Experiencias y conocimientos, sobre salud sexual y reproductiva en personas con discapacidad en Ecuador / Experiences and knowledge about sexual and reproductive health of people with disabilities in Ecuador / Experiências e conhecimento sobre saúde sexual e reprodutiva entre pessoas com deficiência no Equador

La discapacidad es una afección (deficiencia) que dificulta el desarrollo de las actividades cotidianas y la interacción del individuo con el entorno que lo rodea, se divide en: discapacidad física, motora, orgánica, mental, intelectual y sensorial. Objetivo: Documentar las percepciones y emociones en salud sexual y reproductiva de las personas con discapacidad del Centro diurno del Cantón Biblián. Metodología: Se trata de un estudio observacional cualitativo en el que se recopila las vivencias de 34 personas de la población con discapacidad que forman parte del Proyecto Centro diurno "San José" de Biblián, siendo seleccionados cinco participantes mediante muestreo simple no probabilístico. Hallazgos: A partir del análisis de los relatos se determina que las personas con discapacidad mantienen relaciones satisfactorias aún con las inseguridades que los rodean. Sin embargo, la exclusión dentro de sus propios hogares, la escasa información segura y la difusión mediática masiva sobre la sexualidad han condicionado percepciones que los expone a un nivel elevado de vulnerabilidad. A manera de Conclusión: En varias ocasiones existen prejuicios y tabúes al hablar de sexualidad con personas con discapacidad en los diferentes hogares, los familiares optan por no responder interrogantes relacionadas, por eso el personal de salud cumple un rol muy importante al brindar la educación necesaria para generar personas independientes que vivan plenamente en la sociedad sin importar su condición

Disability is a condition (impairment) that hinders the development of daily activities and the interaction of the individual with the surrounding environment, it is divided into: physical, motor, organic, mental, intellectual and sensory disability. Objective: To document the perceptions and emotions on sexual and reproductive health of people with disabilities in the Biblián Canton Day Center. Methodology: This is a qualitative observational study in which the experiences of 34 people from the population with disabilities who are part of the Project Day Center "San José" of Biblián are collected, with five participants being selected through simple non-probabilistic sampling. Findings: From the analysis of the narratives, it is determined that people with disabilities maintain satisfactory relationships even with the insecurities that surround them. However, exclusion within their own homes, scarce safe information and mass media dissemination about sexuality have conditioned perceptions that expose them to a high level of vulnerability. By way of conclusion: On several occasions there are prejudices and taboos when talking about sexuality with people with disabilities in different homes, family members choose not to answer related questions, so health personnel play a very important role in providing the necessary education to generate independent people who live fully in society regardless of their condition

A deficiência é uma condição (impedimento) que dificulta o desenvolvimento das atividades cotidianas e a interação do indivíduo com o ambiente que o cerca. Ela se divide em: deficiência física, motora, orgânica, mental, intelectual e sensorial. Objetivo: documentar as percepções e emoções sobre saúde sexual e reprodutiva de pessoas com deficiência no Centro de Dia do Cantão de Biblián. Metodologia: trata-se de um estudo observacional qualitativo no qual são compiladas as experiências de 34 pessoas da população com deficiência que fazem parte do Projeto Centro de Dia "San José" em Biblián, sendo que cinco participantes foram selecionados por meio de amostragem simples não probabilística. Achados: A partir da análise das histórias, constatou-se que as pessoas com deficiência mantêm relacionamentos satisfatórios mesmo com as inseguranças que as cercam. Entretanto, a exclusão dentro de suas próprias casas, a escassez de informações seguras e a cobertura da sexualidade pela mídia de massa condicionaram percepções que as expõem a um alto nível de vulnerabilidade. Conclusão: Em várias ocasiões, há preconceitos e tabus ao falar sobre sexualidade com pessoas com deficiência em diferentes lares, e os membros da família optam por não responder às perguntas relacionadas, razão pela qual a equipe de saúde desempenha um papel muito importante ao fornecer a educação necessária para gerar pessoas independentes que vivem plenamente na sociedade, independentemente de sua condição

Experiencias y conocimientos, sobre salud sexual y reproductiva en personas con discapacidad en Ecuador

La discapacidad es una afección (deficiencia) que dificulta el desarrollo de las actividades cotidianas y la interacción del individuo con el entorno que lo rodea, se divide en: discapacidad física, motora, orgánica, mental, intelectual y sensorial. Objetivo: Documentar las percepciones y emociones en salud sexual y reproductiva de las personas con discapacidad del Centro diurno del Cantón Biblián. Metodología: Se trata de un estudio observacional cualitativo en el que se recopila las vivencias de 34 personas de la población con discapacidad que forman parte del Proyecto Centro diurno "San José" de Biblián, siendo seleccionados cinco participantes mediante muestreo simple no probabilístico. Hallazgos: A partir del análisis de los relatos se determina que las personas con discapacidad mantienen relaciones satisfactorias aún con las inseguridades que los rodean. Sin embargo, la exclusión dentro de sus propios hogares, la escasa información segura y la difusión mediática masiva sobre la sexualidad han condicionado percepciones que los expone a un nivel elevado de vulnerabilidad. A manera de Conclusión: En varias ocasiones existen prejuicios y tabúes al hablar de sexualidad con personas con discapacidad en los diferentes hogares, los familiares optan por no responder interrogantes relacionadas, por eso el personal de salud cumple un rol muy importante al brindar la educación necesaria para generar personas independientes que vivan plenamente en la sociedad sin importar su condición.

Disability is a condition (impairment) that hinders the development of daily activities and the interaction of the individual with the surrounding environment, it is divided into: physical, motor, organic, mental, intellectual and sensory disability. Objective: To document the perceptions and emotions on sexual and reproductive health of people with disabilities in the Biblián Canton Day Center. Methodology: This is a qualitative observational study in which the experiences of 34 people from the population with disabilities who are part of the Project Day Center "San José" of Biblián are collected, with five participants being selected through simple non-probabilistic sampling. Findings: From the analysis of the narratives, it is determined that people with disabilities maintain satisfactory relationships even with the insecurities that surround them. However, exclusion within their own homes, scarce safe information and mass media dissemination about sexuality have conditioned perceptions that expose them to a high level of vulnerability. By way of conclusion: On several occasions there are prejudices and taboos when talking about sexuality with people with disabilities in different homes, family members choose not to answer related questions, so health personnel play a very important role in providing the necessary education to generate independent people who live fully in society regardless of their condition.

A deficiência é uma condição (impedimento) que dificulta o desenvolvimento das atividades cotidianas e a interação do indivíduo com o ambiente que o cerca. Ela se divide em: deficiência física, motora, orgânica, mental, intelectual e sensorial. Objetivo: documentar as percepções e emoções sobre saúde sexual e reprodutiva de pessoas com deficiência no Centro de Dia do Cantão de Biblián. Metodologia: trata-se de um estudo observacional qualitativo no qual são compiladas as experiências de 34 pessoas da população com deficiência que fazem parte do Projeto Centro de Dia "San José" em Biblián, sendo que cinco participantes foram selecionados por meio de amostragem simples não probabilística. Achados: A partir da análise das histórias, constatou-se que as pessoas com deficiência mantêm relacionamentos satisfatórios mesmo com as inseguranças que as cercam. Entretanto, a exclusão dentro de suas próprias casas, a escassez de informações seguras e a cobertura da sexualidade pela mídia de massa condicionaram percepções que as expõem a um alto nível de vulnerabilidade. Conclusão: Em várias ocasiões, há preconceitos e tabus ao falar sobre sexualidade com pessoas com deficiência em diferentes lares, e os membros da família optam por não responder às perguntas relacionadas, razão pela qual a equipe de saúde desempenha um papel muito importante ao fornecer a educação necessária para gerar pessoas independentes que vivem plenamente na sociedade, independentemente de sua condição.

Preliminary study of the population and reproductive dynamics of Echinaster sepositus (Spinulosida: Echinasteridae) in Cala del Racó / Estudio preliminar de la población y dinámica reproductiva de Echinaster sepositus (Spinulosida: Echinasteridae) en Cala del Racó

Abstract Introduction: The red starfish (Echinaster sepositus) is one of the most common asteroid species in the Mediterranean Sea. However, information about their biology or their role in benthic communities is scarce. Objective: This study aims to provide new information on the ecology of this species through the temporal characterization of the population of E. sepositus in Cala del Racó (Alicante, Spain) and the in situ monitoring of its reproductive cycle. Methods: For this purpose, three study areas were established at different depths. For each of the recorded starfish, data about the size, the substrate on which it was found, the area, the depth and the sex in the case of observing the reproduction were collected. Results: A total of 19 samplings have been carried out throughout a year of study. In this way, it has been possible to observe that the density of individuals increases in the shallower zone during autumn and winter, when the temperature drops to 14.13 ºC, while it decreases in spring and summer when the temperature rises to 27.17 ºC. Those results are reversed in the deepest part of the study. The highest density of individuals (0.51 ind/m2) occurred in October. Arborescent photophilic algae and crustose coralline algae were the substrates with the highest number of E. sepositus recorded. Medium to large specimens are located preferably on crustose coralline algae or arborescent photophilic algae, while smaller individuals were mostly located on Posidonia oceanica. No specimens of E. sepositus were observed spawning. Conclusions: Data leads to assume that there is a migration of starfishes towards more superficial areas when the water is at colder temperature and towards deeper areas when the temperature increases. It is valued the possibility that there is a change in the nutritional needs of E. sepositus throughout its development. According to our observations, the future reproduction studies should be concentrated between late-summer and early-autumn.

Resumen Introducción: La estrella de mar roja (Echinaster sepositus) es una de las especies de asteroideos más comunes del mar Mediterráneo. Sin embargo, la información sobre su biología o su papel en las comunidades bentónicas es escasa. Objetivo: Este estudio pretende aportar nueva información sobre la ecología de esta especie mediante la caracterización temporal de la población de E. sepositus en la Cala del Racó (Alicante, España) y el monitoreo in situ de su ciclo reproductivo. Métodos: Con este fin se establecieron tres zonas de estudio a distintas profundidades. Para cada una de las estrellas registradas se tomaron datos de tamaño, el sustrato sobre el que se encuentra, la zona, la profundidad y el sexo en caso de observar la reproducción. Resultados: A lo largo de un año de estudio se han realizado un total de 19 muestreos. De esta forma se ha podido observar que la densidad de individuos aumenta en la zona menos profunda durante otoño e invierno, cuando la temperatura del agua baja hasta los 14.13 ºC, mientras que se reduce en primavera y verano, cuando la temperatura se eleva hasta los 27.17 ºC. Este resultado se invierte en la zona más profunda del estudio. La mayor densidad de individuos ha sido observada en octubre (0.51 ind/m2). Las algas fotófilas arborescentes y las algas coralinales costrosas han sido los sustratos con un mayor número de E. sepositus registrados. Los ejemplares de tamaños medianos a grandes se localizan preferentemente sobre algas coralinales costrosas o algas fotófilas arborescentes, mientras que los individuos de menor tamaño se sitúan mayormente sobre Posidonia oceanica. No se observaron ejemplares de E. sepositus reproduciéndose. Conclusiones: Los datos permiten presuponer que existe una migración entre las zonas más superficiales, cuando la temperatura del agua es menor, y zonas más profundas cuando la temperatura aumenta. Se valora la posibilidad de la existencia de un cambio en los requerimientos nutricionales de E. sepositus a lo largo de su desarrollo. De acuerdo con nuestras observaciones, los estudios futuros sobre la reproducción de esta especie deben concentrarse entre finales de verano y principios de otoño.

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.

Effects of Bushen Zhuyun Prescription on Endometrial Angiogenesis by Regulating Mitochondrial Function / 中国中医药信息杂志

Objective To observe the effects of Bushen Zhuyun Prescription on regulating mitochondrial function and endometrial angiogenesis;To explore its mechanism of improving endometrial receptivity.Methods The mouse model of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation(COH)was established,and the mice were randomly divided into normal group,model group,and Bushen group,with 20 mice in each group.Bushen group received Bushen Zhuyun Prescription for gavage for 11 d,and the normal group and model group received normal saline for gavage.The number of embryo implantation was counted,the endometrial morphology was observed by HE staining,α-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA)expression was observed by immunofluorescence staining.Human endometrial microvascular endothelial cells(HEMECs)were cultured in vitro,they were divided into control group,VEGFA group,Bushen group and VEGFA + Bushen group,and were intervened with VEGFA and/or Bushen Zhuyun Prescription medicated serum.The activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes Ⅰ-Ⅳ,the content of ATP,the expression of PCNA and Caspase-3 were detected.Results Animal experiment showed that,compared with the normal group,the number of embryo implantation in model group significantly decreased(P<0.05),α-SMA protein expression in endometrial tissue significantly decreased(P<0.05);compared with the model group,the number of embryo implantation in Bushen group significantly increased(P<0.05),α-SMA protein expression in endometrial tissue significantly increased(P<0.05).Cell experiment showed that,Bushen Zhuyun Prescription medicated serum could increase the activity of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes Ⅰ-Ⅳ and ATP content in HEMECs,promote PCNA protein expression,and inhibit Caspase-3 protein expression(P<0.05,P<0.01).Conclusion Bushen Zhuyun Prescription can promote endometrial angiogenesis through improving mitochondrial function.

Exploration on Acupuncture and Moxibustion Treatment Ideas for Gynecological Reproductive Diseases Based on the"Heart-kidney-Chong Ren-uterus"Reproductive Axis / 中国中医药信息杂志

This article mainly elaborated the acupuncture and moxibustion treatment scheme of"eighteen needles for reproduction"based on Professor You Zhaoling's reproductive axis theory of"heart-kidney-Chong Ren-uterus".The"eighteen needles for reproduction"aims to regulate the disordered reproductive axis in gynecological reproductive diseases.It selects the acupoints on the main viscera and meridians of the reproductive axis as the main acupoints,and the acupoints regulating the qi and blood of the related viscera as the matching acupoints.Through specific manipulation,it can regulate the qi and blood,dredge the meridians,and treat the viscera,so as to nourish the essence and help pregnancy,and provide ideas and reference for the treatment of gynecological reproductive diseases with acupuncture and moxibustion.

Effects of Basal LH and Different LH/FSH Ratio Levels on Assisted Reproduc-tive Pregnancy Outcomes in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / 实用妇产科杂志

Objective:To investigate the effects of basal luteinizing hormone(bLH)and different luteinizing hor-mone/follicle stimulating hormone ratio(LH/FSH)on the pregnancy outcome of in vitro fertilization or intracyto-plasmic sperm injection(IVF/ICSI)in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS).Methods:From July 2013 to January 2020,424 PCOS patients who underwent flexible gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocol for ovulation induction in first IVF/ICSI were collected retrospectively from the department of reproductive medi-cine,The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University.The patients were divided into normal bLH(LH≤10 U/L,316 cases)and high bLH(LH>10 U/L,108 cases)group according to different levels of bLH;At the same time,according to the different levels of LH/FSH ratio,they were divided into low ratio(LH/FSH≤1,227 cases)group,median ratio(1<LH/FSH<2,142 cases)group and high ratio(LH/FSH≥2,55 cases)group.The general condition,ovulation induction and pregnancy outcomes of the groups were analyzed and compared Binary Logistic regression was used to analyze the related factors affecting live birth.Results:①The basal FSH and AMH in high bLH group were higher than those in normal bLH group,and the difference was statistically significant(P<0.05).In terms of ovarian induction,the number of oocytes retrieved and endometrial thickness on HCG injection day in the high bLH group were smaller than those in the normal bLH group,but the total duration of antagonist used was longer and the differences were statistically significant(P<0.05).Furthermore the pregnancy outcomes of the two groups had no statistical difference(P>0.05).②Compared with patients in different LH/FSH ratio groups,the high ratio group had higher AMH and antral follicle count(AFC)than the other two groups,and the differences were statistically significant(P<0.05).In terms of ovulation induction,the high ratio group had lower numbers of retrieved eggs,transferred embryos,and endometrial thickness on HCG day compared to the other two groups,with statistically significant differences(P<0.05).There was no statistically significant difference in pregnancy outcome indicators among the three groups of patients(P>0.05).③Binary Logistic regression analy-sis showed no significant correlation between live birth rate and bLH,LH/FSH ratio(P>0.05),but the live birth rate was related to the number of embryos transferred(P<0.05).Conclusions:Elevated bLH level and LH/FSH ratio may affect the outcomes of ovulation induction in women with PCOS(such as the number of oocytes re-trieved and endometrial thickness on HCG injection day),but there is no significant correlation with live birth rate of assisted reproduction.

Ethical Issues in the Application of IVF from the Perspective of Females Undergoing IVF / 中国医学伦理学

Infertile women experience complex biological and social experiences in the process of receiving IVF. From the perspective of females undergoing IVF, it is helpful to analyze the ethical and social problems that IVF may face more intuitively and concretely. In this study, 213 women who were undergoing IVF were randomly selected to carry out a questionnaire survey. The results showed that the choice of IVF for infertile women was driven by multiple pressures from family and society, not entirely on their own; They are not aware of the technology, but have a positive attitude, and are eager to be fully informed in the treatment process. In addition, the treatment brings great economic pressure to women who were undergoing IVF and has no significant impact on the relationship between husband and wife. Only by paying attention to the above problems and solving them can we benefit more infertile women and help them realize their reproductive wishes.

Concentrations and sociodemographic determinants of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in women pregnant using assisted reproduction technology in comparison with women pregnant naturally / 环境与职业医学

Background Per- and polyfuoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are categorized as persistent organic pollutants and commonly detected in humans, and their toxicity has attracted widespread attention. However, few studies have reported comparison of PFAS levels and potential factors between women pregnant using assisted reproduction technology (ART) and women pregnant naturally. Objective To analyze and compare serum concentrations and sociodemographic determinants of PFAS in pregnant women conceiving through ART and conceiving naturally from Shanghai. Methods Based on the China National Birth Cohort (CNBC) in Shanghai from 2017 to 2019, 333 pregnant women conceiving through ART and 689 pregnant women conceiving naturally were recruited during the same period as study subjects. The concentrations of 32 PFAS were measured in early-pregnancy serum of all pregnant women, and four PFAS with the highest co-exposure levels in both groups were included in the subsequent analysis. Multiple linear regression models were performed to evaluate the associations of sociodemographic factors with serum PFAS concentrations in the two groups respectively. Beta coefficients and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were exponentiated to calculate the ratio of the geometric mean (GM) of PFAS concentrations after each unit change in the independent variable. Results Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), 6∶2 chlorinated polyfluoroethersulfonic acid (6∶2 Cl-PFESA), and perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS) were four major PFAS in serum of pregnant women conceiving through ART and conceiving naturally, and the concentrations of PFOA, PFOS, and 6∶2 Cl-PFESA were higher in pregnant women conceiving through ART than in pregnant women conceiving naturally (P <0.05). The results of multiple linear regression analysis showed that age at pregnancy and household income were associated with serum PFAS levels in both groups. The serum concentrations of PFOS were higher in pregnant women aged ≥35 years old who conceiving through ART (GM ratio=1.26, 95%CI: 1.04, 1.54) and conceiving naturally (GM ratio=1.24, 95%CI: 1.08, 1.42) than pregnant women aged <30 years old respectively. Pregnant women conceiving through ART and conceiving naturally whose household annual income >300000 CNY had lower serum concentrations of PFOA [GM ratio (95%CI): 0.82 (0.72, 0.95) and 0.89 (0.81, 0.97), respectively] and PFHxS [GM ratio (95%CI): 0.66 (0.51, 0.86) and 0.77 (0.66, 0.90), respectively] than those women whose household annual income <200000 CNY. Additionally, pregnant women conceiving naturally with a graduate education or above had lower serum 6∶2 Cl-PFESA concentrations than women with an education below college (GM ratio: 0.81), and multiparous pregnant women conceiving naturally had higher serum concentrations of PFOS, 6∶2 Cl-PFESA, and PFHxS than primiparous pregnant women (GM ratio: 1.14, 1.25, and 1.27 respectively). Conclusion Although differences in serum PFAS levels are found between pregnant women conceiving through ART and women conceiving naturally in this study, maternal age and household income are common determinants of PFAS exposure levels in both populations. We find no special sociodemographic factors to affect PFAS concentrations of pregnant women conceiving through ART compared to pregnant women conceiving naturally. Further research is required to explore other potential factors.

Preconceptional exposure levels and determinants of multiple pesticides among women undergoing assisted reproductive technology in Shanghai / 环境与职业医学

Background Pesticide exposure may impact the reproductive health of women undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART). However, data on pesticide exposure levels in women undergoing ART in China are scarce, and current research on influencing factors is limited. Objective To evaluate the preconceptional pesticide exposure levels and identify potential determinants among women undergoing ART. Methods This study was designed as a cross-sectional survey and recruited 508 women undergoing ART from July 2017 to December 2018 at the fertility clinic of the International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine. Gas chromatography/liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was used to determine the metabolite concentrations of organophosphate pesticides (OPs), pyrethroid pesticides (PYRs), and neonicotinoid pesticides (NEOs) in urine. The sum of molar concentrations of the three pesticide classes (∑2OPs, ∑2PYRs, and ∑2NEOs) were calculated. A questionnaire was used to collect demographic characteristics, dietary habits, and behavioral information. Multiple linear regression was employed to analyze the associations of demographic characteristics, dietary habits, and behavioral variables with the concentrations of pesticide metabolites in urine among the participants. Results The median creatinine-adjusted concentrations of ∑2OPs, ∑2PYRs, and ∑2NEOs in this study were 419.77, 2.95, and 20.36 nmol·g−1, respectively. The multiple linear regression results showed that the urinary concentration of ∑2OPs was 42.88% higher in the participants with daily vegetable intake than in those who consumed vegetables ≤3 d per week (P<0.05), and the urinary concentration of ∑2PYRs was 37.24% higher in the participants with daily fruit intake than in those who consumed fruits ≤3 d per week (P<0.01). Similarly, the urinary concentrations of ∑2NEOs were 24.51% and 29.30% higher in the participants who consumed fruits daily and 4-6 d per week, respectively, than in those who consumed fruits ≤3 d per week (P<0.05). Besides, we also found that the urinary concentration of ∑2PYRs was negatively correlated with body mass index (BMI) in the participants (P<0.05). Furthermore, the urinary concentration of ∑2NEOs was not only positively correlated with age (P<0.05), but also significantly associated with pet ownership and infertility causes among the participants. Specifically, the participants who continued to own pets after conception had a 30.11% higher urinary concentration of ∑2NEOs than those who never owned pets (P<0.05), and the participants with infertility due to female factors had a 24.10% lower urinary concentration of ∑2NEOs than those who received ART treatment for infertility caused by male factors (P<0.05). Conclusion The women undergoing ART in Shanghai are widely exposed to pesticides. Age, BMI, frequency of vegetable and fruit intake, pet ownership, and infertility causes may be related to the pesticide exposure levels in this population. However, more human data are needed to confirm these findings.

Innovative insights into extrachromosomal circular DNAs in gynecologic tumors and reproduction

Originating but free from chromosomal DNA, extrachromosomal circular DNAs (eccDNAs) are organized in circular form and have long been found in unicellular and multicellular eukaryotes. Their biogenesis and function are poorly understood as they are characterized by sequence homology with linear DNA, for which few detection methods are available. Recent advances in high-throughput sequencing technologies have revealed that eccDNAs play crucial roles in tumor formation, evolution, and drug resistance as well as aging, genomic diversity, and other biological processes, bringing it back to the research hotspot. Several mechanisms of eccDNA formation have been proposed, including the breakage-fusion-bridge (BFB) and translocation-deletion-amplification models. Gynecologic tumors and disorders of embryonic and fetal development are major threats to human reproductive health. The roles of eccDNAs in these pathological processes have been partially elucidated since the first discovery of eccDNA in pig sperm and the double minutes in ovarian cancer ascites. The present review summarized the research history, biogenesis, and currently available detection and analytical methods for eccDNAs and clarified their functions in gynecologic tumors and reproduction. We also proposed the application of eccDNAs as drug targets and liquid biopsy markers for prenatal diagnosis and the early detection, prognosis, and treatment of gynecologic tumors. This review lays theoretical foundations for future investigations into the complex regulatory networks of eccDNAs in vital physiological and pathological processes.

Monitoring the feeding and parental care behavior of a pair of free-living owls (Tyto furcata) in the nest during the reproductive period in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Abstract The American Barn Owl (Tyto furcata) lives in urban, periurban and wild environments and feeds mainly on small rodents, meaning it has great importance in the biological control of pests. The aim of this work was to describe the reproductive, parental and eating habits of a pair of American barn owls naturally living outside a residence in the urban area of the municipality of Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. A wood box was installed on an outside wall of the home, monitored by a video camera. A spreadsheet was created to keep track of the observations recorded. The female laid four eggs, and after an incubation period of 30-32 days all the eggs hatched, but only two chicks survived after cannibalism among the chicks. Initially, the male provided the food to the chicks and the female remained in the nest caring for the brood. After approximately a month, the female also began to leave the nest and return with prey, which was offered to the chicks, with the male also continuing this behavior. The chicks left the nest in September, 2017. The data obtained show the existence of cooperation and division of tasks between male and female owls during the reproductive period.

Resumo A coruja-das-torres americana (Tyto furcata) vive em ambientes urbanos e se alimenta principalmente de pequenos roedores, sendo de grande importância no controle biológico de pragas. O objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever os hábitos alimentares, parentais e reprodutivos de um casal de corujas-das-torres americanas, naturalmente vivendo fora de uma residência na zona urbana do município de Campos dos Goytacazes, estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Uma caixa de madeira foi instalada em uma parede externa da casa, monitorada por uma câmera de vídeo. Uma planilha foi criada para manter o controle das observações registradas. A fêmea pôs quatro ovos, e após período de incubação de 30-32 dias todos os ovos eclodiram, mas apenas dois filhotes sobreviveram após o canibalismo entre os filhotes. Inicialmente, o macho fornecia a comida aos filhotes e a fêmea permanecia no ninho cuidando da ninhada. Depois de cerca de um mês, a fêmea também começou a sair do ninho e voltar com a presa, que era oferecida aos filhotes, com o macho também continuando com esse comportamento. Os filhotes deixaram o ninho em setembro de 2017. Os dados obtidos mostram a existência de cooperação e divisão de tarefas entre corujas machos e fêmeas durante o período reprodutivo.

Reprodução em casais homoafetivos cisgêneros: uma revisão de escopo / Reproduction in cisgender same-sex couples: a scoping review

Resumo O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar o estado da arte sobre a reprodução homoparental cis no campo da saúde coletiva. Vinte e oito estudos abordam barreiras para a reprodução de casais homoparentais relacionadas a questões legais, éticas, técnicas e econômicas, além de preconceito e discriminação. Seis abordam facilitadores, tais como acolhimento nos serviços, disponibilidade de métodos conceptivos e contraceptivos e a capacitação de profissionais. Os achados evidenciam que a discussão se volta mais para as barreiras do que para os facilitadores. Isso pode indicar que ainda se faz necessário promover a problematização do modelo hegemônico de família nuclear e heterossexual.

Abstract The aim of this article is to present the state of the art, in the field of public health, on cis homoparental reproduction, from 28 studies addressing barriers to reproduction by homoparental couples for legal, ethical, technical or economic reasons, in addition to prejudice and discrimination. Six studies addressed facilitators, such as receptiveness in services, availability of conception and contraceptive methods and training of health professionals. The results show that the discussion has focused more on the barriers than on the facilitating factors. This may indicate a continuing need to problematise the hegemonic model of a heterosexual, nuclear family.

Fertility preservation in female cancer patients in Brazil: perceptions and attitudes of infertility specialists

Objective: Fertility preservation is a priority in oncology for female cancer patients. However, there is a lack of communication between infertility specialists and oncologists. This study aimed to evaluate infertility specialists' perceptions and experiences regarding fertility preservation. Methods: Conduct an online survey to profile infertility specialists. Participants were infertility affiliated with the Brazilian Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics Associations (FEBRASGO). The specialists received an online survey, which response rate were 30.9%, most of whom were in southern and southeastern. The survey consisted on 14 questions about the infertility specialists' location, techniques in clinical practice, treatment successful rate, patients idea, etc. Results: The average experience in human reproduction were 15.5 ± 10.2 years (mean ± standard deviation, range 1-40). Among reproductive-aged female cancer patients recommended for fertility preservation, 60.3 ± 28.8% (range 10-100%) underwent preservation procedures. Main barriers were cost (41%), oncologists' knowledge or acceptance (35%) and accessibility (9%). Most infertility specialists (58%) considered 40 years the limit for fertility preservation. Leukemia, lymphoma, breast and ovarian cancers were prioritized for fertility preservation, while lung, thyroid, gastric, and brain cancers were less relevant. Conclusion: This is the first Brazilian study about infertility specialists' perceptions on oncology patients access to fertility preservation. These patients primarily receive treatment in the public health system, while infertility specialists mainly work in the private healthcare. This healthcare mode is currently fragmented, but integrating these experts is enhancing patient access to fertility preservation. Studies on this topic are still warranted.

Glutamato monosódico y suprasistema neuroendocrinoinmune murino

Introducción: El glutamato monosódico se emplea en humanos desde el pasado siglo como potenciador del sabor. Su inoculación parenteral en murinos durante el período neonatal causa lesiones en varios núcleos hipotalámicos. Objetivo: Describir los efectos del glutamato monosódico sobre el sistema neuroendocrinoinmune en murinos. Metodos: Se realizó una revisión de artículos de libre acceso en las bases de datos PubMed y SciELO entre enero de 2013 y julio de 2020. También se examinó el texto básico de la asignatura Sangre y Sistema Inmune de la carrera de medicina. Desarrollo: Con independencia de su efecto adictivo, varios estudios defienden la inocuidad del glutamato monosódico. Sin embargo, este compuesto puede atravesar la barrera hematoencefálica de neonatos de murinos, y ocasionar trastornos metabólicos, reproductivos y del sistema inmune. Conclusiones: El glutamato monosódico en roedores causa alteraciones en los órganos que integran el suprasistema neuroendocrinoinmune y, por tanto, afecta sus funciones homeostáticas. Los mecanismos patogénicos no se conocen con exactitud.

Introduction: Monosodium glutamate has been used in humans since the last century as a flavor enhancer. Its parenteral inoculation in murine during the neonatal period causes lesions in several hypothalamic nuclei. Objective: To describe the effects of monosodium glutamate on the neuroendocrine immune system in murine samples. Methods: A review of open access articles in the PubMed and SciELO databases was conducted between January 2013 and July 2020. The basic text of the Blood and Immune System course of the medical school was also reviewed. Development: Regardless of its addictive effect, several studies defend the safety of monosodium glutamate. However, this compound can cross the blood-brain barrier of murine neonates, causing metabolic, reproductive and immune system disorders. Conclusions: Monosodium glutamate in rodents causes alterations in the organs that make up the neuroendocrine-immune suprasystem and, therefore, affects their homeostatic functions. The pathogenic mechanisms are not known exactly.

O trabalho feminino assalariado: a dialética na produção e reprodução / Salaried female work: the dialectic in production and reproduction

Resumo: Neste texto, estamos trazendo alguns apontamentos baseados nas obras de Marx sobre trabalho produtivo e improdutivo. Refletimos também sobre aquele trabalho não remunerado realizado pela mulher no espaço doméstico. Com este pano de fundo, estamos dialogando criticamente com o texto "Salários contra o trabalho doméstico" ("Wages against housework"), presente no livro O ponto zero da revolução: trabalho doméstico, reprodução e luta feminista, de Silvia Federici.

Abstract: In this text we are bringing some notes based on Marx, about productive and unproductive work. We also reflect on the unpaid work performed by women in the domestic space. And against this backdrop, we are critically dialoguing with the text "Wages against housework", present in the book Revolution at point zero: housework, reproduction and feminist struggle by Silvia Federici.

O pequeno Édipo: a escuta de uma criança que "desconhece a sua origem" / Little Oedipus: listening to a child who "does not know his origin" / El pequeño Edipo: escuchando a un Niño que "No conoce su Origen" / Le petit Oedipe: l'écoute d'un enfant qui « ne connaît pas son origine ¼

Resumo Este estudo é um relato de experiência referente a um acompanhamento psicoterápico realizado com um menino de 9 anos, gerado por meio das tecnologias reprodutivas e que desconhece sua concepção. As discussões apresentadas emergiram durante as supervisões de estágio supervisionado em um serviço-escola de psicologia no período de maio a novembro de 2019. Durante as sessões, a criança trazia conteúdos a respeito de mitologia, natureza, filmes e jogos que, ao serem explorados em setting analítico, desvelaram o seu interesse em questões da sexualidade, da origem dos bebês e de sua própria concepção. Por meio deste relato, espera-se colaborar com reflexões sobre a omissão da concepção, em específico a reprodução assistida, e, ainda, possibilitar um aumento e uma atualização de estudos sobre a clínica psicanalítica com crianças no Brasil, de forma que venha a promover novas perspectivas de análise e contribuições.

Abstract This experience report refers to a psychotherapeutic counseling attended by a nine-year-old boy conceived through reproductive technologies and unaware of his conception. The discussions presented here emerged during a supervised internship at a Psychology School Service from May to November 2019. During the sessions, the child alluded to mythology, nature, movies and games contents which when explored in an analytical setting unveiled his interest in issues of sexuality, the origin of babies, and his own conception. We expect this report to collaborate with reflections on the omission of conception, especially in the context of assisted reproduction, and to increase and update child psychoanalytic research in Brazil, as to promote new perspectives of analysis.

Resumen Este estudio presenta un reporte de experiencia sobre un seguimiento psicoterapéutico de un niño de 9 años, generado mediante tecnologías reproductivas y que no conoce su concepción. Las discusiones presentadas surgieron durante las prácticas supervisadas en un Servicio Escolar de Psicología en el período de mayo a noviembre de 2019. Durante las sesiones, el niño trajo contenido sobre mitología, naturaleza, películas y juegos, que cuando se exploraba en un entorno analítico reveló su interés en temas de sexualidad, de origen de los bebés y de su propia concepción. Se espera mediante este reporte colaborar con las reflexiones sobre la omisión de la concepción, específicamente a la reproducción asistida, y también permitir un aumento y actualización de estudios de la clínica psicoanalítica infantil en Brasil, para que así se promuevan nuevas perspectivas de análisis y contribuciones.

Résumé Ce rapport d'expérience fait référence à un suivi psychothérapeutique réalisé avec un garçon de neuf ans conçu par des technologies de la reproduction et n'ayant pas conscience de sa conception. Les discussions présentées ici ont émergé lors d'un stage supervisé dans un service scolaire de psychologie de mai à novembre 2019. Au cours des séances, l'enfant a fait allusion à des informations sur la mythologie, la nature, les films et les jeux qui, lorsqu'il ont été explorés dans un cadre analytique, ont dévoilé son intérêt pour les questions de sexualité, l'origine des bébés et sa propre conception. Nous espérons que ce rapport collaborera avec les réflexions sur l'omission de la conception, en particulier dans le contexte de la procréation assistée, et qu'il augmentera et mettra à jour la recherche psychanalytique sur l'enfant au Brésil, afin de promouvoir de nouvelles perspectives d'analyse et de contributions.

Heteronormatividad en el grupo y asunto de las políticas de salud sexual y reproductiva: una primera discusión teórica / Heteronormativity in the group and issue of sexual and reproductive health policies: a first theoretical discussion / Heteronormatividade no grupo e a questão de políticas de saúde sexual e reprodutiva: uma primeira discussão teórica

Resumen Este artículo tiene el objetivo de realizar una primera discusión teórica, alrededor de la pregunta ¿Cómo la heteronormatividad influencia el objeto y destinatario de las políticas pública de salud sexual y reproductiva? Para estos efectos se pretenden abordar los siguientes aspectos; primero, problematizar a la heteronormatividad como factor incidente en el manejo de la sexualidad como asunto, en tanto interfiere en las discusiones que aborda la política, el enfoque que ha tomado y las temáticas que se presentan por los actores. En este sentido, la perspectiva histórica brinda una oportunidad de revisar las trasformaciones de conceptos y elementos de la política. Posteriormente, se ahonda en cómo la heteronormatividad sugiere un tipo de destinatarios y una forma de tratar su comportamiento.

Abstract This paper aims to carry out a first theoretical discussion over the question: How the heteronormativity influences the object and the target group of sexual and reproductive health policies? In order to answer this question, some aspects must be addressed; first, it is necessary to problematize the heteronormativity as a factor which intervenes in the management of sexuality as a policy issue. This is because sexuality influences the discussions immerged in policies, the focuses taken and the topics which are presented by actors. In this sense, the historical perspective presents an opportunity to review the conceptual transformations and policy's elements. Afterwards, the paper takes a deeper look into how heteronormativity suggests a kind of target group and a way to treat its behavior.

Resumo O presente artigo tem como objetivo realizar uma primeira discussão teórica em torno da questão de como a heteronormatividade influencia o objeto e o destinatário das políticas públicas de saúde sexual e reprodutiva. Para tanto, pretende-se abordar os seguintes aspectos: em primeiro lugar, problematizar a heteronormatividade como fator incidente na gestão da sexualidade como questão, na medida em que interfere nas discussões que a política aborda, na abordagem que tem feito e nas questões que são apresentadas pelos atores. Nesse sentido, a perspectiva histórica oportuniza rever as transformações de conceitos e elementos da política. Posteriormente, analisa-se a forma como a heteronormatividade sugere um tipo de público-alvo e uma forma de lidar com o seu comportamento.

Representações sociais sobre maternidade na reprodução humana assistida: discursos de mulheres inférteis / Social representations of motherhood in assisted human reproduction: discourses of infertile women / Representaciones sociales de la maternidad en la reproducción humana asistida: relatos de mujeres infértiles

Este trabalho tem o objetivo de analisar as concepções de maternidade para mulheres inférteis de diferentes níveis socioeconômicos que estão em tratamento de reprodução assistida. Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, descritivo, que utilizou como instrumento uma entrevista semiestruturada e contemplou temas como o significado de família, desejo/expectativas sobre filho e gestação e expectativas sobre a maternidade. Participaram da pesquisa 48 mulheres inférteis acima de 35 anos que usam tecnologias de reprodução assistida de alta complexidade em instituições privada e pública. Os dados foram tratados pela análise de conteúdo em que emergiram os temas: representações sociais da família; representações sociais da maternidade; expectativas com a gestação e os modelos maternos; e o filho imaginado. As participantes representaram a família de forma positiva, como um sistema de suporte, de fundação e origem de amor, configurando-a como um laço social. Por outro lado, as concepções de família com base na consanguinidade também estiveram presentes, representando a família pela perpetuação da espécie e pela importância do laço biológico. A maternidade foi marcada por significativa idealização, sendo vista como um papel gratificante e de realização da feminilidade. O peso da cobrança social para procriar também foi sentido como um dever a cumprir e que, na impossibilidade de se realizar, gera sentimentos de inferioridade, menos-valia, impotência e inadequação perante a sociedade, o que reforça o estigma da infertilidade. Tais resultados apontam a importância de reflexões sobre o papel da mulher na nossa cultura, visto que a maternidade é ainda utilizada como medida para o sucesso ou fracasso feminino. Faz-se necessário também refletir sobre a possibilidade da maior inserção do trabalho psicológico na reprodução assistida, visto a carga emocional e social envolvidas nesse processo.(AU)

This study aimed to analyze the conceptions of motherhood for infertile women from different socioeconomic levels who are undergoing assisted reproduction treatment. This is a qualitative and descriptive study that used a semi-structured interview as an instrument and included topics such as the meaning of family and desires/expectations about the child, pregnancy, and motherhood. A total of 48 infertile women over 35 years of ages using high-complexity assisted reproductive technologies in private and public institutions participated in this research. The data were treated by content analysis in which the following themes emerged: family social representations; social representations of motherhood; expectations with pregnancy and maternal models; and the imagined son. Participants represented the family in a positive way as a support system and the foundation and origin of love, embracing the family as a social bond. On the other hand, the family concepts based on inbreeding were also present, representing the family by perpetuation of the species and the importance of biological bonds. Motherhood was marked by significant idealization, being seen as a gratifying role and the fulfillment of femininity. The weight of the social demand to procreate was also felt as a duty to be fulfilled that, in the impossibility of carrying it out, generates feelings of inferiority, worthlessness, impotence, and inadequacy toward society, which reinforce the stigma of infertility. Results point to the necessary reflections on the role of women and our culture since Motherhood is still used as a measure of female success or failure. They also point to a reflection on the possibility of greater inclusion of psychological work in assisted reproduction given the emotional and social burden involved in this process.(AU)

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar las concepciones de maternidad de mujeres infértiles, de diferentes niveles socioeconómicos, que se encuentran en tratamiento de reproducción asistida. Se trata de un estudio cualitativo, descriptivo, que utilizó como instrumento una entrevista semiestructurada e incluyó temas como el sentido de la familia, deseos/expectativas sobre el hijo y el embarazo y expectativas sobre la maternidad. Participaron en la investigación un total de 48 mujeres infértiles, mayores de 35 años, usuarias de tecnologías de reproducción asistida de alta complejidad en instituciones públicas y privadas. Los datos se sometieron a análisis de contenido del cual surgieron los temas: representaciones sociales familiares; representaciones sociales de la maternidad; expectativas con el embarazo y modelos maternos; hijo imaginado. Las participantes representaron a la familia de manera positiva, como sistema de apoyo, fundamento y origen del amor, configurándola como vínculo social. Por otro lado, también estuvieron presentes las concepciones familiares basadas en la consanguinidad, representando a la familia para la perpetuación de la especie y la importancia del vínculo biológico. La maternidad estuvo marcada por una importante idealización, vista como un rol gratificante y de realización de la feminidad. También se sintió el peso de la demanda social de procrear como un deber que cumplir y que, ante la imposibilidad de realizarlo, genera sentimientos de inferioridad, desvalorización, impotencia e inadecuación en la sociedad, lo que refuerza el estigma de la infertilidad. Por tanto, son necesarias reflexiones sobre el papel de la mujer en nuestra cultura, ya que la maternidad se sigue utilizando como medida del éxito o fracaso femenino. También se reflexiona sobre la posibilidad de una mayor inclusión del trabajo psicológico en la reproducción asistida dada la carga emocional y social que implica este proceso.(AU)

Melatonin improves fertilization rate in assisted reproduction: Systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background: Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland and it has antioxidant properties. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of melatonin on assisted reproductive technologies through a systematic review and a meta-analysis. Materials and methods: Search strategies were used in PubMed and in other databases covering the last 15 years. After screening for eligibility, 17 articles were selected for the systematic review. For the meta-analysis statistics, two groups were formed, the treatment group (with melatonin) and the control group (without melatonin) for various assisted reproduction outcomes. Results: The main results were that no statistical differences were found concerning the clinical pregnancy outcome (p = 0.64), but there was a statistical difference with respect to Mature Oocytes (MII) (p = 0.001), antral follicle count (p = 0.0002), and the fertilization rate (p ≤ 0.0001). Conclusions: Melatonin had beneficial effects such as the improvement in the fertilization rate, although the authors did not obtain significance in the clinical pregnancy rate.