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Gurok MG, Yıldız S, Bakış Aksoy D, Kılıçaslan AK, Tabara MF, Yılmaz T, Kaya K, Danacı Keleş D, Karakaş Ş, Şimşek D, Atmaca M. Second and fourth (2D:4D) digit ratio in heroin and cannabis addicted patients. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2023:1-14. [PMID: 38043030 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2023.2278475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
The etiology of addiction has not yet been fully elucidated. The ratio between the length of the second and fourth fingers (2D:4D ratio) has been linked with prenatal androgen concentrations, but also with addictive behvaiors. Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate the differences of 2D:4D ratio of individuals with cannabis and heroin addiction by examining them together with the control group. A total of sixty two male patients (33 opiate use disorder and 29 cannabis use disorder) with substance use disorder and the twenty-nine healthy controls were included in the present investigation. We obtained the lengths of 2D and 4D of the subjects by using sensitive calipers and calculated the 2D:4D. Heroin-addicted patients had lower 2D:4D ratio in in the right hand (significant difference between control group) (p < 0.001), there was no significant difference found between heroin-cannabis (p = 0.242) and control-cannabis 2D:4D ratios (p < 0.06). In the left hand, it was significant between the heroin-control groups (p < 0.037) and the cannabis-control groups (p < 0.023), while it was not significant between the heroin-cannabis groups (p = 1). In conclusion, we suggest that heroin-and cannabis addicted patients seem to have a lower ratio of 2D:4D compared to healthy control subjects. Our findings can be considered promising as to whether prenatal hormonal factors are important in the etiopathogenesis of addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Gurkan Gurok
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Fırat University, Elazig, Turkey
| | - Sevler Yıldız
- Department of Psychiatry, Fethi Sekin City Hospital, Elazig, Turkey
| | | | | | | | - Tuba Yılmaz
- Department of Psychiatry, Fethi Sekin City Hospital, Elazig, Turkey
| | - Kamer Kaya
- Elazığ Mental Health Hospital, Elazig, Turkey
| | | | - Şahin Karakaş
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Fırat University, Elazig, Turkey
- Department of Psychiatry, Sorgun State Hospital, Yozgat, Turkey
| | | | - Murad Atmaca
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Fırat University, Elazig, Turkey
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Ying Y, Madathil S, Nicolau B. Association between the second- and fourth-digit ratio and oral squamous cell carcinoma. Oral Dis 2023; 29:3173-3182. [PMID: 35673957 DOI: 10.1111/odi.14270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Using an established proxy measure of intra-utero testosterone and estrogen levels-the ratio of second- and fourth-digit lengths-we estimated its association with the oral cancer risk among a population from Southern India. MATERIAL AND METHODS In a hospital-based case-control study, incident oral cancer cases (N = 350) and non-cancer controls (N = 371), frequency-matched by age and sex, were recruited from two major referral hospitals in Kerala, India. Structured interviews collected information on several domains of exposure via detailed life course questionnaires. Digit lengths were measured using a ruler in a standardized manner. Unconditional logistic regression was performed to estimate the odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS Second- and fourth-digit ratio lower than 1, which indicates relatively higher intra-utero level of testosterone and lower intra-utero level of estrogen, was associated with higher oral cancer risk (OR = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.02-2.52), after accounting for several confounders. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that intra-utero hormonal levels measured by second- and fourth-digit ratio are associated with oral cancer risk. Further studies in different population should confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Ying
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sreenath Madathil
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Belinda Nicolau
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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3
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Perez KL, Boisvert DL, Cooke EM, Connolly EJ, Wells J, Lewis RH, Woeckener M, Armstrong TA. The association between the 2D:4D ratio and psychopathic characteristics. Heliyon 2022; 8:e12171. [PMID: 36582696 PMCID: PMC9792753 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e12171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Prior research has identified relations between prenatal testosterone exposure and various antisocial and criminal behaviors. However, less is known about the association between prenatal testosterone exposure and personality traits, such as psychopathy. This study used self-report and biometric data from a sample of undergraduates (n = 491) at a large southwestern university to examine the association between prenatal testosterone exposure (measured by the 2D:4D ratio) and three dimensions of psychopathy (i.e., callousness, egocentricity, and antisocial behavior). Analyses were stratified by sex to explore sex-specific biological underpinnings of psychopathy in young adulthood. Results showed that males scored significantly higher in psychopathic traits and reported significantly lower 2D:4D ratios, compared to females. Additionally, 2D:4D ratios were negatively associated with egocentricity in males, but not females. These findings contribute to a growing literature on the organizational effects that prenatal testosterone exposure may have on the development of different dimensions of psychopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine L. Perez
- Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Sam Houston State University, United States
- Corresponding author.
| | - Danielle L. Boisvert
- Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Sam Houston State University, United States
| | - Eric M. Cooke
- Criminal Justice Program, Bowling Green State University, United States
| | - Eric J. Connolly
- Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Sam Houston State University, United States
| | - Jessica Wells
- Department of Criminal Justice, Boise State University, United States
| | - Richard H. Lewis
- School of Criminal Justice and Criminology, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, United States
| | - Matthias Woeckener
- Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Sam Houston State University, United States
| | - Todd A. Armstrong
- School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, University of Nebraska Omaha, United States
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Finley B, Kalwij A, Kapteyn A. Born to be wild: Second-to-fourth digit length ratio and risk preferences. ECONOMICS AND HUMAN BIOLOGY 2022; 47:101178. [PMID: 36084390 DOI: 10.1016/j.ehb.2022.101178] [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: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The second-to-fourth digit length ratio of an individual's hand (digit ratio) is a putative biomarker for prenatal exposure to testosterone. We examine the hypothesized negative association between the digit ratio and the preference for risk taking within a large U.S. population survey. Our statistical framework provides a cardinal proxy for the true digit ratio based on ordinal digit ratio measurements and accounts for measurement error under the assumptions of Gaussianity and time-invariant true digit ratios. Our empirical findings support the hypothesis and suggest a meaningful biological basis for risk preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adriaan Kalwij
- Utrecht University School of Economics, The Netherlands.
| | - Arie Kapteyn
- Center for Economic and Social Research at the University of Southern California, United States.
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5
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Czarna AZ, Ziemiańska M, Pawlicki P, Carré JM, Sedikides C. Narcissism moderates the association between basal testosterone and generosity in men. Horm Behav 2022; 146:105265. [PMID: 36155912 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2022.105265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Research has linked hormones to behavioral outcomes in intricate ways, often moderated by psychological dispositions. The associations between testosterone and antisocial or prosocial outcomes also depend on dispositions relevant to status and dominance. In two studies (N1 = 68, N2 = 83), we investigated whether endogenous testosterone, measured in saliva, and narcissism, a psychological variable highly relevant to status motivation, interactively predicted men's preferences regarding resource allocation. Narcissism moderated the links between testosterone and social value orientation: among low narcissists testosterone negatively predicted generosity in resource allocation and probability of endorsing a prosocial (vs. pro-self) value orientation, whereas among high narcissists testosterone tended to positively predict generosity and the probability of endorsing a prosocial (vs. pro-self) value orientation. We discuss these results as examples of calibrating effects of testosterone on human behavior, serving to increase and maintain social status. We advocate the relevance of psychological dispositions, alongside situations, when examining the role of T in social outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Z Czarna
- Institute of Applied Psychology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Stanisława Łojasiewicza 4, 30-348 Kraków, Poland.
| | - Magdalena Ziemiańska
- Institute of Applied Psychology, Jagiellonian University, ul. Stanisława Łojasiewicza 4, 30-348 Kraków, Poland
| | - Piotr Pawlicki
- Center of Experimental and Innovative Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Redzina 1c, 30-248 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Justin M Carré
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences - Psychology, Nipissing University, North Bay, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Constantine Sedikides
- School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, England, United Kingdom.
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Eibich P, Kanabar R, Plum A, Schmied J. In and out of unemployment-Labour market transitions and the role of testosterone. ECONOMICS AND HUMAN BIOLOGY 2022; 46:101123. [PMID: 35338911 DOI: 10.1016/j.ehb.2022.101123] [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: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Biological processes have provided new insights into diverging labour market trajectories. This paper uses population variation in testosterone levels to explain transition probabilities into and out of unemployment. We examine labour market transitions for 2004 initially employed and 111 initially unemployed British men from the UK Household Longitudinal Study ("Understanding Society") between 2011 and 2013. We address the endogeneity of testosterone levels by using genetic variation as instrumental variables (Mendelian Randomization). We find that for both initially unemployed men as well as initially employed men, higher testosterone levels reduce the risk of unemployment. Based on previous studies and descriptive evidence, we argue that these effects are likely driven by differences in cognitive and non-cognitive skills as well as job search behaviour of men with higher testosterone levels. Our findings suggest that latent biological processes can affect job search behaviour and labour market outcomes without necessarily relating to illness and disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Eibich
- Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research, Konrad-Zuse-Str. 1, 18057 Rostock, Germany.
| | - Ricky Kanabar
- Department of Social and Policy Sciences, University of Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander Plum
- New Zealand Work Research Institute, Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand
| | - Julian Schmied
- Free University of Berlin, Germany, and Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research, Germany
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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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Rinella S, Massimino S, Sorbello A, Perciavalle V, Coco M. Cognitive Performances: The Role of Digit Ratio (D2:D4) With a Protective Factor for Anxiety. FRONTIERS IN NEUROERGONOMICS 2022; 3:870362. [PMID: 38235465 PMCID: PMC10790902 DOI: 10.3389/fnrgo.2022.870362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to identify a possible correlation between the D2:D4 ratio and state and/or trait anxiety in adult healthy subjects and, if so, whether it exists any difference between men and women. In addition, we also wanted to observe whether there is a relationship between participants' age and state and/or trait anxiety. The research involved 125 subjects of both sexes, who were calculated the D2:D4 ratio and were administered the self-assessment questionnaire State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-Y). Results show that there are positive significant correlations between the D2:D4 ratio and score at state anxiety and trait anxiety, in the total sample. However, if men are examined separately from women, it can be observed that only men have a statistically significant relationship between D2:D4 ratios and state anxiety and trait anxiety. Moreover, about possible relations between the age of participants and state and trait anxiety, a significant negative relationship was observed, without differences between men and women. However, only subjects with a D2:D4 ratio ≥ 1, without differences between men and women, showed a statistically significant negative linear correlation between their age and their state and trait anxiety. The present data allow us to conclude that a low D2:D4 ratio (<1) represents a protective factor against anxiety in both men and women and that this protection seems likely to act throughout life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Rinella
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Simona Massimino
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Alessia Sorbello
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Marinella Coco
- Section of Physiology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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9
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Park IN, Kim TB. Impact of birth season on second-to-fourth digit ratio, prostate volume, and prostate cancer. Investig Clin Urol 2022; 63:192-200. [PMID: 35244993 PMCID: PMC8902425 DOI: 10.4111/icu.20210382] [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: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The second-to-fourth digit ratio (digit ratio), which is determined in utero, is associated with exposure to visible sunlight during early pregnancy and the season of birth. The digit ratio is also associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer. This suggests that BPH and prostate cancer may be related to the birth season. Therefore, this study aimed to determine whether prostate volume and prostate cancer were related to the birth season. Materials and Methods A total of 858 male patients with lower urinary tract symptoms were enrolled. The right digit ratio was measured, and the month of birth was surveyed. Serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels were measured, and prostate volumes were measured by transrectal ultrasonography. Patients with suspected prostate cancer underwent prostate biopsy. Results The mean age, digit ratio, prostate volume, and serum PSA level of 858 patients were 61.6 years, 0.947, 36.2 mL, and 4.24 ng/mL, respectively. Age, serum PSA levels, prostate biopsy rates, and cancer detection rates did not differ significantly according to the birth season. However, compared with the summer birth group, the winter birth group had lower digit ratios (0.951±0.040 vs. 0.941±0.040; p=0.014), larger prostate volumes (33.4±14.9 mL vs. 38.2±20.7 mL; p=0.008), and more prostate cancer (5.3% vs. 11.3%; p=0.031). Multivariate analysis showed that birth season independently predicted prostate cancer. Conclusions The relationships of birth season with prostate volume and prostate cancer may be due to differences in the amount of light exposure during early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- I-Nae Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Inje University Seoul Paik Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Tae Beom Kim
- Department of Urology, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea
- Department of Urology, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
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Bäck N, Schaefer K, Windhager S. Handgrip strength and 2D : 4D in women: homogeneous samples challenge the (apparent) gender paradox. Proc Biol Sci 2021; 288:20212328. [PMID: 34875193 PMCID: PMC8651413 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2021.2328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The length ratio between the second and the fourth digit (2D : 4D) is a retrospective, non-invasive biomarker for prenatal androgen exposure. It was found to be negatively correlated with handgrip strength (HGS) in men, but the evidence for women is mixed. Such studies in women call for increased detection sensitivity. The present study was designed to reduce potential confounding factors, especially age and ethnicity variation. We measured the digit ratios and HGS of 125 healthy women between 19 and 31 years of age from a remote region in Austria. 2D : 4D of both hands was significantly and negatively correlated with HGS (n = 125, right hand: r = -0.255, p = 0.002, left hand: r = -0.206, p = 0.011). Size, direction and significance of correlation coefficients remained stable when statistically controlling for age, body weight, body height, body mass index or hours of exercise per week. This yields theory-consistent evidence that HGS and 2D : 4D are clearly associated in women-when sufficiently reducing genetic variation (confounding 2D : 4D), the ontogenetic environment and age ranges (confounding HGS) in the study population. This finding implies similar organizing effects of prenatal androgens as in men, pointing to a more parsimonious developmental mechanism and a new look into its proximate and ultimate causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Bäck
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katrin Schaefer
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Human Evolution and Archaeological Sciences (HEAS), University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sonja Windhager
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Fusar-Poli L, Rodolico A, Sturiale S, Carotenuto B, Natale A, Arillotta D, Siafis S, Signorelli MS, Aguglia E. Second-to-Fourth Digit Ratio (2D:4D) in Psychiatric Disorders: A Systematic Review of Case-control Studies. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL SCIENTIFIC JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN COLLEGE OF NEUROPSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 19:26-45. [PMID: 33508786 PMCID: PMC7851454 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.2021.19.1.26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) is an indirect, retrospective, non-invasive measure that correlates negatively with intrauterine exposure to testosterone. The present meta-analysis aimed to evaluate if 2D:4D differs between patients with psychiatric disorders and controls. In September 2019, we searched in Web of Knowledge, PsycINFO, Embase, and CINHAL, and retrieved 619 papers. We finally included 43 case-control studies which compared the 2D:4D ratio of patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (n = 16), schizophrenia (n = 8), gender non-conformity (n = 7), addictions (n = 5), attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (n = 4), mood disorders (n = 2), and intellectual disability (n = 1) to non-clinical controls. Meta-analyses showed that, overall, psychiatric patients had lower 2D:4D than healthy controls (n = 43, overall sample = 9,484, mean difference = -0.0056, 95% confidence interval from -0.0093 to -0.002, I2 = 74%), with more pronounced differences in the right hand, males, and children. Considering psychiatric disorders individually, significant differences were found in the ASD, ADHD, and addictions groups, in which 2D:4D was significantly lower than healthy controls. Conversely, the right hand of males with schizophrenia showed higher 2D:4D than healthy controls. No other significant differences were detected. Although our results need to be cautiously interpreted and find limited applications in clinical practice, they may suggest that 2D:4D is altered in some psychopathological conditions, underlining the role of prenatal exposure to sex steroids in the etiology of psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Fusar-Poli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Alessandro Rodolico
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Serena Sturiale
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Bianca Carotenuto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antimo Natale
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Davide Arillotta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Spyridon Siafis
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Maria Salvina Signorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Eugenio Aguglia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Nave G, Koppin CM, Manfredi D, Richards G, Watson SJ, Geffner ME, Yong JE, Kim R, Ross HM, Serrano-Gonzalez M, Kim MS. No evidence for a difference in 2D:4D ratio between youth with elevated prenatal androgen exposure due to congenital adrenal hyperplasia and controls. Horm Behav 2021; 128:104908. [PMID: 33279508 PMCID: PMC8591085 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) has been associated with sexual dimorphism, with a lower 2D:4D in males. A large body of research has relied on the 2D:4D as a proxy for prenatal androgen exposure, and includes reports of relationships between 2D:4D and a wide range of human traits. Here, we examine the validity of the 2D:4D proxy by studying the association between 2D:4D and classical Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency, a condition characterized by excessive prenatal exposure to androgens during most of the gestational period. To this end, we retrospectively examine 513 serial radiographs of the left hand obtained clinically in 90 youth with classical CAH (45 female) and 70 control youth (31 female). Replicating previous reports, we observe associations of the 2D:4D with sex (lower 2D:4D in males) and age (increase of 2D:4D through development). However, we find no evidence for differences in 2D:4D between CAH and controls (full sample: β = -0.001 (-0.008, 0.006); females: β = -0.004 [-0.015, 0.007]; males: β = 0.001, [-0.008, 0.011]). Although our findings do not rule out a small association between the 2D:4D and CAH, they cast doubt on the usefulness of the 2D:4D as a biomarker for prenatal androgen exposure in behavioral research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gideon Nave
- Marketing Department, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, United States of America.
| | - Christina M Koppin
- Center for Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Dylan Manfredi
- Marketing Department, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Gareth Richards
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK
| | - Steven J Watson
- Department of Psychology of Conflict, Risk and Safety, University of Twente, Netherlands
| | - Mitchell E Geffner
- Center for Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, United States of America; The Saban Research Institute at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, United States of America; Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, United States of America
| | - Jillian E Yong
- Center for Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Robert Kim
- Center for Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Heather M Ross
- Center for Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Monica Serrano-Gonzalez
- Hasbro Children's Hospital, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, United States of America
| | - Mimi S Kim
- Center for Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, United States of America; The Saban Research Institute at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, United States of America; Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, United States of America
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Sekścińska K, Rudzinska-Wojciechowska J, Maison D. Risky financial choices in a gain and loss decision frame – the role of chronic and situationally induced time perspectives. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-018-9989-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe aim of the research was to explore the relationship between people’s Time Perspectives (TPs) (chronic and induced) and their propensity to take financial risks in gambling tasks with a gain and loss decision frame. The results of the study 1 (N1 = 1093) revealed that a higher chronic Present Hedonistic TP is related to a preference for unsure options in loss and gain frames, while a higher chronic Past Negative TP is related to a preference for sure options in a gain frame of financial choice, but for unsure options in a loss frame. Moreover, higher chronic Future TP is related to unsure option preference in a loss decision frame. The results of the study 2 (N2 = 563) showed that the induced Past Negative TP (in a gain frame) and Present Hedonistic TP (in both decision frames) lead to similar patterns of results to those observed for the chronic TPs.
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Nepomuceno MV, Stenstrom E. Consumption on steroids: The effect of testosterone on preferences for conspicuous consumption and the moderating role of intrasexual competition. JOURNAL OF BEHAVIORAL DECISION MAKING 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/bdm.2222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Eric Stenstrom
- Marketing Department, Farmer School of Business Miami University Oxford OH USA
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van Leeuwen B, Smeets P, Bovet J, Nave G, Stieglitz J, Whitehouse A. Do sex hormones at birth predict later-life economic preferences? Evidence from a pregnancy birth cohort study. Proc Biol Sci 2020; 287:20201756. [PMID: 33352071 PMCID: PMC7779492 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2020.1756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Economic preferences may be shaped by exposure to sex hormones around birth. Prior studies of economic preferences and numerous other phenotypic characteristics use digit ratios (2D : 4D), a purported proxy for prenatal testosterone exposure, whose validity has recently been questioned. We use direct measures of neonatal sex hormones (testosterone and oestrogen), measured from umbilical cord blood (n = 200) to investigate their association with later-life economic preferences (risk preferences, competitiveness, time preferences and social preferences) in an Australian cohort (Raine Study Gen2). We find no significant associations between testosterone at birth and preferences, except for competitiveness, where the effect runs opposite to the expected direction. Point estimates are between 0.05-0.09 percentage points (pp) and 0.003-0.14 s.d. We similarly find no significant associations between 2D : 4D and preferences (n = 533, point estimates 0.003-0.02 pp and 0.001-0.06 s.d.). Our sample size allows detecting effects larger than 0.11 pp or 0.22 s.d. for testosterone at birth, and 0.07 pp or 0.14 s.d. for 2D : 4D (α = 0.05 and power = 0.90). Equivalence tests show that most effects are unlikely to be larger than these bounds. Our results suggest a reinterpretation of prior findings relating 2D : 4D to economic preferences, and highlight the importance of future large-sample studies that permit detection of small effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boris van Leeuwen
- Department of Economics, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Paul Smeets
- Department of Finance, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jeanne Bovet
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Gideon Nave
- Department of Marketing, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jonathan Stieglitz
- Institute for Advanced Study in Toulouse, University of Toulouse 1 Capitole, Toulouse, France
| | - Andrew Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
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Asymmetric Behavior in Ptyodactylus guttatus: Can a Digit Ratio Reflect Brain Laterality? Symmetry (Basel) 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/sym12091490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The digit ratio, an indicator of brain laterality, is the ratio of the second and fourth digits on the left (L24) or right foot (R24). Much of the research on the digit ratio and brain laterality focuses on primates, rather than other species such as reptiles. We tested whether the digit ratio in the gecko Ptyodactylus guttatus was associated with behaviors attributed to brain laterality. We examined risk-taking behavior (time spent under cover), foot preference (which foot was the first to start moving) and the side from which geckos bypassed an obstacle, in relation to the digit ratio. Geckos with longer fourth digits on their left hind foot (higher digit ratio) spent more time under cover. Geckos starting to move with their left leg were much more likely to bypass obstacles from the right side, and vice versa. This is the first evidence of laterality being associated with the digit ratio in reptiles. Comparisons among vertebrates are needed in order to decipher the evolutionary origin of the commonalities and peculiarities of brain asymmetry and disentangle the patterns and drivers of our evolutionary tree.
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Savage D, Chan HF, Moy N, Schaffner M, Torgler B. Personality and individual characteristics as indicators of lifetime climbing success among Everest mountaineers. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2020.110044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Sadr M, Khorashad BS, Talaei A, Fazeli N, Hönekopp J. 2D:4D Suggests a Role of Prenatal Testosterone in Gender Dysphoria. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:421-432. [PMID: 31975034 PMCID: PMC7031197 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01630-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Gender dysphoria (GD) reflects distress caused by incongruence between one's experienced gender identity and one's natal (assigned) gender. Previous studies suggest that high levels of prenatal testosterone (T) in natal females and low levels in natal males might contribute to GD. Here, we investigated if the 2D:4D digit ratio, a biomarker of prenatal T effects, is related to GD. We first report results from a large Iranian sample, comparing 2D:4D in 104 transwomen and 89 transmen against controls of the same natal sex. We found significantly lower (less masculine) 2D:4D in transwomen compared to control men. We then conducted random-effects meta-analyses of relevant studies including our own (k = 6, N = 925 for transwomen and k = 6, N = 757 for transmen). In line with the hypothesized prenatal T effects, transwomen showed significantly feminized 2D:4D (d ≈ 0.24). Conversely, transmen showed masculinized 2D:4D (d ≈ - 0.28); however, large unaccounted heterogeneity across studies emerged, which makes this effect less meaningful. These findings support the idea that high levels of prenatal T in natal females and low levels in natal males play a part in the etiology of GD. As we discuss, this adds to the evidence demonstrating the convergent validity of 2D:4D as a marker of prenatal T effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Sadr
- Transgender Studies Centre, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Behzad S Khorashad
- Transgender Studies Centre, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ali Talaei
- Transgender Studies Centre, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Nasrin Fazeli
- Transgender Studies Centre, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Johannes Hönekopp
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8ST, UK.
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Buchholz VN, Mühle C, Kornhuber J, Lenz B. Lower Digit Ratio (2D:4D) Indicative of Excess Prenatal Androgen Is Associated With Increased Sociability and Greater Social Capital. Front Behav Neurosci 2019; 13:246. [PMID: 31866841 PMCID: PMC6906175 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2019.00246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Positive social interactions are crucial for human well-being. Elevated prenatal exposure to testosterone as indicated by a low second-to-fourth finger length ratio (2D:4D) relates to more aggressive/hostile behavior in men of low 2D:4D, especially in challenging situations. How much people enjoy interacting with others is determined by the personality trait sociability. Given its role in approach and avoidance behavior, sociability might also be influenced by prenatal sex hormones, but studies are inconclusive so far. Here, we investigated the association between 2D:4D and the personality trait sociability complemented by personal social capital and personal social network size, in a population-based cohort of 4998 men. Lower 2D:4D correlated significantly with higher trait sociability, bigger personal social capital, and larger personal social network size. These effects were consistent across both hands separately and their mean value. Furthermore, both factors of sociability (1) liking party and company of friends and (2) isolation intolerance, correlated significantly with the prenatal testosterone marker. The exploratory analysis revealed no link between 2D:4D and responses to the personality trait aggression items or items of anti-social-personality disorder. Our data suggest that prenatal androgen exposure organizes the brain with lasting effects on social behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena N Buchholz
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Addiction Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada; University of the West of England, Frenchay Campus, Bristol, United Kingdom . La Source, School of Nursing Sciences, HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland . Institut für Epidemiologie, Biostatistik und Prävention, Hirschengraben, Zurich, Switzerland . Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland . Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christiane Mühle
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Addiction Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada; University of the West of England, Frenchay Campus, Bristol, United Kingdom . La Source, School of Nursing Sciences, HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland . Institut für Epidemiologie, Biostatistik und Prävention, Hirschengraben, Zurich, Switzerland . Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland . Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Johannes Kornhuber
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Addiction Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada; University of the West of England, Frenchay Campus, Bristol, United Kingdom . La Source, School of Nursing Sciences, HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland . Institut für Epidemiologie, Biostatistik und Prävention, Hirschengraben, Zurich, Switzerland . Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland . Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Bernd Lenz
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Addiction Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland; Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada; University of the West of England, Frenchay Campus, Bristol, United Kingdom . La Source, School of Nursing Sciences, HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland, Lausanne, Switzerland . Institut für Epidemiologie, Biostatistik und Prävention, Hirschengraben, Zurich, Switzerland . Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland . Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
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Tegin C, Canan F, El-Mallakh RS. The 2nd to 4th digit ratios (2D:4D) in patients with bipolar disorder. J Affect Disord 2019; 259:27-30. [PMID: 31437697 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2019.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ratio of the index finger to the ring finger (2D:4D) is a reflection of the intrauterine hormonal environment and a lower ratio has been shown to be associated with male gender, impulsive behaviors, substance abuse, and aggression. Bipolar illness is characterized by increased impulsivity and increased rates of co-morbid substance abuse, but the 2D:4D ratios have not been examined in this disorder. METHODS We measured digit length of both hands in subjects with bipolar disorder and age- and gender-matched non-bipolar controls (n = 50 in each group). Diagnosis was confirmed with structured diagnostic interviews (MINI) and all subjects also completed Barratt Impulsivity Scale-version 11. RESULTS The patients did not vary significantly from the controls in demographic variables. Subjects with bipolar disorder had a higher right hand 2D:4D ratio compared to controls (0.967 ± .029 vs. 0.953 ± .035, t = 2.18, p = .03). Despite clearly higher measures of impulsivity in the bipolar group, no relationship could be documented between digit ratio and measures of impulsivity in either group. However, the right hand 2D:4D ratios and total impulsivity scores predicted bipolar disorder diagnosis status. LIMITATIONS The predominantly white racial composition of the study sample may limit generalizability to other groups. Only three patients were diagnosed with bipolar type 2, limiting the generalizability of the findings to all bipolar disorder types. CONCLUSIONS The data confirm previous observations of increased measures of impulsivity in euthymic bipolar individuals, and suggest that the mechanism of this increased impulsivity is different than in impulsivity seen in other conditions such as personality disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuneyt Tegin
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Fatih Canan
- The Altshuler Center for Education & Research at Metrocare Services, Dallas, TX, USA; Department of Psychiatry, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - Rif S El-Mallakh
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
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Rinella S, Buscemi A, Massimino S, Perciavalle V, Tortorici MM, Tomaselli DG, Perciavalle V, Di Corrado D, Coco M. Risk-taking behavior, the second-to-fourth digit ratio and psychological features in a sample of cavers. PeerJ 2019; 7:e8029. [PMID: 31720126 PMCID: PMC6844240 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.8029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The risk-taking behavior is largely modulated by the subject's history, its lifestyles, by the characteristics of the situations with which it is compared, and also by the effects of prenatal androgens. Thus, the personality of the single person is a significant predictor of such way of acting. Methods The present study aimed to explore the relationship between Digit Ratio Measurement (2D:4D) and personality factors capable to be good predictors for choosing highly risky activities, such as caving. Furthermore, our purpose was to investigate whether 2D:4D ratio is related to cavers' affective states and to assess the personological and emotional features of 34 healthy cavers, aged between 24 and 71 years (M = 39.70, SD = 9.81). Results Data analysis showed several significant correlations between 2D:4D and Deliberate Risk Taking (RTI) and Precautionary Behavior (RTI), confirming that 2D:4D is a reliable index able to predict risk-taking behaviors. Furthermore, data analysis showed that Conscientiousness and its sub-dimension Scrupulousness (BFQ-2) are recurrent among significant correlations; in particular, the latter reports negative correlations with many factors of POMS. Moreover, all participants seemed to have a good attitude to collaboration, in terms of goal-direct strategy, and an adequate management of negative affective states, useful to maintaining a good level of stress within the group. Finally, the BFQ-2 factor Openness to culture seemed to be a predominant feature in the cavers, and this feature could be considered as predictive in the choice of an activity, such as caving, which requires curiosity, perseverance and a great planning of cave exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Rinella
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Italy
| | - Andrea Buscemi
- Department of Research, Horus Social Cooperative, Ragusa, Italy, Italy
| | - Simona Massimino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Perciavalle
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Italy
| | - Marta Maria Tortorici
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Italy
| | - Daria Ghiunè Tomaselli
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Italy
| | | | | | - Marinella Coco
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy, Italy
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Borráz-León JI, Rantala MJ, Cerda-Molina AL. Digit ratio (2D:4D) and facial fluctuating asymmetry as predictors of the dark triad of personality. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2018.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Hughes A, Kumari M. Testosterone, risk, and socioeconomic position in British men: Exploring causal directionality. Soc Sci Med 2019; 220:129-140. [DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Sex differences in relationship between body composition and digit length ratio (2D:4D) in students of military courses. ANTHROPOLOGICAL REVIEW 2018. [DOI: 10.2478/anre-2018-0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
It is believed that the second to fourth finger length ratio is an indirect indicator of fetal testosterone levels. It is pointed out that there is a relationship between the 2nd to 4th finger length ratio and the body structure in women and men. Studies on the relationship between body composition and 2D:4D finger length among military students have not been carried out so far. The work aims to determine the dependence of body composition and the quotient of the 2nd and 4th fingers length of military students. The research material has been gathered as a result of examinations of women and men studying military subjects. The study involved 55 women and 65 men. The tests included anthropometric measurements (body height, body weight, length of the second and the fourth fingers) and body composition measurements. As a result of the tests, no dimorphic differentiations in the digit length ratio (2D:4D) was indicated. The BMI, muscle mass, lean body mass and water in the body demonstrated higher values in men than in women. However, the fat content in men was low. It was found that the relationship exists between muscle mass, lean mass and total water content in the body and the 2D:4D finger length ratio in the left hand in women. A higher level of fetal testosterone, characterized by lower values of the 2nd to 4th finger length ratio, may be associated with a higher content of muscle mass, lean body mass and water in the body of adult women leading a similar lifestyle.
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Massimino S, Rinella S, Buscemi A, Similia E, Perciavalle V, Perciavalle V, Petralia MC, Di Corrado D, Laspina A, Coco M. Digit ratio, personality and emotions in skydivers. Biomed Rep 2018; 10:39-46. [PMID: 30588302 DOI: 10.3892/br.2018.1174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was investigate if there is an association between second-to-fourth digit length (2D:4D) ratio and personality factors capable of serving as predictors of individual choice towards high-risk activities in a group of experts skydivers; Furthermore, their skills in regulating anxiety and emotions were assessed. The 2D:4D ratio of the right hand of 41 expert skydivers was measured and each of them completed four questionnaires: Big Five Questionnaire-2 (BFQ-2), Profile of Mood States (POMS), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Form Y (STAI-Y) and Risk-Taking Inventory. Lower 2D:4D ratios did not appear associated with a greater propensity for taking risks but rather with a lower aptitude to assume precautions in unsafe conditions. In fact, the only sub-dimensions of personality, analyzed by the BFQ-2, correlated with the 2D:4D ratio were conscientiousness and agreeableness. Furthermore, prior to launch, the skydiver's level of stress, measured by the POMS, or state anxiety, measured by the STAI-Y, was not significantly correlated with 2D:4D ratio; whereas there was significant positive correlation between 2D:4D values and trait anxiety. Data analysis further revealed that social desirability correlated negatively with state anxiety and total mood disturbance index, and positively with emotion control. The present results suggest that lower 2D:4D ratio may represent a significant predictor of less attentive precautionary behavior when risk-taking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Massimino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Sergio Rinella
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Buscemi
- Department of Research, Horus Social Cooperative, I-97100 Ragusa, Italy.,Department of Research, Italian Center Studies of Osteopathy, I-95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Elisa Similia
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Perciavalle
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Valentina Perciavalle
- Department of Educational Sciences, Italian Center Studies of Osteopathy, I-95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Petralia
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy.,Department of Research, Italian Center Studies of Osteopathy, I-95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Donatella Di Corrado
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, School of Sport Sciences, Kore University, I-94100 Enna, Italy
| | - Annarita Laspina
- Department of Educational Sciences, Italian Center Studies of Osteopathy, I-95100 Catania, Italy
| | - Marinella Coco
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, I-95123 Catania, Italy
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Lombardo MP, Otieno S, Heiss A. College-aged women in the United States that play overhand throwing sports have masculine digit ratios. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203685. [PMID: 30212523 PMCID: PMC6136748 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Athletic prowess in both males and females is negatively correlated with the ratio between the lengths of the second and fourth fingers (2D:4D), a correlate of prenatal testosterone exposure. Because multiple lines of evidence suggest that prenatal testosterone exposure is associated with sports interest, motivation, and athletic performance we measured the digit ratios of 77 non-athletes, 103 varsity athletes, and 78 club sport athletes to test 8 hypotheses about the relationship between digit ratio and the athletic behavior of college-age women in the USA. Using independent samples t-tests, we found no significant differences between the digit ratios of women that (1) were athletes and non-athletes, (2) were varsity or club sport athletes, (3) had played or were currently playing individual or team sports, (4) played contact and non-contact sports, (5) played sports involving a ball and those that do not, (6) played sports where the outcome was determined by a score or the outcome of direct physical competition or subjectively by judges, or (7) were starters or reserves on their teams. However, women that played overhand throwing sports softball and water polo had significantly smaller digit ratios than did women that played other sports. These differences were not due to scaling effects. The independent samples t-test results were supported by subsequent Monte Carlo bootstrap, Bayesian, Random Forest, and multiple linear regression analyses. We suggest that the organizational consequences of prenatal testosterone exposure may influence the anatomy and physiology of women that leads to success playing overhand throwing sports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P. Lombardo
- Biology Department, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Sango Otieno
- Statistics Department, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Adam Heiss
- Statistics Department, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, United States of America
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Candelo N, Eckel C. The 2D:4D ratio does not always correlate with economic behavior: A field experiment with African-Americans. ECONOMICS AND HUMAN BIOLOGY 2018; 30:172-181. [PMID: 30064037 DOI: 10.1016/j.ehb.2018.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Revised: 07/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Several studies present evidence of correlations between prenatal testosterone exposure measured with the 2D:4D ratio and behaviors such as pro-social behavior, risk and patient attitudes, and self-employment. Individuals exposed prenatally to higher levels of testosterone have lower levels of risk aversion, higher levels of patience and invest more in others, and in themselves, therefore have higher individual financial wellbeing. We test these hypotheses with a sample of 115 African-Americans who live in a low-income urban area in the U.S. The 2D:4D ratio in our sample of males and females does not have a consistent and robust correlation with risk, patient attitudes, pro-social behavior and self-employment in contrast to previous studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Candelo
- CUNY Queens College, 225 E 72nd St #901, New York, NY 10021, USA.
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Pastore CMDA, Maffezzolli ECF, Mazzon JA. O Uso de Biomarcadores em Pesquisas de Marketing. RAC: REVISTA DE ADMINISTRAÇÃO CONTEMPORÂNEA 2018. [DOI: 10.1590/1982-7849rac2018170223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumo A aproximação do marketing com a neurociência tem gerado expectativa tanto na academia quanto no mercado, em especial na última década. Apesar do interesse e das promessas de resultados, lacunas de conhecimento neurobiológico são percebidas acerca de formas de coleta e análise de dados. Este estudo apresenta e compara algumas ferramentas neurocientíficas que são fundamentadas em respostas não cognitivas do cérebro humano. A coleta e a análise de biomarcadores, como hormônios e níveis de atividade elétrica muscular, podem ser utilizadas em pesquisas de comportamento humano relacionadas ao consumo ou em outras interações com ações de marketing. A metodologia de aplicação dessas ferramentas, medidas resultantes e possíveis interpretações de comportamento também são discutidas, com ênfase em futura agenda de pesquisa.
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Nofsinger JR, Patterson FM, Shank CA. Decision-making, financial risk aversion, and behavioral biases: The role of testosterone and stress. ECONOMICS AND HUMAN BIOLOGY 2018; 29:1-16. [PMID: 29413584 DOI: 10.1016/j.ehb.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Revised: 01/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/13/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
We examine the relation between testosterone, cortisol, and financial decisions in a sample of naïve investors. We find that testosterone level is positively related to excess risk-taking, whereas cortisol level is negatively related to excess risk-taking (correlation coefficient [r]: 0.75 and -0.21, respectively). Additionally, we find support for the dual-hormone hypothesis in a financial context. Specifically, the testosterone-to-cortisol ratio is significantly related to loss aversion. Individuals with a higher ratio are 3.4 times more likely to sell losing stocks (standard error [SE]: 1.63). Furthermore, we find a positive feedback loop between financial success, testosterone, and cortisol. Specifically, financial success is significantly related to higher post-trial testosterone and cortisol by a factor of 0.53 (SE: 0.14). Finally, we find that in a competitive environment, testosterone level increases significantly, leading to greater risk-taking than in noncompetitive environment. Overall, this study underscores the importance of the endocrine system on financial decision-making. The results of this study are relevant to a broad audience, including investors looking to optimize financial performance, industry human resources, market regulators, and researchers.
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30
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Guiso L, Rustichini A. Understanding the size and profitability of firms: The role of a biological factor. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rie.2017.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Alonso J, Di Paolo R, Ponti G, Sartarelli M. Facts and Misconceptions about 2D:4D, Social and Risk Preferences. Front Behav Neurosci 2018; 12:22. [PMID: 29487510 PMCID: PMC5816919 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
We study how the ratio between the length of the second and fourth digit (2D:4D) correlates with choices in social and risk preferences elicitation tasks by building a large dataset from five experimental projects with more than 800 subjects. Our results confirm the recent literature that downplays the link between 2D:4D and many domains of economic interest, such as social and risk preferences. As for the former, we find that social preferences are significantly lower when 2D:4D is above the median value only for subjects with low cognitive ability. As for the latter, we find that a high 2D:4D is not correlated with the frequency of subjects' risky choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judit Alonso
- Departamento de Fundamentos de Análisis Económico, Universidad de Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig/Sant Vicent del Raspeig, Alicante, Spain
| | - Roberto Di Paolo
- Departamento de Fundamentos de Análisis Económico, Universidad de Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig/Sant Vicent del Raspeig, Alicante, Spain
| | - Giovanni Ponti
- Departamento de Fundamentos de Análisis Económico, Universidad de Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig/Sant Vicent del Raspeig, Alicante, Spain.,Department of Economics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.,Dipartimento di Economia e Finanza, Libera Università Internazionale degli Studi Sociali Guido Carli (LUISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Marcello Sartarelli
- Departamento de Fundamentos de Análisis Económico, Universidad de Alicante, San Vicente del Raspeig/Sant Vicent del Raspeig, Alicante, Spain
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Lima de Miranda K, Neyse L, Schmidt U. Risk Preferences and Predictions about Others: No Association with 2D:4D Ratio. Front Behav Neurosci 2018; 12:9. [PMID: 29472846 PMCID: PMC5810266 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Prenatal androgen exposure affects the brain development of the fetus which may facilitate certain behaviors and decision patterns in the later life. The ratio between the lengths of second and the fourth fingers (2D:4D) is a negative biomarker of the ratio between prenatal androgen and estrogen exposure and men typically have lower ratios than women. In line with the typical findings suggesting that women are more risk averse than men, several studies have also shown negative relationships between 2D:4D and risk taking although the evidence is not conclusive. Previous studies have also reported that both men and women believe women are more risk averse than men. In the current study, we re-test the relationship between 2D:4D and risk preferences in a German student sample and also investigate whether the 2D:4D ratio is associated with people's perceptions about others' risk preferences. Following an incentivized risk elicitation task, we asked all participants their predictions about (i) others' responses (without sex specification), (ii) men's responses, and (iii) women's responses; then measured their 2D:4D ratios. In line with the previous findings, female participants in our sample were more risk averse. While both men and women underestimated other participants' (non sex-specific) and women's risky decisions on average, their predictions about men were accurate. We also found evidence for the false consensus effect, as risky choices are positively correlated with predictions about other participants' risky choices. The 2D:4D ratio was not directly associated either with risk preferences or the predictions of other participants' choices. An unexpected finding was that women with mid-range levels of 2D:4D estimated significantly larger sex differences in participants' decisions. This finding needs further testing in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Levent Neyse
- Kiel Institute for the World EconomyKiel, Germany
- SOEP at German Institute for Economic Research (DIW)Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schmidt
- Kiel Institute for the World EconomyKiel, Germany
- Department of Economics and Econometrics, University of JohannesburgJohannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Economics, University of KielKiel, Germany
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Dalton PS, Ghosal S. Self-confidence, Overconfidence and Prenatal Testosterone Exposure: Evidence from the Lab. Front Behav Neurosci 2018; 12:5. [PMID: 29441000 PMCID: PMC5797613 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper examines whether foetal testosterone exposure predicts the extent of confidence and over-confidence in own absolute ability in adulthood. To study this question, we elicited incentive-compatible measures of confidence and over-confidence in the lab and correlate them with measures of right hand 2D:4D, used as as a marker for the strength of prenatal testosterone exposure. We provide evidence that men with higher prenatal testosterone exposure (i.e., low 2D:4D ratio) are less likely to set unrealistically high expectations about their own performance. This in turn helps them to gain higher monetary rewards. Men exposed to low prenatal testosterone levels, instead, set unrealistically high expectations which results in self-defeating behavior.
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Millet K, Buehler F. A Context Dependent Interpretation of Inconsistencies in 2D:4D Findings: The Moderating Role of Status Relevance. Front Behav Neurosci 2018; 11:254. [PMID: 29403365 PMCID: PMC5785725 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2017.00254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Whereas direct relationships between 2D:4D and dominance related attitudes or behavior often turn out to be weak, some literature suggests that the relation between 2D:4D and dominance is context-specific. That is, especially in status-challenging situations 2D:4D may be related to dominant behavior and its correlates. Based on this perspective, we interpret inconsistencies in the literature on the relation between 2D:4D and risk taking, aggression and dominance related outcomes and investigate in our empirical study how attitudes in low 2D:4D men may change as a function of the status relevance of the context. We provide evidence for the idea that status relevance of the particular situation at hand influences the attitude towards performance-enhancing means for low 2D:4D men, but not for high 2D:4D men. We argue that 2D:4D may be related to any behavior that is functional to attain status in a specific context. Implications for (economic) decision making are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kobe Millet
- Department of Marketing, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Florian Buehler
- Department of Marketing, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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35
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Xie Z, Page L, Hardy B. Investigating Gender Differences under Time Pressure in Financial Risk Taking. Front Behav Neurosci 2018; 11:246. [PMID: 29326566 PMCID: PMC5736567 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2017.00246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a significant gender imbalance on financial trading floors. This motivated us to investigate gender differences in financial risk taking under pressure. We used a well-established approach from behavior economics to analyze a series of risky monetary choices by male and female participants with and without time pressure. We also used second to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) and face width-to-height ratio (fWHR) as correlates of pre-natal exposure to testosterone. We constructed a structural model and estimated the participants' risk attitudes and probability perceptions via maximum likelihood estimation under both expected utility (EU) and rank-dependent utility (RDU) models. In line with existing research, we found that male participants are less risk averse and that the gender gap in risk attitudes increases under moderate time pressure. We found that female participants with lower 2D:4D ratios and higher fWHR are less risk averse in RDU estimates. Males with lower 2D:4D ratios were less risk averse in EU estimations, but more risk averse using RDU estimates. We also observe that men whose ratios indicate a greater prenatal exposure to testosterone exhibit a greater optimism and overestimation of small probabilities of success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixin Xie
- Queensland Behavioral Economics Group, School of Economics and Finance, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Lionel Page
- Queensland Behavioral Economics Group, School of Economics and Finance, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Ben Hardy
- School of Finance and Management, SOAS University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Donishi T, Terada M, Kaneoke Y. Effects of gender, digit ratio, and menstrual cycle on intrinsic brain functional connectivity: A whole-brain, voxel-wise exploratory study using simultaneous local and global functional connectivity mapping. Brain Behav 2018; 8:e00890. [PMID: 29568687 PMCID: PMC5853634 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2017] [Revised: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gender and sex hormones influence brain function, but their effects on functional network organization within the brain are not yet understood. METHODS We investigated the influence of gender, prenatal sex hormones (estimated by the 2D:4D digit ratio), and the menstrual cycle on the intrinsic functional network organization of the brain (as measured by 3T resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI)) using right-handed, age-matched university students (100 males and 100 females). The mean (±SD) age was 20.9 ± 1.5 (range: 18-24) years and 20.8 ± 1.3 (range: 18-24) years for males and females, respectively. Using two parameters derived from the normalized alpha centrality analysis (one for local and another for global connectivity strength), we created mean functional connectivity strength maps. RESULTS There was a significant difference between the male mean map and female mean map in the distributions of network properties in almost all cortical regions and the basal ganglia but not in the medial parietal, limbic, and temporal regions and the thalamus. A comparison between the mean map for the low 2D:4D digit ratio group (indicative of high exposure to testosterone during the prenatal period) and that for the high 2D:4D digit ratio group revealed a significant difference in the network properties of the medial parietal region for males and in the temporal region for females. The menstrual cycle affected network organization in the brain, which varied with the 2D:4D digit ratio. Most of these findings were reproduced with our other datasets created with different preprocessing steps. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that differences in gender, prenatal sex hormone exposure, and the menstrual cycle are useful for understanding the normal brain and investigating the mechanisms underlying the variable prevalence and symptoms of neurological and psychiatric diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiro Donishi
- Department of System Neurophysiology Graduate School of Wakayama Medical University Wakayama Japan
| | | | - Yoshiki Kaneoke
- Department of System Neurophysiology Graduate School of Wakayama Medical University Wakayama Japan
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Duchoslav J. Prenatal Temperature Shocks Reduce Cooperation: Evidence from Public Goods Games in Uganda. Front Behav Neurosci 2017; 11:249. [PMID: 29311866 PMCID: PMC5742612 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2017.00249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Climate change has not only led to a sustained rise in mean global temperature over the past decades, but also increased the frequency of extreme weather events. This paper explores the effect of temperature shocks in utero on later-life taste for cooperation. Using historical climate data combined with data on child and adult behavior in public goods games, I show that abnormally high ambient temperatures during gestation are associated with decreased individual contributions to the public good in a statistically and economically significant way. A 1 standard deviation rise in mean ambient temperature during gestation is associated with a 10% point decrease in children's cooperation rate in a dichotomous public goods game, and the reduced taste for cooperation lasts into adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Duchoslav
- Development Economics Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, Netherlands
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38
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Joyce CW, O' Regan A, Kelly JL, O' Shaughnessy M. Fight Bite Injuries: Aggressive Tendencies Associated with Smaller Second to Fourth Digit Ratio. J Hand Surg Asian Pac Vol 2017; 22:452-456. [PMID: 29117839 DOI: 10.1142/s0218810417500496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fight bite injuries are typically sustained by young, combative males and are the direct consequence of an aggressive act. Second to fourth digit ratios (2D:4D) are dependent on prenatal androgen exposure and lower ratios have been shown to be linked to various psychological and physical traits, including aggression. The aim of this study was to examine the 2D:4D ratios in a cohort of patients with fight bite injuries and compare these to an age and gender-matched control group. METHODS The 2D:4D ratios were calculated using plain films of the hand from 133 patients (122 males, 11 females) with fight bite injuries. A further 133 radiographs were obtained from patients that did not have fight bite injuries and digit ratios were calculated in the same fashion. Statistical analysis was then carried out to compare the 2D:4D ratios between the different groups. RESULTS The 2D:4D ratios for male fight bite patients was significantly smaller than the male control group (p < 0.05). No significant difference was observed between the female fight bite patients and the female control group (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Fight bite injuries are usually sustained as a result of aggression. 2D:4D ratios are reflect intrauterine androgen exposure and low ratios have been linked to aggressive tendencies. We have demonstrated that male patients who sustained fight bite injuries have a lower 2D:4D ratio then the general population, thereby suggesting that exposure to prenatal androgens can lead to aggressive tendencies in adulthood. This suggests that lower ratios may predict a predisposition to acts of aggression, and as such result in an increased likelihood of sustaining an injury such as a fight bite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cormac W Joyce
- * Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Cork, Ireland
| | - Andrew O' Regan
- * Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Cork, Ireland
| | - Jack L Kelly
- † Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Galway, Ireland
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Wu Y, Zilioli S, Eisenegger C, Clark L, Li H. The Effect of Testosterone Administration and Digit Ratio (2D:4D) on Implicit Preference for Status Goods in Healthy Males. Front Behav Neurosci 2017; 11:193. [PMID: 29085287 PMCID: PMC5650616 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2017.00193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Testosterone has been linked to social status seeking in humans. The present study investigated the effects of testosterone administration on implicit and explicit preferences for status goods in healthy male participants (n = 64), using a double-blind, placebo-controlled, between-subjects design. We also investigated the interactive effect between second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D:4D; i.e., a proximal index of prenatal testosterone) and testosterone treatment on status preferences. Results showed that testosterone administration has no discernable influence on self-reported willingness-to-pay (i.e., the explicit measure) or implicit attitudes towards status goods. Individuals with lower 2D:4D (i.e., more masculine) had more positive attitudes for high-status goods on an Implicit Association Task, and this association was abolished with testosterone administration. These data suggest interactive effects of acute testosterone administration and prenatal testosterone exposure on human social status seeking, and highlight the utility of implicit methods for measuring status-related behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Wu
- Research Center for Brain Function and Psychological Science, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Affective and Social Cognitive Science, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Samuele Zilioli
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States.,Department of Family Medicine and Public Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Christoph Eisenegger
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Biopsychology Unit, Department of Basic Psychological Research and Research Methods, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Luke Clark
- Centre for Gambling Research at UBC, Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Hong Li
- Research Center for Brain Function and Psychological Science, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.,Center for Language and Brain, Shenzhen Institute of Neuroscience, Shenzhen, China
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Hermann D. Determinants of financial loss aversion: The influence of prenatal androgen exposure (2D:4D). PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2017.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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41
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Reed S, Meggs J. Examining the effect of prenatal testosterone and aggression on sporting choice and sporting longevity. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2017.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Raggetti G, Ceravolo MG, Fattobene L, Di Dio C. Neural Correlates of Direct Access Trading in a Real Stock Market: An fMRI Investigation. Front Neurosci 2017; 11:536. [PMID: 29033782 PMCID: PMC5626870 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2017.00536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: While financial decision making has been barely explored, no study has previously investigated the neural correlates of individual decisions made by professional traders involved in real stock market negotiations, using their own financial resources. Aim: We sought to detect how different brain areas are modulated by factors like age, expertise, psychological profile (speculative risk seeking or aversion) and, eventually, size and type (Buy/Sell) of stock negotiations, made through Direct Access Trading (DAT) platforms. Subjects and methods: Twenty male traders underwent fMRI while negotiating in the Italian stock market using their own preferred trading platform. Results: At least 20 decision events were collected during each fMRI session. Risk averse traders performed a lower number of financial transactions with respect to risk seekers, with a lower average economic value, but with a higher rate of filled proposals. Activations were observed in cortical and subcortical areas traditionally involved in decision processes, including the ventrolateral and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (vlPFC, dlPFC), the posterior parietal cortex (PPC), the nucleus accumbens (NAcc), and dorsal striatum. Regression analysis indicated an important role of age in modulating activation of left NAcc, while traders' expertise was negatively related to activation of vlPFC. High value transactions were associated with a stronger activation of the right PPC when subjects' buy rather than sell. The success of the trading activity, based on a large number of filled transactions, was related with higher activation of vlPFC and dlPFC. Independent of chronological and professional age, traders differed in their attitude to DAT, with distinct brain activity profiles being detectable during fMRI sessions. Those subjects who described themselves as very self-confident, showed a lower or absent activation of both the caudate nucleus and the dlPFC, while more reflexive traders showed greater activation of areas involved in strategic decision making. Discussion: The neural correlates in DAT are similar to those observed in other decision making contexts. Trading is handled as a well-learned automatic behavior by expert traders; for those who mostly rely on heuristics, cognitive effort decreases, and transaction speed increases, but decision efficiency lowers following a poor involvement of the dlPFC.
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Affiliation(s)
- GianMario Raggetti
- Centre for Health Care Management, School of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy.,Department of Management, School of Economics, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Maria G Ceravolo
- Centre for Health Care Management, School of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy.,Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Fattobene
- Department of Management, School of Economics, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy.,Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Cinzia Di Dio
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy
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Kaneoke Y, Donishi T, Iwahara A, Shimokawa T. Severity of Premenstrual Symptoms Predicted by Second to Fourth Digit Ratio. Front Med (Lausanne) 2017; 4:144. [PMID: 28936432 PMCID: PMC5595152 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2017.00144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Women of reproductive age often experience a variety of unpleasant symptoms prior to the onset of menstruation. While genetics may influence the variability of these symptoms and their severity among women, the exact causes remain unknown. We hypothesized that symptom variability originates from differences in the embryonic environment and thus development caused by variation in exposure to sex hormones. We measured the second to fourth digit ratios (2D:4D) in 402 young women and investigated the potential relationships of this ratio premenstrual symptoms using a generalized linear model. We found that two models (one with two predictors such as both hands' digit ratios and the other with the difference between the two digit ratios, Dr-l) were significantly different from the constant model as assessed by chi-square test. The right digit ratio and Dr-l were negatively related to the symptom scores, and the left digit ratio was related to the scores. When premenstrual symptoms were classified into eight categories, five categories, including pain, concentration, autonomic reaction, negative affect, and control were associated with the digit ratios and Dr-l. Behavioral changes and water retention were not predicted by them. Arousal was predicted by Dr-l. The right 2D:4D is thought to be determined by the balance of testosterone and estrogen levels during early embryogenesis and is not affected by postpartum levels of sex hormones, while the left 2D:4D might be affected by the other prenatal environmental factors. We conclude that the embryonic environment, including the relative concentration of sex hormones an embryo is exposed to, is associated with the severity of premenstrual symptoms once menarche is reached.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiki Kaneoke
- Department of System Neurophysiology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Donishi
- Department of System Neurophysiology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Akihiko Iwahara
- School of Health and Nursing Science, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Toshio Shimokawa
- Clinical Research Center, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
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Parkin Kullmann JA, Pamphlett R. Does the index-to-ring finger length ratio (2D:4D) differ in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)? Results from an international online case-control study. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e016924. [PMID: 28784596 PMCID: PMC5726056 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-016924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The ratio of the length of the index finger (2D) to the ring finger (4D) (2D:4D) has been reported to be lower (ie, 2D<4D) in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) than non-ALS controls. This has led to suggestions that exposure to increased prenatal testosterone, which also lowers this ratio, could be a risk factor for ALS. In an attempt to test this hypothesis, we examined 2D:4Ds from large numbers of patients with ALS and controls. SETTING An online multilingual questionnaire enabling respondents to measure their own index and ring finger lengths. PARTICIPANTS Of the initial 949 respondents, 572 remained for analysis after elimination for inability to straighten fingers, not answering the question, statistical outliers and aged <40 years. Respondents remaining for analysis were 202 patients with ALS (125 males, 77 females) and 370 non-ALS controls (112 males, 258 females). RESULTS Unpaired t-tests with 95% CIs were used to assess differences in mean 2D:4Ds. Males had significantly lower mean 2D:4Ds than females, in both ALS and control groups, for both left and right hands. No significant differences were found in 2D:4Ds between ALS and control groups, in either males or females, for either left or right hands. Receiver operating characteristic curves showed no power for 2D:4Ds to predict ALS status in either males or females. CONCLUSIONS 2D:4Ds did not differ between patients with ALS and controls in this study. This was despite the dataset being large enough to confirm the established finding of lower 2D:4Ds in males compared with females. These findings do not support the hypothesis that exposure to increased prenatal testosterone is a risk factor for ALS. A putative lower 2D:4D has been proposed to explain the link between ALS and exercise, but our results indicate that other exercise-related factors are more likely to explain this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Alana Parkin Kullmann
- Discipline of Pathology, Sydney Medical School, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Roger Pamphlett
- Discipline of Pathology, Sydney Medical School, Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Nye JV, Bryukhanov M, Polyachenko S. 2D:4D and lifetime educational outcomes: Evidence from the Russian RMLS survey. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2017.02.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Bijleveld E, Baalbergen J. Prenatal exposure to testosterone (2D:4D) and social hierarchy together predict voice behavior in bankers. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0180008. [PMID: 28658299 PMCID: PMC5489198 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0180008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Prohibitive voice behaviors are employees' expressions of concern about practices, incidents, or behaviors that may potentially harm the organization. In this study, we examined a potential biological correlate of prohibitive voice: prenatal exposure to testosterone. In a sample of bankers, we used 2D:4D (i.e., the ratio of the length of the index finger to the length of the ring finger) as a marker for prenatal exposure to testosterone (lower 2D:4D suggests higher prenatal exposure to testosterone). We used a self-report scale to measure prohibitive voice. For low-ranked employees, lower 2D:4D was related to using less voice. No such relation was found for high-ranked employees. Conclusions should be drawn with caution, because the findings only applied to voice regarding the organization as a whole (and not to voice regarding the own team), and because of methodological limitations. However, the findings are consistent with the ideas that (a) people low in 2D:4D tend to strive to attain and maintain social status and that (b) remaining silent about perceived problems in the organization is-at least for low-ranked employees-a means to achieve this goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Bijleveld
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Baalbergen
- Department of Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Stanton SJ. The role of testosterone and estrogen in consumer behavior and social & economic decision making: A review. Horm Behav 2017; 92:155-163. [PMID: 27840103 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2016.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2016] [Revised: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/09/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
A contribution to a special issue on Hormones and Human Competition.This manuscript reviews the current literature on the actions of the steroid hormones testosterone and estradiol in shaping humans' behavior within two applied contexts, specifically consumer behavior and decision making (both social and economic). The theoretical argument put forth is that steroids shape these everyday behaviors and choices in service to being more competitive in achieving long-term goals related to resource acquisition, mating success, and social dominance. In addition, a discussion of the increased research focus on the role of steroids in other applied business domains will highlight the relevant applications of basic science discoveries in behavioral endocrinology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven J Stanton
- Department of Management and Marketing, 420 Elliott Hall, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, United States.
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Nye JVC, Bryukhanov M, Kochergina E, Orel E, Polyachenko S, Yudkevich M. The effects of prenatal testosterone on wages: Evidence from Russia. ECONOMICS AND HUMAN BIOLOGY 2017; 24:43-60. [PMID: 27888777 DOI: 10.1016/j.ehb.2016.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2016] [Revised: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 11/11/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Is in utero exposure to testosterone correlated with earnings? The question matters for understanding determinants of wage differences that have attracted so much attention among economists in the past decade. Evidence indicates that markers for early testosterone exposure are correlated with traits like risk-taking and aggressiveness. But it is not at all clear how such findings might map into labor market success. We combine unique data from the Russian Longitudinal Monitoring Survey with measured markers (2D:4D ratios) for testosterone exposure and find that lower digit ratios (higher T) correlate with higher wages for women and for men, when controlling for age, education and occupation. There is also some evidence of a potential non-linear, inverse U-effect of digit ratios on wages but this is sensitive to choice of specification. These findings are consistent with earlier work on prenatal T and success in careers (Coates et al., 2009) but inconsistent with the work of Gielen et al. (2016) who find differing effects for men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- John V C Nye
- George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA; National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moscow; International Laboratory for Institutional Analysis of Economic Reforms.
| | - Maksym Bryukhanov
- National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moscow; International Laboratory for Institutional Analysis of Economic Reforms.
| | - Ekaterina Kochergina
- National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moscow; International Laboratory for Institutional Analysis of Economic Reforms.
| | - Ekaterina Orel
- National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moscow; International Laboratory for Institutional Analysis of Economic Reforms.
| | - Sergiy Polyachenko
- National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moscow; International Laboratory for Institutional Analysis of Economic Reforms.
| | - Maria Yudkevich
- National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moscow; International Laboratory for Institutional Analysis of Economic Reforms.
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Kusev P, Purser H, Heilman R, Cooke AJ, Van Schaik P, Baranova V, Martin R, Ayton P. Understanding Risky Behavior: The Influence of Cognitive, Emotional and Hormonal Factors on Decision-Making under Risk. Front Psychol 2017; 8:102. [PMID: 28203215 PMCID: PMC5285332 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2016] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Financial risky decisions and evaluations pervade many human everyday activities. Scientific research in such decision-making typically explores the influence of socio-economic and cognitive factors on financial behavior. However, very little research has explored the holistic influence of contextual, emotional, and hormonal factors on preferences for risk in insurance and investment behaviors. Accordingly, the goal of this review article is to address the complexity of individual risky behavior and its underlying psychological factors, as well as to critically examine current regulations on financial behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petko Kusev
- Department of Psychology, Kingston University London London, UK
| | - Harry Purser
- Department of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University Nottingham, UK
| | - Renata Heilman
- Department of Psychology, Babeş-Bolyai University Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alex J Cooke
- Department of Psychology, Kingston University London London, UK
| | - Paul Van Schaik
- Department of Psychology, Teesside University Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Victoria Baranova
- Department of Psychology, Lomonosov Moscow State University Moscow, Russia
| | - Rose Martin
- Department of Psychology, Kingston University London London, UK
| | - Peter Ayton
- Department of Psychology, City University of London London, UK
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