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Fang J, Zhou Y, He Y, Zhou J, Tang J, Luo Q, Guo J, Chen G. Associations among neighborhood walkability, metal exposure, and sex steroid hormone levels: Results from Hangzhou Birth Cohort Study Ⅱ. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 278:116427. [PMID: 38733803 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neighborhood walkability may influence maternal-fetal exposure to environmental hazards and maternal-fetal health (e.g., fetal growth restriction, reproductive toxicity). However, few studies have explored the association between neighborhood walkability and hormones in pregnant women. METHODS We included 533 pregnant women from the Hangzhou Birth Cohort Study II (HBCS-II) with testosterone (TTE) and estradiol (E2) measured for analysis. Neighborhood walkability was evaluated by calculating a walkability index based on geo-coded addresses. Placental metals were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). TTE and E2 levels in umbilical cord blood were measured using chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay (CMIA). Linear regression model was used to estimate the relationship between the walkability index, placental metals, and sex steroid hormones. Effect modification was also assessed to estimate the effect of placental metals on the associations of neighborhood walkability with TTE and E2. RESULTS Neighborhood walkability was significantly linked to increased E2 levels (P trend=0.023). Compared with participants at the first quintile (Q1) of walkability index, those at the third quintiles (Q3) had lower chromium (Cr) levels (β = -0.212, 95% CI = -0.421 to -0.003). Arsenic (As), cobalt (Co), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), antimony (Sb), selenium (Se), tin (Sn), and vanadium (V) were linked to decreased TTE levels, and cadmium (Cd) was linked to increased TTE levels. No metal was significantly associated with E2 levels in trend analysis. In the analysis of effect modification, the associations of neighborhood walkability with TTE and E2 were significantly modified by Mn (P = 0.005) and Cu (P = 0.049) respectively. CONCLUSION Neighborhood walkability could be a favorable factor for E2 production during pregnancy, which may be inhibited by maternal exposure to heavy metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Fang
- Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Yexinyi Zhou
- Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Yinyin He
- Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Jiena Zhou
- Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Jun Tang
- Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310052, China
| | - Qiong Luo
- Department of Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Guangdi Chen
- Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Zhejiang University), Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China.
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Acharya A, Kumar N, Singh K, Byrareddy SN. "Mpox in MSM: Tackling Stigma, Minimizing Risk Factors, Exploring Pathogenesis, and Treatment Approaches". Biomed J 2024:100746. [PMID: 38734408 DOI: 10.1016/j.bj.2024.100746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Mpox is a zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus (MPV), primarily found in Central and West African countries. The typical presentation of the disease before the 2022 mpox outbreak includes a febrile prodrome 5-13 days post-exposure, accompanied by lymphadenopathy, malaise, headache, and muscle aches. Unexpectedly, during the 2022 outbreak, several cases of atypical presentations of the disease were reported, such as the absence of prodromal symptoms and the presence of genital skin lesions suggestive of sexual transmission. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), as of March 20, 2024, 94,707 cases of mpox were reported worldwide, resulting in 181 deaths (22 in African endemic regions and 159 in non-endemic countries). The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a total of 32,063 cases (33.85% of total cases globally), with 58 deaths (32.04% of global deaths) due to mpox. Person-to-person transmission of mpox can occur through respiratory droplets and sustained close contact. However, during the 2022 outbreak of mpox, a high incidence of anal and perianal lesions among MSMs indicated sexual transmission of MPV as a major route of transmission. Since MSMs are disproportionately at risk for HIV transmission, this review discusses the risk factors, transmission patterns, pathogenesis, vaccine, and treatment options for mpox among MSM and people living with HIV (PLWH). Furthermore, we provide a brief perspective on the evolution of the MPV in immunocompromised people like PLWH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpan Acharya
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Narendra Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Kamal Singh
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, and Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Siddappa N Byrareddy
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA; Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
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Shin J, Lee K, Park SY, Lim M. Development of nationally representative exposure factor database for children's products in Korea. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2024:10.1038/s41370-024-00654-1. [PMID: 38424360 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-024-00654-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children may be exposed to harmful chemicals from their products. Accurate exposure factors are critical for exposure assessment of children's products. Product usage pattern parameters are relatively limited compared with the chemical concentration, children's physiological and behavioral parameters. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine nationally representative Korean exposure factors for the usage patterns of children's products by sex, age, and season. METHODS Using proportional quota sampling, a survey of 10,000 households with children aged 0-12 years was conducted twice, once in summer and winter. The children's ages were divided into four groups: infant (0-2 years old), toddler (3-6), lower-grade elementary student (7-9), and higher-grade elementary student (10-12). Data on exposure factors such as use rate, use frequency, and use duration of 57 children's products were collected. RESULTS The 57 products were classified into five categories: baby products (13), toys (12), daily products (10), sporting goods (8), and stationery (14). The use rates of products in the daily products and stationery category were >90% in both seasons. Two of the 57 products showed significant sex differences in all three exposure factors (p < 0.001). Twenty-five of the 44 non-baby products showed significant age differences for all three exposure factors. Twenty-three of the 57 products varied significantly with season for all three exposure factors. IMPACT This study generated a nationally representative exposure factor database for the usage patterns of children's products in Korea. The exposure factors for 57 children's products were investigated through twice survey with quota sampling with each 10,000 children nationwide. Sex, age, and seasonal differences for children's products were identified. These accurate exposure factors by sex, age, and season can be used as input parameters for refined exposure assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyun Shin
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kiyoung Lee
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Health and Environment, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Miyoung Lim
- Institute of Health and Environment, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Burke FF, Hinks M, Salia S, Sparkes KM, Swift-Gallant A. Using Animal Models to Study the Interplay Between the Biodevelopmental Pathways Underlying Human Sexual Orientation. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:2979-2984. [PMID: 36477673 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02499-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Francine F Burke
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, 230 Elizabeth Ave., St John's, NL, A1B 3X9, Canada
| | - Meagan Hinks
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, 230 Elizabeth Ave., St John's, NL, A1B 3X9, Canada
| | - Stephanie Salia
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, 230 Elizabeth Ave., St John's, NL, A1B 3X9, Canada
| | - Kerri M Sparkes
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, 230 Elizabeth Ave., St John's, NL, A1B 3X9, Canada
| | - Ashlyn Swift-Gallant
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, 230 Elizabeth Ave., St John's, NL, A1B 3X9, Canada.
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Balthazart J, Roselli CE. Hormonal, Genetic, Immunological: An Array of Mechanisms but How Do They Interact, If at All? ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:2963-2971. [PMID: 36376746 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02469-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Charles E Roselli
- Department of Chemical, Physiology & Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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VanderLaan DP, Skorska MN, Peragine DE, Coome LA. Carving the Biodevelopment of Same-Sex Sexual Orientation at Its Joints. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:2939-2962. [PMID: 35960401 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-022-02360-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Sexual orientation is a core aspect of human experience and understanding its development is fundamental to psychology as a scientific discipline. Biological perspectives have played an important role in uncovering the processes that contribute to sexual orientation development. Research in this field has relied on a variety of populations, including community, clinical, and cross-cultural samples, and has commonly focused on female gynephilia (i.e., female sexual attraction to adult females) and male androphilia (i.e., male sexual attraction to adult males). Genetic, hormonal, and immunological processes all appear to influence sexual orientation. Consistent with biological perspectives, there are sexual orientation differences in brain development and evidence indicates that similar biological influences apply across cultures. An outstanding question in the field is whether the hypothesized biological influences are all part of the same process or represent different developmental pathways leading to same-sex sexual orientation. Some studies indicate that same-sex sexually oriented people can be divided into subgroups who likely experienced different biological influences. Consideration of gender expression in addition to sexual orientation might help delineate such subgroups. Thus, future research on the possible existence of such subgroups could prove to be valuable for uncovering the biological development of sexual orientation. Recommendations for such future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doug P VanderLaan
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada.
- Child and Youth Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Malvina N Skorska
- Child and Youth Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Diana E Peragine
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Lindsay A Coome
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road, Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada
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Skorska MN, Thurston LT, Biasin JM, Devenyi GA, Zucker KJ, Chakravarty MM, Lai MC, VanderLaan DP. Cortical Structure Differences in Relation to Age, Sexual Attractions, and Gender Dysphoria in Adolescents: An Examination of Mean Diffusivity and T1 Relaxation Time. Brain Sci 2023; 13:963. [PMID: 37371441 PMCID: PMC10296103 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13060963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent research found that the combination of masculine gender identity and gynephilia was associated with cortical T1 relaxation time, which is considered to reflect gray matter density. We hypothesized that mean diffusivity (MD), a diffusion tensor imaging metric that reflects the degree to which water movement is free versus constrained, in combination with T1 relaxation time would provide further insight regarding cortical tissue characteristics. MD and T1 relaxation time were measured in 76 cortical regions in 15 adolescents assigned female at birth who experience gender dysphoria (GD AFAB) and were not receiving hormone therapy, 17 cisgender girls, and 14 cisgender boys (ages 12-17 years). Sexual orientation was represented by the degree of androphilia-gynephilia and the strength of sexual attraction. In multivariate analyses, cortical T1 relaxation time showed a weak but statistically significant positive association with MD across the cortex, suggesting that macromolecule-rich cortical tissue also tends to show water movement that is somewhat more constrained. In further multivariate analyses, in several left frontal, parietal, and temporal regions, the combination of shorter T1 relaxation time and faster MD was associated with older age and greater gynephilia in GD AFAB individuals and cisgender boys and with stronger attractions in cisgender boys only. Thus, for these cortical regions in these groups, older age, gynephilia, and stronger attractions (cisgender boys only) were associated with macromolecule-rich tissue in which water movement was freer-a pattern that some prior research suggests is associated with greater cell density and size. Overall, this study indicates that investigating T1 relaxation time and MD together can further inform how cortical gray matter tissue characteristics relate to age and psychosexuality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malvina N. Skorska
- Child & Youth Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON M6J 1H4, Canada; (M.N.S.)
| | - Lindsey T. Thurston
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Jessica M. Biasin
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Gabriel A. Devenyi
- Cerebral Imaging Centre, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC H4H 1R3, Canada (M.M.C.)
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Kenneth J. Zucker
- Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada
| | - M. Mallar Chakravarty
- Cerebral Imaging Centre, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC H4H 1R3, Canada (M.M.C.)
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Meng-Chuan Lai
- Child & Youth Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON M6J 1H4, Canada; (M.N.S.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada
- The Margaret and Wallace McCain Centre for Child, Youth & Family Mental Health, Azrieli Adult Neurodevelopmental Centre, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON M6J 1H4, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Autism Research Unit, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 8AH, UK
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital and College of Medicine, Taipei 100229, Taiwan
| | - Doug P. VanderLaan
- Child & Youth Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON M6J 1H4, Canada; (M.N.S.)
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada
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Neufeld SAS, Collaer ML, Spencer D, Pasterski V, Hindmarsh PC, Hughes IA, Acerini C, Hines M. Androgens and child behavior: Color and toy preferences in children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Horm Behav 2023; 149:105310. [PMID: 36738514 PMCID: PMC9976950 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2023.105310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Human males and females show average gender/sex differences for certain psychological phenomena. Multiple factors may contribute to these differences, including sex chromosomes, exposure to gonadal hormones, and socialization or learning. This study investigated potential hormonal and socialization/learning influences on gender/sex differences in childhood preferences for color, specifically pink and red vs. blues, and for toys. Children (aged 4 to 11 years) with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH, n = 43 girls and 37 boys), marked by elevated prenatal adrenal androgen exposure, and without CAH (n = 41 girls and 31 boys) were studied. Prior research indicates girls with CAH are masculinized for certain behaviors, such as toy choices, while boys with CAH generally do not differ from boys without CAH. In the current study, children indicated preferences for stereotyped hues of pink vs. blue as well as two control color pairs. They also indicated their preference between gender/sex-typed toys (doll vs. car) presented in black and white, in gender/sex-congruent colors (pink doll vs. blue car) and in gender/sex-incongruent colors (pink car vs. blue doll). Color findings: Control girls preferred stereotyped pink over blue more than boys or girls with CAH did; the latter two groups did not differ in their color preferences. No preference differences occurred for other color pairs. Toy findings: In black/white or gender/sex-congruent colors, boys preferred the car more than control girls or girls with CAH did, while girls with CAH preferred the car more than control girls did. In gender/sex-incongruent colors (pink car vs. blue doll), boys still preferred the car, while girls with CAH showed reduced and control girls showed increased preferences for the pink car compared to the car preferences in black/white. Results support learning theories of color preferences, perhaps also influenced by pre-existing toy preferences which may occur for other reasons, including early androgen exposure. Specifically, girls with CAH may have learned they do not enjoy stereotypical toys for girls, often colored pink, and pink coloring may subsequently diminish their preference for a car. Our results highlight the importance of gonadal hormones and learning in the development of childhood toy and color preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon A S Neufeld
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Downing Place, Cambridge CB2 3EB, UK.
| | - Marcia L Collaer
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT 05753, USA.
| | - Debra Spencer
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Downing Place, Cambridge CB2 3EB, UK.
| | - Vickie Pasterski
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Downing Place, Cambridge CB2 3EB, UK; Department of Paediatrics, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Peter C Hindmarsh
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Ieuan A Hughes
- Department of Paediatrics, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Carlo Acerini
- Department of Paediatrics, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Melissa Hines
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Downing Place, Cambridge CB2 3EB, UK.
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Rahman MM, Tumpa MAA, Rahaman MS, Islam F, Sutradhar PR, Ahmed M, Alghamdi BS, Hafeez A, Alexiou A, Perveen A, Ashraf GM. Emerging Promise of Therapeutic Approaches Targeting Mitochondria in Neurodegenerative Disorders. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:1081-1099. [PMID: 36927428 PMCID: PMC10286587 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230316150559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are critical for homeostasis and metabolism in all cellular eukaryotes. Brain mitochondria are the primary source of fuel that supports many brain functions, including intracellular energy supply, cellular calcium regulation, regulation of limited cellular oxidative capacity, and control of cell death. Much evidence suggests that mitochondria play a central role in neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs) such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Ongoing studies of NDDs have revealed that mitochondrial pathology is mainly found in inherited or irregular NDDs and is thought to be associated with the pathophysiological cycle of these disorders. Typical mitochondrial disturbances in NDDs include increased free radical production, decreased ATP synthesis, alterations in mitochondrial permeability, and mitochondrial DNA damage. The main objective of this review is to highlight the basic mitochondrial problems that occur in NDDs and discuss the use mitochondrial drugs, especially mitochondrial antioxidants, mitochondrial permeability transition blockade, and mitochondrial gene therapy, for the treatment and control of NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Mominur Rahman
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mst. Afroza Alam Tumpa
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Saidur Rahaman
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Fahadul Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Popy Rani Sutradhar
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Muniruddin Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Badrah S. Alghamdi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- The Neuroscience Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdul Hafeez
- Glocal School of Pharmacy, Glocal University, Mirzapur Pole, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Athanasios Alexiou
- Department of Science and Engineering, Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Hebersham, Australia
- AFNP Med Austria, Wien, Austria
| | - Asma Perveen
- Glocal School of Life Sciences, Glocal University, Mirzapur Pole, Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Ghulam Md. Ashraf
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health Sciences, and Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates
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Tasos E. To What Extent are Prenatal Androgens Involved in the Development of Male Homosexuality in Humans? JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2022; 69:1928-1963. [PMID: 34080960 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2021.1933792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine variations, including possibly reduced exposure to androgens, may contribute to the development of male homosexuality, with animal models demonstrating same-sex mate preference with altered exposure during prenatal or early postnatal development. As similar studies in humans are impossible, indirect physical and cognitive measures of androgen exposure are used. Some studies suggest that physical measures affected by prenatal androgens, including the index-to-ring finger ratio, growth indices, and facial structure, are more "feminine" in gay men. Gay men also exhibit significant childhood gender non-conformity and a "feminized" anatomical and functional brain pattern in sexual arousal, as well as domains such as language, visuospatial skills and hemispheric relationships. However, many of these results are equivocal and may be confounded by other factors. Research has also been hampered by inconsistencies in the reporting of sexual orientation and the potentially unrepresentative populations of gay men studied, while additional complexities pertaining to gender conformity and sexual role may also influence results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanouil Tasos
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Swift-Gallant A, Shirazi T, Puts DA, Breedlove SM. Evidence for Perinatal Steroid Influence on Human Sexual Orientation and Gendered Behavior. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2022; 14:a039123. [PMID: 34872968 PMCID: PMC9341466 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a039123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In laboratory animals, exposure to gonadal steroid hormones before and immediately after birth can exert permanent effects on many behaviors, particularly reproductive behaviors. The extent to which such effects occur in humans remains an open question, but several lines of evidence indicate that perinatal levels of both androgens and estrogens may affect adult human psychology and behavior, including sexual orientation and gender nonconformity. Some putative indicators of prenatal androgen exposure, including the ratio of the length of the index finger to that of the ring finger (2D:4D), have repeatedly indicated that lesbians, on average, were exposed to more prenatal androgens than straight women, suggesting that sufficient fetal androgen exposure predisposes a fetus to gynephilia (attraction to women) at maturity. The digit ratios of gay men do not differ from those of straight men, suggesting that prenatal androgen levels are not responsible for their androphilia (attraction to men). However, evidence that gay men who prefer an insertive anal sex role (ASR) have more masculine digit ratios than those preferring a receptive ASR suggests that early androgens influence some sexual preferences in men. Furthermore, digit ratios among gay men have been found to correlate with recalled childhood gender nonconformity (CGN). People with isolated gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) deficiency (IGD) offer further insight into the effects of perinatal gonadal steroid exposure. In people with IGD, gonadal hormone production is low or absent after the first trimester of gestation. However, because placental gonadotropins drive gonadal hormone secretion during the first trimester when genitalia sexually differentiate, individuals with IGD are unambiguously male or female at birth, consistent with their chromosomal and gonadal sex. Men with IGD report greater CGN, again suggesting that perinatal androgen exposure contributes to male-typical behavioral patterns in humans. Interestingly, women with IGD report less androphilia and more bisexuality than control women, suggesting that perinatal ovarian steroids in females typically augment androphilia in adulthood. Taken together, these findings indicate that the perinatal hormonal milieu influences human sexual orientation and gender conformity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashlyn Swift-Gallant
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's A1B 3X9, Newfoundland and Labrador
| | - Talia Shirazi
- Department of Anthropology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - David A Puts
- Department of Anthropology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - S Marc Breedlove
- Neuroscience Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, USA
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Melino S, Mormone E. On the Interplay Between the Medicine of Hildegard of Bingen and Modern Medicine: The Role of Estrogen Receptor as an Example of Biodynamic Interface for Studying the Chronic Disease's Complexity. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:745138. [PMID: 35712451 PMCID: PMC9196248 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.745138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179) interpreted the origins of chronic disease highlighting and anticipating, although only in a limited fashion, the importance that complex interactions among numerous genetic, internal milieu and external environmental factors have in determining the disease phenotype. Today, we recognize those factors, capable of mediating the transmission of messages between human body and environment and vice versa, as biodynamic interfaces. Aim We analyzed, in the light of modern scientific evidence, Hildegard of Bingen's medical approach and her original humoral theory in order to identify possible insights included in her medicine that could be referred to in the context of modern evidence-based medicine. In particular, the abbess's humoral theory suggests the identification of biodynamic interfaces with sex hormones and their receptors. Findings We found that the Hildegardian holistic vision of the organism-environment relationship can actually represent a visionary approach to modern endocrinology and that sex hormones, in particular estrogens, could represent an example of a biodynamic interface. Estrogen receptors are found in regions of the brain involved in emotional and cognitive regulation, controlling the molecular mechanism of brain function. Estrogen receptors are involved in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and in the epigenetic regulation of responses to physiological, social, and hormonal stimuli. Furthermore, estrogen affects gene methylation on its own and related receptor promoters in discrete regions of the developing brain. This scenario was strikingly perceived by the abbess in the XIIth century, and depicted as a complex interplay among different humors and flegmata that she recognized to be sex specific and environmentally regulated. Viewpoint Considering the function played by hormones, analyzed through the last scientific evidence, and scientific literature on biodynamic interfaces, we could suggest Hildegardian insights and theories as the first attempt to describe the modern holistic, sex-based medicine. Conclusion Hildegard anticipated a concept of pathogenesis that sees a central role for endocrinology in sex-specific disease. Furthermore, estrogens and estrogen receptors could represent a good example of molecular interfaces capable of modulating the interaction between the organism internal milieu and the environmental factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Melino
- Research Unit of Philosophy of Science and Human Development, Faculty of Science and Technology for Humans and the Environment, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Mormone
- Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, Institute for Stem-Cell Biology, Regenerative Medicine and Innovative Therapies, Foggia, Italy
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Gartstein MA, Seamon DE, Mattera JA, Bosquet Enlow M, Wright RJ, Perez-Edgar K, Buss KA, LoBue V, Bell MA, Goodman SH, Spieker S, Bridgett DJ, Salisbury AL, Gunnar MR, Mliner SB, Muzik M, Stifter CA, Planalp EM, Mehr SA, Spelke ES, Lukowski AF, Groh AM, Lickenbrock DM, Santelli R, Du Rocher Schudlich T, Anzman-Frasca S, Thrasher C, Diaz A, Dayton C, Moding KJ, Jordan EM. Using machine learning to understand age and gender classification based on infant temperament. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0266026. [PMID: 35417495 PMCID: PMC9007342 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0266026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Age and gender differences are prominent in the temperament literature, with the former particularly salient in infancy and the latter noted as early as the first year of life. This study represents a meta-analysis utilizing Infant Behavior Questionnaire-Revised (IBQ-R) data collected across multiple laboratories (N = 4438) to overcome limitations of smaller samples in elucidating links among temperament, age, and gender in early childhood. Algorithmic modeling techniques were leveraged to discern the extent to which the 14 IBQ-R subscale scores accurately classified participating children as boys (n = 2,298) and girls (n = 2,093), and into three age groups: youngest (< 24 weeks; n = 1,102), mid-range (24 to 48 weeks; n = 2,557), and oldest (> 48 weeks; n = 779). Additionally, simultaneous classification into age and gender categories was performed, providing an opportunity to consider the extent to which gender differences in temperament are informed by infant age. Results indicated that overall age group classification was more accurate than child gender models, suggesting that age-related changes are more salient than gender differences in early childhood with respect to temperament attributes. However, gender-based classification was superior in the oldest age group, suggesting temperament differences between boys and girls are accentuated with development. Fear emerged as the subscale contributing to accurate classifications most notably overall. This study leads infancy research and meta-analytic investigations more broadly in a new direction as a methodological demonstration, and also provides most optimal comparative data for the IBQ-R based on the largest and most representative dataset to date.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Michelle Bosquet Enlow
- Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Rosalind J. Wright
- Department of Pediatrics, Kravis Children’s Hospital, New York, NY, United States of America
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Koraly Perez-Edgar
- Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States of America
| | - Kristin A. Buss
- Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States of America
| | - Vanessa LoBue
- Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, United States of America
| | | | | | - Susan Spieker
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | | | - Amy L. Salisbury
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States of America
| | - Megan R. Gunnar
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Shanna B. Mliner
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States of America
| | - Maria Muzik
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America
| | - Cynthia A. Stifter
- Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States of America
| | | | - Samuel A. Mehr
- Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | | | | | - Ashley M. Groh
- University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States of America
| | | | - Rebecca Santelli
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, VA, United States of America
| | | | | | | | - Anjolii Diaz
- Ball State University, Muncie, IN, United States of America
| | - Carolyn Dayton
- Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | | | - Evan M. Jordan
- Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States of America
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14
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Hou L, Zhao M, Fan L, Cao B, Chen J, Cui Y, Polak M, Gong C. One hundred twelve cases of 46, XY DSD patients after initial gender assignment: a short-term survey of gender role and gender dysphoria. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2021; 16:416. [PMID: 34627348 PMCID: PMC8501610 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-021-02039-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background 46, XY disorders of sex development (46, XY DSD) are congenital disorders with 46, XY chromosomal karyotype but inconsistent gonadal/phenotypic sex. One of the biggest concerns for parents and clinicians is the gender assignment. However, there is no standard uniform of care nor consensus at present. We sought to evaluate the current treatment's rationality and provide a reference basis for the gender reassignment in 46, XY DSD patients with a specific diagnosis. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey of gender role with the Pre-school Activities Inventory (PSAI), the Children's Sex Role Inventory (CSRI) in 46, XY DSD patients and set up control groups comparison. Psychiatrist assessed gender dysphoria in patients ≥ 8-year-old with the criteria of diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5). Results A total of 112 responders of 136 patients participated in this study (82.4%, aged 2–17.8 years, median age: 4-year-old). The follow-up period was from 6 months to 10 years (median: 2 years). Twenty-five females were reassigned to the male gender after a specific diagnosis (16/25 (64%) in 5 alfa-reductase-2 deficiency (5α-RD2), 5/25 (20%) in partial androgen insensitivity syndrome (PAIS), 4/25 (16%) in NR5A1gene mutation). Male gender assignment increased from 55.3 (n = 62) to 77.7% (n = 87). The median PSAI score was similar to the control males in 5α-RD2, PAIS, and NR5A1 gene mutation groups (p > 0.05); while identical to the control females in complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS) and CYP17A1 gene mutation groups (p > 0.05). PSAI score of children raised as male was higher than those of CAIS and CYP17A1 groups raised as female (p < 0.05). CSRI scale showed no statistical differences in the consistency of gender roles and reassigned gender between 46, XY DSD patients and control groups (p > 0.05). None of the patients over 8-year-old (n = 44) had gender dysphoria. Conclusion The reassigned gender in 46, XY DSD patients is consistent with their gender role during early childhood. None of them had gender dysphoria. The molecular diagnosis, gonadal function, and the gender reassignment are congruent within our Chinese cohort. Long-term follow-up and more evaluation are still required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Hou
- Department of Endocrinology, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518038, China
| | - Ming Zhao
- Department of Endocrinology, Genetics and Metabolism, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, 100045, China
| | - Lijun Fan
- Department of Endocrinology, Genetics and Metabolism, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, 100045, China
| | - Bingyan Cao
- Department of Endocrinology, Genetics and Metabolism, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, 100045, China
| | - Jiajia Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Genetics and Metabolism, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, 100045, China
| | - Yonghua Cui
- Department of Psychiatry, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, 100045, China
| | - Michel Polak
- Pediatric Endocrinology Diabetology and Gynaecology, Hôpital Universitaire Necker Enfants-Malades, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Chunxiu Gong
- Department of Endocrinology, Genetics and Metabolism, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, 100045, China.
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15
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Shirazi TN, Self H, Dawood K, Welling LLM, Cárdenas R, Rosenfield KA, Bailey JM, Balasubramanian R, Delaney A, Breedlove SM, Puts DA. Evidence that perinatal ovarian hormones promote women's sexual attraction to men. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2021; 134:105431. [PMID: 34601343 PMCID: PMC8957625 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian estrogens may influence the development of the human brain and behavior, but there are few opportunities to test this possibility. Isolated GnRH deficiency (IGD) is a rare endocrine disorder that could provide evidence for the role of estrogens in organizing sexually differentiated phenotypes: Unlike typical development, development in individuals with IGD is characterized by low or absent gonadal hormone production after the first trimester of gestation. Because external genitalia develop in the first trimester, external appearance is nevertheless concordant with gonadal sex in people with IGD. We therefore investigated the effects of gonadal hormones on sexual orientation by comparing participants with IGD (n = 97) to controls (n = 1670). Women with IGD reported lower male-attraction compared with typically developing women. In contrast, no consistent sexuality differences between IGD and typically developing men were evident. Ovarian hormones after the first trimester appear to influence female-typical dimensions of sexual orientation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talia N Shirazi
- Department of Anthropology, Pennsylvania State University, Carpenter Building, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Heather Self
- Department of Anthropology, Pennsylvania State University, Carpenter Building, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Khytam Dawood
- Department of Psychology, Pennsylvania State University, Moore Building, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Lisa L M Welling
- Department of Psychology, Oakland University, 212 Pryale Hall, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Rodrigo Cárdenas
- Department of Psychology, Pennsylvania State University, Moore Building, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Kevin A Rosenfield
- Department of Anthropology, Pennsylvania State University, Carpenter Building, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - J Michael Bailey
- Department of Psychology, Northwestern University, Swift Hall 303B, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | | | - Angela Delaney
- Reproductive Physiology and Pathophysiology Group, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
| | - S Marc Breedlove
- Neuroscience Program and Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, 240 Giltner Hall, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - David A Puts
- Department of Anthropology, Pennsylvania State University, Carpenter Building, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
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16
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Sexual Dimorphism in the Functional Development of the Cochlear Amplifier in Humans. Ear Hear 2021; 42:860-869. [PMID: 33974790 PMCID: PMC8222053 DOI: 10.1097/aud.0000000000000976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Otoacoustic emissions, a byproduct of active cochlear mechanisms, exhibit a higher magnitude in females than in males. The relatively higher levels of androgen exposure in the male fetus are thought to cause this difference. Postnatally, the onset of puberty is also associated with the androgen surge in males. In this study, we investigated sexual dimorphism in age-related changes in stimulus-frequency otoacoustic emissions for children. DESIGN In a retrospective design, stimulus-frequency otoacoustic emissions were analyzed from a cross-sectional sample of 170 normal-hearing children (4 to 12 years) and 67 young adults. Wideband acoustic immittance and efferent inhibition measures were analyzed to determine the extent to which middle ear transmission and efferent inhibition can account for potential sex differences in stimulus-frequency otoacoustic emissions. RESULTS Male children showed a significant reduction in otoacoustic emission magnitudes with age, whereas female children did not show any such changes. Females showed higher stimulus-frequency otoacoustic emission magnitudes compared with males. However, the effect size of sex differences in young adults was larger compared with children. Unlike the otoacoustic emission magnitude, the noise floor did not show sexual dimorphism; however, it decreased with age. Neither the wideband absorbance nor efferent inhibition could account for the sex differences in stimulus-frequency otoacoustic emissions. CONCLUSIONS The cochlear-amplifier function remains robust in female children but diminishes in male children between 4 and 12 years of age. We carefully eliminated lifestyle, middle ear, and efferent factors to conclude that the androgen surge associated with puberty likely caused the observed masculinization of stimulus-frequency otoacoustic emissions in male children. These findings have significant theoretical consequences. The cochlea is considered mature at birth; however, the present findings highlight that functional cochlear maturation, as revealed by otoacoustic emissions, can be postnatally influenced by endogenous hormonal factors, at least in male children. Overall, work reported here demonstrates sexual dimorphism in the functional cochlear maturational processes during childhood.
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17
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Ahrenfeldt LJ, Möller S, Wensink MJ, Eisenberg ML, Christensen K, Jensen TK, Lindahl-Jacobsen R. Impaired fecundity as a marker of health and survival: a Danish twin cohort study. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:2309-2320. [PMID: 34009293 PMCID: PMC8496092 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is fecundity, measured as self-reported time to first pregnancy (TTP), a marker for subsequent health and survival? SUMMARY ANSWER Long TTP was a marker for increased mortality among women and higher hospitalization rates for both women and men. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Poor semen quality has been linked to increased mortality and morbidity from a wide range of diseases. Associations among fecundity, health and survival among women are still uncertain and studies on actual measures of fecundity and health outcomes are rare. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We performed a prospective cohort study of 7825 women and 6279 men, aged 18 and above with measures on first TTP, who participated in one of the Danish nation-wide twin surveys in 1994 (twins born 1953-1976) and 1998 (twins born 1931-1952). They were followed-up for mortality and hospital admissions from the interview until 2018. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Twins were identified in the Danish Twin Registry and linked to Danish registers. TTP was restricted to the first pregnancy as a categorical outcome with cut-off points at 2, 10 and 18 months. We analysed the association between TTP and survival using a Cox proportional hazards model estimating hazards ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Fine-Gray survival models were used to estimate sub-hazard ratios for specific causes of death allowing for competing risks. Using negative binomial regression, we estimated incidence rate ratios (IRRs) with 95% CIs for all-cause and cause-specific hospitalizations. All analyses were stratified by sex and adjusted for age at interview, birth cohorts, age at first attempt to become pregnant, smoking, years in school and BMI. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE In the total study population, 49.9% of women and 52.7% of men reported a TTP of less than 2 months, 30.8% of women and 29.6% of men reported a TTP of 2-9 months, 6.6% of women and 5.7% of men reported a TTP of 10-17 months, and 13.3% of women and 12.0% of men reported a TTP of 18 months or more. Among 1305 deaths, we found a higher mortality for women (HR = 1.46; 95% CI 1.15, 1.87) with a TTP of ≥18 months relative to those with a TTP of <2 months, while the highest mortality was indicated for men with a TTP of 10-17 months (HR = 1.31; 95% CI 0.98, 1.74). Among 53 799 hospitalizations, we found an increased hospitalization rate among women (HR = 1.21; 95% CI 1.0-1.41) and men (HR = 1.16; 95% CI 1.00-1.35) with a TTP of ≥18 months, and for men with a TTP of 2-9 months (HR = 1.14; 95% CI 1.01-1.30). A dose-response relationship was found for women regarding both mortality (P = 0.022) and hospitalizations (P = 0.018). Impaired fecundity was associated with a wide range of diseases and some causes of death, indicating a multi-factorial causal influence on fecundity, especially among women. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION A major limitation was that fecundity depends on both partners, which was not considered in this study. Moreover, we could not obtain information on a number of potential confounders. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Fecundity seems positively correlated with overall health and may be a universal marker of future health and survival. These results add knowledge to the limited findings showing that reduced fecundity in women and poor semen quality in men may reflect worse health and a shorter life, particularly among women. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by NIH grant HD096468 (M.L.E., T.K.J. and R.L.J.). The authors declare that they have no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- L J Ahrenfeldt
- Unit of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and
Biodemography, Department of Public Health, University of Southern
Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- The Danish Twin Registry, Department of Public
Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - S Möller
- OPEN—Open Patient data Explorative Network,
Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of
Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - M J Wensink
- Unit of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and
Biodemography, Department of Public Health, University of Southern
Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Interdisciplinary Centre on Population Dynamics
(CPop), University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - M L Eisenberg
- Male Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Department
of Urology and Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford University School of
Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - K Christensen
- Unit of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and
Biodemography, Department of Public Health, University of Southern
Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- The Danish Twin Registry, Department of Public
Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and
Pharmacology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Odense University
Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - T K Jensen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Farmacy and
Environmental Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense,
Denmark
| | - R Lindahl-Jacobsen
- Unit of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and
Biodemography, Department of Public Health, University of Southern
Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Interdisciplinary Centre on Population Dynamics
(CPop), University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Jacobson R, Joel D. Gender identity and sexuality in an online sample of intersex-identified individuals: a descriptive study. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2019.1711447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Roi Jacobson
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Daphna Joel
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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Lamminmäki A, Kuiri-Hänninen T, Sankilampi U. Sex-typical behavior in children born preterm at very low birth weight. Pediatr Res 2021; 89:1765-1770. [PMID: 32927469 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-020-01133-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perinatal events may alter psychosexual development. We aimed to assess whether a preterm birth at very low birth weight (VLBW; <1500 g) or antenatal synthetic glucocorticoids (sGC) given to the mother are associated with altered sex-typical behavior in childhood. METHODS Sex-typical behavior was assessed using the Pre-school Activities Inventory (PSAI) at the mean age of 4.9 years (SD 1.6) in 879 children, of whom 143 were preterm with VLBW (PT <1500 g, all exposed to sGC), 282 were preterm with birth weight ≥1500 g (PT ≥1500 g, 171 exposed to sGC), and 454 were full term (FT, 166 exposed to sGC). RESULTS Antenatal sGC was not associated with PSAI scores in either sex. PT <1500 g boys had less male-typical PSAI scores than other boys, even in multivariate model adjusting for age, maternal age, antenatal sGC, number of brothers and sisters, and motor or cognitive impairment. PT <1500 g girls had less female-typical PSAI scores than other girls in the multivariate model. The effect size was small (d = 0.03) for both sexes. CONCLUSIONS Preterm birth with VLBW is associated with reduced sex-typical behavior in childhood, which is in line with the previous data indicating altered psychosexual development in adults born preterm. Mechanisms underlying these observations are not fully understood. IMPACT Preterm birth is associated with reduced rates of marriage and reproduction in adulthood, but sex-typical behavior in children born preterm has not been studied before. The results of this study indicate that preterm birth with very low birth weight <1500 g is associated with reduced sex-typical behavior in childhood in both sexes. These observations are in line with the previous data indicating altered psychosexual development in adults born preterm. Mechanisms underlying these observations are not fully understood and require further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ulla Sankilampi
- Department of Pediatrics, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland.
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20
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Turan Ş, Boysan M, Tarakçıoğlu MC, Sağlam T, Yassa A, Bakay H, Demirel ÖF, Tosun M. 2D:4D Digit Ratios in Adults with Gender Dysphoria: A Comparison to Their Unaffected Same-Sex Heterosexual Siblings, Cisgender Heterosexual Men, and Cisgender Heterosexual Women. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:885-895. [PMID: 33694048 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-01938-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
We compared gender dysphoria (GD) patients and their same-sex siblings in terms of their 2D:4D ratios, which may reflect prenatal exposure to androgen, one of the possible etiological mechanisms underlying GD. Sixty-eight GD patients (46 Female-to-Male [FtM]; 22 Male-to-Female [MtF]), 68 siblings (46 sisters of FtMs; 22 brothers of MtFs), and 118 heterosexual controls (62 female; 56 male) were included in the study. FtMs were gynephilic and MtFs were androphilic. We found that 2D:4D ratios in the both right hand (p < .001) and the left hand (p = .003) were lower in male controls than in female controls. Regarding right hands, FtM GD patients had lower 2D:4D ratios than female controls (p < .001) but their ratios did not differ from those of their sisters or male controls. FtM GD patients had no significant difference in their left-hand 2D:4D ratios compared to their sisters or female and male controls. While there was no significant difference in right hands between FtM's sisters and male controls, left-hand 2D:4D ratios were significantly higher in FtM's sisters (p = .017). MtF GD patients had lower right-hand 2D:4D ratios than female controls (p <.001), but their right-hand ratios did not differ from those of their brothers and male controls. There was no significant difference in left-hand 2D:4D ratios between MtF GD patients, and their brothers, or female and male controls. FtM GD patients showed significantly masculinized right-hand 2D:4D ratios, while there was no evidence of feminization in MtF GD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Şenol Turan
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Cerrahpaşa-Fatih, 34098, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Murat Boysan
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Ankara Social Sciences University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mahmut Cem Tarakçıoğlu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tarık Sağlam
- Department of Psychiatry, Halil Şıvgın Çubuk State Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Yassa
- Department of Psychiatry, Yozgat State Hospital, Yozgat, Turkey
| | - Hasan Bakay
- Department of Psychiatry, Nizip State Hospital, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Ömer Faruk Demirel
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Cerrahpaşa-Fatih, 34098, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Musa Tosun
- Department of Psychiatry, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Cerrahpaşa-Fatih, 34098, Istanbul, Turkey
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21
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A Multi-Modal MRI Analysis of Cortical Structure in Relation to Gender Dysphoria, Sexual Orientation, and Age in Adolescents. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10020345. [PMID: 33477567 PMCID: PMC7831120 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10020345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Gender dysphoria (GD) is characterized by distress due to an incongruence between experienced gender and sex assigned at birth. Sex-differentiated brain regions are hypothesized to reflect the experienced gender in GD and may play a role in sexual orientation development. Magnetic resonance brain images were acquired from 16 GD adolescents assigned female at birth (AFAB) not receiving hormone therapy, 17 cisgender girls, and 14 cisgender boys (ages 12–17 years) to examine three morphological and microstructural gray matter features in 76 brain regions: surface area (SA), cortical thickness (CT), and T1 relaxation time. Sexual orientation was represented by degree of androphilia-gynephilia and sexual attraction strength. Multivariate analyses found that cisgender boys had larger SA than cisgender girls and GD AFAB. Shorter T1, reflecting denser, macromolecule-rich tissue, correlated with older age and stronger gynephilia in cisgender boys and GD AFAB, and with stronger attractions in cisgender boys. Thus, cortical morphometry (mainly SA) was related to sex assigned at birth, but not experienced gender. Effects of experienced gender were found as similarities in correlation patterns in GD AFAB and cisgender boys in age and sexual orientation (mainly T1), indicating the need to consider developmental trajectories and sexual orientation in brain studies of GD.
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Mayhew AC, Gomez-Lobo V. Fertility Options for the Transgender and Gender Nonbinary Patient. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5892794. [PMID: 32797184 PMCID: PMC7455280 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Comprehensive care for transgender and gender nonbinary patients has been a priority established by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health. Because pubertal suppression, gender-affirming hormone therapy, and antiandrogen therapy used alone or in combination during medical transition can affect gonadal function, understanding the effects these treatments have on fertility potential is important for practitioners caring for transgender and gender nonbinary patients. In this review, we outline the impacts of gender-affirming treatments on fertility potential and discuss the counseling and the treatment approach for fertility preservation and/or family building in transgender and gender nonbinary individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison C Mayhew
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland
- Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC
| | - Veronica Gomez-Lobo
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland
- Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Veronica Gomez-Lobo, MD, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Children’s National Medical Center, Division of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, 10 Central Dr, Bldg 10, Rm 8N248, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA. E-mail:
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Cochran SD, Drescher J, Kismödi E, Giami A, García-Moreno C, Atalla E, Marais A, Meloni Vieira E, Reed GM. Proposed Declassification of Disease Categories Related to Sexual Orientation in the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-11). FOCUS (AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC PUBLISHING) 2020; 18:351-357. [PMID: 33343245 PMCID: PMC7587922 DOI: 10.1176/appi.focus.18303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
(Reprinted with permission from the Bulletin of the World Health Organization).
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Daae E, Feragen KB, Waehre A, Nermoen I, Falhammar H. Sexual Orientation in Individuals With Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: A Systematic Review. Front Behav Neurosci 2020; 14:38. [PMID: 32231525 PMCID: PMC7082355 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2020.00038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a genetic condition of the steroidogenic enzymes in the adrenal cortex normally leading to variable degrees of cortisol and aldosterone deficiency as well as androgen excess. Exposure to androgens prenatally might lead to ambiguous genitalia. The fetal brain develops in traditional male direction through a direct action of androgens on the developing nerve cells, or in the traditional female direction in the absence of androgens. This may indicate that sexual development, including sexual orientation, are programmed into our brain structures prenatally. The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review of the literature, investigating sexual orientation in individuals with CAH. The study also aimed at identifying which measures are used to define sexual orientation across studies. The review is based on articles identified through a comprehensive search of the OVIDMedline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases published up to May 2019. All peer-reviewed articles investigating sexual orientation in people with CAH were included. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods were considered, as well as self-, parent-, and third-party reports, and no age or language restrictions were enforced on publications. The present review included 30 studies investigating sexual orientation in patients with CAH assigned female at birth (46, XX) (n = 927) or assigned male at birth (46, XY and 46, XX) (n = 274). Results indicate that assigned females at birth (46, XX) with CAH had a greater likelihood to not have an exclusively heterosexual orientation than females from the general population, whereas no assigned males at birth (46, XY or 46, XX) with CAH identified themselves as non-heterosexual. There was a wide diversity in measures used and a preference for unvalidated and self-constructed interviews. Hence, the results need to be interpreted with caution. Methodological weaknesses might have led to non-heterosexual orientation being overestimated or underestimated. The methodological challenges identified by this review should be further investigated in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ingrid Nermoen
- Oslo University, Oslo, Norway
- Akershus University Hospital, Lillestrøm, Norway
| | - Henrik Falhammar
- Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Szilagyi JT, Gorczyca L, Brinker A, Buckley B, Laskin JD, Aleksunes LM. Placental BCRP/ABCG2 Transporter Prevents Fetal Exposure to the Estrogenic Mycotoxin Zearalenone. Toxicol Sci 2020; 168:394-404. [PMID: 30576553 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfy303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the placenta, the breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP)/ABCG2 efflux transporter limits the maternal-to-fetal transfer of drugs and chemicals. Previous research has pointed to the estrogenic mycotoxin zearalenone as a potential substrate for BCRP. Here, we sought to assess the role of the BCRP transporter in the transplacental disposition of zearalenone during pregnancy. In vitro transwell transport assays employing BCRP/Bcrp-transfected Madine-Darby canine kidney cells and BeWo trophoblasts with reduced BCRP expression were used to characterize the impact of BCRP on the bidirectional transport of zearalenone. In both models, the presence of BCRP protein increased the basolateral-to-apical transport and reduced the apical-to-basolateral transport of zearalenone over a 2-h period. In vivo pharmacokinetic analyses were then performed using pregnant wild-type and Bcrp-/- mice after a single tail vein injection of zearalenone. Zearalenone and its metabolite α-zearalenol were detectable in serum, placentas, and fetuses from all animals, and β-zearalenol was detected in serum and fetuses, but not placentas. There were no significant differences in the maternal serum concentrations of any analytes between the two genotypes. In Bcrp-/- mice, the free fetal concentrations of zearalenone, α-zearalenol, and β-zearalenol were increased by 115%, 84%, and 150%, respectively, when compared with wild-type mice. Concentrations of free zearalenone and α-zearalenol were elevated 145% and 78% in Bcrp-/- placentas, respectively, when compared with wild-type placentas. Taken together, these data indicate that the placental BCRP transporter functions to reduce the fetal accumulation of zearalenone, which may impact susceptibility to developmental toxicities associated with in utero zearalenone exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- John T Szilagyi
- Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology, Rutgers University School of Graduate Studies, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854
| | - Ludwik Gorczyca
- Joint Graduate Program in Toxicology, Rutgers University School of Graduate Studies, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854
| | - Anita Brinker
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute
| | - Brian Buckley
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute
| | - Jeffrey D Laskin
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute.,Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health
| | - Lauren M Aleksunes
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854
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Luo Q, Zhao H, Jiang Y, Guo J, Lv N, Tang J, Li S, Zhang D, Bai R, Chen G. Association of blood metal exposure with testosterone and hemoglobin: A cross-sectional study in Hangzhou Birth Cohort Study. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 136:105451. [PMID: 31924581 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.105451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few epidemiological studies have investigated associations of exposure to multiple metals with testosterone homeostasis and erythropoiesis, especially for the pregnant women. METHODS Among all the 1644 participants enrolled in Hangzhou Birth Cohort Study (HBCS) at baseline, a total of 918 pregnant women with complete data of interest were analyzed. The whole blood metals levels were examined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and serum testosterone level was evaluated by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA), and erythropoietic parameters values were extracted from medical record. Multivariable linear regression models were applied to estimate the relationships between metals levels and testosterone level, and between metals levels and erythropoietic parameters, and potential confounders were adjusted. RESULTS Single metal model analysis revealed a significant association of blood As, Mn and Pb level with serum testosterone level. After controlling for multiple testing, the dose-response trend with statistical significance (FDR-adjusted p trend <0.05) was observed across tertiles of Pb with testosterone. This association, when by stratified by gender, remained in pregnant women with a male fetus but did not reach significant in those with a female fetus. Furthermore, blood Pb level was positively associated with red blood cell counts, hemoglobin level and hematocrit. Serum testosterone level was positively associated with red blood cell counts, hemoglobin level and hematocrit. Mediation analyses indicated that testosterone might act as a mediator in the association between Pb exposure and erythropoietic parameters. CONCLUSIONS Serum testosterone level and hemoglobin level was positively related to blood Pb level among Chinese pregnant women, and testosterone might mediate the effect of Pb exposure on hemoglobin. Additional prospective studies are warranted to confirm the causality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Luo
- Department of Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hao Zhao
- Department of Public Health, and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ying Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Department of Public Health, and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Na Lv
- Department of Public Health, and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun Tang
- Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuai Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Rongpan Bai
- Bioelectromagnetics Laboratory, Institute of Environmental Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Guangdi Chen
- Department of Public Health, and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Bioelectromagnetics Laboratory, Institute of Environmental Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
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Bogaert AF, Skorska MN. A short review of biological research on the development of sexual orientation. Horm Behav 2020; 119:104659. [PMID: 31911036 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2019.104659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
We review research supporting biological mechanisms in the development of sexual orientation. This research includes studies on neural correlates, prenatal hormones and related physical/behavioral correlates, genetics, and the fraternal birth order effect (FBOE). These studies, taken together, have provided substantial support for biological influences underlying the development of sexual orientation, but questions remain unanswered, including how biological mechanisms may differ in contributing to men's and women's sexual orientation development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony F Bogaert
- Department of Health Sciences, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada; Department of Psychology, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada.
| | - Malvina N Skorska
- Department of Psychology, Brock University, 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada; Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road North, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada.
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Troisi R, Palmer JR, Hatch EE, Strohsnitter WC, Huo D, Hyer M, Fredriksen-Goldsen KI, Hoover R, Titus L. Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation Identity in Women and Men Prenatally Exposed to Diethylstilbestrol. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:447-454. [PMID: 31975033 PMCID: PMC7031187 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01637-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
We assessed the associations of prenatal diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure, a potent estrogen, with sexual orientation and gender identity in 3306 women and 1848 men who participated in a study of prenatal DES exposure. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were derived from logistic regression models adjusted for birth year, study cohort, and education. Among women, the OR for DES in relation to reporting sexual orientation identity as nonheterosexual was 0.61 (95% CI 0.40-0.92) primarily due to a strong inverse association with a lesbian identity (OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.25-0.76). Among men, the OR for DES in relation to reporting a nonheterosexual sexual orientation identity was 1.4 (95% CI 0.82-2.4), and ORs were similar for having a gay identity (1.4, 95% CI 0.72-2.85) and bisexual identity (1.4, 95% CI 0.57-3.5). Only five individuals reported a gender identity not conforming to that assigned at birth, preventing meaningful analysis. Women who were prenatally exposed to DES were less likely to have a lesbian or bisexual orientation, while DES-exposed men were somewhat more likely to report being gay or bisexual, but estimates were imprecise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Troisi
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| | - Julie R Palmer
- Slone Epidemiology Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - William C Strohsnitter
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Dezheng Huo
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | | | - Robert Hoover
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Linda Titus
- Departments of Epidemiology and Pediatrics, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH, USA
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Lippa RA. Interest, Personality, and Sexual Traits That Distinguish Heterosexual, Bisexual, and Homosexual Individuals: Are There Two Dimensions That Underlie Variations in Sexual Orientation? ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:607-622. [PMID: 31989410 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01643-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Revised: 01/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
A diverse U.S. sample comprising 1437 men and 1474 women was assessed on sexual orientation, masculinity-femininity of occupational preferences (MF-Occ), self-ascribed masculinity-femininity (Self-MF), Big Five personality traits, sex drive, and sociosexuality (positive attitudes toward uncommitted sex). Discriminant analyses explored which traits best distinguished self-identified heterosexual, bisexual, and homosexual individuals within each sex. These analyses correctly classified the sexual orientation of 55% of men and 60% of women, which was substantially better than a chance rate (33%) of assigning participants to one of three groups. For men, MF-Occ and Self-MF distinguished heterosexual, bisexual, and gay men, with heterosexual men most gender typical, gay men most gender atypical, and bisexual men intermediate. Independently, higher sex drive, sociosexuality, and neuroticism and lower conscientiousness distinguished bisexual men from other groups. For women, gender-related interests and Self-MF distinguished lesbians from other groups, with lesbians most gender atypical. Independently, higher sociosexuality, sex drive, and Self-MF distinguished non-heterosexual from heterosexual women. These findings suggest that variations in self-reported sexual orientation may be conceptualized in terms of two broad underlying individual difference dimensions, which differ somewhat for men and women: one linked to gender typicality versus gender atypicality and the other linked to sex drive, sociosexuality, and various personality traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Lippa
- Psychology Department, California State University, Fullerton, Fullerton, CA, 92836, USA.
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Gómez Jiménez FR, Court L, Vasey PL. A Retrospective Study of Childhood Sex-Typed Behavior in Istmo Zapotec Men, Women, and Muxes. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:467-477. [PMID: 31529223 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01544-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Previous research has consistently demonstrated that both transgender and cisgender androphilic males (i.e., males attracted to adult males) display and recall higher levels of childhood female-typical behavior (CFTB) and lower levels of childhood male-typical behavior (CMTB) compared to gynephilic males (i.e., males attracted to adult females). In adulthood, the recalled CFTB and CMTB scores of cisgender androphilic males tend to be intermediate to those of opposite-sex-attracted men and women, whereas transgender androphilic males tend to score similar to women. These studies have been mostly conducted in Euro-American cultures. We examined recalled childhood sex-typed behavior (CSTB) among the Istmo Zapotec-a pre-Colombian culture in the Istmo region of Oaxaca, Mexico, where cisgender and transgender androphilic males are recognized as a third gender, known locally as muxes. The present study sought to determine whether Istmo Zapotec men (n = 180), cisgender muxe nguiiu (n = 63), transgender muxe gunaa (n = 120), and women (n = 138) differ with respect to recalled CFTB and CMTB. Our results indicate that men recalled significantly less CFTB and more CMTB than women. Cisgender muxes scored in between men and women. Transgender muxes scored similar to women. These findings provide further evidence that childhood sex-atypical behavior is a cross-culturally universal and normative developmental aspect of male androphilia, regardless of whether it manifests in the cisgender or transgender form. This is the first study to present quantitative data comparing the recalled CSTB of cisgender and transgender androphilic males from within the same non-Euro-American culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco R Gómez Jiménez
- Department of Psychology, University of Lethbridge, 4401 University Drive, Lethbridge, AB, T1K 3M4, Canada.
| | - Lucas Court
- GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Paul L Vasey
- Department of Psychology, University of Lethbridge, 4401 University Drive, Lethbridge, AB, T1K 3M4, Canada
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A review of the intriguing interaction between testosterone and neurocognitive development in males with 47,XXY. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2020; 32:140-146. [PMID: 32004174 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Although 47,XXY (Klinefelter syndrome) was first discovered more than 50 years ago, there have been limited comprehensive studies on this disorder. The present review explains the study of neurodevelopmental dysfunction and the impact of testosterone replacement at specific junctions in the life of males with 47,XXY. The intricate relationship between testosterone, neurodevelopment, health, and well being warrants an in-depth investigation in order to achieve optimal outcomes. RECENT FINDINGS Current literature suggests that the implementation of biological treatment has a positive impact on numerous areas of neurodevelopment. Further research is needed to determine ideal dosage, timing, and frequency of biological treatment for efficacy and safety of the child with 47,XXY. SUMMARY As noninvasive prenatal screening has detected increasing numbers of fetuses with 47,XXY, parents may benefit from both prenatal and postnatal counseling, including the latest innovative biological treatment, that may further optimize the child's outcome, especially when coupled with targeted early intervention services.
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Wang Y, Wu H, Sun ZS. The biological basis of sexual orientation: How hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors influence to whom we are sexually attracted. Front Neuroendocrinol 2019; 55:100798. [PMID: 31593707 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.100798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Humans develop relatively stable attractions to sexual partners during maturation and present a spectrum of sexual orientation from homosexuality to heterosexuality encompassing varying degrees of bisexuality, with some individuals also displaying asexuality. Sexual orientation represents a basic life phenomenon for humans. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these diverse traits of sexual orientation remain highly controversial. In this review, we systematically discuss recent advancements in sexual orientation research, including those related to measurements and associated brain regions. Current findings regarding sexual orientation modulation by hormonal, genetic, maternal immune system, and environmental factors are summarized in both human and model systems. We also emphasize that future studies should recognize the differences between males and females and pay more attention to minor traits and the epigenetic regulation of sexual orientation. A comprehensive view of sexual orientation may promote our understanding of the biological basis of sex, and that of human reproduction, and evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Beijing Institutes of Life Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Haoda Wu
- Beijing Institutes of Life Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; Sino-Danish College, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Zhong Sheng Sun
- Beijing Institutes of Life Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; Sino-Danish College, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; Institute of Genomic Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, China.
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Jin S, Sun X, Liu Q, Liang H, Li C, Mao Z, Song C, Xia W, Li Y, Xu S. Steroid Hormones in Cord Blood Mediate the Association Between Maternal Prepregnancy BMI and Birth Weight. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2019; 27:1338-1346. [PMID: 31207092 DOI: 10.1002/oby.22524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Maternal overweight has been associated with increasing offspring birth weight, but epidemiological data on potential biological mechanisms are limited. This study aimed to examine whether steroid hormones mediate the association between maternal prepregnancy BMI (pre-BMI) and birth weight. METHODS This study involving 2,039 participants was conducted from an ongoing cohort study in Wuhan, China. Mediation analysis was used to identify the extent to which steroid hormones mediated associations. RESULTS Each one-unit increase in pre-BMI was significantly associated with lower log2 -transformed cord blood levels of cortisol and corticosterone. Levels of cortisol and corticosterone were also negatively associated with birth weight. It was estimated that corticosterone mediated 3.48% of the association between pre-BMI and birth weight, and no significant mediation effect was observed in cortisol. After stratification by maternal gestational weight gain (GWG; within or in excess of the Institute of Medicine [IOM] guidelines), the associations of pre-BMI with cortisol and corticosterone levels were significant in the women with GWG > IOM but not in women with GWG ≤ IOM. When the mediation analysis in the women with GWG > IOM was limited, the mediation effects of cord blood cortisol and corticosterone were both significant (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Cord blood cortisol and corticosterone partially mediate the association of increased maternal pre-BMI with higher birth weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuna Jin
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaojie Sun
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Huifang Liang
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Chunhui Li
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhenxing Mao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Chengwu Song
- College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Xia
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shunqing Xu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Figueredo AJ, Fernandes HBF, Peñaherrera-Aguirre M. Do the Predictors of Atypical Sexual Orientations in Women Generalize Across Different Evolutionary Tests? ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:1325-1328. [PMID: 30465310 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1338-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Aurelio José Figueredo
- Ethology and Evolutionary Psychology Laboratory, Department of Psychology, School of Mind, Brain, and Behavior, College of Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.
| | - Heitor B F Fernandes
- Ethology and Evolutionary Psychology Laboratory, Department of Psychology, School of Mind, Brain, and Behavior, College of Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Mateo Peñaherrera-Aguirre
- Ethology and Evolutionary Psychology Laboratory, Department of Psychology, School of Mind, Brain, and Behavior, College of Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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35
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Luoto S, Krams I, Rantala MJ. A Life History Approach to the Female Sexual Orientation Spectrum: Evolution, Development, Causal Mechanisms, and Health. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:1273-1308. [PMID: 30229521 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1261-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2017] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Women's capacity for sexual fluidity is at least as interesting a phenomenon from the point of view of evolutionary biology and behavioral endocrinology as exclusively homosexual orientation. Evolutionary hypotheses for female nonheterosexuality have failed to fully account for the existence of these different categories of nonheterosexual women, while also overlooking broader data on the causal mechanisms, physiology, ontogeny, and phylogeny of female nonheterosexuality. We review the evolutionary-developmental origins of various phenotypes in the female sexual orientation spectrum using the synergistic approach of Tinbergen's four questions. We also present femme-specific and butch-specific hypotheses at proximate and ultimate levels of analysis. This review article indicates that various nonheterosexual female phenotypes emerge from and contribute to hormonally mediated fast life history strategies. Life history theory provides a biobehavioral explanatory framework for nonheterosexual women's masculinized body morphology, psychological dispositions, and their elevated likelihood of experiencing violence, substance use, obesity, teenage pregnancy, and lower general health. This pattern of life outcomes can create a feedback loop of environmental unpredictability and harshness which destabilizes intrauterine hormonal conditions in mothers, leading to a greater likelihood of fast life history strategies, global health problems, and nonheterosexual preferences in female offspring. We further explore the potential of female nonheterosexuality to function as an alloparental buffer that enables masculinizing alleles to execute their characteristic fast life history strategies as they appear in the female and the male phenotype. Synthesizing life history theory with the female sexual orientation spectrum enriches existing scientific knowledge on the evolutionary-developmental mechanisms of human sex differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Severi Luoto
- English, Drama and Writing Studies, University of Auckland, Arts 1, Building 206, Room 616, 14A Symonds St., Auckland, 1010, New Zealand.
- School of Psychology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Indrikis Krams
- Department of Zoology and Animal Ecology, University of Latvia, Riga, Latvia
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Markus J Rantala
- Department of Biology & Turku Brain and Mind Center, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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36
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Luoto S, Krams I, Rantala MJ. Response to Commentaries: Life History Evolution, Causal Mechanisms, and Female Sexual Orientation. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:1335-1347. [PMID: 31119422 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-1439-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Severi Luoto
- English, Drama and Writing Studies, University of Auckland, Arts 1, Bldg. 206, Room 616, 14A Symonds St., Auckland, 1010, New Zealand.
- School of Psychology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Indrikis Krams
- Department of Zoology and Animal Ecology, University of Latvia, Rīga, Latvia
- Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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37
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Gartrell N, Bos H, Koh A. Sexual Attraction, Sexual Identity, and Same-Sex Sexual Experiences of Adult Offspring in the U.S. National Longitudinal Lesbian Family Study. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2019; 48:1495-1503. [PMID: 30888553 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-1434-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The U.S. National Longitudinal Lesbian Family Study has followed offspring with sexual minority parents from conception into adulthood. It was initiated in 1986, and it has a 92% retention rate to date. In the current investigation, the 25-year-old offspring answered questions about sexual attraction, sexual identity, and sexual experiences; their responses were compared with those of same-age adults from a population-based survey. The analytic samples consisted of 76 offspring of lesbian parents and 76 demographically matched participants from the National Survey of Family Growth. All 152 respondents were 25 years old, 48.7% were female, 90.8% identified as White, 9.2% were people of color, and all had attended at least some college. Although most respondents in each sample identified as "heterosexual or straight," compared to their matched counterparts in the population-based survey, the female and male offspring of lesbian parents were significantly more to likely to report same-sex attraction, sexual minority identity, and same-sex experience. These findings suggest that adult offspring from planned lesbian families may be more likely than their peers to demonstrate diversity in sexual attraction, identity, and expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanette Gartrell
- Williams Institute, UCLA School of Law, 337 Charles E. Young Dr. E, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
- Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Henny Bos
- Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Audrey Koh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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38
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Ream GL. What's Unique About Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Youth and Young Adult Suicides? Findings From the National Violent Death Reporting System. J Adolesc Health 2019; 64:602-607. [PMID: 30711364 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2018.10.303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of the study was to explore variability in circumstances around suicide deaths among youth and young adults by sexual/gender identity category (gay male, lesbian/gay female, bisexual male, bisexual female, transgender male, transgender female, non-LGBT [lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender] male, and non-LGBT female). METHODS Secondary analysis of National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS) data for all 12- to 29-year-olds who died by suicide in NVDRS participating states. Coverage begins in 2013, the year that NVDRS began coding for sexual orientation and transgender status, and ends in 2015, the latest year of NVDRS data available. The valid sample was limited to cases in which sexual orientation or transgender status could be determined postmortem, n = 2,209. RESULTS Almost one quarter (24%) of 12- to 14-year-olds who died by suicide were LGBT, whereas only 8% of 25- to 29-year-olds who died by suicide were LGBT. Most non-LGBT males and bisexual males died by firearm and had intimate partner problems contribute to their deaths. Non-LGBT females and LGBT persons other than bisexual males were generally less likely to use firearms. They were also more likely to have psychiatric diagnoses, prior suicidality, and family problems contributing to their deaths. Rates of many circumstances varied widely among LGBT subgroups. CONCLUSIONS The LGBT versus non-LGBT suicide disparity is greatest at younger ages, and each LGBT subgroup has its own specific risk profile for suicide. Suicide prevention and intervention efforts targeted at LGBT youth may increase their effectiveness by attending to these distinct risk profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey L Ream
- School of Social Work, Adelphi University, Garden City, New York.
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Gehrmann K, Engels M, Bennecke E, Bouvattier C, Falhammar H, Kreukels BPC, Nordenstrom A, Reisch N, Gehrmann N, Stikkelbroeck NMML, Quinkler M, Claahsen-van der Grinten HL. Sexuality in Males With Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Resulting From 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency. J Endocr Soc 2019; 3:1445-1456. [PMID: 31317123 PMCID: PMC6626486 DOI: 10.1210/js.2019-00082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Although sexuality has been reported to be impaired in females with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) resulting from 21-hydroxylase deficiency, sexuality in males with CAH so far has remained largely unconsidered. Patients One of the largest European male cohorts of patients with CAH in which sexuality in male patients with CAH was assessed. Methods Sexuality was evaluated in 91 sexually active male patients with CAH using questionnaires investigating sexual orientation, age at sexual initiation, sexual activity, satisfaction with sex life, and sexual problems, such as fears or dislike of sexual activity, lack or excessive sexual desire, difficulties getting aroused or reaching an orgasm, premature ejaculation, and no or incomplete erection. Results Sexuality in male patients with CAH was similar to European reference populations. If sexuality problems were present, they were less frequently reported by the most severely affected CAH males. Adducing a holistic perspective, sexual problems showed substantial association to psychological problems, such as anxiety and depression. Conclusions Sexuality in male patients with CAH in general was unaffected and sexuality problems seemed to be associated in particular with psychological problems. Because sexual health is a key factor of general health, we recommend that sexuality as well as psychological issues explicitly should be addressed in health care of patients with a CAH diagnosis, independent of sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Gehrmann
- Charité Universitätsmedizin, Klinik für Pädiatrie m. S. Endokrinologie und Diabetologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Manon Engels
- Department of Pediatrics, Amalia Children's Hospital, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Elena Bennecke
- Charité Universitätsmedizin, Klinik für Pädiatrie m. S. Endokrinologie und Diabetologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Claire Bouvattier
- Endocrinologie pédiatrique, Centre de Référence des Maladies Rares du Développement Sexuel, Hôpital Bicêtre, Université Paris-Sud, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Henrik Falhammar
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, D02:04, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm
| | | | - Anna Nordenstrom
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Pediatric Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nicole Reisch
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Nicole Gehrmann
- Charité Universitätsmedizin, Center for Gynecology, Perinatal, Pediatric and Juvenile Medicine with Perinatal Center and Human Genetics, Berlin
| | | | - Marcus Quinkler
- Charité Universitätsmedizin, Klinik für Pädiatrie m. S. Endokrinologie und Diabetologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Endocrinology in Charlottenburg, Berlin, Germany
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40
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Pereira KJ, Varella MAC, Kleisner K, Pavlovič O, Valentova JV. Positive association between facial and vocal femininity/masculinity in women but not in men. Behav Processes 2019; 164:25-29. [PMID: 31002841 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2019.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Revised: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Multicomponent stimuli improve information reception. In women, perceived facial and vocal femininity-masculinity (FM) are concordant; however, mixed results are found for men. Some feminine and masculine traits are related to sex hormone action and can indicate reproductive qualities. However, most of the current research about human mate choice focuses on isolated indicators, especially visual assessment of faces. We therefore examined the cross-modal concordance hypothesis by testing correlations between perceptions of FM based on facial, vocal, and behavioral stimuli. Standardized facial pictures, vocal recordings and dance videos of 38 men and 41 women, aged 18-35 years, were rated by 21 male and 43 female students, aged 18-35 years, on 100-point scale (0 = very feminine; 100 = very masculine). All participants were Brazilian students from University of Sao Paulo. In women, facial and vocal FM correlated positively, suggesting concordant information about mate quality. Such results were not found in men, indicating multiple messages, which agree with women's multifaceted preference for male FM. In both sexes, FM of dance did not correlate with voices or faces, indicating different information and distinct process of development. We thus partially supported the cross-modal concordance hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Janaina Pereira
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Institute of Psychology, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
| | | | - Karel Kleisner
- Department of Philosophy and History of Science, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ondřej Pavlovič
- Department of Philosophy and History of Science, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
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41
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Loch Batista R, Inácio M, Prado Arnhold IJ, Gomes NL, Diniz Faria JA, Rodrigues de Moraes D, Frade Costa EM, Domenice S, Bilharinho Mendonça B. Psychosexual Aspects, Effects of Prenatal Androgen Exposure, and Gender Change in 46,XY Disorders of Sex Development. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 104:1160-1170. [PMID: 30388241 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2018-01866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT In 46,XY disorders of sexual development (DSD) patients, several factors may affect psychosexual development, leading to gender identity discrepancy and gender change later in life. Prenatal sexual steroid exposure and external genital virilization are considered to influence human psychosexual development, but their roles not completely understood yet. DESIGN A total of 144 individuals (18 to 60 years of age) with a clinical/molecular diagnosis of 46,XY DSD from a single tertiary center were enrolled. Psychosexual outcomes (gender role, gender identity, and sexual orientation) were assessed using questionnaires and psychological test. The Sinnecker score was used for genital virilization measurement. Prenatal androgen exposure was estimated according to 46,XY DSD etiology. RESULTS We found a positive association between prenatal androgen exposure and male psychosexual outcomes. Alternatively, prenatal estrogen exposure, age of gonadectomy, and the degree of external genital virilization did not influence any psychosexual outcome. There were 19% (n = 27) with gender change, which was associated with prenatal androgen exposure (P < 0.001) but not with the external genital virilization. The median age of gender change was 15 years, but most of the patients reported the desire for gender change earlier. CONCLUSIONS Prenatal androgen exposure influenced psychosexual development in 46,XY DSD favoring male psychosexuality in all psychosexual outcomes, whereas the degree of external genital virilization did not influence these outcomes. The organizational effect of sexual steroids on psychosexuality at puberty appears to be weak in comparison with the prenatal effects. Prenatal androgen exposure also influenced female-to-male gender change frequency. All 46,XY DSD conditions with prenatal androgen exposure must be followed for gender issues in their management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Loch Batista
- Developmental Endocrinology Unit, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marlene Inácio
- Psychology Department, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ivo Jorge Prado Arnhold
- Developmental Endocrinology Unit, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nathália Lisboa Gomes
- Developmental Endocrinology Unit, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José Antônio Diniz Faria
- Developmental Endocrinology Unit, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daniela Rodrigues de Moraes
- Developmental Endocrinology Unit, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Elaine Maria Frade Costa
- Developmental Endocrinology Unit, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sorahia Domenice
- Developmental Endocrinology Unit, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Berenice Bilharinho Mendonça
- Developmental Endocrinology Unit, Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular/LIM42, Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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42
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Lenz KM, Pickett LA, Wright CL, Galan A, McCarthy MM. Prenatal Allergen Exposure Perturbs Sexual Differentiation and Programs Lifelong Changes in Adult Social and Sexual Behavior. Sci Rep 2019; 9:4837. [PMID: 30886382 PMCID: PMC6423032 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-41258-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual differentiation is the early life process by which the brain is prepared for male or female typical behaviors, and is directed by sex chromosomes, hormones and early life experiences. We have recently found that innate immune cells residing in the brain, including microglia and mast cells, are more numerous in the male than female rat brain. Neuroimmune cells are also key participants in the sexual differentiation process, specifically organizing the synaptic development of the preoptic area and leading to male-typical sexual behavior in adulthood. Mast cells are known for their roles in allergic responses, thus in this study we sought to determine if exposure to an allergic response of the pregnant female in utero would alter the sexual differentiation of the preoptic area of offspring and resulting sociosexual behavior in later life. Pregnant rats were sensitized to ovalbumin (OVA), bred, and challenged intranasally with OVA on gestational day 15, which produced robust allergic inflammation, as measured by elevated immunoglobulin E. Offspring of these challenged mother rats were assessed relative to control rats in the early neonatal period for mast cell and microglia activation within their brains, downstream dendritic spine patterning on POA neurons, or grown to adulthood to assess behavior and dendritic spines. In utero exposure to allergic inflammation increased mast cell and microglia activation in the neonatal brain, and led to masculinization of dendritic spine density in the female POA. In adulthood, OVA-exposed females showed an increase in male-typical mounting behavior relative to control females. In contrast, OVA-exposed males showed evidence of dysmasculinization, including reduced microglia activation, reduced neonatal dendritic spine density, decreased male-typical copulatory behavior, and decreased olfactory preference for female-typical cues. Together these studies show that early life allergic events may contribute to natural variations in both male and female sexual behavior, potentially via underlying effects on brain-resident mast cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn M Lenz
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| | - Lindsay A Pickett
- Department of Pharmacology, The University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, The University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Christopher L Wright
- Department of Pharmacology, The University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, The University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Anabel Galan
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Margaret M McCarthy
- Department of Pharmacology, The University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, The University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
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43
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Yeung EH, Kim K, Purdue-Smithe A, Bell G, Zolton J, Ghassabian A, Vafai Y, Robinson SL, Mumford SL. Child Health: Is It Really Assisted Reproductive Technology that We Need to Be Concerned About? Semin Reprod Med 2019; 36:183-194. [PMID: 30866005 DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1675778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Concerns remain about the health of children conceived by infertility treatment. Studies to date have predominantly not identified substantial long-term health effects after accounting for plurality, which is reassuring given the increasing numbers of children conceived by infertility treatment worldwide. However, as technological advances in treatment arise, ongoing studies remain critical for monitoring health effects. To study whether the techniques used in infertility treatment cause health differences, however, remains challenging due to identification of an appropriate comparison group, heterogeneous treatment, and confounding by the underlying causes of infertility. In fact, the factors that are associated with underlying infertility, including parental obesity and other specific male and female factors, may be important independent factors to consider. This review will summarize key methodological considerations in studying children conceived by infertility treatment including the evidence of associations between underlying infertility factors and child health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Akhgar Ghassabian
- Department of Pediatrics, New York University School of Medicine, New York.,Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York.,Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York
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44
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Androgenic and estrogenic indices in human newborns and infants: the MIREC-ID study. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2019; 10:578-586. [PMID: 30898182 DOI: 10.1017/s2040174419000059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal sex steroid exposure plays an important role in determining child development. Yet, measurement of prenatal hormonal exposure has been limited by the paucity of newborn/infant data and the invasiveness of fetal hormonal sampling. Here we provide descriptive data from the MIREC-ID study (n=173 girls; 162 boys) on a range of minimally invasive physical indices thought to reflect prenatal exposure to androgens [anogenital distances (AGDs); penile length/width, scrotal/vulvar pigmentation], to estrogens [vaginal maturation index (VMI) - the degree of maturation of vaginal wall cells] or to both androgens/estrogens [2nd-to-4th digit ratio (2D:4D); areolar pigmentation, triceps/sub-scapular skinfold thickness, arm circumference]. VMI was found to be associated with triceps skinfold thickness (β=0.265, P=0.005), suggesting that this marker may be sensitive to estrogen levels produced by adipose tissue in girls. Both estrogenic and androgenic markers (VMI: β=0.338, P=0.031; 2D:4D - right: β=-0.207, P=0.040; left: β=-0.276, P=0.006; AGD-fourchette - β=0.253, P=0.036) were associated with areolar pigmentation in girls, supporting a role for the latter as an index of both androgen and estrogen exposure. We also found AGD-penis (distance from the anus to the penis) to be associated with scrotal pigmentation (β=0.290, P=0.048), as well as right arm circumference (β=0.462, P<0.0001), supporting the notion that these indices may be used together as markers of androgen exposure in boys. In sum, these findings support the use of several physical indices at birth to convey a more comprehensive picture of prenatal exposure to sex hormones.
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45
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Watts TM, Holmes L, Raines J, Orbell S, Rieger G. Finger Length Ratios of Identical Twins with Discordant Sexual Orientations. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2018; 47:2435-2444. [PMID: 29978344 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-018-1262-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
A proposed marker of prenatal androgen exposure is the ratio of the index finger to ring finger (2D:4D). Within each sex, this ratio may be lower for those who were exposed to higher levels of androgens and become attracted to women, as compared to those who were exposed to lower levels of androgens and become attracted to men. We examined these patterns in identical twins with discordant sexual orientations. Because these twins are genetically identical, differences in prenatal androgen exposure, as reflected in their different finger length ratios, might contribute to their discordance. For 18 female twin pairs, non-straight (bisexual or lesbian) twins had significantly lower, or more masculinized, 2D:4D ratios than their straight co-twins, but only in the left hand. For 14 male pairs, non-straight twins had, contrary to our prediction, more masculinized finger length ratios than straight co-twins, but this difference was not significant. A reanalysis of present and previous data (Hall & Love, 2003; Hiraishi, Sasaki, Shikishima, & Ando, 2012) suggested that these patterns were robust. Furthermore, males had more masculinized 2D:4D ratios than females. This sex difference did not vary by sexual orientation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuesday M Watts
- Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Colchester, C04 3SQ, UK.
| | - Luke Holmes
- Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Colchester, C04 3SQ, UK
| | - Jamie Raines
- Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Colchester, C04 3SQ, UK
| | - Sheina Orbell
- Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Colchester, C04 3SQ, UK
| | - Gerulf Rieger
- Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Colchester, C04 3SQ, UK
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46
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Gabler T, Charlton R, Loveland J, Mapunda E. Aphallia: a review to standardize management. Pediatr Surg Int 2018; 34:813-821. [PMID: 29679134 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-018-4271-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Congenital aphallia is a rare anomaly with little supporting literature and controversial management. The aim of this review is to assess the most recent literature with a focus on staged management of these cases. We performed a PubMed search of all English literature in the past 10 years using the term aphallia. Twenty-three articles were identified of which six were excluded. A further three papers meeting our criteria were found in the references to papers initially identified. We found that management can be staged in three phases: short, intermediate and long-term. We conclude that optimal short-term management centers on resuscitation and urinary diversion as necessary, intermediate-term management entails urethrorectal fistula division, urethrostomy and neophallus creation and long-term management results in successful neophalloplasty, urethroplasty, prosthetic implant and continued protection of the upper urinary tracts with a Mitrofanoff. All this within a multidisciplinary team ensuring shared decision-making with the patient and their family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarryn Gabler
- Paediatric surgery at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Robyn Charlton
- Paediatric surgery at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jerome Loveland
- Paediatric surgery at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ellen Mapunda
- Department of Paediatric Surgery at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Erbas O, Erdogan MA, Khalilnezhad A, Gürkan FT, Yiğittürk G, Meral A, Taskiran D. Neurobehavioral effects of long‐term maternal fructose intake in rat offspring. Int J Dev Neurosci 2018; 69:68-79. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Revised: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 07/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Oytun Erbas
- Istanbul Bilim University School of MedicineDepartment of PhysiologyIstanbulTurkey
| | | | | | | | - Gürkan Yiğittürk
- Ege University School of MedicineDepartment of Histology and EmbryologyIzmirTurkey
| | - Ayfer Meral
- Dumlupinar University School of MedicineDepartment of BiochemistryKütahyaTurkey
| | - Dilek Taskiran
- Ege University School of MedicineDepartment of PhysiologyIzmirTurkey
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Roselli CE. Neurobiology of gender identity and sexual orientation. J Neuroendocrinol 2018; 30:e12562. [PMID: 29211317 PMCID: PMC6677266 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Revised: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sexual identity and sexual orientation are independent components of a person's sexual identity. These dimensions are most often in harmony with each other and with an individual's genital sex, although not always. The present review discusses the relationship of sexual identity and sexual orientation to prenatal factors that act to shape the development of the brain and the expression of sexual behaviours in animals and humans. One major influence discussed relates to organisational effects that the early hormone environment exerts on both gender identity and sexual orientation. Evidence that gender identity and sexual orientation are masculinised by prenatal exposure to testosterone and feminised in it absence is drawn from basic research in animals, correlations of biometric indices of androgen exposure and studies of clinical conditions associated with disorders in sexual development. There are, however, important exceptions to this theory that have yet to be resolved. Family and twin studies indicate that genes play a role, although no specific candidate genes have been identified. Evidence that relates to the number of older brothers implicates maternal immune responses as a contributing factor for male sexual orientation. It remains speculative how these influences might relate to each other and interact with postnatal socialisation. Nonetheless, despite the many challenges to research in this area, existing empirical evidence makes it clear that there is a significant biological contribution to the development of an individual's sexual identity and sexual orientation.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Roselli
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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Bell GA, Sundaram R, Mumford SL, Park H, Mills J, Bell EM, Broadney M, Yeung EH. Maternal polycystic ovarian syndrome and early offspring development. Hum Reprod 2018; 33:1307-1315. [PMID: 29668891 PMCID: PMC6251548 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Revised: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is maternal polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) associated with developmental delays in offspring? SUMMARY ANSWER Offspring of mothers with PCOS were at higher risk of failure on the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY There is growing evidence that offspring of mothers with PCOS may be at higher risk for developmental disorders due to potential exposure to hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance. Few studies exist regarding maternal PCOS and early childhood development in the USA. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The Upstate KIDS Study is a population-based prospective cohort study of infants born between 2008 and 2010 in New York State (excluding New York City), originally designed to study-and finding no impact of-infertility treatment exposure on child development. Children were followed up to 36 months of age. In all, 4453 mothers completed one or more developmental screening instruments for 5388 children (35.5% twins) up to 36 months of age. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS In our study, 458 mothers (10.3%) reported a healthcare provider's diagnosis of PCOS, as well as the related treatment received, on the baseline study questionnaire. Parents completed the ASQ on their child's development at 4, 8, 12, 18, 24, 30 and 36 months of age to assess fine motor, gross motor, communication, personal-social functioning and problem-solving cognitive domains. We used generalized linear mixed models to estimate odds ratios (OR) between PCOS diagnosis and failures in the ASQ adjusted for maternal age, race, BMI, education, marital status, smoking, alcohol consumption, diabetes, insurance and plurality. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Diagnosis of PCOS was associated with increased risk of the offspring failing the fine motor domain (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.77; 95% CI: 1.09, 2.89), largely driven by higher risk in female singletons (aOR = 2.23; 1.16, 4.29). Twins of mothers with PCOS had higher risk of failing the communication (aOR = 1.94; 1.19, 3.18) and personal-social functioning (aOR = 1.76; 1.12, 2.77) domains compared to twins born to mothers without PCOS. Compared to offspring of women without PCOS, offspring of women who reported receiving no treatment for their PCOS had a stronger association with failing the ASQ (aOR = 1.68; 0.95, 2.75) than the association among offspring of women who reported PCOS treatment (aOR = 1.16; 0.79, 1.73). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Further study is needed to confirm the role of maternal PCOS in early offspring development with provider-validated diagnosis of PCOS. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS If confirmed, these findings suggest that offspring of women with PCOS may be at increased risk for developmental delay. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Supported by the Intramural Research Program of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD; contracts HHSN275201200005C, #HHSN267200700019C). Authors have no competing interests to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Griffith A Bell
- Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, 6710B Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Rajeshwari Sundaram
- Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, 6710B Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sunni L Mumford
- Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, 6710B Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Hyojun Park
- Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, 6710B Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - James Mills
- Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, 6710B Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Erin M Bell
- Department of Environmental Health Services, University at Albany, State University of New York, 1 University Place, Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - Miranda Broadney
- Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, 6710B Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Edwina H Yeung
- Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, 6710B Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Fisher AD, Ristori J, Morelli G, Maggi M. The molecular mechanisms of sexual orientation and gender identity. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 467:3-13. [PMID: 28847741 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Revised: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Differences between males and females are widely represented in nature. There are gender differences in phenotypes, personality traits, behaviors and interests, cognitive performance, and proneness to specific diseases. The most marked difference in humans is represented by sexual orientation and core gender identity, the origins of which are still controversial and far from being understood. Debates continue on whether sexual behavior and gender identity are a result of biological (nature) or cultural (nurture) factors, with biology possibly playing a major role. The main goal of this review is to summarize the studies available to date on the biological factors involved in the development of both sexual orientation and gender identity. A systematic search of published evidence was performed using Medline (from January 1948 to June 2017). Review of the relevant literature was based on authors' expertise. Indeed, different studies have documented the possible role and interaction of neuroanatomic, hormonal and genetic factors. The sexual dimorphic brain is considered the anatomical substrate of psychosexual development, on which genes and gonadal hormones may have a shaping effect. In particular, growing evidence shows that prenatal and pubertal sex hormones permanently affect human behavior. In addition, heritability studies have demonstrated a role of genetic components. However, a convincing candidate gene has not been identified. Future studies (e.i. genome wide studies) are needed to better clarify the complex interaction between genes, anatomy and hormonal influences on psychosexual development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra D Fisher
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Jiska Ristori
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Girolamo Morelli
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular and of the Critical Area Pathology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy.
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