bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Let's stick together: Infection enhances preferences for social grouping in a songbird species
Authors: Langager Marissa M. , Adelman James S. , Hawley Dana M.
Published: October 2023

Acute infections can alter foraging and movement behaviors relevant to sociality and pathogen spread. However, few studies have directly examined how acute infections caused by directly transmitted pathogens influence host social preferences. While infected hosts often express sickness behaviors (e.g., lethargy) that can reduce social associations with conspecifics, enhanced sociality during infection might be favored in some systems if social grouping improves host survival of infection. Directly assaying social preferences of infected hosts is needed to elucidate potential changes in social preferences that may act as a form of behavioral tolerance (defined as using behavior to minimize fitness costs of infection). We tested how infection alters sociality in juvenile house finches (Haemorhous mexicanus), which are both highly gregarious and particularly susceptible to infection by the bacterial pathogen Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG). We inoculated 33 wild‐caught but captive‐held juvenile house finches with MG or media (sham control). At peak infection, birds were given a choice assay to assess preference for associating near a flock versus an empty cage. We then repeated this assay after all birds had recovered from infection. Infected birds were significantly more likely than controls to spend time associating with, and specifically foraging near, the flock. However, after infected birds had recovered from MG infection, there were no significant differences in the amount of time birds in each treatment spent with the flock. These results indicate augmented social preferences during active infection, potentially as a form of behavioral tolerance. Notably, infected birds showed strong social preferences regardless of variation in disease severity or pathogen loads, with 14/19 harboring high loads (5–6 log10 copies of MG) at the time of the assay. Overall, our results show that infection with a directly transmitted pathogen can augment social preferences, with important implications for MG spread in natural populations.
Feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a cognitive‐behavioral, family‐centered partial hospitalization program for adolescents with anorexia nervosa and atypical anorexia nervosa at six‐ and twelve‐month follow‐up
Authors: Billman Miller Marley G. , Quaill Marlana , King Steven , Mausteller Kyle , Johnson Mariah , Forrest Lauren N. , Lane‐Loney Susan E. , Essayli Jamal H.
Published: October 2023

This study examined the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a cognitive‐behavioral, family‐centered partial hospitalization program (PHP) for adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) and atypical AN (AAN), and described the outpatient services received following discharge. Participants (N = 31) completed anthropometric and self‐report assessments at admission, discharge, and six and twelve months after discharge from the PHP. Descriptive statistics explored markers of feasibility. Paired samples t‐tests evaluated changes in weight and eating disorder (ED) symptomatology from admission to discharge, admission to six‐month follow‐up, and admission to twelve‐month follow‐up. Descriptive statistics and effect sizes compared symptoms at each timepoint between participants with AN and AAN. Results indicated that we were successful at recruiting greater than 50% of adolescents approached for this study. We collected follow‐up data from more than 70% of participants at discharge, but did not meet this retention benchmark at six‐month and twelve‐month follow‐ups. The entire sample demonstrated significant improvements in weight and ED symptomatology from admission to discharge, and generally maintained these improvements at six‐ and twelve‐month follow‐up. While descriptive statistics suggested that participants with AN and AAN received similar outpatient services following discharge from the PHP, those with AN experienced greater improvement in self‐reported ED symptomatology than those with AAN at six‐ and twelve‐month follow‐up. These findings provide preliminary support for the efficacy of PHPs in treating adolescents with AN and AAN. Further research with larger sample sizes should investigate whether adolescents with AAN experience poorer outcomes than those with AN following discharge from a PHP.
Comparative efficacy of different tenderizing agents and time on Physicochemical textural and organoleptic properties of squid (Todarodes pacificus) muscle
Authors: Baykal Mehtap , Çelik Mehmet , Çelik Ladine , Küçükgülmez Aygül
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to investigate the chemical, physical, textural, and sensory properties of the squid (Todarodes pacificus) muscle during different tenderization agents (yeast, milk, and mineral water) and times (3, 6, 12, and 24 h). The results of the analyses showed that different treatments and their durations affected the dry matter, ash, lipid, and crude protein content of the squid. According to sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis results, it was observed that there was a slight decrease in band intensities based on different treatments and their durations. However, no significant changes were observed in myosin actin and paramyosin bands. It was found that the hardness (359.7 N), cohesiveness (0.63), and gumminess (233.2 N) parameters increased at the 6th hour, decreased at the 12th hour, and increased again at the 24th hour of the treatment. According to the scanning electron microscopy results, the most affected groups by the application and duration were found to be the mineral water group at the 12th and 24th hours, and the milk group at the 24th hour. Fibers in all marinated squid muscles were observed to spring significantly more compared to the positive and negative control groups. The taste score was found to be significantly higher in the group treated with yeast for 3 h and it was evaluated by the panelists as the most delicious squid among all of the groups. As a result of the study, it was determined that the chemical, physical, and sensory properties of squid could be improved by marinating with yeast, milk, and mineral water for different durations.
Microwave‐assisted extraction optimization of sesquiterpene lactones from Inula helenium roots: A sustainable approach to reduce energy consumption and carbon footprint
Authors: Özcan Fahriye Şeyma , Dikmen Hilal , Özcan Nihat , Çetin Özlem , Çelik Mustafa , Trendafilova Antoaneta
Published: October 2023

Inula helenium roots are consumed as natural flavor components and raw or cooked as food, and their extracts are rich in sesquiterpene lactones such as alantolactone (AL) and isoalantolactone (IAL), which have recently attracted great attention due to their pharmacological properties. The industrial utilization of these compounds requires the development of green, efficient, cost‐effective, and sustainable extraction protocols. Therefore, this study focused on the optimization of microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) process variables using Face‐Centered Central Composite Design (FC‐CCD). Then, maceration was applied as a conventional technique, and these techniques were compared in terms of extraction efficiency, morphological changes, antimicrobial activities, carbon emissions, and energy consumption. As a result, optimal MAE conditions, i.e., EtOH: water ratio (X1) = 100:0, liquid/sample ratio (X2) = 30:1 mL/g, microwave power (X3) = 300 W, and irradiation time (X4) = 5 min, were obtained with AL and IAL yields of 54.99 ± 0.11 (mg/g) and 48.40 ± 0.19 (mg/g), respectively. The extract obtained by MAE had similar or better activity than positive controls in most cases and formed the largest inhibition zones against E. coli (29.5 ± 0.71 mm) and A. niger (34.75 ± 1.06 mm). Morphological changes of I. helenium roots after extraction were observed by scanning electron microscopy. Additionally, MAE was 43.4 times faster than maceration, resulting in 228.6 times less energy consumption and carbon emissions. Based on these findings, it is recommended to use MAE as an industrial green technique for the extraction of sesquiterpene lactones with potential applications in nutraceuticals and food products in terms of sustainable economy and environmental protection.
dcSBM: A federated constrained source‐based morphometry approach for multivariate brain structure mapping
Authors: Saha Debbrata K. , Silva Rogers F. , Baker Bradley T. , Saha Rekha , Calhoun Vince D.
Published: October 2023

The examination of multivariate brain morphometry patterns has gained attention in recent years, especially for their powerful exploratory capabilities in the study of differences between patients and controls. Among the many existing methods and tools for the analysis of brain anatomy based on structural magnetic resonance imaging data, data‐driven source‐based morphometry (SBM) focuses on the exploratory detection of such patterns. Here, we implement a semi‐blind extension of SBM, called constrained source‐based morphometry (constrained SBM), which enables the extraction of maximally independent reference‐alike sources using the constrained independent component analysis (ICA) approach. To do this, we combine SBM with a set of reference components covering the full brain, derived from a large independent data set (UKBiobank), to provide a fully automated SBM framework. This also allows us to implement a federated version of constrained SBM (cSBM) to allow analysis of data that is not locally accessible. In our proposed decentralized constrained source‐based morphometry (dcSBM), the original data never leaves the local site. Each site operates constrained ICA on its private local data using a common distributed computation platform. Next, an aggregator/master node aggregates the results estimated from each local site and applies statistical analysis to estimate the significance of the sources. Finally, we utilize two additional multisite patient data sets to validate our model by comparing the resulting group difference estimates from both cSBM and dcSBM.
Improving the diagnosis of endometriosis in Asia‐Pacific: Consensus from the Asia‐Pacific Endometriosis Expert Panel for Endometriosis
Authors: Yen Chih‐Feng , Hamdan Mukhri , Hengrasmee Pattaya , Huang Zhongwei , Jeong Kyungah , Dao Le Anh , Lertvikool Srithean , Mogan Surita , Pal Bhaskar , Sumapradja Kanadi , Wu Meng‐Hsing , Yap‐Garcia Maria Isidora Margarita , Donovan Catherine , Christopher Stephen , Kim Mee‐Ran
Published: October 2023

Endometriosis should be diagnosed as early as possible in the continuum of care; but substantial delays of approximately 6–8 years between symptom onset and endometriosis diagnosis have been widely reported. With the purpose of improving the prompt diagnosis of endometriosis, the Asia‐Pacific Endometriosis Expert Panel (APEX) sought to address the reasons for diagnostic delays across the region, and formulate a multi‐pronged approach to overcoming these challenges. In the first instance, clinical diagnosis is preferable to surgical diagnosis, in order to facilitate earlier empirical treatment and minimize the negative sequelae of undiagnosed/untreated disease. There should be a high clinical index of suspicion in women presenting with cyclical symptoms, including those involving extrapelvic organs. Diagnostic delays in Asia‐Pacific countries are attributable to a variety of patient, physician, and healthcare factors, including poor awareness, normalization/trivialization of pain, individual/cultural attitudes toward menstruation, default use of symptom‐suppressing treatments, misdiagnosis, and a lack of diagnostic resourcing or adequate referral pathways in some areas. Suggested initiatives to reduce diagnostic delays are geared toward improving public awareness, improving clinical diagnostic skills, streamlining multidisciplinary care pathways for timely referral, updating and implementing diagnostic guidelines, lobbying policymakers and insurance companies for endometriosis support, and increasing efforts to bridge data gaps and perform further research in this field. Formulating specific action plans and gathering traction are the responsibility of individual countries within local parameters. The APEX group advocates for any initiatives and policies that support the unmet needs of women with endometriosis, to improve patient experience and outcomes.
Outcomes for Vasovasostomy With Bilateral Intravasal Azoospermia
Authors: Kolettis Peter N. , D'Amico Anna M. , Box Lyndon , Burns John R.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: We conducted an evaluation of outcomes for microsurgical vasectomy reversal in which sperm are absent from the vas fluid in order to determine a threshold obstructive interval when vasoepididymostomy (VE) may be indicated. Vasectomy reversal was performed for 32 patients with intravasal azoospermia: 25 received bilateral vasovasostomy (VV), 1 had a bilateral VV, 5 underwent VV/VE, and 1 had bilateral VE. Overall, the patency rate was 50% (14 of 28). Five pregnancies (20%) and 3 live births (12%) occurred in 25 patients with sufficient follow‐up. One pregnancy was electively terminated and the other is ongoing, for an ongoing or delivered rate of 16%. The patency rate for VV (either bilateral or unilateral) was 55% (12 of 22). Median obstructive interval was 7 years in patent and 15 years in nonpatent cases, respectively, (P = .0027). Sperm were not observed after VV in any case n which the obstructive interval was greater than 11 years. If VV was limited to obstructive intervals of 11 years or less, then the patency rate was 80% (12 of 15) and the pregnancy rate was 38% (5 of 13). The patency rate for bilateral VV was 67% (8 of 12) if clear fluid was observed on at least one side. We conclude that VE is not required in every case of intravasal azoospermia, but it could improve success rates in this setting. Based on our experience, VE may be indicated for intravasal azoospermia if the obstructive interval is more than 11 years.
Outpatient Surgery for Penile Venous Patch With the Patient Under Local Anesthesia
Authors: Hsu Geng‐Long , Hsieh Cheng‐Hsing , Wen Hsien‐Sheng , Hsieh Ju‐Ton , Chiang Han‐Sun
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Although local anesthesia for penile surgery has been widely reported, its application for penile venous patch, however, has not been published. We evaluated an anesthetic and surgical technique on an outpatient basis. From March 1993 to September 2001, a total of 29 men with penile deformity, aged 27 to 77 years (mean 55 years) received a penile venous patch for morphologic correction. They received autologous grafting of the deep dorsal vein under local anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. The anesthetic effect and postoperative results were satisfactory. The average available area of the deep dorsal vein was 5.7 × 2.5 cm2. The common immediate side effects included puncture of the vessels, subcutaneous ecchymosis, and transient palpitation, but there were no significant late complications. All patients returned home uneventfully. This has been proven to be a cost‐effective, simple, and safe method with fewer complications. It offers the advantages of lower morbidity, protection of privacy, fewer adverse effects of anesthesia, and a more rapid return to activity with minimal complications.
Clinical and Diagnostic Features of Patients With Suspected Klinefelter Syndrome
Authors: Kamischke Axel , Baumgardt Arthur , Horst Jürgen , Nieschlag Eberhard
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Klinefelter syndrome, with an incidence of 1:600 male newborns, is the most frequent form of male hypogonadism. However, despite its relatively high frequency, the syndrome is often overlooked. To prevent such oversights, the clinical features should be better characterized, and simple screening tests should be used more frequently. In a cohort of 309 patients suspected of having Klinefelter syndrome, we evaluated the clinical symptoms as well as the diagnostic value of the Barr body test for screening procedures. On the basis of chromosome analysis, 85 patients (group I) were diagnosed as having Klinefelter syndrome, and 224 patients had a 46,XY karyotype (group II). Barr body analysis revealed a specificity of 95% and a sensitivity of 82% for the diagnosis of Klinefelter syndrome. General features (eg, reason for admission, age, age of the parents, body weight, and frequency of maldescended testes) were not different between the groups, except that group I had a higher proportion of patients with a lower educational background. Compared to group II, patients with Klinefelter syndrome were taller (P < .001); had smaller testis volumes (P < .0001), higher follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) values; and carried a tendency for less androgenic phenotype and secondary hair distribution. Testosterone, estradiol, sex hormone—binding globulin (SHBG), and prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) serum levels as well as prostate volume were not significantly different between the groups. In patients who provided an ejaculate, azoospermia was found in 54% of the patients in group II and in 93% of the patients with Klinefelter syndrome. Although not exclusively characteristic for Klinefelter syndrome, the combination of low testicular volume and azoospermia, together with elevated gonadotropins, is highly indicative for a Klinefelter syndrome and should stimulate further clinical investigations. Barr body analysis provides a quick and reliable screening test, which, however, must be confirmed by karyotyping.
Mouse Epididymal Spam1 (PH‐20) Is Released in the Luminal Fluid With its Lipid Anchor
Authors: Zhang Hong , Martin‐Deleon Patricia A.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Previously we demonstrated that the murine sperm adhesion molecule 1 (Spam1 or PH‐20) is synthesized by the epididymal epithelium, preferentially in the distal region, and is released into the luminal fluid. We also showed that whereas testicular and epididymal Spam1 have hyaluronidase activity at neutral pH, they are under different transcriptional regulation. The aim of this study was to further compare characteristics of the two forms of this glycosyl‐phosphatidylinositol‐linked protein and their transcripts, and to determine whether secreted epididymal Spam1 is released with its lipid anchor. With GeneRacer amplification of the 3′ end of the complementary DNA we show that the poly(A) tails are significantly (P < .05) shorter in the epididymis than in the testis. Two‐dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with immunoblotting reveals one to three isoforms for epididymal Spam1 with the isoelectric point (pl) ranging from 7.3 to 9.0, and four isoforms ranging from 6.6 to 9.0 pl for testicular Spam1. Two isoforms with a pl ranging from 7.6 to 9.0 were observed for caudal sperm. Lectin blotting analysis shows that Phaseolus vulgaris erythroagglutinin, Lycopersicon esculentum lectin (LEL), and Solanum tuberosum lectin, which all bind to N‐linked chains, recognize a 67 kd band in the epididymis and caudal sperm, but not in the testis. Treatment of the protein extracts with anti‐Spam1 serum prior to blotting with LEL led to the disappearance of the banding, indicating Spam1 specificity of the staining. The lectin peanut agglutinin, which preferentially binds to O‐linked side chains, recognizes a 67 kd band in all three cell types. Enzymatic deglycosylation studies confirmed the presence of an O‐linked glycan in all three cell types. Ultracentrifugation of the luminal fluid reveals that epididymal Spam1 is secreted predominantly as insoluble particles, which when treated with phosphatidylinositol‐specific phospholipase C or Triton X‐100, reveal that the majority of epididymal Spam1 is released with its lipid anchor, a form in which it can bind to sperm.
The Sperm Chromatin Dispersion Test: A Simple Method for the Determination of Sperm DNA Fragmentation
Authors: Fernández Jose Luis , Muriel Lourdes , Rivero Maria Teresa , Goyanes Vicente , Vazquez Rosana , Alvarez Juan G.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Sperm DNA fragmentation is being increasingly recognized as an important cause of infertility. We herein describe the Sperm Chromatin Dispersion (SCD) test, a novel assay for sperm DNA fragmentation in semen. The SCD test is based on the principle that sperm with fragmented DNA fail to produce the characteristic halo of dispersed DNA loops that is observed in sperm with non‐fragmented DNA, following acid denaturation and removal of nuclear proteins. This was confirmed by the analysis of DNA fragmentation using the specific DNA Breakage Detection‐Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (DBD‐FISH) assay, which allows the detection of DNA breaks in lysed sperm nuclei. Sperm suspensions either prepared from semen or isolated from semen by gradient centrifugation were embedded in an agarose microgel on slides and treated with 0.08 N HCl and lysing solutions containing 0.8 M dithiothreitol (DTT), 1% sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), and 2 M NaCl. Then, the slides were sequentially stained with DAPI (4′,6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole) and/or the Diff‐Quik reagent, and the percentages of sperm with nondispersed and dispersed chromatin loops were monitored by fluorescence and brightfield microscopy, respectively. The results indicate that all sperm with nondispersed chromatin displayed DNA fragmentation, as measured by DBD‐FISH. Conversely, all sperm with dispersed chromatin had very low to undetectable DBD‐FISH labeling. SCD test values were significantly higher in patients being screened for infertility than in normozoospermic sperm donors who had participated in a donor insemination program. The coefficient of variation obtained using 2 different observers, either by digital image analysis (DIA) or by brightfield microscopy scoring, was less than 3%. In conclusion, the SCD test is a simple, accurate, highly reproducible, and inexpensive method for the analysis of sperm DNA fragmentation in semen and processed sperm. Therefore, the SCD test could potentially be used as a routine test for the screening of sperm DNA fragmentation in the andrology laboratory.
Effect on Clinical Outcome of the Interval Between Collection of Epididymal and Testicular Spermatozoa and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection in Obstructive Azoospermia
Authors: Wood Simon , Sephton Victoria , Searle Tom , Thomas Kevin , Schnauffer Karen , Troup Stephen , Kingsland Charles , Lewis‐Jones Iwan
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: We wished to determine whether the interval between surgical retrieval of epididymal and testicular spermatozoa in obstructive azoospermia and their subsequent use in intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has an effect on their fertilizing capacity and pregnancy rates in patients undergoing ICSI. This was a retrospective review of 164 consecutive cycles of ICSI in partners of men undergoing surgical sperm retrieval for obstructive azoospermia. Seventy‐three cycles used fresh testicular spermatozoa; in 35 cycles ICSI was performed within 4 hours of sperm retrieval, and in 38 cycles spermatozoa were incubated overnight before ICSI. Epididymal spermatozoa were used in 29 cycles; 22 cases within 4 hours of retrieval and 7 cases following overnight culture. Cyropreserved testicular and epididymal spermatozoa were used in 42 and 20 ICSI cycles, respectively. Fertilization and clinical pregnancy rates were calculated for each treatment group. Fertilization rates for epididymal spermatozoa were 67% at 4 hours, 56% at 24 hours, and 63% for cryopreserved spermatozoa (P = .52). Fertilization rates for testicular spermatozoa were 63% at 4 hours, 71% at 24 hours, and 60% for cryopreserved spermatozoa (P = .16). Unlike testicular spermatozoa, cryopreserved epididymal spermatozoa showed a significant increase in clinical pregnancy rates with cryopreservation, with rates of 4 of 22, 1 of 7, and 10 of 20 at 4 hours, 24 hours, and cryopreservation, respectively (P = .049). This study confirms that fertilization and pregnancy rates following ICSI with motile spermatozoa are unaffected by the duration between surgical retrieval of spermatozoa and their injection into oocytes. It also demonstrates that of all treatment modalities, the use of frozen epididymal spermatozoa was associated with the greatest pregnancy rates.
Complexes of Gelatinases and Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases in Human Seminal Plasma
Authors: Shimokawa Ken‐Ichi , Katayama Masatoki , Matsuda Yoshifumi , Takahashi Hidenobu , Hara Izumi , Sato Hirohisa
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Previously reported data have indicated the existence of two kinds of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP‐2 and MMP‐9) in human seminal plasma (Shimokawa et al, 2002). Here we report the existence of complexes of gelatinases and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐1 (TIMP‐1) and TIMP‐2 in human seminal plasma. After the seminal plasma supernatant was separated on a gel‐filtration column chromatography of GCL‐2000‐sf‐cellulofine. Western blot analysis showed these proteins were recognized by two antibodies to TIMP‐1 and TIMP‐2, but not to TIMP‐3 or TIMP‐4. These bands were consistent with standard recombinant full‐length TIMP‐1 and TIMP‐2 proteins. These bands had molecular weights of approximately 29 and 21 kd for TIMP‐1 and TIMP‐2, respectively. These proteins existed as complexes of proMMP‐9/TIMP‐1, proMMP‐2/TIMP‐2, MMP‐2/TIMP‐2, free TIMP‐1, and TIMP‐2 in human seminal plasma. The partially free TIMPs were degradeted by some proteinases in human seminal plasma. These results indicate two kinds of TIMPs (TIMP‐1 and TIMP‐2) and their complexes with progelatinases in human seminal plasma.
Lack of RBM Expression as a Marker for Carcinoma In Situ of Prepubertal Dysgenetic Testis
Authors: Schreiber Letizia , Lifschitz‐Mercer Beatriz , Paz Gedalia , Yavetz Haim , Zadik Zvi , Kula Krzysztof , Slowikowska‐Hilczer Jolanta , Rey Rodolfo , Elliott David J. , Maymon Batia Bar‐Shira
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Individuals with various intersex states who carry Y‐chromosome material bear a high risk of developing testicular neoplasia. In order to gain more insight into the pathogenesis of this neoplasia, the current study evaluates the differentiation of the seminiferous epithelium in 46,XY dysgenetic male pseudohermaphroditism. Immunohistochemical evaluation was performed using the germ cell‐specific RNA‐binding motif (RBM) protein (encoded by the Y‐chromosome) to identify normal germ cells, whereas placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP) was used to detect neoplastic germ cells. Differentiation of somatic Sertoli cells was assessed using cytokeratin‐18 (CK‐18) and anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) as markers for immature Sertoli cells. Specimens were taken from surgically removed dysgenetic gonads of five children (46XY karyotype). Intratubular germ cell neoplasia (carcinoma in situ [CIS] of the testis) was detected in all of them. Normal germ cells revealed immunoreactivity for RBM, whereas the PLAP‐positive neoplastic germ cells were negative for RBM expression. Sertoli cells revealed an immature phenotype indicated by AMH expression in their cytoplasm. The design of the current study is unique in its assessment of the state of germ cell differentiation in dysgenetic gonads by the use of the RBM protein, which was expressed only in normal germ cells but not in those of CIS. Testicular dysgenesis interrupted the normal differentiation of the germ line and had no effect on the immature phenotype of the prepubertal Sertoli cells. This points toward the germinal component of CIS as the precursor for the promotion of testis cancer.
Analysis of Aneuploidy in Spermatozoa From Testicular Biopsies From Men With Nonobstructive Azoospermia
Authors: Martin Renée H. , Greene Calvin , Rademaker Alfred W. , Ko Evelyn , Chernos Judy
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: Testicular sperm biopsy combined with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) allows men with azoospermia the possibility of fathering a child. However, little information exists on the risk of chromosome abnormalities in their sperm. Multicolor fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis was used to determine the frequency of sperm diploidy and disomy for the sex chromosomes in six men with normal karyotypes and non‐obstructive azoospermia. A new method using microwave decondensation and codenaturation of sperm nuclei yielded a much larger number of sperm nuclei for FISH analysis than our previous study of men with azoospermia. A total of 59 916 sperm were analyzed; more than 9000 sperm were scored for each man. The men with nonobstructive azoospermia had an increased frequency of sperm chromosomal disomy for YY, XY, total sex chromosomal disomy, and diploidy compared with 18 normal controls, but only YY disomy reached statistical significance. One infertile man had a frequency of 3.8% XY disomy and 4.3% diploidy, which was 13‐fold and 7‐fold higher than control donors, respectively. Our results suggest that some men with nonobstructive azoospermia have a significantly increased frequency of sex chromosomal abnormalities than normal men, but that the overall frequency of abnormalities is similar to that found in infertile men with abnormal semen parameters.
Genotoxicity of bisphenol AF in rats: Detrimental to male reproductive system and probable stronger micronucleus induction potency than BPA
Authors: Zhu Xia , Cao Li , Liu Yufei , Tang Xinyao , Miao Yeqiu , Zhang Jing , Zhang Lishi , Jia Zhenchao , Chen Jinyao
Published: October 2023

Bisphenol AF (BPAF), as one of structural analogs of BPA, has been increasingly used in recent years. However, limited studies have suggested its adverse effects similar to or higher than BPA. In order to explore the general toxicity and genotoxicity of subacute exposure to BPAF, the novel 28‐day multi‐endpoint (Pig‐a assay + micronucleus [MN] test + comet assay) genotoxicity evaluation platform was applied. Male rats were randomly distributed into seven main experimental groups and four satellite groups. The main experimental groups included BPAF‐treated groups (0.5, 5, and 50 μg/kg·bw/d), BPA group (10 μg/kg·bw/d), two solvent control groups (PBS and 0.1% ethanol/99.9% oil), and one positive control group (N‐ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea, 40 mg/kg bw). The satellite groups included BPAF high‐dose recovery group (BPAF‐HR), oil recovery group (oil‐R), ENU recovery group (ENU‐R), and PBS recovery group (PBS‐R). All groups received the agents orally via gavage for 28 consecutive days, and satellite groups were given a recovery period of 35 days. Among all histopathologically examined organs, testis and epididymis damage was noticed, which was further manifested as blood‐testis barrier (BTB) junction protein (Connexin 43 and Occludin) destruction. BPAF can induce micronucleus production and DNA damage, but the genotoxic injury can be repaired after the recovery period. The expression of DNA repair gene OGG1 was downregulated by BPAF. To summarize, under the design of this experiment, male reproductive toxicity of BPAF was noticed, which is similar to that of BPA, but its ability to induce micronucleus production may be stronger than that of BPA.
Ultrathin atomic layer deposition Al2O3 coatings on graphite cathode materials for improving anti‐self‐discharging Al‐ion battery
Authors: Gowdru Swathi M. , Wu Yu‐Cheng , Liu Ting‐Ran , Patil Shivaraj B. , Li Zhi‐Jie , Hsieh Han‐Hsuan , Chen Zhen , Wen Cheng‐Yen , Wang Di‐Yan
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Self‐discharging is a natural behavior that occurs in all batteries. In this work, to reduce the self‐discharging behavior of Al‐ion battery, the graphite materials were coated with different thickness of Al2O3 coatings (3, 5, 7, and 10 nm) by using atomic layer deposition (ALD) technique. Because there is no solid electrolyte interface (SEI) formed in Al‐ion battery with using ionic liquid electrolyte, ALD–Al2O3 coating could play a role in artificial SEI in Al‐ion battery.

Methods

The aluminum oxide (Al2O3) layer on the graphite electrode was deposited via ALD. During the deposition, the growth temperature for Al2O3 was kept at 80°C. High‐purity N2 was used to carry the gas precursors of trimethylaluminium Al2(CH3)6 (TMA) and H2O alternately into the reacting chamber of ALD. Each injection of gas precursor was followed by purging the reacting chamber with high‐purity N2. By controlling different reaction times, the different thickness of ALD–Al2O3 coatings on the surface of graphite materials can be obtained.

Results

We found that SP1 graphite coated with 5 nm Al2O3 (SG–ALD‐5 nm) as cathode materials in Al‐ion battery exhibited a superior anti‐self‐discharging behavior (260 h) with long stability (∼900 cycles). The battery capacity can achieve up to 85 mAh/g at a current density of 300 mA/g (3C) with a coulombic efficiency (CE) of 98.5%. Furthermore, the ALD–Al2O3 coating method can also be applied to other graphite materials. The battery based on flexuous graphite with an ALD–Al2O3 coating (FG–ALD) also exhibited excellent discharging capacity of 140 mAh/g with good cycle stability over 3000 cycles at a current density of 3000 mA/g.

Conclusion

Overall results indicated that ALD coatings on graphite materials demonstrated significantly promising on not only reducing the self‐discharging problem but also remaining the superior battery performance.
Harmonization of distributed multi‐center analysis based on dried blood spot reference materials supporting the screening of neonatal inherited metabolic disorders
Authors: Qu Shou‐Fang , Tao Hao‐Ran , Qin Liu‐Ji , Zhang Wen‐Xin , Han Shan , Zhang Shen‐Yan , Huang Jie
Published: October 2023

Background

The standardization of quantification data is critical for ensuring the reliability and measurement traceability in the screening of neonatal inherited metabolic disorders. However, the availability of national certified reference materials is limited in China.

Methods

In this study, we developed a series of dried blood spot (DBS) reference materials containing 9 amino acids (AA) and 10 acylcarnitines (AC) for neonatal screening. Four levels of the reference materials were measured with tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) by seven laboratories using different commercial In Vitro Diagnostic Device (IVD) kits. Then, 100 clinical samples were measured using both derivatization and non‐derivatization methods by the same laboratory.

Results

We found high homogeneity and stability at all levels of the reference materials, with the coefficient of variation (CV) of the analytes less than 15%. These reference materials can be used to assess the testing capabilities of different laboratories. Our test also revealed that the correction factors (CF) calculated by the reference materials, along with clinical samples, could increase the consistency for different kits.

Conclusion

The DBS reference materials proposed in this study provide reliability for the harmonization in multi‐center analysis for the screening of neonatal inherited metabolic disorders. And applying our correction method for the screening could improve the data consistency of the DBS samples prepared by different methods.
Longitudinal effects of two individual career counseling interventions on clients’ career decision‐making during the COVID‐19 pandemic over a 1‐year follow‐up
Authors: Milot‐Lapointe Francis , Corff Yann Le
Published: October 2023

This study assessed the effects of two individual career counseling interventions during the COVID‐19 pandemic over a 1‐year follow‐up. Participants (n = 71) engaged either in four individual humanistic–psychodynamic (during winter 2021) or cognitive career counseling (during winter 2022) sessions at a university counseling clinic. Latent growth models indicated that clients experienced a significant reduction in their career decision difficulties and psychological distress and a significant increase in their life satisfaction over sessions and the 12 months following. Clients who received cognitive career counseling sessions experienced larger effects. Results highlight the utility of individual career counseling in times of crisis.
Cadaveric Assessment of the Butterfly Graft in Rhinoplasty
Authors: Brownlee Benjamin P. , Hassoun Adam , Parikh Aniruddha , Chen Xi Sophia , Zhao Daniel , Mims Mark M.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The rhinoplasty butterfly graft is used to improve the internal nasal valve (INV), but post‐operative visibility remains a concern. Intraoperative techniques have developed to thin the graft with unknown effect on functionality.

Objectives

Improve understanding of how to modify the aesthetics of the butterfly graft without impacting patient outcomes. Determine how graft contouring affects its biomechanical properties.

Methods

Cadaveric cartilage grafts were used to examine the biomechanics in its native state and with progressive thinning. The force needed to stabilize the INV in an unaltered state and the resistance force provided by native (original), partially thinned, and fully thinned cartilage grafts were recorded.

Results

The mean thickness of grafts in their natural state was 1.64 mm, median 1.50 mm (SD 0.64 mm). The fully‐thinned mean was 0.84 mm, median 0.8 mm (SD 0.18 mm). The mean force (N) of the native graft was 0.74 N and 0.60 N for fully thin (p = 0.016, 95%). The mean force (N) needed to stabilize the INV was 0.15 N (right) and 0.19 N (left).

Conclusion

Butterfly grafts can be thinned by approximately 50% of their original thickness and retain the strength to stabilize the INV.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 134:1638–1641, 2024
Exposure to TiO2 nanoparticles improves the physiological characteristics of drought‐challenged chickpeas (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Ghorbani Roya , Ganjeali Ali , Movafeghi Ali , Nabati Jafar
Published: October 2023

Drought stress markedly affects plant growth and crop production. In turn, treatment with some metal‐based nanoparticles (NPs) such as TiO2‐NPs could improve the plant tolerance against drought stress. In the present study, the effects of different levels of moisture regime (40%, 60%, and 90% field capacity [FC]) in conjunction with various concentrations of TiO2‐NPs (0, 5, 10, 20, and 40 mg. L−1) on chickpea were studied. Exposure of drought‐challenged chickpea plants to TiO2‐NPs raised antioxidant enzyme activity compared with plants grown under drought without TiO2‐NP treatment. The highest activity of ascorbate peroxidase (APX) was observed at 40% FC and application of 40 mg. L−1 TiO2‐NPs. Moreover, peroxidase (POX) activity has increased with the enhancing concentration of TiO2‐NPs to 20 mg. L−1 at 90% FC. In comparison, the application of 40 mg. L−1 TiO2‐NPs and decreasing levels of FC caused a rise in the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD). Exposure to TiO2‐NPs raised the amount of total phenols and 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picryl‐hydrazyl‐hydrate (DPPH) at different levels of moisture regime. The content of malondialdehyde (MDA) at 60% FC has decreased by 22% after treatment with 20 mg. L−1 TiO2‐NPs compared with control plants. Also, treatment with TiO2‐NPs heightened the proline content, and the highest amount of proline was obtained at 40% FC by applying 20 mg. L−1 NPs. The treatment with TiO2‐NPs in the moisture regimes led to higher chlorophyll and carotenoid production in chickpea plants. Taken together, the application of TiO2‐NPs could raise the defense potential of chickpea plants against oxidative stress caused by the generation of reactive oxygen species.
Relative importance of bacterivorous mixotrophs in an estuary‐coast environment
Authors: Li Qian , Dong Kaiyi , Wang Ying , Edwards Kyle F.
Published: October 2023

Mixotrophic eukaryotes are important bacterivores in oligotrophic open oceans, but their significance as grazers in more nutrient‐rich waters is less clear. Here, we investigated the bacterivory partition between mixotrophs and heterotrophs in a productive, estuary‐influenced coastal region in the East China Sea. We found ubiquitous, actively feeding phytoplankton populations and taxa with mixotrophic potential by identifying ingestion of fluorescent prey surrogate and analyzing community 18S rRNA gene amplicons. Potential and active mixotrophs accounted for 10–63% of the total eukaryotic community and 17–69% of bacterivores observed, respectively, contributing 6–48% of estimated in situ bacterivory. The much higher mixotroph fitness outside of the turbid plume was potentially driven by increased light and decreased nutrient availability. Our results suggest that, although heterotrophs dominated overall in situ bacterivory, mixotrophs were abundant and important bacterivores in this low‐latitude mesotrophic coastal region.
Crosslinking of Epoxidized Natural Rubber with Borax for Self‐Healing and Self‐Repairing Properties: pH Dependence
Authors: Chantaramanee Tamonwan , Tanpichai Supachok , Boonmahitthisud Anyaporn
Published: October 2023

Epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) crosslinked using borax, which exhibits self‐healing and self‐repairing properties, is successfully developed. The crosslink formation of ENR by using borax under neutral and alkaline conditions is investigated. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) shows that the borate–ester bond is formed in ENR prepared under both neutral and alkaline conditions, whereas boron nuclear magnetic resonance (11B‐NMR) results exhibit that the ENR prepared under alkaline conditions more actively forms crosslink networks with borax. Moreover, the crosslink density and gel content increase significantly with the presence of borax in alkaline conditions. The crosslink density and gel content of ENR with 10 phr borax are higher by 155% and 36%, respectively, than those of neat ENR. Furthermore, the formation of the crosslinking ENR by borax enhances self‐healing and self‐repairing properties. The healing efficiency significantly increases from 1.09% to 85.90%, when ENR is developed under alkaline conditions with 30 phr borax. These results represent the first successful demonstration of the efficient use of borax as a crosslinker in ENR, which exhibits its promising self‐healing and self‐repairing properties under atmospheric conditions without the need for external stimuli. The ENR prepared in this work holds great promise for various self‐healing rubber applications.
Patient access to first contact practitioner physiotherapists in the UK: A national survey
Authors: Lamb Kirsten , Comer Christine , Walsh Nicola , McHugh Gretl
Published: October 2023

Background

First Contact Practice Physiotherapists (FCPPs) offer expert care for patients with musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions in Primary Care, usually within GP practices. This is a rapidly expanding area of practice endorsed by NHS England, the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) and the British Medical Association (BMA). Efficient and appropriate access is important for optimising FCPP practice, but there is little published information about how patients currently access FCPP appointments.

Objective

To investigate how patients access FCPP appointments in General Practice.

Design

Cross‐sectional online survey of FCPPs in the UK.

Methods

FCPPs were surveyed about patient access to appointments. The survey instrument was designed using Jisc Online Surveys, piloted, and then distributed via social media and professional groups to FCPPs nationwide. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse demographic and multiple‐choice questions, and free text responses were analysed using quantitative content analysis.

Results

193 participants completed the survey. Booking via GP Reception (n = 179) was reported as the most common route into an FCPP appointment, closely followed by booking after seeing another clinician for the problem (n = 172).

Conclusion

This research has provided clarity regarding how patients access the rapidly growing speciality of FCPP within GP practices in the UK. The role of GP Reception staff in facilitating access to FCPPs, the application of triage and the use of digital or online systems were highlighted as important elements for enabling efficient access to FCPPs by patients with MSK conditions.
A phenomenological exploration of the mental health experiences of young women with diminished ovarian reserve
Authors: Woods Brittany M. , Bray Leigh Ann , Campbell Sukhkamal B. , Holland Aimee , Mrug Sylvie , Ladores Sigrid
Published: October 2023

Infertility is a reproductive disease affecting one in six individuals that renders an individual unable to conceive. One cause of infertility is diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), which reduces the quantity and/or quality of a female's oocyte pool. Although typically indicating normal ovarian aging during the late 30s and early 40s, DOR can also impact younger women, increasing their risk for psychological distress from an unexpected diagnosis of infertility. A phenomenological approach examined the mental health experiences and perceptions of infertility‐related mental health care of young women with DOR. Women diagnosed with DOR by age 35 in the United States who experienced emotional distress during infertility were recruited from infertility‐specific social media and via snowball sampling. Participants completed a demographic survey and semi‐structured individual interview that was audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using a phenomenological approach. Ten women ages 27–41 completed the study. On average, participants were 30 years of age at the time of DOR diagnosis (age range 25–35), primarily Caucasian (90%), and married (90%). Two main themes were found: (1) Young women with DOR feel like a “forgotten community” coping with an invisible disease; and (2) Not all fertility clinics are created equal. Participants perceived their diagnosis as devastating and hopeless and urged others to find a provider with ample experience treating patients with DOR. This study helped to understand how young women with DOR perceive their mental health and identified a significant need for advancing towards more holistic infertility healthcare that encompasses both physical and mental health.
Mechanical properties and corrosion protection performance of micro/nano alumina fillers coated steel
Authors: Abd El‐Aziz Kh. , Megahed M. , Saber D.
Published: October 2023

Steel is considered the most widely used metal because of its excellent strength and comparatively low‐production cost. Preventing steel corrosion will be a top priority in industry. This work investigates the influence of an epoxy resin liner to steel filled with different percentages (1, 2, and 3 wt%) of either micro or nanoparticles of alumina (Al2O3) on both bending properties and corrosion resistance. To test for barrier resistance, the coated steel samples were submerged in a citric acid and saline solution. In comparison with pure epoxy coatings, the addition of nano and micro alumina (Al2O3) particles enhanced the corrosion resistance, bending strength, and bending strain under dry and wet conditions. Furthermore, under both dry and wet circumstances, the bending strain rose dramatically with the addition of micro and nano fillers. The 1 wt% of Al2O3 nanoparticles coated steel exhibited the maximum bending strength of 492.81 and 436.9 MPa under wet and dry conditions, respectively. Moreover, the micro filled steel of 1 wt% Al2O3 micro fillers exhibited a 483.7 and 319.08 MPa bending strength under wet and dry circumstances, respectively. Stepwise graded micro/nanocomposite coatings showed good bending and corrosion properties in both dry and wet conditions.

Highlights

Coating is an economical means to protect steel structures from deterioration.

The coating on the steel on each side is epoxy filled with 1, 2, and 3 wt% micro or nano particles of alumina (Al2O3).

Bending and corrosion resistance properties of micro/nanocomposite coated specimens were investigated and compared with pure epoxy coating.

The lined steel specimens were tested for corrosion resistance by immersing them in saline solution and citric acid medium.

Under dry and wet conditions, the addition of alumina (Al2O3) particles to epoxy coatings enhanced the corrosion resistance, bending strength, and bending strain compared with pure coating.