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10 pages, 1522 KiB  
Article
Impact of Continuous Veno-Venous Hemodiafiltration on Thyroid Homeostasis in Critically Ill Patients
by Alicja Filipczyk, Magdalena A. Wujtewicz, Michał Okrągły and Karol P. Steckiewicz
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5542; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155542 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Patients in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) often develop non-thyroidal illness syndrome. Potentially, thyroid hormones may be removed during continuous veno-venous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF), as their molecular size is smaller than the filter pores’ cutoff. The study’s main aim was to assess whether [...] Read more.
Background: Patients in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) often develop non-thyroidal illness syndrome. Potentially, thyroid hormones may be removed during continuous veno-venous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF), as their molecular size is smaller than the filter pores’ cutoff. The study’s main aim was to assess whether the serum concentration of thyroid hormones changes over time during CVVHDF. Methods: This was a prospective observational trial that included 30 patients treated in an ICU. All patients developed acute kidney injury (AKI) and had clinical indications for implementation of CVVHDF. Blood samples were collected before initiation of CVVHDF and at 1, 2, 3, 6, 9 and 12 days after. The last sample was collected three days after CVVHDF withdrawal. Thyroid function was evaluated by determining the serum concentration of TSH, thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), free triiodothyronine (fT3), free thyroxine (fT4), total triiodothyronine (tT3), total thyroxine (tT4) and reverse triiodothyronine (rT3). We additionally calculated the total activity of peripheral deiodinases (GD) using a mathematical model. Results: TRH and TSH levels remained mostly within normal ranges. fT4 and tT4 were in normal range or slightly below. In contrast, fT3 and tT3 were undetectably low in most patients throughout. Reverse T3 levels remained within normal limits. There were no statistically significant changes in any thyroid hormone levels over the CVVHDF treatment period. The calculated peripheral GD activity was lower than normal, but importantly, it did not change significantly over time. Conclusions: Thyroid hormones are not lost due to hemodiafiltration. Decreased deiodinases activity is responsible for alterations in serum concentrations of thyroid hormones in patients during CVVHDF. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Intensive Care)
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16 pages, 1638 KiB  
Systematic Review
Effect of Intermittent Fasting on Anthropometric Measurements, Metabolic Profile, and Hormones in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Yazan Ranneh, Mohammed Hamsho, Wijdan Shkorfu, Merve Terzi and Abdulmannan Fadel
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2436; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152436 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 417
Abstract
Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder characterized by excess body weight, hyperandrogenism, hyperglycemia, and insulin resistance often resulting in hirsutism and infertility. Dietary strategies have been shown to ameliorate metabolic disturbances, hormonal imbalances, and inflammation associated with PCOS. Recent [...] Read more.
Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder characterized by excess body weight, hyperandrogenism, hyperglycemia, and insulin resistance often resulting in hirsutism and infertility. Dietary strategies have been shown to ameliorate metabolic disturbances, hormonal imbalances, and inflammation associated with PCOS. Recent evidence indicates that intermittent fasting (IF) could effectively enhance health outcomes and regulate circadian rhythm; however, its impact on PCOS remain unclear. Objective: Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aims to examine the effect of IF on women diagnosed with PCOS. Methods: Comprehensive research was conducted across three major databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science without date restrictions. Meta-analysis was performed using Cochrane Review Manager Version 5.4 software. Results: Five studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. IF significantly reduced body weight (MD = −4.25 kg, 95% CI: −7.71, −0.79; p = 0.02), BMI (MD = −2.05 kg/m2, 95% CI: −3.26, −0.85; p = 0.0008), fasting blood glucose (FBG; MD = −2.86 mg/dL, 95% CI: −4.83, −0.89; p = 0.004), fasting blood insulin (FBI; MD = −3.17 μU/mL, 95% CI: −5.18, −1.16; p = 0.002), insulin resistance (HOMA-IR; MD = −0.94, 95% CI: −1.39, −0.50; p < 0.0001), triglycerides (TG; MD = −40.71 mg/dL, 95% CI: −61.53, −19.90; p = 0.0001), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S; MD = −33.21 μg/dL, 95% CI: −57.29, −9.13; p = 0.007), free androgen index (FAI; MD = −1.61%, 95% CI: −2.76, −0.45; p = 0.006), and C-reactive protein (CRP; MD = −2.00 mg/L, 95% CI: −3.15, −0.85; p = 0.006), while increasing sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG; SMD = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.22, 0.77; p = 0.004). No significant changes were observed in waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), total cholesterol (TC), LDL, HDL, total testosterone (TT), or anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH). Conclusions: IF represents a promising strategy for improving weight and metabolic, hormonal, and inflammatory profiles in women with PCOS. However, the existing evidence remains preliminary, necessitating further robust studies to substantiate these findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition and Female Reproduction: Benefits for Women or Offspring)
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10 pages, 1523 KiB  
Case Report
Two Years of Growth Hormone Therapy in a Child with Severe Short Stature Due to Overlap Syndrome with a Novel SETD5 Gene Mutation: Case Report and Review of the Literature
by Giovanni Luppino, Malgorzata Wasniewska, Giorgia Pepe, Letteria Anna Morabito, Silvana Briuglia, Antonino Moschella, Francesca Franchina, Cecilia Lugarà, Tommaso Aversa and Domenico Corica
Genes 2025, 16(8), 859; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16080859 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 287
Abstract
Background: SET domain-containing 5 (SETD5) is a member of the protein lysine-methyltransferase family. SETD5 gene mutations cause disorders of the epigenetic machinery which determinate phenotypic overlap characterized by several abnormalities. SEDT5 gene variants have been described in patients with KBG and Cornelia de [...] Read more.
Background: SET domain-containing 5 (SETD5) is a member of the protein lysine-methyltransferase family. SETD5 gene mutations cause disorders of the epigenetic machinery which determinate phenotypic overlap characterized by several abnormalities. SEDT5 gene variants have been described in patients with KBG and Cornelia de Lange (CdL) syndromes. Case description: A female patient with severe short stature and intellectual disability had been followed since she was 9 years old. Several causes of short stature were ruled out. At the age of 12 years, her height was 114 cm (−5.22 SDS), weight 19 kg (−5.88 SDS), BMI 14.6 kg/m2 (−2.26 SDS), and was Tanner stage 1. The target height for the proband was 151.65 cm (−1.80 SDS). The bone age (BA) was delayed by 3 years compared to chronological age. The growth rate was persistently deficient (<<2 SDS). Physical examination revealed dysmorphic features. Genetic analysis documented a de novo SETD5 gene mutation (c.890_891delTT), responsible for phenotypes in the context of an overlap syndrome between the phenotype of MDR23, CdL and KBG syndromes. Recombinant growth hormone therapy (rhGH) was started at the age of 12 years. After both one year (+3.16 SDS) and two years (+2.9 SDS), the growth rate significantly increased compared with the pre-therapy period. Conclusion: This is the first case of a patient with overlap syndrome due to SETD5 mutation treated with rhGH. The review of the scientific literature highlighted the clinical and molecular features of SETD5 gene mutation and the use of rhGH therapy in patients suffering from CdL and KBG syndromes. Full article
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13 pages, 1043 KiB  
Article
Radiation Chronotherapy in Prostate Cancer: Does Time of Day of Radiation Treatment Influence Disease Outcome or Symptom Burden?
by Greeshma Rajeev-Kumar, Aoi Shimomura, Yan Che, Christopher Stepaniak and Stanley L. Liauw
Cancers 2025, 17(15), 2441; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17152441 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 304
Abstract
Background: Circadian rhythms regulate critical cellular processes, including DNA repair and cell cycle dynamics, potentially influencing the effectiveness of radiotherapy (RT). This study evaluated whether RT timing impacts clinical outcomes and symptom burden in prostate cancer patients. Patients/Methods: This retrospective study (n [...] Read more.
Background: Circadian rhythms regulate critical cellular processes, including DNA repair and cell cycle dynamics, potentially influencing the effectiveness of radiotherapy (RT). This study evaluated whether RT timing impacts clinical outcomes and symptom burden in prostate cancer patients. Patients/Methods: This retrospective study (n = 336, median follow-up 55 months) included men who received curative intent external beam RT between 2010 and 2019 (median age 69, 69% black, median PSA 11.3, 40% with Gleason 8–10). Treatment times (TTs) were averaged and analyzed by quartile/median. Outcomes included freedom from biochemical failure (FFBF) and distant metastasis (FFDM), GI and GU toxicity, and quality of life (QOL). Subgroup analyses by race and hormone therapy status were performed. Results: Across the overall cohort, TT was not associated with FFBF or FFDM. However, in white men, earlier TTs were significantly associated with higher 5-year FFBF (89% vs. 67%, p = 0.0139) and FFDM (93% vs. 72%, p = 0.0268). In the multivariate analysis (MVA), TT was not associated with FFBF or FFDM for all men, but in white men, earlier TT was associated with improved FFBF (HR 2.8, p = 0.06) in a model also including risk category (p = 0.21). Overall, no significant differences were observed for grade 2–3+ toxicity and TT. Trends for inferior QOL, and worse grade 2+ (p = 0.2) and 3+ GU toxicity (p = 0.1) were observed for later TTs. In white men, bowel, urinary continence, and irritative/obstructive urinary QOL were worse with later TTs (p < 0.05). Conclusions: TT may influence clinical outcomes and symptom burden, particularly in white men. These findings underscore the potential of chronoradiotherapy as a personalized treatment strategy and highlight the need for prospective trials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Prostate Cancer Radiotherapy)
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27 pages, 8827 KiB  
Article
Modulating Effects of L-Arginine and Tribulus terrestris Extract on Fipronil-Induced Interference in the Male Reproductive System of Rats: Antioxidant Potential, Androgen Receptors, and Nitric Oxide Synthase Interplay
by Doaa H. Elsayed, Ahmed A. Bakhashwain, Eman A. Ahmed, Hatim A. Al-Abbadi, Heba M. A. Abdelrazek, Menna Allah I. El-Menyawy, Wafaa K. Teleb, Noran M. Tawfik, Ibrahim E. Helal and Heba N. Gad EL-Hak
Toxics 2025, 13(5), 371; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13050371 - 2 May 2025
Viewed by 1670
Abstract
The protective potentials of Tribulus terrestris (TT) and L-arginine (L-Arg) against reproductive toxicity induced by fipronil (FPN) in male rats were investigated. A total of 36 male rats were allocated into six groups: control, TT, L-Arg, FPN, FPN + TT, and FPN + [...] Read more.
The protective potentials of Tribulus terrestris (TT) and L-arginine (L-Arg) against reproductive toxicity induced by fipronil (FPN) in male rats were investigated. A total of 36 male rats were allocated into six groups: control, TT, L-Arg, FPN, FPN + TT, and FPN + L-Arg groups. The body and sex organ weights, semen criteria, serum testosterone levels, and testicular oxidative stress were determined. Sexual behavior, testicular and penile androgen receptor (AR), penile nitric oxide synthase (NOS), immunohistochemistry of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and histopathology were also assessed. FPN disrupted reproductive health by influencing the expression and activity of NOS and AR, leading to compromised erectile function, sexual dysfunction, and hormonal imbalance. Significant improvements in body weight, reproductive organ weights, the expression of NOS and AR, and testosterone levels were observed in the TT- and L-Arg-treated groups. Behavioral assessments indicated improved sexual performance in the TT- and L-Arg-treated groups. Histopathological studies of the testes and penis tissue, immunohistochemical expression of PCNA in testicular tissues, and biochemical analyses further confirmed the protective effects of TT and L-Arg. Collectively, these findings highlighted the potential of TT and L-Arg in counteracting FPN-induced reproductive impairments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals and Reproductive Toxicology)
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10 pages, 196 KiB  
Article
The Application Effect of Endoscopic Thyroidectomy via the Gasless Unilateral Axillary Approach in Thyroid Cancer and Its Impact on Postoperative Stress Response
by Jinliang Jia, Jihua Han, Rui Pang, Wen Bi, Bo Liu, Ruinan Sheng and Lingyu Kong
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(5), 252; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32050252 - 26 Apr 2025
Viewed by 517
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to evaluate the application effect of endoscopic thyroidectomy via the gasless unilateral axillary (GUA) approach in thyroid cancer and its impact on the postoperative stress response. Methods: Ninety-four thyroid cancer patients were enrolleod and assigned into the open group [...] Read more.
Objective: This study aims to evaluate the application effect of endoscopic thyroidectomy via the gasless unilateral axillary (GUA) approach in thyroid cancer and its impact on the postoperative stress response. Methods: Ninety-four thyroid cancer patients were enrolleod and assigned into the open group (underwent conventional-open-anterior-cervical-approach thyroidectomy) and the endoscopic group (underwent GUA endoscopic thyroidectomy) (n = 47). Perioperative indicators between the two groups were compared. Thyroid function parameters [total triiodothyronine (TT3), total thyroxine (TT4), free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)] were measured preoperatively and on postoperative day 2. Inflammatory markers [interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)] and stress-related hormones [norepinephrine (NE) and cortisol (Cor)] were evaluated preoperatively and on postoperative day 1. The aesthetic appearance of the incision was evaluated at 1 and 3 months postoperatively using the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS). Postoperative complications were also compared between the two groups. Results: The endoscopic group exhibited less intraoperative blood loss, reduced postoperative drainage, a lower pain degree on 1 day postoperatively, a shorter hospitalization time, and a longer surgical time versus the open group (p < 0.05). The serum levels of TT3, TT4, FT3, and FT4 were lower, while the TSH levels were higher in both groups on postoperative day 2 compared to preoperative values. Additionally, the serum levels of IL-6, TNF-α, NE, and Cor increased on day 1 postoperatively, with the endoscopic group showing lower levels of these markers compared to the open group (p < 0.05). The VSS scores at 1 and 3 months after surgery were lower in the endoscopic group compared to the open group, indicating better cosmetic outcomes (p < 0.05). The incidence of postoperative complications was comparable between the endoscopic and open groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Endoscopic thyroidectomy by a GUA offers notable advantages over the conventional-open-anterior-cervical-approach thyroidectomy, including reduced intraoperative blood loss, less postoperative drainage, and a lower postoperative stress response. This approach also results in improved cosmetic outcomes, making it a promising alternative for thyroid cancer surgery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Head and Neck Oncology)
15 pages, 541 KiB  
Article
Dietary Patterns and Metabolic and Hormonal Parameters in Women with Suspected PCOS
by Karolina Kowalczyk, Sabina Kadłubek, Aleksandra Krużel, Dominik Sikora, Jakub Daniluk and Paweł Madej
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(8), 2708; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14082708 - 15 Apr 2025
Viewed by 939
Abstract
Background: Insulin resistance, visceral adiposity, excess body weight, and symptoms of hyperandrogenism often accompanies Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). A balanced diet plays a key role in improving the metabolic and biochemical parameters in affected women. This study aims to assess whether dietary improvements [...] Read more.
Background: Insulin resistance, visceral adiposity, excess body weight, and symptoms of hyperandrogenism often accompanies Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). A balanced diet plays a key role in improving the metabolic and biochemical parameters in affected women. This study aims to assess whether dietary improvements in patients with suspected PCOS may affect the severity of the disease and the metabolic and hormonal profile. Methods: The analysis of the relationships between self-declared nutritional changes and biochemical and metabolic parameters included 154 women at the same stage of PCOS diagnosis. Results: Over half of participants reported dietary modifications. Women reducing sweets, fatty red meat, and alcohol intake for >6 months had significantly lower total testosterone (TT) levels compared to those who did not (p < 0.05). Mean TT levels were: 0.375 ± 0.18 ng/mL (median 0.340) vs. 0.787 ± 2.19 ng/mL (median 0.390) for red meat (p = 0.008), 0.359 ± 0.18 ng/mL (median 0.335) vs. 0.681 ± 1.9 ng/mL (median 0.4) for sweets (p = 0.02), and 0.388 ± 0.19 ng/mL (median 0.34) vs. 0.917 ± 2.65 ng/mL (median 0.425) for alcohol (p = 0.004). Patients with dietary changes in the past 6 months had higher androgen levels, BMI, systolic blood pressure and triglycerides than patients with long-term dietary changes (p < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in key metabolic and biochemical parameters when comparing self-reported diets based on glycemic index (low vs. high). Conclusions: A healthy, balanced diet for women with PCOS requires a multifaceted approach with clear, defined goals. This leads to better results than broad, general dietary recommendations. Long-term dietary changes improve biochemical and metabolic parameters, but maintaining these benefits requires continuous patient motivation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Developments in Gynecological Endocrinology)
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16 pages, 1157 KiB  
Article
The Role of Sex Steroid Hormones in the Association Between Manganese Exposure and Bone Mineral Density: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013–2018
by Xiang Zhao, Jiayi Li, Jincong Yu, Yinhui Shi and Mengling Tang
Toxics 2025, 13(4), 296; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13040296 - 11 Apr 2025
Viewed by 646
Abstract
This study investigates the association between blood Mn and bone mineral density (BMD), focusing on the mediating role of sex steroids, using data from 8617 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2013–2018. Weighted multiple linear regression models were used [...] Read more.
This study investigates the association between blood Mn and bone mineral density (BMD), focusing on the mediating role of sex steroids, using data from 8617 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2013–2018. Weighted multiple linear regression models were used to examine the association of blood Mn and total BMD, and mediation analyses were used to explored the roles of total testosterone (TT), estradiol (E2), and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) in the Mn-BMD relationship, stratified by sex and menopausal status. Blood Mn was negatively associated with BMD in both sexes, with a pronounced effect in postmenopausal women. SHBG mediated 37.16% of the Mn-BMD association in men, whereas no mediating effects were found in women. E2 exhibited a significant indirect effect, suggesting that reduced E2 levels may amplify Mn’s effect on BMD. These findings indicate that Mn exposure is associated with decreased BMD, potentially through alterations in sex steroids, highlighting the importance of considering hormone status when evaluating the impact of Mn exposure on BMD. Full article
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27 pages, 1923 KiB  
Article
Urinary Iodine Concentration and Thyroid Hormone Metabolism in Pregnant Women and Neurodevelopment in Their Children: A Longitudinal Canadian Birth Cohort
by Sietske A. Berghuis, Meaghan Hall, John E. Krzeczkowski, Carly V. Goodman, Jonathan Chevrier, Pierre Ayotte, Bruce Lanphear and Christine Till
Nutrients 2025, 17(5), 830; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17050830 - 27 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1342
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone (TH) synthesis, and THs in pregnant women are critical for fetal brain development. It is unclear whether urinary iodine concentrations (UICs) are associated with thyroid parameters in pregnant women and neurodevelopment in their 3–4-year-old children. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone (TH) synthesis, and THs in pregnant women are critical for fetal brain development. It is unclear whether urinary iodine concentrations (UICs) are associated with thyroid parameters in pregnant women and neurodevelopment in their 3–4-year-old children. Methods: In the Canadian Maternal–Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals (MIREC) cohort, we categorized UIC adjusted for urinary creatinine (UIC/Cr) in the first two trimesters as <150, 150–500, or ≥500 µg/g. We used multivariable regression to quantify associations between UIC/Cr and thyroid parameters in maternal plasma (n = 1501), including thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), total T4 (tT4), free T4 (fT4), thyroglobulin (Tg) and Tg antibodies (TgAb), and thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb). We defined positive thyroid autoantibodies as TgAb ≥ 4.11 or TPOAb ≥ 5.61 IU/mL. We also examined the associations between UIC/Cr with the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence (n = 503), Behavior Assessment System for Children (n = 751), and the Social Responsiveness Scale (n = 498). Results: Twenty-two percent of women had UIC/Cr < 150 and 17% ≥ 500 µg/g. UIC/Cr was not associated with TSH, tT4, or fT4. After excluding women with positive thyroid autoantibodies, those with UIC/Cr < 150 µg/g had higher tT4 compared to those with 150–500 µg/g. Compared to women with UIC/Cr 150–500 µg/g, those with UIC/Cr < 150 had higher Tg and, those with UIC/Cr ≥ 500 had less frequent positive thyroid autoantibodies. Neurodevelopmental outcomes were not associated with maternal Tg, nor did they differ for maternal UIC/Cr < 150 and ≥500 compared to 150–500 µg/g. Conclusions: In this cohort, Tg and tT4 were higher in women with UIC/Cr < 150 µg/g compared to those with UIC/Cr 150–500 µg/g. Urinary iodine in pregnant women was not associated with neurodevelopment in their 3–4-year-old children. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Iodine Nutrition During Pregnancy, Lactation and Early Life)
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13 pages, 265 KiB  
Article
Hormones, Age, and Erectile Dysfunction: Should Routine Testing Be Part of the Initial Evaluation?
by Daniel Porav-Hodade, Raul Dumitru Gherasim, Irina Bianca Kosovski, Toader Septimiu Voidazan, Nicolae Crisan, Petrut Bogdan, Radu Galis, Bogdan Ovidiu Feciche, Mártha Orsolya Katalin Ilona and Ciprian Todea-Moga
Diagnostics 2025, 15(3), 294; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15030294 - 27 Jan 2025
Viewed by 2625
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between age, the severity of erectile dysfunction (ED), and the various hormones that may influence erectile function. Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2015 and December 2023. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between age, the severity of erectile dysfunction (ED), and the various hormones that may influence erectile function. Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2015 and December 2023. The study assessed age, sexual function using the IIEF-15 questionnaire, and the levels of total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), FSH, LH, estradiol, prolactin (PRL), and SHBG. Results: A total of 411 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 63.19 years. The vast majority (91.73%) exhibited some degree of ED. The severity of ED increases with age, ranging from 56.26 years for patients without ED to 73.12 years for those with severe ED. A statistically significant negative correlation was observed between IIEF and age, while a positive correlation was observed between IIEF and serum levels of TT and FT (p < 0.05). Age was significantly correlated with all evaluated hormones (p < 0.01), except estradiol and prolactin. Total testosterone levels progressively decreased with the increase in the severity of erectile dysfunction, from a median of 7.05 ng/mL in patients with normal erectile function to 3.56 ng/mL in those with severe symptoms, remaining above the normal minimum threshold across all groups, whereas free testosterone (FT) levels also declined progressively. All erectile dysfunction groups had median FT levels below the normal minimum threshold. FSH, LH, and SHBG showed an increase with each progressive severity of erectile dysfunction. The multivariate linear regression revealed that IIEF scores are significantly associated with age, TT, and FT levels, while FSH did not present a statistically significant association in this model. Conclusions: Age shows a significant statistical correlation with both the severity of erectile dysfunction and the levels of total testosterone, free testosterone, LH, FSH, and SHBG. Total and free testosterone levels are significantly associated with the severity of erectile dysfunction, with free testosterone median values remaining above the normal minimum threshold in all patients with erectile dysfunction. Therefore, free testosterone should be considered a routine test, alongside total testosterone. In contrast, LH, estradiol, SHBG, and prolactin do not demonstrate any statistical correlation with erectile dysfunction and should not be recommended as routine investigations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Role of Diagnostic Biochemistry)
14 pages, 278 KiB  
Article
Deciphering the Psychological Characteristics of Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy and Acute Myocardial Infarction
by Maria Casagrande, Giuseppe Forte, Francesca Favieri, Alessandro Mingarelli, Francesca Agostini, Luca Arcari, Ilaria Passaseo, Raffaella Semeraro, Giovanni Camastra, Viviana Langher and Luca Cacciotti
J. Pers. Med. 2025, 15(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm15010006 - 27 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1076
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) shares many clinical features with acute myocardial infarction (AMI); however, its underlying pathophysiology remains elusive due to specific characteristics (i.e., reversibility, presence of stressors, and low mortality rate). Emerging evidence suggests that TTS often emerges following significant somatic, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) shares many clinical features with acute myocardial infarction (AMI); however, its underlying pathophysiology remains elusive due to specific characteristics (i.e., reversibility, presence of stressors, and low mortality rate). Emerging evidence suggests that TTS often emerges following significant somatic, emotional, or psychological stressors. Several studies have investigated the biological factors that may contribute to the onset of TTS, including the release of stress hormones. However, the psychological characteristics associated with TTS, which may be useful for differentiating TTS from other cardiovascular conditions, remain poorly explored. This study aims to overcome these limitations by evaluating whether certain psychological features may allow this specific clinical condition to be differentiated from other cardiovascular conditions. Methods: This study compared three groups of individuals: patients with TTS (N = 56), patients with AMI (N = 52), and individuals without a history of cardiovascular disease (N = 56). Patients were examined three months after the acute phases. The objective was to identify and examine multiple psychological factors involved in TTS, including state and trait anxiety, symptoms of depression, psychological symptoms, distress, perceived social support, and health locus of control. Results: The results indicate that patients with TTS exhibited higher levels of somatization, trait anxiety, obsessive-compulsiveness, and overall psychological distress than patients with AMI and control groups. These findings were associated with an internal health locus of control and low-risk lifestyles. Conclusions: This psychological exploration of TTS reveals a multifaceted relationship between the mind and the heart, challenging traditional notions of cardiovascular pathophysiology and suggesting the importance of considering the cardio-psychological health of patients in both preventive and intervention programs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Medicine, Cell, and Organism Physiology)
15 pages, 1515 KiB  
Review
Turner Syndrome and the Thyroid Function—A Systematic and Critical Review
by Katarzyna Lacka, Nikola Pempera, Alicja Główka, Agnieszka Mariowska and Miłosz Miedziaszczyk
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(23), 12937; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252312937 - 2 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2447
Abstract
Turner syndrome (TS) is associated with thyroid disorders. Since the rate of thyroid disease among patients with this syndrome is significantly higher as compared to the general population, it seems vital to explore this particular area. This systematic and critical review was performed [...] Read more.
Turner syndrome (TS) is associated with thyroid disorders. Since the rate of thyroid disease among patients with this syndrome is significantly higher as compared to the general population, it seems vital to explore this particular area. This systematic and critical review was performed to evaluate thyroid function and autoimmunity in patients with Turner syndrome. Four databases were searched: PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library from the onset of the study to July 2024. Two independent researchers manually searched databases for the following keywords: “Turner syndrome”, “anti-TPO”, “anti-Tg”, “autoimmune thyroid disorders”, “TSH”, and “hypothyroidism”, which were entered into the search engine in isolation, as well as in combinations. Criteria incorporating information on thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (total—TT3), and thyroxine (free and total—fT4, TT4) concentrations among patients and control groups were also included. Thyroid diseases are common in patients with Turner syndrome. Women with TS present both higher TSH levels and positive thyroid antibodies concentrations. Typical thyroid ultrasound heterogeneity with a hypogenic or mixed echopattern was also observed. As a result, it is essential to monitor thyroid hormone levels in this group, in order to detect hypothyroidism earlier and initiate appropriate replacement therapy. Thyroid diseases in women with TS may remain underdiagnosed for a number of years, due to the lack of screening. Therefore, the authors suggest a thyroid screening regimen for TS patients, which allows for early detection of the disease and implementation of treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Endocrinology and Metabolism)
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17 pages, 9301 KiB  
Article
Molecular Functional and Transcriptome Analysis of Arabidopsis thaliana Overexpression BrBBX21 from Zicaitai (Brassica rapa var. purpuraria)
by Mei Fu, Mengting Lu, Juxian Guo, Shizheng Jiang, Imran Khan, Umer Karamat and Guihua Li
Plants 2024, 13(23), 3306; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13233306 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1270
Abstract
B-box transcription factors (TFs) in plants are essential for circadian rhythm regulation, abiotic stress responses, hormonal signaling pathways, secondary metabolism, photomorphogenesis, and anthocyanin formation. Here, by blasting the AtBBX21 gene sequence, we identified a total of 18 BBX21 genes from five distinct Brassica [...] Read more.
B-box transcription factors (TFs) in plants are essential for circadian rhythm regulation, abiotic stress responses, hormonal signaling pathways, secondary metabolism, photomorphogenesis, and anthocyanin formation. Here, by blasting the AtBBX21 gene sequence, we identified a total of 18 BBX21 genes from five distinct Brassica species (Arabidopsis thaliana, Brassica rapa, Brassica oleracea, Brassica napus, and Brassica juncea). The BrBBX21-1 gene is most closely linked to the AtBBX21 gene based on phylogeny and protein sequence similarities. The BrBBX21-1 gene, which encodes a polypeptide of 319 amino acids, was identified from Zicaitai (Brassica rapa ssp. purpuraria) and functionally characterized. BrBBX21-1 was localized within the nucleus, and its overexpression in Arabidopsis augmented anthocyanin accumulation in both leaves and seeds. We further performed an RNA-seq analysis between the BrBBX21-OE and WT A. thaliana to identify the key regulators involved in anthocyanin accumulation. In detail, a total of 7583 genes demonstrated differential expression, comprising 4351 that were upregulated and 3232 that were downregulated. Out of 7583 DEGs, 81 F-box protein genes and 9 B-box protein genes were either up- or downregulated. Additionally, 7583 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were associated with 109 KEGG pathways, notably including plant hormone signal transduction, the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, metabolic pathways, glutathione metabolism, and starch and sucrose metabolism, which were considerably enriched. A transcriptome analysis led us to identify several structural genes, including DFRA, GSTF12, UGT75C1, FLS1, CHI1, 4CL3, and PAL1, and transcription factors, MYB90, TT8, and HY5, that are regulated by the overexpression of the BrBBX21-1 gene and involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis. Altogether, these findings demonstrate the beneficial regulatory function of BrBBX21-1 in anthocyanin accumulation and offer valuable information about the basis for breeding superior Brassica crops. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Growth and Development of Vegetable Crops)
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12 pages, 309 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Vitamin D Receptor Gene Polymorphisms (FokI, ApaI, TaqI) in Correlation with Oxidative Stress and Hormonal and Dermatologic Manifestations in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
by Vulcan Talida, Suciu Sergiu Tudor, Iancu Mihaela, Mitrea Daniela-Rodica, Filip Gabriela A. and Procopciuc Lucia Maria
Medicina 2024, 60(9), 1501; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60091501 - 14 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1448
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a frequent and complex multidisciplinary disorder. Data regarding the role of genes involved in vitamin D metabolism in PCOS are as-yet elusive but suggest an association of VDR (vitamin D receptor) and vitamin D [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a frequent and complex multidisciplinary disorder. Data regarding the role of genes involved in vitamin D metabolism in PCOS are as-yet elusive but suggest an association of VDR (vitamin D receptor) and vitamin D levels with metabolic, endocrine and cutaneous manifestations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between VDR gene polymorphisms and cutaneous manifestations, to find a correlation between hormonal parameters, oxidative stress and skin manifestations in women with PCOS, and to determine the impact of VDR gene polymorphisms on these parameters. Materials and Methods: This case–control study included 39 controls and 46 women with PCOS, matched by age and BMI distribution. Acne, hirsutism, seborrhea, androgenetic alopecia, oxidative stress and androgen hormones were recorded. VDR gene polymorphisms ApaI, FokI and TaqI were examined by polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism, and the androgen hormone (total testosterone, DHEAS), SHBG and malondialdehyde levels were assessed. Results: The most frequent skin manifestations in PCOS cases were acne followed by seborrhea, hirsutism and androgenic alopecia. The VDR-FokI polymorphism CC genotype had a significant protective role in the odds of acne (OR = 0.11, 95% CI: [0.02, 0.70], p = 0.015, p-corrected = 0.040) and seborrhea (OR = 0.15, 95% CI: [0.03, 0.75], p = 0.019, p-corrected = 0.039). The results demonstrated a significant protective effect of the C allele on the odds of acne and seborrhea in PCOS cases. Moreover, the dominant genotype of VDR-TaqI could have a protective role against oxidative stress (lower MDA levels) compared to patients carrying the TT genotype. Conclusions: In summary, this is the first study to demonstrate that the FokI CC genotype may have a protective role against both acne and seborrhea in women with PCOS, while the VDR-TaqI dominant genotype is associated with diminished oxidative stress in PCOS patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Dermatology)
20 pages, 2673 KiB  
Article
Effect of Presence of Uni- or Bilateral Thyroid Adenoma on Recovery of Pituitary–Thyroid Axis and Creatinine Concentration in Radioiodine-Treated Cats
by Anna Paulina Menzel, Joanna Lin, Arne Güssow, Ve Patzelt, Natali Bauer and Katarina Hazuchova
Animals 2024, 14(18), 2627; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14182627 - 10 Sep 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1200
Abstract
Radioiodine therapy (RAIT) is the gold standard for treatment of hyperthyroidism in cats. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the presence of uni- or bilateral thyroid adenoma on changes in total thyroxine (TT4), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and creatinine [...] Read more.
Radioiodine therapy (RAIT) is the gold standard for treatment of hyperthyroidism in cats. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the presence of uni- or bilateral thyroid adenoma on changes in total thyroxine (TT4), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and creatinine concentration over a period of 6 to 12 months following RAIT. Fifty-one hyperthyroid cats presented for RAIT between April 2021 and April 2022 were prospectively enrolled. Cats with an increased creatinine concentration (creatinine ≥ 140 µmol/L), renal morphology abnormalities, and suspected thyroid carcinoma were excluded. TT4, TSH, and creatinine were determined before and one week and one, three, six, and twelve months following RAIT. The effects of the re-examination timepoint following RAIT and the presence of uni- or bilateral thyroid adenoma based on technetium-99m scintigraphy on TT4, TSH, and creatinine were analysed by mixed effects modelling. Cats with bilateral adenoma had significantly higher TSH concentrations after RAIT compared to those with unilateral adenoma. TT4 concentration significantly decreased one week (p < 0.001) and again one month following RAIT (p < 0.001). TSH and creatinine concentration significantly increased one month post RAIT (both p < 0.001). As indicated by an increase in TSH concentration, the pituitary–thyroid axis needs a minimum of one month post RAIT to recover from hyperthyroidism-induced suppression, but hypothyroidism necessitating levothyroxine supplementation might not be diagnosed before 6 or even 12 months post RAIT. Although creatinine did not increase significantly after one month post RAIT in this cohort, an increased creatinine concentration was detected at later timepoints in individual cats. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Companion Animals)
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