bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural analysis of an endogenous 4-megadalton succinyl-CoA-generating metabolon
Authors: Skalidis Ioannis , Kyrilis Fotis L. , Tüting Christian , Hamdi Farzad , Träger Toni K. , Belapure Jaydeep , Hause Gerd , Fratini Marta , O’Reilly Francis J. , Heilmann Ingo , Rappsilber Juri , Kastritis Panagiotis L.
Published: May 2023

The oxoglutarate dehydrogenase complex (OGDHc) participates in the tricarboxylic acid cycle and, in a multi-step reaction, decarboxylates α-ketoglutarate, transfers succinyl to CoA, and reduces NAD+. Due to its pivotal role in metabolism, OGDHc enzymatic components have been studied in isolation; however, their interactions within the endogenous OGDHc remain elusive. Here, we discern the organization of a thermophilic, eukaryotic, native OGDHc in its active state. By combining biochemical, biophysical, and bioinformatic methods, we resolve its composition, 3D architecture, and molecular function at 3.35 Å resolution. We further report the high-resolution cryo-EM structure of the OGDHc core (E2o), which displays various structural adaptations. These include hydrogen bonding patterns confining interactions of OGDHc participating enzymes (E1o-E2o-E3), electrostatic tunneling that drives inter-subunit communication, and the presence of a flexible subunit (E3BPo), connecting E2o and E3. This multi-scale analysis of a succinyl-CoA-producing native cell extract provides a blueprint for structure-function studies of complex mixtures of medical and biotechnological value.
The high-dimensional space of human diseases built from diagnosis records and mapped to genetic loci
Authors: Jia Gengjie , Li Yu , Zhong Xue , Wang Kanix , Pividori Milton , Alomairy Rabab , Esposito Aniello , Ltaief Hatem , Terao Chikashi , Akiyama Masato , Matsuda Koichi , Keyes David E. , Im Hae Kyung , Gojobori Takashi , Kamatani Yoichiro , Kubo Michiaki , Cox Nancy J. , Evans James , Gao Xin , Rzhetsky Andrey
Published: May 2023

Human diseases are traditionally studied as singular, independent entities, limiting researchers’ capacity to view human illnesses as dependent states in a complex, homeostatic system. Here, using time-stamped clinical records of over 151 million unique Americans, we construct a disease representation as points in a continuous, high-dimensional space, where diseases with similar etiology and manifestations lie near one another. We use the UK Biobank cohort, with half a million participants, to perform a genome-wide association study of newly defined human quantitative traits reflecting individuals’ health states, corresponding to patient positions in our disease space. We discover 116 genetic associations involving 108 genetic loci and then use ten disease constellations resulting from clustering analysis of diseases in the embedding space, as well as 30 common diseases, to demonstrate that these genetic associations can be used to robustly predict various morbidities.
Electrochemical detection of cholesterol in human biofluid using microneedle sensor
Authors: Li Zhanhong , Kadian Sachin , Mishra Rupesh K. , Huang Tiangang , Zhou Chen , Liu Shuyuan , Wang Zifeng , Narayan Roger , Zhu Zhigang
Published: May 2023

The development of a straightforward, economical, portable, and highly sensitive sensing platform for the rapid detection of cholesterol is desirable for the early diagnosis of several pathologic conditions.
A hybrid of MIL-53(Fe) rhombus and conductive CoNi2S4 nanosheets as a synergistic electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Liu Weidong , Wang Lijun , Gong Yaqiong
Published: May 2023

The synthesized MIL-53(Fe)@CoNi2S4/NF electrode exhibits excellent electrocatalytic performance for the OER in 1 M KOH solution.
Al and Zn phenoxy-amidine complexes for lactide ROP catalysis
Authors: Théron Benjamin , Vaillant-Coindard Valentin , Balan Cédric , Rousselin Yoann , Bayardon Jérôme , Malacea-Kabbara Raluca , Le Gendre Pierre
Published: May 2023

Here we report the synthesis, characterization, and evaluation in LA ROP catalysis of a series of Zn(ii) and Al(iii) complexes associated with a new generation of phenoxy-amidine ligands forming 5-membered metallacycles.
Hydrogen spillover in Pt5Ru1 nanoalloy decorated Ni3S2 enabling pH-universal electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Yu Zuxi , Rui Xianhong , Yu Yan
Published: May 2023

Based on the hydrogen spillover effect, the binary ‘metal–support’ Ni3S2/Pt5Ru1 is in situ constructed on Ni foam for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution.
A review on fine-tuning of energy storage characteristics of conducting polymers
Authors: M. Bindu , Periyat Pradeepan
Published: May 2023

This review article highlights recent trends and advances in conducting polymer-carbon nanomaterial nanocomposites for energy storage applications. The key factors influencing the energy storage performance have been discussed.
In situ tuning of the performance of polymer field-effect transistors by soft plasma etching
Authors: Hu Zhen , Li Dongfan , Lu Wanlong , Qin Zongze , Ran Yixin , Wang Xin , Lu Guanghao
Published: May 2023

The subthreshold swing, threshold voltage and hysteresis of PCDTPT OFETs can be in situ tuned by soft plasma etching.
A green synthesis of pyrimido[4,5-b]quinolines and pyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidines via a mechanochemical approach
Authors: Singh Himanshu Kumar , Kamal Arsala , Maury Suresh Kumar , Kushwaha Ambuj Kumar , Srivastava Vandana , Singh Sundaram
Published: May 2023

A green synthesis of pyrimido[4,5-b]quinolines and pyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidines via a multicomponent reaction of 1,3 diketones (dimedone, barbituric acid, and Meldrum's acid), 6-aminouracil and aromatic aldehyde, through mechanochemical synthesis using a ball-mill.
Erfolgreiche Therapie einer Retronychie
Authors: Golle Linda , Stadie Volker
Published: May 2023

Anamnese Wir berichten über einen 66-jährigen Patienten, bei dem seit ca. 9 Monaten eine schmerzhafte Schwellung der linken Großzehe mit subjektiv sistierendem Längenwachstum bestand.

Untersuchungen Zuvor hatten bakteriologische und mykologische Abstriche sowie eine MRT-Untersuchung keine richtungsweisenden Befunde erbracht und antibiotische, antiseptische und antiphlogistische Vortherapien hatten zu keiner Linderung der Beschwerden beigetragen.

Diagnose und Therapie Wir stellten aufgrund des klinischen Befundes mit gerötetem, kolbenartig aufgetriebenem Zehenendglied mit angehobenem proximalem Nagelwall die Diagnose einer Retronychie und führten eine Nagelplattenextraktion durch.

Verlauf In den über 2 Jahren andauernden Nachkontrollen zeigte sich der Patient beschwerdefrei mit erholtem Nagelwachstum.

Folgerungen Die Retronychie wird, wie im vorgestellten Fall oft fehldiagnostiziert. Die Kenntnis wegweisender klinischer und anamnestischer Parameter und der korrekten Therapieoptionen erlaubt eine rasche, kostengünstige und langfristig erfolgreiche Behandlung.
Emerging aqueous manganese-based batteries: Fundamental understanding, challenges, and opportunities
Authors: Lei Jiafeng , Jiang Liwei , Lu Yi-Chun
Published: May 2023

Aqueous manganese (Mn)-based batteries are promising candidates for grid-scale energy storage due to their low-cost, high reversibility, and intrinsic safety. However, their further development is impeded by controversial reaction mechanisms and low energy density with unsatisfactory cycling stability. Here, we summarized various types of emerging aqueous Mn-based batteries based on the active redox couples, including liquid–solid deposition/dissolution reactions of Mn0/Mn2+ and Mn2+/MnO2, liquid–liquid conversion reactions of Mn2+/Mn3+ and MnO42−/MnO4−, and solid–solid intercalation reaction of XMnOy/MnOy (X: cations) with manganese oxide as the host materials. A critical review of the fundamental understanding of their physicochemical properties in each reaction, scientific challenges, and improvement strategies is presented. Finally, perspectives on aqueous Mn-based batteries design for future commercialization are highlighted.
Chemiresistive gas sensors: From novel gas-sensing materials to electrode structure
Authors: Naganaboina Venkata Ramesh , Singh Shiv Govind
Published: May 2023

Gas sensors based on chemiresistive technology are attractive for their small size, low-cost fabrication, predictable electrical properties, and compatibility with electronic circuits. They have various applications from health and safety to energy efficiency and emissions monitoring. Despite exploring many gas-sensing materials to detect different gases for the above-mentioned applications, these sensors have limitations such as poor selectivity, high limit of detection, poor reversibility, high operating temperature, and poor stability that restrict their implementation in real-time applications. To address these limitations and improve the sensing performance toward target gases, various approaches have been developed. In this regard, an important aspect to improve the gas-sensing performance is to optimize the device architecture by selecting the appropriate gas-sensing material, electrode material, and electrode structure design. This review discusses the advancements in the novel gas-sensing materials, such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), MXenes, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4), hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), group III–VI semiconductors, phosphorene, black phosphorus, metal ferrites, and high entropy oxides. In addition, this review discusses the impact of various electrode materials, including platinum (Pt), gold (Au), silver (Ag), chromium (Cr), indium tin oxide (ITO), and aluminum (Al), and its electrode structures and design parameters on the gas-sensing performance. The electrode structures covered in this review are head-to-head, interdigitated, fractal, and laser-induced graphene. Finally, this review highlights the summary, challenges, and future perspectives of novel gas-sensing materials, electrode materials, and their structures to improve the gas-sensing performance of chemiresistive sensors.
A review of
Pseudocercospora griseola
in common bean (
Phaseolus vulgaris
L.) in Africa
Authors: Aytenfsu Misganaw , Terefe Habtamu
Published: May 2023

Angular leaf spot (ALS), caused by the fungus
Pseudocercospora griseola
, is one of the most economically important diseases that limits the productivity of common beans.
P. griseola
has great variability which explains the large number of existing races and the complexity of genetic resistance. This review was carried out to discuss and document on the diversity of
P. griseola
in Africa
,
and the pathogenic variability of pathotypes against different bean varieties and lines. Diversified pathotypes were identified from different common bean-growing countries. About 12 pathotypes were identified from 45 isolates in Uganda. Similarly, about 44 pathotypes were characterized from 100 isolates in Kenya. Pathotypes 61:63 and 63:63 were the most aggressive identified pathotypes in different African countries. Many reports indicated that Andean isolates infect mostly Andean genotypes, while Mesoamerican isolates infect both Andean and Mesoamerican genotypes. The resistances of major commercial varieties and bean lines are breaking down and were found to be susceptible. Hence, multiple resistance breeding should be done for broken commercial varieties and bean lines using the potential identified gene source of landraces U00292, U0074, U351 and U1–9 from Uganda, genotype KKR IL05/Red 40 from Kenya and variety SER125/SER119 from Ethiopia.
Comparative study of Cd addition effects on precipitation in different aluminium alloys
Authors: Qian Feng , Li Jinyue , Zhao Dongdong , Jin Shenbao , Mørtsell Eva A. , Li Yanjun
Published: May 2023

This work demonstrates that Cd microadditions can enhance the precipitation of age-hardening precipitates in 2xxx and 6xxx alloys as well as the dispersoid precipitation in 3xxx alloys, but have a minimal effect on the precipitation in 7xxx alloys. Experimental and theoretical methods are utilised to investigate the nucleation and precipitation of precipitates/dispersoids in Cd-containing Al alloys. The enhanced precipitation of θ′ and α-dispersoids in 2xxx and 3xxx alloys, respectively, are proposed to result from the heterogeneous nucleation on earlier-formed Cd-rich nanoparticles, while the enhanced precipitation of β′′ in 6xxx alloys is attributed to the increased number density of effective Mg-Si co-clusters due to the Cd incorporation. This investigation provides theoretical basis for the design of precipitation-strengthened Al alloys via microalloying.
Inhibition of endolysosome fusion increases exosome secretion
Authors: Shelke Ganesh Vilas , Williamson Chad D. , Jarnik Michal , Bonifacino Juan S.
Published: May 2023

Exosomes are small vesicles that are secreted from cells to dispose of undegraded materials and mediate intercellular communication. A major source of exosomes is intraluminal vesicles within multivesicular endosomes that undergo exocytic fusion with the plasma membrane. An alternative fate of multivesicular endosomes is fusion with lysosomes, resulting in degradation of the intraluminal vesicles. The factors that determine whether multivesicular endosomes fuse with the plasma membrane or with lysosomes are unknown. In this study, we show that impairment of endolysosomal fusion by disruption of a pathway involving the BLOC-one-related complex (BORC), the small GTPase ARL8, and the tethering factor HOPS increases exosome secretion by preventing the delivery of intraluminal vesicles to lysosomes. These findings demonstrate that endolysosomal fusion is a critical determinant of the amount of exosome secretion and suggest that suppression of the BORC–ARL8–HOPS pathway could be used to boost exosome yields in biotechnology applications.
An RNA-based feed-forward mechanism ensures motor switching in oskar mRNA transport
Authors: Gáspár Imre , Phea Ly Jane , McClintock Mark A. , Heber Simone , Bullock Simon L. , Ephrussi Anne
Published: May 2023

Regulated recruitment and activity of motor proteins is essential for intracellular transport of cargoes, including messenger ribonucleoprotein complexes (RNPs). Here, we show that orchestration of oskar RNP transport in the Drosophila germline relies on interplay between two double-stranded RNA-binding proteins, Staufen and the dynein adaptor Egalitarian (Egl). We find that Staufen antagonizes Egl-mediated transport of oskar mRNA by dynein both in vitro and in vivo. Following delivery of nurse cell-synthesized oskar mRNA into the oocyte by dynein, recruitment of Staufen to the RNPs results in dissociation of Egl and a switch to kinesin-1-mediated translocation of the mRNA to its final destination at the posterior pole of the oocyte. We additionally show that Egl associates with staufen (stau) mRNA in the nurse cells, mediating its enrichment and translation in the ooplasm. Our observations identify a novel feed-forward mechanism, whereby dynein-dependent accumulation of stau mRNA, and thus protein, in the oocyte enables motor switching on oskar RNPs by downregulating dynein activity.
Macrophage Nrf 2 the rescue
Authors: Stow Jennifer L. , Sweet Matthew J.
Published: May 2023

The exuberant phagocytosis of apoptotic cell corpses by macrophages in Drosophila embryos creates highly oxidative environments. Stow and Sweet discuss work from Clemente and Weavers (2023. J. Cell Biol.https://doi.org/10.1083/jcb.202203062) showing for the first time how macrophage Nrf2 is primed to help sustain immune function and mitigate bystander oxidative damage.
Signatures of Temperature-Driven Lifshitz Transition in Semimetal Hafnium Ditelluride
Authors: Li Qixuan , Wang Bin , Tang Nannan , Li Chushan , Yi Enkui , Shen Bing , Guo Donghui , Zhong Dingyong , Wang Huichao
Published: May 2023

Temperature-driven change of Fermi surface has been attracting attention recently as it is fundamental and essential to understand a metallic system. We report the magnetotransport anomalies in the semimetal HfTe2 single crystals. The magnetoresistance behavior at high temperatures obeys Kohler’s rule which can lead to the field-induced resistivity upturn behavior as observed. When the temperature is decreased to around 30 K, Kohler’s rule becomes inapplicable, indicating the change of the Fermi surface in HfTe2. The Hall analyses and extended Kohler’s plot reveal abrupt change of carrier densities and mobilities near 30 K. These results suggest that the chemical potential may shift as the temperature increases and the shift causes an electron pocket to vanish. Our work of the temperature-driven Lifshitz transition in HfTe2 is relevant to understanding of the transport anomalies and exotic physical properties in transition-metal dichalcogenides.
Ten steps to entropy
Authors: Reed B Cameron
Published: May 2023

A summary of the many arguments and steps underlying the concept of entropy typical of those invoked in an undergraduate classical thermodynamics course is offered. The intent is a compact retrospective treatment appropriate for classroom presentation and discussion after students have encountered the various formal derivations and arguments.
Pressure and strain engineering of the structural and electronic transitions in ReS2
Authors: Ma Liang , Liu Dan , Xiao Binbin , Cao Yong , Wang Yicheng , Zhao Yipeng
Published: May 2023

The distinctive crystal structure and anisotropic electrical characteristics of rhenium disulfide (ReS2) have garnered growing interest. Pressure and strain engineering has been used to modulate structural and electronic transition. Here, we present a comprehensive study on the high-pressure phase transition and strain tunable electronic properties of ReS2. There occurs a structural transition from distorted-1T to distorted-1T′ at 7.5 GPa. In addition, ReS2 has opposite piezoresistive effects along the two principle axes in the plane. This study shows that pressure and strain may be used to tune the characteristics of ReS2 for future optoelectronic applications.
A digital twin based reliability assessment of Superbuck converters
Authors: Xia Qian , Yue Jiguang , Chen Jichang , Cui Zhexin , Lyu Feng
Published: May 2023

Addressing the challenge of assessing the reliability of ‘long-life, high-reliability’ DC/DC analog converters in submarine observation networks and space power systems, which have limited internal observation points and insufficient valid information, and initial assessment rendered unreliable with the long-term operation of the converter. This paper proposes a novel method based on digital twin (DT) technology. The method eliminates the need for measuring internal variables, and only requires the measurement of the converter’s ripple peak-to-peak. A digital twin (DT) is constructed based on the underlying mechanism, and the parameters of the operating converter are identified through the collection of ripple peak-to-peak, which are then injected into the DT for dynamic tracking of the physical entity. By obtaining internal current and voltage of the DT and utilizing the Markov model, the reliability of the converter can be assessed. This method offers real-time reliability assessment without the need for additional measurement points. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed approach, a Superbuck converter is used as an example to demonstrate the high-fidelity of the DT through isomorphic single-sample repeatability and isomorphic multiple-sample consistency experiments.
Excitonic solar cells based on van der Waals heterojunctions of Janus III–VI chalcogenide monolayers
Authors: Pan Jinghua , Wang Yu , Wang Danni , Ma Zelong , Jing Sicheng , Chen Wen , Bian Baoan , Liao Bin
Published: May 2023

We construct the two-dimensional (2D) excitonic solar cells based on type II vdW heterojunctions of Janus III–VI chalcogenide monolayers and investigate the performance of the device using the first principle. The calculated solar energy absorbance of In2SSe/GaInSe2 and In2SeTe/GaInSe2 heterojunctions is the order of 105 cm−1. The predicted photoelectric conversion efficiency of the In2SeTe/GaInSe2 heterojunction can reach up to 24.5%, which compares favorably with other previously studied 2D heterojunctions. The excellent performance of In2SeTe/GaInSe2 heterojunction originates from the fact that the built-in electric field at the interface of In2SeTe/GaInSe2 promote the flow of the photogenerated electrons. The results suggest that 2D Janus Group-III chalcogenide heterojunction can be a good candidate for new optoelectronic nanodevices.
Development of a novel strategy based on in-process compensation of charge leakage for static force measurement by piezoelectric force sensors
Authors: Chen Fuwen , Lin Huanbin , Li Zhongwei , Ju Bing-Feng , Chen Yuan-Liu
Published: May 2023

Ordinary piezoelectric force sensors are only capable of measuring dynamic forces but not static forces because of the charge leakage due to the finite resistance of piezoelectric materials and charge amplifiers. This paper presents a new strategy for in-process compensation of charge leakage for force measurement with wide spectrum from static to dynamic realized by piezoelectric force sensors. The compensation is in-process operated based on the concept of dynamic accumulation. In order to improve the measurement accuracy and long-term stability by the compensation, the zero offset generated by normalization, bias current and temperature drift are all theoretically analyzed and experimentally validated. Measurement experiments of four different types of force signals, which contain static, triangular, sinusoidal and random force signals acting on the piezoelectric force sensor, are conducted to validate the proposed strategy. In addition, the effect of different time constant of the piezoelectric sensor under different applied forces on the compensated results is analyzed. Performance tests containing accuracy, resolution, span and bandwidth have been conducted. It is validated that the proposed method has high sensitivity of sub-millinewton, long-term stability and wide spectrum from static signal to dynamic measurement capabilities, which would provide an effective and precise method for micro force measurement and control in ultra-precision machining, semiconductor industry and biomechanics fields.
Incident-side-dependent mirror based on 1D photonic crystals containing VO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Entezar Samad Roshan
Published: May 2023

The optical properties of an incident-side-dependent mirror based on a one-dimensional photonic crystal composed of nanocomposite layers containing vanadium dioxide nanoparticles were investigated theoretically using the transfer matrix method in the near-infrared spectral range. The influence of the incident angle and filling fraction of the vanadium dioxide nanoparticles on the reflectance and transmittance of the structure were studied. We found that the mirror is an incident-side-dependent reflector with nearly zero transmittance in the photonic bandgap regions. The incident-side-dependent properties of the mirror are more pronounced when the vanadium dioxide nanoparticles are in their metal phase. In addition, the mirror is a perfect reflector for incoming rays from one side and a perfect absorber for incoming rays from the opposite side. Such temperature-controlled and incident-dependent mirrors may find application in the design of various intelligent windows.
Global vegetation greenness interannual variability and its evolvement in recent decades
Authors: Gao Yifei , Yang Tong , Ye Ziqi , Lin Jiexin , Yan Kai , Bi Jian
Published: May 2023

The interannual variability (IAV) of global vegetation greenness needs careful assessment as it relates to the stability of the climate, conservation of biodiversity, sustainable ecosystem services, and global food security. Here, we investigated the spatial feature and temporal evolvement of global vegetation greenness interannual variability from 1982 to 2015 using the Global Inventory Modeling and Mapping Studies (GIMMS) Normalized Difference Vegetation Index third generation (NDVI3g) data. Generally, regions with herbaceous and short woody plants had larger IAV of vegetation greenness than those with tall woody biome types (7.9% versus 2.9%). On average, all the biomes displayed increasing IAV of vegetation greenness from 1982 to 2015, with notable increases over northern high latitudes (0.135%/year), Eastern Europe (0.037%//year), and Central Australia (0.231%/year). Croplands in China and India experienced decreasing IAV of vegetation greenness (–0.037%/year for China and –0.004%/year for India). The changing IAV of vegetation greenness had implications for climatic, environmental, and anthropogenic changes that influence vegetation dynamics. Some note-worthy factors include climate warming, the CO2 fertilization effect, agricultural practice improvement, cropland abandonment, and China’s Grain-for-Green Program.
Australians support for policy initiatives addressing unhealthy diet: a population-based study
Authors: Gupta Adyya , Raine Kim D , Moynihan Paula , Peres Marco A
Published: May 2023

To inform public health policy implementation in Australia, our study investigated the level of public support for six policy initiatives addressing unhealthy diet. The policy initiatives included taxing soft drinks and energy drinks, taxing less healthy food and beverage purchases, zoning to restrict the supply of junk foods near schools, prohibiting advertising and promotion of less healthy food and beverages to children under the age of 16 and restricting sugar-sweetened beverages from vending machines in schools, and public places. Data from a cross-sectional population-based study for 4040 Australians aged 15+ years, were analysed. A high overall support across all policy initiatives was observed. Nearly three-quarter of public support was observed for policy initiatives targeting children (zoning to restrict the supply of junk food near schools, prohibiting advertising and promotion of less healthy food and beverages to children under the age of 16 and restricting sugars-sweetened beverages from vending machines in schools), and half of Australians supported policy initiatives of taxing soft drinks and energy drinks and taxing less healthy food and beverage purchases. Australian women and those with tertiary level of education were more likely to support public health initiatives targeting children and all policy initiatives respectively. Interestingly, young adults expressed low level of support for all policy initiatives. The study demonstrated considerable public support for policy initiatives focussed on protecting children from unhealthy diet in Australia. Framing, designing and implementing policies targeting children is potentially a good starting point for policymakers to create a health promoting food environment.
Gender recognition at the crossroads: Four models and the compass of comparative law
Authors: Osella Stefano , Rubio-Marín Ruth
Published: May 2023

The article explores the different constitutional developments of the right to gender recognition and discusses their potential to protect trans and nonbinary people. Focusing on a few selected jurisdictions, each incarnating a specific kind of recognition system, it also proposes a conceptual map to understand and identify the different shapes of such a right. The article argues that four types of gender recognition can be identified, each with their own characteristics, advantages, peculiarities, and set of challenges for trans and nonbinary people and for the system of gender categorization itself. In clarifying this area of law, the article contends that the very process of creation and policing of gender identities and categories represents a critical aspect of contemporary gender constitutionalism.
(008) Suggestions for Modifications to the Female Sexual Function Index to be Inclusive of All Populations – Cognitive Interviews with Sexual and Gender Minority and Heterosexual Persons
Authors: Lynch K , Austria M , Le T , Burrows Walters C , Vickers A , Long-Roche K , Atkinson T , Carlsson S
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Patient-reported outcome measures that were initially designed for research studies including heterosexual, partnered, educated cisgender women may have limited applicability for clinical use among Sexual and Gender Minority (SGM) patients and patients without a partner.

Objective

We aimed to conduct cognitive interviews with both SGM persons and heterosexual women to determine readability, comprehension, and applicability of questionnaire items to assess sexual function in populations with diverse sexual practices, focusing on items from the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and to establish content validity of a modified measure.

Methods

We conducted four rounds of cognitive interviews with 52 participants (28 SGM, 24 heterosexual) who provided feedback on their comprehension and wording of FSFI questionnaire items and response scales. Participants made recommendations for changes to the questionnaire, which was iteratively revised between interview rounds. Two independent coders analyzed the transcripts using structural coding based on five predefined codes (i.e., satisfaction with item, specificity/language change needed, missing/suggested item, patient definitions of concepts, and confusion with item).

Results

After four rounds of cognitive interviews and revisions to the questionnaire, participants found the final version of the questionnaire acceptable and understandable, thereby reaching thematic saturation and establishing content validity of the modified FSFI. Modifications included: replacing all instances of “sexual stimulation” and “intercourse” with “sexual activity (alone or with a partner)”; broadening the definition of “vaginal penetration” beyond penile-vaginal penetration; adding skip logic to include the option “no sexual activity”. Participants identified missing concepts important to their sexual health, such as including the use of external lubricant. Heterosexual participants found the questionnaire initially refined by SGM participants to be acceptable, and offered targeted feedback including clarifying the clinical relevance of certain domains (e.g., questions about “emotional closeness”), clarifying terminology (e.g., sexually aroused (turned on) and naturally lubricated (wet)) and re-ordering domains (e.g., “pain should be asked about earlier”).

Conclusions

Feedback from direct interviews supports modifying FSFI items and further psychometric testing. This and other similar questionnaires need to be adapted to the broader clinical practice population such that all persons’ experiences are accurately reflected and assessed, ultimately assuring that sexual health needs can be met more inclusively. Further research in racially and educationally diverse populations is needed.

Disclosure

No
(022) Men with History of Depression Are More Likely to Continue Use of Antidepressants If Erectile Dysfunction is Treated with Testosterone or Phosphodiesterase-5 Inhibitors
Authors: Able C , Agrawal P , Singh S , Liao B , Srinivasan A , Gorman B , Kohn T
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects an estimated 30 million men in the United States with an estimated 82% of men with erectile dysfunction experiencing depressive symptoms. Prior literature has shown that initiation of therapy for ED is associated with a decrease in depressive symptoms; however, the rates of antidepressant continuation following initiation of erectile dysfunction has not been analyzed.

Objective

Our goal was to analyze the rate of antidepressant continuation for depression after prescribing testosterone or PDE-5 inhibitors for erectile dysfunction.

Methods

We queried the TriNetX Diamond network database, a health research network including 212 million patients, including healthcare encounters, insurance claims data, and prescription data between 2009-2021. We identified men with a diagnosis of depression (ICD-10: F32-33), 12 consecutive prior months of antidepressant prescriptions (VA Formulary: CN609), and a diagnosis of erectile dysfunction (ICD-10: N52). We then compared rates of antidepressants continuation over the following year in men who were prescribed PDE5i or testosterone for their erectile dysfunction versus men who had never been prescribed testosterone or PDE5i for their erectile dysfunction. The two cohorts were matched on age, race, and ethnicity. Rates of antidepressant discontinuation were compared with risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

Results

We identified 31,306 men that were prescribed a PDE-5 inhibitor without testosterone and an equal number of men that weren't prescribed testosterone nor PDE5i. We found that 54% of men receiving PDE5i continued using antidepressants after 12 months; while, 49% of men that weren't prescribed testosterone nor PDE5i continued using antidepressants (RR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.10-1.13). We identified 4,468 patients who were prescribed testosterone without a PDE5i and an equal number of men that weren't prescribed testosterone nor PDE5i prescriptions. We found that 61% of men receiving testosterone prescriptions continued the use of antidepressants over subsequent 12 months; while 49% of men that weren't prescribed testosterone nor PDE5i continued using antidepressants (RR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.20-1.29).

Conclusions

We conclude that patients who were prescribed PDE-5 inhibitors or testosterone were more likely to continue usage of antidepressants after 1 year despite the potential negative sexual dysfunction side effects that they may cause. The patient's psychiatric conditions and comorbidities should be considered when prescribing medications for sexual wellbeing in order to more holistically treat patients.

Disclosure

No
(023) Disinformation on pornography effects on erectile function led to iatrogenic Reboot/NoFap "treatment"
Authors: Prause N
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Dozens of studies concluded that pornography does not cause erectile dysfunction. A laboratory study (2022) studying actual partners reported that partners who reported viewing more pornography in their daily life also reported higher sexual arousal to the real partner. Similarly, the partner being manually stimulated in that study exhibited higher galvanic skin response/arousal associated with increased sexual arousal when more pornography had been viewed in their daily life. Yet, most sex addiction therapists and Reboot/NoFap coaches claim that their clients’ sexual dysfunctions are caused by pornography viewing. Qualitative interviews with followers of Reboot/NoFap found that the framing of pornography as an “addiction” by these groups was actually maintaining clients’ distress. This raised the possibility that disinformation from these “treatments” regarding sexual functioning actually was the cause of ED.

Objective

Examine whether engagement with Reboot/NoFap “treatments” might actually be causing or perpetuating sexual arousal problems attributed to pornography viewing.

Methods

Data were collected via (1) a pre-registered, online survey and (2) scrape of the Reboot/NoFap “support” group /r/NoFap. Men (n = 693) who had heard of Reboot. The Reddit scrape included 1,219 unique users and 10,971 unique r/NoFap posts. 2.3% of users had to be excluded for spontaneously posting that they were under age 18 due to not documenting parental knowledge, consent, or assent to post. Posts were subjected to a sentiment analysis, a form of natural language processing.

Results

Survey: Those who personally participated in Reboot/NoFap treatments were significantly younger, more sex negative, and sexually less experienced than those who chose not to participate. Those who participated the most in /r/NoFap forum, paradoxically, reported significantly more symptoms of erectile dysfunction, depression, and anxiety. They also were more likely to report being told to “kill or harm” themselves in the support subreddit /r/NoFap and reported more suicidal ideation at their last relapse. Erectile difficulties were predicted by respondents’ anxiety symptoms, and that relationship was not mediated or moderated by their pornography viewing. The strongest predictor of identifying as a pornography addict in this sample was higher narcissism. Reddit scrape: The users who posted over time in r/NoFap, on average, included the same or more posts containing sad, angry, disgusted, or fear words. Emotions in the post were not predicted by the support (upvotes, comment count) received.

Conclusions

Treatments that conceptualize pornography as causing erectile dysfunction appears to paradoxically cause distress and erectile problems to worsen.

Disclosure

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Mind Measures LLC
(027) Quality of Life, Including Sexual Life of Transgender People in Poland
Authors: Zborowska K , Bijoch J , Skrzypulec-Plinta V , Jorg D
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The shaping of human identity in the relationship between the mind and the body and the importance of this relationship for becoming a sexual being are elements of everyone's life, but in the case of transgender people this path is particularly complicated.

Objective

The main aim of the study was to analyze the relationship between the quality of life and sexual life in relation to the process of diagnosis and treatment of transgender people.

Methods

104 transgender people were enrolled in the study, including 66 transgender men and 38 transgender women. The study was conducted in two medical centers. The research tool used in the study was the original questionnaire and the Life Satisfaction Scale (SWLS), the Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire (KSS).

Results

In the study, all transsexual persons had complete medical and psychological diagnostics necessary to confirm the diagnosis. The average duration of the diagnostic process was 6 to 12 months among the surveyed people (N = 42; 40,4%). Transgender persons also defined the duration and time of implementation of the "real life" test. The analysis of the research material shows that the vast majority of respondents started the "real life" test before starting the diagnostic process and its average duration during the diagnostic process was from 3 to 6 months. All medical services in the field of diagnostic and laboratory tests as well as medical procedures related to surgical gender correction cover from own resources. Medical procedures in the field of intramuscular injections are not carried out as part of primary health care, but are carried out in their own scope, usually independently after the previous instruction by persons unprofessional prepared for that. Studies have also shown that health-related aspects including reproductive health are not addressed in the transgender group by the attending physicians. The vast majority of information about transgender is searched on the Internet, and not by doctors as a professional source of information. Half of the transgender examined had suicidal ideation (N=58%) and 11% of those attempted suicide. The mean value of life satisfaction (SWLS) in the study group was 25,4 (SD=4,3; min.=12, max.=33). The Mann-Whitney U test showed that the examined transgender people differ in the average result obtained in the SWLS scale (U = 723,5; p = 0,.000270). The average raw result obtained in the KSS scale for the whole examined group is 32.88 (SD=3.28; min.=20, max.=39).

Conclusions

The diagnosis and treatment process determines the quality of life, sexual satisfaction of transgender people. Support for the transgender family determines their assessment of life satisfaction. In Poland, there is no standard of care for transgender people and there is no discussion of reproductive health.

Disclosure

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Medical University of Silesia
(042) Inflatable Penile Prosthesis Placement In Transgender Neophallus Using Novel Human Cadaver Pericardium (Tutoplast®) Graft Sock Technique
Authors: Mehr J , Blum K , Green T , Panchapakesan K , Freet D , Wang R
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Placement of an inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) in a transgender patient’s neophallus carries unique considerations versus cis-gender IPP in mitigating infection, erosion, and overall complication rates. Traditionally, the IPP implants used in cis-males are also employed in transmasculine patients. However, there are unique challenges in the transmasculine population, with one of the most significant being the lack of anatomical corpus cavernosum and crura for cylinder placement and anchoring. To account for this, multiple grafting approaches and materials have been utilized in IPP neophallus placement with the goal of facilitating cylinder anchoring and stability. Here we detail our experiences using a novel grafting approach with Tutoplast® pericardium graft in a “sock” and “cap” technique in IPP placement in a transgender neophallus.

Objective

Our objective is to evaluate postoperative satisfaction and device functionality in patients undergoing transgender neophallic IPP placement using our technique.

Methods

We describe our experience and surgical technique in IPP neophallus placement utilizing a single cylinder with novel distal and proximal cylinder human cadaver pericardium (Tutoplast®) graft.

Results

We performed neophallus IPP placement with this novel grafting technique, with operative images and graft details shown below. Patients had no complaints post-operatively, with cylinder and pump found to be in good position at first post-operative visit 6 weeks following surgery. There was no difficulty with urinating through the neophallus. All patients report continued satisfaction with device as well as ability to perform penetrative intercourse with device activated. All patients reported satisfaction and no complications at last follow-up (range: 3.5 months to 13 months), with all patients possessing continued satisfactory erectile function. One patient noted occasional mild pain in neophallus that self-resolves and does not cause any concern.

Conclusions

In neophallus IPP placement, the anatomical differences compared to cis-gender IPP operations require unique considerations such as cylinder grafting material selection for proximal cylinder fixation and mitigation of device erosion rates. Utilizing human cadaver pericardium (Tutoplast®) graft in distal and proximal cylinder coverage shows positive preliminary outcomes in our patients.

Disclosure

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Run Wang, MD, FACS is a consultant for Boston Scientific and Teleflex.
(058) Does Ecstasy Have Treatment Potential in Female Sexual Dysfunction? A Systematic Review of Effects on the Female Sexual Response Cycle
Authors: Dubinskaya A , Suyama J , Anger J , Eilber K
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a highly prevalent and distressing condition, yet limited treatment modalities have been established and incorporated into clinical practice to address this condition. 3,4-Methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA, ‘Ecstasy’ or ‘Molly’) is a psychostimulant affecting central serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine neurotransmission. These same neurotransmitters play important roles in sexual function which suggests that MDMA has potential to be utilized as a novel treatment strategy for FSD.

Objective

The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate effects of MDMA on different domains of female sexual response cycle.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review on the effects of MDMA on the various domains of the female sexual response cycle. PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE were queried, and results were screened using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Search terms, including “MDMA” or “ecstasy” in combination with “desire,” “arousal”, “lubrication”, “orgasm”, “pleasure”, “libido,” were utilized. Inclusion criteria for this review were: MDMA was used by study subjects, sexual outcomes in at least one domain of female sexual cycle were described and measured, and the manuscript was written in English between January 2000 to June 2022. Case reports and studies that did not address conditions of interest were excluded from analysis.

Results

We identified a total of 175 studies. Of these, six studies including 155 women met our inclusion and exclusion criteria. Four of the six studies, including one randomized control study, reported increased sexual desire with MDMA use. Arousal and lubrication were improved in three of four studies but were not affected based on one randomized control study. Orgasm after using MDMA was delayed or difficult to reach, but more intense and pleasurable if achieved.

Conclusions

This systematic review demonstrates the need for further investigation of the effect of MDMA on different domains of the female sexual response cycle. While effect on orgasm and desire is more certain based on the available data, there is conflicting evidence about MDMA enhancing sexual arousal. MDMA is illicit and unregulated recreational drug, our findings should be interpreted with caution.

Disclosure

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Abbvie, Coloplast, Sprout Pharmaceuticals.
(063) Association between Comorbidities and Longitudinal Changes in Total Testosterone among men from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging
Authors: Carto C , Rahman F , Gurayah A A , Suarez Arbelaez M C , Ramasamy R
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Previous cross-sectional and longitudinal studies have described decreasing testosterone levels with age in men. However, the longitudinal impact of acquired comorbidities in aging males on the relationship between age and testosterone has not been thoroughly investigated.

Objective

In this longitudinal study, we aimed to evaluate the longitudinal association between age and testosterone levels and to investigate the impact of additive comorbidity burden on this relationship. We hypothesized that when controlling for the presence of comorbidities commonly acquired with age, there would be no association between age and serum total testosterone level.

Methods

Participants were selected from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging. Data was obtained on presence of several comorbidities and total testosterone level during each follow-up visit. All men with diagnosis of prostate cancer or documented use of testosterone replacement therapy during their follow-up period were excluded from analysis. A stepwise regression analysis was performed, including a final multivariate panel regression model in order to determine the impact of age on testosterone level while controlling for individual comorbidities.

Results

A total of 1,784 men were included in this study, with a mean age of 71 years and overall mean testosterone level of 463.2 ng/dL. Participants had an average of 3.23 comorbidities. On multivariable-adjusted panel regression analysis, age was not significantly associated with testosterone decline, while anemia, diabetes mellitus, heart failure, obesity, peripheral artery disease, and stroke were inversely associated with total testosterone level. We report no association between cancer and total testosterone.

Conclusions

In this large longitudinal study, we found that when adjusted for the presence of concomitant comorbidities, age does not predict a significant decline in testosterone level with age. With the overall increase in life expectancy, and the simultaneous rise in the incidence of comorbidities such as diabetes and dyslipidemia, our findings may help optimize screening and treatment for late-onset hypogonadism in patients with multiple comorbidities.

Disclosure

No