Biostimulation methods based on chemical communication improve semen quality in male breeder rabbits

Biostimulation aims to optimize reproductive parameters as part of animal management practices by modulating animal sensory systems. Chemical signals, mostly known as pheromones, have a great potential in this regard. This study was conducted to determine the influence of short-term male rabbit exposure to different biological secretions, potentially pheromone-mediated, on reproductive parameters of males. Four groups of 18 males each were exposed to A) doe urine, B) 2-phenoxyethanol, C) doe vaginal swab, and D) distilled water (control), three times over a 2.5h exposure window, just before semen collection. Semen volume, sperm concentration and motility, as well as subpopulation analysis of the spermatozoa were assessed for each condition. Additionally, testosterone levels in blood samples were monitored at five time points over the 2.5 h exposure window. We found a higher percentage of motile, progressive, fast progressive and mid-progressive spermatozoa in any of the three experimental groups compared to the control group. In contrast, the semen volume and the percentage of immotile and non-progressive spermatozoa was generally higher in the control group. We then identified a higher proportion of a subpopulation of fast and progressive spermatozoa in groups A, B, and C compared to group D. Our data indicates that sperm motility increases when animals are exposed to specific biological fluids potentially containing pheromones, and that an increase in sperm volume does not correlate with an increase in spermatozoa concentration, progressiveness, and speed. Finally, no differences in testosterone levels were found among comparisons, although males of groups A and C (exposed to natural female biological fluids) showed a tendency towards higher testosterone levels. In conclusion, our results indicate that rabbit sperm quality increases upon exposure to the biological secretions proposed, thereby supporting further investigation into their molecular identity. This exploration could eventually pave the way for implementing the use of pheromones in rabbit husbandry to enhance reproductive and productive parameters in farmed rabbits.

Dynamic interplay of cortisol and BDNF in males under acute and chronic psychosocial stress - A randomized controlled study

The neurotrophic protein brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a pivotal role in brain function and is affected by acute and chronic stress. We here investigate the patterns of BDNF and cortisol stress reactivity and recovery under the standardized stress protocol of the TSST and the effect of perceived chronic stress on the basal BDNF levels in healthy young men. Twenty-nine lean young men underwent the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) and a resting condition. Serum BDNF and cortisol were measured before and repeatedly after both conditions. The perception of chronic stress was assessed by the Trier Inventory for Chronic Stress (TICS). After the TSST, there was a significant increase over time for BDNF and cortisol. Stronger increase in cortisol in response to stress was linked to an accelerated BDNF decline after stress. Basal resting levels of BDNF was significantly predicted by chronic stress perception. The increased BDNF level following psychosocial stress suggest a stress-induced neuroprotective mechanism. The presumed interplay between BDNF and the HPA-axis indicates an antagonistic relationship of cortisol on BDNF recovery post-stress. Chronically elevated high cortisol levels, as present in chronic stress, could thereby contribute to reduced neurogenesis, and an increased risk of neurodegenerative conditions in persons suffering from chronic stress.

Emotion and birth control: Emotion regulation ERPs differ based on menstrual cycle phase and hormonal contraceptive use

While hormonal contraceptives (HCs) like oral contraceptive pills (OCs) and intrauterine devices (IUDs) can reportedly influence mood, the evidence is mixed, and the mechanisms remain unclear. Emotion reactivity and regulation processes may be hormone-sensitive and underlie these mood changes. This study sought to investigate the role of the menstrual cycle and HC use in emotion regulation using ERP measures during an emotion regulation paradigm. Participants with a natural cycle (NC) were measured in the mid-follicular and mid-luteal phase (within-subject design, n = 26), and compared with OC (n = 36) and IUD (n = 25) users. The centroparietal late positive potential (LPP) reflected negative emotion reactivity and its modulation by cognitive reappraisal served as a marker for emotion regulation processing. NC participants had a lower LPP amplitude in the mid-luteal compared to the mid-follicular phase. Reactivity to negative emotional stimuli decreased over time in the mid-luteal phase, whereas the HC groups showed sustained LPP activation. Reappraisal led only to significant LPP changes in the mid-follicular phase, and not in the mid-luteal phase or HC groups. Our results showed a specific left frontal activity (FR-LPP) in the contrast that reflected emotion regulation processing. This activity was highest in the mid-follicular phase, and was significantly different from the OC users but not from the IUD group. Higher self-reported PMS symptoms were associated with stronger effects on the reduced mid-luteal LPP activity and with lower FR-LPP amplitude in the mid-follicular phase. No effect of OC phase (active pill use versus pill pause) was found. These findings add insights into the neurophysiological underpinnings of hormone-related mood changes and demonstrate the importance of considering hormonal status and PMS symptoms in emotion research.

Effects of Caloric Restriction and Intermittent Fasting and Their Combined Exercise on Cognitive Functioning: A Review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The impact of dietary habits on cognitive function is increasingly gaining attention. The review is to discuss how caloric restriction (CR) and intermittent fasting (IF) can enhance cognitive function in healthy states through multiple pathways that interact with one another. Secondly, to explore the effects of CR and IF on cognitive function in conditions of neurodegenerative diseases, obesity diabetes and aging, as well as potential synergistic effects in combination with exercise to prevent cognitively related neurodegenerative diseases.

RECENT FINDINGS

With age, the human brain ages and develops corresponding neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and epilepsy, which in turn trigger cognitive impairment. Recent research indicates that the impact of diet and exercise on cognitive function is increasingly gaining attention. The benefits of exercise for cognitive function and brain plasticity are numerous, and future research can examine the efficacy of particular dietary regimens during physical activity when combined with diet which can prevent cognitive decline.

Sex-related differences in eating behaviors during COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review with metanalysis

Eating behavior can be influenced by external factors; however, there is no consensus on the existence of differences in eating behavior between the sexes in stressful situations, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This systematic review assessed whether there was a difference in eating behavior between sexes during the COVID-19 pandemic. A search of nine databases (Medline/Pubmed, Embase, Scielo, VHL, Scopus, PsycINFO, Web of Science, ProQuest, Google Scholar) was conducted in October 2023. Studies reporting eating behaviors in males and females during the COVID-19 pandemic were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Instrument. Stratified meta-analyses were conducted using the STATA software. Of the 2388 studies identified, 45 were included in the qualitative synthesis, and 36 in the meta-analysis, encompassing a total of 35,792 participants. Validated questionnaires were used to assess eating behavior, including the TFEQ (33.3%), DEBQ (24.4%), EEQ (22.2%), EES (11.1%), EOQ-5 (2.2%), AEBQ (2.2%), EAS (2.2%), and EMAQ (2.2%). Overall, males exhibited lower scores in emotional eating (Cohen's d = -0.32, 95%CI: 0.46 to -0.17) and restrained eating (Hedges'g = -0.11, 95%CI: 0.16 to -0.06) compared to females. However, the subgroup analysis indicated no differences in emotional eating (subgroup difference p = 0.39) or restrained eating (subgroup difference p = 0.30) according to the year of pandemic. These findings underscore the importance of sex-specific interventions, the address eating behaviors during periods of heightened insecurity in worldwide health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, our results emphasize the necessity for public health strategies to monitor and promote healthy eating behaviors to mitigate their impact on overall health outcomes, even in males, as their eating behavior may be affected over the course of a global health crisis, as well as females.

Vasopressinergic sexual dimorphism: Sex chromosome complement and organizational hormonal effects

This study aimed to analyze the role of the sex chromosomes (SCC: XX/XY) and the interaction with organizational hormonal effects on Avp gene expression at the supraoptic (SON) and paraventricular nuclei (PVN) due to water deprivation, as well as on the vasopressinergic sexually dimorphic antidiuretic and pressor responses. For this purpose, we used gonadectomized (GDX) transgenic mice of the "four core genotypes" model, in which the effect of gonadal sex and SCC are dissociated. A significant interaction between treatment and SCC on Avp gene expression at the SON was observed. Regardless of sex, XX mice showed higher basal expression than those with XY; however after water deprivation no changes in mRNA Avp expression were observed in the XX group, while an increase for XY was reported. At the PVN an interaction of SCC, organizational hormonal, and treatment factors was observed, revealing an increase in Avp gene expression in the XY-GDX male DEP group. Although no SCC or organizational hormonal effects were observed on the demopressin-antidiuretic response and renal Avpr2 mRNA expression, an interplay of organizational hormonal and SCC factors in short and medium-term vasopressin-blood pressure regulation were reported. XX-GDX females showed a facilitated vasopressin-bradycardic baroreflex response when compared to the other genotypes. Furthermore, although vasopressin continuous infusion resulted initially in the expected increase in the percentage change in MAP in all genotypes, in XX-GDX male and female this increase was sustained until the 30-min infusion, while in XY-GDX male and in XY-GDX female mice a decrease in MAP was observed.

Sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances as risk and progression factors for multiple chronic overlapping pain conditions: a protocol for a longitudinal study

Introduction

Chronic overlapping pain conditions (COPCs), such as chronic low back pain (cLBP) and fibromyalgia, frequently cooccur and incur substantial healthcare costs. However, to date, much focus has been placed on individual anatomically based chronic pain conditions, whereas little is known about the mechanisms underlying progression to multiple (more than 1) COPCs. This study aims to address the gap by investigating the role of common and modifiable risk factors, specifically sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances, in the development of multiple COPCs.

Methods

The study will enroll 300 participants with cLBP, including 200 with cLBP only and 100 with cLBP plus other COPCs (ie, fibromyalgia, temporomandibular disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, and chronic headaches) and follow them up for 12 months. Sleep and circadian rhythms will be assessed using wireless sleep electroencephalography, 24-hour evaluation of the rhythm of urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin, actigraphy, and sleep diaries. Pain amplification using quantitative sensory testing, psychological distress using validated self-report measures, and the number of pain sites using a pain body map will also be assessed.

Perspectives

This research aims to (1) comprehensively characterize sleep/circadian disturbances in individuals with single and multiple COPCs using multimodal in-home assessments; (2) examine the associations between sleep/circadian disturbances, changes in pain amplification, and psychological distress; and (3) investigate the relationship among these factors and the progression in the number of pain sites, a proxy for multiple COPCs. The findings will provide insights into the mechanisms leading to multiple COPCs, potentially informing treatment and prevention strategies for these complex conditions.

Transfer of preclinical study data on the influence of cimicifuga racemosaon functional changes in the hippocampus during menopause

Menopausal transition in women involves complex neurobiochemical changes linked to ovarian dysfunction, resulting in symptoms like vasomotor symptoms (VMS), sleep disturbances, anxiety, and cognitive impairments. Hormone replacement therapy is the first-line treatment. However, many women are reluctant to use HRT or have contraindications toward HRT and seek for alternatives. Non-hormonal therapies with extracts of Cimicifuga racemosa rhizomes like the isopropanolic extract (iCR, black cohosh) offer a promising alternative. A preclinical pilot study exploring iCR's effects on gene expression in the hippocampus and hypothalamus of ovarectomized (OVX) rats mimicking menopausal conditions identified important signaling pathways and CNS-based contributions to the multitargeted modes of action of iCR. Especially in the hippocampus, iCR compensated effects of OVX on gene expression profiles. These changes are reflected by the genes AVPR1A, GAL, CALCA, HCRT, PNOC, ESR1, ESR2 and TAC3 contributing to the formation of hot flushes or thermoregulation as well as to secondary effects such as blood pressure, metabolism, hormonal regulation, homeostasis, mood regulation, neuroendocrine modulation, regulation of sleep and arousal, and in learning, memory and cognition. To understand the mechanisms in the brain of estrogen-depressed animals (OVX) and subsequent iCR treatment we combined the results of the pilot study with those of up-to-date literature and tried to transfer the current knowledge to humans during menopausal transition and adaptation. Focus was laid on changes in the hippocampal function, that is disturbed by hormonal fluctuations, but can also be brought back into balance by iCR.

Prenatal cannabis exposure in the clinic and laboratory: What do we know and where do we need to go?

Coincident with the legalisation of cannabis in many nations, rates of cannabis use during pregnancy have increased. Like prior investigations on smoking and alcohol, understanding how prenatal cannabis exposure (PCE) impacts offspring outcomes across the lifespan will be critical for informing choices for pregnant people, clinicians, and policy makers alike. A thorough characterization of the life-long impacts is especially urgent for supporting all of these stakeholders in the decision-making process. While studies in humans bring forth the most direct information, it can be difficult to parse the impact of PCE from confounding variables. Laboratory studies in animal models can provide experimental designs that allow for causal inferences to be drawn, however there can be challenges in designing experiments with external validity in mirroring real-world exposure, as well as challenges translating results from the laboratory back to the clinic. In this literature review, we first highlight what is known about patterns of cannabis use during pregnancy. We then seek to lay out updates to the current understanding of the impact of PCE on offspring development informed by both human and nonhuman animal experiments. Finally we highlight opportunities for information exchange among the laboratory, clinic, and policy, identifying gaps to be filled by future research.

Expression of the apelin system in the porcine pituitary during the oestrous cycle and early pregnancy and the effect of apelin on LH and FSH secretion

Reproductive success requires considerable energy investment. Research has shown that some adipokines, i.e. the hormones produced in adipose tissue, affect reproductive functions by influencing all structures of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. Apelin is a recently identified member of the adipokine family. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the gene and protein expression of the apelin system (the apelin hormone and the apelin receptor, APJ) in the anterior (AP) and posterior (PP) pituitary lobes of the domestic pig during different phases of the oestrous cycle (days 2 to 3, 10 to 12, 14 to 16, and 17 to 19) and in early pregnancy (days 10 to 11, 12 to 13, 15 to 16, and 27 to 28). It was also assumed that apelin participates in the regulation of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion and influences Akt, MAPK/Erk1/2, and AMPK signalling pathways in the AP during the oestrous cycle. Apelin, APJ mRNAs and proteins were detected in both pituitary lobes. Apelin was identified in gonadotropes, somatotropes, lactotropes, and thyrotropes. The study also revealed that apelin and APJ mRNA/protein levels fluctuate during the oestrous cycle and early gestation. Apelin affects basal, GnRH- and/or insulin-stimulated gonadotropin secretion in some phases of the cycle, as well as the phosphorylation of Akt, MAPK/Erk1/2, and AMPK proteins in AP cells. These findings suggest that apelin may be produced locally in the pituitary and that this gland is receptive to apelin's action. The study also suggest that apelin may influence female reproductive functions by controlling the release of LH and FSH from AP cells, and that it affects Akt, MAPK/Erk1/2, and AMPK signalling pathways.

Clinical assessment and striatal dopaminergic activity in healthy controls and patients with Parkinson's disease: a Bayesian approach

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to evaluate correlations between striatal dopamine transporter (DAT) uptake and clinical assessments in both patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) and healthy controls.

METHODS

This study enrolled 193 healthy controls, and 581 patients with PD. They underwent various clinical assessments and 123I-FP-CIT SPECT scans. After reconstruction, attenuation correction, and normalization of SPECT images, counts were measured from the bilateral caudate and putamen, and the occipital cortex for reference. Count densities for each region were extracted and used to calculate striatal binding ratios (SBRs) for each striatal region. SBR is calculated as (target region/reference region)-1. After logarithmic transformation of striatal SBRs, we analyzed the effects of clinical assessments on striatal SBRs using Bayesian hierarchical modeling.

RESULTS

MDS-UPDRS total score, part I, part II, part III, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, REM sleep behavior disorder screening questionnaire, SCOPA-AUT total score were negatively associated with striatal SBR in patients with PD. Also, HVLT recognition discrimination was positively associated with striatal SBR in both healthy controls and patients with PD. In healthy control, MDS-UPDRS part II, MOCA, SCOPA-AUT total score were positively associated with striatal SBR.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that motor symptom, sleep disturbance, autonomic symptom, and cognition of patients with PD were associated with striatal dopaminergic activity. In healthy controls, motor symptoms, autonomic symptom, and cognition were associated with striatal dopaminergic activity, some of which showing the opposite direction with patients with PD. This result might provide new insight to underlying mechanism of dopamine system with motor and non-motor assessments.

Sex Differences in Stress-Induced Cortisol Response Among Infants of Mothers Exposed to Childhood Adversity

BACKGROUND

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) increase risk for mental illness in women and their children, and dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis may play a role. The impact of ACEs on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis may be strongest when ACEs occur prepubertally and in people who are exposed to abuse ACEs.

METHODS

To test this, we measured salivary cortisol in 96 mother-infant dyads while mothers were separated from their infants, who were experiencing a laboratory stressor. Mothers completed the Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire; ACEs that occurred prepubertally (pACEs) were measured, and mother-infant dyads were grouped based on maternal pACE history as follows: no pACEs, ≥1 pACEs with abuse, or ≥1 pACEs but no abuse.

RESULTS

Mothers with ≥1 pACEs exhibited decreases in cortisol (relative to preinfant stressor), which differed significantly from the cortisol increase experienced by mothers with no pACEs, regardless of abuse presence (p = .001) or absence (p = .002). These pACE groups did not differ from one another (p = .929). Significant sex differences in infant cortisol were observed in infants of mothers with ≥1 pACEs (regardless of abuse) but not in infants of mothers with no pACEs. When mothers had experienced ≥1 pACEs, males showed decreases in cortisol in response to a stressor whereas females demonstrated increases, and males and females differed significantly when their mothers had ≥1 pACEs with (p = .025) and without (p = .032) abuse.

CONCLUSIONS

Regardless of maternal exposure to childhood abuse, in response to a stressor, pACEs were associated with lower cortisol response in mothers and sex differences in 6-month-old infants, with males showing a lower cortisol response than females.

Menopause and Alzheimer's disease susceptibility: Exploring the potential mechanisms

Alzheimer's Disease (AD), responsible for 62% of all dementia cases, is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that leads to cognitive dysfunction. The prevalence of AD is consistently higher in women suggesting they are disproportionately affected by this disease. Despite this, our understanding of this female AD vulnerability remains limited. Menopause has been identified as a potential contributing factor to AD in women, with earlier menopause onset associated with greater AD risk. However, the underlying mechanisms responsible for this increased risk are not fully understood. This review examines the potential role of menopause in the development of Alzheimer's Disease providing a mechanistic overview of the available literature from hormones to pathology. While literature is now emerging that indicates a role of hormonal shifts, gut dysbiosis, lipid dysregulation and inflammation, more research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms involved.

Visual and Auditory Sensory Impairments Differentially Relate with Alzheimer's Pathology

Objective

We intended to investigate the relationships between visual sensory impairment (VSI) or auditory sensory impairment (ASI) and brain pathological changes associated with cognitive decline in older adults.

Methods

We primarily tried to examine whether each sensory impairment is related to Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology, specifically beta-amyloid (Aβ) deposition, through both cross-sectional and longitudinal approaches in cognitively unimpaired older adults. Self-report questionnaires on vision and hearing status were administered at the baseline. Neuroimaging scans including brain [11C] Pittsburgh Compound B PET and MRI, as well as clinical assessments, were performed at baseline and 2-year follow-up.

Results

Cross-sectional analyses showed that the VSI-positive group had significantly higher Aβ deposition than the VSI-negative group, whereas there was no significant association between ASI positivity and Aβ deposition. Longitudinal analyses revealed that VSI positivity at baseline was significantly associated with increased Aβ deposition over 2 years (β = 0.153, p = 0.025), although ASI positivity was not (β = 0.045, p = 0.518). VSI positivity at baseline was also significantly associated with greater atrophic changes in AD-related brain regions over the 2-year follow-up period (β = -0.207, p = 0.005), whereas ASI positivity was not (β = 0.024, p = 0.753). Neither VSI nor ASI positivity was related to cerebrovascular injury, as measured based on the white matter hyperintensity volume.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that VSI is probably related to AD-specific pathological changes, which possibly mediate the reported relationship between VSI and cognitive decline. In contrast, ASI appears not associated with AD pathologies but may contribute to cognitive decline via other mechanisms.

TREM1 promotes neuroinflammation after traumatic brain injury in rats: Possible involvement of ERK/cPLA2 signalling pathway

The neuroinflammatory response promotes secondary brain injury after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 (TREM1) is a key regulator of inflammation. However, the role of TREM1 in TBI is poorly studied. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of TREM1 in TBI and the possible underlying mechanism. We found that the protein expression of TREM1 significantly increased after TBI in rats, and the TREM1 protein localized to microglia. Inhibition of the TREM1 protein with LP17 significantly blocked ERK phosphorylation and reduced cytoplasmic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) protein expression and phosphorylation. In addition, LP17-mediated TREM1 inhibition significantly reduced the protein expression of iNOS and increased the protein expression of Arg1. Moreover, after TREM1 was inhibited, the secretion of the proinflammatory factors TNF-α and IL-1β was significantly reduced, while the secretion of the anti-inflammatory factors IL-4 and IL-10 was significantly increased. Additionally, inhibition of TREM1 by LP17 significantly reduced neuronal apoptosis and ameliorated nerve dysfunction in TBI model rats. In conclusion, our findings suggest that TREM1 enhances neuroinflammation and promotes neuronal apoptosis after TBI, and these effects may be partly mediated via the ERK/cPLA2 signalling pathway.

The mother-child interface: A neurobiological metamorphosis

From the start of pregnancy, mother and child induce reciprocal neurobiological changes in the brain that will prove critical for neurodevelopment and survival of both. Molecular communication between mother and fetus is constantly active and persists even after the fetus starts to synthesize its hormones in late gestation. Intriguingly, some mother and fetus exchange cells remain in the other's brain and body with long-lasting effects and memories that do not follow the laws of classical genetics but involve complex epigenetic mechanisms. After childbirth, mother and child go through a transitional phase, a sort of limbo in which both will have a peculiar functioning profile, which is adaptive for contingencies but also renders them vulnerable. The interplay between these two "limbo" states allows for an easier transition to the subsequent phases of development. In this review, we will trace mother's and child's path from pregnancy to the months following birth and, in particular, unravel i) the key features of pregnancy and brain development and the reciprocal influences; ii) how a transitory pattern of functioning characterize mother and child, moving them toward more flexible and evolved forms; and iii) how mother and fetus act during childbirth to promote neuroprotection, pain reduction, and neurophysiological changes. Therefore, this review covers a wide range of topics, integrating neuroanatomical, neurological, biochemical, neurophysiological, and psychological studies in a meaningful way, trying to integrate them in a holistic view of the mother-child interface that is usually neglected.

Research progress on the mechanism of exercise against depression

The substantial global health burden of depression encourages the development of innovative and broadly effective interventions. This paper aimed to examine recent advancements by which exercise works as an antidepressant and recommends optimal types and quantity of exercise as supplemental therapies in treating depression. Sedentary behavior and low physical activity significantly influence the onset of depression. Being an effective treatment option, exercise can significantly reduce depression risk. Exercise exerts antidepressant effects as it modulates neurotransmitters, neuroplasticity, the immune system, and hormone levels. Effective exercise forms include yoga, strength training, and walking/jogging. Tailored exercise regimens that consider individual preferences and tolerability can improve outcomes. Regular exercise enhances general well-being and reduces depressive symptoms. Additional research is needed to understand the complex basis of exercise's effects on depression. Exercise is a cost-effective and accessible intervention for depression management that needs additional exploration. Thus, customized exercise programs, as per each patient’s needs, are essential for their successful implementation clinically.

Neuroendocrine contribution to sex-related variations in adverse air pollution health effects

Air pollution exposure is ranked as a leading environmental risk factor for not only cardiopulmonary diseases but also for systemic health ailments including diabetes, reproductive abnormalities, and neuropsychiatric disorders, likely mediated by central neural stress mechanisms. Current experimental evidence links many air pollution health outcomes with activation of neuroendocrine sympathetic-adrenal-medullary and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) stress axes associated with resultant increases in adrenal-derived hormone levels acting as circulating mediators of multi-organ stress reactions. Epidemiological and experimental investigations also demonstrated sex-specific responses to air pollutant inhalation, which may be attributed to hormonal interactions within the stress and reproductive axes. Sex hormones (androgens and estrogens) interact with neuroendocrine functions to influence hypothalamic responses, subsequently augmenting stress-mediated metabolic and immune changes. These neurohormonal interactions may contribute to innate sex-specific responses to inhaled irritants, inducing differing individual susceptibility. The aim of this review was to: (1) examine neuroendocrine co-regulation of the HPA axis by gonadal hormones, (2) provide experimental evidence demonstrating sex-specific respiratory and systemic effects attributed to air pollutant inhalation exposure, and (3) postulate proposed mechanisms of stress and sex hormone interactions during air pollution-related stress.

A comprehensive analysis of the differential expression in the hippocampus of depression induced by gut microbiota compared to traditional stress

Depression, which is a disease of heterogeneous etiology, is characterized by high disability and mortality rates. Gut microbiota are associated with the development of depression. To further explore any differences in the mechanisms of depression induced by gut microbiota and traditional stresses, as well as facilitate the development of microbiota-based interventions, a fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) depression model was made. This was achieved by transplanting feces from major depressive disorder (MDD) patients into germ-free mice. Second, the mechanisms of the depression induced by gut microbiota were analyzed in comparison with those of the depression caused by different forms of stress. It turned out that mice exhibited depressive-like behavior after FMT. Then, PCR array analysis was performed on the hippocampus of the depressed mice to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The KEGG analysis revealed that the pathways of depression induced by gut microbes are closely associated with immuno-inflammation. To determine the pathogenic pathways of physiological stress and psychological stress-induced depression, raw data was extracted from several databases and KEGG analysis was performed. The results from the analysis revealed that the mechanisms of depression induced by physiological and psychological stress are closely related to the regulation of neurotransmitters and energy metabolism. Interestingly, the immunoinflammatory response was distinct across different etiologies that induced depression. The findings showed that gut microbiota dysbiosis-induced depression was mainly associated with adaptive immunity, while physiological stress-induced depression was more linked to innate immunity. This study compared the pathogenesis of depression caused by gut microbiota dysbiosis, and physiological and psychological stress. We explored new intervention methods for depression and laid the foundation for precise treatment.

Presence of melatonin in foods of daily consumption: The benefit of this hormone for health

Melatonin (MLT) is a hormone that exists in all living organisms, including bacteria, yeast, fungi, animals, and plants, many of which are ingested daily in the diet. However, the exact concentrations of melatonin in each of the foods and the effect on health of the intake of foods rich in MLT are not known. Therefore, the aim of this review was to gather the available information on the melatonin content of different foods and to evaluate the effect that this hormone has on different pathologies. The amount of MLT may vary depending on the variety, origin, heat treatment, processing, and analysis technique, among other factors. Dietary interventions with foods rich in MLT report health benefits, but there is no evidence that hormone is partially responsible for the clinical improvement. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the MLT content in more foods, as well as the effect that cooking/processing has on the amount of MLT, to estimate its total intake in a typical diet and better explore its potential impact on the health.

Psychological resilience is positively correlated with Habenula volume

BACKGROUND

Psychological resilience is defined as the process and outcome of individuals' successful adaptation to challenging life experiences. The Habenula (Hb) is known to be involved in the stress response; however, the relationship between Hb volume and resilience in humans remains unclear. This study investigated the correlation among resilience, Hb volume, and depressive tendencies in adults.

METHODS

Hb volumes were assessed using deep learning techniques applied to 110 healthy participants. Resilience and depression were evaluated using the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale and Beck Depression Inventory-II, respectively. We examined the relationship between Hb volume and resilience and assessed the mediating effects of resilience on the relationship between Hb volume and depressive tendencies.

RESULTS

Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between resilience and Hb volume (partial r = 0.176, p = 0.001), which was more pronounced in women (partial r = 0.353, p = 0.003). Hb volumes on the left and right sides exhibited significant lateralization (LI = 0.031, 95 % CI = [0.016, 0.046]). Despite Hb asymmetry, lateralization was not significantly associated with resilience. The mediation analysis shows significant indirect effect of resilience on the relationship between Hb volume and depressive tendencies (β = -0.093, 95%CI = [-0.189, -0.019]).

CONCLUSION

This study found that populations with lower resilience have smaller Hb volume. Previous research has shown that Hb volume decreased with the increasing severity of depression symptoms in patients. Our findings support this view and extend it to a population that has not been clinically diagnosed with depression. Additionally, we found that psychological resilience can be predicted by Hb volume and may serve as a mediating factor indirectly affecting depressive tendencies, even in healthy individuals.

LIMITATIONS

Due to its cross-sectional design, this study was unable to analyze dynamic changes in Hb volume during the process of resilience adaptation.

The association of mixed multi-metal exposure with sleep duration and self-reported sleep disorder: A subgroup analysis from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES)

Sleep disorders significantly affect sleep duration and constitute a major public health issue. However, the relationship between metal exposure and sleep is not fully elucidated. This study utilized publicly available data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to measure blood concentrations of seven metals-copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), manganese (Mn), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb)-in a cohort of 4263 American adults. The relationship between metal exposure and self-reported sleep duration and sleep disorder risk was analyzed using single exposure models like logistic and linear regression and mixedexposure models such as weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR). The results indicated an absence of statistically significant findings in the single exposure model. In contrast, the mixed exposure model revealed a positive correlation between selenium levels and the risk of sleep disorders across the entire population. A "U-shaped" association was identified between copper levels and the risk of sleep disorders in males, females, and individuals aged 60 and above. Moreover, a positive trend was observed between manganese levels and the risk of sleep disorders in individuals aged 60 and above. Additionally, elevated concentrations of metal mixtures were significantly associated with reduced sleep duration among females. Sensitivity analyses corroborated these findings. In conclusion, within the context of metal mixtures, selenium may be a risk factor for sleep disorders in the general population. Manganese may be a unique risk factor in older adults. Copper levels have a "U" shaped link to sleep disorder risk in specific population subgroups. Finally, the accumulation of blood metal mixtures in females, mainly due to lead and mercury, may reduce sleep duration. Further research is necessary to validate these findings.

Metformin treatment improves depressive symptoms associated with type 2 diabetes: A 24-week longitudinal study

OBJECTIVE

Metformin is a medication that is widely used for lowering blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes. Metformin was shown to have significant antidepressant effects; however, it is not clear whether metformin treatment improves outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes who have concomitant depressive symptoms.

METHODS

A total of 475 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with depressive symptoms were included in this study and divided into metformin and nonmetformin groups according to whether they were taking metformin. The DASS-21 was used to assess patients' depression and anxiety scores before and after a 24-week intervention. In addition, general information about whether the patients had developed complications from diabetes and whether they had been diagnosed with other diseases was assessed.

RESULTS

(1) After 24 weeks, anxiety and depression scores were significantly lower in the metformin group than in the nonmetformin group. (2) The prevalence of depressive symptoms was significantly greater in female type 2 diabetic patients than in male patients (OR = 2.039, 95 % CI = 1.160-3.568). (3) People with type 2 diabetes who develop complications from diabetes (OR = 1.794, 95 % CI = 1.015-3.171) and those diagnosed with other conditions are more likely to experience depressive symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Metformin has an ameliorative effect on type 2 diabetes. However, women, those with diabetes complications, and those with type 2 diabetes who are also diagnosed with other conditions are more likely to experience depressive symptoms.

Investigation of the structural changes in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex using FTIR spectroscopy in sleep deprived mice

Sleep is a basic, physiological requirement for living things to survive and is a process that covers one third of our lives. Melatonin is a hormone that plays an important role in the regulation of sleep. Sleep deprivation affect brain structures and functions. Sleep deprivation causes a decrease in brain activity, with particularly negative effects on the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Despite the essential role of protein and lipids vibrations, polysaccharides, fatty acid side chains functional groups, and ratios between amides in brain structures and functions, the brain chemical profile exposed to gentle handling sleep deprivation model versus Melatonin exposure remains unexplored. Therefore, the present study, aims to investigate a molecular profile of these regions using FTIR spectroscopy measurement's analysis based on lipidomic approach with chemometrics and multivariate analysis to evaluate changes in lipid composition in the hippocampus, prefrontal regions of the brain. In this study, C57BL/6J mice were randomly assigned to either the control or sleep deprivation group, resulting in four experimental groups: Control (C) (n = 6), Control + Melatonin (C + M) (n = 6), Sleep Deprivation (S) (n = 6), and Sleep Deprivation + Melatonin (S + M) (n = 6). Interventions were administered each morning via intraperitoneal injections of melatonin (10 mg/kg) or vehicle solution (%1 ethanol + saline), while the S and S + M groups underwent 6 h of daily sleep deprivation from using the Gentle Handling method. All mice were individually housed in cages with ad libitum access to food and water within a 12-hour light-dark cycle. Results presented that the brain regions affected by insomnia. The structure of phospholipids, changed. Yet, not only changes in lipids but also in amides were noticed in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex tissues. Additionally, FTIR results showed that melatonin affected the lipids as well as the amides fraction in cortex and hippocampus collected from both control and sleep deprivation groups.

Sex differences in fear expression and persistence in an animal model of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex psychiatric condition arising from traumatic experiences, marked by abnormal fear memories. Despite women are twice as likely as men to develop PTSD, the biological mechanisms underlying this disparity remain inadequately explored, particularly in preclinical studies involving female subjects. Previous research shows that female rats exhibit active fear responses, while males display passive behaviors. Additionally, sex differences in ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) during fear conditioning have been observed, indicating varying emotional responses. Here, we validated a traumatic stress model consisting of footshock exposure paired with social isolation - originally developed in male rats - on females for the first time, focusing on sex differences in fear memory expression, retention and extinction. Our findings reveal that only during trauma exposure, males predominantly exhibited passive responses, whereas females demonstrated more active responses, despite both sexes emitting similar numbers of alarm USVs. Females also showed lower levels of freezing and USV emissions throughout extinction sessions and displayed a higher extinction rate compared to males. Notably, only males displayed a conditioned fear response when triggered by a single mild stressor. These findings highlight sex differences in trauma responses and fear memory processes. The study emphasizes the importance of incorporating 22-kHz USV evaluations along with other behavioral metrics for a comprehensive understanding of fear memory. This research contributes to the existing literature on traumatic stress models as well as underscores the necessity of including female subjects in preclinical studies to better inform treatment and prevention strategies tailored to both sexes.

Intermittent access to sugary drinks associated with fasting induces overeating and depressive-like behavior in female C57BL/6J mice

Binge eating disorder is the most prevalent eating disorder, affecting both sexes but more commonly found in women. Given the frequent co-occurrence of psychiatric disorders, this study aimed to establish a standardized experimental intermittent protocol to investigate overeating associated with depression. A 10-day protocol induced uncontrolled eating behavior in C57BL/6J female mice. The first experiment included the following groups: naive group (chow ad libitum), control group (chow and sucrose solution ad libitum), and fasting groups (16 and 20 h) exposed to an intermittent sucrose solution (10 %) and chow regimen. Subsequently, the feeding test, open field test, elevated plus maze test, tail suspension test, and light/dark conflict test were conducted. Furthermore, monoamine oxidase (MAO) A and B activities in brain structures and plasma corticosterone levels were assessed. Food overconsumption and depressive-like behavior were observed in both sucrose fasting groups, while risk-taking behaviors were specifically observed in the 20-hour fasting sucrose group. While both fasting sucrose groups caused reduced hippocampal MAO-A activity, only the F20 sucrose group inhibited MAO-B in the cortex and hypothalamus. Moreover, both fasting sucrose groups exhibited elevated corticosterone levels. In a separate design (Experiment 2), groups with 16 and 20 h of fasting alone (without sucrose) did not show the same behavioral results as the intermittent fasting sucrose groups, thus avoiding fasting bias. Based on these results, the 20-hour sucrose fasting group was chosen as the ideal protocol for mimicking overeating behavior associated with depression to investigate future therapeutic approaches for this comorbidity.

Assessment of the usefulness of β-cyclodextrin in the removal of progesterone from the environment

The paper presents the results and interpretation of theoretical calculations for the progesterone-β-cyclodextrin (P@β-CD; G4MP2) and progesterone-β-cyclodextrin-β-cyclodextrin (P@β-CD-β-CD; G2) systems. The geometry of the progesterone molecule was optimized on basis of the DFT theory using the B3LYP, PBE1PBE and M06-2X functionals, for selected Pople basis sets [6-31G, 6-31++G, 6-31++G(d,p), 6-311G, 6-311++G, 6-311++G(d,p)] and the Dunning basis set (aug-cc-pVDZ). Presented results of theoretical calculations provide insight into the mechanism of formation of supramolecular systems of progesterone and β-cyclodextrin, allowing us to understand the impact of differences in the polarizability of specific fragments of the "guest" molecule, through the analysis of the Mulliken population distribution, on the tendency for equilibrium inclusion by "host" molecules characterized by selective affinity towards hydrophilic and hydrophobic molecular systems. The comparison of model structures of "guest-host" systems with 1:1 and 1:2 stoichiometry allows us to assess the contribution of a given type of non-covalent interactions (hydrogen bonds, van der Waals interactions, London dispersion forces) in the formation of supramolecular complexes. Due to the complexity of the real research object, including interactions between large molecules in solution, in this work it was decided to choose an approximation that reflects only the key effects. The results presented in this paper constitute a starting point for both theoretical research on analogous supramolecular systems based on β-cyclodextrin derivatives, as well as instrumental studies (NMR, FT-IR, HPLC) of preparations of real inclusion complexes. The approach adopted now can contribute to a better understanding of the phenomenon used in the development of water purification technologies.

The Influence of Sex and Gender on the Level and Course of Subjective Cognitive Complaints After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

BACKGROUND

Cognitive complaints (e.g., health anxiety and illness disruption) are commonly experienced by patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). While it is known that sex and gender affect health, their influence on cognitive complaints remains unknown. The current study explored sex and gender differences in cognitive complaints during the first month (acute phase) and beyond, up to 2 years (recovery phase) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHOD

A total of 514 (Mage = 64.2 ± 8.9, 84.2% male) completed the cognitive scale of the Health Complaints Scale (i.e., overall cognitive complaints, health worry, illness disruption) at baseline, 1, 12, and 24 months post-PCI. Additional questionnaires to gauge gender identity, traits, and norms were administered in a follow-up study. General linear mixed model analyses were conducted to examine the influence of sex, gender, sex × gender, and covariates on cognitive complaints.

RESULTS

Cognitive complaints only decreased in the first month post-PCI (all p < .01). There were no clear sex differences. However, gender generally predicted cognitive complaints in the first 2 years post-PCI: masculinity was related to less complaints, whereas feminine individuals reported higher absolute levels of complaints.

CONCLUSION

The current findings reveal that gender is a valuable factor concerning health complaints and indicate the need to further elaborate on the discrepancies between sex and gender in health research.

Dexamethasone is a regulator of clock genes in testicular peritubular cells

BACKGROUND

We recently found that peritubular cells of the human testis are a dominant site of expression of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR; encoded by NR3C1). Activation of GR by dexamethasone (Dex) strongly influences the phenotype of cultured human testicular peritubular cells (HTPCs), causing massive changes of their proteome and secretome. As glucocorticoids (GC) are also known to set the internal clock of peripheral organs by regulating clock genes, we tested such an influence of Dex in HTPCs.

METHODS

We performed cellular studies with HTPCs and immortalized nonhuman primate (Callithrix jacchus; Cj)-derived peritubular cells, organotypic incubations of testicular fragments of Cj, qPCR and proteomic, as well as immunohistochemical studies.

RESULTS

Basal clock gene expression levels, when monitored by qPCR under standard culture conditions, showed alterations over 24 h, suggesting an endogenous circadian rhythm, especially for BMAL1. Dex (1 µM) when added to cells, caused a strong and significant increase of PER1, followed by elevations of BMAL1, and other clock genes. This action was observed as early as 4 h after the addition of Dex. Immunohistochemistry and data mining revealed GR in testicular peritubular cells and other somatic cells of Cj, in situ. We therefore performed organotypic incubations of testicular fragments of Cj (n = 3) and found that upon addition of Dex (1 µM), mRNA levels of BMAL1 and PER1 also increased in samples of two out of three animals after 6 h. Mass spectrometry did, however, not reveal significant alterations of the testicular proteome, possibly due to the short time point and/or the fact that the somatic GR-expressing cells represent only a small portion of the testis. In support for this assumption, Dex (1 µM; 6 h) significantly increased mRNA levels of BMAL1 and PER1 in Cj-derived immortalized testicular peritubular cells.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that an internal clock system likely exists in peritubular cells of the testis and that Dex, via testicular GR expressed by peritubular cells and other somatic cells, is a strong regulator of this system. In a physiological situation, GC thus may be important regulators of the testicular clock, while in a situation of prolonged stress or GC-medication, derangements in clock gene expression may result.

APOE4 rat model of Alzheimer's disease: sex differences, genetic risk and diet

The strongest genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the ε4 allele of apolipoprotein E (ApoE ε4). A high fat diet also adds to the risk of dementia and AD. In addition, there are sex differences as women carriers have a higher risk of an earlier onset and rapid decline in memory than men. The present study looked at the effect of the genetic risk of ApoE ε4 together with a high fat/high sucrose diet (HFD/HSD) on brain function in male and female rats using magnetic resonance imaging. We hypothesized female carriers would present with deficits in cognitive behavior together with changes in functional connectivity as compared to male carriers. Four-month-old wildtype and human ApoE ε4 knock-in (TGRA8960), male and female Sprague Dawley rats were put on a HFD/HSD for four months. Afterwards they were imaged for changes in function using resting state BOLD functional connectivity. Images were registered to, and analyzed, using a 3D MRI rat atlas providing site-specific data on 173 different brain areas. Resting state functional connectivity showed male wildtype had greater connectivity between areas involved in feeding and metabolism while there were no differences between female and male carriers and wildtype females. The data were unexpected. The genetic risk was overshadowed by the diet. Male wildtype rats were most sensitive to the HFD/HSD presenting with a deficit in cognitive performance with enhanced functional connectivity in neural circuitry associated with food consumption and metabolism.

Perceived social support and symptoms of depression and anxiety in emerging adulthood: A Swedish prospective cohort study

AIMS

The transition from adolescence to young adulthood, often referred to as 'emerging adulthood', is a challenging period in life, and mental health problems are common. Although a large number of studies have shown that social support is linked with fewer mental health problems, few longitudinal studies have examined these associations during this life phase. The aim of the current study was to examine the associations between perceived social support from different sources - family, friends and significant other - at age 17-18 and symptoms of depression and anxiety at age 20-21.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the cohort study Futura01 based on a Swedish national sample of adolescents attending grade 9 in 2016/2017. We used survey information from 2019 (age 17-18) and 2022 (age 20-21) and linked registry information (N=2722). Symptoms of depression and anxiety were measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4) at age 20-21. Perceived social support was measured by the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) at age 17-18. Control variables included sociodemographic characteristics and indicators of mental health problems at age 17-18. Binary logistic regressions were performed.

RESULTS

When mutually adjusting for all sources of perceived social support, family support at age 17-18 had inverse associations with symptoms of both depression and anxiety at age 20-21. Perceived support from friends was associated with subsequent symptoms of anxiety only.

CONCLUSIONS

Perceived social support can be a protective factor against mental health problems in emerging adulthood. The family serves a particularly important source of social support.

Stochastic neuropeptide signals compete to calibrate the rate of satiation

Neuropeptides have important roles in neural plasticity, spiking and behaviour1. Yet, many fundamental questions remain regarding their spatiotemporal transmission, integration and functions in the awake brain. Here we examined how MC4R-expressing neurons in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVHMC4R) integrate neuropeptide signals to modulate feeding-related fast synaptic transmission and titrate the transition to satiety2-6. We show that hunger-promoting AgRP axons release the neuropeptide NPY to decrease the second messenger cAMP in PVHMC4R neurons, while satiety-promoting POMC axons release the neuropeptide αMSH to increase cAMP. Each release event is all-or-none, stochastic and can impact multiple neurons within an approximately 100-µm-diameter region. After release, NPY and αMSH peptides compete to control cAMP-the amplitude and persistence of NPY signalling is blunted by high αMSH in the fed state, while αMSH signalling is blunted by high NPY in the fasted state. Feeding resolves this competition by simultaneously elevating αMSH release and suppressing NPY release7,8, thereby sustaining elevated cAMP in PVHMC4R neurons throughout a meal. In turn, elevated cAMP facilitates potentiation of feeding-related excitatory inputs with each bite to gradually promote satiation across many minutes. Our findings highlight biochemical modes of peptide signal integration and information accumulation to guide behavioural state transitions.

Exploring the relationship between polycystic ovarian syndrome, testosterone, and multiple sclerosis in women: A nationwide cohort study and genome-wide cross-trait analysis

BACKGROUND

Women have a higher risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS), potentially due to hormonal factors. Elevated testosterone levels, common in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), might influence MS risk.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the relationship between PCOS, as a proxy for elevated testosterone levels, and MS risk through phenotypic and genomic analysis.

METHODS

Cox regression models analysed the association between PCOS and MS risk. The genome-wide cross-trait analysis examined the genetic architecture.

RESULTS

In a Swedish cohort of 1,374,529 women, 77 (0.3%) with PCOS and 3,654 (0.3%) without PCOS were diagnosed with MS. After adjusting for birth year and obesity, no association was found between PCOS and MS (HR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.72-1.15), which was confirmed by Mendelian randomization analysis, where genetically predicted PCOS propensity, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), or testosterone levels did not causally affect MS risk (all p-values > 0.05). By exploring horizontal pleiotropy, we identified shared genetic regions and 19 independent pleiotropic SNPs for SHBG with MS and 11 for testosterone with MS.

CONCLUSION

We did not find evidence for a causal role of PCOS, as a proxy of elevated testosterone, in reducing the risk of MS in women. The shared genetic loci between testosterone, SHBG, and MS provide biological insights.

Exploring the impact of probiotics on adult ADHD management through a double-blind RCT

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neuropsychiatric condition often persisting into adulthood, characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Emerging research suggests a connection between ADHD and gut microbiota, highlighting probiotics as potential therapeutic agents. This study involved a double-blind, randomized controlled trial where college students with ADHD received either a multi-strain probiotic supplement or a placebo daily for three months. ADHD symptoms were evaluated using a computerized performance test (MOXO) and the MATAL questionnaire. Academic records provided performance data. Additionally, eating and sleeping habits, gastrointestinal symptoms, and anthropometrics were assessed through questionnaires before and after the intervention. Fingernail cortisol concentrations (FCC) measured the long-term activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. The findings indicated that the probiotic significantly decreased hyperactivity, improved gastrointestinal symptoms, and enhanced academic performance. A multivariate analysis identified age as a significant predictor, with younger participants experiencing greater overall benefits from the intervention. There was also a negative correlation between FCC and symptoms of attention and impulsivity. Furthermore, higher academic grades were associated with lower levels of hyperactivity and impulsivity. These results suggest a beneficial impact of probiotics on ADHD symptoms and lay the groundwork for further studies to evaluate the effects of various probiotic strains on clinical outcomes in ADHD.

Systematic Review of Sex-specific High Sensitivity Cardiac Troponin I and T Thresholds

PURPOSE

High-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) and T (hs-cTnT) have been demonstrated to have lower sex-specific 99th percentiles in healthy females. However, these sex-specific thresholds are not widely adopted in clinical practice which could lead to underdiagnosis of acute myocardial infarction in females. We conducted a systematic review to explore sex-specific 99th percentiles for hs-cTnI and hs-cTnT from healthy reference populations.

METHODS

The principles of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to complete this systematic review. We used PubMed and OVID EMBASE to search for original studies published between November 2017 and November 2021 that included reference populations used to establish the 99th percentiles of hs-cTnI and hs-cTnT with the following inclusion criteria: adults; English language; samples taken as part of a healthy, reference population; studies using high-sensitivity troponin assay; and sample size > 300. Studies were excluded if the reference population sample size was < 300, if a conventional troponin assay was used, or if they did not include independently derived, sex-specific 99th percentiles. Data was extracted from the studies through Covidence to perform a qualitative data synthesis. Female-specific, male-specific, and overall 99th percentiles for hs-cTn were compared.

FINDINGS

We reviewed 131 articles of which 19 met inclusion criteria. These 19 studies derived sex-specific 99th percentiles for 11 different hs-cTnI assays and 9 different hs-cTnT assays. More than 90% (13 of 14 studies) of hs-cTnI assays found lower female 99th percentiles compared to male and to overall 99th percentiles. One study included nine different hs-cTnI assays, of which only one assay resulted in a higher female 99th percentile compared to male and to overall 99th percentiles. Eight of nine hs-cTnT studies (88.9%) found lower female 99th percentiles compared to male and to overall 99th percentiles.

IMPLICATIONS

The data shows significantly lower 99th percentiles in females compared to 99th percentiles in males and overall. Incorporating these sex-specific 99th percentile cut-offs into clinical practice could lead to increased diagnosis and potentially better outcomes for females presenting with acute myocardial infarction.

Sex Differences in Blood Accumulation of Neurodegenerative-Related Proteins and Antioxidant Responses to Regular Physical Exercise

Physical activity has been demonstrated to improve cognitive function, thereby preventing/slowing neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). Biological responses to physical activity and vulnerabilities to NDs are emerging to be gender-related. Herein, known ND-associated markers (β-amyloid, tau, α-synuclein), main sex steroid hormones, antioxidant responses, and key gene transcription modulators were evaluated in the blood of physically active and sedentary women and men. In our hands, females presented higher basal erythrocytes β-amyloid and α-synuclein amounts than males. Regular physical activity was able to significantly reduce the erythrocyte content of β-amyloid in females and the tau levels in males, suggesting that these differences may be mediated by organizational actions of sex steroid hormones during development. Furthermore, despite a comparable plasma antioxidant capability (AOC) between males and females, in the latter group, physical activity significantly enhances AOC versus peroxynitrite radicals only. Finally, regular physical activity modulated the levels of transcription factor Nrf2 in erythrocytes, as well as the plasma concentration of the microRNA miR-195 and miR-153, suggesting the promotion of antioxidant/autophagic processes associated with ND-related proteins. Overall, these results could shed light on how cerebral adaptations to physical activity differ between males and females, especially with regard to blood accumulation of ND proteins and mechanisms of antioxidant responses to regular exercise.

What intrinsic factors affect the central corneal thickness?

The cornea is one of the tissues responsible for covering and protecting the inner structures of the eye. Central corneal thickness (CCT) is defined as the distance between the anterior epithelial surface and the posterior surface of the endothelial layer. This parameter plays a very important role regarding intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement, evaluation of corneal uniformity, selection of a suitable technique for corneal refractive surgery and the planning of surgical procedures to overcome corneal disease. This comprehensive review elucidates the multifaceted factors influencing the central corneal thickness. Recognising the impact of these factors not only enhances our understanding of corneal dynamics but also contributes significantly to the refinement of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in ophthalmology.

Neural Circuitries between the Brain and Peripheral Solid Tumors

The recent discovery of the pivotal role of the central nervous system in controlling tumor initiation and progression has opened a new field of research. Increasing evidence suggests a bidirectional interaction between the brain and tumors. The brain influences the biological behavior of tumor cells through complex neural networks involving the peripheral nervous system, the endocrine system, and the immune system, whereas tumors can establish local autonomic and sensory neural networks to transmit signals into the central nervous system, thereby affecting brain activity. This review aims to summarize the latest research in brain-tumor cross-talk, exploring neural circuitries between the brain and various peripheral solid tumors, analyzing the roles in tumor development and the related molecular mediators and pathologic mechanisms, and highlighting the critical impact on the understanding of cancer biology. Enhanced understanding of reciprocal communication between the brain and tumors will establish a solid theoretical basis for further research and could open avenues for repurposing psychiatric interventions in cancer treatment.

Cerebral blood flow and arterial transit time responses to exercise training in older adults

Brain vascular health worsens with age, as is made evident by resting grey matter cerebral blood flow (CBFGM) reductions and lengthening arterial transit time (ATTGM). Exercise training can improve aspects of brain health in older adults, yet its effects on CBFGM and ATTGM remain unclear. This randomised controlled trial assessed responses of CBFGM and ATTGM to a 26 week exercise intervention in 65 healthy older adults (control: n = 33, exercise: n = 32, aged 60-81 years), including whether changes in CBFGM or ATTGM were associated with cognitive function changes. Multiple-delay pseudo-continuous arterial spin labelling data were used to estimate resting global and regional CBFGM and ATTGM. Results showed no between-group differences in CBFGM or ATTGM following the intervention. However, exercise participants with the greatest cardiorespiratory gains (n = 17; ∆V̇O2peak >2 mL/kg/min) experienced global CBFGM reductions (-4.0 [-7.3, -0.8] mL/100 g/min). Cognitive functions did not change in either group and changes were not associated with changes in CBFGM or ATTGM. Our findings indicate that exercise training in older adults may induce global CBFGM reductions when high cardiorespiratory fitness gains are induced, but this does not appear to affect cognitive functions.

High level of aneuploidy and recurrent loss of chromosome 11 as relevant features of somatotroph pituitary tumors

BACKGROUND

Somatotroph neuroendocrine pituitary tumors (sPitNET) are a subtype of pituitary tumors that commonly cause acromegaly. Our study aimed to determine the spectrum of DNA copy number abnormalities (CNAs) in sPitNETs and their relevance.

METHODS

A landscape of CNAs in sPitNETs was determined using combined whole-genome approaches involving low-pass whole genome sequencing and SNP microarrays. Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) was used for microscopic validation of CNAs. The tumors were also subjected to transcriptome and DNA methylation analyses with RNAseq and microarrays, respectively.

RESULTS

We observed a wide spectrum of cytogenetic changes ranging from multiple deletions, recurrent chromosome 11 loss, stable genomes, to duplication of the majority of the chromosomes. The identified CNAs were confirmed with FISH. sPitNETs with multiple duplications were characterized by intratumoral heterogeneity in chromosome number variation in individual tumor cells, as determined with FISH. These tumors were separate CNA-related sPitNET subtype in clustering analyses with CNA signature specific for whole genome doubling-related etiology. This subtype encompassed GNAS-wild type, mostly densely granulated tumors with favorable expression level of known prognosis-related genes, notably enriched with POUF1/NR5A1-double positive PitNETs. Chromosomal deletions in sPitNETs are functionally relevant. They occurred in gene-dense DNA regions and were related to genes downregulation and increased DNA methylation in the CpG island and promoter regions in the affected regions. Recurrent loss of chromosome 11 was reflected by lowered MEN1 and AIP. No such unequivocal relevance was found for chromosomal gains. Comparisons of transcriptomes of selected most cytogenetically stable sPitNETs with tumors with recurrent loss of chromosome 11 showed upregulation of processes related to gene dosage compensation mechanism in tumors with deletion. Comparison of stable tumors with those with multiple duplications showed upregulation of processes related to mitotic spindle, DNA repair, and chromatin organization. Both comparisons showed upregulation of the processes related to immune infiltration in cytogenetically stable tumors and deconvolution of DNA methylation data indicated a higher content of specified immune cells and lower tumor purity in these tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

sPitNETs fall into three relevant cytogenetic groups: highly aneuploid tumors characterized by known prognostically favorable features and low aneuploidy tumors including specific subtype with chromosome 11 loss.

Sex-bias metabolism of fetal organs, and their relationship to the regulation of fetal brain-placental axis

INTRODUCTION

The placenta plays influential role in the fetal development of mammals. But how the metabolic need of the fetal organs is related to that of the placenta, and whether this relationship is influenced by the sex of the fetus remain poorly understood.

OBJECTIVES

This study used pigs to investigate metabolomic signatures of male and female fetal organs, and determine the relevance of gene expression of the placenta and brain to the metabolism of peripheral organs.

METHODS

Untargeted metabolomics analysis was performed with the day-45 placenta, kidney, heart, liver, lung and brain of male and female pig fetuses to model sex differences in the metabolism of the peripheral organs relative to that of the brain and placenta. Transcriptomic analysis was performed to investigate the expression of metabolic genes in the placenta and fetal brain of both sexes.

RESULTS

The results of this study show that the fetoplacental metabolic regulation was not only influenced by the fetal sex but also dependent on the metabolic requirement of  the individual organs of the fetus. Neural network modeling of metabolomics data revealed differential relationship of the metabolic changes of the peripheral organs with the placenta and fetal brain between males and females. RNA sequencing further showed that genes associated with the metabolism of the peripheral organs were differentially expressed in the placenta and fetal brain.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study suggest a regulatory role of the fetal brain and placenta axis in the sex-bias metabolism of the peripheral organs.

Women in space: A review of known physiological adaptations and health perspectives

Exposure to the spaceflight environment causes adaptations in most human physiological systems, many of which are thought to affect women differently from men. Since only 11.5% of astronauts worldwide have been female, these issues are largely understudied. The physiological nuances affecting the female body in the spaceflight environment remain inadequately defined since the last thorough published review on the subject. A PubMed literature search yielded over 2200 publications. Using NASA's 2014 review series 'The effects of sex and gender on adaptation to space' as a benchmark, we identified substantive advancements and persistent knowledge gaps in need of further study from the nearly 600 related articles that have been published since the initial review. This review highlights the most critical issues to mitigate medical risk and promote the success of missions to the Moon and Mars. Salient sex-linked differences observed terrestrially should be studied during upcoming missions, including increased levels of inflammatory markers, coagulation factors and leptin levels following sleep deprivation; correlation between body mass and the severity of spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome; increased incidence of orthostatic intolerance; increased severity of muscle atrophy and bone loss; differences in the incidence of urinary tract infections; and susceptibility to specific cancers after exposure to ionizing radiation. To optimize health and well-being among all astronauts, it is imperative to prioritize research that considers the physiological nuances of the female body. A more robust understanding of female physiology in the spaceflight environment will support crew readiness for Artemis missions and beyond.

Biological Sex Disparities in Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease is a highly complex and multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder, with age being the most significant risk factor. The incidence of Alzheimer's disease doubles every 5 years after the age of 65. Consequently, one of the major challenges in Alzheimer's disease research is understanding how the brain changes with age. Gaining insights into these changes could help identify individuals who are more prone to developing Alzheimer's disease as they age. Over the past 25 years, studies on brain aging have examined thousands of human brains to explore the neuronal basis of age-related cognitive decline. However, most of these studies have focused on adults over 60, often neglecting the critical menopause transition period. During menopause, women experience a substantial decline in ovarian sex hormone production, with a decrease of about 90% in estrogen levels. Estrogen is known for its neuroprotective effects, and its significant loss during menopause affects various biological systems, including the brain. Importantly, despite known differences in dementia risk between sexes, the impact of biological sex and sex hormones on brain aging and the development of Alzheimer's disease remains underexplored.

Neurotrophic and synaptic effects of GnRH and/or GH upon motor function after spinal cord injury in rats

Thoracic spinal cord injury (SCI) profoundly impairs motor and sensory functions, significantly reducing life quality without currently available effective treatments for neuroprotection or full functional regeneration. This study investigated the neurotrophic and synaptic recovery potential of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and growth hormone (GH) treatments in ovariectomized rats subjected to thoracic SCI. Employing a multidisciplinary approach, we evaluated the effects of these hormones upon gene expression of classical neurotrophins (NGF, BDNF, and NT3) as well as indicative markers of synaptic function (Nlgn1, Nxn1, SNAP25, SYP, and syntaxin-1), together with morphological assessments of myelin sheath integrity (Klüver-Barrera staining and MBP immunoreactivity) and synaptogenic proteins (PSD95, SYP) by immunohystochemistry (IHC) , and also on the neuromotor functional recovery of hindlimbs in the lesioned animals. Results demonstrated that chronic administration of GnRH and GH induced notable upregulation in the expression of several neurotrophic and synaptogenic activity genes. Additionally, the treatment showed a significant impact on the restoration of functional synaptic markers and myelin integrity. Intriguingly, while individual GnRH application induced certain recovery benefits, the combined treatment with GH appeared to inhibit neuromotor recovery, suggesting a complex interplay in hormonal regulation post-SCI. GnRH and GH are bioactive and participate in modulating neurotrophic responses and synaptic restoration under neural damage conditions, offering insights into novel therapeutic approaches for SCI. However, the intricate effects of combined hormonal treatment accentuate the necessity for further investigation that conduce to optimal and novel therapeutic strategies for patients with spinal cord lesions.

Maternal Immune Activation and Child Brain Development: A Longitudinal Population-based Multimodal Neuroimaging study

BACKGROUND

Maternal Immune Activation (MIA) has been hypothesized to have an adverse effect on child neurodevelopment, but only a few neuroimaging studies have been performed to date, mostly in neonates. In this population-based cohort study, we investigated the association between MIA and multiple neuroimaging modalities depicting brain development from childhood to adolescence.

METHODS

We used data of mother-child pairs from the Generation R Study. To define our exposure, we measured IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17a, IL-23 and IFN-γ, and CRP at two time points during pregnancy. Given that levels of these 5 cytokines were highly correlated, we were able to compute a Cytokine index. We used multiple brain imaging modalities as outcomes, encompassing global and regional measures of brain morphology (structural MRI, volume, n=3,295), white matter microstructure (diffusion MRI, FA and MD, n=3,267), and functional connectivity (functional MRI, graph theory measures and network-level connectivity, n=2,914) at child mean ages 10 and 14 years. We performed mixed-effects models using the child's age as continuous time variable.

RESULTS

We found no significant association or time interaction between MIA and any neuroimaging outcomes in children over time. These associations were similar for the Cytokine index, CRP, and individual cytokines. We observed no evidence for differential effects of timing of prenatal MIA or child sex after multiple testing correction.

CONCLUSIONS

This longitudinal population-based study reports no evidence for an association between MIA and child brain development in the general population. Our findings differ from prior research in neonates showing structural and functional brain abnormalities after MIA.

Gut microbiota regulates stress responsivity via the circadian system

Stress and circadian systems are interconnected through the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis to maintain responses to external stimuli. Yet, the mechanisms of how such signals are orchestrated remain unknown. Here, we uncover the gut microbiota as a regulator of HPA-axis rhythmicity. Microbial depletion disturbs the brain transcriptome and metabolome in stress-responding pathways in the hippocampus and amygdala across the day. This is coupled with a dysregulation of the circadian pacemaker in the brain that results in perturbed glucocorticoid rhythmicity. The resulting hyper-activation of the HPA axis at the sleep/wake transition drives time-of-day-specific impairments of the stress response and stress-sensitive behaviors. Finally, microbiota transplantation confirmed that diurnal oscillations of gut microbes underlie altered glucocorticoid secretion and that L. reuteri is a candidate strain for such effects. Our data offer compelling evidence that the microbiota regulates stress responsiveness in a circadian manner and is necessary to respond adaptively to stressors throughout the day.

Impact of polyamine supplementation on GnRH expression, folliculogenesis, and puberty onset in young mice

BACKGROUND

The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis is pivotal in regulating reproductive functions, with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) acting as a central regulator. Recently, polyamines have been shown to regulate the HPG axis, including GnRH expression and ovarian biology in old and adult rodents. The present study firstly highlights the age-specific variation in the polyamine and their corresponding biosynthetic enzymes in the ovary during aging, and further, the study focuses on the effect of polyamines, putrescine, and agmatine, in young female mice.

METHOD AND RESULT

Immunofluorescence analysis revealed age-related differences in the expression of ornithine decarboxylase 1 (ODC1), spermine (SPM), and spermidine (SPD) in the ovaries, with adult mice exhibiting significantly higher expression levels compared to young and old mice. Likewise, qPCR analysis showed the mRNA levels of Odc1, Spermidine synthase (Srm), and Spermine synthase (Sms) show a significant increase in adult ovaries, which is then followed by a significant decline in old age. Histological examination demonstrated morphological alterations in the ovaries with age, including decreased follicle numbers and increased stromal cells in old mice. Furthermore, treatment with putrescine, a polyamine, in young mice resulted in larger ovaries and increased follicle numbers compared to controls. Additionally, serum levels of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and progesterone (P4) were measured, showing elevated levels in polyamine-treated mice. GnRH mRNA expression also increased significantly. Gene expression analysis revealed upregulation of genes associated with folliculogenesis such as Fshr, Bmp15, Gdf9, Amh, Star, Hsdb3, and Plaur in the ovaries and onset of puberty such as Tac2, and Kiss1, and a decrease in Mkrn3 in the hypothalamus of polyamine-treated mice.

CONCLUSION

This study investigates the effect of polyamines in young immature female mice, shedding light on their role in upregulating GnRH, and enhancing folliculogenesis. Overall, these findings suggest that polyamines play a crucial role in ovarian aging and HPG axis regulation, offering potential therapeutics to reinstate fertility in reproductively challenged individuals.

A gender perspective on diet, microbiome, and sex hormone interplay in cardiovascular disease

A unique interplay between body and environment embeds and reflects host-microbiome interactions that contribute to sex-differential disease susceptibility, symptomatology, and treatment outcomes. These differences derive from individual biological factors, such as sex hormone action, sex-divergent immune processes, X-linked gene dosage effects, and epigenetics, as well as from their interaction across the lifespan. The gut microbiome is increasingly recognized as a moderator of several body systems that are thus impacted by its function and composition. In humans, biological sex components further interact with gender-specific exposures such as dietary preferences, stressors, and life experiences to form a complex whole, requiring innovative methodologies to disentangle. Here, we summarize current knowledge of the interactions among sex hormones, gut microbiota, immune system, and vascular health and their relevance for sex-differential epidemiology of cardiovascular diseases. We outline clinical implications, identify knowledge gaps, and place emphasis on required future studies to address these gaps. In addition, we provide an overview of the caveats associated with conducting cardiovascular research that require consideration of sex/gender differences. While previous work has inspected several of these components separately, here we call attention to further translational utility of a combined perspective from cardiovascular translational research, gender medicine, and microbiome systems biology.

Association Between SGLT2 Inhibitors and Risk of Dementia and Parkinson's Disease: A Meta-Analysis of 12 Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) have been shown to reduce the risk of hospitalizations from heart failure and cardiovascular mortality. However, SGLT2i therapy's potential effects on the risks of dementia and Parkinson's disease are not well established, with conflicting results based on observational studies. Hence, we sought to evaluate the association between SGLT2i and the risk of dementia and Parkinson's disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, heart failure, or chronic kidney disease.

METHODS

We performed a systematic literature search on PubMed, and Clinicaltrial.gov for relevant randomized controlled trials from inception until March 2024 without any language restrictions. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were pooled using a random-effect model.

RESULTS

A total of 12 randomized controlled trials with 74,442 patients (40,784 in the SGLT2i group and 33,658 in the control group) were included in the analysis. The mean age of patients in SGLT2i and control was 65.3 and 65.2 years, respectively. Pooled analysis showed that there is no significant association between SGLT2i use and the risk of dementia (OR 1.37; 95% CI, 0.70-2.69; P = .36), dementia Alzheimer's type (OR 1.99; 95% CI, 0.59-6.71; P = .27), vascular dementia (OR 0.40; 95% CI, 0.09-1.85; P = .24), and Parkinson's disease (OR 0.63; 95% CI, 0.25-1.61; P = .33) when compared with the control groups.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that there is no significant association between SGLT2i use and the risk of dementia, its subtypes, and Parkinson's disease when compared with the control groups.