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The document from the Journal of Neurology discusses a case of Propriospinal Myoclonus (PSM) following a cervical spinal cord injury. The patient experienced involuntary jerks of trunk muscles, which were associated with autonomic dysfunction. The study explores the pathogenesis of PSM, differential diagnoses, and treatment options, highlighting the complex interplay between neural plasticity, autonomic dysfunction, and motor symptoms post-spinal cord injury. The case underscores the need for further research to understand the underlying mechanisms of PSM and improve patient care. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) interfere with the endocrine system and negatively impact reproductive health. Biochanin A (BCA), an isoflavone with anti-inflammatory and estrogen-like properties, has been identified as one such EDC. This study investigates the effects of BCA on transcription, metabolism, and hormone regulation in primary human granulosa cells (GCs), with a specific focus on the activation of bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs). Methods: Primary human GCs from 60 participants were treated with 10 µM BCA, and selective antagonists were used to block TAS2R activation. The study assessed the expression of TAS2R14 and TAS2R43, and analyzed the impact on StAR and CYP17A1 gene expression. Intracellular calcium levels, lipid droplet size, and mitochondrial network complexity were measured to evaluate cellular metabolism and energy dynamics. Results: BCA treatment significantly upregulated TAS2R14 and TAS2R43 expression, leading to a 70% increase in StAR mRNA levels and a twofold increase in CYP17A1 expression (p < 0.05). These effects were reversed by TAS2R antagonists. Additionally, BCA treatment decreased intracellular Ca2+ levels (p < 0.01) and reduced lipid droplet size (p < 0.001), both of which were counteracted by antagonists. Enhanced mitochondrial network complexity (p < 0.001) was also observed, suggesting increased mitochondrial fusion and improved cellular energy dynamics. Conclusion: The findings indicate that BCA modulates transcriptional and metabolic processes in GCs through the activation of TAS2Rs, highlighting their role in endocrine regulation. The statistically significant results emphasize the relevance of further exploring the effects of EDCs like BCA on reproductive health. Collaborative research efforts are essential to address and mitigate the adverse impacts of EDCs on fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parathyroid carcinoma (PC) is one of the rarest malignant neoplasms of the human endocrine system, with a prevalence of approximately 0.005% of all oncological diseases. Despite its indolent course, PC generally relapses in about 40%–60% of cases. The severity of the disease is usually determined by uncontrolled life-threatening hypercalcemia. Currently, there are no reliable criteria for preoperative diagnosis of PC; moreover, topical diagnosis and morphologic examination remain challenges. Surgery remains the gold standard for the treatment of both primary tumors and distant metastases. Other treatment options, such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy, are limited. Targeted therapy is considered a promising direction for disseminated tumors. We present a clinical case of a 70-year-old female patient with recurrent intrathyroidal PC and distant lung metastases, with novel variants in the MET and CDKN1C genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing sensors with high sensitivity and selectivity for detecting neurotransmitters under near-physiological conditions is a major challenge and is crucial for preventing diseases of the nervous, cardiovascular, and endocrine systems. Most existing systems that meet these requirements involve either complicated synthesis processes, require sulfur groups, or are not functional under aqueous conditions. Herein, we report that the self-organisation of a simple imine ligand L with copper(II) tetrafluoroborate leads to the formation of a [CuL2](BF4)2 complex (CuL2) with a 2: 1 ligand-to-metal ratio, as confirmed by high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR ESI-MS), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and single-crystal X-ray analysis. Surprisingly, modifying a gold surface with a selfassembled monolayer of the CuL2 complex created a stable sensor for selective detection of epinephrine (EP) using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) at pH 7.0. A linear correlation between the current response and the concentration of EP was observed with a detection limit of 0.03 µM, high reproducibility and good stability in the range of 0.0001 to 0.875 mM. These results show that the new sensor (Cu/Au) can serve as a reliable analytical tool to selectively detect EP alone and in a mixture with coexisting uric acid (UA) in tested samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In today's fast-paced society, stress has become a widespread phenomenon, garnering increasing attention for its impact on cancer. This study aims to investigate the current status and research hotspots of chronic stress in cancer research from 2014 to 2024, with the goal of providing valuable insights for future studies. Methods: We retrieved 618 articles published between 2014 and 2024 from the Web of Science database and analyzed them using R software, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace. Results: There is an overall upward trend in chronic stress-related cancer research, with China leading in publications, followed by the United States, India, Australia, and Italy. The journal most cited is Brain Behavior and Immunity. Key themes identified include 'inflammation', 'breast cancer', 'anxiety', 'psychological stress', and 'oxidative stress'. The primary focus of the research is the impact of chronic stress on various cancer types, the underlying molecular mechanisms, and the implications of chronic stress-related treatments on cancer outcomes. Conclusion: Chronic stress is increasingly recognized as a Carcinogenic factors. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of chronic stress-related cancer research from 2014 to 2024, offering valuable guidance for future research in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A significant proportion of patients who sustain a concussion/mild traumatic brain injury endorse persisting, lingering symptoms. The symptoms associated with concussion are nonspecific, and many other medical conditions present with similar symptoms. Medical conditions that overlap symptomatically with concussion include anxiety, depression, insomnia, chronic pain, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, and cervical strain injuries. One of the factors that may account for these similarities is that these conditions all present with disturbances in the optimal functioning of the autonomic nervous system and its intricate interactions with the endocrine system and immune system—the three primary regulatory systems in the body. When clinicians are working with patients presenting with persisting symptoms after concussion, evidence-based treatment options drawn from the literature are limited. We present a framework for the assessment and treatment of persisting symptoms following concussion based on the available evidence (treatment trials), neuroanatomical principles (research into the physiology of concussion), and clinical judgment. We review the research supporting the premise that behavioral interventions designed to stabilize and optimize regulatory systems in the body following injury have the potential to reduce symptoms and improve functioning in patients. Foundational concussion rehabilitation strategies in the areas of sleep stabilization, fatigue management, physical exercise, nutrition, relaxation protocols, and behavioral activation are outlined along with practical strategies for implementing intervention modules with patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neoplasia is a common disease in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus); however, few studies have evaluated the prevalence of neoplasia in all organ systems. We retrospectively analyzed the tumor prevalence in pet guinea pigs and the frequency of metastasis in a multi-institutional study population of 2,474 autopsy cases. Tumors were found in 508 guinea pigs (prevalence: 20.5%), of which 95 cases had >1 tumor, resulting in a total of 627 tumors. The tumor prevalence increased from 1.4% in animals <0.5-y-old to 53.6% for guinea pigs >5-y-old. The most common tumor type was lymphoma or leukemia, affecting 174 guinea pigs (tumor prevalence: 7.0%). Lymphomas or leukemias were disseminated to various organs and/or lymph nodes in 146 (83.9%) cases and localized to 1 organ or 1 lymph node in 28 (16.1%) cases. Primary non-lymphoid tumors were most frequent in the female genital tract (62 of 1,235 cases, mostly uterus), respiratory system (116 of 2,474), skin including mammary gland (81 of 2,474), endocrine system (66 of 2,474, mostly thyroid gland), and alimentary tract (35 of 2,474). Tumors of the alimentary tract were dominated by gastrointestinal stromal tumors. Metastasis was detected in 42 of 453 non-lymphoid tumors (9.3%), with a surprisingly low frequency for pulmonary carcinoma and splenic hemangiosarcoma compared to other species. Our postmortem study demonstrates a high prevalence of disseminated lymphoma or leukemia in pet guinea pigs at the time of death or euthanasia. Additional studies are needed to further characterize these tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic stress can adversely affect the female reproductive endocrine system, potentially leading to disorders and impairments in ovarian function. However, current research lacks comprehensive understanding regarding the biochemical characteristics and underlying mechanisms of ovarian damage induced by chronic stress. We established a stable chronic unpredictable stress (CUS)-induced diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) animal model. Our findings demonstrated that prolonged CUS treatment over eight weeks resulted in increased atresia follicles in female mice. This atresia was accompanied by decreased AMH and increased FSH levels. Furthermore, we observed elevated levels of corticosterone both in the peripheral blood and within the ovary. Additionally, we detected abnormalities in ATP metabolism within the ovarian tissue. CUS exposure led to oxidative stress in the ovaries, fostering a microenvironment characterized by oxidative damage to mouse ovarian granulosa cells (mGCs) and heightened levels of reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, CUS prompted mGCs to undergo apoptosis via the mitochondrial pathway. These findings indicate a direct association between the fundamental physiological alterations leading to DOR and the oxidative phosphorylation processes within mGCs. The diminished ATP production by mGCs, triggered by CUS, emerges as a pivotal indicator of CUS-induced DOR. Our study establishes an animal model to investigate the impact of chronic stress on ovarian reserve function and sheds light on potential mechanisms underlying this phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emotion and cognition involve an intricate crosstalk of neural and endocrine systems that support dynamic reallocation of neural resources and optimal adaptation for upcoming challenges, an active process analogous to allostasis. As a hallmark of human endocrine activity, the cortisol awakening response (CAR) is recognized to play a critical role in proactively modulating emotional and executive functions. Yet, the underlying mechanisms of such proactive effects remain elusive. By leveraging pharmacological neuroimaging and hidden Markov modeling of brain state dynamics, we show that the CAR proactively modulates rapid spatiotemporal reconfigurations (state) of large-scale brain networks involved in emotional and executive functions. Behaviorally, suppression of CAR proactively impaired performance of emotional discrimination but not working memory (WM), while individuals with higher CAR exhibited better performance for both emotional and WM tasks. Neuronally, suppression of CAR led to a decrease in fractional occupancy and mean lifetime of task-related brain states dominant to emotional and WM processing. Further information-theoretic analyses on sequence complexity of state transitions revealed that a suppressed or lower CAR led to higher transition complexity among states primarily anchored in visual-sensory and salience networks during emotional task. Conversely, an opposite pattern of transition complexity was observed among states anchored in executive control and visuospatial networks during WM, indicating that CAR distinctly modulates neural resources allocated to emotional and WM processing. Our findings establish a causal link of CAR with brain network dynamics across emotional and executive functions, suggesting a neuroendocrine account for CAR proactive effects on human emotion and cognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes can affect male fertility via oxidative stress and endocrine system disruption. Nanomedicine based on natural products is employed to address diabetes complications. The current study aims to investigate the potential beneficial effect of propolis extract nanoparticles against diabetes-induced testicular damage in male rats. Sixty male rats were randomly allocated to six groups (n = 10). The first group served as a control group. The second and third received propolis extract (Pr) and propolis extract nanoparticles (PrNPs). The fourth group is the diabetic group that received streptozotocin (STZ) (55 mg kg/bwt) single-dose i/p. The fifth and sixth groups are diabetic rats treated with Pr and PrNPs. Both Pr and PrNPs were received at a dose (100 mg/kg bwt) orally. After 60 days, animals were euthanized, then pancreatic and testicular tissues were collected for redox status evaluation, gene expression analysis, and histopathological examination. Also, hormonal analysis (Insulin, total testosterone, and luteinizing hormone (LH)) along with semen quality evaluation were done. Results showed that the induction of diabetes led to testicular and pancreatic redox status deterioration showing a reduction in reduced glutathione (GSH) as well as elevation of malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO) levels. Also, relative transcript levels of testicular cytochrome P450 family 11 subfamily A member 1 (CYP11A1), 3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD-3β), and nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NFE2L2) were significantly down-regulated, While the advanced glycation end-product receptor (AGER) relative gene expression was significantly upregulated. Furthermore, hormonal and semen analysis disturbances were observed. Upon treatment with Pr and PrNPs, a marked upregulation of testicular gene expression of CYP11A1, HSD-3β, and NFE2L2 as well as a downregulation of AGER, was observed. Hormones and semen analysis were improved. In addition, the testicular and pancreatic redox status was enhanced. Results were confirmed via histopathological investigations. PrNPs outperformed Pr in terms of steroidogenesis pathway improvement, testicular antioxidant defense mechanism augmentation, and prospective antidiabetic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacteria communicate through the accumulation of autoinducer (AI) molecules that regulate gene expression at critical densities in a process called quorum sensing (QS). Extensive work using simple systems and single strains of bacteria have revealed a role for QS in the regulation of virulence factors and biofilm formation; however, less is known about QS dynamics among communities, especially in vivo. In this review, we summarize the diversity of QS signals as well as their ability to influence "non-target" behaviors among species that have receptors but not synthases for those signals. We highlight host-microbe interactions facilitated by QS and describe cross-talk between QS and the mammalian endocrine and immune systems, as well as host surveillance of QS. Further, we describe emerging evidence for the role of QS in non-infectious, chronic, microbially associated diseases including inflammatory bowel diseases and cancers. Finally, we describe potential therapeutic approaches that involve leveraging QS signals as well as quorum quenching approaches to block signaling in vivo to mitigate deleterious consequences to the host. Ultimately, QS offers a previously underexplored target that may be leveraged for precision modification of the microbiota without deleterious bactericidal consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic compound widely used in producing consumer plastics like polycarbonate and epoxy resins. Recognized as an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC), BPA has been linked to various adverse health effects, including impacts on human fertility. Exposure to BPA has been associated with infertility risks not only through direct mechanisms but also by causing transgenerational effects, potentially compromising fertility in future generations. Aim of the Study: This review aims to summarize recent evidence identifying BPA as an environmental contributor to infertility in humans. We explore mechanisms through which BPA disrupts the endocrine system, focusing on its effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, oogenesis, spermatogenesis, and embryo implantation. Additionally, we discuss research on BPA's potential long-term reproductive risks across generations and assess strategies for reducing BPA exposure. Materials and Methods: We reviewed epidemiological, clinical, and experimental studies published over the past decade, with a search conducted in PubMed and Google Scholar. Both human and animal model studies were considered to provide a comprehensive perspective. Search terms included "Bisphenol A," "fertility," "endocrine disruptors," "spermatogenesis," "oogenesis," and "transgenerational effects.". Conclusions: BPA, an EDC ubiquitous in the environment, is shown to disrupt male and female fertility. Expanding research and regulatory measures are needed to reduce the reproductive health risks posed by BPA exposure to protect current and future generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thyroid cancer (TC) is a prevalent malignant tumor of the endocrine system in China. Current research primarily focuses on clinical diagnosis and treatment as well as underlying mechanisms, lacking epidemiological studies on the burden of the disease in China and worldwide. Methods: The Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 was utilized to assess the incidence, prevalence, death, and disability-adjusted life years of TC in China and worldwide from 1990 to 2021 using the Joinpoint and R software. Results: From 1990 to 2021, the incidence and prevalence rates of TC in China have been consistently rising, and their growth rates are far higher than the global average. In China, TC usually occurs in patients aged 50-59, and the crude death rate generally increases with age. The burden of death among females has gradually declined, while that among males has continued to increase and surpassed females at the beginning of the 21st century. The burden of TC is heavy among middle-aged and elderly populations and the younger populations is also rapidly rising. The increased number of TC is mainly attributed to epidemiological changes, while the increase of deaths in China is primarily due to aging and population. Additionally, we predict that the age-standardized incidence rate of TC in China will continue to grow slowly over the next decade, while the age-standardized death rate will gradually decline among females and stabilize among males. Conclusion: It is imperative to avoid over-screening and over-treatments for TC. Meanwhile, we should also avoid missing aggressive types of TC that may have an impact on overall survival. Additionally, understanding the mechanisms of metastasis and improving clinical treatments should be prioritized for further investigation. TC remains a significant public health challenge in China, necessitating a careful balance of the cost-benefit ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Snail Bellamya purificata not only improves resource efficiency and purifies the aquaculture environment but is also a commercially valuable and nutritious aquatic product. Stocking density is a key determinant of aquaculture yield; sustained high densities cause stress and competition for resources among species, negatively impacting their growth, survival, and quality. This, in turn, reduces the economic benefits of aquaculture. However, research on the impact of stocking density on B. purificata remains limited. The aim of this study was to study the influence of different stocking density on the nutritional quality and metabolic function of snail B. purificata foot muscle through transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis. The findings indicated that high-density conditions adversely affect the nutritional quality and metabolic function of the snail foot muscle. These findings give guidance for selecting appropriate stocking densities for B. purificata. Snail Bellamya purificata is not only useful for bioremediation, purifying aquaculture environments, but it is also a commercially valuable and nutritionally rich aquatic product. To analyze the effect of various stocking densities on the muscle nutritional quality and metabolic functions of B. purificata. The transcriptome and metabolome were analyzed and set up three different density groups—low (LD, 234.38 g/m2), medium (MD, 468.75 g/m2), and high (HD, 937.5 g/m2). The results of the study showed that the weight gain (WG) and specific growth rate (SGR) of B. purificata in the MD and HD groups were significantly lower compared to the LD group. High stocking density significantly reduced the oleic acid (C18:1n9c), linoleic acid (C18:2n6c), alpha-linolenic acid (C18:3n3), eicosadienoic acid (C20:2), erucic acid (C22:1n9), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6n3), and lignoceric acid (C24:0) levels within snail foot muscle. Most of the identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were categorized as Signal transduction, according to the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG); these genes were categorized into Transport and catabolism, Endocrine system, and Immune system. A total of 11 upregulated DEGs and 19 downregulated DEGs were identified and confirmed to be associated with density stress. The identified metabolites were mainly enriched in the Metabolism category, with 620 differential metabolites identified in positive ion (POS) mode and 265 differential metabolites identified in the negative ion (NEG) mode among different stocking density groups. The differential metabolites affected by stocking density were primarily amino acids, nucleic acids, vitamins, and lipid metabolites. There were 8 upregulated differential metabolites and 14 downregulated differential metabolites identified and confirmed to be associated with density stress. These findings elucidated the response mechanisms of B. purificata to adverse stocking density conditions and provide data and a theoretical basis for selecting appropriate stocking densities for B. purificata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

GATA binding protein 3 (GATA3), a member of the GATA family transcription factors, is a key player in various physiological and pathological conditions. It is known for its ability to bind to the DNA sequence "GATA", which enables its key role in critical processes in multiple tissues and organs including the immune system, endocrine system, and nervous system. GATA3 also modulates cell differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis via controlling gene expression. In physiological instances, GATA3 is crucial for maintaining immunological homeostasis by mediating the development of naïve T cells into T helper 2 (Th2). In addition, GATA3 has been demonstrated to play a variety of cellular roles in the growth and maintenance of mammary gland, neuronal, and renal tissues. Conversely, the presence of impaired GATA3 is associated with a variety of diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, autoimmune diseases, and cancers. Additionally, the altered expression of GATA3 contributes to the worsening of disease progression in hematological malignancies, such as T-cell lymphomas. Therefore, this review explores the multifaceted roles and signaling pathways of GATA3 in health and disease, with a particular emphasis on its potential as a therapeutic and prognostic target for the effective management of diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The neuroendocrine-immune (NEI) network is fundamental for maintaining body's homeostasis and health. While the roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) and transcription factors (TFs) in disease processes are well-established, their synergistic regulation within the NEI network has yet to be elucidated. In this study, we constructed a background NEI-related miRNA-TF regulatory network (NEI-miRTF-N) by integrating NEI signaling molecules (including miRNAs, genes, and TFs) and identifying miRNA-TF feed-forward loops. Our analysis reveals that the number of immune signaling molecules is the highest and suggests potential directions for signal transduction, primarily from the nervous system to both the endocrine and immune systems, as well as from the endocrine system to the immune system. Furthermore, disease-specific NEI-miRTF-Ns for depression, Alzheimer's disease (AD) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) were constructed based on the known disease molecules and significantly differentially expressed (SDE) molecules. Additionally, we proposed a novel method using depth-first-search algorithm for identifying significantly dysregulated NEI-related miRNA-TF regulatory pathways (NEI-miRTF-Ps) and verified their reliability from multiple perspectives. Our study provides an effective approach for identifying disease-specific NEI-miRTF-Ps and offers new insights into the synergistic regulation of miRNAs and TFs within the NEI network. Our findings provide information for new therapeutic strategies targeting these regulatory pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unexplained spontaneous ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (sOHSS) in a nonpregnant young woman is rare, with fewer than five cases documented in the literature. Although four distinct causative types of sOHSS have been identified, some cases remain beyond the scope of our current understanding. A young Chinese woman with sOHSS presented on multiple occasions with sOHSS between the ages of 18.6 and 20.6 years, with acute abdominal discomfort, ascites, hemoconcentration, and pronounced ovarian enlargement coinciding with minor ovulatory anomalies. During the most recent episode, concern regarding a malignant ovarian neoplasm led to emergent unilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy. Remarkably, her menstrual cycle normalized after surgery, with no subsequent recurrence of sOHSS. Subsequent diagnostic evaluations identified a Rathke cleft cyst (RCC) in the pituitary gland and a heterozygous mutation in the KISS1R gene. Neither of these findings corresponded with any of the four informally recognized causes of sOHSS, suggesting a hitherto unrecognized pathology. RCCs may cause OHSS by disrupting the endocrine system, while interactions between the kisspeptin system and estradiol may reach a critical threshold, culminating in sOHSS. This case provides important insights into sOHSS and will hopefully spearhead further research into pituitary anomalies and the intricacies of the kisspeptin system. Clinicians are urged to maintain a high level of vigilance for similar presentations and ensure timely and tailored therapeutic interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs), found in various cosmetic products, interfere with the normal functioning of the endocrine system, impacting hormone regulation and posing risks to human health. Common cosmetic EDCs, such as ultraviolet (UV) filters, parabens, and triclosan, can enter the human body through different routes, including skin absorption. Their presence has been linked to adverse effects on reproduction, immune function, and development. High‐throughput in vitro assays, using various human cell lines, were employed to assess the effects of common cosmetic EDCs such as ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate (EHMC), benzophenone‐3 (BP‐3), homosalate, and parabens. Despite ongoing regulatory efforts, gaps persist in understanding their long‐term impacts, particularly when they are present as mixtures or degradation products in the environment. This study focuses on recent in vitro research to investigate the mechanisms through which cosmetic‐related EDCs disrupt the endocrine system and other physiological systems. The in vitro findings highlight the broader systemic impact of these chemicals, extending beyond the endocrine system to include immune, reproductive, and cardiovascular effects. This research underscores the importance of developing safer cosmetic formulations and enhancing public health protection, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) encompass various clinical conditions associated with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the masticatory muscles. TMD symptoms include pain in the orofacial region, restricted or altered mandibular movement, and sounds associated with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This condition adversely affects quality of life, social functioning, and daily activities, and may also contribute to widespread pain syndromes and comorbidities, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a common chronic functional disorder of the lower gastrointestinal tract, characterized by recurrent abdominal pain associated with impaired bowel symptoms. Previous studies indicate an association between TMD and IBS. This scoping review examined the correlation between TMD and IBS concerning their pathology, frequency, and severity, and the potential similarities in how the nervous and endocrine systems influence them. PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Google Scholar search engines were utilized to identify suitable studies for this article. Following the application of selection criteria, a total of 58 clinical papers met the eligibility requirements for inclusion in the systematic review. Research showed that both conditions significantly enhance the development of one another and have mutual comorbidities. Both ailments were proven to modify central nervous system processing, leading to high comorbidity in patients. Combining dental and gastroenterological treatments, including a simultaneous therapeutic approach, can significantly enhance patients' quality of life, but further research is needed for a holistic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Antenatal corticosteroids are widely used to prevent morbidity and mortality after preterm birth, but there are ongoing concerns about the possible risk of long‐term adverse effects, including perturbation of endocrine systems, with potential implications for reproduction. A small number of animal studies have suggested possible adverse effects on reproduction after antenatal exposure to corticosteroids, but there is a paucity of human data. Material and Methods: This is a secondary cohort analysis of the 50‐year follow‐up of the Auckland Steroid Trial (1969–1974) comparing antenatal exposure to corticosteroids or placebo. Participants whose mothers took part in the placebo‐controlled randomized trial of antenatal corticosteroids completed a questionnaire reporting reproductive outcomes at 50 years of age. The main outcome was at least one pregnancy ≥20 weeks or fathered at least one pregnancy ≥20 weeks. Additional outcomes included a number of pregnancies or fathered pregnancies ≥20 weeks, outcomes relating to female reproductive lifespan (including age at menarche and menopause), and outcomes relating to their offspring (including birthweight and gestation). Results: Of 917 eligible participants, 415 (45% of eligible) completed the questionnaire at a mean (SD) age of 49.3 (1.0) years. The proportion of participants who had experienced at least one pregnancy ≥20 weeks or fathered at least one pregnancy ≥20 weeks was similar in betamethasone and placebo‐exposed groups (163/217 [75%] vs. 136/190 [72%]; RR 1.08, (95% CI 0.95 to 1.22); p = 0.23). Participants exposed to betamethasone had a slightly higher number of pregnancies or fathered pregnancies ≥20 weeks compared to those exposed to placebo (mean 1.89 vs. 1.60; marginal mean difference 0.20, (95% CI 0.03–0.37); p = 0.03). Other outcomes, including female reproductive lifespan and offspring‐related outcomes, were similar in both randomized groups. There were also no differences in any outcomes between those born preterm and those born at term. Conclusions: Antenatal exposure to corticosteroids appears to have no clinically important effect on reproductive outcomes to 50 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The theoretical trade-off between immune and endocrine investment in mating animals has received mixed empirical support, particularly in reptiles. We investigated the relationship between male sexual characteristics, diet, and immune response to stress in an island population of tuatara (Sphenodon punctatus) across two mating seasons. Tuatara are promiscuous, with a highly skewed mating system where males face significant competition for access to mates and postcopulatory competition for fertilization success. We found that tuatara sperm viability and swim speed were negatively associated with male body condition and the ratio of heterophils to lymphocytes. Additionally, sperm swim speed was negatively associated with spine area, mite load, and the total number of circulating white blood cells, but was positively associated with tick number. This is likely a function of social dynamics in this system where larger male size predicts greater spatial overlap with potential rivals and increased tick load. Because the production of sexual characteristics may be costly, we also investigated the effect of diet on sperm quality. We did not identify an association between diet and sperm viability. However, sperm swim speed was negatively associated with carbon-13 and positively associated with nitrogen-15. We suspect that these results reflect the influence of seabird-based nutrients in this island ecosystem, particularly polyunsaturated fatty acid, and antioxidant damage on tuatara sperm. In total, these results provide evidence of a trade-off between pre- and post-copulatory sexual characteristics and the immune and endocrine systems in male tuatara. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last decades, the human species has seen an increase in the incidence of pathologies linked to the genitourinary tract. Observations in animals have allowed us to link these increases, at least in part, to changes in the environment and, in particular, to an increasing presence of endocrine disruptors. These can be physical agents, such as light or heat; natural products, such as phytoestrogens; or chemicals produced by humans. Endocrine disruptors may interfere with the signaling pathways mediated by the endocrine system, particularly those linked to sex hormones. These factors and their general effects are presented before focusing on the male and female genitourinary tracts by describing their anatomy, development, and pathologies, including bladder and prostate cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The peripheral stress response, consisting of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and hypothalamic pituitary adrenal-axis (HPA-axis), functions to maintain homeostasis in response to stressors. Cervical spine manual therapy has been shown to differentially modulate the stress response in healthy populations. No study has investigated whether cervical spine mobilizations can differentially modulate the stress response in individuals with persistent post-concussion symptoms (PPCS), a population characterized by a dysfunctional stress response. Methods: A randomized, controlled, parallel design trial was performed to investigate whether upper or lower cervical spine mobilization can differentially modulate components of the stress response in individuals with PPCS. The outcomes were salivary cortisol (sCOR) concentration (primary) and the HRV metric, rMSSD, measured with a smartphone application (secondary). Nineteen males diagnosed with PPCS, aged 19–35, were included. Participants were randomly assigned into either intervention group, upper (n = 10) or lower (n = 9) cervical spine mobilization. Each outcome was collected at different time points, pre- and post-intervention. Statistical analyses were performed using the Friedman's Two-Way ANOVA, Mann-Whitney U test, and Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. Results: There was a statistically significant within-group reduction in sCOR concentration 30 minutes following lower cervical spine mobilizations and statistically significant within-group increase in rMSSD 30 minutes following upper cervical spine mobilizations. Conclusion: The results of this trial provide preliminary evidence for cervical spine mobilizations to differentially modulate components of the stress response at specific time points. Understanding the mechanisms of the effect of cervical spine mobilizations on the stress response provides a novel rationale for selecting cervical spine mobilizations to rehabilitate individuals with PPCS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eosinophils contribute to metabolic homeostasis and airway hyperresponsiveness, but their specific role in obesity-related airway hyperresponsiveness remains unclear. To address this, we used transgenic mice that overexpress interleukin-5 (IL-5) in peripheral T cells (+IL-5T) and wild-type controls. On a normal diet, +IL-5T and wild-type mice have similar body weight, body fat, and airway nerve-mediated reflex bronchoconstriction in response to inhaled serotonin. Feeding wild-type mice a 61.6% high-fat diet resulted in significantly increased body weight, body fat, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, and reflex bronchoconstriction induced by serotonin, which was blocked by vagotomy. In contrast, +IL-5T mice on a high-fat diet gained less body weight and fat than wild-type mice on the same diet and did not exhibit potentiation in fasting glucose, fasting insulin, or reflex bronchoconstriction induced by serotonin. Compared with wild-type mice, +IL-5T mice on normal diet had significantly more adipose tissue eosinophils, and this was further increased by high-fat diet. High-fat diet did not increase adipose tissue eosinophils in wild-type mice. Our findings suggest that adipose tissue eosinophils may play a role in regulating body fat, thereby reducing insulin, which is a mediator of obesity-related airway hyperresponsiveness. Thus, our data indicate adipose tissue eosinophils may be an important avenue for research in obesity-related asthma. NEW & NOTEWORTHY: This study investigates how eosinophils influence systemic metabolism and airway function in obesity. Known for their immune functions, eosinophils also mitigate obesity-related hyperinsulinemia, reducing airway hyperresponsiveness in obese mice models. The findings suggest potential therapeutic strategies targeting the intricate interplay among neurons, eosinophils, and the endocrine system to alleviate asthma in obesity. This research provides novel insights into the critical neuro-immune-endocrine interactions essential for managing obesity-related asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activins, members of the TGF-beta superfamily, have been isolated and identified in the endocrine system, but have not been substantially investigated in the context of the immune system and endocrine-unrelated cancers. Here, we demonstrated that tumor-bearing mice had elevated systemic activin levels, which correlated directly with tumor burden. Likewise, cancer patients have elevated plasma activin levels compared to healthy controls. We observed that both tumor and immune cells could be sources of activins. Importantly, our in vitro studies suggest that activins promote differentiation of naïve CD4+ cells into Foxp3-expressing induced regulatory T cells (Tregs), particularly when TGF-beta was limited in the culture medium. Database and qRT-PCR analysis of sorted major immune cell subsets in mice revealed that activin receptor 1c (ActRIC) was uniquely expressed on Tregs and that both ActRIC and ActRIIB (activin receptor 2b) were highly upregulated during iTreg differentiation. ActRIC-deficient naïve CD4+ cells were found to be defective in iTreg generation both in vitro and in vivo. Treg suppression assays were also performed, and ActRIC deficiency did not change the function or stability of iTregs. Mice lacking ActRIC or mice treated with monoclonal anti-ActRIC antibody were more resistant to tumor progression than wild-type controls. This phenotype was correlated with reduced expression of Foxp3 in CD4+ cells in the tumor microenvironment. In light of the information presented above, blocking activin-ActRIC signaling is a promising and disease-specific strategy to impede the accumulation of immunosuppressive iTregs in cancer. Therefore, it is a potential candidate for cancer immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use and misuse of opioids are a growing global problem. Although the effects of these drugs on the human endocrine system have been studied for decades, attention on their related clinical consequences, particularly on the hypothalamic-pituitary system and bone health, has intensified over recent years. This Statement appraises research data related to the impact of opioids on the gonadal and adrenal function. Whereas hypogonadism is well recognized as a side effect of opioids, the significance of their inhibitory actions on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system and the occurrence of clinically relevant adrenal insufficiency is not fully elucidated. The often-inconsistent results of studies investigating how opioids affect the secretion of GH, prolactin, arginine vasopressin, and oxytocin are assessed. The accumulating evidence of opioid actions on bone metabolism and their negative sequelae on bone mineral density and risk of fracture are also reviewed. In each section, available data on diagnostic and management approaches for opioid endocrine sequelae are described. This Statement highlights a plethora of gaps in research associated with the effects and clinical consequences of opioids on the endocrine system. It is anticipated that addressing these gaps will improve the care of people using or misusing opioids worldwide. The Statement is not intended to serve as a guideline or dictate treatment decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic, a well-known environmental endocrine disruptor, exerts interference on the body's endocrine system. Our previous investigations have demonstrated that chronic exposure to sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) can induce thyroid damage and dysfunction in Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats. Vitamin D (VD) is an indispensable fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining thyroid health. In recent years, numerous studies have demonstrated the association between VD deficiency and the development of various thyroid disorders. However, the precise intervention roles and mechanisms of VD in arsenic-induced thyroid injury remain elusive. This study aimed to investigate the intervention effect of VD on NaAsO2-induced thyroid dysfunction in SD rats. The results demonstrated that exposure to NaAsO2 activates the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in thyroid tissue of rats, leading to apoptosis of thyroid cells and subsequent inflammatory damage and disruption of serum thyroid hormone secretion. Supplementation with TAK-242 (a TLR4 inhibitor) and VD effectively inhibits the activation of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in rat thyroid tissue exposed to NaAsO2, thereby reducing the inflammatory damage and dysfunction caused by arsenic exposure. In conclusion, the findings of this study offer innovative insights into the application of VD in the prevention and treatment of thyroid dysfunction caused by arsenic exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychological stressors can show their negative effects on an individual's mental and physical states. Following the psycho-neuro-immuno-endocrine axis, they can influence different internal organs and systems of the body. Such influence can affect the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis and modify the secretion of different neuroendocrine mediators. Altered secretions of neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, and other cytokines and chemokines (including pro-inflammatory cytokines); corticosteroids, catecholamines, etc. can initiate or potentiate health problems of different types and magnitudes. Psychological stressors can affect feeding, social behavior, pain sensation, learning, memory, reproduction, etc. They may act as the root for the development of conditions like epilepsy, hysteria, dementia, melancholia, psychosis, movement disorders, etc. Anxiety, confusion, depression, memory issues, problems in decision-making, attraction to negative thoughts, difficulty in focusing, lack of self-confidence, emotional disturbances, sudden changes of mood, increased irritability, unhappiness, hopelessness, inability to relax, etc. are some common effects of stress. Physiological conditions like headache, migraine, increased heart rate, sleep disturbances, high blood pressure, muscle tension, decreased libido, early fatigue, different gastrointestinal disorders, obesity, diabetes, idiopathic diseases, atopic skin diseases (eczema, acne, etc.), psoriasis, delayed wound healing, menstruation problems of ladies, etc. are developed due to stress. Developments of various immunityrelated, allergic, rheumatic, autoimmune, endocrine, neoplastic, and cardiovascular diseases are connected to different psychological stress components. Development of a self-care attitude, changing the surrounding environment to a favorable one, modification of lifestyle, practicing mind-controlling exercises like yoga and meditation, as well as taking assistance from any mental health professionals can be considered to counter or overcome psychological stress and staying away from different physical and mental health problems.

Systemic acid-base status is primarily determined by the interplay of net acid production (NEAP) arising from metabolism of ingested food stuffs, buffering of NEAP in tissues, generation of bicarbonate by the kidney, and capture of any bicarbonate filtered by the kidney. In chronic kidney disease (CKD), acid retention may occur when dietary acid production is not balanced by bicarbonate generation by the diseased kidney. Hormones including aldosterone, angiotensin II, endothelin, PTH, glucocorticoids, insulin, thyroid hormone, and growth hormone can affect acid-base balance in different ways. The levels of some hormones such as aldosterone, angiotensin II and endothelin are increased with acid accumulation and contribute to an adaptive increase in renal acid excretion and bicarbonate generation. However, the persistent elevated levels of these hormones can damage the kidney and accelerate progression of CKD. Measures to slow the progression of CKD have included administration of medications which inhibit the production or action of deleterious hormones. However, since metabolic acidosis accompanying CKD stimulates the secretion of several of these hormones, treatment of CKD should also include administration of base to correct the metabolic acidosis.

\nIntroduction: Dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate is increased in formerly small-for-gestational age singletons and in smaller twins compared to their normal-weight co-twin. Less is known concerning other adrenal hormones. We compared diurnal salivary profiles in monozygotic twins with intra-twin birthweight (bw) differences to analyse the long-term impact of bw and persistent intra-twin auxological differences on various adrenal hormones. Methods: Forty-six monozygotic pre-pubertal twin pairs with bw difference of <1 standard deviation score (SDS) (concordant; n = 29, 13 female) and ≥1 SDS (discordant; n = 17, 6 female) were recruited. At a mean age of 6.9 years, saliva samples were collected (7:00 a.m./waking, 1:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m., and 9:00 p.m.) and analysed with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Results: Diurnal salivary concentrations showed significant intra-twin correlations in all twin pairs for nearly all time points: progesterone and androstenedione (4/4 time points), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (2/4). However, in the discordant group, mean progesterone differed significantly (p = 0.018) between the smaller (3.27 nmol/L, SD 3.87) and the larger twin (0.72 nmol/L, SD 0.42) at 7:00 a.m., and intra-twin differences were observed at 3/4 time points. Regression analyses of intra-twin differences confirmed that actual hormonal parameters were explained mainly by the co-twin parameter. However, at 6:00 p.m., progesterone concentration of the smaller twin was explained by bw (Β −1.102; SE 0.563; p = 0.05) and actual weight (Β 0.799; SE 0.327; p = 0.019). Conclusion: The significant correlations within monozygotic twin pairs in all measured hormones at nearly all time points suggest a strong genetic influence on the adrenal axis. Among the discordant twin pairs, we found significant variations in progesterone, suggesting additional long-lasting influence from intrauterine conditions on adrenal hormones with possible metabolic consequences. Previous research has shown that low birthweight (bw), unfavourable intrauterine conditions, and rapid post-natal catch-up growth can have long-standing negative health impacts, including disruption of the endocrine system. Earlier studies have primarily focused on the impact of low bw on one particular adrenal hormone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate, but less is known about the impact on the production of other hormones. In our study, we compared salivary hormone levels and generic health parameters (bw, height, weight, etc.) in identical twin pairs, to investigate the long-standing impact of unfavourable intrauterine conditions. Our cohort consisted of identical twin pairs who suffered from twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome in utero, a condition in which there is unequal blood and nutrient supply among twin pairs. This condition often results in significant bw differences between twins. The twin pairs in this cohort have an identical genetic makeup, very similar post-natal conditions, but contrasting intrauterine conditions, making them an excellent cohort in which to investigate genetic and non-genetic influences on longer term health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mitochondrial dysfunction emerges as an early pathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential and the elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production are pivotal in the initiation of neuronal cell apoptosis. Pedunculoside(Ped), a novel triterpene saponin derived from the dried barks of Ilex rotunda Thunb, exhibits a potent anti-inflammatory effect. In the course of drug screening, we discovered that Ped offers significant protection against apoptosis induced by Aβ1-42. Nevertheless, the role and mechanism of Ped in AD are yet to be elucidated. Methods: Oxidative stress was evaluated by measuring mitochondrial membrane potential and intracellular ROS production. The expression of proteins associated with apoptosis was determined using western blot analysis and flow cytometry. In vivo, the pathological characteristics of AD were investigated through Western blot and tissue immunofluorescence techniques. Cognitive function was assessed using the Morris Water Maze and Novel Object Recognition tests. Results: We demonstrated that Ped decreased apoptosis in PC12 cells, reduced the generation of intracellular ROS, and restored mitochondrial membrane potential. Mechanistically, we found that the protective effect of Ped against Aβ-induced neurotoxicity was associated with activation of the AMPK/GSK-3β/Nrf2 signaling pathway. In vivo, Ped alleviated memory deficits and inhibited neuronal apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the hippocampus of 3 × Tg AD mice, along with the activation of the AMPK signaling pathway. Conclusion: The findings indicate that Ped exerts its neuroprotective effects against oxidative stress and apoptosis through the AMPK signaling cascade. The results demonstrate that Ped is a potential candidate for the treatment of AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hypothalamus is the coordination center of the sheep (Ovis aries) endocrine system and plays an important role in the reproductive processes of sheep. However, the specific mechanism by which the hypothalamus affects sheep reproductive performance remains unclear. In this study, the hypothalamus tissues of high-reproduction small-tailed Han sheep and low-reproduction Wadi sheep were collected, and full-length transcriptome sequencing by Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) was performed to explore the key functional genes associated with sheep fecundity. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened and enriched using DESeq2 software through Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Approximately 41.75 million clean reads were obtained from the hypothalamus tissues of high- and low-reproduction sheep, after quality control, 32,194,872 high-quality full-length sequences and 2,114 DEGs were obtained, including 1,247 upregulated genes and 867 downregulated genes (P adjust < 0.05, |log2FC|>1). Some DEGs were enriched in oocyte meiosis, progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation, estrogen signaling pathway, GnRH signaling pathway and other development-related signaling pathways. The constructed protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks identified the reproduction-related genes, such as GSK3B, PPP2R1B, and PPP2CB. The results of this study will enrich and supplement the genomic information available for small-tailed Han sheep and Wadi sheep, as well as expand the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of animal reproduction by the hypothalamus, and they also provided reference data for further investigations on the mechanism of high reproduction in sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is an autoimmune disease, characterized by abnormal elevation in thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO-Ab) and/or thyroglobulin antibody (TG-Ab). Patients have multiple symptoms despite adequate hormone substitution. In the present study, we aimed to quantify the relationship between thyroid antibodies and multiple symptoms, inflammation and health-related life quality. A total of 108 HT patients with clinical euthyroid status and 57 heathy controls were recruited. Clinical parameters were determined by laboratory examination, and the symptoms burden and life quality were obtained by a Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Symptom Questionnaire and a SF-36 Questionnaire, respectively. Compared with healthy controls, multiple extrathyroidal symptoms were significantly more serious in HT patients despite euthyroid status, mainly including that related to digestive system (abdominal distension, constipation and diarrhea), endocrine system (chilliness, gain weight and facial edema), neuropsychiatric system (forgetfulness, anxiety, depressed, fatigue, insomnia, irritability, and indifferent) and mucocutaneous system (dry skin, pruritus, and hair loss). Furthermore, serum TPO-Ab and TG-Ab were both inversely correlated with health-related life quality of general health and vitality parameters, and positively correlated with pro-inflammatory factors of TNF-α and IFN-γ, as well as severity of abdominal distension, diarrhea, chilliness, forgetfulness and fatigue. Moreover, TG-Ab level was positively associated with depressed, insomnia and indifferent. HT patients suffered from a variety of symptoms, and the elevated thyroid antibodies were inversely associated with health-related life quality and positively associated with inflammation and multiple extrathyroidal symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epidemiologically, one of the most important concerns associated with introducing Salmonella spp. into the environment and food chain is the presence of asymptomatic carriers. The oncogenic and oncolytic activity of Salmonella and their lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) is important and research on this topic is needed. Even a single asymptomatic dose of the S. Enteritidis LPS (a dose that has not caused any symptoms of illness) in in vivo studies induces the dysregulation of selected cells and bioactive substances of the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems. LPSs from different species, and even LPSs derived from different serotypes of one species, can define different biological activities. The activity of low doses of LPSs derived from three different Salmonella serotypes (S. Enteritidis, S. Typhimurium, and S. Minnesota) affects the neurochemistry of neurons differently in in vitro studies. Studies on lipopolysaccharides from different Salmonella serotypes do not consider the diversity of their activity. The presence of an LPS from S. Enteritidis in the body, even in amounts that do not induce any symptoms of illness, may lead to unknown long-term consequences associated with its action on the cells and biologically active substances of the human body. These conclusions should be important for both research strategies and the pharmaceutical industry &. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thyroid cancer is ranked as the most common malignancy within the endocrine system and the seventh most prevalent cancer in women globally. Thyroid malignancies require evaluating biomarkers capable of distinguishing between them for accurate diagnosis. We examined both mRNA and protein levels of TSPAN1 in plasma and tissue samples from individuals with thyroid nodules to aid this endeavour. Methods: In this case-control study, TSPAN1 was assessed at both protein and mRNA levels in 90 subjects, including papillary thyroid cancer (PTC; N = 60), benign (N = 30), and healthy subjects (N = 26) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and SYBR-Green Real-Time PCR, respectively. Results: TSPAN1 plasma levels were decreased in PTC and benign compared to healthy subjects (P = 0.002). TSPAN1 mRNA levels were also decremented in the tumoral compared to the paired normal tissues (P = 0.012); this drop was also observed in PTC patients compared to benign patients (P = 0.001). Further, TSPAN1 had an appropriate diagnostic value for detecting PTC patients from healthy plasma samples with a sensitivity of 76.7% and specificity of 65.4% at the cutoff value < 2.7 (ng/ml). Conclusion: TSPAN1 levels are significantly reduced in patients with benign and PTC, demonstrating its potential value as a diagnostic biomarker. Additionally, the significant reduction in TSPAN1 mRNA expression within PTC tumor tissues may suggest its involvement in tumor progression and development. Further studies, including larger-scale validation studies and mechanistic investigations, are imperative to clarify the molecular mechanisms behind TSPAN1 and, ultimately, its clinical utility for treating thyroid disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rett syndrome (RTT) is an X-linked progressive neurodevelopmental disorder that involves mainly girls and is the second most frequent cause of genetic intellectual disability. RTT leads to neurological regression between 6 and 18 months of life and could be associated with a variable neurological impairment. However, RTT affects not only neurological function but also wide aspects of non-neurological organs. Recent data showed that the endocrine system is often involved in RTT patients, including disorders of growth, bone health, thyroid, puberty onset, and weight abnormalities However, systematic data on endocrinopathies in RTT are scarce and limited. Objective: This review aims to analyze the prevalence and type of endocrine comorbidities in RTT population, to allow a precocious diagnosis and appropriate endocrinological management. Methods: Systematic research was carried out from January 2000 to March 2024 through MEDLINE via PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Results: After the selection phase, a total of 22 studies (1090 screened) met the inclusion criteria and were reported in the present review. Five studies were observational-retrospective, four were cross-sectional and case report or series, three were survey, prospective, and case-control, and finally one study for descriptive-transversal and longitudinal population-based study. The sample population consisted of multiethnic groups or single ethnic groups. The main endocrinopathies reported were malnutrition, bone alterations, and alterations of puberty onset. Conclusions: Our analysis shows that endocrinopathies are not rare in RTT patients. Therefore, in the context of a multidisciplinary approach, accurate screening and monitoring for endocrinopathies should be recommended in all RTT patients, to improve clinical practice, healthcare management, and, finally, patients' quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The hormonal shift occurring in pregnant women is crucial for the outcome of pregnancy. We conducted a study in pregnant women living in a malaria endemic area to determine the potential effect of gestational age on the modulation of the endocrine system by cortisol and prolactin production during pregnancy. Methods: Primigravidae and multigravidae with a gestational age between 16–20 weeks were included in the study and followed up to delivery and 6–7 weeks thereafter. Venous blood was collected at scheduled visit: Visit 1 (V1; 16–20 weeks of amenorrhea), Visit 2 (V2; 28 ±1 weeks of pregnancy), Visit 3 (V3; 32 ±1 weeks of pregnancy), Visit4 (V4; delivery) and Visit5 (V5; 6–7 weeks after delivery). In addition, a cord blood sample was also collected during labour at delivery. Nulliparous and primiparous/multiparous non-pregnant women were enrolled in the control group. Cortisol and prolactin plasma concentrations were measured using ichroma II and i-chamber apparatus. Light microscopy was used to detect Plasmodium falciparum infections. A linear mixed-effects regression (LMER) model was used to assess the association between the variation of cortisol titres and prolactin levels during the pregnancy and the post-partum. Results: Results showed that cortisol and prolactin levels in the peripheral blood were globally up-regulated during pregnancy. Concentrations of cortisol during follow-up was significantly higher in primigravidae than in multigravidae during the whole pregnancy (p<0.024). Moreover, the level of prolactin which was higher before delivery in primigravidae reversed at delivery and postpartum visit, but the difference was not statistically significant during the follow-up (V1 to V5) (p = 0.60). The cortisol level in peripheral blood at delivery was higher than that in the cord blood, and conversely for prolactin. Cortisol and prolactin levels decreased after delivery, though the level of prolactin was still higher than that at enrolment. An increase of one unit of prolactin was associated with the decrease of the average concentration of cortisol by 0.04 ng/ml (p = 0.009). However, when cortisol increases with one unit, the average concentration of prolactin decreases by 1.16 ng/ml (p = 0.013). Conclusion: These results showed that the up-regulation effects of cortisol and prolactin are related to gestational age. A The downward regulation effect that both hormones have on each other during the pregnancy when each increase to 1 unit (1.0 ng/ml) was also reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spermatogenesis starts with the onset of puberty within the seminiferous epithelium of the testes. It is a complex process under intricate control of the endocrine system. Physiological regulations by steroid hormones in general and by estrogens in particular are due to their chemical nature prone to be disrupted by exogenous factors acting as endocrine disruptors (EDs). 17α-Ethynylestradiol (EE2) is an environmental pollutant with a confirmed ED activity and a well-known effect on spermatogenesis and chromatin remodeling in haploid germ cells. The aim of our study was to assess possible effects of two doses (2.5ng/ml; 2.5 μg/ml) of EE2 on both histone-to-protamine exchange and epigenetic profiles during spermatogenesis performing a multi/transgenerational study in mice. Our results demonstrated an impaired histone-to-protamine exchange with a significantly higher histone retention in sperm nuclei of exposed animals, when this process was accompanied by the changes of histone post-translational modifications (PTMs) abundancies with a prominent effect on H3K9Ac and partial changes in protamine 1 promoter methylation status. Furthermore, individual changes in molecular phenotypes were partially transmitted to subsequent generations, when no direct trans-generational effect was observed. Finally, the uncovered specific localization of the histone retention in sperm nuclei and their specific PTMs profile after EE2 exposure may indicate an estrogenic effect on sperm motility and early embryonic development via epigenetic mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is increasing both seasonal temperatures and the frequency and severity of heat extremes. As the endocrine system facilitates physiological adaptations to temperature changes, diseases with an endocrinological basis have the potential to affect thermoregulation and increase the risk of heat injury. The effect of climate change and associated high temperature exposure on endocrine axis development and function, and on the prevalence and severity of diseases associated with hormone deficiency or excess, is unclear. This Perspective summarizes current knowledge relating to the hormonal effects of heat exposure in species ranging from rodents to humans. We also describe the potential effect of high temperature exposures on patients with endocrine diseases. Finally, we highlight the need for more basic science, clinical and epidemiological research into the effects of heat on endocrine function and health; this research could enable the development of interventions for people most at risk, in the context of rising environmental temperatures. Climate change is causing human populations to be exposed to increasingly higher ambient temperatures and more frequent and extreme heatwaves than previously observed. This Perspective considers the available evidence on the endocrine effects of heat exposure, and maps out a path for future research into this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This series of three articles will explore the fundamentals related to anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology in relation to three important topics: the cardiac system, the respiratory system and the endocrine system. The series is intended to provide an informative and evidence-based summary of each topic for both students and clinicians. This third and final paper explores the maternal endocrine system, outlining the key physiological adaptations in pregnancy and summarising the key pathophysiological conditions that may occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex mental disorder that develops following exposure to severe traumatic events and is characterized by symptoms such as re-experiencing the trauma, heightened anxiety, and hyperarousal. Recent studies indicate that the pathophysiology of PTSD is largely influenced by dysfunction in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and disruptions in neurotransmitter regulation, which affect key brain structures, including the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex. The amygdala plays a central role in the formation and retention of fear, amplifying emotional responses to traumatic stimuli. Stress hormones, such as cortisol, adrenaline, and noradrenaline, in combination with neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, glutamate), modulate amygdala activity, influencing the development of PTSD. This review highlights the importance of investigating biomarkers for early PTSD diagnosis and explores promising therapeutic strategies focused on correcting HPA axis dysfunction and restoring neurotransmitter balance to alleviate PTSD symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Thyroid neoplasms are the most common malignancy of the endocrine system, representing 3.8% of new cancer cases, and it is the ninth most common cancer overall. The immuno-histochemical marker Hector Battifora Mesotheilial-1 (HBME-1) is a monoclonal antibody that now finds its diagnostic utility as a positive marker for well-differentiated thyroid carcinomas. The aim was to study the expression of HBME-1 and to differentiate between malignant and non-malignant lesions by demonstrating their usefulness in the categorisation of thyroid neoplasms. Methods: A prospective study was conducted at a tertiary care centre from August 2022 to May 2023, comprising 25 cases. All thyroidectomy specimens were included. They were subjected to histopathological examination using routine haematoxylin and eosin stain, and further confirmation was made by immuno-histochemical staining for HBME-1. Results: There were a total of 25 cases consisting of 23 (92%) females and two (8%) males. The maximum number of cases was seen in the age group of 21–30 years (27%), followed by 31–40 years (24%) and 41–50 years (24%). The most common thyroid neoplasm noted was the follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (40%) with HBME-1 being strongly positive for papillary thyroid carcinoma and its variants compared to other tumour sub-types, where it shows diffuse and focal expression. Conclusion: HBME-1, due to its high sensitivity, can be significantly used as a marker for identification and differentiation, particularly papillary thyroid carcinoma. However, using a panel of markers comprising Galectin-3 and Ck-19 along with HBME-1 increases the accuracy and specificity for the correct diagnosis of thyroid neoplasms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Critical thinking is an essential ability for students in the 21st century, particularly in complex subjects like the endocrine system in biology, which requires a deeper conceptual understanding. This study aims to analyze the critical thinking ability profile of Grade XI high school students in Bantul Regency on the topic of the endocrine system, a subject often considered difficult due to its abstract nature. This research is a descriptive quantitative study using a purposive sampling technique, involving 260 Grade XI students from various high schools in Bantul Regency. The test used consists of 8 essay questions, designed based on Ennis' critical thinking aspects. The results reveal that the overall critical thinking ability of these students is still very low. Specifically, the percentage results for each aspect are as follows: the elementary clarification aspect is 37.8% with a very low category, the basic support aspect is 47.4% with a low category, the inference aspect is 25.5% with a very low category, the advance clarification aspect is 54.2% with a low category, and the strategy and tactics aspect is 47.8% with a very low category. These results provide a broader understanding of the critical thinking ability of Grade XI high school students in Bantul Regency, which can serve as a basis for educators in developing and designing various learning innovations aimed at enhancing pupils' capacity for critical thought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing use of industrial chemicals has raised concerns regarding exposure to endocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs), which interfere with developmental, reproductive and metabolic processes. Of particular concern is their interaction with adipose tissue, a vital component of the endocrine system regulating metabolic and hormonal functions. The SGBS (Simpson Golabi Behmel Syndrome) cell line, a well‐established human‐relevant model for adipocyte research, closely mimics native adipocytes' properties. It responds to hormonal stimuli, undergoes adipogenesis and has been successfully used to study the impact of EDCs on adipose biology. In this study, we screened human exposure‐relevant doses of various EDCs on the SGBS cell line to investigate their effects on viability, lipid accumulation and adipogenesis‐related protein expression. Submicromolar doses were generally well tolerated; however, at higher doses, EDCs compromised cell viability, with cadmium chloride (CdCl2) showing the most pronounced effects. Intracellular lipid levels remained unaffected by EDCs, except for tributyltin (TBT), used as a positive control, which induced a significant increase. Analysis of adipogenesis‐related protein expression revealed several effects, including downregulation of fatty acid‐binding protein 4 (FABP4) by dibutyl phthalate, upregulation by CdCl2 and downregulation of perilipin 1 and FABP4 by perfluorooctanoic acid. Additionally, TBT induced dose‐dependent upregulation of C/EBPα, perilipin 1 and FABP4 protein expression. These findings underscore the importance of employing appropriate models to study EDC‐adipocyte interactions. Conclusions from this research could guide strategies to reduce the negative impacts of EDC exposure on adipose tissue. The increasing use of chemicals raises concerns about exposure to endocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs). This study used the Simpson Golabi Behmel Syndrome cell line, a human‐relevant adipocyte model, to screen the effect of various EDCs on viability, lipid accumulation and adipogenesis‐related protein expression. Submicromolar doses were generally well tolerated, and EDCs did not affect lipid levels except for tributyltin, which increased them and also upregulated FABP4, perilipin 1 and C/EBPα. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes mellitus is one of the endocrine system disorders. Poor quality of life in patients with diabetes mellitus will cause a decrease in self-care that impairs glycaemic control, increases the risk of complications, and worsens the situation over time. This study aims to determine the relationship between duration of diabetes mellitus and quality of life in patients at Royal Prima Medan Hospital. The type of research is quantitative correlation with cross sectional approach method. The study population was all patients with diabetes mellitus who did routine check-ups at Royal Prima Hospital. The sample size was 50 people with diabetes mellitus using consecutive sampling. Data analysis was carried out univariate and bivariate with chi square statistical test. Based on the results of the study, it can be stated that there is a significant relationship between age (p=0.026), gender (p=0.005), marital status (p=0.046), occupation (p=0.036), income (p=0.016), and duration of diabetes mellitus (p=0.001) to the quality of life of patients at Royal Prima Hospital Medan. It is recommended for health workers to conduct counselling on the importance of physical activity to prevent diabetes mellitus, and hold activities to encourage people to be active in physical activity such as prolanis healthy gymnastics every week. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals are a new class of pollutants that can affect hormonal metabolic processes in animals and humans. They can enter the aquatic environment through various pathways and gradually become enriched, thus posing a serious threat to the endocrine and physiological systems of both animals and humans. Nano zero-valent iron has promising applications in endocrine disruptor removal due to its excellent reducing properties and high specific surface area. However, given the dispersed focus and fragmented results of current studies, a comprehensive review is still lacking. In this paper, it was analyzed that the types of endocrine disruptors and their emission pathways reveal the sources of these compounds. Then, the main technologies currently used for endocrine disruptor treatment are introduced, covering physical, chemical, and biological treatment methods, with a special focus on persulfate oxidation among advanced oxidation technologies. Also, the paper summarizes the various activation methods of persulfate oxidation technology and proposes the nZVI-activated persulfate technology as the most promising means of treatment. In addition, this paper reviews the research progress of different modification methods of nZVI in activating persulfate for the removal of EDCs. Finally, the discussion includes recycling studies of nZVI/PS technology and emphasizes the urgency and importance of endocrine disruptor treatment. The review of this paper provides further scientific basis and technical support for nZVI/PS technology in the field of endocrine disruptor management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]