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Objectives Frequent gout attacks in the initial introduction of urate-lowering therapy (ULT) are significant causes of poor drug adherence and ULT discontinuation. Initial low-dose urate-lowering drugs may be effective in reducing gout flares, however robust evidence is sparse. The aim of this study was therefore to assess the association of initial dose urate-lowering drugs with gout flares in adult males with gout during the initial introduction of ULT. Methods This cohort study obtained data on consecutive gout patients from a single-centre gout cohort study from August 2017 to October 2020. A standard questionnaire was applied to collect demographic and clinical information, and biochemical parameters were tested on the same day. The primary endpoint was to estimate the association of initial dose febuxostat with gout flares, using Cox hazard models with inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW). Results A total of 582 gout patients were included in this study. During the 6-week follow-up, 71 (12.2%) patients suffered gout flares. In the main analysis using Cox hazard models with IPTW, compared with colchicine prophylaxis, initial low-dose febuxostat alone had no statistical significance with the increased risk of gout flares [hazard ratio (HR) 1.26; 95% CI 0.58, 2.72], while initial high-dose febuxostat was associated with an increased risk of gout flares (HR 3.08; 95% CI 1.34, 7.07). Conclusions This observational study demonstrated that initial low-dose febuxostat was equally effective in preventing gout flares as colchicine prophylaxis, while initial high-dose febuxostat alone was associated with an increased risk of gout flares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elevated resting heart rate (RHR) is known to be associated with increased mortality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) whose pulmonary function is reduced. On the other hand, no study has reported on the association between RHR and pulmonary function in healthy individuals without COPD. Thus, this study investigated the association between RHR and pulmonary function in healthy adult males. This study was conducted on 3351 adult males aged 30–60 years, who visited the National Fitness Center (located in Seoul, South Korea) for health examination from Jan 2015 to Dec 2017. The RHR uses data measured using a standard 12-lead electrocardiogram, in the interquartile range (>60 bpm, 60–69 bpm, 70–79 bpm, ≥80 bpm). To test the pulmonary function, a spirometer was used to measure the forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and the FEV1/FVC. The diagnostic criterion of COPD was FEV1/FVC ≤70%. While FVC, FEV1 and FEV1/FVC showed no significant variation according to RHR, a correlation was found between RHR and FVC (p < 0.05). However, no correlation was found between FEV1 and FEV1/FVC. The relative risk of COPD according to RHR showed no significant variation. RHR and pulmonary function in healthy adult males, the indicator of lung capacity, FVC, showed a significant correlation. To more accurately determine the cause-effect relationship between RHR and pulmonary function, a prospective cohort study should be conducted in the future.

Background: Cannabis use is more prevalent among people with schizophrenia than in the general population. This usage detrimentally impacts disease prognosis, contributing to escalated admissions, heightened severity of psychotic symptoms, and reduced medication response. The recent decriminalisation of cannabis in South Africa may lead to an upsurge in usage, consequently intensifying the strain on mental healthcare services. Aim: This study aimed to compare the medication costs of patients with schizophrenia depending on cannabis use. Setting: Weskoppies Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa, 2018–2019. Methods: Data pertaining to medication expenses during the 2018–2019 period were acquired from the hospital pharmacy. Data were collected from 114 patient records to form two equal cohorts: one exposed to cannabis and the other non-exposed, as indicated by urine drug screens or admission of cannabis use. Medications prescribed from admission to time of being ready for discharge were recorded and corresponding costs were calculated. Results: Patients who were exposed to cannabis had higher medication costs (R 516.47) than patients who were non-exposed (R 328.69) (p = 0.0519), over the whole admission period. Conclusion: Cannabis exposure escalates the financial burden of treating schizophrenia at Weskoppies Hospital. This might be attributed to failure of cost-effective, first-line medications prompting the prescription of costlier, second-line alternatives or higher prescribed dosages. Contribution: This study contributes to findings that it is more expensive to treat patients with schizophrenia who have relapsed, if they are using cannabis. This finding has future cost implications when budgeting for pharmacotherapeutic treatment.

Introduction: Peyronie's disease (PD) prevalence varies between 0.39% and 20% and studies on PD prevalence are limited. Aim: This study aims to determine the prevalence of PD in males aged ≥30 years in Turkey and to evaluate etiological factors associated with it. Methods: The study was conducted in 12 regions of Turkey according to the Eurostat Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics 1 classification and included 1,208 patients. Survey questionnaires including questions about demographic features and basic health status as well as about diagnosis and etiology of PD were put forth to the volunteers who agreed to participate in the study. Diagnosis of probable PD was established by evaluating the questionnaires. Patients with a diagnosis of congenital penile curvature were excluded from the group with PD. Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, and Mann-Whitney U test were used. Main Outcome Measure: The primary outcome analyzed in this article was the prevalence rate of PD in Turkey and the associated comorbidities. Results: The prevalence of PD was determined as 5.3%. The rates of participants with PD were found to be the highest in the 50–59 years group (27%) and in the North-East Region (20%). Compared with participants without PD, participants with PD were older (median: 52 interquartile range [41–64] vs 45 [37–55]; P

Background: Several lifelong maternal, child and societal health benefits have been associated with exclusive breastfeeding (EBF). However, despite all the potential advantages, EBF rates have been consistently low in developing countries, including South Africa. It has been suggested that the knowledge, attitudes and practices of male partners in relation to EBF are amongst the important factors that contribute to the success of EBF practices. Hence, the aim of this study was to determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices of men in Botshabelo, Free State province, South Africa, regarding EBF. Methods: This study was designed as a cross-sectional analytical study that utilised a structured questionnaire administered to 200 adult men attending the outpatient department of a district hospital, in the Free State province, South Africa. Results: The majority (n = 83; 41.5%) of participants had poor knowledge of EBF but reported positive attitudes (n = 153, 76.5%) and good practices (n = 151, 75.5%) towards EBF, respectively. Age, levels of education, employment status, marital status and whether the participant accompanied his partner to the antenatal clinic were associated with adequate knowledge, positive attitudes and good practices in relation to EBF (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The study revealed a suboptimal level of knowledge on EBF in men in Botshabelo. Most men had positive attitudes and reported good practices in relation to EBF. Our findings highlight the need for targeted community-based intervention programmes directed to educating and promoting positive social and cultural change in relation to EBF amongst men in Botshabelo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several lifelong maternal, child and societal health benefits have been associated with exclusive breastfeeding (EBF). However, despite all the potential advantages, EBF rates have been consistently low in developing countries, including South Africa. It has been suggested that the knowledge, attitudes and practices of male partners in relation to EBF are amongst the important factors that contribute to the success of EBF practices. Hence, the aim of this study was to determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices of men in Botshabelo, Free State province, South Africa, regarding EBF. Methods: This study was designed as a cross-sectional analytical study that utilised a structured questionnaire administered to 200 adult men attending the outpatient department of a district hospital, in the Free State province, South Africa. Results: The majority (n = 83; 41.5%) of participants had poor knowledge of EBF but reported positive attitudes (n = 153, 76.5%) and good practices (n = 151, 75.5%) towards EBF, respectively. Age, levels of education, employment status, marital status and whether the participant accompanied his partner to the antenatal clinic were associated with adequate knowledge, positive attitudes and good practices in relation to EBF (p 0.05). Conclusion: The study revealed a suboptimal level of knowledge on EBF in men in Botshabelo. Most men had positive attitudes and reported good practices in relation to EBF. Our findings highlight the need for targeted community-based intervention programmes directed to educating and promoting positive social and cultural change in relation to EBF amongst men in Botshabelo.

Aggressive behaviour is a serious threat to the personal safety and property of others due to the potential that the assailant may hurt people, himself/herself or objects, and aggression has always been one of the focuses of research and concern. Accumulating evidence suggests that the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis plays a major role in the development, elicitation, enhancement and genetic susceptibility of aggressive behaviour in humans and animals. GR (NR3C1) plays a crucial role in controlling HPA activity, which directly affects aggressive behaviour. Here, we investigated the methylation state of the NR3C1 gene promoter region and its role in aggressive behaviour in adult males for the first time by applying a case-control approach (N = 106 controls, N = 104 patients). Methylation of NR3C1 was measured in peripheral blood samples at exons 1D, 1B and 1F via sodium bisulfite treatment combined with the MethylTarget method. Methylation of the NR3C1 gene was significantly correlated with aggressive behaviour, and the methylation levels of 1D, 1B and 1F were upregulated in the aggressive behaviour group, intentional injury subgroup and robbery subgroup, and the significance varied. In addition, multiple CpG sites were found to be significantly associated with aggressive behaviour. These results suggest that epigenetic aberrations of NR3C1 are associated with aggressive behaviour, and epigenetic processes might mediate aggressive behaviour by affecting the activity of the HPA axis. This correlative study between DNA methylation of the NR3C1 gene and aggressive behaviour in patients may be helpful for forensic assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cannabis use is more prevalent among people with schizophrenia than in the general population. This usage detrimentally impacts disease prognosis, contributing to escalated admissions, heightened severity of psychotic symptoms, and reduced medication response. The recent decriminalisation of cannabis in South Africa may lead to an upsurge in usage, consequently intensifying the strain on mental healthcare services., Aim: This study aimed to compare the medication costs of patients with schizophrenia depending on cannabis use., Setting: Weskoppies Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa, 2018-2019., Methods: Data pertaining to medication expenses during the 2018-2019 period were acquired from the hospital pharmacy. Data were collected from 114 patient records to form two equal cohorts: one exposed to cannabis and the other non-exposed, as indicated by urine drug screens or admission of cannabis use. Medications prescribed from admission to time of being ready for discharge were recorded and corresponding costs were calculated., Results: Patients who were exposed to cannabis had higher medication costs (R 516.47) than patients who were non-exposed (R 328.69) ( p = 0.0519), over the whole admission period., Conclusion: Cannabis exposure escalates the financial burden of treating schizophrenia at Weskoppies Hospital. This might be attributed to failure of cost-effective, first-line medications prompting the prescription of costlier, second-line alternatives or higher prescribed dosages., Contribution: This study contributes to findings that it is more expensive to treat patients with schizophrenia who have relapsed, if they are using cannabis. This finding has future cost implications when budgeting for pharmacotherapeutic treatment., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no financial or personal relationship(s) that may have inappropriately influenced them in writing this article., (© 2024. The Authors.)

Abstract Background In spite of the adverse health and financial implications of smoking, it still remains one of the leading causes of preventable diseases and deaths in the world. Key to discouraging the habit of smoking is knowledge of the drivers of smoking. In Ghana, though smoking behaviours are relatively more associated with adult males than youth and adolescents, studies on smoking behaviours of adult males are scant. This study, therefore, investigates the determinants of cigarette smoking and smoking intensity among adult males in Ghana. Methods Data were obtained from the most recent Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) conducted in 2014. Based on the 2014 GDHS, a negative binomial-logit hurdle model was estimated to explore the socioeconomic and demographic characteristics associated with cigarette consumption and smoking intensity among adult males in Ghana. To ensure robustness, separate estimations were performed for the respective logit and negative binomial models used in the two-part model. Results We find that men in lower socioeconomic category (poor and low education) have a higher likelihood to smoke. Also, age proved significant in explaining smoking behaviors in Ghana. Moreover, religion and region of residence are reported to affect cigarette consumption decision. Furthermore, we find that among the men who smoke, those between the ages of 44 and 60 years and have attained approximately primary education have a higher likelihood to smoke greater quantities of cigarette daily. Also, the smokers who reside in the Upper East and Upper West regions are reported to smoke more intensely than their counterparts in the Greater Accra region. Conclusion Since smoking remains one of the major causes of diseases and deaths the world over, the current study provides recent empirical evidence based on a nationally representative sample for public health policies geared towards smoking reduction and ultimately cessation. This study suggests that public policies that promote higher educational attainment and improved incomes (wealth) are crucial in smoking reduction and cessation in Ghana.

From the perspective 01 3D custom-made garment design, the 3D-body curved surface shapes of- 1,144 males in an extensive age group (18 to 86 years old) were investigated using the angle values of three curvatures (KE, kc, and Hc) by multivariate analysis. From the 3D data, fourteen JD - body shape types were categorized using the sum angle values of each of the elliptical (+Kc), the hyperbolic (-Kc), the convex (+Hc), and the concave (-Hc) curved surface shapes of ten areas. There was one body type in the 205 group, three in each of the 30s, younger 40s, elder 40s groups, 505 groups, and one iii the 60s group. The curvature values and the curvature color map of the 3D-body surfaces clearly displayed the difference in height between the convex elliptic curved surfaces in the abdomen. buttocks. and legs areas due to the change with age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Increasing age and decreased testosterone concentrations in males influence muscle strength and muscle mass, particularly in skeletal muscle. There have been few studies on decreased lung function resulting from reduced mass and strength of respiratory muscles. The aim of the present study was to investigate the existence of an association between free testosterone index (FTI) and lung function in males aged between 40 and 80 years. Methods This cross-sectional study involved 167 males aged between 40 and 80 years in Cilandak subdistrict, South Jakarta. Total serum testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) concentrations were determined by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) using Roche Elecsys Reagent Kit Cat 11776061 and Elecsys 2010 reagent (Cobas e601), respectively FTI was calculated using the formula free testosterone/SHBG x 100%. Forced expiratory volume in 1 second (VEP1) was assessed by means of an AS 500 spirometer. Results Mean age of the subjects was 53.32 ± 8.26 years, mean total serum testosterone concentration was 532.59 ± 206.92 ng/dL, mean SHBG concentration 41.26 ± 21.14 nmol/L, mean FTI 48.22 ± 14.34 %, and mean VEP1 was 1.63 ± 0.54 L. There was a significant association between both SHBG and FTI on the one hand and VEP1 on the other, with Pearson correlation coefficients of -0.199 (p=0.010) and 0.271 (p=0.000), respectively. Linear multiple regression analysis indicated that FTI was the most influential variable on lung function (VEP1), higher FTI values indicating higher VEP1 (â=0.008: p=0.004). Conclusion In males aged 40-80 years, higher FTI values indicate better lung function as determined by means of VEP1.

There are described results of 10 years of investigation on sexual violence in 87 adult resident males in Guerrero, Mexico; they were participants in a course on sexuality. The study is descriptive and attempts to outline an initial characterization of how sexual violence occurs in adult males of that region. The sample was not random for convenience. 68 % of them was forced once in his life: 64 % experienced sexual abuse, 26 % sexual harassment and 10 % violation. The average age in which they lived the events and if they spoke it its reported. On the aggressors there are brought those who are, sex, age and ranges of age. There are discussed the insufficient recognition of the sexual violence lived by males, the need for national research as well as the implications in several areas that the phenomenon can generate for those who lived through it and for society.

As more public places are designated "non-smoking," chewing tobacco could be an alternative choice for tobacco use; however, controversy exists over the long-term health effects associated with it. This study assessed the relationship between chewing tobacco, cigarette smoking, and chronic health conditions in a representative sample of males 18-44 years of age, while controlling for other variables known to be related to tobacco use. This cross sectional analysis used 2013 data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). The results indicated that about 41% of males reported one or more chronic health conditions, and that about 15% used chewing tobacco only, 21% smoked cigarettes only, and 6% did both. From adjusted analyses, those who chewed tobacco only were 49% more likely to report one or more health conditions; those who smoked cigarettes only were 34% more likely to report one or more health conditions; and those who did both were 95% more likely to report at least one health condition. Overall, any combination of tobacco use was significantly and similarly related to the increased prevalence of chronic health conditions in males aged 18-44 years. Although chewing tobacco use may not be as prevalent in the general population as cigarette smoking, clinicians should be aware of the similar health risks associated with all tobacco use at ages younger than may be expected, and encourage cessation of any tobacco use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is some evidence that natural levels of lithium (Li) in drinking water may have a protective effect on neurological health. In present study, we evaluate the Li levels in drinking water of different origin and bottled mineral water. To evaluate the association between lithium levels in drinking water with human health, the scalp hair samples of male subjects (25-45 years) consumed drinking water obtained from ground water (GW), municipal treated water (MTW) and bottled mineral water (BMW) from rural and urban areas of Sindh, Pakistan were selected. The water samples were pre-concentrated five to tenfold at 60 °C using temperature-controlled electric hot plate. While scalp hair samples were oxidized by acid in a microwave oven, prior to determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The Li content in different types of drinking water, GW, MTW and BMW was found in the range of 5.12-22.6, 4.2-16.7 and 0.0-16.3 µg/L, respectively. It was observed that Li concentration in the scalp hair samples of adult males consuming ground water was found to be higher, ranged as 292-393 μg/kg, than those who are drinking municipal treated and bottle mineral water (212-268 and 145-208 μg/kg), respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Increasing age and decreased testosterone concentrations in males influence muscle strength and muscle mass, particularly in skeletal muscle. There have been few studies on decreased lung function resulting from reduced mass and strength of respiratory muscles. The aim of the present study was to investigate the existence of an association between free testosterone index (FTI) and lung function in males aged between 40 and 80 years. Methods This cross-sectional study involved 167 males aged between 40 and 80 years in Cilandak subdistrict, South Jakarta. Total serum testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) concentrations were determined by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) using Roche Elecsys Reagent Kit Cat 11776061 and Elecsys 2010 reagent (Cobas e601), respectively FTI was calculated using the formula free testosterone/SHBG x 100%. Forced expiratory volume in 1 second (VEP1) was assessed by means of an AS 500 spirometer. Results Mean age of the subjects was 53.32 ± 8.26 years, mean total serum testosterone concentration was 532.59 ± 206.92 ng/dL, mean SHBG concentration 41.26 ± 21.14 nmol/L, mean FTI 48.22 ± 14.34 %, and mean VEP1 was 1.63 ± 0.54 L. There was a significant association between both SHBG and FTI on the one hand and VEP1 on the other, with Pearson correlation coefficients of -0.199 (p=0.010) and 0.271 (p=0.000), respectively. Linear multiple regression analysis indicated that FTI was the most influential variable on lung function (VEP1), higher FTI values indicating higher VEP1 (â=0.008: p=0.004). Conclusion In males aged 40-80 years, higher FTI values indicate better lung function as determined by means of VEP1.

The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that short-winged (brachypterous) and long-winged (macropterous) adult males of a flightless bug Pyrrhocoris apterus differ in fertilization success. For this purpose, 5, 10 and 28 days old brachypterous and macropterous males were mated for the same period of time with reproductively active 5 days old brachypterous females. The average hatchability of five egg batches of these females was used as a measure of the fertilization success of the males. The results revealed significantly higher hatchability of the eggs laid by females that copulated with 5 or 10 days old brachypterous males than with same-aged macropterous males. In contrast, the average hatchability of eggs of females that copulated with 28 days old brachypterous males was significantly lower than of those mated with same-aged macropterous males. It is the first report of wing morph- and age-related differences in fertilization success of males in insects with a non-functional wing-polymorphism. The possible relationship between wing- and age-related differential fertilization and the mating success of P. apterus males, and differences in the amount of secretion transferred from their accessory glands into the reproductive tract of females during copulation, is discussed.

Juvenile hormone (JH) produced by the corpus allatum (CA) stimulates vitellogenesis and reduces the synthesis of hexamerin proteins in adult females of Pyrrhocoris apterus . At present it is unknown whether the signaling pathway involving the JH receptor gene Methoprene tolerant (Met) and its binding partner Taiman (Tai), regulates the synthesis of accessory gland proteins (ACPs) and hexamerin proteins or effects male survival. Knockdown of genes by injecting Met dsRNA or Tai dsRNA, reduced the amount of ACPs whilst enhancing the amount of hexamerin mRNA in the fat body and the release of hexamerin proteins into haemolymph, as occurs after the ablation of CA. Lifespan was enhanced by injecting Met but not Tai dsRNA. Diapause associated with the natural absence of JH had a stronger effect on all these parameters than the ablation of CA or the knockdown of genes. This indicates there is an additional regulating agent. Both Met and Tai dsRNA induced a several fold increase in JH (JH III skiped bisepoxide) but a concurrent loss of Met or Tai disabled its function. This supports the view that the Met/Tai complex functions as a JH receptor in the regulation of ACPs and hexamerins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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A cross-sectional study was conducted to explore the prevalence and severity of health-related complaints perceived by adult males of Hong Kong by using the Hong Kong Traditional Chinese versions of the Aging males’ symptoms (AMS) scale and the 5-dimensional and 3-level European Quality of life (EQ-5D-3L) questionnaire. A total of 825 adult males aged 40 years or above were surveyed, and observed that 80% of the population was living with little-to-mild levels of aging symptoms with mean total scores ranged between 26.02 ± 7.91 and 32.99 ± 7.91 in different age groups. Such symptoms were correlated with age, especially for the somato-vegetative and sexual symptoms. The most severe AMS symptoms were observed in the oldest age group at 70 years or above, with 76%, 34% and 70% living with moderate-to-severe levels of somato-vegetative, psychological and sexual symptoms, respectively. The result was highly correlated with the EQ-5D-3L questionnaire. Secondly, the Hong Kong Aging males’ symptoms (AMS) scale was shown to have good reliability with test–retest coefficient at 0.79 (ranged 0.66–0.87) and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient at 0.88 (ranged 0.70–0.84). In summary, the population of Hong Kong male adults was commonly living with little-to-mild levels of aging symptoms, whereas their severity was correlated with age. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In the present study the temporal changes in the volume of the corpus allatum in three experimental groups of adult males (macropterous, reproductive brachypterous and diapausing brachypterous) of the flightless bug Pyrrhocoris apterus were determined and related to the size of male accessory glands. The results revealed wing morph- and age-dependent differences in the corpus allatum volume in males of this bug. In 4-14 day old males, the volumes of the corpus allatum and accessory glands were largest in long-day reproductive brachypters, intermediate in long-day macropters, and smallest in short-day diapausing brachypters. The smaller corpus allatum in young macropterous males than in same aged reproductive brachypterous males was due to the spontaneous fasting of the former. Later, starting on day 18 after adult emergence, i.e. when macropterous males were feeding normally, there were no significant differences in the volumes of the corpus allatum between long-day brachypterous and macropterous males. On the other hand, the corpus allatum of 18-28 day old diapausing brachypterous males was significantly smaller than that of same aged long-day macropterous and reproductive brachypterous males. The sizes of the corpus allatum and accessory glands were significantly positively correlated in macropterous and diapausing brachypterous males. This is the first report of corpus allatum volume-dependent wing morph-related differences in the rate of accessory gland maturation in males of insects with a non-functional macropterism. The role of differential activity of the corpus allatum in the different life history strategies of males of the two wing morphs in this wing-polymorphic insect is discussed.

The long-winged (macropterous) and short-winged (brachypterous) adult males of Pyrrhocoris apterus (L.) from temperate (Czech Republic) and Mediterranean (Israel) populations were analysed for the sexual activity and the functional activity of their accessory glands. The sexual activity of the males reared either under long-day (18L : 6D) or short-day (12L : 12D) conditions was determined by their capability to mate with 5-day-old reproductive females of the brachypterous morph and to fertilize the eggs. The functional activity of accessory glands was characterized by the presence of a specific immuno-marker. Sexual activity of fasting macropterous males from both temperate and Mediterranean populations was almost as high as that observed in the reproductive brachypterous ones. These findings were also confirmed by an immunotest. Contrary to the temperate macropterous males, the feeding arrest in temperate macropterous females was coupled with a non-diapause inhibition of reproduction in spite of long days. A similar kind of difference was observed also in the Mediterranean macropterous bugs reared under short-day conditions. The results showed the sexual difference in reproductive activity of the macropterous morph in P. apterus.

Abstract: In recent years, information about the movements and timing of migration by male sea turtles has begun to be unraveled. Here, we present the first satellite tracking of male loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) in the eastern Atlantic. Satellite linked transmitters were attached to five adult males, captured in the near shore waters off Boavista, Republic of Cape Verde. This archipelago hosts the single most important breeding site of loggerhead turtles in the eastern Atlantic. Animals were tracked for periods ranging between 48 and 537days, including a probable annual remigration to the vicinity of the nesting ground for one turtle. Males showed a variety of movement patterns both during and after the breeding season. Of three males that transmitted for 85, 329 and 537days, two (the smallest) migrated east and remained in oceanic waters for the tracking period and another (larger turtle) migrated 810km northeast, to neritic waters off the coast of Mauritania, Western Africa. Results suggest males may show the same size-linked dichotomy in migratory strategies, as has been shown for females from this population. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Access to different environments may lead to inter-population behavioural changes within a species that allow populations to exploit their immediate environments. Elephant seals from Marion Island (MI) and King George Island (KGI) (Isla 25 de Mayo) forage in different oceanic environments and evidently employ different foraging strategies. This study elucidates some of the factors influencing the diving behaviour of male southern elephant seals from these populations tracked between 1999 and 2002. Mixed-effects models were used to determine the influence of bathymetry, population of origin, body length (as a proxy for size) and individual variation on the diving behaviour of adult male elephant seals from the two populations. Males from KGI and MI showed differences in all dive parameters. MI males dived deeper and longer (median: 652.0 m and 34.00 min) than KGI males (median: 359.1 m and 25.50 min). KGI males appeared to forage both benthically and pelagically while MI males in this study rarely reached depths close to the seafloor and appeared to forage pelagically. Model outputs indicate that males from the two populations showed substantial differences in their dive depths, even when foraging in areas of similar water depth. Whereas dive depths were not significantly influenced by the size of the animals, size played a significant role in dive durations, though this was also influenced by the population that elephant seals originated from. This study provides some support for inter-population differences in dive behaviour of male southern elephant seals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In rural sub-Saharan Africa, small scale water abstraction could be described as the manual withdrawal of water usually from the banks of shallow surface water systems by people with the aid of 10- and/or 20-litre containers mainly for domestic use. The gender composition of human visitors during water abstraction at the middle and upper reaches of a predominantly rural stream (Njoro River) in Southwestern Kenya was analyzed. Abstraction started at dawn with adult females accompanied by girls. But adult males who were mostly water vendors dominated, contributing > 65% of the daily total visits on weekdays. The number of children at the stream in the morning, as well as early in the afternoon of weekdays was < 15% but they accounted for approximately 40% of the evening total and > 70% of the daily total visits on weekends. The dominance of adult males coupled with the low participation of children, especially on weekdays suggested that water abstraction in the Njoro area was not an important activity for most children. This information could be relevant for the development and/or refinement of policy and targeted programmes on water supply in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that short-winged (brachypterous) and long-winged (macropterous) adult males of a flightless bug Pyrrhocoris apterus differ in fertilization success. For this purpose, 5, 10 and 28 days old brachypterous and macropterous males were mated for the same period of time with reproductively active 5 days old brachypterous females. The average hatchability of five egg batches of these females was used as a measure of the fertilization success of the males. The results revealed significantly higher hatchability of the eggs laid by females that copulated with 5 or 10 days old brachypterous males than with same-aged macropterous males. In contrast, the average hatchability of eggs of females that copulated with 28 days old brachypterous males was significantly lower than of those mated with same-aged macropterous males. It is the first report of wing morph- and age-related differences in fertilization success of males in insects with a non-functional wing-polymorphism. The possible relationship between wing- and age-related differential fertilization and the mating success of P. apterus males, and differences in the amount of secretion transferred from their accessory glands into the reproductive tract of females during copulation, is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effectiveness of an individual treatment program for five adult males who experienced childhood sexual abuse. A treatment manual focusing on abuse-related self-blame, anger, and anxiety was developed. Daily self-blame, anger, and anxiety self-ratings were completed before and throughout treatment. A multiple-baseline approach was used to evaluate treatment effects. Overall findings indicated that most participants experienced significant reductions in self-blame, anger, and anxiety as a result of their involvement in the sexual abuse treatment program. Treatment was particularly helpful in decreasing feelings of self-blame and anger. The study made an important initial contribution to the development of systematic treatment outcome research for a population of individuals that has received relatively little attention. The results have implications for future clinical and research efforts with sexually abused adult males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growing recognition of male sexual abuse and its potentially debilitating effects has underscored the need to develop effective treatment interventions for this population. The present study describes an individual treatment programme that was developed for adult males who have experienced childhood sexual abuse. The treatment programme focused on three areas related to sexual abuse, specifically feelings of self-blame, anger and anxiety. The study also presents preliminary findings on treatment effects, using self-report measures that five participants completed prior to treatment and at various assessments following treatment termination. Overall findings indicated improvements in behavioural self-blame, anger, state anxiety and trait anxiety. Treatment did not appear to have an effect on characterological self-blame over the long term. The study's findings are limited by the reliance on self-report data and the absence of a comparison group. As such, our findings should be viewed as an initial contribution to the currently limited empirical data on treatment effects for sexually abused adult males. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with BMI and morbidity in relation to body-fat mass (BFM) and fat-free mass (FFM). The analysis was based on cross-sectional data concerning the age, household income, anthropometry and morbidity of 575 males aged 18???59 years from a rural community in North-East India. Data on morbidity were based on the self-reported morbidity (SRM) of the subjects during the last 4 weeks before the survey, whereas data on BMI and body composition were estimated from anthropometry. It was found that SRM was significantly associated with age and income. However, the relationship between BMI and SRM was not significant after adjusting for age and income. Separating the BMI into body-fat mass index (BFMI being BFM in kg divided by height squared in metres) and fat-free mass index (FFMI being FFM in kg divided by height squared in metres), it was found that BFMI was significantly associated with SRM after adjusting for age, income and FFMI. The subjects with a low (<2??9 kg/m2) BFMI were about 4??7 times (odds ratio 4??7, 95 % CI 2??6, 8??6) more likely to become sick than those with a normal (2??9???5??0 kg/m2) BFMI. In addition, the risk of becoming sick was higher in the subjects with a high (>5??0 kg/m2) BFMI than in those with a normal BFMI (odds ratio 3??9, 95 % CI 1??3, 9??8). However, the relationship between FFMI and morbidity was not clearly perceptible. It is therefore speculated that BMI may not always provide accurate information about the variation in body fat and body composition that is associated with morbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Orthodontic treatment in adults has gained social and professional acceptance in recent years. An assessment of orthodontic treatment need helps to identify individuals who will benefit from treatment and safeguard their interest. The purpose of this study was to assess the objective and subjective levels of orthodontic treatment need in a sample of orthodontically untreated adult Asian males. A sample of male army recruits (n = 339, age 17-22 years, Chinese = 258, Malay = 60, Indian = 21) with no history of orthodontic treatment or craniofacial anomalies participated in the study on a voluntary basis with informed consent. Impressions for study models were taken. Objective treatment need was assessed based on study model analysis using the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN). Questionnaires were used to assess subjective treatment need based on subjective esthetic component (EC) ratings. Fifty percentage of the sample had a definite need for orthodontic treatment (dental health component [DHC] grades 4 and 5), whereas 29.2% had a moderate need for treatment (DHC grades 3). The occlusal trait most commonly identified was dental crossbite. Malay males had the highest percentage with a definite need for treatment for both dental health and esthetic reasons in comparison with Chinese and Indian males. However, there was no difference in the level of treatment need among the ethnic groups (P > .05). No correlation between objective and subjective EC scores was found (P > .05). A high level of investigator-identified treatment need was not supported by a similar level of subject awareness among the adult sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epidemiologic and experimental data suggest that consumption of diets that are rich in isoflavones may decrease cancer risk in the breast, prostate, and other tissues. Isoflavones such as genistein and daidzein are structurally similar to endogenous estrogens, and demonstrate both estrogenic and weak anti-estrogenic activities; these activities may underlie the impaired fertility and reproductive tract disorders reported in animals exposed to high doses of isoflavones. To identify possible effects of isoflavones on male fertility, we evaluated reproductive parameters in Wistar-Unilever rats receiving dietary exposure to PTI G-2535, a characterized mixture of soy-derived isoflavones containing 45% genistein, 23% daidzein, and 4% glycitein. Beginning at 10 weeks of age, rats received chronic dietary exposure to the soy isoflavone mixture (200 or 2000 mg/kg diet) for a minimum of 12 months. Controls received unsupplemented chow diet only for the same period. Dietary exposure to isoflavones induced no gross toxicity or alterations in body weight gain. Absolute and relative weights of the testis and epididymis in groups receiving high or low doses of isoflavones were comparable to those of controls, and histopathologic evaluations demonstrated that testicular morphology was similar in all study groups. Isoflavone exposure had no significant effects on spermatid count, sperm production, or sperm morphology in any group. These data suggest that the reproductive system of adult male rats is relatively insensitive to isoflavone toxicity at dose levels that demonstrate significant activity in cancer chemoprevention, and that male reproductive function is unlikely to be affected by long-term administration of isoflavones for cancer prevention or other purposes. The results of this study conducted in adult male rats differ from the significant alterations in reproductive parameters that have been reported in female rats receiving prenatal or juvenile exposure to isoflavones. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Scent-marking and olfactory communication are used extensively by prosimians and can provide spatial and temporal records of group movement and behavior. We compare rates of male scent-marking in relation to reproductive seasons, male dominance rank, and habitat use in two related prosimians: Lemur catta and Eulemur fulvus rufus . We collected scent-marking data on adult male Lemur catta at Beza-Mahafaly Reserve (dry forest), and on Eulemur fulvus rufus at Ranomafana National Park (rainforest), Madagascar. In Lemur , rates of overall scent-marking differed significantly by reproductive season, with higher rates occurring in mating and lactation/migration periods, whereas in Eulemur , reproductive season did not appear to affect scent-marking rates. Dominance rank of male Lemur catta did not affect rates of scent-marking. Among male Eulemur fulvus , dominance relations were not apparent; however, 2 of the 5 focal males scent-marked somewhat more frequently during the mating season and also experienced greater mating success. In Lemur catta , higher rates of scent-marking in the mating season may relate to indirect reproductive competition during a period of high aggression, while such mating competition was not as marked in Eulemur fulvus . Furthermore, higher rates of marking in resident male Lemur catta during male migration may correlate with vigilance toward immigrating males. Greater overall scent-marking rates in ring-tailed lemurs may relate to extensive intergroup home range overlap and no area of exclusive use, whereas the red-fronted lemur groups tended to forage in areas of their home range where little-to-no intergroup overlap occurred. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aims of this study are to demonstrate 1) the criterion validity of the Abel Assessment for sexual interest™ (AASI) based on its ability to discriminate between non child molesters and admitting child molesters, and 2) its resistance to falsification based on its ability to discriminate between liar-denier child molesters and non child molesters. Method: A group of 747 participants matched by age, race, and income was used to develop three logistic regression equations. The models compare a group of non child molesting patients under evaluation for other paraphilias to three groups: 1) a group of admitting molesters of girls under 14 years of age, 2) a group of admitting molesters of boys under 14 years of age, and 3) a group believed to be concealing or denying having molested. Results: Both of the equations designed to discriminate between admitting child molesters and non child molesters were statistically significant. The equation contrasting child molesters attempting to conceal or deny their behavior and non child molesting patients was also statistically significant. Conclusions: The models classifying admitting child molesters versus non child molesters demonstrate criterion validity, while the third model provides evidence of the AASI's resistance to falsification and its utility as a tool in the detection of child molesters who deny the behavior. Results of the equations are reported and suggestions for their use are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This is the largest national survey of fat intake in China. • The food samples were all cooked according to the local dietary habits. • The dietary exposures of temporal trend was examined. The contents of 62 fatty acids, including saturated fatty acids (SFA) and trans fatty acids (TFA) in 192 composites from the 6th (2015–2018) Chinese Total Diet Study (TDS) were determined using gas chromatography (GC) with flame ionization detector (FID). The contents of total fat, SFA, and TFA varied greatly among various food categories with meats recording the highest level. The TFA intake for adult males was 0.19 ± 0.10 percentage of total energy intake (% E) within an range of 0.08−0.42% E, which was lower than the maximum (1% E) recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), while the intakes of total fat and SFA were 29.51 ± 6.01 % E and 7.01 ± 1.95 % E respectively. Comparing to the 5th Chinese TDS, the intakes of SFA and TFA, which were statistically significant, had been reduced by 8.1 % and 30.18 %, indicating the dietary variations for Chinese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infertility is a public health problem with significant social and psychological distress of the affected men due to the inability to achieve the desired social role of fatherhood. Men with infertility may experience lower life satisfaction, heightened distress and anxiety. This study assessed the knowledge, perception and factors influencing knowledge and perception of infertility among adult males in Ibadan, Nigeria., Methods: Cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among 388 adult males between April and November 2019 in the selected communities. Respondents were interviewed using a pretested structured questionnaire. Data was analysed with SPSS version 22. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were conducted. Level of significance was set at p≤5%., Results: The mean age of the respondents was 45.74±10.76 years. Majority were married 310(80%) and had tertiary education 234(60%). Less than half (48.7%) understood the correct meaning of infertility, 170(44%) agreed that witchcraft could cause infertility while 230(59%) disagreed that infertility could be prevented. Two hundred and sixty (67%) and 283 (73%) of the respondents had good knowledge and perception towards infertility respectively. Religion, education and income were statistically significant with knowledge of infertility (p<0.05). In addition, knowledge and perception of infertility showed statistically significant association (p<0.001)., Conclusion: Knowledge and perception of respondents towards infertility was suboptimal in this study. Some cultural beliefs persist despite the high level of education of respondents. Community-based education on infertility to increase the knowledge and perception of men towards infertility is recommended., (© Association of Resident Doctors, UCH, Ibadan.)

A 14-month study of 30 adult female members of a captive group of sooty mangabeys investigated their affiliative interactions with group members of varying age and sex. The adult females preferentially affiliated with other adults and interacted less than expected with immature group members. Dyadic frequencies suggested especially frequent affiliation with the three resident adult males, although the pattern of interaction with each male was distinct and apparently was related to age and dominance status of the males. Females of the alpha matriline showed significantly greater affiliation with the males than did those of other matrilines, but this preference was not reciprocated by the males. A preference for grooming older group members (some of the matriarchs and the oldest adult male) was also suggested. In consideration of the taxonomic distinctness of the sooty mangabey from the gray-cheeked mangabey, comparison of these results with those available for albigena were made. Few differences were apparent. Comparisons with the affiliative behavior of Papio females also suggested limited differences, despite the apparently isolated position of the sooty mangabey within the tribe Papionini. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rates of visual scanning and vocalizations were studied in a group of captive marmosets ( Callinthrix jacchus) after the presentation of five different stimuli (artificial flower, playback of long calls, female/male conspecific, stuffed wild cat) in order to assess the function of visual scanning. Only the presentation of a stuffed cat induced a significant response. The adult males in particular increased their scanning rate and all adult individuals decreased their rate of vocalizations. The results indicate that visual scanning in marmosets is an appropriate measure of vigilance which seems to serve the function of predator detection and avoidance. The strong response of adult males suggests that they play a special role in predator detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intermale affiliative behavior was studied in three groups of naturally occurring ringtailed lemurs over a one-year period. The adult males in the sample exhibited affiliative behavior with all other males in their social groups; but affiliative behavior between some male-male dyads occurred markedly more often than between others. These dyads are called “preferred partnerships.” The formation of preferred partnerships did not appear to be influenced by male dominance rank or age-class. Furthermore, these partnerships were of a short-term nature, and none persisted throughout the entire study period. The following factors may explain the absence of rank or age effects, and the brevity of preferred partnerships: (1) frequent fluctuation in the male dominance hierarchy in each study group; (2) the fact that higher-ranking males may not offer specific benefits to lower-ranking males; and (3) the fact that male dispersal affected the male membership of each group over the 12-month study period. The focal males engaged in significantly more affiliative behavior during the lactation period compared with the other reproductive seasons. Migration partners may offer each other predator protection during the transfer process, and although males that transfer together do not engage in alliance or coalition behavior towards resident males, males transferring in pairs or threesomes are in a better position to spot and defend themselves against attack by resident males. Migration partners also provide social contact for each other while in the process of immigration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constancy or change in adult personality organization can be assessed by comparing the factor structure of personality instruments at different ages, and some studies have reported cross-sectional differences in structure. The present study compares the factor structure of the Guilford-Zimmerman Temperament Survey scales longitudinally in three administrations 6 years apart and cross-sectionally in three age cohorts. Additional analyses compare first administration data collected in two successive decades to test for variation in structure resulting from cultural change over that period. Subjects were 769 male volunteers in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, aged 17 to 97 at the time of the first administration. Three varimax-rotated principal components were extracted in each of eight analyses. Results show no systematic evidence of variation in structure in any of these groups, with coefficients of factor congruence ranging from .83 to .99. This longitudinally demonstrated invariance of personality structure is discussed in terms of the implications for the stability of personality organization throughout the adult years and for the use of personality tests in elderly groups. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Introduction: 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21-OHD) is the most common form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). In adulthood, most studies are reported in females. By contrast, data on adult males are scarce., Objective: To describe a series of adult males with classic 21-OHD and to assess the presence of adrenal masses and testicular adrenal rest tumors (TARTs)., Material and Methods: Eight males (21-42 years) were included. We evaluated clinical presentation, 17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), Testosterone (T), Δ4Androstenedione (Δ4A) ACTH, LH, FSH and plasma renin activitiy (PRA) levels at consultation. Molecular studies of the CYP21A2 gene, testicular ultrasound (US), semen analysis and adrenal computed tomography (CT) scan were performed. Treatment and compliance were assessed., Results: Basal 17-OHP levels were >20ng/ml in all patients. At consultation, median 17OH-P was 11.5 (2.3-81) ng/ml, FSH: 3 (0.3-4) mUI/ml, LH: 1.1 (0.1-6) mUI/ml, T: 4.3 (1.7-8) ng/ml, Δ4A: 5.7 (1.4-16) ng/ml, ACTH: 86.4 (76-334) pg/ml, PRA: 9.5 (1.3-23.6) ng/ml/h. Semen analysis was performed in 5/8 patients, showing azoospermia in two. Molecular genetic analysis was performed in 4/8 patients. TARTs were found in 5/6, being bilateral in four. Adrenal masses were found in 4/6. In the 7 patients diagnosed in childhood, their follow-up was referred to as irregular, both in their attendance at consultations and in compliance with the indicated treatment., Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first series on adult males with classic 21-OHD which concomitantly assesses clinical presentation, molecular biology, adrenal and testicular imaging studies, semen analysis and compliance to treatment. A high prevalence of adrenal masses and TARTs was observed, possibly associated with poor treatment compliance leading to elevated ACTH and increased proliferation. Our findings on TARTs agree with reports in international publications of CAH in males, with adrenal imaging being added in our group. Although we are aware that further studies with a larger sample size and more data are needed, we consider that our findings contribute to the clinical management of classical 21-OHD in the male population., (Copyright © 2020 SEEN y SED. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Peyronie's disease (PD) prevalence varies between 0.39% and 20% and studies on PD prevalence are limited., Aim: This study aims to determine the prevalence of PD in males aged ≥30 years in Turkey and to evaluate etiological factors associated with it., Methods: The study was conducted in 12 regions of Turkey according to the Eurostat Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics 1 classification and included 1,208 patients. Survey questionnaires including questions about demographic features and basic health status as well as about diagnosis and etiology of PD were put forth to the volunteers who agreed to participate in the study. Diagnosis of probable PD was established by evaluating the questionnaires. Patients with a diagnosis of congenital penile curvature were excluded from the group with PD. Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, and Mann-Whitney U test were used., Main Outcome Measure: The primary outcome analyzed in this article was the prevalence rate of PD in Turkey and the associated comorbidities., Results: The prevalence of PD was determined as 5.3%. The rates of participants with PD were found to be the highest in the 50-59 years group (27%) and in the North-East Region (20%). Compared with participants without PD, participants with PD were older (median: 52 interquartile range [41-64] vs 45 [37-55]; P < .001) and the rates of smokers (73% vs 60.9%; P = .036) and those having diabetes mellitus (17.5% vs 9.2%; P = .045), hypertension (14.3% vs 6.9%; P = .041), and heart failure were higher (7.9% vs 2.5%; P = .027). Male with PD symptoms preferred their partners on top during sexual intercourse (15.2% vs 34.1%; P < .001). This is the first study to evaluate premature ejaculation prevalence and related comorbidities with face-to-face interviews., Conclusion: The prevalence of PD was 5.3% in Turkey. Besides advanced age, smoking, position of sexual intercourse, and presence of comorbidities especially diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and heart failure were the factors associated with PD prevalence. Kadioglu A, Dincer M, Salabas E, et al. A Population-Based Study of Peyronie's Disease in Turkey: Prevalence and Related Comorbidities. Sex Med 2020;8:679-685., (Copyright © 2020. Published by Elsevier Inc.)