Gender affirming hormone therapy and transgender women fertility: Histologic predictors of germ cell presence.

Objective: Evaluate histological changes in testicular parameters after hormone treatment in transgender women. Methods: Cross-section study with patients who underwent gonadectomy at Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre from 2011 to 2019. Hormone treatment type, route of administration, age at initiation and duration were recorded. Atrophy parameters were observed: testicular volume, tubular diameter, basal membrane length, presence of spermatogonia and spermatids (diploid and haploid spermatozoid precursors). Results: Eighty-six patients were included. Duration of hormone treatment is associated with testicular atrophy and spermatogenesis arrest. Other characteristics of hormone treatment such as age of initiation, route of administration and type of treatment were not associated with testicular histological changes. Testicular volume may predict spermatogenesis arrest. Basal membrane length and tubular diameter ratio is an interesting predictor of germ cell presence. Conclusion: Cross-sex hormone treatment affects testicular germ cell presence. Basal membrane length and tubular diameter ratio reduces inter variability of measurements and better exemplify how atrophic seminiferous tubules are. Fertility preservation should be addressed by healthcare providers in order to recognize gender affirming treatment impact on transgender health.

Timing of semen cryopreservation: before or after processing?

Objective: Seminal cryopreservation causes significant damage to the sperm; therefore, different methods of cryopreservation have been studied. The aim of the study was to compare the effects of density gradient processing and washing/centrifugation with seminal plasma removal for cryopreservation in semen parameters. Methods: Seminal samples of 26 normozoospermic patients were divided into 3 parts: with seminal plasma; after washing/centrifugation; and after selection through density gradient. The samples were cryopreserved for at least two weeks. Motility, sperm count, morphology and viability were evaluated before cryopreservation and after thawing. Results: Density gradient processing selected motile and viable sperm with normal morphology in fresh samples (p<0.05). Cryopreservation negatively affected all sperm parameters regardless of the processing performed, and even if the sperm recovery was lower in the density gradient after the thawing, progressive motility, total motility, viability and morphology remained higher (p<0.05). Conclusion: Cryopreservation significantly compromises sperm parameters (motility, morphology, viability). In normozoospermic patients, the density gradients select better quality spermatozoa compared to other processing methods; this benefit was kept after thawing.

Exploring the frequency of a TP53 polyadenylation signal variant in tumor DNA from patients diagnosed with lung adenocarcinomas, sarcomas and uterine leiomyomas.

The TP53 3'UTR variant rs78378222 A>C has been detected in different tumor types as a somatic alteration that reduces p53 expression through modification of polyadenylation and miRNA regulation. Its prevalence is not yet known in all tumors. Herein, we examine tumor tissue prevalence of rs7837822 in Brazilian cohorts of patients from south and southeast regions diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD, n=586), sarcoma (SARC, n=188) and uterine leiomyoma (ULM, n=41). The minor allele (C) was identified in heterozygosity in 6/586 LUAD tumors (prevalence = 1.02 %) and none of the SARC and ULM samples. Additionally, next generation sequencing analysis revealed that all variant-positive tumors (n=4) with sample availability had additional pathogenic or likely pathogenic somatic variants in the TP53 coding regions. Among them, 3/4 (75 %) had the same pathogenic or likely pathogenic sequence variant (allele frequency <0.05 in tumor DNA) namely c.751A>C (p.Ile251Leu). Our results indicate a low somatic prevalence of rs78378222 in LUAD, ULM and SARC tumors from Brazilian patients, which suggests that no further analysis of this variant in the specific studied regions of Brazil is warranted. However, these findings should not exclude tumor molecular testing of this TP53 3'UTR functional variant for different populations.

Timing of semen cryopreservation: before or after processing?

Abstract Objective: Seminal cryopreservation causes significant damage to the sperm; therefore, different methods of cryopreservation have been studied. The aim of the study was to compare the effects of density gradient processing and washing/centrifugation with seminal plasma removal for cryopreservation in semen parameters. Methods: Seminal samples of 26 normozoospermic patients were divided into 3 parts: with seminal plasma; after washing/centrifugation; and after selection through density gradient. The samples were cryopreserved for at least two weeks. Motility, sperm count, morphology and viability were evaluated before cryopreservation and after thawing. Results: Density gradient processing selected motile and viable sperm with normal morphology in fresh samples (p<0.05). Cryopreservation negatively affected all sperm parameters regardless of the processing performed, and even if the sperm recovery was lower in the density gradient after the thawing, progressive motility, total motility, viability and morphology remained higher (p<0.05). Conclusion: Cryopreservation significantly compromises sperm parameters (motility, morphology, viability). In normozoospermic patients, the density gradients select better quality spermatozoa compared to other processing methods; this benefit was kept after thawing.

Gender affirming hormone therapy and transgender women fertility: Histologic predictors of germ cell presence

Abstract Objective: Evaluate histological changes in testicular parameters after hormone treatment in transgender women. Methods: Cross-section study with patients who underwent gonadectomy at Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre from 2011 to 2019. Hormone treatment type, route of administration, age at initiation and duration were recorded. Atrophy parameters were observed: testicular volume, tubular diameter, basal membrane length, presence of spermatogonia and spermatids (diploid and haploid spermatozoid precursors). Results: Eighty-six patients were included. Duration of hormone treatment is associated with testicular atrophy and spermatogenesis arrest. Other characteristics of hormone treatment such as age of initiation, route of administration and type of treatment were not associated with testicular histological changes. Testicular volume may predict spermatogenesis arrest. Basal membrane length and tubular diameter ratio is an interesting predictor of germ cell presence. Conclusion: Cross-sex hormone treatment affects testicular germ cell presence. Basal membrane length and tubular diameter ratio reduces inter variability of measurements and better exemplify how atrophic seminiferous tubules are. Fertility preservation should be addressed by healthcare providers in order to recognize gender affirming treatment impact on transgender health.

Poor nutritional status of fifteen-year-old or younger adolescent mothers enhances the risk of small-for-gestational-age newborns

Introduction: To analyze the factors (socio-demographic, clinical, prenatal care, delivery, postpartum data and anthropometric measures) associated with the birth of small for gestational age newborns.Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed with 15 years old or younger postpartum adolescents divided into small-for-gestational-age newborn (SGA) and non-small-for-gestational age newborn groups (NSGA). Socio-demographic, clinical, prenatal care, delivery, postpartum data and anthropometric measures (triceps skinfold (TS), and mid-arm circumference, (MAC)) were collected.Results: 8,153 women gave birth at the obstetric ward and 364 (4.46%) ≤ 15 years old adolescents were enrolled in the study. The proportion of SGA newborns was 34.61%. The SGA group attended fewer prenatal visits (p = 0.037), had a higher prevalence of nutritional status classified as "very low weight" (p < 0.001) and vaginal delivery (p = 0.023), compared to the NSGA group. The nutritional status and vaginal delivery remained significant even after adjustment for confounders. The prevalence risk for SGA birth was 30% higher in the group of mothers with nutritional status classified as "very low weight" (odds ratio 1.30, 95% confidence interval 1.13 to 1.50) (p < 0.001).Conclusions: 15.4% of adolescents ≤ 15 years of age had an arm circumference compatible with the "very low weight" condition, demonstrating the high prevalence of poor maternal nutritional status in this group. The birth of SGA among adolescents ≤ 15 years of age is independently associated with maternal nutritional status classified as "very low weight" by the mid-arm circumference measures (MAC).

Medical Residents, the Group and the Formation of Professional Identity During the COVID-19 Pandemic / Médicos residentes, o grupo e a formação da identidade profissional durante a pandemia do COVID-19

Abstract Residency is still considered the gold standard for quality medical training, and acquiring a professional identity as a specialist is one of its central elements. Residents obtain this identity through both the educational environment and direct interaction with peers and supervisors. However, modifications in health care and educational routines during the recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic have significantly impaired these channels. This study is part of a qualitative research project to analyze professional identity formation in a medical residency program in obstetrics and gynecology at a public hospital in southern Brazil. The authors conducted 28 semi-structured interviews with medical residents and preceptors, as well as a focus group with the residents, which was recorded, transcribed, and analyzed in an effort to construct major analytical categories. Restricted movement and physical contact have forced the use of alternative means of interpersonal interaction, such as communication through social media or instant messaging applications. This has also affected educational activities, such as morning rounds, lectures, and seminars. These changes represent a significant impact, especially in Brazil, where physical proximity is an important cultural feature, even in the work and school environments. We speculate that this new type of virtual interaction will also affect the formation of professional identity among obstetrician-gynecologists. These findings suggest that medical residency programs should be attentive to changes in resident training to ensure that the specialist profile and the expected skills, which are consolidated over many years, are not lost.

Resumo A residência médica ainda é considerada o padrão-ouro para a formação médica de qualidade, sendo o processo de construção da identidade profissional de um médico especialista um de seus elementos centrais. Os residentes obtêm essa identidade, entre outros fatores, por meio do ambiente educacional e da interação direta com colegas e supervisores. No entanto, as modificações nas rotinas assistenciais e educacionais durante a recente pandemia de coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) prejudicaram significativamente esses canais. Este estudo faz parte de um projeto de pesquisa qualitativa com o objetivo de analisar a formação da identidade profissional em um programa de residência médica em ginecologia e obstetrícia em um hospital público do sul do Brasil. Os autores realizaram 28 entrevistas semiestruturadas com médicos residentes e preceptores, bem como um grupo focal com residentes. Tanto as entrevistas como as reuniões com o grupo focal foram gravadas, transcritas e analisadas no esforço de construir categorias analíticas. Foi identificado que o movimento restrito e o contato físico forçaram o uso de meios alternativos de interação interpessoal, como a comunicação por meio de mídias sociais ou aplicativos de mensagens instantâneas. Isso também afetou as atividades educacionais, como as rounds, palestras e seminários. Essas mudanças representam um impacto significativo, principalmente no Brasil, onde a proximidade física é uma importante característica cultural, mesmo em ambientes de trabalho e de estudo. Conjectura-se que esse novo tipo de interação virtual também afetará a formação da identidade profissional entre os ginecologistas-obstetras. Esses achados sugerem que os programas de residência médica devem estar atentos às mudanças na formação dos residentes para garantir que o perfil do especialista e as competências esperadas, consolidadas ao longo de muitos anos, não sejam perdidos.

Voice, Speech, and Clinical Aspects During Pregnancy: A Longitudinal Study.

BACKGROUND: Pregnancy involves anatomical, physiological, and metabolic changes in a woman's body. However, the effects of these changes on the voice remains unclear, particularly regarding the clinical characteristics. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to evaluate changes in vocal and speech acoustic measures and the relationship between them and clinical aspects in women during pregnancy. METHOD: A prospective, longitudinal study was carried out with 41 low risk, adult, pregnant women, followed for prenatal care. Demographic and anthropometric data as well as lifestyle habits and health conditions were collected. Voice recordings of sustained vowels, and automatic and spontaneous speech were held over each trimester and analyzed by PRAAT®to evaluate acoustic, aerodynamic, and articulatory measures. RESULTS: There were no changes in fundamental frequency, jitter, shimmer, and harmony to noise ratio during pregnancy. Maximum phonation time (MPT), pause rate, and pause duration reduced at the end of pregnancy. MPT was lower in sedentary pregnant women. The fundamental frequency peak rate was higher in eutrophic participants and lower in the third trimester in women with BMI ≥25 kg/m2. Pause rate was higher in pregnant women with BMI ≥25 kg/m2. There was no relationship between sleep quality, reflux, and vocal symptoms and acoustic and aerodynamic measures. CONCLUSIONS: Differences were shown in MPT and temporal pause measurements during pregnancy. Acoustic measurements did not change. There was a relationship between acoustic and aerodynamic measures and clinical variables (BMI, physical activity, and body mass gain).

Medical Residents, the Group and the Formation of Professional Identity During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Residency is still considered the gold standard for quality medical training, and acquiring a professional identity as a specialist is one of its central elements. Residents obtain this identity through both the educational environment and direct interaction with peers and supervisors. However, modifications in health care and educational routines during the recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic have significantly impaired these channels. This study is part of a qualitative research project to analyze professional identity formation in a medical residency program in obstetrics and gynecology at a public hospital in southern Brazil. The authors conducted 28 semi-structured interviews with medical residents and preceptors, as well as a focus group with the residents, which was recorded, transcribed, and analyzed in an effort to construct major analytical categories. Restricted movement and physical contact have forced the use of alternative means of interpersonal interaction, such as communication through social media or instant messaging applications. This has also affected educational activities, such as morning rounds, lectures, and seminars. These changes represent a significant impact, especially in Brazil, where physical proximity is an important cultural feature, even in the work and school environments. We speculate that this new type of virtual interaction will also affect the formation of professional identity among obstetrician-gynecologists. These findings suggest that medical residency programs should be attentive to changes in resident training to ensure that the specialist profile and the expected skills, which are consolidated over many years, are not lost.

A residência médica ainda é considerada o padrão-ouro para a formação médica de qualidade, sendo o processo de construção da identidade profissional de um médico especialista um de seus elementos centrais. Os residentes obtêm essa identidade, entre outros fatores, por meio do ambiente educacional e da interação direta com colegas e supervisores. No entanto, as modificações nas rotinas assistenciais e educacionais durante a recente pandemia de coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) prejudicaram significativamente esses canais. Este estudo faz parte de um projeto de pesquisa qualitativa com o objetivo de analisar a formação da identidade profissional em um programa de residência médica em ginecologia e obstetrícia em um hospital público do sul do Brasil. Os autores realizaram 28 entrevistas semiestruturadas com médicos residentes e preceptores, bem como um grupo focal com residentes. Tanto as entrevistas como as reuniões com o grupo focal foram gravadas, transcritas e analisadas no esforço de construir categorias analíticas. Foi identificado que o movimento restrito e o contato físico forçaram o uso de meios alternativos de interação interpessoal, como a comunicação por meio de mídias sociais ou aplicativos de mensagens instantâneas. Isso também afetou as atividades educacionais, como as rounds, palestras e seminários. Essas mudanças representam um impacto significativo, principalmente no Brasil, onde a proximidade física é uma importante característica cultural, mesmo em ambientes de trabalho e de estudo. Conjectura-se que esse novo tipo de interação virtual também afetará a formação da identidade profissional entre os ginecologistas-obstetras. Esses achados sugerem que os programas de residência médica devem estar atentos às mudanças na formação dos residentes para garantir que o perfil do especialista e as competências esperadas, consolidadas ao longo de muitos anos, não sejam perdidos.

Ovarian Tissue Culture to Preserve Fertility in Transgender Male Patients after Hormonal Treatment / Cultura de tecido ovariano para preservação da fertilidade em pacientes transexuais masculinos após tratamento hormonal

Abstract Objective To evaluate the reproductive and histological characteristics of fresh cultured ovarian tissue from transgender male patients. Methods An in vitro pilot study in which samples were collected during sex reassignment surgery for transgender male patients. The ovarian cortex was cut into fragments of 2 mm, 3mm, and 4 mm, and placed in a 96-well plate suitable for cultivation at days 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8, when the histology was analyzed. Results Stromal hyperplasia was observed in all samples, and it was not associated with the obtainment of primordial or primary follicles. Peripheral reduction in cell count was also a recurrent finding. Primordial and primary follicles were identified with a heterogeneous pattern in fragments from the same patient and from different patients, and follicles in more advanced stages of development (secondary and antral) were not found. There was an association between the diameter of the ovarian fragments and the identification of primary follicles (p=0.036). The number of days in culture was associated with histological signs of tissue damaging in the fragments (p=0.002). The total number of follicles identified in the samples with 2mm in diameter was significantly lower than in those that measured 4mm in diameter (p=0.031). Conclusion A diameter of 4mm is suitable for ovarian tissue culture with the benefit of ease of handling. Even after prolonged exposure to testosterone, the ovarian fragments presented primordial and primary follicles, maintaining viability throughout the days they were exposed to the culture. Freezing the ovarian cortex of transgender patients who will undergo surgery for gender reassignment would be an interesting option, in the future, for the preservation of fertility.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar as características reprodutivas e histológicas de tecido ovariano cultivado a fresco de pacientes transexuais masculinos. Métodos Estudo experimental in vitro e piloto, no qual amostras foram coletadas durante a cirurgia de redesignação de sexo para pacientes transexuais masculinos. O córtex ovariano foi cortado em fragmentos de 2mm, 3mm, e 4mm, e colocado em placa de 96 poços própria para cultivo nos dias 0, 2, 4, 6 e 8, quando a histologia foi analisada. Resultados Hiperplasia estromal foi observada em todas as amostras, e não esteve associada à obtenção de folículos primordiais ou primários. A redução periférica no número de células também foi um achado recorrente. Folículos primordiais e primários foramidentificados com padrão heterogêneo emfragmentos domesmo paciente e em fragmentos de pacientes diferentes, não sendo encontrados folículos em estágios mais avançados de desenvolvimento (secundários e antrais). Houve associação entre o diâmetro dos fragmentos ovarianos e a identificação dos folículos primários (p=0,036). O número de dias de cultura esteve associado a sinais histológicos de lesão tecidual nos fragmentos (p=0,002). O número total de folículos identificados nas amostras de 2mm de diâmetro foi significativamente menor do que nas de 4mm de diâmetro (p=0,031). Conclusão O diâmetro de 4mm parece ser mais adequado para a cultura de tecido ovariano com a vantagem de fácil manejo. Mesmo após exposição prolongada à testosterona, os fragmentos ovarianos apresentavam folículos primordiais e primários, e manteve a viabilidade ao longo dos dias de exposição à cultura. No futuro, o congelamento da cortical do ovário de pacientes transgêneros que se submeterão à cirurgia de redesignação sexual poderia ser uma opção interessante para a preservação da fertilidade.

Ovarian Tissue Culture to Preserve Fertility in Transgender Male Patients after Hormonal Treatment.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the reproductive and histological characteristics of fresh cultured ovarian tissue from transgender male patients. METHODS: An in vitro pilot study in which samples were collected during sex reassignment surgery for transgender male patients. The ovarian cortex was cut into fragments of 2 mm, 3 mm, and 4 mm, and placed in a 96-well plate suitable for cultivation at days 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8, when the histology was analyzed. RESULTS: Stromal hyperplasia was observed in all samples, and it was not associated with the obtainment of primordial or primary follicles. Peripheral reduction in cell count was also a recurrent finding. Primordial and primary follicles were identified with a heterogeneous pattern in fragments from the same patient and from different patients, and follicles in more advanced stages of development (secondary and antral) were not found. There was an association between the diameter of the ovarian fragments and the identification of primary follicles (p = 0.036). The number of days in culture was associated with histological signs of tissue damaging in the fragments (p = 0.002). The total number of follicles identified in the samples with 2 mm in diameter was significantly lower than in those that measured 4 mm in diameter (p = 0.031). CONCLUSION: A diameter of 4 mm is suitable for ovarian tissue culture with the benefit of ease of handling. Even after prolonged exposure to testosterone, the ovarian fragments presented primordial and primary follicles, maintaining viability throughout the days they were exposed to the culture. Freezing the ovarian cortex of transgender patients who will undergo surgery for gender reassignment would be an interesting option, in the future, for the preservation of fertility.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar as características reprodutivas e histológicas de tecido ovariano cultivado a fresco de pacientes transexuais masculinos. MéTODOS: Estudo experimental in vitro e piloto, no qual amostras foram coletadas durante a cirurgia de redesignação de sexo para pacientes transexuais masculinos. O córtex ovariano foi cortado em fragmentos de 2 mm, 3 mm, e 4 mm, e colocado em placa de 96 poços própria para cultivo nos dias 0, 2, 4, 6 e 8, quando a histologia foi analisada. RESULTADOS: Hiperplasia estromal foi observada em todas as amostras, e não esteve associada à obtenção de folículos primordiais ou primários. A redução periférica no número de células também foi um achado recorrente. Folículos primordiais e primários foram identificados com padrão heterogêneo em fragmentos do mesmo paciente e em fragmentos de pacientes diferentes, não sendo encontrados folículos em estágios mais avançados de desenvolvimento (secundários e antrais). Houve associação entre o diâmetro dos fragmentos ovarianos e a identificação dos folículos primários (p = 0,036). O número de dias de cultura esteve associado a sinais histológicos de lesão tecidual nos fragmentos (p = 0,002). O número total de folículos identificados nas amostras de 2 mm de diâmetro foi significativamente menor do que nas de 4 mm de diâmetro (p = 0,031). CONCLUSãO: O diâmetro de 4 mm parece ser mais adequado para a cultura de tecido ovariano com a vantagem de fácil manejo. Mesmo após exposição prolongada à testosterona, os fragmentos ovarianos apresentavam folículos primordiais e primários, e manteve a viabilidade ao longo dos dias de exposição à cultura. No futuro, o congelamento da cortical do ovário de pacientes transgêneros que se submeterão à cirurgia de redesignação sexual poderia ser uma opção interessante para a preservação da fertilidade.

Semen Analysis of Total Motile Sperm Count Based on the 1999 and 2010 WHO Criteria.

OBJECTIVE: Approximately 15% of the couples suffer from infertility. Half of the cases of infertility are due to male factors. Several sperm function tests have been proposed to evaluate male fertility, but sperm analysis is still the first and most important diagnostic test for male infertility. The prognostic value of semen characteristics such as concentration, morphology and motility markers are often confused with male infertility. Evaluation of seminal parameters and classification for normality remains a frequent topic of discussion. METHODS: This study evaluated 477 semen samples from men undergoing investigation or infertility treatment between 2011 and 2015. RESULTS: The spermograms of 401 patients were deemed abnormal based on the 1999 World Health Organization (WHO) criteria; the number changed to 223 when the spermograms were assessed based on the 2010 WHO criteria and to 200 when Total Motile Sperm Count (TMSC) was used as the criterion. Sperm morphology was the item in the criteria that most significantly changed spermogram classification. Normality parameters became less rigid from 1999 to 2010, thereby significantly changing the proportion of individuals no longer described as infertile/subfertile. CONCLUSIONS: The classification based on TMSC could not differentiate between fertile and infertile subjects for not taking sperm morphology into account. Nevertheless, it may be helpful in cases where intrauterine insemination is indicated.

Contribution of ultra-processed food to the daily food intake of hiv-positive and hiv-negative women during pregnancy / Contribuição dos alimentos ultraprocessados no consumo alimentar diário de mulheres soropositivas e soronegativas para o HIV durante a gestação

Abstract Objective To assess the daily dietary intake and energy contribution of ultraprocessed foods among women who are positive and negative for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) during pregnancy. Methods This case-control study included 77 HIV-positive and 79 HIV-negative puerperal women between 2015 and 2016. The socioeconomic and maternal demographic data were assessed, and a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) adapted for pregnant women was applied. The Fisher exact test and the Mann-Whitney test were applied to detect differences between the groups. Linear regression was used to assess the associations between the intake of ultra-processed food and energy, macro- and micronutrients, with values of p < 0.05 considered significant. Results The HIV-positive group was older (p< 0.001) and had lower income (p= 0.016) and level of schooling (p< 0.001) than the HIV-negative group. Both groups presented similar average food intake: 4,082.99 Kcal/day and 4,369.24 Kcal/day for the HIV-positive and HIV-negative women respectively (p= 0.258).The HIV-positive group consumed less protein (p= 0.048), carbohydrates (p= 0.028) and calcium(p= 0.001), andmore total fats (p= 0.003). Ultra-processed foods accounted for 39.80% and 40.10% of the HIV-positive and HIV-negative groups' caloric intake respectively (p= 0.893). The intake of these foods was associated with a higher consumption of carbohydrates (p < 0.001), trans fat (p= 0.013) and sodium (p< 0.001), as well as lower protein (p < 0.001) and fiber intake (p= 0.022). Conclusion These findings demonstrate that the energy consumption and ultraprocessed food intake were similar in both groups, which reinforces the trend toward a high intake of ultra-processed food in the general population. The intake of ultraprocessed food was positively associated with the consumption of carbohydrates, trans fat and sodium, and negatively associated with the consumption of protein and fiber.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar o consumo alimentar diário e a contribuição dos alimentos ultraprocessados na dieta de gestantes soropositivas e soronegativas para o vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV). Métodos Estudo de caso-controle com 77 puérperas soropositivas e 79 soronegativas entre 2015 e 2016. Analisaram-se dados socioeconômicos e demográficos maternos, e aplicou-se um questionário de frequência alimentar (QFA) adaptado para gestantes. Utilizou-se o teste exato de Fisher e o teste de Mann-Whitney para detectar diferenças entre os grupos. A regressão linear avaliou a associação entre o consumo de ultraprocessados e de energia, macro e micronutrientes. Valores de p < 0,05 foram considerados significativos. Resultados O grupo de puérperas soropositivas foi mais velho (p < 0,001), com menor renda familiar (p = 0,016) e escolaridade (p < 0,001) quando comparado com o grupo das soronegativas. Ambos os grupos apresentaram médias de consumo semelhantes, com 4.082,99 Kcal/dia entre as puérperas soropositivas e 4.369,24 kcal/dia entre as soronegativas (p = 0,258). Observou-se que as puérperas soropositivas consumiam menos proteínas (p = 0,048), carboidratos (p = 0,028) e cálcio (p = 0,001), e mais gorduras totais (p = 0,003). Os ultraprocessados corresponderam a 39,80% das calorias entre as soropositivas, e a 40,10% entre as soronegativas (p = 0,893). O consumo destes alimentos esteve associado a um maior consumo de carboidratos (p < 0,001), gordura trans (p = 0,013) e sódio (p < 0,001), e a um menor consumo de proteínas (p < 0,001) e fibras (p = 0,022). Conclusão Esses achados demonstram que o consumo de energia e de alimentos ultraprocessados foram semelhantes nos dois grupos, o que reforça a tendência ao consumo elevado de alimentos ultraprocessados na população geral. O consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados foi positivamente associado ao consumo de carboidratos, gorduras trans e sódio, e negativamente associado ao consumo de proteínas e fibras.

Contribution of Ultra-processed Food to the Daily Food Intake of HIV-positive and HIV-Negative Women during Pregnancy.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the daily dietary intake and energy contribution of ultra-processed foods among women who are positive and negative for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) during pregnancy. METHODS: This case-control study included 77 HIV-positive and 79 HIV-negative puerperal women between 2015 and 2016. The socioeconomic and maternal demographic data were assessed, and a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) adapted for pregnant women was applied. The Fisher exact test and the Mann-Whitney test were applied to detect differences between the groups. Linear regression was used to assess the associations between the intake of ultra-processed food and energy, macro- and micronutrients, with values of p < 0.05 considered significant. RESULTS: The HIV-positive group was older (p < 0.001) and had lower income (p = 0.016) and level of schooling (p < 0.001) than the HIV-negative group. Both groups presented similar average food intake: 4,082.99 Kcal/day and 4,369.24 Kcal/day for the HIV-positive and HIV-negative women respectively (p = 0.258).The HIV-positive group consumed less protein (p = 0.048), carbohydrates (p = 0.028) and calcium (p = 0.001), and more total fats (p = 0.003). Ultra-processed foods accounted for 39.80% and 40.10% of the HIV-positive and HIV-negative groups' caloric intake respectively (p = 0.893). The intake of these foods was associated with a higher consumption of carbohydrates (p < 0.001), trans fat (p = 0.013) and sodium (p < 0.001), as well as lower protein (p < 0.001) and fiber intake (p = 0.022). CONCLUSION: These findings demonstrate that the energy consumption and ultra-processed food intake were similar in both groups, which reinforces the trend toward a high intake of ultra-processed food in the general population. The intake of ultra-processed food was positively associated with the consumption of carbohydrates, trans fat and sodium, and negatively associated with the consumption of protein and fiber.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o consumo alimentar diário e a contribuição dos alimentos ultraprocessados na dieta de gestantes soropositivas e soronegativas para o vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV). MéTODOS: Estudo de caso­controle com 77 puérperas soropositivas e 79 soronegativas entre 2015 e 2016. Analisaram-se dados socioeconômicos e demográficos maternos, e aplicou-se um questionário de frequência alimentar (QFA) adaptado para gestantes. Utilizou-se o teste exato de Fisher e o teste de Mann-Whitney para detectar diferenças entre os grupos. A regressão linear avaliou a associação entre o consumo de ultraprocessados e de energia, macro e micronutrientes. Valores de p < 0,05 foram considerados significativos. RESULTADOS: O grupo de puérperas soropositivas foi mais velho (p < 0,001), com menor renda familiar (p = 0,016) e escolaridade (p < 0,001) quando comparado com o grupo das soronegativas. Ambos os grupos apresentaram médias de consumo semelhantes, com 4.082,99 Kcal/dia entre as puérperas soropositivas e 4.369,24 kcal/dia entre as soronegativas (p = 0,258). Observou-se que as puérperas soropositivas consumiam menos proteínas (p = 0,048), carboidratos (p = 0,028) e cálcio (p = 0,001), e mais gorduras totais (p = 0,003). Os ultraprocessados corresponderam a 39,80% das calorias entre as soropositivas, e a 40,10% entre as soronegativas (p = 0,893). O consumo destes alimentos esteve associado a um maior consumo de carboidratos (p < 0,001), gordura trans (p = 0,013) e sódio (p < 0,001), e a um menor consumo de proteínas (p < 0,001) e fibras (p = 0,022). CONCLUSãO: Esses achados demonstram que o consumo de energia e de alimentos ultraprocessados foram semelhantes nos dois grupos, o que reforça a tendência ao consumo elevado de alimentos ultraprocessados na população geral. O consumo de alimentos ultraprocessados foi positivamente associado ao consumo de carboidratos, gorduras trans e sódio, e negativamente associado ao consumo de proteínas e fibras.

Effect of depressive symptoms and HIV exposure on the quality of life of HIV-seropositive and seronegative pregnant women

Introduction: Depression among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-seropositive individuals has been associated with reduced quality of life. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of depressive symptoms and HIV exposure on mean quality of life scores in HIV-seropositive and HIV-seronegative postpartum women. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with two groups: 80 HIV-seropositive and 80 HIV-seronegative postpartum women. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and the World Health Organization Quality of Life short-version scale were used to assess presence of depressive symptoms and quality of life scores. Two-way analysis of variance was used to compare the effects of depressive symptoms, HIV exposure and interaction between depressive symptoms and HIV exposure on mean quality of life scores, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Depressive symptoms were present in 35% (28) of HIV-seropositive and 17.5% (14) of HIV-seronegative participants (p = 0.02). The interaction between depressive symptoms and HIV exposure was not significant for any quality of life domain. The main effect of HIV exposure was also not significant. Depressive symptoms had a negative influence on quality of life scores in all domains (physical health, psychological health, social relationships and environment) (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The quality of life of pregnant women is negatively influenced by the presence of depressive symptoms. (AU)

Antral Follicles Count and Anti-Müllerian Hormone Levels after Gonadotoxic Chemotherapy in Patients with Breast Cancer: Cohort Study.

Aim To assess ovarian reserve (OVR) by means of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), and antral follicle count (AFC) measurement in eumenorrheic women with breast cancer, exposed to gonadotoxic chemotherapy. Method Fifty-two women (35.3 ± 3.8 years old) with breast cancer and undergoing cyclophosphamide-containing chemotherapy were enrolled. The assessment was performed before chemotherapy (T1) and after 2 (T2) and 6 months (T3). Results Six months after chemotherapy, the prevalence of regular cycles was 60%. Anti-Müllerian hormone decreased down to undetectable levels at T2 and T3 (T1: 2.53 [1.00-5.31]; T2 < 0.08; T3: < 0.08 [< 0.08-1.07] ng/mL), (p < 0.0001). Antral follicle count was 11 [8.0-13.5] follicles at T1 and lower at T2 (5.50 [3.75-8.0] and T3 (5.0 [2.5-7.0]) (p < 0.0001). In patients who remained with regular cycles during chemotherapy or resumed normal menses, FSH and estradiol levels remained unchanged. Conclusion Anti-Müllerian hormone and AFC are useful as markers of OVR decline in women exposed to chemotherapy. Follicle-stimulating hormone is only adequate in women who become amenorrheic.

Antral Follicles Count and Anti-Müllerian Hormone Levels after Gonadotoxic Chemotherapy in Patients with Breast Cancer: Cohort Study / Contagem de folículos antrais e níveis de hormônio anti-Mülleriano após quimioterapia gonadotóxica em pacientes com câncer de mama: estudo de coorte

Abstract Aim To assess ovarian reserve (OVR) by means of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), and antral follicle count (AFC) measurement in eumenorrheic women with breast cancer, exposed to gonadotoxic chemotherapy. Method Fifty-two women (35.3 ± 3.8 years old) with breast cancer and undergoing cyclophosphamide-containing chemotherapy were enrolled. The assessment was performed before chemotherapy (T1) and after 2 (T2) and 6 months (T3). Results Six months after chemotherapy, the prevalence of regular cycles was 60%. Anti-Müllerian hormone decreased down to undetectable levels at T2 and T3 (T1: 2.53 [1.00–5.31]; T2 < 0.08; T3: < 0.08 [< 0.08–1.07] ng/mL), (p< 0.0001). Antral follicle count was 11 [8.0–13.5] follicles at T1 and lower at T2 (5.50 [3.75–8.0] and T3 (5.0 [2.5–7.0]) (p< 0.0001). In patients who remained with regular cycles during chemotherapy or resumed normal menses, FSH and estradiol levels remained unchanged. Conclusion Anti-Müllerian hormone and AFC are useful as markers of OVR decline in women exposed to chemotherapy. Follicle-stimulating hormone is only adequate in women who become amenorrheic.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a reserva ovariana (OVR) através da contagem de folículos antrais (AFC), dosagem sérica de hormônio folículo estimulante (FSH) e hormônio anti-Mülleriano (AMH) em mulheres com câncer de mama submetidas a quimioterapia gonadotóxica. Método Foram incluídas na pesquisa 52 mulheres (35,3 ± 3,8 anos) com câncer de mama, em tratamento com quimioterapia com ciclofosfamida. As dosagens e medidas foram realizadas antes do início da quimioterapia (T1) e após 2 (T2) e 6 meses (T3). Resultados Seis meses após quimioterapia, a prevalência de ciclos regulares foi de 60%. O AMH sérico diminuiu a níveis indetectáveis em T2 e T3 (T1: 2,53 [1,00–5,31] ]; T2 < 0,08; T3: < 0,08 [< 0,08–1,07] ng/mL) (p< 0,0001). A contagem de folículos antrais foi de 11 [8,0–13,5] folículos em T1, e ainda menor em T2 (5,50 [3,75–8,0] e T3 (5,0 [2,5–7,0]), (p< 0,0001). Em pacientes que mantiveram ciclos regulares durante a quimioterapia ou retomaram a menstruação normalmente, os níveis de FSH e estradiol permaneceram inalterados. Conclusão O AMH e a AFC são marcadores úteis do declínio da OVR em mulheres expostas à quimioterapia. O FSH só é adequado em mulheres que se tornam amenorreicas.

Ovarian steroid hormones modulate the expression of progesterone receptors and histone acetylation patterns in uterine leiomyoma cells.

Uterine leiomyomas are the most common benign smooth muscle cell tumors in women. Estrogen (E2), progesterone (P4) and environmental factors play important roles in the development of these tumors. New treatments, such as mifepristone, have been proposed. We evaluated the gene expression of total (PRT) and B (PRB) progesterone receptors, and the histone acetyltransferase (HAT) and deacetylase (HDAC) activity after treatment with E2, P4 and mifepristone (RU486) in primary cell cultures from uterine leiomyoma and normal myometrium. Compared to myometrium, uterine leiomyoma cells showed an increase in PRT mRNA expression when treated with E2, and increase in PRB mRNA expression when treated with E2 and P4. Treatment with mifepristone had no significant impact on mRNA expression in these cells. The HDAC activity was higher in uterine leiomyoma compared to myometrial cells after treatment with E2 and E2 + P4 + mifepristone. HAT activity was barely detectable. Our results suggest that ovarian steroid hormones modulate PR, and mifepristone was unable to decrease PRT and PRB mRNA. The higher activity of HDAC leiomyoma cells could be involved in transcriptional repression of genes implicated in normal myometrium cell function, contributing to the maintenance and growth of uterine leiomyoma.

Factors that affect mother-to-child HIV transmission at a university hospital in southern Brazil

Introduction: The prevention strategies for MTCT of HIV proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other agencies have significantly reduced the number of infected children, child morbidity and mortality associated with HIV, and have improved maternal health. However, the detection rate of pregnant women with HIV in Brazil significantly increased in the last decade10. Objective: To evaluate factors that may interfere in mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Methods: A historical cohort study with a sample of 299 HIV-infected mothers and their newborns who delivered at the Obstetric Center of the Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, southern Brazil, from January 2010 to December 2014. Results: Of the 299 newborns of HIV-infected mothers, 3.7% (n = 11) were infected. Of those, 90.9% (n = 10) were born by cesarean section; 90.9% (n = 10) had ≥ 37 weeks; 54.6% (n = 6) received zidovudine starting within the first 4 hours after birth; and 45.4% (n = 5) received zidovudine and nevirapine. Four women whose newborns were infected with HIV had syphilis during pregnancy (36.4%). Poor adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) (p < 0.003), viral load ≥ 1000 copies/mL or ignored in the third trimester (p < 0.000), and CD4 count < 500 cells/mm3 in the third trimester (p < 0.046) were significantly associated with an increased risk of MTCT. Conclusions: Lack of control of risk factors may contribute to unfavorable rates of MTCT of HIV (AU)