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Parua S, Das A, Hazra A, Chaudhuri P, Bhattacharya K, Dutta S, Sengupta P. Assessing body composition through anthropometry: Implications for diagnosing and managing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Clin Physiol Funct Imaging 2024. [PMID: 39320052 DOI: 10.1111/cpf.12905] [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: 06/01/2024] [Revised: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multifaceted endocrine disorder with profound implications for the reproductive and metabolic health of women. The utilization of anthropometric measures in the diagnosis and management of PCOS has gained increasing attention due to their practicality and predictive capacity for associated conditions such as obesity and insulin resistance. This review rigorously explores the application of various anthropometric indices, including body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, and advanced metrics such as the body shape index and body roundness index, wrist circumference, neck circumference. These indices offer critical insights into body fat distribution and its association with the metabolic and hormonal perturbations characteristic of PCOS. The review underscores the necessity of addressing obesity, a prevalent comorbidity in PCOS, through lifestyle modifications and personalized therapeutic approaches. By incorporating anthropometric evaluations into routine clinical practice, healthcare professionals can enhance diagnostic precision, optimize treatment strategies, and ultimately improve patient outcomes. This integrative approach not only facilitates the management of the metabolic challenges inherent in PCOS but also contributes to the development of more individualized therapeutic interventions, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life for women affected by PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suparna Parua
- School of Paramedics and Allied Health Sciences, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Jatni, Odisha, India
| | - Arnab Das
- Department of Sports Science & Yoga, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational & Research Institute, Howrah, West Bengal, India
| | - Anukona Hazra
- School of Paramedics and Allied Health Sciences, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Jatni, Odisha, India
| | - Prasenjit Chaudhuri
- Department of Physiology, Government General Degree College, Vidyasagar University, Mohanpur, West Bengal, India
- Department of Physiology, Hooghly Mohsin College, University of Burdwan, Hooghly, West Bengal, India
| | - Koushik Bhattacharya
- School of Paramedics and Allied Health Sciences, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Jatni, Odisha, India
| | - Sulagna Dutta
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, Ajman University, Ajman, UAE
| | - Pallav Sengupta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, UAE
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Pruszkowska-Przybylska P, Noroozi R, Rudnicka J, Pisarek A, Wronka I, Kobus M, Wysocka B, Ossowski A, Spólnicka M, Wiktorska J, Iljin A, Pośpiech E, Branicki W, Sitek A. Potential Predictor of Epigenetic Age Acceleration in Men: 2D:4D Finger Pattern. Am J Hum Biol 2024:e24151. [PMID: 39243113 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.24151] [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: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Second to fourth digit ratio is widely known indicator of prenatal sex hormones proportion. Higher prenatal androgenization results in longer fourth finger and lower 2D:4D index. The aim of this study was to determine whether the 2D:4D digit ratio is associated with DNA methylation (DNAm) age dependently on sex. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study included 182 adults (106 females and 76 males) with a mean age of 51.5 ± 13 years. The investigation consisted of three main parts: a survey, anthropometric dimensions measurements (fingers length) and methylome analysis using collected blood samples. Genome-wide methylation was analyzed using EPIC microarray technology. Epigenetic age and epigenetic age acceleration were calculated using several widely applied algorithms. RESULTS Males with the female left hand pattern had more accelerated epigenetic age than those with the male pattern as calculated with PhenoAge and DNAmTL clocks. CONCLUSIONS Finger female pattern 2D:4D above or equal to 1 in males is associated with epigenetic age acceleration, indicating that prenatal exposure to estrogens in males may be related to aging process in the later ontogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rezvan Noroozi
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
- Małopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Joanna Rudnicka
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
- Małopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Pisarek
- Laboratory of Anthropology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Kraków, Poland
| | - Iwona Wronka
- Laboratory of Anthropology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Kraków, Poland
| | - Magdalena Kobus
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski University in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bożena Wysocka
- Central Forensic Laboratory of the Police, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Andrzej Ossowski
- Department of Forensic Genetics, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | | | | | - Aleksandra Iljin
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Medical University of Lodz 90-153, Lodz, Poland
| | - Ewelina Pośpiech
- Department of Forensic Genetics, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Wojciech Branicki
- Laboratory of Anthropology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Kraków, Poland
| | - Aneta Sitek
- Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Łódź, Łódź, Poland
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Kozieł S, Konarski JM, Konarska A, Huechert J, Ignasiak Z, Chakraborty R. The change in handgrip strength, after physical exercise, is moderated by digit ratio (2D:4D): A study among the young adults in Poland. Am J Hum Biol 2024:e24078. [PMID: 38576074 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.24078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The digit ratio (2D:4D), the ratio of the lengths of second (2D) to the fourth (4D) fingers, is a proxy indicator of prenatal androgen exposure. On average, males display lower 2D:4D than females. Previous studies have shown that lower 2D:4D ratios were associated with better sports and physical abilities. AIM To assess whether a challenge condition, imposed by intense exercise, could increase handgrip strength (HGS) associated with 2D:4D. METHODS This cross-sectional experimental study included 90 healthy young Polish adults (40 males, 50 females). They underwent intense physical exercise, before (7 days) and after which they were measured for HGS and 2D:4D. Height and weight were also measured. Analyses of Covariance were employed to delineate associations. RESULTS 2D:4D had significant predictive effects on the differences in HGS (DHGS) measured in two occasions, without and after, physical exercises. The lower was the 2D:4D, the higher the DHGS, particularly, for the left hand. CONCLUSION The results reconfirmed that the link between prenatal testosterone exposure (indicated by 2D:4D) and physical strength depends on the context, such as a challenged condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sławomir Kozieł
- Department of Anthropology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Jan M Konarski
- Department of Theory of Sports, Poznań University of Physical Education, Poznań, Poland
| | - Agata Konarska
- Department of Physiotherapy, Stanisław Staszic University of Applied Science, Piła, Poland
| | - Joanna Huechert
- Department of Anthropology, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Zofia Ignasiak
- Faculty of Physical Education, University School of Physical Education in Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Raja Chakraborty
- Department of Anthropology and Tribal Studies, Sidho-Kanho-Birsha University, Purulia, West Bengal, India
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4
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Ribeiro E, Neave N, Marsili BK, Figueiredo ECG, Martino-Andrade AJ, de Moraes RN. Prenatal androgenization (2D:4D) predictions of tennis match-play success in junior players: A search for physiological explanations. Am J Hum Biol 2024; 36:e23979. [PMID: 37602536 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.23979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM This study aims to investigate the possible association between digit ratio (2D:4D) and match-play success (MPS) in junior tennis players. In addition, we consider the possible explanatory pathways of these associations in relation to psychological, strength, power, and hormonal parameters. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional study, with a sample comprised of 64 male junior tennis players (11-18 years old). Digit ratio was calculated from direct finger measurements. In addition, we measured the ratio of wins by number of matches played in 5 years of official competition (MPS), handgrip strength (HGS), standing long jump (SLJ), training (in weekly hours), and expertise (number of years in official competition). Salivary testosterone and cortisol levels were measured before and after physical "challenge" tests. RESULTS The 2D:4D correlated negatively with HGS and SLJ. MPS was also negatively associated with 2D:4D, but was positively correlated to HGS, expertise, training, and self-confidence (SC). Multiple linear regression showed 2D:4D and expertise were associated with MPS (43%-54%). None of the physical, or hormonal variables tested explained the links between 2D:4D and MPS. CONCLUSION Therefore, the specific fitness components influenced by prenatal androgenization that moderate sports success remain unknown. Future studies should explore the interaction of 2D:4D, with tennis exercises as a challenge to induce hormonal change, the effect of pubertal stage, and the influence of aerobic endurance in determining MPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evaldo Ribeiro
- Litoral Sector, Federal University of Paraná, Matinhos, Brazil
- Department of Physiology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Nick Neave
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
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Sorokowski P, Kowal M. Relationship between the 2D:4D and prenatal testosterone, adult level testosterone, and testosterone change: Meta-analysis of 54 studies. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2024; 183:20-38. [PMID: 37795916 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
The ratio between the hands' second to the fourth finger (2D:4D) is commonly hypothesized to result from prenatal testosterone. The 2D:4D has also been hypothesized to relate to adult-level testosterone and, more recently, to the testosterone response to a challenging situation. In the present work, we tested these core assumptions. Drawing from, in total, 54 studies and 8077 participants, we investigated whether the 2D:4D is related to adult level testosterone (44 studies), testosterone change (6 studies), and prenatal testosterone (10 studies). We found no evidence of the relationship between the above testosterone types and digit ratios. Furthermore, there was no relationship between testosterone and the right and left 2D:4D, male and female 2D:4D, and the 2D:4D and testosterone measurement (i.e., measured in blood or saliva). However, we found some evidence that prenatal testosterone measured in amniotic fluid (but not cord blood) might be related to the digit ratios-further studies are necessary to validate this observation. In summary, considering the current state of knowledge, any conclusions drawn from the assumption of the digit ratios as the proxy for testosterone (prenatal, adult level, or testosterone change under a challenging situation) warrant great caution.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marta Kowal
- IDN Being Human Lab, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
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Crewther BT, Pastuszak A, Sadowska D, Górski M, Cook CJ. The digit ratio (2D:4D) and testosterone co-predict vertical jump performance in athletic boys: Evidence of organizational and activational effects of testosterone on physical fitness. Physiol Behav 2022; 251:113816. [PMID: 35443197 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2022.113816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The digit ratio (2D:4D) is a negative correlate of boy's physical fitness, and thought to arise from organizational effects of prenatal testosterone on different bodily systems. During human ontogeny, activational effects of testosterone on body size and strength offers another pathway to physical fitness. We tested these hypotheses by examining the organizational and activational effects of testosterone on vertical jump performance in athletic boys. Using a cross-sectional design, 173 boys (aged 9 to 18 years) were tested for standing height, body mass, body fat, fat-free mass, weekly training activity, training history, salivary testosterone and cortisol, R2D:4D, L2D:4D, and right-left 2D:4D (Dr-1), and vertical height in 3 different countermovement jump (CMJ) tests. A generalized additive model was employed to delineate age-related trajectories and predict CMJ performance. Our models yielded significant non-linear increases (or changes) in body size, current hormone concentration, training outcomes, and CMJ performance with chronological age. All 2D:4D measures were age invariant. The R2D:4D and testosterone were significant non-linear predictors of CMJ height with (R2 = 66.2%) or without (R2 = 54.3%) covariates, whereby a higher current testosterone concentration (up to a certain level) and a lower or higher R2D:4D were linked to better performance. The L2D:4D and Dr-1 had no predictive value. In conclusion, the R2D:4D and testosterone were co-predictors of CMJ height among athletic boys, with non-linear performance effects that differed in timing, tempo, and direction. Our findings confirm that testosterone can regulate a simple measure of boy's physical fitness through both an activational and organizational pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blair T Crewther
- Institute of Sport - National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland; School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia.
| | - Anna Pastuszak
- Institute of Sport - National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dorota Sadowska
- Institute of Sport - National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Górski
- Institute of Sport - National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Christian J Cook
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia; Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, London, UK
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Zurek G, Danek N, Żurek A, Nowak-Kornicka J, Żelaźniewicz A, Orzechowski S, Stefaniak T, Nawrat M, Kowal M. Effects of Dominance and Sprint Interval Exercise on Testosterone and Cortisol Levels in Strength-, Endurance-, and Non-Training Men. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11070961. [PMID: 36101342 PMCID: PMC9312330 DOI: 10.3390/biology11070961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to investigate the response of testosterone and cortisol to sprint interval exercises (SIEs) and to determine the role of dominance. The experiment was conducted in a group of 96 men, divided into endurance-training, strength-training, and non-training groups. Participants performed SIEs consisting of 5 × 10-s all-out bouts with a 50-s active recovery. Using the passive drool method, testosterone and cortisol concentrations were measured in saliva samples at rest at 10 min pre and 12 min post exercise. Participants’ heart rate (HR) was measured during the whole exercise. Dominance was assessed by the participants before the study; the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was measured immediately after each bout. The study showed that those who trained in endurance and strength sports had significantly lower mean HRs after five acute 10-s interval bouts than those in the non-training group (p = 0.006 and p = 0.041, respectively). Dominance has an inverse relation to changes in HR; however, it has no relation to hormone response. No significant differences were observed in testosterone and cortisol changes in the endurance-training, strength-training, and non-training groups after SIE (p > 0.05), which may indicate that the exercise volume was too low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grzegorz Zurek
- Department of Biostructure, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, 51-612 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Natalia Danek
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, 51-612 Wroclaw, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Alina Żurek
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wroclaw, 50-529 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.Ż.); (S.O.); (M.N.); (M.K.)
| | - Judyta Nowak-Kornicka
- Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Wroclaw, 50-137 Wroclaw, Poland; (J.N.-K.); (A.Ż.)
| | - Agnieszka Żelaźniewicz
- Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Wroclaw, 50-137 Wroclaw, Poland; (J.N.-K.); (A.Ż.)
| | - Sylwester Orzechowski
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wroclaw, 50-529 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.Ż.); (S.O.); (M.N.); (M.K.)
| | - Tadeusz Stefaniak
- Department of Sport Didactics, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, 51-612 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Magdalena Nawrat
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wroclaw, 50-529 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.Ż.); (S.O.); (M.N.); (M.K.)
| | - Marta Kowal
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wroclaw, 50-529 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.Ż.); (S.O.); (M.N.); (M.K.)
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Serpell BG, Cook CJ. Exploring Finger Digit Ratios (2D:4D) in Surgeons, Professional Rugby Players, and Political Journalists to Form a Directional Hypothesis: Could Finger Length Predict Attention and Focus? Front Behav Neurosci 2022; 16:873129. [PMID: 35571284 PMCID: PMC9093682 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2022.873129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In this short report we explore the predictive nature of finger digit ratio (i.e., second/index finger length divided by fourth/ring finger length; 2D:4D) and achievement. This research, with niche and specialized populations, was intended to support and grow on knowledge obtained from other large population 2D:4D studies and help form a directional hypothesis for future work exploring finger digit ratio and “success.” Twenty-nine professional rugby players aged 25.1 ± 4.2 years, height 185.2 ± 6.3 cm and weight 101.9 ± 11.8 kg; n = 16 orthopedic surgeons aged 55.3 ± 9.3 years with height 183.8 ± 10.2 cm and weight 90.8 ± 14.0 kg; and n = 18 political journalists with age, height and weight of 38.8 ± 7.3 years, 182.8 ± 7.8 cm, and 84.4 ± 11.4 kg, respectively, were recruited. Three experiments were conducted where we (1) explored relationships for 2D:4D with testosterone and cortisol responsiveness to low stress exercise, (2) explored relationships for 2D:4D with pupil constriction and pupil constriction latency (pupillometry measures related to testosterone and cortisol responsiveness and to attentiveness), and (3) compared 2D:4D between rugby players, surgeons, and journalists. Our results revealed 2D:4D was not predictive of testosterone and cortisol responsiveness to low-level exercise stress. However, relationships exist for 2D:4D and pupillometry measures (p < 0.05). Journalists right minus left 2D:4D difference was significantly different to rugby players’ and surgeons (p < 0.05). We argue 2D:4D is likely predictive of testosterone sensitivity and associated ability to focus attention; a skill important to high achievement in various contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin G. Serpell
- ACT Brumbies, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- Geelong Cats Football Club, Geelong, VIC, Australia
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Benjamin G. Serpell,
| | - Christian J. Cook
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
- Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
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9
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Thyroid diseases and second to fourth digit ratio in Polish adults. Sci Rep 2021; 11:18979. [PMID: 34556783 PMCID: PMC8460635 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98436-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The association between second to fourth finger ratio and thyroid diseases is unexplained. There is a possible interaction between prenatal exposition to sex hormone and thyroid functions in the adulthood. The study included 175 adults investigated in Łódź in the central Poland. It consisted of two main parts: a survey including questions about occurrence of thyroid gland dysfunction and anthropometric measurements (body mass and height and length of the second and fourth finger, waist and hip circumferences). The women who had thyroid disease had higher 2D:4D digit ratio (left hand) (mean = 1.004; SD = 0.036) than healthy ones (mean = 0.989; SD = 0.030) (t = − 2105; p = 0.038; d = 0.707). The association between thyroid diseases occurrence and prenatal steroid hormone exposition is noticed. Only females who had thyroid diseases tend to have higher 2D:4D digit ratio, for left hand.
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Crespi B. Variation among human populations in endometriosis and PCOS A test of the inverse comorbidity model. Evol Med Public Health 2021; 9:295-310. [PMID: 34659773 PMCID: PMC8514856 DOI: 10.1093/emph/eoab029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence linking endometriosis to low prenatal testosterone, and evidence that risk of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with high prenatal testosterone, have motivated the hypothesis that endometriosis and PCOS exhibit inverse comorbidity. The inverse comorbidity hypothesis predicts that populations exhibiting higher prevalence of one disorder should show lower prevalence of the other. To test this prediction, data were compiled from the literature on the prevalence of endometriosis and PCOS, levels of serum testosterone in women during pregnancy and digit ratios as indicators of prenatal testosterone, in relation to variation in inferred or observed population ancestries. Published studies indicate that rates of endometriosis are highest in women from Asian populations, intermediate in women from European populations and lowest in women from African populations (i.e. with inferred or observed African ancestry); by contrast, rates of PCOS show evidence of being lowest in Asian women, intermediate in Europeans and highest in individuals from African populations. Women from African populations also show higher serum testosterone during pregnancy (which may increase PCOS risk, and decrease endometriosis risk, in daughters), and higher prenatal testosterone (as indicated by digit ratios), than European women. These results are subject to caveats involving ascertainment biases, socioeconomic, cultural and historical effects on diagnoses, data quality, uncertainties regarding the genetic and environmental bases of population differences and population variation in the causes and symptoms of PCOS and endometriosis. Despite such reservations, the findings provide convergent, preliminary support for the inverse comorbidity model, and they should motivate further tests of its predictions. Lay Summary: Given that endometriosis risk and risk of polycystic ovary syndrome show evidence of having genetically, developmentally, and physiologically opposite causes, they should also show opposite patterns of prevalence within populations: where one is more common, the other should be more rare. This hypothesis is supported by data from studies of variation among populations in rates of endometriosis and PCOS and studies of variation among populations in levels of prenatal testosterone, which mediaterisks of both conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard Crespi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
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11
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Pruszkowska-Przybylska P, Sitek A, Rosset I, Sobalska-Kwapis M, Słomka M, Strapagiel D, Żądzińska E, Morling N. Associations between second to fourth digit ratio, cortisol, vitamin D, and body composition among Polish children. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7029. [PMID: 33782473 PMCID: PMC8007693 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-86521-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Associations between body characteristics (body composition: fat mass, muscle mass, cell, and water mass as well as body proportion—BMI), the 2D:4D digit ratio, and the concentrations of cortisol and vitamin (25-OH)D among Polish children have not been studied before. A total of 133 (73 girls and 60 boys) healthy Polish children aged 7–11 years were examined. The investigation was divided into three parts: measuring (the length of the second and fourth fingers in both hands, body composition, and body height and mass), questionnaires (socioeconomic status), and laboratory investigations (25-OH vitamin D and cortisol concentrations in saliva measured with ELISA methods). Boys with digit ratios below 1 had lower vitamin D concentration than those with digit ratios equal to or higher than 1 (Z = − 2.33; p = 0.019). Only boys with the male-typical pattern of 2D:4D digit ratio tended to have a lower 25-OH vitamin D concentration in saliva. Thus, it might indicate an effect of prenatal programming on the concentrations of steroid hormones in later life. Neither vitamin D, 2D:4D digit ratio nor the cortisol level was associated with the body components or proportions. More studies are needed to evaluate the molecular and genetic background of this phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aneta Sitek
- Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 90-237, Lodz, Poland
| | - Iwona Rosset
- Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 90-237, Lodz, Poland
| | - Marta Sobalska-Kwapis
- The Biobank Lab, Department of Molecular Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland.,BBMRI.Pl Consortium, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Marcin Słomka
- The Biobank Lab, Department of Molecular Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland.,BBMRI.Pl Consortium, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Dominik Strapagiel
- The Biobank Lab, Department of Molecular Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland.,BBMRI.Pl Consortium, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Żądzińska
- Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 90-237, Lodz, Poland.,Biological Anthropology and Comparative Anatomy Research Unit, School of Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia
| | - Niels Morling
- Section of Forensic Genetics, Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederik V's Vej 11, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Modest Exercise-Induced Increases in Testosterone Concentration Are Not Associated with Mating Strategy Change in Healthy Young Men. EVOLUTIONARY PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40806-021-00275-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AbstractResearch has demonstrated that increases in testosterone (T) concentration can affect the expression of behaviours and preferences that are typical of high mating effort. However, little research has considered whether such T increases affect mating strategy more generally and whether this is achievable using a physical intervention. In this pilot study, we examined whether exercise-induced changes in T covary with, or predict, changes in male mating strategy. Healthy young men (N = 94) completed a measure of short- and long-term relationship preference, before and after a series of short cycling sprints. Salivary T was measured pre- and post-exercise, along with salivary cortisol (C), which is known to moderate some behavioural effects of T. A significant group-level increase in T was observed, though this was smaller than anticipated (~ 10%, d = 0.27) with substantial intragroup variation. No group-level change in C or mating preferences emerged. Testosterone change did not significantly predict a change in short- or long-term mating preference from baseline, even with inclusion of C change as a moderator. The current findings suggest that modest exercise-induced increases in T concentration have little impact on male mating strategies. Pharmaceutical interventions, which produce larger and more consistent T increases, may be required to observe mating strategy change.
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Jones AL, Jaeger B, Schild C. No credible evidence for links between 2D:4D and COVID-19 outcomes: A probabilistic perspective on digit ratio, ACE variants, and national case fatalities. Early Hum Dev 2021; 152:105272. [PMID: 33227636 PMCID: PMC7670914 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2020.105272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Research into COVID-19 susceptibility and outcomes are critical, but claims must be carefully evaluated to inform policy decisions. In a recent series of articles, Manning and Fink [1-3] use national-level data to describe associations between case-fatality ratios and male and female finger ratios (2D:4D), a suggested measure of prenatal androgen exposure, as well as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) allele and genotype frequencies. The authors suggest that 2D:4D is linked with ACE variant prevalence, and that higher male 2D:4D is associated with higher case fatality ratios, and point to 2D:4D as a useful prognostic measure for COVID-19 susceptibility. A critical review and robust Bayesian analysis of the hypothesis is described here, finding no conclusive evidence of COVID-19 mortality and 2D:4D, nor associations between 2D:4D and ACE1 allele or ACE2 genotype frequency. This absence of evidence is present for data taken from the second wave of COVID-19 in October 2020. Problematic theoretical grounding, individual-level conclusions drawn from national-level data, and issues with statistical inference in the original articles are discussed. Taken together, the current data offer no clear utility of 2D:4D in determining COVID-19 outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex L. Jones
- Swansea University, United Kingdom,Corresponding author
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Butovskaya M, Rostovtseva V, Butovskaya P, Burkova V, Dronova D, Filatova V, Sukhodolskaya E, Vasiliev V, Mesa T, Rosa A, Lazebny O. Oxytocin receptor gene polymorphism (rs53576) and digit ratio associates with aggression: comparison in seven ethnic groups. J Physiol Anthropol 2020; 39:20. [PMID: 32795360 PMCID: PMC7427763 DOI: 10.1186/s40101-020-00232-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The specific role of the oxytocin receptor (OXTR) gene polymorphisms in emotional support seeking, related to social norms and culturally normative behavior, has been discussed in several studies. Evidence on the association between aggression and OXTR polymorphisms has also been reported. The goal of the current study was to analyze the effect of the OXTR rs53576 polymorphism, prenatal testosterone effect (second-to-fourth digit ratio, or 2D:4D), and culture on aggression assessed with the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ). Methods The data were collected in Russia and Tanzania and included seven ethnic groups of European, Asian, and African origin. The total sample included 1705 adults (837 males, 868 females). All the subjects were evaluated with the BPAQ. As a measure of prenatal androgenization, the second and fourth digits were measured directly from hand, and the digit ratios were calculated. All the participants provided buccal samples, from which genomic DNA was extracted, and the OXTR gene rs53576 polymorphism was genotyped. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.0; the alpha level for all analyses was set at 0.05. Results The ethnic group factor was the most significant predictor of ratings on BPAQ (medium effect size for physical aggression, anger and hostility scales, and low for verbal aggression). To study the effect of sex, the OXTR polymorphism, and prenatal androgenization, we conducted the z-score transformation for BPAQ scales and 2D:4D for each ethnic group and pooled these data into new z-score variables. According to the GLM analysis after leveling the effects of culture (z-transformation), all four scales of BPAQ demonstrated association with sex (main effects), with men scoring higher on physical and verbal aggression and women scoring higher on anger and hostility. Anger and hostility scales were also associated with OXTR polymorphism and 2D:4D of the right hand. The lowest levels of anger and hostility were observed in individuals with the AA genotype, especially in men. Conclusions Our data suggest that both oxytocin (OXTR gene polymorphism) and fetal testosterone (2D:4D) may significantly affect emotional (anger) and cognitive (hostility) aggression in humans, given the leveling the role of culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Butovskaya
- Institute of Ethnology and Anthropology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Prospect 32a, 119991, Moscow, Russia. .,National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Victoria Rostovtseva
- Institute of Ethnology and Anthropology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Prospect 32a, 119991, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Valentina Burkova
- Institute of Ethnology and Anthropology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Prospect 32a, 119991, Moscow, Russia.,National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moscow, Russia
| | - Daria Dronova
- Institute of Ethnology and Anthropology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Prospect 32a, 119991, Moscow, Russia
| | - Vasilisa Filatova
- Institute of Ethnology and Anthropology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Prospect 32a, 119991, Moscow, Russia
| | - Eugenia Sukhodolskaya
- Federal Budget Institution of Science "Central Research Institute of Epidemiology" of The Federal Service on Customers' Rights Protection and Human Well-being Surveillance, Moscow, Russia
| | - Vasiliy Vasiliev
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Tania Mesa
- Secció de Zoologia i Antropologia Biològica, Departament de Biologia Evolutiva, Ecologia i Ciències Ambientals, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Araceli Rosa
- Secció de Zoologia i Antropologia Biològica, Departament de Biologia Evolutiva, Ecologia i Ciències Ambientals, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain.,Institut de Biomedicina de la Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), Barcelona, Spain.,Centre for Biomedical Research Network on Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Oleg Lazebny
- Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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