Studies on Serum T3, T4, TSH, Progesterone and Oestrogen in Cardiovascular Disease Patients

Aim: This research was done to ascertain if thyroid hormones and female sex hormones (progesterone and estrogen) play a role or are a risk factor in the development of cardiovascular diseases. Study Design: This is an observational study, specifically a case-control study. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at Enugu State University Teaching Hospital for six months. Methodology: Blood samples were collected from 20 persons with cardiovascular disease. The sera from the study subjects were estimated for T3, T4, and TSH using the ELISA technique. The same parameters were estimated in 20 healthy individuals, and the results from both groups were analysed using SPSS version 21. Results: There were no significant differences in serum T3, T4 and TSH, Progesterone and Estradiol (p=0.236, p=0.834, p=0.412, p=0.995 and p=0.512, respectively) in cardiovascular disease patients compared with controls. There were no significant differences in serum T3, Progesterone, Estradiol and TSH (p=0.443, p=0.291, p=0.612 and p=0.550, respectively) in male cardiovascular disease patients compared to female cardiovascular disease patients. There was a significantly higher level of T4 (p=0.042) in male cardiovascular disease patients compared to female cardiovascular disease patients. A significant negative correlation of serum TSH with T4 (r=-0.759, p=0.000) in cardiovascular disease patients. There was no significant correlation of serum TSH with T3 (r=-0.131, p=0.560) in cardiovascular disease patients. There was a significant positive correlation of Serum Progesterone with Estradiol (r=0.815, p=0.000) in cardiovascular disease patients. Conclusion: T4, T3, and TSH serum levels may not be associated with the development of cardiovascular diseases in this environment. Also, serum progesterone may have a linear association with estradiol in cardiovascular disease patients.

Sexual Invigorating Potentials of a Combined Extract of Sabicea calycina and Carpolobia lutea on Male Wistar Rats in Crude Oil Challenged Environment

The effect of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of combined ethanol extract of S. calycina and C. lutea were investigated on mating behavioural parameters and sex/reproductive hormone boosting potentials in both non-bonny light crude oil (NBLCO) and bonny light crude oil (BLCO) environmentally challenged rats. Forty sexually experienced rats weighing 120-135g were arbitrarily allocated into two groups of twenty rats as NBLCO and BLCO respectively, each group were further subdivided into four groups of five rats and administered orally with 50 mL distilled water (control) and the extract of S. calycina and C. lutea at doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight. After 21 days of treatment protocols, the animals were observed for both precopulatory and copulatory activities, sex hormone was also evaluated. The copulatory activities monitored showed that mount latency, intromission latency and post ejaculatory intervals were significantly decreased by the 100 and 200 mg/kg of the extract in both the NBLCO and BLCO-challenged rats (P < 0.05). All doses significantly increased (P < 0.05) the mount frequency, intromission frequency, and ejaculatory frequency in the NBLCO groups while only the 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight was able. Copulatory efficiency was significantly increased (P < 0.05) by all doses in a dose-related manner in the NBLCO groups while only the 200 mg/kg dose level was able to significantly increase (P < 0.05) the copulatory efficiency in the BLCO groups. The hormonal assay showed that all doses produced a significant increase (P < 0.05) in testosterone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and progesterone, with a concomitantly significant decrease (P < 0.05) in prolactin in the NBLCO groups, however, only the 100 and 200 mg/kg was able to able to achieve significant change (P < 0.05) in these hormonal levels in the BLCO groups. Findings from this study showed that the extract has aphrodisiac potentials and also the ability to restore hyposexual activity in rats challenged with crude oil.

Correlation of FSHR gene polymorphism,BMI and sex hormone six with the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome / 解放军医学杂志

Objective To investigate the association between body mass index(BMI),sex hormone and single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)of follicle-stimulating hormone receptor(FSHR)gene rs2268361 and rs2349415 and its correlation with the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS).Methods Peripheral blood was collected from 213 PCOS patients and 207 healthy controls,attending the Department of Reproductive Medicine at the First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University,and 32 follicular fluids were randomly collected from each of the PCOS and control groups from March to August 2021.Calculation of BMI of the PCOS and control groups;The levels of follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH),luteinizing hormone(LH),estradiol(E2),testosterone(T),progesterone(P)and prolactin(PRL)in peripheral blood of the two groups were detected by immunochemiluminescence method.Polymerase chain reaction(PCR)and high-resolution melting curve(HRM)were used to analyze the polymorphisms of rs2268361 and rs2349415 in FSHR of the two groups.Quantitative real-time PCR was used to detect the expression of FSHR gene mRNA in peripheral blood and ovarian granulosa cells.Results There was a strong positive correlation between LH and LH/FSH(r=0.88,P<0.05);The levels of BMI,E2,LH,LH/FSH and T in PCOS group were significantly higher than those in control group(P<0.05);FSH level was significantly lower than that of control group(P<0.001).HRM analysis showed the frequencies of CC,CT and TT genotypes at rs2349415 were 55.9%,34.3%and 9.8%in PCOS group and 68.6%,23.2%and 8.2%in control group,respectively.The frequencies of C and T alleles were 73.0%and 27.0%in PCOS group and 80.2%and 19.8%in control group,respectively.There were significant differences in genotype frequencies and allele frequencies between the two groups(P<0.05);The expression level of FSHR mRNA was higher in ovarian granulosa cells in PCOS group than in control group(P=0.004),the expression level of FSHR mRNA in rs2349415 TT genotype was higher than that in CC(P=0.002)and CT(P=0.035)genotype.Conclusion High levels of BMI, LH, E2 and T allele of rs2349415 increased the risk of PCOS.

Correlation between the expression of serum preprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9, secreted frizzled related protein-4 and sex hormone, glucose and lipid metabolism in patients with obese polycystic ovary syndrome / 中国医师进修杂志

Objective:To investigate the correlation between the expression of serum preprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), secreted frizzled related protein-4 (SFRP-4) and sex hormone, glucose and lipid metabolism in obese polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients.Methods:A total of 130 patients with polycystic ovary syndrome diagnosed and treated in Xuzhou Maternal and Child Health Hospital from April 2021 to October 2022 were selected as the study subjects, the patients were divided into obese group (60 cases) and non obese group (70 cases) according to body mass index. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay was applied to detect the serum levels of PCSK9 and SFRP-4. The correlation between serum PCSK9, SFRP-4 levels and sex hormones (luteinizing hormone, testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone), glucose metabolism indicators [fasting blood glucose (FPG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA 1c), fasting insulin (FINS), homeostatic model assessment insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR)], lipid metabolism indexes [total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C)] in patients with obese polycystic ovary syndrome was analyzed by Pearson method. Results:The serum levels of PCSK9 and SFRP-4 in obese group were significantly higher than those in non obese group: (679.36 ± 162.21) μg/L vs. (421.68 ± 103.74) μg/L, (302.87 ± 70.58) μg/L vs. (184.21 ± 52.45) μg/L, the difference was statistically significant ( P<0.05). Compared with the non obese group, the obese group had significantly higher levels of luteinizing hormone and testosterone: (18.36 ± 5.34) U/L vs. (9.47 ± 2.21) U/L, (3.61 ± 0.97) nmol/L vs. (3.02 ± 0.84) nmol/L ( P<0.05), and significantly lower levels of follicle stimulating hormone: (7.28 ± 1.62) U/L vs. (8.03 ± 2.10) U/L, with statistically significant differences ( P<0.05); the levels of FPG, HbA 1c, FINS and HOMA-IR in obese group were significantly higher than those in non obese group: (5.46 ± 0.67) mmol/L vs. (5.04 ± 0.49) mmol/L, (7.96 ± 0.98)% vs. (6.68 ± 0.77)%, (34.08 ± 3.64) U/L vs. (23.67 ± 2.52) U/L, 8.27 ± 1.84 vs. 5.30 ± 1.52, and the differences were statistically significant ( P<0.05); compared with the non obese group, the obese group had significantly increased levels of TC, TG and LDL-C: (4.86 ± 0.67) mmol/L vs. (4.12 ± 0.54) mmol/L, (1.64 ± 0.36) mmol/L vs. (1.06 ± 0.21) mmol/L and (2.81 ± 0.56) mmol/L vs. (2.14 ± 0.42) mmol/L ( P<0.05), and HDL-C level was significantly reduced: (1.11 ± 0.25) mmol/L vs. (1.52 ± 0.40) mmol/L, with statistically significant differences ( P<0.05); the levels of serum PCSK9 and SFRP-4 in obese polycystic ovary syndrome patients were positively correlated with luteinizing hormone, testosterone, FPG, HbA 1c, FINS, HOMA-IR, TC, TG and LDL-C ( P<0.05), and negatively correlated with follicle stimulating hormone and HDL-C ( P<0.05). Conclusions:The serum PCSK9 and SFRP-4 levels in obese polycystic ovary syndrome patients are elevated, which is related to sex hormones, glucose and lipid metabolism.

Effects of acupuncture combined with Huatan and Progesterone prescription on IL-6,HOMA-IR,HS-CRP,sex hormone and pregnancy outcome in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome(phlegm-dampness and difficulty) / 中国免疫学杂志

Objective:To explore the effect of acupuncture combined with Huatan and Progesterone prescription on patients with polycystic ovary syndrome(phlegm-dampness and difficulty).Methods:Total 128 patients with polycystic ovary syndrome(phlegm-dampness and difficulty)were treated in the Third Affiliated Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine from Septem-ber 2017 to March 2021,and randomly divided into control group and observation group,with 64 patients in each group.Control group received conventional treatment in Western medicine,and observation group was treated with acupuncture and the Huatan and Progesterone prescription.After 3 menstrual cycles,the efficacy was compared.Results:After treatment,serum TGF-β1,IL-6 and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein(HS-CRP)levels of observation group were lower than that of control group(P<0.05),insulin resis-tance index(HOMA-IR),endometrial thickness and ovarian volume in observation group were lower than those in control group(P<0.05),serum estrogens(E2)level in observation group was higher than that in control group,while levels of luteinizing hormone(LH)and follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH)were lower than that in control group(P<0.05).After treatment,ovulation rate(79.69%)and pregnancy rate(57.81%)in observation group were higher than those in control group,and there was no significant difference in abor-tion rate between the two groups(P>0.05).Total incidence of adverse reactions in observation group(7.81%)was lower than that in control group(21.88%),and the difference was statistically significant(P<0.05).Conclusion:For patients with polycystic ovary syn-drome(phlegm-dampness and difficulty),combined acupuncture and Huatan and Progesterone prescription has significant effect,which can help to reduce inflammatory reaction,reduce insulin resistance,promote ovulation and pregnancy,and improve clinical efficacy.

Correlation study of stress biomarkers, endocrinopathies, semen quality and quantity in infertile men in Abuja, Nigeria

Background: The quality and quantity of sperm cells in the male determines his fertility potentials. It has been reported that 40-45% cases of infertility is attributable to men, and that stress compromises fertility indices. Therefore, the study was done to assess the correlation between some stress biomarkers, male endocrinopathies, sperm quality, and quantity in infertile men. Methods: This was a cross sectional case- control study. A total of 154 participants were recruited into the study, which consist of 100 males having the challenge of infertility as study group and 54 fertile male which serves as control group. Serum testosterone, LH, FSH, prolactin, salivary cortisol and amylase were analyzed using ELISA techniques; while the semen was examined after liquefaction according to WHO criteria. Results: In the study group, higher values of stress biomarkers correlated with significantly decreased testosterone and FSH values (p=0.001), and increased prolactin, salivary cortisol amylase (p<0,001); semen quality and quantity correlate with stress biomarkers (p<0.001). There are both positive and negative correlation between the stress biomarkers, sex hormones, sperm quality and quantity. Conclusions: Higher values of stress biomarkers in infertile male show both negative and positive correlation with abnormal sex hormones, decreased semen quality and quantity.

Serum concentrations of corticosterone and sex hormones and their relationship in farmed Morelet's crocodile (Crocodylus moreletii) / Concentraciones séricas de corticosterona y de hormonas sexuales y su relación en el cocodrilo de Morelet (Crocodylus moreletii) criado en granja / Concentrações de soro de corticosterona e de hormônios sexuais e sua relação em crocodilo de Morelet (Crocodylus moreletii) criado em fazenda

Abstract Background: Crocodile farming aims to produce high-quality skins from captive crocodilians. Captivity usually exposes the animals to stressful conditions, resulting in increased serum corticosterone (CORT) levels that correlate negatively with those of sex hormones and reproductive success. Objective: To evaluate serum concentrations of CORT and sex hormones and their relationship in farmed Morelet's crocodiles (Crocodylus moreletii) during the non-breeding (NBS) and breeding (BS) seasons. Methods: The study included 59 adult crocodiles (29 females and 30 males). One blood sample was collected in NBS (n=31) and BS (n=28) from each crocodile to determine serum concentrations of CORT, estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), and testosterone (T). Crocodiles were kept in mixed-sex groups and were fed once or twice a week throughout the study. Results: In females, CORT was higher in NBS (p<0.05) but had no correlation with E2 or P4 in any season (p>0.05). In males, CORT was similar in NBS and BS (p>0.05) and had no correlation with T (p>0.5). Conclusion: The CORT levels had no effect on sex hormones. This could be explained by low CORT levels resulting from farming conditions were the animals were not expose to severe or chronic stress.

Resumen Antecedentes: La cría de cocodrilos en granja busca producir pieles de alta calidad de cocodrilianos en cautiverio. El cautiverio usualmente expone a los animales a condiciones estresantes, resultando en altas concentraciones séricas de corticosterona (CORT) que se correlacionan negativamente con los niveles de hormonas sexuales y el éxito reproductivo. Objetivo: Evaluar las concentraciones séricas de CORT y de hormonas sexuales y su relación en cocodrilos Moreletii (Crocodylus moreletii) criados en granja, tanto durante la época no reproductiva (NBS) como en la reproductiva (BS). Métodos: El estudio incluyó 59 cocodrilos adultos (29 hembras y 30 machos). Se recolectó una muestra de sangre de cada cocodrilo en NBS (n=31) y BS (n=28) para determinar las concentraciones séricas de CORT, estradiol (E2), progesterona (P4) y testosterona (T). Los cocodrilos permanecieron en grupos mixtos de machos y hembras y fueron alimentados una o dos veces por semana durante el estudio. Resultados: En hembras, CORT fue más alta en NBS (p<0,05), pero no se correlacionó con E2 o P4 en ninguna temporada (p>0,05). En machos, CORT fue similar en NBS y BS (p>0,05) y no tuvo correlación con T (p>0,05). Conclusión: Las concentraciones de CORT no tuvieron efecto sobre las hormonas sexuales, tal vez debido a que la CORT tuvo niveles bajos como resultado de las condiciones de manejo de la granja en las que los animales no se expusieron a estrés severo o crónico.

Resumo Antecedentes: A criação de crocodilos em fazenda procura produzir couros de alta qualidade de crocodilos em cativeiro. O cativeiro geralmente expõe os animais a condições estressantes, resultando em altas concentrações de soro de corticosterona (CORT) que têm correlação negativa com os níveis de hormônios sexuais e o sucesso reprodutivo. Objetivo: Avaliar as concentrações de soro de CORT e hormônios sexuais e sua relação em crocodilos Moreletii (Crocodylus moreletii) criado em fazenda, nas estações de não reprodução (NBS) e reprodução (BS). Métodos: O estudo incluiu 59 crocodilos (29 fêmeas e 30 machos). Uma amostra de sangue foi coletada de cada crocodilo em NBS (n=31) e BS (n=28) para determinar as concentrações de soro de CORT, estradiol (E2), progesterona (P4) e testosterona (T). Ao longo do estudo, os crocodilos permaneceram em grupos mistos de machos e fêmeas e foram alimentados uma ou duas vezes por semana. Resultados: Em fêmeas, CORT foi maior em NBS (p<0,05), mas não teve correlação com E2 ou P4 em qualquer estação (p>0,05). Em machos, CORT foi parecido em NBS e BS (p>0,05) e não teve correlação com T (p>0,05). Conclusão: As concentrações de CORT não tiveram efeito sobre os hormônios sexuais talvez porque o CORT foi baixo como resultado das condições de tratamento em fazenda que não expuseram os animais a estresse severo ou crônico.

Effects of a Herbal Sex Enhancer (Vigpower) and Zinc Supplementation on Sex Hormones, Hepatic and Renal Function in Male Albino Rats

Aim: This study evaluated the effects of a herbal sex enhancer (Vigpower) and zinc supplementation on sex hormones, hepatic and renal function in male albino rats. Methodology: A total of 49 male Albino rats weighing between 150 to 180g were used for the study. Vigpower, Viagra and zinc were orally administered to the ratsdaily for 28 days. Testosterone and estradiol were quantitatively determined using a rat-specific sandwich-enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. The liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were determined using the Reitman-Frankel method. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was determined using the Colorimetric endpoint method. Sodium (Na+), potassium (K+) and chloride (CL-) were determined using ion selective electrode (ISE) method. Urea was determined using Urease bertholet method. Creatinine was determined using Jaffe-Slot method and qualitative phytochemical analysis was done on Vigpower capsule using classical methods. Results: Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, protodioscin, saponins and phenols in the herbal capsule Vigpower. Testosterone levels were significantly higher in all the treatment groups compared to the negative control, with group 7 (Vigpower + Viagra + zinc) having the highest value. Estradiol levels were significantly lower, whereas testosterone-estradiol (T/E) ratio was significantly higher in all the treatment groups compared to the negative control, except for group 4 (zinc) which showed no significant difference compared to the negative control. ALT levels in the treatment groups were not significantly different from the negative control, except for groups 6 (Viagra + zinc) and 7 (Vigpower + Viagra + Zinc), which had significantly higher levels. AST and ALP levels in the treatment groups were not significantly different from the negative control, except for group 7 (Vigpower + Viagra + Zinc), which was significantly higher than the negative control and all other treatment groups. There was no significant difference in sodium (Na+), chloride (Cl-) and urea levels in the treatment groups, compared to the negative control. Potassium (K+) and creatinine levels were significantly higher in group 7 (Vigpower + Viagra + zinc), compared to the negative control and all other treatment groups. Conclusion: Singular administration of Vigpower, Viagra and zinc increased testosterone levels of the male rats. Vigpower and Viagra had equipotent effects on the sex hormones and also increased the testosterone-estradiol ratio. Vigpower, Viagra and zinc administered singularly, had no impact on liver enzymes and renal function. However, the combination treatment of Vigpower, Viagra and zinc was hepatotoxic and elevated potassium and creatinine levels. Herbal sex enhancers and their combination with other medications could provoke the desired sexual effect, but may damage other organ systems and pose serious public health challenges.

Effect and Mechanism of Nongsuo Dangguiwan in Relieving Oxidative Stress in Premature Ovarian Insufficiency Rats Based on Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect and mechanism of Nongsuo Dangguiwan in improving ovarian oxidative stress in rats with ovarian dysfunction. MethodThirty-six adult female SD rats were randomly divided into normal group， model group， positive drug group （Femoston， 0.3 mg·kg-1）， and high-， medium-， and low-dose groups of concentrated Nongsuo Dangguiwan （2.08， 4.16， 8.32 g·kg-1）， with six rats in each group. Rats， except for those in the normal group， were injected with 80 mg·kg-1 vinyl cyclohexene dioxide （VCD） per day for 14 consecutive days to induce ovarian dysfunction. From the 15th day， rats were treated with corresponding drugs by gavage， while those in the model group received 2 mL·kg-1 saline， once daily for 28 consecutive days. The ovarian index， levels of related hormones including estradiol （E2）， follicle-stimulating hormone （FSH）， luteinizing hormone （LH）， and anti-mullerian hormone （AMH） in serum， as well as superoxide dismutase （SOD） activity and glutathione （GSH） content in serum were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA）. The malondialdehyde （MDA） content in serum was detected by the thiobarbituric acid （TAB） method. Ovarian morphology was observed by hematoxylin-eosin （HE） staining. The expression of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 （Nrf2）， heme oxygenase-1 （HO-1）， SOD2， and SOD1 in ovarian tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry （IHC） and Western blot. ResultCompared with the normal group， the model group showed a significant reduction in growing follicles in the ovary， loose arrangement of granulosa cells in the follicle， decreased body weight， ovarian index， and serum AMH and E2 levels， increased LH and FSH levels （P<0.01）， reduced levels of SOD and GSH in serum （P<0.01）， and increased MDA level （P<0.01）. Compared with the model group， the groups with drug intervention showed increased ovarian index （P<0.05， P<0.01）， increased serum E2 level （P<0.05， P<0.01）， decreased FSH， AMH， and LH levels （P<0.05， P<0.01）， increased number of growing follicles in the ovary， potentiated SOD activity in serum， increased GSH content， decreased MDA content （P<0.05， P<0.01）， and up-regulated expression levels of Nrf2， HO-1， SOD2， and SOD1 proteins in ovarian tissues （P<0.05， P<0.01）. ConclusionNongsuo Dangguiwan can regulate serum hormone levels， increase the expression of Nrf2， HO-1， SOD2， and SOD1 in ovarian tissues， and improve ovarian antioxidant capacity to resist oxidative stress injury， thereby improving ovarian reserve function.

Correlation of serum vitamin D with semen parameters and sex hormone levels in men / 现代泌尿外科杂志

【Objective】 To explore the correlation between serum vitamin D level and male semen parameters and serum sex hormones. 【Methods】 A total of 56 men who received assisted reproductive treatment in our hospital during Oct.2020 and Oct.2021 were included in the infertility group, and 56 male patients with previous reproductive histories who were treated due to other diseases during the same period were enrolled as the control group. The sperm motility and concentration were assessed using a computer assisted semen analysis system (CASA). The normal sperm morphology rate was evaluated with sperm morphological staining. Sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) was detected with chromatin diffusion method to evaluate sperm chromatin integrity. Serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone (T) and 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] were detected with ELISA. The correlation between serum 25(OH)D level and semen parameters and sex hormones was analyzed. 【Results】 Serum 25(OH)D level was significantly higher in the control group than in the infertile group (P=0.002). It was positively correlated with semen parameters, including sperm motility (r=0.483, P<0.001), sperm count (r=0.216, P=0.019), and testosterone level (r=0.210, P=0.025). There was no significant correlation between serum 25(OH)D concentration and sperm morphology, LH and FSH levels. 【Conclusion】 Serum 25(OH)D is significantly correlated with and affects total sperm count, sperm motilityand serum testosterone, thus playing a role in male reproduction. The specific mechanism needs further study.

Evaluation of meibomian gland morphology and anterior segment parameters by Sirius topography systems in polycystic ovary syndrome

Purpose: To compare findings in specular microscopy, corneal topography, and noncontact meibography in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients with healthy controls. Methods: A total of 40 women with PCOS and 32 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Schirmer’s test, Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), noninvasive tear break-up time (NITBUT), the mean keratometry (Km), maximum keratometry (Kmax), central (CCT), thinnest (TCT) and apical (ACT) corneal thicknesses, meibomian gland (MG) loss, meiboscores, morphology of MGs, endothelial cell density (ECD), coefficient of variation (CV), and percentage of hexagonal cells (PHEX) were analyzed. Correlations between anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and sex hormones and the findings of PCOS patients were evaluated. Results: Mean OSDI score, intraocular pressure, Km and Kmax values, the mean MG loss of upper and lower eyelids, lower eyelid meiboscore, and degree of morphological abnormalities of MGs were higher in cases with PCOS than healthy controls. There were no significant differences between groups in Schirmer results, first and average NITBUT, mean values of TCT, ACT, CCT, ECD, CV, and PHEX (P > 0.05, for all). There were correlations between plasma AMH level and Kmax, back Km and PHEX, and between estradiol (E2) and PHEX; there were negative correlations between E2 and total MG loss and CV and between total testosterone and ACT. Conclusion: Loss and morphological deterioration of the MGs are observed in PCOS patients, even if the tear parameters are not impaired yet. In eyes with PCOS, keratometry values become steeper in proportion to AMH levels. The PCOS patients should be followed carefully for the development of corneal ectasia.

Efficacy and Mechanism of Yishen Shengjing Prescription in Treatment of Oligoasthenospermia / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveWe aimed to investigate the efficacy and mechanism of Yishen Shengjing Prescription （YSP） in the treatment of oligoasthenospermia in rats. MethodThe oligoasthenospermia rat model was established by injection with cyclophosphamide （35 mg·kg-1·d-1） for 5 consecutive days. Rats were randomly assigned into control group （without treating with cyclophosphamide）， model group， low- （YSP-L）， medium- （YSP-M）， and high- （YSP-H） dose （2.91， 5.83， and 11.66 g·kg-1， respectively） groups， Wuzi Yanzongwan （WYW， 1.03 g·kg-1） group， and L-carnitine （0.17 g·kg-1） group， with 8 rats in each group. After 28 days of drug intervention， the body weight， testicular weight， and testicular index of rats were recorded. The sperm quality in epididymis was detected by computer-assisted sperm analysis （CASA） system. Hematoxylin-eosin （HE） staining was employed for observation of testicular tissue morphology. The levels of malondialdehyde （MDA） and superoxide dismutase （SOD） in testicular tissue were detected by colorimetry. The levels of follicle-stimulating hormone （FSH）， luteinizing hormone （LH）， and testosterone （T） in serum were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay（ELISA）. TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling （TUNEL） was employed to detect the apoptosis of testicular cells. The protein levels of B cell lymphoma-2（Bcl-2）， Bax， and cleaved Caspase-3 in testicular tissue were detected by Western blot. ResultCompared with the control group， the model group showed decreased body weight， testicular weight and index， sperm concentration and motility （P<0.01） and increased testicular pathological score （P<0.01）. Compared with the model group， the YSP-M， YSP-H， WYW， and L-carnitine groups showed increased body weight， testicular weight， testicular index， sperm concentration and motility and decreased testicular pathological score. After modeling， the SOD level decreased （P<0.01） while the MDA content increased （P<0.01） in the testicular tissue. YSP-H， WYW， and L-carnitine reversed the SOD and MDA level changes caused by modeling. Compared with the control group， the model group exhibited declined T level （P<0.01） and increased FSH and LH levels （P<0.01）. Compared with the model group， YSP， WYW， and L-carnitine increased the T level （P<0.01） and decreased the LH level （P<0.05， P<0.01）. The apoptosis rate of spermatogenic cells in the model group was higher than that in the control group （P<0.01）， whereas YSP-M， WYW， and L-carnitine reversed such changes （P<0.01）. The model group rats showed decreased expression of Bcl-2（P<0.05） and increased expression of Bax and cleaved Caspase-3 （P<0.05， P<0.01）. Compared the model group， YSP-M， YSP-H， WYW， and L-carnitine up-regulated the Bcl-2 expression and down-regulated the cleaved Caspase-3 expression （P<0.05， P<0.01）. ConclusionYSP improved the sperm quality of oligoasthenospermia model rats by regulating the antioxidant system and sex hormone levels and inhibiting the apoptosis of spermatogenic cells.

Mechanismof reproductive toxicity of sub-chronic exposure to nickel oxide nanoparticles in male SD rats / 中国职业医学

@#Objective To investigate the effects of sub-chronic exposure of nickel oxide nanoparticles （Nano NiO） on endocrine function of male SD rats，and to analyze the toxicity and mechanism of Nano NiO on testicular cells. Methods The specific pathogens free male SD rats were randomly divided into five groups with ten rats in each group. Rats in low-，medium and high-dose groups were given Nano NiO suspension with the mass concentration of 0.16，0.80 and 4.00 g/L，respectively； rats in blank control group were given equal volume of 0.9% sodium chloride solution；rats in positive control group were given micron nickel oxide suspension with the mass concentration of 4.00 g/L. Drip every three days for nine weeks. After the Nano NiO exposure，atomic fluorescence spectrometry was used to determine the levels of nickel in the blood and testicular tissue. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect serum level of sex hormone. The ploidy ratio，cell cycle and apoptosis rate of testicular cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. Western blotting was used to detect the relative expression of apoptosis related proteins in the testis. Results The level of nickel in blood and testicular tissue of rats in positive control group and the three doses groups were higher than that of blank control group（all P<0.05）. The level of nickel in blood and testicular tissue of rats in the medium-dose and high-dose groups were higher than that in the positive control group（all P<0.05）. There was a positive correlation between the level of nickel in blood and testicular tissue（P<0.01）. The serum levels of testosterone，follicle stimulating hormone（FSH）and luteinizing hormone（LH）in the medium- and high- dose groups were lower than that in blank control group（all P<0.05）. However，there was no significant difference in serum gonadotropin-releasing hormone among all groups（P>0.05）. Compared with the blank control group，the proportion of haploid and diploid cells and the ratio of cells in G0/ G1 and S phase decreased in the medium- and high-dose groups（all P<0.05），the tetraploid cell ratio，G2/M cell ratio and early apoptotic rate of testicular cells increased（all P<0.05）. Compared with the blank control group，the relative expression of B-cell lymphoma-2（BCL-2）protein and the ratio of BCL-2/BCL-2-related X protein（BAX）in testicular cells of rats decreased in the medium- and high-dose groups（all P<0.05），the relative expression of BAX and caspase-3 protein were increased（all P< 0.05）. Compared with the positive control group，the level of nickel in blood and testicular tissue of rats was increased in the high-dose group（all P<0.05），the ratio of haploid cells and the ratio of testicular cells at G0/G1，S phase and BCL-2 /BAX ratio in testicular tissue decreased（all P<0.05），the tetraploid ratio，G2/M phase ratio，early apoptotic rate and total apoptotic rate of testicular cells increased（all P<0.05）. Conclusion Exposure to Nano NiO could inhibit the secretion of FSH，LH and testosterone in male rats. Nano NiO can cross the blood-testosterone barrier，interfere with the proliferation of testicular cells， induce apoptosis of testicular cells through the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway，inhibit the formation of haploid sperm cells， resulting in disorders of spermatogenesis.

Changes of sex hormones in children with cryptorchidism of different ages after laparoscopic treatment and analysis of risk factors affecting the timing of surgery / 中华内分泌外科杂志

Objective:To explore the changes of sex hormones in children with cryptorchidism of different ages after laparoscopic treatment and the risk factors that affect the timing of surgery, so as to improve the surgical effect of the treatment of children with cryptorchidism.Methods:A total of 80 children with cryptorchidism admitted to our hospital from Jun. 2018 to Aug. 2021 were selected as the study subjects, and all children underwent laparoscopic surgery. Twenty-six children aged 6 to 12 months were included in the younger group, 42 children aged 1 to 2 years were included in the middle age group, and 12 children >2 years old were included in the over-age group. Surgical data of the children were recorded, and the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) , Luteinizing hormone (LH) and Testosterone (T) were detected. Logistic analysis was used to analyze the independent risk factors affecting the timing of operation in children with cryptorchidism, and ROC curve analysis was used to analyze the diagnostic value of factors affecting the timing of operation in children with cryptorchidism.Results:The level of T (the younger group (7.36±1.63) vs (7.48±1.67) ng/ml; the middle-age group (7.03±1.26) vs (7.11±1.07) ng/ml; the over-age group (4.81±1.37) vs (4.92±1.63) ng/ml) , occult testicular volume (the younger group (0.30±0.01) vs (0.32±0.03) cm3; the middle-age group (0.45±0.14) vs (0.47±0.11) cm 3; the over-age group (0.45±0.09) vs (0.61±0.08) cm 3) and occult testicular minimum blood flow velocity (the younger group (3.42±0.87) vs (4.26±0.94) cm/s; the middle-age group (3.51±0.26) vs (5.69±0.35) cm/s; the over-age group (8.41±0.34) vs (23.64±0.19) cm/s) increased in all three groups,In terms of intraoperative blood loss, postoperative time to get out of bed, and incision pain time, the over-age group > the middle age group > the younger group; FSH and LH decreased in the young age group and increased in the middle age group and over-age group ( P < 0.05) . Age, family income, primiparas, smoking or passive smoking during pregnancy, gestational diabetes mellitus, and protein supplementation during pregnancy were independent risk factors affecting the timing of surgery in children with untorchidism. The areas under ROC curve were 0.884, 0.704, 0.785, 0.842, 0.904, and 0.845, respectively. The area under ROC curve to evaluate the differentiation was 0.866. Conclusion:The range of sex hormone changes in children with cryptorchidism of different ages after laparoscopic treatment is related to age, family income, primipara, smoking or passive smoking during pregnancy, diabetes mellitus during pregnancy, and no protein supplement during pregnancy are the factors affecting the timing of surgery.

Utility of melatonin in mitigating ionizing radiation-induced testis injury through synergistic interdependence of its biological properties

BACKGROUND: Ionizing radiations (IR) have widespread useful applications in our daily life; however, they have unfavorable effects on reproductive health. Maintaining testicular health following IR exposure is an important requirement for reproductive potential. The current study explored the role of melatonin (MLT) in mitigating IR-induced injury in young adult rat testis. METHODS: Rats were given daily MLT (25 mg/kg) for 3 and 14 days after receiving 4 Gy γ-radiation. RESULTS: Serum MLT levels and other antioxidants, including glutathione content, and the activity of glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase in the testis of the irradiated rats were remarkably maintained by MLT administration in irradiated rats. Hence, the hydrogen peroxide level declined with remarkably reduced formation of oxidative stress markers, 4-hydroxynonenal, and 8-Hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine in the testis of irradiated animals after MLT administration. The redox status improvement caused a remarkable regression of proapoptotic protein (p53, Cyto-c, and caspase-3) in the testis and improved inflammatory cytokines (CRP and IL-6), and anti-inflammatory cytokine (interleukin IL-10) in serum. This is associated with restoration of disturbed sex hormonal balance, androgen receptor upregulation, and testicular cell proliferation activity in irradiated rats, explaining the improvement of sperm parameters (count, motility, viability, and deformation). Consequently, spermatogenic cell depletion and decreased seminiferous tubule diameter and perimeter were attenuated by MLT treatment post irradiation. Moreover, the testis of irradiated-MLT-treated rats showed well-organized histological architecture and normal sperm morphology. CONCLUSIONS: These results show that radiation-induced testicular injury is mitigated following IR exposure through synergistic interdependence between the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and anti-DNA damage actions of MLT.

Os outros são os outros: percepções de homens usuários sobre os efeitos adversos da testosterona / The others are the others: perceptions of male users about the adverse effects of testosterone

Resumo Este artigo analisa a percepção de homens usuários de testosterona acerca dos efeitos adversos no uso do hormônio, a fim de refletir sobre a eficácia e o alcance de ações em saúde voltadas para essa prática. Os dados empíricos foram obtidos a partir de 21 relatos de história de vida de homens que utilizam a testosterona, com ou sem acompanhamento médico, de perfil variado, coletados em 2016 majoritariamente no Rio de Janeiro. A discussão se apoia nos estudos de gênero e de masculinidades para argumentar como os homens interpretam os impactos do uso da testosterona a partir de uma valorização de características masculinas associadas a um ideal normalizador de masculinidade. Os resultados apontam uma percepção generalizada no campo de que o hormônio causa pouco ou nenhum mal, através de um processo de invisibilização ou ressignificação dos efeitos potencialmente negativos. Além disso, há um movimento de deslocamento dos problemas associados ao uso a personagens estereotipadas, num processo de desresponsabilização de si e reafirmação de atributos de um ideal de masculinidade. Com isso, busca-se contribuir para a construção de ações em saúde mais adequadas ao cotidiano dos usuários e, portanto, mais eficazes.

Abstract This article analyzes the perception of male users of testosterone about the adverse effects of the hormone, aiming to challenge the effectiveness and scope of health actions for this practice. Empirical data were obtained in 2016, mostly in Rio de Janeiro, from life history interviews with 21 male users of testosterone, with or without medical monitoring, from different backgrounds. In the light of gender and masculinity studies, it discusses how men interpret the impacts of testosterone use from a social valuation of certain traits associated with a normalizing manhood ideal. Results indicate an invisibilization or re-signification of potentially negative effects of the hormone, culminating in a widespread perception that it causes little or no harm. The problems associated with testosterone use acquire stereotyped characters, through a process of denying self-responsibility and reaffirming attributes of an ideal type of masculinity. This study is expected to contribute to the development of more adequate and thus more effective health actions to users' daily lives.

La desventaja de los hombres frente a la Covid-19: análisis de la influencia del sexo sobre la respuesta inmunitaria ante la infección por SARS-Cov-2 / The disadvantage of men against COVID-19: analysis of the influence of sex on the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection

mundo se encuentra en medio de la pandemia de la enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). En la mayoría de los países, la tasa de mortalidad, así como, la severidad de la enfermedad es más alta en hombres que en mujeres. Este sesgo sexual sugiere que los hombres son más propensos a desarrollar complicaciones graves o a sucumbir a las mismas, lo que conduce a la muerte. Por lo tanto, es importante comprender los elementos biológicos basados en el sexo que inciden en la respuesta inmunitaria. El objetivo de ésta revisión fue hacer un análisis en relación a la evidencia disponible sobre los diferentes factores que permitirían explicar esta disparidad sexual. Abordamos las diferencias en la respuesta inmunitaria en ambos sexos tomando en cuenta el aspecto genético, hormonal y el papel del sistema renina-angiotensina. Para ello, se realizó una búsqueda minuciosa en diferentes bases de datos utilizando las siguientes palabras clave: (Diferencia de sexo, genética, hormonas sexuales, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, respuesta inmunitaria, inflamación, hombres, mujeres). Los resultados de nuestro análisis ofrecen una comprensión más clara sobre la influencia de las diferencias sexuales en la capacidad de respuesta a una infección, con especial énfasis en la infección por SARS-CoV-2. Conocer estos factores no solo ayudará a comprender mejor la patogenia de la COVID-19, sino, además, guiará el diseño de terapias efectivas para la medicina personalizada basada en las diferencias sexuales

The world is during the 2019 coronavirus disease pandemic (COVID-19). In most countries, the mortality rate, as well as, the severity of the disease is higher in men than in women. This sex bias suggests that men are more likely to develop severe complications or succumb to severe complications, leading to death. Therefore, it is important to understand the sex-based biological elements that influence the immune response. The aim of this review was to review the available evidence on the different factors that could explain this sex disparity. We addressed the differences in the immune response in both sexes taking into account genetic, hormonal and the role of the renin-angiotensin system. For this purpose, a thorough search was performed in different databases using the following keywords: (Sex difference, genetics, sex hormones, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, immune response, inflammation, men, women). The results of our analysis provide a clearer understanding on the influence of sex differences on the ability to respond to an infection, with special emphasis to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Knowing these factors will not only help to better understand the pathogenesis of COVID-19, but will also guide the design of effective therapies for personalized medicine based on sex differences.

Clinical Observation of Modified Buzhong Yiqitang Combined with Erxian Decoction in Treatment of Stress Urinary Incontinence in Perimenopausal Women / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:To observe the clinical efficacy of the modified Buzhong Yiqitang combined with Erxian decoction in treating stress urinary incontinence （SUI） of perimenopausal women due to spleen and kidney Qi deficiency. Method:One hundred and six patients were randomly divided into a control group （52 cases） and an observation group（54 cases）. Patients in both groups received lifestyle intervention and pelvic floor muscle training （PFMT）. On this basis， patients in the observation group were further treated with the modified Buzhong Yiqitang combined with Erxian decoction， 1 bag/day， while those in the control group were provided with Suoquan pills， 6 g/time， 2 times/day， for eight weeks. Following the international consultation on incontinence questionnaire-short form （ICIQ-SF） scoring before and after treatment， the urodynamic parameters such as maximum urinary flow rate （Q_max）， maximum urethral closure pressure （MUCP）， residual urine volume （RUV）， abdominal pressure leakage point pressure （ALPP）， and bladder capacity （BC） were measured. The number of incontinence episodes per 24 h， the degree of urinary incontinence， the amount of 1 h urine leakage， and the spleen and kidney Qi deficiency syndrome score were recorded before and after treatment. The levels of estradiol （E₂）， follicle stimulating hormone （FSH）， pituitary adenylate cyclase activating peptide （PACAP）， and vasoactive intestinal peptide （VIP） were measured before and after treatment. Result:The ICIQ-SF sub-scores of the urinary incontinence frequency， severity， and impact on quality of life as well as the total score in the observation group were all lower than those in the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. Q_max， MUCP， ALPP and BC in the observation group were elevated in contrast to those in control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）， while the RUV declined （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. Compared with the control group， the observation group exhibited a decreased number of incontinence episodes per 24 h， milder degree of urinary incontinence， reduced amount of 1 h urine leakage， and lower spleen and kidney Qi deficiency syndrome score （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. The E₂， PACAP， and VIP in the observation group were up-regulated as compared with those in the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）， whereas the FSH was down-regulated （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. The cure and effective rates of the observation group were （29/50） 58.00% and （47/50）94.00%， respectively， significantly better than （18/48）37.50% and （38/48）79.17% of the control group （<italic>χ</italic>²=4.124， <italic>χ</italic>²=4.683， <italic>P</italic><0.05）. Conclusion:On the basis of the lifestyle intervention and PFMT， the modified Buzhong Yiqitang combined with Erxian decoction obviously alleviates urinary incontinence， adjusts sex hormones， PACAP and VIP， ameliorates urodynamic parameters， and enhances the quality of life of patients with SUI due to spleen and kidney Qi deficiency. The resulting cure and effective rates are superior to those of the positive control.

Modified Qiaohetang and Xiehuangsan in Treatment of Acne Due to Dampness-heat Accumulation / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:To observe the clinical efficacy of modified Qiaohetang and Xiehuangsan in the treatment of acne due to dampness-heat accumulation and its influence on the levels of inflammatory factors and sex hormones. Method:One hundred and sixty-eight eligible patients were divided into an observation group （84 cases） and a control group （84 cases） according to the random number table. Adapalene gel was applied externally in both groups， one time per day. In the control group， Jinhua Xiaocuo pills was taken orally， 4 g per time， three times a day. In the observation group， the modified Qiaohetang and Xiehuangsan was provided for oral administration， one bag per day. The treatment lasted for eight weeks. The Global Acne Grading System （GAGS） score， skin lesion count， dampness-heat accumulation syndrome score， and Dermatology Life Quality Index （DLQI） score were recorded before and after treatment， followed by the detection of interleukin-8 （IL-8）， IL-10， IL-17， interferon-<italic>γ</italic> （IFN-<italic>γ</italic>）， free testosterone （FT）， estradiol （E₂） and sex hormone binding globulin （SHBG） before and after treatment as well as the safety evaluation. Result:The GAGS， dampness-heat accumulation syndrome， and DLQI scores of the observation group were lower than those of the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. The counts of inflammatory skin lesions （papule and pustule）， non-inflammatory skin lesions， and total skin lesions in the observation group declined in contrast to those in the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. The IL-8， IL-17， IFN-<italic>γ</italic> and FT levels of the observation group were decreased as compared with those of the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.05， <italic>P</italic><0.01）， while the IL-10， E₂， and SHBG levels were increased （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. The overall response rate in clinical symptom alleviation of the observation group was 93.67%（74/79）， which was higher than 81.82%（63/77） of the control group （<italic>χ</italic>²=5.121， <italic>P</italic><0.05）. The overall response rate in dampness-heat accumulation syndrome relief of the observation group was 92.41% （73/79）， still higher than 79.22% （61/77） of the control group （<italic>χ</italic>²=5.595， <italic>P</italic><0.05）. No adverse reactions occurred after the oral administration of Chinese medicinal preparations. Conclusion:The modified Qiaohetang and Xiehuangsan combined with adapalene gel can reduce the skin lesion count and severity， relieve both clinical symptoms and dampness-heat accumulation syndrome， regulate the inflammatory response and sex hormones， and improve the quality of life of patients with acne of dampness-heat accumulation syndrome without inducing side effects.

Clinical Efficacy on Yishen Tongluofang for Treatment of Male Infertility with Deficiency and Stasis of Kidney / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective:To observe the clinical efficacy of Yishen Tongluofang in treating oligosperm type male infertility with kidney deficiency and blood stasis syndrome and explore its effect on serum sex hormones and seminal plasma microenviro. Method:One hundred and four patients were randomly divided into observation group and control group with 52 cases each. Patients in control group took compound Xuanju capsules orally， 3 capsules/time， 3 times/day. Patients in observation group took Yishen Tongluofang， 1 dose/day. Treatment courses continued three months and followed up for three months in both groups. The pregnancy situations of spouses within six months were recorded. Examination of semen parameters before and after treatment and score of kidney deficiency and blood stasis syndrome were conducted. The levels of seminal plasma zinc， fructose， elastase， acid phosphatase and <italic>α</italic>-glucosidase， serum follicle stimulating hormone （FSH）， luteinizing hormone （LH）， prolactin （PRT） and testosterone （T） were detected before and after treatment. Result:During the observation period of six months， the pregnancy rate of spouses in the observation group was 22.00%， higher than 10.00% in the control group， but the difference was not statistically significant （<italic>χ</italic>²=2.678，<italic>P</italic>>0.05）. The clinical efficacy in the observation group was better than that of the control group （<italic>Z</italic>=2.326，<italic>P</italic><0.01）. Sperm concentration， sperm motility， sperm motility， normal morphological sperm and linear movement speed of the observation group were all superior to those of the control group<italic> </italic>（<italic>P</italic><0.01）. The levels of zinc and fructose in seminal plasma of the observation group were higher than those of the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）， and the score of kidney deficiency and blood stasis syndrome was lower than that of the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. Serum FSH， LH and PRT levels in the observation group were lower than those in the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）， and the T level was higher than that in the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. The seminal plasma elastase of the observation group was lower than that of the control group， while the levels of acid phosphatase and <italic>α</italic>-glucosidase were higher than those of the control group （<italic>P</italic><0.01）. Conclusion:Yishen Tongluofang can significantly improve sperm parameters， regulate the level of sex hormones and seminal plasma environment in patients with oligosperm type male infertility， and improve the tendency of spouse pregnancy. Its clinical efficacy is better，so it is worthy of further research and application.