The sexual functions of male patients suffering from affective disorders.

Purpose: This study aimed to outline the picture of the sexual functions of male patients with affective disorders as an important part of their lives. Methods: The sample consisted of 57 male patients diagnosed with mood disorders in remission. They were interviewed for demographic and clinical data, asked to fill in number of self-descriptive questionnaires' Sexual Function of Man (SFM/K), the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Scale (MADRS) and Young Mania Scale (YMRS), and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). Results: Lower levels of sexual functioning were experienced by patients who had suffered from affective disorder for a longer time, and who had a diagnosis of recurrent depressive disorder (F33), in comparison with patients with bipolar disorder (F31). The most common sexual dysfunction was premature ejaculation, while the rarest was erectile dysfunction. An occurrence of any sexual disorder at least once in the past was reported by 66% of all patients. Participants did not have problems with alcohol usage. Conclusions: A worse quality of sexual functioning was associated with a longer history of affective disorder. Sexual dysfunction can be affected by even the most minor depressive and manic-depressive components. The tools used excluded non-heterosexual patients. Further research based on bigger samples is required.

Sexual inhibition and sexual excitation in a sample of Polish women.

The contemporary concept of sexual counseling for women with sexual problems, distress, and female sexual dysfunction (FSD) includes tailored medical and/or psychological intervention. The dual control model and the Sexual Excitation/Sexual Inhibition Inventory for Women (SESII-W) are helpful for identifying risk factors and tailoring therapy for FSD. The current study aimed to (1) validate the Polish translation of the SESII-W in a sample of Polish women, and (2) verify the usefulness of the SESII-W in clinical practice. Five hundred nine white women age 18 to 55 years old (M ± SD age = 39.7 ± 11.3 years) were included in this cross-sectional study. Linguistic validation of the Polish translation of the SESII-W was first performed. A battery of tests was then used to evaluate reliability, convergent and discriminant validity, measurement invariances, and correlations between the SESII-W and other measures. Given that the original version of the SESII-W had unsatisfactory model fit, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were subsequently performed. Results showed a new final model that included 26 items with seven lower- and two higher-order factors and explained 58.9% of the variance in the data, with CFI = 0.93, RMSEA = 0.05 and χ2 = 693.39, p < 0.001. Cronbach's α was 0.77 for Sexual Excitation (SE) and 0.88 for Sexual Inhibition (SI) scales. A moderate negative association between SI and the presence of FSD according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) criteria was noted. SE was positively associated with engaging in risky sexual behaviors, Extraversion and Openness to Experiences traits, and was negatively correlated with relationship quality. Finally, age was negatively correlated with all domains of the SESII-W except Arousal Contingency. SE and SI were both lower in older women as compared to younger once. These results demonstrate that the Polish version of SESII-W shows good psychometric properties. A higher propensity for SI was associated with the presence of sexual problems, distress, and FSD, whereas a higher propensity for SE was associated with greater engagement in risky sexual behaviors and personality type. However, future studies on larger and more diverse populations are required to confirm the replicability of the factor structure of the scale.

Sexual Inhibition and Sexual Excitation Scales in Men: Psychometric Properties of a Polish Adaptation.

The present study aimed to develop a Polish version of the Sexual Inhibition/Sexual Excitation Scale (SIS/SES-PL) and explore its psychometric validity in a sample of 498 men aged between 18 and 55 years. We used exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses to obtain the best model fit. Out of the 45 items in the original scale, 32 items with eight subscales and three higher-order factors: (sexual excitation [SES], sexual inhibition due to performance failure [SIS1], and sexual inhibition due to performance consequences [SIS2]) were included in the SIS/SES-PL. The SIS/SES-PL was found to have a good and satisfactory fit (comparative fit index = .87; Tucker-Lewis Index = .85; root mean square error of approximation = .054; χ2 = 1108.7; p < .001; test-retest reliability Cronbach's alpha = .93). A small correlation between age and the SIS1 and SIS2 scores was detected. However, forward multiple regression analysis revealed a significant correlation only between age and SIS1 [ß = .23, p < .001, R2 for model = .05; F(1, 494) = 27.52, p < .001]. Furthermore, a moderate correlation between SIS1 and SES2, as well as SIS1 and general inhibition properties (measured using the Behavioral Inhibition Scale), was noted. In the case of SIS2, only small effects were observed, with the highest values for engaging in risky sexual behavior. Out of the total number of 42 variables, a moderate correlation between SES and the following was described: importance of sex, hypersexual behaviors, frequency of masturbation, frequency of sexual activities per month, sexual risk-taking, high promiscuity (measured using the Sociosexual Orientation Inventory Revised-Drive), general activation properties (measured using the Behavioral Activation Scale), neuroticism, and erotophilic tendencies (measured using the Sexual Opinion Survey-Short Form). The results of the study allowed us to conclude that the SIS/SES-PL might be a useful tool for tailoring therapy for men with sexual problems, as well as in the field of clinical research on sexual inhibition and excitation. Furthermore, it is a reliable and useful tool for measuring propensities for sexual excitement and inhibition.

Bone Healing in the Presence of a Biodegradable PBS-DLA Copolyester and Its Composite Containing Hydroxyapatite.

The healing process of the fractured bone in a presence of poly(butylene succinate-butylene dilinoleate) (PBS-DLA) copolymer containing nanosized hydroxyapatite (HAP) particles has been investigated. The PBS-DLA material containing PBS hard segments and DLA soft segments (50:50 wt %) was used to prepare a polymer/ceramic composite with 30 wt % HAP. A new PBS-DLA copolymer showed a high elasticity of 500% and 15 MPa tensile strength. Addition of HAP improved tensile strength up to 25 MPa while high elasticity has been preserved going down only to 300% of elongation at break. A polymer nanocomposite was fabricated into small elastic polymer rods 15 mm long and 1 × 2 mm in cross section and used for tibia bone fixation in rats. Mallory trichrome staining indicated that new biodegradable copolymers and its composite containing HAP have triggered the most advanced bone healing of all tested materials, thus indicating their high potential for bone tissue engineering and repair.

Membrane Transporters in Human Parotid Gland-Targeted Proteomics Approach.

Salivary glands provide secretory functions, including secretion of xenobiotics and among them drugs. However, there is no published information about protein abundance of drug transporters measured using reliable protein quantification methods. Therefore, mRNA expression and absolute protein content of clinically relevant ABC (n = 6) and SLC (n = 15) family member transporters in the human parotid gland, using the qRT-PCR and liquid chromatography‒tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method, were studied. The abundance of nearly all measured proteins ranged between 0.04 and 0.45 pmol/mg (OCT3 > MRP1 > PEPT2 > MRP4 > MATE1 > BCRP). mRNAs of ABCB1, ABCC2, ABCC3, SLC10A1, SLC10A2, SLC22A1, SLC22A5, SLC22A6, SLC22A7, SLC22A8, SLCO1A2, SLCO1B1, SLCO1B3 and SLCO2B1 were not detected. The present study provides, for the first time, information about the protein abundance of membrane transporters in the human parotid gland, which could further be used to define salivary bidirectional transport (absorption and secretion) mechanisms of endogenous compounds and xenobiotics.

Sexual self-schema: a cognitive schema and its relationship to choice of contraceptive method among Polish women.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to examine sexual self-schema in women using different methods of contraception. Methods: Women (N = 560) aged 18-55 years were divided into two groups: those who used hormonal contraception (n = 285) and those who used non-hormonal contraception (n = 275). Participants were assessed using the Sexual Self-Schema Scale (SSSS), the Well-Matched Marriage Questionnaire and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and were also asked to fill in a structured questionnaire, giving information on their socioeconomic status, reproductive and medical history, sexual behaviours, psychosexual orientation, sexual experience and type of contraception used. Results: Women in the hormonal group scored lower on romantic, passionate and direct subscales of the SSSS, compared with women in the non-hormonal group. Of the total sample, 35% were classified as positive schematic. Women in the hormonal group were found to be more negative schematic and aschematic as well as less co-schematic compared with women in the non-hormonal group. Furthermore, women in the hormonal group were significantly less religious and perceived their self-evaluated weight to be higher compared with women in the non-hormonal group. Logistic regression revealed that negative schematic (odds ratio [OR] 6.6) and aschematic women (OR 3.7), as well as women with more deliveries (OR 1.6), were more likely to choose hormonal contraception. Conclusion: A sexual self-schema might be a relevant factor affecting the choice of contraceptive method. All women seeking hormonal contraception who are aschematic or negative schematic should consult with a sexual medicine specialist, because those individuals may have more profound reasons underlying their need for this type of contraception.

Impact of social factors and sexual behaviors on the knowledge of sexually transmitted infections among women who have sex with women/women who have sex with women and men.

Although heterosexual individuals' knowledge of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has been examined, no studies have been conducted in Poland of the STI knowledge in women who have sex with women (WSW) and women who have sex with women and men (WSWM). We enrolled a group of 146 WSW and 113 WSWM and asked them to complete a study questionnaire that contained items about socioeconomic factors, sexual behaviors, and STI knowledge. The level of STI knowledge among the studied WSW was insufficient. The frequency of correct answers was higher in WSWM. A multivariate regression model revealed that only the higher importance of sex to the respondents ( F(1) = 4.31, p = 0.04) and a higher number of same-sex sexual partners within the last 12 months ( F(1) = 14.86, p = 0.0001) influenced the level of STI knowledge. The results of the study allowed us to conclude that WSW have insufficient STI knowledge, whereas WSWM have better knowledge, and this is influenced by awareness that STI risk is not associated with the partner's gender, age, importance of sex, sexual behaviors, and openness to discussing STIs with a sexual partner.

Factors Affecting Sexual Function and Body Image of Early-Stage Breast Cancer Survivors in Poland: A Short-Term Observation.

INTRODUCTION: Knowing the important factors influencing sexual function and body image might facilitate the recovery process of breast cancer survivors. Surgery type, relationship quality, and partner support might be modified to create a space for psychosexual intervention. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This retrospective questionnaire-based study was performed on 128 women aged 18 to 65 years who were free of disease at time of study entry and who underwent surgical treatment for breast cancer. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria were used to assessed female sexual dysfunction (FSD). Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire (CSFQ) were used to measure sexual function, whereas the Body Image After Breast Cancer Questionnaire (BIBCQ) was used to assess body image. The support of the partner was evaluated by the Provisions of Social Relation Scale (PSRS). RESULTS: The median age of the studied respondents was 52.5 ± 10.1 years. FSD was diagnosed in 27.3% women. Lower physical satisfaction in relationship (odds ratio [OR] = 2.3), undergoing mastectomy (OR = 4.1) higher level of anxiety (OR = 4.2), and shorter duration of relationship (OR = 1.1) as well as not receiving adjuvant chemotherapy (F = 3.54), higher level of emotional satisfaction in relationship (F = 20.32), longer time after completion of oncologic treatment (F = 8.76), undergoing breast-conserving therapy (compared to mastectomy) (F = 13.21), and lower level of anxiety (F = 31,25) were important factors for the prevalence of FSD and positive body image, respectively. CONCLUSION: Type of surgery, time after completion of treatment, level of anxiety, adjuvant chemotherapy, partner support, and satisfying quality of relationship are important factors for sexual function, sexual quality of life, and body image in female breast cancer survivors.

Body image during sexual activity in the population of Polish adult women.

INTRODUCTION: Recently it has been shown that body image during sexual activities is a better predictor of the diversity of sexual experience than body image as a psychological trait. To measure contextual body image (as a state) the Body Exposure During Sexual Activity Questionnaire (BESAQ) was developed. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 845 women aged 18-55 years were included in the study. The original model was first translated into Polish and consulted to create the version to be further validated. The original model was tested using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The population was divided in two equal groups - group 1 was used for exploratory factor analysis. Discriminant and convergent validity were checked. Sexual function was assessed by the Changes in Sexual Function Questionnaire. RESULTS: The Polish model of BESAQ (BESAQ-PL) consisted of 28 items with 2 lower-order factors. It had a satisfactory goodness of fit - comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.93, Tucker-Lewis index (TLI) = 0.94, root-mean-square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.06 and χ2 = 1360.0, df = 337, p< 0.001, excellent internal consistency measured by Cronbach's α = 0.88 and satisfactory discriminate validity. State body image (BESAQ-PL) did not predict sexual functioning. Face was the most important for self-consciousness during sexual contact in the population of Polish women. CONCLUSIONS: State body image correlates with sexual functions but is not a major factor influencing sexual performance. Women in Poland are not anxious about body exposure during sexual activity. The BESAQ-PL may be used in the population of Polish women between 18 and 55 years of age.

Sexual Self-Schema Scale for Women-Validation and Psychometric Properties of the Polish Version.

INTRODUCTION: The sexual self-schema is a part of a broader concept of the self that is believed to be crucial for intrapersonal and interpersonal sexual relationships. AIM: To develop and perform psychometric validation of the Polish version of the Sexual Self-Schema Scale for Women (SSSS-W-PL). METHODS: 561 women 18 to 55 years old were included in the final analysis. Linguistic validation was performed in 4 steps in line with the MAPI Institute guidelines. Convergent validity was calculated using the Pearson r product-moment coefficient between different measures of sexuality (attitudes and experience, behavior, arousal, romantic relationship) and SSSS-W-PL total and factor scores. To test discriminant validity, we applied hierarchical regression analyses predicting the number of lifetime sexual partners, self-rating as a sexual person (1 item, "I feel sexually attractive"; on a 5-point Likert scale), and arousability, with independent variables being extraversion (Ten-Item Personality Inventory), self-esteem (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale), and the SSSS-W-PL (total and factor scores). MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES: Sexual self-schema was measured by the SSSS-W-PL, whereas arousability was measured by the arousal/excitement scale of the Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire. RESULTS: The mean age of the study population was 29.0 ± 7.6 years. The final scale consisted of 24 adjectives grouped within 4 factors: romantic, passionate, direct, and embarrassed. The 4-factor model accounted for 39% of the variance. The Cronbach α was 0.74 for the SSSS-W-PL total score and 0.61 to 0.84 for individual factors. Test-retest reliability of the scale after 2- to 8-week intervals was 0.87 (95% CI = 0.82-0.86, P < .001). The increment variances were statistically significant and ranged from 3.8% to 11.6%. CONCLUSION: The analysis showed good psychometric properties and internal validity of the SSSS-W-PL. The SSSS-W-PL might be helpful in consulting and/or providing sexual therapy to gynecologic cancer survivors or women with a history of childhood sexual abuse. Nowosielski K, Jankowski KS, Kowalczyk R, et al. Sexual Self-Schema Scale for Women-Validation and Psychometric Properties of the Polish Version. Sex Med 2018;6:131-142.

Personality traits, gender roles and sexual behaviours of young adult males.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have shown that personality characteristics affect sexual functioning. The aim of this exploratory study was to assess and describe the relationship between global personality traits and the stereotypical femininity and masculinity levels with the broad aspects of sexual behaviours and attitudes in the group of 97 heterosexual young adult men aged 19-39 and living in Poland. METHODS: The 'Big Five' personality traits were measured with the NEO-FFI questionnaire; stereotypical femininity and masculinity with the Bem sex role inventory (BSRI); sexual disorders with the International index of erectile function (IIEF); socio-epidemiological data, sexual behaviours and attitudes towards sexuality with a self-constructed questionnaire. RESULTS: We identified weak to moderate associations with particular sexual behaviours and attitudes. Neuroticism correlated positively with lower sexual satisfaction, self-acceptance and more negative attitudes towards sexuality; extraversion with higher desire, frequency of sexual intercourses, their diversity, sexual satisfaction, masculinity level and lower report of erectile problems; openness to experience with better quality of partnership, more positive attitudes towards sexual activity and masculinity level; conscientiousness with later sexual initiation age, more frequent and diverse sexual behaviours (but lower interest in masturbation and coitus interruptus), overall sexual satisfaction, satisfaction with one's body and femininity level; agreeableness with a better quality of relationship with a partner, satisfaction from body, lower number of previous partners and more frequent sexual encounters (but less masturbation). Stereotypical masculinity, more so than femininity, was related to a wide range of positive aspects of sexuality. CONCLUSIONS: The Big Five personality traits and stereotypical femininity/masculinity dimensions were found to have a noticeable, but weak to moderate influence on sexual behaviour in young adult males.

Women's Endorsement of Models of Sexual Response: Correlates and Predictors.

Few studies have investigated endorsement of female sexual response models, and no single model has been accepted as a normative description of women's sexual response. The aim of the study was to establish how women from a population-based sample endorse current theoretical models of the female sexual response--the linear models and circular model (partial and composite Basson models)--as well as predictors of endorsement. Accordingly, 174 heterosexual women aged 18-55 years were included in a cross-sectional study: 74 women diagnosed with female sexual dysfunction (FSD) based on DSM-5 criteria and 100 non-dysfunctional women. The description of sexual response models was used to divide subjects into four subgroups: linear (Masters-Johnson and Kaplan models), circular (partial Basson model), mixed (linear and circular models in similar proportions, reflective of the composite Basson model), and a different model. Women were asked to choose which of the models best described their pattern of sexual response and how frequently they engaged in each model. Results showed that 28.7% of women endorsed the linear models, 19.5% the partial Basson model, 40.8% the composite Basson model, and 10.9% a different model. Women with FSD endorsed the partial Basson model and a different model more frequently than did non-dysfunctional controls. Individuals who were dissatisfied with a partner as a lover were more likely to endorse a different model. Based on the results, we concluded that the majority of women endorsed a mixed model combining the circular response with the possibility of an innate desire triggering a linear response. Further, relationship difficulties, not FSD, predicted model endorsement.

The role of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) in the pathology of pleomorphic adenoma in parotid gland.

OBJECTIVES: Pleomorphic adenoma (benign mixed tumor) is one of the most common salivary gland tumors. However, molecular mechanisms implicated in its development are not entirely defined. Therefore, the study aimed at definition of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) involvement in pleomorphic adenoma pathology, as the AhR controlled gene system was documented to play a role in development of various human tumors. DESIGN: The study was carried out in pleomorphic adenoma and control parotid gland tissues where gene expression of AHR, AhR nuclear translocator (ARNT), AhR repressor (AHRR), as well as AhR controlled genes: CYP1A1 and CYP1B1, at mRNA and protein (immunohistochemistry) levels were studied. Functional evaluation of AhR system was evaluated in HSY cells (human parotid gland adenocarcinoma cells) using 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) as AhR specific inducer. RESULTS: Pleomorphic adenoma specimens showed cytoplasmic and nuclear AhR expression in epithelial cells as well as in mesenchymal cells. In parotid gland AhR was expressed in cytoplasm of duct cells. Quantitative expression at mRNA level showed significantly higher expression of AHR, ARNT and CYP1B1, and comparable levels of CYP1A1 in pleomorphic adenoma tissue in comparison to healthy parotid gland. The HSY cell study revealed significantly higher expression level of AHRR in HSY as compared with MCF-7 cells (human breast adenocarcinoma cell line used as reference). Upon TCDD stimulation a drop in AHRR level in HSY cells and an increase in MCF-7 cells were observed. The HSY and MCF-7 cell proliferation rate (measured by WST-1 test) was not affected by TCDD. CONCLUSIONS: Summarizing both in vitro and in vivo observations it can be stated that AhR system may play a role in the pathology of pleomorphic adenoma.

Compensatory Mechanisms in Patients After a Partial or Total Glossectomy due to Oral Cancer.

Excision of a part or the whole of tongue due to oral cancer disturbs swallowing and speech. Lower airways aspiration of the swallowed bolus in patients after such oral structures excision is a symptom of major swallowing disorder and may be the cause of aspiration pneumonia. Restoration of oral nutrition is possible after exclusion or reduction of aspiration threat in the patients. Video fluoroscopic evaluation of the swallowing performed at the beginning of the swallowing rehabilitation in 95 patients after a total or partial glossectomy due to oral cancer, who assessed their saliva swallowing as efficient on the day of examination, showed disturbances of all of the swallowing stages. The most common disturbances involved the oral stage: limited mobility of the oral tongue, impaired glossopalatal seal, and weak glossopharyngeal seal. The most serious among them involved pharyngeal stage of swallowing, as leakage into the larynx and aspiration. The patients used their own methods during barium suspension swallowing to facilitate the swallowing act. They used such methods as: changing the position of the head to the body, additional swallows, engaging the adjacent structures into sealing the oral fissure. We assumed that the compensatory mechanisms (CM) worked out by the patients before the swallowing examination will enable them efficient barium suspension swallowing. The CM were applied by 71 of 95 patients; 51 of the patients used more than one compensatory mechanism. Swallowing in 61 of the compensating patients was at least functional; swallowing in 10 of the compensating patients was non-efficient and caused recurrent aspiration. The results of our research negate the validity of multiple swallows (more than three) without apnea elongation because it may lead to aspiration. Aspiration was also recorded in patients with weak airways closure and immovable epiglottis, who complemented the impaired oral transport with gravitational oral transport by moving chin up during a swallow. The hypothesis that CM applied by the patients after oral cancer excision during saliva swallowing will be helpful in swallowing of the barium suspension was not proved. In 10 of all the patients recurring aspiration was found despite CM application. Determination of aspiration risk is the key to efficient swallowing rehabilitation. The assessment of CM applied spontaneously by the patients' maintenance validity is particularly important. Video fluoroscopic examination of swallowing allows to assess the aforementioned issue and is crucial for better comprehension of CM applied by the patients in creating a new swallowing pattern after oral cancer excision.

Extension of occurrence area of the American fluke Fascioloides magna in south-western Poland.

Liver fluke Fascioloides magna is a typical parasite of American cervids. The reason for F. magna to appear in Poland territory was bringing the American wapiti deer to those forests around 1850. Along with these deer the aforementioned fluke was also introduced. The aim of this study was to present the case of finding of this species in cervids in Bory Zielonogórskie. Samples of deer feces were collected in February 2015 in Forest District Krzystkowice. A total of 16 samples of feces were examined, 7 of which came from the red deer, 4 from roe deer and 2 samples from fallow deer. Three grams of feces from each sample were examined for the presence of trematode eggs using the decantation method. Eggs of F. magna were detected in 2 of 7 examined samples from red deer, in the first sample it were found 3 eggs, and in the second one 46 eggs. Moreover, flukes eggs were found in 3 out of 4 roe deer faecal samples, in numbers of 1, 3 and 58 eggs respectively in each sample. Also, in faecal samples from two fallow deer were found in one of them 17 eggs F. magna. The results of this study extend the range of occurrence of the trematodes F. magna on the neighboring Lower Silesia Forest complex of Bory Zielonogórskie which are distant about 50 km. Fallow deer and roe deer were considered to be new in Poland definitive hosts of F. magna. .

The role of Nrf2 in pathology of pleomorphic adenoma in parotid gland.

BACKGROUND: Pleomorphic adenoma (benign mixed tumor) is one of the most common salivary gland tumors. However, the processes involved in its carcinogenesis are not well defined. This study aimed to define the contribution of Nfr2 (nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2) to pleomorphic adenoma pathology. The Nrf2-controlled gene system is one of the most critical cytoprotective mechanisms, providing antioxidant responses. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was carried out in pleomorphic adenoma and control parotid gland tissues, investigating gene expression of NFE2L2, as well as KEAP1 (Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1) and NQO1 (quinone oxidoreductase), at mRNA and protein (immunohistochemistry) levels. Functional evaluation of Nrf2 system in the parotid gland was evaluated in HSY cells (human parotid gland adenocarcinoma cells). RESULTS: Pleomorphic adenoma specimens showed cytoplasmic and nuclear Nfr2 expression in epithelial cells, as well as more variable lower Nrf2 level in mesenchymal cells. In the parotid gland, Nrf2 was expressed in cytoplasm of serous, mucous, and duct cells. Nuclear Nrf2 expression was predominantly seen in serous cells, whereas mucous and duct cells were mostly negative. Comparable mRNA levels of NFE2L2 and NQO1 genes and significantly higher expression of KEAP1 in pleomorphic adenoma were seen. HSY cell incubation with oltipraz demonstrated significant elevation of NFE2L2 after 24 and 48 hours of stimulation, whereas NQO1 was elevated, but significantly only after 24 hours, and KEAP1 expression remained unchanged. CONCLUSIONS: Summarizing both in vitro and in vivo observations, it can be stated that Nrf2 may play a role in the pathology of pleomorphic adenoma.

Sexuality in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to compare sexual function and sexual response, attitude toward sexuality and relationships with sexual partners in women diagnosed with PCOS and healthy controls. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included 73 women (aged 23-42 years) diagnosed with PCOS using the Rotterdam criteria and 45 healthy controls. All participants completed a questionnaire assessing socioepidemiological parameters and sexual behavior. Validated instruments were used to assess hirsutism (Ferriman-Gallwey Scale), mental health status (General Health Questionnaire 12 [GHQ 12]), sexuality (Sexuality Scale [SS], Sexual Awareness Questionnaire [SAQ], Multidimensional Sexuality Questionnaire [MSQ], Multidimensional Sexual Self-Concept Questionnaire [MSSCQ]), and sexual function (Polish version of the Mell-Krat Scale [SFK/K Scale]). RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences in the importance of sexual activity in both groups. Mean scores for the SFK/K Scale, SS, SAQ, MSQ, and MSSQ were similar among women with PCOS and controls, regardless of age. Similarly sexual needs and reactions were perceived in the same way by both groups. In contrast, women with PCOS rated themselves negatively as sexual partners more frequently than controls. CONCLUSIONS: Sexual function and sexual response, attitude toward sexuality as well as relationships with sexual partners were similar in PCOS subjects and healthy women. However, changes in physical appearance typically associated with PCOS result in deterioration of sexual function. Therefore, it is recommended that all PCOS patients should be referred to a sexual medicine specialist for consultation.

Expression of nuclear receptors (AhR, PXR, CAR) and transcription factor (Nrf2) in human parotid gland.

Nuclear receptors and transcription factors coordinate expression of many genes, and regulation of their expression determines cellular response to various endo- and exogenous factors. There is paucity of data regarding expression of nuclear receptors and factors in salivary glands. In the present study, a focus was placed on human parotid gland expression of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), pregnane X receptor (PXR, NR1I2), constitutive androstane receptor (CAR, NR1I3) and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Parotid salivary tissue was obtained from patients undergoing the gland dissection. Quantitative real-time PCR aimmunohistochemical staining were used for expression studies. The highest mRNA expression was documented for NFE2L2 coding for Nrf2. Lower expression was seen in the case of AHR gene coding for AhR. PXR was constitutively present at very low level and CAR expression was below the limit of quantification. Immunohistochemical evaluation of the parotid gland specimens revealed cytoplasmic Nrf2 expression in striated duct cells as well as within myoepithelial cells. Acinar cells were mostly negative for Nrf2. Expression of AhR was found within the cytoplasm in striated duct cells. Acinar and myoepithelial cells were negative for AhR. Having in mind their role in regulating function of many enzymes and transmembrane transporters, expression of these factors seem play a role in salivary gland physiology, pathology as well as drug transport and metabolism.

Psychological gender of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: We compared women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to a control group with regard to intensity of hirsutism and psychological gender. DESIGN: Cohort study, 2005-2009. SETTING: Gynecological endocrinology clinic and gynecological practice, Silesian area, Poland. SAMPLE: 89 women aged 17-42 years with PCOS, in two groups (S1, S2) by age < or ≥31 years, and age-stratified controls of 45 healthy women. METHODS: We used the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ 12), Ferriman-Gallwey score and Psychological Gender Inventory, to assess masculinity and femininity through self-reported possession of socially desirable, stereotypical personality traits (masculine, feminine, androgynous, undifferentiated), supplemented by questions concerning social status (education, profession) and gynecological history. All questionnaires were anonymous and independently answered during clinic visits. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Influence of PCOS and concomitant hirsutism on psychological gender. RESULTS: Hirsutism (moderate or severe intensity) was observed in a considerably higher number of women from both PCOS groups compared with controls (S1: 49.0 vs. 20.0%, p < 0.05, S2: 41.9 vs. 16.7%, p < 0.05, respectively). Women ≥31 years with PCOS more often viewed themselves as sexually undifferentiated compared with controls (31.8 vs. 6.7%, p < 0.01), less likely to identify with a female gender scheme (18.2 vs. 33.3%), and more likely to see themselves as androgynous (50.0 vs. 40.9%). CONCLUSIONS: Women with PCOS have, depending on age and severity of disease, problems with psychological gender identification. Duration and severity of PCOS can negatively affect the self-image of patients, lead to a disturbed identification with the female-gender scheme and, associated with it, social roles.

The role of the epiglottis in the swallow process after a partial or total glossectomy due to a neoplasm.

Repeatable epiglottic movement patterns were recorded during a videofluoroscopic swallow evaluation of 95 patients who had undergone a total or partial glossectomy due to a neoplasm. Because no epiglottic function assessment was performed preoperatively, for the purpose of this study it was assumed that epiglottic mobility was "normal" during this time and that all abnormalities found afterward resulted from the growth of the neoplasm and the glossectomy. It was noted that in the early postoperative period, absence of epiglottic movement was accompanied by aspiration and made swallowing incompetent in a majority of cases (9 of 10). A correlation of movement between the epiglottis and the extent of oral tissue excision was found. Epiglottic mobility was evaluated as "normal" in 72% of the patients, i.e., in 67 of 91 (74%) patients after a partial or nearly total glossectomy and in 1 of 4 people who underwent a total glossectomy. In the subgroup (16%) of patients who underwent a total or nearly total glossectomy and then had videofluoroscopic examinations, 60% of the cases had normal epiglottic movements and 40% had an immobile epiglottis. Compensatory mechanisms implemented by the patients on their own initiative, such as additional swallows and prolonged apnea during deglutition, enabled them to avoid aspiration. However, upward head movement and downward chin tilting during deglutition as compensatory mechanisms used by patients with no epiglottic movement did not reduce the aspiration risk in the early postoperative period and were found to accompany incompetent swallowing attempts.