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89-427: Gunnar Graps was born to Latvian conductor, cellist and musical pedagogue Igors Gunārs Graps-Grāfs and his Estonian wife Salme (née Pluum). Graps was inspired to turn to music by his father at the age of six when he started to learn cello . In 1964, being only 13, he joined his first band Satelliidid as a guitarist. In spring of 1967 Graps joined Mikronid , where he played drums for the next six years. In 1970–1972 he

178-793: A class of drugs that are structurally related to testosterone , the main male sex hormone , and produce effects by binding to the androgen receptor (AR). Anabolic steroids have a number of medical uses, but are also used by athletes to increase muscle size, strength, and performance. Health risks can be produced by long-term use or excessive doses of AAS. These effects include harmful changes in cholesterol levels (increased low-density lipoprotein and decreased high-density lipoprotein ), acne , high blood pressure , liver damage (mainly with most oral AAS), and left ventricular hypertrophy . These risks are further increased when athletes take steroids alongside other drugs, causing significantly more damage to their bodies. The effect of anabolic steroids on

267-464: A common Latvian language , culture , history and ancestry. A Balto-Finnic -speaking tribe known as the Livs settled among the northern coast of modern day Latvia. The Germanic settlers derived their name for the natives from the term Liv. They referred to all the natives as "Letts" and the nation as "Lettland", naming their colony Livonia or Livland. The Latin form, Livonia , gradually referred to

356-439: A competitive edge or to assist in recovery from injury. These sports include bodybuilding , weightlifting , shot put and other track and field , cycling , baseball , wrestling , mixed martial arts , boxing , football , and cricket . Such use is prohibited by the rules of the governing bodies of most sports. AAS use occurs among adolescents, especially by those participating in competitive sports. It has been suggested that

445-510: A considerable connection and trade with their neighbors. The first indications of human inhabitants on the lands of modern Latvia date archaeologically to c. 9000 BC, suggesting that the first settlers were hunters that stayed almost immediately following the end of the last ice age . Colonizers from the south arrived quickly, driving many of the hunters northward as polar ice caps melted further, or east, into modern-day Russia , Belarus , and Ukraine . The Roman author Tacitus remarked upon

534-472: A course of testosterone-boosting therapy (e.g. clomifene and human chorionic gonadotropin ) usually results in return to normal testosterone production. ) Female-specific side effects include increases in body hair , permanent deepening of the voice, enlarged clitoris , and temporary decreases in menstrual cycles . Alteration of fertility and ovarian cysts can also occur in females. When taken during pregnancy, AAS can affect fetal development by causing

623-429: A higher household income than the general population. AAS users tend to research the drugs they are taking more than other controlled-substance users; however, the major sources consulted by steroid users include friends, non-medical handbooks, internet-based forums, blogs, and fitness magazines, which can provide questionable or inaccurate information. AAS users tend to be unhappy with the portrayal of AAS as deadly in

712-669: A lesser extent include methyltestosterone , oxandrolone , mesterolone , and oxymetholone , as well as drostanolone propionate (dromostanolone propionate), metenolone (methylandrostenolone) esters (specifically metenolone acetate and metenolone enanthate ), and fluoxymesterone . Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), known as androstanolone or stanolone when used medically, and its esters are also notable, although they are not widely used in medicine. Boldenone undecylenate and trenbolone acetate are used in veterinary medicine . Designer steroids are AAS that have not been approved and marketed for medical use but have been distributed through

801-513: A nationally representative sample of young adult males in the United States found an association between lifetime and past-year self-reported AAS use and involvement in violent acts. Compared with individuals that did not use steroids, young adult males that used AAS reported greater involvement in violent behaviors even after controlling for the effects of key demographic variables, previous violent behavior, and polydrug use. A 1996 review examining

890-461: A patriotic song about Estonia. In 1989 Gunnar Graps moved to the United States in the hopes of reaching new heights with his musical career but, alas, failed to reach those previous lofty heights and was compelled to work as a repairman – to "make ends meet". After the end of the Soviet occupation, when Estonia had been restored into a fully independent country in 1991, Graps returned to his homeland. In

979-523: A potential for abuse and dependence, leading to their regulation and control. In countries where AAS are controlled substances , there is often a black market in which smuggled, clandestinely manufactured or even counterfeit drugs are sold to users. Since the discovery and synthesis of testosterone in the 1930s, AAS have been used by physicians for many purposes, with varying degrees of success. These can broadly be grouped into anabolic, androgenic, and other uses. Most steroid users are not athletes. In

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1068-632: A predominance of the L550 branch of N1a1-Tat. N1c1a was present in 41.5%, R1a1a-M558 in 35.2% and I1 (M253) in 6.3% of the samples analyzed. In lower levels, 2.5% of I2b (M223) and 0.6% I2a (P37.2) – haplogroups historically associated with western hunter-gatherers – were found as well. Genetically, Latvians cluster closest with neighboring Lithuanians and Estonians ; to a lesser extent with Poles , Czechs , Scandinavians , Germans , and Belarusians . Anabolic steroid Anabolic steroids , also known as anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), are

1157-501: A reduced androgenic:anabolic ratio are preferred for anemia and osteoporosis, and to reverse protein loss following trauma, surgery, or prolonged immobilization. Determination of androgenic:anabolic ratio is typically performed in animal studies, which has led to the marketing of some compounds claimed to have anabolic activity with weak androgenic effects. This disassociation is less marked in humans, where all AAS have significant androgenic effects. A commonly used protocol for determining

1246-505: A result, AAS users may get misdiagnosed by a psychiatrist not told about their habit. Cooper, Noakes, Dunne, Lambert, and Rochford identified that AAS-using individuals are more likely to score higher on borderline (4.7 times), antisocial (3.8 times), paranoid (3.4 times), schizotypal (3.1 times), histrionic (2.9 times), passive-aggressive (2.4 times), and narcissistic (1.6 times) personality profiles than non-users. Other studies have suggested that antisocial personality disorder

1335-501: A shift towards straightforward hard rock and heavy metal, genres which Magnetic Band were already flirting with ( Note: all the musical groups in Soviet Union had to be evaluated before they were allowed to perform or exist at all ). After Mikhail Gorbachev became the new leader of the Soviet regime, GGG experienced less obstruction from the Soviet authorities. In 1988, they released their only LP entitled Põlemine (Burning). The vinyl

1424-405: A small but vibrant Herrnhutist movement played a significant part in the development of Latvian literary culture before it was absorbed into the mainstream Lutheran denomination. Latvians' ancestral language, Latvian , has been recorded since at least the 16th century. It developed into a distinct language by the 9th century. It is part of a distinct linguistic branch of Indo-European languages:

1513-444: A small number of AAS users. Large-scale long-term studies of psychiatric effects on AAS users are not currently available. DSM-IV lists General diagnostic criteria for a personality disorder guideline that "The pattern must not be better accounted for as a manifestation of another mental disorder, or to the direct physiological effects of a substance (e.g. drug or medication) or a general medical condition (e.g. head trauma).". As

1602-457: A steroid's ability to influence gene expression and cellular processes, highlighting the complex biophysical interactions of anabolic steroids at the cellular level. As their name suggests, AAS have two different, but overlapping, types of effects: anabolic , meaning that they promote anabolism (cell growth), and androgenic (or virilizing ), meaning that they affect the development and maintenance of masculine characteristics. Some examples of

1691-424: A study by insurer Blue Cross Blue Shield found." Another study found that non-medical use of AAS among college students was at or less than 1%. According to a recent survey, 78.4% of steroid users were noncompetitive bodybuilders and non-athletes, while about 13% reported unsafe injection practices such as reusing needles, sharing needles, and sharing multidose vials, though a 2007 study found that sharing of needles

1780-581: A word play of "Tühjad pihud" (Empty Hands) record. In 2002, a 3 CD collection of Gunnar Graps' music, from all his tenures with past bands, was released as part of " Eesti kullafond " (Estionian Gold Fund) series. In 2003, Gunnar Graps performed at one of his last big concerts before death. An incarnation of Magnetic Band played in front of approx. 600 people at Green Christmas Festival in Rakvere , Estonia . Despite his health problems, Graps did not want to give up on music and in 2003 he released "Rajalt maas" (Off

1869-776: Is a modern revival of the ethnic religion of the Latvians before Christianization in the 13th century CE. Most of the Christian Latvians claim to belong to the Evangelical Lutheran Church , but in Latgale and Alsunga Municipality the Roman Catholic Church is predominant, a small minority of Latvians belong to the Latvian Orthodox Church and other religious congregations. In the late 18th century,

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1958-553: Is associated with spread of Indo-European languages . R1a of Latvians is predominantly M558, and compared to other populations like South Slavs and West Slavs , Latvians also have the highest concentration of M558 among R1a. N1a1-Tat mutation originated in Northeast Asia and had spread throughout the Urals into Europe, where it is currently most common among Finno-Ugric , Baltic and East Slavic peoples . Latvians and Lithuanians have

2047-455: Is calculated as the ratio of LA/VP weight gains produced by the treatment with that compound using castrated but untreated rats as baseline: (LA c,t –LA c )/(VP c,t –VP c ). The LA/VP weight gain ratio from rat experiments is not unitary for testosterone (typically 0.3–0.4), but it is normalized for presentation purposes, and used as basis of comparison for other AAS, which have their androgenic:anabolic ratios scaled accordingly (as shown in

2136-402: Is fairly common among AAS users, mostly due to stimulation of the sebaceous glands by increased testosterone levels. Conversion of testosterone to DHT can accelerate the rate of premature baldness for males genetically predisposed, but testosterone itself can produce baldness in females. A number of severe side effects can occur if adolescents use AAS. For example, AAS may prematurely stop

2225-491: Is greatly reduced. It has been hypothesized that this reduction in muscle breakdown may occur through AAS inhibiting the action of other steroid hormones called glucocorticoids that promote the breakdown of muscles. AAS also affect the number of cells that develop into fat-storage cells, by favouring cellular differentiation into muscle cells instead. Anabolic steroids interact with ARs across various tissues, including muscle, bone, and reproductive systems. Upon binding to

2314-595: Is included on the Gunnar Graps – Eesti kullafond 4 . He is known to have trained his voice by yelling at walls; he usually did it before going on stage. Magnetic Band GGG Solo Compilation Latvian people Latvians ( Latvian : latvieši ) are a Baltic ethnic group and nation native to Latvia and the immediate geographical region, the Baltics . They are occasionally also referred to as Letts , especially in older bibliography. Latvians share

2403-521: Is inconclusive. A 1992 review found that AAS may both relieve and cause depression, and that cessation or diminished use of AAS may also result in depression, but called for additional studies due to disparate data. Androgens such as testosterone , androstenedione and dihydrotestosterone are required for the development of organs in the male reproductive system , including the seminal vesicles , epididymis , vas deferens , penis and prostate . AAS are testosterone derivatives designed to maximize

2492-671: Is rapidly absorbed, but it is largely converted to inactive metabolites, and only about one-sixth is available in active form. In order to be sufficiently active when given by mouth, testosterone derivatives are alkylated at the 17α position, e.g. methyltestosterone and fluoxymesterone . This modification reduces the liver's ability to break down these compounds before they reach the systemic circulation. Testosterone can be administered parenterally , but it has more irregular prolonged absorption time and greater activity in muscle in enanthate , undecanoate , or cypionate ester form. These derivatives are hydrolyzed to release free testosterone at

2581-446: Is slightly more likely among AAS users than among non-users (Pope & Katz, 1994). Bipolar dysfunction, substance dependency , and conduct disorder have also been associated with AAS use. Affective disorders have long been recognised as a complication of AAS use. Case reports describe both hypomania and mania, along with irritability, elation, recklessness, racing thoughts and feelings of power and invincibility that did not meet

2670-554: Is sufficient to significantly improve lean muscle mass relative to placebo even in subjects that did not exercise at all. The anabolic effects of testosterone enanthate were highly dose dependent. Endogenous/natural AAS like testosterone and DHT and synthetic AAS mediate their effects by binding to and activating the AR. On the basis of animal bioassays , the effects of these agents have been divided into two partially dissociable types: anabolic (myotrophic) and androgenic. Dissociation between

2759-662: The Baltic languages . Another notable language of Latvia is the nearly extinct Livonian language , a member of the Baltic-Finnic sub-branch of the Uralic language family, which enjoys protection by law. The Latgalian language (a dialect of Latvian) is also protected by Latvian law as a historical variation of the Latvian language. Paternal haplogroups R1a and N1a1-Tat are the two most frequent, reaching 39.9% each among ethnic Latvians. R1a

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2848-542: The USSR (Estonia was occupied by the Soviet Union in 1944–1991). Ornament's music was influenced by Led Zeppelin and psychedelic rock . In 1976 Graps put together a new outfit called Magnetic Band which was Jazz-rock oriented, with reggae and funk - soul influences. In 1977 Graps graduated from Tallinn Music School, from the percussion instruments department. Soon after that he reformed his group and they started leaning towards hard rock . Soon Magnetic Band became one of

2937-457: The anabolic effects of testosterone. AAS are consumed by elite athletes competing in sports like weightlifting , bodybuilding , and track and field . Male recreational athletes take AAS to achieve an "enhanced" physical appearance . AAS consumption disrupts the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis (HPG axis) in males. In the HPG axis, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is secreted from

3026-502: The arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus and stimulates the anterior pituitary to secrete the two gonadotropins , follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). In adult males, LH stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone which is required to form new sperm through spermatogenesis . AAS consumption leads to dose-dependent suppression of gonadotropin release through suppression of GnRH from

3115-468: The blind studies available at that time also found that these had demonstrated a link between aggression and steroid use, but pointed out that with estimates of over one million past or current steroid users in the United States at that time, an extremely small percentage of those using steroids appear to have experienced mental disturbance severe enough to result in clinical treatments or medical case reports. The relationship between AAS use and depression

3204-509: The expression of genes or activates processes that send signals to other parts of the cell. Different types of AAS bind to the AAR with different affinities , depending on their chemical structure. The effect of AAS on muscle mass is caused in at least two ways: first, they increase the production of proteins ; second, they reduce recovery time by blocking the effects of stress hormone cortisol on muscle tissue, so that catabolism of muscle

3293-561: The " Aestii " peoples, thought to be inhabitants of the modern Baltic lands, suggesting that they were abound with formidable, yet peaceful and hospitable people. The Latvian peoples remained relatively undisturbed until Papal intervention via the Germanic , Teutonic Order colonized Kurzeme (Courland in English, Kurland in German), beginning in the first half of the 13th century. Papal decrees ordered

3382-637: The AR, anabolic steroids trigger a translocation of the hormone-receptor complex to the cell nucleus, where they either alter gene expression or activate cellular signaling pathways; this results in increased protein synthesis, enhanced muscle growth, and reduced muscle catabolism. Anabolic steroids influence cellular differentiation while favoring the development of muscle cells over fat-storage cells. Research in this field has shown that structural modifications in anabolic steroids are critical in determining their binding affinity to ARs and their resulting anabolic and androgenic activities. These modifications affect

3471-773: The Teutonic Order to spread the "Word of the Lord" and the Gospel of Christianity throughout "uncivilized", "Pagan lands". Though these attempts to Christianize the population failed, and the Teutonic Order eventually redeployed southward, to the region of what was once known as East Prussia . Baltic ethnic religion was followed in Latvia before it was invaded by the Christian Teutonic Order (see: Latvian mythology ). Latvians still celebrate traditional feasts ( Jāņi ). Dievturība

3560-510: The Track), which had a strong blues influence. In one of his last interviews Graps promised to go on tour in Russia, because he was disappointed in the local music scene. Three months before his death he was still looking forward to continue his career and in an interview for Sakala , an Estonian newspaper, he promised to release a new album by the end of 2004 and another record in 2005. On 17 May 2004, at

3649-498: The United States, between 1 million and 3 million people (1% of the population) are thought to have used AAS. Studies in the United States have shown that AAS users tend to be mostly middle-class men with a median age of about 25 who are noncompetitive bodybuilders and non-athletes and use the drugs for cosmetic purposes. "Among 12- to 17-year-old boys, use of steroids and similar drugs jumped 25 percent from 1999 to 2000, with 20 percent saying they use them for looks rather than sports,

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3738-507: The action of aromatase enzyme, encoded by the CYP19A1 gene. Prolonged use of androgenic-anabolic steroids by men results in temporary shut down of their natural testosterone production due to an inhibition of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis . This manifests in testicular atrophy , inhibition of the production of sperm , sexual function and infertility . A short (1–2 months) use of androgenic-anabolic steroids by men followed by

3827-549: The age of 52, Gunnar Graps died of a heart attack at his home on Mooni street in Tallinn. Gunnar Graps is considered a rock idol by many Estonians. Another popular Estonian band Metsatöll have said that Gunnar Graps means the same to Estonian metal as Black Sabbath means to the world. Also, numerous tribute events have spawned, paying homage to the early departed musician. These events take place around Graps' birthday month and death month. A string of local bands usually perform at

3916-417: The amount of the drug in the bloodstream. In addition, because estered testosterone is dissolved in oil, intravenous injection has the potential to cause a dangerous embolism (clot) in the bloodstream. Transdermal patches (adhesive patches placed on the skin) may also be used to deliver a steady dose through the skin and into the bloodstream. Testosterone-containing creams and gels that are applied daily to

4005-470: The anabolic effects of these hormones are increased protein synthesis from amino acids , increased appetite, increased bone remodeling and growth, and stimulation of bone marrow , which increases the production of red blood cells . Through a number of mechanisms AAS stimulate the formation of muscle cells and hence cause an increase in the size of skeletal muscles , leading to increased strength. The androgenic effects of AAS are numerous. Depending on

4094-421: The anabolic properties of AAS are relatively similar despite the differences in pharmacokinetic principles such as first-pass metabolism . However, the orally available forms of AAS may cause liver damage in high doses. Known possible side effects of AAS include: Depending on the length of drug use, there is a chance that the immune system can be damaged. Most of these side-effects are dose-dependent,

4183-451: The androgenic:anabolic ratio, dating back to the 1950s, uses the relative weights of ventral prostate (VP) and levator ani muscle (LA) of male rats . The VP weight is an indicator of the androgenic effect, while the LA weight is an indicator of the anabolic effect. Two or more batches of rats are castrated and given no treatment and respectively some AAS of interest. The LA/VP ratio for an AAS

4272-425: The application site and inadvertently dose themselves; children and women are highly sensitive to testosterone and can develop unintended masculinization and health effects, even from small doses. Injection is the most common method used by individuals administering AAS for non-medical purposes. The traditional routes of administration do not have differential effects on the efficacy of the drug. Studies indicate that

4361-446: The black market. Examples of notable designer steroids include 1-testosterone (dihydroboldenone), methasterone , trenbolone enanthate , desoxymethyltestosterone , tetrahydrogestrinone , and methylstenbolone . There are four common forms in which AAS are administered: oral pills; injectable steroids; creams/gels for topical application; and skin patches. Oral administration is the most convenient. Testosterone administered by mouth

4450-429: The cell's surface receptors . However, as fat-soluble hormones, AAS are membrane-permeable and influence the nucleus of cells by direct action. The pharmacodynamic action of AAS begin when the exogenous hormone penetrates the membrane of the target cell and binds to an androgen receptor (AR) located in the cytoplasm of that cell. From there, the compound hormone-receptor diffuses into the nucleus, where it either alters

4539-551: The connection between changes in the structure of the left ventricle and decreased cardiac function, as well as the connection to steroid use have been disputed. AAS use can cause harmful changes in cholesterol levels: Some steroids cause an increase in LDL cholesterol and a decrease in HDL cholesterol . AAS use in adolescents quickens bone maturation and may reduce adult height in high doses. Low doses of AAS such as oxandrolone are used in

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4628-535: The criteria for mania/hypomania. Of 53 bodybuilders who used AAS, 27 (51%) reported unspecified mood disturbance. From the mid-1980s onward, the media reported "roid rage" as a side effect of AAS. A 2005 review determined that some, but not all, randomized controlled studies have found that AAS use correlates with hypomania and increased aggressiveness, but pointed out that attempts to determine whether AAS use triggers violent behavior have failed, primarily because of high rates of non-participation. A 2008 study on

4717-509: The development of male features in the female fetus and female features in the male fetus. Kidney tests revealed that nine of the ten steroid users developed a condition called focal segmental glomerulosclerosis , a type of scarring within the kidneys. The kidney damage in the bodybuilders has similarities to that seen in morbidly obese patients, but appears to be even more severe. High doses of oral AAS compounds can cause liver damage . Peliosis hepatis has been increasingly recognised with

4806-519: The drugs and dose used as well as the administration period. Overall, the exercise where the most significant improvements were observed is the bench press . For almost two decades, it was assumed that AAS exerted significant effects only in experienced strength athletes. A randomized controlled trial demonstrated, however, that even in novice athletes a 10-week strength training program accompanied by testosterone enanthate at 600 mg/week may improve strength more than training alone does. This dose

4895-462: The event along with incarnations of GGG or Magnetic Band, with people Graps used to play with. Gunnar Graps was inducted into the Hall Of Fame of Rock Cafe, a local pub (operated by the owners of Radio Mania, also the place where the tribute events take place), on 17 May 2005. In December 2005, Hard Rock Club started collecting funds to erect a memorial headstone at Graps' grave. A fund-rising concert

4984-479: The former Soviet Union and were popular until their fade in the end of decade. Their most popular songs were "Põlemine" (Burning), "Valgus" (Light), the ballad "Mosaiik" (Mosaic), "Raudmees" (Iron Man) – a song which gave Graps his nickname. During the Singing Revolution , in 1987, a choir composed of well-known Estonian singers, Gunnar Graps among them, recorded Alo Mattiisen 's song " Ei ole üksi ükski maa ",

5073-414: The heart can cause myocardial infarction and strokes . Conditions pertaining to hormonal imbalances such as gynecomastia and testicular size reduction may also be caused by AAS. In women and children, AAS can cause irreversible masculinization . Ergogenic uses for AAS in sports, racing , and bodybuilding as performance-enhancing drugs are controversial because of their adverse effects and

5162-422: The hypothalamus (long-loop mechanism) or from direct negative feedback on the anterior pituitary to inhibit gonadotropin release (short-loop mechanism), leading to AAS-induced hypogonadism . The pharmacodynamics of AAS are unlike peptide hormones . Water-soluble peptide hormones cannot penetrate the fatty cell membrane and only indirectly affect the nucleus of target cells through their interaction with

5251-432: The latter two theories is limited and more hypothetical, but there is a good deal of support for the intracellular metabolism theory. The measurement of the dissociation between anabolic and androgenic effects among AAS is based largely on a simple but outdated and unsophisticated model using rat tissue bioassays. It has been referred to as the " myotrophic–androgenic index ". In this model, myotrophic or anabolic activity

5340-529: The length of use, the side effects of the steroid can be irreversible. Processes affected include pubertal growth, sebaceous gland oil production, and sexuality (especially in fetal development). Some examples of virilizing effects are growth of the clitoris in females and the penis in male children (the adult penis size does not change due to steroids ), increased vocal cord size, increased libido , suppression of natural sex hormones , and impaired production of sperm . Effects on women include deepening of

5429-567: The lengthening of bones (premature epiphyseal fusion through increased levels of estrogen metabolites ), resulting in stunted growth . Other effects include, but are not limited to, accelerated bone maturation , increased frequency and duration of erections, and premature sexual development. AAS use in adolescence is also correlated with poorer attitudes related to health. WHO organization International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) list AAS under Group 2A : Probably carcinogenic to humans. Other side-effects can include alterations in

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5518-399: The media and in politics. According to one study, AAS users also distrust their physicians and in the sample 56% had not disclosed their AAS use to their physicians. Another 2007 study had similar findings, showing that, while 66% of individuals using AAS for non-medical purposes were willing to seek medical supervision for their steroid use, 58% lacked trust in their physicians, 92% felt that

5607-611: The medical community's knowledge of non-medical AAS use was lacking, and 99% felt that the public has an exaggerated view of the side-effects of AAS use. A recent study has also shown that long term AAS users were more likely to have symptoms of muscle dysmorphia and also showed stronger endorsement of more conventional male roles. A recent study in the Journal of Health Psychology showed that many users believed that steroids used in moderation were safe. AAS have been used by men and women in many different kinds of professional sports to attain

5696-421: The most common being elevated blood pressure , especially in those with pre-existing hypertension . In addition to morphological changes of the heart which may have a permanent adverse effect on cardiovascular efficiency. AAS have been shown to alter fasting blood sugar and glucose tolerance tests. AAS such as testosterone also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease or coronary artery disease . Acne

5785-470: The most popular heavy-music bands in the Soviet Union. They won first prize at the first official rock-festival of the Soviet Union which took place in Tbilisi thanks to their hit "Lady Blues" and became the stars of Yerevan-81 international pop-rock-festival. "Garbed in fire-engine red pants and white shirt decorated with a splashy 7-Up emblem, Graps sang: "Since we have nowhere else to make love/we do it out in

5874-510: The muscle tissue's cellular components. Studies have shown that these changes are not merely superficial but represent a profound transformation in the muscle's structural and functional properties. This transformation is a key factor in the steroids' ability to enhance physical performance and endurance. Body weight in men may increase by 2 to 5 kg as a result of short-term (<10 weeks) AAS use, which may be attributed mainly to an increase of lean mass. Animal studies also found that fat mass

5963-505: The open/And sometimes the rain washes away the makeup/from her face—and mine", wrote Time magazine in 1981. His popularity peaked in the 1980s. Magnetic Band constantly toured the Soviet Union. In 1982, Washington Post dedicated a whole page to Gunnar Graps and the Magnetic Band. It was no surprise that in 1983 Magnetic Band got banned by the Soviet authorities, which led to creation of GGG (Gunnar Graps Group). The change also marked

6052-690: The potential to gain advantage in physical competitions. Their use is referred to as doping and banned by most major sporting bodies. Athletes have been looking for drugs to enhance their athletic abilities since the Olympics started in Ancient Greece. For many years, AAS have been by far the most detected doping substances in IOC -accredited laboratories. Anabolic steroids are classified as Schedule III controlled substances in many countries, meaning that AAS have recognized medical use but are also recognized as having

6141-525: The prevalence of use among high-school students in the U.S. may be as high as 2.7%. The AAS that have been used most commonly in medicine are testosterone and its many esters (but most typically testosterone undecanoate , testosterone enanthate , testosterone cypionate , and testosterone propionate ), nandrolone esters (typically nandrolone decanoate and nandrolone phenylpropionate ), stanozolol , and metandienone (methandrostenolone). Others that have also been available and used commonly but to

6230-433: The ratios of these two types of effects relative to the ratio observed with testosterone is observed in rat bioassays with various AAS. Theories for the dissociation include differences between AAS in terms of their intracellular metabolism , functional selectivity (differential recruitment of coactivators ), and non-genomic mechanisms (i.e., signaling through non-AR membrane androgen receptors , or mARs). Support for

6319-563: The role of the drummer. Hinno is known to be a big fan of Graps' work and sang "Mosaiik" live with Gunnar's Roses. In 2011, dramatist Ivar Põllu's play Raudmees. Odysseuse eksirännakud , which focuses of the life of Graps, was performed at the New Tartu Theatre in Tartu . Directed by Robert Annus, the play featured actor Juss Haasma as Graps and a musical score that consisted of many of Graps' most well-known songs. Gunnar Graps' singing style

6408-415: The site of injection; absorption rate (and thus injection schedule) varies among different esters, but medical injections are normally done anywhere between semi-weekly to once every 12 weeks. A more frequent schedule may be desirable in order to maintain a more constant level of hormone in the system. Injectable steroids are typically administered into the muscle, not into the vein, to avoid sudden changes in

6497-417: The skin are also available, but absorption is inefficient (roughly 10%, varying between individuals) and these treatments tend to be more expensive. Individuals who are especially physically active and/or bathe often may not be good candidates, since the medication can be washed off and may take up to six hours to be fully absorbed. There is also the risk that an intimate partner or child may come in contact with

6586-770: The specter of possibly irreversible neurotoxicity. Recreational AAS use appears to be associated with a range of potentially prolonged psychiatric effects, including dependence syndromes, mood disorders , and progression to other forms of substance use, but the prevalence and severity of these various effects remains poorly understood. There is no evidence that steroid dependence develops from therapeutic use of AAS to treat medical disorders, but instances of AAS dependence have been reported among weightlifters and bodybuilders who chronically administered supraphysiologic doses. Mood disturbances (e.g. depression, [hypo-]mania, psychotic features) are likely to be dose- and drug-dependent, but AAS dependence or withdrawal effects seem to occur only in

6675-468: The structure of the heart , such as enlargement and thickening of the left ventricle , which impairs its contraction and relaxation , and therefore reducing ejected blood volume. Possible effects of these alterations in the heart are hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias , congestive heart failure , heart attacks , and sudden cardiac death . These changes are also seen in non-drug-using athletes , but steroid use may accelerate this process. However, both

6764-519: The summer of 1993, he was caught, while working as a DJ at the nightclub on the ferryboat "Estonia", trying to cross the border to Sweden with anabolic steroids and was imprisoned for two months in Sweden. Graps reportedly did not complain about his imprisonment and praised the jail as being better than restaurants in Estonia. After his release, Graps came back to Estonia. Financial problems arose once more and he

6853-488: The table above). In the early 2000s, this procedure was standardized and generalized throughout OECD in what is now known as the Hershberger assay. Anabolic steroids notably influence muscle fiber characteristics, affecting both the size and type of muscle fibers. This alteration significantly contributes to enhanced muscle strength and endurance. Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) cause these changes by directly impacting

6942-404: The treatment of idiopathic short stature , but this may only quicken maturation rather than increasing adult height. Although all anabolic steroids have androgenic effects, some of them paradoxically results in feminization, such as breast tissue in males, a condition called gynecomastia . These side effect are caused by the natural conversion of testosterone into estrogen and estradiol by

7031-447: The upper body. The largest difference in muscle fiber size between AAS users and non-users was observed in type I muscle fibers of the vastus lateralis and the trapezius muscle as a result of long-term AAS self-administration. After drug withdrawal, the effects fade away slowly, but may persist for more than 6–12 weeks after cessation of AAS use. Strength improvements in the range of 5 to 20% of baseline strength, depending largely on

7120-536: The use of AAS. A 2005 review in CNS Drugs determined that "significant psychiatric symptoms including aggression and violence, mania , and less frequently psychosis and suicide have been associated with steroid abuse . Long-term steroid abusers may develop symptoms of dependence and withdrawal on discontinuation of AAS". High concentrations of AAS, comparable to those likely sustained by many recreational AAS users, produce apoptotic effects on neurons , raising

7209-500: The voice, facial hair growth, and possibly a decrease in breast size. Men may develop an enlargement of breast tissue, known as gynecomastia, testicular atrophy, and a reduced sperm count. The androgenic:anabolic ratio of an AAS is an important factor when determining the clinical application of these compounds. Compounds with a high ratio of androgenic to an anabolic effects are the drug of choice in androgen-replacement therapy (e.g., treating hypogonadism in males), whereas compounds with

7298-619: The whole territory of modern-day Latvia as well as southern Estonia , which had fallen under Germanic influence. Latvians and Lithuanians are the only surviving members of the Baltic branch of the Indo-European family . Latvians share a common language and have a unique culture with traditions, holidays, customs and arts. The culture and religious traditions have been somewhat influenced by Germanic , Scandinavian , and Russian traditions. Latvians have an ancient culture that has been archaeologically dated back to 3000 BC. Latvians maintained

7387-422: Was compelled to work at local radio stations and night-clubs as a DJ, playing music he hated. In 1995, Graps released "Tühjad pihud" (Empty Hands) and reformed GGG the next year, performing about once a month. Graps was becoming more and more depressed. Starting in the 21st century, Graps was still having financial troubles and performed in a series of Hansapank pension fund commercials. The commercials included

7476-404: Was extremely uncommon among individuals using AAS for non-medical purposes, less than 1%. Another 2007 study found that 74% of non-medical AAS users had post-secondary degrees and more had completed college and fewer had failed to complete high school than is expected from the general populace. The same study found that individuals using AAS for non-medical purposes had a higher employment rate and

7565-449: Was held on 5 March 2006 at Rock Cafe in Tallinn. The stone was designed by Graps' son Jan Graps and placed on his grave at Rahumäe cemetery on 17 May 2006. A cover band – Gunnar's Roses – was also active at some point during 2005–2006, performing at Hard Rock Laager in 2005 (a heavy metal festival created by Hard Rock Club) and at smaller pubs. The band was put together by Henri "Suss" Hinno (drummer of Manatark and Must Missa ) who took

7654-466: Was in the army and during that period he performed with Ivo Linna . He spent another year behind the drums in Mikronid after his return from military service. In spring 1968 Jüri Lina recorded about ten Mikronid's songs which also included Graps' creation for his show "Pobifo Revüü". After leaving the group Mikronid Graps created Ornament in 1973, which was one of the pioneers of hard rock in Estonia and

7743-464: Was issued by Melodiya , the only record company in the entire USSR. Distribution of the record was very high. At the time, GGG consisted of Gunnar Graps (drums, percussion, vocals, keyboards), Juri Stihhanov (lead guitar), Andres Aak (now known as Angela Aak, rhythm guitar), Jüri Roosa (bass guitar) and Tiit Altosaar (drums on some songs, as Graps tended to perform most drumming (along with singing) himself). They performed in Estonia and many locations over

7832-536: Was reduced, but most studies in humans failed to elucidate significant fat mass decrements. The effects on lean body mass have been shown to be dose-dependent. Both muscle hypertrophy and the formation of new muscle fibers have been observed. The hydration of lean mass remains unaffected by AAS use, although small increments of blood volume cannot be ruled out. The upper region of the body (thorax, neck, shoulders, and upper arm) seems to be more susceptible for AAS than other body regions because of predominance of ARs in

7921-451: Was somewhat similar to the style James Hetfield of Metallica used to have, which was essentially trying to sing from the throat to produce a raspier sound. A very busy schedule contributed to the development of his signature rasp. It was not uncommon for Graps to perform even 3 shows per day and 25 days in a month. He was still able to produce very high notes, as is evident from his songs and Jesus Christ Superstar song "Gethsamen", which

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