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BACKGROUND: Personalized medicine represents a novel and integrative approach that focuses on an individual's genetics and epigenetics, precision medicine, lifestyle and exposures as key players of health status and disease phenotypes. METHODS: In this narrative review, we aim to carefully discuss the current knowledge on gender disparities in cardiometabolic diseases, and we consider the sex- specific expression of miRNAs and their role as promising tool in precision medicine. RESULTS: Personalised medicine overcomes the restricted care of patient based on a binomial sex approach, by enriching itself with a holistic and dynamic gender integration. Recognized as a major worldwide health emergency, cardiometabolic disorders continue to rise, impacting on health systems and requiring more effective and targeted strategies. Several sex and gender drivers might affect the onset and progression of cardiometabolic disorders in males and females at multiple levels. In this respect, distinct contribution of genetic and epigenetic mechanisms, molecular and physiological pathways, sex hormones, visceral fat and subcutaneous fat and lifestyle lead to differences in disease burden and outcomes in males and females. CONCLUSIONS: Sex and gender play a pivotal role in precision medicine because the influence the physiology of each individual and the way they interact with environment from intrauterine life.
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Enfermedades Cardiovasculares , MicroARNs , Medicina de Precisión , Humanos , MicroARNs/genética , MicroARNs/metabolismo , Masculino , Femenino , Enfermedades Cardiovasculares/genética , Factores Sexuales , Enfermedades Metabólicas/genética , Epigénesis Genética , Estilo de VidaRESUMEN
Biological hormonal changes are frequently cited as an explanatory factor of sex and menopause differences in cardiometabolic diseases (CMD) and its associated risk factors. However, iron metabolism which varies between sexes and among women of different reproductive stages could also play a role. Recent evidence suggest that iron may contribute to CMD risk by modulating oxidative stress pathways and inflammatory responses, offering insights into the mechanistic interplay between iron and CMD development. In the current review, we provide a critical appraisal of the existing evidence on sex and menopausal differences in CMD, discuss the pitfall of current estrogen hypothesis as sole explanation, and the emerging role of iron in CMD as complementary pathway. Prior to menopause, body iron stores are lower in females as compared to males, but the increase during and after menopause, is tandem with an increased CMD risk. Importantly, basic science experiments show that an increased iron status is related to the development of type 2 diabetes (T2D), and different cardiovascular diseases (CVD). While epidemiological studies have consistently reported associations between heme iron intake and some iron biomarkers such as ferritin and transferrin saturation with the risk of T2D, the evidence regarding their connection to CVD remains controversial. We delve into the factors contributing to this inconsistency, and the limitation of relying on observational evidence, as it does not necessarily imply causation. In conclusion, we provide recommendations for future studies on evaluating the potential role of iron in elucidating the sex and menopausal differences observed in CMD.
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Enfermedades Cardiovasculares , Estrógenos , Hierro , Menopausia , Humanos , Femenino , Estrógenos/metabolismo , Enfermedades Cardiovasculares/etiología , Hierro/metabolismo , Masculino , Factores de Riesgo Cardiometabólico , Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2 , Factores SexualesRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major global health threat, particularly in China, contributing to over 40% of deaths. While sleep behaviors, sedentary behaviors, and physical activities are recognized as independent lifestyle risk factors for CVD, there remains limited understanding of specific movement behavior patterns and their CVD risks, especially considering sex-specific differences. This study examines movement behavior patterns among Chinese adults (40-75) and their associations with cardiovascular risk, with a focus on sleep, physical activity (PA), and sedentary behavior (SB). METHODS: Data pertaining to 13,465 male participants and 15,613 female participants, collected from the Chronic Disease and Risk Factor Surveillance Survey in Nanjing from February 2020 to December 2022. The latent class analysis method was employed to identify underlying movement patterns across sexes. Multinomial logistic regression models assessed CVD risk, and the China-PAR model calculated 10-year risk. RESULTS: Three male and four female movement patterns emerged. Active Movers (17.10% males, 5.93% females) adhered to PA recommendations but had poorer sleep quality. Moderate Achievers (61.42% males, 45.32% females) demonstrated moderate behavior. Sedentary Sleepers (21.48% males, 10.20% females) exhibited minimal PA but good sleep. Female Moderate Physical Activity (MPA) Dominant Movers demonstrated a prevalent adherence to recommended MPA levels. Active movers had the lowest CVD risk. After adjusting for potential confounders, moderate achievers (OR = 1.462, 95% CI 1.212, 1.764) and sedentary sleepers (OR = 1.504, 95% CI 1.211, 1.868) were both identified as being associated with a high-risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) compared to active movers in males, demonstrating a similar trend for intermediate risk. Such associations were not statistically significant among females. CONCLUSIONS: Our study revealed sex-specific movement patterns associated with CVD risks among middle-aged Chinese adults. We suggest that adopting an active movement behavior pattern, characterized by meeting or exceeding recommended levels of vigorous physical activity (VPA) and reducing sedentary behavior, is beneficial for all middle-aged adults, particularly males. An active lifestyle could help counteract the adverse effects of relatively poor sleep quality on the risk of developing CVD in this population. Integrating sleep, PA, and SB information provides a holistic framework for understanding and mitigating CVD risks.
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Enfermedades Cardiovasculares , Ejercicio Físico , Análisis de Clases Latentes , Conducta Sedentaria , Humanos , Masculino , Femenino , Persona de Mediana Edad , China/epidemiología , Adulto , Enfermedades Cardiovasculares/epidemiología , Anciano , Factores Sexuales , Factores de Riesgo de Enfermedad Cardiaca , Sueño/fisiología , Factores de Riesgo , Pueblos del Este de AsiaRESUMEN
The present study aimed to investigate the role of spirituality, intolerance of uncertainty (IU), and fear of COVID-19 as correlates and predictors of psychological distress among older adults in Pakistan and also assess the gender differences among research variables. Using a quantitative correlational survey research design, a sample of 150 (75 = Men, 75 = Women) older adults aged 55 years and above from different cities of Pakistan were approached through a non-probability purposive sampling strategy. Participants completed the Daily Spiritual Experience Scale, Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale IUS-12, Fear of COVID-19, and Kessler Psychological Distress Scale-K10. Spirituality has a significant negative relationship with psychological distress. Whereas, IU (Inhibitory anxiety and prospective anxiety) and fear of COVID-19 have a significant positive relationship with psychological distress. Results also showed that spirituality, IU dimensions, and fear of COVID-19 emerged as significant predictors of psychological distress among older adults after controlling for the effect of covariates. In addition, elderly females significantly showed more spirituality, less IU, and fear of COVID-19 as compared to elderly males. It is proposed that mental health care plays an important role in treating the psychological needs of older adults in pandemic situations and that further study is needed to develop effective solutions for older persons in stressful situations such as pandemics.
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COVID-19 , Miedo , Distrés Psicológico , Espiritualidad , Humanos , Masculino , COVID-19/psicología , Femenino , Pakistán , Anciano , Miedo/psicología , Persona de Mediana Edad , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Incertidumbre , Factores Sexuales , Anciano de 80 o más Años , SARS-CoV-2 , Estrés Psicológico/psicologíaRESUMEN
Sex differences in kidney stone formation are well known. Females generally have slightly acidic blood and higher urine pH when compared with males, which makes them more vulnerable to calcium stone formation, yet the mechanism is still unclear. We aimed to examine the role of sex in stone formation during hypercalciuria and urine alkalinization through acetazolamide and calcium gluconate supplementation, respectively, for 4 weeks in wild-type (WT) and moderately hypercalciuric [TRPC3 knockout [KO](-/-)] male and female mice. Our goal was to develop calcium phosphate (CaP) and CaP+ calcium oxalate mixed stones in our animal model to understand the underlying sex-based mechanism of calcium nephrolithiasis. Our results from the analyses of mice urine, serum, and kidney tissues show that female mice (WT and KO) produce more urinary CaP crystals, higher [Ca2+], and pH in urine compared to their male counterparts. We identified a sex-based relationship of stone-forming phenotypes (types of stones) in our mice model following urine alkalization/calcium supplementation, and our findings suggest that female mice are more susceptible to CaP stones under those conditions. Calcification and fibrotic and inflammatory markers were elevated in treated female mice compared with their male counterparts, and more so in TRPC3 KO mice compared with their WT counterparts. Together these findings contribute to a mechanistic understanding of sex-influenced CaP and mixed stone formation that can be used as a basis for determining the factors in sex-related clinical studies.
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Hipercalciuria , Cálculos Renales , Ratones Noqueados , Fenotipo , Animales , Femenino , Masculino , Hipercalciuria/metabolismo , Hipercalciuria/orina , Ratones , Cálculos Renales/metabolismo , Cálculos Renales/orina , Cálculos Renales/etiología , Fosfatos de Calcio/metabolismo , Fosfatos de Calcio/orina , Concentración de Iones de Hidrógeno , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Modelos Animales de Enfermedad , Riñón/metabolismo , Factores Sexuales , Caracteres Sexuales , Oxalato de Calcio/metabolismo , Oxalato de Calcio/orina , Canales Catiónicos TRPC/metabolismo , Canales Catiónicos TRPC/genéticaRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Recent research indicates that as men age, their tendency to ruminate about work decreases, while ruminating remains high in women, which poses an increased risk for impaired health among older women. OBJECTIVE: This study explored gender differences/similarities in the process of unwinding from work in men and women aged between 56-65 years. METHODS: Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted online with eight men and eight women, recruited from a UK leading organization that provides health care solutions between May and June 2022. Participants were asked about their job role and responsibilities, their leisure time activities, how they unwind post work, and their experiences of thinking about work related thoughts outside of work. Transcripts were analyzed using an inductive analysis. RESULTS: Three superordinate themes were identified that underpinned their ability to unwind: 'Work style', 'Creating work-life balance' and 'Switching off from one's responsibilities'. Women reported a more perfectionist approach, they set high standards for themselves, were worried about making mistakes, and demonstrated, if in a supervisory role, a more nurturing and holistic approach to their colleagues/subordinates, while men, were more focused on task completion. Most women, but not men, also described difficulties in psychologically switching off from work, and stated they could only truly relax outside the home, when they are away from household activities. CONCLUSION: The study provides nuanced insights into the experiences of unwinding from work, and the findings suggest the need for person-centric approaches in developing interventions to help workers over 56 years to psychologically disengage from work.
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Investigación Cualitativa , Humanos , Femenino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Masculino , Anciano , Equilibrio entre Vida Personal y Laboral , Entrevistas como Asunto , Reino Unido , Factores SexualesRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: The brain is concentrated with omega (ω)-3 (n-3) fatty acids (FAs), and these FAs must come from the plasma pool. The 2 main ω-3 FAs, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), must be in the form of nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) or esterified within phospholipids (PLs) to reach the brain. We hypothesized that the plasma concentrations of these ω-3 FAs can be modulated by sex, body mass index (BMI, kg/m2), age, and the presence of the apolipoprotein (APO) E-ε4 allele in response to the supplementation. OBJECTIVES: This secondary analysis aimed to determine the concentration of EPA and DHA within plasma PL and in the NEFA form after an ω-3 FA or a placebo supplementation and to investigate whether the factors change the response to the supplement. METHODS: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted. Participants were randomly assigned to either an ω-3 FA supplement (DHA 0.8 g and EPA 1.7 g daily) or to a placebo for 6 mo. FAs from fasting plasma samples were extracted and subsequently separated into PLs with esterified FAs and NEFAs using solid-phase extraction. DHA and EPA concentrations in plasma PLs and as NEFAs were quantified using gas chromatography. RESULTS: EPA and DHA concentrations in the NEFA pool significantly increased by 31%-71% and 42%-82%, respectively, after 1 and 6 mo of ω-3 FA supplementation. No factors influenced plasma DHA and EPA responses in the NEFA pool. In the plasma PL pool, DHA increased by 83%-109% and EPA by 387%-463% after 1 and 6 mo of ω-3 FA supplementation. APOE4 carriers, females, and individuals with a BMI of ≤25 had higher EPA concentrations than noncarriers, males, and those with a BMI of >25, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The concentration of EPA in plasma PLs are modulated by APOE4, sex, and BMI. These factors should be considered when designing clinical trials involving ω-3 FA supplementation. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01625195.
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Apolipoproteína E4 , Índice de Masa Corporal , Suplementos Dietéticos , Ácido Eicosapentaenoico , Ácidos Grasos Omega-3 , Fosfolípidos , Humanos , Femenino , Masculino , Fosfolípidos/sangre , Ácido Eicosapentaenoico/sangre , Ácido Eicosapentaenoico/administración & dosificación , Método Doble Ciego , Ácidos Grasos Omega-3/sangre , Ácidos Grasos Omega-3/administración & dosificación , Apolipoproteína E4/genética , Apolipoproteína E4/sangre , Persona de Mediana Edad , Adulto , Factores Sexuales , Ácidos Docosahexaenoicos/sangre , Ácidos Docosahexaenoicos/administración & dosificación , AncianoRESUMEN
Polygala tenuifolia Wild is an ancient traditional Chinese medicine. Its main component, tenuifolin (TEN), has been proven to improve cognitive impairment caused by neurodegenerative diseases and ovariectomy. However, there was hardly any pharmacological research about TEN and its potential gender differences. Considering the reduction of TEN on learning and memory dysfunction in ovariectomized animals, therefore, we focused on the impact of TEN in different mice genders in the current study. Spontaneous alternation behavior (SAB), light-dark discrimination, and Morris water maze (MWM) tests were used to evaluate the mice's learning and memory abilities. The field excitatory postsynaptic potential (fEPSP) of the hippocampal CA1 region was recorded using an electrophysiological method, and the morphology of the dendritic structure was examined using Golgi staining. In the behavioral experiments, TEN improved the correct rate in female mice in the SAB test, the correct rate in the light-dark discrimination test, and the number of crossing platforms in the MWM test. Additionally, TEN reduced the latency of female mice rather than male mice in light-dark discrimination and MWM tests. Moreover, TEN could significantly increase the slope of fEPSP in hippocampal Schaffer-CA1 and enhance the total length and the number of intersections of dendrites in the hippocampal CA1 area in female mice but not in male mice. Collectively, the results of the current study showed that TEN improved learning and memory by regulating long-term potentiation (LTP) and dendritic structure of hippocampal CA1 area in female mice but not in males. These findings would help to explore the improvement mechanism of TEN on cognition and expand the knowledge of the potential therapeutic value of TEN in the treatment of cognitive impairment.
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Región CA1 Hipocampal , Dendritas , Diterpenos de Tipo Kaurano , Potenciación a Largo Plazo , Animales , Femenino , Masculino , Región CA1 Hipocampal/efectos de los fármacos , Potenciación a Largo Plazo/efectos de los fármacos , Potenciación a Largo Plazo/fisiología , Ratones , Dendritas/efectos de los fármacos , Memoria/efectos de los fármacos , Factores Sexuales , Potenciales Postsinápticos Excitadores/efectos de los fármacos , Potenciales Postsinápticos Excitadores/fisiología , Aprendizaje por Laberinto/efectos de los fármacos , Aprendizaje por Laberinto/fisiologíaRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Emodin-8-O-ß-D-glucopyranoside (Em8G) is an active ingredient of traditional Chinese medicine Rhei Radix et Rhizoma and Polygonum multiflorum Thunb.. And it caused hepatotoxicity, while the underlying mechanism was not clear yet. PURPOSE: We aimed to explore the detrimental effects of Em8G on the zebrafish liver through the metabolome and transcriptome integrated analysis. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: In this study, zebrafish larvae were used in acute toxicity tests to reveal the hepatotoxicity of Em8G. Adult zebrafish were then used to evaluate the gender differences in hepatotoxicity induced by Em8G. Integration of transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis was used further to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying gender differences in hepatotoxicity. RESULTS: Our results showed that under non-lethal concentration exposure conditions, hepatotoxicity was observed in Em8G-treated zebrafish larvae, including changes in liver transmittance, liver area, hepatocyte apoptosis and hepatocyte vacuolation. Male adult zebrafish displayed a higher Em8G-induced hepatotoxicity than female zebrafish, as demonstrated by the higher mortality and histopathological alterations. The results of transcriptomics combined with metabolomics showed that Em8G mainly affected carbohydrate metabolism (such as TCA cycle) in male zebrafish and amino acid metabolism (such as arginine and proline metabolism) in females, suggesting that the difference of energy metabolism disorder may be the potential mechanism of male and female liver toxicity induced by Em8G. CONCLUSIONS: This study provided the direct evidence for the hepatotoxicity of Em8G to zebrafish models in vivo, and brought a new insight into the molecular mechanisms of Em8G hepatotoxicity, which can guide the rational application of this phytotoxin. In addition, our findings revealed gender differences in the hepatotoxicity of Em8G to zebrafish, which is related to energy metabolism and provided a methodological reference for evaluating hepatotoxic drugs with gender differences.
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Enfermedad Hepática Inducida por Sustancias y Drogas , Hígado , Metabolómica , Pez Cebra , Animales , Masculino , Femenino , Hígado/efectos de los fármacos , Hígado/metabolismo , Transcriptoma/efectos de los fármacos , Glucósidos/toxicidad , Glucósidos/farmacología , Factores Sexuales , Emodina/análogos & derivados , Emodina/toxicidad , Emodina/farmacología , Larva/efectos de los fármacos , Antraquinonas/toxicidad , Pruebas de Toxicidad Aguda , Medicamentos Herbarios Chinos/toxicidadRESUMEN
Depression and anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health disorders that affect US adults today, frequently related to vitamin D (VD) insufficiency. Along with VD, growing evidence suggests gut microbiota likely play a role in neuropsychiatric disorders. Here, we investigated if modulation of gut microbiota would disrupt host VD status and promote behaviors related to depression and anxiety in adult mice. Six-week-old male and female C57BL/6J mice (n = 10/mice/group) were randomly assigned to receive (1) control diet (CTR), control diet treated with antibiotics (AB), control diet with total 5000 IU of VD (VD), VD treated with antibiotics (VD + AB), VD supplemented with 5% w/w fructooligosaccharides (FOS; VF), and VF diet treated with antibiotics (VF + AB), respectively, for 8 weeks. Our study demonstrated that VD status was not affected by antibiotic regimen. VD alone ameliorates anxiety-related behavior in female mice, and that combination with FOS (i.e., VF) did not further improve the outcome. Male mice, in contrast, exhibit greater anxiety with VF, but not VD, when compared with CTR mice. Colonic VD receptor was elevated in VF-treated mice in both sexes, compared with CTR, which was positively correlated to colonic TPH1, a rate-limiting enzyme for serotonin synthesis. Taken together, our data indicate that the effect of VF on anxiety-related behavior is sex-specific, which may partially be attributed to the activation of colonic VD signaling and subsequent serotonin synthesis. The synergistic or additive effect of VD and FOS on mood disorders remained to be investigated.
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Ansiedad , Conducta Animal , Colecalciferol , Colon , Microbioma Gastrointestinal , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Oligosacáridos , Receptores de Calcitriol , Animales , Oligosacáridos/farmacología , Masculino , Femenino , Ansiedad/tratamiento farmacológico , Receptores de Calcitriol/metabolismo , Microbioma Gastrointestinal/efectos de los fármacos , Colon/metabolismo , Colon/efectos de los fármacos , Conducta Animal/efectos de los fármacos , Colecalciferol/farmacología , Ratones , Regulación hacia Arriba , Factores Sexuales , Suplementos Dietéticos , Antibacterianos/farmacología , Depresión/tratamiento farmacológicoRESUMEN
BACKGROUND & AIMS: Low plasma B12 and folate levels or hyperhomocysteinemia are related to cognitive impairment. This study explores the relationships among diet pattern, blood folate-B12-homocysteine levels, and cognition measurement in Alzheimer's disease (AD) while exploring whether a gender effect may exist. METHODS: This cross-sectional study enrolled 592 AD patients (246 males, 346 females) and the demographic data, blood biochemical profiles, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) for quantitative assessment of dietary frequency were collected. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to explore the associations among dietary patterns, blood profiles, and cognition. A least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression model, stratified by gender, was constructed to analyze the weighting of possible confounders. RESULTS: Higher MMSE scores were related to higher frequencies of coffee/tea and higher educational levels, body mass index, and younger age. The SEM model revealed a direct influence of dietary frequencies (skimmed milk, thin pork, coffee/tea) and blood profiles (homocysteine, B12, and folate) on cognitive outcomes. At the same time, the influence of dietary pattern on cognition was not mediated by folate-B12-homocysteine levels. In males, a direct influence on the MMSE is attributed to B12, while in females, homocysteine is considered a more critical factor. CONCLUSIONS: Dietary patterns and blood profiles are both associated with cognitive domains in AD, and there are gender differences in the associations of dietary patterns and the levels of B12 and homocysteine. To enhance the quality of dietary care and nutritional status for individuals with dementia, our study results still require future validations with multi-center and longitudinal studies.
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Enfermedad de Alzheimer , Ácido Fólico , Masculino , Femenino , Humanos , Enfermedad de Alzheimer/psicología , Estudios Transversales , Factores Sexuales , Café , Vitamina B 12 , Dieta , Cognición , Té , HomocisteínaRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Understanding the increasing trends in Italy may inform new prevention strategies and better treatments. We investigated trends and risk factors of dementia, stroke, and ischemic heart disease (IHD) in Italy with the second-oldest population globally, compared to European and high-income countries and the world. METHODS: We analyzed the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2019 estimates on incidence and burden (i.e., disability and death combined) of the three conditions in both sexes. We also analyzed the burden attributable to 12 modifiable risk factors and their changes during 1990-2019. RESULTS: In 2019, Italy had 186,108 new dementias (123,885 women) and 94,074 new strokes (53,572 women). Women had 98% higher crude dementia and 24% higher crude stroke burdens than men. The average age-standardized new dementia rate was 114.7 per 100,000 women and 88.4 per 100,000 men, both higher than Western Europe, the European Union, high-income countries, and the world. During 1990-2019, this rate increased in both sexes (4%), despite a decline in stroke (- 45%) and IHD (- 17%) in Italy. Dementia burden attributable to tobacco decreased in both sexes (- 12.7%) during 1990-2019, while high blood glucose and high body mass index combined burden increased (25.4%). Stroke and IHD had similar trends. CONCLUSIONS: While decreases in new strokes and IHDs are encouraging, new approaches to their joint prevention are required to reverse the rising dementia trends, especially among women. Life course approaches to promoting holistic brain health should be implemented at the community, national, and international levels before the growing trends become overwhelming.
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Demencia , Accidente Cerebrovascular , Humanos , Femenino , Masculino , Demencia/epidemiología , Italia/epidemiología , Accidente Cerebrovascular/epidemiología , Anciano , Factores de Riesgo , Europa (Continente)/epidemiología , Anciano de 80 o más Años , Países Desarrollados/estadística & datos numéricos , Persona de Mediana Edad , Factores Sexuales , Incidencia , Carga Global de Enfermedades/tendencias , Salud Global/tendenciasRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Chronic rhinosinusitis is known as a common problem with inflammatory and allergic causes. Several factors are associated with developing chronic rhinosinusitis, including immunoglobulin E (IgE) production and vitamin D deficiency. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we investigated the role of IgE and Vitamin D deficiency and differences between patients with chronic, allergic sinusitis and controls. METHODS: A total of 90 subjects were included in 3 groups (n=30) in this cross-sectional, correlational descriptive study. The subjects were divided into three groups, including control (healthy subjects), chronic sinusitis patients, and allergy patients. A checklist was used to collect the necessary data, including age, gender, and body mass index (BMI). To evaluate serum levels of vitamin D3 and IgE, ELISA kits were used. RESULTS: The mean vitamin D was 22 g/ml. Fifty-four participants (60%) out of all included people had insufficient vitamin D, 13% had a deficiency, and the high deficiency and insufficiency were in the group of allergic sinusitis. Our results indicated that gender (female) was significantly associated with vitamin D deficiency (p =0.01). Thirty-nine participants (43.3%) out of all studied subjects had high IgE, and the highest level of abnormality of IgE was in the allergic sinusitis group. Furthermore, it was found that gender and IgE were not significantly related. However, IgE was significantly associated with vitamin D deficiency in the allergic sinusitis group. CONCLUSION: Our findings highlighted that most of the patients with chronic and allergic sinusitis had insufficient vitamin D. A possible association was also found between low vitamin D and IgE levels and the prevalence of allergic sinusitis. This study showed that patients with allergic sinusitis may be more vulnerable to lower serum levels of vitamin D. Therefore, vitamin D supplementation as an adjunctive therapy may be considered in these patients.
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Colecalciferol , Inmunoglobulina E , Sinusitis , Deficiencia de Vitamina D , Humanos , Femenino , Masculino , Estudios Transversales , Inmunoglobulina E/sangre , Sinusitis/sangre , Sinusitis/inmunología , Deficiencia de Vitamina D/sangre , Deficiencia de Vitamina D/epidemiología , Deficiencia de Vitamina D/inmunología , Adulto , Enfermedad Crónica , Persona de Mediana Edad , Colecalciferol/sangre , Adulto Joven , Hipersensibilidad/sangre , Hipersensibilidad/inmunología , Hipersensibilidad/epidemiología , Factores Sexuales , Rinitis/sangre , Rinitis/inmunología , Rinitis/epidemiologíaRESUMEN
There is clear evidence linking trauma, mindfulness, dissociation and problematic internet use (PIU). Nonetheless, little is known about the role trait mindfulness and dissociative experiences may have in the relationship between childhood emotional abuse (CEA) and PIU, as well as the role that gender may have in such relationships. In the current research, self-report questionnaires on CEA, trait mindfulness, dissociative experiences and PIU were administered to 1074 Italian adolescents (50% females) aged 14-17 years old, to test whether trait mindfulness and dissociative experiences mediated the relationship between CEA and PIU, and whether the proposed mediation was invariant across genders. Furthermore, the main analyses were controlled for background variables. The findings highlighted significant associations between all direct and indirect paths and invariance of the mediation model across boys and girls. The results of this study highlight that emotionally abused boys and girls with high levels of dissociation and inadequate mindful skills may be more exposed to dysfunctional online activities. Hence, developing dissociation-focused and mindfulness-based interventions for emotionally abused adolescents may be clinically effective when building tailored approaches for the prevention and management of PIU. Further implications are discussed.
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Trastornos Disociativos , Trastorno de Adicción a Internet , Atención Plena , Humanos , Adolescente , Masculino , Femenino , Italia , Trastornos Disociativos/psicología , Trastorno de Adicción a Internet/psicología , Maltrato a los Niños/psicología , Abuso Emocional/psicología , Abuso Emocional/estadística & datos numéricos , Factores Sexuales , Encuestas y CuestionariosRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Protein supplements (PSs) have gained widespread popularity among non-athlete gym attendees, who often perceive them as essential tools for muscle growth and recovery. However, misinformation surrounding PSs may lead to inappropriate use and negative health consequences. This study aimed to assess whether non-athlete gym attendees using PSs have greater misconceptions than non-users while also examining the prevalence of PS consumption and gender differences. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of 387 participants in the Jazan region was conducted. Customers of 10 fitness centers were screened with a questionnaire comprising questions to measure PS misconceptions. Participants were divided into PS users and non-users. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test to assess the associations between variables. An independent t-test was used to compare the PS Misconception Index Score between the two groups. RESULTS: A total of 82.4% of non-athlete gym attendees consumed at least one PS. Our findings revealed a significant association between gender and PS utilization (P<0.001), with a higher proportion of females (90.8%) consuming PS than males (77.6%). PS users had a significantly lower PS Misconception Index Score than non-users (26.8 vs. 28.3; P=0.006), indicating that PS users had a higher number of misconceptions. The internet (41.37%) and coaches (gym instructors/trainers) (34.48%) were the most common sources of information about PSs, with muscle gain being the primary reason for consumption (82.75%). CONCLUSIONS: PS consumption is highly prevalent among non-athlete gym attendees in the Jazan region, with many individuals having misconceptions about their benefits and potential risks. Targeted educational interventions are needed to promote evidence-based knowledge about PSs for gym attendees, as well as for coaches, given that they were among the primary sources of information on supplements.
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Centros de Acondicionamiento , Masculino , Femenino , Humanos , Factores Sexuales , Estudios Transversales , Suplementos Dietéticos , Ejercicio FísicoRESUMEN
BACKGROUND: With the development of modern medicine, the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) combined with western medicine began to be produced and applied. Scalp acupuncture (SA) as a Chinese medicine based on neurological theory, has a great advantage compared with TCM in the treatment of nervous system diseases. METHOD: In this paper, we analyze the physiological and pathological manifestations of sexual dimorphism (SD) to illustrate the necessity of SD treatment. In addition, we review the factors that can affect SD and analyze in physiological structure, function, and pathological neurons. Diseases (pathological basis, pathological manifestations, and incidence) and factors leading to gender differences, which to analyze the possibility of gender differences in SA. RESULT: Furthermore, we creatively a new insight of SD-SA and provide the complete SD treatment cases on the basis of the existing SA in different kinds of diseases including stroke, migraine, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and depression. CONCLUSION: In summary, we believe that it is feasible to improve the clinical effectiveness of SA, which is able to promote the development of SA, and then provides an actionable evidence for the promotion of precision medicine in the future.
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Terapia por Acupuntura , Enfermedades del Sistema Nervioso , Humanos , Cuero Cabelludo , Caracteres Sexuales , Factores SexualesRESUMEN
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for women in multiple countries including the United States. Women are exposed to unique risk factors that remain largely understudied such as indoor pollution, second-hand tobacco exposure, biological differences, gender differences in tolerability and response to therapy in lung cancer, and societal gender roles, that create distinct survivorship needs. Women continue to lack representation in lung cancer clinical trials and are typically treated with data generated from majority male patient study populations, which may be inappropriate to extrapolate and generalize to females. Current lung cancer treatment and screening guidelines do not incorporate sex-specific differences and physicians also often do not account for gender differences when choosing treatments or discussing survivorship needs. To best provide targeted treatment approaches, greater representation of women in lung cancer clinical trials and further research is necessary. Clinicians should understand the unique factors and consequences associated with lung cancer in women; thus, a holistic approach that acknowledges environmental and societal factors is necessary.
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Neoplasias Pulmonares , Humanos , Masculino , Femenino , Estados Unidos/epidemiología , Neoplasias Pulmonares/epidemiología , Neoplasias Pulmonares/terapia , Neoplasias Pulmonares/etiología , Factores de Riesgo , Factores Sexuales , PredicciónRESUMEN
For the first time, this study evaluated the gender differences and mechanisms of the antidepressant effects of raw Rehmanniae Radix(RRR) based on the classic depression model with traditional Chinese medicine syndrome of Yin deficiency and internal heat. The depression model with Yin deficiency and internal heat was established by the widely recognized and applied method of thyroxine induction of the classic depression model with Yin deficiency and internal heat(chronic unpredictable mild stress). Male and female mice were simultaneously treated with RRR. The study analyzed indicators of nourishing Yin and clearing heat, conventional antidepressant efficacy test indicators, and important biomolecules reflecting the pathogenesis and prevention and treatment mechanisms of depression, and conducted a correlation analysis of antidepressant efficacy, Yin-nourishing and heat-clearing efficacy, and biological mechanism in different genders, thereby comprehensively assessing the antidepressant effects of RRR on depression of Yin deficiency and internal heat, as well as its gender differences and mechanisms. RRR exhibited antidepressant effects in both male and female mouse models, and its antidepressant efficacy showed gender differences, with a superior effect observed in females. Moreover, the effects of RRR on enhancing or improving hippocampal neuronal pathology, nucleus-positive areas, postsynaptic dense area protein 95, and synaptophysin protein expression were more significant in females than in males. In addition, RRR significantly reversed the abnormal upregulation of nuclear factor(NF)-κB/cyclooxygenase 2(COX2)/NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain associated protein 3(NLRP3) pathway proteins in the hippocampus of both male and female mouse models. The antidepressant effects of RRR were more pronounced in depression female mice with Yin deficiency and internal heat syndrome, possibly due to the improvement of neuronal damage and enhancement of neuroplasticity. The antidepressant mechanisms of RRR for depression with Yin deficiency and internal heat syndrome may be associated with the downregulation of the NF-κB/COX2/NLRP3 pathway to reduce neuronal damage and enhance neuroplasticity.
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Proteína con Dominio Pirina 3 de la Familia NLR , Deficiencia Yin , Masculino , Femenino , Ratones , Animales , Factores Sexuales , Ciclooxigenasa 2 , FN-kappa B , Antidepresivos/farmacologíaRESUMEN
Judo is an Olympic sport, and the way of its performing can lead to repetitive blunt injuries on head and ears. The chronic consequences of such traumata on the auricle are the formation of so-called cauliflower ear. This condition is painful, can lead to interruptions in the training process and long-term consequences for the athlete's health. There is limited knowledge of epidemiological data about cauliflower ear deformities in judo. Evaluation of the prevalence of cauliflower ear among judokas based on their profile pictures on the international judo federation was performed. A large cohort of judo athletes from around the world was studied. Two different classifications for the severity of ear deformities were used. Statistical calculations of the collected data and correlations to different parameters were performed. Images of 1632 top athletes were evaluated in the study. Ear deformities were found in 55.5% of the judokas. There was gender-specific differences. Male athletes were affected much more often than female athletes. In addition, ear deformities were more pronounced in male athletes. A correlation was found between the age of the athletes and the presence of an ear deformity. It has also been shown that judokas with a high world ranking are more likely to have an ear deformity. Ear deformities are a common consequence of injury among leading judo athletes. The current study represents the largest and high heterogeny cohort ever conducted on the prevalence of cauliflower ear in judoka. Knowledge of the prevalence of cauliflower ear in judoka based on reliable data from this study, may be important prerequisites for further studies on the impact of this traumatic consequence on training preparation and judoka health.
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Artes Marciales , Humanos , Masculino , Femenino , Prevalencia , Artes Marciales/lesiones , Oído Externo , Factores Sexuales , AtletasRESUMEN
Growth faltering in children (low length for age or low weight for length) during the first 1,000 days of life (from conception to 2 years of age) influences short-term and long-term health and survival1,2. Interventions such as nutritional supplementation during pregnancy and the postnatal period could help prevent growth faltering, but programmatic action has been insufficient to eliminate the high burden of stunting and wasting in low- and middle-income countries. Identification of age windows and population subgroups on which to focus will benefit future preventive efforts. Here we use a population intervention effects analysis of 33 longitudinal cohorts (83,671 children, 662,763 measurements) and 30 separate exposures to show that improving maternal anthropometry and child condition at birth accounted for population increases in length-for-age z-scores of up to 0.40 and weight-for-length z-scores of up to 0.15 by 24 months of age. Boys had consistently higher risk of all forms of growth faltering than girls. Early postnatal growth faltering predisposed children to subsequent and persistent growth faltering. Children with multiple growth deficits exhibited higher mortality rates from birth to 2 years of age than children without growth deficits (hazard ratios 1.9 to 8.7). The importance of prenatal causes and severe consequences for children who experienced early growth faltering support a focus on pre-conception and pregnancy as a key opportunity for new preventive interventions.