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Merrigan, JJ, Tufano, JJ, Fields, JB, Oliver, JM, and Jones, MT. Rest redistribution does not alter hormone responses in resistance-trained women. J Strength Cond Res 34(7): 1867-1874, 2020-The purpose was to examine acute effects of rest redistribution (RR) on perceptual, metabolic, and hormonal responses during back squats. Twelve resistance-trained women (training age 5 ± 2 years; one repetition maximum [1-RM] per body mass, 1.6 ± 0.2) performed traditional (TS, 4 sets of 10 repetitions with 120 seconds interset rest) and RR sets (4 sets of two 5 repetition clusters with 30-second intraset rest and 90-second interset rest) in counterbalanced order, separated by 72 hours. Both conditions were performed at 70% 1RM with 360 seconds of total rest. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were taken after each set. Blood was sampled at baseline, after each set, and at 5, 15, 30, and 60 minutes, as well as 24 and 48 hours after training. Alpha level was p ≤ 0.05. The RPE progressively increased throughout both conditions (p = 0.002) with a greater overall mean for TS (5.81 ± 0.14) than RR (4.71 ± 0.14; p = 0.003). Lactate increased above baseline and remained elevated through 15 minutes post in both conditions (4.00 ± 0.76; p = 0.001), with greater lactate levels for TS (6.33 ± 0.47) than RR (4.71 ± 0.53; p0.001). Total testosterone was elevated after set 2 (0.125 ± 0.02; p = 0.011), but no other time point, while free testosterone remained unchanged. Growth hormone continually rose from baseline to set 3 and returned to baseline by 60 minutes post (20.58 ± 3.19). Cortisol and creatine kinase did not change over time. No condition × time interactions existed for any hormone (p0.05). Use of rest redistribution resulted in lower perceived effort and lactate responses. Yet, hormone responses during rest redistribution were no different from TS.

The objective of this review is to examine the association between serum testosterone concentration and the presence and severity of depression in men.Cross-sectional and longitudinal cohort studies examining the relationship between serum testosterone concentration and depression in men have produced mixed results. There has not, however, been any prior attempt to systematically interrogate the data. Clarification of the relationship has clinical importance because depression may be under-diagnosed in men.This review will consider studies involving community-dwelling men who are not receiving testosterone replacement therapy. The exposure of interest reviewed will include endogenous testosterone concentration measured through validated assays. Studies measuring total and testosterone fraction concentration will be included. This review will include studies with depression or incident depression outcomes as defined by either clinical diagnosis of depression or validated self-administered questionnaire assessing depression symptomatology.This review will follow the JBI approach for systematic reviews of etiology and risk. The following sources will be searched: PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry and the ISRCTN Registry. Analytical observational studies including prospective and retrospective cohort studies, case control studies and analytical cross-sectional studies published in English or other languages with English translation will be considered. Retrieval of full-text studies, assessment of methodological quality and data extraction will be performed independently by two reviewers. Data will be pooled in statistical meta-analysis, where possible.PROSPERO CRD42018108273.

PCOS remains one of the most intriguing endocrine disorders that physicians encounter even though it was first described over 80 years ago. Although the diagnostic criteria, nomenclature, and ideal therapeutic strategies are areas of active and ongoing debate, there is no doubt that we have made tremendous progress in improving the quality of life and reproductive outcomes of women who suffer from this wide-ranging disorder.

Objetivo: El objetivo de esta revisión es resumir la evidencia disponible sobre los posibles efectos adversos del SARS-CoV-2 en el sistema reproductor masculino y proporcionar una declaración de posición oficial de la Asociación Espa˜nola de Andrología, Medicina Sexual y Reproductiva (ASESA). Métodos: Se realizó una búsqueda exhaustiva en las bibliotecas Pubmed, Web of Science, Embase, Medline, Cochrane y MedRxiv. Resultados: No se ha confirmado la orquitis como una posible complicación de la infecciónpor SARS-CoV-2. Un estudio informó que el 19% de los hombres con COVID-19 presentabanmolestias escrotales sugestivas de orquitis viral, que no se pudo confirmar. Es posible que elvirus no infecte los testículos directamente, si no que desencadene una respuesta autoinmunesecundaria y que cause una orquitis autoinmune. COVID-19 se ha asociado con anormalidadesen la coagulación por lo que la orquitis podría ser el resultado de una vasculitis segmentaria.Los datos disponibles sobre la presencia del virus en semen son contradictorios. Sólo un estudioinformó de la presencia de ARN en el 15,8% de enfermos de COVID-19. La presencia de ácidonucleico o antígeno en el semen no implica la existencia de virus con capacidad de replicacióno infección.En hombres con COVID-19 se ha observado un incremento significativo de LH en suero y unadrástica disminución de la ratio T/LH y FSH/LH, congruente con un hipogonadismo subclínico.Conclusiones: Los datos disponibles y los hallazgos de los estudios recientes se basan en tama˜nosde muestra peque˜nos y proporcionan informaciones contradictorias. Existe la posibilidad teóricade que pueda producirse da˜no testicular y posterior infertilidad después de la infección porCOVID-19, por lo que especialmente para aquellos hombres en edad reproductiva, se debesugerir consulta y evaluación de la función gonadal y análisis de semen. En cuanto a la posibilidadde transmisión sexual, no hay evidencia suficiente para respaldar la necesidad de que las parejasasintomáticas eviten las relaciones sexuales para protegerse contra la transmisión del virus.Se necesita más investigación para comprender los impactos a largo plazo del SARS-CoV-2 enla función reproductiva masculina, incluidos sus posibles efectos sobre la fertilidad y la funciónendocrina testicular, The main objective of this revision is to summarize the current existing evidenceof the potential adverse effects of SARS-CoV-2 on the male reproductive system and providethe recommendations of the Asociación Espa˜nola de Andrología, Medicina Sexual y Reproductiva(ASESA) concerning the implications of COVID-19 infection in the management of male infertiltypatients and testicular endocrine dysfunction.Methods: A comprehensive systematic literature search of the databases of PubMed, Web ofScience, Embase, Medline, Cochrane and MedRxiv, was carried out.Results: The presence of orchitis as a potential complication of the infection by SARS-CoV-2has not yet been confirmed. One study reported that 19% of males with COVID-19 infection hadscrotal symptoms suggestive of viral orchitis which could not be confirmed. It is possible thatthe virus, rather than infecting the testes directly, may induce a secondary autoimmune res-ponse leading to autoimmune orchitis. COVID-19 has been associated with coagulation disordersand thus the orchitis could be the result of segmental vasculitis. Existing data concerning thepresence of the virus in semen are contradictory. Only one study reported the presence of RNAin 15.8% of patients with COVID-19. However, the presence of nucleic acid or antigen in semenis not synonyms of viral replication capacity and infectivity.It has been reported an increase in serum levels of LH in males with COVID-19 and a significantreduction in the T/LH and FSH/LH ratios, consistent with subclinical hypogonadism.Conclusions: The findings of recent reports related to the potential effects of COVID-19 infec-tion on the male reproductive system are based on poorly designed, small sample size studiesthat provide inconclusive, contradictory results. Since there still exists a theoretical possibilityof testicular damage and male infertilty as a result of the infection by COVID-19, males of repro-ductive age should be evaluated for gonadal function and semen analysis. With regard to thesexual transmission of the virus, there is not sufficient evidence to recommend asymptomaticcouples to abstein from having sex in order to protect themselves from being infected by thevirus.Additional studies are needed to understand the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 on malereproductive function, including male fertility potential and endocrine testicular function

It is well known that there is a reduction of circadian rhythm in blood testosterone levels with aging. Our previous report revealed that 3 mg of short-acting testosterone ointment (Glowmin: GL) elevated serum testosterone levels to within the physiological range for 4-6 h. The aim of this study was to clarify the clinical efficacy and safety of GL used topically once every morning, to enhance the circadian rhythm of testosterone, for late-onset hypogonadism (LOH).A total of 61 LOH patients received 3 mg of GL topically once a day in the morning on scrotal skin for 24 weeks. The clinical efficacy of GL was evaluated by the aging males symptoms (AMS) scale, and blood sampling tests were measured before and after GL treatment.Mean patients age was 55.3 ± 9.2 years old. Total AMS scores at 4, 12, and 24 weeks after GL treatments significantly decreased. The results of sub-analysis of AMS, including psychological, physical, and sexual factors also significantly improved after GL treatments. No severe adverse reactions or abnormal laboratory data were reported.This study shows that TRT for LOH with once daily GL treatment supports testosterone circadian rhythm and should be considered to be an effective and safe therapy for LOH.

Existing transgender treatment guidelines suggest that for transmasculine treatment, there is a possible need for estrogen-lowering strategies adjunct to testosterone therapy. Further, guidelines advocate consideration of prophylactic female reproductive tissue surgeries for transgender men to avoid the possibility of estrogen-related health risks. Despite the paucity of objective data, some transgender men seek conversion inhibitors. We sought to determine estradiol levels in transgender men treated with testosterone therapy and the change in those levels with treatment, if any.Estradiol levels were extracted from the electronic medical records of 34 anonymized transgender men treated with testosterone therapy at the Endocrinology Clinic at Boston Medical Center. Data were sufficient to observe 6 years of follow-up.With increased testosterone levels in trans-gender men, a significant decrease in estradiol levels was noted. There was a significant negative correlation between testosterone levels and body mass index, which may serve to explain part of the mechanism for the fall in estradiol levels. Even though the fall in estradiol levels was significant statistically, the actual levels remained within the normal male range, even with 6 years of follow-up.These data suggest that when exogenous testosterone is used to achieve normal serum male testosterone levels for transgender men, it is converted to normal male levels of estradiol, with some decline in those estradiol levels that might be attributable to a fall in fat mass. There appears to be no role for aromatase conversion inhibitors or other estrogen-reducing strategies in trans-gender men. Abbreviation: BMI = body mass index.

Objective:The aim of the study was to determine the range of serum sex-related steroids in normal postmenopausal women and in women of the same age with a diagnosis of vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA).Methods:Validated mass spectrometry-based assays coupled to gas or liquid chromatography were use

Studies on gender differences in aggressive behavior are examined. In proportions of their total aggression scores, boys and girls are verbally about equally aggressive, while boys are more physically and girls more indirectly aggressive. There are genetic determinants of both physical and indirect aggression, suggesting that both types of aggression give evolutionary advantages. Analyses of 2D:4D finger length ratios indicate that the prenatal hormonal environment is crucial for the development of these aggressive strategies.

BACKGROUND: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatic dysfunction are associated with low total and free testosterone (TT and FT) and high sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). However, little is known about changes in testosterone following successful HCV treatment. METHODS: We evaluated testosterone levels and the prevalence of low testosterone in a cohort of 327 men with chronic HCV infection (human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] coinfection = 150) and in a subset of 85 men with testosterone levels obtained pre-HCV treatment and after sustained virologic response (SVR). Median follow-up was 36 months. RESULTS: Participants with active HCV at baseline had higher TT (P < .0001) and SHBG (P < .0001) compared with participants who had achieved SVR, whereas FT did not differ. Low TT (

Exercise hypogonadal male condition is a well-recognized condition in women but much less understood in men. The aim of this case report is to highlight exercise-induced hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in a male who recovered with lifestyle modifications.We report a case of an adolescent male who developed hypogonadotropic hypogonadism secondary to excessive exercise and malnutrition that was followed up for a year without exogenous testosterone supplementation. Informed consent was obtained from the patient for his information to be used in a manuscript submitted to a journal.An 18-yr-old adolescent male presented to the clinic with symptoms of fatigue and low endurance, low libido, and lack of morning erections. At the time of his presentation, he was running about 60 miles per week for school cross-country team in addition to cross training with kickboxing. Physical examination was remarkable for low body mass index of 19 kg·m but was otherwise normal. Biochemical workup confirmed hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and a mild pancytopenia. Other pituitary laboratory values and MRI of the brain were unremarkable. Bone marrow biopsy performed for anemia showed features consistent with malnutrition. With a working diagnosis of exercise hypogonadal male condition, he was advised to reduce the frequency and intensity of his exercise and increase calorie intake. Cell counts and testosterone levels normalized, and his symptoms resolved without any further interventions.Significant reversible hypogonadism can develop after intensive and prolonged exercise. One of the mechanisms of hypogonadism in endurance athletes performing intensive exercise could be relative malnutrition. Further studies to evaluate the role of nutrition and body mass index in male endurance athletes presenting with hypogonadism are needed to identify the underlying mechanism of this condition.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Male reproductive disorders are common and increasing in incidence in many countries. Environmental factors (including pharmaceuticals) have been implicated in the development of these disorders. This review aims to summarize the emerging epidemiological and experimental evidence for a potential role of in-utero exposure to analgesics in the development of male reproductive disorders.RECENT FINDINGS: A number of epidemiological studies have demonstrated an association between in utero exposure to analgesics and the development of cryptorchidism, although these findings are not consistent across all studies. Where present, these associations primarily relate to exposure during the second trimester of pregnancy. In vivo and in vitro experimental studies have demonstrated variable effects of exposure to analgesics on Leydig cell function in the fetal testis of rodents, particularly in terms of testosterone production. These effects frequently involve exposures that are in excess of those to which humans are exposed. Investigation of the effects of analgesics on human fetal testis have also demonstrated effects on Leydig cell function. Variation in species, model system, dosage and timing of exposure is likely to contribute to differences in the findings between studies.SUMMARY: There is increasing evidence for analgesic effects on the developing testis that have the potential to impair male reproductive function. However, the importance of these findings in relation to human-relevant exposures and the risk of male reproductive disorders remain unclear.

Introduction The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of sexual dysfunctions in males with epilepsy, the type of epilepsy, the frequency of seizures, the type of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), the serum hormonal profile and the presence of psychiatric comorbidity. Methods Sixty-one patients focused on type of epilepsy, frequency of seizures, AEDs, hormonal profile and presence of mood disorders. We excluded all patients with severe neurologic and psychiatric impairment and patient who were not able to fill questionnaires. Mean age was 31.2 years (range 18-50 years); 31 patients (50.8%) had an idiopathic generalised epilepsy and 30 (49.2%) a focal epilepsy; among them, latter 18 (60%) had probably symptomatic type and 12 (40%) symptomatic type. Sexual functions were evaluated by “International Inventory of Erectile Function” questionnaire. Results Out of 61 enrolled patients, 22 (36.7%) showed sexual dysfunctions: erectile dysfunctions in 14 (23%), orgasmic dysfunctions in (11.5%) and sexual drive dysfunctions in 12 (19.7%). Out of 61 patients, 36 were subjected to blood measurement of sexual hormones and 21 (58.3%) showed hormonal modifications. Conclusions Sexual dysfunction are present in 36.7% of enrolled males with epilepsy; there is any association between sexual dysfunctions and various AEDs in the treatment, except for carbamazepine (CBZ); there is not any association between sexual dysfunctions and frequency of seizures; hormonal changes are associated with sexual dysfunction in males with epilepsy treated with AEDs but not with the orgasmic dysfunction; there is not any association between hormonal changes and type of AEDs, except for CBZ; depression is associated with sexual dysfunctions.

Microfluidic platforms capable of automated, rapid, sensitive, and quantitative detection of biomarkers from patient samples could make a major impact on clinical or point-of-care (POC) diagnosis. In this work, we realize an automated diagnostic platform composed of two main components: (1) a disposable, self-contained, and integrated microfluidic chip and (2) a portable instrument that carries out completely automated operations. To demonstrate its potential for real-world application, we use injection molding for mass fabrication of the main components of disposable microfluidic chips. The assembled three-layered chip with on-chip mechanical valves for fluid control consists of (1) a top silicone fluidic layer with embedded zigzag microchannels, reagent reservoirs and a negative pressure port, (2) a middle tinfoil layer with patterned antibody/antigen stripes, and (3) a bottom silicone substrate layer with waste reservoirs. The versatility of the microfluidics-based system is demonstrated by implementation of a chemiluminescence immunoassay for quantitative detection of C-reactive protein (CRP) and testosterone in real clinical samples. This lab-on-a-chip platform with features of quantitation, portability and automation provides a promising strategy for POC diagnosis.

Background: Early postnatal administration of gonadotropins to infants with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) can mimic minipuberty, thereby increasing penile growth. We assessed the effects of gonadotropin infusion on stretched penile length (SPL) and hormone levels in infants with congenital micropenis. Methods: Single-center study including 6 males with micropenis in case of isolated CHH (n = 4), panhypopituitarism (n = 1), and partial androgen insensitivity syndrome (PAIS; n = 1). Patients were evaluated at baseline, monthly and at the end of the study through a clinical examination (SPL, testicular position and size), serum hormone assays (testosterone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, inhibin B, anti-Müllerian hormone [AMH]), and ultrasound of penis/testes. Results: In CHH, significant increases occurred in serum testosterone (from undetectable level to 3.5 ± 4.06 ng/mL [12.15 ± 14.09 nmol/L]), SPL (from 13.8 ± 4.5 to 42.6 ± 5 mm; p < 0.0001), inhibin B (from 94.8 ± 74.9 to 469.4 ± 282.5 pg/mL, p = 0.04), and AMH (from 49.6 ± 30.6 to 142 ± 76.5 ng/mL, p = 0.03). Micropenis was corrected in all patients, except one. On treatment, in the patient with PAIS, SPL was increased from 13 to 38 mm. Conclusions: Early gonadotropin infusion is a safe, well-tolerated and effective treatment. The effect in PAIS has not been reported previously. Long-term follow-up is needed to assess the impact, if any, on future fertility and reproduction.

New regulations for eligibility of female athletes with hyperandrogenism are restricted to differences of sex development, normal response to testosterone, and middle distance track disciplines.

Hypogonadism is present in approximately a quarter of men older than 70 years [1,2] but age alone does not guarantee low testosterone [3]. The diagnosis is often based on two tests of serum testost...

This study compared internal load variable dynamics across three consecutive football matches and investigated its relationship with the number of sprints performed by players. Twenty-three male players had blood and salivary samples collected for hormonal concentration (testosterone, cortisol, and testosterone-cortisol ratio), and serum analysis (interleukin-6, interleukin-1-beta, and c-reactive-protein), respectively. Sprints were measured through Global Position System devices. Testosterone and testosterone-cortisol-ratio presented a decreasing behavior up to the second match, and all other indicators presented an increasing behavior during the same period, c-reactive-protein was the only indicator observed to significantly rise up to the third match as well (0.38±0.02 mg/L; 0.49±0.05 mg/L; 0.69±0.05 mg/L; 0.89±0.08 mg/L). C-reactive-protein showed strong correlations with sprints in the second and third matches (p

The geneticist built a career studying aspects of sex that make some people uncomfortable. Now things are getting uncomfortable for him.

Prospective study.To determine the integrity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis in healthy men with spinal cord injury (SCI).Thirty healthy men with chronic SCI (37±10 years) and thirty-eight able-bodied (AB) controls (36±10 years) participated. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH; 100 μg IV) was administered to determine gonadotropin release, and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG; 4000 IU IM) was administered to determine testosterone (T) secretion. Responses to stimulation were categorized as 'responder' or 'non-responder' by clinical criteria. Single factor ANOVA with repeated measures was performed to identify group differences.The proportion of responders to pituitary GnRH stimulation was similar in the SCI group (22 subjects (73%) for the follicular-stimulating hormone (FSH) and 23 subjects (76%) for the luteinizing hormone (LH) to that of the AB group. The SCI-responder group had an increased FSH response after stimulation compared with the AB-responder group (P0.05). The SCI-responder group had a greater LH area under the curve to GnRH stimulation than the AB-responder group (P=0.06). The peak FSH response was at 60 min and the peak LH response at 30 min, regardless of group designation. All groups had similar increases in serum T concentration to hCG stimulation.The pituitary response to stimulation in healthy men with SCI revealed an augmented FSH response; LH response only trended higher. The testicular response to provocative stimulation was similar in hypogonadal and eugondal subjects and in GnRH responders and non-responders. These findings suggest a lack of hypothalamic drive of pituitary gonadotropin release in healthy people with chronic SCI.

The primary aim of this study was to compare 2 daily undulating periodization (DUP) models on one-repetition maximum (1RM) strength in the squat, bench press, deadlift, total volume (TV) lifted, and temporal hormone response. Eighteen male, college-aged (21.1 ± 1.9 years) powerlifters participated in this study and were assigned to one of 2 groups: (a) traditional DUP training with a weekly training order: hypertrophy-specific, strength-specific, and power-specific training (HSP, n = 9) or (b) modified DUP training with a weekly training order: hypertrophy-specific, power-specific, and strength-specific training (HPS, n = 9). Both groups trained 3 nonconsecutive days per week for 6 weeks and performed the squat, bench press, and deadlift exercises. During hypertrophy and power sessions, subjects performed a fixed number of sets and repetitions but performed repetitions until failure at a given percentage during strength sessions to compare TV. Testosterone and cortisol were measured at pretesting and posttesting and before each strength-specific day. Hypertrophy, power, and strength produced greater TV in squat and bench press (p ≤ 0.05) than HSP, but not for deadlift (p > 0.05). For squat and deadlift, there was no difference between groups for 1RM (p > 0.05); however, HPS exhibited greater increases in 1RM bench press than HSP (p ≤ 0.05). Effect sizes (ES) showed meaningful differences (ES > 0.50) in favor of HPS for squat and bench press 1RM. Testosterone decreased (p ≤ 0.05) at weeks 5 and 6 and cortisol decline at weeks 3 and 4. However, neither hormone was different at posttesting compared with pretesting (p > 0.05). Our findings suggest that an HPS configuration of DUP has enhanced performance benefits compared with HSP.

The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) adopted testosterone level criteria for eligibility (i.e. 10 nmol/l or 290 ng/dl in blood for IAAF, levels ‘within the male range' for IOC) to compete in the ‘includes females' category. The policies address the assertion that women with very high endogenous testosterone (unless they are androgen-resistant) have an unfair advantage over women with lower natural levels. Recently, the Court of Arbitration for Sport suspended the ‘hyperandrogenism regulation' by the IAAF, but added: ‘since there are separate categories of male and female competition, it is necessary for the IAAF to formulate a basis for the division of athletes into male and female categories for the benefit of the broad class of female athletes. The basis chosen should be necessary, reasonable and proportionate to the legitimate objective being pursued' [Branch J: Dutee Chand, Female Sprinter with High Testosterone Level, Wins Right to Compete. The New York Times, July 27, 2015]. An analysis of available evidence below - scientific as well as experiential - suggests that androgen-based criteria can, in fact, be rationally defended as the best currently available and practical approach to determine eligibility for competition in the ‘includes females' category. However, to justify such policies, the IOC and IAAF must also show them to be not only rational, but also fair, necessary, and consistent with the treatment of athletes with other endogenous non-physiologic advantages.

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by impairment in social communication and presence of stereotyped/restricted behaviors. Children with ASD very often demonstrate co-morbid psychiatric problems, problems known to be affected by testosterone in neurotypical populations. However, there are few reports investigating relationships between testosterone and psychiatric conditions in children with ASD. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between plasmatic levels of testosterone and behavioral/emotional problems in pre-pubertal boys with ASD. The study sample consisted of 31 pre-pubertal boys (ages 3-10) with ASD. Parents completed the Nisonger Child Behavior Rating Form (NCBRF) to assess specific behavioral/emotional problems as observed in the previous 2 months. Plasmatic testosterone levels were determined in boys according to standardized procedures. It was found that there were positive correlations between testosterone levels and the conduct problems subscale (p=0.034, rs=0.382) of NCBRF and also between testosterone levels and the hyperactive subscale (p=0.025, rs=0.402) of NCBRF. Findings in this study are in line with research conducted in the neurotypical population. This is the first large study investigating testosterone and emotional/behavioral problems in ASD and warrants further research in this field in order to clarify the etiopathogenesis of psychiatric co-morbidities and improve their treatment.

The original prohibition of testosterone therapy for men with prostate cancer was based on outdated concepts developed more than 70 yr ago. Current evidence, although limited, provides consistently reassuring results that testosterone therapy may be reasonably offered to many men with prostate cancer. These men may experience valuable benefits in quality of life if they suffer from symptoms of testosterone deficiency (hypogonadism).

This study aims to test whether Cordyceps sinensis (CS), the most expensive Asian nutrient supplement might stimulate growth of prostate cancer cells.Impact of CS on growth of prostate cancer was determined in vivo and in vitro.Firstly, the serum testosterone level was significantly elevated in mice fed CS. Prostate glands were significantly enlarged (weight index 0.53 ± 0.04 mg/g vs. 0.31 ± 0.04 mg/g, P = 0.006). Furthermore, cell viability was increased twofold in the androgen-responsive prostate cancer cell line (VCaP) after CS treatment. This promoting effect disappeared after bicalutamide was added. In addition, serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in mice bearing VCaP xenografts was significantly elevated (0.66 ± 0.04 ng/ml vs. 0.26 ± 0.06 ng/ml, P 0.001) after treatment with CS. Finally, VCaP tumors in mice treated with CS grew much faster (479.2 ± 78.74 mmThese results suggest that CS promotes growth of prostate cancer cells by increasing production of testosterone and stimulating the AR-dependent pathway. Additional studies are required to see whether CS is safely consumed by patients with prostate cancer.

Two recent news reports about prescription drug use piqued my interest in whether there might be a connection between inaccurate or incomplete information in direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertising an...

Current methods for diagnosing testosterone deficiency are inadequate. It is time to rethink how we determine who is a candidate for treatment, with a goal of helping our patients. Free testosterone appears more accurate than total testosterone.

Coelho, DB, Pimenta, EM, Rosse, IC, Veneroso, C, Pussieldi, GDA, Becker, LK, De Oliveira, EC, Carvalho, MRS, and Silami-Garcia, E. Alpha-actinin-3 R577X polymorphism influences muscle damage and hormonal responses after a soccer game. J Strength Cond Res 33(10): 2655-2664, 2019-The purpose of this study was to evaluate indicators of muscle damage and hormonal responses after soccer matches and its relation to alpha-actinin-3 (ACTN3) gene expression (XX vs. RR/RX), considering that the R allele produces alpha-actinin-3 and provides greater muscle strength and power. Thirty players (10 XX and 20 RR/RX) younger than 16 years were evaluated in this study. Blood samples were collected immediately before, after, 2, and 4 hours after the games to assess muscle damage (creatine kinase [CK] and alpha-actin) and hormonal responses (interleukin-6 [IL-6], cortisol, and testosterone). Postgame CK was higher as compared to the pregame values in both groups and it was also higher in the RR/RX (p < 0.05) than in the XX. The concentrations of alpha-actin and IL-6 were similar for both groups and did not change over time. Testosterone was increased after the game only in the RR/RX group (p < 0.05). Cortisol concentrations in group RR/RX were higher immediately after the game than before the game, and 2 and 4 hours after the game the concentration decreased (p < 0.05). The RR and RX individuals presented higher markers of muscle microtrauma and hormonal stress, probably because they performed more speed and power actions during the game, which is a self-regulated activity. From the different responses presented by RR/RX and XX genotypes, we conclude that the genotypic profile should be taken into account when planning training workloads and recovery of athletes.

Klinefelter syndrome (KS) is frequently complicated by diabetes. However, it is severely underdiagnosed due to a lack of reliable screening methods. We diagnosed two patients with KS at the Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Tazuke Kofukai Medical Research Institute Kitano Hospital, Osaka, Japan. By comparing the patients with 39 non‐KS patients with diabetes, we propose a screening tool for KS in patients with diabetes.

This study was carried out on 30 Syrian Awassi ram lambs around 3 months of age. Lambs were divided equally in 2 groups as fast growing (FG) and weak growing (WG) lambs to identify body weight and reproductive parameters in each group during different age stages. Blood samples were collected to determine testosterone and leptin concentrations using radioimmunoassay. At puberty, average body weight and age of FG and WG lambs was 52.4 and 43.1 kg, and 225.9 and 248.0 days, respectively, with a significant (P 0.05) difference between them in both parameters. Testosterone concentration was very low at 3 months of age (below 1.0 nmol L(-1)) and increased with advancing age with a sharp increase occurring at 7 months of age and at puberty, averages were 12.58 and 11.86 nmol L(-1) for FG and WG groups, respectively, with no significant (P 0.05) differences. At puberty, average leptin concentration was 3.16 and 2.98 ng mL(-1) for FG and WG groups, respectively, with no significant (P 0.05) difference.

Luteinizing-hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for men with advanced prostate cancer are usually administered indefinitely on a fixed schedule. However, using testosterone level to guide ADT in these patients could lead to reductions in cost and some symptomatic improvements.

During the last decades androgens have been used illicitly by athletes of both genders. Because of some obvious ethical limitations, mechanisms underlying the performance-enhancing effects of these hormone or drugs, as well as the magnitude of their effects, have been poorly addressed. This review aims to combine findings from field and from the laboratory to provide new insights into the ergogenic properties of endogenous or exogenous androgens on female athletes.Results obtained from recent neuropsychological studies indicated that testosterone, and not the sex chromosomes, is responsible for the sexual differentiation of visuospatial neural activation. These findings could explain how males and hyperandrogenic females benefit from androgens performance-enhancing effects in sports where visuospatial abilities are closely linked to better performance. Another study conducted on elite female athletes showed that, in some athletic events, where muscle power is of critical importance, individuals with the highest free testosterone concentration significantly outperformed competitors with the lowest free testosterone concentration.In some sport events, female athletes with high or very high androgen levels (whether it is from endogenous or exogenous origin) have an estimated competitive benefit of 2-5% over those with androgen levels within the normal female range. These findings are to be taken into account in the actual controversy about eligibility of females with hyperandrogenism to compete in women's sports.

The enigma of the relationship between testosterone and violence remained of blurred boundaries, yet a challenging conundrum for forensic psychiatry and psychology. This article presents the outcome of a case controlled study comparing testosterone blood level from 50 inmates convicted for murder with 50 cross matched control. A positive association was found between inmates convicted for murder and high testosterone blood level. Moreover, the relationship is even stronger between high testosterone blood level and individuals with recurrent aggressive intensions and who experienced recurrent criminal thoughts that are completely opposite with individuals who are possessed with peaceful attitudes, with P value of 0.002, 0.0001 and 0.000 consecutively.

The aim of this study was to determine whether the environmental exposure to pyrethroids affects semen quality and the level of reproductive hormones in men.The study population consisted of 334 men who attended the infertility clinic for diagnostic purposes and who had normal semen concentration of 15 to 300 mln/mL. Participants were interviewed and provided a semen sample. The pyrethroids metabolites-3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3PBA), cis-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane carboxylic acid (CDCCA), trans-3-(2,2-dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane carboxylic acid (TDCCA), and cis-2,2-dibromovinyl-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (DBCA) were analyzed in the urine using a validated gas chromatography ion-trap mass spectrometry method.Urinary pyrethroids metabolites levels were significantly associated with an increase in the percentage of sperm with abnormal morphology and decrease in sperm concentration, the level of testosterone, and computer-aided semen analysis parameters.Environmental pyrethroids exposure may affect semen quality and the level of reproductive hormones.

Purpose PCOS is a complex disorder and various features of this disorder may have great importance for bone metabolism. The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between existing hormonal disorders, and bone mineral density (BMD) in young women with PCOS. Methods 69 reproductive-aged PCOS women and 30 age-matched healthy controls were enrolled to the study women. In each individual we assessed the body mass index (BMI). We evaluated the serum concentrations of: gonadotropins, prolactin (PRL), estradiol (E2), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), testosterone (T), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (fT4). We used the Homeostatic Model Assessment–Insulin Resistance Index (HOMA–IR) to diagnose insulin resistance. Bone mineral density in the lumbar spine was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Results The PCOS women had lower BMD values as compared to the controls (1.057 ± 0.1260 vs. 1.210 ± 0.1805 g/cm2, p

Plyometric training (PT) programs are widely used to improve explosive actions in soccer players of various ages, although there is debate about optimal training duration and time course of improvement. Twenty-two early to mid-puberty elite soccer players were assigned to a control group (CG, n = 10, regular soccer training) or a plyometric training group (PTG, n = 12, regular soccer training substituted with 2 PT sessions each week). Both groups trained for 16 weeks during the in-season period. Control group performed only tests at baseline and after intervention, whereas PTG performed additional tests after 4, 8, and 12 weeks. During each test, subjects' performances in speed (10 and 30 m; 5 and 20 m), agility, shuttle run, multiple 5 bounds (MB5), and standing long jump (LJ) were recorded. The PTG showed improved performance in 20-m sprint time (-3.2%), agility time (-6.1%), MB5 distance (+11.8%), and LJ distance (+7.3%) (all, p

The purpose of this study is to review recent studies that examined the association of endogenous and exogenous testosterone and mortality in older men.Over the past several years, there has been a steep rise in testosterone prescriptions. The increased use of testosterone occurred in the context of several studies that reported an association between low serum testosterone and increased cardiovascular events and mortality. In contrast, recent studies have reported an association between testosterone treatment and adverse events. A testosterone treatment trial of mobility-impaired elderly men with prevalent cardiovascular disease was stopped due to increased cardiovascular events in the T-treated men and a meta-analysis reported increased cardiovascular events in T-treated men. In two recent large observational studies, testosterone treatment was associated with an increased risk for serious adverse cardiovascular events.Low testosterone is associated with mortality in multiple cohort studies; however, it is unclear if this is a causal association or due to low testosterone being a biomarker of poor health. Given recent reports of adverse outcomes associated with testosterone treatment, a conservative use of testosterone is warranted in men with cardiovascular disease who may be at greater risk for adverse outcomes.