associated with stress response in horses with laminitis, and compare these to healthy horses and horses with gastrointestinal (GI) disease. Methods: Thirty-eight adult horses presenting for non-medical conditions, GI abnormalities, or clinical laminitis were prospectively enrolled. Horses were assigned to the appropriate disease group (healthy, GI disease, and laminitis) and had blood drawn on presentation to the hospital. Samples were analyzed for plasma endogenous adrenocorticotrophic hormone (eACTH), serum cortisol, serum thyroid hormone, and plasma histamine. Results: Stress hormone concentrations were significantly different between horses in the laminitis and GI disease groups. Plasma histamine levels were highest in horses with laminitis, compared with GI disease and controls. Both horses with laminitis and GI disease had increased plasma eACTH when compared to healthy horses. Horses with GI disease had higher serum cortisol concentrations than horses with laminitis or controls. Serum T4 was lower in horses with GI disease than in horses with laminitis and controls. Conclusions: Horses with laminitis had relative increases in both plasma histamine and eACTH concentrations. Serum T4 and cortisol concentrations of horses with laminitis did not differ significantly when compared to healthy horses. The role of stress hormones in equine disease warrants further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diseases such as periodontitis and osteoporosis are expected to rise tremendously by 2050. Bone formation and remodeling are complex processes that are disturbed in a variety of diseases influenced by various hormones. This study aimed to review and present the roles of various hormones that regulate bone remodeling of the craniofacial complex. A literature search was conducted on PubMed and Google Scholar for studies related to hormones and jawbone. Search strategies included the combinations ("name of hormone" + "dental term") of the following terms: "hormones", "oxytocin", "estrogen", "adiponectin", "parathyroid hormone", "testosterone", "insulin", "angiotensin", "cortisol", and "erythropoietin", combined with a dental term "jaw bone", "alveolar bone", "dental implant", "jaw + bone regeneration, healing or repair", "dentistry", "periodontitis", "dry socket", "osteoporosis" or "alveolitis". The papers were screened according to the inclusion criteria from January 1, 2000 to March 31, 2021 in English. Publications included reviews, book chapters, and original research papers; in vitro studies, in vivo animal, or human studies, including clinical studies, and meta-analyses. Bone formation and remodeling is a complex continuous process involving many hormones. Bone volume reduction following tooth extractions and bone diseases, such as periodontitis and osteoporosis, cause serious problems and require a great understanding of the process. Hormones are with us all the time, shape our development and regulate homeostasis. Newly discovered effects of hormones influencing bone healing open the possibilities of using hormones as therapeutics to combat bone-related diseases. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many species of mushroom contain an assortment of free radical scavengers (Phenolics and Flavonoids compounds) that have made them nutritionally beneficial and a source of expansion of drug production. In this study, we examined the preventive and remedial role of total phenol extract from Pleurotus columbines (TP) in alleviating the consequences of cyclophosphamide (CTX) on the ovaries of female rats. Rats were randomly assigned to four groups: healthy controls, cyclophosphamide (CTX), received a TP (100 mg/kg) orally daily for 14 days and curative group: CTX-TP, we determined and identified a total phenol from a mushroom extract and examined it as an antioxidant agent. To investigate the therapeutic influence, it was administrated 2 weeks after CTX. To assess the impact of TP on ovarian damage caused by CTX, ovarian hormone tests were performed such as luteinizing hormone (LH), 17-β-estradiol (E2), and anti-mullerian hormone (AMH). Besides, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in serum was evaluated, and histopathological analysis of the ovary was examined. Results: This study indicates that treatment with TP decreased the severity of cyclophosphamide-induced ovary injury by reducing inflammation and apoptotic effects and increasing the activity of antioxidants. Conclusions: TP could be used to alleviate cyclophosphamide-induced ovary injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the association between laparoscopic appearance of superficial endometriosis lesions, histopathology, and systemic hormone use. Retrospective study. Tertiary care academic medical center. We identified 266 women who underwent laparoscopic surgery at an endometriosis center with excision of lesions consistent with possible superficial endometriosis between September 2015 and November 2018. Appearance of the peritoneal lesions was confirmed with review of surgical videos and correlated with each pathology specimen. Lesions were dichotomized on positive or negative pathology assessment. All pathology-positive lesions were further dichotomized by hormone use within 1 month of surgery. A total of 841 lesions were biopsied from included subjects during the study period. Of those, 251 biopsies were negative, and 590 were positive for endometriosis on pathology assessment. Lesions had significantly higher odds of positive histology when they were red (odds ratio [OR], 1.70; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.17–2.48), white (OR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.47–2.70), blue/black (OR, 2.98; 95% CI, 2.00–4.44), or puckering (OR, 9.78; 95% CI, 2.46–38.91) in appearance. The following combined characteristics had significantly higher odds of positive histology: white and blue (OR, 5.98; 95% CI, 2.97–12.02), red and white (OR, 2.22; 95% CI, 1.38–3.56), red and blue (OR, 4.11; 95% CI, 1.83–9.24), and clear and white (OR, 8.77; 95% CI, 1.17–66.02). Among positive biopsies, those with hormone exposure were more likely to have clear lesions than those without hormone use (OR, 3.36; 95% CI, 1.54–7.34) and were 2.89 times more likely to have clear and white lesions (95% CI, 1.07–7.85). Although lesions suspicious for endometriosis may have differing rates of positive pathology based on appearance, no lesion characteristic was able to exclude the possibility of endometriosis. In addition, hormone use may influence lesion appearance at the time of surgery, with clear lesions more prevalent. These data have implications for appropriate identification of endometriosis at the time of laparoscopy to ensure accurate diagnosis and complete treatment of disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uncontrolled endocrine pathology can cause significant adverse complications during a patient's perioperative journey. With an ageing population, increasing comorbidity, and rising obesity rates, the incidence of endocrine disease in elective and emergency work is likely to increase. A thorough understanding of diagnosis and management perioperatively is essential to prevent any excess morbidity and mortality. The perioperative period may precipitate endocrine emergencies which require rapid diagnosis and life-saving treatments. This article will cover the management of diabetes, thyroid and adrenal disease in the perioperative period with reference to recently published national guidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contribution of plant hormones and energy-rich compounds and their metabolites (ECMs) in alleviating aluminum (Al) toxicity by elevated pH remains to be clarified. For the first time, a targeted metabolome was applied to identify Al-pH-interaction-responsive hormones and ECMs in Citrus sinensis leaves. More Al-toxicity-responsive hormones and ECMs were identified at pH 4.0 [4 (10) upregulated and 7 (17) downregulated hormones (ECMs)] than those at pH 3.0 [1 (9) upregulated and 4 (14) downregulated hormones (ECMs)], suggesting that the elevated pH improved the adaptation of hormones and ECMs to Al toxicity in leaves. The roles of hormones and ECMs in reducing leaf Al toxicity mediated by elevated pH might include the following aspects: (a) improved leaf growth by upregulating the levels of jasmonoyl-L-isoleucine (JA-ILE), 6-benzyladenosine (BAPR), N6-isopentenyladenosine (IPR), cis-zeatin-O-glucoside riboside (cZROG), and auxins (AUXs), preventing Al toxicity-induced reduction of gibberellin (GA) biosynthesis, and avoiding jasmonic acid (JA)-mediated defense; (b) enhanced biosynthesis and accumulation of tryptophan (TRP), as well as the resulting increase in biosynthesis of auxin, melatonin and secondary metabolites (SMs); (c) improved ability to maintain the homeostasis of ATP and other phosphorus (P)-containing ECMs; and (d) enhanced internal detoxification of Al due to increased organic acid (OA) and SM accumulation and elevated ability to detoxify reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to enhanced SM accumulation. To conclude, the current results corroborate the hypotheses that elevated pH reduces Al toxicity by upregulating the ability to maintain the homeostasis of ATP and other P-containing ECMs in leaves under Al toxicity and (b) hormones participate in the elevated pH-mediated alleviation of Al toxicity by positively regulating growth, the ability to detoxify ROS, and the internal detoxification of Al in leaves under Al toxicity. Our findings provide novel insights into the roles of hormones and ECMs in mitigating Al toxicity mediated by the elevated pH. • Elevated pH improved the adaptation of hormones and ECMs to Al in citrus leaves. • Elevated pH enhanced the homeostasis of leaf ATP and other P-containing ECMs. • Elevated pH increased auxin, melatonin and secondary metabolite synthesis in leaves. • Elevated pH enhanced leaf abilities of internal Al detoxification and ROS removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is evidence that gender-affirming hormone treatment (GAHT) for transgender individuals modulates their risk for specific malignancies including breast and prostate cancer, and meningiomas. However, there is insufficient data to make precise risk estimates accounting for age and inherited cancer risk. As such, screening recommendations remain broad. Even less evidence exists for best practice in the management of active or historical cancers in the transgender population. Guidance is therefore mainly extrapolated from cisgender populations but with considerations of the significant benefits of GAHT in the face of any hormonal risk. Clinical experience, the multidisciplinary team and shared decision making with the patient are vital in providing person-centred care, while further research is acquired. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yet despite readily available, safe menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) and non-hormonal interventions, over 85% of Australian women with bothersome symptoms are not receiving effective, approved therapy.[5] Although over 50% of post-menopausal women have vulvovaginal atrophy symptoms (vaginal dryness, itching, burning, dyspareunia, and urinary symptoms), fewer than 7% are prescribed effective, safe vaginal oestrogen therapy.[5] Menopause causes accelerated net bone loss. Keywords: Menopause; Hormones; Osteoporosis EN Menopause Hormones Osteoporosis 500 502 3 06/20/23 20230615 NES 230615 Lack of clinician knowledge, poor access to services, negative attitudes, and lagging research have led to substandard menopause-related health care The menopause is the permanent loss of ovarian reproductive function. New treatment options in menopausal therapy Meanwhile, treatment options and recommended prescribing have changed. Specialist menopause clinics or accredited menopause practitioners may improve access to treatment, particularly for women with complex care needs. [Extracted from the article]

Background: This study investigated the association between menopausal hormone therapy (HT) use and the subgingival microbiome, for which published information is limited.Methods: This cross-sectional study included 1270 postmenopausal women, aged 53-81 years, who completed clinical examinations. Detailed information on HT use (type, delivery mode, duration) was obtained from questionnaires. HT use was categorized into three groups (never, former, current). 16S rRNA sequencing was performed on subgingival plaque samples obtained during dental examinations. Operational taxonomic units were centered log2-ratio (CLR) transformed to account for the compositional data structure. Analysis of variance was used to compare mean microbial relative abundances across HT categories with Benjamini-Hochberg correction.Results: Significantly higher alpha diversity (Shannon Index) and beta diversity (Aitchison distance) was observed in never compared with current HT users (p < 0.05, each). Of the total 245 microbial taxa identified, 18 taxa differed significantly among the three HT groups, 11 of which were higher in current users and seven of which were lower in current users as compared with never users (p < 0.05, each). Differences in relative abundance between never and current HT users were materially unchanged after adjustment for age, body mass index, and oral hygiene.Conclusions: Relative abundance of several subgingival bacteria differed significantly between never and current HT users in a cohort of postmenopausal women. Additional studies are needed to determine the extent that these relationships might account for the previously reported inverse association between HT use and periodontal disease in older women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Syngnathids (seahorses, pipefishes and seadragons) are among the few vertebrates that display male pregnancy. During seahorse pregnancy, males incubate developing embryos embedded in a placenta within a fleshy brood pouch, before expelling fully developed neonates at parturition. The mechanisms underpinning seahorse parturition are poorly understood.Methods: We examined the morphology of the brood pouch using microcomputed tomography and histological techniques, in combination with physiological assays, to examine how male pot-bellied seahorses (Hippocampus abdominalis) control labour. In female-pregnant vertebrates, nonapeptide hormones (such as vasopressin- and oxytocin-like hormones) produce contractions of gestational smooth muscle to produce labour.Results: Histological analysis of the seahorse brood pouch reveals only scattered small smooth muscle bundles in the brood pouch, and in-vitro application of isotocin (a teleost nonapeptide hormone) to the brood pouch do not produce measurable muscle contractions. Micro-computed tomography shows differences in size and orientation of the anal fin assembly between male and female pot-bellied seahorses, and histological analysis reveals large skeletal muscle bundles attached to the anal fin bones at the male brood pouch opening.Discussion: We conclude that seahorse parturition may be facilitated by contraction of these muscles, which, in combination with body movements, serves to gape open the pouch and expel the neonates. Future biomechanical studies are needed to test this hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Opioid analgesics are the main stay for cancer pain management; however, long-term opioid treatment (L-TOT) may suppress the endocrine system. This systemic review aimed at investigating effects of L-TOT on the endocrine system in patients with cancer-related pain. Methods: A search on MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Science databases was performed. Inclusion criteria were clinical studies investigating endocrine measures in adult patients with cancer-related pain in L-TOT (≥4 weeks). Outcomes and quality of evidence were assessed. Results: A total of 252 abstracts were identified; out of which 247 were excluded and five cross-sectional studies were included and analyzed. L-TOT was associated with lower serum concentration levels of total- and free testosterone in males, follicular stimulating hormone in females, and luteinizing hormone in both sexes. Moreover, higher morphine equivalent daily doses (MEDDs) were correlated with higher levels of cortisol and lower levels of LH in both sexes, and lower levels of total- and free testosterone in males. Sexual dysfunction was associated with low sex hormone levels. Level of evidence was low/very low. Conclusions: The studies identified demonstrated that patients with cancer-related pain in L-TOT may have gonadal hypofunction causing sexual dysfunction, which may be correlated with opioid dose level. In addition, high serum concentrations of cortisol were positively correlated with high opioid dose levels. However, the evidence was weak and further research is necessary. PROSPERO, ID-number: CRD42020213059. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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