scholarly journals FSHB Genotype Identified as a Relevant Diagnostic Parameter Revealed by Cluster Analysis of Men With Idiopathic Infertility

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Henrike Krenz ◽  
Andrea Sansone ◽  
Sabine Kliesch ◽  
Joerg Gromoll ◽  
Maria Schubert
Keyword(s):  
Sperm Count ◽  
Testicular Volume ◽  
Entire Study ◽  
Idiopathic Infertility ◽  
Partitioning Around Medoids ◽  
Infertile Men ◽  
Heterogenous Group ◽  
Genetic Abnormalities ◽  
Genotype Cluster ◽  
Study Population

Introduction and ObjectivesAbout 30-75% of infertile men are diagnosed with idiopathic infertility, thereby lacking major causative factors to explain their impaired fertility status. In this study, we used a large cohort of idiopathic infertile men to determine whether subgroups could be identified by an unbiased clustering approach and whether underlying etiologic factors could be delineated.Patients and MethodsFrom our in-house database Androbase®, we retrospectively selected patients (from 2008 to 2018) with idiopathic male infertility (azoo- to normozoospermia) who fit the following selection criteria: FSH ≥ 1 IU/l, testosterone ≥ 8 nmol/l, ejaculate volume ≥ 1.5 ml. Patients with genetic abnormalities or partners with female factors were excluded.For the identified study population (n=2742), we used common andrologic features (somatic, semen and hormonal parameters, including the FSHB c.-211G>T (rs10835638) single nucleotide polymorphism) for subsequent analyses. Cluster analyses were performed for the entire study population and for two sub-cohorts, which were separated by total sperm count (TSC) thresholds: Cohort A (TSC ≥ 1 mill/ejac; n=2422) and Cohort B (TSC < 1 mill/ejac; n=320). For clustering, the partitioning around medoids method was employed, and the quality was evaluated by average silhouette width.ResultsThe applied cluster approach for the whole study population yielded two separate clusters, which showed significantly different distributions in bi-testicular volume, FSH and FSHB genotype. Cluster 1 contained all men homozygous for G (wildtype) in FSHB c.-211G>T (100%), while Cluster 2 contained most patients carrying a T allele (>96.6%). In the analyses of sub-cohorts A/B, two clusters each were formed too. Again, the strongest segregation markers between the respective clusters were bi-testicular volume, FSH and FSHB c.-211G>T.ConclusionWith this first unbiased approach for revealing putative subgroups within a heterogenous group of idiopathic infertile men, we did indeed identify distinct patient clusters. Surprisingly, across all diverse phenotypes of infertility, the strongest segregation markers were FSHB c.-211G>T, FSH, and bi-testicular volume. Further, Cohorts A and B were significantly separated by FSHB genotype (wildtype vs. T-allele carriers), which supports the notion of a contributing genetic factor. Consequently, FSHB genotyping should be implemented as diagnostic routine in patients with idiopathic infertility.

O-151 Detailed characterization of infertile men with idiopathic versus unexplained infertility: a single-center experience

2021 ◽  
Vol 36 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
L Boeri ◽  
L Candela ◽  
E Pozzi ◽  
F Belladelli ◽  
P Capogrosso ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Charlson Comorbidity Index ◽  
Semen Analysis ◽  
Unexplained Infertility ◽  
Testicular Volume ◽  
Multivariable Logistic Regression Analysis ◽  
Sperm Dna Fragmentation ◽  
Serum Hormones ◽  
Idiopathic Infertility ◽  
Infertile Men ◽  
Comorbidity Index

Abstract Study question We aimed to investigate the rate of and the clinical characteristics of men with idiopathic versus unexplained infertility from a cohort of white-European men. Summary answer Approximately 20% and 5% of men evaluated for primary couple’s infertility depicted characteristics suggestive for idiopathic and unexplained infertility, respectively. What is known already Male factor infertility (MFI) can be associated with clinical, hormonal and genetic diseases, but MFI is idiopathic in almost 30% of cases. Study design, size, duration Data from 3098 infertile men (according to WHO definition) consecutively evaluated between 2003-2020 at a single academic centre were analysed and compared with those of 103 fertile controls. Health-significant comorbidities were scored with the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Idiopathic infertility was defined for pathological semen analysis but normal physical examination and endocrine, genetic and biochemical laboratory testing. Unexplained infertility is defined as infertility of unknown origin with normal sperm parameters. Participants/materials, setting, methods Testicular volume (TV) was assessed with a Prader’s orchidometer. Serum hormones and sperm DNA fragmentation index (SDF) were measured in every patient. Vitamin D3 (VitD) deficiency was considered for vitD levels <20 ng/mL. Semen analyses were based on the 2010 WHO reference criteria. Health-significant comorbidities were scored with the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Main results and the role of chance Overall, 570 (18.5%) and 154 (5.0%) patients depicted criteria suggestive for either idiopathic or unexplained primary infertility, respectively. Groups were similar in terms of age, BMI, CCI, recreational habits, circulating serum hormones and SDF. Testicular volume was lower in men with idiopathic vs. unexplained infertility [median (IQR) 20 (15-25) vs. 20 (17-25); p < 0.001]; more idiopathic than unexplained infertile men depicted TV < 15ml (23.4% vs. 12%; p < 0.01). Similarly, vitD levels were lower [22 (17-28) vs. 27 (21-42) ng/mL; p < 0.001] in idiopathic vs. unexplained infertile men, with a higher rate of pathologic VitD levels in the same group (42.1% vs. 10%; p = 0.04). When compared to fertile controls, groups were similar in terms of age, BMI, CCI and serum hormones values. TV was larger in fertile controls than idiopathic and unexplained infertile men (all p < 0.01). At multivariable logistic regression analysis only vitD deficiency (OR 8.1, p = 0.03) was found to be associated with idiopathic infertility after accounting for age, BMI, testosterone values and TV.  Limitations, reasons for caution The small number of fertile controls may raise the possibility of biases. Wider implications of the findings Idiopathic and unexplained infertility were identified in approximately 20% and 5% of men evaluated, respectively. Idiopathic infertile men showed lower TV and lower vitD values compared to men with unexplained infertility. Future studies are needed to develop a more tailored management to these difficult MFI cases. Trial registration number .

Decline in semen quality among infertile men during the past 15 years in Western Algeria (SIDI-BEL-ABBES)

2016 ◽  
Vol 6 (4) ◽  
pp. 112-118
Author(s):  
El-haina Fatima Zohra ◽  
Bendahmane Malika
Keyword(s):  
Semen Quality ◽  
Sperm Count ◽  
Linear Regression Analysis ◽  
Semen Parameters ◽  
Motile Sperm ◽  
Infertile Men ◽  
Semen Volume ◽  
Western Algeria ◽  
Study Population ◽  
Total Motile Sperm Count

The current study aimed at measuring changes in semen quality and quantity in young healthy sperm of the partner in western Algeria over 15 years. A retrospective analysis of semen parameters over 15 years was carried out using linear regression analysis, at the fertility laboratory in West Algeria. Study population consisted of 188 young partners, aged 25 to 35 years, who donated sperm samples for artificial insemination between 2000 and 2015. Their wives with infertility problems were surveyed using questionnaire about their lifestyles and infertility factors. There were no statistically significant changes in semen concentration and motility during the study period. The mean semen volume increased by 0.1 mL per year (P < 0.0001), with a concomitant mean rise of 5.8 × 106 per year in total motile sperm count. The percentage of sperm normal morphology decreased by a mean of 1% per year during the entire period (P < 0.0001). During these 15 past years, there has been an increase in total motile sperm count, and semen volume where-as, a decline in normal sperm morphology has been noticed that is independ-ent of the age and the duration of abstinence of infertile men.

Pengaruh Kepuasan Kerja terhadap Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB) Alumni Diklat Kepemimpinan Tingkat IV di Provinsi Banten

2020 ◽  
Vol 16 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Enong Rostiawati
Keyword(s):  
Job Satisfaction ◽  
Organizational Citizenship ◽  
Organizational Citizenship Behavior ◽  
Leadership Training ◽  
Survey Methods ◽  
Citizenship Behavior ◽  
Entire Study ◽  
Analysis Technique ◽  
Study Population

Abstract: Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB) is a variable that can be influenced by job satisfaction. This study aims to determine the effect of job satisfaction variables on Organizational Citizenship Behavior OCB alumni level IV leadership training in Banten Province. This research uses a quantitative approach through survey methods. Data analysis technique used is simple linear regression. The population in this study were 40 respondents and the sample used was 40 respondents. Determination of the sample using total sampling techniques or samples taken from the entire study population. The results of the analysis and interpretation of research data show that the value of the regulatory coefficient of influence on job satisfaction on Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB) alumni of leadership training level IV is 0.740 thus it can be concluded that job satisfaction has a direct positive effect on Organizational Citizenship Behavior alumni training, meaning that improvement of satisfaction in IV level leadership training is 0.740. work has an impact on improving Organizational Citizenship Behavior for training alumni, So Organizational Citizenship Behavior for training alumni can be achieved through job satisfaction.Keywords: Job satisfaction, Organizational Citizenship Behavior, Leadership Training Alumni Level IV

The Impact of Internal Work Environment on the Retention of Healthcare Providers at Turaif General Hospital

2019 ◽  
Vol 10 (12) ◽  
pp. 1183-1199
Author(s):  
Mohammed Alrouili ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Work Environment ◽  
General Hospital ◽  
Professional Growth ◽  
Healthcare Providers ◽  
Entire Study ◽  
Internal Work ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Study Population ◽  
The Right ◽  
The Impact

This study attempted to identify the impact of internal work environment on the retention of healthcare providers at Turaif General Hospital in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In particular, the study aimed to identify the dimensions of work circumstances, compensation, and relationship with colleagues, professional growth, and the level of healthcare providers’ retention. In order to achieve the study goals, the researcher used the descriptive analytical approach. The researcher used the questionnaire as the study tool. The study population comprised all the healthcare providers at Turaif General Hospital. Questionnaires were distributed to the entire study sample that consisted of 220 individuals. The number of questionnaires valid for study was 183 questionnaires. The research findings were as follows: the participants’ estimate of the work circumstances dimension was high (3.64), the participants’ estimate of the compensation dimension was moderate (3.32), the participants’ estimate of the relationship with colleagues dimension was high (3.62), the participants’ estimate of the professional growth dimension was weak (2.39), and the participants’ estimate of healthcare providers’ retention level was intermediate (2.75). Accordingly, the researcher’s major recommendations are: the need to create the right atmosphere for personnel in hospitals, the interest of the hospital to provide the appropriate conditions for the staff in terms of the physical and moral aspects for building the work adjustment in the staff, and conducting training courses and educational lectures for personnel in hospitals on how to cope with the work pressures.

Multicentre Study of Endo-Ectoparasite Infection in Italian Cats

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marco Genchi ◽  
ALICE VISMARRA ◽  
STEFANIA ZANET ◽  
SIMONE MORELLI ◽  
ROBERTA GALUPPI ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Geographic Area ◽  
Human Infection ◽  
Diagnostic Methods ◽  
Effective Control ◽  
Entire Study ◽  
Private Households ◽  
Health Concept ◽  
Study Population ◽  
The One

Abstract BackgroundParasites infecting cats include protozoa, helminths and arthropods. Many are also transmissible to humans. Effective control relies on knowledge of parasite distribution and risk factors for infection. The present study was aimed at evaluating prevalence of major feline parasites in Italy and risk factors associated with their occurrence.MethodsOver a 12-month study period, thirteen study centers across Italy analyzed feces, hair and ectoparasites from naturally infected cats coming from feral colonies, shelters and private households. Samples from cats (n=987) were analyzed by all centers using the same diagnostic methods. Prevalence values and risk factors were evaluated statistically for identification of predictors of risk. ResultsThe overall prevalence of gastro-intestinal (GI) and bronco-pulmonary (BP) nematodes was 35.9% (354/987). T. cati was the most prevalent species (253/987; 25.6%), followed by hookworms (98/987; 9.9%). Among BP nematodes, A. abstrusus was the most common (76/987; 7.7%). Approximately 35.7% (352/987) of the study population was infested by ectoparasites. The most common were fleas 29.4% (290/987), followed by ear mites O. cynotis 9.8% (97/987).Predictors of risk for parasite infection included age, a predominantly or exclusively outdoor lifestyle, geographic area and lack of anti-parasitic treatment.ConclusionBoth ecto- and endoparasites are still common in cats throughout Italy, many of them being of zoonotic concern and vectors of pathogens to humans. Given the presence of parasites throughout the entire study period, year-round treatment should be considered. Furthermore, data confirm the need to protect the human-animal bond using proper endo- and ecto-parasiticides to reduce the risk of human infection, in application of the One-Health concept.

scholarly journals A school-based oral health educational program: the experience of Maringa- PR, Brazil

2004 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
pp. 27-33 ◽  
Author(s):  
Carlos Alberto Conrado ◽  
Sandra Mara Maciel ◽  
Márcia Regina Oliveira
Keyword(s):  
Health Care ◽  
Oral Health ◽  
Oral Hygiene ◽  
Primary Schools ◽  
Oral Health Care ◽  
School Level ◽  
Educational Approach ◽  
Entire Study ◽  
School Based ◽  
Study Population

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the preliminary results of a school-based oral health educational strategy adopted in public primary schools from the city of Maringa, State of Parana, Brazil. The study sample was composed by 556 children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years old, 124 schoolteachers and a group of 55 mothers. The educational approach was implemented for 18 months and consisted of reinforcements of interventions addressed to students and schoolteachers at school level and few activities targeted at the mothers, performed by means of home visits. Baseline and follow-up interviews focused on oral health care were undertaken for the entire study population. As a stimulus for the students to achieve proper oral hygiene habits, the simplified oral hygiene index was assessed at three different moments. A statistically significant improvement in their oral hygiene index (p<0.001) was recorded. The results achieved suggest an encouraging tendency towards the improvement in the levels of oral health care among the school-age youths studied. They also point out the need of intensifying the preparation of schoolteachers in oral health topics, as well the instructions to the mothers for their oral health care. Moreover, they highlight the importance of the continuous implementation of school-based programs to promote the oral health.

scholarly journals Is there a place for nutritional supplements in the treatment of idiopathic male infertility?

2014 ◽  
Vol 86 (3) ◽  
pp. 164 ◽  
Author(s):  
Davide Arcaniolo ◽  
Vincenzo Favilla ◽  
Daniele Tiscione ◽  
Francesca Pisano ◽  
Giorgio Bozzini ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Male Infertility ◽  
Sperm Count ◽  
Nutritional Supplements ◽  
Semen Parameters ◽  
Male Factor ◽  
Treatment Regimens ◽  
Idiopathic Male Infertility ◽  
Infertile Men ◽  
Wide Variability

Objective: Infertility affects 15% of couples in fertile age. Male factor is a cause of infertility in almost half of cases, mainly due to oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT). The purpose of this study is to review the effects of nutritional supplements as medical treatment for idiopathic male infertility. Material and methods: A Pub Med and Medline review of the published studies utilizing nutritional supplements for the treatment of male infertility has been performed. Results: Clinical trials on Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Vitamin C. Arginine, Carnitine, N-Acetyl-Carnitine, Glutathione, Coenzyme Q10, Selenium and Zinc were reviewed. Although there is a wide variability in selected population, dose regimen and final outcomes, nutritional supplements both alone and in combination seems to be able to improve semen parameters (sperm count, sperm motility and morphology) and pregnancy rate in infertile men. Conclusions: There are rising evidences from published randomized trials and systematic review suggesting that nutritional supplementation may improve semen parameters and the likelihood of pregnancy in men affected by OAT. This improvement, however, is not consistent and there is a wide variation in the treatment regimens used. Well designed and adequately powered RCTs are needed to better clarify the role of nutritional supplements as treatment for male infertility.

scholarly journals The importance of kindergarten institutions in achieving integrated education for pre-school children: أهمية مؤسسات رياض الأطفال في تحقيق التربية المتكاملة لأطفال ما قبل المدرسة

2017 ◽  
Vol 1 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nafez Ayoub "Ali Ahmed"
Keyword(s):  
Social Sciences ◽  
Preschool Child ◽  
School Children ◽  
Emotional Development ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
Integrated Education ◽  
Entire Study ◽  
Statistical Program ◽  
Study Population ◽  
Descriptive Approach

The aim of this study is to understand the importance of kindergarten institutions in achieving integrated education for pre-school children. The researcher used the descriptive approach. The study population consisted of all the principals and educators of kindergartens in Salfit Governorate. The study sample included the entire study population of (120) director and educator. The researcher used the statistical program for social sciences (SPSS) to process the data statistically. The results showed that the percentage of achievement of kindergarten institutions in Salfit governorate for integrated education reached (68%) in terms of specifications of buildings, sites and facilities to help achieve the integrated education of the preschool child. The study also showed that 98% of the activities carried out within kindergartens help pre-school children to grow properly in various aspects of physical, mental and emotional development, thus achieving integrated education. The results showed that there were no statistically significant differences at the level of (α 0.05 0.05) for the importance of kindergartens in achieving the integrated education of pre-school children from the point of view of the principals and educators of the kindergartens in Salfit governorate for the fields (building, location, facilities, activities) Paragraphs attributed to the variables of nature of work and scientific qualification.

Reduced Growth in Non-Small for Gestational Age Fetuses from 35 Weeks of Gestation to Birth and Perinatal Outcomes

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-10
Author(s):  
Peña Dieste Pérez ◽  
Luis M. Esteban ◽  
Ricardo Savirón-Cornudella ◽  
Faustino R. Pérez-López ◽  
Sergio Castán-Mateo ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Gestational Age ◽  
Small For Gestational Age ◽  
Perinatal Outcomes ◽  
Entire Study ◽  
Birth Weight Percentile ◽  
Gestational Age At Delivery ◽  
Study Population ◽  
The Difference ◽  
Relationship Of ◽  
The Relationship

<b><i>Objective:</i></b> This study aimed to assess reduced fetal growth between 35 weeks of gestation and birth in non-small for gestational age fetuses associated with adverse perinatal outcomes (APOs). <b><i>Material and Method:</i></b> It is a retrospective cohort study of 9,164 non-small for gestational age fetuses estimated by ultrasound at 35 weeks. The difference between the birth weight percentile and the estimated percentile weight (EPW) at 35 weeks of gestation was calculated, and we studied the relationship of this difference with the appearance of APO. APOs were defined as cesarean or instrumental delivery rates for nonreassuring fetal status, 5-min Apgar score &#x3c;7, arterial cord blood pH &#x3c;7.10, and stillbirth. Fetuses that exhibited a percentile decrease between both moments were classified into 6 categories according to the amount of percentile decrease (0.01–10.0, 10.01–20.0, 20.01–30.0, 30.01–40.0, 40.01–50.0, and &#x3e;50.0 percentiles). It was evaluated whether the appearance of APO was related to the amount of this percentile decrease. Relative risk (RR) was calculated in these subgroups to predict APOs in general and for each APO in particular. Receiver operating characteristic and area under curves (AUC) for the difference in the percentile was calculated, used as a continuous parameter in the entire study population. <b><i>Results:</i></b> The median gestational age at delivery in uncomplicated pregnancies was 40.0 (39.1–40.7) and in pregnancies with APOs 40.3 (49.4–41.0), <i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.001. The prevalence of APOs was greater in the group of fetuses with a decrease in percentile (7.6%) compared to those with increased percentile (4.8%) (<i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.001). The RR was 1.63 (95% CI: 1.365–1.944, <i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.001). Although the differences were significant in all decreased percentile groups, RRs were significantly higher when decreased growth values were &#x3e;40 points (RR: 2.036, 95% CI: 1.581–2.623, <i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.001). The estimated value of the AUC for percentile decrease was 0.58 (0.56–0.61, <i>p</i> &#x3c; 0.001). <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> Fetuses with a decrease in the EPW between the ultrasound at 35 weeks of gestation and birth have a higher risk of APOs, being double in fetuses with a decrease of &#x3e;40 percentile points.

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