El laboratorio de fertilidad masculina, su evolución en los últimos 20 años / The male fertility laboratory, its evolution over the last 20 years / O laboratório de fertilidade masculina, sua evolução ao longo dos últimos 20 anos

Resumen La mayor accesibilidad a los tratamientos de reproducción asistida (RA) y los avances de la criobiología produjeron cambios en los laboratorios de andrología. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar la demanda y evolución de las variables seminales en las últimas dos décadas, caracterizar el laboratorio andrológico actual, evaluar el impacto de la incorporación del aseguramiento de la calidad y la inclusión de los sistemas computarizados (CASA). Se utilizaron datos de las medias mensuales del control de calidad interno (n=22 528) y encuestas a profesionales de laboratorios andrológicos (n=65) y a médicos especialistas en fertilidad (n=33). La demanda global se redujo significativamente con el aumento de las solicitudes de primera vez. El volumen y recuento, variables dependientes de andrógenos, disminuyeron con los años. El criterio estricto en morfología disminuyó el porcentaje de normales; la mitad de los médicos encuestados recibieron resultados entre 0 y 10% y el 40% consideró que ponía en riesgo el valor clínico de la variable. El sistema CASA permitió objetivar la cinética espermática e incrementar el porcentaje de progresivos rápidos, pero pocos laboratorios lo incorporaron. El 66% de los médicos resuelven el factor andrológico severo por tratamientos clínicos y el 95% utiliza técnicas de RA. El análisis de semen es ejecutado fundamentalmente por bioquímicos especializados, con baja adhesión a la automatización y acreditación del laboratorio, pero con participación en programas de evaluación externa de calidad. La demanda disminuyó como consecuencia del aumento del tratamiento por RA. La reducción del porcentaje de formas normales compromete su utilidad clínica.

Abstract Increasing availability to assisted reproduction (AR) treatments in Argentina and advances in cryobiology resulted in changes in andrology laboratories. The aim of this study was to evaluate the demand and evolution of seminal variables in the last two decades, characterise the current andrology laboratory, evaluate the impact of the incorporation of quality assurance and the introduction of computer assisted semen analysis (CASA). Data were taken from internal quality control (IQC) monthly means (n=22 528) and professionals in charge of laboratories (n=65) and fertility physicians' (n=33) surveys. Overall demand decreased significantly while first-time orders increased. Sperm volume and sperm count -androgen dependent parameters- decreased over the years. Strict morphology criteria reduced the percentage of normal results; half of the physicians received results between 0 and 10% and 40% considered that it compromised the clinical value of the variable. The CASA system made it possible to objectify sperm kinetic, increasing the percentage of fast progressives, but few laboratories have incorporated it. Sixty-six percent of physicians resolve severe andrological factor by clinical treatments and 95% use AR techniques in those cases. Semen analysis is mainly performed by specialised biochemists, with low adherence to laboratory automatisation and accreditation, but with participation in external quality assessment programmes. The demand decreased because of the increase in AR treatment. The lower percentage of normal forms compromises their clinical utility.

Resumo O aumento do acesso aos tratamentos de reprodução assistida (RA) e os avanços na criobiologia levaram a mudanças nos laboratórios de andrologia. O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar a demanda e a evolução das variáveis de sêmen nas últimas duas décadas, caracterizar o laboratório de andrologia atual, avaliar o impacto da incorporação da garantia da qualidade e a inclusão dos sistemas computadorizados (CASA). Foram utilizados dados das médias mensais do controle de qualidade interno (n= 22 528) e pesquisas a profissionais de laboratórios andrológicos e a médicos especialistas em fertilidade (n=33). A demanda geral diminuiu significativamente com o aumento das solicitações de primeira vez. O volume e a contagem de esperma, parâmetros dependentes de andrógenos, diminuíram ao longo dos anos. O critério morfológico rigoroso diminuiu a porcentagem de normais; metade dos médicos entrevistados recebeu resultados entre 0 e 10% e 40% considerou que isso comprometía o valor clínico do parâmetro. O sistema CASA, permitiu objetivar a cinética espermática e aumentar o percentual de progressões rápidas, mas poucos laboratórios o incorporaram. 66% dos médicos resolvem o fator andrológico grave por tratamentos clínicos e 95% utilizam técnicas de RA nesses casos. A análise do sêmen é realizada principalmente por bioquímicos especializados, com baixa aderência à automação e acreditação laboratorial, mas com participação em programas de avalação externa de qualidade. A demanda diminuiu como consequência do aumento do tratamento por RA. A diminuição em percentagem de formas normais compromete sua utilidade clínica.

The essential role of adenine nucleotide translocase 4 on male reproductive function in mice

Adenine nucleotide translocator 4 (Ant4), an ATP/ADP transporter expressed in the early phases of spermatogenesis, plays a crucial role in male fertility. While Ant4 loss causes early arrest of meiosis and increased apoptosis of spermatogenic cells in male mice, its other potential functions in male fertility remain unexplored. Here, we utilized Ant4 knockout mice to delineate the effects of Ant4-deficiency on male reproduction. Our observations demonstrated that Ant4-deficiency led to infertility and impaired testicular development, which was further investigated by evaluating testicular oxidative stress, autophagy, and inflammation. Specifically, the loss of Ant4 led to an imbalance of oxidation and antioxidants. Significant ultrastructural alterations were identified in the testicular tissues of Ant4-deficient mice, including swelling of mitochondria, loss of cristae, and accumulation of autophagosomes. Our results also showed that autophagic flux and AKT-AMPK-mTOR signaling pathway were affected in Ant4-deficient mice. Moreover, Ant4 loss increased the expression of pro-inflammatory factors. Overall, our findings underscored the importance of Ant4 in regulating oxidative stress, autophagy, and inflammation in testicular tissues. Taken together, these insights provided a nuanced understanding of the significance of Ant4 in testicular development.

Transcriptomic Analysis of Wuzi Yanzongwan on Testicular Spermatogenic Function in Semi-castrated Male Mice / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo screen out the transcriptomes related to the intervention of Wuzi Yanzongwan on the spermatogenic function of semi-castrated male mice， and to explore its potential mechanism in the intervention of the progress of low spermatogenic function. MethodBalb/c mice were randomly divided into sham-operated group， model group， testosterone propionate group（0.2 mg·kg-1·d-1， intramuscular injection） and Wuzi Yanzongwan group（1.56 g·kg-1·d-1， intragastric administration） according to body weight， with 12 mice in each group. The right testicle and epididymis were extracted from the model group and the drug administration group to construct the semi-castrated model of low spermatogenic function， while the fur and the right scrotum of the sham-operated group were only cut and immediately sterilized and sutured. At the end of the intervention， hematoxylin-eosin（HE） staining was used to observe the histopathology of testis， enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay（ELISA） was used to detect the levels of serum testosterone（T）， luteinizing hormone（LH） and follicle stimulating hormone（FSH）. The sperm count and motility of epididymis were measured by automatic sperm detector of small animal. Transcriptomic microarray technology was used to detect the mRNA expression level of testicular tissue in each group， the transcriptome of genes related to the regulation of Wuzi Yanzongwan was screened， and three mRNAs were selected for Real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction（Real-time PCR） to verify the transcriptome data. Through the annotation analysis of Gene Ontology（GO） and the signaling pathway analysis of Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes（KEGG）， the related functions of drugs regulating transcriptome were analyzed. ResultCompared with the sham-operated group， the testicular tissue of mice in the model group showed spermatogenic injury， contraction and vacuolization of the seminiferous tubules， reduction of spermatogenic cells at all levels， widening of the interstitial space， obstruction of spermatogonial cell development and other morphological abnormalities， and serum T significantly decreased， LH significantly increased（P<0.01）， and FSH elevated but no statistically significant difference， the count and vitality of epididymal sperm significantly decreased（P<0.01）. There were 882 differentially expressed mRNAs in the testicular tissues， of which 565 were up-regulated and 317 were down-regulated. Cluster analysis showed that these differentially expressed mRNA could effectively distinguish between the sham-operated group and the model group. Compared with the model group， the damage to testicular tissue in the Wuzi Yanzongwan group was reduced， the structure of the seminiferous tubules was intact， vacuolization was reduced， and the number of spermatogenic cells at all levels was significantly increased and arranged tightly. The serum T significantly increased， LH significantly decreased（P<0.01）， and FSH decreased but the difference was not statistically significant. The count and vitality of sperm in the epididymis were significantly increased（P<0.01）. Moreover， Wuzi Yanzongwan could regulate 159 mRNA levels in the testes of semi-castrated mice， of which 32 were up-regulated and 127 were down-regulated， and the data of the transcriptome assay was verified to be reliable by Real-time PCR. GO and KEGG analysis showed that the transcriptome functions regulated by Wuzi Yanzongwan were involved in the whole cell cycle process of sperm development such as sex hormone production of interstitial cells in testis， renewal， differentiation， metabolism， apoptosis and signal transduction of spermatogenic cells， and were closely related to the biological behaviors of signaling pathways such as spermatogenic stem cell function， endoplasmic reticulum protein processing and metabolic program. ConclusionWuzi Yanzongwan can effectively improve the low spermatogenic function of semi-castrated male mice， and its mechanism may be related to the regulation of testicular transcriptional regulatory network， the synthesis of sex hormones in testicular interstitial cells， the function of spermatogenic stem cells， the whole cell cycle process of spermatogenesis， as well as the expression of endoplasmic reticulum protein processing and metabolic program related genes transcription.

Association of agression and angry expression category perception under social exclusion among male students in reform school / 中国学校卫生

Objective@#To explore the relationship between aggression and category perception of angry expression in reform school students under social exclusion, so as to provide reference for the reform school students mental health promotion.@*Methods@#In May 2023, 144 students were randomly selected from a reform school in Guizhou Province, and were divided into high and low aggression groups(77 and 67 students) by Aggression Questionnaire. Cyberball game was used to induce social exclusion and acceptance, subjects were divided into high aggressive exclusion group ( n =42), high aggressive acceptance group ( n =35), low aggressive exclusion group ( n =37) and low aggressive acceptance group ( n =30). All the participants completed the discrimination and identification tasks of category perception paradigm, and the relationship between aggression and category perception of angry expression of reform school students under social exclusion was analyzed by using category turning point, identification curve and analysis of variance.@*Results@#The total score of aggression(97.34±8.00) and four dimensions (physical aggression: 29.75± 4.61, verbal aggression:17.19±2.58, anger:22.29±3.66, hostility:28.10±3.54) in the high aggression group were higher than those in the low aggression group(74.10±9.02，21.09±4.98，14.30±2.66，17.16±3.83，21.55±3.88), and the differences were statistically significant ( t =16.38, 10.85, 6.62, 8.20, 10.59, P <0.01). For identifying the turning point of the fear anger continuum, the social exclusion group（2.58±0.07）was significantly smaller than the social acceptance group（2.79±0.07）( F =4.85, η 2=0.07, P < 0.05 ）, and the social exclusion group had a tendency to shift the category boundary to the fear side. For identifying the slope at the angry happiness continuum category boundary curve, the high aggression group (0.63±0.03) was significantly higher than the low aggression group (0.53±0.03)( F =5.38, η 2=0.08, P <0.05). In the fear anger continuum,the high aggression group[(694.86± 78.29 )ms] reacted more quickly than the low aggression group[(660.70±79.86)ms]( F =5.08, η 2=0.05， P <0.05) In the angry happiness continuum, there was no statistical significance of social exclusion and aggression( P >0.05).@*Conclusions@#The suggests that social exclusion can lead to hostility attribution bias in individuals, while aggression can make individuals more sensitive to angry expression. The mechanisms by which social exclusion and aggression affect expression category perception are independent rather than interactive. The society should give tolerance and acceptance to reform school students, reduce exclusion and discrimination, and the reform education department should correct the aggressive behavior of reform school students and promote their mental health.

Analysis of pre-exposure prophylaxis awareness, willingness, uptake patterns, barriers and needs among MSM students and its influencing factors / 中国学校卫生

Objective@#To explore the pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) awareness, willingness, uptake patterns, barriers and needs among Chinese student men who have sex with men (MSM), so as to provide relevant evidence for targeted interventions with PrEP.@*Methods@#A proportional sampling method was used to conduct a cross sectional survey of MSM aged 16 years and older residing in 21 provinces, municipalities, and autonomous regions in mainland China between October 20 and December 20, 2021, to collect information on demographic and sexual behavioral characteristics, and 923 students of them were selected as the subjects of this study. The chi-square test and Fisher s test were used for univariate analysis, followed by multivariate Logistic regression to analyze the influencing factors of PrEP awareness and uptake.@*Results@#According to the cascade analysis method, the awareness, willingness, uptake and adherence rates of PrEP among the student MSM were obtained as 88.95%, 67.36%, 13.20% and 45.21 %, respectively. HIV testing more than once in the last 3 months, and all of them were aware of the HIV test results of their sexual partners, and those with high frequency of condom use had a higher rate of awareness ( OR =2.32, 1.79, 1.69, P <0.05). Willingness rates were higher for those from the pilot city, using substances, and HIV testing more than once in the last 3 months ( OR =2.13, 1.65, 1.69, P <0.05). Higher rates of uptake were found among those from high risk and pilot areas, presence of commercial sex, substance use, and high literacy ( OR =5.60, 3.54,2.81, 1.92, 4.54, P <0.05). Adherence rates were higher among those who used one pill per day or both ( OR =12.77, 13.26, P <0.05). The barriers and needs faced by student MSM were primarily personal concerns about medication side effects, preventative effects, and confidence in sexual behavioral styles, and the high cost of medication and related service costs.@*Conclusions@#The student MSM population in China is characterized by high awareness, low willingness, low uptake, and low adherence to PrEP. Targeted interventions should be considered and tailored by the departments to facilitate PrEP promotion among student MSM.

Bocio endotorácico / Endothoracic Goiter

Introducción: Un bocio se considera intratorácico cuando más de un 50 por ciento de la glándula tiroides está en el mediastino, o sea, por debajo del nivel del estrecho torácico superior. Se trata de una enfermedad poco frecuente que padece aproximadamente el 3 por ciento de los pobladores del mundo. La incidencia del bocio nodular ha disminuido debido a la ingestión en algunos países de sal yodada y alimentos ricos en yodo. Esta enfermedad alcanza alrededor del 10 por ciento de las masas mediastínicas. Objetivo: Presentar el caso de un paciente masculino, operado de bocio endotorácico en la provincia de Cienfuegos. Presentación de caso: Se presenta un paciente masculino, de 48 años de edad, que acude a consulta y refiere aumento de volumen del cuello en la región anterior, que se acompaña de decaimiento y en ocasiones disfagia tanto a los alimentos líquidos como a los sólidos. Además, refiere ligera disnea que tolera adecuadamente cuando realiza las actividades de la vida diaria. Por tratarse de una enfermedad poco frecuente, se considera de interés científico publicar el caso para conocimiento de los profesionales dedicados al estudio y tratamiento de las afecciones tiroideas. Conclusiones: El bocio endotorácico es una entidad poco frecuente y en todos los casos requiere de intervención quirúrgica(AU)

Introduction: A goiter is considered intrathoracic when more than 50 percent of the thyroid gland is in the mediastinum; in other words, below the level of the superior thoracic outlet. It is a rare disease that affects approximately 3 percent of the world's population. The incidence of nodular goiter has decreased due to the ingestion of iodized salt and iodine-rich foods in some countries. This disease accounts for about 10 percent of mediastinal masses. Objective: To present the case of a male patient operated on for endothoracic goiter in the province of Cienfuegos. Case presentation: The case is presented of a 48-year-old male patient who comes for consultation referring a volume increase in the anterior neck region, accompanied by decay and sometimes dysphagia to both liquid and solid food. In addition, he reports slight dyspnea that he tolerates adequately when performing daily living activities. Since this is a rare disease, it is considered of scientific interest to publish the case for the knowledge of professionals dedicated to studying and treating thyroid disorders. Conclusions: Endothoracic goiter is a rare entity and, in all cases, requires surgical intervention(AU)

Parentalidade homoafetiva masculina e seus desafios: uma revisão integrativa da literatura / Male homoparenting and its challenges: an integrative literature review

Resumo Este estudo visa elucidar os desafios enfrentados no exercício da parentalidade homoafetiva masculina por meio de uma revisão integrativa da literatura. Seguindo as recomendações PRISMA, foram analisados estudos empíricos dos últimos 22 anos, extraídos das bases de dados PubMed e APA PsychNet. Os descritores "Homosexuality, Male" e "Father" foram empregados para a seleção de artigos relevantes, processo realizado independentemente por dois pesquisadores. Os resultados indicam uma complexidade nas experiências parentais de homens homossexuais, variando entre desafios significativos, como estigmas e preconceitos sociais, e situações sem dificuldades notáveis. A decisão de assumir a paternidade nesse grupo é fortemente influenciada por fatores específicos à realidade homoafetiva, inserida em um contexto social frequentemente não acolhedor. Os achados destacam a importância de compreender as interações entre aspectos individuais, sociais e culturais na formação da homoparentalidade masculina. Este estudo sublinha a necessidade de políticas e práticas inclusivas e sensíveis à diversidade, visando o apoio ao bem-estar familiar em contextos homoafetivos.

Abstract This study aims to elucidate the challenges faced in the exercise of male homoparenting, through an integrative literature review. Following PRISMA guidelines, empirical studies from the last 22 years were analyzed, independently collected by four researchers using the PubMed and APA PsychNet databases, with the descriptors "Homosexuality, Male" and "Father". The results reveal the unique and complex reality faced by homosexual men in the parental context. While some studies highlight significant challenges, such as stigmas and social prejudices, others do not observe such difficulties. The decision to become a father among homosexual men is influenced by factors specific to their reality, in a context where parenthood is not widely accepted. The findings of this study emphasize the need to understand the complex interactions among individual, social, and cultural factors in male homoparenting. In summary, this study highlights the need for inclusive and diversity-sensitive approaches to support family well-being.

Ativismo digital sobre paternidade gay no Instagram: a homoparentalidade masculina em cena / Digital activism about gay fatherhood on Instagram: male homoparenting in the picture

Resumo No Brasil contemporâneo tem sido expressivo tanto o número de homens-pais assumindo o cuidado de seus filhos e filhas, quanto das iniciativas de produção de conteúdo sobre paternidades no Instagram. Este artigo visa analisar as concepções que sustentam o ativismo digital da homoparentalidade no Instagram, a partir dos estudos de gênero com homens. Para tal, realizou-se um estudo qualitativo em ambiência digital, utilizando o método das narrativas de vida. Os resultados foram analisados e divididos nas seguintes seções: projeto de parentalidade; experiência pessoal de paternidade; articulação de agenda política LGBT; quando a paternidade vira um "negócio"; e haters, críticas e reações negativas. Conclui-se que a reflexão sobre a própria experiência de paternidade/masculinidade, atravessada pelo marcador social da diferença orientação sexual e o ativismo por direitos que sustentam a produção de conteúdo. Assim, ressalta-se a singularidade de cada paternidade, pois o fato de ser gay constrói a experiência de paternidade particular para cada homem. Apesar das iniciativas expostas, mudanças ainda são incipientes, visto que o ativismo por direitos coexiste com o avanço de forças conservadoras, que limitam as expressões das alteridades sexuais e de gênero.

Abstract In contemporary Brazil, the number of male fathers taking care of their sons and daughters and the initiatives to produce content about fatherhood on Instagram have been significant. This article aims to analyze the concepts that support the digital activism of homoparenting on Instagram, based on gender studies with men. To this end, a qualitative study was conducted using the life narrative method in a digital environment. The results were analyzed and divided into the following sections: parenting project, personal experience of fatherhood, articulation with LGBT political agenda when parenthood becomes a "business", and haters, criticism, and adverse reactions. It was concluded that the reflection on the experience of fatherhood/masculinity itself is crossed by the social marker of the difference in sexual orientation and the activism for rights that sustain content production. Thus, the uniqueness of each fatherhood is highlighted since the fact of being gay constructs the fatherhood experience for each man. Despite the initiatives brought forth in this study, changes are still in progress, as rights activism coexists with the advancement of conservative forces, which limit the expressions of sexual and gender otherness.

Histología testicular y morfología de la vejiga natatoria del pez neotropical Plagioscion magdalenae (Acanthuriformes: Sciaenidae): implicaciones en su taxonomía y distribución / Testicular histology and morphology of the swim bladder of the neotropical fish Plagioscion magdalenae (Acanthuriformes: Sciaenidae): implications in taxonomy and distribution

Introducción: La Pácora (Plagioscion magdalenae) es una especie nativa de Colombia y en categoría de casi amenazada a nivel del país, de la que poco se conoce acerca de las estructuras con aporte etológico en su historia de vida. Objetivo: Analizar el desarrollo gonadal relacionado con la espermatogénesis de P. magdalenae y las implicaciones taxonómicas a partir de la vejiga natatoria. Métodos: Realizamos siete muestreos en dos periodos climáticos: el primero en octubre de 2019 a febrero de 2020 de recolectas bimensuales y la segunda de octubre 2020 a enero 2021 de recolectas mensuales; con el fin de abarcar cada momento del pulso de inundación de la cuenca baja del Magdalena. Describimos la histomorfología testicular y las características macroscópicas de la vejiga natatoria de la especie. Además, analizamos aspectos como relaciones morfométricas, clases de tallas por sexos, la proporción sexual y la época de madurez sexual. Resultados: Analizamos 142 ejemplares y 4 intervalos de tallas fueron establecidos (entre 145 y 575 mm LE), 66 fueron machos y 73 hembras con una proporción sexual global 1.1:0.9 (hembra-macho) sin diferencias. Los machos tienen testículos de tipo tubular, protegidos por el peritoneo que se encuentra recubierto por la musculatura sónica de la vejiga natatoria, la cual posee forma de ''zanahoria'' sin apéndices, con dos bandas laterales de músculos intrínsecos (promedio entre 6.75 cm de largo y 1.48 cm de ancho) unidos por una aponeurosis y que solo se encuentran en machos sexualmente maduros. Conclusión: Los testículos poseen una organización de tipo lobular irrestricto y la espermatogénesis se da en lóbulos seminíferos. La vejiga natatoria de la Pácora es simple y no tiene estructuras accesorias. La distribución geográfica de P. magdalenae se restringe a la cuenca del río Magdalena en Colombia.

Introduction: The Pácora (Plagioscion magdalenae) is a species native to Colombia and in near-threatened category at the country level, of which little is known about the structures with ethological contribution in its life history. Objective: To analyze the gonadal development related to spermatogenesis of P. magdalenae and the taxonomic implications from the swim bladder. Methods: We collected seven samples in two climatic periods: the first from October 2019 to February 2020 of bimonthly collections, and the second from October 2020 to January 2021 of monthly collections; to cover every moment of the flood pulse of the lower Magdalena basin. We described the testicular histomorphology and macroscopic characteristics of the swim bladder of the species. In addition, we analyzed aspects such as morphometric relationships, size classes by sex, sex ratio and time of sexual maturity. Results: We analyzed 142 specimens and established 4 size intervals (between 145 and 575 mm SL), 66 were males and 73 females with an overall sex ratio of 1.1:0.9 (female-male) with no differences. Males have tubular testes protected by the peritoneum covered by the sonic musculature of the swim bladder, which has a ''carrot'' shape without appendages, with two lateral bands of intrinsic muscles (average between 6.75 cm long and 1.48 cm wide) connected by an aponeurosis and found only in sexually mature males. Conclusion: The testes have an unrestricted lobular organization and spermatogenesis occurs in the seminiferous lobes. The swim bladder of the Pácora is simple and has no accessory structures. The geographic distribution of P. magdalenae is restricted to the Magdalena River basin in Colombia.

Trajetória para implementação de programa de navegação de pacientes na oncologia: relato de experiência / The path to implementing a patient navigation program in oncology: an experience report

OBJETIVO: Descrever a trajetória para a implementação de um Programa de Navegação para pacientes oncológicos. MÉTODO: Estudo descritivo, tipo relato de experiência realizado em um Centro de Oncologia do Sul do Brasil. RESULTADOS: O processo de implementação da navegação ocorreu em quatro etapas: a primeira iniciou com implementação da navegação para pacientes privados com câncer de cabeça e pescoço; a segunda envolveu o piloto do programa de navegação de pacientes com câncer de mama para entender as principais barreiras enfrentadas pelas pacientes; a terceira etapa, foi elaborar e aprovar a Política do Programa de Navegação Institucional. Na última, o Programa de Navegação da linha de cuidado da mama foi implementado para pacientes com indicação de neoadjuvância. Obteve-se redução de 70% na mediana de tempo de indicação e primeira consulta oncológica, de 28,6% no tempo entre sintoma e diagnóstico, 26,0% no tempo entre diagnóstico e início de tratamento. CONCLUSÃO: A implementação de um Programa de Navegação para pacientes com câncer exige dedicação e comprometimento institucional onde se evidencia um melhor cuidado oncológico, tendo o enfermeiro como protagonista da gestão e efetivação do processo.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the process of implementing a Navigation Program for cancer patients. METHOD: Descriptive study, type of experience report carried out in an Oncology Center in Southern Brazil. RESULTS: The process of implementing navigation took place in four stages: the first began with the implementation of navigation for private patients with head and neck cancer; the second involved piloting the navigation program for breast cancer patients to understand the main barriers faced by patients; the third stage, was to draw up and approve the Institutional Navigation Program Policy. In the last stage, the Breast Care Navigation Program was implemented for patients with neoadjuvant indications. A 70% reduction was achieved in the median time between indication and first oncology consultation, 28.6% between symptom and diagnosis, and 26.0% between diagnosis and start of treatment. CONCLUSION: Implementing a Navigation Program for cancer patients requires dedication and institutional commitment, leading to better cancer care, with nurses playing a leading role in managing and implementing this process.

Association between microRNA expression and risk of male idiopathic infertility in Iraq

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The World Health Organization defines infertility as the inability to get pregnant after 12 months of unprotected sexual activity. This study was conducted to estimate the levels of gene expression for two mature miRNAs (i.e., miR-122 and miR-34c-5p) to evaluate susceptibility to male infertility. METHODS: This study included 50 male patients with idiopathic infertility who were admitted to hospital from the period November 2021 to May 2022 and another group consisting of 50 apparently healthy individuals used as controls. RESULTS: miR-122 level was significantly highest in azoospermia and followed by oligospermia, 39.22 (31.88) versus 37.34 (20.45), respectively. In addition, there was a very significant difference in miR-34c-5p levels between the study groups (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Two miRNAs, namely, miR-34c-5p and miR-122, can be used as predictive and diagnostic biomarkers for infertility.

Clinical and metabolic characteristics of males with early-onset androgenetic alopecia

Background: Men with early-onset androgenetic alopecia (AGA) often have an abnormal hormonal milieu. Objective: To ascertain the clinico-phenotypic characteristics and the prevalence of hormonal and metabolic changes in men with early-onset AGA. Methods: Consecutive male patients less than 30 years of age with a Norwood-Hamilton grade ?3 AGA were recruited in this comparative cross-sectional study. After endocrine evaluation they were classified into two groups, that is, Group A consisting of subjects with an altered hormonal profile and Group B with normal hormonal profiles. The groups were assessed for differences in disease phenotype and severity (Norwood-Hamilton grade), insulin resistance and parameters of metabolic syndrome (ATP III guidelines). Results: Altered hormonal profiles were seen in 34 of the 100 subjects with AGA, while insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome were noted in 44 and 26 respectively. Altered hormonal profiles were significantly associated with insulin resistance and severe alopecia (grade 4 and above Hamilton-Norwood Scale). Insulin resistant Group A patients had a significantly higher prevalence of severe alopecia (>grade 4) (P = 0.0036). The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was similar in both groups. Limitation: The cross sectional study design was a drawback of this study. Further, a control arm without AGA was not included and the sample size of 100 was selected arbitrarily. Conclusion: An altered hormonal profile and insulin resistance was noted in a third of the males with early-onset AGA. Subjects with altered hormonal profiles had a higher prevalence of insulin resistance and were likely to have severe grades of AGA

Tumor Sólido Pseudopapilar de Páncreas en varón

Objetivo: Comunicar el caso de un varón diagnosticado de tumor sólido pseudopapilar de páncreas (TSPP). Esta patología afecta fundamentalmente a mujeres jóvenes, siendo extremadamente infrecuente en hombres. Caso Clínico: Varón de 40 años diagnosticado por TC de masa intraabdominal sólida bien delimitada, de 12,5 × 13 × 8,5 cm, heterogénea, con calcificaciones periféricas y realce tras la administración de contraste en fase portal, dependiente de cuerpo-cola pancreática. Se realiza puncion, no concluyente. La laparotomía exploradora mostró tumoración sólida dependiente de cola pancreática que incluye vasos esplénicos. Se liberó el tumor de forma periférica, requiriendo pancreatectomía distal y esplenectomía. El resultado AP informó neoplasia pseudopapilar sólida de cola pancreática de bajo grado de malignidad, bien diferenciado (G1). Alta hospitalaria al 12° día sin complicaciones. Actualmente libre de enfermedad tras dos años de la intervención. Discusión: Este tumor infrecuente representa el 1%-3% de las neoplasias pancreáticas. El 90% afecta a mujeres jóvenes, con proporción de mujeres a hombres de 4:1. En estos, tiene mayor potencial maligno con peor pronóstico. Conclusión: La baja incidencia en varones puede dificultar el diagnóstico. Sin embargo, debemos tenerlo en cuenta en el diagnóstico diferencial, ya que el tratamiento quirúrgico radical aumenta significativamente la supervivencia al evitar la recurrencia local y las metástasis a distancia, lo que supone un reto quirúrgico.

Objective: To report the case of a male diagnosed with a solid pseudopapillary tumor of the páncreas. This pathology fundamentally affects young women, being extremely infrequent in men. Clinical Case: A 40-year-old man diagnosed by CT with a well-defined solid intra-abdominal mass, 12.5 × 13 × 8.5 cm, heterogeneous, with peripheral calcifications and enhancement after contrast administration in the portal phase, dependent on the body-tail of the pancreas. Fine needle puncture is performed, inconclusive. The exploratory laparotomy showed a solid tumor dependent on the pancreatic tail that included splenic vessels. The tumor was released peripherally, requiring distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy. The AP result reported solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreatic tail of low grade of malignancy, well differentiated (G1). Hospital discharge on the 12th day without complications. Currently free of disease two years after the intervention. Discussion: This rare tumor represents 2%-3% of pancreatic neoplasms. 90% affects young women, with a ratio of women to men of 4:1. In these, it has greater malignant potential with worse prognosis. Conclusion: The low incidence in males can make diagnosis difficult. However, we must take it into account in the differential diagnosis, since radical surgical treatment significantly increases survival by avoiding local recurrence and distant metastases, which is a surgical challenge.

An Appraisal of Behavioural and Non-Behavioural Factors Influencing the Male Infertility: Narrative Approach

Male infertility implies a man can't begin a pregnancy with his female accomplice. Male infertility can have many causes. You may not make sufficient sperm or sound sperm. You might have a hereditary issue like cystic fibrosis. You might have a blockage in your genital plot. According to the latest WHO statistics, approximately 50– 80 million people worldwide suffer from infertility, and male factors are responsible for approximately 20– 30% of all infertility cases. The diagnosis of infertility in men is mainly based on semen analysis. the incidence of male infertility has increased worldwide. Infertility is characterized as the failure of couples to have a child following one year of customary unprotected intercourse, influencing 10 to 15% of couples. It is necessary to study the factors that influence male infertility in each area/region for better management. This paper represents various factors based on behavioral and non-behavioral conditions prompting for male infertility augmentation rapidly.

In the shoes of a person with Gynaecomastia

In this narrative, I step into the shoes of someone who has lived with gynaecomastia — male breasts. Using the imaginary character of Aarav, I reflect on the themes of the stigma associated with body image, the courage to face it, and the role human relationships can play in fostering self-acceptance.

Role of Dietary Management and Physical Activity in Control of Hypertension in Rural Areas of Punjab-A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: As reported by WHO, hypertension is the third ‘killer’ disease, accounting for one in every eight deaths worldwide. Many modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors are found to be associated with the disease. The present study aims to determine the role of dietary management and physical activity in the control of hypertension in a given population. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted that. Study included all hypertensive patients (290) from the field practice area of a tertiary care institute. A self-constructed, pretested questionnaire was used to enquire about the socio- demographic factors and other risk factors associated with hypertension. The data was analyzed using SPSS 23 and valid conclusions were drawn by using the chi-square test. Results: Out of 290 patients, 204 (70.3%) were females and 86 (29.7%) were males. Univariate analysis identified decreased salt intake, decreased fatty food consumption, physical activity, stress management, and spiritual help as highly significant factors affecting hypertension. On multivariate analysis, physical activity, stress management and spiritual help were found to be significant. Conclusion: The study showed that physical activity, stress management and spiritual help were significantly associated with hypertension control among the elderly. Measures should be taken to create awareness about lifestyle modifications in the control of hypertension.

Identifying Pre-hypertensives in the Community: At Risk Approach for Prevention of Hypertension

Introduction: Pre-hypertension is a borderline health state of increased blood pressure (BP) that falls short of the measurable parameters at which surveillance and/or therapy would be required. The approach of identifying people “At Risk” of developing hypertension can be more cost-effective and feasible for applying lifestyle interventions. Objectives: The objective of the present study is to find the prevalence of pre-hypertensives and associated bio-socio-demographic factors Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1946 participants aged 19 years and more in the Doiwala block of Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Multistage sampling was used to arrive at desired sample size. A pre-validated, structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The questionnaire included information on the socio-demographic profile (age, sex, education etc.), awareness about hypertension and its associated risk factors. Statistical Analysis: The chi-square test was used to compare proportions and draw inferences. Results: 958 (49.2%) study participants out of a total 1946 were found to be pre-hypertensives. A statistically significant association was found between pre-hypertension and factors such as male gender, age, education, occupation and waist-hip ratio. (p<0.05) Conclusion: It is recommended that identification on the pre-hypertensive group and subjecting them to lifestyle modification could be a fruitful strategy for preventing them from becoming hypertensive.

An Assessment of Skin Diseases in People and Their Quality of Life in Bundelkhand Region of Uttar Pradesh

Background: Skin diseases occur in all age groups in developed and developing countries. Various types of skin diseases are found worldwide and depend on factors like environment, surrounding ecology, dietary habits, socioeconomic status, mental health, and literacy. Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) improves after treatment or cure of the diseases. Objectives: To estimate the pattern of skin disease. To find out the quality of life and association of skin disease with sociodemographic factors among patients. Methods: This observational cross-sectional study was done in skin OPD at the tertiary care center, Banda district of Uttar Pradesh, India from May 2022 to July 2022. All patients who attended to skin OPD during study period were included in the study after taking informed verbal consent. Results: Skin diseases had further divided in subcategories which were infectious conditions, pigmentary disorders, inflammatory dermatoses, miscellaneous skin conditions, benign tumor and other lesions with their percentage 44.8, 10.5, 28.6, 7.1, 2.9 and 6.2%, respectively in this study Classes of DQLI where major portion of patients (49.52%) were in ‘Small effect on patient’s life’ category. The relation of age, religion, education and member of household with history of skin disease were found to be highly statistically significant. Conclusion: Infectious skin diseases were found more common in study area. Male populations were more commonly affected. Skin diseases were more common in age group of 18–60 years. Study participants showed no predominant effect on quality of life. But small effect class had major effect on participant’s quality of life.

The Better Ghost: Women In White Or Men In Black

Eerie atmosphere, silence of the dark night, thunderstorm, creaking doors, dim lights, then suddenly there is a shadow from behind with intense music. Well these are some of the core ingredient of the horror movies which we have seen since our childhood, one can understand that these are the sure shot formula for setting the stage for the big reveal i.e. the ghost. Now from here our topic of discussion starts which is the portrayal of women as ghost in Hindi cinema. Whenever we watch a Hindi movie more than often we encounter a female ghost wandering around, singing sweet melodies trying to charm the male counterpart and then ultimately killing them. A question always arises in mind as why always there is a female ghost who gets the responsibility of scaring the audience. For this we need to find the answer through our very own horror movies.

Anthropometric Characteristics and Body Composition of Elite Youth Male Basketball Players - Participants of Junior Euroleague / Características Antropométricas y Composición Corporal de Jugadores de Baloncesto Masculino Juveniles de Élite - Participantes de Junior Euroleague

SUMMARY: The aim of this research was to determine the differences among the junior basketball players of the BC Partizan and BC Buducnost Voli, in terms of their anthropometric characteristics and body composition. A sample of 22 subjects was divided into two sub-samples. The first sub-sample of the subjects consisted of 11 players of the basketball team Partizan (Serbia), of the average age 17.18 ± 0.50, while the other sub-sample consisted of 11 players of basketball team Buducnost Voli (Montenegro), based on the average age of 17.28 ± 0.30. All players were tested in Podgorica, in a lasting period of two days, while they held international friendly tournament, just before the start of the national championships. Anthropometric characteristics in the body composition were evaluated by a battery of eleven variables: body height (cm), body weight (kg), triceps skinfold, back skinfold, biceps skinfold, abdominal skinfold, thighs skinfold, calf skinfold, body mass index (BMI), percentage of fat and muscle mass (kg). Differences in anthropometric characteristic and composition of the body of the male junior basketball players of two basketball teams were determined by using a discriminatory parametric procedure with t-test for small independent samples. It was found that the basketball players of Partizan are taller and have a lower body mass. Also, there are significant statistical differences by seven: triceps skinfold, back skinfold, biceps skinfold, abdominal skinfold, calf skinfold, thigh skinfold and BMI.

El objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar las diferencias entre jugadores de baloncesto junior del BC Partizan y BC Buducnost Voli, en cuanto a sus características antropométricas y composición corporal. Una muestra de 22 sujetos se dividió en dos submuestras. La primera submuestra estuvo formada por 11 jugadores del equipo de baloncesto Partizan (Serbia), con una edad media de 17,18 ± 0,50, mientras que la otra estaba formada por 11 jugadores del equipo de baloncesto Buducnost Voli (Montenegro), cuya edad media era de 17,28 ± 0,30 años. Todos los jugadores fueron evaluados en Podgorica, en un período de dos días, mientras se realizaba un torneo amistoso internacional, precisamente antes del inicio de los campeonatos nacionales. Las características antropométricas en la composición corporal se evaluaron mediante una batería de once variables: altura corporal (cm), peso corporal (kg), pliegue cutáneo tríceps, pliegue cutáneo dorsal, pliegue cutáneo bicipital, pliegue cutáneo abdominal, pliegue cutáneo de muslos, pliegue cutáneo de pantorrillas, índice de masa corporal (IMC), porcentaje de grasa y masa muscular (kg). Se determinaron las diferencias en las características antropométricas y la composición del cuerpo de los jugadores juveniles masculinos de baloncesto de los dos equipos de baloncesto mediante un procedimiento paramétrico discriminatorio con prueba t para pequeñas muestras independientes. Se encontró que los jugadores de baloncesto del Partizan eran más altos y tenían una masa corporal más baja. Además, existían diferencias estadísticas significativas en los pliegue cutáneos del tríceps, de la espalda, del bíceps, abdominal, de la pantorrilla y del muslo además de diferencias en el IMC.